WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

Diary aims to thought-provoke critical thinking on what is authentic Christianity, in the face of society’s apathy and cynicism; and it aims to raise consciousness to the real Jesus and the true church in light of what it means to pursue the kingdom of Heaven.

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EXCERPT

Diary of the Coming of a Christ-Centered Age


About two miles to the southeast of Jerusalem was the small, but alluring village of Bethany. This is where Jesus went often to visit friends --the two sisters Martha and Mary, and their brother Lazarus. The women had a unique roll that set them apart as homemakers and occasional hosts to someone as important as Jesus. They sought His presence and coveted the opportunity to meet with Him as a guest in their home. Hence, whenever Jesus had time to take a break from His rigorous ministry He would come to this village where, unlike Nazareth it was a lot less cold, rainy and wet.


On one occasion, Jesus and the disciples were passing through, and at Martha's invitation He acquiesced to a visit with them. Upon entering the house, Martha continued preparation in lieu of what was hospitable for one so honored a guest. Mary, however, sought to use the opportunity to learn something from Jesus. She took a seat at His feet and listened to every word that fell from His lips; being immersed and mesmerized with His teaching. The time was fleeting by, and Mary, much to her chagrin, was left to do all the work. She stopped what she was doing and said to Jesus:


"Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her to help me!"

Jesus was non-compliant. And much to Martha's surprise, He had a lesson for her as well. He said, "Martha, Martha,.. you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better and it will not be taken away from her."

Priorities
Martha, like Mary could've sat awhile and listen to the invaluable words Jesus had to share with them. But it didn't pique her interest enough to pull her away from her usual preoccupations. She was overly concerned about dishes, and hors d'oeuvre, lint and dust mites on the couch, while a vital lesson was passing her by. Jesus had to bring the lesson home in order for this young woman to understand the priority of the kingdom of heaven.

Martha was often very particular about keeping up appearances, and was satisfied with just knowing Jesus was there, and with whom she could share her hospitality and His fame. But Mary had no agenda except to hear what He had to say, and glean some important truth from the messiah they had waited long to see. The relationship that Martha and Mary had with Jesus served as a metaphor to two kinds of people who bear witness to Jesus and His teaching.

They represent two separate camps of Believers: The camp who studies the "word" and preaches the gospel of Jesus, and the other camp that studies the "word" but preaches the gospel Jesus taught. There's an important difference between the two. Like Mary, one has to be willing to learn at the feet of Jesus the rudimental message of the kingdom. Such a one must have a willing heart, an opened mind, and focused attention to glean what the Holy Spirit says.

Like those who are overly preoccupied with the message about Jesus, many preachers are content to stay at the cross, hammering the most minute details of the crucifixion; on how Jesus died, how long the nails were and where they were placed on His limbs. This leads to a response of intense grieving, sorrow, and emotional vulnerability on the part of the listeners; that sometimes help to pull a sinner from the pew to the alter of repentance. But when this becomes the focal message of the gospel, it becomes an impingement on the real purpose for which He died; which purpose was to pave the way for the kingdom of heaven....