Serving Mankind!

March 9, 2026, Monday Message:

Matthew 4:24 NLT: “News about Jesus spread as far as Syria, and people soon began bringing to him all who were sick. And whatever their sickness or disease, or if they were demon possessed or epileptic or paralyzed—he healed them all.”

As he documents what occurred, Matthew seems amazed that news of Jesus’ healings spread into Syria. But if we look at a map nowadays, the news traveled only about 300 miles. The remarkable thing is that this happened without radio, TV, newspapers or internet! No journalists were reporting on Jesus’ activities. Back then, word-of-mouth was how information went out!

Being heaven-sent with the power of God Almighty, Jesus could fully heal the sick, the injured and the mentally impaired. We often underestimate the negative effects of demon-possession, but Jesus took care of that, too. People healed by Jesus were fully healed!

As this news spread, people began bundling up their sick and bringing them to Jesus. They would travel many miles, sometimes for weeks, to find Galilee, where the healings took place. Jesus wasn’t a slacker. He kept the line moving until everyone who needed healing was healed. Only then was it a time for rest.

As impressive as this all seems, healing wasn’t Jesus’ primary purpose in coming to Earth. It was a side-benefit of Jesus being God in the flesh. Mankind are the beneficiaries of Jesus’ goodness. Around Jesus, miracles were commonplace. We shouldn’t be surprised. Jesus preached for us to love our neighbors. Those who came needed help, he could provide the solution, and not helping wasn’t an option in Jesus’ playbook.

Later in his ministry, Jesus would take the sins of the world to the place of the dead, thereby healing not only the physically sick, but also all of mankind who were cursed with their sin problem. Jesus brought heaven’s healing to everyone willing to accept his help, everyone who desired to repent and return to the Father’s way.

Jesus’ offer of love and forgiveness is still open! Have you made your decision?

Pastor Norton Lawellin

Jesus In the City Fellowship

The Father’s House

Truth and Freedom Church

Resurrection Inclusion!

For Wednesday, April 23, 2025:

Luke 24:15-16 NLT: “As the two men talked and discussed what had recently happened in Jerusalem, Jesus himself suddenly came and began walking with them. But God kept them from recognizing him.”

We seldom perceive what we don’t expect to see. The risen Jesus seems to be particularly challenging to identify. In the garden, Mary Magdalene didn’t recognize him until he spoke. These two men walking to Emmas were believers and had watched Jesus teach many times, but failed to recognize him at first. I believe Jesus essentially looked as he had on the cross. After all, he told doubting Thomas, “Put your hand in my side,” so Jesus’ body had not been restored.

With no internet or TV 2k years ago, news was spread person-to-person, and by this time, everyone in Jerusalem had either witnessed or heard about Jesus’ crucifixion and death. That he died was certified by Roman soldiers. Jesus’ body was then placed in a tomb, so no one expected to see him walking around. They should have listened to the prophets who predicted Jesus’ conquering death. And yet, in human terms, it just didn’t make any sense!

Our acknowledgment of his other miracles reinforces our confidence in Jesus’ resurrection. If he turned water into wine and walked on water, life after death just might be possible. If he controlled the weather and fed 5k, life after this life could be real! If he brought Jairus’ daughter and Lazarus back to life, it makes sense that he could do the same for himself!

Life after this life isn’t just for Jesus. He wants to include all believers in that Holy Family. Those who put their faith, hope and trust in Jesus the Christ are promised to see heaven from the inside! We call it “Assurance of Salvation.” Jesus is preparing a place for us and will welcome us with open arms!

Pastor Norton Lawellin

Jesus In the City Fellowship