What a mouthful that statement says, for the gospels tell of youth, ignorance, impulsiveness, coming of age, some arrogance, and then, utter terror on the part of the Apostles. As for Jesus, He came, He ministered to us all, He had great restraint in obedience, and laid down His life so that others might live.

As the Apostles carried on, their youthful impulsiveness and arrogance fell away as they came to understand more and more the boldness in faith so often required to move them beyond their fears.

They came to know their own limitations — they were mere humans — but though Christ all things were possible.  

Howbeit, in the end, in their gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John gave no glory to themselves, but took on the humblest means of describing their actions and those of others as they presented the gospel of Christ.

No doubt they had all learned this lesson of humility and grace very “well.”

Rom 5:3-5  And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

Thus, the four gospels lay the foundations of Christ down in so many different ways upon which every other principle of the New Testament and Old Testament are to be understood.

Oh, what a blessing to participate in the challenges the Lord carries us through! Though they may surely be perplexing, puzzling  —  even terrifying  — at times, He always manages to teach us something new while we wait on Him. And, if we are delayed in one thing the response shall surely be, ”Oh! If not this thing then that!” As long as He gets all the glory, all the honor and all the praise… everything will work out alright.

Isa 49:23b …I am the LORD: for they shall not be ashamed that wait for Me.

May the Lord Jesus Christ increase our wisdom in His ways in 2012.

May He increase our gifts of love and patience as we wait on Him.

May God bless you and draw you nearer to Him this new year.

God is good.

Peace out!

Loris