Psalm 49: 15 But God will redeem me from the realm of the dead;
he will surely take me to himself.
The Psalmist is talking about those who die without an understanding of the Lord. They may acquire great wealth and fame, but when they pass on, they are just moldy bodies. To the world, they seemed to be very successful. In reality, they will not be able to take the wealth and status with them. Death is the end.
We are so fortunate to have the gift of faith. God gave us our faith, and we exercise it. Then we are ready for our eternal home when we pass. Thanks be to God.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for my faith. How I long for the days we will spend together when I reach my eternal home. I am blessed.
Amen
Monday, March 31, 2014
Sunday, March 30, 2014
March 30, 2014
1 Corinthians 15: 49 And just as we have borne the image of the earthly man, so shall we[g] bear the image of the heavenly man.
Paul is talking about resurrection of the dead. Some are doubting it. He says all our faith is in vain unless there is resurrection, b/c that means Christ was not resurrected. He cites all those who saw Christ after his resurrection as evidence. Then he shifts to the difference between the earthly body and the spiritual one we will inhabit after death. The earthly body comes from dust; the heavenly body does not.
This topic appeals to me b/c I like Paul's imagery. The human body, formed of the natural elements of the Periodic Table, is transient. Ashes to ashes, dust to dust. The heavenly body is a separate thing, and it is where our spirits move after death. So much about the afterlife remains a puzzle to me, but I do not doubt the existence of my spirit, and I do not doubt that my spirit will continue to live in eternity with God once this earthly body is used up.
Prayer: O, Lord, I do look forward to the time I will spend with you in my spiritual body. I work to perfect my soul to prepare for that day. Your mercy and Your sacrifice of Your only son make that a possibility for me and others. God is good to us. Praise God!
Amen
Paul is talking about resurrection of the dead. Some are doubting it. He says all our faith is in vain unless there is resurrection, b/c that means Christ was not resurrected. He cites all those who saw Christ after his resurrection as evidence. Then he shifts to the difference between the earthly body and the spiritual one we will inhabit after death. The earthly body comes from dust; the heavenly body does not.
This topic appeals to me b/c I like Paul's imagery. The human body, formed of the natural elements of the Periodic Table, is transient. Ashes to ashes, dust to dust. The heavenly body is a separate thing, and it is where our spirits move after death. So much about the afterlife remains a puzzle to me, but I do not doubt the existence of my spirit, and I do not doubt that my spirit will continue to live in eternity with God once this earthly body is used up.
Prayer: O, Lord, I do look forward to the time I will spend with you in my spiritual body. I work to perfect my soul to prepare for that day. Your mercy and Your sacrifice of Your only son make that a possibility for me and others. God is good to us. Praise God!
Amen
Friday, March 28, 2014
March 28, 2014
1 Corinthians 13: 12 For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known
Paul tells all about love. Love is greater than prophecy or knowledge. When everything else is gone, love is still there. Faith, hope, love...the greatest of these is love.
I chose the last verse. It is not the most popular verse in this "Paul hits it out of the park" chapter, but I want to dwell on the transience of knowledge. There is so much we don't know. Sometimes I am relieved by this. I can let it go and hand it to God. I know that He knows, and that is enough. Sometimes I need to understand, however, and I am totally puzzled by those who love their ignorance. Can we not concede that our understanding of things in God's world can change and evolve (dirty word to some)? If a belief cannot stand up to a truth, then that belief should be challenged. I can accept scientific exploration and still be God's girl. That is all.
Prayer: God, how I love your world! I am so blessed to be able to witness the daily miracles of life on this most wonderful of planets. I look forward to the time when all becomes clear to me, when I join You for eternity. In the meantime, thanks for opening my eyes to the wonders around me.
Amen
Paul tells all about love. Love is greater than prophecy or knowledge. When everything else is gone, love is still there. Faith, hope, love...the greatest of these is love.
I chose the last verse. It is not the most popular verse in this "Paul hits it out of the park" chapter, but I want to dwell on the transience of knowledge. There is so much we don't know. Sometimes I am relieved by this. I can let it go and hand it to God. I know that He knows, and that is enough. Sometimes I need to understand, however, and I am totally puzzled by those who love their ignorance. Can we not concede that our understanding of things in God's world can change and evolve (dirty word to some)? If a belief cannot stand up to a truth, then that belief should be challenged. I can accept scientific exploration and still be God's girl. That is all.
Prayer: God, how I love your world! I am so blessed to be able to witness the daily miracles of life on this most wonderful of planets. I look forward to the time when all becomes clear to me, when I join You for eternity. In the meantime, thanks for opening my eyes to the wonders around me.
Amen
Thursday, March 27, 2014
March 27, 2014
1 Corinthians 12: 28 And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues.
Paul is talking about the gifts of the spirit. He encourages the people of Corinth to seek these gifts. He also tells them that not every person will have every gift. People with one gift should not feel alienated b/c they are lacking another gift. All of the gifts come from the spirit, and all are good.
You have to wonder about Paul's ranking of the gifts. Does he mean that being an apostle is more important than being a healer or a teacher or a prophet? At first it seems not, b/c he tells how all the parts of the body work together. So this is just a random list? Anyway it is good to recognize all the different ways we can serve. I think it is most important THAT we serve.
Prayer: Lord, I want to serve You and Your church. Guide me to the ways that I can use my gifts of the spirit to further Your will on Earth. I am thankful for the gifts that the Spirit has given me. I enjoy being part of a fellowship of believers who share all their gifts.
Amen
Paul is talking about the gifts of the spirit. He encourages the people of Corinth to seek these gifts. He also tells them that not every person will have every gift. People with one gift should not feel alienated b/c they are lacking another gift. All of the gifts come from the spirit, and all are good.
You have to wonder about Paul's ranking of the gifts. Does he mean that being an apostle is more important than being a healer or a teacher or a prophet? At first it seems not, b/c he tells how all the parts of the body work together. So this is just a random list? Anyway it is good to recognize all the different ways we can serve. I think it is most important THAT we serve.
Prayer: Lord, I want to serve You and Your church. Guide me to the ways that I can use my gifts of the spirit to further Your will on Earth. I am thankful for the gifts that the Spirit has given me. I enjoy being part of a fellowship of believers who share all their gifts.
Amen
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
March 26, 2014
1 Corinthians 11: 28 Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup.
Paul has heard that the Corinthians are having private suppers at the church. Some are eating and drinking well, while others are leaving hungry. Paul is not happy with this--he says they either all eat together or else people can eat at home if they are not willing to share with everyone else. He cites the Communion as a reason. We share the Communion as a church, and everyone should be able to share in the food at church too.
Paul begins this chapter with the stuff about men and women which I so dislike. Why does Paul hate women? Then he comes to the dinner part. Now here I stand right behind him. Our church has the Wed. night dinners, and I am so proud of those who make that happen. They are really there for the community, and so many people who are not members come regularly. Everyone is welcome, a donation is welcome but not expected, and there is great fellowship along with a filling meal. We really should examine ourselves as Christians before we take Communion. Are we as open and welcoming to outsiders and to members as we can be?
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for those in Your (and my) church who welcome and feed so many each week. I will try to be more caring and sharing with my fellow man, as You and Your son would want me to be. Be with those who hunger, and help them to find Your people who will care for them.
Amen
Paul has heard that the Corinthians are having private suppers at the church. Some are eating and drinking well, while others are leaving hungry. Paul is not happy with this--he says they either all eat together or else people can eat at home if they are not willing to share with everyone else. He cites the Communion as a reason. We share the Communion as a church, and everyone should be able to share in the food at church too.
Paul begins this chapter with the stuff about men and women which I so dislike. Why does Paul hate women? Then he comes to the dinner part. Now here I stand right behind him. Our church has the Wed. night dinners, and I am so proud of those who make that happen. They are really there for the community, and so many people who are not members come regularly. Everyone is welcome, a donation is welcome but not expected, and there is great fellowship along with a filling meal. We really should examine ourselves as Christians before we take Communion. Are we as open and welcoming to outsiders and to members as we can be?
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for those in Your (and my) church who welcome and feed so many each week. I will try to be more caring and sharing with my fellow man, as You and Your son would want me to be. Be with those who hunger, and help them to find Your people who will care for them.
Amen
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
March 25, 2014
1 Corinthians 10: 13 No temptation[c] has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted[d] beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted,[e] he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
Paul is talking about eating food sacrificed to idols. He knows that the Christians may eat anything in the market, and yet he counsels against eating food if it is known that it was an idol sacrifice. He says this is not b/c of the sin of the Christian, but it is b/c of the effect it has on the nonbeliever. Then he gives this great piece of advice.
No temptation we ever face has not been faced by others. We are weak b/c we are mankind. God is watching over us, and He always offers us a way out. He will comfort us when the temptation becomes strong. We need not feel alone b/c we are people like all of God's people, and he understands and is ready to help when we are tempted to sin.
Prayer: Lord, I cry out to You for guidance away from temptation. I pray The Lord's Prayer, and I know that I need to be led away from temptation all the time. I am so grateful for a loving and faithful God who is there to show me the way that delivers me from evil and comforts me when I have sinned or am tempted to sin. Thank You for Your ever-present leadership.
Amen
Paul is talking about eating food sacrificed to idols. He knows that the Christians may eat anything in the market, and yet he counsels against eating food if it is known that it was an idol sacrifice. He says this is not b/c of the sin of the Christian, but it is b/c of the effect it has on the nonbeliever. Then he gives this great piece of advice.
No temptation we ever face has not been faced by others. We are weak b/c we are mankind. God is watching over us, and He always offers us a way out. He will comfort us when the temptation becomes strong. We need not feel alone b/c we are people like all of God's people, and he understands and is ready to help when we are tempted to sin.
Prayer: Lord, I cry out to You for guidance away from temptation. I pray The Lord's Prayer, and I know that I need to be led away from temptation all the time. I am so grateful for a loving and faithful God who is there to show me the way that delivers me from evil and comforts me when I have sinned or am tempted to sin. Thank You for Your ever-present leadership.
Amen
Monday, March 24, 2014
March 24, 2014
1 Corinthians 9: 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.
Paul is explaining what he, as a preacher of the Good News, is entitled to. He is allowed to work and to take a wife, although he doesn't do those things. He has lived under the Law when he is with those who do that, although he isn't required to do that. He had lived without the Law when staying with those who don't follow it. He will do whatever it takes to save a soul.
March Madness indeed! We have daily witness (on 3 different channels) of those who have built their lives around competition. Our competition (which I stumbled in yesterday) is more serious. It is not for an annual championship, but it is for an eternal ending. The goal may seem far away, but we have grace on our side when we stumble. Our training begins anew when we ask for forgiveness and try again.
Prayer: Lord, forgive me, for I have sinned. I let my big mouth get carried away again. My pride stepped up to make me do that which I shouldn't do. I want to be a serious Christian, always ready to do Your will. I promise to be more serious in my training for the ultimate prize.
Amen
Paul is explaining what he, as a preacher of the Good News, is entitled to. He is allowed to work and to take a wife, although he doesn't do those things. He has lived under the Law when he is with those who do that, although he isn't required to do that. He had lived without the Law when staying with those who don't follow it. He will do whatever it takes to save a soul.
March Madness indeed! We have daily witness (on 3 different channels) of those who have built their lives around competition. Our competition (which I stumbled in yesterday) is more serious. It is not for an annual championship, but it is for an eternal ending. The goal may seem far away, but we have grace on our side when we stumble. Our training begins anew when we ask for forgiveness and try again.
Prayer: Lord, forgive me, for I have sinned. I let my big mouth get carried away again. My pride stepped up to make me do that which I shouldn't do. I want to be a serious Christian, always ready to do Your will. I promise to be more serious in my training for the ultimate prize.
Amen
Sunday, March 23, 2014
March 23, 2014
1 Corinthians 8: 13 Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother or sister to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause them to fall.
Paul is discussing the eating of food sacrificed to idols. While he doesn't see that as being harmful to the Christian who eats it, as long as he or she is strong in the faith, he is concerned about those who witness this and misinterpret it. He is saying that Christians must consider how others view their behavior, and we must avoid behaviors which could weaken the faith among those who are not firm in their beliefs.
Again, I suffered from a lack of inspiration in today's chapters. The Israelites are still claiming land in the OT--boring! And then Paul preaches about food. I was moved by this verse, however, not so much as it applies to food, but in a more general sense. As Christians who witness our faith to those around us, we should be conscious of the impression we give the non-believers. Are we willing to do things just b/c they may be interpreted better by those outside the faith? Will we give up our small pleasures to give a better witness?
Prayer: Lord, guide me to be a better witness for you. Help me to see when and where I should act in Your name to influence those outside the faith. I want to be a beacon to those who need You most.
Amen
Paul is discussing the eating of food sacrificed to idols. While he doesn't see that as being harmful to the Christian who eats it, as long as he or she is strong in the faith, he is concerned about those who witness this and misinterpret it. He is saying that Christians must consider how others view their behavior, and we must avoid behaviors which could weaken the faith among those who are not firm in their beliefs.
Again, I suffered from a lack of inspiration in today's chapters. The Israelites are still claiming land in the OT--boring! And then Paul preaches about food. I was moved by this verse, however, not so much as it applies to food, but in a more general sense. As Christians who witness our faith to those around us, we should be conscious of the impression we give the non-believers. Are we willing to do things just b/c they may be interpreted better by those outside the faith? Will we give up our small pleasures to give a better witness?
Prayer: Lord, guide me to be a better witness for you. Help me to see when and where I should act in Your name to influence those outside the faith. I want to be a beacon to those who need You most.
Amen
Saturday, March 22, 2014
March 22, 2014
1 Corinthians 7: 30 those who mourn, (should live) as if they did not; those who are happy, as if they were not; those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep
Paul is talking about marriage. He thinks it is better to remain unmarried, or if widowed, to remain single. However, those who "burn with passion" can go ahead and get married. It would be better if they didn't, so they could focus on the Lord, but it is okay. This verse tells why he thinks that. The second coming will be any day, he says, and we should not be attached to things of this world.
This chapter is Paul at his worst in my opinion. He is preachy and judgmental. He is not at all loving towards his fellow man. The OT verses are about all the conquered kings and their lands. There was a real lack of inspiring verses in today's text. I really like this one verse however. It has a kind of "fake it until you feel it" tone for the mourning, and the happy should not revel in their joy. Both should be more considerate of others and live a more balanced life, seeking the tone of the moment so that they might be more available to the needs of people around them. And I REALLY like the idea that we buy things but never become so attached to them that we forget that they are things. The important parts of our lives are never the things we surround ourselves with. In this time of Lent, when I am removing 40 bags of stuff from my house to simplify it, I know that our attachment to things makes our lives less fulfilling.
Prayer: Lord, I am so glad that you have guided me to this particular Lenten sacrifice--to remove so many things from my daily life. At the halfway point, with 20 bags gone, I can already see that my life is better. Without the distractions of stuff, I am more able to focus on the really important parts of my life--serving You and Your people with love.
Amen
Paul is talking about marriage. He thinks it is better to remain unmarried, or if widowed, to remain single. However, those who "burn with passion" can go ahead and get married. It would be better if they didn't, so they could focus on the Lord, but it is okay. This verse tells why he thinks that. The second coming will be any day, he says, and we should not be attached to things of this world.
This chapter is Paul at his worst in my opinion. He is preachy and judgmental. He is not at all loving towards his fellow man. The OT verses are about all the conquered kings and their lands. There was a real lack of inspiring verses in today's text. I really like this one verse however. It has a kind of "fake it until you feel it" tone for the mourning, and the happy should not revel in their joy. Both should be more considerate of others and live a more balanced life, seeking the tone of the moment so that they might be more available to the needs of people around them. And I REALLY like the idea that we buy things but never become so attached to them that we forget that they are things. The important parts of our lives are never the things we surround ourselves with. In this time of Lent, when I am removing 40 bags of stuff from my house to simplify it, I know that our attachment to things makes our lives less fulfilling.
Prayer: Lord, I am so glad that you have guided me to this particular Lenten sacrifice--to remove so many things from my daily life. At the halfway point, with 20 bags gone, I can already see that my life is better. Without the distractions of stuff, I am more able to focus on the really important parts of my life--serving You and Your people with love.
Amen
Friday, March 21, 2014
March 21, 2014
Joshua 10: 13 So the sun stood still,
and the moon stopped,
till the nation avenged itself on[b] its enemies,
as it is written in the Book of Jashar.
The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day.Joshua is attacking and defeating all of the cities in the Promised Land. He kills the people--all of them--and the Israelites take all their plunder. The cities are large, with mighty armies, but nothing can stop Joshua and his people. Even nature itself is on their side, as daylight is prolonged until this battle is over.
This really puzzles the science teacher in me. Did the Earth stop turning? Was there a supernova of such amazing intensity that it SEEMED like daylight throughout the night? Was the lighting some sort of artificial electric or chemical light? I do not doubt that God could do any or all of these things. And I cannot stop myself from wondering how He accomplished this feat. Isn't He an amazing God?
Prayer: Lord of all Lords, King of all Kings, how mighty You are! You have to merely will it and rivers stop flowing, day never turns to night, hail kills more combatants that the sword of their enemies. There is no limit to Your power. To think that You care about me when You have the power to move the universe is awe-inspiring. Praise God!
Amen
Thursday, March 20, 2014
March 20, 2014 First Day of Spring (after a long, hard winter)
Psalm 69: 30 I will praise God’s name in song
and glorify him with thanksgiving.
David is drowning. He needs God, and he needs Him now! His enemies mock and despise him. But his faith remains strong. David will praise God and ask for His help. He knows that the ending will be good. The people of God will live with blessings in the Promised Land.
It isn't easy for me to read the stories of the taking of the Promised Land. They are so violent, and so many people die in the melee. Even innocent animals are killed, as the slate is wiped clean for the people to occupy their new homes. I searched for a positive message, and I love this thought. In the midst of the violence, I see a man standing in worship, praising His faithful God in song.
Prayer: Lord, I, too, will sing songs of praise to You. I do not always understand Your holy will, but someday I will stand by Your side and all will become clear to me. In the meantime, I know all that You are to me, and I am thankful. "My God is an awesome God; He reigns from heaven above..."
Amen
and glorify him with thanksgiving.
David is drowning. He needs God, and he needs Him now! His enemies mock and despise him. But his faith remains strong. David will praise God and ask for His help. He knows that the ending will be good. The people of God will live with blessings in the Promised Land.
It isn't easy for me to read the stories of the taking of the Promised Land. They are so violent, and so many people die in the melee. Even innocent animals are killed, as the slate is wiped clean for the people to occupy their new homes. I searched for a positive message, and I love this thought. In the midst of the violence, I see a man standing in worship, praising His faithful God in song.
Prayer: Lord, I, too, will sing songs of praise to You. I do not always understand Your holy will, but someday I will stand by Your side and all will become clear to me. In the meantime, I know all that You are to me, and I am thankful. "My God is an awesome God; He reigns from heaven above..."
Amen
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
March 19, 2014
Joshua 5: 15 The commander of the Lord’s army replied, “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so.
Joshua has crossed the Jordan, with the Lord holding back the waters as He did at the beginning of the Exodus. He has had all the young men who were born in the wilderness circumcised, as God ordered. They have celebrated Passover. Now he is waiting to take the Promised Land. That is when he finds the stranger. He asks if the man is for him or against him. The man tell him neither, for he is the Lord's commander. Then he makes this remark.
I can't read this without beginning to sing "Holy Ground" in my head. I love that song, and I love the story. Joshua is mighty, he has been effectively crowned as Moses's successor, and yet he approaches the stranger rather humbly. And when he finds out who he is talking to, Joshua reacts with characteristic faith and follows his instructions.
Prayer: Lord, make me as willing a servant as Joshua. Let me see Your representatives when I approach them, and guide my words and actions to find out what directions they bring me from You. Let me never be hesitant to worship, just as I am, wherever I am. I want to stand on Your holy ground, too, and I want to follow Your will for me there.
Amen
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
March 18, 2014
1 Corinthians 3: 11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Paul is still concerned about the factions in Corinth. Some people say they follow him, while others say they follow Apollos. Paul is telling them that the messenger is not the point. They have to all follow Jesus; he is the one true foundation of Christian faith.
I can see that this is still going strong today. People get hung up on some aspect of their faith--let's say it is having a woman pastor or infant baptism--and they let that divide them into different groups who judge each other's faith. Let's not go there. If you find yourself drawn to one denomination, fine. I am comfortable with another. It doesn't matter as long as both are based on the one true foundation of Christ.
Prayer: Lord, I am praying that all Your people are drawn together by the one true foundation of Your church. Please help us to smooth over our differences. Help us to acknowledge our brothers and sisters of faith, in whatever form that takes, so long as their faith is based on Your only son who gave his life for all of us.
Amen
Paul is still concerned about the factions in Corinth. Some people say they follow him, while others say they follow Apollos. Paul is telling them that the messenger is not the point. They have to all follow Jesus; he is the one true foundation of Christian faith.
I can see that this is still going strong today. People get hung up on some aspect of their faith--let's say it is having a woman pastor or infant baptism--and they let that divide them into different groups who judge each other's faith. Let's not go there. If you find yourself drawn to one denomination, fine. I am comfortable with another. It doesn't matter as long as both are based on the one true foundation of Christ.
Prayer: Lord, I am praying that all Your people are drawn together by the one true foundation of Your church. Please help us to smooth over our differences. Help us to acknowledge our brothers and sisters of faith, in whatever form that takes, so long as their faith is based on Your only son who gave his life for all of us.
Amen
Monday, March 17, 2014
March 17, 2014
Deuteronomy 32: 13 He made him ride on the heights of the land
and fed him with the fruit of the fields.
He nourished him with honey from the rock,
and with oil from the flinty crag,
This is from the song Moses sang to the people, just before he ascended to see the Promised Land he would never enter. Then he died. David's songs are well known, but Moses's song is very poetic.
I was struck by "honey from the rock," the name of a play about WV history. And the oil from the flinty crag is also interesting. Is this the crude oil of the Mideast he is talking about? If so, it has been the cause of much trouble in the region! But greater still than Moses's words is the truth of the story his song tells. It tells of the faithfulness of God towards a rebellious and ungrateful people.
Prayer: Lord, help me to recognize all the blessings You heap upon me. It is so easy to find fault with our lives, but I want to be properly grateful to You. You have raised me to the heights, and You have fed and nourished me well. Praise be to my mighty God!
Amen
and fed him with the fruit of the fields.
He nourished him with honey from the rock,
and with oil from the flinty crag,
This is from the song Moses sang to the people, just before he ascended to see the Promised Land he would never enter. Then he died. David's songs are well known, but Moses's song is very poetic.
I was struck by "honey from the rock," the name of a play about WV history. And the oil from the flinty crag is also interesting. Is this the crude oil of the Mideast he is talking about? If so, it has been the cause of much trouble in the region! But greater still than Moses's words is the truth of the story his song tells. It tells of the faithfulness of God towards a rebellious and ungrateful people.
Prayer: Lord, help me to recognize all the blessings You heap upon me. It is so easy to find fault with our lives, but I want to be properly grateful to You. You have raised me to the heights, and You have fed and nourished me well. Praise be to my mighty God!
Amen
Sunday, March 16, 2014
March 16, 2014
Psalm 40:
2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.
David knows he has sinned--his sins are "more than hairs on my head." He is surrounded by the consequences of his sins and the sins of others. But he has a solid place to stand; he is not doomed to the slimy pit of mud and mire. God is his salvation, and he is calling God to be with him always.
This image just stuck with me. I find myself in the slimy pit, too, and my sins are often the direct reason I am there. I know, however, that I have a mighty God who will stand by me. As Paul said in 1 Corinthians (today's NT verses), God's foolishness is greater than my wisdom, His weakness is greater than any strength I can muster by myself. I need only acknowledge that I have sinned, and He is there to pick me up and put me on a firm place to start over again. Praise be to God!
Prayer: Lord, place my feet on the firm foundation of my faith. Help me to rise above my own sinful acts and thoughts to a place of strength with You. I am so grateful for all You do for me.
Amen
2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.
David knows he has sinned--his sins are "more than hairs on my head." He is surrounded by the consequences of his sins and the sins of others. But he has a solid place to stand; he is not doomed to the slimy pit of mud and mire. God is his salvation, and he is calling God to be with him always.
This image just stuck with me. I find myself in the slimy pit, too, and my sins are often the direct reason I am there. I know, however, that I have a mighty God who will stand by me. As Paul said in 1 Corinthians (today's NT verses), God's foolishness is greater than my wisdom, His weakness is greater than any strength I can muster by myself. I need only acknowledge that I have sinned, and He is there to pick me up and put me on a firm place to start over again. Praise be to God!
Prayer: Lord, place my feet on the firm foundation of my faith. Help me to rise above my own sinful acts and thoughts to a place of strength with You. I am so grateful for all You do for me.
Amen
Thursday, March 13, 2014
March 13, 2014
Deuteronomy 24: 6 Do not take a pair of millstones—not even the upper one—as security for a debt, because that would be taking a person’s livelihood as security.
Deuteronomy is tricky. Some of the rules seem ridiculous. Some are amazing advice. The other Scripture for today is Galatians, with Paul pointing out that these rules were for "children." As fully functioning adults in the faith with Christ, we are not bound by them.
This is one rule we should consider. If we take someone's livelihood as security for their debts, are we guilty? So many people today lose their homes, b/c they lost their jobs and they have been living paycheck to paycheck. Maybe Christians should consider that. Maybe our representatives in government should be protecting these people's security.
Prayer: Lord, I am praying today for those whose security has been lost or is in danger of being lost. Please guide Your children to act in defense of those who need help to gain or keep their secure means of livelihood. I know that You want what is best for all of us, and I will seek any way I can help those who are helpless.
Amen
Deuteronomy is tricky. Some of the rules seem ridiculous. Some are amazing advice. The other Scripture for today is Galatians, with Paul pointing out that these rules were for "children." As fully functioning adults in the faith with Christ, we are not bound by them.
This is one rule we should consider. If we take someone's livelihood as security for their debts, are we guilty? So many people today lose their homes, b/c they lost their jobs and they have been living paycheck to paycheck. Maybe Christians should consider that. Maybe our representatives in government should be protecting these people's security.
Prayer: Lord, I am praying today for those whose security has been lost or is in danger of being lost. Please guide Your children to act in defense of those who need help to gain or keep their secure means of livelihood. I know that You want what is best for all of us, and I will seek any way I can help those who are helpless.
Amen
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
March 11. 2014
Galatians 2: 10 All they asked was that we should continue to remember the poor, the very thing I had been eager to do all along.
Paul is telling about his mission to the Gentiles. He says Peter was called to the circumcised, and he was called to the Gentiles. He is worked up about those who are trying to make the Gentiles follow the old Mosaic Law. He says they are confusing works with faith. Those in the new Christian faith need not follow the old Mosaic Law, although he gives the Law credit for bringing them to the point where Christ came into the world. And then he finishes with these words, summing up his mission to the poor.
I love these words of Paul. I can relate to being eager to help the poor. And I don't mean just those without money either. I have always--well, almost always anyway--been drawn to the downtrodden, to those whom others judge as below themselves. It doesn't matter why they are considered low; I like to interact in a positive way with those whom others would ignore. This is not a trial to me; it is a joy that my faith reinforces my natural inclination to remember those whom others would rather forget.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for the poor. That means those without material goods, those who suffer from bad health, those who are rejected by so many b/c of any reason. I pray that these people who need love and help find what they need. Please guide my words and actions to lift up Your people whom others have put down. Help me to soothe their hurt feelings.
Amen
Paul is telling about his mission to the Gentiles. He says Peter was called to the circumcised, and he was called to the Gentiles. He is worked up about those who are trying to make the Gentiles follow the old Mosaic Law. He says they are confusing works with faith. Those in the new Christian faith need not follow the old Mosaic Law, although he gives the Law credit for bringing them to the point where Christ came into the world. And then he finishes with these words, summing up his mission to the poor.
I love these words of Paul. I can relate to being eager to help the poor. And I don't mean just those without money either. I have always--well, almost always anyway--been drawn to the downtrodden, to those whom others judge as below themselves. It doesn't matter why they are considered low; I like to interact in a positive way with those whom others would ignore. This is not a trial to me; it is a joy that my faith reinforces my natural inclination to remember those whom others would rather forget.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for the poor. That means those without material goods, those who suffer from bad health, those who are rejected by so many b/c of any reason. I pray that these people who need love and help find what they need. Please guide my words and actions to lift up Your people whom others have put down. Help me to soothe their hurt feelings.
Amen
Sunday, March 9, 2014
March 9, 2014
Deuteronomy 10: 19 And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt.
Moses is still giving the final instructions to the Chosen People before they move, without him, into the Promised Land. He has recounted the story of the Exodus with all its moves and the lessons learned on the road. He is telling them how to worship and how to treat the priests. He tells them about offerings and prayer and faith in general. He is both blessing them (if they follow the Law) and cursing them (if they forget the Lord).
I have issues with people who find ways to use their religion to treat foreigners badly. I do not understand how we think it's okay to lump people together by nationality or ethnicity. Then we can justify treating an entire class of people differently. We are all "strangers in a strange land" at times. We must be compassionate to those among us whom others regard as strange.
Prayer: O, Lord, guide Your people to treat all other persons with compassion. Let me view others through a loving lens, not one of judgment. Help me to see the commonality of all Your people, and make my thoughts and actions be kind.
Amen
Moses is still giving the final instructions to the Chosen People before they move, without him, into the Promised Land. He has recounted the story of the Exodus with all its moves and the lessons learned on the road. He is telling them how to worship and how to treat the priests. He tells them about offerings and prayer and faith in general. He is both blessing them (if they follow the Law) and cursing them (if they forget the Lord).
I have issues with people who find ways to use their religion to treat foreigners badly. I do not understand how we think it's okay to lump people together by nationality or ethnicity. Then we can justify treating an entire class of people differently. We are all "strangers in a strange land" at times. We must be compassionate to those among us whom others regard as strange.
Prayer: O, Lord, guide Your people to treat all other persons with compassion. Let me view others through a loving lens, not one of judgment. Help me to see the commonality of all Your people, and make my thoughts and actions be kind.
Amen
Saturday, March 8, 2014
March 8, 2014
Mark 15: 41 In Galilee these women had followed him and cared for his needs. Many other women who had come up with him to Jerusalem were also there.
Many people were there for the crucifixion. The centurion stood in front of Jesus, and he cried out that he surely was the son of God at his death. There were the thieves who were crucified with him. There were many passers-by, who heaped insults at him. And there were the women, women who had loved and cared for Jesus. How they must have suffered with him!
I was going to choose a verse focusing on Pilate. He was puzzled by the vehemence of the crowd, but he was not willing to go against it, even when he knew he was condemning an innocent man. Then I saw this verse, and I decided to focus instead on the women. The Bible is so often condescending to women, in the style of the day when it was written. These women are the true heroes of the crucifixion scene. They have not denied Jesus, they did not sell him out. They had been there for him in so many ways. And even though it must have caused them great pain, they stood through his agony, unable to leave his side. Furthermore, they will be the ones who go to the tomb and discover he is gone once the Sabbath is over. These are true Bible heroes.
Prayer: Lord, I am thankful today for Your word in the Bible. The Bible has so much to tell me, and my faith is strengthened through the daily reading of Scripture. I am thankful, too, for the women of the faith who came before me, especially for my own dear mother. Without the example of these women, I could not have the strength of faith that is my rock today.
Amen
Many people were there for the crucifixion. The centurion stood in front of Jesus, and he cried out that he surely was the son of God at his death. There were the thieves who were crucified with him. There were many passers-by, who heaped insults at him. And there were the women, women who had loved and cared for Jesus. How they must have suffered with him!
I was going to choose a verse focusing on Pilate. He was puzzled by the vehemence of the crowd, but he was not willing to go against it, even when he knew he was condemning an innocent man. Then I saw this verse, and I decided to focus instead on the women. The Bible is so often condescending to women, in the style of the day when it was written. These women are the true heroes of the crucifixion scene. They have not denied Jesus, they did not sell him out. They had been there for him in so many ways. And even though it must have caused them great pain, they stood through his agony, unable to leave his side. Furthermore, they will be the ones who go to the tomb and discover he is gone once the Sabbath is over. These are true Bible heroes.
Prayer: Lord, I am thankful today for Your word in the Bible. The Bible has so much to tell me, and my faith is strengthened through the daily reading of Scripture. I am thankful, too, for the women of the faith who came before me, especially for my own dear mother. Without the example of these women, I could not have the strength of faith that is my rock today.
Amen
Friday, March 7, 2014
March 7, 2014
Deuteronomy 6: 12 be careful that you do not forget the Lord, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
Moses is giving his last directions to the people before he dies. He reminds them of all that God has done for them during the Exodus. He reminds them of the 10 Commandments and other rules of righteousness that they should follow. He warns them that they may find life so easy in the Promised Land that they will forget all that brought them there. Most of all, they may neglect to worship the one true God.
I see this temptation all around me. I have many friends who are faithful to God's church. I have many friends and family who do not acknowledge that God is in any way involved in their lives. I know that I neglect God too, especially when things are going well. I also forget to go to God in times of trouble. I worry needlessly.
Prayer: I need You, Lord, oh, how I need You! I am a poor follower of the Way so much of the time. I am trying my best to be faithful, especially during this holy time of Lent, but my best just isn't good enough so much of the time. Guide my steps towards You. I know all that You have to offer me. Help me to ask for Your help in good times and bad.
Amen
Moses is giving his last directions to the people before he dies. He reminds them of all that God has done for them during the Exodus. He reminds them of the 10 Commandments and other rules of righteousness that they should follow. He warns them that they may find life so easy in the Promised Land that they will forget all that brought them there. Most of all, they may neglect to worship the one true God.
I see this temptation all around me. I have many friends who are faithful to God's church. I have many friends and family who do not acknowledge that God is in any way involved in their lives. I know that I neglect God too, especially when things are going well. I also forget to go to God in times of trouble. I worry needlessly.
Prayer: I need You, Lord, oh, how I need You! I am a poor follower of the Way so much of the time. I am trying my best to be faithful, especially during this holy time of Lent, but my best just isn't good enough so much of the time. Guide my steps towards You. I know all that You have to offer me. Help me to ask for Your help in good times and bad.
Amen
Thursday, March 6, 2014
March 6, 2014
Psalm 36: 7 How priceless is your unfailing love, O God!
People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
This Psalm of David's is divided into 3 parts. In the first 4 verses, David speaks of the nonbelievers. He tells of their false pride. In the next section, David reminds us of all God has to offer. In the third part, he beseeches God for continued mercy and deliverance from the evil ones.
I love the message here. We have a priceless gift, given to us through no merit of our own. We have a place of refuge; we need not worry b/c God has our backs. God is always faithful even though we are not. How fortunate we are to be His people!
Prayer: This is a prayer of praise for the one true God. This is my humble attempt to honor all my God is to me and to all His people. O, God, how awesome You are! And to think that You make Yourself available for my mundane concerns is humbling indeed. I love You, God.
Amen
People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
This Psalm of David's is divided into 3 parts. In the first 4 verses, David speaks of the nonbelievers. He tells of their false pride. In the next section, David reminds us of all God has to offer. In the third part, he beseeches God for continued mercy and deliverance from the evil ones.
I love the message here. We have a priceless gift, given to us through no merit of our own. We have a place of refuge; we need not worry b/c God has our backs. God is always faithful even though we are not. How fortunate we are to be His people!
Prayer: This is a prayer of praise for the one true God. This is my humble attempt to honor all my God is to me and to all His people. O, God, how awesome You are! And to think that You make Yourself available for my mundane concerns is humbling indeed. I love You, God.
Amen
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
March 5, 2014
Mark 12: 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.
Jesus is being tested with questions all around. There was the one about the woman who married 7 times. Who would be her husband in the afterlife? There was this one about the greatest commandments. This is #1, and #2 is "Love your neighbor as yourself."
Loving God is #1--with my heart, my soul, my mind, and my strength. My heart and soul are good, I think. I know that God is the superior being in every way. My heart and soul buy into that. My mind wanders. My strength wanes. It is so easy to be distracted by life and sapped by all of the demands on my time. Putting God first is never easy, but it is the most important thing I do.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen my mind, so that I might do You justice in my daily life. Let You be the first thing on my mind, in times of trouble and times of praise and thanksgiving. Be with me to guide and lead me.
Amen
Jesus is being tested with questions all around. There was the one about the woman who married 7 times. Who would be her husband in the afterlife? There was this one about the greatest commandments. This is #1, and #2 is "Love your neighbor as yourself."
Loving God is #1--with my heart, my soul, my mind, and my strength. My heart and soul are good, I think. I know that God is the superior being in every way. My heart and soul buy into that. My mind wanders. My strength wanes. It is so easy to be distracted by life and sapped by all of the demands on my time. Putting God first is never easy, but it is the most important thing I do.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen my mind, so that I might do You justice in my daily life. Let You be the first thing on my mind, in times of trouble and times of praise and thanksgiving. Be with me to guide and lead me.
Amen
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
March 4, 2014
Mark 11: 25 " And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”
Jesus and the disciples have found the fig tree that Jesus cursed has withered. He takes this opportunity to teach them about the power of faith. The tree will die, the mountain will fall into the sea, whatever we ask for will be if our faith is strong enough. Then he ends with this reminder, straight from The Lord's Prayer, about our forgiveness of others being tied to our forgiveness from God.
It is so hard to forgive sometimes. We can take that bit of resentment, and we can turn it over and over in our hearts. We are wounded, and we roll in our pain, like a dog rolling in the grass. We rub it all over ourselves. We feel the indignity again and again. Why? Why not let it go and give it to God? Easy to say, hard to do.
Prayer: Lord, I give You all my resentments. I ask that You lead my thoughts away from them when they come to mind. I know that I sin in a thousand ways, and I forgive those whose sin has affected me. I want and need Your forgiveness to move ahead with my life.
Amen
Jesus and the disciples have found the fig tree that Jesus cursed has withered. He takes this opportunity to teach them about the power of faith. The tree will die, the mountain will fall into the sea, whatever we ask for will be if our faith is strong enough. Then he ends with this reminder, straight from The Lord's Prayer, about our forgiveness of others being tied to our forgiveness from God.
It is so hard to forgive sometimes. We can take that bit of resentment, and we can turn it over and over in our hearts. We are wounded, and we roll in our pain, like a dog rolling in the grass. We rub it all over ourselves. We feel the indignity again and again. Why? Why not let it go and give it to God? Easy to say, hard to do.
Prayer: Lord, I give You all my resentments. I ask that You lead my thoughts away from them when they come to mind. I know that I sin in a thousand ways, and I forgive those whose sin has affected me. I want and need Your forgiveness to move ahead with my life.
Amen
Monday, March 3, 2014
March 3, 2014
Mark 10: 52 “Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.
This is blind Bartimaeus. He has been calling out to Jesus as he passed by. Others were telling him to stop but he wouldn't be quiet. Jesus called for him and asked what he wanted. He wanted to see. This is in contrast to the wealthy young man who wouldn't leave all that he owned to follow Jesus, prompting the "camel through the eye of the needle" remark.
Surely blind Bartimaeus had other things to do. He probably wanted to tell loved ones about his healing; he may have even wanted some revenge against those who were cruel to a handicapped man. Instead, his faith healed him and drove him to follow Jesus down the road. Nothing was more important to him. I would like to have that kind of faith.
Prayer: O, Lord, I need your healing so many times. I am sick, I am worried, or I am overwhelmed. Instead of following you, I wander off. I look for help elsewhere. Please guide Your unfaithful servant back to the comfort of Your peace.
Amen
This is blind Bartimaeus. He has been calling out to Jesus as he passed by. Others were telling him to stop but he wouldn't be quiet. Jesus called for him and asked what he wanted. He wanted to see. This is in contrast to the wealthy young man who wouldn't leave all that he owned to follow Jesus, prompting the "camel through the eye of the needle" remark.
Surely blind Bartimaeus had other things to do. He probably wanted to tell loved ones about his healing; he may have even wanted some revenge against those who were cruel to a handicapped man. Instead, his faith healed him and drove him to follow Jesus down the road. Nothing was more important to him. I would like to have that kind of faith.
Prayer: O, Lord, I need your healing so many times. I am sick, I am worried, or I am overwhelmed. Instead of following you, I wander off. I look for help elsewhere. Please guide Your unfaithful servant back to the comfort of Your peace.
Amen
Sunday, March 2, 2014
March 2, 2014
Mark 9: 24 Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”
Jesus has been brought to the boy with the deaf and mute demon. The disciples have tried to bring it out without success. Jesus asks the father about the boy, and the father says he would appreciate any help if Jesus can help. Jesus tells him that the father's faith is what will make it work. This is the father's reply.
I feel the father's pain. I do believe, but it is so easy to lapse into doubt. That is why faith is hard--it is not reasonable; it accepts what cannot be seen or touched. We make the leap of faith only to find ourselves on the doubting side of the gap again and again. What if we were mistaken? What if all of this is for nothing? The world tells us we are fools; maybe we are. Prayer was the only way to release the boy's demon and ours. The peace we find in connection with God helps us overcome disbelief.
Prayer: I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief. I need help with this over and over, Lord. I need to find Your strength and faithfulness through prayer. Be with me, guide me to You, and send me out into the unbelieving world with new faith.
Amen
Jesus has been brought to the boy with the deaf and mute demon. The disciples have tried to bring it out without success. Jesus asks the father about the boy, and the father says he would appreciate any help if Jesus can help. Jesus tells him that the father's faith is what will make it work. This is the father's reply.
I feel the father's pain. I do believe, but it is so easy to lapse into doubt. That is why faith is hard--it is not reasonable; it accepts what cannot be seen or touched. We make the leap of faith only to find ourselves on the doubting side of the gap again and again. What if we were mistaken? What if all of this is for nothing? The world tells us we are fools; maybe we are. Prayer was the only way to release the boy's demon and ours. The peace we find in connection with God helps us overcome disbelief.
Prayer: I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief. I need help with this over and over, Lord. I need to find Your strength and faithfulness through prayer. Be with me, guide me to You, and send me out into the unbelieving world with new faith.
Amen
Saturday, March 1, 2014
March 1, 2014
Mark 8: 38 "If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
Jesus has had a trying time. He has fed the multitude, twice, but his disciples still don't understand all he is capable of. He was confronted by the Pharisees who wanted a heavenly sign. He sighed, refused and referred to their generation. He has explained how the crucifixion will occur, only to be rebuked by Peter.
It must have been hard to be Jesus at this point. He goes from highs to lows, and even those closest to him do not understand his mission. That generation of people must have seemed especially dense. Now we feel that way about our own generation. There is so much wrong, and people are so quick to jump on the apocalypse theory. Are they just overstating their own importance, as I suspect? Or is this generation especially sinful? And am I completely conveying that I am proud of my Lord and Savior? Will he be glad to accept me when he does come?
Prayer: Lord, guide me to show that I am proud of my faith and of Your holy majesty. Make me a beacon to those who seek You but cannot find the way. Help me to be prepared to meet You and Your son face to face with praise when the time is right.
Amen
Jesus has had a trying time. He has fed the multitude, twice, but his disciples still don't understand all he is capable of. He was confronted by the Pharisees who wanted a heavenly sign. He sighed, refused and referred to their generation. He has explained how the crucifixion will occur, only to be rebuked by Peter.
It must have been hard to be Jesus at this point. He goes from highs to lows, and even those closest to him do not understand his mission. That generation of people must have seemed especially dense. Now we feel that way about our own generation. There is so much wrong, and people are so quick to jump on the apocalypse theory. Are they just overstating their own importance, as I suspect? Or is this generation especially sinful? And am I completely conveying that I am proud of my Lord and Savior? Will he be glad to accept me when he does come?
Prayer: Lord, guide me to show that I am proud of my faith and of Your holy majesty. Make me a beacon to those who seek You but cannot find the way. Help me to be prepared to meet You and Your son face to face with praise when the time is right.
Amen
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