October 31, 2016

Mark 8:  36 What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? 

Jesus spoke to the Pharisees. They are trying to trap him. They can't stand the way he commands the crowds, how he healed the sick. They are defending their positions of power at the expense of the truth. 

I'm going into this last week before the election with trepidation. I consult the latest polls and maps. Neither candidate is desirable, but one scares me worse than than the other. Paying lip service to Christian principles is bad enough, but encouraging crowds to behave in ways Christ would deplore is another. I know that some are concerned about particular issues that seem to be in conflict with their faith, but I fear they have sold their souls to feel comfortable about the future. Lord, help us. 

Prayer:  Lord, my country needs You. We have been so independent, so full of ourselves, that we can't see You clearly. Guide and lead us. Protect us from evil. 
Amen

October 29, 2016

Mark 4: 40 He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”

This is when Jesus sleeps in the boat during a terrible storm. The disciples finally wake him, because they think everyone is going to die. Jesus calms the storm with his words. Then he said this. 

I have been neglecting Life Journal. At times, I have taken time to reread and reflect on past years through posts I made at the same time. I am rereading The Shack. I want to be in greater community with my Saviour, but I have been busy with earthly concerns. Now I take Jesus's words as a question for myself. Why haven't I been as faithful lately?  

Prayer:  Lord, I am sorry for my lack of faith. I haven't been as present with You as I should be. I'm promising to do better. Please forgive me. 
Amen

October 2, 2016

Luke 15:  32 " But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’”

This is the end of the story of the Prodigal Son. He has squandered his life and his inheritance. He is living a wasted life until he remembers how good his father is. He returns a humbled man, but his father treats him like a prince. And his brother, the good son, doesn't get it. This is the father's explanation. 

Is this where my nephew is?  Has he been found?  Or is this just the beginning of another chapter in his failings?  He told his mother that he wants to die. He said he wasn't made for this life. I am praying that it's a new beginning of the life he was meant to live. 

Prayer: Lord, be with the lost sheep of your flock. Guide those who have lost their way back to You. Be their guiding light to a better understanding of Your love and plans for them. 

Amen