Acts 7: 60 Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep.
It is done. Stephen has told them the story of their ancestors, and he has made it plain that he believes in the same God the Sanhedrin is supposed to uphold. Then he finishes the tale by informing them that they are much like their ancestors, who killed the prophets. They are even worse, b/c they have killed God's only son, their Messiah. They "gnash their teeth," grab him, and take him out to stone him to death. He sees the Trinity at his death, and he is very merciful to his persecutors.
Stephen was quite a guy. He understood so much, he was so brave, and he was so merciful. How can any of us expect to ever live up to a standard like he set? I don't think I can. I know my limitations, and I like my comfort. Would I give all that up to represent God? I don't think so.
Prayer: Forgive me, Lord, for being a fair-weather Christian. I know I don't step out of my comfort zone as I should. I am not as brave nor as merciful as I should be. Strengthen me for all the work You would have me do.
Amen
Friday, January 31, 2014
Thursday, January 30, 2014
Jan. 30, 2014
Acts 6: 10 But they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him as he spoke.
This will not end well. Stephen was chosen as one of the 7 who would look after the flock while the disciples concentrated on the Message. Stephen had haters, though, and they set him up. They were the kind who like to argue, and they could not win against Stephen, due to his having the Holy Spirit guiding him. They found false witnesses and took him to the Sanhedrin to charge him with preaching about Jesus and trying to change Mosaic law.
Poor Stephen. He was just doing God's will, and he got caught in a pattern of sinful self-interest which leads to his death. Stephen knew he was in touch with God, and he knew what his eternal reward would be, but that couldn't have completely negated his fear at being taken to the Sanhedrin. And to sit there while others lied about him! Would I be as brave if my faith were being challenged in this way? I am not at all sure.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen my faith against all challengers. Let me see the Holy Spirit's guidance for my thoughts, words, and actions. Give me the fortitude to stand strong against all who doubt. Comfort me when my faith causes me to be troubled.
Amen
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Jan. 29, 2014
Acts 5: 4 "Didn’t it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn’t the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied just to human beings but to God.”
Ananias and his wife, Sapphira, sold a plot of land. They kept some of the money for themselves, and they misrepresented the price, so that everyone would think they had donated all the proceeds to the apostles.
On the one hand, I can relate to this couple. They wanted to be sure they had a little money "for a rainy day." But lying about it? Now that is just not cool. They have misrepresented themselves as the sort of people who give it all, but they knew they were holding back. And how could they have faith, if they thought that God wouldn't know what they had done. They were all about appearances.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be pure. I don't want to be well-regarded, knowing that I am sinful. I want to represent myself and You as an honest and humble follower of Your son, Christ. Help me to see when I am going astray. Keep my words and actions Christlike.
Amen
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Jan. 28, 2014
Acts 4: 20 As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”
John and Peter have been called before the Sanhedrin. The Sadducees are especially upset, since they don't believe in life after death, and that is the basis for the healing of the blind beggar. They were questioned, detained overnight, and now they are released with a warning not to speak of the resurrection again. This is Peter's response.
Peter is the rock on which Christ built his church. And his words could not be plainer. Those of us in the modern church should consider this. We live in a time where our faith can be questioned at any opportunity. Are we afraid, or, like the disciples, is it true that "we cannot help speaking" about what we have experienced?
Prayer: Lord, let me never be afraid to speak of my faith. Help me to be a fair and responsible witness to all You do in my life. Guide my words and actions to lead others to You.
Amen
John and Peter have been called before the Sanhedrin. The Sadducees are especially upset, since they don't believe in life after death, and that is the basis for the healing of the blind beggar. They were questioned, detained overnight, and now they are released with a warning not to speak of the resurrection again. This is Peter's response.
Peter is the rock on which Christ built his church. And his words could not be plainer. Those of us in the modern church should consider this. We live in a time where our faith can be questioned at any opportunity. Are we afraid, or, like the disciples, is it true that "we cannot help speaking" about what we have experienced?
Prayer: Lord, let me never be afraid to speak of my faith. Help me to be a fair and responsible witness to all You do in my life. Guide my words and actions to lead others to You.
Amen
Monday, January 27, 2014
Jan. 27, 2014
Acts 3: 15 You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this.
Peter has just healed the blind beggar. The people are amazed. He is explaining that he lacks the power to do things like this, but that God, through Jesus, didn't. The people did not understand who Jesus was or all he was capable of doing, and Peter wants them to understand this. These were people who had a chance to redeem themselves while Jesus was still on Earth. They didn't.
The OT readings today include the 10 Commandments. Put them together with this part of Acts, and you have a good summary of how to live. The Law was given by God before He gave us His son. The Law was good, but it was incomplete, b/c we are not capable of living the lives God wants for us on our own. We need a Messiah, one who gives us mercy and forgiveness when we go wrong. We can even "kill the author of life," and God still stands by us. The risen Christ is our strongest ally.
Prayer: Praise be to our God and his wondrous ways! He has watched His people, He has seen us stumble time and again, but He never leaves our sides. God sent His own son to suffer and die for us; then He raised him to be our merciful friend for eternity. Who could ask for more?
Amen
Peter has just healed the blind beggar. The people are amazed. He is explaining that he lacks the power to do things like this, but that God, through Jesus, didn't. The people did not understand who Jesus was or all he was capable of doing, and Peter wants them to understand this. These were people who had a chance to redeem themselves while Jesus was still on Earth. They didn't.
The OT readings today include the 10 Commandments. Put them together with this part of Acts, and you have a good summary of how to live. The Law was given by God before He gave us His son. The Law was good, but it was incomplete, b/c we are not capable of living the lives God wants for us on our own. We need a Messiah, one who gives us mercy and forgiveness when we go wrong. We can even "kill the author of life," and God still stands by us. The risen Christ is our strongest ally.
Prayer: Praise be to our God and his wondrous ways! He has watched His people, He has seen us stumble time and again, but He never leaves our sides. God sent His own son to suffer and die for us; then He raised him to be our merciful friend for eternity. Who could ask for more?
Amen
Sunday, January 26, 2014
Jan. 26, 2014
Exodus 14: 14 The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
Moses told the people this just before the parting of the sea, before the manna and the quail. It is still good advice. When Moses had stilled the people, he was able to ascertain God's will and act on it. He used his staff to part the waters, the people went through, and then he raised his staff again for the waters to cover the Egyptians. Then they complained about a lack of water and food, and God told Moses how to handle those issues as well.
I don't have the struggles of the Egyptians, but I don't have a pillar of cloud or an angel I can see to guide me. I must be still to know what God wants of me. If I listen and open my heart, God's will becomes clearer. Then I am able to benefit from God's plan for me, which is the best course I can take.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be still and hear Your voice. Guide me in the path You would choose for me. I am so grateful that You are there to fight for me, and I want to hear what Your will for me would be.
Amen
Moses told the people this just before the parting of the sea, before the manna and the quail. It is still good advice. When Moses had stilled the people, he was able to ascertain God's will and act on it. He used his staff to part the waters, the people went through, and then he raised his staff again for the waters to cover the Egyptians. Then they complained about a lack of water and food, and God told Moses how to handle those issues as well.
I don't have the struggles of the Egyptians, but I don't have a pillar of cloud or an angel I can see to guide me. I must be still to know what God wants of me. If I listen and open my heart, God's will becomes clearer. Then I am able to benefit from God's plan for me, which is the best course I can take.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be still and hear Your voice. Guide me in the path You would choose for me. I am so grateful that You are there to fight for me, and I want to hear what Your will for me would be.
Amen
Saturday, January 25, 2014
Jan. 25, 2014
Acts 1: 3 After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.
In the next verse he eats with them. For some reason, I really like that he eats and enjoys food. Jesus is fully alive; he is not some spiritual being. Jesus is not done with the instruction of the disciples. He has told them of his death, he has lived through the ordeal, and now he finishes his instruction before leaving them for the second time.
People love to debate, and Jesus's conception and death are hot topics. People want to shade them in terms they can understand. I think the Bible is plain on this subject: Jesus was born of an immaculate conception, and he died and rose again to human form. Later he ascends to heaven. I love the human Jesus; he makes me feel closer to a God who seems so different from me. We get 40 more days of the human Jesus after the resurrection, and I am loving that!
Prayer: Thank you, O Lord, for sending Your son to live on Earth like I do. Thank you for the bridge he provides between us and You. I am so sorry that my sins required his suffering, but I rejoice that You and he took that on to save all of us. Praise be to God!
Amen
In the next verse he eats with them. For some reason, I really like that he eats and enjoys food. Jesus is fully alive; he is not some spiritual being. Jesus is not done with the instruction of the disciples. He has told them of his death, he has lived through the ordeal, and now he finishes his instruction before leaving them for the second time.
People love to debate, and Jesus's conception and death are hot topics. People want to shade them in terms they can understand. I think the Bible is plain on this subject: Jesus was born of an immaculate conception, and he died and rose again to human form. Later he ascends to heaven. I love the human Jesus; he makes me feel closer to a God who seems so different from me. We get 40 more days of the human Jesus after the resurrection, and I am loving that!
Prayer: Thank you, O Lord, for sending Your son to live on Earth like I do. Thank you for the bridge he provides between us and You. I am so sorry that my sins required his suffering, but I rejoice that You and he took that on to save all of us. Praise be to God!
Amen
Thursday, January 23, 2014
Jan, 23, 2014
Luke 23: 43 Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
Jesus is answering one of the thieves who was crucified with him. The other one has mocked Jesus. The second one is repentant. He knows that he has done wrong, and that he and the other thief deserve punishment. He also recognizes that Jesus is blameless. He asks Jesus to remember him once Jesus is in his kingdom.
So we know that the repentant thief went to heaven. We don't know about many others who led much better lives. No one really knows a man's heart except God. The thief has done wrong, perhaps for most of his life, but he ends his life with understanding. He asks for mercy. Other people have done so many good deeds, but they do not have a relationship with God in this life. Why would they expect to start one in the next? Since my family has so many nonbelievers, I ask myself this question a lot: Why not accept that you are not the final authority? Why not ask God for mercy? Their pride won't let them, but I always pray that they will find a way to change their attitudes.
Prayer: Lord, I ask that those who I love might find a mustard seed of faith in their hearts. I want them to humbly ask for mercy from You. I am so grateful for the gift of faith I was given, and I pray for others to find the peace I have. Make my life a path that shows others the way to You.
Amen
Jesus is answering one of the thieves who was crucified with him. The other one has mocked Jesus. The second one is repentant. He knows that he has done wrong, and that he and the other thief deserve punishment. He also recognizes that Jesus is blameless. He asks Jesus to remember him once Jesus is in his kingdom.
So we know that the repentant thief went to heaven. We don't know about many others who led much better lives. No one really knows a man's heart except God. The thief has done wrong, perhaps for most of his life, but he ends his life with understanding. He asks for mercy. Other people have done so many good deeds, but they do not have a relationship with God in this life. Why would they expect to start one in the next? Since my family has so many nonbelievers, I ask myself this question a lot: Why not accept that you are not the final authority? Why not ask God for mercy? Their pride won't let them, but I always pray that they will find a way to change their attitudes.
Prayer: Lord, I ask that those who I love might find a mustard seed of faith in their hearts. I want them to humbly ask for mercy from You. I am so grateful for the gift of faith I was given, and I pray for others to find the peace I have. Make my life a path that shows others the way to You.
Amen
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Jan. 22, 2014
Exodus 4:
13 But Moses said, “Pardon your servant, Lord. Please send someone else.”
God has shown Moses the burning bush, He has turned Moses's staff into a snake and back again. He has withered his hand like leprosy and cured it. He has promised more to the Egyptians since they won't let His people go. And Moses, so very human, asks Him to send someone else to do the talking, b/c he stutters.
I feel like Moses. I know that I am limited in large part by what I believe I cannot do. I see God's wonders, I enjoy all His blessings, and then I doubt the person He made (me). I know God is powerful, I believe that He can work miracles, and I am not sure I can follow His lead. I am weak.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen me so that Your will for me will be done. Keep Satan from me, don't allow him to torment me with doubts of my own worthiness. You have chosen me for Your awesome gift of faith; now strengthen my resolve so that I may achieve all You have planned for me.
Amen
13 But Moses said, “Pardon your servant, Lord. Please send someone else.”
God has shown Moses the burning bush, He has turned Moses's staff into a snake and back again. He has withered his hand like leprosy and cured it. He has promised more to the Egyptians since they won't let His people go. And Moses, so very human, asks Him to send someone else to do the talking, b/c he stutters.
I feel like Moses. I know that I am limited in large part by what I believe I cannot do. I see God's wonders, I enjoy all His blessings, and then I doubt the person He made (me). I know God is powerful, I believe that He can work miracles, and I am not sure I can follow His lead. I am weak.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen me so that Your will for me will be done. Keep Satan from me, don't allow him to torment me with doubts of my own worthiness. You have chosen me for Your awesome gift of faith; now strengthen my resolve so that I may achieve all You have planned for me.
Amen
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Jan. 21, 2014
Luke 21: 4 All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”
This is the story of the widow's mite. She gave all that she had; she was so confident in her faith. Others gave so much more, but they gave out of their abundance. There was no chance that they would go hungry or be homeless after their giving.
I was just thinking about sacrificial giving. I give regularly. I support a child in India through Child Fund. I may have given of my TIME sacrificially, but I have never given my wealth in that way. I know I fall short of what God would have me do. It makes me sad, but that doesn't mean I am going to go write a check and empty my bank account for an offering. I am torn between my needs and my faith. I know I do not have faith sufficient to let go of all I have. I am a sinner.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen my faith. I know I fall short. I do not have the faith of the poor widow. I fear being without my material resources. I trust in my own ability to provide for my needs and for the needs of those I love. "Oh, for faith to trust You more..."
Amen
This is the story of the widow's mite. She gave all that she had; she was so confident in her faith. Others gave so much more, but they gave out of their abundance. There was no chance that they would go hungry or be homeless after their giving.
I was just thinking about sacrificial giving. I give regularly. I support a child in India through Child Fund. I may have given of my TIME sacrificially, but I have never given my wealth in that way. I know I fall short of what God would have me do. It makes me sad, but that doesn't mean I am going to go write a check and empty my bank account for an offering. I am torn between my needs and my faith. I know I do not have faith sufficient to let go of all I have. I am a sinner.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen my faith. I know I fall short. I do not have the faith of the poor widow. I fear being without my material resources. I trust in my own ability to provide for my needs and for the needs of those I love. "Oh, for faith to trust You more..."
Amen
Monday, January 20, 2014
Jan. 20, 2014
Luke 20: 38 He is not the God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive.”
The Sadducees are trying to test Jesus. They ask about the woman who (lawfully) had 7 husbands. Who will be her husband at the resurrection? Jesus says in his Father's kingdom, people are not married; they are "like the angels." Then he cites Moses, who knew the words in verse 38 to be true. God is the God of all of us, of all who came before us, of all yet to be born.
In the other selection, Psalm 8, the writer asks who are we that God is mindful of us in all that exists in the universe. Who indeed? We are His, not just now but for eternity. I can turn my mind all around eternal life, and I can come up with some curious thoughts. People are always saying that "heaven got a new angel" when someone dies. I don't think so....they are WITH the angels perhaps, even "like the angels," as Jesus said. They are NOT angels. And people always think their loved ones who passed are watching them; I hope not. I think the dead have their own reality, and I hope they are not bogged down by the activities of this sinful world. Enough preaching....I admit I don't know, and I am just so blessed to know that God does. He is my God forever.
Prayer: Lord of all my past, present and future, help me to feel Your presence with me. I am reassured that I have found eternal life in You. I am humbled that You had to give Your son to crucifixion to achieve that for me. I am blessed in having You with me every day.
Amen
The Sadducees are trying to test Jesus. They ask about the woman who (lawfully) had 7 husbands. Who will be her husband at the resurrection? Jesus says in his Father's kingdom, people are not married; they are "like the angels." Then he cites Moses, who knew the words in verse 38 to be true. God is the God of all of us, of all who came before us, of all yet to be born.
In the other selection, Psalm 8, the writer asks who are we that God is mindful of us in all that exists in the universe. Who indeed? We are His, not just now but for eternity. I can turn my mind all around eternal life, and I can come up with some curious thoughts. People are always saying that "heaven got a new angel" when someone dies. I don't think so....they are WITH the angels perhaps, even "like the angels," as Jesus said. They are NOT angels. And people always think their loved ones who passed are watching them; I hope not. I think the dead have their own reality, and I hope they are not bogged down by the activities of this sinful world. Enough preaching....I admit I don't know, and I am just so blessed to know that God does. He is my God forever.
Prayer: Lord of all my past, present and future, help me to feel Your presence with me. I am reassured that I have found eternal life in You. I am humbled that You had to give Your son to crucifixion to achieve that for me. I am blessed in having You with me every day.
Amen
Sunday, January 19, 2014
Jan. 19, 2014
Psalm 10: 14 But you, God, see the trouble of the afflicted;
you consider their grief and take it in hand.
The victims commit themselves to you;
you are the helper of the fatherless.
The afflicted are grieving. The victims and the fatherless need help. God is so available to them. They know that they cannot make it on their own. They are blessed in their need for faith.
Today's reading include Zaccheus, Palm Sunday and the driving out of the money-changers, and Joseph ruling during the famine and the death of his father. A greatest hits of Scripture! I chose this Psalm verse however, b/c it spoke to me. I am concerned about the fatherless, the victims, and the afflicted. I am comforted that God considers and helps them. I know He is always there for me too, even when my troubles are so minor compared to the troubles of so many. He sees it all, and He is ready whenever we are ready to call out to Him.
Prayer: Lord, be with those who need You. Listen to their call and answer. Open their ears that they may hear all You have to offer. Open my ears as well, so that I may represent You well in my day-to-day life. Let me know when I have comfort and aid to give Your people.
Amen
you consider their grief and take it in hand.
The victims commit themselves to you;
you are the helper of the fatherless.
The afflicted are grieving. The victims and the fatherless need help. God is so available to them. They know that they cannot make it on their own. They are blessed in their need for faith.
Today's reading include Zaccheus, Palm Sunday and the driving out of the money-changers, and Joseph ruling during the famine and the death of his father. A greatest hits of Scripture! I chose this Psalm verse however, b/c it spoke to me. I am concerned about the fatherless, the victims, and the afflicted. I am comforted that God considers and helps them. I know He is always there for me too, even when my troubles are so minor compared to the troubles of so many. He sees it all, and He is ready whenever we are ready to call out to Him.
Prayer: Lord, be with those who need You. Listen to their call and answer. Open their ears that they may hear all You have to offer. Open my ears as well, so that I may represent You well in my day-to-day life. Let me know when I have comfort and aid to give Your people.
Amen
Saturday, January 18, 2014
Jan. 18, 2014
Luke 18: 13 “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’"
Jesus is telling a parable. The Pharisee has prayed proudly, citing his fasting and tithing to all. The tax collector prays differently. He is humble and repenting. Jesus says the one who goes to heaven in the tax collector.
Tax collector were sell-outs in Jesus's day. They worked for the occupiers, and many were corrupt, taking more than they gave the Romans and keeping the surplus for themselves. No one likes taxes, and no one would like paying taxes to a government which has occupied their land. Add to that the taint of corruption, and you have one low-life individual. Yet he is the one in heaven, for he sees himself as he is. He doesn't rationalize; he knows his sins, and he begs for mercy. Let me be humble when it comes to my own shortcomings. The last thing I want to be is self-righteous.
Prayer: Lord, I know how short I fall of Your expectations for me. I am weak. I rejoice in things that are wrong. I speak when I should be quiet, and I don't act when my action would make things better. Have mercy on me; forgive my sins. Help me to forgive those who hurt me, as I know this is the path to forgiveness for my own weakness.
Amen
Jesus is telling a parable. The Pharisee has prayed proudly, citing his fasting and tithing to all. The tax collector prays differently. He is humble and repenting. Jesus says the one who goes to heaven in the tax collector.
Tax collector were sell-outs in Jesus's day. They worked for the occupiers, and many were corrupt, taking more than they gave the Romans and keeping the surplus for themselves. No one likes taxes, and no one would like paying taxes to a government which has occupied their land. Add to that the taint of corruption, and you have one low-life individual. Yet he is the one in heaven, for he sees himself as he is. He doesn't rationalize; he knows his sins, and he begs for mercy. Let me be humble when it comes to my own shortcomings. The last thing I want to be is self-righteous.
Prayer: Lord, I know how short I fall of Your expectations for me. I am weak. I rejoice in things that are wrong. I speak when I should be quiet, and I don't act when my action would make things better. Have mercy on me; forgive my sins. Help me to forgive those who hurt me, as I know this is the path to forgiveness for my own weakness.
Amen
Friday, January 17, 2014
Jan. 17, 2014
Psalm 5: 11 But let all who take refuge in you be glad;
let them ever sing for joy.
Spread your protection over them,
that those who love your name may rejoice in you.
This relates well to yesterday's post and today's verses about Joseph too. Joseph was so tight with God, he took refuge in Him so many times, and Joseph always came out of the calamity so well. God was with him, God protected him, and Joseph's path always led to honor, no matter how low circumstances had dropped him.
I like this Psalm as a prayer. I want to take refuge in God. I beg for His holy protection. I do love God's name, and I rejoice in Him. Like today's verses in Luke, I long to be one of those who are taken if Jesus returns in my lifetime.
Prayer: Lord, I take refuge in You. I sing for joy and rejoice in Your presence in my life. Please spread your protection over me. I want to walk in Your way, and I want to fulfill all the promise You bestowed on me from my birth.
Amen
let them ever sing for joy.
Spread your protection over them,
that those who love your name may rejoice in you.
This relates well to yesterday's post and today's verses about Joseph too. Joseph was so tight with God, he took refuge in Him so many times, and Joseph always came out of the calamity so well. God was with him, God protected him, and Joseph's path always led to honor, no matter how low circumstances had dropped him.
I like this Psalm as a prayer. I want to take refuge in God. I beg for His holy protection. I do love God's name, and I rejoice in Him. Like today's verses in Luke, I long to be one of those who are taken if Jesus returns in my lifetime.
Prayer: Lord, I take refuge in You. I sing for joy and rejoice in Your presence in my life. Please spread your protection over me. I want to walk in Your way, and I want to fulfill all the promise You bestowed on me from my birth.
Amen
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Jan. 16, 2014
Genesis 39: 2 The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered, and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master.
Joseph has been sold by his brothers into slavery in Egypt. Even though this should be a disaster, God turns it into another triumph by Joseph. It is going to turn ugly again, though, with the master's wife lying about Joseph. Joseph will spend years in jail, but even there God is with him.
Joseph has been a golden boy since his birth. The first son of the woman his father truly loved, and her only other child was delivered at his mother's death. His father favored him, and his brothers were jealous. No surprise. Then he had a hotline to God, and he told everyone what God had revealed to him. That REALLY made them mad. Now the golden boy rises to the top of the master's staff, and he gets struck down. Even after that he rises to the top of the jail, serving the warden. I guess if you are really in touch with God, he will bless you in ways that no one can imagine.
Prayer: Lord, I ask for your blessing on me. I will try to stay in touch with Your will for me, to feel Your presence in my daily life. I know that if I do that, I will find Your blessings in every thing I do. Praises for the mighty God who can make me the best I can be.
Amen
Joseph has been sold by his brothers into slavery in Egypt. Even though this should be a disaster, God turns it into another triumph by Joseph. It is going to turn ugly again, though, with the master's wife lying about Joseph. Joseph will spend years in jail, but even there God is with him.
Joseph has been a golden boy since his birth. The first son of the woman his father truly loved, and her only other child was delivered at his mother's death. His father favored him, and his brothers were jealous. No surprise. Then he had a hotline to God, and he told everyone what God had revealed to him. That REALLY made them mad. Now the golden boy rises to the top of the master's staff, and he gets struck down. Even after that he rises to the top of the jail, serving the warden. I guess if you are really in touch with God, he will bless you in ways that no one can imagine.
Prayer: Lord, I ask for your blessing on me. I will try to stay in touch with Your will for me, to feel Your presence in my daily life. I know that if I do that, I will find Your blessings in every thing I do. Praises for the mighty God who can make me the best I can be.
Amen
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Jan. 15, 2014
Luke 15: 21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
This is the parable of the prodigal son. Jesus has just told about the lost sheep and coin. The message of repentance in the verse I chose spoke to me. The son has been very foolish--he let his sinful desires lead him away from every blessing he had. Now he sees that he has sinned. His humility is his best asset, and he knows that his father is the best man he knows.
I had been considering the Psalm 7 admonishment which I love in the Bob Marley song, "whosoever diggeth a pit shall fall in." This NT story takes that a step farther. The prodigal son dug a pit, fell in, and now he is ready to repent. I need to consider that when I find myself in a hole, looking up. Yes, I dug this pit, and I deserved to fall into it. However, my Father is the greatest one in the universe, and he will take me back if I only approach him with humility and repentance.
Prayer: Lord, guide me out of the pits I dig for myself to fall in. I sin when I don't seek Your way for me. I know You are there to give me the hand I need to right my course. Praise be to my heavenly Father!
Amen
This is the parable of the prodigal son. Jesus has just told about the lost sheep and coin. The message of repentance in the verse I chose spoke to me. The son has been very foolish--he let his sinful desires lead him away from every blessing he had. Now he sees that he has sinned. His humility is his best asset, and he knows that his father is the best man he knows.
I had been considering the Psalm 7 admonishment which I love in the Bob Marley song, "whosoever diggeth a pit shall fall in." This NT story takes that a step farther. The prodigal son dug a pit, fell in, and now he is ready to repent. I need to consider that when I find myself in a hole, looking up. Yes, I dug this pit, and I deserved to fall into it. However, my Father is the greatest one in the universe, and he will take me back if I only approach him with humility and repentance.
Prayer: Lord, guide me out of the pits I dig for myself to fall in. I sin when I don't seek Your way for me. I know You are there to give me the hand I need to right my course. Praise be to my heavenly Father!
Amen
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Jan. 14, 2014
Luke 14: 13 But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind
Jesus is telling about humility. He is telling about how we must hate this life in order to move to the next. He is giving instructions about how to move into the next life.
If we would follow Jesus, we cannot go with our first inclinations. They tell us to invite those we really like to our banquet. We want to surround ourselves with those who reinforce our ideas of how clever, beautiful, special we are. Jesus wants us to stretch--to invite those who repel us. We have to see all our neighbors as God's children. And we have to show our love for the unlovable.
Prayer: It is not easy to follow Your word. We have to fight our self-interest. We need to extend our love and hospitality to all those You love, not just the ones we find it so easy to love. Guide me to represent Your love for me in my interactions with everyone, even the unlovable.
Amen
Jesus is telling about humility. He is telling about how we must hate this life in order to move to the next. He is giving instructions about how to move into the next life.
If we would follow Jesus, we cannot go with our first inclinations. They tell us to invite those we really like to our banquet. We want to surround ourselves with those who reinforce our ideas of how clever, beautiful, special we are. Jesus wants us to stretch--to invite those who repel us. We have to see all our neighbors as God's children. And we have to show our love for the unlovable.
Prayer: It is not easy to follow Your word. We have to fight our self-interest. We need to extend our love and hospitality to all those You love, not just the ones we find it so easy to love. Guide me to represent Your love for me in my interactions with everyone, even the unlovable.
Amen
Monday, January 13, 2014
Jan. 13, 2014
Luke 13: 21 It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about sixty pounds[a] of flour until it worked all through the dough.”
Jesus is looking for comparisons to the kingdom of God. A little bit of yeast works through all the dough. A little bit of faith, like the mustard seed, grows into a tree in which the birds can rest.
I was teaching about yeast today. I told about the unleavened bread the Chosen People ate as they made their way to the promised land. I told about the effect of a little yeast on flour to make the kind of bread we like. And yet our faith is even mightier--I feel so sad for those who live without it!
Prayer: Lord, I praise You for the gift of faith You blessed me with. I recognize the mighty power in my faith. I am so grateful that I do not have to face a day, not even a minute, without relying on my faith to strengthen and comfort me. I pray for those with no faith. I am sad for them, and I pray that they might know the peace that passes understanding.
Amen
Jesus is looking for comparisons to the kingdom of God. A little bit of yeast works through all the dough. A little bit of faith, like the mustard seed, grows into a tree in which the birds can rest.
I was teaching about yeast today. I told about the unleavened bread the Chosen People ate as they made their way to the promised land. I told about the effect of a little yeast on flour to make the kind of bread we like. And yet our faith is even mightier--I feel so sad for those who live without it!
Prayer: Lord, I praise You for the gift of faith You blessed me with. I recognize the mighty power in my faith. I am so grateful that I do not have to face a day, not even a minute, without relying on my faith to strengthen and comfort me. I pray for those with no faith. I am sad for them, and I pray that they might know the peace that passes understanding.
Amen
Sunday, January 12, 2014
Jan. 12, 2014
Luke 12: 22 Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear."
Jesus goes on to tell about the flowers of the field, and he warns the disciples about being prepared for the Master to return. Those who have been given much will be expected to wait faithfully, to always be prepared. They should not worry about their needs, but they should be very concerned with their righteousness.
I need to be reminded not to worry about the everyday things. I can get so caught up in "What next?" I have a stressful career and a home and family to worry about too. I can use a reminder that those things should not be the center of my thoughts and actions. I must center my life around God, and I must trust Him to know my needs and take care of them. I should concentrate on being the best Christian I can be, and the rest will take care of itself.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be ready to meet You. Guide my thoughts and actions to Your higher standards for my life. Keep me from being caught up in the day-to-day life, and help me to see what You really want my life to be like.
Amen
Jesus goes on to tell about the flowers of the field, and he warns the disciples about being prepared for the Master to return. Those who have been given much will be expected to wait faithfully, to always be prepared. They should not worry about their needs, but they should be very concerned with their righteousness.
I need to be reminded not to worry about the everyday things. I can get so caught up in "What next?" I have a stressful career and a home and family to worry about too. I can use a reminder that those things should not be the center of my thoughts and actions. I must center my life around God, and I must trust Him to know my needs and take care of them. I should concentrate on being the best Christian I can be, and the rest will take care of itself.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be ready to meet You. Guide my thoughts and actions to Your higher standards for my life. Keep me from being caught up in the day-to-day life, and help me to see what You really want my life to be like.
Amen
Saturday, January 11, 2014
Jan. 11, 2014
Luke 11: 10 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
Jesus has just given us The Lord's Prayer. Along with the reassurance above, he tells a number of examples to reinforce the idea. The idea of a parent who give his child a snake instead of a fish is there--ridiculous! God is so available to those who try to find Him.
Where does all our time go? We are so busy, and yet what do we have to show for our days? Can we find the time to ask, to seek, to knock on God's door? For many of us the final answer is no. We find the time for our favorite tv show or video game. We find the time to keep house. There just aren't enough minutes in the day to devote any to God. I pledge to always find the time for God. I will continue to keep this journal and to pray. I will try to squeeze in a group Bible study time when I can. I will go to worship regularly.
Prayer: Lord, I am asking for Your guidance. I seek the truth You alone have for me. I knock at the door to Your royal kingdom, and I long to spend eternity with You.
Amen
Jesus has just given us The Lord's Prayer. Along with the reassurance above, he tells a number of examples to reinforce the idea. The idea of a parent who give his child a snake instead of a fish is there--ridiculous! God is so available to those who try to find Him.
Where does all our time go? We are so busy, and yet what do we have to show for our days? Can we find the time to ask, to seek, to knock on God's door? For many of us the final answer is no. We find the time for our favorite tv show or video game. We find the time to keep house. There just aren't enough minutes in the day to devote any to God. I pledge to always find the time for God. I will continue to keep this journal and to pray. I will try to squeeze in a group Bible study time when I can. I will go to worship regularly.
Prayer: Lord, I am asking for Your guidance. I seek the truth You alone have for me. I knock at the door to Your royal kingdom, and I long to spend eternity with You.
Amen
Friday, January 10, 2014
Jan. 10, 2014
Luke 10: 21 At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do."
Jesus has sent the disciples out, and their work has been successful. Unlike the Pharisees, they have listened and believed. As a result, they are able to harness their faith into action.
I like the image of Jesus full of joy. I like that the plan fulfilled pleases him. I feel his frustration with the powers that be--the ones who defend their own self-interest and ignore the truth--and his happiness that the least likely members of the society have risen to the top due to faith alone. This kind of sums up Christianity for me. We praise God for all he has done to raise us up; our faith is strong, and we are able to do mighty things with it.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen my faith so that I may do all that You intend for me to do. Guide my thoughts and actions to those which illuminate me and glorify You.
Amen
Jesus has sent the disciples out, and their work has been successful. Unlike the Pharisees, they have listened and believed. As a result, they are able to harness their faith into action.
I like the image of Jesus full of joy. I like that the plan fulfilled pleases him. I feel his frustration with the powers that be--the ones who defend their own self-interest and ignore the truth--and his happiness that the least likely members of the society have risen to the top due to faith alone. This kind of sums up Christianity for me. We praise God for all he has done to raise us up; our faith is strong, and we are able to do mighty things with it.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen my faith so that I may do all that You intend for me to do. Guide my thoughts and actions to those which illuminate me and glorify You.
Amen
Thursday, January 9, 2014
Jan. 9, 2014
Genesis 24: 67 Isaac brought her into the tent of his mother Sarah, and he married Rebekah. So she became his wife, and he loved her; and Isaac was comforted after his mother’s death.
I especially like how this ends--how Rebekah becomes the comfort Isaac needs after Sarah's death. How special the bond between Sarah and this son, born after she KNEW she would never have a child, must have been! Now Sarah is gone, and Isaac turns to his wife for comfort.
I am apprehensive about the grief I will feel when I lose my mother. She is 91, and I have been blessed to have her for so long without major issues. She lives far away, but she is so important to me. I cannot imagine what it will be like to live without the knowledge that she is just a phone call away. I know she will be in a better place, but I won't be.
Prayer: Lord, comfort those who grieve. Guide my life so that I will be more prepared for the loss of my own dear mother when it happens. Show me the way to find comfort when I grieve.
Amen
I especially like how this ends--how Rebekah becomes the comfort Isaac needs after Sarah's death. How special the bond between Sarah and this son, born after she KNEW she would never have a child, must have been! Now Sarah is gone, and Isaac turns to his wife for comfort.
I am apprehensive about the grief I will feel when I lose my mother. She is 91, and I have been blessed to have her for so long without major issues. She lives far away, but she is so important to me. I cannot imagine what it will be like to live without the knowledge that she is just a phone call away. I know she will be in a better place, but I won't be.
Prayer: Lord, comfort those who grieve. Guide my life so that I will be more prepared for the loss of my own dear mother when it happens. Show me the way to find comfort when I grieve.
Amen
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Jan.7, 2014
Luke 7: 13 When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, “Don’t cry.”
Jesus is speaking to the widow of Nain. Her only son has died, and they are carrying his body away. Jesus feels for her in her grief and loneliness.
How powerful this image is for me! I know that Jesus has done the same for me and for those I love. He is always ready when we are down, no matter what the reason. He wants us to turn to him for comfort.
Prayer: Lord, I am so glad to know You are there when I am sad. I praise Your faithfulness to those who hurt. I reach out to You when I am down, and You are always there for me.
Amen
Jesus is speaking to the widow of Nain. Her only son has died, and they are carrying his body away. Jesus feels for her in her grief and loneliness.
How powerful this image is for me! I know that Jesus has done the same for me and for those I love. He is always ready when we are down, no matter what the reason. He wants us to turn to him for comfort.
Prayer: Lord, I am so glad to know You are there when I am sad. I praise Your faithfulness to those who hurt. I reach out to You when I am down, and You are always there for me.
Amen
Monday, January 6, 2014
Jan. 6, 2014
Luke 6: 48 They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built.
Jesus has given the Beatitudes. He is giving those around him the ultimate lessons of a Christian life.
The other man in the story doesn't build on a firm foundation, and his house is swept away.
When I was a child, I could not understand this. Maybe it was the translation. I pictured the "house on a rock" as standing on top of a boulder, where it could slide right off. The "dug deep" part wasn't in my image. Now I see this much better. Every ounce of ourselves that is invested in our faith is the "digging deep." The firm foundation is God. No torrent can destroy a faith so deeply rooted.
Prayer: O, Lord, guide me as I dig deeper and deeper in my faith. Let me build my life on the firm foundation You provide. Grant me the peace that comes from knowing that nothing--not man, nor governments nor nature itself--can shake my faith. With You, "every little thing's gonna be all right."
Amen
Jesus has given the Beatitudes. He is giving those around him the ultimate lessons of a Christian life.
The other man in the story doesn't build on a firm foundation, and his house is swept away.
When I was a child, I could not understand this. Maybe it was the translation. I pictured the "house on a rock" as standing on top of a boulder, where it could slide right off. The "dug deep" part wasn't in my image. Now I see this much better. Every ounce of ourselves that is invested in our faith is the "digging deep." The firm foundation is God. No torrent can destroy a faith so deeply rooted.
Prayer: O, Lord, guide me as I dig deeper and deeper in my faith. Let me build my life on the firm foundation You provide. Grant me the peace that comes from knowing that nothing--not man, nor governments nor nature itself--can shake my faith. With You, "every little thing's gonna be all right."
Amen
Sunday, January 5, 2014
Jan. 5, 2014
Genesis 13: 17 Go, walk through the length and breadth of the land, for I am giving it to you.”
God is talking to Abram. He and Lot have separated, with him giving Lot the first choice of the land. God is telling Abram that he will live forever, through his descendants. And they own all the land they can see.
I love the feeling of looking out and knowing I own all I can see. If I stand just right, I can say that. My husband's grandfather bought this farm about 75 years ago, and we live on it. I like to walk around our property line. When I die, I want my cremains scattered right here. I have lived here for almost 40 years. I wish I had descendants, besides my son and daughter, to leave it to. My adult children have not married nor had children, so I feel the weight of having no one in our family line. The Lord has been good to us, and we may yet get grandchildren. This verse and those around it really resonated with me.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for the blessing of my home and the land on which it stands. I take a lot of pleasure in your handiwork here and in all the Earth. Please guide me to be a good steward of all you have given me.
Amen
P.S. If it's not too much, I really would like a grandchild. ;)
God is talking to Abram. He and Lot have separated, with him giving Lot the first choice of the land. God is telling Abram that he will live forever, through his descendants. And they own all the land they can see.
I love the feeling of looking out and knowing I own all I can see. If I stand just right, I can say that. My husband's grandfather bought this farm about 75 years ago, and we live on it. I like to walk around our property line. When I die, I want my cremains scattered right here. I have lived here for almost 40 years. I wish I had descendants, besides my son and daughter, to leave it to. My adult children have not married nor had children, so I feel the weight of having no one in our family line. The Lord has been good to us, and we may yet get grandchildren. This verse and those around it really resonated with me.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for the blessing of my home and the land on which it stands. I take a lot of pleasure in your handiwork here and in all the Earth. Please guide me to be a good steward of all you have given me.
Amen
P.S. If it's not too much, I really would like a grandchild. ;)
Saturday, January 4, 2014
Jan. 4, 2014
Luke 4: 18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free,
19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor."
Jesus is quoting Isaiah, as he reads from the scroll in the synagogue. I took 2 verses to finish the thought. Also at the beginning of the new year, it is nice to wonder if THIS will be the year of the Lord's favor.
I am thinking about the mission: proclaim good news to the poor, free the prisoners, sight for the blind, and setting oppressed people free. If we expand our thinking a bit, the blind become all of those who suffer illness and pain, the prisoners are in captivity of various kinds, and the poor and oppressed always deserve our attention.
Prayer: O, Lord, guide my new year to follow Your mission: lead me to ways I can help the poor, the oppressed, and all those who suffer from illness and pain or from imprisonment. Let Your Spirit be upon me every day in all that I do.
Amen
because he has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free,
19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor."
Jesus is quoting Isaiah, as he reads from the scroll in the synagogue. I took 2 verses to finish the thought. Also at the beginning of the new year, it is nice to wonder if THIS will be the year of the Lord's favor.
I am thinking about the mission: proclaim good news to the poor, free the prisoners, sight for the blind, and setting oppressed people free. If we expand our thinking a bit, the blind become all of those who suffer illness and pain, the prisoners are in captivity of various kinds, and the poor and oppressed always deserve our attention.
Prayer: O, Lord, guide my new year to follow Your mission: lead me to ways I can help the poor, the oppressed, and all those who suffer from illness and pain or from imprisonment. Let Your Spirit be upon me every day in all that I do.
Amen
Friday, January 3, 2014
Jan. 3, 2014
Genesis 8: 9 But the dove could find nowhere to perch because there was water over all the surface of the earth; so it returned to Noah in the ark. He reached out his hand and took the dove and brought it back to himself in the ark.
It has all gone bad so quickly. From the Garden of Eden to Noah's day, not much time has elapsed. Humans have been evil, and Noah is the only blameless man who walks with God. So God orders the first mass extinction, and the 40 days and nights of rain commence. After a time, it stops, and now Noah is "testing the waters" to see if it is safe to go out.
I like the image of the dove coming back to Noah. It has nowhere else to go. A hand comes out of the ark, and Noah restores the bird to its safety. The dove has done its job well, and Noah is there to protect it until it can safely go out into the world. It makes me want to save someone too.
Prayer: Lord, guide me to walk with You. Let me hear Your will for my life, and guide me to those places where I can be available to those who are in need of sanctuary.
Amen
It has all gone bad so quickly. From the Garden of Eden to Noah's day, not much time has elapsed. Humans have been evil, and Noah is the only blameless man who walks with God. So God orders the first mass extinction, and the 40 days and nights of rain commence. After a time, it stops, and now Noah is "testing the waters" to see if it is safe to go out.
I like the image of the dove coming back to Noah. It has nowhere else to go. A hand comes out of the ark, and Noah restores the bird to its safety. The dove has done its job well, and Noah is there to protect it until it can safely go out into the world. It makes me want to save someone too.
Prayer: Lord, guide me to walk with You. Let me hear Your will for my life, and guide me to those places where I can be available to those who are in need of sanctuary.
Amen
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Jan. 2, 2014
Luke 2: 40 And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him.
This follows the trip to the temple, the first time Jesus has acted on his own to show his promise. There have been others who saw his promise, the shepherds, the wise men, etc. But now the young Jesus has stood before others and shown his level of understanding.
It seems like a great way to start a new year. This is what I want for myself in 2014--to become stronger, filled with wisdom, and with the grace of God on me. I am not perfect, like Jesus, but I strive to become more than I am, with God's help.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen and bless me, that I might better represent You. Fill me with wisdom and the courage to do what it right. Guide my thoughts and actions in the new year.
Amen
This follows the trip to the temple, the first time Jesus has acted on his own to show his promise. There have been others who saw his promise, the shepherds, the wise men, etc. But now the young Jesus has stood before others and shown his level of understanding.
It seems like a great way to start a new year. This is what I want for myself in 2014--to become stronger, filled with wisdom, and with the grace of God on me. I am not perfect, like Jesus, but I strive to become more than I am, with God's help.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen and bless me, that I might better represent You. Fill me with wisdom and the courage to do what it right. Guide my thoughts and actions in the new year.
Amen
Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Jan. 1, 2014
Luke 1: 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!"
Elizabeth has felt the child within her (John the Baptist) jump as Mary enters. Elizabeth herself is full of the Holy Spirit. Strange things have been the order of the day for Elizabeth. Her husband saw a vision in the temple, and he came home a mute. Although he is old and has never given birth, she is now pregnant. And then along comes Mary....
I recognize these words from the Catholic prayer "Hail Mary." The attachment of Catholics to Mary is strange to Protestants. We don't think much about her except during Advent and Christmas. She makes Jesus do his first miracle even after he says his time hasn't come. Jesus even seems to disrespect her when she and his brothers wait outside to see him-- "These are my brothers." Yet she is there at the crucifixion and the resurrection. Who is this woman, chosen of God?
Prayer: Lord, help me to clearly see how Jesus's earthly family, especially his mother, shaped his time on Earth. Help me to be a better mother to my own children and all of Yours. Guide me to be both blessed and a blessing to others.
Amen
Elizabeth has felt the child within her (John the Baptist) jump as Mary enters. Elizabeth herself is full of the Holy Spirit. Strange things have been the order of the day for Elizabeth. Her husband saw a vision in the temple, and he came home a mute. Although he is old and has never given birth, she is now pregnant. And then along comes Mary....
I recognize these words from the Catholic prayer "Hail Mary." The attachment of Catholics to Mary is strange to Protestants. We don't think much about her except during Advent and Christmas. She makes Jesus do his first miracle even after he says his time hasn't come. Jesus even seems to disrespect her when she and his brothers wait outside to see him-- "These are my brothers." Yet she is there at the crucifixion and the resurrection. Who is this woman, chosen of God?
Prayer: Lord, help me to clearly see how Jesus's earthly family, especially his mother, shaped his time on Earth. Help me to be a better mother to my own children and all of Yours. Guide me to be both blessed and a blessing to others.
Amen
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