February 12, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Psalm 51
Ash Wednesday
Reading Psalm 51 reminds us of how humble and ashamed David must have felt after
his confrontation with Nathan the Prophet, as Nathan exposed the sinfulness of his acts.
After all, here was David, God's anointed one, who began his reign so pure of heart,
standing knee deep in the muck and mire of his sin. If it could happen to him, could it
happen to any one of us?
Of course it can, and it does, every hour of every day. We continuously turn away from
God's way, the way David did when he seduced Bathsheba, and we pursue fulfillment of our
own selfish desires. In a broader sense, we sin against God every time we put ourselves
before him. Is there any hope?
Thanks to our Savior Jesus Christ, we can come before God, and be cleansed from our
sin. Let us begin this Lenten journey by humbling ourselves before the Lord with penitent,
contrite hearts. Indeed God loves a heart that is humble and seeks forgiveness. God will
joyfully embrace us and will "wash us whiter than snow."
Prayer: Gracious Father, we thank you for forgiving us, day after
day, sin after sin. We ask you to guide us and sustain us as we journey with you through
this Lenten season. We ask for your peace to be granted for "our inmost parts".
Amen.
February 13, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Galatians 5: 16-26
Which Way Do We Go?
As we go through life, we are faced with many, many decisions. Some of these decisions
are major, such as our choice of our partner, and others are more mundane. Some will
affect us for the moment, others for our entire lives. They involve people and behaviors
that we will attach ourselves to, good or bad.
These choices are based on what we value, and what direction we find ourselves headed.
We make choices to please parents, friends, our boss, spouse or family, or ourselves. But
how often do we make these decisions based on God?
When we make decisions to please others or ourselves, it shows in the way we behave.
The Bible teaches us that the deeds of living to please ourselves include such things as
immorality, impurity, strife, jealousy, and dissension. God has said in the Bible that
people who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But if we choose to
walk by the Spirit, the fruits include lives of love, joy, peace, patience, faithfulness,
and gentleness. The Spirit and the flesh are set against each other, and a person cannot
make choices based on both at the same time.
Let us look at our lives and reflect on what we base our choices upon. Each decision,
large or small, should be led by the Spirit. Are they?
Prayer: Father, help us remember that you saved us to set us
free, free to put ourselves at your disposal. Help us to be guided by the Spirit, and
center our lives in You, in all that we do. Amen.
February 14, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Philippians 2:5-11
Be a Giver
Jesus as our Savior, has given us an example for our life with him and each other. Our
life with Christ is his grace of faith for our salvation. Without the good news we have no
hope. He come as our servant, so that we should have hope. Similarly, by example, he
showed us how to treat one another.
Through his example we should seek to be servants to one another, not only when its
easy but especially when times are difficult. Serving one another requires not just
addressing physical needs but also nurturing the spiritual needs of each other. Following
Christ's examples requires taking chances, being uncomfortable, trying new opportunities.
Trying new things in physical and spiritual service to each other is a large objective
during these times of change and speed. But we need to recognize the opportunities during
the everyday issues of life and the extraordinary. Take a chance to serve, just as giving
gifts, the giver receives more than the receiver, it all starts with the giver.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for the service of your Son
for my salvation. Help me to recognize and art to serve through his example, and forgive
me as I fall short of Christ's gift. As I serve the physical needs of others, bring the
Holy Spirit to serve their spiritual needs as well. Through Jesus' service we pray. Amen.
February 15, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Isaiah 42: 10-17
Sing a New Song
Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise from the end of the earth! Let the sea and all
that fill it, the coastlands and their inhabitants. (Isaiah 42: 10).
I remember when the Lutheran Church decided to change form the red hymnals to the green
hymnals. Musically there were changes to the songs in the liturgy and those changes didn't
fell right. I remember thinking why should we change, the old hymnals are the way things
are supposed to be. It was like losing an old friend. The Lutheran Book of Worship just
wasn't as good as the old Service Book and Hymnal ( I had to get my copy out to find out
what it was called). Now the LBW is an old friend and I can't remember the tunes of the
old liturgy: the LBW is now the old liturgy. We sang new songs back then, and they were
also the new songs of a new beginning.
In a similar manner, leaving the old church was like leaving an old friend. I remember
thinking, why can't we just build on the back and put a parking lot where the houses are?
Then came the uncomfortable period of various places of worship, none of them ours. I
remember the first time I came into the new church, I had waited until the night of the
dedication. I sat in a folding metal chair and thought, this is just like the old church
on Easter, not enough room. Then the beautiful new organ played and we all sang a new
song. It didn't take as long to feel at home in the new church as it did with the LBW.
Every so often we all need to sing a new song. We need to get up and do something new
and different. As people come to our new church, that family started 45 years ago will
grow and there will be many new challenges and many new songs to sing. Remember that the
more new songs we sing, the more old friends we will have. The new song we began that
dedication night has just begun, let us sing it loud and long.
Prayer: Lord, help us to not fear the new songs we sing, help us
not to fear change. For with change comes growth. Lead us as we grow in your love and sing
your praises. Amen.
February 16, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Matthew 5: 1-16
We Are the Salt of the Earth
"Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good deeds and praise
our Father in Heaven". These are the words of Jesus as he taught his disciples what
they and all Christians should do. One evening at Logos (a mid-week youth program our
church recently began), the children were asked to paraphrase the speech of Martin Luther
King by telling their dreams for our nation. They wanted an end to pollution, to be able
to trust other people, to give food to the hungry, and clothes to the poor and the cold,
an end to cruelty to animals, and for people to live together in peace and love. The
adults listened with love in their hearts, taking credit perhaps for the wonderful wisdom
displayed by the younger people. If we were to carry out their ideas we would be the salt
of the earth and would be letting our light shine!
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, please help us to listen to the
words of Jesus in the Beatitudes, please help us to hunger for righteousness, to be
merciful, pure in heart, to be peacemakers, and to let our light shine. Please help us to
do all we can so the children will grow up with these beautiful intentions and truly be
the salt of the earth. Amen.
February 17, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Luke 7: 1-17
"God Our Father"
When I was growing up, I knew I could go to my mom and dad anytime I wanted to get a
warm hug. (Bear hugs weren't ruled out!). These hugs said so much to me, including that
life would be good as long as they were there.
In my minds' eye, I love to think about God, the Father, giving me a hug. I know that
as long as I have God in my life, everything will be all right. He is powerful and
compassionate - proven in many ways as well as by the miracles He performed when on Earth,
and those He still performs.
By far His most powerful and compassionate miracle is that of salvation. The day that I
go to Heaven and am able to see God do that miracle will be a special one.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for being our Father and for the miracles
that you perform. Help us to remember that you are always there for us. Help us to see
that you are all that truly matters in life. Also help us to know that everything is all
right as long as we have you and can look forward to having a home with you in Heaven.
Amen.
February 18, 1997. Today's Bible verse is John 14: 15-21
If You Love Me ...
There have been times while shopping that I have been given an excess of change or in
looking at my receipt when I get home have found I was not charged for some item I laid on
the counter.
Is it my lucky day?
But then it must be the Holy Spirit that prods me. If I keep what I have not paid for,
isn't that breaking one of the Commandments?
Number 8 states specifically "Thou shalt not steal". It does not add an
'unless' .... When I've pointed the error out to the clerk I have been told "You are
so honest" and they seem surprised! Well, I don't know that there is a degree of
honesty. I think God is pretty clear on this and if I have to live with myself I must
fight the human temptation to keep what is not rightfully mine.
Prayer: Dear God, please be with me in my daily struggles. May
your Holy Spirit remind me of you will for my life. In gratitude for my many blessings,
Amen.
February 19, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Psalm 30
Praises to God: Thankfulness
So I will not be silent; I will sing praise to you. Lord, you are my God; I will give
you thanks forever. (v12)
There are so many things to be thankful for. First and foremost, you sent Your Son who
suffered and died for us so that we might have eternal life. You forgive us all our sins
and shortcomings, our omissions and our commissions, and deliberate misbehaviors an all
the other things that we do wrong. All we need do is to be truly sorry for them and ask
for your forgiveness. For this we are very thankful, Lord.
We thank you Lord for a wonderful caring church family. Thank you for all the caring
people; the Parish Nurse Program, the Stephen Ministry Program, the LOGOS program for our
children and young people, the Boy Scouts program, the Best Time of Life (BTOL) program
for the senior members, and also for all the loving and helpful members of this
congregation.
Thank you, Lord, for all the volunteers: the choir, the cantors, the church council,
the many committee members, and chair persons, the Bible Study leaders, the Circle leaders
and member, the ushers, the tellers, the acolytes, the lectors, the communion assistants,
the Youth Leaders, the Sunday School Teachers, the people who scoop the snow in the winter
and mow the grass in summer, and all others who make our church service and our activities
at church so very meaningful and pleasant.
We thank you Lord for a dedicated and hard working staff. We thank you Lord for such a
wonderful group of young people who love their church and one another.
For all of these things we are very grateful, Lord, and we will give you thanks
forever.
Prayer: God of all goodness, help us to always be grateful for
all your blessings, in Jesus name. Amen.
February 20, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Galatians 6: 7-10
Be True
I recently received a letter from a non-profit Christian mission my family has
supported for several years. The letter was to recognize our contributions by making us a
member of the "Samaritans Circle".
That's nice, I thought. As I read further, I saw how our level of contributions placed
us in one of four categories of the Samaritans Circle. Circle of Faith; Circle of Care;
Circle of Hope; Circle of Love. They also wanted to place our name on a plaque in the
mission, list our names in an edition of the mission newsletter and if we attend the
annual open house, recognize us there.
As I finished the letter I was troubled. Did we deserve this recognition? We began
giving out of love and service. It may have become routine over the years, but this letter
gave us the opportunity to reaffirm our original motivation, "Love and Service".
Don't allow the world to move the focus of your giving, stay true.
The one who sows to be recognized by the world, their reward will be of this world.
Let's all your gifts be given in praise of God's love and blessings. Remember the one who
sows to please the spirit will reap eternal life.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for the blessing you have given me.
Help me to see the many simple areas where I can act as your agent. Let me be a vessel by
which you comfort, strengthen, praise, and love. In Jesus name, Amen.
February 21, 1997. Today's Bible verse is John 10: 1-18
O God, My Faithful God
(verse 1)
O God, my faithful God,
True fountain ever flowing,
Without whom nothing is,
All perfect gifts bestowing:
Give me a healthy frame,
And may I have within
A conscience free from blame,
(verse 3)
Keep me from saying words
That later need recalling;
Guard me, lest idle speech
May from my lips be falling;
But when, within my place,
I must and ought to speak,
Then to my words give grace,
Lest I offend the weak.
The words to this song ring through my head. We discuss this in our Ladies Bible Study.
Yet, this plea for silence is so hard to follow! We hear things that we just have to
repeat. The secret is too juicy to not pass on and be "in the know"! And this
lack of silence causes us to later have to say "I'm sorry" or we hear things
that are said about us that are hurtful and sometimes not even accurate. Please God, I beg
that as we wake each morning that you place a hush over each of us if we cannot think of
anything positive to say of someone else. Help us realize that no one is perfect, and that
patience is a virtue we should each exercise much more often.
Prayer: My Jesus, it is the weight not of the Cross but of my
sins, which has made You suffer so much pain. Help me remember you are with me every day,
every minute, and to live my life, and direct my thoughts in this light. Amen.
Text: Johann Heermann, 1585-1647; tr. Catherine Winkworth, 1829-1878
February 22, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Matthew 15: 2-27
How Great is Our Faith?
The woman of Canaan had faith that Jesus could heal her child. Her faith was tested as
the disciples implored Jesus to send her away. Her faith was tested again when Jesus said
that he was not sent for her. But her faith was strong and the reward was great. Her child
was healed.
Do we have that kind of faith? Could our faith withstand rejection? We live in a world
where we are conditioned to believe that our medial problems will be solved by taking the
newest pain reliever and our success depends on driving the latest model car. We watch
major life issues resolved in an hour-long television drama. With these expectations, we
expect Jesus to answer our prayers in the same amount of time.
We expect Jesus to relieve our pain overnight or at the very least within twenty four
hours. When our prayers are not answered immediately, we lose faith. But we must have the
faith of the woman of Canaan. We must believe in Jesus and have faith that our prayers
will be answered and we must continue to trust him and have faith even when the answer is
no.
Prayer: Lord Jesus let us turn our hearts toward you. May our faith
increase during this Lenten season and like the Woman of Canaan, may others be
strengthened by our example. Amen.
February 23, 1997. Today's Bible verse is John 14: 1-12
Who is God?
Why do we believe in God? Ask twenty different people, and you could get almost that
many answers. Many people were taught to believe when they were young. Others learned
later. Some just feel that there is someone greater over us, but how many of us have seen
God in person or form?
How do we know God is with us? Two thousand years is a long time to go without direct
contact. Simply the only way we can know God is through faith. Faith is hard to come by
for some, but natural as water for others. Each of us has to work towards our personal
faith by our own ways, and different difficulties.
Prayer: These different difficulties and reasons for our faith
guide each of us in personal guest for God. Each of us has to find our way, but we all
have the chance. Make the best of it. Amen.
February 24, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Hebrews 11: 1-12
True Faith
"Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."
Today many people have trouble having true faith. It is important, though, that people
maintain a strong faith in God. That is the only way we can really understand the universe
and be rewarded.
Ancient people were commended for their faith. Abel gave God a better sacrifice than
Cain. God appreciated this, and rewarded Abel. Noah had faith enough to build the Ark, and
for that, his family was saved. Sarah had faith and was rewarded with a child. There are
many other examples given of great faith and rewards.
God gave us these examples so we could learn from them. No matter what is happening in
our lives, we must maintain our faith. That is how we will be saved in the end.
Prayer: Dear God, please help us to trust you and have faith in
you always. That no matter what our present circumstances we will believe and be faithful.
Amen.
February 25, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Matthew 7:1-12
Judging Others
Matthew 7: 1 - 12 has a very powerful message to me that I use everyday of my life.
This scripture says, "Do not judge, or you too will be judged,"
This scripture applies to many peoples lives. Many times people will see
"different people" walking down the street. Some of these people may have a
mohawk or an eye ring in their nose or eye. But we should not forget that this is the way
that they feel normal and happy. But this is the same for these people when they take a
look at us and think, "Why don't they have green hair or holes in their jeans?"
An important lesson from this scripture is to treat others as you want to be treated.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to lead the life that you wish us to
live. And make sure that we judge people the way that you wish us to, not how we think
people should be judged, which is not to judge at all. To ask, seek, and knock at
everyone's door. Amen.
February 26, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Psalm 31: 1-5
Commitment
Everyone at some time in life encounters an especially stressful situation or series of
events that allows us to grow in our faith and relationship with God. A particularly
difficult situation is when we have to be away from the ones we love.
Several years ago, prior to becoming engaged, a young couple was faced with a very
difficult decision. One was offered a job opportunity over 500 miles away from where they
both lived. Financial obligations were such that the other could not move until a new job
was secured. The decision was made to pursue this opportunity. Committed to God, both knew
that their complete trust and faith in God would be the only way to make it through the
terribly lonely time apart.
As God's will, the couple traveled to see each other every weekend as He watched over
them and protected them in their travels. The weeks were long, the weekends short, but God
never gave them more than they could handle. After a year and a half, the couple came
together again, not only to live in the same city but as one in holy matrimony with God.
While the time apart had often seemed like an eternity, the absence truly made their
hearts grow fonder with each other, but especially in their relationship and commitment to
God.
Prayer: Dear Lord, during this Lenten season we pray for the
wisdom and strength to commit ourselves to you not only in times of trouble, but always.
As Christ committed his spirit to you on the cross, teach us also to trust and depend on
you unconditionally, Amen.
February 27, 1997. Today's Bible verse is 1 John 4: 7-21
God in Our Lives
Nothing could be more ordinary that getting a drink of water. It is rarely a life
transforming event. Yet, for the Samaritan woman at the well, drawing water literally
changed her life, for it was at the well that she encountered Jesus. The lesson I take
from this story is not that Jesus revealed His truth to the woman, but that the woman was
open to receiving Jesus' teaching, even in the most ordinary of life's situations.
How easy and human, it would have been to rebuff Jesus. Certainly it would have been
easier to walk away, or to attempt to lie when Jesus told the woman to "call her
husband". Instead, the woman was truthful, allowing Jesus to reveal himself even
further. Finally, Jesus tells her He is the Christ -- the one who will show the world
"all things".
I frequently forget that God is at work in the most ordinary, mundane events. I rush to
get everything done. I rebuff God's attempts to change my life and fail to see the
opportunities God is giving me to touch another's life.
The times I have seen God most clearly are the times that I could easily have taken for
granted, focusing only on my thoughts and needs. One Sunday, while waiting my turn for
communion, I watched the other communers come forward. While I saw my friends and
neighbors, on that Sunday, I saw something more. I saw God in hundreds of ways - old and
young, healthy and sick, different races, different sizes - but each person was a
reflection of Gods' love. In that moment, God spoke to me. More important. I listened.
As I move through life, I must constantly remind myself not to hurry, to act
intentionally, and to listen for God. I remind myself that God can transform the most
ordinary activities, if I allow it.
Prayer: Dear God, help each of us open our hearts and minds to
the opportunities you present. Help us see you in the "everydayness" of our
lives, as we await the celebration of Christ's resurrection. Amen.
February 28, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Luke 2:40-52
Our Father!
This Bible story is an example of what was required of Joseph and Mary, as Jesus began
to transition from doing his father's business to doing his Father's business.
This past fall, I helped usher as the congregation processed to the altar to deposit
their Pledge Cards. Assuming it was merely "idle doodling", I took the pledge
card our younger son was carrying and put it in my pocket. Not too much later, when I was
looking for something else, I found the card. It took me a minute or two to realize it was
not doodling at all, but instead a properly completed pledge card, a serious commitment.
Knowing his income (allowance), it was humbling to recognize that his pledge was
proportionately more generous than the one I had turned in that day. Figuring he was too
young to appreciate that facet of Christian education, I had not suggested he make a
pledge. It was uncomfortable to realize that not only had I failed to lead, I had actually
interfered with our son, as he was going about his "Father's business".
Prayer: Give us the wisdom to aid and support our children as
they go about Your business. Also, Lord, put Your business in our children's hearts and
give them the strength to not be held back or turned aside by others who don't have the
vision to do what You would have them do. Amen.
March 1, 1997. Today's Bible verse is John 1: 1-18
Are You Alone?
When I was a child I had a paralyzing fear of the dark. I imagined that some nasty
little creatures with sharp teeth were there in the darkness waiting until I was asleep so
they could eat me. Or perhaps it was the "Bogeyman" come to get me.
I told my grandmother how I was afraid of the dark, and instead of saying that I was
being silly or was imagining things, as others had told me, she said, "It's okay to
be afraid of the dark, because sometimes there are monster-like creatures and bogeymen
lurking about in the darkness, but there is something you can do about it." I asked
what it was, and she said, "Turn to the light." I said, "You mean turn ON
the light don't you"?
"No", she said. "I mean turn to Jesus, the everlasting light and pray
for His protection." That night I turned to the light for protection from the
darkness and I still do today.
Prayer: Protect us from the grown-up "bogeymen" that
lurk in our lives. In our times of fear and periods of feeling alone, please help us
remember that you are always in our presence. We should turn to you in these times for
security and confidence to go on. Amen.
March 2, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Galatians 6: 1-10
Christ's Law is Love
In this scripture passage, each of us is commended to gently and with love, guide those
in need of admonition and instruct them, that they might correct their ways. In order to
do this, we must first examine our motives and be sure we ourselves are not in need of
mending our ways. We are to bear one another's burdens. How are we to do this? We can
lighten the burdens of others with caring, sympathy, and with love. By these actions, we
are helping fulfill the law of Christ.... the law of love.
Paul further reminds us that, "whatever a man sows, that he will also reap".
He urges us not to lose heart and grow weary of "well-doing" but instead, as the
opportunities arise, to do good to all men. Christian love is not limited.
In fact, when we fail to gently and lovingly admonish , or when we foolishly commit
acts of selfishness or thoughtlessness toward others, or fail to do acts of kindness in
our daily walk in life ---- are we not in fact, diminishing the love of Christ we confess?
We must always remember the law of Christ is the law of love. All that we do should be
done in love.
Prayer: Gracious and loving father, guide our thoughts, words and
actions that we may be living examples of our goodness. Grant us courage and faith that we
may follow your word and show love and concern for others in our daily lives. Amen
March 3, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Matthew 18:21-35
WHY?
Why did this happen? That's a question that our family asked several times the past few
months. We haven't really experienced many physical injuries, even with 3 kids. The day
after telling someone that, our middle son got kicked in the leg on the playground. After
a trip to the emergency room and two weeks on crutches, the orthopedic surgeon decided to
operate. A second surgery was also necessary.
While he was still recovering, I received a phone call from school that our six year
old daughter had fallen from the jungle gym on her back and head. I was told the
paramedics were on their way. Another trip to the emergency room. It was determined she
would be sore, but fine.
As the two youngest recovered, our oldest son woke up one morning with an inner ear
infection, which left him with 70% permanent hearing loss.
I was aware during each injury that God was watching over us, and may in fact be
testing our faith. After a few deep breaths, I knew each of these unfortunate incidents
could have been worse, and that each child was actually very fortunate. I believe God
pulled us together and caused us to trust in him. We prayed that if it be Gods' will, that
he would lay his hands on each of them with his healing Spirit.
Editors' Note: As we go to press with this devotional, my oldest son returned from
basketball practice today with a broken hand. After another deep breath, we will continue
to pray for our safety, and realize God IS watching over us!
Prayer: As we are challenged each day, please help us remember to
turn to you in prayer for your counsel. And allow us the faith to be prepared for whatever
your answer might be. In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.
March 4, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Isaiah 55: 1-13
The Desert Will Bloom For You
Here's what Isaiah said:
Hey, you, listen up!
I know you're in trouble. Don't worry. I know a place down the block. Any time you're
hungry or thirsty, stop by. You can get a meal and a cup of coffee, and you won't even
have to pay for it.
You won't have to pay with money, but you will have to do something. You will have to
look at your own life and tell the truth about it. You'll have to admit you've messed up a
few things along the way. You'll have to think hard about where you've been and where
you're going. (if you keep going where you've been going, you're in trouble for sure.)
But it's never too late to straighten your life out. What should you do?
Well, for starters you can remember that you are you, child of God, marked by the cross
of Christ forever. You can meet with God. Come to him and he will do the rest.
God loves you. Sometimes you don't feel his presence, but he is always there. Sometimes
you cannot understand what God is saying to you, but he's always available to talk.
If you will allow the Spirit of God into your heart, the desert parts of your soul will
bloom with flowers, and you will live forever through the life and death of Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Oh, God, how we need you. We cannot always understand
your ways; we cannot always see your will. Be with us; talk to us; show us the path you
would have us take. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ, who saved us. Amen.
March 5, 1997. Today's Bible verse is John 6: 41-65
The Bread of Life
How frequently at home or in the marketplace we face decisions about bread. Will the
family have toast or biscuits for breakfast? At a restaurant for lunch you may be asked
what kind of bread you want on your sandwich, or whether you'd like a bread bowl for your
soup. In a specialty bakery you may choose between many varieties of breads rye, whole
wheat, onion, raisin, cheese, sour dough, pumpernickel. In the housewares section of the
department store you may choose a breadmaking machine or a bagel slicer.
Jesus made an important decision about bread when he was tempted by the devil, "If
you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread." Jesus
answered "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that
proceeds from the mouth of God.'" (Matthew 4:3,4)
Jesus also asks us to make a decision about the bread of life. "Truly, truly, I
say to you, he who believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate
manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread which comes down from heaven,
that a man may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread which came down from
heaven;" (John 6:47-51a)
Will you choose the bread of life? Will you choose to follow Jesus?
Prayer: Man shall not live by bread alone, so we do pray, dear
Lord, please make us very hungry for a knowledge of Your Word.
March 6, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Matthew 6: 16-34
What is Truly Important?
When I was 10 years old my father was fired from or quit his job as an engineer at
Learjet. Even he isn't sure which it was. I had two little brothers ages 6 years and six
weeks. My father decided rather than going back to work he would start a business of his
own and so my childhood became a little different from all of my friends. Daddy's business
designed and manufactured valves for general aviation. As soon as he was in production of
his first product, the bottom fell out of the industry and his only customer wanted to
cancel their order.
It goes without saying that we were a little strapped. My mother had us convinced that
soyburger (a mixture of soybeans and ground beef) was a gourmet treat and that you
couldn't got tuna casserole at even the finest restaurants. Gas was ten cents per gallon
and one summer my mother decided we needed to go on vacation, but just one wasn't good
enough we would go almost weekly. She decided we would go to a different resort spot in
Kansas.
Once a week we would load in the car with a picnic lunch and head to small town Kansas
to check out their playground equipment. I can still tell you that Halstead ranks high and
that the fish farm in Pratt is really big. I remember it as one of the happiest times in
my life. The most important things we had a lot of were fun and love. I can't recall a
single material item I had even though I know I had toys and games.
Sometimes I find myself losing sight of what will really be important in 20 years. It
won't be the brand of jeans my children had or my car's odometer reading. It will be the
love and laughter we've shared and hopefully, the Christian values I've instilled. I have
a poem framed on the wall that helps remind me:
One Hundred Years from now, it will not matter.
what kind of car I drove,
what kind of house I lived in,
how much I had in my bank account,
nor what my clothes looked like.
But the world may be a little better
because I was important
in the life of a child.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, today, help me remember what is
really dear and about the life you have given me. Not the material things, but the love of
others and your gracious love shown to us by the gift of your son, Jesus Christ. Amen
March 7, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Matthew 5:17-20
Rules to Follow
If we lived in a world where there were no laws, imagine what a mess it would be! Every
person has a set of laws or rules which they live by. These laws can reflect the
environment in which they were raised.
If a person was raised in a place where anything goes, and there are no set boundaries,
this person might have a "who cares" attitude. They might not think twice about
doing something that is breaking a law. Whereas a person who was raised in an environment
with rules and set boundaries, this person would weigh the consequences of the actions
before going through with them. This would probably result in the action not being done.
We should be happy that God came to fulfill the laws and not abolish them. This gives
every person the choice to follow a path that is right for them. We start at the beginning
of a child's life and try to guide them along the right path. As they grow, they may
choose a different branch than what the parent wants, but if the base is strong the branch
will eventually bend toward the main path.
Prayer: Dear God, please lead us to always follow the path you
have chosen for us, following the laws that you have given us. Amen.
March 8, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Isaiah 42: 5-9
Good Deed?
Last week I was angry and frustrated. I had done a favor for a coworker, yet the
outcome was not what I had anticipated. Rather than being grateful for my concern and
help, somehow everything was now my fault. Certainly, not the response I expected when I
had offered to help.
That same day I shared my frustration with a supervisor in another office. She informed
me that after years of having the same thing happen to her, her motto was "No good
deed goes unpunished!" She's right I thought angrily. It just doesn't pay to care
about or try to help others. Why bother?
Why...; because that's what God has called us to do. As Christians we are obligated to
love and serve others, as we love and serve our Lord. Not just when they thank us and
appreciate our care and concern, but always. Through our service to others we can also be
a witness to our faith, to "..be a light to guide the nations unto me." God has
called us to "...demonstrate his righteousness." We can do no less.
Does that mean I no longer get frustrated when the things I do for others do not turn
out as I expected? No. Most times, I try to laugh and often say, "No good deed goes
unpunished." It helps.
Yet deep within me, I know that God has called me to serve and that service to others
brings a joy and happiness unparalleled.
Prayer: Dear Father, please continue to give me strength and
encouragement when I am lacking. Help me see the joy that comes from love and service to
others. Help me be Your light to guide the nations unto You. Amen.
March 9, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Mark 2: 23-28; 3:1-6
Lord of the Sabbath
Have you ever read what David did, when he was in need and was hungry, he and those who
were with him. Every week the priests prepared twelve loaves of bread in accordance with
instructions in Leviticus 24: 5-9, and laid them on the table on the Sabbath before God.
When the twelve fresh loaves were placed on the table, the priests could eat the old
loaves if they so desired.
In Genesis 2:2 the statement is made that God rested on the seventh day. This is the
first mention of the biblical doctrine of the Sabbath. Among the children of Israel the
seventh day or Saturday, was the Sabbath. Indeed this was a part of the Mosaic Law (Exodus
20: 9 - 17). Eventually it became hedged about by all kinds of artificial and
hairsplitting regulations so that in Jesus' day one could not even walk beyond a certain
distance without breaking the law. Christ enunciated two major principles concerning the
Sabbath: (1) it was made for man, not vice versa, (2) certain types of work were
permissible even on the Sabbath - works of mercy and works of necessity. To pluck grain
for food was a work of necessity and to pull an ox out of a hole was a work of mercy, so
also to care for the healing of the sick. "Remember the Sabbath day and keep it
holy".
Prayer: Almighty and everlasting God, comfort the sad and give
strength to those who suffer. Let the prayers of your children who are in trouble rise to
you. To everyone in distress grant mercy, relief, and refreshment, through Jesus Christ
our Lord. Amen.
March 10, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Luke 5: 1-11
Lenten Word Search
P E T E R P H J E I T C H H P R K W S O M E E O V R F T
H R O A E N U W Q S J O O I I U A M L H J E R R U S E A L D G Y I S T A V L T S A F I S H
G E S G T M N O I + T P E A C E R E R A E X P E C T A T I O N S T A M S N J O H N L N U K
T A H C S D N E I R F E C D E I D G E L P I C S I D T S V R L U I Z T H O M A S E R V I C
E J L I F E B A R T H O L O M E W
Andrew, Bartholomew, Cross, Disciples, Expectations, Faith, Fish, Friend,
Gentile, Gift, Grace, James, Jesus Christ, Jew, John, Judas, Lake, Life, Light, Love,
Matthew, Nets, Peace, Peter, Philip, Prayer, Promise, Service, Thomas, Trust.
Just as you may have struggled to find words in this Lenten word search, Jesus
struggled to find his disciples. And just as some words were more obvious than others,
some disciples were more likely to follow Jesus, meeting His expectations to give love and
service.
As with the first 12 disciples, Jesus finds us, offers his hand and grace, and then he
expects us to follow and serve.
It is easy to accept his gifts, but sometimes it is difficult to meet his expectations.
Prayer: Dear God, help us to accept your gracious gifts and then
use them in honor and service to you. Amen.
March 11, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Matthew 8: 23-27
Calm Waters
The Sea of Galilee, although quite small and usually placid, can become treacherous
when cold westerly winds push through the hills and valleys creating raging storms in a
matter of minutes.
Calm waters can erupt with fury as they did that might when the disciples awakened
Jesus. "Lord," they said, "save us; we are perishing".
Sometimes everything seems peaceful and secure in our lives and without warning an
event shatters our calm and catapults us into turmoil. It is precisely at that moment that
we need to remember Jesus' words. "you of little faith, why are you so afraid?"
Whenever we come to our time of trials we must turn our pain and anguish over to Christ.
Has He not promised, "Lo, I am with you always". Only He can calm our seas and
give us peace.
Prayer: Dear Lord, as our lives are buffeted by the inevitable
storms of life, direct us to place our trust in you. Provide us with your guidance,
strength, and the knowledge that you are with us always. Help us renew our commitment to
your service. Amen.
March 12, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Matthew 25:14-40
Use Our Talents
Jesus' parables teaches us that we are all given talents and are expected to use them
to the fullness of our ability. Our talents represent any kind of resource we are given.
God gives us time, gifts, and other resources according to our abilities, and he expects
us to invest them wisely until he returns. We are responsible to use well what God has
given us. The issue is not how much we have, but how well we use what we have. This
parable describes the consequences of two attitudes to Christ's return. The person who
diligently prepares for it by investing their time and talent to serve God will be
rewarded. The person who has no heart for the work of the church will not receive
favorable recognition by God.
God will separate the faithful followers from pretenders and unbelievers. The real
evidence of our belief is the way we act. To treat all persons we encounter as if they are
Jesus is no easy task. What we do for others demonstrates what we really think about
Jesus' words to us "feed the hungry, give the homeless a place to stay, visit the
sick." Are our action Christ like? Our actions need not depend on great wealth,
ability or intelligence. They need be simple acts, freely given and freely received. We
have no excuse to neglect those who have deep needs, and we cannot hand over this
responsibility to the church or government. Jesus demands our personal involvement in
caring for others. We should love every person and serve anyone we can. Such love for
others is letting God's love for us shine through us.
Prayer: Dear Lord, heavenly Father, help us to use our time,
talents and treasure for the betterment of everyone touched by our lives. You have given
us much. Of each much is expected. Help us extend beyond caring about ourselves and become
more involved in the needs of others. Only then will we be following the lessons and
examples given by Jesus. Amen.
March 13, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Hebrews 11: 17-40, 12: 1-6
Faith
We are all tested through out all life but by faith we are saved. The hardest thing in
life is to give everything over to God. God will not let us suffer more then we can
handle. Sometimes it seems we can't take anymore that when we give it to God and he
handles it for us and shows us the way. By faith Abraham knew God's promises and he would
keep Isaac, by faith Moses was kept alive and became the leader of God's people to lead
them out of Egypt. Jesus was sent by God to endure life's experiences and he dealt gently
with the people, healed the sick and the poor, prayed for the suffering, and obeyed the
will of God to love unconditionally even to the cross.
We all should live by faith. It is so simple, and yet so hard to do. Trust the Lord and
live by faith turning it over to God. Then we can truly grow in our love for all people
and in service to God.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the holy Bible that we may learn
how to put our lives all in your hands. Thank you Lord for Jesus your son who loves us so
much he gave his life for all. Help us grow in faith that we may serve all your peoples.
Amen.
March 14, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Luke 6: 37-49
Stars from Heaven
Stars, stars shed your heavenly light
So we can read Bible stories through the night.
Though the stars need not shine
because we live the stories by heart and mind.
The people sin
The sinning of sins.
We all really do:
Everyone tries to get what is right for him.
Still God lets us know special people
and lets us lead special lives.
Stars, stars shed your heavenly light
So we can know your wonderful stories of light.
Prayer: Dear God, you've led us for centuries and forgiven our
sins. And you've taught us if we fight no one will ever win. So teach us to live in peace
and love. Amen.
March 15, 1997. Today's Bible verse is John 17: 1-26
The Truth
I was not brought up in the church. In fact, until approximately 7 or 8 years of age,
the only time I was ever in a church was for weddings. When I was a third grader, I
decided I should be going to Sunday school. I informed my parents that they should start
taking me to Sunday School, which they did. We lived in the country and they drove me into
town and then went to the local cafe to drink coffee and wait until Sunday School was
over.
Much time has elapsed since the time I was a little girl with a desire to go to church.
I don't remember what compelled me to want to be in Church. However, I do believe God
planted that seed by sending Christian witnesses into my life. I feel blessed that God put
the desire in the heart of a small child to be one with other believers. My faith grows
stronger, as I grow older. I believe as the years pass, I have become less self-centered
and more God centered.
My job brings me into contact with people who are going through great difficulties,
people whose lives are out of control. Some of the people I encounter through my job are
more difficult to deal with than others. They are unpleasant to be around. In the past
when I have had to work with those who are extremely unpleasant, I have said, "Why me
God?" The realization that God loves each one of us, the lovable, and the unlovable
has helped me to now say, "why not me, God?"
Each one of His children is special to God. We, as His children have a responsibility
to reach out to others, and to bring God's word to those who do not know Him. Christ's
prayer for believers in John 17: 17-18 reads, "Sanctify them in the truth; thy word
is truth. As thou didst send me into the world, so I have sent them into the world."
I interpret this to mean that we who are believers represent Christ in the world.
Christians band together and worship Christ in the church. The mission of the church is to
lead others to believe in God.
Prayer: Thank You God, for sending Your Son to teach us about
You. Thank You for the faithful servants who have led us to You. Thank You for those who
provide spiritual guidance to us. Help us to be faithful witnesses, and to reach out to
others In Christian Love. Amen.
March 16, 1997. Today's Bible verse is 1 Peter 5: 8-11
Our Worship Service and 1 Peter 5: 8-11
In the close of this letter to the young congregations in Asia Minor, the author
succinctly summarizes Christ's message to us. Our Worship Service each Sunday
recapitulates this message.
Verse 8 begins with an exhortation to be alert in order to guard against the forces of
sin. This is equally important whether it pertains to a young church struggling against
persecution from religious and political authorities, or to each of us struggling with
temptations. We are reminded of this each Sunday in our service with The Confession.
This is followed in verse 9 with an admonition to stand up to evil, and with the
reminder that the congregations to whom this missive is addressed are not alone in
suffering. We recognize them each Sunday in The Prayers.
Verse 10 reassures us that we are saved (through Christ's suffering and death on the
cross). The Communion celebrates this salvation.
Prior to the closing salutations in this letter, the author offers the comforting words
that God's dominion will hold forever and ever. This provides a comforting close to this
letter for a Church suffering from oppression, just as we leave each Sunday having heard
The Benediction.
Prayer: My beloved Jesus, how many times have You pardoned me,
and how many times have I fallen again and begun again to offend you. Be with us each day,
and help make our celebration of your life more clear to each of us each time we gather in
Your name. Amen.
March 17, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Matthew 7: 7-8
Journey
Last year, our church ended a nearly two-year journey. Leaving our old sanctuary, going
from one building to another - while waiting for the new edifice to be built. It was a
long journey for many. Some were lost along the way, and at times I felt a bit frustrated.
But the church survived and has prospered.
In biblical times, there were many journeys. The three wise men made their way to
Jerusalem bearing gifts for the chosen one. Moses led multitudes of people out of Egypt to
escape to wrath of the Pharaoh. Noah sailed for forty days and nights while flood waters
inundated the earth.
And like our journey, there was something good at the end. But with the end of one
journey there is the start of another. And so it is in life .... a journey with journeys.
Given to us by our creator, with the power to enhance, not only our lives, but the lives
of others as well.
Our journey begins at the first draw of breath, and ends with the last. But between the
first and the last is a whole host of adventures and paths our lives take. Along our
travels, people we meet, places we see. But the real journey is the journey of
'understanding'.
Understanding the differences with one another. For it is those differences that give
our world its uniqueness. So, we journey.... seeking a greater understanding of the world.
And when we reach that understanding, we will know the meaning of Everlasting Life!
Prayer: May the Lord bless and enrich our lives as we journey on
this earth.... bless us with the holy spirit .... That we may find comfort in times of
suffering .... joy in times of happiness .... and peace in times of turmoil. Bless our
families, friends .... and bless those less fortunate than we. We ask this in the Lord's
name, Amen.
March 18, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Matthew 27:27-31
THEY MOCKED HIM
Then they knelt before him in mockery, yelling "Hail! King of the Jews!"
- Matthew 27:29 -The New Living Translation
Mocking Jesus! How terrible! How evil of those soldiers to so malign the Lord! I would
never do such a thing! ... Or would I? ... One dictionary definition of mockery is given
as "an insincere, contemptible, or impertinent imitation".
While my profession of faith is almost certainly sincere, yet I am well advised to
examine myself frequently to see if my thoughts, attitudes, words, and actions might make
a mockery of the discipleship I profess:
My thoughts-- In Philippians we read: whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely,
admirable,...think about such things. Are these the things I carry in my thoughts? Or, do
falsehood, vulgarity, negativity, impurity and ugliness dominate my thoughts malting a
mockery of my calling as a Christian?
My attitudes-- Jesus gave us 'a new commandment" that we love one another. Do I
take an attitude of love into each encounter that I have with others? Or do I carry a chip
on my shoulder? Or do I assume another person to be inferior because of race, gender,
economic status, or other invalid reason? Again suggesting to that person that, because of
the name I bear ("Christian") that Jesus stands for such wrongheadedness.
Mockery!
My words-- The apostle Paul admonishes us to "speak the truth in love", and
to "let (our) conversation be always full of grace". Is that the way I use
speech? Or does my careless speech, or my sharp tongue mock my Lord?
My actions-- Is my life characterized by the fruits of God's Holy Spirit --love, joy,
peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness and self-control? Or is it
otherwise?
I must regularly examine my thoughts, attitudes, words and actions to see if they are
consistent with the commandment to love God above all things and my neighbor as myself,
and I need to pray daily that, in my life expression, I might never be guilty of mocking
my Lord.
Prayer: Heavenly Father. With the Psalmist I pray - Set a guard
over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. Let not my heart be drawn to
what is evil; to take part in wicked deeds with men who are evildoers; let me not eat of
their delicacies. Psalms 141:3-4
March 19, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Isaiah 49: 1-6
A Light to the Nations
In this second Servant's Song, Israel (perhaps the nation or an individual) says
"Pay attention" to nature (coastlands) and also to "you peoples from far
away" (v. 1). The servant-narrator says that, even in the womb, he was called to be
God's servant to bring reconciliation between the Jewish people and their God. Since then
God has hidden him away, so that he feels his strength and work have been wasted. Despite
this frustration, he still believes that his cause and his reward are God. In fact,
"my God has become my strength" (v. 5). Perhaps because of the servant's
complete trust in God, the Lord expands His original mission to include the whole world:
"It is too light a thing that you should ... restore the survivors of Israel; I will
give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the
earth" (v. 6).
This recalls Simeon's Song when he saw the infant Jesus in the temple: "my eyes
have seen your salvation, . . . a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to
your people Israel" (Luke 2: 30, 32). How fortunate for us today that God's gift of
his Son was to all peoples of the world for all time!
Prayer: Gracious God. Thank You for Your mercy on a sinful world
and your generosity in giving your only Son for salvation of all peoples. Use us as you
used the servant in this Psalm--to proclaim God's grace through our example. Amen.
March 20, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Isaiah 50: 4-9a
A Great Deal of Help From My Friend
The song "Bewitched, bothered, and bewildered" expresses a common predicament
these days. Confusion confronts us on many levels.
A lady stood in the middle of Grand Central Station hearing the call of the many cities
to which trains were going. Finally she went to the information booth and to the person
there asked... Do you know where I'm going?
How can life stack up with a greater degree of light, wisdom, value, direction?
Isaiah responds..50:7a The Lord God helps me. 50:4b morning by morning the Lord wakens
my ear to hear as those who are taught. This sounds like a great deal of help from my
friend The Lord God.
Jesus continually gave wisdom, help, healing, and light to all in need. Jesus' words
were indeed grace to confused people in confusing situations.
To each of us Jesus comes as help. The Holy Spirit works through word, sacrament,
fellowship and service that we would not be alone dealing with life's issues.
Yes at times we scratch our heads - what now we ask.
The Apostle Paul in Philippians 4:9 testifies "God shall supply all your need
according to the riches in Christ Jesus." This sounds like a GREAT deal of HELP from
our friend, our Savior Jesus. Thanks be to God.
Prayer: Lord Jesus help me today as I face life's questions.
Grant me your wisdom, teach me in your Spirit, waken me to be as one who is taught, guide
me in your love. Amen
March 21, 1997. Today's Bible verse is 1 Peter 3: 8-12
Bumper Sticker Theology
Usually my mornings are fast-paced so I can be at school by 7:15, but on Saturday
mornings I try not to have to be anywhere prior to 9:00. During this relaxed prep time, I
listen to NPR News and usually learn quite a bit that I missed during my quick perusal of
the newspaper.
This week there was a segment on homeless people in New York who live in shelters
and/or cardboard boxes who have jobs but cannot make enough to afford housing. Then on the
way to Sam's, I spotted the widely-known bumper sticker urging us to "Practice random
kindness".
The scripture passage for today ties these two concepts together quite neatly as Peter
relays to strangers in far off lands, the basic concepts of the ministry of Jesus Christ.
He writes: "have compassion for one another . . . do not render evil for evil ...
turn from evil and do good, seek peace and pursue it." To me, Peter is asking not
that kindness be practiced randomly, but with intent and purpose. There are countless
situations in which we can give aid and comfort, if no more than a kind word or a shoulder
to lean upon. We need to be alert for these opportunities to practice the teachings of
Jesus.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to find your path and follow in
your footsteps as closely as we are able. Stand beside us and give us strength so that we
can share it with others. Amen
March 22, 1997. Today's Bible verse is 1 Peter 3: 13-22
Sometimes Doing Right Can Cause You Trouble
The Bible verses for today starts by talking about doing what is right even when this
might cause you trouble. I was thinking as I read this part - why would harm come to you
if you're doing what is right? The verse goes on to say Jesus was doing what was right, he
never sinned. Doing the right thing in his case went so far as to put him on the cross to
die. Because of Jesus' death we are saved from sin. I certainly see the harm in this
situation. I really would have caused a big scene if I'd been Jesus. My reaction would
have been, what are these people doing. I'm not in the wrong, why would they kill someone
like me? Jesus was able to go ahead and ask God for help and even ask God to forgive those
that were involved.
As Christians, we need to ask for help and because we believe doesn't mean we won't
have trouble and temptations. By our faith we are able to have the strength to face each
day. I have times when I have given God lots of opportunity to leave me because I was so
stubborn, and wouldn't ask for help. There are situations that seem terrible - we're
Christians, why is this happening? I need to remember Jesus and ask God for help. All of
us have problems, it's just part of life. We manage to come through trouble with the help
of God.
I do know God shows me every once in a while he's there. Just recently there was a
funeral. The person passed away was in the military. As the service ended a group of
planes flew over. God must have sent those planes, there is no other explanation, really
uplifting. What a nice surprise to have a fly over. This is certainly a time we can give
God the glory.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for our many blessings. Guide
me and be with me each day. Thank you for the surprises you sometimes bring us. Be with
all of my family and take care of me. Amen.
March 23, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Mark 11: 1-10
Palm Sunday
Let Us Seek to Follow God's Plan as Did Jesus
Jesus came to Jerusalem even though the chief priests and Pharisees had given orders
for his arrest. Jesus had told the twelve apostles of his coming death as plotted by the
chief priests. They would hand him over to the Gentiles to be mocked, flogged, spit upon
and killed. But after three days he would rise again. No one understood this except Jesus
and yet he went to Jerusalem for the annual week long Passover festival. Jesus understood
God's plan and willingly did his part even though it would be humiliating and painful.
Jews came from all over the Roman world during this week long celebration to remember
the great exodus from Egypt. Many in the crowds had heard of or seen Jesus and were hoping
he would come to the feast even though he was under threat of arrest.
As Jesus entered Jerusalem, they exclaimed "Hosanna", ("meaning, Save, I
pray") because they recognized that Jesus was fulfilling the old testament prophecy
that a king would come to them on a donkey. The crowd did not know where Jesus' kingship
would lead him. But Jesus knew, death on the cross for our sins so that we may all be able
to be a part of God's eternal kingdom.
Jesus gave so that we may have eternal life. His giving is the most outstanding example
of how we should relate to God. God has given us His plan in the Bible. Some of the plan
is history and some has not yet happened as foretold in Revelation. Our roll to follow is
not always easy, but if we sincerely try, make the right choices, learn from our mistakes
and repent of our sins, we too will be with God in his eternal kingdom as He planned.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Heavenly Father, please help us be ever
mindful of the sacrifices made by your Son Jesus to take on the burden of our sins. May
this perfect examples of how to follow your plan help us each deal with life's choices and
hardships while ever keeping your plan in mind that will lead us to be with You in your
ever lasting kingdom. Amen.
March 24, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Zechariah 9:9-10
Holy Week
HE is coming with salvation and peace. Not as conqueror but as savior, gently to
stretch his rule to cover all.
GOD proclaims His salvation and peace to all. We are to celebrate and share the joy,
but how do we recognize HIM? The words are written up to 550 years before Christ's
entrance into Jerusalem, in the time after the exile. It foretells of the day, when God
will come and save all peoples. The writing addresses a people coming home from exile and
having been told that their sin had caused their sufferings. It appears to expect a need
for a 'final solution' to man's eternal problem in relation to God. It describes an
all-powerful King fully righteous coming to man as a gentle being, supported by youth.
Would we recognize HIM?
He will cause war to cease and weapons to be dismantled at least in Palestine, for the
reference really seems to be to the northern and southern kingdoms from before the Exile.
HE will, however, govern to the ends of the earth, though the seas and the river are
unknown places.
Today I believe He has come, and continues to come into our lives at Easter, and
anytime we let Him in. He comes to us in peace and gentleness and causes strife to cease.
He comes among us an causes celebration while He spreads His kingdom. May He always find
the door open.
Prayer: Dear Father, Lord and King. Arrive today at my door and
enter in to spread Your peace and establish Your kingdom. Take way any chariots of anger
or frustration, remove any horses of envy or deceit and break all bows and arrows of
bitterness or hostility that I may live in peace under Your rule now and forever. Amen.
March 25, 1997. Today's Bible verse is 1 Peter 4: 7-11
Holy Week
"The end of all things is near."( 1 Peter 4:7) How often do we think of this
fact? Too often we must face an illness or losing someone dear to us before we focus on
eternity. We realize then our possessions and status will not pass from this life to the
next, but love remains.
Walking with God daily is all that matters in this life. When we walk with God, we
reflect His goodness through love (most importantly) and through sharing of ourselves with
others. As Peter writes, we each have a gift to share and no one was over looked by God in
this area.
Start spreading God's love today in the way you treat your family and friends. Decide
on something you can do for others to share your gift. If you need help finding something
you do well, ask friends and family what they think you can share. Actively pursue this
where you are today... at home, school, work, church or neighborhoods. We all can make a
difference for God if we let Him use us.
Prayer: Heavenly Father. Because you first loved us, forgive us when we fail to
be loving. Because Jesus showed us how to serve, forgive us when we choose not to. Please
renew us in our daily walk with You, giving us strength to reach out to others with love
and sharing the gifts You have provided us. We ask this in Your name. Amen.
March 26, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Matthew 27:45-54
Holy Week
No Forsakenness
The story of Christ's death is difficult for all Christians. Reflecting on it can be
one of the hardest parts of Holy week. Imagine, then, what it must have been like for His
followers, at the time. Their leader, friend and teacher had died and they were without
direction.
Christ himself was confused and miserable. His last words showed his fear that God had
forsaken Him, as He, perhaps, felt that he was forsaking His disciples.
As Christians, we all go through difficult periods in our lives, when we feel that God
has forsaken us. At other times we fear that we are not upholding our responsibility to
others and that we are forsaking them.
God did not forsake Christ, but was with Him, then. And Christ did not forsake his
disciples, but returned to them and gave them direction for continuing His ministry. God
has not forsaken us, either; but is with us now.
Prayer: Dear Lord. Thank you for Your help and guidance. Help us
to know that you are with us always, and that with Your help, we can come through for
those who need us. Amen.
March 27, 1997. Today's Bible verse is 1 Corinthians 11: 23-26
Maundy Thursday
Reflection. (Definition) (1) a thought, idea, or opinion formed or a remark made as a
result of meditation, or (2) consideration of purpose.
Maybe this is odd, but Maundy Thursday is a day I look forward to. The Last Supper, the
Day of Unleavened Bread, the Passover make me reflect. I set this day aside to have quiet
time to think about all that Jesus did while He was here with us on earth.
Jesus set this day aside to privately discuss His parting words with the 12 disciples,
even the one he knew would later betray him. He prepared them for the day after, and all
the days to come.
Let us take this day or evening to reflect on how we spend our days to come. To pray
for God's intervention into our lives. To offer peace in our such busy lives that we fail
to take adequate time to reflect what you desire us to do with our life here on earth.
Prayer: Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy
kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily
bread; and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors; and lead us not into
temptation, but deliver us from evil. For if you forgive men their trespasses, your
heavenly Father also will forgive you; but if you do not forgive men their trespasses,
neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Amen.
March 28, 1997. Today's Bible verse is 1 Peter 4: 1-6
Good Friday
Living in the Shadow of Good Friday
"... live for the rest of your earthly life no longer by human desires but by the
will of God." 1 Peter 4:2
Today is Good Friday, and contrary to what the crowds in Jerusalem thought on that
first Good Friday, it was God's Friday. Peter begins our text from 1 Peter 4 by
referencing Good Friday (verse 1) when he refers to Christ's suffering. In 1 Peter 3:18
the expression "Christ suffered" is given its full meaning: "For Christ
also suffered for sin once for all, the Righteous for the unrighteous, in order to bring
you to God. He was put to death in the flesh...; ." It is with Good Friday in mind
that Peter challenges the people of God to live their lives out in the shadow of Good
Friday and its Cross: "...; live for the rest of your earthly life no longer by human
desires but by the will of God."
Now to live by the will of God will require much of us. The "old Adam" in us
must be put away. The way of deliberate and intentional sinning must end. And by the way,
lest we wonder about it, Peter provides as a reminder a partial catalog of sins, all of
which are all too familiar in our society today. We are challenged to put the old sinful
ways aside and become new creatures in Christ. We are called upon to be a "peculiar
people" in our society. We are to surprise the unregenerate world by our open
rejection of its unregenerate life style, and to be heard declaring God's wonderful acts
of salvation in Christ. Nothing less than this is God's holy will for God's people.
Living by the will of God will not be easy. We will at times be mocked, at times cursed
as we daily die to sin and rise to new life in our baptismal covenants. By the Holy
Spirit's influence let us keep our focus on the Christ, living in His grace won for us on
that first Good Friday. Yes, may we live under His grace now as a people of God, meeting
the challenge that is ours, while awaiting in full confidence that great day of the Lord
when we shall with all the saints share in His eternal glory which is yet to come.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, with humble hearts we thank You for the
Cross of Christ. As we live in the shadow of Good Friday, lead us to reflect the Cross to
all with whom we come in contact.
March 29, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Acts 10: 34-43
Holy Week
All Who Believe Receive Forgiveness of Sins
In the reading for today, Peter shares the good news that Jesus is the long-awaited
Savior. In a few words, he summarizes the essence of Jesus' life, death and resurrection
for the hungry souls gathered to hear him. After Jesus received the Holy Spirit and power
at his baptism Peter declares, this Lord of all went about "preaching peace" and
"doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil."
He was hanged on a tree, but God raised him on the third day. He appeared to a few
chosen witnesses, including Peter. Then he commanded these witnesses (disciples and
apostles) to "testify that he is the one ordained by God as judge of the living and
the dead." As we remembered Jesus' crucifixion yesterday and wait expectantly for the
celebration of his resurrection tomorrow, we can take comfort in knowing that "he
shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him ... receives forgiveness of
sins through his name."
The Son was sent not to condemn the world, but in order to save the world (John 3: 17).
He is, indeed the light of all nations and the Savior of all!
Thanks be to God!
Prayer: Dear Lord, our hearts are heavy as we remember your cruel
death on a cross when you had done no wrong. You died for our sins, not yours. We feel
humbled and unworthy of such love and sacrifice. Yet we rejoice that you, who are
all-knowing and compassionate, are the judge and Lord of all. Prepare our hearts to
receive you as our personal Savior today and everyday. Amen.
March 30, 1997. Today's Bible verse is John 20: 1-18
Easter
"Alleluia!"
Christians around the world gather this day to sing alleluias to God who raised Jesus
from the dead. Let the music lift our hearts! Breathe deeply the fragrance of the lilies!
Take in the colors and the crowds! Rejoice! He is risen! Death no longer has dominion!
They came to the garden while it was still dark. They were expecting the debris of
death. They came with heavy hearts, and we would have also. We know very well that life is
a deathward drift. We see the world broken and in bondage. We are unable to free ourselves
from a destructive human condition. We see evidence all around--emptiness of the soul,
poverty in the city, suspicion between races, diseases lying in wait, estrangement in the
family. We rebel against God. In darkness and death we remain.
This is the Good News of Easter. God did not leave us in the darkness of this world.
The Son of God is our eternal light and life. This One no darkness could overcome. The
resurrection confirms him as the Bread of Life that satisfies our deepest hungers. He
truly is the Good Shepherd who cares for the sheep of his fold.
Like Christmas the message of Easter is lost on some people. The Good News is obscured,
perverted or diluted with holiday excesses. Some remain oblivious to the desperation of
their lives.
Let us be clear about our praise and proclamation. God sent his Son that all who
believe in him might have eternal life. He came not to condemn but to save. For us he
endured the cross. God raised him to be our life and light. Here is peace with God and
hope for all.
Alleluia! He is risen! Alleluia!
