Today Daily Devotional: Recent Episodes
ReFrame Ministries
Today is a daily devotional that helps God's people refresh, refocus and renew their faith through Bible reading, reflection, and prayer.
I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. — Revelation 7:9In 1983, Ulysses left Haiti and arrived in Chicago with some fellow refugees. Stepping off the plane into the cold, he was greeted warmly by Rev. Tony Van Zanten and Rev. Emmett Harrison, pastors who worked with Roseland Christian Ministries. One of them gave him their jacket, a gesture he remembers vividly. Ulysses settled into the Roseland community, and, over time, some of his family members were able to join him.Our lives are like a tapestry, woven from diverse backgrounds and stories. Just as Ulysses’ journey blends different cultures and experiences, the Bible reminds us that we are all part of a larger family. Revelation 7 speaks of a huge multitude from every nation and language, standing before the throne of God.In North America we are a mix of immigrants, descendants of slaves, recent refugees, and people native to the land. Many of our ancestors faced oppression and hardship and had to find new homes in unfamiliar places. Stories of immigrants struggling to find support in a new homeland, or of families torn apart by slavery, residential schools, and other unjust systems, remind us of the need for new relationships. Together we contribute to the beautiful mosaic of God’s creation. Let’s celebrate our stories, united in grace through Christ.Father, thank you for weaving us into a mosaic of your creation. Help us to find unity in your love and grace. Amen.
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. — Galatians 5:13A volunteer at Roseland Christian Ministries saw a sign for the celebration of Juneteenth and said, “Why can’t we all just celebrate July 4? What is Juneteenth anyway?”I took a deep breath and said something along these lines: “I’m still learning, but here’s what I know. After the Emancipation Proclamation was declared in 1863, it wasn’t enforced in Confederate states until 1865. On June 19, 1865, a U.S. general arrived in Galveston, Texas, to inform enslaved people that they were legally free—two years after the proclamation. That’s what Juneteenth celebrates.”I pushed a little further. “Independence Day might mean something different if your freedom didn’t come on July 4, 1776. And if any of us is enslaved, are we free?”In the United States, Juneteenth is not just a day for Black Americans to celebrate—it’s a reminder for everyone that true freedom is something we should strive for together. Galatians 5:13 reminds us, “You . . . were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” I pray for the humility to keep learning and listening. Juneteenth is a time to reflect on the journey toward justice and equality and, as followers of Jesus Christ, to remember that we are called to use our freedom to serve one another.Lord, grant us the gift of true freedom in Christ. May we serve others with open hearts, walking humbly in your love and grace. Amen.
Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.” — Ruth 1:16A few years ago Erika’s mother passed away from cancer. Erika’s mother was a sister to Stephanie, so Stephanie is Erika’s aunt. Despite their loss, Erika and Stephanie share a bond that is exceptionally close for an aunt and niece. They cook together, share meals, and travel from Michigan to Chicago nearly every Sunday for worship.On the Sunday when Erika and Stephanie became members at our church, we read the story of Ruth and Naomi, focusing on the line “Where you go I will go. . . . Your people will be my people and your God my God.” Ruth and Naomi experienced deep grief together; Ruth’s husband, who had died, was Naomi’s son. Yet they chose to embrace one another and face the grief and unknown together as they sought community in Bethlehem, Naomi’s old hometown.Grief and hardship can leave you looking around and realizing, “This is it; these are my people. And I can remain bitter, or I can take a step toward healing with the ones God has given me.” Some losses cannot be replaced, and yet opportunities and blessings can emerge as new gifts, offering comfort, hope, and companionship. I’m grateful to God that Naomi and Ruth had each other, and that Erika and Stephanie do too.Whom has God brought into your life, offering gifts and companionship to help you?Lord, guide and comfort us in our grief, and help us to support one another with grace and love. In Jesus, Amen.
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. — Proverbs 17:17Ever since I was born, my brother has been by my side. As kids, we walked to school together, and when we moved to the Chicago area, we had each other’s backs. I’ll never forget when I was in second grade and the bus driver dropped us at the wrong stop for our first day at a new school. I was sure we’d never find our way home, but my brother stayed calm. He found someone trustworthy, and we made it home safely.He’s always been there for me, especially in tough times. He’s defended me in fights, and although we’ve had our share of arguments, I can always count on him. My younger sister has also stood by me, especially when I was a single dad with young sons, lost and overwhelmed. She was “in it” with us, and we were blessed by her presence.The Bible shares stories about siblings—some who were rivals, others who were deeply loyal. Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” I thank God for my brother and sister, who have been with me through it all.Do you have siblings? A friend who’s like family? Take a moment to thank the Lord for the gift of those who stand by your side.Father, thank you for the gift of siblings, who walk alongside us through life’s joys and challenges. Bless our relationships with love, patience, and understanding, reflecting the unity and grace you have shown us. Amen.
“In days to come, when your son asks you, ‘What does this mean?’ say to him, ‘With a mighty hand the Lord brought us out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. . . .’” — Exodus 13:14My father-in-law tells a story about his grandfather returning from Norway with a fresh salmon wrapped in newspaper under his shirt, just to bring a taste of home back to the United States. The act and the retelling of the act have power. Stories shape family identity, weaving together memories and values.At Roseland Christian Ministries, testimony plays a crucial role in worship. It recounts stories of God’s grace, provision, and faithfulness. In testimony, the church bears witness to God’s ongoing work in our lives. Testimonies are powerful because they highlight personal transformation and remind the community that God is always faithful.In the Old Testament, storytelling was central for nurturing the faith of God’s people. God often described himself in terms of liberating actions: “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery” (Exodus 2:2). And the people retold this story while celebrating Passover each year to remember God’s deliverance. The regular retelling shaped them as a people.What are the stories in your family or community that remind you of who you are? What stories of God’s faithfulness need to be retold to help reinforce your identity as a person of faith in Christ?Lord, help us in retelling the stories of your faithfulness. May our shared memories of your grace and love inspire and strengthen us, deepening our trust in you. Amen.
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. — 2 Peter 3:18Megan, Kayla, and Kailyn Flowers grew up as the youngest children in a family of 13 siblings. They became involved in the church during their preteen years. Every day, they would walk a block to church, attending summer camp, Bible study, liturgical dance, youth programs, and Sunday worship.Over the years, I’ve watched them grow into smart, responsible, caring young women. It hasn’t always been an easy journey. There were times when immaturity, misunderstandings, and impulsive decisions caused strain on relationships. I can relate—I made similar mistakes in my younger years. Yet, they continued to show up, listen, and grow.Now in their twenties, they all lead their families, are active in church life, and contribute in many other ways. I am incredibly proud of the women they have become.What touches me most is their perseverance. I’m grateful they never gave up on the church, and I’m equally grateful we never gave up on them. Their growth is a testament to the power of God’s grace and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.Heavenly Father, as we grow and mature, help us to deepen in your grace. Guide our hearts to reflect your love, patience, and wisdom. May we become more like Christ, bearing fruit for your glory. Amen.
In Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. — Romans 12:5DeWitt is a beloved part of our church family. He was the first neighborhood kid to meet Rev. Tony Van Zanten, who served at Roseland before me. Seeing nowhere for young people to gather, Rev. Tony threw open the doors of the Roseland Community Center, inviting DeWitt and an entire generation to come in and play basketball and form a community, a family. Over the years, some of those young people moved away, graduated from college, or started businesses. Others died. DeWitt joined the military but returned and settled in next door. For the past 40 years he’s been at Roseland nearly every day.He has cooked meals, hosted volunteer groups, played the congas in church, and participated in countless games of dominoes at the Drop-In Center. He has also sung in choirs and contributed to our vibrant community life. If you’ve been to Roseland Christian Ministries (RCM), you’ve probably met DeWitt. He’s kind, fun-loving, and has a beautiful tenor voice (similar to that of Luther Vandross).I’ve learned that DeWitt’s deepest longing is to be loved and belong—which all of us share. Some people find this in their immediate family or in their marriage. DeWitt found it in Christian community at RCM. I’m grateful that we can belong to God together in this place. Thanks be to God.Father God, thank you for the gift of belonging. In your love we find our true home. Help us to reflect the unity of Christ’s body, where all are welcome. Amen.
We are co-workers in God’s service. . . . — 1 Corinthians 3:9On Sundays as I stand in the pulpit at Roseland Christian Ministries, I see DeWitt Casey at the congas to my left, Ryan Krestel at the drums, and David Walker to my right at the keyboard. Ryan and I have been friends for 30 years. Every Sunday, the four of us serve at one another's sides, leading the service. We've led hundreds of services together.David and I have also ministered at funerals in some of the darkest circumstances—for victims of gun violence, overdose, and more. When David's brother was killed, I officiated at the funeral, and when my sons’ mom died, David led worship. When I moved into Roseland as a college student, DeWitt was my housemate. We all have history together.In moments when the pain and hardships of life overwhelm me, I draw strength from seeing David, DeWitt, and Ryan faithfully serving. I hope they have found some strength in me as well. By the power of the Holy Spirit, we carry each other as we serve.Whom has God brought into your life to give you strength in hard times as well as smooth times?Lord, we thank you for the strength we find in one another. As we walk through challenges together, may we lift each other up, reflecting your love and drawing closer to you. Amen.
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace. . . . — 1 Peter 4:10Jim and Mary live down the street from Roseland Christian Ministries (RCM). Retirees, they pour their heart and soul into our thrift store, sorting clothes, stacking furniture, doing what they can to help our little store thrive. The store earns money that helps to support our programs. Working with them are Arlene, Amalia, Marlene, Sue, Ruth, Ms. Green, Bruce, Jan, Terry, Arlo, Randy, and more. They use their gifts to create a community that does a lot of good in the neighborhood.Jack is our board president. He serves wonderfully in his role of setting policy, vision, and development. But on a Monday morning you’ll often see Jack deep cleaning the kitchen stoves or mopping floors. Over the years I’ve watched him listen and learn—forming bonds and trust with people in the community.All of the people I have mentioned here are retired. It inspires me that in retirement they live lives of service and form bonds with each other. It’s not simply that they are serving, but that they are serving alongside one another, each with different gifts.Who are the people you have formed bonds with while serving? Who are the gifted people with whom you serve?Heavenly Father, thank you for the deep bonds we form while serving together. Strengthen our unity as we work side by side, reflecting your love and building Christian community together. In Jesus, Amen.
Every day they continued to meet together. . . . They broke bread . . . and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. — Acts 2:46For the first seven years of my life, we lived in a small town on the Mississippi River, and most Sundays included a family gathering. After church, we’d gather at my grandma’s house. My dad, one of six siblings, was part of an extended family with more cousins than I could count. The kitchen soon filled with casseroles, chicken, pies, and Jell-O while the sound of football played in the background. Laughter echoed as we played at a nearby park, and the sense of belonging was palpable.As years passed and family members moved away, our gatherings became less common. When my grandma died, it felt like the end of an era, but the bonds we made have remained strong—much like the unbreakable ties that God gives his people. Though I have moved to Chicago to embrace new surroundings, I still miss those gatherings at times.When I go back to that small town today, it’s often for funerals, and yet as our family members gather again, it feels as if no time has passed. We pick up familiar conversations, share stories, and laugh, just as God’s family does when gathered in his presence.“Family” should be a verb. It’s about gathering, sharing meals, talking, praying together, and supporting one another. God's people are called to “family,” actively living in community and love.Lord, thank you for the joys of gathering together. May we cherish these connections as reflections of your abundant grace. Amen.
Surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us . . . run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. — Hebrews 12:1-2Each year, our church community holds a solemn celebration. We set up tables at the front of the church and place unlit candles on them. Church members come forward with photos of loved ones who have died. One by one, people approach the microphone, announce the name of a loved one, and light a candle. Sometimes they also share a story.We’ve lit candles for grandmothers who died of natural causes, young men killed on the streets, babies lost to miscarriage, and loved ones taken by overdoses. Each name carries a story; each candle represents a life that touched ours.God’s family includes not only we who are living right now but also the many who came before us and who have gone on to eternity. They live on in the stories we tell, and it’s important to stop and remember them.In Hebrews 11 we find many examples of people who make up the “great cloud of witnesses” who have gone before us. All of these examples encourage us to walk in faith.We all do well to pause and remember: Who came before you? Who inspired you? Who are the people for whom you are grateful, knowing that God sent them to be part of your faith journey? Take a moment to name them and to thank God for each one.Father, we thank you for all who have gone before us, paving the way with faith and sacrifice. May their legacy inspire us to walk humbly and serve others, reflecting your love and grace. Amen.
The pot he was shaping from the clay was marred in his hands; so the potter formed it into another pot, shaping it as seemed best to him. — Jeremiah 18:4Donald sold drugs, and Felisha was one of his customers. When she was arrested, she was pressured to reveal his name, but she refused, taking a hit to the head for her silence. Years later, Donald went to prison, where he surrendered his life to Christ. Felisha also got clean and gave her life to Christ. When Donald was released, he and Felisha crossed paths again unexpectedly. This time, a spark ignited between them. Each saw the transformation in the other, drawn by the change God had worked in their lives.They began dating, and a few years later they were married. Today Donald and Felisha are inseparable, ministering together to people who are sick and hurting. When the cook at Roseland Christian Ministries resigned, Donald volunteered to take over, and Felisha stepped in to do the dishes. They attend church faithfully, and Felisha has reconnected with her children. Both she and Donald have helped her sons find jobs and apartments and develop life skills.Their relationship, which began so marred and misshapen, has been transformed into something beautiful and life-giving. Just as a potter can remold damaged clay into something new, God has reshaped their lives. They serve as instruments of God’s grace, showing how broken lives can be transformed to honor God.Lord, reshape whatever is broken in us into something that reflects your love and purpose. In Jesus, Amen.
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. . . . — Ecclesiastes 4:9-10When I was an intern at Roseland Christian Ministries, Phil Walker was one of the first people who befriended me. Recently home from prison, Phil was working at a church summer camp. I was the only white person working there, but Phil made me feel welcome. “This is my brother,” he’d say, with his big arm around me—and he meant it.Phil would invite me to his grandmother Joellyn Walker’s apartment after church on Sundays, where we’d eat and watch football. When I arrived, Ms. Walker would say, “Oh, my other grandson is joining us today.”After 25 years Phil and I remain brothers. He’s looked after my sons. I officiated at his grandmother’s funeral. We’ve both had our struggles. Ecclesiastes 4 says, “Two are better than one. . . . If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” That’s been true for both of us.There’s the family you're born into, and the family you choose. I’m grateful that Phil chose me as his brother.I hope you have had a brother, sister, or friend whom God has placed in your life to help you up when you’ve needed it. Thank God for them, and be sure to tell them and others you are grateful for them.Father, thank you for the gift of friends who lift us up when we fall. Their love reflects your grace. Bless them for their kindness, and strengthen us to be there for others in their times of need. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ. . . . — Ephesians 1:4-5Jorie loved her daughter, Sarah, deeply, but amid the challenges of trauma and poverty she couldn’t care for Sarah in the way that was needed. Sarah’s father was in prison. Lacking the support and tools she needed for raising Sarah, Jorie faced a tough decision.Enter the Millers. With four biological children, a steady home, and an abundance of love, they became foster parents to Sarah through a foster/adoption agency. Later, after much thought, Jorie made the decision for Sarah to be adopted by the Millers. Although the drop-offs and pick-ups between Jorie and the Millers can sometimes be awkward, all agree that this arrangement is best for Sarah.Followers of Christ are adopted into a bigger family than the one they are born into, and Sarah has experienced this firsthand. She knows the love of both her birth family and her adoptive family. Recently, on Jorie’s birthday, they all gathered at a Chicago pizzeria. As Sarah left the celebration, she said to her adoptive mother, “I’m so glad my mom didn’t abandon me. She found you, and now my family is even bigger.”God often expands our families in ways we don’t expect, providing love and support in unexpected forms. I’m so glad that God doesn’t leave us on our own but surrounds us with a bigger family than we could ever have imagined.Father, thank you for adopting us into your family. Help us embrace all of our brothers and sisters in faith, knowing we are united by your love and grace. Amen.
You are . . . fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household. . . . — Ephesians 2:19-20A special group of four or five misfits started coming to church. They were invited by Deacon Watts, who met them at Sunday breakfast and welcomed them into her Sunday school class.The group’s leader, Clifton, wears an eye patch and is quick to hand out flyers for neighborhood events. They stay in group homes and shelters but come daily for our meal programs. What stands out most is how much they support one another and have each other’s backs. Being homeless in Chicago is dangerous, and trust is rare. Most are loners, constantly on guard, but Clifton and his group share resources and information, looking after one another.One day Clifton told me that Jeff, a group member, had received a warrant for his arrest and decided to stop running from the law. Talking with the group gave Jeff the strength to face his fear. We prayed together, and we all went with Jeff to the police station so that he could turn himself in. It was bittersweet and a reminder that doing the right thing can often be the hardest.On the way back, as we rode in the church van, Clifton said, “He came here all alone, and he left with a family.” By God’s Spirit and grace, all of us broken misfits can be transformed into a family.Loving God, thank you for embracing all who feel like misfits. Help us find belonging in your community, knowing we are cherished and accepted. May your love guide us to discover our purpose in you. Amen.
“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” — Isaiah 1:17On January 1, 2004, our neighbor Brenda Smith was shot four times while walking home at night, and I witnessed the aftermath. At that time I was an intern at Roseland Christian Ministries, and I was living near the church with my coworker and friend, Steve Turner. We soon learned that Brenda’s three children—two teenage girls and a 10-year-old boy—were home alone, without family support.The Bible calls us to care for widows and orphans, and Steve exemplified this teaching. He took it on himself to care for the children, reaching out to relatives and case workers, regularly driving the kids to the hospital where their mom lay in a coma for four months. During that time the children ate at our dinner table four nights a week. Steve made sure they had groceries, and he gave the youngest, Vincent, haircuts, offering stability during their time of need.Steve wasn’t a blood relative, but he became a protector to these children. Vincent, now grown and a father himself, still calls Steve regularly, a testament to the lasting impact of his care. Steve’s compassion made a difference in that family, stepping in as a father figure when that was needed most. He became a true advocate, reflecting God's heart for the orphaned, abandoned, and vulnerable.Lord, thank you for advocates who help to support children not their own. Fill them with compassion and strength, reflecting your love as they nurture and guide young ones in need. Amen.
I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. — 2 Timothy 1:5Marlene’s daughter has bounced around the streets for decades. Marlene and her husband, Dwight, have custody of her daughter’s children. To make matters more complicated and beautiful, these grandchildren are not Dwight’s biological grandchildren. Dwight and Marlene found each other later in life. Dwight has cared for these grandchildren as his own. He chauffeurs them around. He also bought a car and fixed it so that the oldest grandson has a vehicle to drive during his college years.I have never heard Dwight complain, roll his eyes, or shoot an exasperated look to suggest to Marlene, “These are your grandkids.” And as a family they are thriving. Marlene has been an advocate for getting each child into various schools and programs so that they can succeed.Marlene and Dwight have transitioned from the role of grandparents to parents because that’s what circumstances have called for. It wasn’t their plan, but they have formed a family that is a gift to each other.Whom has God brought into your life because circumstances have required a different way of being? Where have you been called to be a surrogate parent, brother, sister, child, or friend? May God bless those relationships!Lord, thank you for grandparents and surrogate families who step in with love, guidance, and care. Bless them as they reflect your grace and compassion. Amen.
Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. — Romans 12:13Ms. Sabrina has raised four children. Her daughters work in medical professions, and her son serves as a police officer in a nearby suburb. Her mom and sister come to church with her, and her extended family gathers regularly for reunions. She has a special family. But her family and her home extend much further.She calls her house in the Roseland community a “home of refuge.” She has taken in young women who have needed housing, stability, and the wisdom of a woman who has been through some things. She has created her own application process for residents to come and live in her home, including a referral from her pastor. But in her home (which she purchased and rehabbed in partnership with Hope Christian Reformed Church 30 years ago) she has housed young, single moms and their children. She has made room for a sister of hers who was in between jobs. She has rented a room to women who were ready to move out from our shelter for women and children. In the practice of Christian hospitality, bonds form and a family is created.Where are the places and who are the people who have formed bonds in your community? Which coffee groups, basketball leagues, men’s groups, and shared living spaces have been like Ms. Sabrina’s “home of refuge”?Lord, thank you for places of refuge where hurting people can find comfort and peace. Bless people who open their homes and hearts, creating safe havens of your love and healing. Amen.
“Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” — Matthew 12:50When you hear the word family, what usually comes to mind? Where I grew up, a family was generally made up of a husband and wife and their biological children. Some families also had adopted children. Some couples did not have children, and some parents were divorced. But the most common family in that time and culture was the nuclear family. In the Bible and in today’s world, though, it’s less common to find families fitting that description.When Jesus’ family tried to get a message to him as crowds gathered around him, he saw an opportunity for a teaching moment and said, “Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”Jesus was helping his followers to describe a new kind of family, a community bound by something more powerful than the blood in our veins. This is not a rejection of the biological family. It’s an invitation to a bigger, richer family—the family of God, with whom we live in the kingdom of God.This month you are invited to meet family members in the Roseland community where I work and live, in my biological family, and in other family groups that I am a part of. May God’s Spirit work in us all to recognize the beautiful gift of his family in the relationships and communities we are a part of—no matter how different or diverse they might be.Father, thank you for the gift of our broader family in Christ. May we keep growing together in faith and grace. Amen.
This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. — 1 John 4:9-10James and Tyesha stand at the front of the church sanctuary with their daughters, Brooklyn and Layla, who gaze up at their baby brother, Hakeem, cradled in their father’s arms. Brooklyn stands on tiptoe to peer into the water of the baptismal font; then her eyes look up to meet mine. She is captivated by the mystery, the ritual, and the weight of the promises on this day.I address the congregation: “If any family would like to join Brooklyn, Layla, James, and Tyesha as we baptize baby Hakeem, you are invited to come forward.” Expecting a few grandparents to join us, I am stunned when the whole congregation steps forward, surrounding them in love.Together we listen to God’s promises. James and Tyesha make vows, and the congregation promises to stand with Hakeem in Christian community. Then come the words of baptism: “For you, Hakeem, Jesus Christ came into the world; for you, he died; for you, he conquered death. . . . We love because God first loved us. Hakeem Elzy, I baptize you in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.”Hakeem, a child of God, is part of God’s family. And because of Jesus you have the right to be part of God’s family too (John 1:12-13).Loving God, thank you for making us part of your family through Jesus Christ. Help us to share your gracious love with others faithfully each day. Amen.
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." — John 10:10Identity theft is a growing threat today. Scammers try to steal our personal information and gain access to our financial accounts.In the spirit world, another identity thief lurks as well. The master deceiver, Satan, tries to rob believers of the assurance of their new identity in Christ. He tries to sow seeds of doubt, despair, confusion, and insecurity within us. If he cannot possess us, the devil wants at least to wear us down and make us feel defeated, limiting our service for God and his kingdom.But we are not alone. We have the presence of God in our hearts, and we have God’s Word to assure us and strengthen us with the truth. Jesus promises that we will have life to the full, and no one can snatch us out of his hand (John 10:28-30). The Lord and his Word remain our best protection, affirming that we are not defined by past successes or failures but only by our union with Christ. Through faith, we receive his righteousness and become the children of God. We are forgiven, cleansed, and commissioned to be his representatives in the world. As God’s handiwork, we are created to do good works that honor the Lord and bring blessing to others. As God reassures us through his Spirit and his Word, we are redeemed, beloved, and empowered to live out his purposes with confidence and grace each day.Lord, help us to see that our worth is defined by you, not by the opinions of others. By your Word and Spirit, assure us always that in you we have full life forever. Amen.
In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. — Romans 8:37In times of uncertainty and seeming chaos, it’s natural for people to seek out a strong leader to restore order and bring resolution. It may be a military hero, a political figure, or a charismatic leader. We often look to our own resources to bring stability to a volatile situation, don’t we? Yet when we discover the ultimate victor and King, Jesus Christ, we learn, as he states in John 16:33, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”Through his triumph over sin and death, Jesus declares victory over every force that opposes God and his plan of restoration. His victory brings hope to believers, promising peace and triumph despite the trials and struggles they may endure.In light of this, Paul boldly proclaims in Romans 8, “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” The victory Jesus won through his death and resurrection is now shared with his followers. Our identity in Christ transforms us into victors who have new, full life forever in Christ.When we align with Jesus, no other power or influence can defeat us or keep us down.Victorious King, thank you for securing the ultimate triumph for us. Guide us to walk with confidence today, knowing that nothing we encounter can ultimately hold back your good purposes for our lives. Amen.
“This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. . . .” — Mark 4:26When Jesus came to live and teach among us, it was common for a farmer to sling a bag of seed over his shoulder and to walk through his fields scattering handfuls of seed onto the freshly tilled soil.As Jesus explains the process of the seed sprouting and growing in this parable, we can see that the seed symbolizes the good news of salvation, bringing the potential for new life. As Paul explains similarly in Romans 1:16, “The gospel . . . is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” The gospel is a potent force, capable of transforming lives and entire communities. Like seed hidden beneath the surface, its message takes root out-of-sight, deep within the human heart. There it grows and matures, eventually yielding a harvest of righteousness.Rather than hoarding the seed of the gospel, we are called to scatter it generously as we journey through life. We scatter seed by supporting missionaries or mission organizations, volunteering for a community service project, inviting a neighbor over for coffee, and more. We sow gospel seed when we nurture spiritual conversations with our family members and friends. We sow seed with colleagues at work. When we spread the good news of Jesus, we participate in the process of bringing forth spiritual fruit.Lord, you have shared the good news with us and have given us new life. Help us to share it with others, knowing you will make it grow and bring forth a bountiful harvest, to your glory. Amen.
Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. — Philippians 3:20Citizenship has its privileges. Citizens of a nation can have access to education, community services, social services, health care, and more.Being a citizen of heaven takes us to a different level altogether. When our identity is rooted in Christ, his home becomes ours, because through him we become children of God with an eternal inheritance. Even though we still live here on the earth, we are privileged to live abundantly as part of a kingdom not crafted by human hands.Being citizens of heaven prompts us to pursue higher goals and take on a broader perspective than mere earthly citizenship can offer. This transforms our priorities, redirects our ambitions, and empowers us to endure.If you have seen the launching of a hot-air balloon, you understand the struggle. The more the balloon fills with heated air, the greater the struggle to keep the basket earth-bound. The cords holding it to the ground become taut and strained. And when they are released, the balloon majestically ascends toward the heavens. Similarly in some ways, the more we are filled with God’s Spirit, the stronger our vision for life in God’s eternal kingdom becomes.Focusing on these things moves us to live in a way that not only longs for heaven but also seeks to bring a taste of heaven to earth.Heavenly Father, as we navigate the challenges of this world, may we always put you first in our lives. Help us to anchor our hope in full life with you forever. Amen.
He chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. — Ephesians 1:4The Bible explains that believers have been freely and generously chosen by God. This choosing is not based on our appearance, intelligence, personality, status, or anything else. It’s not something we earn or deserve. Instead, it’s a purely gracious act.God, in his great love, initiates the process of salvation. By his sovereign will and good pleasure, God has decided to save us, making rescue and redemption possible for all who have been made in his image (Genesis 1:26-27). Even though we were ensnared in sin, Jesus died to deliver us from the curse of sin and death to make us holy in God’s sight.Being chosen by God is an overwhelming blessing that fills us with humility and helps us see that there is no room for pride or boasting. It also instills in us a sense of security and confidence, recognizing that our salvation is not based on our religious performance. Instead, as God’s chosen possession, we belong to him. Body and soul—in life and in death—we are his, and nothing can snatch us from his hand (John 10:28-30).What an exhilarating honor—to be chosen, wanted, and valued by the most significant being in the universe!Gracious God, thank you for choosing us. Thank you for being the author, perfecter, and finisher of our faith. May we live with the assurance that you will complete the good work you have begun in us. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
“I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends.” — John 15:15Having friends is a great blessing. Friends multiply our joys and divide our sorrows. Friends walk in when the rest of the world walks out. Friends know all about us, and they still love us anyway. Proverbs 18:24 notes that “a friend . . . sticks closer than a brother. In other words, a true friend can be relied upon and is always there for us.The amazing thing is that Jesus, the Savior and King of creation, calls believers his friends. As believers in Christ, we are not just subjects or servants of the Lord of the universe; we are his friends. And he is loyal and true, sticking closer than a blood brother. In John 15, Jesus explains that, like a true friend, he is transparent and open with us: “Everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” No secrets, no deception, no masks—just an open heart entrusted to his friends.The truest sign of friendship is sacrificial love. Jesus says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Jesus demonstrated this when he went to the cross to pay the price for all our sin. He considered friendship with us so important that he surrendered his very life in order to secure it.Lord Jesus, it’s overwhelming to know that we have a friend in you. Grant us strength in knowing that you want to walk with us through life as our constant, faithful friend. Amen.
“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” — Matthew 4:19Imagine receiving an invitation that changes the entire course of your life. Simon Peter and his brother Andrew received that kind of invitation. One day Jesus approached them with a life-changing proposition. In effect, he said, “Until this time, your whole life has centered on catching and selling fish. How about joining me, and I’ll teach you how to catch precious souls for the kingdom of God?”Note that for Jesus, discipleship (following him) and evangelism (fishing for people) go hand in hand. Once we find ourselves in the safety of Jesus’s lifeboat, we are to extend a hand to help others climb aboard and join with Jesus too. This missional calling isn’t merely an accessory to our lives; it’s integral to who we are and what we do as followers of Jesus. Every believer is called by God to be a fisher of people. Every congregation is called to be a mission outpost for Christ’s kingdom.To excel in this calling, we must learn to think like a fish—seeking to understand their ways. We must also keep casting toward nibbling fish. If the fish aren’t biting, we can move on and come back later. Some fish might not be hungry right now, but maybe they will be six months or a few years from now, when God’s Spirit has prepared their hearts. We wait patiently for God to work while we keep fishing for others.Lord Jesus, thank you for rescuing us and making us part of your rescue team. Guide us as we invite the people around us to find new life in you. Amen.
“Come, follow me,” Jesus said. . . . — Matthew 4:19In the children’s game “Follow the Leader,” one person takes up the role of the leader. The rest of the group lines up behind that person, mimicking their actions.It’s natural for us to follow someone, and we all have role models we admire. These are people we want to pattern our lives after. But we need to ask, “Whom are we following? Whose footsteps are we walking in?”In the Jewish culture of Jesus’ day, a rabbi (religious teacher) would invite students to join and work with him for a period of time—often years. The invitation would be a call to walk in their way, mirror their actions, and become their disciples. Luke 6:40 describes this process: “The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.” This involved learning by experience and being shaped to a new way of life.Jesus extended that kind of invitation to Andrew, Peter, and others, saying, “Come and follow me. Walk closely with me, learn from me, and become my apprentices.” Today Jesus extends that same call to each of us: “Walk in my way, learn from my teachings, and become my disciples. Do life with me so that, over time, you may resemble me.”Lord Jesus, what an amazing privilege it is to be invited to follow you and learn from you. Guide us, as your disciples, to follow you faithfully each day and bring the good news of your kingdom to people everywhere. Amen.
All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation. — 2 Corinthians 5:18Hostility, conflict, and division seem to be the narrative of our times. Society is splintering at an alarming rate. Yet in this toxic environment we are called to be followers of Jesus Christ. As new creatures, we have been given a calling to extend the reconciling work of Jesus to our world.Following Jesus’ example, we are to work at bridging chasms that divide people. Instead of fueling disagreement with inflammatory speech, we can season our speech with grace and kindness. With a humble spirit of goodwill, we can strive to find common ground with others. We can seek to build networks of understanding. We are called to be God’s peacemakers in a divided world.Our main mission is to assist people in reconciling with God and discovering peace with him through his Son, Jesus Christ.As reconcilers, we serve as linking agents of God’s mercy and grace. With one hand extended to a hurting world and the other firmly held by our gracious Lord and God, we aim to help others connect with God and find forgiveness and new life in him.In what ways can you bring the peace of God into your surroundings today?Spirit of God, empower us to stand in the gap, clarify your message, and radiate Jesus’ love to the people around us. May we be vessels of your peace in our world today. Amen.
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again?” — Matthew 5:13My wife is fond of salty snacks. Pretzels, popcorn, and potato chips are among her favorites. It’s often appealing to add salt to snacks, vegetables, and other things we eat because it enhances the flavor. When Jesus used this metaphor, he was illustrating the believer’s distinctive role in the world. He implied that we are to add a similarly positive influence on our surroundings, in a way like salt can.Think of how salt can melt snow and ice. As Christ-followers, we can help to thaw the cold indifference that this world often portrays. God’s love, which fills us and overflows from us, has the power to soften hardened hearts, thaw frozen relationships, and dissolve disagreements.Think too of how salt enhances the flavor of foods, often making them more tasty and palatable. Christ’s presence within us can similarly add taste to life. Our presence can inject joy and zest into our homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. We can help make gatherings and settings more pleasant, positive, and welcoming.In addition, salt serves as a preservative. Before we had refrigeration, salt was the primary method of preserving perishable foods. Similarly, we can help to turn back the corrosive effects of sin in the world. As followers of Jesus, we can bring God’s healing, regenerative power to bear on all kinds of situations.Lord Jesus, use us to bring helpful change in the lives of the people around us, for your glory and for the restoration of this world. Amen.
“You are the light of the world. . . . Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:14-16When Jesus, by his Spirit, comes into our lives through faith, we undergo a transformation. Our spiritual life is changed as we become new creatures in Christ. As new creations, we transition from being self-serving to being self-giving. We radiate the light and life of Jesus wherever we go.In Matthew 5, Jesus uses two simple yet profound metaphors—light and salt—to illustrate this personal transformation and the new role we take on in our daily living. Light is life-giving. It brings warmth, energy, and clarity to any situation. When Jesus’ power flows through us, we become a catalyst for positive change in our surroundings.This doesn’t mean we are like the sun—generating light on our own. We are more like the moon, reflecting the light of Jesus so that others don’t have to stumble in the darkness of this world.However, if we hide our light under a bowl, if we try to keep Jesus to ourselves, we make ourselves ineffective. And, worse, people will remain stuck in darkness, blinded by sin. For the sake of the world that Jesus came to save, we need to break out of our holy huddles and shine brightly for Jesus.Lord and Savior, thank you for shining your radiant light into our hearts and warming us with your love. Help us never to underestimate the impact we can have when we allow you to shine through us. Amen.
“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses . . . to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 1:8Before going back to heaven, Jesus called each of his followers to be a witness for him. A witness is someone who can attest to what they have seen or experienced personally.This calling applies to all of us who follow Jesus today as well. We are called to be reliable witnesses, sharing with others the grace of God that we have personally witnessed and experienced in our lives. This lies at the heart of our identity as followers of Christ.The task that Jesus has entrusted to us is to carry his life-saving message wherever we go. This magnificent, global mission began with Jesus’ first-century followers, and it continues with his 21st-century followers today.Empowered by his Spirit, we have a story to tell and a life-altering encounter to share. While others may have doubts about the Bible’s teaching or quibble about theology, they cannot refute our personal experience. They cannot change what we know to be true about God’s work in our hearts and lives.Jesus recognized that a transformed life becomes an unstoppable force for good and for God in this world. To the people around you, there is no one better positioned to testify to the life-changing power of God than you.Think of a story you can share with someone about the Lord’s work in your life. Whom will you tell today?Dear Jesus, fill us with your Spirit. Empower us to be living testimonies of your grace and love, sharing with others our stories of your grace-filled work in us. Amen.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” — John 15:5Have you ever seen the damage to trees after a heavy windstorm? Limbs and branches are often strewn about the landscape, and some land on houses and cars, causing even more damage. Often those branches still have healthy-looking leaves and fruit, but we know they will soon die. When a branch is severed from the main trunk, its vitality is lost. Its lifeline is gone. Its leaves will wither and die, and its fruit will decay.Jesus conveys a similar message in John 15, saying, “I am the vine; you are the branches.” He helps us to see that if we break away from him—the true vine—we will not have his spiritual life in us. Though we may appear vibrant for a while, we will lack the capacity to produce spiritual life, health, or fruit on our own. Only if we stay connected to Jesus can we bear spiritual fruit that endures.The main function of a vine such as a grapevine is to bear fruit. And fruit-bearing sums up our purpose as followers of Jesus. In fact, Jesus explains that every branch that bears no fruit will be cut off. But with his Spirit living in us, we will yield fruit such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (see Galatians 5:22-23). This is our calling.Holy Spirit, by your life-giving power, produce a crop of spiritual fruit in our lives. May your glory shine forth, and may others be enriched by the fruits of our lives. In Jesus, Amen.
Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst? — 1 Corinthians 3:16The Bible teaches that ever since we fell into sin and brought destruction into God’s world, the Lord has been working out a way to live among us and make us holy again. This restoration project is accomplished through Jesus, who came to save us by paying the price of our sin, conquering death, and sending his Spirit to live in us.Jesus even declared himself to be the temple of God, like the Old Testament one—that sacred space where the presence of God came to dwell among his people (see 1 Kings 8; John 2:19-22). At Jesus’ death, the temple curtain tore in two, from top to bottom (Mark 15:38), unveiling the Most Holy Place where God’s presence was to reside. This symbolized the removal of the barrier between God and sinners and the restoration of fellowship with God for all who believe. Through the shed blood of Jesus, we are granted access into the Father’s presence.And since Jesus is the new temple, his Spirit has come to live within the heart of every believer. So in this way we have become living temples of God. Rather than dwelling in a building, God now lives in his people—both individually and collectively.In our hearts God’s Spirit works to cleanse and purify us, remaking us to be holy, shaping us to be like Jesus as we live for him. In what ways has God been shaping you lately?Spirit of God, purify us to live for you, that we may share your love with others, serving faithfully in all you have entrusted us to do. Amen.
“It will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them.” — Matthew 25:14A steward is someone who takes care of and manages someone else’s property or belongings. The steward is not the owner but is responsible to the owner for all that the owner has entrusted to them.The Bible includes many examples of stewardship. When God placed Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, he charged them with its care (Genesis 2:15). Since the beginning, humans have been entrusted by God to steward his creation, his blessings, and the very lives he gives them.In Jesus’ parable in our Bible reading today, three servants received bags of gold from their master before he left on a journey. They were expected to be productive, innovative, and enterprising with what they had been given. Specifically, they were to invest their master’s resources in worthwhile ventures, aiming for growth and multiplication. While two servants faithfully embraced this responsibility, one did not. The master’s approval clearly fell upon the two who were faithful.As the Lord’s stewards, we don’t possess anything on our own. All we have is entrusted to us by our gracious heavenly Father. Yet while we live and breathe, we are called to nurture and care for what God has given us, using it for his glory. Then one day we too will hear the Master’s words: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”Lord, may we honor you with the time, talents, and treasures you have given us. Guide us to be faithful stewards of all your resources. Amen.
I urge . . . first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people. . . . — 1 Timothy 2:1Maybe you have seen a plaque or a sign that says “Prayer Changes Things.” Indeed, God has shown in the Bible that he uses the prayers of his people in his kingdom-building work in this world. Many examples show that God often provides what his people ask for in prayer.But that doesn’t mean God is something like a good-luck charm or a magic genie that grants our wishes. Our prayers need to be in line with God’s will for our lives and for his kingdom work in this world (see Matthew 6:9-13; 1 John 5:14-15). And while God will often answer our prayers aligning with his will, there are times when the answer may be different from what we ask. At times we don’t understand God’s will or his plans or even his ways (Isaiah 55). Sometimes God’s answer may be “Yes, but not yet” or “Not in the way you think” or even “No.” (See Luke 22:42.)In 1 Timothy 2 Paul urges believers to intercede (pray) for everyone—including “kings and all those in authority”—because “this is good, and pleases God our Savior.”When we intercede faithfully for others, we become personally involved in God’s redemptive work. Each spiritual victory, I believe, is a testament to the fact that someone has been praying.Lord and Savior, help us to pray faithfully for others, that they may come to know you and have faith in you. May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. And when we struggle, Lord, please give us your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. — 2 Timothy 2:15In the first two decades of life, most people are students. The instruction we receive during that time provides us with the building blocks we need for a productive life.As believers in Christ, we are also students. We need to learn God’s Word and grow in the grace and knowledge of the Savior. We need to absorb God’s Word continuously in order to be transformed by the power of his Spirit, who works in us and teaches us the truth and wisdom of God. On a daily basis we need to walk in step with the Lord and his Spirit, growing to know God and to share his love with others everywhere.There’s a tale of a man on a stroll who hears a voice say to him: “Gather some pebbles.” Though he sees no one, the voice persists: “Gather some pebbles and put them in your pocket, and tomorrow you will be both glad and sorry.”Intrigued, the man thinks, “Why not?” So he picks up a few pebbles and puts them in his pocket. The next day he discovers they have been transformed into diamonds. Then he feels gladness for taking some, and he is sorry for not taking more.Similarly, our study of God’s Word may not reveal its benefits right away. Yet over time, nuggets of truth and wisdom will prove to be valuable treasures—blessing our lives in countless ways.Lord and Teacher, guide us into your Word. May its truths transform our hearts and minds, that we may grow in your wisdom. Amen.
We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. — 2 Corinthians 5:20An ambassador is a government official who represents their country to another nation. This is often a pivotal role in bridging gaps between nations. An ambassador aims to promote goodwill and cooperation while minimizing outbreaks that could lead to hostility. The aim is to build understanding and tolerance between nations and cultures.This means ambassadors need to listen and communicate effectively. They should express themselves with tact and diplomacy, demonstrating unwavering loyalty to their own nation while also caring for the people of their host nation. Rather than viewing the host nation as an adversary, competent ambassadors seek to build bridges, not walls. As a result, they are deeply invested in the outcomes of diplomatic negotiations.What does it mean, then, for believers in Christ to be his ambassadors? As believers, we have been called to be official representatives of God and his kingdom in this world. We serve as emissaries for our Lord and King, speaking and acting on his behalf. This appointment carries honor as well as responsibility. We are entrusted with a message, becoming the voice of the Lord to a broken, hurting world. Under his authority, our aim is to build bridges instead of barriers, seeking to share the good news of Jesus so that people can come to know him as their Savior and King.Lord Jesus, what a privilege it is to be your ambassadors! May we speak and act faithfully, that the world may know you are the Savior, the Prince of Peace. Amen.
Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer. — 2 Timothy 2:3-4The Bible depicts a cosmic battle taking place between good and evil, between God’s kingdom of light and Satan’s kingdom of darkness. So when we place our faith in Jesus, we not only become part of a family; we also enter a battlefield. We enlist in a mission to serve faithfully in God’s kingdom.So, what does it mean to be faithful spiritual soldiers? First, we pledge unwavering allegiance to Jesus as our King. We wholeheartedly acknowledge his sovereignty and yield to his authority. We recognize that chaos would result within and around us without submitting to Jesus’ authority.Second, good soldiers know their enemy. They understand that their battle is “not against flesh and blood,” as Paul puts it, but against spiritual powers. They understand that neither conventional weapons, brute force, nor human strategies are going to defeat this spiritual enemy. They study the enemy, know his game plan, and understand how to defeat him—with fervent prayer, godly praise, and self-sacrificial love.Third, good soldiers are also equipped for battle. They practice spiritual disciplines and put on the armor of God so that they can “stand against the devil’s schemes” and faithfully execute their mission.Lord and King, we are called to serve you in truth and righteousness, faith and prayer, ready to share the good news of Jesus by the power of your Spirit. Amen.
[From] Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To God’s holy people in Ephesus. . . . — Ephesians 1:1What do you usually think of when you hear the word saint? Most of us think of some revered religious person. But what about the person you see in the mirror?Though most of us don’t see ourselves as saints, that is what we are when we believe in Jesus. Because of his work, we are being sanctified, made holy, as we live out our lives serving the Lord—and that means we are saints.Because of Jesus, I am not what I or others will often perceive me to be. Instead, I am who God declares me to be. Through Jesus’ sacrifice for my sake, I am now declared righteous and holy.Paul understood that we are profoundly transformed in God’s sight when we come to faith in Jesus. That’s why Paul begins his letter to the Ephesian believers by addressing them as “God’s holy people.” Literally, he refers to them as “the saints in Ephesus.” Despite being new to the faith and still having a long way to go in their spiritual development, Paul recognizes them as saints.A saint is someone consecrated to God and set apart for God’s service. Through baptism, believers are marked as God’s treasured possession, set apart for his divine purposes. Just as it would be foolish to build only a doghouse on the foundation of a skyscraper, it would be foolish to build anything less than a sanctified life on the foundation Jesus established for us.Lord God, thank you for making us holy in Jesus. Help us to live into our new identity as saints each day. Amen.
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave.” — Matthew 20:26-27What is the pinnacle of achievement, the ultimate honor in life? Is it an Oscar or a Grammy award? An Olympic gold medal? A championship title? A Nobel or Pulitzer prize? How do we measure greatness? Jesus explained that the highest honor and the greatest achievement in life is to be recognized as a servant of God. In God’s kingdom, this calling is second to none.From our Scripture today we learn that Jesus measures success differently than we do. He doesn’t rate us by material wealth, academic accolades, corporate status, or athletic prowess. Rather, he calls us to humble service—teaching us to use our talents and resources for selfless service to others.Jesus’ disciples had quarreled about who should have the high ranks in his kingdom. They were ready to vie for a throne but not for a servant’s towel. But true greatness, joy, and fulfillment are not found in gratifying oneself. In God’s economy, these things emerge organically as a result of serving God and others.Jesus not only preached this principle; he exemplified it by laying down his own life for us. When our everyday lifestyle consists of serving others, we honor God—and in turn we are blessed.Lord Jesus, you have shown us how to live. Give us a servant’s heart and a humble, teachable spirit. Help us to follow your lead, living by the law of love. Amen.
The master told his servant, “Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full.” — Luke 14:23Receiving an invitation is usually seen as an honor, and most people welcome a gracious request to join in. In God’s kingdom, our main approach should be simply to invite people to “come and see” what God offers us in Christ—salvation and full life forever! This is often more effective than getting into a debate about a teaching or criticizing others for their beliefs.In Jesus’ parable of the great banquet, God the Father is portrayed as a generous host who wants to share his abundance and joy with others. The host prepares a feast, ensuring that everything is taken care of. God undertakes everything needed for our salvation—even footing the bill by sacrificing his own Son for our sake. And he opens the doors of his kingdom, extending his invitation to all. Ultimately God wants his house filled with all whom he has invited.And as followers of Jesus who have become God’s servants, we receive an expanded role. We become inviters and bringers, actively seeking and urging others to join us. This role has sometimes been described as “one beggar telling another beggar where to find food”—or, as in this parable, one invited guest informing another guest about the banquet hall brimming with eternal blessings.Heavenly Father, may we share your good news freely with others. Make us winsome witnesses and inclusive inviters, for in you there is more than enough grace to go around. Amen.
He was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. — Hebrews 11:9-10A pilgrim is someone who travels to a place where they long to be. Following a kind of calling, they might journey to a sacred place where they can worship. Or they might move around, ever seeking a place to call home. Followers of Jesus are pilgrims who are called to live for God as they travel through life on their way to their eternal home.The Bible tells about a pilgrim named Abraham, who followed God’s call to go and live in a land that God would show him. God led Abraham to the land of Canaan, where he pitched his tent and worshiped the Lord (Genesis 12:1-8). Yet Abraham lived as a stranger and foreigner in that land. His security was not in a plot of land but in the plan of God. He envisioned an eternal city, to which he spent a lifetime traveling. Abraham lived as a pilgrim rather than as a permanent settler. Walking by faith rather than by sight, he modeled what it means to follow the Lord.A pilgrim is different from a settler. Pilgrims never feel totally comfortable with the values and lifestyles of their surrounding cultures. They are careful not to drive their stakes too deeply into the ground. They live with a holy detachment, careful not to hold on to places or things so tightly that they can’t go on without them. Pilgrims also regularly long for home. In other words, they live with eternal aspirations, not simply earthly ones.Lord, help us to live in a such a way that we long for heaven but also aim to represent you here each day. Amen.
We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. — Ephesians 2:10Imagine a skilled artist, carefully crafting a masterpiece. Each detail is carefully chosen to inspire appreciation, imagination, and more. In our Scripture passage today we are reminded that we are God’s handiwork. He brings together the pieces of our lives to create a masterpiece for his glory.The original Greek text for “handiwork” in this passage was closely associated with “poetry.” In other words, we are considered as poetic works of art. We are molded and fashioned by the Lord of all into priceless treasures.But our purpose is not simply to be put on display and admired by passersby. Instead, we are molded and shaped “to do good works.” God has purposes and plans for us to fulfill, assignments to complete.What’s more, God is still working on us. We are a good work in progress. We are called and led to keep learning, growing, trying, and trusting as we live by faith for the God who loves us and makes us part of his family. Whether we are bailing hay, studying for a test, teaching a child, washing dishes, creating a website, or doing any of a million other things—we are to work wholeheartedly for the Lord. By the work of our hands we are called to point others to the divine Master of all masterpieces.Lord, like a canvas or a block of clay, wood, metal, or stone waiting for the artist’s touch, may we be open to your leading and guiding hand. May we bring you glory in all we do and say today. Amen.
“Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” — Matthew 12:50Maybe you have had the opportunity to attend a family reunion or an extended family gathering recently. Family members can connect with cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and others that they may not have seen in a while. Gatherings like these can be meaningful, uniting everyone under a common heritage, a family tree.As a believer in Christ, I am a child of God—and so is every other believer. This means all of us are spiritual brothers and sisters—no matter where we are throughout the world! And although we may be different from one another in some ways, we have a common heritage—we are rooted together in Christ. We have the same heavenly Father and the same ultimate goal: to do the Father’s will. As part of God’s forever family, we share in the same eternal inheritance that Jesus has secured for us through his death and resurrection.Sometimes people say that biological family bonds are stronger than other relationships. But in today’s passage Jesus declares that all who follow the Lord are part of his family, and this relationship lasts forever.In a world of many divisions, it’s good to be reminded of our family connection in Jesus. It’s also good to learn that we are called to serve God together, for we will be living in eternity with these family members from all nations and places!Father, give us the eyes to see all who follow you as precious family members, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
To all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. . . . — John 1:12Because of Jesus and his finished work, all who believe in him are given “the right to become children of God.” In other words, we can become God’s permanent sons and daughters. Each of us can be a child of the King, with a loving Father and a family to belong to.The bedrock of my identity is that I have a tender, compassionate, loving heavenly Father whose eyes are always on me. As one of his children, I am engraved on the palms of his hands (Isaiah 49:16).I hope this is true for you as well. Each one of us can be a dearly loved child of God. He describes his beloved children as “the apple of his eye” (Zechariah 2:8).If you are God’s child, you know that the light of his face shines on you, brightening your heart and mind, filling you with the warmth of his love and grace, and giving you peace (Numbers 6:24-26).In the Lord’s faithful care, we know we are loved, “for the Lord takes delight in his people” (Psalm 149:4). “The Lord delights in those who . . . put their hope in his unfailing love” (Psalm 147:11).The apostle John adds, “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1). God loves each of us lavishly and generously as a precious son or daughter. Amazing!Lord, thank you that in Jesus we can become your children. Help us each day to remember who we are and whose we are. Amen.
“You are precious and honored in my sight, and . . . I love you. . . .” — Isaiah 43:4God created you in order to love you and to share a loving relationship with you. That is why you exist—to be cherished by your Creator and to reciprocate that love to him and radiate that love to others. For each one of us, this is the greatest foundational truth we can learn about our existence, and it helps immensely to shape our identity and sense of purpose.Like many of us, though, you may not always feel loved. Moments of feeling misunderstood, ignored, judged, or even rejected may overshadow your sense of worth. But the Bible reassures us of God’s deep and passionate love for each one of us. This love is unconditional—no strings attached. You are God’s beloved child—precious, esteemed, and honored in his sight. Go ahead and remind yourself of this truth as often as necessary.God’s love isn’t based on our actions or achievements. It transcends our successes, failures, possessions, status, and everything else about us. There’s nothing we can do to earn more of God’s love or to diminish it. God’s love is consistent, steadfast, and true.Understanding that we are cherished, valued, and treasured by the Creator of the universe shifts our entire perspective. As we embrace this truth, fears and anxieties diminish. We can live with a new sense of peace and contentment, knowing we are beloved by him.Lord God, thank you for cherishing us. Reassure us of your everlasting love for us each day. In Jesus, Amen.
Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God. . . . — Romans 1:1“What do you want to be when you grow up?” Maybe you heard this question as a child or a teenager. Our responses usually focus on some kind of career path or occupation. And as we grow older, we realize that we need some kind of work or career to help us with the costs of living.Yet consider the nuance of the question. It doesn’t ask, “What do you want to do?” It asks, “What do you want to be?” Being has to do with our essence, our character, our identity. And in God’s economy, being goes ahead of doing. We are so that we can do.The apostle Paul opens his letter to the Romans with a defining statement: “Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God. . . .” On the face of it, this statement addresses the question “Who am I?” Yet, looking deeper, we can see that it’s more about “Whose am I?” Paul’s identity is inseparable from his relationship with Jesus.Paul identifies himself as a servant—or, more precisely, a bondservant—of Christ Jesus. In essence, Paul belongs to Jesus, his Redeemer, who called and commissioned him. He no longer lives to please and serve himself but to please and serve the One who has rescued him. This radical Christ-centeredness is the character that every believer takes on. Like Paul’s, our identity becomes inseparable from our transformative relationship with Jesus Christ.Lord Jesus, guide us to be anchored in your love and to discover our true identity in you. Amen.
Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. But the rich should take pride in their humiliation. . . . — James 1:9Many people today are engaged in a battle for the right to define themselves. It’s as if they are saying, “I will invent or reinvent myself, and you must accept me for who I choose to be.” But this places immense pressure on people. It also brings on volatility and exhaustion as people try to navigate life together.God recognizes our need for a stable, reliable identity—one that can sustain us amid the ups and downs of life. He also knows we cannot invent the identity we need. So God made a new life possible for us through Jesus Christ. Jesus willingly gave up his glory, power, and privilege. He came to sacrifice himself on the cross to atone for our sins against God and each other. Through faith in him, we receive his love and righteousness. Our identity is anchored in him rather than in our achievements or others’ opinions of us.James urges believers who have prospered and become wealthy to recognize their humble position as sinners saved by grace. And he encourages believers who are struggling financially to embrace their exalted position in Christ—loved, accepted, and cherished by God. By doing these things, we can avoid looking down on others and/or trying to outdo others to make up for our feelings of insecurity.Dear Jesus, thank you for giving up so much, so that we can gain more than we deserve. May we find our identity in you, Lord. Amen.
If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone, the new is here! — 2 Corinthians 5:17Maybe you have heard some of the profound “I am” statements of Jesus: “I am the bread of life”; “I am the light of the world”; “I am the good shepherd” (John 6:35; 8:12; 10:11, 14). Jesus lived an effective, purposeful life because he knew his identity. With unwavering clarity, he knew he was the Son of God sent to redeem the world.As we explore the meaning of our identity this month, we’ll find a number of ways to describe ourselves in light of the ways God has created us. We can think of it as a treasure hunt through the Scriptures to uncover our new identity in Christ Jesus.So often we cling to false notions about identity. We focus on things like athletic prowess, academic achievements, or career success. Or we highlight how funny, famous, or fit we are. Or even how good a parent we are. But what happens when the applause fades? Do we maintain a firm grasp of who we are?The apostle Paul explains that when a person comes to faith in Jesus, they undergo a profound transformation. In some ways like a caterpillar emerging as a butterfly, believers transform to become a new creation in Christ. This fundamentally alters the way we think and act. Our identity is no longer defined by fleeting ideas but, rather, by our relationship with Christ.Lord, thank you for making and remaking us in the image of Jesus. Help us to understand who you have made us to be. Give us the courage to live out our identity in Christ. Amen.
God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them. . . . — Genesis 1:27Throughout history, human beings have grappled with three fundamental questions: Who am I? Where do I fit in? What am I supposed to do? These questions have gnawed at us since ancient times. They have shaped our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. At the core of these lies the question of identity as we try to figure out who we really are.Our world today often tells us we have the power to mold our identity and shape our destiny as we see fit. It claims that we are in control and we can decide who we want to be. But that notion is flawed. We haven’t created ourselves, so we do not have the authority to make those claims. According to God, our identity is intricately linked to him as our Creator. We are created in his image, made to reflect his character and values in all we do.This month, let’s explore the idea of personal identity. Identity is the thing that most clearly defines us. It is tied to our worth, value, and significance. Without a clear sense of identity, we drift aimlessly through life. We become restless, rootless, and fruitless.When we know who we are, however, we have a firm foundation. We gain the stability we need in order to navigate changes and challenges in life and to become who we are created to be.Lord, thank you for not leaving us on our own. Thank you for revealing that our true identity is found in you. Help us to reflect your image in our living each day. Amen.
These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. — John 20:31This brief note at the end of John’s gospel account sums up the purpose of Jesus’ coming. Through all of the other characters we have met and learned about in the story of Jesus, and through all of the things that took place in connection with Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, the main point has always been that Jesus is the Messiah.Jesus is the Son of God, the Messiah (the Christ, meaning “Anointed One”), sent by God the Father to live among us for the purpose of delivering us from the curse of sin. On our own we would have no chance of paying the price for our sin or trying to make right everything that we have done wrong in this world. We could never earn our own forgiveness. Jesus was sent to take the punishment that we deserve onto himself and to reconcile us with God once and for all. He lived, died, and was raised from the dead for you and for me—to bring us life at its fullest. Through Jesus, God offers each of us eternal life filled with forgiveness, love, grace, and purpose.If you haven’t accepted this gift of love from God, I invite you to do so today. It is offered freely—no strings attached. Take some time to reflect on this incredible gift and receive new life today!Father in heaven, thank you for the gift of your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Help us to live fully with gratitude for the amazing gift of salvation that you offer us today. Amen.
They cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles. — Acts 1:26At a professional basketball game, have you looked at all of the players sitting on the bench? Most of them still have their warmups on and aren’t sweating at all. They all have plenty of skills, or they wouldn’t even be allowed to sit on that bench. They were probably stars at whatever previous level of basketball they played. But for now they sit on the bench and patiently wait for a turn to play.I wonder if Matthias felt in a way like that. He had been following Jesus from the beginning. He had heard everything that Jesus had taught. He had seen all of the miracles Jesus had done. He may have been one of the 72 followers Jesus had sent out during his ministry. Matthias must have had many stories to share about what he had seen and done while following Jesus. Certainly he was a qualified and loyal follower of Jesus. But he wasn’t one of the 12 apostles until his name came up and was drawn by lot.Sometimes the message we get from Jesus is “Wait.” We may be ready to go where he sends us or to do what he wants us to do. But he tells us to wait. Wait for the opportunity and for the time to be right. Wait for Jesus to call on us.I imagine Matthias was excited to become part of the leading group of Christ-followers who would go out and change the world. I hope you are excited to be a part of that movement as well.Lord Jesus, when you call us to follow you, move us to say yes with excitement and joy for what you have in store for us. Amen.
The eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. — Matthew 28:16When our kids were old enough to look after themselves at home while Mom and Dad went out, we always had lots of instructions for them. Feed the dog, water the plants, vacuum the living room, load the dishwasher, and be in bed by 10 p.m. In our absence we wanted things to get done, and we needed our kids to know they had to get them done.In some ways, it seems, Jesus had a similar plan when he was about to leave his disciples. He had spent years with them, training them and preparing them for this exact moment. He was about to return to the Father in heaven and leave them with the task of furthering his kingdom on the earth. So before he left, Jesus gave them these tasks: “Make disciples of all nations.” “Baptize people into my family.” “Teach them everything I have commanded you.” And he promised, “I will always be with you.”These were essential for the disciples, and they are essential for us today. We continue in this important work as Jesus’ followers even now. Jesus’ message to his disciples is his message to us.We have our job description, and we have Jesus’ promise of his eternal presence with us. And these are things we can be sure of.Jesus, thank you for your promise to be with us always and for the tasks you have given us. Help us to fulfill your kingdom purposes on the earth every day. In your name, Amen.
The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time. . . . — John 21:17Jesus’ questions parallel Peter’s three denials. On the night Jesus was arrested, Peter was asked three times if he was associated with Jesus, and each time Peter said no (John 18:15-18, 25-27). Now Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love me?” And while Peter is obviously hurt by this, no doubt Jesus was hurt by Peter’s denials as well.The rebuilding of Peter’s relationship with Jesus was important. Jesus needed to hear that Peter still loved him. Jesus still had a role for Peter to fill in his growing kingdom. And Peter needed to know he was forgiven and still welcome in Jesus’ kingdom work. In fact, Peter might have thought he wasn’t welcome to follow Jesus anymore after his denial—and that might have been at least partly why he went back to fishing so soon after Jesus’ death and resurrection. Whatever the case, Peter needed to know that he was still welcome.Nothing Peter could do would separate him from Jesus’ love. The same is true for us (Romans 8:38-39). We might deny Jesus and turn our backs on him in any number of ways. But Jesus never does that to us. He is always waiting for us, asking us if we love him, and giving us a continued purpose in his kingdom. Jesus’ love never fails. This is a promise we can depend on every day.Jesus, thank you for the gift of forgiveness and for continuing to call us to follow you. Thank you for providing us with salvation and a new life with you! Amen.
Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Galilee. — John 21:1If you’re an expert at something and have done it for a long time, it can be difficult to take advice from someone else. In our reading today, though, we find that even though Jesus’ disciples are experienced fishermen, they take advice from a stranger who calls out to them from the shore.Maybe they go along with this advice because they have been out all night and have caught nothing. Fishing on the Sea of Galilee could be unpredictable, and even experienced fishermen could get stumped. Or maybe this stranger spoke with enough authority to convince them to listen to him. This particular stranger, who was the Lord of heaven and earth, surely had abundant authority (see Matthew 28:18).Whatever the case, it didn’t take long for the disciples to realize who the stranger was. Their catch of fish was so big that they couldn’t haul it in. And John said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” Clearly they remembered a time when this had happened before (see Luke 5:1-11).Back then, Jesus had called these fishermen to follow him, and they had joined him on an incredible journey. Now Jesus was meeting with them again to renew their call to follow him. And they followed.Jesus calls us to follow him too. Will you join him again today?Jesus, help us to say yes to your invitation, and guide us to follow you today and every day, wherever you call us to go. Amen.
That same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. — Luke 24:13A friend of mine went to his kids’ sports event, and he found a seat next to a random stranger in the stands. They started a conversation and talked for most of the game. It was only after people pointed out to him later that the person he was talking to during the game was a retired famous athlete. He had had no idea.Cleopas and his fellow traveler had known Jesus and had interacted with him before his death and resurrection. They were closely connected with his ministry and even knew that the women had found his tomb empty earlier that day. But they didn’t recognize Jesus as he walked and talked with them. I’m not sure why they didn’t recognize him, but that also happened to others who knew him well. Only after he broke bread with them in their home did they realize that the person they had been talking with was Jesus.I wonder how often we find ourselves in Christ’s presence and don’t realize it. Though he isn’t actually there in person, he can be present with us anywhere at any time because he promises, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). Maybe a conversation with a friend ushers us into Jesus’ presence. Or maybe a worship experience helps us connect with Christ in a new way. Or maybe someone shines the presence of Jesus in a selfless act of service. Whatever the case, let’s keep our eyes open for Jesus in our everyday living. No doubt he is walking with us each day.Lord, help us to know you are with us always, and to work with you in all we do and say. Amen.
Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. — John 20:24I can understand Thomas’s doubt. For whatever reason, he wasn’t with the other disciples when Jesus first visited them after his resurrection, so he hadn’t seen Jesus firsthand. Maybe he should have taken the disciples’ word for it when they told him they had seen Jesus. Maybe he should have had more faith. Or maybe he was just an untrusting sort of person. Whatever the case, Thomas said he just couldn’t believe Jesus was alive until he saw Jesus for himself.When Jesus came again and Thomas could see him, Jesus was patient with Thomas. Jesus even showed Thomas what he said he needed to see in order to believe. But Jesus also noted that all who believe without seeing him will be blessed.Today that includes you and me. Belief without seeing is the nature of our faith most of the time. We probably won’t see Christ in person until we join him in eternity. Until then, though, we believe even though we have not seen.We are called to have faith in Jesus for who he is, all he has done, and all he has promised. We believe because others have seen, because others have witnessed, and because their testimony is in God’s Word to us, along with all of God’s promises. We believe because the Spirit of God guides us into the truth of God’s Word and gives us faith (see John 16:7-15; Ephesians 2:6-10). And in believing we are blessed.Lord, help us to believe even though we have not seen. By your Spirit, lead us to know the truth that brings life in you. Amen.
On . . . that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” — John 20:19The disciples were hiding together behind locked doors in the days after Jesus’ death. They weren’t just afraid of being recognized or ridiculed for following a teacher that had been sentenced and crucified. They feared for their lives. They were afraid of what the Jewish leaders might do to try to wipe out any remaining followers of their enemy Jesus.Some of us might look down on the disciples for their fear, but I think most of us would have reacted the same way if we were in their position. In fact, we might also act out of fear in our everyday living as followers of Jesus today.Most of us, if we live in a place of religious freedom, don’t have to fear for our lives because of our faith—but there are many people who do. And even if we don’t fear for our lives, we might have fears about what our friends, classmates, coworkers, or even family members might think of us if we told them what we believe.While these reactions may make sense, Jesus’ greeting to his disciples should ring in our ears whenever we might be afraid. Jesus greeted his disciples with the words “Peace be with you!” And that same peace is offered to us if ever we are afraid.Risen Lord, we don’t want to be afraid. Help us always to have your peace in our lives—especially if we are afraid. In your name we pray. Amen.
On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. — Luke 24:1When they went to Jesus’ tomb on Sunday morning, the women expected to find Jesus’ body there. They had prepared spices for his burial and a time of mourning. But when they got there, the stone was rolled away and Jesus’ body was gone. Suddenly they saw two men in gleaming clothes who told them that Jesus wasn’t there but had risen from the dead, just as he had told them.All of that is amazing in itself, but I love what these women did when they left the tomb. They went and told the disciples and “all the others.” They had seen something amazing, and that needed to be shared. So they told everyone they knew.Other people did the same thing after encountering Jesus. They experienced his amazing power through healings, teachings, forgiveness, and more—and they couldn’t keep from sharing about it with everyone else.Encountering the risen Lord should draw the same response from us. “Christ is risen” is the best news the world has ever heard. This isn’t news that should be hoarded for ourselves or kept from others who need to hear it. This is good news for all the world to hear. So today, share the good news of Jesus with everyone you meet. Christ has risen!Jesus, let us boldly share the news of your resurrection through our words and actions with everyone we meet today. In your name, Amen.
“Go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’” — Mark 16:7We might not like to be singled out, but many of us know what that’s like. It may be for a special honor, or it may be for doing something wrong. Either way, being singled out can be embarrassing and make us want to hide.Peter was singled out by Jesus here. And while Peter may have gulped deeply when he heard about this, it wasn’t a bad thing. Peter had denied Jesus three times, even after saying he would never leave Jesus’ side (see Mark 14:27-31, 66-72). I can’t imagine the guilt Peter must have felt. But Jesus needed Peter to know that he was still welcome among his followers. He was still invited to the reunion in Galilee that Jesus had mentioned. In fact, he was still part of the plan Jesus had for his disciples and the whole world.We could all make a laundry list of the many things we do that should separate us from Jesus. There are times when we do what we shouldn’t do and times when we don’t do what we should do. But none of those things separates us from Jesus and his kingdom, because his death has covered all the sins of our lives—even the ones we haven’t done yet. That’s how vast the forgiveness of God is! And when the Lord singles us out, we can be sure he is calling us to join with him.Can you sense the Lord calling you today?Jesus, thank you for calling us to follow you, even though we have failed you in many ways. Help us to be faithful, we pray. Amen.
You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth). . . . — Ephesians 5:8-9For a few years we rented a small fourth-floor apartment in a five-story tenement in Manila, the Philippines. Jason, the building manager, was a follower of Jesus. He led adult Sunday school classes in his church at times, and because I was a seminary teacher he would sometimes ask me for help in planning his lessons.During our stay there, we had a problem with the occupants above us. I don’t even remember what the problem was, but I can’t forget Jason’s response when I asked for his advice. He said, “We have to be careful how we handle this. We are God’s light in this place. Let’s not be confrontational.” With that advice, we were able to talk cordially with our neighbor and resolve the matter.Jason’s words “We are God’s light in this place” remind me of Paul’s words in our Bible passage today. I am also reminded that Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. . . . Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16). Knowing that we are God’s agents in this world can transform our lives and our relationships. Living “as children of light,” we can shine God’s light into the darkness in the world around us.How will you shine the light of Christ to others today?Lord, keep us from sin and make your light in us shine brightly in this dark world—for your glory and as a witness to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
The commandments . . . are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” — Romans 13:9I thank God for the opportunities I’ve had to visit many countries and to live in several of them for a long while. All of this has given me a fascination for cultural differences.The differences in food alone can delight the palate (or sometimes unsettle the stomach). Some societies are egalitarian; others are hierarchical. Some encourage dependence on one another, emphasizing community; others encourage independence and individualism. There are also differences in marriage roles, gender roles, family, work, and finance—the list goes on and on.What has impressed me, though, is that in all societies people want to experience significance and fulfillment. They want to use their talents in ways that others appreciate. All societies love their children. All want to love and be loved—and not only to survive but also to thrive.One reason for this is that God has made each of us like himself in some special ways. We are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). So, in spite of sin’s damage, we can still detect in good ways the image of God in every person. A bottom line in both interpersonal and intercultural relationships is to respect each person as an imagebearer of God.This can then lead us to love everyone as ourselves. These basic principles give us a foundation for bridge building that overcomes barriers. Do you see God’s likeness in every person you meet?Lord, you have made us all in your image. Help us to love everyone, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows. . . . God sets the lonely in families, he leads out the prisoners with singing. . . . — Psalm 68:5-6“Welcome to the family; we’re glad that you have come to share your life with us as we grow in love. . . .”During my first year in the Philippines, I often heard this song at the beginning or end of a worship service, as people in church would go around shaking hands and welcoming new people. I was single and a foreigner, and at times I felt lonely. I truly felt welcomed through the use of this song, and by the welcoming Filipino culture that excelled in hospitality and family ties.Psalm 68 mentions some of God’s concerns for marginalized people—widows, orphans, the lonely, and prisoners. God often gave his people instructions about caring for such persons. And that made a big difference in people’s lives. Today’s marginalized and vulnerable people include immigrants, refugees, the homeless, international students, and more. God wants us to welcome everyone and help them in their need.Welcoming people into our neighborhoods, churches, homes, and lives is one of the greatest ways to overcome barriers that can keep people at a distance from the gospel.Who are the lonely people around you? How welcoming is your church toward strangers? Ask a first-time visitor for their feedback.Lord, you’ve welcomed us into your family by your grace in Christ. Work in us to open our hearts, homes, and lives to strangers. Amen.
“I am sending you to them to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins. . . .” — Acts 26:17-18Here the apostle Paul describes how his life turned around when he met Jesus. The Lord called him to be a witness to the Gentiles (non-Jews) so that they too could receive salvation. And Paul did that for the rest of his life.Jesus calls us, too, to spread the good news that he came to save us. But this is highly unpopular in our world today. Many countries outlaw the direct preaching and teaching of Christ’s message to the world. Even in countries that have freedom of religion, it is seen as intolerant to say that Jesus is the way to salvation.But Scripture is clear on this. Jesus himself said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). And his disciples declared, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven [besides Jesus’] . . . by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).Now, this does not mean that people have to convert to one particular denomination or brand of Christianity. It simply means that people need to believe in Jesus to be saved to eternal life. If you are trusting anyone or anything else for salvation, please put your trust fully in Jesus Christ alone. Through his death and resurrection he became the one and only bridge from death to life.Jesus, thank you for laying down your life to become the way of salvation. May we witness faithfully, drawing others to trust in you alone. In your name, Amen.
How can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? — Romans 10:14In the Philippines there was a tribal group in the mountains that had never heard the good news of Jesus. Some of our missionary friends learned that the chieftain, who communicated with demonic spirits, performed a yearly sacrifice and scattered blood around the community as an atonement for the bad things people had done toward each other. They believed that one day a savior would come to do away with the need for the yearly sacrifice.An elderly woman in the tribe had told our friends all of this, and they were able to explain to her that the Savior had already come. “What is his name?” she asked. “And when did he come?”“His name is Jesus,” they said, “and he came 2,000 years ago.”“Then why didn’t anyone come to tell us?” she asked. There was anger in her voice; their tribe had been waiting so long. And then she and many other members of the tribe came to faith in Jesus.In Romans 10, Paul explains that if people believe the gospel message and call on the Lord to rescue them, they will be saved. In addition, the church of Jesus needs to send messengers who will preach the good news.Some people are still waiting to hear the good news. What is your role in the work of sharing the gospel with them?Lord, show us how you want to use us in sharing the good news with people who have not heard. And may we serve you faithfully. Amen.
The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. — Romans 6:23We didn’t overload Sharon (see Feb. 9) right away with all kinds of information on how to become a Christian when she first attended our group. We simply explained the way of salvation and knew that the Holy Spirit would keep working in her to bring her to faith in Christ.During those weeks I was training our group members in several ways to present the way of salvation. One day I explained how we can use Romans 6:23 in a one-verse method to share the gospel. Working through the verse phrase by phrase as I sketched a cross on a whiteboard, I showed how we can explain this verse to others. “Wages must be paid,” I said; “they’re not optional. And death is the required wage, or result, of sin. Gifts, however, are optional. The giver can opt to give—and once a gift is offered, a person can opt to receive it or not. God offers eternal life through Christ and his death on the cross.”“At this point,” I said to the group, “you can ask the person who is listening, ‘Do you want to receive this gift?’”Then immediately Sharon raised her hand and exclaimed, “I do!” So, right there and then, Sharon received Christ as her Lord and Savior. She later returned to her home town, and before long she called us to ask how she could start a group like ours in her new location. She was ready to share with others what she had learned.Lord, there are people around us who need you. Help us to explain your salvation to them in a simple, clear way. Amen.
The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah.” . . . And he brought him to Jesus. — John 1:41-42The first time Sharon came to our Bible study group in Beijing, she introduced herself this way: “My name is Sharon. I’m not a Christian yet, but I want to know how to become one.”God was obviously working in Sharon’s life before she came to our group. She was seeing Christ at work in people around her, and someone had brought her to our group. It’s something like what happened when Andrew met Jesus and then went to tell his brother Peter so that he could meet Jesus too.For most people, coming to Christ is a process that includes many steps. God uses lots of different people in our lives, like links in a chain. As links, believers might do one or more of the following to help bring a person to Christ: showing neighborly love and care; sharing about an answer to prayer; sharing a favorite Bible passage and what it means personally; inviting the person to study the Bible; explaining the message of salvation and how God invites us to turn away from sin to receive new life in Christ.How do you think God could use you as a link in a chain that can bring another person to Christ? Or if you’re like Sharon was, tell a Christian friend or leader, “I’m not a Christian yet, but I want to know how to become one”—and they’ll tell you!Lord, use us to share your love and good news to help bring people closer to you. May we all faithfully draw others to find life in you. Amen.
“Whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and . . . has crossed over from death to life.” — John 5:24I was with a group going house to house in the Philippines to share the way of salvation. We used simple tracts that featured the Bridge Illustration—showing Jesus as the bridge from death to life. In the doorway of a palm-thatched house I spoke with a middle-aged woman and her teenage daughter, who was nursing an infant.The illustration pictured a chasm with a cliff on each side. One cliff represented death, with a figure of a man on it; and the other cliff represented life, with a symbol for God on it. The chasm represented sin, which separates us from God. The illustration then showed a cross—representing Jesus—bridging the chasm. Focusing on our text-verse for today, I explained to the mother and daughter that by putting our faith in Jesus, we cross that bridge from death to life.“Where are you in relation to life, death, and the bridge?” I asked them. They pointed to the center of the bridge—halfway across the chasm. I went on to explain that Jesus spoke in the past tense, saying, “has crossed over”—and this means that we already have eternal life right now through faith in Jesus. They weren’t so sure about that, but they were interested to learn more.Where are you in relation to death, life, and the bridge (Jesus)?Lord Jesus, strengthen our faith to trust in you alone to bring us from death to life, and please give us the assurance of eternal life today. In your name, Amen.
“Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language?” — Acts 2:7-8When I arrived in Iloilo City in the Philippines, I lived with a Filipino family for several months. They had two girls, ages 5 and 6, who loved having a kuya (older brother) in their home. When they started unexpectedly entering my room to chat with me, I realized that boundaries were needed. So I said in Ilonggo, “You need to ask first before entering my room.” Then they would approach my door and ask questions like “Do you have any sisters?” and “Where were you born?”—and then they would come right in.I soon realized that I had used the wrong word for “ask.” I had used the word for “asking a question,” but I should have used the word for “asking permission.” It can be tricky to learn a new language!Because the language barrier is so common, it’s symbolic of other barriers between people groups. It’s also the first barrier that was broken when the Holy Spirit was poured out on Jesus’ followers. The Spirit enabled the disciples to speak in other languages so that all who had gathered from other nations could hear the good news in their native tongues. That miracle of language has happened in rare moments in mission history. But normally, missionaries like me have to spend many months learning the local language. It can be hard, but it can also be fun! And it’s a very important bridge for sharing the gospel.Lord, help missionaries who are learning a new language. And may all of us listen more attentively and speak more clearly to overcome barriers between us. Amen.
[Jesus] himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility. — Ephesians 2:14When you pour syrup on a breakfast waffle, the little ridges and squares in the waffle catch the syrup and keep it from spreading out evenly. So you end up putting lots of syrup on your waffle, and that may not be so good for your health. On a pancake the syrup spreads more easily.The world is more like a waffle than a pancake. A map of Nigeria, for example, showing where the various ethnic groups live, would look like a waffle—except that the lines wouldn’t be straight. Now, we might think that when the good news of Jesus enters a country, it can easily spread all over. But barriers between the groups, like differences in language, culture, and history—and sometimes hostility—can make it difficult for the gospel to be shared with everyone.In the early church there was a huge barrier between Jews and Gentiles (non-Jews). The Spirit of God had to work hard in Jesus’ followers to get them to cross that barrier. As Ephesians 2 points out, Jesus destroyed that barrier through his death so that people of all groups can be reconciled to God and to one another. But putting that teaching into practice is not easy.What are the barriers in your life that can tend to block friendships and the sharing of God’s love with other people?Lord, overcome any attitudes and fears in me that can set up barriers and prevent me from connecting with people who are different from me. In Jesus, Amen.
“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 1:8Here Jesus tells his followers that his purpose in sending the Holy Spirit is to empower them to be his witnesses. They are to bring the good news of his coming kingdom “to the ends of the earth.” Jesus’ witnesses testify to what they have seen, learned, and experienced, describing how the Lord has worked in their life and in this world.In the book of Acts, as we read about the spread of the good news, we observe Jesus’ followers giving testimony about how they have experienced God working—through healings, answers to prayer, transformed hearts, and changed lives.As Jesus’ followers, we grow in Christ by the work of the Spirit in our lives, and we become “good news” people. The message of God’s work in our lives and the Bible’s message about God’s grace in Christ become powerful aids in our witness to others. People are drawn to stories about personal experience. Sharing our stories can break down barriers and build bridges to help others know the Lord.In what ways are you experiencing God’s work in your life, and how will you share that with others?Ask God’s Spirit to reveal how he is working in you, and to help you see what he is calling you to do. We all need the Spirit to work powerfully in us as his witnesses.Spirit of God, work in us to shape us into the image of Christ. Guide us to share with others how you are working in our lives. In Jesus, Amen.
Before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. — Revelation 7:9God gave the apostle John a magnificent vision of a diverse multitude—people from every part of the human family—forming a great chorus worshiping the Lord and proclaiming his victory over evil.This vision portrays what believers in Christ have been laboring and praying for through the centuries. The goal of God’s mission in Christ is that people from all over the earth will receive his salvation and worship him. But this great chorus is not yet complete. Not all of God’s people are gathered in; many are missing. There are still language groups and people groups that have no followers of Jesus.The original Greek word used for “nation” in the New Testament is ethnos, from which our word “ethnic” comes. Sometimes ethnos refers to major countries in Bible times, like Egypt, Syria, and Persia. Sometimes it is translated as “Gentiles,” referring to non-Jewish groups of people. And sometimes ethnos refers to smaller cultural and linguistic groups. One country can include many such groups.So even though there are Christians in every country on earth today, there are still many people and language groups that have no Christians. As Jesus’ followers, we need to bring the gospel (the good news of Jesus) to them. What role does God want you to play in this task?Use me, Lord, in your great mission to bring people from every group on earth into your family. In Jesus, Amen.
When Jesus had cried out . . . in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. — Matthew 27:50-51At the moment Jesus died, the curtain in the temple was torn open “from top to bottom.” The temple represented God’s presence among his people. The innermost section was called the Most Holy Place, and God’s presence was focused especially in that room. A thick curtain separated it from the rest of the temple, and only one person, the high priest, could go into that room once a year, on the Day of Atonement, after going through an elaborate cleansing ceremony (Leviticus 16).In a sense, that curtain was a lasting reminder of the barrier God had used to keep Adam and Eve from the garden when they had fallen into sin. It wasn’t that God didn’t want people in his presence. The problem was that because of sin, no person could survive in God’s presence. God’s holiness and purity cannot mix with human sinfulness.But Jesus’ death for our sake changed all that. Hebrews 10:19 puts it this way: “We have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body. . . .” Jesus took away our sin by his death, opening the way for us to approach God again and enjoy life in him.The way is open. Have you entered?Thank you, Jesus, for laying down your life to open the way for me to enjoy fellowship with God and abundant life with you now and forever! Amen.
The Lord regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled. — Genesis 6:6Ancient Greek philosophers imagined a perfect supreme being. It would know everything and be in control of everything. It could not be influenced by people or other creatures, because that would imply weakness or lack of control. It could not have emotions or be truly responsive to humans. The Greeks called this supreme being God.The early Christian church developed in a world that was heavily influenced by this Greek thinking. So Christian theologians often used those ideas to explain Christian teachings to Greek-minded people. Even today, our concepts of God tend to be influenced by those perspectives.So when we come to a passage like Genesis 6:6, we might think, “What?! God regretted what he had done? He changed his mind? Human sin hurt God to the depths of his heart?” That doesn’t fit well with our Greek-minded ideas of a perfect supreme being. So we try to explain such verses away and not take them at face value.But God wants us to realize that our actions—good and bad—affect him. When I hurt a friend, that puts a barrier between me and that person. Similarly, our wrongs against God set up a barrier between us and him. As we confess our sins to God and receive his forgiveness through Jesus, let’s pause and realize that those sins have truly hurt him.My sins have hurt you, Lord, and I’m sorry. Please work in me by your Holy Spirit so that my thoughts, words, and actions can bring you joy. In Christ, Amen.
The Lord God banished him from the Garden . . . [and] placed . . . cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life. — Genesis 3:23-24God placed our first parents, Adam and Eve, in a beautiful garden filled with wonderful plants, wildlife, and abundant food (Genesis 2:8-25). God himself was present there and took walks with them in “the cool of the day”; but Adam and Eve fell into sin, disobeying God’s command to them (Gen. 3:1-11). And as we read at the end of Genesis 3, they were banished from the garden and locked out.This can seem like pretty extreme punishment for just eating some forbidden fruit (see Genesis 2:16-17; 3:1-7). Actually, though, a lot more was involved. God had entrusted Adam and Eve with representing him by managing this beautiful garden—to develop and care for it. But they shifted their allegiance from the Creator to following the way of the enemy—Satan (see Revelation 12:9). In doing this, they ruined their relationships with God, with each other, and with the creation. So God banished them and blocked the way to the garden.Maybe you’ve been shut out—fired from a job, shunned by family members or neighbors, barred from society by imprisonment. Maybe you have been at fault, either partly or fully; or maybe you are innocent. Either way, it feels awful.Thankfully, God provided a way to be reconciled with him. God sent his Son, Jesus, to defeat the devil and remove the barrier so that we can have fellowship with God again (Genesis 3:15; Hebrews 2:14-18).Thank you, Jesus, for reopening the way into God’s presence. Amen.
No one has ever shown the mighty power or performed the awesome deeds that Moses did in the sight of all Israel. — Deuteronomy 34:12Moses remained committed to the Lord until the very end of his life. He was a child of God, a diligent leader of God’s people, a prophet, and much more. Moses is described as a “man of God” and a “servant of the Lord” in the closing chapters of Deuteronomy. He knew who he was and whose he was. That makes a difference in one’s life. Moses was faithful. Though he was certainly not perfect, Moses finished well.When we think about finishing well, we realize it is not a last-minute commitment. We can stay focused even when we must take detours and alter our plans. When we fall, we get up with the Lord’s help. When things do not go the way we thought they would, we cannot allow our feelings and thoughts to get in the way of doing God's will. We know we depend on the Lord in all things, and we stand firm in his strength.When our time comes to leave our home on earth to go to our eternal home in heaven (unless Jesus returns before then), we want to say, “I have fought the good fight . . . I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). And we want to hear our Lord say, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25:21).Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, help me to be fully committed to doing your will until the very end of my life. May you be glorified! Amen.
Since then, no prophet has risen in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face. — Deuteronomy 34:10What an incredible privilege to have intimacy with God!The Lord initiated his relationship with Moses at Mount Horeb in the wilderness by appearing to him from within a bush that was full of flames but did not burn up (Exodus 3). God called to him, “Moses! Moses!” and told him to take off his shoes, for he was standing on holy ground. Moses obeyed God and was assured of God’s presence from that initial encounter. God instructed Moses in carrying out his mission, and he listened when Moses spoke to him. It was the beginning of an intimate relationship.Being in God’s presence is a spiritual encounter, whether private or public. We cannot make it happen on our own. The Lord must draw us to himself. We can experience God’s presence anywhere at any time because God is always with us, no matter where we are (Psalm 139:7-18; Matthew 28:20). We may experience God's presence while reading the Bible, praying, worshiping, serving a prison sentence, lying in the hospital, or washing dishes.Sometimes we are desperate for intimacy with God. Like David, we may thirst and long for God’s presence (Psalm 42). The spiritual practices of solitude, reading the Bible, fasting, and prayer can help us cultivate intimacy with God.Holy Spirit, draw me near. Help me to cultivate an intimate relationship with God. Fill me with your refreshing presence each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
This is the blessing that Moses the man of God pronounced on the Israelites before his death. — Deuteronomy 33:1In Moses’ blessing to Israel he reveals his desires, observations, and beliefs about what God would do for his people. We can imagine the sincerity and boldness in Moses’ voice. He would soon die, and they would soon enter the promised land.The church is a royal priesthood, called to be a community of blessing (1 Peter 2:9). We are recipients and givers of God’s blessings. A blessing can be formal or informal, giving comfort, encouragement, peace, and hope for the present going into the future. Our informal blessings can include our possessions, family members, friends, neighbors, home, job, neighborhood, community, and more. A formal blessing can be delivered in a worship service, as a pastor invites the people to receive a benediction (“good word”) from the Lord.We can give sincere, Spirit-led informal blessings to our brothers and sisters in Christ. These may be inspired by what we desire for a person’s good; what we have observed about their life, work, and spiritual gifts; and what we believe God can do in their life.Our brothers and sisters need our blessings, and we do well to give them. Ask the Spirit to be aware of where blessings are needed and how to encourage someone with them. The Spirit of God will guide our thoughts and words.Father God, thank you for our community of blessing. Use us to bless others by extending your love, joy, peace, and hope. In Jesus, Amen.
“They are not just idle words for you—they are your life. By them you will live long. . . .” — Deuteronomy 32:47We assembled in the seminary chapel for “The Last Word,” a sermon from a retiring professor. The professor preached as if it were his last sermon. It was what we needed to hear to live faithful lives in Christ. Similarly, Moses’ “last words” to God’s people Israel were not just idle words; they were life.God’s words enable us to live in the world as his children, not as children of the world. They are active and living words that give life to our entire being. We learn who we are and what God requires of us.God’s words nourish our souls, transform and renew our minds, and strengthen our hearts. Living words build our faith and give us wisdom for making godly decisions. They open our eyes to good and evil in the world. They lead us in paths of righteousness.God’s words teach us about him and play a vital role in welcoming his presence and worshiping him. God’s words ignite a fire in us to love him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:30-31).The power of God’s words convicts us to ask for forgiveness and receive it from others.When we pray, we converse with the living Word.We are blessed to hear and keep God’s Word.Heavenly Father, help us to proclaim the power of your Word. Your words are not idle words. They are life. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
He . . . fed [his people] with the fruit of the fields. He nourished [them] with honey from the rock. . . . — Deuteronomy 32:13We will never be satisfied with anything in life unless we have God, the Rock, who provides for all our needs.In many ways, life is like a wilderness—especially when we are dealing with loss, sickness, unmet dreams, and other kinds of challenging circumstances. We are hungry, afraid, lonely, empty, and without hope in the wilderness. We search in vain for ways to satisfy our needs. Some people think their situation would be better if they were single, or married; if they had children, or no children; or if they had a different career, went to a better school, lived in a different place, and so on. We look for provisions and satisfaction in the wrong places.Though life has its challenges, God reveals himself and gives us what we need to endure. The honey we receive from the Rock is sweet to the soul. It heals, sustains, and comforts. Sometimes it works beyond our understanding. Even when things fall apart all around us, we can say, “It is well with my soul.” We can keep saying, “God is good. All the time.”We know we cannot make it in life without the Rock. We know where our help comes from (see Psalm 121). When we “taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8), we are always blessed in the wilderness of life. God is right there with us.Help me, Lord, to remember that honey from the Rock keeps my soul alive and well. You are the Rock in the weary land of life. Thank you for always being there. In Jesus, Amen.
Remember the days of old; consider the generations long past. Ask your father and he will tell you, your elders, and they will explain to you. — Deuteronomy 32:7Whether we are young or old, new to faith in God or lifelong believers, we can be inspired by the trails of God’s faithfulness in long-past generations. Those generations may include our families, churches, communities, and various peoples around the world. They can reach back to our spiritual ancestors in the Bible. Evidence of God’s faithfulness has always been with us. We may recall past stories of joy and pain, gain and loss, light and darkness. We may also write books and articles, set up memorials, make movies, have family reunions, and celebrate anniversaries to mark our history. All of these can help us grow to know God, ourselves, and others.God wants us to keep our long past in view so that we can understand our present. Learning about our history helps us to acknowledge what God has done for us and to look ahead in hope, trusting that God’s goodness will follow us always.With God’s help, we will remember, tell, and explain our story to others who have not heard about the Lord. May the Spirit unite us for intergenerational conversations with our family members, neighbors, friends, and others in our church, school, and other community settings. May we have the humility to listen and share so that we can see and tell of God’s faithfulness to all generations.“O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come,” help us share and learn about your loving care always. Amen.
“Assemble the people—men, women and children, and the foreigners residing in your towns—so they can listen and learn to fear the Lord your God and follow carefully all the words of this law.” — Deuteronomy 31:12Years ago, on a mission trip to Nassau in the Bahamas, I saw a man holding a Bible and speaking at a podium in a downtown marketplace. Several other people stood there too, and folding chairs were set out.I walked over to see what they were doing. They were hosting a marathon of the public reading of Scripture, a 24-hour nonstop event. During that day I returned twice and was invited to read each time. For me, it was an incredible experience of reading God’s Word.The apostle Paul urged Timothy to devote himself to “the public reading of Scripture” along with preaching and teaching (1 Timothy 4:13). I found that this often-overlooked spiritual exercise allowed me to hear God’s Word afresh, with various voices reading and without commentary. We were able to read and listen with others in the community.Hearing and learning the Bible together is a good spiritual practice for people of all ages. Life can be busy and full. We all need to hear and engage with God’s Word, which has so much to teach about God and his love for us, and how we can shine the light of God’s love into the darkness of this world. In what ways can you participate in reading Scripture in order to share God’s Word with others?Lord, thank you for the public reading of Scripture. By your Word, may we grow in faith and glorify your name. Amen.
The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law. — Deuteronomy 29:29As we read and reflect on this passage about God’s covenant and what he has revealed to his people, we understand that we don’t know everything. God has chosen not to reveal everything to us. We do not have access to all things.We can think of many reasons why God does not tell us everything. He is God, after all, the one who created us. As his creatures, we cannot be God. His thoughts and ways are not ours, and they are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). God calls us to have faith in him, and our faith can grow deeper when we do not understand God’s ways and thoughts. As believers, we learn to trust his guidance.The Spirit opens our minds to understand things about God. As believers, we are blessed abundantly because the Spirit of God comes to live within us. “The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God . . . no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us” (1 Corinthians 2:10-12). We can trust the Spirit to teach us what we need to know, and we can trust that the Lord, who knows all things, will keep us in his care and will always keep his promises.Spirit of God, thank you for helping us understand what has been revealed to us. Help us to be at peace in knowing that we do not know everything but that you know all things. Amen.
You are a people holy to the Lord your God. Out of all the peoples on the face of the earth, the Lord has chosen you to be his treasured possession. — Deuteronomy 14:2Where do we fit in the world? Sometimes our circumstances may cause us to wonder where we belong and why we are here. We may find ourselves in situations where people try to define us based on their own life experiences or what they have observed in us. We can become confused because we do not have a clear sense of purpose or meaning in life.Though Deuteronomy 14:2 refers to the ancient Israelites, we know that in Christ we are God’s treasured possession today. We are “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that [we] may declare the praises of him who called [us] out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9). We were once lost, but we have been called by God himself.Knowing who has chosen us and whom we belong to makes a difference in our lives. It shows up in our worship. As God’s treasured possession, we worship him. We declare his praises in our hearts, in the presence of others, and in public worship. As we mature in Christ, we grow to worship him with all our heart and soul, our innermost being. And this is reflected outwardly as we share our faith with others. As the Lord’s church, we “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19-20). God is building his kingdom through the work of his chosen people.Father, thank you for making us your treasured possession. Help each of us as your children to live a life worthy of our calling. In Jesus, Amen.
. . . observe the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good . . . — Deuteronomy 10:13Think about the many things you may not have wanted to do or liked to do, but you did them anyway because it was for your own good. Growing up, you might have had a long list of undesirable things that your parents asked you to do. And maybe you heard them say, “You’ll be glad you did this.” I ate my vegetables because my mom said they were good for me.We don’t always want to do what God says is good for us. It can be difficult to engage in some things that God asks us to do, but they are in our best interest. Jesus calls us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). We are called to put up with one another and forgive if we have a grievance with someone (Colossians 3:13). We put off the old self and put on the new self to be like the Lord in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:22-24). These commands can be really complicated.God’s Word is more than a list of rules. We believe what God asks of us in his Word. We don’t have to face these complicated teachings on our own. We have the help of the Holy Spirit and the community of God’s people. God’s love and example motivate us to be victorious, even when that can be difficult!Righteous God, help me always to do what is right, that I may glorify you. May your love motivate me to be victorious. In Jesus, Amen.
What does the Lord . . . ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve [him] . . . with all your heart and . . . soul . . . ? — Deuteronomy 10:12There are many examples of servanthood. The best model is Jesus. He showed his disciples how to serve one another by washing their feet. On the night before he died, he took a towel and a bowl of water and assumed the role of a servant (John 13:1-17). In that way Jesus showed his disciples love and humility. He cared about how they related to one another. He cared about the example that they would set for others. He called them to serve others just as he came to serve.We are called to serve with all our heart and soul and without judging, showing discrimination, or expecting payback. God blesses humility, compassion, righteousness, and pure motives. He cares about how we relate to each other. And we all need help in learning how to serve.No matter where we serve, we can reflect Jesus’ character and act as an example to the world. The song “Make Me a Servant” is a beautiful prayer and vision of being called to serve with all our heart and soul for our witness in the world and for God’s glory:Make me a servant, humble and meek.Lord, let me lift up those who are weak.And may the prayer of my heart always be . . .Make me a servant today.Lord, strengthen me to serve you with all my heart and all my soul for your glory and to be a witness in this world. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
What does the Lord . . . ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve [him] . . . with all your heart and . . . soul . . . ? — Deuteronomy 10:12It seems so natural to love God because he first loved me (John 13:34; 1 John 4:19). But I remember when I didn’t love God with all my heart and soul. In that way each one of us is like the ancient Israelites. There are people, things, and situations that compete for our love and attention. They often start subtly and cause our love for God to shift, fluctuate, and fragment.Our love for God is a response to his love for us. Obedience is an excellent indicator of our love. Jesus told his disciples, “If you love me, you will keep my commands” (John 14:15). Love for God and obedience to God are inseparable. We know that loving God goes beyond words. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we follow the Lord by leaving our old life behind. Life is no longer all about us but about our love relationship with the Lord.We deepen our love by getting to know God’s character, who he is, his ways, and what he does. We do this by reading the Bible, observing God’s presence in our lives, and being around people who love him.I remember when Deacon John and Claire invited me for a meal at their home. John was a quiet, stoic type. Before he prayed, he read aloud from the book of Psalms. Tears came to his eyes as he read about God and his goodness. Love comes from a heart of gratitude.Loving Father, I love you and want to love you with all my heart and soul. Thank you for your love. In Jesus, Amen.
What does the Lord . . . ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve [him] . . . with all your heart and . . . soul . . . ? — Deuteronomy 10:12Each day brings challenges to walk in obedience to God.Sometimes we get off track following friends headed in the wrong direction. We can have strong desires for material possessions, popularity, and behaviors that do not please the Lord. We might fear what others think or say and stop following the Lord. These are only a few ways in which we struggle to obey God and stay on the path he has marked out for us. Under some circumstances, we do not resist wrong desires and overwhelming fears; they distract us, consciously and unconsciously.God calls us, however, to live in ways that honor him and align with his Word. With the Holy Spirit's help, we can live an obedient life as we follow Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Jesus is our example. He remained obedient even as he died on the cross for our sake.What should we do with distractions that tempt us to disobey God’s Word? We can stay close to the Lord by asking the Holy Spirit to help and strengthen us. We can take captive our sinful thoughts and desires (2 Corinthians 10:5). We can anchor ourselves in the Lord so that we are not easily swayed by our sinful nature. We can delight in the Scriptures and meditate on God’s Word.Lord, I want to walk in obedience. Give me the grace and power of the Holy Spirit to faithfully follow Jesus with all my heart and with all my soul. Amen.
What does the Lord . . . ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve [him] . . . with all your heart and . . . soul . . . ? — Deuteronomy 10:12As a child, I was afraid of God because I did not understand what it means to “fear the Lord.”My love for God wasn’t supposed to scare me because God perfects love in us to drive out fear (1 John 4:18).The word fear is used in the Bible mainly to convey that we should revere and honor God because of who he is—his holiness, majesty, purity, and perfection—recognizing that God is good and righteous in all his ways and in all that he does. The fear of the Lord expresses our awareness of God’s presence in our life. It affects every area of our life, our communion with him, our behavior, and our relationships. There are things we are less likely to do because we fear the Lord, not because we are afraid of what God might do, but because we love, respect, and honor him. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Proverbs 9:10).We understand that God is infinite and we are finite. God is the Creator, and we are part of his creation. God is great and mighty in power, and his understanding is unlimited (Psalm 147:5). His thoughts and ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). God is gracious and merciful to us, and he is worthy of all respect and honor.Almighty God, I revere and honor you with all my heart and all my soul, now and always. In Jesus, Amen.
I had stayed on the mountain forty days and forty nights, as I did the first time, and the Lord listened to me at this time also. It was not his will to destroy you. — Deuteronomy 10:10Moses explains here that when he received the commands of God on tablets of stone, he prayed fervently for the people. This was the second time he had gone up on the mountain to receive God’s law, because the people had sinned while he was away the first time. The people had sinned so badly that God threatened to destroy them, but Moses interceded for them, and God heard Moses’ prayers and sent the people on their way. (See also Deuteronomy 9:7-29.)When our hearts are troubled and seeking God’s grace on behalf of our churches, families, coworkers, partners, and other hurting or lost souls, we pray. It is powerful to pray and to be prayed for persistently. We pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). It is not unusual for people to intercede for others who are in need, such as homeless, sick, hungry, or displaced individuals. Even more, we can pray for people to repent and be forgiven. We count on God to move mightily in people’s lives and situations because we know God loves them.James 5:16 assures us that the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. God listens to us, and Jesus, the Savior, faithfully intercedes for us (Romans 8:34). Amazing! Father, Son, and Holy Spirit thank you for calling me to intercede for people and situations in our broken world. Help me to pray faithfully, as Jesus himself does. In his name, Amen.
When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God for the good land he has given you. — Deuteronomy 8:10Abundance with God means that grace is extended in unexpected and unforeseen ways from the One who can do far beyond what we can ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). God gives us tangible blessings: deliverance, family, food, health, finances, work assignments and callings, and much more. And all of this is by God’s favor, not based on our own merits. God’s goodness is worked out in our lives; therefore we lift our voices in praise from a heart of gratitude, privately or publicly and individually or collectively.God warns, though, “Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God. . . .” Sadly, that happened often in Israel, and at times God had to punish the people and call them to repentance. When they did, God forgave them and showered them abundantly again.We have even more abundance in Jesus Christ, our Savior, because he came to give us life “to the full” (John 10:10). The abundant life is more than material things. It is life that is filled to overflowing with the fruit of the Spirit: “love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23). We reflect Jesus as his witnesses in this world.The world needs to see his reflection in us face-to-face, in online meetings, on social media, and wherever we go.Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, help us to receive, remember, and praise you for your abundance. May our lives reflect your grace shared in abundance through Jesus daily. Amen.
He . . . [fed] you with manna . . . to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. — Deuteronomy 8:3When I was a little girl, my family often visited the small Polish community of Hamtramck, near Detroit, on Saturdays. We kept our windows down on a nice sunny day while looking for a good parking space. The wonderful aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air. Bread is delicious, filling, and nutritious, but not enough to sustain our body, mind, soul, and spirit.While the Israelites were in the wilderness for forty years, they were hungry for physical food. God fed them manna from heaven daily to teach them that people do not live “on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.” Manna was unlike anything the people had eaten before.Many years later, when Jesus was tempted in the wilderness for forty days, he was hungry also. The devil tempted him to tell a stone to become bread. But Jesus answered, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live on bread alone’” (Luke 4:4).How can we put a good plan in place for renewal and restoration in life? We can satisfy our hunger by reading the Bible daily, worshiping the Lord with his people each week, and also meeting for a weekly study to grow in knowledge and understanding. We might also find that we need more of the Word at different times of the day.Ask God’s Spirit to guide you, and grow!Lord, guide us to read and meditate on your Word, growing in the grace, knowledge, and love of Jesus. Amen.
Know . . . that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments. — Deuteronomy 7:9Our God is love, and he loves us. God cares, protects, and provides for us. God described himself to Moses as “the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin” (Exodus 34:6-7). God’s love is sure, extravagant, dynamic, radical, and eternal. Nothing is better than knowing we are loved by God.It is lovely to start each day knowing we are loved by God and to think of his love throughout the day, no matter what comes our way. Love anchors us. Experiencing God’s love has an extraordinary effect on how we relate to others. Love gives us a testimony to share with others.The way we treat one another comes from God’s love in us. The Spirit of God guides us to be patient and kind, not boastful, not dishonoring others, not self-seeking, not easily angered, not keeping a list of wrongs. Love “rejoices with the truth . . . always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13).God loves us even as he loves his own Son. Love is forever. Where are you experiencing God’s great love in your life?Gracious God, thank you for your covenant of love and for sending Jesus to pay the penalty for our sins as a sacrifice of love. I desire to love and live for you. Amen.
It was because the Lord loved you and kept the oath he swore to your ancestors that he brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery. . . . — Deuteronomy 7:8In the past I have received beautiful bouquets of colorful flowers from family members, friends, and colleagues with an attached note: “Just because,” signed with the person’s name. No matter how I might be feeling, those expressions of love always make me smile.God chose the Israelites “just because.” God faithfully kept his promises to their ancestors, bringing Israel out of slavery in Egypt and into the promised land. God smiled and set his love on them.God’s love is not dependent on how much we love him. Although sometimes we might think so, no person can earn God's love or try to convince God to love them. Though we should love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, God's love is not based on who we are, our performance, societal status, or anything else. We are enough just the way we are. And God is all that we need. He will provide for all our needs (Philippians 4:19).It is “just because” God “so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). And we can receive his love “just because.”Lord and Savior, thank you for your love “just because.” Help me to remember that I cannot earn your love but am nevertheless loved by you in Christ. And that is abundantly more than enough. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Be careful that you do not forget the Lord, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. — Deuteronomy 6:12On a weekday morning, Sara drove to the grocery store a few miles from her home. She was feeling good and listening to a Christian music station on the radio. She began to sing when one of her favorite songs came on: “When I Think about the Lord.” Suddenly tears began rolling down her cheeks, and she pulled the car over to the roadside. Sara was rejoicing with tears of joy as she remembered what God had done in her life.Sara was a growing follower of Jesus, but at that time she had begun going out again with old friends who were still living in the fast lane. She had not been careful in remembering what God had done for her. God had brought her out of a lifestyle she did not want to return to. The song on the radio that day reminded Sara that God had turned her life around. He had freed Sara from her old life of sin.Sara’s new life was essential to her and her family. She was filled with the Spirit, and God had a plan for her life. She wanted to stay focused and continue taking online courses to earn a bachelor’s degree and serve God with her life. A favorite song, Bible passage, or spiritual encounter can help us get back on track when we remember our deliverance from bondage to freedom in the Lord our God, who saves us through his Son, Jesus Christ.Sovereign God, thank you for setting me free in Jesus. Help me to share the hope of life in you with people who are trapped in sin and need the freedom you offer. In Jesus, Amen.
These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. — Deuteronomy 6:6Unlike the commandments written by God on two stone tablets that Moses delivered to the people, God’s Word is written on our hearts today. It accomplishes what it is intended to do (Jeremiah 31:31-34; Hebrews 8:10). And because the Word of God is in our minds and written on our hearts, we are able to obey it through the work and power of the Holy Spirit in us. When I was a child, my parents got lots of Eveready® batteries for our new toys at Christmastime. I remember a TV commercial about Eveready® batteries that was funny and entertaining. The battery was described as putting more life into your life all day and all night.When God's Word is on our hearts, it puts more life into our lives. God’s Word is alive, active, and sharp, and it penetrates deeply. It judges the attitude of the heart. It exposes what is in the heart (Hebrews 4:12-13). The Word of God makes us come alive. It guides, comforts, nourishes, convicts, and teaches us how to live in a broken world.Jesus Christ, the Word in the beginning who later lived among us (John 1:1-5, 14), came into the world to bring the light of abundant, eternal life for all people. When we hold fast to the Word of life, our light shines for the world to see his light in us. God’s Word puts life into our lives.Thank you, Lord, for the power of your Word. Help me to have an ever-ready heart to respond to your Word and be filled with your life. Amen.
You were shown these things so that you might know that the Lord is God; besides him there is no other. — Deuteronomy 4:35I live close to Lake Michigan on the South Haven, Michigan, side. It is my favorite go-to place; sometimes I am drawn to Lake Michigan to experience God's greatness. As I stand on the shore, I sing, “How Great Is Our God,” “How Great Thou Art,” “In Christ Alone,” and “He Is Lord.” These songs are like stories that remind me who God is.As I listen to the sounds of big waves crashing on rocks, seagulls squawking, and wind roaring, I proclaim that the God of wonders is holy. He is the Lord of heaven above and earth below. Gazing at the vastness of the sky and the lake, both perfectly blue, I am awestruck and speechless. It seems as if God's finger has blended the line where the lake meets the sky; it appears seamless.God is present and actively working in our lives. He wants us to know that he is the Lord our God—in the past, present, and future. We praise God for letting us know him through his words, nature, works, and especially through his Son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.Where or when are you drawn into the awesomeness of God and reminded that the Lord is God and there is no other?O God of wonders, I am in awe of you. I praise you that you are God and there is no other. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.
The Lord your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon or destroy you or forget the covenant with your ancestors, which he confirmed to them by oath. — Deuteronomy 4:31Angela was a new Christian. She repeatedly asked her Bible-study teacher, Mrs. Green, how she would know that God was there for her.Angela was in her teens and was having a difficult time since her parents’ divorce. She and her mother had moved 700 miles away, and she saw her father only once a year.At one point, Angela's mother had some financial challenges. So Angela had to go and move in with her father and his new family. She felt that she had to be good, or God would leave her. Angela never told her mother about her abandonment issues.Angela felt encouraged, however, whenever she talked with her Bible-study teacher. Mrs. Green told her that she was God's beloved daughter and that God would never leave her. God does not abandon his children. He loves us, and we belong to him. He is always with us, no matter where we find ourselves. Nothing can separate us from God's love and presence (Romans 8:38-39). God can be trusted.Angela wanted to grow in her faith journey. Mrs. Green encouraged her with God’s truth. Angela learned that God’s promises are not based on our thoughts or feelings. God is faithful to his word. Mrs. Green said, “Angela, pray, read the Bible, and believe God’s words. He will not abandon you. Even when you might not think so, he is there.” And Angela believed.Lord, help me always to believe you are with me, even if I do not feel your presence. Amen.
Do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them. — Deuteronomy 4:9Many of us have beautiful memories and stories of our parents, siblings, pastors, teachers, or neighbors showing their love and care for us, and we will never forget what they have done for us. Many of us also share these stories with our children, friends, coworkers, and others. These stories will always be part of our personal history.Similarly, as believers in God, we remember stories of God’s deliverance, grace, protection, and greatness shown to us. Memories of our spiritual formation and personal blessings give us encouragement and strength.We would not be who we are without God and what he has done in our lives. And when we remember and tell our stories, God receives the glory. Our faith is strengthened and renewed. When we tell others, especially the next generations, we share with them our love for and dependence on the Lord.We can find many ways to remember. Some of us may use daily or weekly journaling, daily times of reflection with prayer, pictures, artwork, and music that remind us of significant times and places where we have encountered God in our lives. Some families and churches also designate times to tell stories about the Spirit’s work in their lives.What are some ways you remember God’s goodness?Almighty God, your goodness is too good to forget. By your Spirit, lead me to tell of your faithfulness and love to all generations. Amen.
What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to him? — Deuteronomy 4:7Sitting at home near a side window, I heard my little neighbor Simeon say, “Come on, Daddy.” His father was rolling a brand-new bicycle out of the garage into the driveway. Simeon had his helmet and knee pads on. He carefully got on his new bike. As Simeon's little feet paddled away, his dad stretched out his arms to hold on to the handlebars. Simeon laughed as he steered the bike carefully down the driveway with his dad right at his side. Father and son went up and down the driveway several times.At one point, I heard Simeon cry. His father wanted him to try riding on his own, but Simeon didn’t like that idea. He continued to cry. Finally his dad said, “Simeon, I’ll be right here with you.” He gave his son what he needed, assuring him that he would not be alone. Simeon wiped away his tears. He looked straight ahead and rode without his dad holding on to the handlebars.There is no god like our God! We do not have to go to a specific place to meet him. He is right there with us. We are always within God’s reach. He hears us when we call and cry out (Psalm 18:6), and he always cares for us.Eternal God, thank you for always being close by. Even when it may seem that you are not there, you are. You are our ever-present help in times of need. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
“Do not be afraid of them; the Lord your God himself will fight for you.” — Deuteronomy 3:22I do not know of anyone who has not been afraid of something or someone at some time in their life. Have you experienced the fear of a medical diagnosis, or of being harmed, or of being threatened by someone in authority, or of moving from a place of comfort and safety to a place that could be unwelcoming or even dangerous? Have you feared growing old, or being alone in old age, or perhaps losing your abilities or something you have worked for? Have you been afraid of losing loved ones or even your own life?When we are afraid, it can be helpful to recall times when God demonstrated his love, care, and power. We can trust in the Lord, who is faithful. We do not have to be afraid (Psalm 27:1).Moses faced his own fears when hostile kings and their armies threatened the people of Israel (see Deuteronomy 2:24-3:11). But God told him not to be afraid because God would defeat their enemies. God told Moses to encourage and strengthen Joshua so that he too would trust God and not rely on his own abilities or be afraid of other nations as they crossed the Jordan River.We can face our fears on our own, or we can listen to God. We should obey when the Spirit nudges or tells us to be still. God has our back. He will give us strength and courage to stand. The Lord is always with us and will always take care of us.Thank you, Lord, that I do not have to face my fears alone. I will trust you to give me strength and courage to stand. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
The Lord your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has watched over your journey through this vast wilderness. — Deuteronomy 2:7We can be encouraged because God will bless all the work of our hands, whether we earn an income, raise a family, maintain a household, volunteer to help immigrants or youth, serve the church, or serve our community. God is the source of all our blessings and the work given to us. Our work is for his glory. And we know we can work to our fullest because God will bless all the work of our hands.God wants us to work, and he wants to bless our work. When we think we are not qualified or capable of doing our work, God will provide for our needs. We can cast aside negative thoughts and do the work God has called us to do. God has provided our work for us—whatever it may be—and we can work at it “with all [our] heart, as working for the Lord”; he is our true and loving Master, not a human master (Colossians 3:23). Whatever gifts God has given us to work with can open doors to new and unexpected opportunities for blessings. We will bear fruit, and the blessings will multiply.During their long time in the wilderness, the Israelites worked with their hands, following God’s direction, and God blessed them. They had everything they needed because God provided, and they worked to honor him. God gave them enough for themselves and some to give away. God desires for us to flourish!Loving God, thank you for all your blessings. If we are discouraged in our work, remind us that we work for you. Amen.
“. . . In the wilderness . . . you saw how the Lord your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went until you reached this place.” — Deuteronomy 1:31The picture of a father gently carrying his son is an image of God’s love, power, and protection extended to us as his children. When we cannot go any further, we are drained of our desire to keep going. We feel beat up by life’s circumstances and don’t want to show up anymore.I remember watching a replay of the 1992 Olympics men’s 400-meter semifinals in Barcelona when British runner Jim Redmond injured his leg. The announcer said, “He’s out!” Redmond was in pain and couldn't run, but he hopped on one foot, heading for the finish line. The crowd cheered because he didn’t stop. He wouldn’t let anyone help him until his dad ran out onto the course and wrapped his arms around him. Redmond’s dad wore a cap that said, “Just Do It.” But Redmond’s pain was too intense, and he cried. Yet the crowd never stopped cheering. The father held his son until he made it to the finish line.When we’re running our race in life and can’t see our way through, our heavenly Father will gently carry us all the way. There’s no reason to feel shame or guilt. We cannot “just do it.” God will carry us through the wilderness. God is always with us, wherever we are, and he promises us that we will make it through.Heavenly Father, thank you for carrying me when I can’t “just do it.” I leave my shame and my guilt at Jesus’ feet. In your powerful name, Lord, and by your Spirit, Amen.
“See, the Lord your God has given you the land. Go up and take possession of it as the Lord, the God of your ancestors, told you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” — Deuteronomy 1:21One morning, while looking out my kitchen window, I observed my neighbor’s two sons, ages 8 and 10, playing in their backyard. The older boy jumped across a gap from one wooden landscape log to another. He tried again and fell, but he got back up. With his brother watching, he looked back at how far he had jumped. He paused. I imagined he needed the courage to make another jump. He jumped again and landed safely on the log again.Moses reminded God’s people of their history. God had rescued them from slavery in Egypt, sustained them in the wilderness, and given them victory over other nations. They were assured of God’s guidance and protection in preparation for entering the promised land. They did not need to fear what was ahead of them, even though there were reports of powerful enemies and even giant warriors in the land. God would go before them and fight their battles.We too may need a reminder of our past failures and victories in order to have the courage to follow God. His faithfulness will propel us into our future. We can look back and see what God has already done. God has a plan already marked out for us, so we can trust, follow, and step out in faith.Almighty God, give me the courage to trust and follow you, even when I cannot see my way forward. My past, present, and future are in your hands; you will always go before me. Amen.
At that time I said to you, “You are too heavy a burden for me to carry alone.” — Deuteronomy 1:9Moses, the leader of God’s people during their long time of wandering in the desert, learned that he could not carry the heavy burdens of the people on his own. The Israelites had grown in number. Bearing their problems, burdens, and disputes was too much for one person to handle. So he shared the workload with other leaders from among the twelve tribes of Israel, and they developed a system that worked for everyone. (See also Exodus 18.)New challenges are a part of life, and we cannot keep doing what we are used to if it no longer works. We can talk to a pastor, family members, close friends, or other trusted persons when our burdens are too much for us—emotionally, physically, or spiritually. Many of us today face an overload of situations that are causing anxiety in our lives: family concerns, financial troubles, broken relationships, work dissatisfaction, career pressures, societal issues. Struggling on our own is not healthy, and eventually we need help. The Lord wants us to share one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2).As followers of Jesus, we can make the right choice by lightening our burdens. Jesus invites us to receive rest for our souls (Matthew 11:28-30). We don't have to carry our burdens alone. We can give them to the Lord.Lord Jesus, thank you for bearing our burdens. We are not alone. You have given us people who love and care for us. Help us to find rest for our souls and strength to carry on. Amen.
“See, I have given you this land. Go in and take possession of the land the Lord swore he would give to your fathers—to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob—and to their descendants after them.” — Deuteronomy 1:8Every new year brings new opportunities and challenges. May the Lord prepare us to receive something new this year to improve our lives.Many people begin the year by making New Year's resolutions and promises, but that approach rarely works well. To receive from God, we must believe that he has prepared something for us. We need to dismiss thoughts of not being worthy or deserving of God’s blessings. We may imagine and speculate what God will do for us, but we do not really know (see 1 Corinthians 2:9).To receive from God, we must believe he will do as he says. We cannot lean into our own understanding or dwell too much on the past because we might miss seeing God’s hand at work (Isaiah 43:19). When God nudges us forward, we cannot allow fear to keep us in our comfort zone or be satisfied with our current situation. We cannot talk ourselves out of what God wants to do.Let us remember our history with God and be ready to receive. We can trust him and respond in obedience. We can ask the Holy Spirit to help us receive God’s blessings in this new year. God wants us to step out and receive the blessings he has in store for us.Gracious God, as we begin this new year, we want to be ready for whatever you have prepared. Awaken us each day to the newness of life in you. Amen.
There will be no more night. — Revelation 22:5Throughout the Bible, God uses the metaphors of light and darkness and of day and night to highlight a constant tension. Will God’s light flourish and fill creation, or will God’s creation fall back into the original darkness, the formlessness and emptiness in which God started to create?We feel that tension every time we hear about another war, natural disaster, or corrupt leader. The tension comes home when we don’t have enough money to make ends meet, when our relationships break, and when we receive news that the battle for life and death is in our own bodies. We wonder, “Will we ever get out of this mess?”God gently reassures John and us that our present sufferings will not have the final word. God shows John that through Jesus a day is coming when all of life will flourish beyond John’s wildest imaginings. Fruit trees whose very leaves bring healing to all the peoples of the world will flourish in the heart of God’s new creation, bearing new crops every month!God also reveals that “there will be no more night” in this new creation. The threat of darkness and all that it symbolizes throughout the Bible will be removed. By God’s lavish grace, evil will no longer distort or diminish life anywhere within God’s new creation. Even now, God is at work making everything new!Hallelujah! Lord God, equip us to live confidently, even boldly in expectation of your new creation. Please bring this day about soon, we pray. Come, Lord Jesus!
The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. — Revelation 21:24In Genesis 1, God’s first creation is light. Amazingly this first light appears in the darkness before the sun, moon, and stars are even created. Today’s passage echoes Genesis 1: “The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.” God’s glory is the source of light, and Jesus is the vessel through which God’s light shines in all its brilliance!This passage about God’s new creation can make us feel like it’s the first day of creation all over again, a fresh start. But that brings up a question: What if we sin again? We’re still human. Won’t we make a mess of this new creation just as we have done with the current one?As if anticipating that question, God shows John that the nature of human relationships, of kings and kingdoms, will be transformed. “The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it.” Through Jesus Christ, God is bringing about a new creation in which the power struggle to control resources and the distrust and hatred between people groups no longer exists. The whole of this new creation delights in God’s goodness and lives together as stewards of God’s creation! What a day that will be!Creator God, thank you for making the future of this peaceable kingdom secure in Jesus Christ. As we celebrate Jesus’ birth, teach us also to look forward to his coming kingdom with joy-filled confidence. Amen.
His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance. — Revelation 1:16As Jesus taught and as John experienced, following Jesus will likely mean that others will resist and reject us. In some places, identifying with Jesus might even lead to prison, beatings, and death. The darkness of people who are opposed to the light of Christ can be powerful and violent. John notes here that as followers of Christ we are companions in suffering and, as well, in “patient endurance” as we await Jesus’ return.John knew Jesus. He had lived with Jesus for three years. He was there at Jesus’ transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-8). He saw Jesus after the resurrection and when Jesus ascended into heaven. John knew what Jesus looked like. But none of that prepared John for when Jesus showed up in all his brilliance. John fell down like a dead man.Yet in this encounter Jesus immediately extended hope, saying, “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever!”Jesus said this to John, and he says it to us. Death, the greatest weapon that is opposed to God’s abundant life, has not diminished Jesus. The present darkness that we experience has already lost the war. Jesus’ reign has begun. He is alive and overflowing with more glory and light than we could ever imagine.Lord Jesus, strengthen us with certainty in your victory over death. Give us glimpses of your brilliance to sustain us now, even as we look forward to the fullness of your presence. Amen.
So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. — Romans 13:12Our Advent and Christmas celebrations teach us to look in two directions at the same time. We look back to remember how God sent Jesus as the light of the world so that we might become children of the light, God’s children. We also look ahead to when Jesus will return and fulfill his work of making all things new.Writing to the early followers of Jesus in Rome, Paul urges them: “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.” In a way like John, Paul teaches that “love does no harm to a neighbor.” This is the light of Christ living in us.But Paul frames this command not simply as a response to what God has already done in Jesus. A forward-looking urgency comes into view as well: “The night is nearly over; the day is almost here.” This is not a threatening, fear-inducing urgency meant to guilt us into grudgingly loving others. Rather, this is joy-filled, overflowing excitement that leads to action. Jesus is almost here! Let’s get ready for his arrival!How do we do that? We get dressed. “Let us put aside the deeds of darkness”—any behavior and attitude that can harm our neighbors—“and put on the armor of light”—love for our neighbors, through which the love of Christ is fulfilled in us.Holy Spirit, we are excited for Jesus to come back! As we look forward to that day, help us to clothe ourselves with the love of Christ in each and every relationship we have. Amen.
Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble. — 1 John 2:10How do we know what it looks like to walk in the light of Jesus Christ? Throughout this letter, John repeatedly notes two things, asking, in effect: Do we believe that Jesus is God, and do we love the people we can see? In our reading for today, John brings these two together as he writes, “This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.” In other words, believing in Jesus leads to living like Jesus.Using the imagery of light and darkness again, John explains that hate for our brothers and sisters does not fit with the light of Jesus’ life. Rather, a lack of love for others is evidence that we are still living “in the darkness.” Holding on to hate leads us further and further into darkness. Yet the opposite is also true. The more we love others, the more we live as Jesus did. John even makes the claim that when Jesus’ followers love their brothers and sisters, “there is nothing in them to make them stumble.” The light of God’s love living within us leads us to embrace a life of love for others.Jesus said, “As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34-35).God, we want the light of Jesus to shine brightly in and through us. Teach us to live and love as Jesus did. Amen.
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16Speaking to the crowds that have gathered to hear him, Jesus declares: “You are the light of the world.” Jesus, the light of the world, is placing his own title onto the crowds. In doing so, he transfers his identity to them. Similar to when God directed Aaron to bless the Israelites and put his name on them, Jesus repeatedly blesses the crowds throughout the first part of this passage. Then he gives his identity to them. They are the light of the world, because Jesus has chosen them to be his light in the world.Jesus makes clear that this new identity is not intended to be hidden or kept private. Rather, the people’s new identity in Jesus is to be as bright as a city on a hill—visible for all to see. He adds that their light is made known through their good deeds and will lead others to glorify God.Yesterday we celebrated Jesus as the light of the world, signaling the start of God’s new creation. Today we see that God has saved us in Jesus in order to shine the light of Jesus through the way we live. Though our actions do not save us, our good deeds and our sharing of God’s love help others to believe that God’s new creation has become real and available to us in Jesus Christ.God, help us to celebrate Jesus’ birth by making the light of Jesus more real and believable through lives that shine brightly, reflecting your love and goodness in the beauty of your new creation in Christ. Amen.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. — John 1:5Everything has led to this moment: Jesus is born!John frames the announcement of Jesus’ birth through the lens of the creation story. Borrowing from Genesis 1, John writes “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John states clearly that Jesus is fully God. This passage also makes clear that Jesus is fully human: “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” In Jesus, God became one with us!Also connecting with the creation story is God’s light that “shines in the darkness”—as well as the insight that “the darkness has not overcome it.” Though Jesus is the “true light that gives light to everyone,” not everyone recognizes or receives him. Yet to all who respond to the light of Christ, he gives them “the right to become children of God.”By leaning into the creation language from Genesis, John declares that Jesus’ birth is the start of God’s new creation! In Jesus, God has created a new humanity, and he invites us into the light and life of this new creation by receiving Jesus.Will we receive Jesus today? Will we be part of God’s new humanity and step into the light of God’s grace and truth?God, help us to recognize and receive Jesus today. Make us like him so that we too may overflow with the light of your grace and truth. Amen.
“Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” — Luke 2:15The shepherds are relatively obscure actors in this story. We don’t know their names. We’re not sure if they are hired hands or tending their own flocks. They hear the angel’s announcement of Jesus’ birth. They run to find Jesus. And after they return to their flocks, we don’t hear from them again.Even so, the shepherds pull me further into this story. They begin in a rather ordinary space, “living out in the fields” with their sheep. When the angel suddenly appears, they are terrified! Who wouldn’t be? Nothing could have prepared them to meet angels shining the light of God’s glory in the middle of a field at night. Then quickly they move from terror to wonder to delight and finally to joyful worship. By the end of the night, the shepherds are the first human messengers to share the good news of Jesus’ birth! Like the people whom the shepherds first told about Jesus, I am amazed at what I hear.After the angelic choir disappears, the shepherds urge each other: “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” What else could they do? As I read this story again, I find myself responding to the shepherds: “Yes! Let’s go and see, looking into the amazing good news of the child who has been born in Bethlehem!”God, whether we’ve read this story before or we are hearing it for the first time, awaken in us the joy and wonder of the good news of Jesus’ birth! Amen.
Whoever lives by the truth comes into the light. . . . — John 3:21With Jesus’ birthday celebration just two days away, this is a fitting time for us to remember why Jesus came into the world. This passage begins with the memorable declaration “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son. . . .” Because of his great love, God sent Jesus.John’s gospel also tells us that Jesus came into the world as a matter of life and death: “. . . that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John also clarifies that Jesus’ purpose is to save the world, not to condemn it. In these verses we see that Jesus’ saving work has both personal (“whoever believes”) and cosmic (“the world”) audiences in view. Jesus’ birth is good news for you and me and for the whole of God’s creation! God wants us to be saved for eternity.Finally, God’s desire is that people will live by the light of Jesus’ life. John contrasts people who live in the light with those who live in darkness, noting that “people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.” Darkness is a way of life. But so is the light. “Whoever lives by the truth comes into the light.” Jesus came into the world so that we can embrace God’s way of life as our own here and now.God, thank you for your amazing love that has sent Jesus. We could not save ourselves. Help us to live by the light of Jesus forever. Amen.
“The one who looks at me is seeing the one who sent me.” — John 12:45Sometimes when I read the Bible’s stories about Jesus, I am baffled at the doubts, disbelief, and outright opposition that people showed in response to Jesus. What more did Jesus need to do for people to believe? How many more miracles? How many more people had to be healed or raised from the dead? Matthew 28:17 tells us that even some of Jesus’ closest disciples doubted after Jesus himself had risen from the dead!I have also wondered if I would have recognized Jesus if I had met him. I’d like to think I would. But the Bible includes lots of accounts showing that people with the most religious training, the ones who should have quickly recognized Jesus, were also among those who had the most difficult time believing in him. What would I need to see Jesus do in order to believe that he is really God? Maybe it would have to be a particular miracle or a certain level of wisdom that confronted my assumptions. This question becomes even more challenging when I think about Jesus being born as a vulnerable baby in the backcountry of an occupied territory. Would I recognize him then?Jesus says that “the one who looks at me is seeing the one who sent me.” When we look at Jesus, we are seeing God. As we celebrate Christmas, are we willing to see God the Creator of heaven and earth in the face of Jesus?Jesus, the signs and wonders of your kingdom are amazing. Help us to recognize you for who you really are: God with us! Amen.
You are a chosen people . . . that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. — 1 Peter 2:9As a pastor and teacher, I have met with many people who have wondered, “What is God’s will for my life?” Many of us deeply desire to know where we belong and what our purpose in life is.Peter describes God’s calling on us in terms of two movements. First, God calls us “out of darkness.” The reality is that we can’t see God’s purposes for us when we are caught up in the darkness of our own sin. God calls us out of the behaviors and perspectives that diminish the abundant life he offers to us through Jesus Christ.Second, God calls us “into his wonderful light.” Jesus is calling us into a new way of life and a new identity that is characterized by a genuine, lavish love for our neighbors and enemies alike. We are called to “live such good lives” that people may see our actions “and glorify God on the day he visits us.” The light that God calls us into in Christ is not simply to help us see God more clearly but also to help people around us to recognize God’s goodness through us.Our Christmas celebration is not simply about remembering Jesus’ birth. It is a radical calling to live throughout the year as people who share and shine the wonderful light of Jesus Christ in this dark world.God, in your great mercy, lead us out of sin and darkness and into the light and life of Jesus Christ so that we and the whole world might praise you for who you are! Amen.
“Believe in the light while you have the light, so that you may become children of light.” — John 12:36By this point in John’s gospel, Jesus has declared a couple of times that he is the light of the world. This image is intended to draw us into the creation story, as if to exclaim: “God is making a new creation in Jesus!” This is incredibly good news! God the Father is responding to the long history of human sin and its legacy of darkness with the light of his own Son.We don’t often focus on this new-creation side of the story at Christmastime. We usually hear about the miraculous events that led to Jesus’ birth, that Jesus is “God with us,” and how the angels and shepherds played their parts in announcing Jesus’ arrival (Matthew 1; Luke 2). But the new-creation side is important too. John’s attention to Jesus as the light in our midst is re-creational language. God is doing something new!In the passage we are focusing on today, we hear Jesus calling for a decision. Will we believe in him, trusting that he really is God’s light signaling the start of a new creation? Will we become children of that new creation—both as recipients of God’s grace and as family representatives of God’s new creation?We are invited to remember and celebrate Jesus’ birth as people who are joyfully caught up in the arrival of God’s new creation.God, thank you for starting a new creation in Jesus. As we remember Jesus’ birth, grow in us a joyful faith and desire to live as your children. Amen.
“As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me.” — John 9:4As we draw closer to the celebration of Jesus’ birth, it’s important to remember why Jesus came. Several times in the book of John, Jesus talks about doing the will of God, who sent him. In today’s passage Jesus tells his disciples, “We must do the works of him who sent me.” Though he doesn’t say here what those works are, Jesus shows through his actions who he is and why he came.Jesus gives sight to a man who was born blind. When we read further in John 9, we find that this healing caused quite a stir among the crowds, the Pharisees, and even the man’s parents. People born blind don’t get their sight back—at least not until Jesus comes along.As he sets the stage for this healing, Jesus declares, “As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me.” In this episode Jesus is making a bold claim and showing that he is God’s chosen servant.As Isaiah 42:7 proclaimed, God’s servant would “open eyes that are blind” (see also Isaiah 61:1-2; Luke 4:18-19). God’s will for Jesus was to usher in the renewing kingdom of God. God’s kingdom brings healing and includes all whom he calls to believe in him—from all backgrounds. The healing and inclusion of all kinds of people provide the joyful evidence that Jesus truly is “God with us” (Matthew 1:23).God, overcome our blindness to the nature of your kingdom. Help us see that Jesus is your chosen servant, through whom you are ushering in your kingdom. Amen.
God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts. . . . — 2 Corinthians 4:6Today’s Bible passage calls us back to the creation story, reminding us that the God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” is the same God who is working in us today. And God’s work here is about creating the light of faith within our hearts.The text tells us that “the god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers.” They are unable to recognize Jesus Christ for who he really is. They might see him as an interesting historical figure or someone who lived a moral life worth imitating. Some might say that Jesus challenged political and religious structures to the point that people in power had him killed. While these things may be true, they are merely shadows in comparison to the light of who Jesus really is.By the light of God’s creative mercy, we see that Jesus, who was born in Bethlehem, is “the image of God” in human form. In Jesus, the light of God’s glory has entered our world, living, dying, and rising among us so that we might see the full extent of God’s love. In joyful response to this merciful work in our hearts, we join the apostles in renouncing “secret and shameful ways” in order that we might proclaim Christ as the light of the world.God, we confess that we need your light to shine in the darkness of our hearts. By your mercy, we renounce our sinful ways so that the joy of your love may overflow through us. Amen.
“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” — John 8:12The text in our reading for today is centrally focused on Jesus’ identity. He declares, “I am the light of the world . . .” leaning into God’s covenant name “I am who I am” (Exodus 3:14). Jesus is making the claim that he is God, because that’s who he is.But there are also implications here for all who follow him. Jesus asserts that anyone who follows him “will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” When we’re honest with ourselves, we admit there are many times when we stumble in our faith. Sometimes we make deliberate choices to sin. At other times we fail to do the good that we could have done. At times, we still choose darkness. So, what do we do with Jesus’ words that his followers “will never walk in darkness”?Until this point, the Israelites were taught to follow God’s commands and to offer certain sacrifices in order to be right with God. But now Jesus reorients their righteousness to himself. The good news Jesus proclaims is that instead of trying (and always failing) to be righteous before God, people can receive the light of Jesus’ perfect life that he extends to us (2 Corinthians 5:21). By God’s grace, all who follow Jesus have the light of life not because of what they do, but because of who Jesus is and what Jesus has done. Hallelujah!Thank you, Jesus, for your faithfulness and your sacrifice on our behalf. We praise you that the light of your life makes us right with God! Amen.
From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” — Matthew 4:17Our Scripture reading today includes a quote from Isaiah that we considered earlier: God’s light will dawn on the people who live in darkness, ushering them into new life in God’s kingdom (Dec. 12). That promise is fulfilled in Jesus and is cause for great joy!The context of this passage gives us even more reason for joy. Jesus leaned into Isaiah’s prophecy in response to the news of John the Baptist being jailed, showing that John’s ministry of preparing the way for Jesus was now complete. Jesus also moved to a different area to make clear that he was and is the long-awaited fulfillment of God’s promises. He is God’s light of salvation living among us!Further, Jesus put the first light of dawn from Isaiah into action by preaching that everyone should repent because “the kingdom of God has come near.” No longer is God’s promised salvation off in a distant future. God’s kingdom has come near! After centuries of waiting, God’s light is breaking into the darkness and calling all people into the freedom of God’s kingdom.As we remember and celebrate Jesus’ birth, that joyful first light of dawn comes to us as well: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near”! Jesus continues to invite us into freedom from the sin and darkness that has overshadowed us.Jesus, we hear your invitation to repent. Help us to turn away from our sins and from the darkness in order to live in the light of your salvation. Amen.
“You, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High . . . because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven.” — Luke 1:76-78In the first chapter of Luke many important things can attract our attention: Gabriel’s visits to Zechariah and then to Mary; Mary’s visit to Elizabeth and her song of justice; even the naming of John and the end of Zechariah’s nine-month silence. All of these stories proclaim loudly: God’s light is coming into the world!We see this in Zechariah’s song as well. Zechariah joyfully prophesies that his son, John, will be God’s messenger, preparing the way for God’s people. John will call people to repentance and forgiveness as God keeps his promises to free his people from their sins so that they might follow God in righteousness. Several other images that we’ve been considering this month are brought together in the final lines of Zechariah’s song: the light of a rising sun from heaven, a light shining on people living in darkness and even in death’s shadow, and God’s light guiding them on their way. God is declaring that he is about to fulfill his promises!In a sense, then, the Holy Spirit is bringing together all sorts of little lights of God’s grace that have been shared in the Old Testament. Gathered here, their impact is multiplied: God’s salvation through his chosen servant is coming! And we are invited to rejoice with Zechariah, whose joy overflows at seeing this day!Holy Spirit, fill us as you did Zechariah, that we too may rejoice in seeing how your promises are fulfilled in the coming of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn. — Isaiah 60:3Often we tend to fear what we do not understand—especially when we encounter people who are different from us. The same was true in ancient Israel. Isaiah proclaimed that God’s chosen servant would bring God’s blessings to people of all nations. But for the people of Israel, who had been enslaved by Egypt and overrun by Assyria and Babylon, the idea of the nations coming to them carried some fear and trembling.Yet God reassured Israel that his redemptive work across the world would lead to a different relationship between his people and those of other nations. Instead of war and violence, the nations would come seeking the light of God’s presence. Instead of demanding tribute, the nations would bring their wealth in service to God. Instead of responding in fear, God’s people would rejoice at the sight of the nations coming into God’s light.As we remember Jesus’ birth, we are still waiting for this promised future. Nations are still at war. Racism, classism, and all sorts of other -isms feed our fears about people who are different from us, including within the church. So we add our voices to the prayers of God’s people throughout the centuries: that in Jesus Christ, God will bring about this promised day of peace that we cannot yet imagine.God, help us to see that you want all the nations to come to you. Remove our fears, that we may embrace the global diversity of your coming kingdom in Jesus Christ. Amen.
“I, the Lord, have called you . . . to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.” — Isaiah 42:6-7Sometimes we use the term “blinding light” to say that a light is so bright that if you look directly at it, you could damage your eyesight. Here the Bible talks about the opposite effect—when light heals. We read that God’s servant will give sight to people who are blind.We begin to see here that God’s light—shining through his chosen servant—heals, frees, and releases people who were thought to be beyond help and hope. God even declares that his light is for the Gentiles—people whom Israel thought were outside of God’s care and concern. Through this prophetic word, God seeks to “unblind” the social and spiritual imagination of his people.By extending the benefits of God’s redemptive work far beyond the borders of Israel’s imagination, God’s faithful servant disrupts Israel’s comfortable, self-focused peace. Instead, God invites them to see that his mission is intended to welcome all people into his peace.As we move closer to Christmas, we too are invited into this “unblinding light” of God’s chosen servant, Jesus. Do we see God’s redemptive work as being just for us and for people like us? Or will we come to recognize that God’s love in Jesus Christ is intended to give light and peace to people we never imagined would be included in God’s family?Remove our blindness, Lord, that we may delight in seeing how wide and merciful your love is in Jesus Christ. Amen.
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. — Isaiah 9:2God provides an immediate follow-up to the passage we reflected on yesterday, about choosing to live in “utter darkness.” Because of God’s mercy, the gloom and hopelessness of consulting the dead will not be the final word on their lives. Instead “a light has dawned” on them.Notice the unfolding impact of this “great light.” God’s people will rejoice in ways that need all kinds of metaphors to describe. Their oppressors will lose their power. The very instruments of war used to control them will be destroyed. All of these signs point to freedom and new life that the people could not achieve on their own. The joyful hope of God’s deliverance flows through this prophetic word.Further, God promises to do all of this through the birth of a child, whose rule will bring never-ending peace. Where death once tainted everything they saw, the people who are trapped in darkness will see God’s flourishing kingdom coming into view. To make this certain, God declares, “The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.”During Advent we remember how God started this rule of peace through the birth of Jesus Christ. And we look forward to the day when God will bring us into the fullness of this vision.God, thank you for bringing your kingdom of peace through Jesus Christ. In your continued mercy, please shine your great light on all who live in darkness, apart from you. Amen.
If anyone does not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn. — Isaiah 8:20God’s people did not always walk in God’s way. At times, the leaders of God’s people even consulted with mediums (1 Samuel 28:3-25). Here Isaiah notes the consequences of trying to consult the dead to find spiritual direction that only God can provide: “They will look toward the earth and see only distress and darkness and fearful gloom. . . .”God’s words through Isaiah are clear: there is no peace for someone who seeks life among the dead. Isaiah declares that the contrast between seeking God and seeking the dead is as different as day and night. Rather poetically, the prophet writes, “They have no light of dawn.” In other words, seeking guidance from the dead is like walking into a never-ending night. You can’t find the light of day by turning to the night.The allure of such things is that they promise to provide quick access to the spiritual realm and to spiritual power. But that runs contrary to God’s Word in the biblical story we remember during Advent. For instead of demanding that we find magical ways to access God, God has taken the initiative to seek us out. God came to us in Jesus Christ, so that through him we might have unhindered access to God himself.Lord, we confess that we do not turn to you when we should. We seek spiritual comfort, wisdom, and direction outside of you. Thank you for giving us direct access to you through Jesus, your Son. Amen.
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. — Psalm 119:105The psalmist describes God’s word as a lamp and a light. There is a sense of movement here with the emphasis of the psalmist’s feet on a path. We don’t know where the psalmist is going, but it’s notable that the psalmist doesn’t say, “Your word is a light outside my house.” The picture here is that God’s word guides the believer through life, even in dark spaces where the path is uncertain and potential dangers may lie ahead.This psalm reminds us that God has not left us to figure out life on our own. Rather, God’s word accompanies us, showing us how to live faithfully as God’s people here and now. While our technology, governmental structures, and understandings of the universe are different from when the Bible was written, the commands and the stories of God’s faithful love provided through the Bible help us to see what it can look like to walk in the light of God’s path today.As we immerse ourselves in God’s word, we also learn to recognize more fully that Jesus is the ultimate expression of God’s word. Jesus was sent not simply to guide us but to be “the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6) through whom we receive salvation and experience peace with God.Lord God, we are so grateful that you did not leave us on our own. Thank you for sending Jesus not only to light our path in life but also to be the path to life in you. In his name, Amen.
Make your face shine on us, that we may be saved. — Psalm 80:3Today’s Bible passage addresses a deep-down concern: Is peace with God ever possible after God decides to hold us accountable for our sins? As the psalmist pointedly cries out: “How long, Lord God Almighty, will your anger smolder against the prayers of your people?”The reality of God’s gift of salvation in Christ does not give us freedom to do whatever we want without consequences. Psalm 80 recognizes that our sins damage our relationships with God and with each other. The psalmist describes how God’s discipline of Israel is evident among the nations: “You have made us an object of derision to our neighbors. . . . Your vine is cut down . . . at your rebuke your people perish.” There is no argument about Israel’s sinfulness, no complaint that God’s discipline might be too harsh. But Psalm 80 returns again and again to God’s character: “Make your face shine on us.” God is the one who chose Israel and who cares for them. The psalmist is declaring that God is the only one who can restore them.Advent gives us an opportunity to be honest with God about our sins. Jesus came to restore us and all of his creation from the consequences of our sin—something we could not do on our own. Peace with God is only possible because Jesus took on himself the consequences of our sin.Lord, you know our sins. We cannot hide them or even justify them before you. Thank you for sending Jesus to restore us and to make us right with you. Amen.
Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. — Psalm 27:14Today’s Scripture reading describes how the psalmist has faced real threats from wicked people, enemies, armies, oppressors, and false witnesses—all bent on destroying him. The psalm includes bold declarations about not fearing those foes, and it offers pleading prayers for God’s protection as opponents come near.I have found that my experience of God’s peace can change from one circumstance to the next as well. There are moments of bold faith when I am not frightened. I believe God and am ready to follow wherever he leads. Then there are times when I feel doubts overtaking my faith, and I find myself begging God to save me. In situations like that, the threats can seem bigger and more powerful than God.This back-and-forth movement is part of our faith journey. We recognize that if the certainty of our peace with God and our salvation depends on us, we will fall short. In Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection, God secures us from all that threatens, and we are strengthened for the life of faith that God calls us into.During the Advent season, we learn to wait in confidence, not denying our struggles but leaning into the peace that is ours through Jesus Christ, who secures us in God’s light and salvation.God, thank you for making our salvation secure in Jesus Christ. Help us to wait with confident hope that even when the world seems gathered against us, you will not forsake us. Amen.
“The Lord make his face shine on you. . . .” — Numbers 6:25I always marvel at this passage. The Israelites were not a shining example of faithfulness while they wandered in the desert. They grumbled and complained, threatened to go back to Egypt, and even made idols to worship in place of God (Exodus 16-17; 32-33). Yet God instructed Aaron—whose hands had made those idols—to bless the Israelites. Even more, God said that this would “put [his] name on the Israelites”—in other words, God wanted to be so closely identified with the Israelites that they would be part of his family!Notice too that the middle of this blessing asks God to “make his face shine” on his people. It’s fitting to compare this image to a parent beaming with pride over their child or to a spouse absolutely glowing with joy at the sight of their partner. This blessing is beyond what Israel could have hoped for: having God turn toward them with overflowing delight at being associated with them!Many centuries later, God became even more associated with us in his Son, Jesus Christ. Even more than we could have hoped, God became one with us in life and in death. Through Jesus, we experience God’s face shining on us with delight. And as Paul later wrote, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1).We marvel at your decision to associate with us, O God! How great is your love that you delight in us and have chosen to become one with us in Christ! Amen.
Yet all the Israelites had light in the places they lived. — Exodus 10:23Have you ever encountered a darkness that can be felt? I recall hiking in the woods when dark storm clouds suddenly billowed overhead. The wind whipped around in all directions, and the temperature dropped quickly, followed by blasts of thunder and lightning. In that moment, I knew I wasn’t in control.Our Bible reading today tells part of the story of God’s confrontation with Pharaoh through Moses. Pharaoh had repeatedly resisted letting God’s people go free from slavery, and God had responded with increasingly intense plagues, all of which challenged Pharaoh’s authority and control. This time, God brought a “darkness that [could] be felt” over the whole land of Egypt. Unlike the darkness of a passing storm, this darkness stayed for three days! It’s as if God was saying to Pharoah: “Stop resisting me. You are not in charge. I can even remove the creational boundaries between light and dark, night and day!” But Pharaoh would not listen.While confronting Pharaoh, God reassured Israel by giving them light and hope in the midst of the unnatural darkness, and in this God was saying, “You are mine, and Pharaoh cannot separate you from me.” In Advent, we lean into this same hope-filled assurance: in Christ, God will move heaven and earth, night and day, to set us free from all that enslaves us.God, thank you for the hope you give us in Jesus Christ. Help us to believe in your power to free us from all that can enslave us. Amen.
Moses thought, “I will go over and see this strange sight—why the bush does not burn up.” — Exodus 3:3After fleeing Egypt in fear for his life (see Exodus 2:11-15), Moses settled in Midian. He got married and had children. He became a shepherd and learned the wilderness terrain over a period of 40 years.But then God interrupted Moses’ ordinary life with the flickering light of a bush on fire that did not burn up. This strange sight caught Moses’ attention and awoke his curiosity. He went closer.What catches my attention is that God called Moses from a bush. God could have spoken with a thundering voice or sent an angel to talk with Moses. Instead God used a small impossibility—a bush burning without being consumed—to bring Moses into an even more impossible situation—leading God’s people out of slavery in Egypt.I am in awe at how God uses this unusual fire to rekindle hope in Moses and eventually among the people of God. God had seen their misery, heard their cries, and was moving to rescue them from their suffering and oppression in Egypt after more than 400 years. But the hope sparked by this strange sight is even bigger than Moses and Israel imagined. For, one day, God would do something even more impossible by sending his own Son to free us and all of creation from our bondage to sin, death, and decay.Lord, rekindle hope in us during this Advent season. Help us to believe the seemingly impossible good news that in Jesus Christ you are setting us free from sin, death, and decay. In his name we pray. Amen.
“Look up at the sky and count the stars—if indeed you can count them.” — Genesis 15:5I wonder how many times Abram had looked into that sky, asking God to fulfill his promise from years earlier to give Abram children of his own. I also wonder if Abram had stopped praying that prayer, and when. God had promised him that the nations would be blessed through his offspring (Genesis 12:1-3). But nothing had changed. Abram and Sarai still didn’t have a child.There is weariness and sorrow in Abram’s response to God: “What can you give me since I remain childless . . . ?” Here Abram is basically asking, “Can I truly believe you . . . ?”For many of us, this is our story too. We’ve prayed again and again, trusting that God hears us and cares for us. Sometimes God shows up with a miraculous answer. But other times we cry out with the psalmist, “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?” (Psalm 13:1).It was 25 years before God fulfilled the promise to Abram in the birth of Isaac, and nearly 2,000 more years passed before God sent Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of his promises.During Advent, we join Abram in waiting with our weariness and sorrows. And God invites us to remember and believe that his faithfulness, mercy, and love for us extend from one end of the heavens to the other—far beyond our ability to count.Lord, we struggle with weariness and grief. We need your deliverance. Help us to wait for you in the hope that you will fulfill all your promises. In Jesus, Amen.
He also made the stars. — Genesis 1:16For several summers, our family spent time near a lake where we would lie on the dock at night, watching for shooting stars. We would point and laugh with excitement when we saw one. In between those flashes of light, we would grow quiet looking at all the stars that filled the sky. We recognized a few of them, but we had never seen most of those stars before.In our reading from Genesis 1 today, the sun and moon get most of the attention. But we are told that God “also made the stars.” It’s as if God poked trillions of little holes in the backdrop of the night sky. Even on the darkest nights, when the moon is nowhere in sight, the stars remind us that God’s light is still present. The darkness will not overcome God’s light.Admittedly, I long for God’s actions in my life to be as bright as the sun, as clear as a full moon, or as awe-inspiring as a shooting star. But I often overlook God’s faithful presence in the background. The stars remind us that God is always there.This can also remind us that Jesus entered the world on an otherwise ordinary night and that God even used a star to announce his birth. Amazing! There is hope in the darkness because God “also made the stars.”Thank you for creating stars, Lord God. We need their constant reminder that you are still at work even on the darkest of nights. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
God saw that the light was good. . . . — Genesis 1:4Sometimes we need to slow down and ask good questions. Genesis 1 starts by showing that God’s creative work takes place in the deepest darkness that people could imagine. That reality invites us to wonder, “What would God do first to overcome the darkness? How would God fill the emptiness that existed before he began to create?”The rest of Genesis 1 answers those questions, and it starts with God’s first creative act: creating light in the midst of the darkness. The sun, moon, and stars will come later in the creation story. But at this point God simply creates light and then calls the light good! There is something incredibly beautiful about this creative act. The first act of creation sets the stage for everything that will follow in the rest of the Bible’s story: God is the one who makes something out of nothing. God is the one who creates light.The Bible presents God as the one who pushed back the darkness with this first light. In a way, that’s what the first week of Advent is about. As we anticipate celebrating Jesus’ birth, we wait in hope for God to create something new in us, to bring light into the darkest circumstances of our lives.God, help us to see and believe that you can make something new, even in the darkest spaces of our histories and into our current circumstances.
Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. — Genesis 1:2Beginnings are important. Backgrounds about characters in novels and movies help us see the situations that have shaped them. Sometimes we introduce ourselves by telling about our ancestors or about events that have shaped our family history. We recognize that who we are has a lot to do with the situations and the people who came before us.Similarly, the Bible’s first words about the earth are that it was “formless and empty” and that “darkness was over the surface of the deep”—a poetic way of saying that the world did not exist before God started creating. Have you ever been in a cave without any lights on? It can be so dark that you can’t see your hands even when you touch your nose. The Bible begins with a darkness that is deeper than that. It’s the deepest darkness the Bible writers could imagine: the empty darkness of the world not existing.As we begin Advent, looking forward to the light of Jesus’ coming, there is something very comforting about the Bible’s beginning. However heavy and impossible our current circumstances may feel, the Bible reminds us that our story begins with the God who creates life in the midst of the deepest darkness imaginable. In other words, with God there is always hope.Dear God, create hope within us in this Advent season. Please remind us that your creative work is greater than the darkest circumstances we can imagine. Amen.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. — Psalm 23:4In some translations of the Bible, the “darkest valley” in Psalm 23:4 is called “the valley of the shadow of death.” Regardless of the translation, the idea of a shadow-cast valley can be frightening. This imagery can remind us of a traumatic loss or a difficult crisis, and our memories of such things can be fearful and frightening.I recall a conversation I had with a widow not long after her spouse of nearly 60 years had passed away. While sitting at her kitchen table, surrounded by photos and stories of their life together, she shared with me her insight on Psalm 23. She spoke about the “valley of the shadow of death,” and how dark it can be when mourning the loss of a loved one. She talked about how quiet and still the house had become; how hard it was to stay in a home filled with memories. It was heartbreaking to hear, yet she also shared a glimpse of hope she had discovered while traveling through that valley. The only way for a shadow to exist, she said, is for a source of light to be present. A shadow is not the absence of light, but rather the evidence of a light nearby. She also noted that the greater the source of light, the smaller the shadow that is cast.Friends, I pray that whatever valley you may be in today or at some other time, the light of Christ may shine bigger and brighter—and that he may be the source of your strength.Lord of light, shine your mercy and love into our darkest valleys, guiding us always to keep our eyes and hearts on you. Amen.
We are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. — 2 Corinthians 2:15“Have you smelled like Jesus lately?” This odd question can help us to think hard about living like Jesus did.In some ways it can be easy to look like Jesus—that is, to imitate his actions. We can feed the hungry and give things to people who need them. We can offer a cup of cold water to someone who is thirsty, and we can forgive when we are wronged. These are righteous and good actions that all believers should aim to practice.But what does it mean to smell like Jesus? Well, it’s not actually about having a smell or aroma. It’s about showing the love of God and the character of Jesus from deep within your heart and soul, and this leads others to respond in a way like people did when Jesus lived among them. If we represent Jesus as God calls us to, we are like “an aroma that brings life” to people who are seeking God and open to his leading, and we are like “an aroma that brings death” to people who reject God and want nothing to do with him. Of course, we don’t want people to reject God. We hope that showing his love will help people see that God is good and wants to live with them forever. But some people still refuse, and that hurts God the most, for he is their Creator.Like Christ, we are called to spread the good news of God’s love, and God is the one who supplies that in us—like giving us a smell or aroma that shows we are representing him, as Jesus himself did.Father, spread your love and grace through us to show everyone who you are and how much you love them. Amen.
In her deep anguish Hannah prayed to the Lord, weeping bitterly. — 1 Samuel 1:10Many people can relate personally to the story of Hannah. The emotional, mental, and spiritual pain of infertility is all too common, and it is often held close like a distressing secret.One of the most beautiful parts of Hannah’s story is how God responded to her anguish and distress. Though Eli the high priest accused her of being drunk, God witnessed Hannah’s pain and responded with abundant care and compassion. Instead of pointing the finger and keeping his distance, the infinite God of creation drew close to Hannah, embracing her and her grief. He listened to her heart. He heard her cry. He cared for her soul. And he gave Hannah what she longed for—a son.Hannah is an example of someone who is unashamed to pour out their soul to the Lord, because they know that he listens, hears, cares, and relieves even the deepest of pains.As followers of Christ, we can share his love and compassion with others who are in distress. We can listen to their cries and help to carry their burdens, praying with them and helping them to find comfort in the God who loves us all.Loving God, draw near to all who are hurting, and bring comfort to all who know the pain that Hannah felt. May they know that you hear them and care for them; fill and satisfy their souls with your mercy and grace. In the Savior’s name, Amen.
We love because he first loved us. — 1 John 4:19Eight-foot tables lined the sidewalk leading up to the local community center. They were divided into sections for clothes, canned goods, water, and other basic necessities. A young family gleaned some baby formula and pureed foods for their little child. Meanwhile, in the community center, a makeshift shelter was being built, with portable cots and chairs for people to rest on. Volunteers moved quickly, walking people who needed medical attention to the area where doctors and nurses were making health assessments.The volunteers came from all walks of life and faith. The pastor of the local Baptist church and the rabbi from the synagogue nearby worked together to help an elderly couple find a seat. Outside, a group from the Knights of Columbus had partnered with a group of Reformed church members to search for and rescue people’s pets that were left behind as flood waters had forced residents to evacuate during a hurricane.Though the storm had left a wide swath of disaster, God was at work restoring the devastated community. And this was the collective work of a group of people from many backgrounds who showed godly love because they knew God had first loved them.God of rescue, protect and help all who are affected by disasters and devastation. And may your love for us overflow into the lives of people around us, that we may be known for showing your love in action. Amen.
“The seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.” — Luke 8:15It was evident from the tan lines on his arms that the man sitting across from me spent a lot of time outdoors. And a quick look at his hands showed the calluses, scars, and soil-stained fingers that came from a life of hard work on the farm. This man appeared to have lived a humble, strong, and yet simple life that didn’t have much to offer the fast-paced world around him.But how quickly that impression changed with just one conversation—for this humble farmer was far more than simple. He was a deep well of wisdom and experience, a lifelong follower of Jesus who had carefully tended the soil of his soul for over half a century. That soil was really good, and that man’s heart had clearly allowed gospel seeds to be planted and to grow, producing beautiful fruit to be shared with the people around him. The Spirit of God had clearly worked in this man’s heart and life, and I was blessed by the fruit of his Christ-centered faith. In what ways are you applying God’s Word to your life, giving room for his seeds of love and goodness to grow and bear fruit that will draw others to seek and praise him?Lord God, thank you for the seeds you have planted in our hearts through faith in your Son, Jesus. Send your Spirit to nurture and grow those seeds, and help us to bear fruit so that others can enjoy the goodness of life you want for us all forever. Amen.
Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” — Matthew 18:22When I was invited to write this month’s devotions, I accepted with eager anticipation. But I could not have known that I would soon also face a disruptive series of events that would turn this opportunity into an anxious task.Pressure continued to build as my due date approached—and then passed. I struggled to find the motivation to keep writing, and a weight of guilt made things even worse.Throughout this challenging time, however, the staff editor who worked with me remained encouraging, compassionate, prayerful, and forgiving. And, perhaps most of all, patience has been the constant thread woven into this experience for me.This experience has reminded me of Jesus’ response to Peter when he asked about forgiving others. And it has helped me to see how patient a forgiving person can be, despite our own shortcomings at times.Peter asked Jesus for guidance on how much patience we should give people who push situations past a reasonable limit to endure. And Jesus’ answer reminds us of just how patient our heavenly Father is with us. Though we, in our sin and wrongdoing, have been God’s enemies, he sent his own Son to give up his life for us so that we can have new life forever with him (Romans 5:8-11)!Patient, forgiving King, how often we fall short, and how quick you are to remind us of your love. Thank you for your patient, full forgiveness. Help us to be patient in forgiving others. Amen.
“A new command I give you: Love one another.” — John 13:34Jesus’ followers in the first century were the first people to be called “Christians.” In addition to the apostles named in the New Testament, Jesus had many other disciples—men and women who witnessed his miraculous works, listened to the authority of his teaching, and were entrusted to carry on the mission he started. Christ’s entire mission could be summed up in the simple command he gave to his disciples on the night before he was crucified.Christ’s disciples are still carrying on his mission today. The method may look different, but the message remains the same. The call to follow Jesus is the same today as it was that night: Christians are to love one another, just as Christ loved them. Christians are to set aside selfish desires and notions of religious entitlement and take on the role of a servant, just as Jesus did for us. In the most profound way, Christians are to follow Jesus, past palisades of power and symbols of strength, to the cross, where our sin and shame are put to death and buried. The cross is where we hear the essential command to the Christian: “Love one another, just as I have loved you.” Lord of love, Savior of sinners, help us to love others the way you have loved us—selflessly and unconditionally. Amen.
“Do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.” — Luke 12:11-12There is a common misunderstanding in many churches. Many Christians think there is a big difference between proclaiming God’s Word from a pulpit and sharing his truth in a conversation. Similarly, lots of Christians think the apex of evangelism happens on a Sunday morning in a sanctuary and not in a coffee shop or in a car ride to work.As Christians, we often think that to share the gift of salvation with someone, we first have to be qualified academically or be trained in a special way. As a result, we can get tangled up in our inabilities, bogged down by our insecurities, and overwhelmed with fears of failing ourselves, others, or—even worse—God.But you aren’t called because you’re qualified; you’re qualified because you’ve been called. Your life, regardless of religious education or ability to speak in public, is a testimony in itself. It’s the story of God’s redemption and restoration plan in you.God knew you even before he established the foundations of the earth. He created you, wired you, and called you by name. God has adopted you as his child into his eternal family, and he has entrusted you with his kingdom work, which simply means sharing with someone the good news of forgiveness from sin and of new life in Christ forever. So share the good news today!God, thank you for qualifying all of us whom you have called. Strengthen us by your Spirit to share the good news of your kingdom. Amen.
Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God. . . . — 1 Peter 2:10Peter, one of Jesus’ closest followers, urgently encouraged Christians in the first century as they endured intense persecution, suffering, trials, and hardships. I imagine that Peter’s words also helped to lift himself up in some way, especially considering the changes he went through since first meeting Jesus near the Sea of Galilee. Once a professional fisherman, he soon became a church planter, a pastor, an encourager, and a defender of the faith. He went from mending nets to leading the newly formed church of Jesus Christ, full of freshly baptized believers.Peter’s words are unapologetically bold while also being full of grace and love. Although these words were written over 2,000 years ago, they are just as true today for you and me, because we too are God’s chosen people, a group called to be ministers and shepherds in our homes and communities. We have been set apart by God’s grace, and we are heirs with Christ in his glorious kingdom, which is yet to come in its fullness. God has given us the wonderful and beautiful gift of salvation, the light of eternal life that eliminates the darkness of sin and death, for which we were once destined. Amazing!Loving God, thank you for calling us your people and for equipping us to be the church in our world today. Help us to see where you are at work in our homes and communities so that we may partner with you in building your kingdom here on earth. Amen.
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. — Ecclesiastes 3:1I can still remember the sound of the little bird that popped out of the old cuckoo clock on the wall at my grandparents’ house. Every hour, on the hour, the red faded bird would announce the time. I also recall that when the bird was quiet, I could hear the second hand ticking away the seconds of the day.It’s often said that you can’t get time back, so it’s best to make use of the time you have. Though the author of Ecclesiastes didn’t write those words, they sound like something he might have said. In Ecclesiastes we hear the words of a person who has had the opportunity to look back on his life and recall the joys, concerns, victories, and defeats he has experienced. We hear someone who reflects on how important each season was.Notably, the wise King Solomon, who wrote Ecclesiastes, ends his short reflection by commenting that God makes all things beautiful in their time and sets eternity in the human heart (v. 11). That brings me back to those days in my grandparents’ home with the cuckoo clock, and I remember stories that they shared around the dinner table. I can’t get that time back, but the beauty of the memories lives on, and the thought of reuniting with those family members in God’s presence in eternity brings me joy, both now and forever.Lord God, thank you for eternity, and please instill in our hearts the hope of everlasting life. Strengthen us by your Spirit, and help us to reflect on your goodness each day. Amen.
“He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” — John 15:2I don’t know much about plants, but I imagine it might be painful for a vine to go through the pruning process. I also imagine that if I were a plant, I might get frustrated with the gardener for lopping off parts of me without asking for my opinion or permission.Thinking about it a little more, gardeners don’t prune out of anger or frustration. They prune because they want the plant to grow healthier and stronger so that it can bear good fruit. The gardener sees the overall vision of the plant, while the plant can only “see” what’s right in front of them. With that in mind, Jesus’ words here make good sense.Pruning is the way God removes parts of us that are overgrown and not producing. It may mean we have to let go of some comforts, and doing that can remove troublesome distractions in our life. Through pruning we are able to see more clearly who we are and what God has in mind for us, even if that means enduring some pain along the way.Whatever might pain us in the pruning process, it’s the transforming of our heart, mind, and soul that God wants to see, because he wants our fruit to grow—fruit that one day we will be able to share with others for the goodness and glory of our Lord, the master gardener.Gentle God, thank you for the pruning you are doing in our lives today. We may not like it, but we need to trust you with our future. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
When Jesus saw their faith, he said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.” — Luke 5:20Sometimes I find it hard to ask someone for help. I’m not sure if it’s my pride to be independent or my fear of being a burden that gets in the way, but I know there have been times in my life when asking someone for something would have eased the burden I was carrying.Our reading in Luke 5 today is a wonderful story about someone asking for help. A paralyzed man, with some of his friends, heard that Jesus was teaching at a neighbor’s house. The man and his friends knew of Jesus’ ability to heal, so the friends found an unusual way to carry the man to meet Jesus, in the hope that he could be healed.Something that has often struck me about this story is Jesus’ response. He doesn’t mention their hard work and bravery to bring the man to him for healing. Instead he first commends the man for his faith and forgives his sin.What I’ve learned here is that the friends of the paralyzed man deeply loved him and wanted him to experience the fullness of life—walking, running, jumping, and more. And Jesus wanted the man, along with his friends, to experience the fullness of life even more—by having life in his kingdom forever. This is a story about someone who asks for help in this life and receives even more—the amazing fullness of the life to come. Lord, we stand before you in need of your help, for without you we are helpless. Forgive us, we pray, and may your Spirit mold and shape us more into your image each day. Amen.
“Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’” — Luke 15:6The term “Christian” roughly translates into “little Christ,” meaning that a person who follows Christ is an extension of Jesus and a representative of his Father in heaven. This is a heavy responsibility for two significant reasons. There is the personal nature of being a Christian, which includes self-discipline and continuing growth into maturity of faith. There is also the communal nature of Christian living, and this requires our energy and resources as we involve ourselves in the lives of others, such as friends, neighbors, and even complete strangers. So, like Christ, Christians are called to be there when life is good and to search out others who have been wandering and need to know Christ or to come back into his family.The truth is that we are all like sheep in some ways, and at some point or other we have walked away from the Lord, our shepherd. We have wandered off, distracted by what we think is greener grass, cooler water, or a better pasture. We’ve gotten lost, and we’ve gone through days—even whole seasons—when the sound of his voice is so faint that we barely notice it. Yet, like a good shepherd, Jesus is fully committed to rescuing each and every sheep that has lost its way. And not one can wander so far that he can’t find them.Great Shepherd, thank you for continuing to look after us, even when we have strayed. Help us to listen for your call when we begin to wander, and protect us when we have gotten lost. Amen.
“Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”“The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid.” — Hebrews 13:5-6A fly-fishing enthusiast can tell you about all the excitement that can unfold when you hook a fish much bigger than one you planned for. An angler—that is, a person who fishes with a rod and line—typically uses the equipment they need for catching a particular kind of fish. To catch a medium-size fish (like a trout), for example, you need tackle for that size of fish. But sometimes with that gear you can hook a much larger fish (like a salmon). And when that happens, chaos can break loose.The reel will spin furiously, unloading the line as the large fish swims powerfully away. Then panic can set in because you don’t want to lose your expensive tackle, let alone the fish. Usually then you’ll have just two options: to let the fish run, and hopefully tire it out so that you can catch it; or simply to cut the line and let the fish go. A determined angler may decide to hold on, skillfully using the rod and line through a long tug of war and gradually reeling the fish in.In some ways our relationship with God can be like that. We might be thinking we are free to do as we please, but God can hook us, and even though we might try to outrun and overpower him, he will never cut the grace-line or count us as a lost cause. He’ll fight for us and battle with us—and when all is said and done, he gives us the freedom to live a new and full life that is far beyond our imagining!Lord, thank you for not cutting us off or counting us out. Reel us in by your wonderful gift of grace and help us share it with others. Amen.
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. — Psalm 46:1When I was a young child, I was often afraid of thunderstorms. The lightning flashes and the rumbling thunder were startling and scary, and I would grow anxious if I heard that a storm was coming. I’m not sure where my fear of thunderstorms came from, but I think it may have been rooted in the uncertainty of what would happen as a storm rolled through.Fortunately I had a home to shelter me and a blanket to protect me. It’s strange to think that something as frail as a blanket could feel strong during a dreadful storm. But that comfortable blanket of my childhood represented an unmatched level of security, safety, and protection that I needed when I was afraid.God offers us even more effective security and safety from the storms of life when pain flashes through our hearts and crises rattle us to the bone. Like a great comforter and yet stronger than a mighty fortress, our God invites us to take shelter in him and to be protected by his love, which is gentle and yet stronger than any force or calamity that may threaten.Comforting Father, thank you for providing us safety and security when we are overwhelmed by the storms and struggles of life. Shower us with your mercy when hard times and challenges arise, and restore our strength as we shelter under your mighty protection. Amen.
“I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever. . . .” — John 14:16An advocate offers support and pleads on behalf of someone (or something), ensuring fair and honest treatment. An advocate aims to look after, protect, care for, and fight for the one they are assigned to. The Bible’s word for this, in Greek, is paraclete, and this means “called to the side of.”The Holy Spirit, our paraclete, is God’s gift to all who follow Jesus. The Spirit of God continues the work of Jesus by empowering us to continue the Lord’s work on this earth: teaching, sharing the good news of God’s salvation, caring for the sick—the list goes on and on. In addition, the Holy Spirit helps us understand the truth of the message and ministry of Jesus. The Spirit of truth not only helps our understanding but is also our Counselor and Comforter, and these roles tie in with the work of an advocate as well.Christians and the church have been given the wonderful gift of the Holy Spirit, who comes alongside to protect and defend, encourage and embolden, admonish and correct. And through the power of the Holy Spirit, the Lord’s people carry on the truth of God’s redemptive plan for all creation.Triune God, you are mysterious and magnificent. The Father’s love, exemplified in the life of the Son, and poured out in us through the Holy Spirit, gives us all we will ever need to be received into your glorious kingdom. May we ever grow in faith and live faithfully for you. Amen.
“Have you entered the storehouses of the snow or seen the storehouses of the hail . . . ?” — Job 38:22Have you ever noticed that things that looked really big when you were a child don’t seem so big when you are older? I remember walking through my old elementary school after becoming an adult, and one of the first things I noticed was how much smaller everything looked and felt. But it’s not just the size of things that seems different; our perception of time changes too. When I was a boy, a summer night seemed to last and last, and a school year seemed to go on forever.Life changes as we age. Congested calendars and stacked schedules abbreviate our lives. Deadlines, commitments, and requests beg, steal, and borrow our attention from the beauty of life and the creation God has given us to care for and enjoy.Maybe even more tragic is that we can lose our sense of God’s grandeur as we grow older. As children, we tend to view God as huge and magnificent, someone with incredible power and ability, able to do even more than any superhero! As we age and live longer, though, we can tend to question God’s actions, critique his plans, and challenge his authority. We might even believe we know what’s best for us, thinking we know our situation better than God does. Instead, though, we need to turn to our Creator and ask for his mercy, for he holds us in his hands and truly loves and cares for us always.King of creation, thank you for your enduring mercy. Forgive us when we diminish you. Humble us to see you as you truly are. Amen.
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. — Proverbs 17:17One of God’s greatest gifts to humanity is relationships. We are created for relationships; we are designed by God to be in community with others. We will meet many people over our lifetime. With some, we will have no more than brief interactions in passing by, and with others we will have friendly acquaintances. Still others will become friends, even close friends, and others will become companions for life.With some friends our relationships can feel as close as family, like a brother or sister, and we may love them just like family members. These are friends who will be there in both good times and bad, triumphs and tragedies, times of joy and times of sorrow.Did you know that, in Jesus, God is actually our closest friend? He isn’t a passerby who merely sizes us up, or an acquaintance who enters our life from time to time. Jesus is our brother, our closest friend, who gave up his own life so that we can become the adopted children of God, members of God’s everlasting family, and coheirs in his eternal inheritance (see Romans 8:14-17).Father in heaven, we can’t imagine how big your home must be to fit all of your adopted sons and daughters in it. Thank you for creating us to be in relationship with others. We look forward to the day when all your children will gather for the ultimate feast in your presence. Strengthen our faith and patience as we wait for that glorious day. Amen.
Each of you should . . . serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. — 1 Peter 4:10I recently met up with a group of friends I’ve known for many years. During our meal together we laughed at some funny stories and sympathized with some difficult ones, and at the end of the evening we hugged each other before going our separate ways. We are all grateful for one another, having been there for each other through both joys and sorrows.A common thread in the fabric of our relationship is that grace abounds in all the interactions we have with one another. The term grace has several definitions, but in this situation I would define it as “a courteous goodwill that is unmerited.” In other words, it involves compassion and kindness over anything else. Now, it should be said that even though grace abounds in our group of friends, that doesn’t mean we don’t disagree with one another at times. Yet no matter how challenging a disagreement can get, our friendship remains because grace continues to lead the way.Gracious Father, thank you for the abounding grace you provide in our lives through your forgiveness in Jesus Christ. Help us to extend that grace to others, whether they be close friends or new acquaintances. Transform us into a people who lead with grace each and every day. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. — Hebrews 10:23In the mid-20th century a musician named Albert Goodson wrote a song titled “We’ve Come This Far by Faith.” It soon became popular because it reminded believers to hold on steadfastly to the hope of God’s promises never to leave or forget about his children. Even when it may seem that hard times are stacked against them, followers of Christ can know that God’s gift of faith has brought them where they are and will carry them through.As humans living in a world that is broken by sin, we are all vulnerable to hurt, pain, sadness, and loss. Many—if not all—of us have experienced the trials of life and have been bruised by them. As Christians, we know that we live in between the fallen nature of this world, which is merely a shadow of things yet to come, and the fullness of life in a world that will one day be fully restored. As the body of Christ, we eagerly await the fullness of life, and in the meantime we continue to lean on the Lord, unmoved by the trials and temptations of life.Ultimately we rely on the Word of God as our source of life. And in hope we can join together, encouraging one another and building each other up as we journey through life in faith.Steadfast Savior, thank you for your faithfulness each day. May we, as your children and image bearers, continue to represent you in our homes, classrooms, careers, and communities as we trust in you and your Word. Amen.
“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 18:3Growing up and getting older can be difficult to do. Our responsibilities and obligations grow, and often our imaginations slowly fade. There are positives to growing mature and aging, but I believe many of us wouldn’t mind taking a step back to relive some of the good times we had when we were children. Can you remember when simple things brought you a lot of joy? We might refer to such times as “good old days” if we had nice childhood memories and time seemed to move slower, family meals seemed to last longer, and interruptions from phones were less common. But we do have to grow up eventually. If that is the case, though, why would Jesus encourage his followers to “become like little children”? According to Christ, the way in which people inherit and enjoy the glory of God’s kingdom is to have the sincere, trusting faith that a child has for a trustworthy parent. And that simply means allowing God to shape our hearts and minds into that of a child who trusts in him fully, knowing that he cares and will always do what is best for his children. It means allowing our sanctified imaginations to wonder about all the things that our big, awesome, and powerful God can do—and how he can involve us in his work in this world.Great God, thank you for the reminder that having childlike faith draws us close to you. By your Spirit, reignite our imaginations and fill us with excitement about what you have in store for us to do. Amen.
Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. — Hebrews 4:16There’s something refreshing about being able to visit a friend without having to ask permission or to call ahead. If we open our homes to others, they can be places where food, conversation, and fellowship flow freely. In those settings we often feel at peace because the warmth of comfort and acceptance help us feel like we belong.What if you visited a home that, instead of feeling like a space where you could relax and enjoy the company of others, seemed to you like a museum? What if the conversation with others was more like sharing information than sharing life? Your visit would likely feel rather cold, rigid, and dry.There are Christian congregations and faith communities that fall on either end of that spectrum, and many land somewhere in the middle. But our hope, as Christians, should be that every church (both the building and the people inside it) should be like a welcoming home, a place full of grace, mercy, and unconditional love. A space where people can set aside their “baggage” and “burdens,” flop down on the couch of confession, and sink into the cushions of forgiveness and grace. A home is where you’re offered a drink of living water and the bread of life, where you experience glimpses of the eternal house of God.Father, help us to model your heavenly welcome here on earth as we make room for people in our hearts and homes to receive your grace and mercy. Amen.
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. — Psalm 34:18On the radio the other day I heard a familiar song about heartbreak. There are probably hundreds, if not thousands, of songs written throughout history about broken hearts and lost loves. Have you ever wondered why musicians and music producers keep writing about that same thing?Maybe people do not tire of those types of songs because everyone can relate to them in some way. Nearly everyone has experienced feelings of emptiness after a breakup, or they have asked themselves “What went wrong?” after losing their love.Thankfully God’s Word provides some guidelines to help us answer our questions and give us peace of mind when heartache and heartbreak happen. When we hurt, Scripture can provide comfort. It also gives us a way to express how we feel, especially when we don’t know what to say or how to say it. Much of that language can be found in the Psalms, and many psalms were written by people who shared their feelings candidly and honestly.David, the writer of Psalm 34, didn’t have to search long for peace, and neither do we. God is near to those who hurt, and we can trust today that the One who gave the sun its ability to shine, who told the waters how far they could go, and who constantly watches over the universe is also near to you—and he’s saying, “I’ve got this, and I’ve got you.”Lord, draw near to all who are hurting today, and may they know you are holding them in your hands. Amen.
“They will share the burden of the people with you so that you will not have to carry it alone.” — Numbers 11:17Moses and the Israelites had been camping in the desert for over two years as God made his covenant with them and began leading them to the land he had promised them. They knew God would take them there, and they knew Moses was the leader to do it, but the longer it took, the more anxious and unsettled the people became. Moses became unsettled too, and he was nearly at a breaking point.Many people experience similar kinds of stresses, leading to anxiety, doubt, and fear. Some even reach the point of burnout, unsure of what to do next. The beauty of this story is that it shows how God steps into Moses’ situation to rescue and relieve him, to offer support when he needs it most.God instructs Moses to seek out others who can help to carry the burden of leadership and relieve some of the stress he has been feeling. Further, God tells Moses that his Spirit will be on these leaders as they walk alongside Moses in the journey ahead.Through God’s power and by this strength, Moses and all the Israelites are encouraged as God intervenes and provides for their needs.Lord God, you know us better than we know ourselves. Thank you for the tender way you step in and walk alongside us when we are struggling. By your Spirit, restore us, and may we also gain courage and compassion to step in and minister to others through the strength you provide for us. Amen.
Your rod and your staff, they comfort me. — Psalm 23:4Being a shepherd in ancient times was not a glamorous career choice. It was a hectic life, full of danger and stress, not to mention that sheep are not the most intelligent of God’s creatures. Even so, the life and rhythm of a shepherd were remarkable. In Psalm 23, for example, we read about the shepherd’s rod and staff. These were very necessary pieces of equipment for the shepherd’s many tasks. The rod (like a club) was used to fend off predators, and the staff was used as a guide and reminder to the sheep along the trail. When traveling through a hilly region with steep dropoffs, the shepherd would walk alongside the sheep, using the staff as a guardrail so that they wouldn’t stumble and fall. And during early-morning or late-evening trips, when the sunlight was gone and the path was dark, the shepherd would tap his rod against the face of a rock wall, producing a sound that would echo from the front of the flock all the way to the back. It was a way to remind the sheep that the shepherd was still there, assuring them that they were safe and secure.The Bible often compares us with sheep, describing the Lord as our faithful shepherd, who by his grace and compassion guides us with this rod and staff, gently reminding us that we are safe and secure in his care.Great Shepherd, thank you for all the ways you provide for us each day. Help us to be attentive and to hear you calling us as you safely guide and lead us. Amen.
They all ate and were satisfied. . . . — Matthew 14:20This story about feeding more than 5,000 people is usually told from the viewpoint of the disciples. I wonder what it was like to be a person in the crowd. Imagine being surrounded by thousands of people—men and women of all shapes, sizes, and ages. You would probably see young children running around as parents tried to corral them along the shoreline. And seniors slowly shuffling to find a place close enough to Jesus so they could hear him speak. It was probably an example of what people have called “organized chaos.” Even Jesus’ disciples didn’t know what to do with the hungry followers (see vv. 15-17).What was it like to see the calm and measured face of Jesus in the midst of such a hectic scene? How did Jesus know he could feed all those hungry people with just “five loaves of bread and two fish”?Jesus knew he could feed the starving crowd because he was and is the Son of God, who not only provided the bread and fish but also created the earth and established everything in it, from the waters where the fish lived to the land that provided the grain used to bake bread. Knowing the power of the Creator gave Jesus the opportunity to invite others to know him too.Great God, thank you for your constant provision, and forgive me when I fail to see your grace and mercy in the everyday rhythms of life. Thank you also for your Son, Christ Jesus, and for the life you provide through him for us all. Amen.
He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing. — Deuteronomy 10:18Many people are blessed with a relational safety net—a means of protection when they face a sudden tragedy or unexpected loss. Parents or guardians and other family members are often seen in this way. When we know we have access to that kind of security, everyday life can seem easier and less stressful.But some people do not have those types of relationships. What’s more, there may be several reasons why a person might face unfortunate circumstances. We can imagine a person who, after the death of a spouse or partner, is experiencing loneliness or the fear of having an increasingly isolated life. Or perhaps we can imagine the trauma of a teenage child who loses a parent—and their life is suddenly changed forever. Maybe you know someone with a story like that—or maybe something like that has happened to you.Wherever you are and whoever you are, God has mercy on you. And no matter what you’re going through, God sees you. God is there to defend you, protect you, clothe you in righteousness, and nourish you with the bread of life, which is Christ Jesus.Mighty King, have mercy on everyone who is hungry for physical and relational nourishment. Protect people who are lonely, and uplift those who cannot stand on their own. Spirit, use us also in whatever ways we can help to provide safety for others in need. Amen.
The Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. — Psalm 145:14The psalmist describes the immeasurable size and scope of God’s kingdom. There is no beginning or end to the Lord’s reign or to his ruling power. With that sort of status, it’s difficult to imagine how God has the time to look after all the things happening in our universe, let alone the things happening in our lives.An advocate is a person who publicly supports another person—at times standing beside them when things get tough. Advocates come in many different forms: from lawyers and legal counselors to teachers and coaches to parents and friends. Regardless of the relationship, an advocate stands by a person as a way to show support and solidarity. The psalmist also points out that the Lord picks us up when we fall and builds us up when we feel unworthy.Does this mean God has to pause or stop the hands of time in order to help catch our stumbling feet? And does he do it while rolling his eyes? Not at all. As our advocate, God faithfully supports us, especially when we need it most. God’s character is not dependent on our ability, and in him our status as people called and adopted by the King is already fully established.Merciful Lord, thank you for lifting us up when we fail, and for holding us up when we feel weak. We know that in our weakness your strength is perfect, so we continue to humble ourselves before your goodness and kindness. Amen.
The Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. — Isaiah 30:18I often picture God sitting on an ornate throne made of rare metals, adorned with priceless jewels, and upholstered in the finest fabric. Some Bible passages portray God in a similar way.But, what if, for a moment, we close our eyes, quiet our souls, and imagine God differently? What if God—still in all his glory and splendor—isn’t sitting in lavishness associated with royalty but instead is sitting at the corner booth in a local coffee shop, or on the couch in your family room, eagerly waiting for you? What if God, who is so excited to see you, leaps from his seated position and embraces you like a friend who longs to hear how you are doing and what you have been up to? What if God, in both his divine and human nature, gives you his undivided attention as you share with him your life, your story, your joys, and your concerns? What if . . . ?How do you see God today? Or, maybe a better question: How do you need to see God today? The beauty of God is that he is not only the King of all creation but also the attentive friend who is always near.Gracious God, thank you for being the ruler of all things and the dear friend who is always present with us. Thank you for the ways you show your compassion, and help us today to share that same care with the people you place on our path. Amen.
The Spirit you received . . . brought about your adoption. . . . And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” — Romans 8:15Belonging to something bigger or greater than ourselves is something that nearly everyone wants. We experience moments of belonging at concerts, or sporting events, or community gatherings. In those moments we can feel like a member of our favorite musical group or like a player for our favorite sports team. We feel connected as we share stories with our neighbors and friends. We feel seen. We feel heard. We feel accepted. We may even feel loved.God has a similar desire for us—he wants us to feel that we belong to him. God longs for us to feel connected to him, to be satisfied in knowing that he sees, hears, and accepts us. The difference, though, in belonging to God begins with his unconditional love and care for us. That kind of love happens when we accept and embrace that God’s love for us is so great and grand that he wants to satisfy our greatest desire of belonging by adopting us into his family and calling us his own. As a part of God’s eternal family, we are seen, we are heard, we are accepted, and we are loved by the unconditional love of our heavenly Father.Father God, thank you for adopting me into your family, and for satisfying my desire to belong to something greater. Help me today to show that same kind of love to others so that they may know you also. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
You know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free. — Ephesians 6:8I live on a continent that is familiar with colonialism. For centuries, many African countries were ruled by outside powers. We have experienced tyranny, exploitation, and slavery. Unfortunately, independence has not automatically made us better rulers. Too often, having power has led to dominating, intimidating, taking advantage of, and even abusing the weak.Power is a tricky thing for us all. Since the fall into sin, we have had a problem with power. Once we have power, we are almost always tempted to abuse it to the detriment of others. This is not a new problem. The Psalms are filled with complaints over injustice and abuse of power, and the Bible bears witness to how fiercely God responds to such evil. Instead, God calls us to a different way. If God gives us more privilege, power, or resources, he calls us to use these things to care for others and to protect the weak. If you are a Christian and have power or privilege in your life, use it wisely. Maybe you have been placed in a high position or have simply been born in a country with ample resources. Whatever the case, think about how you can show gratitude to God by using your influence and resources wisely. Everyone is created in God’s image. By valuing everyone, we honor our Creator. We are called to exercise authority with humility and to steward our resources with a spirit of service.Lord Jesus, help us to follow you, humbly using power and influence for the flourishing of others. Amen.
Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. — Ephesians 6:5Many people around the world fall prey to the message of the prosperity gospel. It claims that all who believe in Jesus will experience social and economic prosperity. It’s tempting to believe this message—that a good Christian will always be the head and never the tail, the leader and never the follower, the rich person and never the poor. But the apostle Paul dispels that view of prosperity. He bears witness to the reality of the early church. Despite being children of God, there were still many Christians who were called to serve their fellow believers or even unbelievers—and some of them in that day were slaves. Paul urges them, in every situation, to serve their leaders wholeheartedly, with devotion, as if they were serving the Lord himself.Paul, it would seem, is telling us that prosperity or success is not about having the most power or money or influence. Instead, we prosper through living a life of sincere Christian service. Working conscientiously for a boss or leader is a good thing when we do it for the right reason and in the right spirit. We should not work hard merely to reap the rewards of money and power; nor should we work hard at the expense of also serving our brothers and sisters. How are you serving God in your work and daily tasks? How do you work differently because of your faith in Jesus?Heavenly Father, turn my eyes to you so that I may learn to serve others humbly in all the areas of my life for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. — Ephesians 6:4A child is a gift from God. However, many parents are overwhelmed when they learn that parenthood comes with great responsibility. Parents must nurture and care for children physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Children grow up to be mature and independent people. And parents and caregivers are tasked with being their first guides in life. An African proverb says that a child is raised by two voices: a bass voice and a soprano voice. This refers to a child’s need for both limits and love. Giving your child freedom can be an act of love, but it can be cruel if you do not also give your child the security and structure they need. On the other hand, subjecting a child to endless rules without grace is also a costly mistake. Raising children with loveless limits can make them bitter, and Paul warns parents against that. What's more, that kind of parenting can cause children to have a distorted image of God, their heavenly Father. Were you raised in a home with too many rules and lacking love and grace? Many of us know the bitterness that can cause, but the good news is that we can find healing in God, our perfect parent. As believers, we must not forget the high voice and the low voice, the love and the limits of the Christian life. Parents can depend on the heavenly Father and lean into the support of the community of believers, talking with each other and with their children—all along the way as they grow.Holy Spirit, guide us in raising young people in the grace and truth of our Lord Jesus. Amen.
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. — Ephesians 6:1We are currently experiencing a crisis of authority in Africa. In my country, the younger generation criticizes the older generation because conditions are often so bad. Many young people are more aware of their rights, which is a good thing—but they are often less willing to fulfill their duties. And for this reason the future does not look good. Such generational issues probably exist outside of Africa as well. And Paul’s words here have much wisdom for young Christians everywhere.For any of you in the younger generation, it is important to know that it is a great privilege to be a Christian. Paul is addressing you here, because you belong to the body of Christ. As young believers, you share in all the glorious promises of God. You are part of the church, and you have a special place in it. You have much to teach the church, and also much to learn and grow in—as do we all.Obedience to your parents is a good thing—even a blessing, says Paul. Respect for parents fosters learning and flourishing between the generations. In fact, we are all called to obey our parents, regardless of our age. If you are young, or not so young anymore, how might God be calling you to improve your relationships with your parents or older friends? How might the Holy Spirit work through all our relationships with parents and older believers?Holy Spirit, help us to grow in unity as a body of believers, young and old, called to be your witness in the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. . . . — Ephesians 5:25In many parts of Africa women are dependent on their husbands in all respects. As you can imagine, this can lead to serious abuses of power by a husband. But, globally, society is changing. More and more women are becoming independent. They might have a paying job or be able to receive advanced training. However, even these advances for women can cause negative impacts. Some men who are afraid of losing their traditional role have become bitter and have resorted to violence against their wives. It is not easy to live as a Christian in a changing society. But Paul’s instructions here still apply today. Every woman is worthy of the love of God, and God calls husbands to love their wives just as Christ loves the church. A husband must love his wife selflessly. Christ is not only our example in how to love others, but he is also our strength. Unfortunately, all over the world there are husbands who mistreat their wives and are violent toward them. Sometimes they even do this with an appeal to the Bible. But violent behavior is contrary to God’s Word. God calls all of us to humbly love and to lead as a servant, just as Jesus did. Any other way leads to authoritarian excesses.Think about how you love and lead others in your life. Is it based in God’s Word? Let us look to the Lord Jesus as an unmoving example of how to treat one another. Lord Jesus, thank you for your example. Fill us with the grace and humility to live and love as you have done. Amen.
Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. — Ephesians 5:21-22Paul starts this section with a command: submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. And this connects with family life, which is not yet perfect—for although, as Christians, we already belong to the kingdom of God, we still live in a broken world.The family is the ideal place to learn about life. Through family relationships we can learn love, respect, obedience, and gratitude. So the Bible places great importance on the husband-wife relationship. Echoing his opening command, Paul states that women are to submit to their husbands. The motivation here is not submission based on fear, but submission that flows from one’s submission to the Lord. Children who grow up with parents who submit to one another out of reverence for Christ will be more likely to approach their relationships with this Christlike posture. And this posture has the power to make a real impact on the children’s lives and on society in general.It cannot be overstated, however, that Paul is not calling wives to blind, forced submission. He is instead calling women to freely submit out of reverence to the Lord. What does this kind of submission to one another look like? How is Christ’s model a guide for us? In Christ we can choose to submit to one another in ways that encourage the flourishing of all family members as well as the church.Spirit, guide us in how to live in submission to one another out of reverence for Christ. Amen.
Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord. . . . — Ephesians 5:18-19When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we begin to notice the fruit of the Spirit in ourselves. One of the Spirit’s fruits is joy—a deep sense of contentment and gratitude in all things, even when life’s circumstances are difficult. The early church had a rich practice of rejoicing through song: Paul indicates that they sang psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to the Lord with all their hearts.What kinds of songs do you sing in your congregation? Psalms? Hymns? Songs from the Spirit? Why do you do this? And how does it affect your faith and life?In singing, we express our gratitude to God for his great deeds, and we receive God’s grace and edification in return. We bring God an offering of praise, but at the same time we hear him speaking to us and encouraging us. One could even say that singing praises to God can function similarly to prayer. Like prayer, singing can both support our individual faith formation as well as our corporate worship and fellowship with one another. When we sing together about the goodness and grace of our triune God, we grow in connection as a body of believers. How does singing help you to express your gratitude to God? What psalm, hymn, or spiritual song has been particularly formative in your faith?Holy Spirit, fill me with joy, that I may sing songs of praise today. Let everything that has breath join me in praising the Lord! Amen.
Do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. . . . — Ephesians 5:17-18People who do not know Christ have no heavenly hope. Without hope, it can be tempting to live in unhealthy ways that cause harm and can even be deadly. The Bible warns against drunkenness, for example. Drinking heavily can be a temptation for believers as well as nonbelievers.But God calls believers to wise living in the Spirit. When our hope is in Christ, we look forward to a heavenly feast, and the Holy Spirit confirms this hope. Through the Spirit we can already taste in our present lives the fruits of joy, peace, and love.When we allow ourselves to be filled by the Spirit on a daily basis, we can grow in the Spirit’s fruitbearing and guard against despair or boredom, which can lead to all sorts of excesses. People who drink too much wine or other alcohol detach themselves in a totally wrong way. But by the Spirit of God we can detach ourselves from ourselves in a way that is perfectly good. As Paul writes, we are to “be filled with the Spirit.”Every believer is called to desire that filling daily. This is a privilege that we can and should seize. Otherwise the danger is that we will exhaust ourselves by trying to live as good Christians on our own. Real Christian living is impossible without the influence of the Spirit.Spirit of God, thank you for entering our lives as the promised counselor. Guide us so that we may bear the fruit of a life filled with you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. — Ephesians 5:15-16The apostle Paul urges Christians to live a life of wisdom and self-control. All Christians are called to be holy people in a fallen world, and times are often hard. A Christian must be recognized by wise living. Life is short, and God calls us to live for him. He is the Lord, our Creator, and we are his. God calls us to make the most of our time—that is, to make the best use of it. Time is one of the precious gifts God has entrusted to us, so it is our responsibility to manage it well.In some evangelical churches in Africa, and perhaps also in Europe, Christians are encouraged to wait passively for the things of heaven. They think their responsibility is limited to praying, praying, and praying more. With that type of attitude, their responsibility is not sufficiently called upon. But with God's help, we can make the most of our time, in a good way, by thinking carefully about how we want to use our hours, whether it’s in our work, in needed rest or relaxation, or in giving time to others. All of these things contribute to the coming of the kingdom of God.What would be the consequences of misusing our time? Why is a good use of time an important aspect of our faith? How can we help young people in this regard?Father in heaven, everything we have is a gift from you, including our time. Help us to make the most of every opportunity and to honor you in the process. Amen.
Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. — Ephesians 5:8-10Every year at Christmastime we celebrate the birth of the Savior with many lights. These lights illuminate our streets, trees, and houses. In some places people light special decorations as well.Why do we celebrate Christmas with so many lights? Because the baby Jesus was himself the light. When he came to earth, he became a light for people who were walking in darkness. And we are part of that group of people. Just as the great light of the sun literally illuminates us, Christ—the Son of God—figuratively illuminates the world so that the darkness is dispelled.In him we also become light, called to shine. The fruits of light are all kinds of goodness, justice, and truth. And the absence of these things is what makes our world so sad and dark in many places. In order to shine the light ourselves—and not just at Christmastime!—all we have to do is walk in the light of Christ, following him. He then shines through us.As you think about shining in the world around you, consider this question: How much light is needed in your school or workplace? How do you, as a follower of Christ, provide good influence to the people around you because you walk in the light?Light of life, thank you for coming into the darkness of our world. By your Spirit, help me to walk in the light so that others may see you in me. In your name, Amen.
Among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. — Ephesians 5:3One major difficulty for many believers is to try to live up to the Bible’s high standard for purity. The morals of the societies we live in—along with the internet and other media—do not make it easy to live God’s way. In Africa, many of my fellow believers are first-generation Christians in our families. We are often the children of our father's second or third wife. My own father, for example, married nearly ten wives, and my mother was his second wife. As you can see, the way sexuality was treated in my family is extremely different from what I read in the Bible.Yet Paul says that Christians must not have even a hint of sexual immorality, other impurity, or greed. Here Paul is addressing the desires of our hearts. What drives you? What is most important to you? What is your greatest desire? Does it match with what God’s Word calls you to be?Our view of sexuality, and of desires in general, must be constantly renewed in a personal relationship with the Lord and his Word. This is true for all Christians, no matter where we live. The apostle reminds us that we are holy through our union with Christ. And, as a result, we are called to new life that is marked with a deep desire for God’s kingdom.Dear Father, thank you for making us holy through your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to live for you in the choices we make, following the instructions in your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. — Ephesians 5:1-2John teaches that “God is love.” One of the clearest ways God has shown his love to us has been through sending Jesus to us. And it’s important to note when God did this: “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).God wants us to reflect the love he has shown to us as we interact with the people around us. As John puts it, “Since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” Likewise, Paul calls us to “follow God’s example” by showing love to all people.In some ways, love is what makes Christianity special. Other religions seem to focus more on obedience or a system of rewards for certain actions. And human reason cannot make sense of the focus on love. Loving actions that reflect the love of God can be so contrary to corrupt human reason. Our hearts are used to a quid pro quo—I’ll do this because you did that. Following that system, love is merely earned and not a gift. But if God's love had to be earned, none of us could ever be loved. Christian love is free; it is expensive for the one who offers it, but not for the one who receives it.Whom is God calling you to love today?Father, thank you for showing your love to us in Christ Jesus—while we were sinners! This is good news for our weary hearts. Give us the grace to show love to everyone around us. Amen.
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. — Ephesians 4:32Nelson Mandela courageously fought against apartheid in South Africa. His actions led to wrongful convictions and time in prison because of political enemies. As he was leaving prison, he was quoted as saying, “As I stand at the door of my freedom, I realize that if I don't leave my pain, anger, and bitterness behind, I will always be in prison.”Self-imprisonment is worse than the imprisonment that is imposed on you. Many people suffer from self-imposed prisons by refusing to forgive. But the inner walls of anger and resentment do not make us strong; instead, they make us bitter and miserable.When Nelson Mandela later came to power as the president of his country, he did not establish the law of the victor. Rather than seeking revenge against his political enemies, he showed forgiveness to all. The film Invictus, inspired by his actions, shows the power of forgiveness.Jesus teaches us to love our enemies, and he even died for his enemies—that is, all of us. Christ's compassion for us is incomprehensible; he showed it by forgiving us all and dying for us. This love also moves us to forgive others for their faults against us. The Lord can help us to forgive everything.Are you aware of your daily need for God’s forgiveness? Why do you think it’s difficult to forgive others? To whom is God calling you to offer forgiveness today?Father, thank you for the forgiveness you offer us in Christ Jesus. Help us to be gracious, forgiving, and compassionate for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. — Ephesians 4:31The Bible urges us to guard our hearts, for our actions flow from what is in our hearts (Proverbs 4:23). In our reading today, Jesus teaches that whatever fills the heart overflows into our words and actions. He points out that if there is wickedness in our words, that is the result of what is rooted in our hearts.It is so easy to harbor negative or destructive feelings in our hearts. Biblical history is full of stories of bitterness, envy, and anger that caused serious problems in families and among God's people. Cain, Adam's first son, was bitter about how Abel’s offering was received with God’s favor. Rather than dealing with his anger, he let bitterness and envious anger rule his heart. Because he could not quench this fire in his heart, the fruit followed: he committed the first murder (Genesis 4). In another story, Joseph's brothers were so blinded by their jealousy of Joseph that they sold him into slavery (Genesis 37). These are just two examples about anger causing serious problems in people’s lives.In the history of the church, we see divisions without justifiable causes; conflicts and individual interests have often been the root of these problems. As adopted children of God, we are already seated with Christ in heavenly places, but we must daily examine our attitudes and motives to see if our desires match with who we are in Christ.Dear God, please prevent us from harboring bitterness and anger in our hearts. Give us grace to make peace with the people around us. Amen.
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. — Ephesians 4:29A study showed that in order to cancel the devastating effects of one negative word, four positive words need to be spoken. This shows how negative, harsh, and humiliating words can do great damage to human beings. Our passage for today uses vivid imagery to speak about the impact our words can have. Just as a small rudder can steer a ship or a bit can control a horse, so the words of our mouths can make a big difference in life. Further, our speech can have the same effect as a spark: it can cause great destruction! We are encouraged, then, to choose our words carefully and to recognize the impact our speech makes.In Ephesians 4, Paul provides similar teaching about positive language; we are called to build others up and speak in a way that helps the people who hear our words.Children are often the first victims of negative language. I grew up in a family in which my mother was often beaten harshly by her husband, my adoptive father. The demeaning words he used against her continue to haunt me, and they come back in my dreams. Thankfully, the love of Jesus has healed much of this trauma, and by grace I am able to show love to my family.As we reflect on the power of words, let’s consider how—with the Spirit’s help—we can bring healing for people who have faced trauma.Lord, help us to be people marked by kind, uplifting, gracious, and healing words. Amen.
Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. — Ephesians 4:28Everyone knows what stealing is, and in all cultures stealing is considered shameful and unacceptable. In my local context, a thief who is caught may be beaten by an angry mob. Things may be different in other countries of the world, but the verdict on a thief is often harsh and negative.The Bible teaches that stealing is not limited to deliberately taking something from another person. In the Old Testament the Lord makes clear that stealing is not only about taking money or things but also about depriving people of money or help when they are entitled to it. Stealing can take many forms: withholding a worker's wages, not paying tithes and offerings, or depriving the poor, widowed, or orphaned of the help they need. Stealing happens actively and passively. Active theft is shameful, and few people do it. But who can claim to be innocent of passive theft? We like to think of help to the poor, to prisoners, to the sick, to strangers—and more—as charity, not as an obligation or as a call to justice. But Paul reminds us that the wealth we earn isn’t just for our families; we are called to share generously with people in need.Who are some of the most generous people in your life? What traits and values characterize them? How can we share with others in new and creative ways?Lord Jesus, thank you for your generous gift of eternal life. Guide us to be people marked by generosity, pointing others to you. Amen.
“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. — Ephesians 4:26-27The Mossi make up the largest people group in Burkina Faso, where I live. They have a strict concept of self-control. They say that a leader—or any real man—should never laugh but always be serious. This notion is passed on through the generations. Fathers do not congratulate their children. If a father is proud of his child, he must hide it so that the child does not relax and take life too easily. It is believed that being strict with children trains them to be strong.Fortunately the Bible is more realistic and balanced about self-control. It even teaches that it’s okay to be angry—but if you don't control your anger, you will end up sinning. The consequences of uncontrolled anger are many and damaging. Anger is not good for our self-esteem, and it grieves the Holy Spirit within us. In addition, there are often victims. Most violence begins with uncontrolled anger.In this broken world, relationships are precious and vulnerable. But anger can enter in and give the devil a foothold.How have you learned to control your anger? The healing power of forgiveness is an amazing antidote. Forgiveness restores relationships and gives them a new chance. How is God calling you to help people who struggle with anger or are victims of it?Father, you have shown us mercy and grace instead of being angry with us. Help us not to sin in our anger; instead, let us be people of your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. — Ephesians 4:25Social media has changed our world. Even in Burkina Faso, a fairly isolated country, the internet has made it much easier for people to connect with the rest of the world. This was a tremendous benefit during the COVID-19 crisis.But there is another side to the use of the internet. Social media has had negative effects on society and even on faith. Sharing information and rumors—often from questionable sources—has become easy and very tempting. Many people in Africa, including Christians, are doing this. We especially like to share news about scandals, dramas, and conspiracies. We might think that these kinds of things are so common that they are harmless. But sharing false information is the same as lying.I find it fascinating that Paul gives the following reason to speak truthfully: we are all members of one body. Each body part affects the whole body. So if believers in Christ spread misinformation, we reduce the truthfulness of the church. Christians are then seen as untrustworthy, and this dishonors Christ and ultimately harms our ability to be taken seriously when we share the good news of Jesus.Christians are called to live by the truth. That doesn't mean you have to stay away from social media. It means you must follow Jesus, who says, “I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). Let's look for ways to make that resonate in the social media world. Holy Spirit, let us be people marked by the truth. And may the truth reach many people with the gospel. Amen.
Each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor. . . . — Ephesians 4:25Our readings for today instruct us to be honest with the people in our lives. Jesus speaks about this in terms of keeping oaths, and Paul urges us to speak truthfully. These teachings remind me of two situations in my context.In Burkina Faso, it is not easy to say “no” to others because that is seen as showing disrespect. So a “yes” can mean yes or no; only the person answering knows what the “yes” means. So we say “yes” even if it is actually no. But instead we must learn to say “no” with love. We must also learn to accept it when another person says “no.” Otherwise, relationships become unreal and hypocritical because we are not able to provide clear answers to each other.Similarly, we have what we call “African time.” This means that people can arrive between fifteen minutes to an hour after the agreed time without any problem. This may seem like a blessing and relief to someone who is hurried and stressed, but it frustrates and disadvantages people who are punctual.If we hide the truth from others, that is lying. In other situations, we might also be ashamed of our actions, so we might try to cover them up with lies. But telling the truth means giving correct information, keeping our word, fulfilling obligations, and being punctual. It means not making promises we cannot keep. How can you “speak truthfully” to the people in your culture and life today?Lord, we want to be people of truth. Help us to be honest with you, ourselves, and others. Amen.
Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. — Ephesians 4:24At the invitation of a French church, one of my colleagues was able to travel to Europe. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for him, but the very long flight was rather difficult for him. He was thirsty and hungry, and yet he refused any food or drink from the flight attendants. The reason? He thought he would have to pay a lot of money for the food, and he had no extra money with him. He didn’t realize the food was already included in the price of the flight. Many Christians are like my colleague. They do not realize that the price has already been paid. As Christians, we are—so to speak—in a new system. We are no longer prisoners of our old lives. Every child of God has a new life in Jesus Christ. We have entered a new reality. In Christ, your old life has been put to death, and you are called into new life. You have received a new nature, conformed to Christ and pleasing to God.This is good news for us all. Instead of feeling weak and powerless against our sinful nature, we can live into the new reality that Christ has paid for everything we need in order to be saved to new life. By the power of the Holy Spirit, we can live grateful lives that are filled with God’s righteousness and holiness.Heavenly Father, sometimes I fail to remember how great your grace is in my life. Forgive me for those times, and give me the grace to embrace my new identity as your child. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. — Ephesians 4:17In some translations of the Bible, this passage tells us not to live “as the pagans do.” That term “pagans” might make you think of primitive tribes, with idols and all sorts of superstitions and outdated religious rites. But Paul thinks differently. In this passage, “pagans,” or “Gentiles,” are people who get stuck in idle thoughts and unrestrained behaviors associated with greed. The idols of these people are mainly in their own hearts.This problem is subtle; it hides behind all sorts of modern-day expectations and appearances. The behaviors associated with greed are complacency, the need to be in the limelight, material comforts, popularity, fashion, freedom, and more. And all of these are idols.When Israel entered the land of Canaan, God warned them not to imitate the neighboring peoples in their pagan behaviors (Deuteronomy 8:17-20). And Jesus prayed for his disciples, knowing they were still in the world but “not of the world” (John 17:16). In Ephesians, Paul reminds us again that the Lord calls us to follow him and to leave our old, pagan ways behind.What types of idols call out to your heart today? How can the community around you—your school, church, or family—help you to live a different life for Jesus?Dear Lord, thank you for calling us into new life with you. Please protect us from the idols of our hearts. Help us to be your faithful followers. Amen.
From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. — Ephesians 4:16Our body is controlled by our head (not the other way around). Our head is the coordinating center of our body.It’s the same way with the church, which is called the body of Christ. We draw our strength from Christ, our head. “Remain in me,” he says; “apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Christ guarantees the survival of his body. Jesus assures us, “I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it” (Matthew 16:18). Jesus is the one who makes each member grow, holds the whole body together, and nourishes all the parts to build each other up.No matter how useful we are, how well we do, or how much we accomplish, we are called to be servants in the body. It is Christ who bears the fruit in us. We don’t seek glory for ourselves; to him alone is the glory.Daily dependence on Christ is vitally important. We will never be competent enough to cope without living daily in communion with him. When the church forgets this principle, it becomes a lifeless body, a religion without a soul.Consider some of the many ways in which you depend on God. What are some ways that God is using you in the church? How can you serve him more faithfully?Dear Jesus, thank you for calling us into a living relationship with you. Help us to remember that we fully rely on you in order to bear fruit. In your name, Amen.
We will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching. . . . — Ephesians 4:14Many societies in the world today tend to neglect elderly people. They often focus on youth, innovation, and the desire to get ahead. Being young is fashionable, and people who can't keep up are often pushed aside.An old African proverb puts it differently: “What an old man can see sitting down, the youth cannot see standing up.” In other words, young people are full of youth and energy, but they don’t have the wisdom that is acquired through experience.Even in the early days of the church there were winds that could blow new believers off course. Ideas, ideals, and ideologies could sway new Christians one way and then another. In order to withstand the storm of doctrines and sort out what is wise from what is foolish, it is important to become mature. An immature Christian may be joyful and full of energy but can also be unstable and undiscerning. Mature Christians confess the truth in love while continuing to grow. They know that love and truth, doctrine and life, grace and holiness go hand in hand and should not be separated. It is wonderful to be able to grow in this way. All of us continue to grow in faith, no matter how long we have followed Jesus.In what ways can you keep growing in spiritual maturity? How is God calling you to support and encourage the next generation of believers?Lord, help us to speak and live by the truth in love, helping others to grow in faith. Amen.
Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service. . . . — Ephesians 4:11-12Theologians sometimes speak about a difference between the church on earth and the church in heaven. Christ has triumphed over his enemies and is seated victoriously in heaven, and the church is there with him. Yet the church on earth must still face struggles and spiritual battles. We still have to learn, to train during the struggle, and to strive to reach the calling we have from Christ. How does the Lord Jesus help us in this?In Ephesians 4, the apostle Paul helps us to see that Jesus gives us people with particular callings, particular ministries. He has given us the apostles and prophets as a foundation for the church. We have their words with us in the Bible. In addition, he gives us people who proclaim the gospel: evangelists, pastors, and teachers. All of these callings equip and build up believers.So if church pastors or other leaders focus on reputation, influence, or income, they lose sight of what they are called to do. They should be characterized by selflessness and willingness to serve. Being humble and gentle, as Paul noted at the beginning of Ephesians 4, is especially true for pastors, who are given authority to lead in the church.What particular service are you called to in the church? How do you keep your motivations in check so that you can serve the body of Christ as you are called to do?Lord, thank you for the many gifts and callings you have given us in the church. Help us to serve you faithfully. Amen.
He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe. — Ephesians 4:10An African proverb says, “If a blind man says he will throw a stone at you, he probably has his foot on one.” In other words, don't underestimate the danger of a threat. When someone says something like that, you should be aware of the possibility of harm.Something similar is happening in this world. The gospel of Jesus Christ may seem powerless, like a blind man. But make no mistake: the reality is different! By his death on the cross, Christ has put Satan to shame and has stripped away the power that sin had over us. Christ, having received all authority (Matthew 28:18), has poured it out on his disciples. As followers of Jesus, we have received power from the Holy Spirit, through whom we reign with him. We are united with Christ in his victory, so we too are powerful.Christ has overcome, and we are therefore overcomers—but not by ourselves, for this is a gift. Christ's victory makes us rulers with him. It is important to recognize that we have this position in life. The Spirit in the church is proof of Christ's victory.How are you demonstrating the power of the Holy Spirit in your life today? How is God calling you into servant leadership with the gifts he has given? Receive the Holy Spirit, and ask God for help in using the gifts he has given you.Dear Jesus, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Thank you for the great gifts the Spirit has given us. Help us to demonstrate your power and love to the people around us. In your name, Amen.
To each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. — Ephesians 4:7A story is told in Africa about a proud politician. This senior official had his own driver but did not treat him well. On a business trip he stopped at a restaurant and enjoyed a full meal, but he left his driver outside. On the way to a meeting afterward, the hungry driver decided to teach his boss a lesson. He turned off the car’s engine and pretended the battery was dead. “I guess we’ll have to push the car,” the driver said. After they pushed the car a short distance, the driver said he would try to start the engine again, and it started. The sweaty politician learned that his driver was important too: he needed him in order to go places and to get there on time.This story includes some important reminders for the church. No member is more important than the others, and each one has gifts from God that can bless others. In the church, there are often people who think they have not received any special gifts from God. They think they have little or nothing to contribute. But that is a mistake. Another mistake is for people to think they don't need others or the gifts they can share. But God has given us many gifts and abilities, and we depend on each other in many ways.What have you received from the Lord that you can share with others? And with what gifts from God have others blessed you?Father, all that we have is a gift from you. Help us not to be proud of what we have or too proud to receive from others. Give us humble and gracious hearts. Amen.
There is . . . one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. — Ephesians 4:4-6Citizens of the same country have many things in common. For example, they share the same territory, language, and history. In a similar way Christians are one in Christ. We are united spiritually with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. In terms of doctrine, we are united by the same confession: the same faith, the same hope, the same baptism. And in day-to-day life we as Christians are called to demonstrate this unity.Rather than focusing on differences, which are only of minor importance, Paul lays the foundation for our unity. We have all been baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We profess the truths that Jesus lived among us, died on the cross, and rose from the dead. Our lives are led by the same Lord. As Christians, we share the same hope of living in the fullness of joy in Christ forever. As Christians, we are filled with the same Spirit, through whom we cry, “Abba, Father” (Romans 8:15-16). Let us therefore make this unity visible. When we are focused on the things that bind us together, we can live in unity and maintain the bond of peace. Where might there be differences in your family, church, and community? How can you emphasize what you have in common rather than what your differences are? What can you do to foster Christian unity despite the differences?Father God, you call us to one common faith. Help us, your church, to strive for unity and to live for you. Amen.
There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called. . . . — Ephesians 4:4On August 4, 1983, Thomas Sankara, a young military captain, and his supporters took power in the country of Upper Volta and renamed it Burkina Faso. Four years later he was assassinated. He left no property or money. His legacy was the example of one who loved his country, served it with self-sacrifice, and treated women, children, and farmers with dignity. Today he is still an example for millions of young people in Africa: a leader who wanted to serve his brothers and sisters. He loved his country with all his heart. He also fought for African unity.In some ways this young leader’s example reminds me of the only man who lived to serve, Jesus Christ. Our Lord prayed that his church would be united, that all who believe in him would be one. In that way the church can be a unified body. Even though it has many members, it is one because all have the same Spirit and the same hope. The unity of the church is the foundation for serving one another. Just as all the parts of a physical body work together for the good of the whole body, so the members of the church serve each other. We don’t reject or compete with each other; we complement one another.What obstacles might your congregation be facing in terms of unity? How can you and your family promote the unity of the body of Christ?Lord of the church, we thank you for giving your life so that we can have life. Help us to promote unity in the church today, serving you and one another. Amen.
Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. — Ephesians 4:3Many countries in West Africa have been dealing with armed conflict in recent years. Even so, peace is deeply rooted in our traditions. In the past, each community had an official conciliator, the blacksmith. He was believed to be a mediator between the world of the living and the spirit world—and also between people themselves. If the blacksmith intervened in a conflict, the hostilities would stop.Paul urges us as followers of Christ to “keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” As Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” When we strive to live together in peace, the Spirit brings unity, but each of us can promote unity or destroy it. The unity of the church and of society must be preserved by the bond of peace. In Christ we have found peace with God; he came to save us even though we were his enemies (Romans 5:8-11). Jesus is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), and he invites us to make peace in his name.The people around us will not always be nice, fair, or do what is right. But even then, our role is to bring peace. We do this in our families, our churches, and wherever we spend our workdays. In this way we can help to make our world a place that reflects more of the values of God’s kingdom. In what ways can you make peace in complicated relationships?Prince of Peace, thank you for bringing us peace with God. Help us to bring peace to the people around us. Amen.
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. — Ephesians 4:2In Jesus’ day people despised the local tax collectors for collaborating with the Romans, who had taken over their nation. The tax collectors could also overcharge people in order to pay themselves, so they often got rich at the expense of their local community.When Jesus came to visit, he shocked Zacchaeus, the local tax collector, and everyone in the crowd by inviting himself to stay at Zacchaeus’s house. In this way Jesus showed Zacchaeus great honor and respect, and that turned Zacchaeus’s life around. The tax collector stood up and acknowledged his wrongdoing, made amends, and gave half of his wealth to the poor. What joy in the city of Jericho!Zacchaeus met grace in the person of Jesus, who accepted and honored him instead of rejecting him. He was overwhelmed and humbled, and immediately he became generous to the people around him.In Ephesians, Paul invites us to live a life that responds to God’s grace. He calls Christians to be humble, gentle, and patient. As people who have received generous grace, we are called to live gracious lives. God's grace to us fuels us to show grace and generosity to others. How does the grace you receive affect your relationships with the people around you? What can you do to show humility and gentleness in your relationships at home, at work or school, and in the church?Jesus, thank you for showing us grace despite our many sins. By your Spirit, empower us to show grace to everyone we meet today. Amen.
I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. — Ephesians 4:1I live in the country of Burkina Faso. In Sabou, a village west of the capital, Ouagadougou, the crocodiles are considered sacred. No one in the village kills them, and the crocodiles never attack the villagers. This relationship is so reliable that tourists can take pictures sitting on the crocodiles of Sabou without risk of injury. A traditional story explains this relationship between the villagers and the crocodiles. It is said that a crocodile once saved the life of the village ancestor. In gratitude, this man ordered his descendants never to harm the crocodile, and this tradition is still alive. In other words, the man was so filled with gratitude for his life that he committed to honor and protect the crocodile.Throughout this month we will focus on the theme of gratitude as we reflect on passages in the book of Ephesians. In chapters 1-3 the apostle Paul shows how we were dead in our sins and how God—in his mercy—has given us new life in Christ by pure grace. Then in chapter 4, Paul urges us to respond with gratitude to this good news. How can we show appreciation for the gift of new life that God has made possible for us? And, like the village ancestor, how can we show our children and others around us how to live in gratitude?Gracious God, we thank you for the great gift of salvation in Jesus Christ. Thank you for showing us mercy and grace. Help us to live thankfully and to share this good news with our families, neighbors, friends, and others everywhere. Amen.
We are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses. . . . — Hebrews 12:1This month we have focused on serving as Jesus’ witnesses. Jesus ended his ministry on earth by commissioning his followers to be his witnesses in their immediate area, in the surrounding regions, and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8).Hebrews 12 offers some helpful encouragement in this work. In the previous chapter, Hebrews 11, the writer has listed examples of faithful followers of the Lord from early times—Noah, Abraham, Moses, Rahab, and many, many more. They all lived as faithful witnesses of God and of the ways God worked in their lives. Then in Hebrews 12 we are told that these souls make up a great cloud of witnesses who cheer us on as we serve the Lord today.One person in that cloud is Johanna Veenstra. More than a hundred years ago, Johanna—a woman in her twenties who was part of my church—went to serve as a missionary to the African country of Nigeria. Today there are more than 700,000 followers of Jesus in our partner church in that country. And, of course, there are even more in other Christian denominations!We see the power of faithful witnesses all around the world. The gospel is bearing fruit on every continent. You and I, wherever we find ourselves, are invited to fix our eyes on Jesus and run the same race. May God bless and equip each one of us to be his faithful witnesses!Jesus, thank you for the cloud of witnesses who cheer us on. Help us, we pray, to be your faithful witnesses always. Amen.
“The city streets will be filled with boys and girls playing there.” — Zechariah 8:5The Sabbath day is a good time to be reminded of the importance of play. While our work and service are important in life, play is also important for the health of our body and spirit.Awhile ago I visited a Central American country with a group of ministry leaders. We toured a number of ministry sites to see how God was at work. One site was a reclaimed sports and recreation area: a soccer pitch stood on land that had once been used as a garbage dump. As we listened to the story about this redeemed piece of land, some young women showed up in their soccer uniforms for practice. Soon afterward, someone came over and told us in Spanish that the soccer players wanted to challenge us to a match. Game on! We didn’t have the right clothes or shoes and we couldn’t speak the language, but we had a great time of fun and laughter.We were also aware that these young women lived difficult lives, facing many obstacles from poverty to injustice in their society. But in that brief time of play, we experienced community and connection in a profound way.Examples like this can also be an expression of our Christian faith. God delights in us and in his world. We are invited to do the same. Can you find some time to both worship and play today?God, thank you for creating us to both work and play. Help us to be serious about both of these gifts. Grace us also with times of delight and laughter. Amen.
She said to herself, “If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed.” — Matthew 9:21I am part of a group of pastors who gather each year for a retreat. Our routine is always the same: we grab breakfast in a local diner, play some pick-up hockey at the local rink, and then spend the rest of the day sharing stories and praying for each other.This year, when we had eaten our breakfast and were preparing to leave, it was clear that our waitress had figured out from our conversation that we are Christians. She stopped us at our table and said, “Before you go, I need you to pray for me. Tomorrow, I am quitting smoking once and for all, and I know I can’t do it by myself. Please ask God to help me.”So, we gathered around her and prayed fervently for her freedom. I don’t know the rest of the story, but I do know that Jesus was present with her and that he longs to set his children free.This kind of thing was common in the ministry of Jesus. People sensed that he could help them with their day-to-day struggles. Like the woman in our Scripture passage for today, they were willing to do whatever it took to grab hold of Jesus and be healed.May the people around us sense that same power and love of Jesus. And may we have the courage to pray for healing.Lord, thank you for the reminder that you minister among us in powerful ways. Heal the broken places in our lives, and hear our prayers for the hurting people we encounter. Amen.
Then Philip . . . told him the good news about Jesus. — Acts 8:35Valerie sat in my study for the first time. With excitement, she introduced herself and said, “I have met God, and he has changed my life.” But then she asked me the question that was on her heart: “But who is Jesus? I need to know.”She went on to share how she had been set free from a long struggle with addiction through Alcoholics Anonymous, where her desperate prayers to God had been remarkably answered. A conversation with her doctor led her to realize that this was the God of the Bible. And that’s why she came with her question to me, her doctor’s pastor. God had set her free, but she was hungry to know more. So we talked.We talked about the Bible and the good news it reveals about God's love for a broken and rebellious world. We discussed how Jesus is the full expression of God’s love and forgiveness. With Jesus, there can always be a brand-new start and a lifelong journey of growing in faith, hope, and love.Wonderfully, Valerie came to embrace Jesus as her Lord and Savior. As a song puts it, we are blessed that God “is mighty to save.” This is the power of the gospel.Who is Jesus? Whatever you might be facing today, know that Jesus is your Savior, Lord, and friend.Dear God, reveal yourself to us today. May we experience the life-giving power of Jesus in all the broken places of our lives. Amen.
“Young man, I say to you, ‘Get up!’” — Luke 7:14I am not a morning person. I wish I were. I have learned to get up early out of necessity, but it takes some time and coffee to get me going.In our reading from Luke 7 today, we see a remarkable awakening. A young man has died. Jesus sees the funeral procession, and his heart goes out to the young man’s mother, who is also a widow. He walks up to the funeral stretcher and says, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” Jesus uses a Greek word here that literally means “wake up.” Jesus treats the young man as if he is not dead but asleep. And when he wakes up, the young man starts to talk, which seems like a funny detail to include. Maybe he is a morning person! Later in the passage, the same word is used again. The crowd that had seen this miracle declared with awe, “A great prophet has appeared among us.” More literally, this can be translated: “A great prophet has awoken among us!”—meaning that the people could see they were in the presence of someone specially sent by God. They didn’t know much about Jesus yet, but they would soon learn.I don’t know if you are a morning person or not, but here is a helpful prayer we can offer anytime: “Jesus, please awaken me!” Ask the Lord to wake you up to see and care about the people around you.Dear Jesus, as you worked your resurrection power in that young man, will you work the same power in my life and spirit today? Help me to serve you faithfully. Amen.
“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you.” — Acts 1:8A radio show once asked, “If you could choose between having the power of invisibility or flight, which would you choose?” Most answers were not flashy or heroic. Some people said they wanted invisibility so that they could sneak into the movies or onto airplanes. Others said they wanted to be able to fly so that they could stop taking the bus. Almost no one said they would use their power to fight crime or to help others. People weren’t much interested in using their power to make the world a better place.It seems we have a natural tendency to misuse even imaginary power! This is important to think about.In Acts 1:8 Jesus says to us, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you.” This is nothing like any other power, real or imagined. Jesus is speaking of the very power of God himself. It is the same power that spoke creation into existence and raised Jesus from the dead. This power is what brings us from death to eternal life, and it is now at work in us and through us. Jesus gives us this power for a specific purpose: to be his witnesses.The power of the Spirit is not for selfish gain or to make our life easier. Instead, we receive it so that others might encounter the love and forgiveness of Jesus through us. May we steward it well.Lord God, thank you for sacrificing your Son so that your Spirit may live in us. Holy Spirit, work within us so that we can know you better and share your amazing love with others. Amen.
“He has anointed me to proclaim good news. . . .” — Luke 4:18As I sat with a group of pastors in a Central American country, I found myself deeply convicted by their stories. They had come from a tradition that focused on knowing Christ as your personal Lord and Savior. This was a good thing. But as these pastors had worked with our partners in their community, they had also begun to realize that the gospel (the “good news”) is far bigger than individual transformation. The work of Jesus touches every part of our broken world: creation, relationships, justice, finance, political power, and more.As these pastors embraced a wider Christian worldview, their ministries began to change. They invited people to wonder how Jesus might care for the poor and the oppressed people in their midst. They also spoke prophetically against political systems in their country that treated many people unjustly.As these pastors shared about their experiences, I could see the joy in their eyes. But they also spoke of growing persecution. Earlier, no one had cared if they just spoke about having a personal faith. Now that they were calling for the rich to share with the poor, for the powerful to care for the weak, and for the wrongly imprisoned to be set free, they were becoming a threat to the powers in their society.To share the good news means bearing witness that Jesus came to bring peace and to right the wrongs of this hurting world.Jesus, you care for the poor and oppressed; help us to do that as we witness for you. Amen.
“When you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’” — Luke 10:5A few years ago there was a social media trend in which people posted good things about themselves and tagged them with “#blessed.” I did a search of “#blessed” and got 140 million results. Everything from pictures of people holding babies, to nice cars and beaches. And about 100 million selfies.We tend to think of being blessed in terms of material blessings. But that’s not what Jesus teaches. In fact, part of being a witness to Jesus is to bring his blessing of God’s love and good news wherever we go. This is our mission.We see this clearly in Luke 10. Jesus sent 72 of his followers to bring the good news of God’s kingdom to the people in nearby towns and villages. And when they entered people’s homes and communities, they were to declare peace on them and say, “The kingdom of God has come near to you.” The Savior has come! Salvation and hope are here!These blessings are still what God offers us and the world today. And like those 72 followers, we are called to bring peace and to announce the good news wherever we go. May Jesus equip us with his Spirit to be his faithful witnesses, sharing his blessings with the people we meet today.Jesus, it can be daunting to live into the words of this passage. Thank you that we are not alone. Pour your blessings on us so that we can share them with others wherever we go today. Amen.
Whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. — 1 Corinthians 11:26Today is Sunday, and if you attend a worship service today, you might celebrate the Lord’s Supper, or Holy Communion. Many churches around the world will gather and focus on the bread and cup and hear these powerful words: “This is my body, given for you. . . . This is my blood, shed for you.”In a way, the tangible elements of bread and grape juice (or wine) bear witness to the love of Jesus shown in his sacrifice on the cross. We are invited to take and eat so that we may remember and believe that in Jesus’ death and resurrection we find forgiveness and new life. We are also reminded that when we participate in communion, we “proclaim the Lord’s death” until he returns. Communion itself is a witness to Jesus and all he has done for us.I remember an unusual experience of communion many years ago. It was the week after our young family was involved in a serious car accident. No one had been hurt, but it could have been so much worse. As I held those symbols of Jesus' death in my hands, I saw with fresh eyes how his sacrifice brings life. We had experienced a close brush with death ourselves, but God had decided that our purpose here wasn’t finished. In life and in death, we belong to him—the one who gave his all for us (Q&A 1, Heidelberg Catechism).Jesus, you are the bread of life. As we worship you, may we experience close communion with you and our brothers and sisters in faith. Thank you for the gift of your life. Amen.
Your faith in God has become known everywhere. — 1 Thessalonians 1:8I have a soccer friend who quit his full-time job to become a social-media influencer. He focuses on differences between Canadian and American products. Did you know that Corn Pops™ cereal is almost completely different in Canada from what it is in the United States? Of course, influencers are into everything from home design to fashion to video games and parenting. There’s no end. But influencing is not new to our generation.In his letter to the Thessalonians, Paul reflects on the powerful effects of influence in this young church. Through Paul and his companions they were introduced to Jesus and, in turn, began to reflect Jesus themselves. Listen to what Paul says in verse 7: “You became a model to all the believers in [the surrounding area]. . . . The Lord’s message rang out from you . . . your faith in God has become known everywhere.” Talk about influence!Think about your own faith journey and who has influenced you. Who made Jesus real to you? And how about your own influence? What would it look like for the good news of Jesus to ring out from your life today?Dear Jesus, may our lives be so open to the influence of your love and forgiveness that we bring that same influence to all the people in our lives and in all the places we go today. In your name we pray. Amen.
I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling. — 1 Corinthians 2:3When I was a seminary student, our training included opportunities to preach at nearby churches, and students like me would preach and then receive feedback on our sermons. Sometimes the reviews were kind and helpful. Sometimes, not so much. One of my classmates received this response from a reviewer who was asked to comment on the main points of the sermon: “I don’t know; I fell asleep.” Ouch! What a humbling reminder to him and the rest of us that we had a long way to go before we spoke with wise or persuasive words.How remarkable, then, to read Paul’s testimony that he did not speak with deep wisdom or persuasive arguments. Yet Paul is considered to be one of the greatest evangelists in church history. What was his secret? Paul explained that his message came “with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power,” which meant that Paul did not feel the need to put Paul on display. He put God first and shared the good news about Jesus and how he came to save us.What a great reminder that while words are important, they are not everything. And it doesn’t matter if we are preachers or if we are just sharing our faith with another person—the main thing is that we help people encounter the living God and experience his love and forgiveness. May others see and sense the Spirit’s power at work in us.Lord, thank you for the gift of your Spirit. Open our hearts so that you can work through us to help others experience your love. Amen.
“The time has come…the kingdom of God has come near.” — Mark 1:15When Jesus launched his ministry, he announced: “The time has come. . . . The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” It is hard to overstate how startling and even dangerous this moment was.In Jesus’ day, people were often reminded (brutally) that there was one kingdom—Rome—and there was one king—Caesar. And whenever a new Roman emperor rose to the throne, messengers were sent throughout the empire to announce it, calling it “good news.”So here was Jesus, declaring with boldness, “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” We can see why this was a radical and politically dangerous message. But for the people who heard it, it really was good news. As they would soon discover, Jesus did not come to topple Rome but to usher in the kingdom of God, which is not of this world but nevertheless rules over it. This kingdom is characterized by love, mercy, forgiveness, new beginnings, and service. To follow Jesus is to become a citizen of God’s eternal kingdom.This good news is just as countercultural today as when Jesus first announced it. And this is the message we get to proclaim in his name: Jesus, the King, has come, bringing new life in his name! He holds this world in his hands! Come and follow him!Lord Jesus, may I receive your good news with fresh ears today. Thank you for inviting me into your kingdom! Amen.
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. — John 1:14In the neighborhood where my wife and I live, people tend to keep to themselves. Last summer, though, when we invited our neighbors for a social gathering, many of them said to each other, “I’m glad you’re my neighbor!” and, “I am so grateful to live in this kind neighborhood.” We were surprised by how much it meant for them to know who the neighbors were on our street, even if most of us were not connected socially.Presence is a big part of our witness. Our passage today has been famously paraphrased by Eugene Peterson to say that Jesus “became flesh and blood and moved into the neighborhood” (The Message). When we reflect Jesus by showing up with an open posture, kindness, and generosity, we build trust and connection.Recently our next-door neighbors were out of the country when a small problem came up at their house. They texted us about it, and I was able to fix the problem. It was a simple thing, but they were so grateful—and I knew they would do the same for us. We are present for each other.As Jesus intentionally entered our world and became present with us, we have the opportunity to discern how we can bring Jesus’ presence into our neighborhood. How do we show up in a way that can give people a sense of our Savior’s heart for them?Jesus, thank you for making your home among us. Because of your presence in our world, we are free. Please help us to be a caring presence in our community. Amen.
Zacchaeus . . . said to the Lord, “. . . Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” — Luke 19:8The story of Zacchaeus always fascinates me.Zacchaeus heard that Jesus was coming to town. Word had spread about Jesus, and Zacchaeus wanted to get a glimpse of him. The crowds were so thick that Zacchaeus had to climb a tree in order to see Jesus pass by. But then Jesus stopped right in front of the tree Zacchaeus was in, looked up at him, and said, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.”The crowd overhearing this exchange was surprised—and not in a good way! Zacchaeus was a tax collector for the Romans, and the people saw tax collectors as greedy collaborators who took advantage of hardworking local citizens.But then the crowd watched Zacchaeus transform. He gave generously to the poor, and he paid back four times what he had cheated from people. This whole scene was unlike so many of Jesus’ other interactions with people. Jesus didn’t heal Zacchaeus from a physical illness. He didn’t give Zacchaeus food or water. In fact, Jesus asked Zacchaeus for something—a place to stay.If you’re like me, you might tend to wait for an invitation from someone to spend time with them—especially when you’re busy. But is there anyone whom God might be prompting you to connect with today?God, thank you for all of your work in the lives of the people around me. Please help me to see whom I can reach out to and connect with. Amen.
Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon. — John 4:6When we try to share a brief story of Jesus with others, we often focus on his birth, his death for our sake, and his resurrection. We might also mention some of the amazing things about his teachings and miracles.But how often do we think of what Jesus’ day-to-day life was like?Jesus was fully God and fully human, which means that he got thirsty, tired, and hungry. Several passages in the Bible describe Jesus’ spending time with his followers and doing very human things: he feasts at a wedding, he travels with his disciples, and in our reading today he gets tired and sits down by a well, where he asks a Samaritan woman for a drink of water—and ends up telling her that he is the Messiah!I wonder how many meals Jesus ate with his followers, how many walks he went on, and how many jokes he cracked over a campfire at night. I wonder if Jesus’ disciples experienced God’s glory as much through Jesus’ everyday conversations and the way he lived each day as they did through his parables and miracles.Maybe living a life like Jesus is not as intimidating as it sounds. He did lots of ordinary things in his day-to-day living, just as we do. How can we help to bring the presence of Jesus in ordinary ways as we spend time with the people God has placed around us?Lord God, thank you for sending Jesus to live among us. Help us to see and share with others the ways you are working in our daily lives. Amen.
It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High. — Psalm 92:1Today we pause from the regular rhythms of our daily lives to focus on the God of the universe. And he calls us to worship!This month, as we reflect on what it means to be Jesus’ witnesses wherever we go, it can be tempting to think that this work is on our shoulders. If we don’t do it, who will? So the gift of Sabbath helps us remember that ultimately this is God’s work, not ours.Recently I went into the office anticipating a big pile of work that was waiting for me. When I arrived, I discovered that a generous colleague had already taken care of it. When I realized what they had done, I remember feeling both relief and gratitude. What a gift!Psalm 92 expresses similar feelings toward God. “You make me glad by your deeds, Lord; I sing for joy at what your hands have done. How great are your works, Lord, how profound your thoughts!” What a relief it is to know that this world sits firmly in God’s capable, good hands. He has not stopped working; rather, he has prepared good works for us to do in his kingdom (Ephesians 2:10).Sabbath gives us an opportunity to join with brothers and sisters to praise and honor the One who has already done it all for us. We have a Savior who walks with us on mission, wherever God has called us! Hallelujah!O God, I join with the psalmist in giving thanks to you and singing your praises! Thank you for saving me and calling me to be a part of your work. Amen.
“Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” — Acts 8:4Have you ever landed in a difficult situation and wondered, “Why did this happen?”Johnny is a missionary I work with who served for several years in Haiti. Because of the political struggles and increased violence there, he came back to the United States with his family. It was a difficult transition. How do you leave behind the colleagues and friends you love dearly? How do you process the trauma of living in such an unsettled environment?But as Johnny and his wife began to settle and heal, they discovered a remarkable thing. Thousands of Haitians had also moved to where he and his family were now living, and God was creating opportunities for them to minister among the Haitian community right where they were.So now Johnny is working with a Haitian pastor to raise up Haitian leaders and plant Haitian churches. They have a dream to launch 10 new Haitian church plants in the next few years! God took a painful situation and used it to open up new opportunities in North America!God did something like that with the early Christians too—like Philip, who was forced to flee to Samaria. In all kinds of situations the Holy Spirit continues to spread the good news of Jesus in surprising ways around the world.Dear God, even when we are recovering from a painful situation or heartache, you pour out your healing in your good time and provide new opportunities for us to serve you. Thank you, Lord! Amen.
“May our Lord Jesus Christ himself . . . encourage your hearts and strengthen you. . . .” — 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17As we sat down for breakfast at a restaurant, Jack said to me for about the tenth time, “I love you, brother; I love you so much!” I certainly didn’t feel worthy of that love because I hadn’t seen Jack for years. I was there because a friend had faithfully kept up contact much better than I had done. So this breakfast meeting was long overdue.Some years ago, I had been in contact with Jack quite a lot. He was going through a painful time with lots of personal struggles. He had a young daughter he was trying to care for, and I was one of several people who did our best to surround him with care and encouragement. He saw it all as a gift from Jesus.But time passed, Jack moved to another area, and I hadn’t seen him in a long time.As I processed my own feelings of guilt for letting our friendship slide, I also began to see with new clarity what a gift Jack was to me. He showed me what resilient faith looks like in the midst of a hard story. Despite my long absence, he bore me no ill will—he was just overjoyed that I showed up. Another friend and I joked that we heard “I love you” that day more times from Jack than we had heard from our family members in a while. I was reminded of how powerful just being present can be.This also helped me remember that the Lord Jesus is present with us always (Matthew 28:20).Lord, thank you that no matter where we go, you are already there. Help us to bring your love to others. Amen.
“I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.” — John 17:20-21Our calling—our mission—starts with prayer. God works powerfully through prayer, and you can always go to God in prayer. You can spend time with the Lord any time of the day.In one of the best-known prayers in the Bible, Jesus prays for you and me in John 17. What a comfort it is to see him reaching out to us. And what a role model he is for us in our life of prayer.Many Christians and churches receive prayer requests regularly. Praying for neighbors or others in your life, whether for a specific request or a general blessing, is a great way to participate in the work of the Lord. But I also want to encourage you to be a leader in prayer. Reaching out to others and asking “How can I pray for you?” can be exactly what people need to hear. Joining God’s mission doesn’t necessarily mean moving to a different region or country; you can be a missionary right in your own neighborhood!Many believers are often surprised that people who don’t seem to be religious will often welcome prayer if they are asked. Being a part of prayer with others reminds them that they are seen not just by you but also by God.Lord, you reached out to me; help me to reach out to others. Give me eyes to see my neighbors in need of prayer—that your church may grow and your people may be one. Amen.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” — John 15:5How do we “remain” in Jesus?I think it has a lot to do with prayer. I grew up in the church, and I remember that when I was young, prayer always seemed boring. We clasped our hands, closed our eyes, and bowed our heads as the pastor prayed for what seemed a long, long time. But as I grew older and Jesus became more real to me, my prayer life started to change.There’s nothing wrong with the posture of folding your hands and closing your eyes—I still sometimes take that posture to concentrate. But as I grew in faith, prayer became much more about spending time with God. I not only learned to praise God and lift up my requests to him; I also learned to spend time reading the Bible and listening for what the Spirit had to say.I’ve found that when I make sure to spend time with Jesus in prayer, I’m a much more patient person—even in the midst of life’s challenges. On days when there is too much to do, I’m more likely to be kinder and slower in my responses to family and friends. I’m also more likely to take time for a conversation with a neighbor who passes by. And I’m more likely to look for and respond to the Holy Spirit’s promptings. Lord, thank you that we’re able to spend time in your presence through prayer. Help us to be intentional about spending time with you so that your love and grace can transform us to become more like you. Amen.
“Give ear, Lord, and hear; open your eyes, Lord, and see. . . .” — 2 Kings 19:16I recently spent a morning with Pastor Obelto, who leads a network of Haitian church plants in Florida. I will never forget his words: “Like Hezekiah, we prayed and prayed and prayed.”His growing church was meeting in a storefront when the owners told them they had to leave to make way for a new restaurant that was coming to town. This group of recent Haitian immigrants had very little money, and whatever money they did have they were sending back to their relatives, who were struggling in their home country. But they needed a worship place where they could meet the spiritual needs of their community as they dealt with significant trauma and a sense of displacement.So they looked to the Bible, and they were inspired by the story of Hezekiah. They called on God with boldness and conviction, and God answered their prayers. I had the wonderful privilege of walking through this answer to prayer with them—a fitting house of worship unique to their Haitian culture that can proudly share the ministry of Jesus.Today their church provides a place of solace for a community that has been struck by devastation. Their story is a reminder that God hears us when we call on him. God knows all that we need, and he provides.Lord, I confess that at times I can lose my passion for prayer. Rekindle in me a hunger to call on you like Hezekiah did, and like so many others around the world. In Jesus, Amen.
I want to know Christ. . . . — Philippians 3:10Researchers in Europe went door to door, asking people about their belief in God. One question was this: “Do you believe in a God who intervenes in human lives, who changes the course of history, and performs miracles?” A typical response to this question was “No, I don’t believe in that God. I believe in the ordinary God.”I admit that it can be tempting to prefer “the ordinary God”—that is, a God who is there when I need him but who remains mostly quiet in the background while I go about my life. Fortunately the Scriptures do not let us settle with that notion of an ordinary God. The Jesus we meet in the New Testament entered our world, carried our burden of sin to the cross, died in our place, and then rose from the dead and later ascended to rule with God in heaven. This is no ordinary God.The God of the Bible does in fact break into our lives in all kinds of surprising, beautiful, and disruptive ways. In fact, the one true God is beyond extraordinary. And all of this is conveyed in this remarkable prayer of Paul: “I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings” and then to experience that resurrection as well.What a prayer! How would my life change if this became my life’s prayer? What could happen if I prayed this for the people in my life?Dear Jesus, I want to know you. Make me like you so that I may experience the power of your resurrection. Amen.
“. . . the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God.” — Exodus 20:10I am not very good at resting. I have noticed that I’m becoming more distracted by my phone and more captivated by the world online. I love to learn, and the internet provides endless opportunities to keep exploring information.I have to admit that for all of my good intentions, my life has gotten busier, not quieter. Busy seasons probably crop up in your life too, even if you are good at taking care of yourself. We live in a world that prizes busyness and ever-increasing productivity.Well, today is Sunday. This is a reminder that we are not designed to stay busy all the time. God declared long ago that we need a good rhythm of rest and work. Then, to honor the day of Jesus’ resurrection, Christians shifted the celebration of Sabbath from Saturday to Sunday.What I like about celebrating Sabbath on the first day of the week is that it reminds us that we begin our week with rest. Whether or not you are able to rest today, I pray that you may find time in your weekly rhythm to stop, rest, and listen anew to God, taking time to worship the Lord and to rest. Give thanks and praise God for all the good things he has done in this world and in your life. Reflect, pray, and listen to his guiding Word in the Bible and in your heart. What might God be saying to you?Lord, thank you for the Sabbath. Thank you for giving us time to rest. Help us to rest well today, and to make sure we take time in our lives to rest in your presence. Amen.
I have posted watchmen on your walls, Jerusalem. . . . — Isaiah 62:6In this vision of hope we find a powerful call to action. In verse 6, God says: “I have posted watchmen on your walls, Jerusalem. They will never be silent day or night.” This is a powerful picture of intercessory prayer, in which people pray for others and for God’s work in their lives. In ancient times the purpose of watching on the walls of a city was to observe what was happening and to spot enemies or danger that might approach. We don’t have literal watchers on the walls in our culture today, but there are lots of people who do something similar. Weather forecasters tell us what weather is coming. Financial experts keep an eye on the markets. Others watch what’s going on in geopolitics. Here, in Isaiah, God says that he has put watchmen on the walls—people who discern what is going on in the spiritual realm and pray about it. They are like believers who pray with passion and deep conviction, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10). Is there a situation stirring your heart to prayer? How might the Spirit be calling you to pray for your neighbors, co-workers, or fellow students? God invites you to be a watcher on the wall. Strong prayer for others and for the coming of God’s kingdom is a key strategy in his mission.Thank you, God, for the power of intercessory prayer. As watchers on the wall, we pray for your kingdom to come and your will to be done on earth as in heaven. Amen.
Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great faith!” — Matthew 15:28In today’s story Jesus and his disciples were in an area where most of the people did not know or worship God. The disciples were not familiar with the customs and culture and likely would have felt uncomfortable there. Then they met a woman whose daughter was “demon-possessed and suffering terribly.”Jesus’ response to her sounds puzzling. Was he making a point to everyone listening? Was he testing her? He said that as a non-Jewish person, she was not the focus of his ministry. But she was determined to find help for her hurting daughter. She said, in effect, “Whatever crumbs of goodness you are willing to throw to us will be enough.” And Jesus celebrated the woman’s faith and healed her daughter “at that moment.” Amazing!Sometimes we think that witnessing is about bringing Jesus into our conversations and relationships. But here we are reminded that God is always ahead of us. The woman already had an emerging trust that Jesus was her one true hope. To be a witness is to discern and celebrate where God is already at work.Where do you see God moving ahead and stirring people’s faith, questions, and longings?Dear God, give us the eyes to see where you are already at work in the places we go today and in our neighborhood. Help us respond faithfully to the good work of your Spirit. Amen.
In all our distress and persecution we were encouraged about you because of your faith. For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord. — 1 Thessalonians 3:7-8Paul thanked God for his Thessalonian friends, who, despite knowing they would suffer for their faith in Jesus, were sure of the security they would find in him. What a witness they were to the Savior! The Thessalonians were persecuted, but they remained steadfast in their faith—and that is not always easy. It can be difficult to remain faithful, especially when life presents unexpected challenges. When Paul sent Timothy to check on the Thessalonians, he was encouraged and filled with joy that their faith had remained strong. He said, “For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord.”Remaining firm in Christ is not always easy—but God tells us about the peace, comfort, and redemption he provides when we stay near to him despite our challenges. Life can bring grief, worry, fear, and a host of other difficult and uncomfortable emotions.It can be hard to accept circumstances that are unpredictable and far outside of our own control, especially when our hearts yearn to make things better. But when we draw near to God, he promises to give us his peace that surpasses all understanding. God’s presence strengthens our weary hearts through challenges, persecution, and unforeseen circumstances—and for that we praise him!Lord, plant our feet firmly in you. Help us to draw nearer to you in challenging times and to trust in you. Amen.
In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ will be persecuted. — 2 Timothy 3:12As we explore what it means to be witnesses for Jesus, it is important to talk about the cost of witnessing. Did you know that in the Bible the Greek word for “witnesses” is martyres, which also gives us the word “martyr”?Since the beginning of the church, there has been strong opposition to the Christian faith. The New Testament includes many stories of the persecution of Christians. And persecution continues today. Christianity Today magazine reported that about 13 Christians worldwide are killed every day because of their faith. In addition, 12 Christian buildings or churches are attacked, and 12 Christians are unjustly arrested each day. More than 360 million Christians in the world live with some kind of persecution or oppression because of their faith. They all bear witness to their faith and trust in Jesus as their living hope and Savior.In 2 Timothy, Paul describes the ways he was persecuted, and he says that believers can expect persecution for living “a godly life in Christ.” But he offers hope too. Although he faced many persecutions, Paul said, “The Lord rescued me from all of them.”Paul also reassures us that “all Scripture is God-breathed” and that it trains and equips us to face all kinds of worldly obstacles as we live “through faith in Christ Jesus.”Lord, please protect all of your servants around the world today. Comfort them as they encounter persecution, and work through them to shine your light to people everywhere. Amen.
“. . . and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 1:8Have you ever received a gift but were not quite sure what to do with it? I once received some freeze-dried army food. I didn’t need it right away, so it sat in my closet for a long time, waiting for the right moment to be used—which never came. One day I quietly got rid of that unopened gift.Jesus’ gift to us is not like that. He gives us the Holy Spirit, and he explains what this gift is for and where we will use it. “You will be my witnesses,” he said to his followers, “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”Those locations had specific meanings for Jesus’ first disciples. Jerusalem was the place they were in, and the Spirit would send them to be witnesses to the people in that local area. Judea was the region around Jerusalem, where the people were a lot like them. Samaria was a neighboring region that included people of different cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The Holy Spirit would send them to those places and then also to “the ends of the earth,” to share the good news of Jesus with people who lived far away.Jesus offers the same gift of the Spirit to us. Who are the people living in our “Jerusalem,” “Judea,” and “Samaria,” and in all nations to the ends of the earth? How can we support God’s mission in each of those places?Jesus, thank you for pouring out the gift of your Spirit in our lives, inviting each one of us to join you in sharing the good news in our neighborhoods and around the world. Amen.
“See, I am doing a new thing!” — Isaiah 43:19Recently my wife and I replaced our old kitchen stove with a new one. The first time I used it, I put a pan of milk on the range to make oatmeal and turned it on high. I turned around briefly to get some other ingredients—and the next thing I knew, milk was running everywhere, even between the glass panes of the oven door. Would our new stove be ruined? As we removed screws to get at the glass, we wondered, “How did this happen? Will it ever be fixed?”For many people, it seems the world is that way too. Problems in the world and in our lives can feel overwhelming. We find ourselves asking, “Will things ever be fixed”?In Isaiah 43, God speaks to his people as they struggle with feeling that way. They are in exile, and their country is in ruins. In despair, they are thinking it will never be fixed. But God declares, “See, I am doing a new thing! . . . Do you not perceive it?” We are reminded that God is at work doing something new, and he invites us to join him.Our stove eventually got fixed. And God’s plan for the world is far greater. He shows us that things will not just be restored—they will be even better than before! Do we have the eyes to see?Lord of all, thank you for the new things you are doing in our world. Please give us eyes to see what you are doing today, and help us to notice all that you are making new in our lives! In Jesus, Amen.
“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses. . . .” — Acts 1:8I once served as a witness on a legal matter. The lawyers determined to make sure that my memories were clear and that the timeline of events was accurate. They also told me to share everything about the situation that I could; they would decide which details were important and which ones weren’t. It is significant that Jesus, before he ascended to heaven, commissioned his followers with these words: “You will be my witnesses. . . .” We serve as witnesses to Jesus, the Lord of the universe.I don’t know about you, but this feels like a daunting task, especially when Jesus says that our witness begins where we are and extends to the ends of the earth. Do I have what it takes to be that kind of witness? Thankfully, we do not do this alone. As Jesus commissions us, he promises the gift of his Holy Spirit. He also commissions us, his followers, as a community. This is our task, together. This month, let’s explore how to bear witness to Jesus. In my work with Resonate Global Mission, I see examples of faithful witness every day. The Spirit is alive and well around the world! I look forward to exploring and sharing with you what mission looks like in our lives today.Jesus, as we explore what it means to be your witnesses, we want to open our hearts to your call. Fill us with your Spirit and teach us how we can grow as witnesses for you. Amen.
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord . . . you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.” — John 21:17Recently I recalled the day my husband asked me to marry him. We were both students and had come from different backgrounds. We talked about questions like “What is love?” and “How do we know if we’re in love?” and “What would it look like if we decided to make this relationship permanent?” For me, coming from a long background of faith and solid examples of strong marriage made it easy for me to say that I loved him. For him, coming from a few years of faith and not so solid relationships made it harder to trust a longtime commitment. But we knew we had faith and a choice to try. And for over 44 years we have offered each other the best of ourselves.Jesus’ question to Peter was about deep commitment. And Peter was probably feeling a mix of emotions as he stood on the beach facing Jesus that day. Peter had denied Jesus three times (John 18:17, 25-27), and yet there in front of him was the one who had defeated death. And now Jesus was asking the hard question: “Do you love me?” Of course Peter loved him, but Jesus wasn’t asking for a simple relationship. He was asking Peter if he was ready, no matter what the cost, to bring the good news about him to people who hadn’t heard it.What is your answer to Jesus’ question? Lord, thank you for loving us. Help us today to love you with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to share the good news about you everywhere. Amen.
Simon Peter . . . dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. — John 21:11Years ago we lived on the edge of a lake in eastern Ontario. We often took our fishing poles out to see what might be swimming in the water. Some seasons were better than others, and we released many sunfish so that they could grow bigger. Some bass ended up in the frying pan, but we certainly were not experts.The fishermen in today’s story were experts. They didn’t know who was calling out to them from the shore, but they knew what it was like to try fishing on the other side of the boat. Yet on this day they were not sure what to expect; they had been fishing all night and had caught nothing.These men had also had a rough time lately. They had been following Jesus, the Messiah, but they were confused with the outcome. Jesus had died and risen again, but Rome was still in control. What was the Messiah up to?Then, after throwing their nets on the other side and getting so many fish that they couldn’t haul the net in, something triggered in their minds: “It is the Lord!” (See Luke 5:1-11.) Eventually they dragged their overflowing net ashore, and it was not even torn. A reminder that God can do more than we can ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).Today Jesus wants to remind us that he has called us to follow him too. What is Jesus up to in your life? In your neighborhood? Your community? Your area? Is he calling you to trust him again like you did when you first met him?Lord, thank you for your abundant love as you keep calling us to love you and others. Amen.
“Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” — Luke 24:32At a concert, the usher at the door looked so familiar to me. But I could not recall where or when I might have met him before. After a brief conversation with him, we recalled that years ago he had been our son’s grade-8 teacher. We enjoyed sharing a few memories of that time in our lives.I think the situation was slightly different as the two followers of Jesus walked along toward their home in Emmaus. They didn’t recognize that they were talking with Jesus, even though they had seen him recently. Did he not look the same? Jesus asked questions and taught them about the Scriptures, but it wasn’t till they sat and shared bread together that their eyes were opened to see him. What a wonderful feeling that must have been!Then, after Jesus “disappeared from their sight,” they joyfully made the long trip back to Jerusalem to share their story. They could not wait to share their experience. Their love for Jesus and the others was enough to propel them back to Jerusalem to share. With a text message from my cell phone, we eagerly shared with our son that we had talked with his grade-8 teacher at the concert that night. And it was fun to share that with him.Are we eager in a way like that to share with others about our times with Jesus?Lord, thank you for moments when you meet with us in a fresh new way. Open our eyes and hearts to your work in our everyday lives, realizing you are closer than we might think. Amen.
Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). — John 20:16There are times in life when we have to do some things we don’t want to do. Tough things. There’s that phone call we have to make. Or that task ahead of us that looks bigger than we bargained for. Or maybe we have received news that shatters our thinking, and we can’t imagine how we can deal with the situation.I am sure that is how Mary felt. Her heart was heavy with the news of Jesus’ death. She knew that his body was placed in the tomb, and she and some others had wanted to make sure his body was prepared properly (Mark 16:1-7; Luke 24:1-12). Imagine their surprise when the tomb was empty. How could this be?After sharing the news with Jesus’ disciples (John 20:1-2), Mary went back to the tomb and stood there. Her heart was heavy, and the tears for her Lord trickled down her face. Someone else was there too. A gardener? Perhaps he might know something.He said, “Why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Then he spoke her name. And she knew it was Jesus. Her whole outlook changed. What a glorious encounter! Whatever circumstances you are in and no matter what struggles you are facing, be assured that Jesus is with you (Matthew 28:20) and that he knows your name.When we are distracted by tough circumstances in our lives, thank you for interrupting us, Lord, to call our name. Thank you for being there and reminding us how much you love us. Amen.
Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?” — John 18:4Not long ago I received a call that a dear friend might have only hours—or a few days, at best—to live. I rearranged my day and left for the hospital. I should have asked for the room number ahead of time, but as I stood near the nurses’ station, someone asked me whom I was looking for. She kindly directed me to the room—and after I walked in, I soon realized I was saying good-bye.Jesus knew what would soon happen as he saw soldiers and officials coming for him. This was the plan ahead of him, and he faced it head-on. He even unnerved his pursuers by stepping forward and identifying himself. There was no fight from Jesus—just resolution that he was okay with accepting God’s plan for him and for the world. When God calls us and asks us to step into the plan he has designed for us, do we step away or step in? When everything feels safe, it’s not hard to step in. When the storyline involves suffering or pain, however, it’s easier to back up and hesitate. I admit that I have argued with God on occasion, telling him I didn’t have time for his plan. I preferred a different way. That didn’t change the plan, though, and when I took the posture of trusting over fighting, I appreciated the choice God took for me so that I could trust him then. Can you? Dear Jesus, as the soldiers approached, looking for you, you stepped forward and faced them. Will you help us today to have the courage to accept the plan that you have designed for us? Amen.
When [Jesus] came back, he again found them sleeping. . . . They did not know what to say to him. — Mark 14:40You have had a full meal, and it has been a long day. In fact, the past several days have been really challenging—emotionally and physically. You are worn out and tired. Even in the cool night air, you can barely stay awake. You know you need to pay attention because Jesus has asked you to keep watch, but your eyelids are getting heavier by the moment. Soon your head bobs, and you are fast asleep. You didn’t plan it that way. Jesus nudges you awake and asks, “Couldn’t you keep watch for one hour?” Startled, you hear him say, “Watch and pray. . . .” You nod in agreement, feeling horrible that you haven’t managed to stay awake. He steps away, and the heaviness settles in again. Your eyelids close. Later he wakes you again, and you don’t know what to say.Then a third time you are awakened—and now there is a crowd coming. Sleep vanishes. You look at the one who asked you to pray, and he is in the hands of his enemies!Though our lives today are much different from the disciples’, the need for staying alert and praying is not. Our world is in need of our attention, and the Lord is calling us to stand watch. It is encouraging to know that Jesus is now seated at the right hand of the Father, praying for us (Romans 8:34), but today he still needs us to do the same for his world and for all God’s children in it.Lord, help us to be alert, watching and praying for your sake. Guide us to live faithfully, that all your children may come to know you. Amen.
“The greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.” — Luke 22:26Have you ever played “shotgun”? Usually it’s about getting “the best” passenger seat in the car—in the front seat by the driver. Our kids believed it was the middle seat in the back of the car. I can still hear the arguments and the mad dash for that seat. I am thankful that children’s car seats have taken away the mania of that game for my grandkids.Our desire to be in first place can get in the way of how we respond to a situation. Can you imagine being at the Last Supper with Jesus and having an argument break out about who is the greatest? Had the disciples learned nothing from Jesus about service in God’s kingdom?Jesus patiently tried again. He told his disciples that they were not like kings and other worldly leaders who lorded it over others; instead, his followers were citizens of heaven, where serving is more important than being served. He said, “I am among you as one who serves.” And he assured them they would be able to eat and drink at the table in God’s kingdom, but the time for that would come later. As you reflect on this story, what is your posture? Do you need to be seen, or are you willing to open doors so that others will be treated in a way that brings glory to God?Jesus, help us to remember that you set an example for us to follow. Guide us as we strive to follow you in attitude and posture. Thank you for your servant heart for us. Amen.
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” — John 14:6Homelessness is a problem throughout our world. So many people live rough and feel that they have no future. Many have lost their space to the greed of others, and this becomes a bigger story every day. Conversations and action plans are initiated, but solutions are hard to achieve.I wonder if Jesus’ disciples were beginning to feel displaced as he talked about leaving them. Jesus had talked about his betrayal and about dying and going away (John 12-13). That probably made them confused and upset, because they didn’t expected those things would happen to the Messiah, God’s Anointed One, who had come to be the Savior. But there was a lot they didn’t understand. What was going to happen next?Jesus offered comfort by moving the conversation in a different direction and focusing on living with him and the Father in heaven. This is something we should all pay attention to. With his question here, Jesus reminds his followers that there is a secure place for each of them in eternity with him. God’s house is big, and it has many rooms.This same promise is for us and for everyone we share Jesus’ story with. God has prepared a place for all of us who believe in Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life!Jesus, thank you for your promise of sharing eternity with us and that you have a big house with room for all. Help us to walk faithfully with you into eternity. Amen.
“This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” — John 11:4I know what it is like to lose a brother too young. He had cancer, and it seemed that surgery would help—but then a complication arose, and surgery did not go as planned. The day did not turn out as we expected. He was put on life support so that we could have some time with him. We gathered at the hospital with him and asked God to intervene. We prayed for healing and anything else that would change the outcome. It did not, and the doctor who brought things to a close that day was kind and compassionate. We too wondered, “What if Jesus had been there . . . ?” A few months later we learned that the doctor who was with us that day had come to faith because of the interaction with our family. Jesus had been at work there in ways we had not imagined, and the glory given to God through this was evident. We had been able to share a hope beyond the walls of the hospital, trusting that eternity in Christ would be ours together, no matter what happened.Martha believed with the same hope. Yet Jesus had another plan. With tears in his eyes, he asked where they had buried his friend Lazarus. When Lazarus came out of the tomb, I am sure that day wasn’t what the people there expected either. The glory given to God was real, and many came to faith in Jesus that day.Where will God be glorified in your story today? God, be glorified in our lives. Whatever we may be facing, we thank you for your compassion and love. Fill us with hope, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” — John 6:68Have you ever had a morning when you crawled wearily out of bed, stubbed your toe, burnt your toast, and had all kinds of other things go wrong? A day like that makes you want to go straight back to bed. Or maybe the circumstances are harder, and someone is telling you to hang on when you want to let go.I wonder if Jesus’ disciples felt in a way like that when a lot of people turned away from Jesus after he shared some hard but true teachings. I wonder how many times the disciples weren’t quite sure what to do with Jesus. Was it embarrassing or confusing or overwhelming for them? Already fully committed to Jesus, they knew they couldn’t give up or let go. Jesus, who was clearly the Son of God, had met the longings of their hearts—and even on the worst days they had experienced, they knew that traveling with Jesus was enough. When he asked, “Are you going to leave too?” Peter replied with words that confirmed what the disciples were feeling: “There’s no one else to go to, and you are all we need.”On days when you feel like giving up, throwing in the towel, or walking away from your faith, where will you go? It is too much to walk away from the one who holds you close through his presence and his words. By his character he assures you that even on a bad day, he is there. Jesus, only you “have the words of eternal life.” Help me to search them out, understand them, and obey them, trusting in you as the Lord and Savior. Amen.
Jesus said to the centurion, “Go! Let it be done just as you believed it would.” And his servant was healed at that moment. — Matthew 8:13I was asked to officiate at a funeral for a young man (age 37) who had died from a fentanyl overdose. He had been living on the street for years and was addicted to some pretty strong drugs. He also visited our church during the week and came for most of the worship services. When he wasn’t high, he could carry on great conversations, and I learned so much of his story. Regardless of his state of mind, he had a phrase that he often used, and I repeated it at his funeral. He would say, “I am always safe in the arms of Jesus.” Regardless of what was going on in his life, he had faith, knowing that Jesus offers grace.In our Bible reading today, a Roman centurion also had faith in Jesus. And even though Jesus offered to go to the man’s home, the centurion said that he knew Jesus could heal his servant by just saying the word—and that’s how the servant was healed. He knew that his servant was safe in the arms of Jesus, even from a distance. And Jesus praised the centurion for having more faith than anyone he had encountered in his ministry.We too can have faith enough to ask Jesus for all we need. He is willing to come and help, regardless of where we are and what we need. In fact, he promises that he is always with us (Matthew 28:20), so we can trust that we are always safe in his arms.Lord Jesus, help us to reach out in faith for your grace and help. Thank you that you listen and answer. Amen.
“If anyone has ears to hear, let them hear.” — Mark 4:23Someone gifted me a very large flashlight, and I thought, “What a perfect thing to put in our guest room, just in case.” My mom often comes to stay the night, and she uses that room. If she needs to get up in the dark, a big flashlight can be more helpful than a small nightlight.One day, when I was cleaning that room, I picked up the flashlight and turned on the switch. But no light came on. Checking further, I found there were no batteries in the flashlight. It really would not have helped my mom or another guest that way.I wonder if sometimes we are like that too. We want to be a light for the world, but our batteries are dead or missing, or we haven’t plugged in our lamp. In this parable Jesus points out that we don’t bring a lamp into a room in order to cover it up. The lamp is there to brighten the room and to show us things that we need to pay attention to.Charles Spurgeon, a great preacher in his day, once said, “The Bible is not the light of the world; it is the light of the church. But the world does not read the Bible; the world reads Christians! You are the light of the world.”Today, let your light shine. No more hiding. Be the lamp that illuminates Jesus to the world.Thank you, Jesus, that you ask us to be your light. Please help us to shine the truth of your love and grace to the world you have called us to brighten up. Amen.
“In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” — Luke 15:10Over the years my family members have tried to help me remember where I put things. They really have. They have given me special keychains, electronic devices, and other things to help me locate my glasses, car keys, and so on. My husband now has a checklist for me as I leave the house. I have a friend who assures me she understands completely. Maybe some of you understand too.Jesus’ parables about lost things inspire me. When my glasses or keys seem to have grown legs and walked away from where I set them down, it often helps to try to think back on my steps and movements to find them. And, like the woman who found her lost coin, I celebrate too.For her, the loss of a coin that was worth a day’s wages was significant. She was determined to find it, and when she did, she wanted to celebrate with her friends and neighbors. In this story, like the other ones in Luke 15, Jesus is illustrating how important it is when one of his children, who has been lost, is found and can be brought back into his family. Even the angels sing and celebrate.Jesus’ story is a thoughtful reminder that no matter who you are or what your circumstances are today, there is a Savior who is looking for you and watching over you—always.Thank you, God, for loving us so much that you come searching to find us when we are lost. Thank you for stories that help us understand your love for us. We are grateful. Amen.
“How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?” — Matthew 7:4Jesus gives us an important reminder here.How quick we can be to look outward and criticize others instead of looking inward to see our own faults.Some examples of this are what we refer to today as conscious or unconscious bias. We tend to like what we are familiar with, and we tend not to like what we find to be different. And these things have a way of shaping our judgments about others.We also tend to think that others would be happier if they were like us. But we don’t take the time to think about what that says about us.Jesus wants us to look inwardly and to see what our own faults are before we address the faults of others. It’s not easy to admit we have blind spots, but when we begin to see them, we have a new appreciation for others, and it is easier to show God’s grace and love. I wonder what our conversations might look like if we took the time to talk with one another, hear each other’s stories, learn to care for one another, and discover that we might not be so different after all. Today is a good day to try clearing our own faults out of our lives.Lord, teach me to appreciate the rich diversity you have created, and help me not to judge others based only on my perception. Help me to see my own blind spots, and forgive me when I have failed to offer your love and grace. Amen.
“What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him.The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.” — Mark 10:51When I am in my car alone, I often have conversations with God. It’s the perfect time to talk out loud and express what is going on in my thoughts and my life. This is really easy as long as I am doing the talking. But when I go silent and listen, it’s a different story. I hear the same question that Jesus asked Bartimaeus: “What do you want me to do for you?”It seems like a straightforward question that I can answer easily. But, knowing about Jesus and how he calls us to live, I realize that I need to think carefully. Fulfilling a desire that is on my mind would be great—but what about that person I know who has not yet come to faith in Christ? Or what about that person who is suffering and needs healing? My list can be rather lengthy. And all of the things on my list are worth asking for.Bartimeus believed in Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of David. He knew he was crying out to the Savior, and he was sure of his answer. And when he was healed, he left everything behind to follow Jesus.As I write this, I realize that I too need to trust so fully in Jesus that I can see he is the one who is capable of doing anything. Sometimes I want the miracle more than I want the one performing it. When Jesus asks us, “What do you want me to do for you?” may our trust in him clarify our answer. Then, like Bartimaeus, let us ask boldly.Lord, have mercy on us. Hear our prayer. Thank you that you are indeed our Savior and Lord who cares for us. Amen.
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:44-45When someone hurts you or wrongs you, it’s easy to think of revenge and wanting to “get even.”Some people have lived a big part of their lives being the victim of someone else’s cruelty. And it can be very hard to let go of that pain.Loving someone whom we like is easy, but loving someone who has given us every reason not to like them is hard. Yet Jesus says that if we want to be like him, forgiveness is at the foundation of our Christian walk.This is what grace is all about. God loved us so much when we were his enemies that he sent Jesus to renew and restore us to him (John 3:16-17; Romans 5:8-11). God has every right to reject us—and yet he keeps loving us fully.What’s more, God asks us to do the same to everyone around us. Grace is the standard that God sets, and if we as believers accept that grace, we are to live with grace and forgiveness toward all others. Jesus modeled that we are to love others regardless of nationality, personality, faith, or circumstance. Jesus challenges us to be the grace differential so that others may know that we too have been loved and forgiven.Thank you, Lord, for your grace and your perfect example of loving us. Please help us to love everyone with your love, even when it is hard. Teach us to be more like you every day, we pray. Amen.
Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” — Matthew 14:31What is the craziest thing you have ever done? I could mention a few things from my younger days, but let’s leave that to the imagination. How about in your life of faith? What is the craziest thing God has ever challenged you to do? Were you up for the challenge, or did you hear excuses in your head about why you couldn’t possibly try? Did you jump in with both feet and find, to your surprise, that maybe it wasn’t so impossible after all?I wonder how big the smile was on Jesus’ face when Peter said, “Lord, if it’s you . . . tell me to come to you on the water.” I love it that Peter was ready to test his faith even when things looked impossible. He stepped out of the boat looking at Jesus. And as long as he kept his eyes on Jesus, his steps went in the right direction. Even with little faith, his walk on water was possible. But when Peter looked around him and saw the wind and deep water, he became afraid and started to sink.When Jesus asks for our trust, he knows there is a bigger story to be written. There are days when circumstances muddy the waters and the trust factor diminishes.Perhaps today is a day to refocus where you are looking. How can you keep your eyes on Jesus?Lord, help me to trust you with my life. Will you help me to walk and keep walking toward you? I need your help to keep my eyes focused on you and to trust you in the midst of the impossible. Amen.
“Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” — John 8:7The religious leaders tried to set a trap for Jesus. They wanted to be able to accuse him of breaking the law. If Jesus said the woman should not be executed, he would break the law of Moses. But if Jesus said the woman should be executed, that would break the law of the Romans, who said only a Roman judge could sentence someone to death. I have also wondered why the man who was involved with the woman wasn’t brought before Jesus as well.It didn’t take long for a crowd to gather. People can easily be drawn into an intriguing story.Jesus responded in a most unusual way. He bent down and began to write in the dirt. As he continued to write, curiosity built and the accusers demanded an answer. Jesus replied that anyone who was without sin could cast the first stone. He went back to writing in the dirt. And, one by one, the accusers left. I love the fact that Jesus cares more about us than that we keep all the rules. As he stood alone with the woman, Jesus knew that he was the only one with a right to pick up a stone—and yet he chose forgiveness as he asked where her accusers were. Today let’s remember that Jesus chooses forgiveness for sinners.Thank you, Jesus, for your love and your forgiveness. When we feel judgmental toward others, help us to remember that you have forgiven us all our sins. Help us to live as you call us to. Amen.
“Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” — John 5:7Do we sometimes hold back from accepting Jesus’ transforming power in our lives? Have we become so used to struggling that we can’t imagine things going another way? Sometimes the crutch we know is easier than the walk we haven’t experienced, and that crutch can become a convenient excuse. It’s often easier to rely on the ways we are familiar with, rather than trying a new way that means change and transformation.When Jesus asks this man if he wants to be made well, he does not answer with a yes—only a reason why it can’t happen. He’s had 38 years of only seeing the story one way; the thought of anything else hasn’t entered his thinking. But Jesus is offering so much more than this man can fathom or imagine.When Jesus asks us this question, do we limit him on the basis of our experience, or do we have hope that he can do something more? When we are confronted with the question of change, of thinking bigger than we have imagined before, can we say yes? When we begin to understand that the one asking the question is our Lord and Savior, our Creator, our healer, and our friend, who loves us and cares about the details of our lives, can we say anything but yes? Today is a day to imagine what the Lord can do if we don’t hold back.Lord Jesus, forgive us when we limit you to our own thoughts and ideas. Help us to see with your eyes and to say yes when you ask. Amen.
“Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” — Matthew 6:33In my work I travel a lot throughout the year, and I have a suitcase that is just the right size for an overhead bin in an airplane. But that doesn’t work so well if I am away for more than four days. I often need a different outfit each day, and what if I spill something on one of them? Or what if I need an extra shirt in case the weather is cooler? I have to pack it all just right so that the suitcase closes.On these trips I also wonder about the places where I am going and who I will be meeting. In prayer I wonder about the encounters that will happen and what God might be wanting to teach me. What needs to go into the suitcase of my heart?Jesus was pretty clear as he taught about life and our worries. I think he was saying, in effect, “Don’t sweat the small stuff. Pay attention to what is really important. When you put your focus on me and trust me, the rest will come together. I will be enough for you.”Emotional baggage can be heavy, can’t it? Whatever you might be stressing about, remember that God knows, God cares, and God loves you —and by his grace he will carry you. With God looking after us, we can pack light. Thank you, God, that I don’t need to worry because you have all the details in your hands. Thank you that you love me and know the plans you have for me. Help me to put down the day’s anxiety for the peace you give freely. Amen.
Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. — Mark 8:25On a work trip recently, I lost my glasses. I think they are hanging on a cactus somewhere in Arizona. After my glasses disappeared, the last few days of the trip were a bit blurry, to say the least. I have since ordered new glasses, but in the meantime I am wearing an old pair. Not quite as blurry, but definitely not clear and sharp. It’s important to be honest. The blind man in our story today had the choice to tell Jesus the truth or to go through life seeing a blur. Because of the man’s honesty, Jesus touched him a second time and brought him from blurry vision to clear sight. I bet he was beyond overwhelmed at what he could see.There are times when we have been blinded by our circumstances, our pain, or all the distractions around us. A friend may step in and invite us into a conversation with Jesus. If we accept the invitation, we may have an opportunity to be healed by Jesus.What I love about this story is that Jesus asks, in effect, “What are you seeing?” Sometimes our healing can take place progressively rather than instantaneously. Jesus walks with us. He continues to engage in the conversation, and he asks for our honesty.When we admit where we are in our circumstances, Jesus continues taking us from blurry sight to clarity. What do you see today?Jesus, help us to be honest and to accept that you bring clarity. Show us your love for us and for others. Amen.
Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” — Mark 9:24Around Christmastime last year, we decided that making memories was more important than gifts under the tree, so we booked a week of holidays with our grandkids and had a wonderful time. The problem was that the holiday week was in November, and when December came around, our grandson, with soulful eyes, said, “Grandma, there will still be presents under the tree, right?” I looked at him and winked, assuring him that I was still a Christmas fanatic. He was much relieved that I had given him hope.In the commotion of our Bible story today, a father is desperate for his son to be well. The disciples aren’t able to send an impure spirit out of him, and chaos erupts when they argue with the local religious leaders. As Jesus comes on the scene, the desperate father looks to him for hope. And I wonder if there isn’t a moment of sarcasm or a wink as Jesus responds, “If I can?”Immediately the boy’s father has renewed hope, and he pleads with Jesus to help him overcome his doubts. Jesus, the relational Savior, sends the spirit shrieking and restores the boy to his father. Jesus also tells the disciples that sometimes hope and prayer need to go together. Today let’s remember that with Jesus “everything is possible.”Thank you, Jesus, that you can do all things. Thank you for the reminder and hope of this truth. Help us with our doubts and anxieties to trust you for the answers. Amen.
“How many loaves do you have?” he asked. “Go and see.” When they found out, they said, “Five—and two fish.” — Mark 6:38When I am at our grandkids’ home as they pile in after school, I watch them empty their backpacks and then head to the fridge or the cupboard. “I’m hungry,” they cry, and they go looking for a snack. Though there is plenty to satisfy them, they often seem to have trouble finding just the right thing. But after some suggestions from their parents, they figure it out. The large crowd of people with Jesus had been with him the whole day. Jesus could see that all of these people following him were spiritually hungry and wanted something more. Even his disciples noticed, and they tried to convince Jesus to send them away. But Jesus responded by sending the disciples to see what was “in the cupboard.”They found that they had a total of five loaves and two fish. Jesus was satisfied with what they brought, and he instructed them to seat the crowd. I wonder what it was like to keep handing out pieces of fish and bread—so much that the leftovers filled 12 baskets!When we give Jesus what we have, even though it seems small, he multiplies it. Jesus also includes us in his work, setting us on a mission. “Seek and you will find.” And in our shared search, together we find and together we share.Perhaps today he is asking you what you might find—what are you willing to give so that it might be shared?Jesus, thank you for asking the hard questions and inviting us into the solution. Help us to see and believe that you can do anything. Amen.
He got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. — Matthew 8:26This past year I was privileged to be on a wonderful mission trip to the small town of Mahdia in Guyana. I became a little fearful one day, though, when I saw a tarantula hanging on the wall of an outhouse. I was incredibly thankful for a pastor who knew how to bring calm into that scary situation for me. He did it with a gracious smile on his face and a broom in his hand—and I still wonder what he was really thinking of this Canadian at that moment.Jesus’ disciples had been with him long enough to have watched him step in, heal the sick, provide food, and do other miracles. And yet there in a boat, in the midst of “a furious storm,” fear showed up again. This storm was probably bigger than most of the storms these fishermen had seen over the years—and the moment of panic set in. I sometimes wonder if they had forgotten who was in the boat with them, or if maybe they were just annoyed that he was sleeping.Nevertheless, Jesus’ question applies to us today just as it did to his first followers: If you know me, “why are you afraid?” In what difficulties do you hear him say, “Trust me in whatever you are facing, and see what I can do”? God, forgive us when we walk in fear instead of faith. Thank you for being bigger than our fear. Help us to remember that even in the midst of the biggest storms, you, the Lord of all, are able to bring calm. Amen.
When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” — John 4:7Often when I invite someone into my home, I’ll ask if they would like a drink. Coffee, tea, water, perhaps? It would be rare, though, for someone to come in and ask for a drink—unless it was very hot outside or the visitor was a grandchild.Jesus’ request for water was also unusual. Not only was he not supposed to talk to a Samaritan woman, but he was a guest at the well where she had come to draw water. She had also come alone at the hottest time of day, probably to avoid judgmental eyes and gossip. And there Jesus met her and reached out to her. It began with a question that led into a conversation in which Jesus declared who he really was. Jesus also knew the woman’s life story before inviting her into his story. Jesus always invites. He does not demand but, rather, chooses to connect with each one of us just as he did with the Samaritan woman. In the places where you go to step away from others, Jesus is waiting with a question: “Will you join me in a conversation about your life and where you would like it to go?” What question would you like to ask Jesus? What are the circumstances that may have brought you to this place?When the woman came to the well, she was expecting only to get a jar of water. Instead she received living water (hope in the Messiah) that would fill her soul and change both her and her community (vv. 28-42). What is Jesus asking of you today?Jesus, thank you for your living water and for listening to us. Fill our hearts to overflowing with your love. Amen.
At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He . . . asked, “Who touched my clothes?” — Mark 5:30I don’t know about your family, but ours has a few pranksters. One game they love to play is to walk up behind someone and tap their shoulder from the opposite side and pretend it wasn’t them. Maybe you have had someone do that to you too. For the woman who had been sick for 12 years, she knew that her only hope would be to touch Jesus. She thought, “If I just touch his cloak, no one will notice, and yet it will be enough to make me well.” She had incredible faith. Jesus knew when she touched him because he felt the healing power flow out from him. So he asked, “Who touched my clothes?”In the midst of our worst circumstances, when we have given up hope or tried everything, this story reminds us that reaching out to Jesus gets his attention. He is not asking us to get everything in our lives cleaned up first. He is present at all times.Jesus is also waiting for us to admit that we need him. He knows each one of us, and even in a crowd he knows when we reach out for him.Are you ready for a conversation with Jesus today?Thank you, Lord, for being there for me. Thank you that you know when I reach out to you. Thank you for your healing power. Amen.
[Jesus’] mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” — John 2:5While my grandson was out shopping with me, he decided that I needed two new plants: a lemon tree and a prayer plant. He carefully chose both and placed them in the cart.My own grandmother had grown lemons, so I thought, “Why not?” I now have both the lemon tree and the prayer plant in my office. The lemon tree eventually started to flower, and now it is beginning to bear fruit. One lemon has been the star of the show and is now the size of an apple. For a long time, the lemon was bright green, so I heard a lot of comments that maybe I had a lime tree. But now the yellow color is beginning to show. Maybe in a few more weeks we’ll have a lemon pie worth making a party for.In the Jewish culture of Jesus’ day, celebrations were important, and weddings were often lavish events. No one would want to see a failed wedding party. However, in this case the wine had run out, and Jesus’ mother, Mary, knew the best solution to the problem. She knew that Jesus could solve this. And she didn’t look for other options.How often don’t we also know whom to turn to—and yet we often look for other solutions first? Today, as Mary suggested, we should do whatever Jesus tells us to. Are we ready to involve him? What might the possibilities be?Lord Jesus, thank you for loving people so much that you step into our lives. Thank you for your compassion and care. May we always call on you first, and may you be glorified. Amen.
“We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ). — John 1:41Our Bible reading today begins with an announcement from John the Baptist saying, “Look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”That was quite an announcement! God’s people had been waiting for the promised Messiah for a long time—hundreds of years. Could this be the deliverer God had promised through his prophets so long ago?John heard a voice from heaven describing Jesus as “God’s Chosen One,” so he shared that news with everyone who could hear him that day. Then, the next day, two of John’s disciples who heard this message left to follow after Jesus. Would he be the one to fulfill their souls’ deepest longings?As they began to follow him, Jesus turned around and asked, “What do you want?” They seemed a little tongue-tied but managed to ask where Jesus was staying. They were not so much concerned about location but about abiding with him, wherever he might go. He said, “Come and see.”Could they be welcomed into his life, his journey, his story? Jesus’ invitation brought them into relationship, and what they were looking for was fulfilled enough for them to invite someone else, and then others, and so on.Today, come and see. Jesus, thank you for inviting us into your story. May we learn from you and follow you faithfully. Help us to accept your invitation to grace, sharing the good news that you are the Lamb of God. Amen.
When they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem to look for him. — Luke 2:45When our son was five years old, we visited my mother-in-law, who lived across the street from the Niagara River. There were no barriers to prevent children from wandering to the riverside—there was just the street, the riverbank, and then open water.We could see Brandon’s shoes, but no Brandon. We called his name, probably yelling, but heard no answer. We walked along in panic and saw nothing but the current. After an hour we were joined by neighbors, who circled the block and went further into the local village. Still no Brandon. In total fear, my husband picked up the phone and called the police. As he described what our son looked like, a small figure walked out from the bedroom behind him. Brandon explained that he was hiding from his sister. We weren’t so sure it was the best explanation, but our hearts were relieved, and we stopped worrying. I suspect Mary and Joseph had that same sense of panic. Jesus was already 12 years old then, but he wasn’t answering either. When they found him in the temple, his answer was a question: Didn’t they know that he needed to be there, about his Father’s business?On days when Jesus may feel distant, we can be assured that he is still doing the will of his Father. Look for him, and you will find him—and he might have a question for you.Dear God, when we are distracted and missing you, help us to refocus and realize that you are where you need to be. Keep us in tune with you, we pray. Amen.
“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” — Luke 10:27When we moved into our house 12 years ago, there were only five other houses on the street and a lot of empty lots where new homes would be built. We imagined what the houses and neighbors would look like—and now, with almost 100 houses on our street alone, we have made friends with many of our neighbors.Along the way we decided to become “muffin people,” delivering those treats to about a dozen houses nearby. We introduced ourselves without thinking who might be behind the door except that they were neighbors. We began a soup and buns night with neighbors too, learned their stories, and shared life with them. It may have cost us a bit, but the reward of sharing experiences has been life changing.The parable of the good Samaritan offers a picture of what Jesus was trying to show a religious leader who wanted to test him. It is about risk and relationship with people who are not identical to us. It is about seeing the one that Jesus has placed in front of us and becoming involved in their story. It is about addressing hurts and loneliness because that is what Jesus is asking us to do. It is about paying attention to the needs of people around us and not stepping aside or walking by, thinking that someone else can take care of them.Who is your neighbor?Lord, open our eyes and hearts to all the people whom you have given us to be our neighbors. Help us to see and share your love for all. Amen.
“What about you?” [Jesus] asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.” — Mark 8:29When we meet people and get to know them a bit, it’s not unusual to ask each other about work or hobbies or other interests. We look for information to learn about others and to see what we might have in common.It would be rare, though, to hear a question like this one that Jesus asked: “Who do you say I am?” And yet this is one of Jesus’ most important questions because it focuses on his identity and purpose.Jesus asks this question of each of us too. And it is not an easy question. It takes deep thought and reflection because our response will reveal how we go about our everyday life and in whom (or what) we believe and have faith.Peter answered Jesus by saying, “You are the Messiah”—that is, the Christ, the Son of God, who came to save us from sin and death. And if we say the same, we declare that our faith and life are grounded in Jesus Christ. This affects how we pray, how we interact with others—how we live our whole lives. It also directs us to find peace and security in the Lord who loves us and has this world in his hands.If we merely think that maybe Jesus is the Messiah, that will affect our lives too, and our foundation will feel less secure. Hopefully it will prompt us to ask Jesus himself, “How do you want me to live?”As we begin this month of reflecting on Jesus’ questions, who do you say Jesus is?Jesus, give us the courage today to say that you are the Lord and Savior and to show in our lives that we believe it. Amen.
“‘He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” — Revelation 21:4Have you ever wondered if we will sleep in heaven?We already know that all creatures need sleep and that God in his mysterious wisdom created in us the need for sleep. Further, we can assume that the need for sleep isn’t because of sin.So will we sleep in heaven? The Bible reveals that some basic things in human society, like marriage, will end when we are living in God’s presence forever. But what about sleeping and other basic human functions that we might enjoy in this earthly life? We can say with certainty that if sleep is a problem in this life, it’s the result of other challenges we face in our fallen world. But since the Bible doesn’t actually tell us, we don’t know if we will need sleep in heaven.Although we have to live with that uncertainty now, we can live confidently with a sure and lasting promise. In heaven, when we live in the presence of the Lord, all that ails us now will be a thing of the past. Until then, our future hope should fill us with confidence as we trust and serve God by day and lie down to sleep at night. Father, by your wisdom we have been fearfully and wonderfully made. Help us to trust you in all things, including our sleep, as we serve you and wait to be with you in heaven. Amen.
Let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober. — 1 Thessalonians 5:6Where I live, the summer sun doesn’t set until late in the evening. When our children were young, they would sometimes say at bedtime, “We can’t go to bed yet. It’s not dark out.” They associated darkness with sleep. The apostle Paul does that too.Paul contrasts day and night in two ways. First, people who reject Jesus or don’t know him live in darkness. They are unaware of Jesus’ promised second coming. And when he does return, Jesus will catch them off guard, “like a thief in the night.” Second, and sadly, people who are without Jesus are “asleep,” living in frustration and without hope. Christians, though, are awake in Jesus and should always walk by the light of the “Son.”How does Paul suggest we live in the light? He advises us to prepare for daily struggles and be alert. Our daily battles with temptation and sin require faith in Jesus, and for our faith to grow we should spend time reading and reflecting on God’s Word, letting it permeate the deepest reaches of our hearts. We should also be faithful in prayer, “praying always” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).As our lives orbit around Jesus, his love in us will shine out to the people around us, especially to those without Jesus. Growing in faith and love will develop our hope as we serve Jesus and eagerly await his return.Lord, thank you for awakening our hearts and letting us live for you in your light. Please move us to share your light and life with people who don’t know you. Amen.
We will be with the Lord forever. — 1 Thessalonians 4:17What happens to our souls when we die? Across the ages, many people have offered ideas on our destiny after death. But what does the Bible say?The Old Testament says that when we die, our bodies will return to the earth but that our souls will return to God (Ecclesiastes 12:7). And here in the New Testament the apostle Paul describes death for believers as being “asleep” in Christ (see also 1 Corinthians 15:20; July 26). Some Christians have suggested that when we die, we are in a state of “soul sleep”—but that may not be the best way to describe it. There’s also the promise from Jesus to the thief on the cross: “Today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43).In addition, the apostle Paul provides a promise in 1 Thessalonians 4, describing one of the most striking scenes in the Bible about the Lord’s return. With the shout of the archangel and the blast of a trumpet, the Lord Jesus will descend from heaven. All who belong to Jesus will be raised from the dead, and the living will be gathered to him.And here Paul supplies an indelible, eternal promise: “We will be with the Lord forever.” With this assurance we can be filled with hope and encourage one another.Dear Jesus, although the unknown moment of our death is a reality for each of us, we give thanks that you will never leave or forsake us. Amen.
Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry. — Ephesians 4:26Some good advice for getting regular rest includes having a consistent bedtime, engaging in a quiet activity before sleep, sleeping in a cool, dark room, and shutting off “blue lights” (our phones). The apostle Paul adds another timeless piece of wisdom: “Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.”In his letter to the Ephesians, after providing a deeply textured explanation of God’s love for us in Jesus Christ, Paul describes how we should live daily in the light of God’s amazing grace. Among other things, Paul offers advice about dealing with anger. As creatures made in God’s image, we all have emotions, including anger (even Jesus got angry sometimes). Paul acknowledges anger and then urges us to deal with it in a godly way. He suggests that we deal with our anger quickly, perhaps by beginning to forgive as we have been forgiven, as he says in Colossians 3:13. Why? Because unresolved anger destroys our relationships with God and with others and can devour us alive.When we are angry, we should acknowledge this strong emotion, perhaps take some deep breaths, ask God to help us calm down, and then commit ourselves to taking timely steps to resolve our anger. We’ll sleep better if we do.Father, your just wrath for our sin and rebellion against you has been satisfied in Jesus. Help us, we pray, to forgive others as you have forgiven us. Amen.
I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep. . . . — 2 Corinthians 11:27In these passages Paul describes many of his sufferings for the cause of Christ. In a way these litanies can sound like boasting, and Paul admits that. But his aim, he says, is to show his own weakness in comparison to Christ.Paul’s encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus changed his life forever (Acts 9). The Lord called him to be an apostle to the Gentiles—non-Jewish peoples—so Paul traveled to countless destinations, mostly walking, sometimes on a donkey or riding in a cart, and other times by ship. He spent many nights in unfamiliar and uncomfortable places—perhaps frequently on the cold, hard ground. Though sometimes he probably fell asleep from sheer exhaustion, he often went for long periods without enough sleep or without sleep at all. He also may have spent many nights filled with anxiety about impending dangers or concerns for his fledgling churches.But Paul refuses to boast or wallow in the hardships he faced. He says that if he is going to boast, he will boast only about Jesus, who suffered so much more for him. Paul counts it as a joy that he has had the opportunity to serve Jesus.If we are tempted to wallow in our own loss of sleep and hardships, we too should remember and boast in Jesus.Lord Jesus, you suffered on the cross and died for us. Help us, we pray, to bear our crosses as we seek to follow and serve you. Amen.
But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. — 1 Corinthians 15:20Do you ever use euphemisms? Euphemisms are nice-sounding phrases that we use to talk about something harsh or difficult. For example, we may say “golden years” rather than “old age.” And many cultures describe dying in terms of “passing away.” Paul describes Christians who have died as being “asleep in Christ.”The ancient Hebrews commonly used “sleep” as a euphemism for death. The accounts of Israel’s kings often end by saying “he slept with his fathers” or “rested with his ancestors” (see 1 Kings 2:10). In our reading for today, Paul uses “sleep” several times to describe death. And he does this in a new way in connection with believing in Christ. Apparently some people in the church at Corinth were questioning whether God had truly raised Jesus from the dead. But of course God has done that, Paul says, adding that if God didn’t raise Jesus, then his followers would be the most pitiable of all people.Indeed, Jesus is risen! And, as Paul describes it here, all who have died believing in Jesus are merely “asleep” in him. Because of Jesus’ victory over sin and the grave, death has been conquered. Paul describes death as “sleep” because death has been defeated!Until Jesus returns, we will all die, but through his death and resurrection we have all been made alive in him. And one day he will raise our bodies again to live with him forever.Thank you, Jesus, for conquering death so that we can live with you—body and soul—forever. Amen.
Do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake from your slumber. . . . — Romans 13:11I generally try to get between seven and eight hours of sleep each night. Often, though, I get less than that. And at those times when I’m a little “sleep deprived,” I can be a bit grouchy. Maybe you’re that way too. So why does Paul urge us to sleep less and not more?Paul isn’t talking about restful slumber here. He’s talking about getting drowsy in our spiritual lives. After reminding us that love should be at the center of our hearts, Paul urges us to wake up from our spiritual sleepiness. He spurs us on to live with the commitment and vitality that we had when we first became believers in Jesus. Although we may not be guilty of the “big” sins Paul lists in this passage, we may well need to be reminded about treating our neighbors with love. In our attitudes and actions, it’s easy to treat the people around us—including those whom we love most—with less love than Jesus commands and they deserve.I’ve been a Christian for a long time, but, sadly, I still need daily reminders to wake up from my spiritual slumber to love and obey God and to love and serve the people around me with the same urgent selfless love that God has shown me in Jesus. What about you?Lord Jesus, wake us from our spiritual slumber to love you and others with the love you have shown to us. Amen.
The people took the young man home alive and were greatly comforted. — Acts 20:12Have you ever fallen asleep in a public place, like during a long talk by a speaker or a preacher? Maybe your eyes began drooping, and your head started to nod. Then, despite your best efforts, you dozed off. Though falling asleep like that can be embarrassing, it’s not usually fatal. But it was for Eutychus, who fell three stories from an open window to the ground.What should we make of this strange story? Should we judge Paul for being insensitive to his audience? No, Paul was doing just as he was commanded, teaching the good news about Jesus everywhere. Should we criticize Eutychus for falling asleep in “church”? Probably not, since it was midnight and Paul had been talking “on and on.” In fact, this story isn’t mainly about Paul or Eutychus; it’s about the power at the center of the book of Acts, the resurrection of Jesus. The Greek name Eutychus means “fortunate,” and Eutychus was fortunate that Paul was able to raise him from the dead. But Paul performed this miracle only through the power of Jesus Christ, the risen Lord. This story and everything the apostles say and do in Acts points to the resurrection.In Jesus’ resurrection, God decisively defeated sin and death. The power of the resurrection of Jesus still resounds in the world today as we wait for Jesus’ return and our eternal resurrection.Father, through Jesus, you have defeated sin and death for our sake. Help us to live victoriously as we look forward to Jesus’ return. Amen.
Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. — Acts 12:6Sometimes we awake from a dream feeling relieved that it was only a dream. Other times we awake and wish the dream were real.After being locked up in prison, Peter awoke when an angel came to free him, “but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision.” Later he realized that a miracle had taken place and he was no longer in prison.The book of Acts shows us what the early church suffered for preaching and teaching about Jesus. King Herod had executed James, one of Jesus’ disciples. Seeing that his actions pleased the Jews, Herod arrested Peter, the disciples’ leader, intending to try him in public (Acts 12:1-4). But God had other plans, as we see in Peter’s dramatic escape.This surprising episode teaches us some important things. For example, we see the power of prayer. After Peter’s arrest, the church in Jerusalem prayed earnestly for him. God hears and answers the prayers of his people. We also see the passion and commitment of the early church to keep proclaiming the good news of Jesus, despite persecution. Their sharing of the love of Jesus changed the world, and our sharing of Jesus’ love can do that too.Lord Jesus, you suffered for us. Help us to embrace the cost of following you and sharing your story with our world. Amen.
He returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. — Matthew 26:40After an exhausting day, have you still had more to do even though it was bedtime? And have you kept on, barely able to stay awake? That’s the kind of day the disciples had when they went with Jesus to the garden of Gethsemane.After telling his disciples to wait, Jesus went deeper into the garden to pray. Returning an hour later, he found Peter, James, and John fast asleep. Jesus scolded them and warned them to stay awake and alert. Yet, after going to pray and returning twice again, he found them sleeping. Why did Jesus take a rough tone with them? After all, they had become totally worn out physically, emotionally, and spiritually—not to mention having a cloud of danger and doom hanging over them.Though Jesus rebuked the disciples’ sleepiness, this scene reveals more about his own situation. Overwhelmed with sorrow, Jesus was weighed down with the great burden of suffering he would soon face. But his confession—“My Father . . . not as I will but as you will” and “May your will be done”—resonates through the centuries to us today.The disciples’ powerlessness to stay awake only highlights Jesus’ pain and suffering, which ends in his excruciating death on the cross. The suffering that Jesus shouldered for us brings us to our knees in humility and gratitude.Lord, we are so weak. Only you had the will and ability to carry the burden of our sin. Help us to stay alert and share your love. Amen.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28Do you ever feel completely worn out? Health experts may advise remedies such as eating right, exercising regularly, and getting enough rest. To feel truly rested, many of us need seven to eight hours of sleep each night, and some of us may need even more. This is good advice, but sleep isn’t the only rest we need. Jesus offers us true rest.Jesus promises a kind of spiritual rest unrecognized by the world’s physical health experts. As the Creator of the world and of all humanity, Jesus knows us. He knows our weaknesses, our brokenness, and our struggles. He knows what weighs us down and wearies our bodies and souls. He also knows exactly what kind of rest we need. No healthy sleep routine with adequate deep sleep, dream sleep, and light sleep will provide the spiritual rest we need. Only Jesus can provide the rest that reaches to the depths of our souls.Jesus invites all who are exhausted—weighed down by the cares, obligations, stresses, and problems of life—to come to him. He invites us simply to ground ourselves in him and to follow him every day. Though Jesus doesn’t promise us an easy path, he assures us he is “gentle and humble in heart”—and only in and through him will we find true rest for our souls.Jesus, our Savior and Lord, only in you can we find rest for our souls. Please provide the spiritual rest we need in you. Amen.
Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. — Mark 4:38There are some places—like on airplanes—where I find it impossible to sleep.In our story today, though, we read that Jesus fell into a deep sleep on a small boat that was out on a lake—in the middle of a storm!Though a cushion may have aided his sleep, this brief scene about Jesus’ nap on a boat reveals two important truths about him. Like us, Jesus needed sleep. Too often when we read the stories of Jesus, we focus only on his divinity—that he is God. But this story also reminds us of Jesus’ humanity—that he is human, just like us. To be our Savior, Jesus became like us in every way, except that he was without sin (Hebrews 2:17; 4:15). He became fully human so that he could pay the price of sin for us. But he also had to be fully God so that he could save us from our estrangement with God.In the boat, Jesus’ disciples shook him awake, fearing that they would drown in the storm. Sitting up and perhaps rubbing his eyes, Jesus calmly rebuked the wind and the waves. “Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.” Only God can do that.Fully human and fully divine, only Jesus can rescue us. As he called his disciples to believe in him, so he calls us to trust him for forgiveness and for safe passage through the storms of life.Jesus, Lord and Savior, thank you for your love and forgiveness. Please help us to trust you in the storms of life. Amen.
When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him. . . . — Matthew 1:24Have you ever dreamed that an angel commanded you to do something? I’ve had some serious dreams, but I’ve never had a dream where I awoke convinced that God had told me to do something.Joseph had that kind of a dream, though. He had become engaged to a young woman named Mary, but then he discovered she was pregnant—and he knew that he wasn’t the father. Being both a devout and decent man, Joseph decided to end the engagement quietly. In this way he was responding to the wisdom of his faith and the compassion in his heart. But he soon learned in a dream that God had a special plan for him. Before Joseph could act, an angel of the Lord commanded him to take Mary home as his wife. The angel said that her child was to be named Jesus because he would save the people from their sins. When Joseph awoke, he obeyed what God had commanded, taking Mary as his wife.Joseph also had some other dreams that revealed God’s mysterious power (see Matthew 2). And in each case Joseph did as the Lord commanded.Can God speak to us in the same way? Certainly he can, but God calls us in many ways, ordinary and extraordinary, to be obedient to his will in our daily lives. And when we trust and obey, as Joseph did, our obedience glorifies God and blesses the world.Father, thank you for the mysterious and powerful ways you work in our world. Help us to obey and honor you, reflecting your glory. Amen.
“I, Daniel, was troubled in spirit, and the visions that passed through my mind disturbed me.” — Daniel 7:15On occasions when I have visited places plagued with malaria, I have taken antimalarial drugs. The lifesaving benefits of these medications certainly outweigh the side effects, but these pills can trigger vivid, bizarre, and even frightening dreams.The prophet Daniel sometimes had strange dreams, but they weren’t induced by medications (see Daniel 7-12). He received those dreams from the Lord, and they were given to assure God’s people that the Lord will always care for them and that his kingdom will never be destroyed.Like Daniel, many people have struggled to understand and interpret these dreams. And as Daniel himself said, the dreams left him “troubled,” “exhausted,” and even sick.Beyond the question of interpretation, Daniel’s dreams may lead us to wonder about the purpose of our own dreams. Sometimes our dreams may reveal or highlight a spiritual truth to us, though not in the same way as dreams in the Bible do. Most of our dreams, though, will remain a mysterious part of our inner lives.Nonetheless, we can be assured that the one who created in us the ability to dream also knows and loves us completely. The Lord will never abandon us, even in our most troubling dreams.Father, you have created us to dream. Please show your presence in all areas of our lives and keep us trusting in you always. Amen.
The sleep of a laborer is sweet, whether they eat little or much, but as for the rich, their abundance permits them no sleep. — Ecclesiastes 5:12Ecclesiastes connects sleep with a sense of peace and satisfaction in life. These blessings are linked with honest work and recognizing that all good things come from God, who provides what we need. The ability to accept and enjoy the life we have and to be happy in our work is a great gift from God. This brings us peace of heart so that we can sleep well, knowing we are always in God’s care.Ecclesiastes warns about the insatiable pursuit of wealth and its spiritual perils. Though it doesn’t condemn wealth, this passage warns that it’s better to have little and enjoy it than to have too much and be spoiled by it. Wealth and abundance are blessings from God, but pursuing wealth for its own sake shows a heart of greed and a lack of gratitude that will impoverish our lives and even harm our souls. Directing our resources, pursuits, and passions toward God is far better.Jesus draws from some of the wisdom here and helps us understand it more clearly when he says, “Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? . . . Your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:25-33). Help us, Lord, to focus on living for you, seeking to put your kingdom first in our lives and in your world. Amen.
How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? — Proverbs 6:9Years ago, when we lived in Taiwan, we awoke one morning to find a column of ants marching across our house, from one end to the other. Ants are truly amazing. They seem so driven, directed, and industrious. In fact, Proverbs describes them here as a model of organization and industry and as a spur against laziness.This passage does not suggest that we must always be busy or that rest is unimportant. For human beings, both rest and work together reveal our identity as imagebearers of Creator God. As such, we have an innate desire—even need—to create flourishing.What might that mean? Flourishing results from seeking to serve and honor God in all we do. In all our work, hobbies, rest, recreation, and more, we can nurture and be nurtured by life in this world God has made—whether we are cooks, programmers, builders, medical workers, gardeners, maintenance workers, artists, teachers, drivers, farmers, and more. But if we squander our time and talents, we deny who we are and waste opportunities to serve God and others.All of our daily work, at home and in the world, will not resemble ants marching in line. We are not ants. We are imagebearers of God, and the work and service we do will be creative and purposeful, punctuated by sabbath rest and refreshment, bringing glory to God and joy to creation.Lord, help us to use all of the gifts and talents you have given us to bring you glory and to bless others. Amen.
When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. — Proverbs 3:24Last night I slept well. I fell asleep quickly, got up only once, had pleasant dreams, and awoke refreshed and ready to greet the new day. As the writer of Proverbs might have said, it was a “sweet” night of sleep.King Solomon, the author of the first part of Proverbs, advises his son that wisdom is found only in the Lord. The king urges his son to seek wisdom and understanding. Make them “an ornament to grace your neck,” he says. “They will be life for you.”So, what constitutes wisdom? Wisdom here and throughout the Bible means discerning God’s design for how we should live in his world. This means trusting in God, following his commands for living, and seeking God’s guidance in all we do.Does this mean that if we live according to God’s design, everything in our lives will go smoothly? And if we follow God well during the day, we’ll sleep sweetly at night? Not necessarily. The evil unleashed by human rebellion in the world continues to wreak havoc on us, on others, and on creation.Still, we can trust God’s design for us and follow him in all of life’s circumstances. Then, even though our world may be chaotic and filled with threats, we can experience the sweetness of resting in God, both day and night, now and forever.Father, you have made us for yourself, and only in you can we find true rest. Lead us, we pray, in your paths of rest now and always. Amen.
“I will allow no sleep to my eyes or slumber to my eyelids, till I find a place for the Lord. . . .” — Psalm 132:4-5What’s the longest time you’ve ever gone without sleep? On long trips sometimes, I’ve stayed awake for more than 30 hours. Normally I can only stay awake for relatively short periods of time. Even dogged determination won’t keep me awake after a certain point. So what should we make of King David’s plan not to sleep?After consolidating his rule over Israel, David built a fine palace for himself. Afterward, though, he felt guilty for not building a splendid house for God. In Psalm 132 we hear about David’s determination to build a marvelous temple for God. Using exaggerated language, he declares that he will not rest until he has found the right place for God to dwell.Though God is pleased with David’s devotion, he doesn’t allow him to build the temple, saying that the task is for his son Solomon (see 2 Samuel 7).Though it’s wise to avoid making exaggerated “I will never . . .” statements, we do well to honor God and give him first place in our lives. God is the only source of true satisfaction and rest, and we need to honor him in all we think, say, and do—with our bodies as well as our minds. God also calls us to build: investing our time, talents, and treasure to work with him in building his church and kingdom. How? By worshiping and praying together, sharing each other’s burdens, and bringing his good news to the world.Lord, help us to please you and to join in building your church and kingdom at home and around the world. Amen.
In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for he grants sleep to those he loves. — Psalm 127:2Do you ever find yourself “burning the candle at both ends”—working day and night to get something done? While there may be times when we need to stay up late to meet a pressing deadline, losing sleep to get everything done may suggest a spiritual problem. In Psalm 127, King Solomon of Israel offers some wisdom about work and sleep. Though it’s important to be productive, we need to be aware that if we focus only on our own efforts, we miss the bigger picture. Instead of frantically trying to get everything done, we are encouraged to focus on God—and specifically on his blessings. Instead of agonizing over all that needs to be done, we should look to God for guidance in our daily tasks, seeking to please the Lord by admitting our dependence on him and rejoicing in his compassion. By throwing off self-imposed false burdens, we are free to simply please our merciful God.How we view rest can be a sign of our trust in God. The Lord wants to bless us with sleep, with rest, with renewal. Though there may be times when we lose sleep, if we put our trust in God and serve him with gratitude in all our tasks and challenges, we can enjoy the rest he gives.Father, when we work without you at the center of our lives, we work in vain. Help us to look to you and to rest in you. Amen.
Indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. — Psalm 121:4I often feel sleepy around three o’clock in the afternoon. Sometimes I’m even tempted to put my head on my desk for a quick doze. But that’s not a good idea. Getting up and walking around will usually help to wake me up again.In Psalm 121 we are assured that God’s watchful attention never lapses—not even for a quick nap. The setting of this psalm is the pilgrim’s road to Jerusalem for a worship festival. Though dangers may lurk in the shadowy hills and turns along the roadway, the psalmist assures God’s people that the Lord will watch over them.Nothing will prevent God from watching over us, says the psalmist: nothing in the day or night and nothing from any direction, because God does not sleep.How do God’s people know this? God is the Creator of the universe, and nothing can distract or draw his attention away from his beloved creatures, especially his children.The all-powerful God who steers the universe has promised to watch over us wherever the journey of life takes us. With the confidence of knowing this, we can serve him in the world each day. With God’s people throughout the ages, we can say boldly, “[Our] help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”We know, Father, that you are our Creator, and we say with confidence that our help is in you. Amen.
You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day. . . . — Psalm 91:5Years ago, when we lived in Beijing, a thief broke in through our daughter’s window at night. Though nothing much was taken, we felt vulnerable after our home had been violated. Our daughter even asked to have her window bricked up. Thankfully, stronger window bars and a watchdog solved the problem.Psalm 91 assures us that “whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” All who trust in God will be protected by him. He will protect his children from their enemies, from those who lay traps to harm them. He will shelter and shield his children under his wings. The Lord himself makes this bold promise: “You will not fear the terror of night.”These are beautiful words of assurance. But does this mean nothing bad will ever happen to us? No. Because of sin’s effects on the world, bad things sometimes happen to everyone. Jesus himself was attacked by the evil one, and this psalm even points ahead to our Lord’s temptation in the wilderness (v. 11-12; see Matthew 4:6).This psalm assures us that as we keep trusting and holding on to the Lord—no matter what troubles we face—he will deliver us. When we call his name, God will answer. He will show us his salvation.Father, we don’t understand how in all things you work for our good (Romans 8:28), but we know that you have shown us salvation in Jesus. Help us to trust in you always. Amen.
Awake, Lord! Why do you sleep? Rouse yourself! Do not reject us forever. — Psalm 44:23We all need sleep. Without it our bodies and minds can’t function properly. Though we don’t know why, God built sleep into what it means to be a human being.But what about God—does God ever sleep? In Psalm 44, the psalmist asks if God is asleep and urges God to rouse himself. What?!In another passage, the Bible assures us that God, who created the heavens and the earth, will “neither slumber nor sleep” (Psalm 121:4).But in Psalm 44 it seems that, to the psalmist and the people, God is silent. It feels to them like God is asleep. We don’t know the circumstances of this lament, but we can see that God’s people are in a desperate situation. They have been defeated by an enemy, and it seems that God has rejected them (vv. 5-11).Yet the people feel innocent, saying they had not forgotten God or his promises (vv. 17-18). They remind God of his past faithfulness and urge him to show with power his steadfast, unfailing love for his covenant people.Psalm 44 ends on a bleak note, without any clear declaration or assurance from God. Yet two things are clear in this psalm: God wants us to call out to him in our desperate times, and he takes it as a mark of trust and love when we do. God’s answer may not be immediate or to our liking, but he knows what we need and when.Father, you never sleep, and you are always faithful. Help us to trust in you as we wait for your answers to all our needs. Amen.
In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. — Psalm 4:8In my younger days I looked forward to falling into bed at night with the sigh, “Sleep at last!” I still look forward to sleeping, but now I don’t always look forward to bedtime. Sometimes, as night falls, I begin brooding about disappointments, regrets, unsolved problems—and I fear taking my anxieties to bed.In Psalm 4 it seems that King David may be brooding again about the rebellion of his son Absalom (Psalm 3; July 8)—not to mention his many other enemies. This psalm gives us a heightened sense of his desperation. We can almost see David twisting and turning, messing up the covers on his bed. Here again he calls out to God, pleading for mercy. In the middle of the psalm, though (v. 4), David offers some sound advice for such times of struggle in the darkness: searching one’s heart and asking for forgiveness for any sins one may have done.Then, as often happens in the psalms, David moves from turmoil and agony toward trust. He does this by deliberately turning his mind toward God’s faithfulness and provision.David’s struggles aren’t fully resolved in this psalm. But in reaffirming his trust in God, he sees a way forward. He ends with a declaration about peaceful sleep, a complete letting go into God’s faithfulness.In all of our struggles, Lord, help us to cry out to you and in faith to turn to you in trust and gratitude for the gift of sleep. Amen.
I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. — Psalm 3:5Maybe you don’t have difficulty falling asleep. But do you ever have trouble staying asleep? Sometimes I jolt awake in the middle of the night and begin mulling over things: a harsh word, a pressing obligation, a painful family situation, or some other upsetting circumstance. Daytime events can cause us to lose sleep at night.In King David’s case, he was beset by family troubles. We can read the sad account of his family’s grief and struggle in 2 Samuel 13-18. Psalm 3 cuts to the heart of David’s deep distress. His beloved son Absalom is leading a revolt against him, his enemies surround him, and God seems far away. Yet, as the psalm unfolds, we see that David’s faith has not deserted him. He calls out to God, professing that the Lord is his shield and protection. David trusts in God’s power and presence. Despite the circumstances David declares, “I lie down and sleep; I awake again, because the Lord sustains me.”Our own troubles and anxieties may not be like those of King David. And his words are no simple answer for sleepless nights. But they do point us to a deep confession: “The Lord sustains us.” This isn’t merely an attempt at positive thinking. It’s the bedrock of our faith, night and day.Father, in our tossing and turning, keep our faith in you strong, and help us to believe and say that you sustain us. Amen.
That night the king could not sleep; so he ordered the book of the chronicles, the record of his reign, to be brought in and read to him. — Esther 6:1Like many people, I occasionally have trouble falling asleep. When that happens, I often start counting backwards in Chinese from a thousand, hoping to fall asleep before reaching yi (“one”). That usually works, but if it doesn’t, I eventually get up and rummage through the fridge for something to eat.King Xerxes of Persia had insomnia one night, so he called to his servants to read to him from the record of his reign. The king discovered that Mordecai, an exiled Jew living under his rule, had saved the king’s life without being rewarded. So the king ordered that Mordecai be honored throughout his kingdom. As we read more of this story, we discover that the king’s sleepless night plays a key role in the deliverance of the Jews from being annihilated (Esther 2:19-8:14).Here we can see God working behind the scenes to protect his people. Evil forces were arrayed against the Jews, but God used his captive, humble servants to touch the king’s heart and turn destruction away from his people. God uses Xerxes, Mordecai, and Esther to keep his promises “for such a time as this” (4:14).Even in our moments of sleeplessness we can be assured that God is always working to keep his promises. We can always be assured of his love and care.In our times of sleeplessness, Lord, help us to turn to you, trusting and resting in your sure and unfailing love. Amen.
He lay down under the bush and fell asleep. — 1 Kings 19:5Yesterday I mowed our overgrown lawn, cleaned our cluttered garage, and washed some of the filmy windows on our house. Physically exhausted at the end of the day, I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow.In our reading for today, Elijah is exhausted and falls asleep under a bush in the wilderness. But Elijah isn’t exhausted from doing chores. He has just had a dramatic confrontation with the priests of Baal (see 1 Kings 18:16-46), and now he is fleeing for his life from King Ahab and Queen Jezebel. Totally shattered—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—Elijah asks God to take his life.Yet God doesn’t answer his plea. Instead, through an angel, God provides Elijah with sustenance for the road ahead. Then, after some more restful, restorative sleep and more food and drink from the angel, Elijah sets out on the journey ahead of him.What can this extraordinary story teach us? We are reminded of our basic need for sleep and its restorative benefits. Even more importantly, we see that God tenderly cares for us, feeds us, and watches over us—even in our deepest, darkest moments. Though our own story may not be as dramatic as Elijah’s, God will provide what we need so that we too can take up the journey ahead of us. In fact, God has already provided for us through his Son, Jesus, who invites us to come and rest in him (Matthew 11:28-30).Lord, our only hope for true rest is in you. As you reach out to us, help us to come to you. Amen.
Joseph said to Pharaoh, “The dreams of Pharaoh are one and the same. God has revealed to Pharaoh what he is about to do.” — Genesis 41:25When I awake from a troubling dream, I usually breathe a sigh of relief, thankful that it was only a dream. But in ancient times people took their dreams very seriously and kept note of the details. For them, good dreams meant something positive, while bad dreams meant a person could face harm.Pharaoh was disturbed when he awoke from two troubling dreams. The first dream was about seven thin cows that devoured seven fat cows. The second dream was about seven withered heads of grain that swallowed up seven healthy ones. Pharaoh consulted with all of his wise men, but they could not interpret these dreams. Then he heard that Joseph could interpret dreams. With God’s help Joseph was able to tell Pharaoh that a great famine was coming and that they should store up grain for food before the famine came.Pharaoh’s dreams were about deliverance, and these particular dreams remind us that God works not only through his children but also through people in our world who may not yet know him. Just as our sleep and our dreams remain a mystery to us, God’s work in history can be mysterious. But God always works according to his wise plan. And there’s one mystery in which we can always find comfort and assurance: God in his love will never leave us or forsake us.Lord God, we take comfort in knowing that you love and care for us. And in all things you work for our good. Amen.
Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him all the more. — Genesis 37:5Do you know anyone who likes to share about dreams over breakfast? Our dreams often have striking details and characters, but they can also be illogical and hard to follow.Joseph, who was despised by his brothers, shared a dream with them—and “they hated him all the more.” That’s because his dream predicted they would all bow down to him. Joseph was his father’s favorite, and his brothers hated him so much that they wanted to get rid of him. Eventually they sold him into slavery in Egypt (Genesis 37:19-28).Joseph’s story in the rest of Genesis reads like a gripping nightmare at times—but it has a happy ending. Joseph not only dreams but also interprets the dreams of others. And ultimately he rescues his entire family from starvation (Genesis 45-50).Joseph’s story isn’t mainly about his dreams, though. It’s about God’s mysterious plan and way of working to save his people, despite all kinds of efforts to thwart him. Though we may often find God’s ways or methods surprising, we can take comfort from Joseph’s story, seeing that God rescues his people from calamity and the consequences of sin. What’s more, Joseph’s story points ahead to the story of Jesus, our Savior, who came to rescue us from sin and death, restoring us to full life with God.Lord, sometimes our lives, like our dreams, can seem chaotic. But you, Lord, have our lives in your hands as you carefully guide us every step of the way. Amen.
When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he thought, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” — Genesis 28:16In ancient times, most people didn’t sleep with fluffy pillows as many of us do today. Instead they often slept with their heads propped on wood, bronze, or stone. In our reading today, we find Jacob traveling on foot to the land of Harran, and he uses a stone for a pillow.The hardness of that pillow didn’t seem to affect Jacob’s sleep. He was exhausted, fleeing from his murderously angry brother after stealing their father’s blessing. Jacob probably fell asleep quickly on this particular night, but then he drifted into a dream about heaven. In his dream, he saw angels ascending and descending a stairway that reached to the heavens, and God himself was there. After identifying himself as the God of his fathers, God promised to give Jacob countless descendants as well as the land he was sleeping on. When Jacob awoke, he was frightened and amazed, and he promised to commit himself to the God of his fathers.Today God speaks to our hearts through his Word and Spirit—and perhaps sometimes in our dreams. When we awake from a particularly vivid dream, we should remind ourselves that God sometimes reveals himself to us in peculiar ways. And, like Jacob, we can recommit ourselves to following and serving God in our everyday lives.Thank you, God, for your Word and Spirit, and for your ability to speak to us through our dreams, which can remind us of your love and faithfulness. Amen.
As the sun was setting, Abram fell into a deep sleep, and a thick and dreadful darkness came over him. — Genesis 15:12I awoke this morning from a weirdly confusing dream. Scientists call the dreaming phase of sleep “rapid eye movement” (REM) sleep. In REM sleep our minds process and assimilate information from our day-to-day experiences. Sometimes, as we learn in the Bible, God uses REM sleep to communicate with people.Our Bible reading today tells us about two of God’s messages to Abram. First, in a vision, God gives an astounding promise: he will make Abram the father of many descendants—as many as the stars in the sky (vv. 1-6)! Then, at sunset, Abram falls into “a deep sleep”—a dark hole of dreams in which God promises that he will inherit the land he is living in.Though Abram may have been perplexed by these messages, he took God at his word, and God “credited it to him as righteousness.” Later, as a sign of his promises, God also renamed Abram as Abraham, which means “father of multitudes'' (Genesis 17:5).Most of our dreams just leave us confused, but in this story sleep plays an outsized role in God’s promise to bless Abraham and all of humankind. God reveals his great love in a grand design that ultimately points to Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Not every dream carries a message. But our dreams can remind us to trust the one who created us with the ability to dream. Father God, even when we are asleep, we can be assured of your presence and promise in our lives. Help us to trust and rest in you. Amen.
The Lord God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep; and while he was sleeping, he took one of the man’s ribs and then closed up the place with flesh. — Genesis 2:21When God created the world, he built into his creatures the need for rest and sleep. Some creatures, like frogs, barely sleep at all; but others, like koalas, sleep over 20 hours a day. We humans spend about a quarter to a third of our lives sleeping. Without sleep, our bodies cannot restore and repair themselves.In Genesis 2 we read of a particular occasion when God causes Adam, the father of humankind, “to fall into a deep sleep.” God’s purpose wasn’t to trick or deceive Adam while he was sleeping. At this pivotal moment in history, God continued his creative work in order to bless Adam, all humanity, and all of creation. While Adam was asleep, God used one of his ribs to create a woman, who would be the mother of humankind. And she was named Eve to reflect that (Genesis 3:20).This story tells us much about the beginnings of human life. It shows God’s creative power and his care for us as he brings us into the world he has made. We learn that we need God, we need each other, and we need the world God created for us. As we live in and take care of this world, we also need sleep. What’s more, God used sleep in a special way to complete his creation. As you prepare for sleep today, give thanks for the blessings of rest and sleep—and for God’s faithful sustenance and care.Father, by your hand we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Thank you for sleep and for your care over us as we rest in you. Amen.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. . . . — Psalm 23:4Some situations in our lives can make us fearful, like a dark valley where danger lurks. Maybe we’ve received a surprising medical report or a layoff notice. Maybe we’ve lost a dear loved one. Maybe our marriage is falling apart. Or it could be any number of hard situations at once.What a blessing it is to have the Lord at our side in such times!The psalmist did not fear because he knew the Lord was with him, always caring for him like a good shepherd. He had enjoyed good and peaceful times in God’s presence, when all seemed to go well. And he trusted that the good shepherd would not abandon him in difficult times.We can trust that God will never abandon us because his promise is not only to be with us here in this life but for all eternity.Jesus’ sheep are happy because he is the good shepherd who has laid down his life for them and will never let them go (John 10:11-18, 27-30). He supplies all of their needs. He protects them from evil. Even in the darkest valleys of life, Jesus’ sheep need not fear because their shepherd has defeated death. Jesus has already taken away the sting of death—and now he offers us, free of charge, through faith, a happy and eternal life!Lord, in you I have peace at all times, because you are always with me. The certainty of your presence assures me that I am safe in your omnipotent care. Thank you, Lord. Amen.
Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. — Psalm 32:1Many people are plagued with guilt. They live as prisoners of sin, without peace in their souls. As a result, many people have sought refuge in false solutions, and their attempts to appease their feelings of guilt have failed miserably.Some people try to escape this overwhelming feeling by going on adventures. Others try to numb themselves with alcohol or drugs, creating even deeper pain. Some try to calm their anguish with self-help philosophies and mystical experiences. But no ritual or exercise can alleviate a guilty conscience.Only the blood of Jesus can blot out our sins and free us from the guilt of our wrongdoing. Only Jesus can break the bars of our prison and break our chains. Only Jesus can offer us true forgiveness and eternal happiness. Seeking forgiveness from another source is like trying to find water in a dried-up well.The psalmist learned similarly that while he kept silent (not seeking God’s forgiveness), his “bones wasted away” and his “strength was sapped as in the heat of summer.” Only when he opened his heart to God and acknowledged his sin did he find healing for the affliction of his soul. For he found that God “forgave the guilt of [his] sin.”Hallelujah!Because of your mercies, O Lord, we are not consumed. Your forgiveness cancels the power of guilt and sin. We praise you, Lord, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 5:10Let’s focus again today on Jesus’ statements of blessing (beatitudes) in Matthew 5. These statements have been a source of encouragement for believers struggling with adversity, harassment, and oppression. These words may not seem so attractive today, however, when success and self-sufficiency are so highly valued. Our Scripture reading today, especially, might cause us to wonder what happiness there can be in facing persecution because of Jesus.Suffering for our own mistakes tends to be a source of shame. But to suffer for the sake of righteousness (because we are followers of Jesus) is a cause for joy in the Lord. The Lord’s prophets and apostles who lived before us suffered many kinds of humiliations for the sake of righteousness and justice—just because they were trying to live God’s way. Jesus, likewise, was persecuted for doing good and teaching about the kingdom of God.The apostle Paul says that “everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). So we can expect to face some kind of suffering as Jesus’ followers. But, as Paul also teaches, “our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). The happiness we enjoy now is just a prelude to our eternal happiness!Lord, despite the difficulties we may face, fill our hearts with peace and happiness in serving you, knowing we will live with you forever! Amen.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” — John 10:10In our reading today Jesus explains that he is our shepherd, “the good shepherd” who “lays down his life for the sheep.”Jesus also says that the purpose of his coming into the world is to give us life in abundance. Unlike the thief, who comes to steal, kill, and destroy the sheep, Jesus came so that we can experience permanent joy, lasting peace, and eternal happiness.Once, during a feast in Jerusalem, Jesus stood up and declared, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them” (John 7:37-38).True happiness is in knowing Jesus by experiencing him and enjoying him. This is not just a theoretical or intellectual knowledge. Jesus is the water of life. We need to drink this water. Whoever drinks this water will never be thirsty again.Jesus quenches our existential thirst, our hunger for meaning. Although we may feel like an insignificant speck in the vast universe, Jesus became human, just like us. He, more than anyone, values his creation and gives us an unmatched gift: abundant life.Lord Jesus, anyone who loves you lacks nothing. You have promised us abundant life. Guide us each day to live fully for you, with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Thank you for coming to save us, and help us to share your love with everyone. In your name we pray. Amen.
“’This son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.” — Luke 15:24Jesus’ parable of the lost son is one of the most moving stories in the Bible. It is about a young man who felt dissatisfied in his father's house. He thought he could find happiness far away from his family home. So one day he asked for his share of the family inheritance and left.At first, while he had money, the young man had plenty of friends and lots of fun. He spent everything he had on riotous living. But then hunger came, and he knew what it meant to be in need. He found work taking care of pigs. The happiness he had thought he would find was just a mirage.The lost son had been happy in his father's house but didn't know it. Now he was consciously unhappy, so he decided to return home and ask his father for forgiveness.The lost son was willing to be received only as a servant. But when he returned home, he was surprised. His father was waiting for him and ran to meet him. His father hugged him, kissed him, and threw a party for him, saying, “Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine . . . was lost and is found.”Jesus said there is rejoicing in heaven when a sinner repents and returns to God (Luke 15:7, 10). In the same way, let’s celebrate when anyone among us does the same!Dear God, thank you for making us part of your family, and for sending Jesus so that we can return to you. May we also share in rejoicing whenever another child returns to share in your happiness. In Jesus, Amen.
Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in obedience to him. — Psalm 128:1Psalms 128 reminds God’s people of the blessings of family life. (See also Psalm 127; June 10.)One of the greatest blessings we have is our family. A happy marriage is worth more than any fortune; a united family is worth more than any wealth. A family that honors God is a valuable testimony to the richness of God’s blessing in life.A family dedicated to serving the Lord in all things is a family that knows happiness. The husband who fears the Lord and wants to live God’s way works with all his energy for a safe and godly home for his family members. He loves his wife “just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” (Ephesians 5:25); he is united to and faithful to his wife, who is “like a fruitful vine.” They respect and care for one another. And if they are blessed with children, their children are “like olive shoots,” fruitful in bringing more blessing into their lives. Godly parents teach their children in the ways of the Lord so that they may be blessed all the days of their lives. And if God wills it, they may live to see their children’s children, receiving even more blessing and joy from God’s hand.With blessing the Lord brings prosperity, peace, and joy to families who seek to honor him. When you honor God in your home, you will always have him as an ally.Father, bless our homes and families with your love. Give us unity, joy, fidelity, forgiveness, and prosperity—that we may share with others and help them to know you too. In Christ, Amen.
Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. . . . — Ephesians 5:18In Brazil there is a popular festival each year called Carnival. Sponsored with public funds and promoted by political authorities, Carnival attracts millions of tourists from around the world. Parading cars and floats with all kinds of decorations fill the main streets of large cities. Samba schools parade to the rhythm of the batucada before the euphoria of a crowd thirsty for pleasure. Carnival is the festival of masks. Sadly, it is a drunken party. Carnival is a vain effort to find joy where there are only ashes of frustration.The false joy that Carnival promotes leaves a bitter taste. In the setting of this festival, decency is sacrificed, immorality is celebrated, and the wise values of dignified family life are tossed aside.Lulled by amazing spectacles, the crowds jump and dance, animated by worldly ideas of joy. But people’s hearts at the end of this event are empty. Carnival, in fact, is a party where true joy does not find expression.Instead, however, we can give thanks that God offers us true happiness. We are invited to be filled with the Holy Spirit, who makes our bodies a holy dwelling place for God (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). Only in the Lord can we find the peace and tranquility that our souls long for.Blessed God, transform our hearts. Free us from trying to solve our problems and to escape our struggles with the excesses of empty celebrations. Turn us to find true life in Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.
King Belshazzar gave a great banquet for a thousand of his nobles and drank wine with them. — Daniel 5:1There are parties that end in tragedy. Our Bible reading for today talks about a party that ended with the sudden fall of a kingdom. This happened in the palace of the most powerful king in the world at that time. He literally saw “the writing on the wall” that told him his days were numbered (see Daniel 5:25-30), and the king was terrified. The feast of King Belshazzar of Babylon included only select people. Nothing was missing at this party: the best food, expensive wines, beautiful women, even the golden goblets raided from the temple of God in Jerusalem. Then, in the midst of this revelry, a hand appeared and wrote a message on the wall. But none of the king’s guests or his wise men could read it. The rest of Daniel 5 explains that Daniel was summoned to interpret the writing on the wall. It was a message from God announcing the end of Belshazzar’s kingdom. And on that night the kingdom was overthrown. How hard it is to hear that one’s kingdom is coming to an end! Maybe the words come from a doctor or in a bankruptcy declaration. Maybe the greatest of dreams and plans has gone up in smoke. We cannot live in a way that goes against God or is indifferent to the eternal life that only God can provide. Why would we want just fleeting happiness when the true God offers us life forever, full and free?Lord, we know that seeking pleasure at all costs brings bitter consequences. Spare us from ruin, turning our hearts to follow you. Amen.
“’He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” — Revelation 21:4The book of Revelation speaks of conflicts and battles involving mysterious powers of evil, and we may wonder how and when such things might actually take place. Yet all who have hope in Christ have nothing to fear. The final result has already been announced. The Lord of heaven and earth has won the decisive battle through the finished work of Jesus, and the final triumph is assured. When the curtains of history close, there will be “a new heaven and a new earth” in which God lives with his people forever.God will wipe away every tear from our eyes, and mourning, death, and pain will disappear. Imagine the joy of living in the presence of the Lord, who has promised us his glorious inheritance. Our bodies will be renewed, and we will reign eternally with Christ. Sin will no longer be present in our lives, because nothing impure can stand in God’s presence. There will be no sickness or suffering. All injustice and conflict will be things of the past.All who are redeemed in Christ are welcomed into God’s kingdom by grace. Jesus is the only way that leads to God (John 14:6). And in the presence of God there is and will be fullness of joy forever!God of all eternity, thank you that one day all our sufferings will cease and you will wipe every tear from our eyes. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the Lord? — Deuteronomy 33:29God's people are a blessed and happy people. They know the joy of having new life in Christ, and they have the sure hope of living eternally with him.For all who belong to the people of God, it is good to be reminded of these words of Moses to God’s people Israel. Moses wanted the people to remember how privileged they were, so he said, in effect, “Blessed are you, Israel! Who can be compared to you? The Lord himself has saved you.”God’s people are blessed because they have been chosen by God from eternity. They are the object of God's loving care in all circumstances.Salvation is the greatest of all gifts. It is a gift of eternal consequences. It is an expensive gift that all the riches in the world could not buy. This gift cost God the life of his own Son, Jesus Christ. And through this costly gift God freely gives us salvation.We cannot do anything to earn or accomplish salvation; nor do we deserve it in any way. God is pleased to give it to us by his merciful grace. Salvation and new life are an undeserved favor.The happiness of God's people lies in this capital truth: we are saved by the Lord!We praise your name, O God, for in your gift of salvation, full and free, we are truly and completely blessed! Thank you for loving us so much and for making us your people. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” — Matthew 5:9Conflict can be difficult to avoid. Not even peace protocols and treaties ensure that nations will exist together without rivalries and tensions. Homes and families, which should be places of harmony and understanding, often become like war zones. In our cities, violence takes over in the streets. Even in sports, which should be a source of fun and healthful enjoyment, rivalries get out of hand.Christians have a high calling: in a world that creates ever deeper rifts in relationships, we are called to build bridges. Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” We have received the precious ministry of reconciliation. We are called to be ambassadors for Christ, through whom we call others to be reconciled with God (2 Corinthians 5:17-20). Instead of sowing conflict, we must strive for mutual understanding. Instead of pitting one against another, we should encourage alliance and cooperation. Instead of sowing discord, we should work to heal relationships.Serving as agents of peace, we find happiness in the Lord. And as peacemakers we are recognized as children of God.Loving God, only your grace can restore peace and bring forgiveness. Help us to work against breakdowns in our relationships. Help us to be agents of peace. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
We brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. — 1 Timothy 6:7-8Books about how to get rich fill the shelves of bookstores and are bought up quickly. The main idea is that money can give us security and happiness. Some people preach that message in their churches too. But that is not the message of Christ and the Bible.People who want only to pursue riches fall into temptation and end up tormenting themselves. Many have strayed from faith in their unchecked greed.In contrast, the apostle Paul testifies that godliness accompanied by contentment is great gain. When we have enough to eat and clothes to wear, we can be content. Our happiness and our security are not in money but in God.Is it bad, then, to have wealth? That is not what the apostle is saying. Money in itself is not bad. But “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” This is a helpful warning to believers who have been materially blessed.Paul urges the rich not to trust in the instability of riches, but in God. Money can be good when we own it, but not when it owns us. Money is a good servant, but it’s a bad master. We can use money to bring happiness when we distribute it generously and wisely, but not if we greedily withhold it or keep it for ourselves.Lord, help us to be content with having our needs supplied. And help us to share from the abundance you have given so that others too may be blessed—and praise you! Amen.
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope. . . . — 1 Timothy 1:1Hope is the light that illuminates our pathway in life, leading us onward with the promise of eternal, full life with God. For all who know Christ, hope is an essential part of the journey. Indeed, as the apostle Paul says, Christ himself is our hope. Hope in Christ is not a mere wishful kind of hope that people sometimes talk about when they say, “I hope we have a beautiful day for our picnic,” or “I hope our sports team wins the championship.” If our hope is limited to this life alone, we will not find true happiness.What’s more, in Christ, our future is not uncertain. We are not heading into the unknown. Our end is not a grave or a tomb. Each day, even as we grow older and our bodies may grow weak and frail, we walk toward glory. We walk toward full life with the Lord, who will one day come again.We walk toward eternal happiness. As he did with Paul, the Lord pours his grace on us, mercifully forgiving all of our sins. Not one of our sins is too great for God to forgive; Christ’s death paid for them all.Believing in Jesus gives us hope for eternity. And that hope fills us with energy in the present, helping us to hold fast to Jesus and his promises.Eternal God, only with our eyes fixed on Jesus can we enjoy the hope of full, eternal life with you. For this we thank you, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. . . .” — Revelation 14:13For most people, death stands out as one of their greatest fears. Death spreads panic and terror wherever it goes, without respect for age or social position. The Bible describes death as the last enemy to be defeated, and we take comfort in knowing that Jesus himself has already defeated death. What’s more, Jesus has promised that all who believe in him will one day rise from the grave to live with him forever.That is why the Scriptures speak of happiness despite the problem of death. In our reading for today, for example, we find a message that comes directly from heaven. This is not something that springs from someone’s imagination. No, it comes to us by way of “a voice from heaven” that says, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. . . .” In other words, though death may come to your body, your soul is safe with the Lord, who has also promised to raise your body to life again when he returns someday.For all who die in the Lord, death does not have the last word. Death has already been defeated. To die in the Lord is to find rest from toil and struggle. To die in the Lord is to “depart and be with Christ, which is better” than remaining in the body we have now (Philippians 1:23). Those who die in the Lord leave this life behind and enter into the joy of the Lord.O God, author of life, for all who are in Christ, death means resting in your arms. Your perfect love removes all of our fear. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! — Philippians 4:4Sadness is the daily portion of many people. The world is full of suffering and hardship, and it can be difficult to find peace and happiness. As a result, people can become bitter about the adversity and struggles in their lives, and many blame God for their hardship and sorrow.The apostle Paul, however, had a different message to share. Though he was in prison and had gone through many hardships, he knew he could find joy in the Lord, his Creator and Savior. He wrote to the Philippians: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”Joy in the Lord is not a trivial or fleeting emotion. Instead it results from the deepest possible peace of knowing that your destiny is secure in God’s hands. As a result, a person can have deep and lasting joy in the Lord even in the midst of great suffering and pain.Life is not an amusement park. We face struggles and cross dark valleys. But our happiness is not a superficial, fleeting emotion. Our joy does not depend on the circumstances in which we find ourselves.As Paul puts it, our joy is in the Lord. In other words, Jesus is the source of our joy. He is the content of our happiness. Our happiness is not just in the absence of bad things or in the presence of good things. Our happiness is in Jesus, knowing that he loves and cares for us and is with us always—forever!Lord and God, help me to have joy in you, knowing that I am secure in you always. In your saving name, Amen.
Blessed are those who have regard for the weak; the Lord delivers them in times of trouble. — Psalm 41:1A compassionate heart is not among the most popular qualities in our world today. If you want to climb to the top, people say, you often have to trample on others. Compassion is considered an attribute of people who are weak. But what does God say about this?The Bible says, “Blessed are those who have regard for the weak.” And this does not mean just thinking about people who are disadvantaged; it means caring about them and doing something about it. People who care are those who open their hearts with the willingness to share what they have with people in need. Generosity goes hand in hand with compassion and care as people seek to show God’s love in this world.We find happiness not when we have everything in our hands but when we share with people in need, giving from our abundance as the Lord has given to us.The generous person sows happily and reaps the blessed fruit of God’s ongoing favor. God himself multiplies our sowing so that we can continue to give generously. God provides for us and gives us health and strength to do more by spreading his love to others. When we open our hearts, hands, and pockets to share from all that God has given us, we find joy and happiness in giving freely as the Lord gives, without strings attached.Lord God, help us to open our hearts to care about others and to share from the abundance you have given us. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” — Exodus 20:12Most parents have to deal with disobedience from their children at some time or other.In the Ten Commandments we find that children who honor their parents receive a special promise from God: the blessing of a long life.Happiness is the result of obedience. No child can be happy being a nightmare to their parents. No child can build happiness on a foundation of rebellion.Sadly, children who disobey their parents and other authorities often reap misfortune and tragedy. Many children shorten their days because they follow the slippery path of disobedience, get involved with harmful friends, and seek excitement in dangerous places. They turn away and cover their ears so as not to listen to their parents’ advice. But unfortunately they often do so to their peril.Where can they look instead to find happiness and a life of blessing? As the Bible teaches, they can find happiness in obedience to the Lord, and that includes honoring their parents. Ephesians 6:1-3 summarizes this way: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise—‘so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.’”Great God, we all need to respect the established authorities in our lives. Help us to start at home, honoring our parents, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
This too, I see, is from the hand of God, for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment? — Ecclesiastes 2:24-25Sometimes we think that people with more resources have the clear path to happiness. That is why famous artists, actors, athletes, and other celebrities have a large number of followers. We imagine them with the world at their feet and a smile on their lips.The writer of Ecclesiastes, who probably was King Solomon, dedicated much of his life to the pursuit of happiness. He was the richest, most famous, and most sought-after man of his time. Without limitations, he sought happiness in wealth and the pursuit of pleasures (see Ecclesiastes 2:1-23). He amassed great fortunes and took on great building projects, but all of his money and influence could not bring him true happiness. He sought happiness in the pleasures of wine and feasting and love affairs, but not even a great harem could provide satisfaction.Ultimately, he sought happiness in fame and success. And the only thing he got at the end of his pilgrimage was a feeling of emptiness.In the end he found that the object of his long search was actually the Lord, whom he had pushed aside! The happiness he sought in things and in adventures was in God, “for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment?”Lord, it is a frustrating and useless task to seek happiness apart from you. It’s like chasing the wind. There is only happiness when you are at the center of our lives. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance. — Psalm 33:12Is happiness found in social and economic policies? Or in educational and cultural programs? These things can be good and helpful, but a nation can only find true happiness when its people recognize the Lord. This occurs when hearts transformed by the grace of God seek to do his will.In our pluralistic world today many people claim that all religions are equal and that all paths lead to God. Many national leaders today don’t even recognize the Lord.Is there any nation that serves the Lord today? Not truly. While some nations may claim to trust in God, their actions show that they follow the ways of the world. Even if they do some things right, their leaders seldom give credit to God. We should not be surprised, then, to see a moral and spiritual vacuum in so many places. Wickedness leads to perversion, and ungodliness leads to immorality.Within every nation, though, there are people who say, like the psalmist, “We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.” These are the people of God’s kingdom, and they know true happiness is found in Christ. They share his love with others, and he says to them, “Well done, good and faithful servant[s]! . . . Come and share your master’s happiness!” (Matthew 25:21).Lord and God, you are the solution our nations need today. Help us to honor you and seek to live your way for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” — Matthew 5:8Faith is not disconnected from happiness. If you imagine the Christian as sullen and gloomy, that is not what God has in mind. Happiness is a matter of the heart, and it has to do with holiness and purity.As Psalm 24 says, those who have “clean hands and a pure heart . . . will receive blessing from the Lord.” They will be able to stand in the holy presence of the Lord. Or, as Jesus put it, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”Yet we cannot be pure in heart without the saving work of Jesus. As Proverbs 20:9 makes clear, “Who can say, ‘I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin’?” Only Jesus can say that, and only he has made it possible for us to be purified so that we can live in the presence of God.If we think that happiness lies in the pleasures that the world offers, we are mistaken. The attractions of the world may give pleasure for a moment, but they do not satisfy the heart forever. The blessed are not people who give free rein to their passions. The blessed are those whose hearts are made pure through the power of God in Jesus Christ.Indeed, they are abundantly blessed because God is the one who purifies them. They are truly and eternally happy!Majestic God, you are the only source of true happiness. I ask you to purify and renew my heart in holiness. In Jesus, Amen.
Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. — Psalm 127:3If you have been blessed with children, do you see them as God sees them? In your struggles and challenges in raising children, do you look for encouragement in the Word of God so as not to give up in the task? Psalm 127 declares that children are “a heritage from the Lord,” and happy is the one “whose quiver is full of them.”Children are a gift from God. And we do not generate children for ourselves; God gives them to us so that we may raise them to know him. Our children need to know that, like us, they are called to live for God and to serve him. God gives our children life and many good gifts so that they can grow to know and learn what their calling in life will be. Their calling might be different from ours, and it might be very different from what we expect. But we can trust that God will guide our children so that their lives will glorify him. After all, God is their Creator, and they are his. They belong to him, body and soul, just as we do.Our children are a blessing, not a problem or an obstacle in our lives. And as a part of God’s family, they may help us when we are in need, just as other family and community members do.We are called to love our children and raise them “in the training and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). As God’s gifts, they bring happiness and joy.Father, help us to find happiness in the children you have given us. May we raise them to know and serve you faithfully. In Christ, Amen.
I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. — Philippians 4:11A prison would surely seem more like a cage than a classroom. But some of God’s faithful servants landed in prison, and they learned precious lessons from their time in captivity.The apostle Paul, for example, waited in a Roman prison for two years to appeal his case to Caesar. And during that time he was able to share the good news of Jesus with many people who visited him (see Acts 28:16-31). Paul had been through many trials and hardships—all related to sharing the gospel of Christ. And he gave thanks that even “the whole palace guard” had learned why he was in chains (Philippians 1:13). Instead of allowing bitterness to fill his heart, Paul wrote, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”Happiness is not a reality that is outside of us; it is an attitude that flows from within us. There are people who seem to have everything—and yet they have nothing. There are rich poor and poor rich. Though a person may be in chains, their heart can live in paradise. Others may tread on velvet carpets, but their soul can be in the torment of hell. Happiness is not automatic; it involves a learning process. We are happy when our source of pleasure is in God and not in material things, when our soul delights in the provider and not in the provisions. God is the source of our happiness, not things!Great God, source of all good, when the satisfaction of our soul is in you, we can have joy, whether we are poor or rich or somewhere in between. In Jesus, Amen.
In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” — Acts 20:35As the apostle Paul states here, quoting from the Lord Jesus himself, there is more joy in giving than in receiving. Jesus, of course, knew all about giving. He gave up his glorious life in heaven to become one of us and even to die for our sake, so that we can live with him forever. And he has returned to heaven to rule there and to prepare a place for us. Think of all the amazing blessings that Jesus has made possible!Money and material goods can be a blessing or a temptation, and that’s why God urges us to be good stewards of all that he gives us. In addition, good stewardship is not only about what we give in church; it’s also about the generosity we show to people in need. Generosity is not an occasional activity but a lifestyle founded on the gospel: “Freely you have received; freely give,” says the Lord (Matthew 10:8).We are happy not when we accumulate treasures on earth, but when we gather them in heaven; not when we keep everything for ourselves, but when we give freely for the good of our neighbor.Happiness is not in how much we have, but in how much we share. Is there someone in need near you whom you can bless with your generosity today?Give me, O God, a merciful heart, willing to share with people in need. Remove selfishness from me so that I may be a generous giver. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
I rejoiced with those who said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” — Psalm 122:1Have you felt the same emotion that the psalmist expresses here: “I rejoiced with those who said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord’? In Psalm 84:10 we find a statement that aligns with this joy: “Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere. . . .” Today, wherever believers can gather for worship, that place can be called the house of the Lord. There we meet as brothers and sisters in Christ who gather to worship the one true God.Around the world there are many different church buildings designed to be places where believers can gather to worship God. The King of the universe is not limited to a particular space or building. But a specially designed space can help us contemplate the Lord “in the splendor of his holiness” (Psalm 96:9). In the house of God—that is, in a place of worship—we can gain a clearer understanding of the transience of life and the need for God’s grace and forgiveness. And in the presence of God we are filled with joy to sustain us in the many challenges of our lives.As the psalmist says, “Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you” (Psalm 84:4).O God, my sin and self-pity try to keep me away from you. But draw me into your presence, meeting with others to worship you so that we may be renewed with joy to live for you each day. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near. — Revelation 1:3Have you ever had the opportunity to read the book of Revelation? It is not an easy book to read, although many people are attracted by the astonishing events and mysterious characters on its pages. Focusing on things like the dragon or the beast or Armageddon can create fear and uncertainty in the hearts of many people. But the opening verses of this book give us the guideline on how to read it.After a brief introduction we read, “Blessed [or happy] is the one who. . . .” And this is not a coincidence. We should not be surprised that a book described as “the revelation from Jesus Christ” should include these words. The Lord Jesus often taught his followers with words of blessing, known as beatitudes (see Matthew 5:3-12; Luke 6:20-23).We are the Lord's church, and as the opening verses show, the book of Revelation is written for God's people. In fact, we who are God’s people receive not only the book of Revelation but also the entire Bible as a letter from God.Though the book of Revelation can be challenging to understand, we can trust that we are safe in the arms of Jesus, who has saved us to live with him in the new heaven and earth (Rev. 21-22). And our calling is to live by his Word, showing his love to everyone around us each day.Lord and God, the greatest happiness is to be a part of your people, knowing that we will live forever with you, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction. — Psalm 119:92Happiness is not just about avoiding the way of wickedness and folly. And it’s not about staying away from people. The life of the monk or the hermit is not the ideal of the Christian faith, as some early Christians believed. Christianity is distinguished by a lifestyle in tune with the will of God.How can we know what God’s will is for our lives? Psalm 1:1-2 answers, “Blessed is the one . . . whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.”The Word of God is our source of joy and happiness. We are encouraged to meditate on it daily. We must fill our minds with God's truth. We must feed our hearts with the promises that come from the Word of God. His Word is better than refined gold and sweeter than honey. God’s Word restores the soul and gives wisdom to the simple.In this time when so much garbage circulates on the internet and other media, the Word is bread that nourishes and water that purifies. Through it we keep our hearts pure, and we triumph over the enemy.Today and every day, remember to feed on God’s Word and to enjoy the nourishment that sustains us, heart and soul, on the way to full life.Lord and God, guide us in the way of wisdom and life through daily meditation on your Word. Thank you for the joy that comes from being in communion with you. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers. . . . — Psalm 1:1Happiness includes having the courage to avoid destructive situations. We can draw the line in uncertain friendships. We can walk away from compromising situations. We can say no to opportunities that could lead to wrongdoing. This is how God describes his followers who seek to honor him and to live by his Word. When we are supplied with wisdom from God, we can avoid misfortunes, regrets, and many troubles by learning to say no before it’s too late.Rather than walking in step with the wicked, “those who belong to Christ Jesus” can “keep in step with the Spirit” (Galatians 5:24-25). In Christ, we are given new life and “called to be free” (5:13). But that doesn’t mean we are free to follow our old sinful nature. Rather, we are called to “serve one another humbly in love” (5:13), following the whole law of God. If we walk in the way of the wicked, stand proudly with sinners, or sit dutifully among mockers, we will be just like them, and we will not enjoy the happiness of life that God wants for us. We will be blown away like dust in the wind, for “the way of the wicked leads to destruction.”Psalm 1 is often described as teaching about the two ways: the way of godly wisdom, and the way of foolish wickedness. “Blessed [or happy] is the one who . . .” avoids the way of wickedness but delights in the way of the Lord.O God, free us from sinful, foolish ways and guide us by your wisdom for living, in line with your law of love. Amen.
As for me, I am poor and needy; may the Lord think of me. You are my help and my deliverer; you are my God, do not delay. — Psalm 40:17One of the most comforting truths for our lives is the providence of God. The Lord Almighty takes care of us. The same God who created us also sustains us. In this comfort we live and move and have our being.God is the one who gives us breath and everything we need. God gives life to the seeds and plants we need for food. God gives us our daily bread and good health to enjoy. He even gives flavor to our food so that we can savor it. God is the one who preserves our life and delivers us from evil. The Lord God is our creator, provider, protector, redeemer, and comforter.The apostle Paul asks, “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32). Our life does not drift at random, at the mercy of mere circumstances. We are in the hands of the one who controls the universe.How comforting it is to know that the God who rules the world is in control of our lives! It is a great assurance to troubled souls and burdened hearts to know that God cares for them. He is thinking about you right now and has not forgotten your pain and need. Knowing this, everyone who seeks the Lord can be filled with joy.Sovereign Lord, thank you for your providence. From your hands we receive more than we need, that we may praise you and share with others. In Jesus, Amen.
We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. — Ephesians 2:10Why are we here? What is our purpose for living here and now? Maybe you have asked or heard these questions before. These are philosophical questions that have kept some of the brightest people busy. Do you have an answer?The Bible teaches that we are created by God and made in his image. “We are God’s handiwork,” and he sent Jesus to redeem and renew us so that we can have eternal life with him. God renews us so that we can do good, and this is our purpose in life. With the new life that God makes possible for us in Christ, we seek to live God’s way and to do good so that we can show others the way to know God. We find true happiness in being created by God for an extraordinary purpose. We are not a piece of wood floating aimlessly through the ocean of life. We are not like a loose leaf carried by the wind. Life has a truly meaningful purpose. We are created by God to have full life with God and to shine the light of his love to others. God is the source and the destiny of our life.The very meaning of eternal life is to know God and his Son, Jesus Christ, through the life-giving work of his Holy Spirit. There lies our greatest and most complete happiness.What is the origin of life? What are we doing here? How will you help someone answer these questions?Father God, our life only makes sense with you. Lord, guide us to live each day for the glory of your name. In Christ and by your Holy Spirit, Amen.
You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. — Psalm 16:11God created us to enjoy the greatest of happiness: communion with him. We experience true happiness by loving God and enjoying intimacy with him. In the presence of God there is fullness of joy.The best gifts in life come from God. But some people prefer to look elsewhere. Many seek happiness in money; others, in fame. People also seek happiness in pleasures, or they follow their dreams of success, hoping to find fulfillment in their lives. But in the end they discover that those things offer only a mirage and not true happiness.Happiness is a legitimate desire. Many people look for it eagerly every day of their lives, but they end up empty-handed.The source of happiness is not in things or in our own selfish pursuits, but in God. The best things of this world cannot make us happy, but God can, because he created us, calls us by name, and makes us his own. We become truly happy only when we know God and love him with all our heart and soul.If we do not have a safe guide, it is easy to take the wrong pathways in life. And whom can we trust but God to faithfully show us the way?Dear God, may nothing replace the joy we have in being in your presence. Help us always to find satisfaction in you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. — Galatians 6:9It can be hard not to grow weary of doing good. Physically tired, emotionally and spiritually drained, we might be ready to give up.The brokenness in our world knows no end. There is always another hungry person to be fed. No sooner is a hospital bed open, and another person fills it. Someone who is healthy today will be sick tomorrow. In a sinful and broken world, there will always be hungry, sick, lonely, imprisoned, or impoverished people. Wars and rumors of wars will always produce refugees. The world’s problems will last until Jesus returns. In the meantime, though, we are encouraged, “Do not grow weary of doing good!” And only in God’s strength can we continue. We may certainly resign from a committee, leave a specific ministry of mercy, and stop volunteering at a soup kitchen. But we must not grow weary of doing good! If we change ministries, we can still continue to minister in other ways. In the end, as we become people who must be fed, clothed, and visited, our ministry may be reduced to a smile, an encouraging word, or a prayer. And that may be our most effective ministry of all. By God’s grace, may we all rejoice to hear the words “Well done, good and faithful servant!”Dear Jesus, sometimes we grow weary and discouraged. Help us, in the power of your Spirit, to press on. Thank you for giving us eternal life and for welcoming us into your kingdom. Amen.
Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering. — Hebrews 13:3It is hard for me to forget the look on my neighbor's face. My daughter asked what I was planning to do that evening, and I said I was going to jail. The neighbor, sitting on his side of the fence that separated our yards, had a look of astonishment on his face. After dinner that evening, I headed over to the county jail with a group of men, and we shared the love of Jesus with some of the inmates there.Visiting prisoners has been one of the richest experiences of my life. Week after week, we gathered with a group of mostly young men. We were in the highest security section of the prison. These were people charged with murder. If found guilty, they would likely be sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of parole. When these men entered the jail, they often prayed that they would be found innocent. But after several months of meeting around God's Word, these men changed their prayers. They began to thank God for putting them in jail. They asked for forgiveness for their crimes and their sins. Joy replaced fear and anxiety. Having been on the path to destruction, they had met the risen Lord and were now living in the kingdom. Though in prison, they knew they were free in Christ—and few look forward to life in the new kingdom more than they do!Jesus, help us to remember prisoners. We were all prisoners to sin and death—and you freed us, giving us new life! May we use our freedom to lead others to freedom. In your name, Amen.
“I was sick and you looked after me. . . .” — Matthew 25:36There are so many excuses people make for paying little or no attention to those who are sick: “I don’t like visiting people in the hospital, it makes me feel uncomfortable.” “I can’t take the smell in the nursing home. There is a lady there who keeps yelling, ‘Take me home!’ and I can’t handle it.” “I don’t know what to say when I am with that person.” “Actually, isn’t that the pastor’s job? And, besides, I am too busy.” Sad to say, I have tried to make these excuses as well.Jesus simply cuts through it all and says, “I was sick and you looked after me,” or, “I was sick and . . . you did not look after me.” While our health-care systems can help with most of a sick person’s physical needs, their spiritual and emotional needs remain. Visiting a person who is sick will often make a greater impact than we know. Family, health care workers, and staff also notice when the sick are being visited.Yes, visiting with people who are ill can sometimes be challenging. It pushes us outside of our comfort zones. But, as with many things, it usually gets easier with practice. And we will often find that we are blessed by making a visit! And what greater blessing can there be than to hear the Lord say, “I was sick and you looked after me”!Jesus, we are experts at making excuses. Please fill us with compassion instead of excuses, and help us to truly care for one another. We pray in your name. Amen.
“I needed clothes and you clothed me. . . .” — Matthew 25:36News reports have noted that the world has an overabundance of used clothing. In many ways, that is a good thing. Even the poorest of the poor can have access to clothing! But does that make Jesus’ statement irrelevant in the 21st century? No. The clothing that people may have is not always suitable. A warm jacket in subzero weather is a necessity! There is also another sense in which people who sleep in a cardboard box in the dead of winter are in need of “clothing.”Extreme poverty still exists. There are countless people in the world with insufficient resources to pay for housing, buy food, and access medical care—not to mention paying for education and other costs to maintain a livelihood. What should our response be in the face of poverty?The world is blessed with many organizations that strive to meet urgent needs and to uproot the causes of poverty. Issues are complex, and solutions are difficult to find. Though we may feel, and maybe often be, powerless to create effective solutions to these issues, a godly love for mercy calls for prayerful compassion when we are tempted to turn a blind eye.We need to seek God’s help and wisdom in caring for people in need.Lord, move us to compassion for all who struggle in poverty. Help us to look for sustainable solutions. You created a world full of resources, and we pray for wisdom in their use. Amen.
When we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” — 2 Thessalonians 3:10God makes clear in this passage and in other Scriptures that there are limits to caring for the needs of others. Paul taught the Thessalonians, “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” Our responsibility to people who are capable of working but who refuse may be to admonish them rather than to support their laziness. As Proverbs 10:4 teaches, “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” People are not necessarily entitled to live off the generosity of others. It is important to note, though, that Paul is writing to a church concerning their own members.When it comes to applying this teaching today, we face a number of challenges. The first is to find out whether a person who is seeking aid is truly able to work and has the opportunity to do so. In our economic systems today, it seems, there are nearly always people who are unemployed and unemployable. Though we may feel certain that an individual has the ability and the opportunity to work, we may be wrong. Mental illness can be a factor that is every bit as debilitating as a physical condition. And whatever the case, we are also responsible to establish relationships with people in the hope of having opportunities to lead them to know Christ, as the Spirit leads.Lord, we know that you love a cheerful giver. Help us to discern when it may be inappropriate to give. And if we are not sure, help us to err on the side of mercy. Guide us in leading people to you, we pray. Amen.
“I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink. . . .” — Matthew 25:35I meet a lot of hungry people at the college where I serve as a campus pastor. Some are hungry because they are too busy to cook and eat. I know a student who works the night shift, catches a couple of hours of sleep, and rushes off to her 9:00 a.m. class. She later arrives at our interfaith center and is hungry. Other students are hungry because they are unable to find a job. They face the choice of paying tuition and rent or buying food. They cannot afford to do all three. Many full-time students work two and even three jobs to pay their bills—and sometimes even that is not enough.In the world today nearly a billion people suffer from severe food insecurity. Millions face the prospect of starving to death. The causes of hunger vary widely—drought, war, sickness, disaster, unemployment, mental illness, addictions, and more.One day each of us will stand before the Lord, and we will hear Jesus say either “I was hungry and thirsty, and you gave me food and drink” or “I was hungry and thirsty, and you gave me nothing.” Each of us is also called to show God’s love through the gifts and resources we have—however large or small.We all have a choice. Which of those responses will we hear from the mouth of Jesus?Lord Jesus, when we meet or see people who are in need, may we not turn away but recognize your invitation to show love and care, knowing that you are calling us to serve you. Move us to be people who love your mercy! Amen.
“Do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Leave them for the poor and for the foreigner residing among you.” — Leviticus 23:22The small prairie city where I live is home to a large population of Canada geese. There are two reasons for this. Our power plant is located along the river, and the warm water that flows from the plant means there is open water all year long. In addition, there is a large food supply in the grain fields surrounding the city. Every day thousands of geese fly from the open waters and glean food from the fields before returning to the city at nightfall.The habits of these birds remind me in some ways of God’s instructions to the people of Israel. They were to harvest their fields in such a way that there was plenty left for the poor and the foreigner. Similarly, the people were to leave their fields fallow every seventh year, and their vineyards and olive groves as well, leaving the produce for people who struggled to make ends meet (Exodus 23:10-11).Though farming practices and urbanization today have made those old gleaning practices impossible in many areas, God’s call to care for poor and needy people still stands. And many charitable organizations have found ways to help others who cannot provide for themselves. As followers of Jesus, what can we do to help needy people in the places where we live?Lord, give us insight to follow your call to show love and mercy to our neighbors—both nearby and far away. Help us to find truly helpful ways to be a blessing to people in need. Amen.
What good is it . . . if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? — James 2:14Many of us have heard the old saying “Actions speak louder than words.” But this statement is not always true. Sometimes a few careless words spoken in anger or frustration can cause irreparable damage. Like a spark that can set a whole forest on fire, words can be incredibly destructive (James 3:1-12). However, in many cases actions do speak louder than words. This is James’s point when he says that faith without deeds is dead. Faith that does not lead to doing good deeds is useless, says James. A fruit tree that does not produce fruit only takes up space in an orchard. It is cut down and burned, and a new tree is planted in its place (Matthew 7:15-20). Because true faith produces fruit, we are often told that we will be judged according to our deeds. In Revelation 20:12-13 we read that “each person was judged according to what they had done.” Paul makes clear in Ephesians 2:8-10 that we are saved by grace and not by works. Yet James points out that all who are saved by grace will begin to produce good works. That is why in Matthew 7:15-20 Jesus says people can be known by their fruit—revealing whether they are citizens of the eternal kingdom of God or citizens of this world, which is passing away.Help me today, Lord, to examine my life to see if I am producing fruit that shows I am a child of yours. Help me to put off my old sinful nature and to live for your glory alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. . . .” — Matthew 5:43-44These words of Jesus can surprise and even shock us. And who, exactly, are our enemies?In the book of Psalms, King David spoke often of his enemies. David’s enemies wanted him physically dead. They wanted to destroy his kingdom—which was intended to represent the kingdom of God. Those enemies were people who opposed the rule of God in the world.If we follow Christ today, we might not encounter people who want us physically dead, but we certainly can come into contact with people who would celebrate the end of the church and the end of the Christian faith. We might also think of politicians as enemies if they are working to replace some of our nation’s laws with measures that are openly against God’s Word. While we know that our citizenship is in heaven, we still live as residents of an earthly nation. Further, people who want to destroy our country may also be considered our enemies.The apostle Paul says, “Hate what is evil; cling to what is good” (Romans 12:9). He does not say, “Hate who is evil,” but what is evil. This means that while we may hate laws and policies and actions that are evil, we are still called to love people who promote and do such things. And we are not to slander or curse them but to pray for them.Lord, help us to love our enemies. As we work against sin in this world, help us to remember that you loved us even when we were your enemies, as sinners. Amen.
“‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. . . .” — John 15:20Are we living in “the last days”? Some people in nearly every generation think so. Yet there is one thing we can be sure of: the problems described in 2 Timothy 3 are happening today, just as in many other periods of history.People have noted that Christianity has long had a privileged position in the “Western world,” at least since the time of the Roman emperor Constantine, who converted to Christianity. After the Edict of Milan in A.D. 313 and other developments, many of the laws in the Western world became rooted in biblical teaching. As a result, many people have been heavily influenced by the Bible on how to live their lives. This does not mean that all of these people, or even the majority, have been Christians. But Christians in the West have often been free of persecution, and yet that has not been the case in other parts of the world. Nor was this what Jesus prepared his followers to expect. He taught them to expect persecution.Today Christianity is fading in the West, and so is Christian influence on the laws and policies of Western nations. As time goes on, it may become harder for Christians to live day by day without being persecuted.But there is no reason to fear or lose hope. The Lord is faithful, and the Lord is King. His kingdom is not of this world, and we are called to serve him, following the teachings of Scripture and living by God’s way of love.Lord, in the face of many changes today, help us to live truly Christian lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
There before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. — Revelation 7:9In our campus ministry we gather at 5:30 on Thursday afternoons for a time of worship, Bible study, and prayer. We also break bread and enjoy fellowship together. On one occasion, we had 16 people gathered from nine different countries. They were from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, and North and South America. Sometimes people say that Christianity is a “Western” religion, but God’s kingdom is made up of people from all over the world! Sadly, in Europe and North America, the church is growing stale. Countless congregations across Canada, the United States, and Western Europe have closed. Many others are struggling to remain open. Weekly attendance at worship services has been decreasing. Yet newcomers from other lands are breathing new life into our worshiping communities. Though many newcomers arrive in the “West” lacking financial resources, they often come with an amazing, infectious passion for Jesus Christ. We do well to embrace and enfold our brothers and sisters in Christ, seeking together to build revitalized worshiping communities. This helps us to glimpse what John describes in Revelation 7. It is hard to find anything more beautiful than worshiping together with people of every nation.Lord, thank you for breathing new life into our churches through newcomers from all nations. Keep growing your kingdom, we pray, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
A great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. . . . Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. — Acts 8:1, 4History has shown that the church has often grown during times of persecution. While the early church was growing rapidly in Jerusalem, it also began to spread widely as people scattered from persecution and “preached the word wherever they went” in the surrounding territories.At the college where I serve as a campus minister, I often see a similar thing happening. Christian students come to the college from Africa, Asia, and South and Central America. Many of these foreign students have a passion for sharing the good news of Jesus with friends and classmates.It is exciting to see the kingdom of God advancing as Christians from other lands reinvigorate the church here. It is also exciting to see the kingdom welcoming newcomers among students who did not know Jesus before they came to this land.I routinely meet people who are unhappy about the number of immigrants coming to the “West” from around the world. But for those who are kingdom-minded rather than country-minded, those objections pale in comparison to the joy of seeing God’s kingdom growing.Lord God, thank you for Jesus, who bled and died for us and then called us to be his witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, “and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). We rejoice and marvel at the growth of your kingdom! Amen.
Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. — Acts 2:5On the day of Pentecost, God-fearing Jews from many nations were staying in Jerusalem. They were gathering to celebrate the Feast of Weeks that God had established for his people Israel some 1,500 years earlier (Deuteronomy 16:9-12). They all converged on the temple on Pentecost (fifty days after the Feast of Passover) to bring offerings of the firstfruits of their harvests. That day people from many nations heard the good news of Jesus for the first time. And about 3,000 believed and were baptized (Acts 2:41).Scholars estimate that the world population was about 300 million people at that time. That is 1/27th of today’s population. It took 1,800 years for the world’s population to grow to a billion. Prior to the 1800s there were few formal immigration laws. But with the world’s population at over 8 billion today, almost every country has decided to regulate immigration.Christians are free to differ and disagree over the details of immigration laws. However, as immigrants, migrants, refugees, and others cross borders today, many hear the gospel for the first time. God’s people have the opportunity and responsibility to share the gospel with them. And as the gospel is shared, many people continue to enter God’s kingdom each day! That of course is a good thing—regardless of our views on immigration.Lord, we pray for every person who has left their homeland to find a new home. Enfold them into your kingdom, we pray, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” — Luke 10:27Soon after we moved into our house, new neighbors moved into the house next door. Their children were the same ages as ours. We found that we shared many of the same values. They were good neighbors, and our kids played together and even slept over at each other's houses. My neighbor also knows that he can borrow my pickup truck whenever he needs it. Sometimes I smugly think, “I love my neighbor as myself.” A teacher of the law tried to test Jesus by asking the way to eternal life. Jesus answered by summarizing God’s law, saying, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind; and love your neighbor as yourself.” Perhaps the teacher of the law should have left the matter there. But then he also asked, “And who is my neighbor?” He likely expected Jesus to say something like “Your neighbor is someone who has the same faith and values that you have.” But Jesus took the conversation in a much different direction. “Your neighbor,” Jesus said, in effect, “is someone with a different ethnicity and religion, from a people you generally despise. . . . Now go and love him too!”Thank you, Jesus, for pushing us out of our comfort zones. Thank you for reminding us to love people who are different from us—even our enemies—for we are all created in the image of God. Amen.
Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. — Romans 13:1I have never met a president or a prime minister. (I did see Queen Elizabeth II of England from a distance on two occasions, though!) As a regular citizen, I have little influence over the laws and policies of my country. My vote is just one among millions, and attending policy meetings does little to set the nation’s direction. This is true for immigration laws and policies as well as for most other laws. But just because I do not write my country’s laws and policies, I do not have the right to ignore them or to rebel against them. Even when I think the laws are horrible and destructive, I do not have the right to break them. Thankfully, however, in many countries like mine, people have the right to protest unfair policies. And if a government’s demand is in direct conflict with God’s commands, we must choose God’s way (Acts 5:29). Still, Jesus taught his followers to give to Caesar what was due him (Mark 12:17), even though Caesar may have used taxes for unethical purposes.Even when we are disillusioned with our government and its policies, we cannot use that as an excuse to treat other people poorly. Whether we are pro-immigration or anti-immigration, for example, the God who told Israel to love the foreigner among them also calls us to do the same, loving our neighbors as ourselves.Lord Jesus, help us to obey our governing authorities as you did, and to love all our neighbors as ourselves. For your sake, Amen.
“The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself. . . .” — Leviticus 19:34The Bible includes a number of stories about God’s people fleeing their homes to find refuge elsewhere. Abram and Sarai took refuge in Egypt because of a famine (Genesis 12:10). So did Jacob and his whole clan (Genesis 46). Elimelek and Naomi did something similar (Ruth 1:1-2). Jacob had also fled for his life after stealing his brother’s birthright (Genesis 27:41-44). And Joseph and Mary fled with baby Jesus when King Herod sent soldiers to kill him (Matthew 2). As we read these stories, we are relieved to find God’s people welcomed into foreign lands!The Bible also instructs God’s people on how to treat foreigners. Leviticus 19:34 makes clear that the foreigner was to have the same legal protection as the native-born Israelite. Like a neighbor, the foreigner was also to be loved as oneself!Our world remains a place where countless people flee from one place to another. Escaping from war, famine, persecution, and poverty, millions of people are on the move. Is there any reason to think that God would have his people treat foreigners differently today than long ago?In what ways can we show God’s love and care for the foreigners among us?Lord, help us to love foreigners as we love ourselves. Please help us to see each person we meet as your imagebearer, and to love everyone as you love us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. — 1 Corinthians 3:14My wife is an accomplished pianist. On occasion we attend a local symphony. When possible, she arranges for us to sit in a location that gives a clear view of the pianist’s hands and feet. She watches the pianist’s movements with intensity and amazement. While I thoroughly enjoy listening to the symphony, my level of enjoyment pales in comparison to hers!In a similar way, it seems, God’s children will enjoy varying levels of reward when they enter his kingdom in all its glory. Though everyone in God’s presence will be filled with wonder and joy, apparently some will be rewarded with more blessing and joy than others, based on the life they have lived here and now.The important thing, though, as Paul points out, is to “build with care,” striving to base our lives on the foundation of Jesus Christ. As God’s children, welcomed into God’s family through the finished work of Christ, we are called to live like Jesus, following his example in all we think, say, and do. And we are called to do this in line with the gifts and resources we are given.In our daily living, we are called to love God first in our lives and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-40; see also 25:14-46). God grants salvation by grace alone and not through works (Ephesians 2:8-10), but God also rewards his servants for their faithful service. What an amazing God we serve!Lord, we marvel at your grace and mercy! You add blessings upon blessings, and we praise your holy name! Amen.
“Use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.” — Luke 16:9The parable of the shrewd manager is one of Jesus’ most puzzling teachings. It can seem confusing because the dishonest manager is commended for acting shrewdly. But this does not mean Jesus approves of theft and dishonesty. In this parable Jesus is challenging us to be resourceful with an eye to the future. With a shocking illustration that grabs people’s attention, Jesus teaches a practical way of storing up treasures in heaven. Rather than simply gathering our earthly wealth for ourselves, he is saying, we should use our earthly wealth to make an impact for the kingdom of God.This parable is sometimes called a crisis parable with an end-time meaning. In that way it is similar to Jesus’ parables in Matthew 25 about being watchful and ready at all times to use our resources for God’s kingdom and to show his love to our neighbors.There are hints in this parable about building relationships too. Could it be that the friendships we make on earth will stretch on into eternity? Could it be that making friends with homeless and hungry people will lead to fruitful fellowship with them in the new heaven and earth? We may need to grow in our understanding of what eternal life will bring.The way we live today will follow us into eternity.Lord, we have many questions about eternal life. Help us to see that it will be better than anything we can imagine! Amen.
“Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” — Matthew 6:20Some people have called this the greatest investment tip of all time.Jesus tells his followers to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth. Life on earth, as we know it, is temporary, and so are its treasures. Moths eat holes in clothes. Rats and mice chew up and ruin things we have set aside for safekeeping. Metals corrode and discolor over time.Storing up treasures on earth might be a little more sophisticated today than it was in Jesus’ day, about 2,000 years ago. We might invest in stocks and bonds, real estate, and other things. But none of that really changes the truth of Jesus’ teaching. Markets crash. Inflation guts the value of our currency. It can happen slowly—or overnight. In Alberta a fire destroyed a garage filled with dozens of vintage cars. Natural disasters bring enormous damage and destruction for millions of people every year.Earthly treasures will never be secure. And, to top it all off, death quickly separates us from any earthly treasure we might accumulate.But not all is lost! Jesus promises that when we invest our time, efforts, and resources into God’s kingdom here on earth, we will reap dividends for eternity.Lord, please give us your wisdom for living. All things belong to you. Help us to use the time, gifts, and resources that you give us to serve in your kingdom. Amen.
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who . . . correctly handles the word of truth. — 2 Timothy 2:15A woman from a local church volunteers three hours each Wednesday with our campus ministry. She gives grandmotherly advice, prays with students, and provides a lot of them with food. She is also a good storyteller! She tells students that, years ago, she inherited a wolfdog. As a pup, he was content to live a dog’s life, but when she moved north, where wolves still roam (and howl), the dog became restless and wanted to roam also. Then one day he ran off to follow the call of the wild and was seen no more. In some ways a similar thing can happen in our life as followers of Jesus. Our old sinful nature still clings to us—and as the world calls out to us with alluring temptations, that old nature can stir within. Selfish and sinful tendencies can try to come back to life. Social media and every other form of media make their impact. The people around us influence us greatly. We can also be “dragged away by [our] own evil desire and enticed” (James 1:14). We do well to take time as individuals, as families, and as groups of believers to practice accountability, discussing some questions like these: “Is my life and what I believe in line with godly living and the kingdom of God? Or is it bending toward my old sinful nature and the values of the world?Holy God, remind us each day to examine our hearts, our minds, and our lives. Help us to stay faithful to your Word and your kingdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” — Matthew 6:9-10When we pray, “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven,” we are asking God to help us follow the example of the angels and other creatures who serve God faithfully in the heavenly realms (see Revelation 4-5). We are praying that we may have the strength and the guidance to do God’s will as we live here on earth, as citizens of God’s kingdom—here and now. As God’s children, we want to serve him willingly and cheerfully.But as anyone who has been tempted knows, there are also powerful forces, led by Satan, that try to lure God’s people away to join them in rebellion. Paul writes in Ephesians 6:12, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”All who have been redeemed through Christ are given new, eternal life. Yet we continue to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit of Christ living in us to live faithfully each day for the glory of God and his kingdom.That is why we pray, “Your will be done. . . .”In what ways are you doing God’s will today?Heavenly Father, help me to do your will today. May my every thought, word, and deed be fitting for a citizen of your kingdom! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“This . . . is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. . . .’” — Matthew 6:9-10Most of us face many, many choices each day. What clothes will I wear? What will I have for breakfast? What route will I take to work? What do I need at the store? Which tasks will I focus on?There is one choice, however, that is far more important than all the others: Which kingdom will I serve? Where will I spend my best efforts—in the kingdom of God or in the kingdom or domain or country or community or family that I am dwelling in?Jesus teaches us to pray, “Father . . . your kingdom come.” As we pray these words, we are making a commitment to living God’s way. “Your kingdom come” means, first of all, “Rule over me! Master my soul. Make me a loyal citizen of your kingdom.” It means, “Lord, rule in my life and master me in such a way that my deepest desire is to walk with you. May your principles and ways be the air that I breathe.”“Your kingdom come” also means, “Help me to see your kingdom advance in the people around me—my family, friends, classmates, coworkers, and neighbors. Help me to foster a love for kingdom living in them as well.” This also means seeing institutions and organizations align with the principles of God’s kingdom. And as the Lord’s kingdom comes, any forces that revolt against him will be overwhelmed and shattered.Lord, in all that I think, say, and do, may I serve to advance your kingdom in my life and in the world around me. Lord, I pray today, ‘Your kingdom come!’ In Jesus’ name, Amen.
What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. — Micah 6:8The prophet Micah spoke out for the Lord against the unjust practices of his day.He pictured people asking how they might please God with offerings in order to pay for their sins: “What is it that God wants from us? How much must we sacrifice before God will be happy with us?”The answer is simple and yet profoundly life-changing: As long as you practice injustice, it doesn’t matter how much you sacrifice to God. The Lord calls you to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with him! Then you may bring your offerings and find favor with God.Get rid of your rigged scales. Stop your price gouging. End the practice of driving people into poverty so that you can buy them as servants and slaves. Practice justice. And even more than that—love mercy. Give freely to your poor neighbor rather than scheming up ways to make them your slaves. Find ways to relieve poverty rather than profiting from it.At the college where I serve as a campus minister, foreign students often struggle financially. But many of them have been embraced by local churches. On Monday mornings when they come to school, they often tell me with beaming faces how their church communities have blessed them on Sunday. God smiles along with these students as he sees his people showing love and mercy.We love you, merciful God. Teach us to love by showing mercy to others. Guide us to act with justice each day for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
“When will . . . the Sabbath be ended that we may market wheat?”—skimping on the measure, boosting the price and cheating with dishonest scales. . . . — Amos 8:5Many of Israel’s rich and powerful merchants and other leaders despised God’s rest and justice. For them, the Sabbath was not a day for observing physical and spiritual rest in honor of God’s promises to his people. Instead the Sabbath was an unwelcome intrusion into their crooked, unjust business practices. It was as if they said, “When will this Sabbath be over so that we can overcharge for wheat, and use faulty scales to cheat the people? We will drive them into poverty so that we can buy them as our servants and slaves for the price of a pair of shoes! And in the meantime we will pretend we are good, God-fearing, law-abiding citizens.” Their sin was a violation of nearly every law that God had given to the people before they entered the promised land. Israel was intended to be a nation of truth and justice, but the ruling class generally despised those important values. God’s verdict: “I will expel you from my kingdom. Not because I want to, but because you want to live unjust, unforgiven, and God-forsaking lives.” Let’s examine our own hearts and minds to see if we are living in the way God calls us to.Lord Jesus, send your Spirit into our hearts and minds today. Guide us into living by the values of your kingdom rather than by the ways of this world. Amen.
Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience. — Hebrews 4:11Justice requires that debts be paid. God created us to love him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. He also instructs us to love our neighbors as ourselves.But every day we fall short of God’s requirements, adding to our debt. Jesus, the eternal Son of God, came from heaven to become human and live among us. He kept God’s law of love perfectly. Then, although he was innocent, he gave up his life on a cross for us, paying the debt of sin for all who would believe in him.This is the good news that we are called to believe so that we can enter God’s rest. In the Old Testament, some of God’s people disobeyed and would not accept the good news that God would give them the promised land. They would not trust in God to bring them into his rest (Numbers 14). And today, as the book of Hebrews explains it, the situation is similar: we need to trust in the good news of God’s salvation through Jesus so that we can enter into his rest—enjoying the full, eternal life that God has in store for us.This is also called the “Sabbath-rest for the people of God,” and the Sabbath day is a weekly reminder pointing to that rest. Repenting of sin and placing our faith in the crucified and risen Lord Jesus brings us into his rest. So we do well to ask, “Have I entered his rest, or am I still struggling in my own strength to find peace with God?”Lord, thank you for the gift of true rest through faith in Jesus. Amen.
Ahab said to Naboth, “Let me have your vineyard to use for a vegetable garden. . . .” But Naboth replied, “The Lord forbid that I should give you the inheritance of my ancestors.” — 1 Kings 21:2- 3When God gave Israel the land he had promised them, each clan received a tract of land as their inheritance. God also made clear that this inheritance was to remain in each family throughout the generations. When times were hard, some families in debt had to sell their land, but in those cases the sale was never meant to be permanent. (See Leviticus 25; Joshua 13-21.)However, King Ahab of Israel was wicked and did not want to live in line with God’s way. Near the king’s palace was a vineyard owned by a man named Naboth. Ahab offered to buy the land from Naboth, but Naboth refused to sell because God had said the land should remain in the family to whom it was given.That made Ahab angry, so, with the help of his wife, Jezebel, he came up with a plan. They plotted to have Naboth put to death by having him accused of cursing both God and the king. Ahab then stole the dead man’s land.As the king of Israel, Ahab was responsible to be a representative of God, the true King. But this abuse of justice was intolerable, and Ahab and Jezebel would pay a heavy price. (See 1 Kings 21:17-29; 2 Kings 9:30-37.)Perhaps our blood boils as we read of Ahab and Jezebel’s actions, but are we outraged when we see injustice today?Father, thank you for being a God of justice. Make us a people of justice too! In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
“Take your evil deeds out of my sight; stop doing wrong. Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. . . .” — Isaiah 1:16-17Justice is an important attribute of God. Justice lies at the heart of God’s character. Because God is just, justice is a hallmark of his kingdom.In the Old Testament, God’s people Israel were meant to serve as a physical, earthly representation of God’s kingdom that would one day fill the whole earth. As a result, we find countless calls for Israel to be a just nation because God is just. Judges were to rule impartially. Neighbors were to treat each other justly. Foreigners were to be treated justly and fairly always (Exodus 22:21; Deuteronomy 24:17-18).But Israel failed again and again to exercise justice. That brought God’s discipline on them, and he sent them into exile. However, leading up to and during their exile, God spoke through the prophet Isaiah to urge the people to change their ways. Isaiah also delivered songs of hope and praise describing what the kingdom would look like if the children of God would truly embrace justice in the land. (See Isaiah 2:1-5; 4:2-6; 9:2-7; 11:1-12:6.)The God of the kingdom of heaven is the same God who led Old Testament Israel. His name remains synonymous with justice. And as citizens of God’s kingdom, we too are called not only to act justly but also to love justice.We bow before you, Lord and King, to praise you for your justice. Empower us by your Spirit to truly love justice and to live by doing justice in this world. Amen.
“Take your evil deeds out of my sight; stop doing wrong. Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. . . .” — Isaiah 1:16-17Justice is an important attribute of God. Justice lies at the heart of God’s character. Because God is just, justice is a hallmark of his kingdom.In the Old Testament, God’s people Israel were meant to serve as a physical, earthly representation of God’s kingdom that would one day fill the whole earth. As a result, we find countless calls for Israel to be a just nation because God is just. Judges were to rule impartially. Neighbors were to treat each other justly. Foreigners were to be treated justly and fairly always (Exodus 22:21; Deuteronomy 24:17-18).But Israel failed again and again to exercise justice. That brought God’s discipline on them, and he sent them into exile. However, leading up to and during their exile, God spoke through the prophet Isaiah to urge the people to change their ways. Isaiah also delivered songs of hope and praise describing what the kingdom would look like if the children of God would truly embrace justice in the land. (See Isaiah 2:1-5; 4:2-6; 9:2-7; 11:1-12:6.)The God of the kingdom of heaven is the same God who led Old Testament Israel. His name remains synonymous with justice. And as citizens of God’s kingdom, we too are called not only to act justly but also to love justice.We bow before you, Lord and King, to praise you for your justice. Empower us by your Spirit to truly love justice and to live by doing justice in this world. Amen.
Since . . . you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above. . . . — Colossians 3:1In my work as a campus minister I spend a lot of time with international students. Each year hundreds of students come to our community college from around the world. While some of these students simply come for a Canadian education, many have their hearts set on obtaining Canadian citizenship. The cost for most students is high. Many leave family and friends behind—in some cases for years. And along with having a rigorous academic schedule, many of these students work two or even three part-time jobs. Tired and hungry, they press on, for their hearts are set on graduation, work permits, permanent residency, and eventually citizenship! To set one's heart on something means to desire it more than anything else, regardless of the costs. At the center of setting our hearts “on things above” is desiring a relationship with the triune God and knowing his friendship and favor. Counting ourselves as citizens of God’s kingdom moves us to live God’s way rather than by the way of the world. And dreaming of the day when we will see Jesus face to face and be able to live in perfect joy for eternity—that is what God calls us to set our hearts on.Heavenly Father, may our hearts burn with a desire to know you better and love you deeper. Claim our deepest affections and cause an ever-deepening homesickness within us until the day you bring us into your kingdom in all its glory. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. — Colossians 3:2Being born again to live in the kingdom of God calls for a dramatic shift in our thought patterns. God comes to us and says, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” But we may wonder, “If we ignore earthly things that need to be taken care of, won’t our lives just become more chaotic? Is God really telling us to quit focusing on the day-to-day matters all around us?”Setting our minds “on things above” has to do with leaving our old sinful lives behind so that we can put on the new life we are called to live in Christ. Instead of living in “immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed,” we are called to show “compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience,” and more. We are to live as the people of God’s kingdom. This means we regularly spend time with God, reading and studying the Bible, praying, worshiping, enjoying fellowship with other believers, learning from Christian thinkers and artists, and more. In this way our earthly lives become increasingly focused on the greater purposes and good that God has in store for us while we live for him in this world. If, however, we spend each day immersed in our old, selfish ways and in the false promises of the world, we will find ourselves drifting away from the full life God wants for us.Jesus, draw our minds to focus on living for you. Starve out our sinful earthly desires, and bring us to flourish as joy-filled citizens of your eternal kingdom. Amen.
Our old self was crucified with him so that . . . we should no longer be slaves to sin. . . . — Romans 6:6Obtaining my Canadian citizenship was easy—well, for me, at least. (It took more effort on my mother’s part!) Being born in Canada qualified me for Canadian citizenship. However, becoming a citizen in the kingdom of heaven is more complicated. To be a citizen in God’s kingdom, we must die and be born again. In Romans 6 and in other passages, the apostle Paul speaks of being crucified with Christ, dying with Christ, being buried with Christ, and rising with Christ. Jesus teaches that unless we are born again, we will not see the kingdom of God (John 3:3). As Paul explains in Ephesians, we are “to put off [our] old self”—our old sinful nature—and “to be made new . . . to put on the new self, created to be like God in righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:22-24). Dying and being born again calls for a radical change in how we think and act. But this is not a transformation we can manage on our own. As Paul puts it, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). God gives us new life through the Spirit, putting the old sinful nature to death. And even before that, the Spirit of God moves us to recognize our sin and our need for new life. So we pray in repentance and ask God for forgiveness, trusting in his power to save us through the finished work of Jesus Christ.Holy Spirit, put to death every part of our sinful nature, and bring us to live all of life for the glory of God. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
“The God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed. . . . It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, but it will itself endure forever.” — Daniel 2:44Long before Jesus came, God gave King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon an amazing, puzzling dream. Deeply troubled by it, the king called on his advisers to tell him both the dream and its meaning! With trembling voices they lamented that the king was asking the impossible (Daniel 2:1-11).Daniel agreed that mere humans could not meet the king’s demand. But Daniel explained that “there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries.” And Daniel explained that God had revealed the king’s dream and its meaning to him in a vision (see Daniel 2:17-19).Daniel told King Nebuchadnezzar that he had dreamt of an amazing statue that was destroyed by “a rock cut out of a mountain, but not by human hands.” The great statue represented the kingdoms of this world, which rise and fall. But the rock represented the coming kingdom of God and Jesus Christ—and this kingdom would grow to fill the whole earth.The Bible teaches that God calls all of us to believe in him and become a part of his kingdom. By trusting in Jesus, God’s Son, as our Savior, we can have life to the full. So each of us faces a choice: Will I pledge my life to an earthly kingdom or to the kingdom of God? The way we respond makes all the difference in life.Sovereign Lord, thank you for sending Jesus to give us full life in your kingdom. May we live for you each day. Amen.
As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. Where can I go and meet with God? — Psalm 42:1-2Our relationship with God is a journey of seeking and drawing near to him.Like a deer longing for water, our souls thirst for God’s presence, yearning to meet with the living God.We grow deeper in our relationship with God through intentional pursuit. We carve out moments in our day to seek the Lord in prayer, worship, and meditation on his Word.As we spend time in God’s presence, we are transformed by his love and truth. The more we know God, the more we are conformed to his likeness and character. We are gradually “transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit” (2 Corinthians 3:18).The desire to know God intimately is nurtured through obedience and surrender. We yield our lives to him, allowing his Spirit to lead and guide us into deeper communion.In our pursuit of God, we discover that he delights in revealing himself to us. As we draw near to God, he draws near to us, filling our hearts with joy and peace.Eternal God, my soul yearns for your presence. Guide me to seek you with all my being. Draw me close in prayer and teach me from your Word. Transform me with your love and truth. I long to know you more and to live for you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea. . . . — Psalm 46:1-2Life is filled with unexpected twists and turns, but in the midst of uncertainty we can find refuge in God’s unwavering presence. He is our rock and strength, our help in times of trouble.When life throws us curveballs, we remember that God is still sovereign. He is in control, working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). In God’s hands, even the most chaotic situations find purpose and meaning.In times of trouble, we turn to God in prayer, seeking his guidance and wisdom. He provides the peace that surpasses all our understanding, calming our fears and steadying our hearts.Though the storms of life may rage, we anchor our hope in the Lord our Creator, who faithfully protects our souls. Our destiny is secure in him. God’s promises are sure, and his love for us is unfailing.As we trust in the sovereign Lord of heaven and earth and all that is in them (Psalm 24:1), we walk with confidence, knowing that nothing can separate us from his love (Romans 8:39).Mighty God, when we face life’s unexpected twists and turns, we find refuge in your presence. Help us to trust in your sovereignty and promises. Fill us with peace, knowing that you will guide us through every storm. May we stand firm in faith, knowing that you are in control. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
“I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. . . .” — Isaiah 42:6Changes and transitions can bring uncertainty and stress, but they also present new opportunities for growth and transformation. In times of change, we can find comfort and assurance in recognizing that God is leading us, making a way even in the most challenging circumstances. As we step into new seasons, we can trust that God is leading us on a path of purpose and fulfillment. Like a stream in the wasteland, God provides us with refreshment and direction in situations that are unfamiliar and may even be threatening (Isaiah 35). Though changes in our lives may feel overwhelming —especially if they are forced on us—we have the promise that God is with us every step of the way. God equips us with the strength and wisdom we need to face the future with confidence. In times of transition, let’s surrender our plans and desires to God, seeking his will and guidance. As we embrace new beginnings, we can move forward in faith, knowing that God is our constant companion and the author of our story.Faithful God, in times of change help us to trust in you for guidance and provision. Open our eyes to new things that you are doing in our lives. Help us to embrace change with courage and faith, knowing you are always with us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. — Philippians 2:3-4As followers of Christ, we are called to embrace a servant attitude, putting the needs of others before our own.This humility echoes the very heart of Jesus, who came not “to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).In a world that often exalts self-promotion and personal gain, we stand apart by valuing others above ourselves. We seek to meet the needs of people around us, extending kindness, empathy, and compassion.A servant attitude begins with a heart transformed by God’s love.As we live in God’s presence, we learn to lay down our ambitions and egos, making room for selflessness and sacrificial love. We act with grace and love toward others, just as God has done for us.In every interaction, let’s consider the interests of others, seeking opportunities to serve in both big and small ways.May we be known not by our accomplishments but by our love and by our servant hearts that follow the example of Jesus.Spirit of God, mold my heart in humility and love to imitate the Lord Jesus. Help me to value others above myself and to serve selflessly. May I reflect Christ’s love for the benefit of others in this world each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord. . . . — Colossians 3:23Work is not merely a means of earning a living; it is an opportunity to serve God with excellence. Whether it’s in our job or career, our studies, or our daily chores and tasks, we can bring glory to God by working with diligence and wholeheartedness.Our attitude toward work reflects our devotion to Christ. When we view our labor as an offering to the Lord, even mundane tasks take on significance.Every effort made with love and dedication is an act of worship.God calls us to work for him and not for human approval. We find our ultimate reward in him.Knowing that God sees and values our efforts, we serve with joy and a sense of purpose.May our work ethic be characterized by integrity and humility. Whether we are enjoying success or facing challenges, we can keep our eyes fixed on the One we serve, knowing that our labor is not in vain.And as we go about our work each day as working for the Lord, we become a reflection of God’s love and a light in this world.Lord, I offer my work and all I do as worship to you. Help me to serve diligently and with integrity. May my labor bring you glory and reflect your love to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Who is like you, Lord God Almighty? You, Lord, are mighty, and your faithfulness surrounds you. — Psalm 89:8Uncertainty can leave us feeling vulnerable and afraid. But in the midst of life’s unknowns, we have a trustworthy anchor: God’s unwavering presence and faithfulness.When we are faced with uncertainty, we remember that God is in control. God is faithful, and his plans for us are good. We can trust the Lord to strengthen and help us, upholding us with his righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10).In the face of uncertainty and the unknown, we find comfort in the reliability of God’s character and faithfulness. God is our refuge and strength, always present to help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1). With the Lord by our side, we need never fear the future. “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of [his] throne; love and faithfulness” surround him.When we face uncertain times, let’s lean on God’s promises. We can draw near to God in prayer, seeking his guidance and wisdom. In the Lord’s embrace, we can find the assurance that he is leading us on a path of purpose and fulfillment.Almighty God, in times of uncertainty, I trust your faithfulness, power, and love. Help me to lean on your promises, finding refuge in your presence. Guide me on a path of right living for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. — Psalm 34:18Grieving is a natural response to loss and sorrow. In the midst of our pain we find comfort and peace in the assurance that God is near to the brokenhearted.When we experience loss, we turn to God in prayer, pouring out our hearts before him. He understands our pain, and in his tender compassion the Lord offers comfort and peace.Grieving is a process that requires time and grace. We allow ourselves to mourn, knowing that God wipes every tear and holds us close to his heart.In times of sorrow, we can draw strength from fond memories of the ones we have lost. Their legacy lives on through the impact they have had in our lives, and we can thank God for the ways he has blessed us through them.As we walk through grief, we find hope in the resurrection and eternal life promised in Christ, our Savior.Trusting in all of God’s promises, we hold on to the assurance that our loved ones who have passed away are safe in his loving arms.Compassionate God, in our grief may we find comfort in you. Draw near and hold us close as we mourn. Thank you for all of your promises. Thank you for understanding our pain and our tears. Help us to find hope in the resurrection and eternal life you have made possible for us in Jesus. Amen.
The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. — Philippians 4:7In a world filled with uncertainty and turmoil, the peace of God offers us solace and tranquility. It is a peace that surpasses all understanding, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.To experience the peace of God, we surrender our anxieties and worries to him in prayer. We present our requests with thanksgiving, knowing that God cares deeply for us. In God’s presence we find comfort, assurance, and a quiet confidence that he is in control.The peace of God is not dependent on our circumstances but on our trust in him. It is a supernatural peace that defies logic and goes beyond human understanding. As we focus on the Lord and on his great mercy, care, and faithfulness to us, we find peace that transcends the chaos around us.In every situation, let’s turn to God, seeking his peace. May we cultivate a heart of gratitude, knowing that God is our source of strength and security. As we abide in him, his peace will guard our hearts and minds, enabling us to navigate life’s challenges with grace and confidence.Lord, fill us with your peace that “transcends all understanding.” Guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Help us to focus on you and to cultivate a heart of gratitude. In your presence may we find tranquility and strength. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly. — Proverbs 14:29Anger is a powerful emotion that, if left unchecked, can lead to hurtful words and actions. As followers of Christ, we are called to deal with anger in a way that honors God and promotes reconciliation. When anger rises within us, we pause and take a moment to reflect. We invite the Holy Spirit to help us respond with gentleness, self-control, and understanding. Rather than allowing anger to control us, we yield to the transforming power of God’s grace. Cultivating a spirit of gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and self-control involves seeking to understand the root causes of our anger and addressing them with wisdom and discernment. We practice empathy and compassion, considering the perspectives and feelings of others. And in humility we apologize where necessary and seek reconciliation. God’s Word teaches us to be slow to anger and quick to listen (James 1:19). We find strength in prayer, inviting God to heal our hearts and fill us with his love. As we cultivate a spirit of peace and forgiveness, we become vessels of God’s grace, bringing restoration to our relationships.Loving Father, grant us gentleness and self-control when anger rises within us. Fill us with wisdom and understanding. Guide us to listen, empathize, and seek reconciliation. May your love, reflected in our actions, bring healing and restoration. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. — Romans 12:18Conflict is an inevitable part of life, but as followers of Christ we are called to pursue peace and reconciliation. In the midst of conflict we have the opportunity to demonstrate God’s love and bring healing to broken relationships.When facing conflict, we begin by examining our own hearts and seeking humility. We strive to understand the perspectives of others and to respond with kindness, empathy, and forgiveness. Our goal is not to win arguments but to build bridges and restore relationships.The process of reconciliation requires patience, grace, and a willingness to listen. We invite God to work in us and through us, enabling us to extend forgiveness and to seek restoration. As we yield to the Lord’s guidance, he empowers us to respond with love and wisdom.In dealing with conflict, we rely on the Holy Spirit to guide our words and actions. We pray for the strength to lay down our pride, extend forgiveness, and pursue peace. Through our peacemaking efforts, we reflect the character of Christ and become agents of his reconciliation in a broken world.Prince of Peace, in situations of conflict, help us to seek your wisdom. May we respond with love, kindness, and forgiveness. Grant us humility for reconciliation, and give us the strength to pursue peace. Bring healing and restoration, Lord. Amen.
In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. — Proverbs 16:9Discerning God’s will calls for seeking God’s wisdom and aligning our hearts with his purposes. As we desire to make choices that honor the Lord, we can trust that he will guide our steps and direct our paths.To discern God’s will, we must seek his wisdom through prayer and by meditating on his Word. We invite God into the decision-making process, surrendering our desires and plans and opening our hearts to his leading.God speaks to us through his Spirit, through the godly counsel of others, and through circumstances that align with his Word.As we grow in our relationship with God, we become more attuned to his voice and more aware of what aligns with his will.In times of decision making, let’s surrender our own understanding and submit to God’s perfect plan. May we rely on God’s wisdom rather than our own limited perspective.As we trust in the Lord, we can have confidence that he will guide us along the way that leads to fulfillment and joy.Wise and loving God, we seek your wisdom to discern your will. Help us to hear your voice. Give us courage to follow your leading. May your will prevail in every aspect of our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there . . . and make money.” . . . [But] you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” — James 4:13-15Transitions in our lives can be exciting and challenging. Whether it’s a new job, a change in relationship status, or a move to a different city, transitions require us to trust in God’s guidance and to surrender our plans to him.In times of transition, we may feel uncertain and overwhelmed. Yet we can find comfort in knowing that God is with us every step of the way. As we trust in the Lord with all our heart, he directs our paths and provides the wisdom and strength we need (Proverbs 3:5-6).During transitions, we can seek God’s will through prayer, aligning our desires with his Word, and by searching out the wise counsel of others. We trust that the Lord will make our paths straight, even when the way seems unclear. He knows the plans he has for us (Jeremiah 29:11), and his timing is perfect.As we navigate transitions in life, let’s embrace them with faith and hope. May we rely on God’s guidance and be open to the opportunities he presents. In every season of change we can trust that God is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).Gracious God, in all our transitions help us to trust in your guidance and submit to your will. Grant us the wisdom and strength to serve you in all we do. Amen.
When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust and am not afraid. — Psalm 56:3-4Doubt can cast a shadow on our faith, causing us to question God’s faithfulness and promises. But in the midst of doubt we can find assurance by anchoring ourselves in the unwavering truth of God’s Word. When doubt arises, we turn to God in prayer, pouring out our hearts honestly. We express our fears, uncertainties, and questions, knowing that the Lord welcomes our honesty. In his presence we find reassurance, comfort, and the strength to persevere. It’s important to remember that doubt is not a sign of weakness but an invitation for growth. It presents an opportunity to seek a deeper understanding of God’s character and of his plans for our lives. We can find encouragement in the testimonies of others who have experienced God’s faithfulness in the midst of their doubts. As we experience doubt, we hold fast to the promises of God. We remind ourselves of his past faithfulness and lean on his unfailing love. We invite God to reveal himself to us, to increase our faith, and to dispel the shadows of doubt with the light of his truth.Faithful God, when I am in doubt, guide me to trust your unwavering faithfulness. Help me to bring all my doubts to you, seeking comfort. Increase my faith. Reveal yourself in profound ways. Grant me the strength to overcome my doubts and to walk in truth. In Jesus, Amen.
Come near to God and he will come near to you. — James 4:8Intimacy with God is a precious invitation that is extended to each one of us. Our relationship with God is not distant but brings us in close communion with the Creator of the universe, who desires to reveal his love and purposes to us.To experience intimacy with God, we must prioritize our relationship with him. We set aside dedicated time for prayer, for studying his Word, and for worship. We cultivate a heart of surrender, seeking God’s will above our own.Intimacy with God is a two-way relationship. As we draw near to him, God comes near to us. In his presence we find comfort, healing, guidance, and peace. God speaks to our hearts, transforms our lives, and empowers us for his purposes.Let’s pursue intimacy with God passionately, longing to know him deeply and to be known by him. May we invite God into every aspect of our lives and open our hearts to his presence. In the Lord’s embrace we find rest, joy, and a love that surpasses all understanding.Loving Father, draw me near. Help me to prioritize our relationship, creating space for intimacy. Thank you for the privilege of knowing you closely. May my heart be receptive to your presence and voice. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. — Ephesians 6:11In our journey of faith we are engaged in spiritual battle. The enemy seeks to distract, discourage, and deceive us. But there is no need to fear because in Christ we are equipped for victory. God has provided us with spiritual armor to stand against the schemes of the devil. We are called to put on the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. To engage in spiritual warfare, we must be vigilant, watchful, and prayerful. We rely on God’s strength and guidance, knowing that the battle belongs to him. Our weapons are not of the world, but they are powerful and effective through God to pull down strongholds.As we navigate spiritual warfare, let’s stand firm in the truth, unyielding in righteousness and steadfast in faith. Let’s immerse ourselves in God’s Word, allowing it to guide and protect us. In every battle may our prayers be fervent and our trust unwavering.Mighty God, strengthen us for spiritual battle. Help us stand firm in truth, righteousness, faith, and your Word. Grant us discernment and victory over the enemy’s schemes. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
I wish that all of you were [unmarried] as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that. — 1 Corinthians 7:7Singleness is not a season to be endured but a gift to be embraced. People who are single have a unique opportunity to focus wholeheartedly on their relationship with God and his purposes for their lives.A single person can serve the Lord with undivided devotion, exploring their passions, and using their time and resources to serve for the benefit of others. Singleness allows a person to develop a deeper intimacy with God and to fully pursue God’s calling in their life.Though society may emphasize romantic relationships, God sees the value and potential in being single. He equips us with unique gifts and opportunities to make a difference in the world. Let’s remember that our worth is not defined by our marital status but by our identity as beloved children of God.If you are single, seek God’s guidance, surrendering your desires and plans into his loving hands. Ask God for wisdom in using your singleness to glorify him and invest in meaningful relationships, serving others and sharing the love of Christ.Dear God, thank you for the gift of singleness. Help all who have this gift to embrace it fully, seeking your purpose and serving others. Grant us contentment, wisdom, and intimacy with you. Use each one of us for your glory and purpose in this world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. — Proverbs 3:5-6God invites us to trust in him, to surrender our worries, doubts, and fears into his capable hands. This involves a conscious choice to rely on God’s wisdom and guidance rather than leaning on our own limited understanding.In a world filled with uncertainty, we can find solace in the unchanging character of God. The Lord is faithful, steadfast, and true. He will fulfill every promise he has made. When we place our trust in the Lord, we tap into the wellspring of his grace, strength, and peace.Trusting God doesn’t mean that we will never face challenges or hardships. But it does mean that we can confidently face hard times, knowing that God is with us, working all things together for our good. We can rest in the assurance that God is in control and that his plans for us are perfect.Trusting God requires humility—a recognition that his ways are higher than ours. It involves surrendering our need for control and embracing his divine wisdom and timing. As we submit our lives to the Lord, he directs our paths, leading us on a journey of purpose and fulfillment.Let’s trust God with all our heart. In every circumstance, may we lean on his understanding and submit to his will. As we trust God, we experience his faithfulness, and our lives become a testimony to his goodness and grace.Lord, guide us to trust in you completely. Help us to live faithfully for you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” — Matthew 20:28In a world that often values power and authority, servant leadership stands as a powerful model for those who seek to make a lasting impact. Jesus, our ultimate example of servant leadership, has shown us that greatness is found in humble service and selfless sacrifice.Servant leaders place the needs of others before their own. They lead with compassion, empathy, and a genuine desire to uplift and empower the people they serve. Instead of seeking to be served, they willingly serve others, pouring out their time, talents, and resources for the well-being of the team or community.Servant leadership is not about the accumulation of titles or accolades, but about making a positive difference in the lives of others. It involves active listening, fostering an inclusive environment, and recognizing the value and contributions of each person.As followers of Christ, we are called to embrace servant leadership. By imitating Jesus’ selflessness and humility, we reflect his love to the people around us. We lead by example, showing integrity, compassion, and grace in our interactions and decisions.As we embrace the call to servant leadership, may we follow in the footsteps of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve. May our lives inspire others to live this way too, bringing positive change to our families, workplaces, and communities.Lord Jesus, may our leadership reflect your love and selflessness and bring glory to your name. Amen.
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” — Mark 10:43Leadership is not about exerting power and control but about serving others with humility and love. Jesus, our ultimate example of leadership, taught us that true greatness lies in sacrificial servanthood and selfless influence.In a world that often values ambition and self-promotion, leadership that is rooted in humility and compassion stands out. A servant leader seeks the well-being and development of the people they lead, empowering them to reach their full potential. A servant leader listens, supports, and guides with empathy and grace.True leadership is not defined by titles or positions but by the impact we have on others. Every interaction, decision, and action provides an opportunity to lead with integrity, authenticity, and a genuine concern for others.As leaders, we are called to follow Jesus’ example. We are called to lead with love, inspiring and empowering the people around us to grow and flourish. Our influence should reflect the character of Christ, nurturing an environment of trust, collaboration, and mutual respect.May we embrace the call to leadership with humility and grace. May we put the needs of others ahead of our own, seeking to serve rather than be served. As we lead with compassion and integrity, let’s point others to the ultimate servant leader, Jesus Christ.Lord Jesus, teach us to lead with humility, love, and grace, following your example. Grant us wisdom, discernment, and compassion, we pray. Amen.
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. — 1 Thessalonians 5:18Gratitude is a transformative attitude. It helps us to shift from looking at what we don’t have to seeing the abundance of blessings around us. In our gratitude we choose to recognize and appreciate the goodness and faithfulness of God in every aspect of our lives. Gratitude opens our eyes to the wonders of creation, the kindness of others, and the countless gifts bestowed on us by our heavenly Father.Gratitude is not limited to favorable circumstances; it prompts us to give thanks in all circumstances. Even in the midst of trials and challenges, we can find reasons to be thankful. We can express gratitude for God’s presence, for his comfort, and for lessons learned through difficult experiences.Our gratitude flows from realizing we are saved from sin and death through the loving sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We are recipients of unmerited grace, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life.Today let’s cultivate a heart of gratitude. May we pause to count our blessings, expressing gratitude to God and to the people around us. In every season let’s remember that gratitude is not just a momentary feeling but a way of life. As we live with hearts full of gratitude, we will experience joy, contentment, and a deep relationship with our loving Father.Dear Lord, we thank you for countless daily blessings. Help us to see your goodness in all aspects of life and to give thanks in all circumstances. May our lives overflow with gratitude to you. Amen.
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. — Romans 10:9Salvation is a precious gift offered to everyone, and all who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior receive salvation. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection we are reconciled with God, forgiven of all our sins, and granted eternal life. This salvation is based not on anything we have done but on God’s grace alone.Our salvation depends not on our feelings or circumstances but on the unchanging character of God and the finished work of Christ. We are saved by grace through faith, and nothing can separate us from God’s love for us in Christ.Assurance of salvation brings peace and security to our souls. Yet this does not mean we can grow complacent or have a license to sin. The gift of salvation prompts us to live in gratitude and obedience. Knowing that we are saved, we are motivated to live lives that honor and glorify God. We strive to grow in faith, walking in step with the Spirit and sharing the hope of salvation with others.Today let’s rejoice in the gift of salvation and the assurance it brings. May we embrace the truth that our salvation is secure in Christ. Let’s live with grateful hearts, striving to live out our faith and share the good news of salvation with a world in need.Gracious God, we thank you for salvation in Jesus Christ. Help us to live faithfully by honoring and glorifying you. Give us boldness to share this good news with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers . . . nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. — Romans 8:38-39Unconditional love is a gift from God that surpasses our understanding. It is a love that knows no bounds, that remains steadfast through every season of life. With unconditional love our heavenly Father lavishes us with his grace and mercy.Human love often comes with conditions and limitations. But God’s love is different. God’s love embraces us in our brokenness, forgives our failures, and offers redemption and restoration. God’s love is unwavering, extending to every corner of our existence.In a world that craves acceptance and belonging, unconditional love provides support and affirmation. It reminds us that we are valued and cherished—not because of our performance or worthiness—but simply because we are God’s beloved children.God calls us to love others as he has loved us, extending grace and forgiveness in all our relationships. Through our words and actions, we have the privilege of sharing God’s boundless love with a hurting world.Today let’s embrace the beauty of unconditional love. May we open our hearts to receive God’s love fully, knowing that nothing can separate us from his embrace. And may we overflow with love for others, illuminating the world with his unconditional grace.Lord, we are in awe of your unconditional love. Help us to receive and extend your love everywhere. In Jesus, Amen.
“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” — Isaiah 41:10Fear has a way of paralyzing us, hindering our progress, and robbing us of peace. Yet, as children of God, we are called to overcome fear and walk in the confidence of his presence and power.When fear tries to grip our hearts, we can find strength in God’s promises. The Lord assures us that he is with us, holding us in his mighty hand. In the face of uncertainty, we can trust in God’s faithfulness and goodness.Overcoming fear requires a shift in our perspective. Instead of dwelling on our anxieties, we can focus on the truth of God’s Word. We are reminded that we serve the God who is greater than any fear we may face. His strength and help are readily available.Courage is not the absence of fear but the choice to press forward despite our fear. As we surrender our fears to God, he equips us with his strength, enabling us to face challenges with boldness and resilience. In God we find refuge, peace, and the assurance that we are never alone.Today let’s release our fears into God’s capable hands. May we meditate on his promises, allowing his truth to banish fear from our hearts. With confidence in his presence and strength, we can step forward into the purposes God has for our lives, knowing that he is faithful to uphold us.Father, thank you for your presence and power in our lives. Help us to overcome fear by focusing on you and your promises. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. — Psalm 42:11In our lives we can often face times of discouragement. Our spirits can feel heavy and our hearts burdened. When that happens, however, we can turn to God and lean on him, finding hope in his promises and unfailing love.Discouragement can come from various sources—disappointments, failures, prolonged challenges. Yet even in the midst of such trials we can choose to put our hope in God. He is our refuge and strength, the one who sustains us through every season.When discouragement threatens to overwhelm us, we can find solace in God’s Word. His mighty acts and daily provisions remind us of his faithfulness, and his promises give us hope for the future. God is always present to help in times of trouble, and his love and grace are sufficient for us (Psalm 46:1-11; 2 Corinthians 12:9).As we anchor our hope in God, our perspective shifts. We begin to see beyond our present circumstances, and we focus on the unchanging nature of our heavenly Father. He is the source of true joy and peace, and in him we find strength to persevere.Today, if you find yourself discouraged, turn to God in prayer. Pour out your heart before him and listen for his comforting voice. Trust in his perfect timing and purposes, knowing that he is working all things together for your good.O God, when we are discouraged, may we turn to find hope, peace, and strength in you. Fill our hearts with praise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“True worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth. . . . God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” — John 4:23-24Jesus shares this important teaching while he is talking one day with a Samaritan woman (John 4:1-26).Worship is a sacred act that connects us intimately with God. It goes beyond rituals and outward expressions. It is a heartfelt response to God’s majesty and goodness. In worship, we surrender our hearts and minds to God, recognizing his worthiness, glory, and love. We draw near with awe and reverence, offering praise, adoration, and gratitude.True worship involves more than words and songs; it occupies our entire lives. It means aligning our thoughts, actions, and desires with God’s will each day. Worship occurs not only in a church gathering but also in our homes, workplaces, and communities.When we worship the Lord in spirit and truth, we encounter the transformative power of God. His Spirit ignites our hearts, renewing our passion for him and aligning our lives with his purposes. In the presence of the Almighty, we find joy, peace, and strength to navigate life’s challenges.Let’s be true worshipers, offering our lives as a continual act of worship to God. May we seek God with sincerity, authenticity, and a desire to know him more deeply. As we worship in spirit and in truth, may our lives reflect his glory, drawing others to experience the wonder of God’s love.In your Spirit and in truth, Lord, may our lives be a continual offering, reflecting your glory and drawing others to your love. Amen.
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. — Ephesians 5:25Marriage is a sacred union designed by God, a reflection of his love and commitment to his people. It is a covenant relationship that calls us to sacrificial love, selflessness, and mutual support.In a world that often prioritizes self-gratification, marriage is meant to show the beauty of sacrificial love. As husbands and wives, we are called to follow the example of Christ’s love for the church by giving ourselves fully for the well-being and flourishing of our spouse.Marriage is a journey of growth, forgiveness, and shared experiences. It is a partnership in which two individuals strive to understand, honor, and cherish one another. It requires open communication, vulnerability, and a commitment to work through challenges together.In the highs and lows of married life, we find opportunities for growth, grace, and deepening intimacy. In the context of marriage we learn to offer encouragement, extend forgiveness, and support one another’s dreams and aspirations.Today let’s honor the sacredness of marriage. May we embrace the call to love and serve our spouse, imitating Christ’s selfless love. Let’s cultivate a spirit of humility, understanding, and compassion in our relationships. May our marriages reflect God’s love and faithfulness, bringing glory to him and serving as a beacon of hope in a broken world.Lord, grant us grace and strength to show sacrificial love. May our love testify to your faithfulness. In Jesus, Amen.
As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him. — Psalm 103:13Fatherhood is a sacred role for dads, an opportunity to reflect the heart of our heavenly Father in the lives of children. This is a responsibility that carries great significance and impact, as fathers have the privilege of nurturing, guiding, and loving their children.In a world longing for strong and loving father figures, we are called to show the compassion, grace, and wisdom of our heavenly Father. All of us who are fathers today have the privilege to provide security, support, and affirmation to our children, cultivating an environment where they can grow and flourish.Fatherhood is more than a biological connection; it is a call to be present, engaged, and intentional in our children’s lives. It is a call to lead by example, teaching values, and instilling a love for God and others. We can shape our children’s character, cultivate their gifts, and walk alongside them in their journey.As imperfect beings, we may stumble and fall in this role. But God’s grace is abundant, providing us with the strength and wisdom we need. God is the ultimate Father who guides and equips us to fulfill our role with love and grace.As fathers today, may our lives exemplify God’s love, compassion, and provision, leaving a lasting legacy of faith and love for generations to come.Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of fatherhood. Grant us wisdom, patience, and love as we lead our children. Help us to reflect your grace and righteousness. Fill our hearts with your joy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. — Revelation 7:9In his grand design God calls us to embrace cross-cultural connections and celebrate the diversity among us. The vision in Revelation reveals a glimpse of the eternal kingdom, where people from every nation, tribe, and language will stand united before the throne, worshiping our Lord and Savior.Cross-cultural connections allow us to experience the richness and beauty of God’s creation. As we interact with people from different cultures, we can learn, grow, and broaden our perspectives. We discover the immense tapestry of humanity, woven together by the Creator’s loving hand.This also requires humility, openness, and a willingness to step out of our comfort zones. It calls us to set aside preconceived notions and to appreciate the backgrounds and experiences of others. Through genuine relationships, we can foster unity, break down barriers, and bridge gaps that divide us.Following Jesus’ example, we learn to love and accept others as they are. Doing so, we become ambassadors of reconciliation and unity, reflecting the heart of God to a fragmented world.Today let’s seek opportunities to engage with individuals from different cultures, listening, learning, and building meaningful relationships. And may our lives bear witness to the power of God’s love, fostering unity among all peoples.Lord, we cherish your diverse creation. Use us for unity and reconciliation, reflecting your love. In Jesus, Amen.
“Come, follow me,” Jesus said. . . . At once they left their nets and followed him. — Matthew 4:19-20When Jesus called his disciples, he issued an invitation that went beyond mere companionship. He called for a radical commitment to follow him completely. This call echoes through time, extending to us as his followers today, urging us to embrace the path of discipleship.Discipleship is more than attending church or learning about Jesus. It is a transformative journey of surrender, obedience, and growth. Just as he called his first disciples to follow him, Jesus invites us to do the same. This might even mean changing the work we do. The main point is to let go of pursuits that would hinder our devotion to him.Our aim as disciples is to follow our Master by living out his teachings. Through an intimate relationship with Jesus, we are transformed into his likeness and empowered to make an impact for good in the world around us.Discipleship isn’t without challenges, but it also offers abundant life and eternal purpose. We discover the joy of knowing Jesus deeply, experiencing his presence, and becoming agents of his kingdom. In this context our faith is refined, our character is shaped, and our lives bear lasting fruit.Today let’s respond to Jesus’ call with wholehearted commitment. And may our lives testify to his love, grace, and transformative power.Lord Jesus, thank you for your call to discipleship. Transform us with your love to follow you faithfully, knowing you are with us. Amen.
Moses said to the Lord, “Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent. . . . I am slow of speech and tongue.” — Exodus 4:10In our life of faith, there are times when God calls us to tasks that can seem beyond our abilities. Like Moses, we might think we lack the skills or eloquence to do what God has asked. Doubts and insecurities can grip our hearts, causing us to question whether we can truly serve God’s purpose.When God called Moses to go before Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses hesitated. He felt that he could not communicate the message well. He may even have had a speech impediment. But God said, “Who gave human beings their mouths?” In other words, God is the one who equips and empowers the ones he calls. So he assured Moses that he would be with him, guiding his words and actions.Just as God did not overlook Moses’ concerns, he also sees our doubts and knows our limitations. But God chooses us, imperfect as we are, to accomplish his plans. And it is in our moments of weakness that God’s strength shines through. He delights in using us to accomplish extraordinary feats for his glory.When we feel inadequate, let’s remember that our sufficiency comes from God alone. He provides the necessary resources, wisdom, and strength to carry out his purposes. We can trust that God will equip us with exactly what we need, and he will never leave us to face our challenges alone.Lord God, thank you for choosing us despite our weaknesses. Strengthen us to step out in faith to serve as you call us to do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Now [God] has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation. — Colossians 1:22I have friends and family who have been estranged from one another. It is, at best, unpleasant. At worst, it is horrible and painful. Spouses despise each other; children and parents don’t speak to each other for years; business partners want to be rid of each other. Things can get ugly in this old world.This is why the news of God’s reconciliation is so marvelous. The hatred, enmity, and hostility are scrubbed away. We are doused in the cleansing blood of Jesus. We can be reconciled to God and to others because we are made blameless and spotless again through Jesus.Jesus makes us spotless and blameless through his own body and blood. We are no longer stained, sinful, and bitter. We are new people, remade with holy ingredients. Once we are reconciled with God, we learn to forgive as the Lord has forgiven us (Colossians 3:13). It is no longer the old sinner who comes forward to bind up the ruptures we have with others. It is a new person, who is holy and without blame or blemish. Once we are made new in Christ, we can respond to others as Jesus responded to them. And they can see us not as the blameworthy people who harmed them, but through the eyes of Christ, who accepts us all. Anyone who is reconstituted in Jesus can and should accept another.God, thank you for reconciling us to yourself through the death of Jesus. Help us to be reconciled with others through Jesus as well. Amen.
I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit. . . . — John 15:5Are we really united to Jesus like branches to a vine? Yes, and amen! And does that mean we are also united with other people who are Christians? Yes, it does.If we are united with Christ, we are like a branch of the holy vine of God. Yet there are other branches too, and the people represented by all those branches are loved by God just as we are—even if we might disagree with them in some ways or don’t understand why they believe as they do. Sadly, there are divisions in the worldwide church of Jesus Christ, and those can often be ugly and unnecessary. Do different Christians see things differently? Yes. Do they act differently? Yes. May we separate from them, when they are living branches in the vine of Christ? No. To do so would be arrogant and hurtful.Sometimes, however, people come up with false teachings that deny the truth of Christ (as in 1 John 2:18-27). And if they insist on following those teachings, they can mislead others and cut themselves off from the vine of Christ. That is a terrible tragedy, and we need to know how tragic it is when something like that happens. Let’s do all we can to remain united with Christ and with the other branches of Christ’s church. Jesus says, “If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love. . . . Love each other as I have loved you.”Forgive us, Lord, if we think that we are always right and that others should conform to our way. May we seek unity in you, the true vine. Amen.
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” — John 11:25This quotation is a brief summary of the good news of Jesus. He says that anyone who believes in him will live, even after death. He says that life comes only through him. And he does not merely say that he knows how to find the resurrection and the life; he says, “I am the resurrection and the life.” This occurs amid the dramatic story of the raising of Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha, Jesus’ close friends. Lazarus became ill and died while Jesus was away. Jesus even waited to come so that everyone would know Lazarus was surely dead by the time Jesus arrived. Jesus did this so that his followers would believe, learning that he had the power to raise someone from the dead. Then Jesus went to Lazarus’s tomb and brought his friend back to life, so that everyone would believe and see the glory of God (John 11:1-44). Soon after that, resurrected life became available to all—through Jesus’ own death and resurrection. As the apostle Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 15, Jesus became “the firstfruits” of resurrection life for all who “belong to him”—that is, for all who believe in him as Savior and Lord. Because of Jesus’ resurrection, all can rise with him. All that God requires is that we believe Jesus is indeed the resurrection and the life.Jesus, you are the resurrection and the life. Raise us with you. Thank you for giving us life after death, that we may live with you as part of God’s family forever. Amen.
This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life. . . . — Deuteronomy 30:19In Deuteronomy, Moses is giving his farewell speech to God’s people Israel. So he tells the Israelites straight up: “You can go one of two ways—the way of blessings and life, or the way of curses and death. Choose life!” The choice seems rather simple and obvious, right? I can’t imagine people saying, “Well, I’ll choose curses and death.” But some do. Some people reject or ignore the choice that God gives them. The same thing happens today. People reject or ignore the choice to follow Christ. In Moses’ day, God laid the choice in front of Israel in terms of a “covenant.” That was a pact between God and his people—a pledge of fidelity on both sides. God promised to be faithful to his people, and the people were called to reciprocate. They needed to be faithful to God. They needed to keep the terms of the covenant. Those terms made up the law, summarized in the Ten Commandments: do not worship or serve other gods; do not harm your neighbor; and so on. Yet no human could keep the terms of that covenant perfectly—till Jesus came. Jesus is the only human who kept every stipulation of the covenant. And he not only chose life for himself but also made it available to all who choose life in him. Thanks to Jesus, we have blessings and life!Jesus, you have blessed us in every way. You give us life now and forever. Help us share this good news everywhere. Amen.
God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. — John 3:16Notice that God loves this whole, great big world. He doesn’t just love only a few people—or even all people—but the whole world. That includes all creation. Wow, that’s a big love!All of nature is God’s, and God loves all of it. True, we humans are the capstone of creation, but we are still very much a part of it. All of us, and all of creation, can and should give praise to our Maker. So, for example, the flower that grows in a meadow, unseen by humans, is seen by God. And God delights in it.God’s love, as revealed in Jesus, is the broadest, deepest, most penetrating love there has ever been. Its breadth extends to every creature God has ever made. The bear, the butterfly, and the amoeba all celebrate God’s love, praising their Maker by doing what they are created to do.God loves the whole world, and he sent Jesus to redeem all of it. As the crown of God’s creation, we must love it too. How can we do that? By treating the world as an object of our love, by saving the scarce flora and fauna that God put here, and by nurturing rather than destroying the world. God’s love is BIG. Our love needs to be like his.Jesus, you love the whole, big, world. Help us to love it too. Help us to care for it and protect it. Help us to share your love within it. Amen.
Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers . . . nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. — Romans 8:38-39Most of the conquerors in history have been egotistical thugs. They established kingdoms by their own power and for their own glory, often killing many thousands of people to do so. But what we learn from Scripture is that Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords, has conquered all things by laying down his own life as a ransom for us. By doing that, he broke the power of sin’s hold on us. And that means no other power in all creation or even in the spiritual realms can separate us from God. Nothing can separate us “from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”Sometimes the challenges we face are from circumstances and other people, but the root of all challenges to our faith comes from spiritual forces that are at war with God. Those spiritual powers would love to destroy us, but they cannot touch us because of God’s protection in Christ. Jesus has already won the battle. And because he won, we win! When Jesus rose from the dead, he overcame the ultimate weapon of the forces of evil—death. Never again can Satan and the powers of evil have a hold on us, because Jesus has brought us into everlasting life. With him, we are more than conquerors.Jesus, you won. You won for us. Help us to stand firm against all influences that want to challenge our faith in you. Help us to live for you each day. Amen.
The creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God. — Romans 8:21Did you know that God’s plan of salvation includes more than the saving of human souls? For many Christians “Jesus saves” means that Jesus saves us from our sins, and that is true—but there is also much more. Jesus came to save the whole world, all of creation. So, when Jesus comes again, the world will not be obliterated—it will be renewed. The creation will no longer be subjected to the effects of human sin. It will be renewed, purified, and made whole.At the time of our first sin, the ground itself became cursed. And throughout human history we have often been a curse to the ground and to the air and the seas as well. We often spoil and wreck God’s creation rather than protecting, guarding, and cultivating it. In this situation, creation “groans” under the effects of the curse of sin. All of creation longs to be set free from this cursed state. The universe longs for Jesus to return, for his enemies to be conquered, and for his children to be revealed as his own.Then all creation will be set free, along with the children of God.O God, thank you for your solution of setting the whole world free from the curse of sin. Help us to guard and cultivate the world you came to save. Amen.
“My father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?” — John 14:2There is nothing like a good homecoming. Perhaps you enjoyed one recently. Family members return home. Children, grandchildren, and other relations gather around, delighted to see each other and renew relationships. Or maybe a reunion brought together old friends who hadn’t seen each other in a long time. If you were making preparations, didn’t you scurry with anticipation—planning, preparing food, and making sure that accommodations were made and rooms were ready?Jesus is preparing for us to come home. He loves us so much that he wants all of us to be there. In fact, the whole reason he came to live among us was so that we could later join him in our Father’s house.He came to rescue us from the curse of sin and death so that we can enjoy new life with him forever. Then he went back to heaven when his work here was complete. And now in heaven he is preparing a place for us.I can imagine the kind of place being prepared—with wonderful food, glorious music, delightful friends—and all in a context of perfect peace. Wow!If you have welcomed Jesus into your life, he waits, smiling and with outstretched arms, to welcome you into his Father’s home.Jesus, thank you for coming to live among us. We look forward to the amazing homecoming that awaits us in heaven, thanks to your finished work here on earth. Amen.
Like living stones, [you] are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. — 1 Peter 2:5Jesus came as the Savior to bring us into God’s family, providing us a home with God.As Peter describes it, Jesus is also the cornerstone of our faith: “The one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” (See also Psalm 25:3; Isaiah 28:16.) And “like living stones,” we “are being built into a spiritual house” to serve God with “spiritual sacrifices.”Another way to say this is pictured in Ephesians 4:12-13: we are called to “works of service, so that the body of Christ [the church] may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God.”All of this imagery reflects the fact that, through Jesus, God has brought redemption for all who believe him, making them his family, his chosen people. Again, as Peter writes, “you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”We become royalty when we are adopted into the family of God. We are built together on the firm foundation of Christ with the love of God through the Holy Spirit. No storm can shake this house. This “dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit” will stand forever (Ephesians 2:22). Lord Jesus, you are our firm foundation. Hold us together in your holy church. Build us into a dwelling that is worthy of your name. Amen.
“Father . . . glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. . . . Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” — John 17:1-3Many years before Jesus came, the Lord God Almighty called Abraham and made promises to him—and Abraham trusted and followed (Genesis 12:1-8). At that time most people believed in many different gods, and all the nations claimed they had gods of their own.The Lord, however, taught Abraham and his descendants that he is the only true God. And he often demonstrated that by overthrowing the false gods of other nations. For example, when God delivered his people Israel from slavery in Egypt, he sent ten plagues that showed his power over Egypt’s gods: the Nile god, the harvest god, the sun god, and so on (Exodus 7-12).God showed that he is the creator and sustainer of the whole world. The God of Israel was not attached to one aspect of the world, but moved throughout the whole world and controlled the events of history.Jesus came to reveal the one true God and his salvation for the whole world (John 3:16). And he calls everyone to believe in him as Savior. Jesus is also one with God and with the Holy Spirit (see John 14:8-21; 16:7-15).Even today people worship other gods—wealth, sports teams, Shiva and Vishnu, and more. They will all pass away. None of them could ever direct history or provide salvation. Only the God revealed in Jesus can do that. Worship only him.Dear Jesus, thank you for revealing the true God to us and for being our Savior. Amen.
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” — John 15:13In our Scripture reading for today we see that Jesus calls his disciples “friends.” Friendship is based on mutual love. A friend is someone you can talk with about anything. A friend is someone whom you look forward to seeing. A friend is someone you care about.Jesus is the best friend you and I have ever had. He laid down his life for us so that we could be freed from the curse of sin and death and receive new life with God. Jesus proved the extent of his love for us when he died in our place.There may have been some people in human history who willingly died for someone else. But no one besides Jesus could possibly trade his life for the lives of millions and millions of his friends.An old hymn says, “What a friend we have in Jesus!” Jesus is indeed our friend, and, amazingly, he sees us as his friends! He is our lifelong friend whom we can talk to about anything. He loves to hang around with us. He cares about us.What is the result of this beautiful friendship? Joy! Jesus takes joy in us, his friends, and we take joy in him.Lord Jesus, we enjoy your friendship. We know that becoming our friend cost you dearly. Thank you for paying that price and for truly being our best friend forever. Amen.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. — John 1:1In John 1 the Greek term for “Word” is logos. John chose this word carefully. In Greek philosophy the word logos referred to divine reason, or the power that made order out of chaos. This idea fits well with the scriptural teaching that God—whose word is always faithful and true, and who created all things—has revealed himself in a new way through his Son, the Word of God, who “became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” God has long been communicating with us—through creation, the prophets, and the Scriptures. But with the coming of “the Word”—that is, Jesus—God revealed himself even more. Earlier forms of communication were less clear. Since the logos became flesh, however, we can see, hear, and know that we have met God. Jesus is the best and the only perfect representation of God. This contradicts the teachings of other religions that claim they have a better or additional revelation of God. Why would you want or need to hear more about God once you have heard from the Word himself? Jesus showed that God is love and “the light [that] shines in the darkness.”We need to recognize that the true and complete Word of God has come into the world. That Word is Jesus Christ, “the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”Word of life, help us to trust in you for salvation and new life. Thank you for coming so that we can know the truth that sets us free from sin and death forever. Amen.
“Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” — John 4:14Water is basic and fundamental to life. I once heard a biologist say that when God decided to create water, the rest of creation was details. This is not meant to minimize all the complexities of God’s creation, but it can help us to see how important water is.When Jesus asked the Samaritan woman for a drink of water, he was breaking two social taboos. He was talking to a woman, and he was talking to a Samaritan. Jewish people thought of the Samaritans as half-breeds and heretics, and the Samaritans did not have much respect for the Jews. But by asking the Samaritan woman for water, Jesus wanted her to reconsider all the things she thought she knew.She said, “You have nothing to draw water with and the well is deep. . . .” But Jesus wasn’t talking about H2O; nor was he talking about the kind of life that H2O makes possible. He was talking about himself—the water that brings eternal life.Jesus offered the woman everlasting life. And when she drank in the living water of Christ—that is, the good news of eternal life in him—she was filled with new life.Though we still have to drink enough H2O each day to keep our bodies going, we need only to drink the living water of Jesus to receive eternal life.O God, thank you for the gift of new life in Christ. Fill us with your living water, that your good news may flow from us to all the world, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
“I am the way and the truth and the life.” — John 14:6It is sometimes hard to face the truth, especially when the truth is that we have messed up. Instead we make excuses. We think we are exceptional: “I didn’t really mean it that way.” “I thought it would be OK if . . .” And so on. But the truth is the truth. And Jesus is the Truth. The worst thing we can do is to ignore or deny this absolute and final Truth—that Jesus is the one and only Son of God who saves sinners. Though the truth about God’s nature and presence is clear to all, people tend to suppress it (Romans 1:18-20). We are all guilty of doing this. When we recognize the truth, we don’t like what we see. So we think it isn’t true for us, or that it doesn’t matter. But the truth does matter. Lying to ourselves matters, and it matters most if we lie to ourselves about God.Today we live in a media storm of falsehoods. Many, many voices today lie or bend the truth to suit their own views or preferences. But beyond all the deceptions in this world, the final authority is God in Jesus—the Truth himself. Believe what he says, and believe that he died and rose again so that you may have life everlasting.Dear Jesus, forgive us for our lies. We lie to try to prove we are right. We lie to try to make ourselves look good. Forgive us especially if we lie about who you are and what you have done. Amen.
We ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption. . . . — Romans 8:23This passage in Romans says that we become adopted into God’s family through the finished work of Jesus Christ and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. This makes us “heirs of God and coheirs with Christ.” Amazing!So, while blood relation can determine who is part of a family, so can adoption. And this involves love—unconditional love—as well as deep, lasting, faithful commitment. God’s love and commitment to us provide the best possible foundation for our lives. It is indeed good news that we are adopted by God the Father through the work of Christ Jesus the Son and the Holy Spirit. Through Jesus and the Spirit, we become full sons and daughters in the family of God. Jesus, our older brother, brings us into the family. His commitment to us is so great that he gave up his life to free us from the curse of sin and death so that he could bring us into full life as children of God the Father.In our adoption God says yes to us: “Yes, you are mine. Yes, I am with you. Yes, I love you forever.” God’s love and commitment are immeasurable. Thanks to Jesus and the guiding work of the Spirit, we are heirs to all of God’s promises and blessings.Brother Jesus, thank you for making our adoption as children of God possible. We know that you are now seated at the right hand of the Father, claiming us as part of God’s family. We are no longer estranged, but beloved children. Amen.
He . . . shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. — Hebrews 2:14-15In the beginning, when the first human beings brought sin into the world (Genesis 3), we became enslaved by the power of death—and that put us under the tyranny of the devil. But that is not the end of the story. Ever since that time, God also promised to redeem us. In other words, God would somehow pay our debt of sin and free us to live as he intended. And one day Jesus, God’s Son, accomplished that for us. As the apostle John put it, “The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work” (1 John 3:8). Jesus willingly laid down his life, giving himself over to death because death was the payment for sin. As Romans 6:23 puts it, “The wages of sin is death.” What’s more, Satan held us captive by the power of death because we had fallen for his temptation. And by falling into sin, we became subject to the curse of death.Jesus, however, did not fall for Satan’s lies. Jesus remained sinless. So when he gave his own life to pay for our sin, the devil could not hold Jesus in his grasp. Jesus broke through the power of death with new life. He conquered death. He annulled the binding contract that subjected us to Satan’s power. He gave the devil his due—a perfect human life, and that ransom payment set us free, bringing us back to enjoy life with God the Father forever.Jesus, thank you for redeeming us from the power of Satan. Help us to live for you. Amen.
Just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people. — Romans 5:18Hell is not an easy subject to discuss when we are talking about faith in Jesus. It’s much more pleasant to focus on the love of God through Jesus that saves us from death and hell. Nevertheless, the subject of hell is mentioned in Scripture, and it is probably best described as condemnation or complete separation from God.Romans 5 helps us understand that “sin entered the world through one man”—that is, Adam (see Genesis 3)—and that death, or condemnation, “came to all people” because of that. But Jesus, the Son of God, who became human, came to turn that problem around. Jesus never sinned when he was tempted, so through his obedience all who believe in him are “made righteous.” God’s “abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness” are made possible “though the one man, Jesus Christ!”Sadly, all of us sin, so it is fair to say that we all deserve condemnation. Romans 6:23, for example, says that “the wages of sin is death”—and then it adds, “but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord”!All who have been rescued by Jesus have no need to fear. We will not be condemned. Jesus took on himself all of the sins that condemned us. So instead of being condemned to hell, we are promised new life forever with Jesus in the new heaven and new earth.Jesus, thank you for rescuing us from sin, death, and hell. Help us to share this good news with everyone! Amen.
“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.” — John 3:14-15In John 3, Jesus teaches that the strange story about a bronze snake in Numbers 21 points to him and his work of healing. Jesus saves us from sin and death. The book of Numbers includes many stories about the Israelites’ complaining to God as they trekked through the wilderness. In Numbers 21 they complain again about the food. And in this case God punishes them for their rebellion and disobedience. Like many Bible stories, this one continues with a plea for forgiveness, and God provides a merciful response. But the response is very unusual. God says, “Make a snake and put it up on a pole. Then whoever looks at it can live.”The bronze snake that Moses made represented a sort of antidote to the venom of the snakes that were biting people. Looking to the bronze snake that was lifted up spared the people from death. Jesus brought up this old story while he was teaching about the work he had come to do. Jesus came to save us from the death we brought on ourselves by sinning and rebelling against God. Lifted up on a cross for our sake, Jesus died to pay the price of our sin. And when we look up to Jesus in faith, believing in the power of his sacrifice to save, “we may have eternal life in him. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”Jesus, thank you that we can look to you in faith and be saved. Amen.
“It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” But the temple he had spoken of was his body. — John 2:20-22Did you know that the tabernacle in the Old Testament (Exodus 36-40), and the temple afterward (1 Kings 6-8), were made from heavenly blueprints? Hebrews 8 helps us to see this. All the features and furnishings were meant to show that the temple on earth was just a copy of the sanctuary in heaven.When Jesus came to live among us, he brought the temple with him—in his person. The temple was the place where God met his people. It was where the Israelites presented themselves and their sacrifices before God.When the Son of God became human, God and humankind were united as never before. God himself lived among us and was one of us. In fact, the original Greek text of John 1:14 tells us that Jesus “tabernacled” (“made his dwelling”) among us. Since God himself is present with us through Jesus, why would we need to meet with God anywhere else? The temple building in Jerusalem became obsolete after Jesus came, because God was present on earth in Jesus himself. And now a perfect human, Jesus, is present in heaven with God.The book of Revelation adds that in the new heaven and earth God himself will dwell among us, and there won’t be a temple structure because “the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb [Jesus] are its temple” (21:3, 22). And we will live there forever with God!O God, we long to be with you. Bring us into the holy place you have prepared for us. Amen.
Such a high priest truly meets our need—one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens. — Hebrews 7:26Priests had a very important role in ancient Israel. They served as mediators between the people and God. They stood between the holy God and his sinful people, enabling these people to approach the Lord.But the priests themselves were also sinners. So even the best of them, the High Priest, had to purify himself before making sacrifices for the people.Jesus, however, was pure and sinless, the Son of God who took on human flesh and came to live among us. He came to perform the role of the ideal High Priest for us all. Whereas the Old Testament (Old Covenant) priests were sinful and mortal, Jesus is pure and immortal. Jesus therefore serves as the perfect High Priest forever for our sake.Now ascended and ruling in heaven, Jesus serves as our ultimate High Priest in the holiest place. He is the mediator at the right hand of God the Father in heaven, interceding for us. When God sees us now, he sees pure and blameless children of the new covenant mediated by the perfect High Priest, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!Jesus, you are pure and blameless. You alone can be the mediator between us and God. Thank you for taking this role and for continuing to exercise it as you intercede for us in heaven. Amen.
We have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. — Hebrews 10:10The book of Hebrews looks at Jesus’ life from the perspective of the Old Testament system of sacrifices. Today we will reflect on Jesus as the one and only sacrifice for sin.In ancient Israel, God commanded that sacrifices be made to cover the sins of the people. These sacrifices were symbolic, representing the sinner. By making a sacrifice, the sinner was saying, “I have done wrong and deserve punishment, but please accept this offering in my place.” The Israelites were required to make sacrifices for many things. If they touched a dead animal—make a sacrifice. If they harmed their neighbor—make a sacrifice. If they accidentally hurt someone—make a sacrifice. Making sacrifices was a part of everyday life. Why were there so many sacrifices? Because there were so many sins, and each sacrifice only (symbolically) covered one sin.When Jesus came, however, he gave up his life as a sacrifice. Though he was pure and perfect, he gave up his body in place of all our bodies. And his sacrifice did not symbolize just one man dying for his sin; Jesus, the perfect Son of God, offered himself as a sacrifice for all human sin. And because he committed no sin, Jesus’ sacrifice covered all the sins of all people, including you and me.Thank you, Jesus, for putting an end to the Old Testament system of sacrifices. We could never offer an acceptable sacrifice. But your perfect sacrifice makes us acceptable to God forever. Amen.
Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. — Matthew 4:1Since the beginning, human beings have failed God’s test. In Eden, Satan asked, “Did God say . . . ?” and then misquoted God’s words. Adam and Eve responded by questioning the word of God and then doing what seemed right in their own eyes. So do we. Jesus, the Son of God, came to live among us as a human being. And, in his case, the Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness to be tempted. There Satan made some suggestions that sounded rather reasonable—“have something to eat; show your power; fall into the arms of God.” Jesus responded to each temptation with a quote from the Scriptures. Rather than twisting God’s words, he said, in effect, “No, I live by the Word of God.” This is still our challenge as well. Will we live by God’s Word, or will we do what seems right in our own eyes? Like Adam and Eve, we are experts at twisting God’s words to suit our own purposes. We lie, we lust, we get angry, we are greedy, we gossip—and so on. Rarely does a day pass in which we don’t yield to some temptation.We need to rely on the only one who passed the test. Jesus was “tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin” (Hebrews 4:15). What’s more, Jesus also laid down his life to pay the price for our sin—so that we can live forever with God. What a Savior!Father, forgive us, for Jesus’ sake, when we fail to live your way when we are tempted. Lord Jesus, thank you for living faithfully and giving your life for our sake. Amen.
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” — Mark 8:34Following Jesus means more than listening to him and agreeing with his teachings. Jesus says that whoever wants to be his disciple “must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow” him.Notice that Jesus says we must deny our selves, not that we must deny ourselves something—like chocolate or a new car. We are to deny our own self-interest, self-absorption, and pride. The misguided self must be replaced with a new self that is being shaped to be like Jesus. And, like Jesus, this new self is not here to be served, but to serve, and to give its life for others (Mark 10:45).What does it mean to take up our cross? It means being willing to sacrifice our own desires and to give of ourselves so that others may come to know Jesus and want to follow him. That’s what he did for us, and he calls us to follow his example, even to the point of suffering and giving up our own life, if necessary.Jesus took up his cross and let himself be crucified, once for all, so that our old selves could be crucified, set free from sin, and made new through him (Romans 6:6-7; Galatians 5:24). And by the power of the Holy Spirit, who gives us new life in Christ, we are called to take on the self-sacrificial life of Christ. Jesus explains: “Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.”Jesus, help us to follow you. Fill us with your Spirit so that we may deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow you. Amen.
No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame. . . . — Psalm 25:3Shame is different from guilt. If you are guilty, you did something wrong, and you realize you are responsible for it. You can feel shame from being guilty, but feelings of shame are not always tied to guilt. Shame has more to do with a lack of self-worth, and that can come from not measuring up to a standard, from feeling insecure, from being bullied or abused in various ways, from public disgrace, ridicule, and more. When you are ashamed, you may or may not have done something wrong, but when others see you, you feel exposed, dirty, unworthy of respect.When Adam and Eve fell into sin, they realized they had done wrong. They saw that they were naked. They were exposed and felt shame. They tried to cover up and hide. But they couldn’t hide from God—and that was a good thing, because God loved them and valued them, despite what they had done wrong. God loves us all too, despite any bad we have done.Jesus came to take away the guilt and shame of our sin. And he did that by taking on the most shameful death possible: crucifixion on a Roman cross. He hung there naked, in public disgrace, exposed to the abuse of the jeering crowd. And yet he was innocent. “He endured the cross, scorning its shame” (Hebrews 12:2), so that we can be freed from all shame and live fully with him. Now, because of Jesus, we are forever clean.Lord Jesus, thank you for taking on the shame of all the world to free us from shame forever. In your name, Amen.
He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. — Isaiah 53:5Never was someone treated so unjustly as Jesus was. Absolute good was attacked by absolute evil. And that evil was our evil, shared by all humanity. Our sins, along with those of the whole world, were like the nails that pinned him to the cross.Sometimes in our churches we skip over the excruciating suffering that Jesus endured for us on the cross. When he took our place to pay the price of our sin, Jesus was pierced and crushed and afflicted, “led like a lamb to the slaughter.” He was mocked and ridiculed. He was forsaken by God. Yet Jesus chose to take on that suffering for us. Even the thought of the agony he would experience caused him to sweat drops like blood (Luke 22:44).Our salvation was made possible through Jesus’ agonizing physical pain. Our salvation is a very physical event. God did not just “save souls”; he saved whole human beings. In the new heaven and earth we will have perfected and restored bodies (1 Corinthians 15). We will live in a renewed, physical creation.Christ’s salvation for us was a gruesome, physical affair. Thank God that our bodies and our physical world are saved through Jesus, who not only died for our sins but also suffered for them.Jesus, you suffered excruciating agony for us. You did so because of the joy it brought you to welcome us back into fellowship with our Father. Thank you for bearing our pain. Amen.
You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. — 1 Peter 2:9A World War II veteran told me that he had never experienced complete darkness until he was on a ship in the Pacific Ocean during the war. There were no stars at night, and the ship’s lights were off so that no enemies could see it.When it is pitch dark, you can’t see your hand in front of your face. You have no idea what lies ahead of you or what might be near you. You have no idea of the risks you could face with every move. That is a compelling picture of being lost in sin.If Jesus had not come into our world, we would still be lost in the darkness of sin. We would have remained in hopeless blindness. But Jesus is “the light of the world.” He is the one who comes to us in our darkness and leads us into his glorious light. He shows us the way out of hopeless darkness and continues to guide us by the light of God’s mercy. “Whoever follows me,” he promised, “will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”Into the darkness a light has shined. That light is the light of life and the light of the world. Do not walk in darkness; follow Jesus’ radiant light.Lord Jesus, you are the light of the world. Yet many people walk in darkness. Help us all to seek and to see your light. Help us to walk in your light faithfully, that we may live with you always. Amen.
Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. — Galatians 5:1Pharaoh was the most powerful man in the world at the time of the Exodus, when God freed his people from slavery in Egypt. Pharaoh reigned over the prosperous civilization of the Nile. He had huge temples built in honor of his gods. His gravesite is still visible today in the Valley of the Kings at Luxor. Yet Pharaoh was unable to stop God from liberating his people. Through Moses, who had no army or political standing in the Egyptian court, God freed his people from slavery.Today God frees us from slavery too. Until we are saved through Jesus, we are slaves to sin. We are subjects of the world’s great powers; we are at the mercy of Satan. We have grown accustomed to our addictions. We need liberation. Moses showed Pharaoh that God had more power than all of the Egyptian gods combined. The gods of the Nile, of the cattle, of the harvest, and so on were all shown to be powerless in comparison to the God of Israel.Today false gods inhabit power structures as well. There are political powers, economic powers, military powers, familial powers, and corporate powers that oppress people. Yet God is stronger than all of them. Jesus, God’s Son, delivers us from all these powers, and he has already freed us from their grip, paying the price of sin and canceling the power of death for our sake.Lord Jesus, help us to trust in you to deliver us. Free us from the oppressive powers we face today. Strengthen us to follow you. Amen.
“Learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” — Matthew 11:29Did God rest after creating the world because he was tired? No. When God rested, he set up a pattern for his people to follow so that they could take time to rest and to worship him (see Exodus 20:8-11). Finding our rest in God provides peace, as God intends for us all.God wants his people to be able to live in a good, peaceful place where they can rest—that is, where they can flourish and have full life. God brought his people Israel out of slavery for that purpose. But Israel rebelled and failed to believe that God could provide that for them. So they did not inherit God’s promised rest even though God eventually brought them to the land he had promised them (Numbers 13-14; Judges 2; Hebrews 3:7-4:11).Later God sent Jesus to show the way. Jesus knew that God could overcome any enemy that tried to prevent him from living God’s way and entering God’s promised rest. Jesus lived faithfully, trusting in all of God’s promises. And he finished the work God had sent him to do.We all work, and we all need rest. But none of us can do the job that will bring us eternal rest. Jesus has done that for us, however—so now all we need to do is follow him. We can rest and find peace in God through the work that Jesus has completed on our behalf.Dear God, forgive us when we fail to believe and trust that you will bring us into your rest. We cannot find the way to full life on our own. Help us to follow the Savior, Jesus. Amen.
Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’” — Matthew 4:10It’s easy for us to be tempted. There are temptations everywhere—within our hearts and coming at us from all sides. Satan provides a master class on temptation in Genesis 3. He begins by suggesting that God is keeping us from enjoying something good. “Did God really say you can’t eat anything in this garden? Poor soul.” And when we feel we are missing out on something, the devil adds, “You can do this. Nothing bad will happen.” Then the thing we want looks good, and we think it will do us good. And we say, “Yes, that’s what I want. I’ll try it. It won’t hurt.”But it doesn’t work out that way. Right and wrong are really built into the universe. Just as God created limits for the waters and times for light and dark, he also created limits for our moral behavior. The first command—don’t eat the fruit of that one tree, was the initial moral law testing our parents’ obedience. That has since been expanded into God’s law for his people, summarized in Exodus 20, Micah 6:8, Matthew 22:37-40, and other passages. And we are tempted to break all of it. We dishonor God and hurt people. We lust, we envy, we get angry over trivialities. And yielding to these can lead into adultery, theft, and violence.Thank God that Jesus resisted all of Satan’s temptations (Matthew 4:1-11). He represents us in all his perfection before God’s throne.Father, thank you for sending Jesus and for crediting us with his perfection. Through his finished work we can stand before you. Amen.
Having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. — Colossians 2:15We can tell from the story in Genesis 3 that a conflict was already going on behind the scenes when Adam and Eve sinned. As Revelation 12:7 describes it, “War broke out in heaven.” The devil, or Satan, rebelled against God and was thrown out with his rebellious followers. And they have been trying ever since to rule the world in their way, battling against God and trying to drag us humans along with them.The serpent who tempted Adam and Eve to sin is described in Revelation 12:9 as “that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray.” He tempted God’s children, created in God’s image, to disobey the Lord, and we caused a lot of grief for our Father.But the devil and his destructive forces are really no match for God. God sent his own Son, Jesus, to be born as a human being. And Jesus’ mission was to rescue his siblings from the mess they got into when they fell into sin. He laid down his own life to pay the price for human sin. As he did that, he disarmed the devil’s “powers and authorities . . . triumphing over them by the cross.” Then Jesus rose again, victorious over death, so that we can have eternal life with him (1 Corinthians 15:55-56)!We still face battles with temptations today. What do you struggle with? Alcohol, greed, porn, abuse, power? These and more create spiritual battles. Call on Jesus, who won the battle for us.Lord Jesus, help us to share in your victory over evil today. Amen.
If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! — 2 Corinthians 5:17God loves, reasons, and creates. So do his children, made in his image and likeness. But instead of honoring the good, doing the right, and creating the lovely, we fell into sin (Genesis 3). As a result, we despise, pervert, and destroy our world and our relationships. Though we are still able to do some good (by the grace of God), it is painfully obvious that we do not live up to our created potential. We willfully do wrong, hurt others, and destroy. It is hard to imagine the disappointment and heartbreak God must have felt when we first turned against him. God might well have destroyed humanity and started over. And in a way he did make a new start. God sent his Son, Jesus, to bear his image without falling into sin; Jesus was fully human, like us in every way (see John 1:14; 3:16-18; Hebrews 2:17; 4:15). He loves and thinks and creates as a human made in God’s image should. He hit the restart button on human nature.The miracle of salvation through Jesus is that we can become part of the new creation and the new world he creates. We can become part of God’s family again. With the new life he makes possible for us, Jesus saves!Dear Jesus, thank you for being the first responder for all of creation. You have given us a new start. Help us to live faithfully in your name. Amen.
“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.” — Revelation 22:12-13The closing words of Revelation 22 provide a fitting conclusion to our study of Jesus’ letters to the churches—and all of this applies to his worldwide church today. The churches in Revelation 2-3 were praised according to their faithfulness, and they were challenged to continue in spite of opposition and persecution to the point of death.Here Jesus blesses his followers and urges them to await his glorious return. “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.”The Revelation of Jesus Christ has been given to supply the church with courage and hope, grounded in the One who is the Son of God. He gave his lifeblood as payment for our sin, and he is the Son of Man who sits at the right hand of God the Father, reigning over the church and ruling over all the kings of the earth. Jesus is Lord over all. Nothing has happened or will happen apart from his rule. The church, by faith in Jesus Christ, will gather at the banquet of the kingdom and will live forever with him in the new heaven and new earth.“He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’“Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.”Lord Jesus, thank you for your letters to the churches, encouraging us and giving us hope, calling us to repent, serve, and stand strong in you. Guide us into your future for your church today. Amen.
“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock.” — Revelation 3:20Knock, knock jokes can be fun and amusing—and yet some can induce groans. But Jesus’ knock at the door in his letter to Laodicea was no joke. As we have learned, the Laodiceans were so bad off that Jesus threatened to spit them out of his mouth. But he also graciously knocks, wanting to provide forgiveness and to join with his followers in the banquet prepared for everyone in God’s eternal kingdom.This invitation has continued throughout history. Believers who respond are sinners saved by God’s amazing grace, restored and revived through Jesus. He is at the right hand of God the Father, who is, and was, and always will be. We can find comfort in this today and tomorrow and forever. As Jesus explained, he rebukes and disciplines those whom he loves. When you sense his love toward you, he is knocking at your door, calling for repentance and offering real, full life. Do not wait or be slow to remember. Repent and obey. The repentant person is met by the presence of Jesus, “the Amen, the faithful and true witness,” standing at the door of their heart, awaiting their response. When his call is received by a repentant heart, Jesus promises to come in and eat with that person, enjoying the kingdom banquet. The scene is that of victory, salvation, and full life with the Lord of lords and King of kings. No joke!Loving Savior, thank you for coming not only to invite me to your banquet but also to lay down your life to pay for my sin. Help me to live faithfully for you. Amen.
“What fault did your ancestors find in me, that they strayed so far from me?” — Jeremiah 2:5
One hazard of technology today is the temptation to scroll aimlessly on social media or web feeds. Maybe we begin by looking for a recipe, but our search turns up a distracting new diet program, or we see a juicy update on a friend we haven’t seen in years—and before we know it, we’ve spent an hour wandering around the internet without a clear sense of direction. Something similar can happen in our spiritual lives. Sin rarely captures us out of the blue. Instead, we begin small—with a little lie, or a grudge we can’t let go of, or a few too many drinks—and later we discover we have wandered far into places we never thought we would go. The prophets reminded God’s people Israel that they had wandered from God’s way. They had followed idols—representing the sinful desires of the human heart—rather than walking with the Lord and obeying his directions. They stopped asking, “Where is God in our lives?” They turned away from the living water and dug cisterns that only ran dry. When Jesus came, he declared that he is the “living water” who fills us with his guiding Spirit (John 7:37). Rather than scrolling aimlessly through life, let’s follow this Savior to keep close to God.
Lord, sometimes we don’t realize when or how far we stray from you. Guide us by your Spirit, we pray. Lead us to worthwhile endeavors that honor you, through Christ. Amen.
They have left the straight way and wandered off. . . . — 2 Peter 2:15
For the past fifteen years I have lived in the northeastern United States, where roads often meander all over the landscape. Make a wrong turn, and you often discover that it can take a long time to find your way back to the right path. I’m thankful for the map program in my cell phone! Peter describes the false teachers of his day as people who have gone off in the wrong direction. What leads people off course? Peter mentions the attractions of pleasure, greed, pride, lust, and the promise of false freedoms. All of these things and more lead us on meandering paths that can quickly bring us away from where God would have us go. The “wages of wickedness” can also be appealing. Balaam was an example of someone who thought sin could offer a shortcut to a good life (see Numbers 22). But that wouldn’t work, and Balaam had to be rebuked by his donkey before he could see the truth! In a similar way, we might think a financial scheme will get us what we want. And when we realize we have gone wrong, we may well have caused many people lots of harm and damage. God invites us to embrace Christ as our Lord and Savior— the one who directs us and saves us from our wrong turns. Follow him, and let him keep you on the way!
Lord, we have a hard time sticking with your directions for our lives. By your Spirit, keep us on the right path, and lead us home with you. Through Jesus we pray. Amen.
Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, who have departed from the truth. — 2 Timothy 2:17-18A recent blog I read celebrated the idea of a “never-ending vacation.” Faced with the prospects of an unfulfilling job and the constant demands of everyday life, many people dream of “leaving it all behind” and heading for a place with no responsibilities.While it can be good to have a change of pace in life, the temptation to run away from all our responsibilities will lead to trouble and will damage the relationships in our lives.In 2 Timothy 2 the apostle Paul mentions two individuals who ran away from home spiritually. Apparently they got caught up in false teachings about the resurrection and undermined the hope that believers had in Christ. The false teachers painted a picture that misled people to wander from the good news of Jesus—that we are saved by grace through faith in Christ, who died for our sins and rose again so that we can live forever with him.No matter how much we might enjoy learning new things in life, we need the “solid foundation” of truth that we can depend on to provide us with our spiritual home. We need a place where we are known and accepted in grace. And that’s what God gives us in Christ.Let’s be careful about the stories we tell and the “chatter” we might engage in. In all that we say and do, we should ask ourselves, “Does it point people to Christ?”Lord, keep us on the firm foundation of the gospel so that we don’t wander from you. Amen.
Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God. . . . — Deuteronomy 8:11It takes work to maintain a home. Whether you own your own residence or rent from others, there are always little maintenance projects that creep up: light bulbs need replacing, lawns need mowing, faucets begin to drip, doors need to be repainted. Sometimes we put the work off for another day, but if we wait too long the home will deteriorate. A home always needs regular maintenance.We can also face temptations to take our home with God for granted. When times are good, we look at our material blessings, at our relationships with family and friends, or at our moral character, and we assume we are doing fine. We forget that these are gifts from God that we receive by grace.Israel was reminded that when they arrived in the promised land, they needed to make work of remembering God. God warned that if they did not actively honor the Lord for his gifts, they would soon forget the Giver.I read once that most divorces occur not because of an affair or a spouse’s violence but because of apathy—a husband or wife simply begins to take the other for granted. Something similar can happen in our relationship with God. Our God wants us to know where our blessings come from—and especially the gift of our relationship with him in Christ. Do you remember?Gracious God, you have given us so much—and as if that were not enough, in Christ you offer forgiveness of sins and eternal life with you! Help us to remember and praise you. Amen.
Then they despised the pleasant land; they did not believe his promise. — Psalm 106:24My computer shows me interesting pictures each time it starts up. As I prepare to log in with my password, I see images of beautiful places around the world: tropical islands, scenic mountain meadows, stunning landscapes, bustling city streets. These images, of course, are carefully selected to catch my attention. Not surprisingly, I often go searching for information about some of these places, even wondering what it would be like to live there.Have you heard the old saying “The grass is always greener on the other side . . .”? Of course, I have to remember that living in a mountainous paradise would lack many of the things I appreciate at home. My family and friends don’t live there. The community connections and conveniences I have are not there. But at times I am still tempted by the lure of a new place.Something like that can happen to us spiritually too. The psalmist recalls how God gave his people a home. God brought them out of Egypt and protected and provided for them. But Israel often longed for something different, thinking they could do better. Yet, in running from God, they ran from the One who provided their true home.Our sinful hearts easily forget the gift of the home we have with God. Can we recognize the dangers of our restlessness?“Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it; prone to leave the God I love.” God, remind us of the grace of serving you where you place us, and keep us near you in Jesus. Amen.
They did not receive the things promised . . . admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth. — Hebrews 11:13Every summer my wife and I load up our van and spend a week camping with our kids. The children are old enough now to help with setting up the tent and the campsite and settling in to the routines of the week. We look forward to these times away together.But living in a tent is no substitute for a solid home. The writer of Hebrews, looking back at the stories of Israel’s patriarchs (which we’ve examined in the past week), makes clear that something deeper drives our search for home. In faith we are “looking for the city . . . whose architect and builder is God.”Not all of us might recognize this deeper search, of course. Often we pull up stakes in search of something that will make our lives better. We imagine we can trade the hardships and heartaches of one situation for a week at the cottage, or with a new boyfriend or girlfriend, or with a stiff drink, or a new job, or a nicer home—whatever will seem to fulfill our longing. But the best this world can offer is mere tent camping compared to the home with “many rooms” that our Savior prepares for us (John 14:2).The patriarchs, by faith, went somewhere. They followed God’s call or discovered that God was with them as they went. And they learned that just going somewhere could never satisfy the longing that only God could fulfill.Savior, lead us by your Spirit through our journey of life. Bring us safely to the home you have prepared for us by your grace. Amen.
Joseph made the Israelites swear an oath and said, “God will surely come to your aid, and then you must carry my bones up from this place.” — Genesis 50:25“Never forget where home is.” Joseph probably didn’t say these very words, but if you stood by his deathbed that day, there was little doubt about what he meant.Joseph’s last words were all the more remarkable because he hadn’t lived at “home” for many years. He had grown successful and prosperous in Egypt. His children lived there. For all intents and purposes, Egypt was his home.But knowing where home is means you have to know first of all where you have come from and where you belong. Many people grow up somewhere and never leave, and they cannot imagine living anywhere else. But in our increasingly mobile societies today, “home” can be harder to recognize. Where am I from, if I’ve lived in a dozen places during my lifetime?Joseph reminded his brothers that their home was the place God had promised to their forefathers—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. And one day God would bring them back there.No matter how successful we may become in a particular place, the Christian’s home is defined by adoption into the family of God. Our home with God is only possible because God has come to our aid in Christ. Never forget that you belong to this faithful Savior.You have told us, Father, that there is a place where we can live with you. You have sent your Son and Spirit to lead us there. May we never forget where we belong. Amen.
“I will go down to Egypt with you, and I will surely bring you back again.” — Genesis 46:4Jacob, who was now called Israel, had reconciled with his brother, Esau, and was living back in Canaan (Genesis 32-33). But after staying there for many years, he was on the move again. His son, Joseph, whom he had thought was dead (Genesis 37), had become a ruler in Egypt. And there was a great famine in the land (Genesis 41-45), so Jacob went to Egypt to live out the rest of his days.Sometimes God moves us in unexpected and surprising ways. A new job opportunity comes our way. Our grown children move to a different part of the country, and we follow. Moving can be difficult: we leave behind what is familiar, and the new place we go—even if it’s exciting—is unknown and unpredictable.Jacob spends time with God in worship on his way to Egypt. He needs to know that God will be with him, that God’s promises will be valid in this new place as well. He expresses his readiness to do whatever God tells him: “Here I am,” he says. And God promises to bring Jacob’s family back to their home in Canaan again.When we face unexpected opportunities in life, do we seek God’s will in worship and prayer? As followers of Christ walking in step with his Spirit, we are assured that the Lord will always be with us. So we can journey with God’s promises—no matter where we go.God of new opportunities, thank you for unexpected places and opportunities in which to serve you. Help us to discern your will and leading, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
“I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land.” — Genesis 28:15Jacob was running away from home. He had stolen his older brother’s inheritance (see Genesis 27), and now his brother, Esau, wanted to kill him. So, to save his own life, Jacob was fleeing the place that should have been home. Sometimes we shatter our experience of home with our sinful actions. We betray our marriages. We ruin family relationships with our jealousy. We antagonize neighbors with our angry words. We find that we can no longer feel at home in the place we ought to belong.Yet even when we are running away, God can meet us in unexpected places with his promises. Jacob was not looking for God; there was nothing special about the “certain place” where he stopped for the night. But in his dream, Jacob’s eyes were opened to see that no place is outside of God’s presence (Psalm 139:7). And he heard God’s assurance that even though Jacob had done wrong, God would keep his promise to Jacob’s family and bring him back home.Jacob’s experience anticipates the way God restores sinners through the work of Jesus. Even as we are still running, God meets us with the assurance that he will watch over us and bring us back to himself. And we discover that being in God’s presence is a refuge for all who feel away from home.Almighty God, our sins cause us to run from you. Amaze us with your grace, and help us to trust in your promises to forgive us and return us home to you, through Jesus. Amen.
“To your offspring I will give this land.” — Genesis 12:7For many people, owning their own home is a great dream and a great blessing. Home ownership allows people to build equity and gain financial security. It also gives them a place to call their own—with private living space and a yard.The Bible gives us glimpses of humanity’s search for a home. But one thing we soon discover is that our dream home cannot really be the one we build for ourselves. Abram, it seems, had a good life in Harran, where his extended family was living. He had possessions and household servants. He was prosperous and successful.But Harran could not be his home. “Go . . .” God said, “to the land I will show you.” God led Abram to the land of Canaan and said that his descendants would receive this land. So this would one day be their home. But Abram lived in tents, without a permanent dwelling. He had to learn to wait for God to build the home that he longed for.Many of us are longing for a place of our own. We learn from the Bible that what we really long for is a place with God: a place where God is present with us, a place where we can worship God and lean on his grace. We cannot build that home with our own efforts, but only by waiting on the work of God in Christ.Faithful God, we want a place to belong, a place where we can lean on your grace for all we need. Guide us to trust in Jesus, and restore us to our home with you. Amen.
The Lord God banished him from the Garden of Eden to work the ground from which he had been taken. — Genesis 3:23As I write, the news is filled with stories of hurricanes, tornadoes, and wildfires. In addition to their destructive impacts on nature, disasters like these have long-term effects on the many people whose homes and towns they destroy. If we lose our home, we lose not only a place to live but also a sense of security and belonging.Our first human home was lost because of the fall into sin. The devil tempted Adam and Eve with the false promise that they could decide better for themselves and did not need to listen to God. But that was a lie, and our first parents’ fall into sin brought judgment and death for us all. As a result, humanity is now homeless, and we cannot make our own way back to the security of God’s presence.We still struggle under the effects of sin today. In this world we are cut off from God, and even our best human efforts fall short of repairing broken relationships or creating the paradise we long for.But God is not finished with us. God graciously provides for us so that we are able to survive away from home. And he asks still, “Where are you?” giving us an opportunity to recognize our homelessness and to follow the path to return home through his Son, Jesus Christ.Loving God, we long for a place of security and belonging with you. Provide for everyone who needs an earthly home, and restore us all to your presence in Christ, we pray. Amen.
The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. — Genesis 2:15In the beginning, there was no reason to leave home because humanity lived in paradise. The garden God had created provided everything needed for human flourishing. Even work in the garden was fulfilling and comfortable. The Bible pictures God’s extravagant care as a free gift of grace for his creatures.From the world’s beginning, God offered us human beings a place to live in his presence with everything we needed. We could delight in God’s being with us, and we could enjoy being at home with ourselves before God.So why would we ever leave? As the Bible portrays it, one essential element of our sense of home is contentment, an ability to rest in God’s care for us. So when God sets limits, such as a tree from which we may not eat, can we trust that this is for our good? As we will see, humans find it difficult to be content. We prefer instead to make our own way, to find a place where we can follow our own desires. And we forever run away from the perfect home with God.But ever since we left the garden, we have been spiritually thirsty, longing for those rivers overflowing with God’s created goodness. Only in his Son, Jesus, does God offer a return to contentment. Will you follow him home today?Lord, we find it hard to rest in your extravagant grace and provision. Forgive us. Help us to be content. Give us rest in the finished work of Christ that brings us home with you. Amen.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. — Psalm 23:6In many parts of North America, where I live, summer is a season of vacations. People leave their homes and go traveling to explore new places or to stay in familiar getaways. Being away offers opportunities to take a break from everyday tasks and routines.But a lot can happen when you’re away from home. When our family goes to a vacation home, we find that cooking plans can get complicated because the kitchen doesn’t have the pans or cooking supplies we are used to at home. The roads and stores are unfamiliar too, and we have to navigate new uncertainties. Sometimes people face medical emergencies when they are away from home, and crises like that be very difficult because there is little or no support network.“There’s no place like home,” an old saying reminds us. This is true for us spiritually as well. We are created to be at home in God’s presence. And while sin may promise adventures, the places it can bring us do not provide the security of being at home with God.Psalm 23 reminds us of the God who cares for us along the journey of life. And God offers us a home, a place of welcome through the promises and presence of his Son and Spirit. This month, let’s explore how the Bible invites us to be at home with God.Holy God, thank you that we can depend on you to guide and lead us. Assure us through your Son and Spirit that we can always be at home with you. Amen.
[Jesus] appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. . . . He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 1:3, 7-8
The book of Acts is not simply about the birth of the church or even the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, giving great power. Acts reveals the extension of Jesus’ work on earth, in which he uses not his human body but a different body made up of his followers—the church. That body, known today as the worldwide church of Christ, aims to live out and continue the ongoing work of Jesus as he grows his kingdom here on the earth. Jesus hinted at this when he taught his disciples to pray, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10). When Jesus met with his followers, gave proof of his resurrection, and spoke with them about the kingdom of God, he was helping them understand that he was creating not a new religion but a movement that would expand around the world through them. Thankfully the Holy Spirit gave them understanding, and we are here today as part of his church. Christ is our head, and we are his body, serving God in this world as the heart, hands, and feet of the Lord Jesus, who promises full life for all who believe in him.
Jesus, thank you for wanting to use me as part of your work in this world. Help me to serve you as you draw others to yourself. Amen.
“‘Now get up and stand on your feet. . . . I am sending you to [the Gentiles] to open their eyes . . . so that they may receive forgiveness of sins. . . .’” — Acts 26:16-18
Consider your own story of faith. One of the ways you can know the awe of God is through your story. Maybe you came to Jesus out of a life of poverty and pain. Maybe you think your story is less than exciting because you grew up in the church and have always been a part of it. Whatever the case, you have a story to share because it’s really about God’s story happening through you. In all your struggles, celebrations, griefs, and joys, God has been telling his story of grace in and through you. When given the opportunity, Paul shared his story. One of the main reasons a personal story is so powerful is that no one can argue against the way God has chosen to work in and through you. Think of moments when you had to trust God with a loved one who was sick, or when you were not sure how to pay a debt and God provided for you. Or maybe you thought your marriage was at the point of no return, but God brought it back. People can debate theology and doctrine, but they cannot argue against the awesome work of God in and through a transformed life. May we not lose sight of the power of whom we serve and that we are called to be his people. Let’s embrace and celebrate the awe and wonder of God’s power each day.
God, undo me today! Soften my heart and bring me freedom so that I may see and know the wonder of who you are. Amen.
My only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me. . . . — Acts 20:24
Have you thought about what can hold people back from a deep sense of awe? We could answer that question in a general way by saying that sin is what keeps us from enjoying deep, full life with God. But have you also wondered about how subtle sin can be? Sometimes we don’t realize how much our sinful tendencies can deceive us. For example, I’ve noticed one thing that has a strong hold on many, many people: individualism. If you live in the West, you know that this shows up in a phrase like “Do whatever makes you happy.” I’m all for being happy, but what happens when that is taken too far? We end up putting ourselves first in everything we do. One of the hardest addictions to recover from is the selfie life. Paul taught that he counted his life as nothing in comparison to what he had gained by following Jesus. His deep sense of awe was grounded in setting aside his own plans, dreams, and desires so that he could devote himself to God’s greater purpose for his life. Paul was not consumed with comfort or convenience, and he found contentment in focusing on the life Jesus had in store for him. The greatest battle we might face in developing faith can be in holding back from giving Jesus everything in our life.
Jesus, thank you for giving your whole life for us so that we can have life to the full. Forgive us for seeking a convenient, comfortable faith. Help us to live the life you have called us to. Amen.
Many of those who believed . . . openly confessed what they had done. A number who had practiced sorcery brought their scrolls together and burned them publicly. — Acts 19:18-19
Lisa is a person I know who came to faith in Jesus Christ from a New Age background. In her early days of following Jesus, she tried to mix many layers of the New Age movement in with her faith. It didn’t work. She would constantly be confused and lacking in her understanding of following Jesus. She finally found freedom when she rid herself of those mixed-in practices. Jesus’ early followers knew that in order to fully surrender to him, they would need to get rid of everything that could distract from the work of the Spirit in their lives. In Ephesus, new believers who had practiced sorcery and witchcraft burned all of their scrolls in front of everyone. People in many cultures attempt to mix other religious ideas and thoughts with faith in Christ, saying, “Really, what harm is there in that?” It can also be tempting to mix the Christian faith with superstition or reading a daily horoscope for guidance. But if we do that, we fail to realize that we are not fully trusting in God and his Spirit to guide us and to provide us full life. When we approach faith as a mixed bag, we water down the power of the good news of life.
Dear God, if anything in our lives misleads us from following you, help us to get rid of it. Guide us into real, full living each day, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
They took him . . . to a meeting of the Areopagus, where they said to him, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting?” — Acts 17:19
Something special happens when someone earns the right to share an insight or opinion. Sadly, some people don’t seem to understand that there are times when you have to earn the right before you can share your opinion. In his visit to Athens, Paul was brilliant. As a follower of Christ, he had become distressed that the city of Athens was full of idols. And the Spirit gave Paul some insight into what was going on there. The city took pride in being a hotbed of ideas, and people engaged in the worship of all kinds of gods (represented by the idols). In fact, many people “spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas.” So Paul began to reason with people in the marketplace. He had taken time to listen to them, and they were intrigued by his new message about Jesus. They said they wanted to hear more, even though they didn’t fully understand what he was saying. In this way Paul earned the right to share about the one true God, and many people believed. It can be easy to get mad at the world, to be frustrated with how things are swinging one way or the other—but getting angry and combative is not the answer. Paul walked into the midst of a confusion of ideas and earned the right to share about God by connecting with people and gaining a sense of what mattered to them.
God, help us to understand the world around us and to share who you are and what you have done for us all. Amen.
“God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted [the Gentiles] by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us.” — Acts 15:8
Tension was building as God continued to expand his kingdom. Reports were coming in that Gentiles were becoming believers in Christ, and then some leaders from Judea began teaching that people could not be saved in Christ unless they were circumcised according to the law of Moses. Actually, those leaders had an “us and them” attitude about faith, and they wanted clear markers to show who was included and who was not. But God had other plans. Thankfully, cooler minds prevailed, and the church’s leaders saw the truth that all believers are saved by grace through faith in Jesus, and that circumcision is no longer required. Salvation into God’s kingdom is a matter of the heart. As the work of the Spirit (by which every believer in Christ is sealed) produces fruit in us, we gradually take on the character and behavior of Christ. The Spirit works in us and changes our hearts. Having an outward mark does not change our hearts. Only the Spirit of God can do that. The gospel cuts to the heart of who we are, and by his power at work inside of us the Lord makes something beautiful out of our lives.
God, thank you for the work you are doing in our hearts. May your love and grace overflow from within us to bring your goodness and fruitfulness into the lives of others. Amen.
They reported all that God had done through them and how he had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles. — Acts 14:27
I once heard a speaker say that if your teenager is disconnected or uninterested in being part of the family, give them a better story to be a part of. If you have teenagers, that may be worth thinking about. In this section we see Paul and Barnabas sharing stories of transformation. After returning to Antioch, they gathered the community of believers and “reported all that God had done through them.” In other words, they shared with passion and excitement the things that the Spirit of God was doing. Part of having a deep sense of awe in our life with God is knowing that we are part of a better story. We might even say that continuing to tell the stories of God’s work will help to keep the mission going. After Jesus had sent his disciples out in pairs to spread the good news about him, he brought them together again and had them share stories of what had happened (Luke 10:1-24). Stories have the power to make our faith real, and they prompt us to live with our eyes open to see where God is working. As we grow in faith, we begin to understand that we are part of a greater story that needs to be shared with others. And when we are down and discouraged, stories can help us regain our joy.
God, thank you for inviting me into your story. Help me to share with humility and boldness how you are working in my life and in the lives of others. Amen.
The Gentiles . . . were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed. — Acts 13:48
When we go to a gathering where there’s a lot of good food, we often say, “That’s a great spread.” It points out that a great feast is spread across the table, and we look forward to enjoying it. Acts records for us that Paul and Barnabas were spreading the good news of Jesus across a wide geographical area, and many people were experiencing the love and grace of Jesus. They were on a mission, from God, to spread the good news to the Gentiles, people of other nations beyond the Jewish people, and the Gentiles were receiving the good news with great joy. The power of the good news of God’s love for us, given through the life and death of Jesus and his resurrection, cannot be contained. When Jesus rose from the dead and walked out of the tomb, he proved that as much as we think we can predict how God is going to work, we can’t. We can’t even assume how God will work, because when we do that, we limit our ability to see and participate in God’s work in our lives. Paul and Barnabas understood that the good news was for all people, and many embraced the truth. Even when there was opposition, the disciples were filled with excitement as the word of God spread.
Father, expand our understanding of how you want to go beyond the limits we tend to set. Fill us with your Spirit and with joy as we learn to follow you. Amen.
While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said . . . — Acts 13:2
There are subtle things written in Acts that we can easily miss while reading it quickly. I miss important details at times, and maybe that happens to you too. But then there are moments when the Spirit helps us see things that we never noticed before. Note that in the church at Antioch the believers were worshiping and fasting, and that the Spirit revealed to them that Barnabas and Saul were called. Then, after this was revealed, the believers fasted and prayed and laid hands on the two before sending them off. The word “they” is crucial in this passage. Prophets and teachers are identified, but the community of believers is mentioned too. There’s something powerful that happens when the community of faith is together. If you are part of a church, you know that churches often try to model themselves after other churches. There is nothing wrong with learning from another church model, but it can then be easy to try to go in your own strength to make it happen. This community was set on worshiping, fasting, and praying—and as they did so, the Spirit revealed an important mission. Notice too that they laid their hands on Barnabas and Saul. The Spirit-led community sent them off with a communal blessing to serve in the Lord’s unfolding plan for his kingdom.
Father, as we worship, pray, and fast, show us your mission for our lives. In your strength, we want to do what you call us to do. Amen.
They shouted, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man.” Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. — Acts 12:22-23
Here Acts helps us again to stand in awe of God. King Herod had set himself up on his throne like a god. What he wore and what he said would have prompted the people to say that he was a god, not a man. And let’s not forget that they wanted something from him: peace and food. Well, the king did not give due praise to God, so he was struck down and eaten by worms. But let’s be careful not to pass judgment on King Herod so quickly. We may not have a throne to sit on or royal robes to wear. We may not even have one person following us. But sometimes we play God in our own lives. Excessive worry is one way we do that. Worry is a signal that we are taking over God’s role of being God in our lives. It’s as though we hold tight to this thing as if we have control over it—but of course we do not. As anyone who worries excessively can tell you, there is very little contentment and joy in living that way. When we try to sit on the throne of our lives, taking God’s rightful place and not opening ourselves to trust in him, we set ourselves up for trouble. Though we might not be struck down or eaten by worms, we can endanger our very souls. We need to stop playing God and let him guide us into full life.
God, you are better at running my life than I am. Help me to give you my life today. Amen.
So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. — Acts 12:5
When there is a problem, I tend to go into fix-it mode. I want to find the solution and make it happen. Things were intense for the church in its early days, and we’ve been exploring some of that. We have seen today that King Herod was cruel and cunning. He had put pressure on the church and had killed the apostle James, and he liked how that made him popular with the people who had gotten Jesus crucified. So Herod arrested Peter and put him in prison too. It’s almost comical that Herod used four squads of soldiers to guard him. Did you notice the church’s response? Did they jump into a strategy meeting on how to get Peter out of prison? Nope! They did what came naturally to them—they prayed. Don’t you love that? And it’s not a prayer qualified with the word “just.” We sometimes do that when we pray, “God we just ask . . . .” But these people earnestly sought God with passion. Sometimes when I’m having a tough moment, I try to sort things out in my own understanding. Prayer gets sidelined as an afterthought. I wonder what it would be like if we grew a response muscle that moved us to turn to God first. I’m sure it would help us see things differently. Maybe we wouldn’t be so overwhelmed. Maybe anxiety and worry would have less of a pull if we stopped trying to fix it first.
God, may turning to you be my first response in tough times. Forgive me when I don’t boldly make my requests to you. Amen.
Some of them . . . began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. — Acts 11:20
Sometimes, when you find yourself in a moment of opportunity, you need to make a bold move. After Stephen was martyred, the believers scattered. It may seem odd, but that is one way the good news began to spread into other regions. God is so powerful that he can bring good results even out of bad things that happen. Today, many of us don’t look at persecution in a way like that. We tend to think of it as something that will ruin or destroy faith. But as we can see in this passage, the church can thrive despite persecution—and this still happens in parts of the world today. The point of this passage is that some believers, led by the Spirit, made bold moves and proclaimed the good news to people outside the faith. Their boldness was not of themselves; it was due to the presence of God in their lives. When we face tough times, we often need to step back and trust that God will create the opportunity for us to step in and be bold. Sure, it might seem like a risk at the moment, but it might otherwise be more of a risk not to take the bold step. As the Spirit of God nudges us in our Christian living, we get to know more of his work in us and through us. It takes time to discern such moments. It might also take wisdom from others to speak into our situation and ask, “What is keeping you from making a bold move?”
Father, fill us with your Spirit so that we might be bold—not in our own strength or doing, but in yours. Amen.
While Peter was still speaking . . . the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. — Acts 10:44
One thing we learn from passages like this one in the book of Acts is that Peter and other believers did not create these moments. It was all the work of the Holy Spirit. Remember when we said earlier that Acts is all about the Holy Spirit? Well, we see the Spirit on full display here. Peter and the others were simply led by the Spirit into these moments of pure awe. Who could have imagined the Spirit filling Gentiles so powerfully here that they began “speaking in tongues and praising God”? We need to consider that if we try to create a certain kind of worship experience, or we aim for certain results by just following some model of doing church, we are relying on our own strength and understanding. But if we rely on the Spirit for direction, there is great power. It makes me smile that in this story Peter, who was a guy who liked to make things happen, had very little to do with the outpouring of power here. He was simply being a witness, and while he “was still speaking,” the Spirit of God came on the scene with life-changing power. Surely there are times when we need simply to trust that God has a better idea or plan, and we need to be open to the leading and the power of the Holy Spirit. This is where awe resides.
God, too often I try to make things happen in my own strength and my creativity. Help me to trust that you have a better plan for your amazing work in people’s lives. Amen.
The church . . . enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers. — Acts 9:31
I remember going to visit a town near our home and being surprised to find a Corvette show going on. I was excited to check out all the beautiful cars on display. From older ’Vettes to new ones, those cars were something to behold. When I think of the church (no, not like a Corvette), I think of it as something of beauty. Sure, it has scratches and dents, and of course it has an ugly side because it’s made of people—but I think the church can be so stunning. When Saul (Paul) became a follower of Jesus, he was committed to making sure the church was something to behold. This verse for us today is worth reading a few times. The newly formed church of Jesus was a place of peace and was being built up. I think of a high-rise building being built floor by floor—and before you know it, the beauty is revealed. The people (the church) walked in the fear of God and multiplied. The building-up of the church wasn’t about slick programs or clever preaching. The hearts of the people were aligned with God, and they were encouraged by the Holy Spirit. They had a deep sense of awe as they walked in step with the Lord, and they made sure God got the glory.
God, forgive us for seeing the church through the wrong lens at times. Guide us to focus on the right things that will help us grow. Amen.
“Isn’t he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on [Jesus’] name?” — Acts 9:21
Maybe you have heard of the apostle Paul, but did you know he was also named Saul and had a nasty past? He felt that he was doing God’s work by putting Christians in prison, and he even watched approvingly as Stephen was stoned to death (Acts 7:58). Saul began using his Greek name, Paul, when he became a witness for Jesus to Greek-speaking Gentiles (Acts 13:9). Despite all of Saul’s nasty intentions, Jesus stopped him in his tracks and turned his life around. That was shocking to many of the people who had known Saul before. The Lord changed his life and gave him a new purpose. God would use him powerfully to invite Gentiles (non-Jewish people) into his kingdom. We can feel spiteful sometimes about people who cause trouble in our lives, but the power of Jesus can transform them from being angry, hateful, and vengeful to sharing God’s love, kindness, and peace. Imagine how it felt for people who knew the persecutor and then saw him preaching about Jesus as the Savior (Messiah). Saul was proclaiming the grace and power of the one he had fought hardest against. This is the power of the good news!
God, search me and find any areas in my life that you need to turn around. Help me to see how you want to repurpose my life for your glory. Amen.
“How can I [understand],” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” — Acts 8:31
I wonder if Philip saw that moment coming. The Spirit of God surely did. Some years ago our family lived in a community of townhouses. We knew we were there for a greater reason than simply to raise our two young sons. We were called to be an example to the people around us of what Jesus was like. We prayed for various families around us. We hoped to gain a sense of whom God was working on. One day, though, a neighbor from a ways down the row of houses stopped my wife and asked, “Can I ask you some questions about church and faith?” We didn’t see that coming! We hadn’t prayed for her. But that didn’t mean God wasn’t working on her. In fact, God is working on all kinds of people all of the time. He may even be working on a person you least expect. So don’t be surprised when that coworker who annoys you sits down at the lunch table to ask what’s different about you. Or when a classmate who acts like they have it all together asks you to pray for them. Somehow they know you have a connection with God. What would happen if we began every day knowing that God has already been at work in the people around us, some of whom we might talk with that day? How could that change the way you go about your day?
God, you work in mysterious ways. Give us eyes and ears and the right words to say so that we can be your witnesses everywhere each day. Amen.
Yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. — Acts 7:57-58
Stephen had just spelled out the story of God’s promise to Abraham. He explained how God had made a covenant with his people and had fulfilled it (Acts 7:2-50). Then he charged the high priest and the rest of the ruling establishment with the murder of “the Righteous One,” Jesus Christ. And at that moment Stephen’s day got much worse. The religious rulers were enraged. They were so angry that they dragged him out of the city and stoned him. Have you ever seen someone going through a tough time and wondered, “I don’t know what I would do if that happened to me”? Here’s a wonder and awe moment in the story of Stephen. As they pressed him, Stephen understood the power of God’s presence with him. He saw heaven open, and he found comfort. When we face tough times or when it feels like the world is against us, that can actually be a moment when we can know the peace that surpasses all understanding. A time like that can be hard and trying, but it can also be an opportunity to draw close to Jesus. People have said that perhaps the best question to ask in tough times is not so much “Why?” as “What are you revealing to me, God?”
O God, help me to see a bad day or a tough time as an opportunity to draw close to you. I often fall prey to focusing only on myself. Instead, help me to see you and to serve you faithfully. Amen.
So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. — Acts 6:7
Look at the last part of today’s verse again: “a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.” This had never caught my attention before. I had to do some digging to better understand the impact of this “large number of priests.” There were about 18,000 priests living among the Jews at this time. Wow! Their role was to serve in the temple, an actual physical space. Day after day they had priestly duties for taking care of the needs of the people around them. The task was enormous and exhausting. A large number of those priests were drawn to faith in Christ because they saw a group of people sharing the load of caring for the poor among them—and this was clearly not being done out of obligation. Jesus’ followers were doing this out of genuine love. That falls directly in line with being “devoted,” a trait we pondered a few days ago. As Jesus’ followers served diligently to meet people’s needs, many of the priests also found their way into this new community of faith. Of course, the church needs to balance its inward care with reaching out to others, but if the church becomes known as a community marked by care and love, that is something beautiful that others want too.
Lord, what role do you want me to fill in your community? How can my gifts and passions help to shape the community of faith so that others may come to know Jesus? Amen.
“Choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them.” — Acts 6:3
We don’t often enjoy tension. Whether it’s in an organization, a business, a family, a friendship, or even a church, tension can really mess with things. But what if we can refocus the tension and see if it creates a new opportunity? Things were getting a bit tense in the fast-growing group of Jesus’ followers. Feelings were hurt, some people were left out, and some of them began to complain. Another word for this is “grumbling.” If you have heard the story of God’s people wandering in the desert after being freed from Egypt, you know that it did not take long for them to start grumbling (Exodus 16). What unfolds in this moment in Acts is an opportunity to decentralize the responsibilities of serving. The community has grown so large that it’s time to appoint leaders who can help take care of some needs that aren’t being met. When we take time to sit in the tension, we are able to see new opportunities. It’s easy to grumble. It’s also easy to find some people to grumble with. But if we step back and look at things from another angle, we might see an opportunity to start something beautiful. Too often in my life I have let the grumbling get in the way of what God may want to teach or reveal to me. How can we reframe what we are going through? What new thing might arise from the tension?
God, please help us break free from complaining, and let us see what new things you are trying to teach us. Amen.
The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people. . . . More and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number. — Acts 5:12-14
When God begins to do a new thing, nothing can stop him. Forces of this world may try, but nothing can ultimately stop the momentum God creates. The reporting of signs and wonders can make some of us uncomfortable. I know it does that for me because I wasn’t brought up in that type of environment. However, God used signs and wonders to give evidence of his kingdom coming into reality. Though we might struggle a bit with these events, they can help us grasp the miracle of a changed life through the power of the resurrected Lord. When your life, or mine, is deeply transformed by the reality of God’s kingdom, we want others to experience it too. Read verse 14 again and reflect on it. Multitudes of people were being reached. This movement of Jesus was gaining momentum that would keep on going to the present day and beyond. In those early days, signs and wonders helped to reinforce the powerful new reality God was bringing into this world. As you take some time to reflect on all this, ask God to deepen your awareness of his power. Think about where and how you have seen God work in the past. Consider being stretched by asking God to give you his power today.
Jesus, you did many miraculous things among the people you met and taught. Help me to see the miracles you are doing today. Amen.
God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them. — Acts 4:33-34
As people were gripped by the reality of new life in Jesus, something significant was happening among them: no one was left out. “There were no needy persons among them.” Can you imagine what that was like? Think about being on the receiving end. As hard as it can be to ask for help, I’m sure that people felt relief, knowing their needs would be supplied. And what about the people who were giving? The ability to help meet the needs of people without expectations must have been contagious. People literally sold their property to help meet the needs of others. Talk about being devoted to one another. In our Western culture today, we tend to struggle with this concept of social living. If we help someone out, will they take advantage and expect us to keep on giving? How will we be able to say no at some point? Or could it be that God’s kingdom doesn’t work that way? Maybe we are called to show God’s heart by caring for and meeting each other’s needs, and maybe in doing so we will reflect the light of Jesus. Imagine what would happen if we, the church, lived each day with this kind of generosity. I’m sure that people outside the church would take notice and become curious.
Holy Spirit, make me sensitive to the needs of the people around me. Give me the courage not to wait until someone asks for help but to step in when you nudge me to do so. Amen.
“In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” — Acts 3:6
Sometimes when we read the Bible, we can miss little phrases that make a transition. The beginning of our reading today provides a transition that leads into a new experience of God’s kingdom. It says, “One day Peter and John . . .” This will take us into a deeper sense of awe as we see God working and moving to bring more and more people to himself. Let’s savor each moment as it brings wonder, inspiration, and joy. It was a regular day as Peter and John headed to the temple to pray, and then things became really irregular. A lame man asked for money, and Peter offered him something completely different. He offered him Jesus and healing all in the same moment. Wait—what happened here? The man was healed in the name of Jesus, both spiritually and physically. This might make us uncomfortable, but when God chooses to reveal who he is and what his kingdom is about, he can do powerful things! We may not always see healings like this, but when we see families restored, freedom from an addiction, and other amazing turnarounds, we can sense the wonder of the new life Jesus offers. Moments like this show us the power of God’s kingdom. They give us a glimpse of what the Lord came to do and what he will do when he fully restores all things.
God, help me to see the power of the resurrection. Open my eyes and heart to the new things you are doing in and through and around me. Amen.
They broke bread . . . and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily. . . . — Acts 2:46-47
Have you ever gone to a show or a movie and laughed so hard that your face hurt? That has happened to me. There’s this one guy in my life who can make me laugh really hard too. For whatever reason, when he’s around, there’s often great laughter and even joy. As Jesus’ early followers began to emerge, something was happening that caught the attention of others: joy rose up from among them. Their lives were marked by Jesus, clearly seen in their deep devotion and great joy. Acts makes clear that they met daily, worshiped regularly, and had glad and generous hearts. Jesus’ followers had this internal joy marked with gladness, and it was not for themselves. Their outward-facing generosity brought joy into the lives of the people around them. Maybe when Jesus had taught them about the kingdom of God, he had shared how exciting and strange it would be to have so much joy that people would wonder and want what they had. Luke reports that they grew in favor with all the people and that the Lord added many to their numbers. Ask yourself if this joy is real for you. There are times when life can be hard and we can get discouraged. But it can also help to look deeper and see that joy grows when we are glad and generous as we look forward in hope.
Lord, I want to grow in my understanding of what it means to be marked by joy. Even when life is tough, mark my life with great joy in you. Amen.
They devoted themselves . . . to prayer. — Acts 2:42
I don’t know about you, but this one is really hard. They devoted themselves to prayer? I’m a pastor, and I often am expected to pray, but that can be so hard at times. I can be a few minutes into my time of prayer, and boom—I’m thinking about mowing the lawn. It’s easy to get distracted when we pray. And yet this group of early believers devoted themselves to prayer! This means they consistently and regularly were going to God. But were they doing what we often do: bringing our lists of needs and concerns? Or were they doing something else? I talk to lots of people about prayer, and I often hear this: I tried praying, and it didn’t work. I asked God to heal my aunt’s illness, and he didn’t answer. And so on. But is that what prayer is about? Well, that’s a part of it, but there is more. Jesus’ early followers recognized that their source of strength and hope was God. For them, prayer was about laying down their lives before God and being open to serve him in whatever he called them to do. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that God is like a genie in a bottle, as if we could just pray and be granted whatever we wished for. When it comes to prayer, what God truly wants is to hear about what is going on in our hearts—and then for us to listen.
God, help me to grow in my understanding of prayer. By your Spirit, help me to connect with you, talk with you, and listen to you. Guide me to follow you faithfully. In Jesus, Amen.
They devoted themselves . . . to the breaking of bread. . . . — Acts 2:42
There’s something about sitting around a table to share a meal. When our family is all together, we often have deep, rich conversations. And we have joyful fun—I recall that when our first granddaughter was becoming expressive, we all started cheering with our hands in the air as she did the same. As Jesus’ followers devoted themselves to breaking bread together, there was a sense of understanding that they were a part of something greater than themselves. It was a reminder that they were part of the kingdom of God that Jesus had taught about. Being together to break bread is a way of revealing that we are a part of a new kind of family as well. This family has a centerpiece, and his name is Jesus. As we sit together in community, breaking bread together and remembering Jesus, whether in a large gathering or a small one, we look around that space with an understanding that Jesus calls us brothers and sisters. In this picture of the table we need to understand that none of us deserves to be at the table breaking bread, and yet we are all invited and welcomed because of Jesus. Jesus spoke some powerfully prophetic words when he said, “Do this in remembrance of me.” He knew that we would need to remember who and what we are a part of.
Jesus, thank you for the power of the table. In your grace you have given us the greatest example of your good news by welcoming us and reminding us to remember you. Amen.
They devoted themselves . . . to fellowship. . . . — Acts 2:42
It’s important to know that we don’t just “go” to church but instead are part of the church. We might go to a hockey game or to a store, but church is different. If we follow Jesus, we are a part of his body, his people, the church. Jesus’ early followers were a diverse group. They came from many countries and from all walks of life. It was probably difficult for them to unite together and learn to be God’s newly formed people. And yet they found a way to be devoted to one another, to be together in fellowship—in Christ, through the power of his Spirit. What I love about the fellowship of Jesus’ followers is that they were there for one another. Their lives would not have been easy with all the political, cultural, and religious divisions in the Roman Empire. But they were able to find their way by being there for each other, in Christ. When someone was struggling, hurting, or even coming off the rails in their faith, there was someone to encourage them. Though we all have a tendency to try to deal with our struggles on our own, we need to learn to lean into community. Maybe we don’t want to bother others, but in our times of struggle we need to run toward instead of away from our community of faith so that they can care for us.
Jesus, give me the strength and courage to live life in community. Help me to lean into your people around me and to let others do that with me. Amen.
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching. . . . — Acts 2:42
Not long ago I heard someone say that if you believe you can possess truth as your own, you will be argumentative and defensive. However, if you realize that truth is something you point to, you will be kind and compassionate because you know truth is for everyone. If there is one thing that has polarized our society, it is personal expressions of truth. If you are a follower of Jesus, or if you are becoming a follower, you need to know that you are called to be devoted to the truth that belongs not to you but to God. The very reason that Jesus’ early followers held on to and continued in the apostles’ teaching was that the apostles had been with Jesus and had heard the truth from his very lips. Jesus’ followers knew that these teachings brought life itself. When I look at the world around me, I see so much confusion and chaos. Maybe you see some of the same wasteland. As people who are trying to find our way through the wasteland of confusion and chaos today, we need to find our anchor in the foundational truth of Jesus so that we don’t build our lives on the ever-changing sand of society. The early believers’ devotion to the apostles’ teaching gave them a deep sense of awe for what would lead them to live with holy reverence for God and his Word.
Father, knowing what is true can be hard. Please guide me to your truth so that I may stand strong in this world of confusion and chaos. Amen.
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. — Acts 2:42
If you know a die-hard soccer fan, you know that they can be rather fanatical about their club. The way they talk, dress, and cheer is like they were on the pitch for the game. Through thick and thin a true fan stays true to their club, no matter what. A true soccer fan is a picture of what it means to be deeply devoted. As the group of first-century, new believers in Jesus was being formed, they did something almost automatically. They turned their lives in a direction that would allow them to grow a resilient faith. They devoted themselves to this new way of life. The word devoted carries with it the idea of being glued to something, unable to be pulled apart. When a person is devoted, they are not looking for the path of least resistance. When times get tough, they don’t strive for a comfortable and convenient life. People who are deeply devoted don’t allow their feelings to be the main indicator of how they define their faith. The early church shows us something very important about human nature: what we are devoted to forms our lives, shapes our thinking, and develops new patterns of life and friendship.
God, life can be so tough at times. There are days when we are not sure if we can even move forward, so please give us the strength and the will to be devoted to you and your plan. Amen.
“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 1:8
After capturing his followers’ imagination with the kingdom of God, Jesus tells them, in effect, “I need you to be my witnesses here on earth. And here’s the great thing—you will not be alone.” Jesus says that God’s Spirit will come upon them and give them power to be his witnesses. He explains that God by his Spirit will be the source of their strength so that they won’t have to do this work on their own. Too often we think that in order to be a witness, we need to learn the right steps and know the right Scriptures so that we don’t mess things up. And while all of that is a good idea, it’s a great comfort to know that we are not alone in the mission of being witnesses to the living hope, Jesus. Jesus’ close group of followers knew about how God had told his prophets what to say in past generations. They had also seen Jesus do some powerful things. And now he was telling them that the Holy Spirit of God himself would empower them! They must have felt a bit terrified but also confident, knowing they could go forward with the power and presence of God. This was the same God who had created the earth and brought Jesus back to life! And the same power is available to Jesus’ followers today.
Spirit of God, thank you for living in me and giving me your power to witness for Jesus. Guide me in each moment you have given me today. Amen.
After his suffering, he . . . gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. — Acts 1:3
Jesus could have talked to his apostles about all kinds of things after he had risen from the grave. He could have talked about what it was like to have nails driven into his hands and feet, and what it was like to come back to life and breathe again. While Jesus might have mentioned those things, we know that he especially talked with his closest followers about the kingdom of God. His entire three years in the public eye were all about proclaiming and pointing to God’s kingdom and the full life it offers for everyone. The kingdom of God means full life forever for all who believe in Jesus as the Savior whose death has paid for all our sin. And with this promise Jesus captured his followers’ imagination. He wanted to help them understand that what they were signing up for was not a stale form of religion, directed by laws and rituals, but a new movement of God’s realm and reality that has entered human history through Jesus’ suffering and resurrection. Jesus knew that what captures our imagination will shape how we live—and, more importantly, what we are willing to die for. He talked about the kingdom of God so that his followers would be prepared to have a deep sense of awe over what was about to happen.
Holy Spirit, please renew and grow my imagination of what the kingdom of God is and what it can do in and through my life. Amen.
Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. — Acts 2:43
People can argue and debate faith, and they can talk about possible contradictions in the Bible, but a life transformed by Jesus is a powerful mystery that cannot be denied. It’s a work of the Holy Spirit that can fill you with awe. With this in mind, let’s explore sections of the Bible’s book of Acts. Acts tells the story of the beginning of the church built by Jesus Christ. It also shows how God, by his Spirit, was doing something new and powerful by coming to live within people whom he called to have new life in Christ. Luke, the writer of Acts, captures moments and events in the development of the church that brought a deep sense of awe. As we look to Acts for inspiration, we do this not to try to revive the past. We look back to find a way forward as we embrace the possibility that God by his Spirit is doing something new even today. So, if you are new to the Christian faith, this can help to draw your heart and mind to the possibilities of what God can do. And if you have been a Christian for a while, this exercise may help to refresh your focus and imagination on the amazing things God can do in our lives and for his kingdom.
Lord and God, I long for more of you. I desire a deep sense of awe as I see you work and move in my life. Help me to set aside my ideas of how I think you work, and please renew my eyes, ears, and heart to sense what you want to do. Amen.
He was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. — Hebrews 11:10
From the time he received God’s call, Abraham became a sojourner. He lived in tents and frequently moved around. While Abraham appreciated the blessings of God, he came to realize that everything on this earth is temporary. Everything has an expiration date. Over the years Abraham grew in perspective. He began to desire an even greater reward that comes by faith—an eternal home “whose architect and builder is God.” Abraham didn’t live long enough to see all of God’s promises fulfilled. Neither do any of us. Yet throughout his life, Abraham kept moving forward, following after God. By faith, he knew that the best was yet to come. He looked forward to enjoying life with God in a city that God would build—a reference to the New Jerusalem (see Revelation 21-22). Abraham came to believe that the promised land was more than a plot of dirt in the land of Canaan. It was not only a place where Abraham and his descendants could live but also a place where God’s Spirit dwells in all his glory. Abraham believed in having life with God in heaven, and that made all the difference while he was here on earth. We too live as sojourners on this earth. We experience partial fulfillments of God’s promises. And, like Abraham, we keep our eyes on the glorious prize that awaits us someday—when Jesus will return and make all things new.
Lord Jesus, we can get so distracted in this world. Help us to look forward to life with you in your kingdom when it fully comes. Amen.
All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. . . . — Hebrews 11:13
In Abraham’s remarkable life, his faith in God is what stands out. Throughout the course of his ups and downs and his moves to various places, Abraham believed. He not only believed God existed, but he was willing to stake his future on God’s faithfulness. Abraham believed, even though there was no cloud of witnesses around to support him or spur him on (Hebrews 11:1-2). Abraham had some amazing adventures along the way. But every act of worship and following God’s call was motivated out of faith. Faith was not a one-time expression for him but a life-long experience. Although Abraham’s faith wavered at times, it never collapsed. Against all odds, he kept on trusting in God’s promises. God gave him the gift of faith, and Abraham believed. The Chinese bamboo plant barely grows during its first five years. For a long time, nothing seems to be happening. Then, during the fifth year, the plant can grow more than 50 feet. God’s work in our lives can be like that, taking a long time to develop and then bursting with visible growth. Yet this growth won’t happen unless we are patient and keep on believing. And with God’s leading, we can do that.
Father, as you work out your good plan in our lives, help us to exercise patient, unwavering confidence in you. Amen.
Then Abraham breathed his last and died at a good old age, an old man and full of years; and he was gathered to his people. — Genesis 25:8
It’s not how fast we run the journey of life that counts, but how we run it. The object is to follow the Lord, who calls and leads us. The point is to live God’s way, trusting him with our destiny rather than charging ahead and doing life our own way. God called Abraham on a journey of faith that took him many hundreds of miles and lasted throughout his many years. Abraham died at the age of 175 and was buried with his wife Sarah. Though Abraham hadn’t always acted faithfully on this journey, God was always his faithful guide. Abraham eventually learned that he could trust God with everything in his life. In faith, he grew to trust that he could always depend on God to keep his promises. Many people come to the end of their life and look back with regret and remorse rather than fulfillment and joy. Abraham had his share of both. Ultimately, because of God, he could look back over his many years and be grateful, joyful, and satisfied. Abraham had become a believer in God. He had learned that God can be trusted fully. He had seen promises fulfilled and amazing deliverances. He had discovered that the real adventure of life is in following God’s call. May we, too, run the race of faith as God calls us and, in the end, enjoy the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Lord, be our ever-true guide on this journey of faith. May we trust in you and find ways to share this faith with the people around us. Amen.
Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram. . . . He . . . took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. — Genesis 22:13
Abraham’s faith is tested with the ultimate challenge: Is he willing to give up his most precious treasure to God? And at the last possible moment, God intervenes, telling Abraham to stop. So Isaac is spared, delivered from a death sentence. And God provides a substitute, a sacrificial ram to be offered instead. The place is then called “The Lord Will Provide.” Abraham could not have known that about 2,000 years later an even greater sacrifice would be made. God would again provide a substitute, who actually became “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). That substitute was Jesus, God’s only Son, who gave up his own life to pay for all our sin so that all who believe in him may have eternal life (John 3:16). God’s judgment against sin fell on his own Son. Jesus, the sacrificial Lamb, stepped in and took our place. On that day, through Jesus’ death on a cross outside Jerusalem, a sufficient sacrifice was provided (see Mark 15:33-39). Abraham could not have known all this, but by the grace of God he had received the gift of faith and could trust that God would somehow keep his promises.
Lamb of God, thank you for being our substitute and dying in our place, opening the way for us to be saved. Give us faith to believe in you and to serve you every day. Amen.
“Do not lay a hand on the boy. . . . Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.” — Genesis 22:12
Abraham’s faith is severely tested in this episode. How it must have pained him to look into the face of the son he loved so dearly, knowing that this long-promised child was to become a sacrifice. Yet Abraham trusted that God would somehow make a way when there seemed to be no way out. Abraham displayed a surprising, unshakeable faith in the almighty, good God, who keeps his promises. Here God put Abraham to the ultimate test of faith. God needed to know who really held first place in Abraham’s heart. And Abraham needed to know that God could be completely trusted. For this reason Abraham was asked to surrender his most precious treasure to God. What is your most precious treasure? What might you be holding on to because it’s more important to you than life itself? My guess is that it’s probably a very good thing. But if a good thing becomes a distraction that pulls you away from God, it can become an idol, and that is a bad thing. Sometimes God has to do the painful work of prying our fingers off that treasure so that we can give back to him what belongs to him in the first place. Nothing is truly safe or secure until it is surrendered and dedicated to God.
Father, help us to release our treasures into your hands. May we hold loosely what you have given us while holding tightly to you. Guide us to find our true joy in you. Amen.
God said, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and . . . sacrifice him . . . as a burnt offering.” — Genesis 22:2
Abraham’s journey of faith involved some painful twists and turns. This episode can tend to leave a knot in nearly every parent’s stomach. Here God tests Abraham by telling him to offer up his son, Isaac, as a sacrifice—and Abraham very nearly goes through with it! The request seems unthinkable—asking Abraham to offer up his own son. After all, this was the son of promise—the one through whom God promised to bless the nations of the world. This command likely made no sense at all to Abraham. Isaac was God’s great gift. But now it seemed that this gift was to be given back, surrendered up to God. Could Abraham let go of his son—the one thing that meant more to him than life itself? And what about God’s promise to bless the nations through him? This surely was a challenging, excruciating test of Abraham’s faith. But somehow Abraham had learned to trust God enough to provide a solution. He even told Isaac, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And as Abraham was about to slay his son, God told him to stop. At times our faith may be tested too. Will we trust God to keep his promises, however challenging it may be to obey? Through Jesus, God’s only Son, who laid down his life for our sake, we can trust God with the outcome.
Lord, give us deeply trusting faith in you. Help us to know that you will see us through every trial we encounter. Amen.
When his son Isaac was eight days old, Abraham circumcised him, as God commanded him. — Genesis 21:4
The long-awaited son finally arrived. Abraham and Sarah were overjoyed at Isaac’s birth. Yet this stunning birth came with new responsibilities, which Abraham took seriously. First, he circumcised Isaac, as God commanded. And as Isaac grew, Abraham instructed his son in the ways of the Lord (see Genesis 18:19). Later Abraham also helped to find the right woman for Isaac to marry (Genesis 24). Despite his advanced age, Abraham diligently worked to share his faith in God with the next generation. God instituted the home to be an environment where children can be raised to grow in faith: warmed by God’s love, nurtured in his Word, and protected from influences that would damage or destroy. Like tender vegetation, children are especially vulnerable and in need of constant care. This is where godly parents come in—providing an environment that instills faith and encourages spiritual growth. (See also Deuteronomy 6:1-9.) If we are parents, we can’t pass along what we don’t have. To pass faith along, we need to have a deep love for God that helps to shape the rhythms of family life. This includes intentional times of spiritual training as well as informal conversations about God and his love as we go about our lives each day.
Father, may we create holy habits that bolster our love for you. Help parents and other family members to plant seeds of faith in children’s lives, that you may bring the increase. Amen.
“The day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down. . . . It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. . . . Remember Lot’s wife!” — Luke 17:29-32
“Remember Lot’s wife!” Even though this is one of the shortest statements in the Bible, it packs a wallop. It offers a solemn warning about choosing foolishly. Lot’s family is given clear instructions: Sodom is about to be destroyed, so head for the hills and don’t look back. But, tragically, Lot’s wife cannot resist looking back. She steals a peak and is turned into a pillar of salt. She is frozen in time at the moment of her disobedience, a monument to the dangers of spiritual compromise. Most societies memorialize significant achievements in some way. We build statues to honor war heroes, great leaders, and athletes. But what do we do with figures of failure and ruin? They are embarrassing rather than inspirational, so we keep them out of sight. God, however, is so concerned with our spiritual well-being that he immortalizes failure. Through the story of Lot’s wife, the Lord calls generations to remember the high cost of sin. It breaks God’s heart to see his children fall into disgrace because temptation has gotten the best of them. Although the sin may be forgiven, often the scars and collateral damage last a long time. That’s why he says, “Remember Lot’s wife”—who held on too tightly to the things of this world.
Lord, forgive us for holding on to worldly desires and failing to obey you fully. Guide us to follow you. Amen.
One of them said, “Flee for your lives! Don’t look back . . . ! Flee to the mountains or you will be swept away!” — Genesis 19:17
Genesis 19 tells the tragic story of Abraham’s nephew Lot. Until the arrival of two heavenly messengers, Lot was oblivious to the danger around him. He had gotten so close to sin and evil that he had lost perspective. Lot was a God-fearing man, but he had a divided heart. He loved the Lord, but he also loved the things of the world. Lot tried to serve two masters. But in the end he lost everything that mattered to him. Failure in the Christian life is seldom the result of a sudden blowout. Most often it is the result of a slow leak. It usually involves a gradual drifting away from God and into sin, as was the case with Lot. He and his family were so torn by their divided loyalties that the heavenly messengers had to lead them by hand out of the city before destruction rained down. God’s exhortation still stands: flee from evil! Flee, before evil gets its claws so deeply embedded into you that you are unable to break free. Running from sin is not the mark of a coward, but yielding to sin is. It takes guts to admit our vulnerability and to flee from sin’s overwhelming power. There is a high price in choosing to follow Jesus—but an even higher price in not choosing to follow him.
Lord, our hearts are often divided. We have become so accustomed to sin that we no longer blush. Forgive us. Purify us. Make us wholly yours. May we run to you whenever we are overwhelmed. Amen.
In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah . . . serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire. — Jude 7
Every caring parent has warned their child about the dangers of playing near a busy street or in some other hazardous place. Young children are often unaware of danger, so they need to be warned. Our heavenly Father responds similarly when his children are sometimes careless. Thoughts of them perishing so stirs his heart that he sends warning signals our way. The dreadful destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah serves as one of those warning signs. The events described in Genesis 19 give us a small window into the godless depravity of these cities. Two heavenly messengers, sent to warn Lot about Sodom, said, “The outcry to the Lord against its people is so great that he has sent us to destroy it.” Having rejected God long ago, these cities no longer had any moral or social conscience. The tragic truth about human nature is that the worse we get, the less we realize it. We can become like a skunk that gives off a putrid smell but is not offended by it at all. People entrapped in sin are often oblivious to their own moral stench. May the fate of these ancient cities serve as a solemn warning of the consequences of trying to live our own way without regard for God or his way.
Lord, have mercy on us. We are attracted by sin but are often blind to its many dangers. May we heed your warnings, keeping our eyes fixed on you—the author and perfecter of faith. Amen.
“Will you sweep away the righteous with the wicked? What if there are fifty righteous people in the city?” — Genesis 18:23-24
Prayer doesn’t stop with making requests for ourselves. It reaches out to include others. That’s why, with great intensity, Paul could say, “I urge . . . that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people. . . . This is good, and pleases God” (1 Timothy 2:1-3). God works through intercession—prayer for others—to do mighty things. We can pray powerfully to God for others—and when we need prayer, with others pleading our cause before the Almighty, that can be a powerful experience. Abraham’s visitors informed him that Sodom and Gomorrah were about to be destroyed. Knowing that his nephew Lot was in danger there, Abraham pleaded with God to spare the city if even fifty, or forty, or thirty, or twenty, or even ten righteous people lived there. And God said he would spare the city if even so few righteous people were there. This episode demonstrates the powerful impact of intercessory prayer. It’s as if the intercessor has one hand reaching out to a needy, broken world, and the other hand reaching up to the gracious God—linking them together. Intercession gives us an opportunity to partner with God in accomplishing his work. When we intercede for others, we come close to the heart of Jesus, the great intercessor (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25).
Father, thank you for the privilege of prayer. May we seek to be conduits of your grace, interceding for others so that your presence and power may fill their lives. Amen.
Abraham . . . laughed and said to himself, “Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at the age of ninety?” . . . Sarah laughed. . . . — Genesis 17:17; 18:12
Not all laughter is good medicine. There is a kind of laughter that mocks and wounds. It’s the laughter of disdain and derision. Being laughed at is no fun. However, laughing alongside good friends can bring healing. This is a kind of joyful laughter that accompanies celebrations: the laughter of wonder, amusement, and amazement. On two different occasions, we read of laughter breaking out after God’s announcement that a child would be born to aged Sarah and Abraham. In Genesis 17, we read that Abraham laughs, and in the next chapter Sarah laughs too. This was a laughter of astonishment and amazement mingled with a hint of disbelief. They weren’t necessarily laughing at God, but more at a plan that seemed so implausible. God had been faithful to them, but they weren’t quite sure they believed God would do the impossible. But then the child of promise was eventually born the next year, and they named him Isaac, meaning “laughter” (Genesis 21:1-7). Their laughter of doubt was transformed into a laughter of celebration and praise. Where do you see God at work in astonishing ways today? Consider how this can bring a sense of joy and celebration to people around you.
God of amazing grace and joy, cast out our doubts and fears. Turn our mourning into dancing, our weeping into laughter. Help us to trust that you will make all things new. Amen.
In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands . . . having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him. . . . — Colossians 2:11-12
The Bible tells one consistent story of God’s gracious dealings with his people. Beginning with Abraham, God invites them into a special relationship with him. The Old Testament sign of this covenantal bond was the rite of circumcision. In the New Testament the church has received baptism in Christ as the sign of belonging in God’s covenant. Participation is no longer limited to Jewish males but is now open to all who believe in Christ as Savior. The waters of baptism mark a person’s life—letting them know who they are and to whom they belong. This God-ordained sacrament is a channel of blessing, a means of grace, a way of assuring us of God’s promises. Through baptism God makes promises to us. He signs and seals his covenant with us, his children. Our faith is confirmed and strengthened by our participation in it. Colossians 2 teaches that the rite of circumcision pointed forward to the day when Jesus’ own blood would be shed for us. Because of his once-for-all sacrifice, the shedding of blood is no longer required. Instead, water now becomes the symbol of both death and resurrection in Christ, forever binding us with the promises of God. If you have not yet done so, there is no better time than right now to believe and be baptized to new life.
Lord Jesus, your amazing grace invites us into your story and your victory over sin for us. Help us to live faithfully for you. Amen.
“You are to undergo circumcision, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and you.” — Genesis 17:11
Over the years, God gave Abraham an armful of promises. God even invited Abraham into a special covenantal relationship. And now God asks Abraham to reciprocate. Abraham is to accept this covenantal relationship by means of a ceremony called circumcision. Abraham and his descendants will receive a permanent mark on their bodies—an ongoing reminder that they belong, body and soul, to their God. The ceremony also symbolizes that they belong not only to God but also to each other. Circumcision was an initiation rite into the family of God, with participants considered part of God’s chosen people. The ceremony spoke of both ownership and identity. It also symbolized the need for cutting or casting off all forms of unrighteousness in order to be wholly devoted to God. This covenant was to be sealed by the shedding of blood. Today we still use symbols as powerful reminders of who we are and the promises we make. When two people enter the sacred covenant of marriage, they often seal their promises with a kiss and with wedding rings, declaring that they belong to each other. And in a way like circumcision for God’s Old Testament saints, the baptism of New Testament saints is a powerful reminder of our unity and identity in Christ.
Father God, thank you for your gracious covenantal love. May it never cease to amaze us. May it transform us more and more into the image of your Son, our Savior. Amen.
When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am God Almighty; walk before me faithfully and . . . I will . . . greatly increase your numbers.” — Genesis 17:1-2
Often when God wants to do something big, he starts with something small. Such was the case with Abraham and Sarai. God took an elderly, childless couple and made them fruitful beyond belief. What seems impossible to human beings is very possible with God. It had been 24 years since God first promised Abraham that he would become the father of a great nation (see Genesis 12:1-4). Several times through those years God reaffirmed his promise and even ceremonially sealed it. Still, Abraham and Sarai were without children. In Genesis 17 God affirmed this promise again by revealing his special name El Shaddai, meaning “God Almighty.” Then he changed Abram’s name to Abraham, meaning “father of many,” and spelled out further details of his plan. God also changed Sarai’s name to Sarah, meaning “princess” (see v. 15). Even though the promise had yet to be fulfilled, God offered reassurance to them. Similarly, at times when it was difficult for me to believe his promises, God sent reassurances my way. Bible verses, songs, encouraging notes, and prayers helped to reassure me that God was still at work—even if circumstances hadn’t yet changed. Whatever you are trusting God for, draw strength from the encouragements he gives along the way.
God Almighty, you know how we struggle to be faithful. Reassure us of your presence and power, reminding us that nothing is impossible with you. Amen.
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you. — 2 Peter 3:9
Abraham struggled to wait for his and Sarai’s promised child to be born. It seemed to him that God was too slow in keeping his promises. Eventually Abraham and Sarai lost patience with God and tried to have a child in their own unsanctified way (through Sarai’s servant). In his foolishness, Abraham ran ahead of God—leaving a path of relational carnage in his wake. Many of us can probably recall times when we have done something similar. We were unhappy with God’s timing and began doubting his reliability. Maybe we didn’t go as far as Abraham did, but we still charged ahead and tried to direct our own destiny. Often we find it easier to work rather than wait, to try harder rather than to trust, to play God rather than to surrender to him. But Abraham learned the hard way that there is one thing worse than waiting for God—and that is wishing you had waited. Abraham spent the rest of his life regretting his lack of faith and the rashness of his actions. God’s timing and ours are often not in sync, so we are called to wait. And yet the Lord is not slow in keeping his promises (2 Peter 3:9). From the perspective of eternity, God’s timing is perfect. Our calling is simply to trust God, giving him the time and space needed to work out his good plan.
Lord, it is a privilege to be part of your great plan to restore this world. Help us to step into that plan, waiting patiently to see what you will do in us and through us. Amen.
She said to Abram, “The Lord has kept me from having children. Go, sleep with my slave; perhaps I can build a family through her.” — Genesis 16:2
It’s human nature to try to control our own destiny. We take matters into our own hands and make something happen—whether it be in business, finance, or family matters. We may even take ill-advised shortcuts to get there. Abraham is a case in point. Genesis 16 records one of the darkest blots on his spiritual record. We see this man of faith acting without faith. Frustrated with the delay in God’s plan to give them a child, Abraham and Sarai take matters into their own hands. They devise a scheme for getting what God has promised them. In effect, they try to provide their own solution rather than trusting in God’s timing. In a startling act of unfaithfulness, Abraham sleeps with his wife’s servant Hagar. This unholy shortcut brings deep and lasting trouble. Hagar becomes pregnant, and soon jealousy breaks out between Sarai and Hagar, and Hagar runs away. May this tragedy warn us against taking moral shortcuts, compromising our principles, and trying to play God. It’s good to know that when we walk with God, his delays are never dead-ends—and that because of his grace, our failures are never final.
Father, forgive us when we lose confidence in you and take matters into our own hands. Help us instead to trust in you and in your plan for our lives. In Jesus, Amen.
The Lord made a covenant with Abram and said, “To your descendants I give this land, from the Wadi of Egypt to . . . the Euphrates.” — Genesis 15:18
Politicians make lots of promises, especially during campaigns. But we are not surprised when their lofty promises are broken. Today, in fact, it seems to be getting harder and harder to find people whose word is credible. Could that be why we might struggle also to take God at his word? Yet God reveals himself as the promise-making, promise-keeping God. Through trial and error, Abraham came to discover that God is the only One who can always be counted on. God is forever true to his word. In ancient times, kings often made covenants with their subjects. These were formal agreements, including oaths and solemn vows, to establish and maintain relationships. In Genesis 15 Abraham’s doubts led to a covenantal response from God, by which God sealed his promises with an oath. In those days, oaths were often sealed by means of a gory ceremony involving the slaughter of animals. This was intended to show that if the covenant were broken, the violator would suffer the same fate as the animals. Amazingly, God made this kind of oath with Abraham, promising to bless him and his descendants. And God remained true to his word, as always. What promise of God do you need to rely on today?
Thank you, Lord, for always being trustworthy and true. Help us to know that when you make a promise, you will surely fulfill it. Amen.
Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness. — Genesis 15:6
Wrapped into the story of Abraham is this foundational truth about eternal salvation. The apostle Paul picks up this truth and unpacks it for us in Romans 4 (see also Galatians 3). This helps us to see that there is only one way to be made right with God—and that is through faith. In Romans 4, Paul speaks of two kinds of righteousness. The first kind has to do with keeping God’s law in order to be acceptable to God. In this scenario, hard work and self-sacrificing service earn the award of being righteous before God. Only Jesus could accomplish this, because he is the only human who never sinned or broke God’s law. The other kind of righteousness is applied through faith in God and in his power to save us through Jesus, his Son. When we believe and trust in God, as Abraham did, we are credited with the righteousness that Jesus earned for us. This benefit comes to all who believe—from Abraham on down through the centuries to us today. When God looks at us, he doesn’t see all the good or bad things we have done. Instead, he sees us clothed in Jesus’ righteousness. Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice is sufficient for our complete salvation. There is nothing we can add to it. The only thing left is to believe, receive eternal life, and demonstrate our gratitude through a life of humble service.
Lord Jesus, thank you for all you have done to save us, so that we can be credited with your righteousness. Guide us to trust and serve you always. Amen.
Abram said, “Sovereign Lord, what can you give me since I remain childless and the one who will inherit my estate is Eliezer of Damascus?” — Genesis 15:2
Despite having great faith, Abraham could be unsettled by nagging fears and doubts. That is why, in the opening of Genesis 15, God says to him, “Do not be afraid. . . . I am your shield, your very great reward.” Abraham was struggling to believe. God’s promise to make him the father of a great nation was now about ten years old, and he and Sarai did not have a child. We all know the pain of promises unfulfilled; they can leave an aching void in our hearts and homes. Perhaps we follow God’s call and step out in faith. We risk something for his kingdom, but we don’t see the hoped-for results. At times like that, it can be hard to keep trusting in God. Like the psalmist we cry out, “How long, Lord, how long?” (Psalm 6:3). The good news is that God understands our doubts and fears. He graciously responds to the prayer that says, “Lord, I believe. Help me overcome my unbelief. Help me trust you more—even when I don’t see or understand your ways, even when it seems to be taking so long” (see Mark 9:24). God explains that his ways are higher than we can imagine (Isaiah 55:9). And his timing is impeccable—never early, never late. Trusting in these truths allows us to experience God’s peace and rest.
Heavenly Father, calm our anxious minds and troubled hearts today. Help us to trust you completely with whatever is disturbing us. In the powerful name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Melchizedek king of Salem . . . was priest of God Most High, and he blessed Abram. . . . Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything. — Genesis 14:18-20
Often in daily life, it’s not what you know but who you know that counts. The same is true in our spiritual life: what matters most for our salvation is not what we know but who we know. As believers in Christ, we know the One whose name is above every other name. Jesus, Lord of all, is seated at the right hand of the Father in heaven. Genesis 14 and Hebrews 7 tell us about Abraham’s remarkable encounter with Melchizedek—a man who had a high position of authority in the ancient world. Although he is a mysterious figure in Scripture, Melchizedek was both a king and a priest of the highest order. And yet he came to bless Abraham. And Abraham responded by giving a tenth of his possessions (a symbol of gratitude) to this great king. On multiple levels, Melchizedek is a representative of Jesus Christ, our great high priest and eternal King. Mighty in power, Jesus came in grace to bless and forgive. In response, we acknowledge his rightful rule over us. And we express our gratitude by returning a portion of our possessions to him. Having this friend in the highest place means that we can “approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace” (Hebrews 4:16).
Lord Jesus, thank you for befriending us and being gracious to us even when we do not deserve it. May our lives be an expression of gratitude for all you have done for us. Amen.
The Lord said to Abram . . . “All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever.” — Genesis 13:14-15
As the elder family member, Abraham had the right to choose which land he would take for himself. But he surrendered that right and let his nephew Lot choose first. Setting his sights on greater things, Abraham trusted God to take care of him, no matter which part of the land he would receive. In faith, Abraham turned the situation over to the Lord—not allowing his possessions to possess him. This freed him to enjoy God’s blessings without clinging to them or grasping for more. Abraham was able to hold on loosely to the things of this world. And surprisingly, Abraham received more than he gave up. God promised him that one day all of the land he could see around him would belong to him and his descendants. From this we learn that God honors those who yield their rights and surrender their resources for his greater purposes. Abraham’s choice points us to Jesus, who chose to give up his rights for a more glorious purpose. Philippians 2:6-9 explains that Jesus “did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,” but instead “emptied himself” for our sake. And in doing that, he received “the name that is above every name.” Be assured that God blesses all who entrust their future to him.
Lord Jesus, thank you for giving yourself for our sake. May our lives reflect the same attitude, pointing others to your great love for us all. Amen.
Lot looked around and saw that the whole plain of the Jordan toward Zoar was well watered . . . like the land of Egypt. — Genesis 13:10
Abraham and his nephew Lot were wealthy sheepherders. But bickering broke out between their herdsmen. To resolve this turf war, Abraham suggested they herd their livestock in separate areas. After all, there was plenty of good land to use. Lot eyed the fertile land by the Jordan River. He wanted the best for himself, so the choice became a no-brainer for him. But Lot lacked discernment and saw only the attraction of the land in front of him. He did not consider the long-term spiritual consequences of living near Sodom and Gomorrah, with their evil influences—or maybe he just didn’t care. Lot’s vision was clouded by the material prosperity he saw. He pitched his tents near Sodom—and eventually became a resident there (Genesis 14:11). Later on, Lot lost everything—even those who were close to him. Small concessions and little compromises along the way led to disaster (Genesis 19). Lot’s life serves as a warning sign. We cannot compromise with wickedness and evil and come away unscathed. We cannot dance with the devil without getting hurt. Moral compromise begins with small steps in the wrong direction.
Lord, worldly pleasures and earthly gains dazzle us, and we can easily lose our way. Guide us to ask for your wisdom and to live by it. Strengthen us to be able to resist the devil and to draw near to you. In Jesus, Amen.
He went from place to place until he came . . . to the place between Bethel and Ai . . . where he had first built an altar. — Genesis 13:3-4
In the 1990s I was involved in planting a new church in a suburb of Chicago. We had no church building of our own, so we had to be portable. As a result, we ended up worshiping in six different locations within five years. In that way we were something like Abraham, who took his worship with him as he moved around. Several times in Genesis 12-13 we read that Abraham built an altar to the Lord—turning ordinary places into sacred spaces. This showed that wherever he went, Abraham could worship God. It also showed that God is totally different from the false gods of other nations, who believed their gods had power only in their area or over certain things. In fact, God is the one true God, the Lord of heaven and earth. God is everywhere, and he rules over all things. Sadly, we do not read of Abraham worshiping God while he was in Egypt, but God `was there anyway, protecting him and Sarai (Genesis 12:10-20). Having come back from Egypt, Abraham made worship a priority. Through worship his faith was strengthened and his vision expanded. Worship can have the same effect on us. And instead of only having a brief time of worship in a church on Sunday, we can take our worship with us every day, giving God glory wherever we go and in everything we do.
Lord God, may we praise you always. May your glory be reflected in all we say and do. Keep us faithful in worshiping you, Lord. Amen.
“What have you done to me?” [Pharaoh] said. “Why didn’t you tell me she was your wife?” — Genesis 12:18-19
When a famine came to the land of Canaan, Abraham left the land God had promised him and went to Egypt. Didn’t Abraham trust God enough to provide for him? Then, in Egypt, as we can see, Abraham depended more on his wits than on God. Fearing that his wife’s beauty would create a problem, Abraham lied, saying that Sarai was his sister. Rather than trusting in God’s protection, Abraham did what many of us do. He gave in to his fears and went into self-protection mode. The result of Abraham’s scheming is that Sarai is taken into Pharaoh’s harem, and then Pharaoh and his household get sick. Eventually discovering the truth, Pharaoh confronts Abraham. There is more than a bit of irony in this scene—a ruler who worships other gods reprimands a God-fearing believer for not doing the right thing. God’s rebuke of Abraham comes through the words of Pharaoh. We can be sure that Abraham felt the sting of humiliation for his faithless acts. The point is that God can use all kinds of means to get his message across to his people who stray from his calling. Have you ever been rebuked in such a way for stumbling in your walk of faith? It’s embarrassing and humiliating. But God’s grace overrides his people’s failures. In his grace, God is willing to forgive, restore, and redirect our steps back to his way of right living.
Lord, when we fail, give us more grace. Though we can step out of your will, it’s good to know that we never step out of your care. Amen.
There was a famine in the land, and Abram went down to Egypt to live there for a while. . . . — Genesis 12:10
Earlier in Genesis 12 we saw how Abraham obeyed God’s call, setting out on a long journey that brought him to the land of Canaan. Then he traveled throughout the land, stopping here and there to build an altar to worship the Lord. Now we have learned that a famine struck the land, so Abraham went to Egypt and lived there for a while. We can experience downturns and crisis situations too. We take God at his word and step out in faith. But then our hopes and plans might be dashed by a significant loss. A job opportunity can fall through, a marriage can fail, a ministry can falter. We can face a financial or physical health crisis. Though we might be obediently following God, it can seem as if our whole world is turning upside down. The famine Abraham experienced was likely a test of his faith. But instead of trusting in God, who had brought him safely to Canaan, Abraham fled to Egypt. And that decision soon cost him dearly. Just because we follow God’s call in our lives, that doesn’t mean things will always go smoothly. God often allows trouble to come our way in order to stretch and strengthen our faith. Rather than second-guessing God or our decision to follow him, we need to hold on to the Lord in faith, believing that where God guides, he also provides.
Lord God, forgive us when our faith wavers amid the trials of life. We believe you are mighty to save. Help us to hold on to you in times of doubt and trouble. Amen.
By faith [Abraham] made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country. — Hebrews 11:9
Most of us have a warm spot in our hearts for home. Even the word home can bring feelings of warmth, love, and security. Though we may grow up and eventually leave our home of origin, our home never quite leaves us. For much of his life, Abraham was a nomad, moving from one place to another. Even though he left behind places that he could have called home, the book of Hebrews tells us he was “looking forward” to finding his home with God. That’s because God called him—and by faith Abraham followed. Oftentimes Abraham lived as an outsider in a foreign land. He knew what it was like to be different from the people around him. As a sojourner, he faithfully followed the Lord as his guide and as God fulfilled promises in his life. All of us who consider ourselves spiritual children of Abraham have a similar mindset. We follow where the Lord leads. As followers of Jesus, we are never completely comfortable or at home with the value system and lifestyle of this world. As a result, we don’t drive our stakes too deeply into the ground. Instead we travel lightly. Even if we don’t travel to distant lands, we focus on living as citizens of God’s kingdom. We live in such a way that we long not only for our home with God but also to help bring his coming kingdom here on earth.
Father, thank you for the promise of having our eternal home with you. Be our steadfast guide as we journey through this life, sharing your goodness everywhere. Amen.
“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.” — Genesis 12:2
It would be an understatement to say that Genesis 12:1-3 is a pivotal passage in Scripture. Many of the key events in God’s calling and saving his people flow from this passage. Before sending Abraham out on his world-saving mission, God loads him up with an armful of promises. God says, in effect, “I will give you my presence, my guidance, my protection, and my favor.” It’s easy to focus on everything Abraham is leaving behind as he follows God’s call. But we have to remember what Abraham receives as he follows. God promises that Abraham will inherit a great land and become the father of a great nation, and that all peoples will be blessed through him. Later God made this even clearer by sending his Son, Jesus, born as a descendant of Abraham, to be the promised Savior of the world. Abraham didn’t fully understand all the implications of God’s promises. He didn’t have to. God just called him to walk forward with confidence, trusting in his word. In many ways, it’s no different for us today. Though we have a fuller revelation of God’s plan than Abraham did, we do not see all its glorious details. This means that faith is still required if we want to see God’s great blessings, and to be God’s great blessing to others.
Lord, thank you for your promises. We don’t know all that’s ahead of us, but we do know the One who is leading us. Help us to trust in you fully. Amen.
By faith Abraham, when called to go . . . obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. — Hebrews 11:8
Abraham had lived in Ur, a big city in its day, and with his extended family he had moved to Harran (Genesis 11:31). (Ur was in modern-day Iraq, and Harran was in modern-day Turkey.) Abraham was prosperous, and even if he wasn’t looking for God to take over his life, God was looking for him with a special plan in mind. Because of this, Abraham’s life changed in a big way. (At that time his name was Abram, but God later changed his name to Abraham; see Genesis 17:5.) In effect, God said, “Leave your country, your culture, your clan, and follow me.” That’s not easy to do when you are 75 years old and successful and settled, as Abraham was. And God didn’t give Abraham a map to follow. God simply said, “Go . . . to the land I will show you.” When it comes to God’s calling in our life, we like to have both clarity and content. We want a detailed description of where to go and what to do when we get there. But God seldom works that way. God wants us to exercise faith, not simply our intellect. He wants us to learn to walk by faith in him, rather than simply by sight. Not every call of God involves relocation, but every call does involve leaving some of our past behind and venturing into the unknown with God as our guide.
Lord, teach us what it means to listen for your voice and to respond in faith. Remind us that the safest, most joyful place to be is with you. Amen.
Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. — Hebrews 11:1
Maybe you’ve played the “Trust-Fall” game. To engage in this game, you stand straight and fall backward into the arms of someone who is standing there, ready to catch you. If you have played this game, you know how hard it is to fall back without bending your waist. Entrusting yourself to a support you can’t see is never easy. It requires faith. Before we join Abraham on his journey of faith, we need to understand what true faith is. Often we think of faith like a spare tire—something we might need in case of emergency to keep us moving on the road of life. As a result, we tend to replace faith with something that seems more tangible, more substantial. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Faith is a firm belief about something we cannot see or completely figure out. But faith is not blind, and it does not conflict with reason. It simply rises above reason and operates on a different level. It doesn’t say, “In human analysis I trust.” Rather, it says, “In God I trust.” Like a rope that a mountain climber uses to rappel down a cliff, faith leans back and relies wholly on Jesus. It involves choosing to act in dependence on God. And when we do, God is pleased.
Lord, you know how hard it is for us to trust you with our lives. Help us in our times of unbelief. Bolster our sagging faith so that we may walk confidently with you. Amen.
By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went. . . . — Hebrews 11:8
Though some of us are more adventurous than others, we all long for at least some level of adventure in our lives. Spiritually speaking, adventure begins the moment we hear and heed the call of God in our lives. This month, let’s travel alongside Abraham in his adventurous journey of faith. Abraham’s journey includes incredible challenges, painful setbacks, and thrilling victories—all in the context of being called to follow God and to believe in God’s promises. Even though Abraham lived 4,000 years ago, he is still revered as a prophet of God by three major religions: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. He is considered the father of God’s Old Testament people, and his life made a huge impact on human history. But what made Abraham great? Ultimately it was God who did that. God called Abraham, and Abraham believed in God, and God credited that to him as righteousness (Genesis 15:6; Romans 4:3). Because of God, Abraham’s faith in God became the defining mark of his life. This month, as we study the life of Abraham together, we too will be challenged to trust in God, take him at his word, and step out in faith. An exciting adventure awaits all who follow God’s call.
Lord and God, you have invited us into the great adventure of faith, assuring us of your presence always. Give us courage and confidence to follow as you lead the way. Amen.
The city does not need the sun or the moon . . . for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. The nations will walk by its light. . . . — Revelation 21:23-24
After returning home from my long hike on the Appalachian Trail, I still walk every day. Now my walks are on city sidewalks, where I frequently meet neighbors pushing strollers and walking dogs. The final scenes in the Bible portray life in a city where God lives with us and provides all its light. This city also includes “the river of the water of life” and the tree of life for healing the nations. Soon after God completed his masterpiece of creation, our human parents disobeyed and plunged this world into misery. From that tragic moment on, the Bible records the depressing consequences of sin. At the same time, thankfully, we see God’s salvation plan unfolding, despite the forces aligned against it. Finally, in Revelation, we see life restored and made new in a city. But this is no ordinary city. The sun is not needed—God’s glory gives it light, and the nations walk by this light. Jesus has completely conquered sin. God’s children freely live and work and play here, flourishing in full life as God intends for us. Without this city of light at the end of the tunnel of human history, we could easily be tempted to give up in despair. It takes faith to keep walking with hope toward what God has promised. Like the countless believers who have gone before us, we need to walk faithfully, trusting God as we serve him.
Lord Jesus, help us to trust you as we walk in and toward your light. Amen.
Follow God’s example, therefore . . . and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. — Ephesians 5:1-2
As I neared the end of my hike on the Appalachian Trail, I reflected on the hikers I’d met along the way. I didn’t catch many given names, but I could remember some hikers’ trail names: “K-Bar,” “Poppins,” Pioneer,” “Red Dawn,” “Rhino,” “Shorts,” “Motel,” “Tank,” “Rosie Eagle,” and “Two-Step,” to name a few. These “trail aliases” don’t reveal much, but they may hint at traits or preferences. Most of my conversations with hikers centered on miles hiked, the next stream, weather, gear, or the trail itself. Some conversations took place for a few minutes while resting along the trail; others took place over a few evenings at the same campsite. Sadly, those fellow hikers and our conversations are now fast becoming wisps of fading memories. How much meaning do we give to the brief moments when we meet with fellow travelers on life’s journey? God, who created every human person who has ever lived, knows each one intimately— and that makes every person we meet precious. Though it may not be possible to share the word of Christ with every person we meet, perhaps even our most fleeting encounters can be opportunities to share something of his love. To cultivate an attitude of love surely means keeping our eyes on Jesus and letting his love for us flow out to everyone.
Lord Jesus, as we walk with you each day, help us to share your love with the people that we meet. Amen.
I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers . . . in danger in the city, in danger in the country. . . . I have labored and have often gone without sleep . . . and . . . without food. . . . — 2 Corinthians 11:26-27
After stopping for supplies in Front Royal, Virginia, along the Appalachian Trail, I enjoyed a delicious breakfast of buckwheat pancakes smothered in maple syrup. And sleeping in a bed the night before had felt luxurious after many nights of sleeping on the ground. The apostle Paul had known many more hardships, however, in his travels to spread the good news of Jesus. Called to be a witness to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15-16), Paul traveled to countless destinations, often on foot. And not only were many of his journeys rough, but he also frequently suffered at the hands of hostile people. At times he was beaten, flogged, and even pelted with stones. He was shipwrecked three times, and he was thrown into prison. Several times he had to flee for his life. (For more about these struggles, see Acts 13-28 and 2 Corinthians 11-12.) Of all of Jesus’ disciples and followers, Paul may have suffered the most on his many journeys. Yet he boasted in his weakness so that the power of Jesus could be revealed. Ultimately he boasted in Christ, who suffered so much more for him and for us. Our own hardships too reveal the weakness that brings us closer to Jesus, our Savior and our strength.
Lord, when we are weak, we are strong for you. Help us to let go of ourselves and to trust your working in us as we serve you and others. Amen.
“Everyone who believes in [Jesus] receives forgiveness of sins through his name.” — Acts 10:43
On my way to Big Meadows on the Appalachian Trail, I walked for some distance with Dave, an Australian “bloke.” We chatted and shared notes and complaints about the trail. Though it was pleasant to talk with a fellow hiker, it was challenging to keep an eye on the trail and to keep up with Dave. Acts 10 tells us the apostle Peter walked more than a day’s journey conversing with some Gentiles. As a devout Jew who would have shunned contact with non-Jews, this was a new experience for Peter. But God had explained to him in a vivid dream that he wanted people of all nations to be saved and to worship him. So when Peter learned that a Roman centurion, who worshiped God, needed to hear the good news about Jesus, Peter went with some Roman soldiers to Joppa to meet their commanding officer. That day Peter shared the good news of Jesus and baptized the centurion and many others there who believed and were welcomed into the family of God. Thank God that Jesus has destroyed the walls separating us from people of other nations and cultural backgrounds. All who believe “are one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:29). Still, we often tend to rebuild walls that keep us apart. Like Jesus’ apostles, we need to learn to embrace others who are different from us—and when we do, we experience the breadth of God’s love.
Lord Jesus, you came so that we can walk together with all of your followers and share your good news of peace and hope. Amen.
The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about . . . ?” — Acts 8:34
At Cove Mountain on the Appalachian Trail I had shelter from an all-night rain. The next morning I was back on the trail. No one needed to tell me where to go. I headed north, as I did every other day of my three-week trek. Philip, however, whom the Spirit called in our story today, had instructions on where to go. An angel of the Lord told Philip to go south to the desert road leading from Jerusalem to Gaza. There Philip met an Ethiopian official who was returning home from Jerusalem. The Spirit then led Philip to stay near the man and to help him understand a passage he was reading from Isaiah. Philip explained that the passage was about Jesus, the Son of God, who came to die for our sin, and then Philip baptized the Ethiopian, just as the man asked him to do. Through his Spirit and the Word, the Lord still commands us everyday. God calls us to walk in his ways, loving the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and loving our neighbors as ourselves. Does God speak to us in other ways, such as the way he spoke to Philip? God certainly can speak to us in dramatic ways, but more often the Spirit of God speaks to us in quiet, subtle ways through his Word and with the help of other believers (like Philip). We should always be following God’s Word and listening for his voice, especially as he nudges us to share the love of Jesus.
Lord Jesus, help us to listen for your voice and to share your love with the people we meet every day. Amen.
“In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” — Acts 3:6
I had to watch my steps while hiking through a stretch called Raven Rocks on the Appalachian Trail in West Virginia. Giant boulders line the trail there, and sharp rocks litter the path. I gingerly danced through them, knowing that an injured ankle could end my walking for a while. Soon after the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost (Acts 2), Peter and John met a man who had never been able to walk. He saw them entering the temple one day and asked them for money. Peter said he had no money but would gladly give what he did have: “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,” Peter said, “walk.” Peter took the man’s hand, and the man’s feet and ankles instantly became strong. So he began “walking and jumping, and praising God.” Stories like this one from the early church demonstrate the healing power of Jesus as his disciples spread the good news of salvation in Christ. Many of these stories include physical healing, and sometimes even the dead are raised to life. Today we still see Jesus’ healing power at work, but not always so dramatically. Yet even if our bodies are not healed now, our spirits are made whole with God’s peace and hope. And the good news about Jesus empowers us to praise God as we wait for the day of his coming again.
Lord Jesus, give us the heart and zeal to share what we have as we spread your good news everywhere. Amen.
“You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 1:8
Climbing “The Priest” on the Appalachian Trail was quite a challenge. Though it’s not the tallest mountain I have climbed, I struggled to the top. Sections of the trail were barely visible, forcing me to scramble over rocks in some places. The splendid views from the summit, though, were worth the effort. The last scene of Jesus’ earthly ministry took place on a hill called the Mount of Olives. Jesus went there often with his disciples. After much walking over three years, they had reached a turning point in their journey together. There Jesus gave his disciples a startling command—to spread the word about him from Jerusalem to the surrounding areas of Judea and Samaria, and “to the ends of the earth.” Jesus’ disciples were completely unprepared and unequipped to accomplish this task. But he also gave them a promise. After he ascended to heaven, he would continue to be present with them through the Holy Spirit. With and through the Holy Spirit, the disciples were to begin sharing the good news about Jesus to all nations. The book of Acts and the rest of the New Testament show that Jesus’ disciples did that. And where they left off, new disciples took over, all the way down through generations of Christ-followers to us. Thankfully, we have the promised Holy Spirit to lead the way for us as well.
Lord Jesus, fill us with your Spirit to share your good news and love to the ends of the earth. In your name, Amen.
They got up at once and returned to Jerusalem. — Luke 24:33
On the Appalachian Trail, I hiked more than 10 hours one day to Elk Pond Mountain. Buoyed by spectacular views of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, I clipped along in the morning. But by late afternoon I was dragging. That’s not how it was for two followers of Jesus, though, as they retraced the seven-mile journey back to Jerusalem from the village of Emmaus. Luke doesn’t tell us much about them, but earlier that day they were deeply engaged in discussing Jesus’ death and their surprise about his empty tomb. They didn’t even notice when Jesus himself quietly joined them on the road. Hearing their bewilderment, Jesus challenged their understanding about him, clarifying that the Messiah came to suffer and die before rising again to enter his glory. When they reached Emmaus, they invited Jesus in to eat. And in the breaking of the bread “their eyes were opened and they recognized him” as the risen Lord! Then Jesus suddenly vanished. Forgetting all fatigue, they jumped up and raced back to Jerusalem. Following his resurrection, Jesus was full of surprises, and they advanced his purposes in fulfilling God’s plan of salvation. Even today, though we know some things about the final outcome of God’s plan, we can’t be sure of all the details. So let’s be sure to keep worshiping and serving him as he leads us by his Spirit.
Lord Jesus, you are risen, indeed! Help us to be on the lookout for your ongoing work in our lives and in our world. Amen.
On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. — Luke 24:1
On Easter Sunday morning I woke around 4:30 a.m. at Hightop Hut on the Appalachian Trail. Unable to sleep, I got up and hiked for an hour in the dark, carefully dodging the many rocks along the trail. Though I caught only a glimpse of the sunrise, I thought about the resurrection of Jesus as I walked. Very early “on the first day of the week,” a few women who had been following Jesus plodded to the tomb where his crucified, dead body had been laid on Friday. Though filled with grief, they brought spices to anoint his body out of love and respect. To their astonishment, however, they found that the stone sealing the tomb was rolled away and that the grave was empty! Then, even more surprising, two angels in blinding white clothes greeted the women, saying: “He is not here; he has risen!” Can you imagine the women’s surprise and confusion as they raced back to Jerusalem? Though they didn’t understand, they were bursting with joy: Jesus is alive! They couldn’t keep this news to themselves: they had to tell others. And the rest of the New Testament announces the same joy that these women discovered that morning. Filled with this same joy, we too should share the good news of Jesus with the people we meet on the paths of life.
Lord Jesus, rekindle in our hearts each day the joy of your resurrection, and help us to share our joy with everyone we meet. Amen.
A certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of Rufus and Alexander, was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross. — Mark 15:21
After I stocked up on supplies, my pack felt heavier as I made the long climb to Blackrock Hut on the Appalachian Trail. It was Good Friday, and as I struggled a bit, I was reminded of the terrible weight Simon of Cyrene had to carry on the first Good Friday long ago. The Bible tells us very little about Simon. We learn that he was from Cyrene, a Greek city in North Africa, and that he had two sons. We don’t know what had brought Simon to Jerusalem, but we do know that some Roman soldiers forced him to carry Jesus’ cross. That grotesque instrument of torture could have weighed as much as 165 pounds (75 kg). Toiling through the narrow streets of Jerusalem, Simon walked along near Jesus as he staggered toward execution outside the city. We don’t know what Simon thought about him, but what a sight Jesus must have been—exhausted, bleeding, and mangled from being flogged, humiliated, and brutalized. Though he carried the heavy cross, Simon may well have felt more sorrow for Jesus than for himself. We too should feel sorrow for Jesus. Even more, we can be thankful for his costly love. And just as he gave himself for us, he calls us to choose his path of costly love and to follow him.
Lord Jesus, we can’t imagine the pain and suffering you bore for our sin. Help us to love and serve you with all of our hearts. Amen.
“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” — Luke 19:38
The mountain view across a vast meadow on the Appalachian Trail was lightly dusted with snow under a brilliant blue sky. I could see for miles across the valley. It was Palm Sunday, and I paused to reflect on the first Palm Sunday, when Jesus and the crowds descended the Mount of Olives and headed into Jerusalem. Spying him, crowds of people were filled with patriotic fervor. Hailing him as their king, they laid cloaks and palm branches on the path in front of him, shouting, “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” Somewhat mistaken, they believed he would be Israel’s national savior who could free them from the rule of the Roman Empire. But Jesus had come for a far greater purpose—and just a few days later the same crowds were shouting, “Crucify him! Crucify him!” Jesus is the Savior—not merely of Israel or any other nation, but of all people who believe in him. In his mercy, God gave the crowds not what they wanted but what they—and we—needed most. Later on Palm Sunday in Appalachia, I met a Christian brother named Dave. Standing on the trail, we prayed together, celebrating the Savior. Jesus saves us from our sinful selves and gives us the peace and assurance we need in order to live and walk with God.
Lord, our wants are so many and are often so shallow and frivolous. Thank you for giving us what we need: new life and peace in you. Amen.
They were on their way up to Jerusalem, with Jesus leading the way, and the disciples were astonished, while those who followed were afraid. — Mark 10:32
Many hikers start the Appalachian Trail at Springer Mountain in Georgia. Only a fraction, however, complete the entire trail. To make it all the way up Mount Katahdin in Maine at the end of the trail, the destination must become an unshakable goal. Though Jesus meandered through Galilee and Judea during his ministry, he had one final, unshakable destination in mind, and it was deadly. When he told his disciples he was going to Jerusalem, they were astonished. They knew only too well the ugly jealousy and hatred that the religious leaders had for Jesus. They feared for his life, not to mention their own. Though he had told them about this before, Jesus’ disciples hadn’t grasped the purpose of his mission. He was going to fulfill the Scriptures’ promise of a suffering servant, who would take the sins of fallen humanity on his shoulders (Isaiah 52:13-53:12). He went to Jerusalem to die on a cross there—in order to give us new life and eternal hope. Thank God that he didn’t quit! We all face hardships in this journey of life. When we feel like quitting, we need to remind ourselves that Jesus kept marching toward his destination. And now that we are freed from sin and death through him, we can share Jesus’ hope and peace with everyone around us.
Lord Jesus, despite the hardship and suffering you endured, you never gave up on redeeming us. Help us never to give up on you. Amen.
“Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” — John 4:14
I sat on a fallen log to rest at Gravel Springs on the Appalachian Trail. There I was able to drink from the crystal clear, icy cold spring water flowing from the mountainside. After a long, hot afternoon of hiking, the water tasted delicious. Jesus stopped for a rest and a drink of water at a town in Samaria. A Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus asked her for a drink. She was surprised that he would talk with her. In those days, Jewish people usually treated Samaritans with contempt. She was even more surprised when Jesus talked about the living water that he could give, saying it would become a spring “welling up to eternal life” to quench her thirst forever. Water is essential for life. Nothing living can survive long without it. But Jesus was not talking about physical water here. He was referring to himself. Jesus is the living water, and through the work of the Holy Spirit, eternal life will well up like springs of water in the hearts of all who love and follow him (John 7:38-39). Without water, we can’t survive. Without the living water of Jesus, we are spiritually dead. But Jesus promises to give us living water that wells up and flows from within us, refreshing us and others in our daily walk with him.
Lord Jesus, fill our hearts with your Holy Spirit so that living waters of eternal life will well up and flow from within as we walk with you and serve you each day. Amen.
Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. — Matthew 14:25
At Rock Spring on the Appalachian Trail, I woke to a cold and windy day under threatening clouds. By the time I had finished breakfast, it was sleeting. Soon I was walking in a swirling snowstorm, barely able to see the path ahead. Walking on snow is the closest I’ll ever come to walking on water. Only Jesus can do that. When Jesus walked across the stormy sea to meet his disciples, they saw that he was more than a teacher. Jesus is God, the Lord of creation. Nature is under his feet. He transcends natural law and controls the wind and the waves. Inviting Peter to step out of the boat and onto the water, Jesus called Peter to trust in him. And Peter had to trust Jesus fully, embracing his leading and guidance in the slippery, uncertain place he was walking. Jesus calls us to trust him too, and, like Peter, we often fail. When we see where we are stepping, our doubts quickly become terrorizing, and we feel ourselves sinking helplessly into the deep. Jesus calls us to look to him alone, and he reaches out his hand to us. Turning to Jesus, we are again in the care of the One who controls the wind and the waves. Jesus will never let us sink.
Lord Jesus, give us the faith to trust you wherever you lead us along the paths of life. In your name we pray. Amen.
Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. — Proverbs 16:18
Though I use a walking stick for hiking, I have fallen several times. As I crossed Sloan Creek on the Appalachian Trail in northern Virginia, I fell again, and I struggled to get up because of my backpack. I wondered, “Have the many miles and crossings made me a little careless?” After all, Proverbs warns that “pride goes . . . before a fall.” Pride is a vision problem that we all struggle with. In our pride, we fail to see our true place in God’s scheme of things. The Bible condemns pride as the very cause of humanity’s rebellion and its deadly consequences. Forgetting that we are creatures, we reject God’s design for our lives. Thinking that we are superior, we nurture contempt for others. Humility is the antidote to pride. True humility means clearly seeing our place in relation to God and the world he has made; it means treating God as God, and treating ourselves and others as his loved creatures. That’s how God wants us to walk with him—treating everyone with due dignity and grace. How do we practice humility? We walk humbly with God when we walk with Jesus. By his death, Jesus has redeemed us and set us on the right path. By his example, he leads us. As we follow, filled with his Spirit, we can walk rightly in God’s world, respecting and loving everyone.
Lord Jesus, by your obedient life and death, you have shown us how to walk humbly with God. Help us to follow in your steps, serving you and others. Amen.
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.” — Isaiah 43:2
I could see the next shelter as I descended the hiking trail, but a swollen creek crossed my path, and there wasn’t a bridge. Seeing no other option, I stepped into the stream and waded carefully across without slipping. It wasn’t my first water crossing along the Appalachian Trail, and it wouldn’t be my last. Wading through moving water can be dangerous. In this passage from Isaiah, God assures his people of his presence and protection. When the challenges and crises of life stand in their way like a rushing river, says the Lord, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” Using the imagery of surging waters and raging fire, God promises that his people will not be overwhelmed. Later in this chapter, God recounts how he kept Israel safe from the deep waters and the army of Pharaoh when they crossed the Red Sea (see Exodus 14). God also promises to protect his people from the surging destruction of their own sins. He promises to blot those sins out and to remember them no more. God, who created us and knows our weaknesses, promises to love us and protect us from dangers both outside and within our own hearts. We see God’s faithfulness to his people and, above all, in his Son, Jesus, who fulfills all of God’s promises.
Lord Jesus, you protect and provide for us. Help us to trust you in all things and to serve you wherever we are. Amen.
No lion will be there, nor any ravenous beast; they will not be found there. — Isaiah 35:9
Hikers frequently ask each other, “Have you seen any bears?” One morning while I was out walking the Appalachian Trail, a bear suddenly crossed in front of me and scrambled down the hill. As it rooted under a log and watched me pass, I considered what I’d do if it chased me. It is a comfort to know that on the Way of Holiness described in Isaiah 35, no dangerous or hungry beasts will threaten God’s people. In many passages Isaiah warns of destruction that will come to God’s people if they don’t turn back to living God’s way. But this chapter brims with joy and confidence for all who remain faithful, seeing that God’s way is best. They are redeemed and restored by God. The desert blooms with colorful flowers. The struggling and fearful are restored with peace and hope. Like the deer, they leap for joy. The wicked will not lurk on the pathway of holiness. This path is reserved for God’s people. When we look back at passages like this, we see that they also speak to dangers that we can face in our own turbulent, uncertain times. Ultimately this passage calls us to live faithfully as we walk and wait for the full revelation of God’s kingdom of peace and holiness.
Lord, fill us with your hope and peace as we wait for your kingdom to fully come. Amen.
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. — Psalm 119:105
My headlamp is a useful piece of gear for hiking and camping. I’ve used it for walking at night and for finding things in the dark. But during a snowstorm one day, when temperatures dropped well below freezing on the Appalachian Trail, my headlamp battery died, rendering it completely useless. Thankfully, on our path through life we have a light that won’t fail: God’s Word. Psalm 119 is one long celebration of God’s Word. The psalmist celebrates the eternal truth and reliability of God’s Word, calling it a lamp for his feet. Now, this is not like stadium lights, so bright that they seem to change darkness to day. Instead, this is more like my headlamp, for moving along step by step. This light illuminates the step I am taking right now, and then the next one. Knowing God’s Word does not make us God. It reveals the love, faithfulness, and power of the God we depend on. It teaches an obedience that gives us confidence to walk with God on dark pathways. In this digital age, instant information makes daily tasks easier. Google can show us the fastest route for a trip. YouTube can show us how to hang drywall or plant a tree. But only God’s Word can lead us in the paths that God approves and chooses for us.
Lord Jesus, may your Word guide our paths and be the joy of our hearts. Amen.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. . . . — Psalm 23:4
I went hiking solo on the Appalachian Trail. Before I left for this trip, some friends asked, “Is it safe to hike alone?” Yes, thankfully, it is. You do, however, need to be careful to avoid the companionship of ticks, those tiny arachnids that can make you very sick. And even if I am the only person traveling through a wilderness area, I know I am never alone. In Psalm 23, God promises to protect his people in the many challenging, difficult circumstances of life. Chief among the promises here is the assurance of God’s presence. God promises to walk with us through green pastures and along babbling brooks when life’s pathways are clear and smooth. God also promises to be with us through thorny stretches, and even through “the darkest valley,” where we may face “the shadow of death,” as some translations put it. Those are paths that we tremble even to think about. What assurance does God give of his protection? He promises, “I am with you.” This means that wherever we walk, and in whatever circumstances we find ourselves, we are never alone. Who is our Redeemer? He is Immanuel, which means “God with us.” Psalm 23 doesn’t promise that our lives will be easy or even safe. But with the promise of God’s enduring presence in our lives, we can walk boldly with him as we seek to serve him wherever we are.
Lord, you have given us your presence through your Holy Spirit. Help us to trust and serve you. Amen.
Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked. . . . — Psalm 1:1
One morning on my weeks-long hike of the Appalachian Trail, I started off in the wrong direction and walked some distance before I realized my mistake. So I turned around and headed back the right way. No harm done. But walking through life in the wrong direction would be quite another matter. Psalm 1 warns about going the wrong way in life, by walking, standing, and sitting with the wicked. “But,” you might ask, “shouldn’t we befriend sinners, as Jesus did, out of God’s caring love?” Yes, of course. But if we “walk in step” with the wicked, that means going along in their direction, on their chosen way—not God’s. We are created to live in fellowship with God. When we walk with God, we flourish like trees “planted by streams of water,” strong and firmly rooted in the goodness and love of God, bearing good fruit that can help others taste and see the goodness of living for God. People who reject and turn away from God, however, are lost. They lack a firm foundation and are easily blown away as they seek fleeting pleasures and alluring deceptions in this world. How do we know we’re on the right path? We need to read, study, and reflect on God’s Word, taking it all to heart. Only in God’s Word and by his Spirit can we find the way to full life and flourishing.
Lord, you have given us your Son and your Word. Help us to read your Scriptures, treasure them in our hearts, and follow the path they set for us. Amen.
Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. — 1 Kings 19:3-4
On a day’s hike to Whiskey Hollow, near Markham, Virginia, I clocked about 20 miles, the equivalent of a “day’s journey” in the Bible. Though worn out when I arrived, I was pleased to have put some distance behind me. Elijah’s experience after a day’s journey was quite different. Entirely spent, he collapsed under a bush. He was physically, emotionally, and spiritually shattered. Before sinking into sleep, he pleaded with God, “I have had enough. . . . Take my life. . . .” Elijah had just come from a fierce battle with the priests of Baal on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18). Now he was fleeing for his life from the wicked King Ahab and Queen Jezebel. In response to Elijah’s utter exhaustion and desperation, God sent an angel to provide water and warm cakes. When Elijah finally revived, he walked another 40 days and nights to Mount Horeb. There God spoke to Elijah and met with him, telling him the plans he still had for Elijah and for others to do. God gave Elijah renewed hope for the future. In our own lives, we too can count on God to meet and refresh us in our times of distress and collapse. In fact, God already has done that for us through Jesus, who offers us rest for our souls and salvation to new life (Matthew 11:28-30). We can trust him with every step we take.
Lord Jesus, in our times of desperation and need, renew and sustain us as we journey through this life. Amen.
In all of the travels of the Israelites, whenever the cloud lifted from above the tabernacle, they would set out. . . . — Exodus 40:36
I had eaten the last of my peanut butter on the Appalachian Trail and needed more food. So at Rockfish Gap, I decided I would leave the trail and go into town to replenish. That’s not how the Israelites made decisions during their wilderness journey. They waited for a signal. God had instructed his people to build a tabernacle, a large tent, to serve as a portable sanctuary for worship. At the tabernacle God would dwell in their midst, and the people could worship him there. God’s glory hovered over the tent, and whenever it lifted, they would set out and follow wherever God would lead them next. The tabernacle in the wilderness pointed forward to the temple that would be built in Jerusalem many years later (1 Kings 6). What’s more, both the tabernacle and the temple pointed forward to another mark of God’s presence among his people. John 1:14 tells us that “the Word”—that is, Jesus—“became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” The original Greek text there says, more literally, that “the Word became flesh and pitched his tent among us, and we beheld his glory.” Jesus came to bring God’s glory in human flesh among his people, and now, through the Holy Spirit, he lives in our hearts and is present with us wherever we go. He calls us to serve others, and he promises never to leave or forsake us.
Jesus, you came to live among us. Help us to know your presence today and always, as you lead and guide us in our journey to serve you and others. Amen.
“Do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you.” — Genesis 45:5
After a grueling afternoon on the Appalachian Trail, I stopped to rest, exhausted, by a gurgling stream. I’d been hiking the “Roller Coaster,” a section of trail with ten steep ascents and descents in the mountains of Virginia. The steep rises and plunges of the “Roller Coaster” reminded me of the experience of Joseph. As a young man, Joseph was bright and full of life, the favorite of his father. That drove his brothers crazy with jealousy and envy, however. And one day those brothers took revenge, selling Joseph into slavery in Egypt. There we see him rise and fall, gaining honor but also getting thrown into prison for a wrong he did not commit. But God was with Joseph, and eventually God raised him to become a ruler in Egypt, second only to Pharaoh the king. Later, when his brothers came to Egypt to buy food because there was a great famine, they found themselves in the hands of Joseph and were afraid he would take revenge on them. But Joseph had learned about depending on God. He saw God’s watchful care in all the ups and downs of his life, and he saw how God had planned to save many lives through him. As we experience ups and downs in life, we can take comfort that in all circumstances God is with us, redeeming and purifying us for work that he has planned for us to do (Ephesians 2:10).
Lord Jesus, help us to take comfort in your sure and steady hand and to trust in your purposes and plans for our lives. Amen.
So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide. — Genesis 22:14
Leaving Cornelius Creek on the Appalachian Trail one morning in Virginia, I began the long, steep climb to Apple Orchard Mountain. Stopping frequently, I leaned against trees to catch my breath. As I struggled up the mountain, I thought about Abraham’s hike into the mountains with Isaac. God told Abraham to take his son Isaac to the region of Moriah and to sacrifice him as a burnt offering on a mountain there. So Abraham obeyed. Reaching the mountain, they slowly climbed to “the place God had told him about.” Isaac noted that they had no lamb for the burnt offering, but Abraham said, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” Abraham then bound his son and placed him on the altar. But as Abraham took the knife to sacrifice his son, God stopped him, saying, in effect, “Now I know that you trust me above all else.” What a horrifying scene! We might ask, “What kind of father is Abraham? And what kind of God is this?” Or perhaps we should ask, “What was God actually planning and revealing here?” Looking back, we see that while Abraham was being tested, he also trusted God to provide the lamb in place of his son. And looking ahead, we see that God provided his own Son, Jesus, as the Lamb of God, who died in our place to pay for our sin and give us eternal life (John 1:29; 3:16)!
Father, while we struggle to understand this test of Abraham, guide us to live by faith, knowing that your own Son gave up his life for us. Amen.
“Go, walk through the length and the breadth of the land, for I am giving it to you.” — Genesis 13:17
It was damp and cold when I woke in the morning at Matt’s Creek on the Appalachian Trail in Virginia. After crawling out of my sleeping bag, eating some cold oatmeal with nuts, and loading my pack, I was back on the trail. My destination for that day was the Punchbowl Shelter. As I walked, the clouds slowly drifted away and the sun broke through. By mid-morning it was a lovely day, and I was thinking about Abraham’s long walk through Canaan. God had brought Abram (whom he later renamed Abraham) and his household on a long journey from Harran (in present-day Turkey) to the land of Canaan (present-day Israel). God had made promises, and Abraham had trusted God, taking him at his word (Genesis 12:1-7). As we can see in today’s passage, God promised to give Abraham all of the land that he could see around him in Canaan. And God said, “Go, walk through the length and the breadth of the land, for I am giving it to you.” God promised to bless Abraham and his descendants there, and Abraham settled in that land and worshiped the Lord. As I reached Punchbowl Shelter, I gave thanks for Abraham’s example. God might not call us to journey on foot, but he does call each of us to follow him in faith and faithfulness. And through Jesus, a descendant of Abraham, God keeps his promises to us.
Lord Jesus, give us the faith and faithfulness to follow where you lead, trusting in you. Amen.
Noah did everything just as God commanded him. — Genesis 6:22About 3 million people hike along the Appalachian Trail each year. About 3,000 people try to walk the entire trail—from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. But only about 25 percent of those manage to finish. It takes grit to hike 5 million steps!Noah had grit. Noah’s story isn’t about walking a trail, but about building an ark. And if you’ve ever built anything, you know that it involves many steps in a process. Gathering materials, measuring, cutting, fitting, shaping, joining, finishing. Piece by piece, the ark took shape. God had commanded Noah to build an enormous lifeboat on dry land. It took Noah years to complete what seemed an impossible, ludicrous project. Imagine the courage, resolve, and sheer stamina it took to work on the ark day after day as his neighbors mocked him.God chose Noah not for his grit but for his faith. When he received God’s command, Noah didn’t hesitate. Though he may have had doubts, he acted in faith, step by step, until the ark was ready.Hebrews 11:7 commends Noah for his active faith. In the face of what seemed ridiculous and impossible, Noah walked with God. We may not finish every task we try to accomplish for God’s kingdom, but if we step out in faith in obedience to God, we walk with the Lord in his strength.Lord Jesus, help us to live by faith in you, with courage, confidence, and boldness in following, obeying, and serving you in the world. Amen.
Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away. — Genesis 5:24Walking a long-distance trail can give you a feeling of timelessness. Although the landscape changes, the day-to-day rhythm remains the same: walk, eat, sleep; repeat. The life of Enoch, an early descendant of Adam and Eve, also has a sense of timelessness about it. He lived for 365 years and did not die!Yet Enoch’s lifespan was short for his family. Enoch’s father, Jared, lived to the age of 962. At age 65, Enoch had a son named Methuselah, who lived to be 969 years old!The four short verses about Enoch’s life don’t tell us much, but we do learn one crucial fact about him: “Enoch walked faithfully with God.” In his long life of stepping through each day, Enoch walked in a way that pleased God. In fact, God was so pleased with Enoch’s faithful walk that he spared Enoch from the curse of death.Certainly there is mystery in this story. Yet there is no mystery about how to please God. God calls us to walk faithfully with him, trusting him, honoring him, and serving him. God will probably not take us away as he did with Enoch, but we have the comfort of knowing that Jesus, who conquered sin and death for us, has promised never to leave or forsake us when our own lives end.Lord Jesus, help us to walk faithfully with you, looking forward to the day when we will join with you and all your faithful followers forever! Amen.
“I will be a restless wanderer on earth, and whoever finds me will kill me.” — Genesis 4:14While hiking the Appalachian Trail, how can you know if you’re on the right track? You simply follow the white trail markers, or “blazes,” painted on trees along the way. If you see the white blazes, you know you’re still on the path. Yet stepping off the trail and getting lost in the woods is not uncommon. For a hiker, that can be a dangerous sort of “missing the mark.”In our passage today, Cain turns away from walking with God and is lost.In this appalling story showing the depths of human sin, Cain attacks and kills his brother Abel because he feels slighted and resentful. The brokenness caused by sin blooms fully in this first murder in human history. Looking back now, who can count the lives lost because of sin?When God confronts Cain with his hideous deed, Cain isn’t sorry. He is concerned only about his own fate. He is terrified that others will follow his example and kill him. Though God graciously marks Cain to protect him from violence, Cain remains lost as a wanderer and a fugitive.In the Bible the Hebrew word for “sin” (hatta’t) literally means “missing the mark.” In our alienation from God and from others, we miss the mark. We are all lost. But Jesus finds us and sets us on the right path, the way of following him and loving others.Lord Jesus, we are lost without you. Help us to walk in your ways and to love others, just as you have loved us. Amen.
The man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day. . . . — Genesis 3:8While hiking the Appalachian Trail, I enjoyed the early April wildflowers blooming along the pathway. I particularly noticed a crocus with a beautiful white flower. Sadly, its stem had broken, and it drooped sideways. It reminded me of the first walking scene in the Bible.Adam and Eve must have enjoyed walking with God “in the cool of the day” in their garden home. But in today’s story from Genesis 3, they were deeply anxious. Earlier in the day, they had disobeyed God, doing the one thing God had told them not to do. God had created Adam and Eve to live in fellowship with himself, with each other, and in harmony with the earth and its creatures. In their disobedience, however, they tried to hide from God, and, as the story continues, we see their alienation from each other and from the rest of God’s good creation.When he comes to walk with them, God finds Adam and Eve cowering in shame. God explains the consequences of their sin. But in his judgment on the serpent, we glimpse God’s promise to redeem fallen humanity back to fellowship with himself, with each other, and with his world.As I hiked through Appalachia in April, I found it was often comfortably cool late in the day, and this drew me to look forward to walking with God and all his family in the world he has promised to redeem.Lord, you have made us for fellowship with you. Thank you for redeeming us through Jesus—to love you, others, and your world. Amen.
Observe the commands of the Lord your God, walking in obedience to him and revering him. — Deuteronomy 8:6“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” (Chinese proverb). Early one morning in April 2022, I took the first step on a hiking trip along the Appalachian Trail, which stretches from Georgia to Maine in the eastern United States. While enjoying God’s good and beautiful creation, I also meditated on the theme of “walking” in the Bible.Since ancient times, walking has been the most common way for people to go from place to place. It’s no surprise, then, that walking is mentioned more than 200 times in the Bible. Whether people took short strolls or long journeys, they moved forward one step at a time. In the Bible, the Hebrew word for “walk” (halak) can also refer to following God and living for him in his world.In Deuteronomy 8 we find examples of both kinds of walking. God’s people had been walking in the wilderness for 40 years. And now, preparing to enter the land that God had promised them, they were reminded to walk in the ways of the Lord and to honor God in all they would do. And God promised to bless them abundantly.Wherever we walk today, on short strolls or a long journey, may each step remind us to walk in God’s ways and to honor him.Lord God, help us always to walk with you in our journeys near and far, seeing your hand in our world and striving to please and serve you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. — 1 Peter 4:4Every person’s story is different and unique. Some people were born into religious homes where strict morals and ethics were taught, and they followed these closely from their earliest days. Some people raised in such homes have a “prodigal child” story (see Luke 15:11-24). Still others were brought up apart from religion and yet followed cultural morals, while others grew up more or less wild through and through.Regardless of our backgrounds, we are called now as believers to live according to the pattern that God sets out for us in his Word. We find this pattern in many places in the Bible such as Ephesians 4-5, Colossians 3, and 1 Peter 4:1-11. A close reading of these passages shows great similarity to the Ten Commandments of Exodus 20 and Deuteronomy 5.The great news for us is that as we keep in step with the Holy Spirit, we will find that our old sinful nature slowly loses its grip on us. Our “taste” for sinful desires and behaviors gradually fades. Living God’s way takes on a sweeter and sweeter flavor as we live our lives in step with the Spirit.While most fruit is sweet, none is as sweet as the fruit of the Spirit.Heavenly Father, we thank you for weaning us from our sinful desires and old ways, showing us that living in step with the Spirit is the best way to live. In Jesus, Amen.
Speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. — Ephesians 4:15A student who graces the college campus where I work always has a smile on his face and speaks with words that are kind and gentle. Proverbs 16:24 could have been inspired with him in mind! While a few well-chosen words are sweeter than honey, rash and poorly chosen words can damage and even destroy relationships.The Holy Spirit calls us to speak the truth in love. Not everything that is true needs to be said, and when love is not the motive for what we are prepared to say, we would do well simply to remain silent. There is a right way and a wrong way to say things, and there is a time to speak and a time to be silent.It is easy for us to make excuses for our poorly chosen words. We often think and say things like “I’m just a blunt person,” or, “That’s my nature,” or, “I just say it the way I see it.”However, there is hope for all of God’s children. In Ephesians 4, Paul gives helpful advice about putting off falsehood and speaking truthfully, avoiding unwholesome talk, and building others up. When we walk with the Holy Spirit, we are changed. With the Spirit’s help we can change the way we speak in our homes and workplaces, in our churches, and in the world.Father, help us to choose our words well, building others up in faith rather than hurting and tearing down. May our words be attractive to all who don’t yet know you as well. In Jesus, Amen.
Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire. . . . — James 3:5-6Over the years our family has had many brushes with forest fires. At one point a forest fire came to within a kilometer of our house before being brought under control. We have had vacation plans altered because of wildfires, and on other occasions we seldom left our home because of the poor air quality. Each of these fires began with a spark and a tiny flame before becoming a raging inferno.James writes that poorly chosen words are like sparks that cause a great fire. Both bring immeasurable damage. A little gossip runs its course, and who knows how much damage it causes! A careless word is spoken, and a person is left wounded and scarred for a lifetime. Sadly, I may be the one who uttered those words.The good news is that the fruit of the Spirit is self-control. Though “no human being can tame the tongue,” the Spirit of God can. When we walk in step with the Spirit, we will notice that the Spirit helps us to control our tongues. And, says James, “with the wisdom that comes from heaven,” self-control in other areas of life follows. Godly wisdom brings peace, love, humility, mercy, and good fruit for life the way God intends it to be.Heavenly Father, help us to control our tongues. May our words bring honor and glory to you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
“‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.’” — Acts 2:17There is an old saying that “Actions speak louder than words.” One of the students in the chaplaincy ministry at our college “oozes” the fruit of the Spirit. His kindness, gentleness, joy, and patience are clearly evident. As people see this, they are attracted to him, and opportunities to share his faith are multiplied. Another student frequently pours out her heart to the Lord in prayer as she pleads for the advancement of God’s kingdom.The Spirit of God gave Jesus’ apostles the ability to speak in many languages on that day of Pentecost written about in Acts 2, and the same Spirit enables us to speak and to act in winsome ways today. Through the power of the Spirit, God’s kingdom is advancing, and he has called and equipped each of us to be his witnesses in whatever circumstances we may find ourselves.Today we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit. But our celebration of Pentecost is not so much meant to be talked about as it is to be lived—in word and deed. By the power of the Spirit working through us, our words and fruit-filled actions are the tools God uses to build his kingdom.Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of the Spirit poured out on Jesus’ followers on that Pentecost day so long ago. Help us to live by the power of the Spirit today and every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“Neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.” — John 8:11Jesus’ gentleness to the woman who was caught in adultery is heartwarming. According to the law of Moses, this woman could have been stoned to death (Leviticus 20:10). But Jesus knew the religious leaders were more interested in trapping him than in following God’s law. The fact that the woman was caught in adultery means that the man involved was also known. But where was he? He is not even mentioned in the story. The religious leaders simply assumed that if Jesus did not demand the death penalty, he would be guilty of breaking the law, and that would give them a basis for accusing him.But Jesus turned the tables on the religious leaders and put them into an impossible situation. He said, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” So throwing a stone would mean declaring yourself sinless. None of the leaders were prepared to do that. One by one, her accusers went away, and then Jesus told the woman, “Neither do I condemn you. . . . Go now and leave your life of sin.”Similarly, the Lord tells us, “I came into this world not to condemn you but to forgive you; repent and sin no more” (see John 3:17-21). “And with the gentleness that I treat you, treat everyone around you” (see Matthew 7:12).Jesus, we marvel at your gentleness with all of us sinners. Thank you for being such a gentle Savior, and help us to be gentle with others. Amen.
He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. — Isaiah 40:11Isaiah 40 speaks of the power and might of God with amazing clarity. Estimates hold that the observable universe is 45 billion light years across, and yet, according to Isaiah, that is only like the breadth of God’s hand. Ultimately, though, comparing the infinite God to the finiteness of this universe—as expansive as it is—would be futile.Even so, when we consider that the almighty God scoops up his people in his arms and carries them like lambs, close to his heart, we are moved to marvel at his gentle love. Knowing that God has written our names on the palms of his hands (Isaiah 49:16) and that he sings over us (Zephaniah 3:17) as he carries us along is comforting beyond words.Today some of us need to experience the comfort of our gentle God. Reading of his gentle loving care is a good start. However, God’s gentleness is experienced in an incarnational way (in the flesh) when we treat others with the gentleness that God has shown us.In what ways can you show gentleness to everyone around you today?Father, you are infinite and almighty. We are small and weak. You pick us up in your arms, and you love us and bless us. May we find shelter in your love today, and may we be shelter for people who are hurting. In Jesus, Amen.
“See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” — Matthew 21:5In Jesus’ statements of blessing (often called the Beatitudes) in Matthew 5:3-11, we read, “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” Today we equate meekness with being shy and timid. But the biblical concept of meekness is closer to gentleness. When a powerful person sets aside their power and acts humbly and gently for a better good, they are displaying meekness.Long ago Zechariah prophesied about a king who would ride into Jerusalem on a donkey. This was quite unusual because a deliverer king would normally ride a horse as a symbol of power and victory. Jesus, however, came in gentleness, freeing his people from the grip of sin and death by humbling himself and dying on a cross. And then in amazing and surprising power he rose in victory over death and the grave. He did all of this for our sake, promising new, full life forever for all who believe in him.There is a time to use power for righteous reasons, and there is a time when it’s better to serve with gentleness. Let’s ask the Spirit to guide us in showing gentleness for Jesus’ sake.Holy Spirit, teach us when to be strong and bold and when to be humble and gentle so that your kingdom and people may be built up. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality. . . . — Ephesians 5:3Years ago I attended a conference where a well-known Christian speaker asserted that the largest problem faced by Western Christianity was the use of pornography. The statistics on pornography use within the Christian community are shocking. The harm done to individuals, families, congregations, and the wider church community is incalculable. It drives a wedge between married couples, it gives unrealistic expectations to youth, and, riddled by guilt, many users hide from God rather than approaching him for forgiveness.Throughout the Bible God teaches the importance of faithfulness and warns that sexual immorality is harmful and destructive. It ruins relationships and destroys trust. It treats people like objects when they should be valued as imagebearers of God. God uses the imagery of marriage to display the rich relationship of faithfulness that he wants with his people. God describes himself as a husband to Israel and compares idolatry to spiritual adultery.Rather than hiding and ignoring pornography and other forms of sexual immorality among us, followers of Christ will do well to name these destructive influences, bring them into the light, and encourage healing to take place. May we seek to live in faithfulness, for Jesus’ sake.Holy God, we acknowledge our sin, especially in areas of sexual immorality. We ask for forgiveness and deliverance. Guide us to be faithful. In Jesus, Amen.
Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices. . . . — Colossians 3:9Each of the students took their turn. They raised their right hand and solemnly swore to carry out their duties with honesty and integrity. Another student association executive team was in place and set to serve the student body for another year.But the question may be asked, “Was this swearing-in ceremony wrong?” Was it, and is every other oath of office, a violation of Jesus’ teaching? No. The point Jesus makes is that we are to be people who keep our word. One of the most important examples of being a Christian witness is the matter of keeping promises.As a chaplain, I speak to dozens of students, faculty, and staff each day. Often I am asked or invited to do things. The easy part is to say “Yes.” Remembering what I promised and then following up on it is the hard part! Unfortunately, I still have cringeworthy moments when someone begins a sentence with “Remember when you said you would . . .”Regardless of our occupation and regardless of whom we are speaking to, being true to our word is a mark of faithfulness. Thankfully, our God is always faithful to his promises, and with the help of the Holy Spirit we too may grow in being faithful to the promises and commitments we make.Holy God, help us truly to be people of our word. Help us to do what we promise so that our “yes” is “yes” and our “no” is “no.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.
. . . if we are faithless, [Christ] remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself. — 2 Timothy 2:13When our children were young, we visited an aquarium that had a glass tunnel through the middle. As we walked along, we saw sharks and other fish swimming all around us. I have often wondered if the Israelites’ experience of walking through the Red Sea was similar. Did they see fish swimming in the walls of water alongside their path? We can’t be sure. Besides, it was nighttime. Even so, the light of God was there to show the way (Exodus 14).Sadly, the Israelites soon forgot their miraculous deliverance. After a few days in the desert without finding water, they started grumbling and complaining about their situation (Exodus 15:22-16:3). God provided them with plenty of water and food, and yet soon they were grumbling again. Throughout the Old Testament we see repeated patterns of Israel’s unfaithfulness to God. And yet God remained faithful.When Jesus came, the Jews and other Israelite descendants were still God’s people—not because of their faithfulness but because of God’s—and so it remains today.The words of the Holy Spirit are true. Though we are unfaithful, our Lord is always faithful. May we marvel today that even when we are unfaithful, God forgives us and remains faithful, keeping all of his promises to us.“Great is your faithfulness, O God.” Holy Spirit, continue your good work in us and help us to be faithful to you in our thoughts, our words, and our deeds. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. — Galatians 6:9Ephesians 2:1-9, especially verses 8-9, are among the best-known verses in the Bible, but verse 10 is often neglected. This verse teaches that we are saved by grace through faith not simply to spend eternity with God but so that we may do good works that God has planned for us to do.And yet the reality is that, at times, we tire of doing good.There are several reasons for this. Sometimes we feel that our good works aren’t making a difference. At other times we become too busy looking after our own interests, and we neglect to look to the interests of others (Philippians 2:4).But the good news is that if we remain open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, he will continue to produce good fruit in our lives. The Spirit will lead us to new areas of service and will open new opportunities for us to bless others.To me, one of the joys of serving as a chaplain is to watch busy students as they take time to do good to others even as they prepare for a lifetime of serving in God’s kingdom.Lord, we need you to help us do good. We can’t do this on our own. By your Spirit, guide us to bear fruit that honors you in all we think, say, and do. And lead us to serve you faithfully as you open doors and opportunities for us to share your blessings with others. In Jesus, Amen.
Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. — Psalm 37:4The desire to have joy and be happy is universal. It is one of the deepest desires of the human heart. But happiness often seems elusive. Surprisingly our Bible passage today offers the hope of happiness, joy, and peace in all times, places, and situations. The psalmist says, “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”The question, then, is “How do we ‘take delight in the Lord’?” First of all, we need a right relationship with God—and this is offered freely to us through faith in Jesus. And then we can focus on the full life we are called to in Christ (John 10:10; 15:10-17; Mark 12:30-31; Luke 6:27-36) and how we can begin living that way here and now.Thinking highly of God the Father, who loves us and sent his Son to save us while we were still his enemies is a start (Romans 5:8-11). Focusing on the Savior, who redeemed us and has prepared the way for us to spend eternity with him and each other in perfect joy, is also crucial. And walking with the Spirit, who guides and comforts us each day, will lead to lasting joy, happiness, and contentment.Some things in this world bring fleeting joy. But all those things break down, wear out, get stolen, rust, burn up, or betray us and ultimately let us down. When we “take delight in the Lord,” however, the Spirit produces the lasting fruit of joy in our lives.Giver of every good gift, we thank you for the promise of giving us the desires of our hearts when we delight in you! Amen.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds. . . . — James 1:2Students sometimes receive lower grades on papers and exams than they have hoped for. Disappointment can lead to frustration and anger. Fear may enter the picture as well: “Because of this low mark, will I lose my place in my program or be suspended from my sports team?”Students are not the only ones who face difficult and challenging situations. The loss of a job, strained relationships at home, and pressures at work can bring a great deal of stress into our lives. We also struggle when we get sick, or when a family member or friend becomes ill. There is also the heart-wrenching pain of persecution, which remains a reality in our world.James urges us to “consider it pure joy” when we face trials and struggles in our lives. What? This is certainly one of the most challenging commands in the Bible. But James explains that trials and sufferings in the lives of believers produce a stronger and more robust faith. And faith, as Peter puts it when he talks about suffering, is more valuable than gold (1 Peter 1:7).When we see our struggles from this perspective, we can also begin to understand why Paul calls them light and temporary (2 Corinthians 4:17) and “not worth comparing with the glory” that awaits us (Romans 8:18).Lord, thank you that through your Spirit we may experience joy in the midst of struggles, as our challenges in life bring us into a deeper relationship with you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! . . . The Lord is near. — Philippians 4:4-5The end of April is a happy time at the college where I serve as a chaplain. Classes are finished, and final exams are complete! Suddenly stress that has been building for weeks is released, and we see smiling faces all around.In all kinds of situations, release from stress can lead to smiles and joy and even rejoicing and celebration.Would you be surprised to know that some variation of “Be happy” is one of the most common instructions to us in God’s Word? While a search of the Bible may not always turn up the word “happy,” when we add the instructions to be glad, to rejoice, and to be joyful, we realize that this command does occur quite often in Scripture. Even the catchy title of a song from a past era, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” is a reflection of this common theme in God’s Word.What a remarkable blessing it is that God not only commands us to be joyful but also produces joy in us by his Spirit. The Spirit produces joy in the lives of his people not only when they are surrounded by “happy” circumstances. Even while chained in prison, Paul and Silas were able to sing with joy (see Acts 16:25-34). People who walk by the Spirit can find joy in all circumstances.Holy Spirit, we thank you not only for calling us to rejoice in the Lord always, but also for producing that joy in our lives through your presence, in Jesus’ name! Amen.
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. . . .” — Matthew 5:43-44In our campus ministry at Medicine Hat (Alberta) College, we gather on campus to sing, to read and reflect on Scripture, and to pray. The students who form our little church were born in many different countries. The tone of our skin ranges from very pale to very dark. Though we come from diverse backgrounds, our love for God and for one another is amazing. When I read in Revelation 7:9 of the great multitude in heaven “from every nation, tribe, people and language,” our little campus church comes to mind. Our fellowship is sweet, and we eagerly invite others to join us.However, our world is very different from this fellowship. The world is deeply divided along political, economic, religious, ethnic, and racial lines. In fact, the divisions in our world are nearly endless. When Jesus calls us to love our enemies, he certainly includes those who are different from me.Our world is content to live with friend/enemy distinctions, loving friends and hating enemies, but Jesus calls us to love friend and enemy alike. We cannot do this on our own, but through the power of the Holy Spirit we can extend true love to everyone. As we love friend and enemy alike, we give this world a glimpse of what the world to come will be.Lord Jesus, thank you for dying for us even though we were your enemies. Help us to love our enemies for your sake. Amen.
Now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. — 1 Corinthians 13:13First Corinthians 13 is often called “the love chapter.” It is commonly read at weddings. It contains a list of the many characteristics of love. Here we learn that love is patient and kind; it does not envy or boast; it is not proud, rude, self-seeking, or easily angered; nor does it keep a record of wrongs. “Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.” Further, it always protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. “Love never fails”!However, if I am honest, I have to admit that I often fail. I fail to do the things that Paul says love does—and the things that love never does, these are the things I find myself doing. Interestingly, in Romans 7:19, Paul confesses to having that same problem.It is common to make excuses for our failures. We say things like “I’m only human.” Or “If Paul fails, what can I expect of myself?” But it is far better to seek God’s forgiveness for our failures and to recognize, with thanks, that God “delivers [us] through Christ Jesus our Lord!” (Romans 7:25).With our hearts and our Bibles open, we need to ask God to change us. And as we make this our regular practice, we will be amazed to see that through his Word and Spirit, God produces ever greater quantities of his love in our lives.Lord, we thank you that you are patient and kind. Forgive us for our lack of love, and produce in us a rich harvest of true love, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. — 1 John 4:10One of the many joys of being a pastor is to officiate at weddings. Weddings come in all sizes and shapes, but most of them have one thing in common: love.Before officiating at a wedding, I meet with the engaged couple for premarriage counseling. Part of our discussion centers on the reasons why they are getting married. Love always plays a significant role in these reasons. And yet that little word love can mean many different things. Love is a noun, and love is a verb. We fall in love, and we love being in love. We love people and animals, sports and ice cream, and certain types of weather! Love songs are one of the most popular types of music. So when we consider that love is the fruit of the Spirit, what exactly are we talking about?John writes, “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” True love is sacrificial action. It seeks to bless others. It seeks the best interests of others. The more we value God’s saving love for us, the more the Spirit moves us to share that love with others in both our words and our deeds.Father God, even as you have shown your love to us through the death of your Son, help us by your Spirit to truly love you and our neighbors. In Jesus, Amen.
In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. — James 2:17“Goldilocks and the Three Bears” is a fairy tale about a girl who got lost in the woods. She stumbled across the house of three bears. She entered their home, ate their porridge, sat in their chairs, and fell asleep on one of their beds. Not only is this a fun story for children and families, but it can help us resolve one of the tensions in the Christian faith.For centuries Christians have been pondering the relationship between grace, faith, and works and how they relate to salvation. In Ephesians 2:8-9 Paul teaches that we are saved by grace through faith and not by works. However, James writes, “A person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone” (James 2:24). Critics of Christianity say these passages show that the Bible is full of contradictions and cannot be trusted.But the point James is making is that the Bible and Christianity can be like a story that comes alive only in the mind but not in the heart. Like the story of Goldilocks, it has good lessons but lacks the power to truly change lives. Only when God moves from being known in our minds to being embraced in our hearts as Lord does faith become true, living, and saving. When the gift of true faith is present, God’s Spirit changes us, and our lives begin to produce the good works of the fruit of the Spirit!Lord, fill our minds with your knowledge, but also fill our hearts with your presence and produce in us fruit that is pleasing to you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. — Galatians 5:22-23Winter had not yet lost its icy grip on the Canadian prairies when our family flew to southern California for a vacation. Soon after arriving, we stumbled upon a grapefruit tree in a park. We often bought grapefruit at the grocery store, but the thought of picking a grapefruit straight from a tree and eating it right there was a temptation we could not resist!But all of the low-hanging fruit had already been picked. So one of our daughters, sitting on my shoulders, took a long stick and was able to reach high enough to knock down a juicy, ripe fruit from the tree. Never had a grapefruit tasted so good to us!Years later that same daughter, now an adult, sat on my shoulders again to reach bananas on a roadside tree in Hawaii. We had an apple tree and a pear tree in our own backyard, but this fruit was different. From our perspective it was . . . well, exotic!This month our daily devotions will focus on fruit—not fruit that grows on trees but fruit that is produced in us by the Holy Spirit. While traces of love, joy, peace, forbearance (patience), kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are present in most everyone’s lives, these traits take on a new and vibrant dimension when we walk in step with the Spirit.Lord, fill us with your Spirit so that we may produce fruit in keeping with your purpose for our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
“Take and eat; this is my body.” — Matthew 26:26Jesus celebrated a ceremonial final meal with his disciples. We call it the Last Supper. At the table with them he took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and passed it to the disciples, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”In the church we celebrate this new-covenant meal by breaking bread and drinking wine (or juice) together in remembrance of Jesus. We call it the Lord’s Supper. This meal replaces the Jewish Passover. There is no longer any need to bring a lamb to the altar, because Christ is the Lamb of God, sacrificed once for all, who takes away the sin of the world. There is no longer any need to sprinkle the blood of a lamb on doorposts, for by faith we receive the benefits of the blood of Christ, which cleanses us from all sin.Christ is our Passover Lamb. To him the patriarchs and prophets pointed. He was the hope of our spiritual fathers and the content of the preaching of the apostles. Christ is the spotless Lamb of God, the living bread that came down from heaven. With his body and his blood, he fulfilled all the requirements of God’s law, delivering us from the slavery and tyranny of sin and death forever!Lamb of God, in you we find deliverance, salvation to new life, full and free! Be exalted in our lives each day. Amen.
Since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. — Romans 5:1Justification is a legal act of God. It is accomplished in God’s court and applied to our lives, all because of the finished work of Jesus. Justification is complete and final. The newest believer is just as justified as the most seasoned, faithful believer.Paul teaches us four important truths about justification in Romans 5:1. First, God is the author of justification. We are justified not on the basis of our merits but because of the merits of Christ.Second, we are justified through faith. In this way faith is the instrument of our justification.Third, the fruit of justification is that we have peace with God. We are reconciled to God and reborn into the family of God.Fourth, the agent of justification is our Lord Jesus Christ. All of these spiritual blessings are granted to us through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.Christ is our righteousness. He is our peace. In him we have abundant redemption.Lord and God, trusting in the righteousness of Christ for my justification brings peace and comfort to my heart. My salvation depends not on me but on you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes. . . . — Romans 1:16Paul was preparing to visit Rome, the capital of the empire. He was on his way to Jerusalem to bring the poverty-stricken people there a generous gift. From Corinth he wrote his most robust letter, which we now call the book of Romans—and already here in the prologue, he has made a most audacious statement: “I am not ashamed of the gospel. . . .” Paul felt indebted to the gospel—the good news of Jesus. He was ready to preach the gospel, and he was not ashamed of it.Paul was not ashamed of the gospel even though he was arrested and flogged and stoned nearly to death because of it. Paul was not ashamed because the gospel is “the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes” in Christ as Lord and Savior. The gospel is God’s power for salvation. And this power is available for all who believe. It doesn’t matter what people or nation they come from. What matters is that they believe.The door of salvation is open in Christ. Behold the power of the gospel!Lord, thank for giving us the gospel, the good news of Jesus, with its power for all who believe. Thank you for your grace and mercy in sending Jesus so that we can be saved to new life in you. May we live by faith in you, knowing that we never need to be ashamed because of you. In Jesus, Amen.
We preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles. — 1 Corinthians 1:23The apostle Paul was writing to his Christian friends in Corinth, a prominent Greek city. Great thinkers disputed their ideas in the public square. Their admirers applauded them. The Greeks (Gentiles) were fond of philosophy. When they heard about Jesus, who was crucified for our salvation, they thought it was madness to believe in and preach about him.Many Jews, on the other hand, thought their Messiah should be a great warrior-king who would free them from the tyranny of Rome. So, to them, it was scandalous to think of this person nailed to a cross.Paul was not intimidated by these prejudiced and extreme reactions. He continued to preach the message of the cross. There is no other gospel to be preached, he said, but the message of Christ, who was crucified for all who believe in him.There is no good news for the sinner apart from the message of Christ. Only by the death and resurrection of Jesus do we have life. It is by his blood that we receive forgiveness and redemption. It has pleased God to save sinners by the foolishness of this preaching. The foolishness of God is wiser than the so-called wisdom of the world. The cross of Christ may be rejected by unbelievers, but to us who believe, it is “the power of God and the wisdom of God.”Father God, the finished work of Jesus reveals your power and your wisdom. Thank you for giving us faith in Jesus, who was crucified so that we may have life. In his name, Amen.
Get rid of the old yeast, so that you may be a new unleavened batch—as you really are. — 1 Corinthians 5:7The Jewish Passover was instituted on the night God delivered his people from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 12). For each household a lamb without defect was slain, and its blood was sprinkled on the doorframe. In a similar way, Christ, our Passover Lamb, was slain for our redemption, and in this way God delivered all who believe in him from the slavery and tyranny of sin.For the Passover feast, all yeast was to be removed from every house. This was a sign of sanctification. The yeast that leavens dough was a symbol of sin that infiltrates our lives and contaminates us through and through. It reminded people that they could not participate in the Passover with impure hearts and a defiled life. They had to throw out the old yeast, for they were being reshaped as a new unleavened batch of dough.As believers in Christ, we have received a new heart, a new mind, a new life. We are part of a new family. We are God’s people, called to be light in the world. We cannot imitate the world or be of the world. We are called to reshape it for the kingdom of God. We are a holy people, remade in Christ. We are saved from sin to live in holiness for Jesus’ sake. So we must walk in a manner worthy of the gospel, depending on the power of the Holy Spirit to live for God.Dear God, thank you that in Christ we can have a new life. Remake us to be like Jesus, and guide us to live in holiness, following him day by day. In his name, Amen.
He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross! — Philippians 2:8The incarnation of the Son of God is one of the greatest mysteries in history. There is one God who exists in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are of the same substance, meaning that the Son is coequal, coeternal, and consubstantial with the Father and the Holy Spirit. But to accomplish our redemption, God the Son emptied himself of his glory and became human. In the fullness of time he was born of a woman, under the law, to be our surety and substitute (see Galatians 4:4-5). Being God, he became human; being rich, he became poor; being Lord, he became a servant.The Son of God entered time and put on human skin. “He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” Even in the face of the most severe afflictions, he did not waiver from his purpose to save us. Though he was persecuted, spat upon, and crushed by the fury of sinners, he loved them to the end. Though he laid down his life in obedience and gave himself up to death, he triumphed over death in his glorious resurrection.Through his extreme humiliation, Jesus was exalted to receive the name above all names, opening the way for us to eternal life with God.Father, to save us, your Son humbled himself and submitted to death on a cross. He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, to lay down his life for us, even though we were your enemies. In him we exalt you! Amen.
“This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge. . . .” — Acts 2:23Christ’s death was the greatest crime in history. One of his closest followers, Judas, betrayed him for money. The religious leaders paid that money and handed Jesus over to be killed because they envied him. The witnesses who accused him were false. His trial was a blatant legal error. The judge, Pilate, who sentenced him to death was convinced of his innocence but did not want to displease the people.This greatest crime in history, however, was not an accident, but part of a plan. Jesus was delivered over to death by the determined design and foreknowledge of God.This fact does not excuse the accusers and perpetrators from responsibility, however. As the apostle Peter put it, “You, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross.” This was the dark side of the death of Jesus Christ.There is another, glorious side as well: Christ’s death was the greatest expression of God’s love—for us and for the whole world (see John 3:16). God sent his one and only Son to save us and give us eternal life. Jesus, the Son of God, gave up his heavenly glory and became human, just like us. And he went willingly to the cross, laying down his life as the sacrifice for our sin.Lord God, history unfolds at the command of your Word. And Christ’s death was the execution of your eternal plan of love. We thank you and praise your name! In Jesus, Amen.
It is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. — Ephesians 2:8-9This passage helps us to understand some very important things about salvation. We are saved only by God’s grace to us in the finished work of Christ, not through any works of our own. And we receive this wonderful salvation through faith. Also, we are not saved because of faith, but through faith.Three truths can be highlighted about salvation: first, its cause: grace. Second, its instrument: faith. Third, its consequence: good works. We are saved by grace through faith in order to do good works.We are not saved by any work we do for God, but by the work Christ did for us on the cross and through his resurrection. And we do good works not to be accepted by God but because we are saved through grace. Good works are not the cause of salvation; they are the result of salvation. We have been saved to do good works that God has prepared for us to do. And the Spirit of God empowers us to do them.Grace, faith, and good works are like a tripod that illustrates our salvation. All three are accomplished by God himself, for grace, faith, and good works are God’s operations in us and for us.Compassionate Father, the greatness of our salvation in Christ is revealed in your grace to us, in your gift of faith to us, and in your good work through us in our everyday lives. Guide us to live faithfully for you, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Forgive as the Lord forgave you. — Colossians 3:13In our reading for today we are reminded that because of Jesus, we are called to live into the full life he has made possible for us. And a crucial part of our daily living is this: “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Jesus told an important parable about this in Matthew 18. A king was settling accounts with his subjects, and he found that one owed him 10,000 talents. The man was unable to pay, so the king ordered that the man’s entire family be sold. But when the man asked for patience, the king forgave his huge debt. The forgiven man, however, was not so generous. He found someone who owed him 100 denarii but could not pay. The second man begged for mercy, but the forgiven man refused and threw him into a debtor’s prison. When the king heard about this, he became angry and handed the first man over to the jailers until he should paid off his debt. As we think about this parable, it can help to understand that 100 denarii was 100 days’ wages, and that one talent was about 20 years’ wages. So 10,000 talents was about 200,000 years’ wages! In this way Jesus was saying that our debt to God is unpayable for us—and yet God has forgiven it. Therefore we are called to forgive one another, just as God in Christ has forgiven us (see also Ephesians 4:17-32).Lord, you are gracious; your mercy has no end. Your forgiveness is greater than all my sins. Help us each day to share your love and grace by forgiving others. In Jesus, Amen.
All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ. . . . — 2 Corinthians 5:18Because of sin, we human beings are in rebellion. We are at war with God, with ourselves, with our neighbors, and with God’s creation. By ourselves, we would never return to God. We cannot change our own heart. Without God, we don’t even realize that we are mired and stuck and lost in the misery of sin.Salvation is not a human initiative. God took the initiative to reconcile us to himself. God loves us so much that he sent his Son to save us. The innocent seeks the guilty. The agent of reconciliation is Jesus Christ. And now through Christ we can turn to God.Jesus is the one and only way to God. He is the door, the gateway, to salvation. He is the mediator who reconciles us to the Father. To reconcile us to himself, God did not keep our transgressions on our account. Instead, he laid them on Jesus Christ.On the cross the Son of God paid in full the debt that was against us and completely set us free. And God credited us with the perfect righteousness of Christ so that no condemnation can weigh on us any longer.What a great salvation you have accomplished for us, O God! Only the finished work of Christ could justify us. And you credited his righteousness to our account. Thank you, Father. In Jesus, Amen.
You were redeemed from the empty way of life . . . with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. — 1 Peter 1:18-19Jesus’ death on the cross for us was the world’s greatest ransom mission. And this ransom was not paid to the devil, but to God himself. The Lord provided his own substitutionary sacrifice so that we could be delivered from our slavery to sin and its inevitable outcome: death. God redeemed us not by gold or silver (precious metals) or even by the most valuable currency. He redeemed us by the precious blood of Christ, the spotless and unblemished Lamb.The Son of God gave up everything to redeem us. He gave himself completely. And the gift of the Son as the spotless Lamb was not a last-minute decision. As the apostle Peter put it, “He was chosen from before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake.”Not all the gold on earth would be enough to redeem a single person. But God paid the highest price, the price of the blood of his only Son, Jesus Christ. Therefore, you are highly valued by God. He has invested everything to save you, that you may have full and abundant life with him forever.O God, only through the gift of Christ can I see my worth, for in his finished work your unconditional love for me is revealed. I praise you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture.” — John 10:9Shepherds had to keep watch over their flocks constantly so that predators would not attack. At night they often rounded up their sheep and kept them in improvised sheepfolds. And if more than one shepherd was in the area, there would be more than one flock in the fold. The shepherds themselves were the gateway to the sheep. And the sheep knew their shepherd’s voice. So in the morning when they heard their shepherd call, the sheep followed.It is in this context that Jesus says he is the gate for the sheep. This metaphor suggests three truths. First, Jesus is the door to salvation: “Whoever enters through me will be saved.” There is no salvation outside of Jesus. He is the way to God, the door of salvation. No one can reach God by their works or even by their religiosity. Christ alone is the door!Second, Jesus is the door to freedom: “They will come in and go out. . . .” There are many doorways and roadways in life that lead to captivity and slavery. They are wide and spacious, but they lead to danger and misery. Jesus, however, is the door to freedom.Third, Jesus is the door to provision: “They will . . . find pasture.” Christ provides everything we need in order to flourish in abundance. He came so that we “may have life, and have it to the full”!Lord and Savior, thank you for the full, abundant life you give. All other pathways in life lead to slavery and death. Only you lead and guide us faithfully. We praise your name! Amen.
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” — John 10:11Jesus is the good, the great, and the supreme shepherd of his sheep—and his sheep are all who believe in him. As the good shepherd, he gives his life for the sheep. As the great shepherd, he lives for the sheep. And as the supreme shepherd, he will return for the sheep. Jesus is unique. There is no other like him. What does his uniqueness consist of? It is that Jesus gave his life for his sheep. He died for his sheep. He shed his blood to redeem them. He poured out his soul in death so that his sheep could live forever.Jesus suffered cruel thirst so that his sheep could drink the water of life. He was made to be sin so that his sheep could be justified (made right with God). He was made to be a curse so that his sheep could be blessed. He endured God’s wrath so that his sheep could receive God’s grace.The good shepherd is also the great shepherd, who rose from the dead and lives for his sheep. He lives to intercede for them. He lives to reign over them.The good and great shepherd is also the supreme shepherd, who will come again, bringing the new heaven and earth, where there will be “no more death or mourning or crying or pain,” and he will live together with his sheep forever (Revelation 21:1-4).Lord God, you are the true and good shepherd. Nothing can snatch me out of your hand. Thank you for your faithful care. I praise you! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” — 1 John 1:7Sin is an undeniable reality. Its effects can be seen every day in our lives, in our families, and in society.Sin is the transgression of God’s law and the lack of conformity to that law. We sin against God in our words, thoughts, and actions—and even by not doing the good we should do. We sin because we are sinners. We were conceived and born in sin, and we live in sin. We cannot cleanse ourselves. Sin has affected our reason, emotion, and will.All areas of our lives have been tainted by sin. No religious ritual can cleanse us from sin. Sin separates us from God, setting up a barrier that we cannot cross.But Jesus Christ, the Son of God, has done for us what we cannot do. By his death we have life, and by his blood we have cleansing from all sin. No sin that we commit is too great for him to cover, or so bad that God cannot forgive it. In Jesus Christ, our Savior, we have redemption—abundant, full, and free!Lord, holy is your name. Sin does not dwell with you. Thank you for the full and free forgiveness that Jesus’ blood has purchased for me, allowing me to be close to you. In the Savior’s name, Amen.
“Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” — Revelation 21:9In this vision that God gave to the apostle John, we are invited to take in the glory of “the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” The glorified church is the bride of Christ (see also Revelation 19:5-9; Ephesians 5:21-33). When John sees the bride, he sees in her the glory of God. All the splendors of God adorn her. She is glorious. The church is the ransomed people of God who were slaves to sin and now are set free. Christ loves the church. He gave himself for all God’s people and sanctified them through the gift of his life.Christ adorned the church to present it to himself as glorious, unblemished. His love for the church is everlasting. As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so Christ rejoices over the church, the bride of the Lamb, which is now being prepared, adorned, and sanctified to meet the bridegroom.That will be the glorious day of the Lord, when Christ will come with power and glory to live with his bride, the redeemed people of God. They will be gathered from the four corners of the earth. The church will join in the banquet of salvation. And the marriage of the Lamb will be celebrated in a feast that will never end!Father, your church is the bride of the Lamb, for whom Christ gave himself up. I need to love her more and criticize her less. Give me grace to contribute to the beauty of your bride. In Jesus, Amen.
“Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” — John 1:29John the Baptist was the prophet whom God called to prepare the way for the Messiah. He explained that he was not the Messiah and was not even worthy to untie the straps of the Messiah’s sandals. The Messiah was greater than he, said John, because the Messiah would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire (see Luke 4:16).But of all John’s statements, this was the most direct: “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” All the Old Testament rituals pointed to the Messiah, the great deliverer who was to come—and now John identified Jesus as this promised Anointed One. Jesus was the spotless Lamb who would take away all our sin.God gave his own Son to die so that we can live, for there was no way for us to save ourselves. Jesus is the Lamb of God, provided by God, to be slain to fulfill the law of God himself for our sake.God laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was wounded and pierced for our transgressions (Isaiah 53:5-6). He bore the burden of our sins on the cross. He died for our sins. He paid the entire debt that we owed. And he reconciled us to God, giving us forgiveness and eternal life.Lord, thank you for helping us see and believe that we can be saved from sin and death—and that this is possible through Christ alone. We praise your name and give thanks in him. Amen.
“I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever!” — Revelation 1:18The apostle John may well have been the last surviving apostle when he was exiled to the island of Patmos. He was sent there to live as a prisoner because he had been preaching “the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.” Though all the doors on earth were now closed to John, the Lord opened a door in heaven for him. John received a series of amazing visions of the glorified Christ, whose hair was “as white as snow” and whose face was “like the sun shining in all its brilliance.”Jesus’ eyes were “like blazing fire” and his feet were “like bronze glowing in a furnace.” His voice was “like the sound of rushing waters,” and out of his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword. The apostle fell at the Lord’s feet as though he was dead, but he heard, “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever!”The conquering Christ is the Lamb who was slain but rose again. He triumphed over death in his resurrection. The victorious Lamb sits on the throne of the universe and rules the heavens and the earth.God, just as your Word teaches us about Jesus’ suffering, it shows us his resounding victory that came through his resurrection. Christ is alive! Alleluia! In his name we pray. Amen.
He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth. . . . — Isaiah 53:7The prophet Isaiah pointed to Jesus about 700 years before his birth, describing him as a suffering servant of God who was “led like a lamb to the slaughter, and . . . did not open his mouth.” The Son of God was “pierced for our transgressions” and “crushed for our iniquities.” And “by his wounds we are healed.” He was despised and mocked. He was led to crucifixion under the cursing of a bloodthirsty crowd, but he did not return cursing for cursing. Like a silent lamb, Jesus offered himself as a sacrifice for our sin.He endured the excruciating pain of being nailed to a cross and lifted up to die in view of all who passed by. Even though he suffered terrible torment, he scorned the shame of the cross for the joy that was set before him (Hebrews 12:2). Even though he was obedient to death, he endured the crushing blow of the law that we deserved. Even though he was the blessed one, he was made to be a curse for us by taking our place. He bore our sins and shed his blood to redeem us from captivity and certain death. His suffering brought us relief. His death brought us life. There, at the cross, Jesus opened for us the inexhaustible fountain of salvation!Lord God, your Son bore the sufferings that should have been mine. But at no time did he complain. He was moved by love to receive my punishment so that I might have peace. In him I give thanks. Amen.
[Christ] was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. — 1 Peter 1:20Jesus is the holy Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. He came into the world to die for our sins. His death was not an accident; his mission was set in eternity. Although his death took place nearly 2,000 years ago on a cross outside Jerusalem, in the mind and plan of God it was set in motion from before the creation of the world. When God planned our salvation, there was no universe and no earth yet. The stars did not yet shine, nor did the sun give its light.Before creation, in the depths of eternity, God had already set his heart on you—and Jesus, the Son, was chosen to be slain in your place, on your behalf. The same is true for each one of us who believes.The cross of Christ was not a sign of defeat but of triumph. Jesus died not as a victim or martyr but as the Redeemer. And he died willingly. He gave himself for you and for me, and he was chosen for that mission from eternity. He glorified the Father in his death and won eternal redemption for us.Praise be to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!Holy God, we are amazed that Jesus’ voluntary surrender was planned in eternity. You decided to love each one of us even before you created the world. We thank and bless you, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! — Romans 5:9As we noted yesterday, when we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus at Eastertime, we may often hear about the Easter bunny and eggs and chocolate. Those old secular traditions have nothing to do with Jesus’ gift of new life for all who believe in him. But they can be distracting if we forget to focus on God’s amazing love shown to us through the death and rising of his Son, Jesus.Reflecting on the shed blood of Jesus may make us uncomfortable. Perhaps we would rather focus on nicer, sweeter things—like chocolate or some other treat—at this time of year. But the sacrifice of Christ is the only thing that could pay the debt of our sin and bring us peace with God. There is no redemption through chocolate.Our redemption from sin and death came through the shed blood of Jesus, the Lamb of God. As we saw earlier this month, when God delivered his people from slavery in Egypt, the sacrificed lamb of the Passover pointed ahead to the sacrifice of Jesus, God’s only Son. He became “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). By his death we have life. By his shed blood we are set free and cleansed from all sin!Lord God, you have freed us from sin through the blood of Christ shed on the cross for our sake. Through his death we can now enjoy full life in you. In his name we pray. Amen.
Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed. — 1 Corinthians 5:7As we celebrated Jesus’ resurrection yesterday, we may have seen or heard references to the Easter bunny, Easter eggs, and chocolate. In ancient Europe, the Germanic goddess Eostre (Eastre in Old English) was celebrated during the spring equinox. Rabbits and eggs represented fertility and the revival of life in springtime. Since Jesus’ death and resurrection occurred at the same time of year, the church in Europe tried to replace that pagan tradition with the worship of Christ and the celebration of new life in him. They even used the name “Easter” to try to Christianize the springtime holiday.But that hasn’t worked very well, has it? The celebration of Christ’s victory over death has nothing to do with rabbits, eggs, or chocolate. Sadly, all of that can distract us from reflecting on the gift of life we have through the death and resurrection of Jesus. But in Christ we can remember another ancient tradition—Passover, with its sacrificed lamb and celebration of deliverance from slavery. That pointed to the gift of Jesus, who came to free us from the slavery of sin. So let’s focus on the Lamb of God, Jesus—our Savior and the giver of full life—which is far greater than the seasonal refreshing of life in spring. This doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate with feasting or a bit of chocolate, but let’s be sure to worship the one true God who loves us and sent his Son to save the whole world!Lord, guide us to remember and celebrate all that you have done for us in Christ. Amen.
God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. — Romans 5:8Today we celebrate the proof of God’s love for us. Jesus has risen, victorious over death! He laid down his own life for us so that our debt of sin would be paid, and because he rose from the dead, we can have new life with him forever. Through the Spirit of God our new life begins now—and even though we may die physically before Jesus comes again, we are promised that our bodies too will rise when he comes to usher in the new heaven and earth! Alleluia! Praise the Lord God!God’s love for each one of us is eternal, unchanging, and unconditional. “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). God proves his love for us by the fact that “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us,” and “while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son.” We have salvation not because of our love for God, but because God loves us and sent his Son to pay for our sins and to give us new, eternal life.Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave to reveal God’s love for us. The finished work of Jesus is all the proof we need that God cares for us all. The God of love is determined to save us!Heavenly Father, thank you for your amazing love. Move us, who were once your enemies, to love you and serve you today and always, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. — John 19:30Before he died on the cross, Jesus uttered a cry of triumph, saying “It is finished.”The Greek word here—tetélestai—had three meanings that point out Jesus’ finished work for us.First, it was used for the completion of a task. When a son finished his work on a project, he would say to his father, “Tetélestai,” meaning, “The work entrusted to me is finished.”Second, it was used to pay off a debt. When a person paid off a debt with the legal authorities, the document was stamped “Tetélestai,” meaning, “The debt has been paid.”Third, this word was used to declare a person’s definite possession of a deed. When someone bought a piece of property and paid for it in full, they received the deed with the inscription “Tetélestai,” meaning, “You have the right of possession.”When Jesus gave up his life for us on the cross, he completed the work the Father had entrusted to him so that we could be saved from sin and death. And on the cross he paid our debt in full, opening the way to eternal life for us. We have forgiveness and salvation. Because of Christ’s finished work, we have received the right to take possession of eternal life.Jesus’ sacrifice was fully sufficient to offer us eternal redemption and full life forever!Father, you have forgiven me a debt that I could never repay. May the certainty of your forgiving love create in me a forgiving heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, for the sun stopped shining. — Luke 23:44-45When Jesus was born, there was a bright light at night (Luke 2:8-14). When Jesus died, there was darkness at noon. Even the sun hid its face from the terrible suffering of the Son of God. Jesus’ suffering was not only physical but, more deeply, spiritual. Even though his pain was indescribable, from the flogging and torture he endured to the excruciating agony of crucifixion, Jesus’ greatest suffering was that he was separated from the Father and subjected to the torments of hell.Jesus became a curse for us. Our transgressions lay fully on him. The ugliness of our sin covered him with shame and pain. The crushing weight of our iniquities was cast on him. Because he was made to be sin for us (2 Corinthians 5:21), the law demanded his death, for the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23).In the darkness of that day, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, and Jesus opened for us “a new and living way” to God (Hebrews 10:20). Through his death we are reconnected with God.On the cross, Jesus opened for us the door to heaven!Father, the darkness that inhabited my heart has been dispelled by your light. The glory of your majesty has filled my soul with the presence of Jesus. In him I give thanks! Amen.
Being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground. — Luke 22:44Praying in anguish, Jesus asked his Father to take away the suffering that he would soon be facing on the cross for our sake. Jesus prayed so earnestly that his sweat fell like drops of blood to the ground. And as he raised his tearful cry to heaven, Jesus’ disciples fell asleep. Yet he said to the Father, “Not my will, but yours be done.”On that dreadful night, the religious leaders were plotting against Jesus as he prayed in Gethsemane. Led by Judas Iscariot, the temple soldiers marched into the garden to arrest Jesus forcefully. But Jesus, now ready to lay down his life for us, proceeded willingly.Jesus knew that on the cross he would take our place, carry the weight of all our sins, and take on the curse that we all deserve so that he could rescue us from sin and death.Jesus went to the cross not because Judas betrayed him out of greed (Luke 22:1-6), nor because the religious rulers handed him over out of envy, nor even because the Roman governor Pilate sentenced him out of cowardice (Luke 23:1-25; John 11:45-53; 19:1-16). Jesus went to the cross out of love!Blessed Lord and Savior, we know that what moved you to face the cross for our sake was your eternal love alone. May this love fill our hearts today and move us to serve you faithfully. Amen.
“God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” — Genesis 22:8Abraham had already passed through several tests of his faith in God. God had called Abraham to move to another land, and he did (Genesis 12:1-7). God had promised to give Abraham an heir, and he believed (15:4-6). God had said that all the males in Abraham’s household were to be circumcised to be part of God’s covenant with him and his descendants, so Abraham did that too (17:9-27).But now Abraham faced the hardest test of all. After receiving his son Isaac and seeing him grow in fulfillment of God’s promises, Abraham was told by God to offer Isaac as a sacrifice. So, trusting that God could even raise the dead and keep his promises (see Hebrews 11:19), Abraham responded in obedience. Abraham loved Isaac, but he loved God more. And God had kept all his promises. So Abraham trusted God.Isaac said, “The fire and wood are here, but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?” And Abraham said, “God himself will provide the lamb, my son.” Abraham then prepared the altar and got ready to offer his son there.But God did not want Isaac sacrificed; God wanted Abraham’s love. In this gripping test of faith, God was pointing ahead to show that Jesus, his only Son, would become a sacrifice for us. For Isaac there was a substitute lamb, and Jesus became the Lamb of God for us. God “did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all” (Romans 8:32).Lord God, thank you for giving up your only Son to die in my place. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“When the Lord goes through the land . . . he will see the blood . . . and will pass over that doorway, and he will not permit the destroyer to enter. . . .” — Exodus 12:23The firstborn sons of Israel were spared from death on Passover night. But this was not because they were better than the children of the Egyptians. The Israelites were no less sinful or depraved than the Egyptians. The Israelite firstborn were spared only because of the blood of the lamb.When the Lord passed through Egypt and saw the blood on the doorframes of Israelites’ houses, he passed over those houses and did not allow the destroyer (death) to enter there.It was not enough for the lamb to die. It was also necessary that the lamb’s blood be applied to the doorframe as a sign of God’s protection.Likewise, it is not enough to know that Jesus Christ died on the cross. It is necessary to receive, by faith, the benefits of his death.Christ died for our sins and rose again for our justification. Now we must receive him as our personal Savior. He is our Passover Lamb!Lord, we are saved not because of who we are or what we have done, but because of your grace through the blood of Jesus. Guide us to receive and trust in him as the one and only Savior. Thank you for your saving grace! Amen.
You were redeemed . . . with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. — 1 Peter 1:18-19The lamb sacrificed for the Passover had to be a lamb “without defect” (Exodus 12:5). This ritual pointed to the perfect and complete sacrifice made by Jesus Christ for us many years later.There is no remission of sins without the shedding of blood. But the blood of lambs cannot truly atone for sin. On Passover night, when the lamb was sacrificed and its blood was sprinkled on the doorframe, that pointed to the Lamb of God, “without blemish or defect,” who died for our sins and shed his blood on the cross so that we might be redeemed from sin and death and cleansed from all impurity.The lamb for sacrifice could not have any defects. This pointed to Jesus Christ, who was without sin but suffered and took on the curse of sin for us. He died for our sins—the just for the unjust. His death was substitutionary. He suffered the blow of the law that we should suffer. He drank the cup of wrath that we should drink. He died our death to give us his life.O God, we exalt your great name for the great mercy you have shown us. We deserved all of the punishment for our sin. But Christ suffered in the place of us all. Praise be to you, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
“Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” — John 1:29Several texts in the Bible speak of a lamb that was sufficient to be a substitute.In Genesis 22, God tests the faith of Abraham by calling him to give up his only son, Isaac. And when Isaac said, “The fire and wood are here, but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?” Abraham answered, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And God provided a young ram as a substitute for Isaac.In Exodus 12, the Passover lamb, with its blood painted on the doorframes of Israelite houses, was a sufficient substitute for sparing Israel from the plague of death on the firstborn sons in Egypt.In Isaiah 52-53, the willing sacrifice of God’s faithful, suffering servant, “led like a lamb to the slaughter,” would be sufficient to pay for the sins of God’s people from “many nations.” He would bear “the iniquity of us all.”All of these texts point forward to Jesus, and in John 1:29 we read that Jesus, the Lamb of God, is sufficient to take away the sin of the world.The Lamb of God is sufficiently powerful to save the whole world. Jesus, God’s one and only Son, died to purchase with his blood “persons from every tribe and language and people and nation” (Revelation 5:9).Loving Father, the blood of Jesus is sufficient to set me free from sin and cleanse me from all unrighteousness. I praise and glorify you for your great love for me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“When your children ask you, ‘What does this ceremony mean to you?’ then tell them, ‘It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord. . . .’” — Exodus 12:26-27Passover is an ancient feast that celebrates God’s deliverance of his people Israel from slavery in Egypt (around 1440 B.C.). Israel had been in bitter captivity for more than 400 years. The people groaned and cried out to God for deliverance. God saw the people’s suffering, heard their cry, and prepared Moses to lead them to freedom, where they could worship and live for the Lord. God called them out of Egypt so that they could shine like a light and share his blessings with all nations. God’s command to Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, was urgent: “Let my people go, so that they may worship me” (Exodus 8:1; see also 5:1; 7:16, 8:20; 9:1, 13; 10:3). But Pharaoh hardened his heart, and God sent ten plagues, showing that the false gods of Egypt had no power to help them. The last plague was devastating, bringing death to the firstborn in every Egyptian family. Every Israelite family sacrificed a lamb and put its blood on their doorframe. That night God passed over those houses and would not let death enter. But in all other houses the firstborn died.So Israel was set free. The blood of the lamb that was sacrificed for each household was a sign that death could not enter there. And this sign pointed to Jesus, whose death once for all sets us free from the curse and slavery of sin.Lord, thank you for setting us free. Through Jesus and by your Spirit, guide us to worship you and live for you. Amen.
The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. — Philippians 4:7During this month in our reflections on peace, we have dug into the Scriptures and human history, dived into our memories, and revisited some of life’s most challenging experiences. We have prayed and contemplated. In this world filled with wars, violence, and pain, we have sought to find God’s shalom.Today let’s look again at some verses from Philippians 4. Paul wrote this letter from a jail in Rome, where he was awaiting a verdict from the imperial court. Despite the sad circumstances of Paul’s imprisonment for Jesus’ sake, this letter is often called his epistle of thanks and joy.In our verses today Paul calls his readers first of all to “rejoice in the Lord.” It’s a command that he repeats: “Rejoice!” The reason for this unyielding joy is simple: the Lord is with us. In the person of Jesus Christ and through his Holy Spirit, the loving God is never far away from his children. Paul also reminds us to be gentle and caring toward others. That’s how we reflect Christ to them. And he encourages us not to be anxious about anything but to trust in the Lord completely, presenting our requests with thanks.When we live with joy, gentleness, thanks, and trust in the Lord, the incredible peace of God fills us. It “guards [our] hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Have you found his incredible peace?Merciful God, thank you for being near. Teach us to rely on you. Lead us to live with joy, gentleness, and trust in you, and fill us with your incredible peace. Amen.
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. — 2 Timothy 4:7Are you at peace when you reflect on your own mortality? Though our life with Christ will never end, we know that our journey on this earth is not going to last forever. One day we will stand in our Creator’s presence.In 2 Timothy 4 the apostle Paul reflects on this important meeting. His thoughts about the end of his life on earth are filled with stirring emotion and striking imagery. He is honest with us in his sadness, just as he is strong in his Christian hope.As Paul reflects on his years as an apostle of Christ, he uses language from the sports world. Paul says he has successfully finished the race and has observed all the rules—the teachings of Christ. He has kept the faith, and now he is ready to accept his award—the crown of righteousness.Throughout his ministry Paul has trusted in his Savior. He is doing the same now as he nears the end of his life on earth and looks forward to a new adventure in God’s presence.When our life on this earth runs its course, will we be able to say we have fought the good fight and kept the faith? Will we receive the crown of righteousness? Only by God’s grace can we be faithful, credited with Jesus’ righteousness and crowned to live in his presence forever.Father, help us always to be prepared to meet you. Lead us in your way always, and make us worthy in Christ to receive the crown of righteousness you have in store for us. Amen.
God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son. . . . — John 3:16The siege of Leningrad (now St. Petersburg) was one of the longest and deadliest sieges in recorded history. During World War II, Nazi forces held the city hostage for over two years, severely disrupting supply lines. This resulted in a terrible famine, and over 800,000 civilians died.People who survived the siege no longer took their daily bread for granted. Even years later, they would feel anxious about food shortages and sometimes resort to hoarding. They would also get really upset when they saw food wasted or played with.Today we are focusing on what is probably the most famous verse in the Bible—John 3:16. It has been called “the gospel in a nutshell” because it summarizes all that God has done for us. But in some parts of the world this verse has become so familiar that its profound meaning is sometimes overlooked or taken for granted.To people who are aware of their need for God, this text is as valuable as a loaf of bread to a victim of famine. Propelled by his love for humanity, God the Father sent his one and only Son to save us. Now those who believe in him are saved from death and destruction—they “shall not perish.”Let us treasure this truth every moment of our lives!Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son to save us. Knowing Jesus puts our hearts at peace. Help us to live a life of thanksgiving for your salvation! Amen.
Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy. . . . — Hebrews 12:14For many years ReFrame’s Russian-language ministry has been producing a talk show called The Difficult Questions. In this live radio broadcast we answer listeners’ questions about the Bible and Christianity.But sometimes we hear from people who have a complaint rather than an inquiry. One caller recently shared that her family left the church because the congregation had many bitter divisions and fights. The woman said that these conflicts weakened her faith.In our Bible reading for today the author of Hebrews urges readers to “make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy.” This is not an optional short-term activity but a necessity that requires our lifelong commitment. People who are at peace with God are responsible to pursue peace in their relationships with others. You see, when we seek peace with others, we somehow mirror the likeness of God. In our love and friendships people see a reflection of God’s glory, and we personally grow in Christ.The same is true about our personal holiness. A lack of holiness leads to sin that separates us from God. It also makes us a poor witness, and we can become a stumbling block to others who are searching for the Lord and seeking to grow in faith.Do you know the Lord of peace? Does your life reflect that?Father, guide us to reflect your peace and holiness in a way that is pleasing to you. Help us to be faithful witnesses to others. Amen.
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. — Romans 12:18The United Nations peacekeeping effort first began in 1948. Since then, UN peacekeepers have participated in 72 missions worldwide, a dozen of which continue today.As Christians, we are called to be peacekeepers as well. This calling comes in the context of biblical advice on exercising love in action. In Christ we are called to be both genuine and practical in our love. That is done through devotion, humility, generosity, spiritual enthusiasm, empathy, and hospitality.As the apostle Paul discusses these things, he urges us to “live at peace with everyone.” And he qualifies this by saying, “If it is possible” and “as far as it depends on you.” We need to be realistic about the effects of sin on our relations with others.The UN peacekeepers’ first mission operation was to maintain the ceasefire during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. Forty years later the UN peacekeeping force received the Nobel Peace Prize, and their mission in the Middle East is still operating today.Realistically, living at peace with everyone at all times may not be possible for us. But we must strive for peace in our relations with others. It’s a lifelong calling that at times may be tough and unglamorous. Yet in our peacekeeping we have a prize to look forward to: God’s peace and favor.Lord, may we love others as you have loved us—with compassion and care. Give us wisdom to be peacekeepers in our daily relations with others. Amen.
“The water I give [you] will become in [you] a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” — John 4:14A media listener from Russia shared with us how he found himself in a spiritual desert after his wife left him. He became depressed and started drinking heavily. But getting drunk didn’t quench his inner thirst at all. Fortunately, he heard the gospel message on the radio. That was his first step toward finding healing and peace with God.In our passage for today Jesus talks with a woman in Samaria about water. He discusses drinkable and living water. Fresh drinking water is a precious resource. Everyone needs it to survive. But Jesus says that the water he gives brings life. He provides living water that wells up within us to eternal life!Many Old Testament passages speak of thirsting after God as being famished on a hot day and needing a cool drink. God is called the fountain of life and the spring of living water. In our reading today, living water refers to eternal life. Once we satisfy our spiritual thirst with living water, we will never thirst that way again. The Lord provides this living water in our souls so that we can draw upon it continuously.If we feel lost in a spiritual desert, only Jesus can show us the way out. Only he can quench our thirst for God and give us the gift that satisfies the deepest desire of our souls.Lord, thank you for spiritually refreshing our souls with living water through Jesus and by your Spirit. Help us to share this wonderful gift with all the thirsty people we meet. Amen.
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. — Psalm 46:1Ann, a dear supporter of our ministry, worked as a nurse in a mental-health hospital in the Netherlands during World War II. She shared that as the war drew to an end, their hospital had to be evacuated to save the patients from extermination by the occupying Nazi forces.This story would make for a gripping movie. Under bombardment in a freezing rain, a handful of young nurses had to take care of hundreds of patients with mental disabilities. The women worked hard and prayed a lot. Ann told me they had to fully rely on God for their deliverance. The evacuees finally escaped and were transported by train to safety.Most of us have been spared from experiencing something so dramatic. Our lives seem to be much safer and secure.But let us not forget how dependent we are on God. Today’s passage reminds us that the God we rely on is “our refuge and strength”—our help in every kind of trouble. Our situation may change drastically for the worse, but the Lord will always be near. Psalm 46 declares that even if continents break up and sink beneath the surging sea, we need not be afraid. What a powerful statement of faith!No matter where we live or what kind of life situation we are going through, our souls are secure in the protection of the Lord.Father, we thank you for being our refuge! When difficult times and circumstances come, we can trust in your faithful love and protection. In Jesus, Amen.
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. — Romans 8:18An old friend of mine, a committed Christian, was recovering from an excruciating chemotherapy treatment. When I visited with him, he smiled and joked a lot. But at one point his face became serious. “I’d like to live for as long as God wants me to. But I’m not afraid to die, because I know Jesus,” he said.Our reading for today is a powerful passage in which the apostle Paul discusses living, as a Christian, through the suffering that often comes as part of our fallen humanity. The apostle knows what pain and suffering are all about. So he is addressing this topic both personally and theologically.Paul maintains that “our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” This does not minimize the pain we are going through. Rather, it elevates the much more outstanding glory to come.How can Christ be glorified in us through our suffering? By our declaration of our love for him, by our trusting in his faithfulness, by our holding to the peace of God despite our pain and struggle. The Spirit always helps us—even if we don’t know what to do and how to pray about our situation.In your suffering remember that God’s grace is real. Nothing can separate you from his love in Christ Jesus.Our Father, encourage us with your Spirit when we go through difficult times. Even in our suffering remind us of the glory you have prepared for us in Christ. Amen.
Be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” — Hebrews 13:5Our ministry friend Yulia lives in Ukraine. She shared with us how the recent war in her country changed her perspectives on life and faith. One change was an acute sense of God’s closeness. “When you wake up in the morning, you are so thankful to be alive. You know that the Lord is near, and you can’t stop praising him,” Yulia wrote.The Bible calls us to be content with everything we have. Our family, health, meals we can share with loved ones—and, of course, life itself—all are precious gifts from the Lord. But discontent distracts us from appreciating and treasuring the precious gifts God has given us so generously. Greed robs us of our inner peace and harmony with God. Fears make our faith feeble and our hearts small.Let’s be honest—we don’t know what the future holds. We might have to go through some painful experiences and difficult times in life. Or perhaps right now you are in a difficult situation that brings you pain, sorrow, and tears.No matter what happens, we are assured as God’s children that the Lord will never leave us. We can count on his continuous love and care. God is always near. He is our helper and our peace in this perilous and unpredictable life.Father in heaven, thank you for being our reliable helper and protector. Fill our hearts with peace and contentment through Jesus, your Son. Amen.
Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God. . . . — Ephesians 6:10-11When my wife’s colleague Petro was conscripted into the Ukrainian military service, his family and friends began collecting money for a special project. They decided to buy him the best body armor system they could afford. In addition to prayers, that was their way of showing that they cared and wanted Petro to return home alive from deadly combat.The Bible contains many military-related words and descriptions. It explains that the Christian life involves spiritual warfare and that we must take our stand “against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”In Ephesians 6 the apostle Paul uses battle armor as a metaphor to show that we can be equipped by God to be victorious and protected against evil. But our armor and weapons are very different from what the world would expect. The armor of God includes truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and the salvation found in God’s Word.The apostle calls us to be brave and to rely fully on God in battle—and our victory is assured. All we have to do is hold to the love of God in Jesus Christ, who invites us to be part of a victory that he has already won.Lord and Father, you know our struggles and the battles we fight. Strengthen our faith in the gospel of peace, and give us courage to fight the good fight. In your Son’s name we pray. Amen.
Encourage one another . . . live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. — 2 Corinthians 13:11An orchestra conductor was taking a leisurely walk when he suddenly felt assaulted by the sounds of poorly played musical instruments. The off-key noises came from a building that housed a church.Ready for a fight, the conductor went inside to complain. The source of the racket turned out to be a rehearsing church orchestra. But the people he met were friendly, humble, and apologetic. Instead of fighting back, they invited him to stay for the service.For the first time in his life, the man heard the gospel preached. The beautiful harmony of God’s grace moved his heart to repentance. He became a Christian and joined the church a few months later.Today we are reading the closing words of the apostle Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians. In this very personal letter, we see the depth of Paul’s relationship with the church in Corinth. We also get a glimpse of some challenges to his spiritual leadership there. Yet at the end of this letter Paul speaks of mutual encouragement and of living in peace with one another. The peaceful relations in the community of Christ are part of the fuller experience of God’s love.When we reflect God’s love to others, we experience more than just peace in interpersonal relations; we grow in our understanding of God’s grace and receive his amazing peace.Father, help us to reflect your peace in this world with grace. And may we keep growing in our experience of your love and peace. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
“Those who find me find life and receive favor from the Lord.” — Proverbs 8:35Oksana, a young tennis player, dreamed of winning a particular competition. She trained diligently for many months, and her hard work finally paid off. She became a champion.But her joy was short-lived. “I’m always hard on myself. I don’t know how to be happy with who I am,” Oksana shared with our ministry in an email after her victory.Do you have a nagging feeling that keeps telling you that you don’t measure up? Too many people go around thinking negatively about themselves. They keep noticing shortcomings and weaknesses in their personality. They have a constant battle going on inside them.In the book of Proverbs, wisdom is sometimes personified as a guiding attribute of God. Our Scripture for today encourages us to seek God’s wisdom, because those who find wisdom will receive life and favor from the Lord.If we don’t have the assurance of salvation in Christ, we need to seek his face, calling on the Lord to lift us out of our sin and misery so that we can have life. The Holy Spirit uses our restless hearts to direct us to God. By faith and in repentance we can lean on Christ to discover his peace.And throughout our lives as believers, we need to be reminded that we are not finished yet. God is still working on us. As we lean on Jesus for guidance each day, he won’t disappoint us.Heavenly Father, grant us your wisdom so that we may know your peace and enjoy life to the full. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Therefore, Since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. . . . — Romans 5:1As a Jehovah’s Witness for almost 40 years, Ilya tried his best to earn salvation and find peace with God. But one day he heard a Christian radio program about salvation by grace through faith in Christ. For Ilya this was an eye-opener. He started studying the Christian Bible and visited a local Christian church.Today he is a committed believer, professing Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He says that studying the Bible has helped him finally find peace with God.In our verses for today the apostle Paul explains that through faith in Jesus, we have a sinless record, as if we’ve always obeyed God’s righteous standards. This ushers us into a place of friendship, unity, and peace with God.Our sin separates us from God. No matter how hard we work, we cannot bridge the gap that separates us from God the Father. All our good deeds aren’t enough to bring us to the point of being at peace with God. Things such as our religious background, our ethnicity, or our cultural heritage cannot make us right with God either. We are too weak, too sinful, to free ourselves.But the Son of God can set us free. We find real peace when we wholeheartedly believe in and follow the teaching of Jesus Christ. Have you found God’s peace and hope in Christ?Heavenly Father, we praise you for your grace in Jesus Christ. Open our hearts and minds to your truth. Give us your peace and hope. Amen.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” — John 14:27To me, one of the fascinating things about the English language is homonyms—words that sound the same but have a different spelling and meaning. A good example of a homonym phrase is in the saying “No Jesus, no peace—know Jesus, know peace.”Besides being a catchphrase for a t-shirt or bumper sticker, this statement reflects a profound biblical truth. In tumultuous times we long for peace, but without Jesus such inner harmony is impossible.In today’s passage Jesus calls on all who love him to obey his teaching. This obedience comes as a direct result of knowing Jesus and fellowshipping with him. The Holy Spirit comes into our lives in order to keep us securely grounded in the teaching of Jesus.The peace that Jesus promises is much more than a wish for an end to war, or even for emotional calm and quiet. Rather, it brings an inner tranquillity and harmony rooted in the very essence of our caring Savior.The power of the peace that Jesus gives us is such that we don’t have to be troubled or scared. Regardless of what may be happening in our lives, we can be at peace because we know that the love of Jesus is always stronger.Father, we praise you for peace that we can enjoy in your Son, Jesus Christ. In his name we pray. Amen.
Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise. — Jeremiah 17:14Yesterday I shared about my grandfather who had fought in World War II and was badly wounded. A shell exploded close to his position, and he was hit with many pieces of shrapnel.Later, in a makeshift hospital, a surgeon took out the bigger shell fragments. But smaller ones were left in my grandfather’s body for the rest of his life. As a result, he had difficulty passing through security scanners because pieces of metal under his skin would set off alarms.Most of us do not experience such dramatic events in our lives. But we may carry bits and pieces of our traumas from the past. In our media ministry we often hear from people who cannot enjoy their life fully because of severe hurts they experienced years ago. Their wounds can still set off alarms in their daily living.The Bible teaches us to turn to the Lord in every situation—particularly in our hurts and struggles. Though we may be in pain or feel haunted by old memories, God is closer than we realize. Like the prophet Jeremiah, we can lean on the Lord in faith.Intellectually we may know that the Lord heals and saves. But when we trust him fully, his salvation and peace become our personal reality.Father, set us free from the burdens of old traumas and bitter memories. Give us a heart of praise by assuring us of your love and salvation in Jesus. Amen.
Neither death nor life . . . will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. — Romans 8:38-39My grandfather Ivan fought in World War II as a machine-gun operator. He was badly wounded in a battle. He survived, but for a long time it seemed as if his Christian faith did not.He grew up as a Christian but claimed to have lost his faith after seeing the horrors of war. Yet toward the end of his life he began reading the Bible to his wife, my grandmother, who had become very sick. And he rediscovered God’s grace and found peace with Jesus.Our passage today reminds us that nothing can separate us from the love of God that comes to us through his Son, Jesus Christ. Neither death nor life, nor supernatural powers, nothing in the present nor the future, not a single created thing—nothing can separate us from God’s love!Many Christians who formally accept the teaching of God’s love may still have fears about losing God’s salvation and favor. But even in the midst of the most terrible struggles of life, we can be reassured that the Lord is with us. Gently he is holding us in his hand. When God loves us in Christ, he loves us forever.Have you put your trust in God? Have you found his peace?Father, we praise you for your unfailing love for us in Jesus Christ. With your Spirit make us lean on you fully as the Creator and Sustainer of our faith. Amen.
“Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division.” — Luke 12:51Abdullah is a young man who lives in a predominantly Muslim country in central Asia. Several years ago he lost his parents and two of his siblings, so at times he feels very lonely. His family members did not die, however. They and other Muslim relatives turned away when Abdullah became a follower of Jesus.Sadly, Abdullah’s story is not uncommon. Many Christians throughout the world suffer from strained family relations because of their faith. Even if we live in a religiously tolerant society, we can experience rejection or misunderstanding by family members, friends, and neighbors because we follow Jesus.Our reading for today may sound shocking, but it rings true for many Christians. Jesus is being fully transparent here. Having faith in Christ will bring divisions and disrupt our relationships with relatives and friends who are not believers. Faith gives us many blessings, but it can also strain our relations with loved ones.Jesus knows what we are going through. He personally experienced misunderstandings by family members and friends. He sends his Spirit to give us inner peace, and he encourages us to reflect God’s love to all who do not understand our devotion to him. The Spirit guides us daily. And once he breaks down people’s resistance to God, our relationships are easier to repair.Father, thank you for your Spirit, who comforts us when we are rejected because of your name. Help us to witness to all who don’t know you. Amen.
Though . . . the fields produce no food . . . yet I will rejoice in the Lord . . . in God my Savior. — Habakkuk 3:17-18After watching the daily news, our media listener Natasha shot us a note: “How can I find peace and joy in the midst of what’s going on today?”Perhaps you find yourself asking the same question as you follow the news or receive a worrisome personal update. How do you respond to bad news and reports of trouble and struggle in so many places? What happens to your walk with the Lord?Today we turn to one of the most powerful affirmations of faith in all of Scripture. Faced with news of an upcoming war, the prophet Habakkuk anticipates food shortages and hunger throughout the land. But in the face of such calamity, he declares that he will still rejoice in God his Savior. External circumstances are not going to stop him from finding personal peace and joy in the Lord.As Christians, we can rejoice in the midst of the most challenging circumstances because of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Even in the toughest of times—such as having to look death in the face—we know that nothing “will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:39).In the midst of bad news and hard times, never forget that God loves us, no matter what. By his Spirit he comforts us. He is always in full control of our lives. That joyful reality gives us peace even in the most difficult of times.Lord, thank you for being with us always! Give us strength to rejoice in you, no matter what troubles we face. Amen.
He himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier. . . . — Ephesians 2:14Anton reached out to our media team with some challenging questions: “Where is God when different races and ethnic groups are fighting? Why is he doing nothing to stop the hatred?”Anton’s inquiry touches on a hot topic. Humanity seems to be getting more fractured day by day. Barriers are popping up here and there and everywhere. Culture, race, language, religion, politics, the economy—so many things separate us and often pit us against each other.Political scientists are talking about the rapid balkanization of our world. This term refers to the Balkan States in eastern Europe that divided into several small nations in the late 20th century. It points to the breakup of a large region or state into smaller entities that are hostile to one another.In our Bible reading today, we are reminded that Jesus miraculously broke down the wall of hostility between Jews and Gentiles. Jesus, “our peace,” creates one humanity out of distinct groups. This unification happens because of our reconciliation with God through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.If we want to promote peace in our communities, we need to remember that reconciliation starts with Jesus. He has restored our relationship with God the Father, and he calls us to be reconciled with one another.Lord Jesus, guide us in bringing our diverse communities closer. Help us to discover that reconciliation happens through believing in and following you. Amen.
If . . . you seek the Lord your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul. — Deuteronomy 4:29“I can’t stand Sundays!” Maria wrote to us angrily. She shared that on Sundays she often felt lonely and empty because many of her friends were busy with their families and churches.Maria is a single woman with no church affiliation. She is unhappy about her situation. She says she tried dating in the past but didn’t find the right man. She also went to a few churches but felt that they weren’t good enough either.In our response to Maria we suggested that perhaps she shouldn’t focus mainly on searching for the right man or even the right congregation. The Bible teaches that everyone’s main concern should be about seeking the Lord first. That’s the initial step on our journey to peace and happiness.In our passage for today we hear a call to seek the Lord. This prophetic word was originally spoken to God’s people who would be scattered in exile many years later. The call is followed by a promise that those who are earnest in their search will find the Lord.Please note that the act of seeking God is more than just a first step or a phase in our spiritual growth. Rather, it is a lifelong quest. The continued search for God, leading to the deepening experience of his love, is the foundation of our inner peace.Father, lead us to you in faith, obedience, and love. Guide us each day and teach us to be fully committed to you. In Jesus, Amen.
“Will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night?” — Luke 18:7“No justice, no peace.” You may have heard this slogan in the context of antiracism protests.In January 1968, Martin Luther King, Jr., said, “There can be no justice without peace, and there can be no peace without justice. . . .” King spoke these words in connection with a protest about the Vietnam War and concerns about civil rights.In our Bible reading for today Jesus tells a parable about a widow who keeps pleading to a judge because he will not give her justice. The widow doesn’t give up. She resists the judge’s unfair treatment by way of peaceful persistence. She keeps coming to him with the simple plea: “Grant me justice against my adversary.” And eventually the judge caves in. Reluctantly he says, “I will see that she gets justice. . . .”Jesus uses this story to reveal something important about God. God is the complete opposite of an unjust, dishonest judge. God hears and responds to our prayers, promises to bring about justice (though it may not be right away), and gives us his peace.Father, thank you for hearing our prayers and giving us your peace. As we seek peace and justice in this world, guide us to rely on you, acting with grace and peaceful persistence to help bring right where there is wrong. In Jesus, Amen.
The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it. . . . — Psalm 24:1In 1983 the ABC television network carried one of the highest-rated TV movies in United States history. More than 100 million people watched the initial broadcast. President Ronald Reagan and his military chiefs were given an advance screening.It was the movie The Day After—a fictional story about a military conflict between the U.S. and the Soviet Union that escalates into a full-scale nuclear war.In 1987 The Day After was shown on Soviet TV. I remember watching it as a teenager. It terrified millions of viewers and had a profound impact on attitudes toward nuclear weapons.Today the talk about potential nuclear strikes is back. But much of the fear seems to be gone. Curiously, many people seem more concerned about the dangers of peaceful nuclear energy than about the threat of a nuclear conflict.The Bible teaches that we should not murder. Human life is priceless. The Bible also calls us to care for God’s creation. This world belongs to God, and we are its stewards.Seeing God’s workmanship fills our hearts with praise and thanksgiving. It also partially reveals God to us and encourages us to seek him further. What a terrible sin it would be for humanity to destroy the earth in a nuclear holocaust.Lord, thank you for this world and the life you give us. Help us to care for and to guard human life and all the rest of your creation. Amen.
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. . . .” — Matthew 5:44A dear friend of our ministry shared this story: She grew up in the Netherlands during World War II. During the Nazi occupation of her homeland, her Christian family was ordered to house a young German officer. Understandably he was an unwelcome enemy.One day the young man received a small package from Germany. He was so excited—his mother had sent him warm woolen socks! Something moved in the hearts of his unwilling hosts. In the midst of the war’s hatred, death, and suffering, they could see a human soul in this enemy. They invited him to church, included him in their family devotions, and led him to Christ. On this small front, Christian love dealt a blow to the hatred of war.Our Scripture reading today highlights a seemingly impossible command: “Be perfect . . . as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Jesus sets before us the ideal of perfect love, God’s standard that we must always strive for. God knows that we often tend to demonize our enemies. But he wants us to see humanity in them, to overcome evil with good, and to wear down hatred by showing love.As we walk in Christ, we are surrounded by all kinds of people. We must remember that we are called to love not only our friends but also our enemies.Lord, in the bright light of your perfection we see our imperfections. Fill us with your Spirit, that we may learn how to love others, even our enemies. In Jesus, Amen.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts . . . as members of one body. . . . And be thankful. — Colossians 3:15My grandmother Natalia was one of the most peaceful persons I have ever met. I recall that as a young boy I often took her kind personality for granted. Looking back on her life now, I cannot help wondering how she managed to escape bitterness and resentment throughout her life.Her younger years on a collective farm in Russia were tough. In her teens she endured the war, Nazi occupation, hunger, hard labor, and suffering. Later, after moving to a city, she was injured in a work-related accident and lost the use of her right hand. Even so, she remained cheerful and thankful to the end. How can this be?There’s an answer in today’s Bible reading. The apostle Paul talks about the Christian calling to peace and thanksgiving. For him, these attitudes do not depend on happy life experiences or special training. Peace and thanksgiving come through Christ alone.When Christ’s peace rules in our hearts, it changes us and our view of the world. It gives us strength to meet our challenges with grace and humility. And no matter what—we are called to be thankful.I’m convinced that my grandmother had the peace of Christ in her heart. Each of us can experience this peace too, if we humble ourselves before God. Do you have this peace?Heavenly Father, help us to humble ourselves and receive the peace of Christ. Teach us how to reflect your peace in this world with grace and thanksgiving. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
To us a child is born. . . . And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. — Isaiah 9:6During the week of Christmas 1914, as World War I raged in Europe, guns and artillery at several points along the western front fell silent. It has been reported that roughly 100,000 British and German troops participated in informal ceasefires, especially on Christmas Day. As German soldiers lighted candles and sang Christmas hymns, the British responded by singing carols of their own. Mass fraternization in no man’s land followed, and some groups exchanged Christmas presents while others played impromptu games of soccer.Tragically, hostilities resumed shortly after these holiday celebrations. The fighting continued for four more years, killing and maiming millions.Against the background of humanity’s wars, our biblical passage for today comes across as both striking and hopeful. Looking forward to the coming of Jesus, the prophet Isaiah calls him the Prince of Peace. When Jesus came to live among us, he broke down the walls of hatred that separate us from God and from each other. His death on the cross was the ultimate payment for peace.And this is not some kind of brief truce. The finished work of Christ guarantees the permanence of God’s blessing: “there will be no end” to the peace he brings. Do you know the Lord’s eternal peace?Lord and God, fill our hearts and lives with the assurance of your eternal peace. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” — Matthew 5:9In A.D. 989 the once powerful Carolingian Empire lay in ruins. The collapse of central authority had led to increased violence. Bloody feuds and local wars broke out in much of the area where France is today. That’s when local church ministers proclaimed “Pax Dei” (“The Peace of God”), granting shelter from violence for people who could not defend themselves—peasants, clergy, and many women and children. Pax Dei prohibited nobles and their guards from invading churches, burning houses, beating people, and so on. If anyone broke those rules, they could be excommunicated from the church.From a humble beginning, this church-led movement spread through Western Europe, surviving in some form for about 200 years. Today it is considered one of the first mass peace movements.Nearly a thousand years before Pax Dei, Jesus preached “Blessed are the peacemakers” to the shock and disbelief of his listeners. In those days many of his fellow Jews dreamed of rebelling against the ruthless occupation of the Roman Empire.The call to make peace was difficult in Jesus’ day and in the Middle Ages, and it is still difficult today. Yet Jesus inspires his faithful followers to seek peace, for that is God’s way of restoring us to himself and making us his children.Heavenly Father, thank you for making us your sons and daughters. Inspire us to become your peacemakers. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all [his] work. . . . — Genesis 2:3Nick is a small-business owner. He runs a restaurant. He opened it a few years ago, and he is still spending countless hours improving its operations and managing the staff. “There’s only one problem,” Nick admits. “When Sunday comes, I have no time or energy for the church.”We all live in a world that pushes us to run faster and work harder. How does your calendar look? Do you have time for God and for your spiritual welfare? Do you have time for your loved ones and for the ministry of your local community of faith?In the Bible we discover the God-ordained rhythm of life. God the Creator labors for six days and rests on the seventh. We all need regular time off to rest and be spiritually recharged in God’s presence.The concept of biblical shalom, or peace, is all-encompassing. It includes inner wholeness and tranquility. Such harmony is unattainable if we routinely ignore our spiritual and physical rest.Sabbath can be described as God’s “reset button” for us. Resting is central to wholeness because God uses his holy day to restore our shalom. Let us not forget about our spiritual and physical rest as we search for meaning and inner peace!Father, thank you for teaching us about the healthy patterns of work and spiritual rest. Help us to stop running so that we can take time for you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts . . . and lead me in the way everlasting. — Psalm 139:23-24Mikhail is a refugee. He lives in a strange land and struggles to learn a new language. He misses his old friends and tries to fit in. In an email Mikhail shared his prayers with us: “I pray that I don’t have to feel lonely anymore. I pray that I can make contributions to the world. I pray to be free from this anxiety and depression. I’m exhausted.”Most of us are not refugees. We don’t know what it’s like to be uprooted by military conflict or persecution. We don’t have to run for our lives. But many of us still know what anguish, anxiety, and loneliness are all about.In Psalm 139 we read about the God who searches for us and knows us. God’s love goes far beyond geographic distances, political borders, and human circumstances. God knows our needs perfectly and cares about us. He sends his Holy Spirit to comfort and guide us in our search for peace, even if we have to cross difficult and unfamiliar terrain.When we feel hurt, when our situation looks bleak, when we are haunted by dark, anxious thoughts, let us remember that we are not alone. Our loving and caring God is always near. He is able to help.Turn to him, seek his face, read his Word, and he will lead you in the way everlasting.Our searching and knowing God, please guide us as we seek to walk with you. Help us to be your faithful followers in good times and bad. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. — 1 John 1:9Dmitry, a media listener from Belarus, wrote to tell us, “It’s been very difficult for me to find inner peace. I have tried to be a good man, and I have read a lot of wisdom literature, but that hasn’t helped me. I’m still searching.”God originally designed us to live in close relationship with him, to rule over his creation, and to enjoy his all-embracing peace. However, Adam and Eve disobeyed their Creator when they ate the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3).It can be said that the human race lost its peace at that moment, known as the fall into sin. This brought about our separation from God and from ourselves, others, and God’s creation. It also left us with a sense of anguish, fear, and loneliness. And to this day we are all affected by that original sin.It’s good to be kind to people around us. It’s good to read books of wisdom. But, as the Bible tells us, we can find peace only if we confess our sins before the Lord. It would be a lie to claim that we are without sin. To regain our peace with God, we have to trust wholeheartedly in the saving power of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.Only Jesus can repair our relationship with God. Only he can grant peace and comfort to our wounded souls.Father, we confess our sins before you. Forgive us, restore us, and make us whole. Give us your precious peace, we pray. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. — Philippians 4:7If you follow the daily news, you know that bad news grabs most of the headlines. We hear about wars, disasters, crime, terrorism, economic troubles, and more. Our personal situation may also include bad news—family problems, health issues, more and higher bills to pay, and so on.What can we do in the midst of so much struggle? The potential negative outcomes can make us anxious, even to the point of becoming physically ill. It’s no wonder anxiety is one of the most common issues of our time.In Philippians, however, we find the promise of God’s peace, “which transcends all understanding.”The Hebrew word for peace, shalom, has a very rich and profound meaning. True biblical shalom conveys an inner sense of completeness, wholeness, and tranquility. It can describe not only an absence of war or conflict but also inward harmony with God, oneself, and one’s community. Shalom points to the flourishing of full life as God intends for us.For Paul, inner peace doesn’t come through relaxation techniques, denial, or the power of positive thinking. He fully trusts the Lord to protect him and grant him peace.Trust in the Lord to save you and fill you with life, and you don’t have to be anxious. You can thank God and share with him all of your troubles and anxieties. He hears and gives peace.Lord God, thank you for the good news of Jesus. Fill us with your amazing peace and deliver us from anxiety, we pray. Amen.
In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. — Psalm 4:8I remember that as a child I was often afraid of the sounds of aircraft flying at night. I was born and raised in Moscow, USSR, at the height of the Cold War. At that time, the sounds of jets flying high in the sky could mean that an enemy attack was near.Those were common fears back then. Many years later an American friend shared with me that he had a similar experience while growing up.Sadly, in today’s world fears of war are coming back to many of us. And, far worse, those fears have become very real and tragic experiences for people in war zones.War is terrible, and peace is precious. This month I’d like to invite you to reflect on peace. What does the Bible say about peace? Why do we need it so much? How can we find peace and keep it?In Psalm 4 we find a distressed psalmist calling out to the Lord at night. In this very personal prayer, as the writer seeks relief and mercy from God, he discovers that trusting God is the key to finding peace and happiness. Trust in God allows the psalmist to lie down and sleep, and to face the next day with hope and assurance.That’s the comfort we need. All kinds of fears can assault our minds and hearts. But if we trust in the Lord, we can dwell in safety, regardless of external circumstances.Lord, in this world of danger we trust you alone for our salvation and safety. Give us your peace so that we may face tomorrow boldly, protected by your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord, and humility comes before honor. — Proverbs 15:33Let’s close our reflections for this month by focusing again on wisdom. Here—about halfway through Proverbs—is a verse that summarizes much of what the book aims to teach.“Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord.” At the end of the day, who or what consumes most of your thinking? Who or what are you in awe of? What would you say is the most important thing in your life?We do well to check in with ourselves regularly and ask these questions. Because if something takes priority over the Lord in our lives, then we will find that everything else tumbles into disarray.Wisdom says that when the Lord is our greatest priority, everything else falls into proper alignment. When the Lord is our focus, we take on a posture of humility and worship rather than seeking to gain honor for ourselves. If reputation, financial success, being liked by everyone, or getting what we want is our greatest priority, then we will lack humility and won’t be able to mirror Jesus. We might speak about him, but we won’t live like him.So here is the crucial question: What is your greatest priority? Or what do you want your greatest priority to be?Wise and awesome God, you are so patient with us, even though we often fail to put you first. By your Spirit, grant us deeper wisdom so that we can serve you more faithfully. Amen.
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. — Proverbs 15:1Think about a time when someone made you angry. Maybe they cut you off in traffic. Perhaps they made a rude comment on social media. Or maybe someone made you feel stupid, and you were embarrassed in front of your peers. In any of these situations, it’s easy to fire back a defensive response.But if we act out in anger, we will only make the situation worse. Our sinful nature wants to get back at the person who has offended us, but that is not the peaceful approach Scripture calls us to.Our proverb for today points us to the way of Jesus, who told his disciples, “Learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:29). This is one of the few times Jesus actually listed attributes of himself. He is gentle and humble in heart.As Jesus also showed, there is a place for anger in situations where God is being mocked or injustice is being allowed (see Mark 11:15-17), but those moments are few and far between. And as Paul reminds us in Ephesians 4:26, “In your anger do not sin” (see also Psalm 4:4). That’s the way Jesus operates.The next time someone makes you angry, how might you respond with a gentle spirit?Lord, grant me humility and a gentle spirit so that I can show your love and wisdom to the people around me. Purge anger from me so that I can be like you. Amen.
Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning, and even among fools she lets herself be known. — Proverbs 14:33In this proverb Wisdom is characterized as someone who “reposes” or comes to rest in the hearts of people who are discerning.Don’t we all desire that Wisdom would come and rest in our hearts—that truth, grace, and goodness would take up residence within us and bring us peace?The beautiful reality of faith in Jesus Christ is that this has actually happened. Wisdom has come to live and reign in our hearts through God’s Holy Spirit.Paul asked the Corinthians, “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you?” (1 Corinthians 6:19, NRSV). The Holy Spirit lives within us, and it’s the Spirit who reveals all truth and wisdom to us, because his primary task is to help us live like Jesus. What a privilege!But let’s not become conceited about that. Proverbs 14:33 also notes that Wisdom lets herself be known “even among fools.” In other words, Wisdom wants to be known by everyone.Jesus’ desire too is that every heart should know him, that all people should know his saving grace and his compassion.How might you allow the Spirit of Wisdom to shine through you today? How might you allow others to see Jesus through you?Compassionate God, teach me to have a heart of wisdom—one that yearns to know you more and longs for others to know you as well. May your Spirit come and rest within me. Amen.
A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. — Proverbs 14:30It’s interesting that peace is contrasted with envy in this proverb. We usually think of peace as the opposite of war, strife, disunity, or conflict. Why would the writer contrast peace with envy?Envy means being deeply resentful toward someone because they have something that you dearly want. Maybe it’s wealth, a fine car, good looks, popularity, power, or some other advantage or privilege that you don’t have. Envy drives people to obsess over their great longing, sometimes even to the point of harming the person who has what they want, or destroying what the person has so that they can’t have it.A person who is consumed with envy has no peace in their heart. Their inner turmoil can affect their health and well-being so much that, as the proverb says, it “rots the bones.”As James 3:16-17 puts it, “Where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is . . . peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit. . . .”Full life is found in Jesus alone, who gives us “a heart at peace”—a heart that is content, at rest, and satisfied with whatever good things God has given us to steward and care for.Loving God, grant me a heart of peace that keeps me from longing for what I don’t have. Help me to serve you with the generous gifts you have given me. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
Even in laughter the heart may ache, and rejoicing may end in grief. — Proverbs 14:13In my personal Bible at home, I often mark up verses that I want to be able to find later. I highlight and underline, make notations in the margins, and write cross-references to other passages.Next to Proverbs 14:13 I have drawn a little star to note that this passage is special.“Even in laughter the heart may ache.” Have you ever had the experience of putting on a smile for others, and yet inside you had a deep well of emotions and grief? At social events you might even genuinely have a good time, but later, when you’re alone again, the grief and tears can all come flooding back.This proverb reminds me that we never know what someone might be going through, no matter how cheerful they may seem. Humans are very good at masking their emotions. But we can learn from the example set by Jesus.He wept on his way to the tomb of a dear friend (John 11:35). He was overwhelmed with grief and sorrow as he prepared to die for us (Matthew 26:38).Jesus’ acquaintance with grief gave him insight and empathy for others who were grieving. God is able to use us too in our times of brokenness to show others the love and care of Jesus.God of all comfort, only you know the deep aches we have in our hearts. Help us to be attuned to the griefs and hurts of others and to show your love and care, as Jesus would. Amen.
There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death. — Proverbs 14:12Many of us have had moments when we have looked back on a past decision and wondered, “How did I ever think that was a good idea?” Yet at the time, that decision or choice probably seemed right to us.There’s a reason why people say, “Hindsight is 20/20.” This means you can often see a situation more clearly (as with 20/20 vision) after it has passed and you have had time to learn from some of the choices you have made. Our own ability to see clearly in the present moment is limited. And what appears to be a right decision or right thinking in the moment can sometimes do more harm than good.Jesus warned his disciples that following him would not be easy or even look like a good idea at times. He spoke about the costs of being his disciple, but he also promised that his way leads to life. He said, “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it” (Matthew 7:13-14).In other words, there can be many ways that appear to be right (even religiously) and seem more attractive than the way of Jesus, but they will bring misery and destruction in the end.Is there a road in your life that might be taking you away from Jesus? What can you do about that?Lord and Savior, by the power of your Spirit, give me discernment and wisdom to know the way to follow you faithfully. Amen.
An unplowed field produces food for the poor, but injustice sweeps it away. — Proverbs 13:23In ancient Israel, the people were commanded to leave a share of the crops in their fields for the poor. Anything that was left over from harvesting was to be left for people who were less fortunate—foreigners, widows, and the fatherless (see Deuteronomy 24:19). This practice enters into the story of Ruth as well (see Ruth 2).The Israelites were commanded by God to follow rules like these so that justice would be a normal part of their daily living. They were called to steward their wealth in a way that always left room for helping people who were disadvantaged and who were therefore often poor and needy.Not many of us “live off the land” these days, but we can still find ways to save portions of our income and give material goods to people who are less fortunate. Maybe this could mean setting aside a portion of your groceries for a local food bank, or offering an empty room in your house to a child in need of care. The opportunities are many!How might you apply this principle to your own life and express kindness to people who are struggling today?Gracious God, you have given us the greatest treasure in Jesus, but we often fail to offer our earthly treasures to you in return. Grant us a heart of kindness and justice to help people who are less fortunate than we are. Amen.
Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up. — Proverbs 12:25Today there seems to be so much restlessness in people’s hearts and lives. People everywhere are stressed. Anxious. Quick to speak out their opinions. Finances are in question. Organizations are getting more complaints and anger from people than ever before.When we catch up on the daily news, it can be overwhelming to see how many issues and problems there are in the world. There are so many things that can cause anxiety.All of these difficulties and worries weigh down the heart. We may not always realize their impact, but the more we dwell on our anxieties, the less free we feel.When Jesus spoke about the worries of life, he assured his followers that their Father in heaven knew all about their needs and would take care of them. “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness,” Jesus said, “and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself” (Matthew 6:33-34). These kind words apply to us as well. They offer us the freedom to live by trusting God with our future so that we don’t get weighed down by anxiety.Is there a fear or anxiety that you might need to surrender to God today? When we surrender our worries to him, we become more able to share his love and kindness with others, which can truly move mountains for someone who is weighed down by anxiety.Loving God, free me from anxiety so that I can show the kindness and love of Jesus to others around me. Amen.
Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult. — Proverbs 12:16I’ve often thought that the old saying “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” is a bit ambitious. Harsh words, name-calling, and insults certainly do hurt, especially when they come from people we thought we could trust. It never feels good to be insulted, even by a stranger.So our instinct is often to stand up for ourselves and to push back on an insult. People shouldn’t treat us that way, we think—and in most cases they probably shouldn’t.But this Proverb points us in the opposite direction. Why? Why would it be foolish to react with annoyance right away, and prudent to overlook an insult? Wouldn’t that just enable people to keep hurting us and others?Let’s be clear: It is important that inappropriate and hurtful behavior is properly addressed. But this does not mean that the way to react is to fire back with the same kind of behavior.Remember Jesus, whom the prophets foretold would be “despised and rejected. . . . Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem” (Isaiah 53:3).Jesus was able to overlook hundreds—maybe even thousands—of insults, jeers, and rejections because he knew who he was, what he was called to do, and how much the Father loved him.Can we do the same?Father, help me to live in your love and to remember who I am in you, no matter what people say. Help me to find strength in you. Amen.
The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice. — Proverbs 12:15As children, we learn to ask for help if there’s something we aren’t sure about. We raise a hand in the classroom; we bring questions to adults who might have answers for us. We want to learn things, so we ask for help, information, and advice as we need it.For many of us, this tends to change as we grow older. We start believing that being independent and figuring things out on our own is most important. We become less inclined to ask for help or advice because we don’t want to seem weak.Oftentimes our own experience or expertise may be enough. And not all advice is good advice, as many of us learn along the way.But our verse from Proverbs today gives a helpful reminder that it is foolish to become wise in our own eyes, to believe that we always know what’s best, or to assume that our way is always right.Asking for advice or for help does not make us weak. It expands our ability to discern complicated situations. Often someone who is wiser or more experienced can see or understand the situation better than we can. And sometimes God puts people in our lives specifically for that reason.Jesus himself was not afraid to ask for advice or wisdom—particularly in prayer to his Father in heaven. Will we follow his example?Father, keep me from thinking I always know what is best. Give me the humility to ask you for wisdom and to seek advice from others who are wiser than I am. Amen.
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who is wise saves lives. — Proverbs 11:30The Giving Tree, a book by Shel Silverstein, tells a story of a boy who routinely comes back to his childhood tree with all of his problems. Each time he comes back, the tree finds a way to give more of itself so that it can help. By the end of the story there is only a stump left—and even then the tree offers to gives more of itself. In this story, it is clear that the tree is bearing the “fruit” of generosity, insight, wisdom, humility, and self-giving love.In Matthew 7:16-20, Jesus teaches his disciples that you can tell a tree by its fruit. A good tree bears good fruit, he says, and a bad tree bears bad fruit.Like the tree in Silverstein’s story, we can become sources of life for others when we bear the fruit of righteousness. When we are in right relationship with God through his Holy Spirit, we are deeply rooted and connected to the source of life, and we bear the fruit that reflects that life: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).When we bear this fruit, we possess a wisdom that is able to save the lives of others. We become a resource in which people find life, because through us they find Jesus.Faithful Father, help me to bear the fruit of righteousness. Grant me more of your Spirit so that I might show others the kind of fruit that points to you. Amen.
A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. — Proverbs 11:25Acts 20:35 notes that Jesus said, “It is better to give than to receive.” But why would he say this? Is it because being generous feels good? Is it because we feel appreciated when we give? Is it because “what goes around comes around”?Proverbs 11:25 says that those who are generous will prosper. And what does it mean to “prosper”? We tend to think of prosperity in financial terms, but that would be quite limiting. In the Bible, prosperity has a lot to do with well-being and flourishing, enjoying the fullness of life as God intends for us.Reading the second half of this verse is essential: “Whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” This is less about material gain than about soul care. It brings to mind Psalm 23, in which the Lord as our shepherd leads us “beside still waters” and restores or refreshes our soul.Our souls are refreshed through generosity because when we seek the prosperity, health, and wellness of others, we ourselves are refreshed by Jesus in the process. He blesses us with humility, joy, patience, kindness, goodness, and more. We become more like him who emptied himself for our sake.We give not so that we can get something in return. We give so that we can draw nearer to the heart of Christ.Generous God, you have shown us the perfect example of self-giving love and humility in Jesus. May we become more like him and find refreshment for our souls. Amen.
Hopes placed in mortals die with them; all the promise of their power comes to nothing. — Proverbs 11:7In a worship song from the early 2000s, singer/songwriter Brian Doerksen sings, “Jesus, hope of the nations/ Jesus, comfort for all who mourn/ You are the source of heaven’s hope on earth.”As believers in Christ, we recognize and worship Jesus as the true hope of the world, and yet it’s astounding how often we pin our hopes on human beings. In all of our history books, it is clear that people are inclined to find hope in leaders, politicians, and celebrities rather than in the one true God.Why do we do this? Proverbs warns that placing hope in humans is futile because any human power will come to nothing. As the apostle Paul tells us, “There is no authority except that which God has established” (Romans 13:1).By saying this, Paul is assuring believers that in all situations, even in the midst of national turmoils and global crises, God is the one who holds all authority. Any human who has “power” has it only because God allows it to be so.In other words, our hopes and desires must lie with the One who is on the throne of the universe. Our prayers must be oriented toward Christ, for he is truly the only hope—the one who can change minds, transform hearts, disperse powers, and bring restoration.Creator God, you made every living thing, and you hold all things together. Lord, bring restoration to this world that desperately needs your leadership and authority. Amen.
When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. — Proverbs 11:2In my journey toward a career I remember hearing friends and family say, “Your parents must be so proud!” Or after a major accomplishment or graduation, people would say, “You should be so proud of yourself!”While we may certainly feel good about our accomplishments, we need to be wary of putting too much emphasis on our own efforts. When I look back on my achievements, there’s never been a time when I was completely on my own. Whether it was the financial support of a family member or the loving and prayerful support of parents and friends, everything I’ve done has been a communal effort.The book of Proverbs reminds us that pridefulness is a dangerous road. And although it is entirely appropriate to be satisfied and grateful for our achievements, we must remember that we haven’t reached these places by ourselves.Christ shows us the better way. Philippians 2:6-8 tells us that Christ “did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather . . . he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”Jesus’ humility shows that even though he accomplished incredible things, he never gave the glory to himself. Whatever he achieved he did out of obedience to the Father and in service to others.Lord Jesus, help me to humble myself rather than being prideful. By your Spirit, empower me to be like you. Amen.
When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm forever. — Proverbs 10:25We all go through trials in life. They may be health trials, relationship trials, financial trials, or emotional trials, but all of our hardships and difficulties end up being spiritual trials as well.Where is God when it hurts? Why does God allow us to face the struggles and storms of life?Scripture never promises that we will be able to go through life without encountering storms and setbacks. There is no promise that life will be easy, or simple, or smooth sailing.Nevertheless, God promises to be with us always. Through the storms of life he will be our anchor. And the best way to test the strength of an anchor is to endure a storm.Jesus taught that whoever follows his teaching is “like a wise man who built his house on the rock” (Matthew 7:24-27): when a heavy storm came, the house did not fall; it was built on a solid foundation.Similarly, Proverbs calls us to build our lives on wisdom and righteousness—that is, having a right relationship with God. When we do that, we will be securely anchored and able to endure the storms of life.With God as our foundation, we can stand firm, trusting that our destiny is safe in his hands.Mighty God, guide and protect me through the storms of life. Help me to trust you in the midst of trials, and lead me to live in right relationship with you. Amen.
Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues. — Proverbs 10:19Today it seems as if the more words you say, the more powerful or popular you can be. Whether you’re on social media, in the daily news, in politics, or in a board meeting, the more you say (and the louder you say it), the more influence you seem to have.But what does God think of all our chatter?Scripture warns us that we need to be careful with our words and how we use them. In Matthew 6:7, Jesus encourages his followers to refrain from using many words in their prayers, as if that would make them more impressive to God. He says, “When you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.”How often do we think we will be heard—by God or by others—when we use many words to try to impress them? Do we try to prove ourselves by speaking quickly, dominating the conversation, and coming out on top?Proverbs 10:19 says that people who are prudent refrain from using too many words. They speak with discretion, wisdom, and discernment. They know that listening is more important than speaking. (See also James 1:19.)Jesus was thoughtful and discerning, and that should be our aim as well.Faithful God, thank you for loving us despite all our faults and failures. Forgive us if we think you’ll be impressed by our prayers, and help us to be prudent with our words. Amen.
Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray. — Proverbs 10:17In Luke 19 we read about a man named Zacchaeus who was a wealthy tax collector. In the Jewish society of that day, tax collectors were despised as traitors because they worked for the Roman Empire and took money away from their own people. They also grew rich because they could charge extra fees and keep that money for themselves.But one day Zacchaeus met Jesus, and the next thing he knew, Jesus was inviting himself to Zacchaeus’s home and inspiring him to be a better person. It’s a beautiful story of how transformation can happen through Jesus.We don’t know what Jesus was teaching to the crowds that day. And we don’t know much about what Jesus said to Zacchaeus. But other passages show clearly what Jesus taught about loving God and loving our neighbors, and something definitely stirred Zacchaeus’s heart to change. Whatever was said, Zacchaeus became open to receiving Jesus. And Zacchaeus decided to give half of his possessions to the poor and to pay back four times what he had cheated from anyone.Through Jesus’ teaching, Zacchaeus found the way to life. The Spirit of God convicted him of his sins against others, and he became open to correction and discipline. And by his actions he became an example to lead others.Faithful Father, thank you for loving me, even when I refuse your discipline and often think my way is better. Correct me and guide me so that I can show others the way to life. Amen.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. — Proverbs 9:10Both my husband and I grew up near a seacoast—he in Angola, Africa, and me in British Columbia, Canada. But we have very different responses to the ocean.My husband will take every opportunity to go into the water. He loves exploring, isn’t bothered by the salty feel or smell, and doesn’t seem to worry about strange creatures touching his feet.I, on the other hand, have a “reverent fear” of the ocean. I love watching the water, listening to the sounds of the waves, and delighting in the ocean smells. But I know the power of the ocean, and I remain fearfully in awe of that power.When I read this verse in Proverbs, I wonder if that’s the kind of fear the writer is describing. It isn’t that the Lord wants us to be afraid of him, but there is an awe and reverence necessary when we’re talking about the Creator God of the cosmos.Fearing God implies that we recognize his great and awesome power, and this allows us to grow in wisdom. If we underestimate God or trivialize his power, we won’t understand him at all. If we treat God as less than he is, are we really loving him?What is one way you can delight in God’s power and show reverence for him today?Mighty and powerful God, it’s amazing that you who created the heavens and the earth would care so deeply for me. Help me to grow in wisdom so that I can delight in you more. Amen.
I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice, bestowing a rich inheritance on those who love me. . . . — Proverbs 8:20-21When you think of the word inheritance, what comes to mind? Money? An estate? Someone you love passing away? A family member who has left all their belongings to you—whether you want them or not?God wants to give us a rich inheritance, which means he wants us to be part of his family. God has made it possible for us to be his sons and daughters so that we can receive an inheritance from him.How has God done this? Through Jesus. Jesus’ death paid our debt of sin, and his resurrection and ascension show that he is victorious over sin and death. And because of Christ’s victory God sends his Holy Spirit to us all so that we can be adopted as his children.Paul tells us in Romans 8:17, “Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ. . . .”All who believe in Christ are adopted children of God, heirs of our heavenly Father’s estate and his blessings. Just as a will indicates how someone’s wealth or belongings should be distributed, God promises that his children will share in his inheritance through Jesus. And that includes eternal life with him.So when you think of the word inheritance, what comes to mind? Do you think of Jesus and the promise of full life forever?Gracious and generous God, thank you for the promise that we will inherit the treasure of full life with you. Amen.
“You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, set your hearts on it.” — Proverbs 8:5The word prudence is not one we use or hear very often. But the book of Proverbs seems to enjoy using it, so perhaps it is worth reevaluating.Prudence can be defined as the ability to discipline yourself, to manage your affairs well, and to discern and have good judgment. We need prudence so that we can make good decisions and not act rashly or too quickly without first considering the costs or consequences.In Proverbs, Wisdom calls everyone to gain prudence. We should act with discernment, thinking carefully even if our intentions are good. For example, it can be good to give money for important causes, but we should first pray and discern how and where to give it so that we can be sure our gifts are distributed well.Jesus encouraged his disciples to have prudence. In Luke 14:28, for example, he says that if you want to build a tower, “won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?”In a similar way, Jesus wants us to assess the cost of being his disciple. We need to consider his words and discern his ways so that we can confidently follow his example and set our hearts on him.How might Jesus be calling you to seek prudence today?Jesus, as your Spirit gives me wisdom to know you more fully, give me prudence to love you more deeply and follow you with greater intention. Amen.
Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. — Proverbs 4:25-26Regret is something that everyone struggles with. Depending on the situation or circumstances, the emotions of regret can linger for months or even years before one is able to refocus.Many of us are inclined to look back on what could have been or should have been. People can also tend to look behind them to “the good ol’ days,” when life may have seemed sweeter, simpler, and less frantic.But whatever might cause us to fixate on the past, Proverbs encourages us to look ahead. This is not because it’s bad or inappropriate to look back. We can learn a lot from our past mistakes, trauma, or the good times we enjoyed. However, Scripture calls us not to linger in the past but rather to glean from it (however long that takes) and then look ahead.The writer of Hebrews puts it this way: “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith” (Hebrews 12:1-2).Set your gaze on the road before you and follow Jesus steadfastly. Let him be the focal point of your pathway in life. Run the race knowing that his Spirit is running with you and that he is ahead of you, waiting at the finish line.“Guide me, O my great Redeemer, pilgrim through this barren land. I am weak, but you are mighty; hold me with your powerful hand.” Help me, Jesus, to fix my gaze on you. Amen.
By wisdom the Lord laid the earth’s foundations, by understanding he set the heavens in place. . . . — Proverbs 3:19Setting a foundation for anything can be a difficult and sometimes complicated task. Whether it’s constructing a house, engineering a bridge, laying down pavement for a new road, or installing a retaining wall, the foundation is essential to whatever is being made.Proverbs tells us that the Lord God, our Creator, founded the heavens and the earth by wisdom and understanding. What exactly is the writer saying here?The New Testament gives us some clarity on this. Now that Jesus has come, the mysteries of God have been revealed. As the apostle Paul puts it in Colossians 1:16, “In him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth . . . all things have been created through him and for him.” The apostle John also notes that “in the beginning was the Word [Logos]” and that “through him all things were made.” What’s more, “the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us,” and he is “the Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:1-3, 14). So Christ himself is our source of heavenly wisdom, of knowledge and understanding from God. He is the foundation and the means by which we can grow.This means that if we are to pursue wisdom, we will find it in Jesus and no one else.Wise and awesome God, you created the world and each one of us; and, Lord Jesus, all things are created through you. Help us to find wisdom and understanding in you. Amen.
My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline . . . because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in. — Proverbs 3:11-12The Bible shows that one of the most common ways God interacts with us is by calling and treating us as his children.But what does it mean that “the Lord disciplines those he loves”? When we think about discipline, we may be reminded of harsh words, consequences, and punishment for bad behavior. Parents sometimes discipline their children in those ways, but does God do that with us?The writer of Hebrews sheds some light on this. Hebrews 12 quotes these verses from Proverbs and encourages listeners to “endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children” (Hebrews 12:7). The writer even says we are not legitimate sons and daughters of God if we are not disciplined by him.But what does this discipline look like? Hardship. God most often disciplines his children by allowing them to endure hardship, difficulties, and trials. So “discipline” is less about giving consequences for bad behavior and more about shaping and forming us to depend on God fully and to trust him completely.Think about Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). That was a trial sent by the Father to “discipline” his Son—showing that he could depend on and fully trust the Father. How might your heavenly Father be disciplining you today?Loving Father, thank you for adopting us as your children. Guide us to endure trials, and strengthen us to trust and depend on you in all situations. Amen.
Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones. — Proverbs 3:7-8We tend to believe that we will be the most happy—physically and spiritually—when we have everything under control. We want a wisdom that tells us how successful we will be, how much money we’ll make, where we’ll be in five or ten years, and what our retirement will look like.When everything feels controlled, we feel happy and content. So we try to do whatever we can to control our circumstances, or else stress will overwhelm us, and our mental and physical health will suffer.These verses in Proverbs teach us otherwise. Trying to be wise in our own eyes is actually not what is best for us. To help our bodies flourish, we need to surrender ourselves to the Lord. Gaining wisdom from God and seeking to be wise in God’s eyes will bring health to our bodies. The book of James instructs us this way: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously . . . and it will be given to you” (James 1:5).God wants to give us his wisdom because he knows it will enable us to flourish. In his love for us, God knows that this true wisdom will release us from worry and allow us to surrender our lives to him—that we may live fully, as he intends for us.God of all wisdom, help me to be wise in your eyes. By your Holy Spirit, keep me from seeking control and running after worldly ideas about wisdom so that I can focus my attention on you. Amen.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. . . . — Proverbs 3:5The other day, my niece gave me a little card that she had made in school, and on the cover it said, “I love you with all my heart.”Since ancient times our heart has been associated with our emotions, even though it isn’t actually the source of our feelings. The Bible often uses “heart” to refer to the central place of one’s being—where one’s whole mind, soul, and spirit operate. So the heart was what guided a person to make sense of the world, and it was where one’s emotions flowed from.What does it mean, then, to “trust in the Lord with all your heart”? This means that you can put your trust in God with absolutely everything you’ve got—your emotions, your understanding, your strength, your intelligence, your whole personhood.In other words, “Trust in the Lord with your entire being.” Don’t let any piece of you fall away or fail to depend and rely on the God who created you.Lean on the Lord, because he knows how to make your paths straight.Loving Father, help me today to submit my whole self into your hands. Guide me along the way I should go, and help me to lean on your wisdom and understanding. Amen.
Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. — Proverbs 3:3I remember hearing a popular Christian speaker ask his audience if their lives would look any different if they had “Christian” tattooed on their foreheads.Similarly, what if you had a scarf around your neck that had “Love” and “Faithfulness” written on it? Or a T-shirt with those words on it? Would it change anything about the way you lived?Scripture does not shy away from urging us to keep the commands of God in focus. Moses taught the Israelites, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart . . . soul and . . . strength. These commandments . . . are to be on your hearts. . . . Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates” (Deuteronomy 6:5-9).Humans are incredibly forgetful, and the Spirit knows how often we neglect to focus our hearts and minds on the Lord. We often seek the wisdom of the world before we seek the wisdom of God.Galatians 5 lists love and faithfulness with the fruit of the Spirit, who calls us to live like Jesus. Jesus always showed these characteristics. As we engrave love and faithfulness on our hearts, we will grow more open to being led by the Spirit before being led by anything else.What might help you today as a symbol or reminder of God’s love and faithfulness?Spirit of God, guide me to write your virtues and your will on my heart, that I may follow Jesus. Amen.
If you call out for insight . . . and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. — Proverbs 2:3-5In every life stage we learn to ask questions and seek understanding in order to be “successful.” In school we ask questions when we don’t understand. At work we gain experience and learn to do our jobs well. To own a home, we figure out how mortgages and interest rates affect our finances.It seems intuitive to seek wisdom in every area of our lives, and yet we often ignore the wisdom of God. Maybe that’s why Proverbs includes lots of phrases like the ones in our reading for today. We are called to actively search for insight and wisdom from God so that we can know the Lord.Jesus encouraged us in a similar way: “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field” (Matthew 13:44).Scripture urges us to make the knowledge of God the most important knowledge that we can gain—more important than any other type of insight or wisdom. The knowledge of God and his wisdom helps us see everything else more clearly. By the wisdom of God, we have greater wisdom and insight to do our tasks here on earth with a kingdom focus.How might you need God’s wisdom in your life today?God of all wisdom, inspire me by your Spirit to search for wisdom from you. Guide me to long for your insight so that I may know and love you more fully. Amen.
“Repent at my rebuke! Then I will pour out my thoughts to you. I will make known to you my teachings.” — Proverbs 1:23Not many of us like to hear the word repent, because it tends to have negative connotations. But here in Proverbs, when the voice of wisdom cries out that everyone should “repent” at her rebuke, it’s for the sake of offering them a great gift.Here Wisdom is pictured as a person who wants to “pour out” her thoughts and make known her teachings. “Repent,” she is saying, “so that I can give you more of myself.” A more literal translation of the text here says, “I will pour out my spirit on you. . . .”In some other Bible passages, God speaks the same words through his prophets, promising to make known his thoughts and mysteries. Perhaps the best known of those passages is Acts 2:17, where the apostle Peter declares, “‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams’” (see also Joel 2:28).God has always desired to give us more of himself, to encourage us toward a humble and contrite posture so that we can receive him. And Jesus, who is fully God, became human, just like us, so that we can receive God’s wisdom and have new, full life. We cannot receive his thoughts and teachings (and become more like him) if we have not opened ourselves to recognize that we need his help.Lord, help me today to hear your voice of wisdom. Encourage me to come with an open, contrite heart to receive your Spirit. Amen.
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. — Ephesians 4:32In a world that has felt upside down for a while, it has become easy to get grumpy and less patient with others. Feelings of bitterness and unforgiveness have marked people’s behaviors, and when we read the news, we shake our heads wondering.The words of Paul in Ephesians 4 strike a chord with us. He knew and experienced the same kinds of behaviors in the early church. His words challenge us to live fully into who God has called us to be. God has given us every gift through Jesus so that we can walk in a manner worthy of our calling. As Paul instructs us in this chapter to be tenderhearted, forgiving, and kind, he emphasizes that we must keep on living this way.Kindness and compassion go hand in hand. We are called to be aware of others around us and how we might encourage and help. Think of all the good we can do if we simply imagine, “How can I add value to someone else’s life today?” It’s about relationships, and our relationship with God is the most important one in life.As we imitate Christ, we learn that kindness is not optional for believers. It is a call to obedience. When we live fully in kindness to one another, we are saying thank-you to God.Dear God, thank you for your example in how you have treated us with great mercy and kindness. Help us to model your gracious kindness to others. Forgive us when we fall short, and remind us to try again. Amen.
Always [give] thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. — Ephesians 5:20This passage of Scripture gives us a moment to think about using our time well.Have you figured out the best way to use your time?Lots of books, articles, podcasts, and videos have been produced to share the latest and greatest tips on how best to use the time we have in our lives. Some of the ideas are great for building relationships, caring for others, getting an education, working efficiently, and even planning for retirement. As we grow older, many of us realize that we have wasted some time along the way, and we may have regrets about that.We cannot gain back the hours we have spent, but, in the power of God’s Spirit, as we seek to change how we live, we can make the most of the time ahead of us. How we spend our time—with God and with others—matters.How are we spending our time each day? There’s a cartoon that quips, “We only live once,” and the comeback line says, “We only die once; we live every day.” What matters is how we live every day.Will our lives reflect the majesty of Jesus, or lost time? Paul urges us, “Don’t waste the time that you have.” Aim to live with no regrets. Live fully with the life you have been given in Christ.Dear God, forgive us for the times that we have spent ignoring you and selfishly focusing on what is not important. Help us to use our time wisely, honoring you. Thank you for your grace. Amen.
“Shout aloud and sing for joy, people of Zion, for great is the Holy One of Israel among you.” — Isaiah 12:6It was a cold and sunny day in January—perfect for sledding down icy hills. Our church community gathered for a fun afternoon on the slopes and planned to meet afterward at the church for chili and hot chocolate.Unfortunately, our 11-year-old son decided to go off a ramp with his racer, and he flew off the sled as it proceeded down the hill. He, on the other hand, came to an abrupt stop, face-planted on the hard ground. He lay there longer than he should have, and when others went over to help, they found he had lost feeling below his chest.After he was brought by ambulance to the hospital with a diagnosis of a broken neck, the mood of the day changed. We spent hours waiting through X-rays and tests and talk of surgery. A prayer chain started up across the city.After six hours the doctors were baffled and were ready to start the tests over again. At that moment, our son declared that he would play ball again. He was an avid basketball player. When we asked how he knew, he said he could feel God present with him and healing him.As he walked out of the hospital that night, the doctors could only attribute his recovery to a miracle. We agreed.Dear God, thank you for the moments when you show your presence to us. May we always look for your hand to care for us, even doing the unexpected. Amen.
This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. — 1 John 4:13A fun memory on my Facebook page includes videos of my grandsons watering the roses in our backyard. The boys have intent looks on their faces as they hold the hose carefully and walk along the line of rosebushes. They water the roses well and enjoy doing this, but then something changes as they realize that what they have in their hand is useful for more than just watering roses. That is usually when you hear a loud noise on the video because my husband is getting watered instead. And there is laughter and delight all around.Reflecting on those moments, I realize there is space in the garden for nurturing and giving. The gift of life is all around. When we discover God’s love for us and the gift of the Spirit he has given us, we can stop to reflect and be grateful. In that moment we know God loves us. It is the moment we surrender to his leadership and call. It is the moment we discover we have more in our hands and hearts than we have imagined.Today is a day to turn what we know into action. Today is a day to join God where he is and to share his love and grace with others. Today is a day to bring delight and joy to God and others as we make use of the gifts and resources we have been given.Father, thank you for giving us your Spirit. Thank you for nourishing us and calling us to live each day in your presence and love. Help us to use the gifts you have given, sharing with others as we answer your call. Amen.
Who is like the Lord our God, the One who sits enthroned on high . . . ? — Psalm 113:5When I pray with people, I often like to give them words of encouragement in the form of a challenge. For example, I’ll invite them to begin each morning with praise as the first activity of the day. Like the psalmist, they can shout a hallelujah to recognize who God is.This psalm was often sung just before people took up the first cup of wine at the Passover meal. They were remembering the goodness and faithfulness of God to the people of Israel.Saying “Praise the Lord” (Hebrew: “Hallelujah”) is also the perfect way for us to start the day, remembering the goodness and faithfulness of God. It helps to set the tone for the day, and it puts our attitude in the right place. It also reminds us that God is bigger than our circumstances and that no one else is like the Lord our God.We can also sing God’s praises before going to sleep at the end of the day. When we praise someone, it means we know something significant about that person and what they have done. The more we experience the fullness of God in our lives, the easier our praise of God will be.As we practice, morning and evening, to praise God’s name, we are reminded that we have a heavenly Father and a friend who is always with us and provides everything we need.Dear God, from the rising of the sun to its setting, may your name be praised. Help us to experience your love daily, and as we give you thanks, may we shout “Hallelujah!” Amen.
You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. — 1 Thessalonians 1:6My three-year-old granddaughter is full of life and joy. Every time she runs into our house or I walk into theirs, she shouts, “Grandma, my ‘mini me’!” She is thrilled as she shouts the good news. No one can miss it. I have often suggested that she might be my “mini me” (since she is a lot like me), but she insists that I am her “mini me.” We share mannerisms and a flare for shopping, and we both tend to be optimistic. We have serious discussions about life, giggle about nothing, and enjoy afternoon naps.Paul commends the church at Thessalonica that they have stayed strong in faith by following his example and that of other leaders—and ultimately by following Jesus, despite the hardship and suffering in their life. They have set an example of how to serve and live by the Spirit with joy. They have learned to access all the empowerment and energy they need in order to live through the Spirit.Whoever we are, on any given day we are following someone or leading someone. Our challenge is to follow those who imitate Jesus and to lead those who need to know him.Lord and God, help us to imitate you. May we live by the joy you have given us. May we be empowered by your Spirit. May someone see you in us today. Amen.
Continue to live your lives in [Christ Jesus], rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. — Colossians 2:6-7At this time of year, the apple trees in our yard are barren and seemingly have no life in them. They stand frozen, offering little more than a bit of shelter for the birds that land on their branches. I think ahead to when the first pink blossoms will appear in spring—and the fruit that will follow. It’s wonderful, though, that even as I pass judgment on the trees in winter, there is still life inside.Maybe you have read (or heard of) the book by Brother Lawrence called The Practice of the Presence of God. Don’t let the size of the book fool you. Though small in its number of pages, it is rich in wisdom.Brother Lawrence, a friar who is one of my heroes, came to realize that wherever he was, it was a good place to connect with God, for God is everywhere. Because of God’s presence, even places where Lawrence had felt empty and worthless became rich with a sense of belonging. His place in the monastery where he lived was the kitchen. There he learned to cook meals, do dishes, and run errands with God. What seemed a lowly position to others became a retreat and a haven of relationship with God. The kitchen became Lawrence’s sanctuary, where he worshiped in spirit and in truth.Where is your sanctuary?Dear God, remind us that you are with us everywhere and are worthy of our worship. Thank you for including us in your plans for the day. Amen.
It is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us. . . . — 2 Corinthians 1:21I have a wooden “Christmas” tree that stays up all year in my living room. After the Christmas season, because it is a flat tree with shelves, it is my tree of wisdom, and on each shelf there is a sign with an inspiring, clever saying on it. For example, “Sing like no one is listening”; “Dance like no one is watching”; “Love like you have never been hurt before”; “Live like heaven begins tomorrow”; “We do second chances”; and “Today I need a little bit of coffee and a whole lot of Jesus.”My favorite chair sits beside the tree, and when people enter my house, they usually notice the tree and comment on it. The signs remind me to smile or pray or appreciate something about our life, our story, and our family.I am thankful that 2 Corinthians reminds us of who God is. God’s promises are sealed with the “Yes” of his love for us in Jesus. God’s “Amen” (“So be it”) is to his glory. He has affirmed us as his own, and through the Holy Spirit he has given us full, new life. There is no waffling on God’s part. God’s “Yes” is always “Yes.”Let this be a “Wow!” thought for your day. God is completing in you what he started.Dear God, thank you for equipping us to stand firm. Thank you for working in us so that your glory can be seen. Thank you for the “Wow!” factors in your promises. Amen.
Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. — Philippians 4:9Many years ago I read an incredible book called Hey God by Frank Foglio. The back cover gives this description: “Mama Foglio, her cantankerous husband, and ten rambunctious kids were poor. In fact, they were so poor that the poor people called them poor. Then one day the Lord burst into their lives, in the form of another, equally poor, equally large and tumultuous Italian–American family that stormed into their home and evangelized them mano a mano.” The book shows how Mama Foglio began to understand the riches of her spiritual Father and to rely on them. It is a powerful witness of what happens when we hand our anxiety over to God and begin to pray.There are times when anxiety or fear can be paralyzing, and even though we know that to be true, we still go down that path. I love it that Paul, from a prison cell, reminds us to stay focused on the Lord and “rejoice always.” He reminds us that conversation with God is important. He reminds us that we are a witness to others when we learn to lean on God rather than our anxieties. He also reminds us to remind ourselves of what is true: God’s provision is always ours.As we change our thinking, we remember that through Jesus we have full access to the Father, who hears all our requests and gives us all that we need. And we inherit his peace, which “transcends all understanding.”Lord, we rejoice that you are always with us. Thank you for peace and for all the riches you give us. Amen.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. . . . — Proverbs 3:5For years my husband and I have planned what we call a “$15 million day”—although it might need to be adjusted for inflation. At the beginning of the day, we bank $15 million in an imaginary account, and we set off on a day of reflection. We look back on the past several months, and we look forward. For some people, the beginning of a new year is something like that. We ask questions about what we might have done differently, and what we would like to do—especially if we actually had loads of money. We dream big and imagine far.Then we also ask, If money is the only thing stopping us from our dreams, why is that? Is there something we need to adjust in our reflections? Are we trusting God with our plans? Have we even invited God into our planning? Have we made room to ask what we are trusting God for and whether our dreams connect with the full life he promises us?When we ask these kinds of questions, we realize that what God wants to share with us is enough. This means that even when things don’t make sense to us, we can rely on God’s promises. It also means we are not in this alone. God is always with us, and God is enough.God, please help us to trust in you. Help us to stop trying to figure life out on our own and to ask you for help. Thank you for guiding our steps along the path to full life. Thank you for walking with us today. Amen.
You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. — Psalm 16:11She was young and pregnant and out of options. When she arrived at the home for single moms, she was not thrilled and wanted to take on the world alone. Or at least that is what she said. Beneath the façade was someone who longed for a family, a house with a yard for kids to play in, and a husband who would love her. She wanted happiness. She wanted all that the movies told her was possible.When that story wasn’t working out the way she expected, she discovered something different. She learned that Jesus loved her and that his plan for her was different from what she had thought. She started to listen and change, and she discovered there was a difference between happiness and joy. She began to realize, as she let God lead her, that he was giving her joy. The Lord’s steadfast care and strength would get her through the days of being a single mom. It became the foundation that her new family would build on.This is true for all of us. The more we head in the direction of faith with our eyes and heart open, asking God to guide us, the more we find joy in the Lord’s steadfast care and strength. We find encouragement to live into our real life today and to set fairytale dreams aside.Father, thank you for showing us the path of life and filling us with joy. Help us to pay attention and be teachable so that we can enjoy each day with you. Amen.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. — Psalm 23:5On our front lawn sits a turquoise picnic table. Behind it is a fence painted with a mural. When the weather turns warm, we use this table to invite our neighbors for coffee chats, street parties, and other fun events. During the winter, we decorate it with snow figures sitting at the table enjoying a meal. The picnic table is a sign of hospitality to our neighborhood. The invitation to come and be part of the gathering is intentional.Psalm 23 is about intentional care and hospitality. It describes the important work of a faithful shepherd for his flock of sheep. Without a shepherd, the sheep would be hopelessly lost and afflicted by disease or predators. This psalm helps us see how the Lord is our shepherd and we are his sheep.The mention of a table takes the relationship with God even deeper. The Lord prepares a banquet for us. Our host makes sure that everything is taken care of. When we sit at the table, we acknowledge that we can trust our host to sustain us with all he has provided. Full plates give us all we need while God protects us from the enemies around us.The picnic table at our home is intended to refresh people’s spirits and give them a smile. May your heart be refreshed and encouraged as the Lord, your shepherd, prepares a table for you today.Dear God, thank you for preparing a table for us. Thank you for refreshing us and giving us everything we need to live through the battles of this day. Amen.
You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. — 2 Timothy 2:1An old saying about mentoring and apprenticeships goes something like this: “I do, you watch; I do, you help; You do, I help; You do, I watch.”Jesus trained his disciples in a way like this, and they passed along to others what they learned from him. An apprentice commits to learning from a master and then becomes experienced and able to teach others.In our Scripture reading for today, Paul urges Timothy to remember his training and to pass it along to reliable people who can teach others. By his grace, God wants to be in relationship with us in Christ, to fill us with his Holy Spirit, and to show us how to live fully so that we share all this with others. God wants us to be his apprentices.A powerful image in The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis illustrates this well. This unusual book is written from the perspective of a demon (or devil) who is attempting to explain God’s great plan for humankind: “One must face the fact that all the talk about [God’s] love for men, and His service being perfect freedom, is not (as one would gladly believe) mere propaganda, but an appalling truth. [God] really does want to fill the universe with a lot of loathsome little replicas of Himself—creatures whose life, on its miniature scale, will be qualitatively like His own . . . because their wills freely conform to His.”Dear Jesus, thank you for modeling what it means to truly live. Make us the apprentices you need, that we may share with others the way to full life with you. Amen.
We . . . ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all . . . wisdom and understanding. . . . — Colossians 1:9Is there a car or truck you would love to own but probably can’t, for one reason or another? Some years ago, I thought it would be wonderful to have a Hummer H3. It wasn’t practical or fuel efficient, of course, but I was intrigued by it. I talked about it a lot, saying that if I was independently wealthy and not creation conscious, I would probably own one. Whenever I saw an H3 on the road, I would dream.Then one day a generous friend who owned a dealership treated me with a chance to drive an H3. He knew it had been a rough week for me, and when I came home that day an H3 sat in front of my house with a set of keys in it. He said, “No off-roading, but enjoy!” Wow! The experience was more than I had imagined. Parking was a little tricky, but just driving that vehicle was an amazing experience. It was no longer just an academic look at an H3.Paul wants us to realize that knowing about God is not the same as experiencing God and all of his fullness. This passage is a part of Scripture that I have prayed over my children and grandchildren. Like Paul, I want them to enjoy the full experience of all that God has given. God has offered each of us the chance to adventure with him, assuring us of the full life he has in store for us. Are you ready for a test drive?Dear God, thank you for loving us so much that you offer us life full and free. Help us to trust you enough to live into far more than just knowing about you. Amen.
Epaphras . . . sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured. — Colossians 4:12In my office is a picture of Jesus that depicts him as a child in Joseph’s carpenter shop. Joseph stands at his workbench while Jesus plays with a nail on the floor. As light shines in the window, the shadow cast over Jesus is in the shape of a cross. This painting continues to catch my attention whenever I walk into my office.Colossians 1 paints a huge picture of Jesus. He is indeed the fullness of God. Jesus has the authority to rule because all creation has been made through him. Most importantly, though, Jesus is as close as the air we breathe, and he has made it possible for the Holy Spirit to live in us. God calls each of us his own. All this and more gives us reason to worship. And to give thanks. And to share.Paul asks us in Colossians 4 not only to appreciate this news but also to use it as a springboard to pray for others. We do not pray in vain. We pray so that we may know God better, so that our faith may grow. We pray like Epaphras so that others may stand firm in the truth of the fullness of God.Paul knows that standing on this foundation of truth is worth everything. What are you standing on today?Spirit of God, live in us so that we may live with confidence and boldness and grow in faith. Help us to pray for others so that they too may experience full life in you. Amen.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. — Romans 15:13How long do you keep Christmas decorations up after the holiday? How long do gifts stay under the tree before you use them or tuck them into a drawer? One year I bought my mom a nice nightgown that I knew she would like. But I was really confused when I learned that she didn’t wear it. I asked her about it, and she said she was saving it for a special occasion. She said it was soft and comfortable and that she really liked it—so I assured her that it was good to use the gown and enjoy it right away.As I think about what we have been given by God, I wonder if we do something similar. For example, Paul points out some wonderful gifts from God in the blessing we read here today, and I wonder if we hear those words about joy and peace and then just tuck that thought away for some special day.God has gifted us with the ability to experience hope and peace through the power of the Holy Spirit. What’s more, we are given the ability to share this with others. So this isn’t just a gift to be treasured and kept hidden, or even shared only in the church. God is calling us to bring this good news to the world.May you experience hope and joy today—and share it with others!Dear God, forgive us when we only use or share the gifts you have given us on special occasions. Help us to enjoy your hope, peace, and joy every day so that we might share the good news everywhere. Amen.
For to me, to live is Christ. . . . — Philippians 1:21My husband and I often sit outside at night, looking at the stars and picking out constellations. When the moon is bright, he brings out his telescope, which gives us a different, more detailed look at the moon. It also gives us a renewed appreciation for our Creator.While Paul sat in prison writing to the Philippians, he knew he couldn’t change his circumstances, but what really mattered was the way he looked at his situation. Paul looked at his life through the lens, the perspective, that Jesus had given him.Paul challenged himself to consider how he could best be used. He could speak to the guards of the prison, sharing the good news of Jesus, and he knew that the way he lived out his faith would affect them.Sometimes, of course, he longed to go and be with the Lord in heaven, but he was determined to live his life to better the lives of others. Both through his writing and his attitude to the people around him, Paul wanted to honor Christ. Paul saw his life as a win-win. To stay here on earth meant more churches planted, more Christians encouraged, and more people finding Jesus. And to die would mean full life and peace with the Lord in heaven. Paul wanted to glorify God, “whether by life or by death.”Lord, help us to see how we might best help others come to know you. Give us courage in the midst of our days to share your story. As we serve you, may we see our lives as a win-win, for your sake. Amen.
Now all of us can come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us. — Ephesians 2:18 (NLT)Over the past 12 years while I have been a pastor in a newly planted church, one story I have heard again and again has come from new members. People who did not grow up in a church or who were rejected or bullied by church people in the past shared that as they were invited into our space, it was the first time they felt they belonged and were not judged. They learned that there was a place for them. It was the reason they stayed.I wonder how it felt for Gentiles, who had long been treated as outsiders, to be invited into God’s story of good news for all peoples. Paul reminds them in Ephesians that they are vital members of God’s family. God’s story of reconciliation is amazing. Jesus’ death on the cross for all sinners has broken down the hostility between all peoples. We are all equal at the cross. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross gave us one body, not many. It is the place where we lay down our differences and pick up God’s grace.Too often in the church we have divided over what is comfortable for us rather than what God offers. Today is a good day to meet your neighbor or anyone who needs to know that the good-news story includes them.God, thank you that we are no longer strangers but part of your family. Help us to be your one body together and to let the world know by our love for one another that we are connected to you. Amen.
This light within you produces only what is good and right and true. — Ephesians 5:9 (NLT)Many of us enjoy lots of freedoms in our everyday living. But sometimes we act as if we can do as we please. And we might even think we don’t have to be accountable to anyone or anything. But that can bring all kinds of hurts to others as well as ourselves.If we have faced hard times, we might also think that some people or some institutions owe us. Sometimes we can begin thinking that God owes us too. We figure that we have been good, or kind, or hardworking, or whatever, and that we deserve whatever we want. We think we can decide which rules apply and which ones don’t.Paul reminds us in Ephesians 5, however, that the sides are not even close to being even. Our very small contribution is nothing compared to Jesus’ sacrifice for us. We are encouraged to take hold of the truth of that sacrifice and to adjust our attitude and actions.Paul is reminding us that we are called to live in such a way that our lives will shine with the light of Christ. How we live is an expression of how much we understand all that God has offered us through his Son. The light of Christ in us is what produces what is good and right and true.Maybe the question is, How much do we owe him?God, thank you for all you have given us through Jesus. Help us to live in a way that pleases and honors you. May we glorify your name in all we do. Amen.
“Then you will know that I am . . . the Lord your God, and that there is no other. . . .” — Joel 2:27Sometimes God gives us clear signs of his work and presence in our lives. I often call them thin slices of heaven. They remind me of a breeze that suddenly blows through an open window and brings refreshment. There are times in our lives when God opens a window and gives encouragement, confirming exactly who he is.Years ago, as part of a Mothers Who Care group, I prayed with other moms for the students and teachers in the school my kids attended. Though our family moved to another location later, I knew we had planted seeds and could trust God with the results.Then, in another city 15 years later, as I worked in an outreach ministry at a local church, I met two of those former students in my group. Both had now started a relationship with Jesus. Both recognized me from the moms group from years earlier. We had prayed and expected Jesus to do great things, and he had worked in the lives of these young people. They embraced the love Jesus offered and were passing it along to others. As we embrace what God gives us and use it to bring the kingdom of God near to others, our lives also change.In what ways has God presented you a thin slice of heaven and shown that he is God?Thank you, God, for reminding us again that you are the Lord and you do great things. Help us to use the gifts you give us to share your love with others. In your name, Amen.
Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit . . . giving thanks to God the Father . . . in the name of . . . Jesus. . . . — Ephesians 5:18-20My niece’s family has faced serious trauma this year. Her husband passed away suddenly, leaving her with three young girls to care for. Six weeks later, her nine-year-old daughter was diagnosed with cancer, had surgery to remove it, and went through four months of chemotherapy. Then a few months later a second tumor was found. As I write this, she is in surgery to have it removed. As we wait for answers and as hundreds of people surround them with prayer and encouragement, we entrust them to the fullness of God’s love and care.And in the midst of this battle, I hear praise and worship from family members and others who surround them. This is similar to the praise and worship that Paul and Silas engaged in while sitting in a prison in Philippi. They had been beaten and jailed but did not give up. Their relationship and trust in God led them to share from the depths of God’s goodness and love even in the hardest of circumstances.Are you ready to share about the love and goodness of God, whatever life’s challenges may be? Are you ready to live into the plans God has for you? May you be filled with the fullness of God regardless of your circumstances.Lord, we may not like or understand the circumstances we are in, but please give us the strength to trust and honor you with our actions amid the challenges we face each day. In Jesus, Amen.
I pray . . . that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. — Ephesians 3:17-19I was online with a group of women who have been my prayer partners for over 20 years. Weekly we meet on Zoom and bring each other up to speed on concerns and needs to be prayed for.I was writing these devotions at that time, so I asked, “What does ‘the fullness of God’ mean to you?” As we pondered this together, we wondered what would change in our lives if we actually began each day by reminding ourselves that all of God’s resources and love and power are ours, regardless of what might unfold in our day. Would our foundation grow stronger and deeper, and would we respond to our world differently? Would we fall in love with Jesus at a new level of understanding, appreciating what his death and resurrection accomplished?One person responded that as she was preparing to lead a Bible study, she needed to think about what she wanted to say in a prayer. She said that as she asked God to give her the words, she immediately knew what she needed to say, and she began to write it down. She said that at that moment she was clearly aware of the presence of God through the Holy Spirit.I wonder if when we become aware of the presence of God, we are beginning to enjoy the fullness of relationship.Dear God, when we pray to you, move us to invite you in and to ask that we can become more aware of your nearness to us. Fill us today with your Spirit. Amen.
I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people. . . . — Ephesians 1:18My son-in-law wondered how we could spend so much on groceries. He compared our grocery bill as empty nesters to their grocery bill for a family of five, and he was puzzled. The next time they came to visit, I suggested that he watch the traffic flow of my grandchildren. Within minutes of arriving, the pantry door had been opened, and across the room the fridge door was also open. He smiled and shook his head.I love that my grandkids feel at home and that they know how to access foods they want and enjoy. They know that they have that privilege at Grandma’s house. And so do their parents as well as friends who show up.As Paul prays for the Ephesians, he knows this is the kind of information they need. They need spiritual knowledge and understanding as their hearts begin to fill with the great blessings Jesus has for them. When Jesus challenges his followers to join him in the work he is doing (John 14:12), he says they will do more than he has done as they learn how to access the power they are given.The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is offered to us. We need to understand how incredibly great our inheritance is. We need to open Scripture and find the amazing riches that are ours to use, just as my grandkids know how to open the pantry door.Lord, light up our hearts with your love and grace, that we may be filled with your fullness. Amen.
Put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground. . . . — Ephesians 6:13Over the years, I have purchased hockey equipment, soccer cleats, basketball shoes, baseball pants and hats, and more for my children growing up. I also learned that the longer they played a sport, the higher the costs of equipment went up. Our son outgrew his basketball shoes every six months as his feet continued to grow. Then, when he moved up from house league to competitive basketball, he asked for a new shoe that was popular but didn’t have ankle support. Against our better judgment, we bought a pair and soon realized as we iced his ankle that it wasn’t the best decision to buy those shoes. We should have bought the better equipment instead.Paul taught that if Christians want to be equipped for spiritual warfare, they need the best equipment. To live into the fullness of God in our lives, we need to understand each piece of equipment and how to use it.When I look at the armor Paul describes, I realize I am looking at a picture of Jesus. Jesus is the truth (belt of truth), and he is our righteousness and our peace (breastplate and shoes). The reason we have faith is through his faithfulness to us (shield of faith). And he is our salvation as well as the living Word (helmet and sword).If we are equipped with the full character and blessings of Christ, we have the full armor of God to help us stand.Lord, help me to learn from you and to be like you so that the armor you provide will help me live into the fullness of faith in you. Amen.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine. . . . — Ephesians 3:20My grandson, who is eight years old (going on 40), and my mother, who is age 91, share an incredible bond of friendship that is quite wonderful and unique. Over the years as they have spent time together, they have excitedly planned fun things to do. One of these occasions was a trip to the circus. Charlie got his tickets at school and couldn’t wait to get home to call and see if my mother was ready to go on their date. They arranged their limo ride (Grandpa), and with eyes wide with wonder they were thrilled to see the circus stars perform. The performance delivered more than they had imagined.Ephesians aims to do the same and much more for us. Through Jesus, God has provided new life and amazing possibilities for us, and our Lord is able to do more than we could ever imagine in our wildest dreams. He knows every detail of our lives, and he knows the best life for us to live.Today is a good day to sit and imagine with Jesus. Start with a Bible story you know, or read one that is new to you, and imagine what it was like to be there. What did God do? And what were the people around you doing?Now imagine what your story today could look like. Invite Jesus into your activities today and expect to have your imagination stretched.Dear God, we are thankful that your ways and thoughts are bigger than ours. Invite us into your plans today and help us imagine what is possible. Amen.
I pray that . . . he may strengthen you . . . so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. — Ephesians 3:16-17A mother and her two young children went to visit an older woman from their church. She greeted them warmly and invited them to sit at her table for refreshments. The children soon noticed a large jar of jelly beans at the center of the table. It was hard not to stare at the delightful treat when it was so close. The older woman smiled and said, “Would you like one?”Immediately both children nodded, and the little girl reached in ever so politely and took one jelly bean—red, her favorite color. She seemed pleased until she saw her brother reach into the jar and grab a handful of jelly beans. Then she wished she had done the same.In Ephesians the apostle Paul is asking us to imagine going deeper than the polite relationship we may tend to have with Jesus. Christ wants us to live fully. He wants us to be able to settle in and feel at home in our relationship with him. He wants us to know how much he loves and cares for us—and that will change how we live out our faith each day. He wants us to be grounded in the truth of his love so that we are not afraid to access all the power and strength he has for us.No matter what our circumstances are, Christ is always offering all of himself for us. Today is a good day to stretch our faith and our imagination to find all of the “flavors” Christ is offering.Dear God, give me the strength and courage to do more than sit politely with you. Fill my heart with your life and power to glorify you. Amen.
He made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ. . . . — Ephesians 1:9Have you ever tried tobogganing and been disappointed when it didn’t go smoothly? Maybe your sled didn’t go far or the hill wasn’t as steep as you thought it would be. Maybe you felt like giving up. But then maybe you got a new perspective and realized there might be other options. So you changed the sled, or lightened the load, or tried a different part of the hill. And soon you were gliding swiftly downhill with snow flying in your face. What fun!Looking at our Scripture for today, we might think it sounds heavy and plodding, or complicated, or even all-too-familiar, and we might be tempted to give up on it. But what if we just need a new perspective and realize we should try it again? Jesus wants us to know how much he cares for us, and he wants to offer us something that is far more than we can imagine.When we begin to understand how much he loves us and wants us in relationship with him, our perspective changes. We realize that life with him is not just a Sunday or church experience but an everyday adventure that takes us to new places in our faith. We begin to trust differently, to listen and discern differently, and ultimately to experience a new way to live each day. We begin to experience the fullness of God in our journey of faith.Dear God, help us to change our perspective on how we view you, and help us to realize how much you love us. Fill us with your joy today, and may we be strengthened in how we live out our faith story. Amen.
“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” — John 10:10We stood on the beach in Trinidad seven days after a tsunami-like event had hit. It was now quiet, but we were advised not to go into the water yet. Nearby stood a number of food huts, known for their traditional “bake and shark” dishes. The huts had been covered in water just days earlier, but as they were drying out, many of the vendors were beginning to open the windows and doors again. We were fascinated by their resilience and sense of hope. Even though they had faced tough days, there would soon be a new season of customers and sunshine and busyness.In a way, this reminded me of God’s great promises for us. Even before we felt the breath of new life, when we were still separated from God because of our sin, Jesus, through his love for us, gave us the hope of becoming fully alive. His sacrifice for us gives us the challenge of becoming fully alive in him.To be fully alive is to be aware that the life God calls us to is dripping with meaning (even if it doesn’t always feel that way). And we are called to work at living out that meaning in a deeper way every day.Dear God, help us not to live sterile lives but to be useful in your kingdom. Help us to blaze trails and shine forth with the light you have given us through your love. Help us to be fully alive in Christ Jesus. Amen.
He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will. . . . — Ephesians 1:5My daughter and son-in-law are in the process of choosing a therapy dog for one of our grandsons. They have been discussing and studying about which breed is best and which size is right. During this time, their other son has been helping to walk the neighbor’s dog to get a sense of how this addition to the family will work. The family is invested together to make a good choice.Even more important is understanding that God has decided that he wants us to join his family. Does it inspire you that God has been pleased to create us for fellowship with him? God knew that through the sacrifice of Jesus we would become sons and daughters of God. His plan for our lives is to include us in his story. It wasn’t enough that God created us and made us his imagebearers; he also loves us and wants to live in relationship with us.When our lives reflect the realization of all this, we display God’s glory and his love, and something changes in us. We carry ourselves with the knowledge that we belong and are part of God’s family.What does it mean to be part of this family? It means we are responsible for one another. Because of the love God has given us, we have the ability to live in unity together, sharing in the story that God has indeed chosen us.Thank you, Father, that you have created us and have chosen us. Help us to see what it means to be in your family and to treat others with the same love you have shown us. Amen.
For this reason I kneel before the Father. . . . — Ephesians 3:14A friend who is a chiropractor gave me some wonderful insight about attitude posture. He got it from an encounter with Dr. Plentz. Dr. Plentz said that when you stand in an upright position with your chest up and out, it not only improves your spinal-biomechanics and reduces stress on your disc joints, but it actually also improves your mood.Picture an Olympic diver, in position and ready to dive. They are standing in the posture that directly reflects their mindset.I think Paul is telling us something similar here in Ephesians. Our posture matters. It matters especially in our attitude of prayer. What is our mindset, and how are we positioned? Sometimes our posture in prayer may be about being on our knees, but even more important is the posture of our heart. When we submit our heart and our will to God in faith, we begin to understand our position in Christ. We know we have gone from death to life and are now seated with Christ in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6). This means we can walk in a way of life that pleases God. And because of that, we can stand firm against the evil one.As we align our spiritual mindset with our posture in prayer, we are ready to dive into the possibilities of life-giving conversation with God.God, thank you for the opportunity to be courageous as we bow to you in prayer, knowing that as we submit to you, we are stepping into all that you have for us. Amen.
In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ. . . . — Ephesians 3:4My two oldest grandsons are quite capable of eating an adult-size meal at a fast-food restaurant, but when they are at McDonalds, something changes. There is a choice they have to make: Should they order an adult meal or the smaller, kids’ “Happy Meal,” with its mystery toy inside? The draw of the mystery toy usually wins out. I love watching them open—or, I should say, tear into—the package to discover the mystery inside. Their patience is definitely stretched.The apostle Paul is introducing us to something like that in Ephesians. We are invited to open a mystery package and peer inside to discover what God is sharing with us. There is more for us to know, and the wonder and mystery being offered to all people points to a new season in the great story of God’s love for the world. God’s plan includes everyone. God’s inheritance is for all who believe.In this letter we discover that we are adopted, chosen, and called to serve shoulder to shoulder with all other followers of Jesus. We discover what it means to be saved by grace, and we are no longer strangers to God’s plan. As we reach in for more, we discover the joy of becoming fully alive in Christ.Lord and God, thank you for the truths laid out in your Word and for the amazing mystery you have revealed to us in Christ. Help us discover that all who believe in Jesus as Savior are part of your family and your inheritance. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
You are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. — 1 Corinthians 12:27Since he ascended to heaven, Jesus Christ is no longer with us on earth in the flesh. But the incarnation continues. Jesus is still human, and in his human body he is in heaven. But that’s not all. Jesus is still living and active here on the earth in human form, because the church is his body on earth. (The church is not a building but is made up of all of us humans who believe in him.)The Holy Spirit overshadowed Mary so that Jesus was conceived in her womb. The same Spirit filled Jesus at his baptism. The same Spirit was poured out on Jesus’ disciples on Pentecost. And the same Spirit lives in us, the church, to this day.Jesus breathed the Spirit onto his disciples, saying, “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” The church is sent, like Jesus, to announce and embody the kingdom of God.So the church speaks the truth in love—the truth about sin, judgment, and forgiveness. But that’s not all. The church also comes alongside people: to suffer with those who suffer, to weep with those who weep, to rejoice with those who rejoice, to visit those who are sick or in prison, to feed those who are hungry.When the church is faithful to its calling, Jesus himself becomes visible in our humanity. So the incarnation continues on earth until Jesus returns.Jesus, fill the church with your Spirit so that together we will reflect the kingdom of God. And may all praise be to you, with the Father and the Spirit. Amen!
Our lowly bodies . . . will be like his glorious body. — Philippians 3:21Throughout this month we have focused on the ordinary humanity of Jesus. The point is to take seriously what the Bible says: that Jesus was (and is) fully human, that he became like us in every way, except for sin.Like us, Jesus had muscle aches and headaches. Like us, Jesus needed food and sleep, and he could be hurt and wounded. Like us, Jesus suffered when loved ones died. And like us, Jesus had an appointment with death. So yes, Jesus was like us in every way in his humanity, which is a wonder.But here’s something else that is truly wonderful. When Jesus comes again, we will be like him in every way in our new humanity!The Bible doesn’t give us much to go on. But there is this much at least. To be human is to be in the image of God. But with us the image lost its shine. Until Jesus. Jesus is “the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15), “the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of God’s being” (Hebrews 1:3). Now, in his humanity, Jesus is a new creation. He is humanity perfected.And in the end, we will be like him. We won’t be divine. But we will be everything human beings are supposed to be. According to the Bible, that’s a pretty glorious thing.Jesus, we want to love what you love and do what you would have us do. Because, more than anything, we want to be like you. Amen.
I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. . . . — Revelation 21:2Heaven. The home of God and the angels. By God’s grace, we hope to go there when we die. But heaven is not where we belong. Earth is. And in the end, we will have resurrected bodies for a new life on the new earth. Because earth and bodies go together.For now, though, we go to heaven to be with Jesus when we die. We leave our bodies in the ground or maybe in ashes. And we go to heaven without them.With Jesus it is different, though. After Jesus died and rose again, he went to be with his Father in heaven—and he went there in his body. By his resurrection, Jesus began a new life in a resurrected body. And that’s how he went to heaven. He lifted up his hands to bless his disciples, and in the next moment he was lifted up to heaven—all of him.Think about that. A complete human being, in heaven, with arms and legs and all the rest. Apparently the resurrection body is suitable for life on earth and in heaven. That’s amazing, and it’s a good thing. Because in the end, heaven and earth will be united. And that’s where our new life will be, in resurrected bodies, with Jesus.Jesus, we’re in no hurry to die. But we can’t wait to be with you—not just in heaven but on a new earth. What a day that will be! Amen.
He showed them his hands and side. — John 20:20Christians believe in the resurrection of the body. In the end, we will live a new life in resurrected bodies as part of a new creation. Our bodies will be different from our original ones. But they will also have much in common with them.Believing in our own resurrection is based on the resurrection of Jesus. Resurrection begins with him. New life begins with him.Resurrection involves more than a dead person coming back to life. In resurrection a dead person begins a new kind of life. And it’s a new kind of life in the body. That’s the key point. The New Testament emphasizes that Jesus rose in his body. He is the same person who died. And now he lives a new life.After his resurrection, Jesus wants to assure his disciples that it’s him they see, and that he is the same person. So he holds out his hands and uncovers his side to reveal his wounds. Then they know it’s him. It’s the same Jesus, the one and only Jesus, who died to save the world.There are differences in Jesus’ body from before his death to after his resurrection. But it’s still him. He is still God in the flesh. And one day we will be like him.Jesus, you gave up so much to become human. And you have remained human ever since. How much you love us! Amen.
They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate it in their presence. — Luke 24:42-43On the first Easter, Mary Magdalene wept at the empty tomb of Jesus. She was beside herself with grief. Then suddenly, when she turned around, she saw Jesus standing there. But she didn’t recognize him. She guessed he was the gardener. Not a bad guess, considering where they were and what time of day it was. But when he spoke her name, then she could see. It was Jesus, still Jesus.Later that day, Jesus joined a pair of despondent disciples walking to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35). They had a long conversation with Jesus. But they didn’t recognize him, not even when he was teaching them from the Scriptures. But when he broke bread with them, then they could see. It was Jesus, still Jesus.Later that evening, Jesus also appeared to his disciples in a locked room (Luke 24:36-49). They weren’t sure it was him. Besides being able to suddenly appear and disappear, he seemed different. “Is this a ghost?” they wondered. But he wasn’t that different. He was still flesh and bones. “Touch me and see,” he said. And apparently he was hungry. So they gave him some fish to eat. Then they could see. It was Jesus, still Jesus.Sure, he was different. But he was still the same. Sure, he was different. But he was still human. And he still is.Jesus, when you rose from the dead, you didn’t cast your human nature aside. You may be different, but you are still like us. We can’t wait to be different like you. Amen.
On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus. . . . — Luke 2:21I hope you’re not squeamish, but today’s focus is circumcision, the cutting away of the foreskin. In North America, circumcision is fairly common. It’s usually done for medical reasons. But in the Bible, circumcision is performed as a sign of a special relationship with God.It begins with Abraham and the covenant that God makes with him. God promises to bless Abraham and to bless all the peoples of the world through him (Genesis 12:2-3). And there’s more: “Every male among you [in your household] who is eight days old must be circumcised” (Genesis 17:12). That’s what God expects from Abraham and his descendants.When the gospel writer Matthew tells the story of Jesus, he begins with Abraham. Because Jesus is a descendant of Abraham, Jesus is part of the covenant relationship that God made with Abraham. So Jesus is circumcised when he is eight days old.Here’s what it adds up to. Jesus is as human as any of us, human enough to have part of his flesh cut away. But he is not just any human from anywhere. He is a Jew, a descendant of Abraham. And that makes him part of the one human family through whom God will bless all other human families, including yours and mine.Jesus, Son of God, you are human, human enough to be marked in your flesh, human enough to be a son of Abraham, human enough to be the Savior of the world. We praise you. Amen.
She gave birth to her firstborn, a son. — Luke 2:7Oh, the wonder of it! The Holy Spirit overshadows the virgin Mary so that a holy child is conceived in her womb. For nine months the child develops in watery darkness to the soundtrack of Mary’s heartbeat and muffled voice. At last the time comes. The child emerges, takes urgent breaths, and cries aloud amid faces beaming with hospitality and love. Welcome to the world!Now let’s just take this in. Who doesn’t adore a sweet newborn? Bright eyes gazing around. Coos erupting after long months of silence. Arms and legs stretching out in new freedom.Think too of the helplessness and vulnerability of the sweet child. Then imagine that this little one is our great God. The Word has no vocabulary, the Almighty has no strength, the Wise One has no knowledge. The Lord of all is completely dependent on the comforting arms and nourishing care of mother Mary.It’s a wonder that God would become helpless in order to help us. But it’s not that merely an infant is helpless while we who are grown up have things in hand. In the big, wide world around us, we are pretty helpless too. And all our hope depends on the help of the helpless baby, whose birth we celebrate today.Jesus, you come into the world, and everything is changed—because you embraced helplessness to help the helpless. We praise you for your wonderful kindness. Amen.
She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger. . . . — Luke 2:7“Silent Night” is a favorite Christmas song for many people around the world. Its gentle melody suggests a “heavenly peace” in which “all is calm.”But our usual picture of Jesus’ birth is far from calm. Above the fields near Bethlehem, an angel army sings out, announcing the glory of God. Back in town, shepherds and wise men and sheep, cows, camels, and gifts are all crowded together in a stable. And somewhere in the midst of all that commotion is the baby Jesus.But hold on. The wise men don’t show up until later. So let’s take them out of the picture, along with their gifts. And there’s no mention of a stable—just a manger, a feeding trough. So there might not be animals there either.Now let’s back up to the first hour or two after Jesus’ birth. Commotion will come later, when the shepherds find “Mary and Joseph, and the baby . . . lying in the manger” (Luke 2:16). But for now, as lamplight flickers, all we can see is Mary and the baby and Joseph. Exhausted, Mary is fast asleep. Joseph might be able to rest too. Meanwhile, Mary’s snugly wrapped baby, content from his first feeding, sees light, shadow, and movement with his newborn eyes. Let’s stay right where we are, silent as night. And let’s take in the picture. The God of all creation is a newborn baby watching shadows sway.Jesus, on that night long ago you came to be “God with us,” one of us. Thank you! Amen.
They crucified two rebels with him, one on his right and one on his left. — Mark 15:27When we think of the glory of God, we probably have something like Isaiah 6 in mind. The prophet Isaiah had a vision of God in a heavenly temple, “high and exalted, seated on a throne.” Seraphim (fiery creatures with wings) were flying about, singing, “The whole earth is full of his glory.” And the temple trembled and shook (Isaiah 6:1-4).That’s glory. Glory is big. Glory is high. Glory is powerful. No doubt that’s what James and John have in mind when they ask to sit on either side of Jesus in his glory. They want the best seats in the house. They want to be where the action is. They want to be where power resides.They have no idea what they’re talking about. Because Jesus is on a long mission that will redefine glory. Glory will not describe an untouchable God so high up as to be invisible, except in a vision. No. Glory will now describe God in human flesh, lifted a few feet off the ground and nailed to a cross. Glory will now describe the God available to be touched, to be spat upon, to be mocked. This is what it means for God to be human. And this is how glory is redefined when God becomes a suffering servant.“We have seen his glory,” John says (John 1:14).Jesus, we praise you for your glory. It’s a glory that overturns our expectations. Thank you for setting them right-side up. Amen.
“A sword will pierce your own soul too.” — Luke 2:35We are wondering this month about the incarnation, about Jesus’ being divine and human. He is both, but sometimes we downplay his genuine humanity. Sometimes we imagine his divine nature overcoming the weaknesses and shortcomings of his flesh and blood. But that would make Jesus something other than human.I wonder what Mary thought about the genuine humanity of her son. When he was a cranky baby with teeth coming in, Mary would have comforted him. When he was a youngster with a skinned knee, Mary would have wiped away his tears and cleansed the wound. And when he focused on his mission and got too busy to eat, Mary worried and went with his brothers to find him. It seems they thought he might have gone out of his mind (Mark 3:20-21, 31). Hardest of all, when soldiers stripped him naked and flogged him, when they drove nails through his flesh and bone to pin him to a cross, when his closest friends abandoned him, when he cried out in anguish, and when a spear opened a gash in his side, Mary stood by helplessly. She saw every bit of it. And she felt it all in the depths of her being. As Simeon had warned her, a sword pierced her soul too. How human was Jesus? Human enough for his mother’s heart to break.Jesus, your mother loved you. She cared for you. She worried about you. She cried over you. How blessed you were to have your mother! Amen.
When Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. The earth shook, the rocks split. . . . — Matthew 27:50-51Elijah was on Mount Horeb when God said, “I am about to pass by.” Then a shattering wind started to blow. But God was not in the wind. Then the earth started to shake violently. But God was not in the earthquake. Then a fire started to blaze on the mountainside. But God was not in the fire. Then, with all this blazing, shaking, and shattering going on, God spoke in a whisper (or as the Hebrew text suggests, there was “a sound of sheer silence”—NRSV).God sent Jesus into a mad world, a world gone crazy. We know what that’s like. It was a world filled with noise and turbulence. Roman armies rattled their weapons of domination, while rebel groups raised their shouts for freedom. Religious factions argued their points of doctrine, while broken people lifted their cries of pain.In the midst of all this racket, God spoke quietly (silently?), sending us Jesus. He didn’t look like much. And in the world’s eyes he didn’t amount to much. Even so, his enemies and the Romans would orchestrate a spectacle to be rid of him. At the center of it all was a cross.The sun went dark that afternoon, until Jesus cried out with all the voice he had: “My God, why have you forsaken me?” And when he died, crying out again and giving up his spirit, the earth shook and the rocks split. Because God had spoken.Jesus, help us to listen for your voice, which calls us by name and leads us in the way of faithfulness. Amen.
The written notice of the charge against him read: the king of the jews. — Mark 15:26Jesus is a human being, like any of us. Yet Jesus is extraordinary too. Because Jesus is a king. Who of us can say that?When an angel announces the birth of Jesus, he is described as a king (Luke 1:32-33). When the Magi (wise men) journey to find Jesus, they are seeking a king (Matthew 2:2).But Jesus winds up not looking much like a king. Instead of faithful followers, he has a band of disciples who betray him, deny him, or just abandon him. Instead of having a loyal army, he is mocked, beaten, and spit on by enemy soldiers. Instead of gold and jewels, he wears a crown of thorns. And instead of sitting high on a throne, he is lifted up onto a cross.We might prefer to have Jesus be a superhero. Someone who stands tall. Someone who has extraordinary powers. Someone who can deflect any attack and defeat every enemy. Someone who never loses. That’s the kind of king we want!But the King we get is as vulnerable as any of us. The King we get dies like any of us, like all of us. This means our King is human, as human as any of us. And he’s just the King we need.King Jesus, open our eyes a bit more today. Help us to see the King you are so that we can know the King we need. Amen.
“I am God and not a man.” — Hosea 11:9There is a clear and great distinction between God, who is the Creator, and the creation, which is God’s handiwork. God is forever; creation is for a while. God is perfect; creation, at its best, is very good. Creation contains life; God is life.That great distinction gets blurred by the incarnation, when the Creator God takes on created flesh. For nine months, God takes shape in Mary’s womb. Then, over time, God the baby becomes God the man.Think about what this means. God stands on human legs and sees with human eyes. God thinks with a human brain, speaks with a human voice, and loves with a human heart. And at the end, God suffers blows and barbs in his human flesh, and he bears humiliation and shame in his human soul.A whip tears up Jesus’ back. Thorns pierce his brow. Slaps burn his face. Along with the thorny crown, a robe of royal purple completes the mocking picture of Jesus as a pathetic nobody, worthy only of pity.“Look at this guy!” Pilate says with scorn in his voice (John 19:4-5). Yes, look at him. Jesus is just a blur, about to be smudged out. He looks nothing like God and nothing like a king. And that’s the wonder of it. Because Jesus, the broken man, is God and King.Jesus, help us to see clearly who you are so that we can love you more fully and follow you more closely. Amen.
He made himself nothing. . . . — Philippians 2:7Every December we celebrate the birth of Jesus. So this month we’ve been wondering about the incarnation—how Jesus is human, as human as any of us.But Jesus is not just human. He is also God. As one of the church’s ancient creeds puts it, he is “true God from true God.”Does that put limitations on Jesus’ humanness? Does it put an asterisk next to his name? Is Jesus as human as any of us but not the same as any of us?Philippians 2 tells us that Jesus left behind the advantages of being God, that he made himself nothing, that he humbled himself by becoming human, and that he suffered a shameful death. It sounds like Jesus embraced his humanness completely.To be human is to be limited. Yes, we are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). And yes, we are crowned with glory and honor from God (Psalm 8:5). But we are limited beings. Ultimately, we are limited by death. Whatever our strength and skills, whatever our passions and dreams, death will claim us.Death claimed Jesus too. Jesus, who is eternal God, died. If he shared that ultimate human limitation with all of us, then maybe he shared the whole array of limitations that are part of being human. That’s worth wondering about.Jesus, our limitations frustrate us. Some of them even scare us. You know this because you experienced it, even the worst of it, for our sake. Thank you. Amen.
His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. — Matthew 17:2When Moses asked to see the glory of God, God said no. There was no way for anyone to see the glory of God’s face and to live through it. So Moses had to hide behind a rock until God passed by (Exodus 33:18-23).Jesus told his disciples, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father” (John 14:9). But he wasn’t talking about seeing the Father physically. He meant that his own words and actions, his own heart and spirit, were a reflection of the Father. All that anyone could see physically when looking at Jesus was his humanity. His divinity was hidden, in a sense, underneath his humanity.But one day, for a few moments on a mountain, Jesus’ appearance changed. His clothes became as bright as white light. And his face “shone like the sun.” His divine glory was shining from his body through his clothes. More than that, something like a veil was removed, so his face could be seen in all its glory. And of all people, Moses was there to see it.The glory of God was fully present in Jesus. So Moses finally saw the face he had wanted to see so many years before. And one day, because of Jesus, we too will see the face of God. How wonderful!Jesus, we want to know you, to love you, to follow you, to serve you, to see you. Open our hearts, our spirits, and our eyes to your presence. Amen.
God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. — Genesis 1:31Careful readers have noticed that God’s creation in Genesis 1 looks like a temple. A temple is a place where heaven and earth meet. So in Genesis 2-3, God comes to the creation-temple to interact with his creatures.Careful readers have also noticed that God’s temple in 1 Kings 6-7 looks like creation. God was present in the temple, and once a year the high priest could be there too (Leviticus 16).Sometimes people say that the creation was perfect, until sin messed things up. Well, sin did mess things up. It still does. But the creation was never perfect. It was just very good. There isn’t perfection until the end, until there is a new heaven and earth.In the new heaven and earth, there will be no temple (Revelation 21:22) because the new heaven and earth won’t intersect at just one place. Instead they will be united as one new reality. In this new reality, the home of God is with humanity. That’s how God wants things to be and has always wanted things to be—with heaven and earth united.The incarnation reflects this intention. Jesus himself is the new temple (John 2:19-21). Jesus himself is where heaven and earth meet. And in his person, God and humanity are united. That’s not just very good. It’s perfect.Holy Jesus, you have made it possible for God and humanity to live together. Even more, you have made it real. How perfect is that? Amen.
Jesus . . . was made lower than the angels for a little while. — Hebrews 2:9Nobody likes to downgrade. Balding men want more hair, not less. Techies want a faster computer, not a slower one. And we all want better relationships, not worse ones. But the eternal Son of God downgraded to the nothingness of being human (Philippians 2:7). Imagine that.There is glory and honor to being human. It’s about what God made us to be: wise rulers over all creation. Sadly, that glory and honor have been tarnished by our persistent rebellion against God.We are made in the image of God. This is a glorious thing, and it allows us to serve God in ways that no other creature can. But we let it go to our heads. We act as if we own the place. We use it and abuse it however we want. But the truth is, our world belongs to God.Jesus restores the shine to being human. Unlike the rest of us, he is no petty tyrant. Instead he came “to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). And he was “crowned with glory and honor” for doing so (Hebrews 2:9). In fact, God exalted him to the highest place in heaven. And from there he rules wisely over all creation (Philippians 2:9-11), as human beings are meant to do.Jesus, there are things about being human that we would gladly give up. But you have shown us how extraordinary we are meant to be. Help us to keep our eyes on you. Amen.
“Will you give me a drink?” — John 4:7John 4 tells about an encounter between Jesus and a Samaritan woman at a place called Jacob’s well. Through their conversation something of the glory of Jesus is revealed. It’s enough to convince the woman that Jesus is the Messiah. And more conversations convince many others that Jesus is the promised Savior. Extraordinary!Here’s how it starts. Jesus is bone tired. So he sits down by the well while his disciples go into town to buy food. He’s obviously hungry, but that will have to wait till the disciples return. Meanwhile, he’s thirsty. So when a woman comes to get water from the well, he asks her for a drink. That’s how their conversation begins.It’s all so ordinary and human. Of course Jesus is tired. Of course he’s hungry. Of course he’s thirsty. He’s human, after all—like us in every way, with the same basic needs that have to be satisfied every day.Jesus is not disguised as a human. He is fully human, just as he is fully God. And nothing about his humanity sets him above common human experiences—even ordinary ones like fatigue, hunger, and thirst. This will be true of him until the day he experiences the ultimate reality of being human: that we are vulnerable to suffering and death.Jesus, most of our lives are so ordinary. Most of your life must have been ordinary too. So you understand us completely and love us totally. And we thank you for that. Amen.
“Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” — Mark 4:41Superheroes have superpowers: X-ray vision, shapeshifting, mind control. Sometimes we think of Jesus as a superhero. He does seem to have superpowers: multiplying loaves, stilling storms, even raising the dead.Jesus also seems to have special knowledge: about Nathanael sitting under a fig tree (John 1:50), about a Samaritan woman’s relationships (John 4), about Peter’s upcoming denials (Mark 14:30). All of this is far beyond our abilities. So we figure that Jesus’ divine nature must poke through his human nature from time to time.But I wonder. Could it be that Jesus is able to do all of these things not because he is God but because he is a human being filled with the Holy Spirit?When Nathanael calls Jesus “the Son of God . . . the king of Israel,” he means Jesus is the Messiah. The Samaritan woman reaches the same conclusion. Messiah means “anointed one.” And the anointing is by the Holy Spirit of God. The same Spirit anointed prophets who multiplied food supplies and even raised the dead (1 Kings 17; 2 Kings 4).Jesus is not a superhero. He is a person, God and human, who has a full measure of the Holy Spirit empowering his mission. As he tells the people from his hometown: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me . . .” (Luke 4:18). That’s super enough.Jesus, we don’t need superheroes. We have you. You save us from evil powers and even from our own sin. Thank you. Amen.
“This is my Son, whom I love. . . .” — Matthew 3:17When Christians say Jesus is the Son of God, we mean that Jesus is God. But in the Bible, “Son of God” means something unique as well.In Psalm 2:7, God tells Israel’s king, “You are my son.” So “son of God” refers to Israel’s king. And when Luke gives a family history for Jesus, it goes all the way back to Adam, who is called “the son of God” (Luke 3:38). In the Bible, the human story starts with Adam. So “son of God” refers also to a foundational human being.When Jesus is baptized, the voice from heaven says, “This is my Son.” God could be making a theological statement, identifying Jesus too as God. But considering what’s ahead for Jesus, that he will be acclaimed and crucified as Israel’s king, could God also be identifying Jesus as king? And since Jesus is still dripping wet, with his clothes clinging to his body, might God also be identifying Jesus as a foundational human being, a new Adam, as a fresh start for humanity?God and king and human—maybe it all comes together at the river, with the sky torn open, the Spirit descending, and God claiming with pride, “My Son!” I wonder.Jesus, Son of God, there is more to you than we realize. You are many things all at once. And you are wonderful. Amen.
“Who made you ruler and judge over us?” — Exodus 2:14Moses grew up comfortably while his own people were slaves (Exodus 2). One day he tried to break up a fight between two of those slaves. And one of them said, “Who made you ruler and judge over us?” We might say, “That’s easy—God did. Moses was God’s appointed leader over Israel.” But Moses was actually jumping the gun. Because God would not appoint him till after another 40 years!We tend to jump the gun when it comes to Jesus. We are often too impatient to let him be a human being as ordinary as any of us. For example, when he is young, we think of him as Israel’s Messiah. But Jesus will not be the Messiah for another 30 years. Don’t worry. This doesn’t take anything away from Jesus’ divinity. Messiah (or Christ) is not a divine title. It’s a title for a human being with a special, God-appointed task. Messiah means “anointed one.” To be anointed is to be called and empowered to fulfill a God-given role.When he was baptized, Jesus was anointed by the Spirit of God, “descending on him like a dove,” to be Messiah. At the same time, he was claimed by God, the voice from heaven, as Messiah. After living for 30 years as an ordinary human being, the time had come for Jesus to fulfill his destiny as Savior of the world.Jesus, how your life changed when you were anointed that day! Yet you embraced your calling faithfully, and you never turned aside. You did what none of us could ever do. Thank you. Amen.
Jesus the Son of God . . . has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. — Hebrews 4:14-15Hebrews 4 says that Jesus was “tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.” Do we believe that? Oh, we can believe the “he did not sin” part. But do we believe that he was “tempted . . . just as we are”?We know what temptation is all about—from the temptation to tell little lies as children, to the temptation to give in to our surging hormones as teenagers, to the temptation to turn a blind eye to racism as adults. Was Jesus really tempted the same way we are?Well, Jesus did have teenage hormones. And he probably noticed all the pretty girls in Nazareth. Maybe he even thought about being in love with one of them. But he didn’t let desire get the better of him and lead him into sexual sin.Another temptation we face comes from money. Jesus had a lot to say about that. But before he said any of those things, Jesus had worked with his hands and had been paid for his labors. He had learned the value of money and the good it could do to provide for his household. But he didn’t let money rule his life.Maybe when we’re tempted, we can imagine how Jesus would handle it, and we can try to do the same thing. We can also ask for his help. (See 1 Corinthians 10:13.)Jesus, it’s hard for us to believe that you were tempted. Temptation can be overwhelming for us, and we often give in. At times, we can hardly imagine not giving in. Please, Jesus, help us. Amen.
Isn’t this the carpenter? — Mark 6:3The gospel books (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) focus on Jesus’ public ministry. For a period of three years he taught about the kingdom of God, healed the sick, fed the hungry, and even raised the dead. But before any of that, for about thirty years, Jesus lived in the family home. And for most of those years, he worked alongside his father Joseph in the family trade.We think of Joseph as a carpenter, someone who worked with wood. But he may have been a stoneworker. The original language is not clear. What is clear is that Joseph was a builder of some sort. So he worked with his hands and with tools: perhaps making farm implements and furniture, or laying foundations. And Jesus did the same thing for probably about twenty years. The gospel books barely mention it. But they do give us that much.Now, when Jesus began his teaching ministry, people for miles and miles around came to know him as a teacher and wonder-worker. They were in awe of him. But to the people in his hometown, he was just a guy who worked with tools in his hands. They couldn’t get beyond that.We have the opposite problem. We know Jesus as the Son of God. And we can lose sight of his genuine humanity. But for most of his years, Jesus lived a life as ordinary as anyone’s, like yours or mine.Jesus, you are the holy Son of God, and we praise you. You are also the ordinary son of Joseph, with tools in your hands—and to us that is wonderful. Amen.
Jesus grew in wisdom. — Luke 2:52Twelve-year-old Jesus scares the wits out of his parents. And no wonder. They think they’ve lost him—the holy child that God entrusted to them!After three days, they find Jesus at the temple. He’s sitting there with the teachers: listening and learning, asking questions and giving answers. And everyone is amazed.Of course they’re amazed. Jesus is God. He knows more than any of those teachers. He knows everything. That’s what we might think. But that really won’t do. What’s going on here is that Jesus is amazing for a twelve-year-old.Something else is going on too. When Jesus’ parents find him at the temple, Mary scolds him: “How could you do this to us?” But Jesus doesn’t get it: “You should have known I would be at the temple.”Twelve-year-old Jesus has a problem. He hasn’t figured out how to put together his sense of obligation to his heavenly Father with his obligations to his earthly father and mother. There’s nothing wrong with that, nothing sinful about it. It’s simply beyond the wisdom of a twelve-year-old—even the twelve-year-old Jesus—to know how to balance those competing obligations.That’s okay. Jesus won’t be twelve forever. And as he grows up, he will grow in wisdom.It’s not easy being twelve. We know so much and understand so little. And we can’t wait to grow up. Jesus, you know all about growing up. Help us to grow up in you. Amen.
He had to be made like them, fully human in every way. . . . — Hebrews 2:17In the Christmas song “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing” we might recognize the words “veiled in flesh the Godhead see; hail the incarnate Deity.” And if we’re in a thoughtful mood, we might wonder at the mystery of the Word becoming flesh, of God becoming one of us.In a sermon years ago, I quoted from a song called “One of Us.” In its own way, the song wonders about the incarnation: “What if God was one of us? Just a slob like one of us?” I got in trouble for that. I was told, “God is not a slob!” Well, of course not.Yet there is something scandalous about the incarnation, isn’t there?We know what it’s like to be embodied creatures. Sure, there’s the “glory and honor” of being human (Psalm 8:5): the beauty and strength and intelligence. But there’s also the other side: the homeliness, the weakness, the aches and pains. And there’s the harsh truth that sometimes we are slobs.That’s why we can’t imagine God really becoming one of us. God is lovely and lofty, perfect and pure. How could such a God get mixed up in the mess of being human, as human as any of us? But that’s the truth and the scandal of the incarnation. The eternal Son of God abandons the perfections of divinity to take on the flaws of humanity. And he does it out of love.Jesus, we can hardly imagine what you gave up to take on what we know in our bones. But that’s what you did for us, and we are amazed. Amen.
Simeon took him in his arms. . . . — Luke 2:28When Jesus was about six weeks old, an old man cradled him in his arms. In some ways that seems such an ordinary thing to do. It’s what many of us want to do with a little baby—to hold that bundle of new life close, to hear the breath, to feel the warmth, to gaze into the bright, wondering eyes.The old man has high hopes for this helpless baby. Somehow this baby will shine with glory in the midst of his own people, Israel. And he will be the way out of darkness for all peoples (Genesis 12:3). He will be salvation from God, salvation so desperately needed in a world of sin and sorrow.These hopes and expectations did not come to the old man out of nowhere. The Spirit of God had been speaking in his heart, giving him hope that he would see the Messiah, the King of Israel. And when the Spirit prompted him, he went to the temple. And there he saw a baby, just a baby.But instantly the old man Simeon knew. He knew that God’s great rescue plan centered on this child. He knew that somehow this powerless infant, who couldn’t talk or walk yet, would be the answer to the world’s greatest need. And that child is still the answer today.Jesus, we don’t expect much from little babies, though we do have our hopes and dreams for them. But what dreams your heavenly Father had for you! Amen.
Though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor. — 2 Corinthians 8:9The apostle Paul says Jesus was rich. Of course. He was God, after all. But it’s not that God has a fat bank account or lives on a private island. So perhaps Paul means “rich” in some other way. And when he says Jesus became poor, does that mean “poor” in some other way, some unusual way?Luke describes a time when the whole family went to Jerusalem. Jesus was about six weeks old. It was time for Mary to offer a pair of post-childbirth sacrifices at the temple. The usual offerings were a lamb and a pigeon (or maybe a dove). But instead Mary offered either “a pair of doves or two young pigeons.” And that was okay, because there was a special allowance for families that couldn’t afford a lamb. So Joseph and Mary and Jesus must have been poor—in the usual way.I wonder what that meant for Jesus. I wonder what he experienced growing up poor.One thing that often goes with poverty is food insecurity. Plenty of people go to bed hungry. Maybe you do. Did Jesus know that kind of hunger, the hunger that comes from not having enough food, that comes from being poor? Is that why he taught his disciples to pray for “daily bread”—because in his experience, hunger was never far away? I wonder.Jesus, you know what it means to be poor and hungry. You know what some of us know very well, but that many of us can only imagine. No wonder we’re hungry for you. Amen.
God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. — Genesis 1:3In the Bible the human story begins with a man, and then a woman. The human story of Jesus begins with a woman, Mary. And then Jesus himself begins, as a baby.It’s wonderful to picture baby Jesus all wrapped up and in Mary’s arms. But think about this. Jesus is the eternal Word, the Word through whom everything was made, the Word that said, “Let there be . . . ” But now the Word is a human being, a newborn baby. Do we realize what this means? It means the Word can’t speak anymore.Like any newborn, baby Jesus doesn’t know language yet. He will need to listen first—especially to his mother, and also to his father. Slowly he will discover that words have meaning. Eventually he’ll start to speak for himself. He’ll know only a few words at first: “Immah” (mother) and “Abba” (father). And then a flood of words will come, and it won’t stop. Like most mothers, Mary will sometimes wish Jesus had never started talking!Imagine. The Word that spoke in the beginning loses its voice. It has to go back to the beginning that we experience as humans. And it has to learn the same way we did, one word at a time.Language is a wonderful gift. And Jesus shares it with us.Jesus, to whom should we turn, but to you? “You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68). You are the Word, who is life. Amen.
The Word became flesh. . . . — John 1:14It sounds simple: “The Word became flesh.” In other words, the Word became human, as ordinary as any of us. That sounds simple enough—until we know who the Word is. Then it becomes simply astonishing.John fills in the blanks for us. He starts with the timeless existence of the Word: “In the beginning was the Word.” Then he connects the timeless Word with God: “The Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Next John relates the divine Word to creation: “Through him all things were made.” But that’s not all. The Word is also the source of all human flourishing: “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.” And the Word is unconquerable: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”All of this is big-deal stuff. And this amazing, extraordinary Word becomes flesh, becomes Jesus. The timeless, life-giving Creator of all becomes as ordinary as any of us. There’s nothing simple about that. And it remains a great mystery.But here is something especially amazing. When the Word becomes flesh, the glory of God becomes visible in a new way: “The Word became flesh. . . . We have seen his glory. . . .” Just imagine—a human being shining with the glory of God. How wonderful is that?Jesus, you are the Word of God, and yet you are as ordinary as we are. That is so amazing! Jesus, show us what it really means to be human. Amen.
She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger. . . . — Luke 2:7At the very heart of Christmas we find a rag-wrapped baby lying in a makeshift crib. By itself, that’s not so unusual. Babies show up when and where they happen to be born. Mothers have to deal with it, ready or not. And they do, whether the baby is delivered in a hospital, in a taxicab, or on a kitchen floor.What’s unusual here is not the rags. Mary improvised, using what was available. And what’s unusual is not the manger. That was just a smart solution to an urgent need. No, what’s unusual here is the baby himself.Now, this baby has the usual number of fingers and toes. You just know that Mary counts them. This baby has the usual smooth, soft skin. You just know that Mary adores his little cheeks. And this baby makes all the usual sounds: coos and gurgles and wails. You just know that Mary takes in these sounds as sweet music.What’s unusual about this baby is not his actual flesh and blood, not his appearance, not his behavior. No, what’s unusual about this baby is the identity veiled by his helpless human form. Because this baby is the God “through [whom] all things were made” (John 1:3). This is a wonder.Son of Mary, help us to wonder as we wander through your story this month. Deepen our faith as we encounter your genuinely human glory. Amen.
“You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.” — Luke 1:31
No one expected it—not Joseph, and certainly not Mary. A child before marriage. A son conceived without having sex, however that might work. He would be a holy child, someone set apart to God. He would be the Son of God, whatever that might mean. That’s what the angel told Mary. Naturally, Mary asked how this would happen. The angel said the Holy Spirit would come upon her. Who ever heard of such a thing? Joseph and Mary expected that any child they might have would be a gift from God. But they sure didn’t expect this. Though their son would be conceived in an extraordinary way, he would be born in the usual way. He would eat and sleep in the usual way. He would grow up in the usual way. And he would learn the family trade in the usual way. For a long time, there wouldn’t be much unusual about their son. Not until the Holy Spirit, who would come upon Mary, would also descend on their son (Luke 3:22). The Spirit would send their son on a mission to be the Savior of the world. That mission would unfold in ways no one expected. But their son would keep moving forward. With a generous heart, with a courageous spirit, and with toughened soles, he would stick to the path of that mission for the glory of God.
Jesus, you are the pioneer and perfecter of faithfulness. Your feet walked the path ahead of us. May our feet keep moving as we walk along behind you. Amen.
“Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.” — John 6:54
In John 6, Jesus compares himself to the manna that the Israelites received in the desert (see Exodus 16). Then he says that if anyone wants eternal life, they must eat his flesh and drink his blood. Was Jesus proposing that his followers literally eat him? No. But perhaps Jesus wanted his words to be shocking to get people’s attention. Eating human flesh in a literal way would have been barbaric. But since Jesus’ eternal life was somehow symbolized in his flesh and blood, which he would give as an atoning sacrifice for human sin, his followers needed to be willing to receive his sacrifice into themselves by faith in order to receive eternal life. After Jesus died and rose from the dead, death had no hold on him anymore. And yet he surprised his disciples by showing them the marks from the wounds in his hands and side. It was as if Jesus was saying, “This is the cost of human sin.” But with his hands outstretched and showing the marks of his crucifixion, he was also saying, “I love you this much.” When we come to the meal Jesus gave us, we receive his body and his blood in a symbolic way and in a spiritual way. The Holy Spirit connects us to the risen, flesh-and-blood Jesus in heaven, and we are connected anew with his once-for-all sacrifice for us.
Lord Jesus, we praise you for your sacrifice, which gives us full, eternal life with you. Help us to live for you each day. Amen.
When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him. . . . — Luke 24:30-31
This story in Luke 24 is mysterious. During the previous week, Jesus had eaten his final Passover meal with his disciples and had washed their feet. Then he had been arrested and crucified. But on Sunday morning some women who had gone to visit his tomb had said they had seen Jesus, alive! Now two of Jesus’ followers were walking along the road to another town, and a stranger joined them. They told him of the tragic events of the previous week. The man then shocked them by teaching from the Scriptures that all these things had to happen to the Messiah, the Savior of God’s people. When they reached the town, the two invited the man to stay with them. As they began to eat together, the man “took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them.” Then “their eyes were opened and they recognized him”— their Lord Jesus was alive! And then he disappeared. The two said later that their hearts were “burning within” them as Jesus walked with them and taught them from the Scriptures. But it was not until he broke the bread that he became known to them. Similarly, our hearts can burn within us as we learn the Scriptures, and we can walk with Jesus in the power of his Spirit. But at the Lord’s Supper we can encounter the Lord in a profound, unique way.
Lord Jesus, thank you for revealing yourself in the breaking of bread. Fill us with your life to live for you. In your name, Amen.
“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.” — John 13:14
John 13 shows us that during Jesus’ final Passover meal with his disciples, he got up and washed their feet. This was ordinarily the job of a slave or a servant. And in that day, people wore sandals and walked along dusty roads with animals. Filthy feet could ruin people’s appetites at a holiday meal. One of my seminary professors encouraged his students to pay attention to the verbs describing Jesus’ actions in this passage. In these verbs we get a picture of Jesus’ mission and purpose. Jesus “got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist”—and he proceeded to “wash his disciples’ feet.” Then, afterward, “he put on his clothes and returned to his place.” What is the bigger picture? Jesus got up from his heavenly throne, took off his heavenly glory, and wrapped himself in our flesh and blood. Through his life, death, and resurrection, he washed away his people’s sins. Then he ascended to heaven, put on his heavenly glory, and returned to his place with God on the throne. Through the power of the Spirit and by following Jesus’ example, we too can serve one another at the Jesus-meal and wherever he calls us to go.
Dear Jesus, our King who became a slave for our sake, we praise you for this story that humbles us, inspires us, and empowers us for service in your kingdom. In your name we pray. Amen.
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. — John 1:14
One fundamental truth of God’s long history with human beings is simply this: God loves to be with people. In the beginning, God walked with humans in the garden (Genesis 3:8). And when Adam and Eve disobeyed God and invited chaos into God’s good world, God went to find them when they hid from him. When God rescued his people from slavery in Egypt, he journeyed with them in cloud and fire, and God literally pitched his tent, the tabernacle, in the center of their community. When we first hear of the coming Messiah in Isaiah 7:14, we learn that he will be called Immanuel, which means “God with us” (Matthew 1:23). And when Jesus entered human history, taking on our flesh and blood, John 1 says he “made his dwelling among us.” The literal wording there is that he “pitched his tent,” or “tabernacled,” among us. And now the Lord has sent his Spirit to live in us—and to move among us in our dysfunctional churches. Being together and eating together is a sign of welcome, respect, and a desire for peace. Jesus eats with everyone: religious leaders, tax collectors, prostitutes, the rich, the poor—all kinds of sinners. At the Lord’s table, Jesus invites all kinds of flawed, broken, sinful people to eat with him. God loves to be with us.
Lord, thank you for coming to live with us, and for sending your Spirit to live in us, giving us your life. May we live for you. Amen.
The nations will walk by [God’s glorious] light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into [the city of God]. — Revelation 21:24
Years ago, my wife and I were a part of a church that had a weekly community meal. Anyone and everyone was invited. The variety of different people who showed up simply because there was good food and good fellowship was amazing. Little babies and gray heads, men and women, people in different income brackets, and people from different countries and ethnic backgrounds. Many of these people brought unique meals to share. This often reminded me of John’s beautiful vision of life in the city of God: people from all nations and languages flood into God’s renewed city on earth, each one bringing the best of their culture into it, to praise God and to bless others. And because the Spirit of God gives a foretaste of what Christ will do when he returns, I believe we can experience, even now, a bit of what John saw in his vision. When you gather with other believers for a meal—and perhaps even for the Jesus-meal—are there ways you can honor and identify with the cultures of the people in your church family? For example, different kinds of bread or juice might enrich our sense of welcome. In Kenya, where I live, grape juice is not readily available, so sometimes people have used an orange drink for the Lord’s Supper! Also, let’s remember folks who are not yet a part of God’s family. All are invited to join!
Lord, you have gathered many different people into your body, the church. We praise you in Jesus’ name. Amen.
“All peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” — Genesis 12:3
Many years ago a man received a message from God, and God basically adopted this man. Later God gave him the name Abraham, which means “father of many.” And yet Abraham had no children. Then God promised to bless Abraham with many children, and somehow, in some way, through Abraham’s family, God would bless all the peoples of the earth. God stayed true to his promises to bless the world’s peoples through Abraham, even though Abraham’s descendants were quite dysfunctional. And God surprised everyone by keeping his promises through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, a descendant of Abraham. It turns out that Jesus was the Savior not only for God’s adopted people but also for all other peoples as well. And by faith, by trusting in Jesus, people from all nations, tribes, and languages can be adopted into God’s family. So when we come to the Lord’s table, it is a family table. Just as we do not get to choose our families and all our relatives, there may well be people in our church family whom we might not have chosen. But God chose them—and us—to be a part of his family together. So we belong to God but also to each other. And at this family table there is grace.
Father, thank you for accepting us into your family. Just as you have received us in grace, help us do the same for one another. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Jesus replied, “The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me.” — Matthew 26:23
Jesus reminded us that our relationship with God and our relationships with people are connected. So when we approach the Lord’s table, we should be sure to reflect on our relationship with God and with the people in our church family—and beyond. But what if we are in conflict with a brother or sister, despite our efforts to forgive and/or seek forgiveness? The apostle Paul says in Romans 12:18, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” But if a conflict with someone is not resolved and they are not interested in forgiveness or reconciliation, what can you do? Can you still participate in the Lord’s Supper with this broken relationship in your life? Generally, I think you can—if you truly have done all you can to try to reconcile with the person and you have kept the door open to deeper reconciliation (since forgiveness can be a long process). After all, let us remember who was present at Jesus’ final meal. Jesus knew that everyone there would soon abandon him in his hour of greatest need. And one of those disciples would betray him for money. And yet Jesus remained with them, loved them, and served them this sacred meal. The fact that God in Christ loved each of us while we were yet his enemies and sinners (Romans 5:6-11) is very good news for us all.
Lord, we have sinned against you, and yet you forgive us and feed us. Help us to reflect your grace to others. Amen.
“If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you. . . . First go and be reconciled to them. . . .” — Matthew 5:23-24
When Jesus was asked, “Which is the greatest commandment . . . ?” he quoted Deuteronomy 6:5, saying we should love the Lord with all our heart, soul, and mind. And he didn’t stop there. He also quoted from Leviticus 19:18: “Love your neighbor as yourself,” saying that this second commandment is like the first. What did he mean by this? Jesus knew that we humans cannot love God in an isolated relationship. We cannot love God and despise people created in God’s image. In fact, perhaps the clearest way that we can show our love for God is to love other human beings, whom he loves. And how do we love people well? By coming again and again to God in prayer and in learning from his Word. In the Bible we discover God’s character, and, guided by the Holy Spirit, we can show by our words and actions what we have learned about God’s love. Jesus also explained that if we are worshiping God and seeking to do his will, and we remember there is something broken in our relationship with another person, we should try to find forgiveness or reconciliation with that person. Then we will be in the right space for loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind.
Father in heaven, as I come to you and seek to serve you, by your love and grace guide me to reconcile with others whom I have wronged. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish. — John 6:11
In the Bible we learn that God is especially concerned about a few groups of people. That’s because these people are often taken advantage of: the poor, orphans, widows, and foreigners. And Jesus, the Son of God, who is fully human and fully God, showed the same concern for these groups. In particular, Jesus fed the poor in abundant and miraculous ways. One of the marks of God’s kingdom is that everyone should have enough, or as John 6:11 says, “as much as they wanted.” When Jesus gave the Lord’s Supper to his disciples, he did that to feed them physically and spiritually. And we should know that in the early church, this sacred meal was often celebrated as an actual meal, not just with a small bit of bread and wine (or juice), as many do in their church services today. Perhaps our churches would do well to pass out ample slices of bread, and full cups of juice so that people could truly experience God’s generosity (but I digress). Because Jesus has been so generous to us, we are empowered and encouraged to be generous to others. As you receive Christ’s gifts in the Lord’s Supper, try to hold hungry people in your mind and heart—including people you know in your local community and people you don’t know in other parts of the world.
Lord, you clearly love the poor, caring for all who are disadvantaged. Give us the same heart. In your name, Amen.
My brothers and sisters, when you gather to eat, you should all eat together. — 1 Corinthians 11:33
As we noted yesterday, the apostle Paul was dealing with a major problem in the Corinthian church. Some people were gorging themselves on the communion bread and wine and leaving others with none. Paul explained that when people did this, they were not “discerning the body of Christ.” As believers, we need to reflect well on Jesus’ gift of himself to pay for our sins, and we need to share with one another in thanks for all that the Lord has shared with us. Another way to look at this may be that Paul was also showing particular concern for poorer members of the church. When those who were wealthy consumed most of the bread and wine, the poor, the most vulnerable, were left without. And Paul was saying that the people who were doing that were not participating in the Lord’s Supper. After all, the Lord Jesus always showed concern for the poor—and as followers of Christ, so should we. So when we come to the Lord’s table, we must recognize that our relationship with God is personal but never private. How we treat the “least of these” (Matthew 25:40) in our church reflects our relationship with God. We must ask, Is everyone in our church being cared for, and built up? If someone is being ignored or overlooked, how can we make things right, for Jesus’ sake?
Lord Jesus, you cared and provided for the poor and built them up. May we, your church, reflect your character. In your name, Amen.
Those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves. — 1 Corinthians 11:29
A major problem the apostle Paul had to deal with in the Corinthian church was this: some members of the church were gorging themselves on the communion bread and getting drunk on the wine, and they were leaving others without any bread or wine to share! These new believers in Christ needed to learn that this was not what the Lord desired. He wanted them to take the bread and wine with thankfulness and reverence. After all, Jesus called these elements his “body” and his “blood,” and then he offered his life as a sacrifice for his church. When the Israelites received manna in the desert, they were told to gather not too much or too little, but just what they needed (Exodus 16:16-18). Paul wanted the same for the Corinthian church: receive what you need from God’s generosity and, in turn, be generous to others. Otherwise, said Paul, they were not “discerning the body of Christ,” and they were eating and drinking “judgment on themselves.” In other words, when people do not humbly reflect on the meaning of the bread and wine (Christ’s gracious gift of himself to pay for all our sins), they disrespect both the gift and the giver, “sinning against the body and blood of the Lord.” So when we come to the table, may we humbly acknowledge the gift of Christ our Savior, and may we be thankful.
Lord Christ, help us to reflect on the meaning and beauty of your sacrifice for us. Give us humility and joy. In your name, Amen.
Is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? — 1 Corinthians 10:16
Have you heard the expression “You are what you eat”? What does that really mean? When someone says this, they are generally talking about nutrition: if we eat good, nutritious food, our bodies will be healthier than if we eat a lot of non-nutritious junk food. When he gave us the Lord’s Supper, Jesus taught that this meal was his “body” and his “blood.” So if we follow the logic of becoming what we eat, we might say that we become more like him when we eat the Jesus-bread and drink the Jesus-juice. That’s because when we participate in this meal, we reflect on Jesus’ self-giving sacrifice and we seek to live as he calls us to, showing God’s love everywhere and sharing the good news of salvation through Christ. Another important aspect of this meal is that we eat it together, in community as one body. In its basic practice, the Jesus-meal teaches us the basics of how to be a Christian community. We receive the bread and juice from pastors and elders and perhaps fellow church members. This helps us learn how to receive God’s gift of grace in community. Sharing the food and drink with one another, we learn to share God’s grace with one another. In a real and miraculous sense, then, through this meal we are becoming ever more the body of Christ. We are what we eat.
Lord, by your grace and the power of your Spirit, may we become your feet, hands, mouth, and body to serve the world, that the world may know your love. Amen.
I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content. — Psalm 131:2
Here is an unusual question: What does love taste like? Maybe you associate love with a special food you enjoy on a particular holiday. Or maybe it has to do with a dish that is made “just right” by a family member or a friend. As human beings, many of us first learn the concept of love not through someone explaining it to us but through food that we can taste and enjoy. When a baby is born, one of the first things it learns to expect regularly is milk or a milk substitute. It tastes good, and it makes them feel satisfied, content, and safe. As the child receives this loving gift again and again, their brain develops. In particular, a region of the brain develops that allows them to trust the giver. And when they trust the giver, they learn to love. When you and I regularly taste the bread and juice of the Jesus-meal, our whole being can learn how to love the Lord our giver. We can feel satisfied, content, and safe. We grow to trust the Lord, and we learn how to love God, our Creator and sustainer, who always takes care of us.
Lord and God, may we always taste and see that you are good. May we continue to grow in faith, hope, and love for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
You are . . . a royal priesthood . . . that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. — 1 Peter 2:9
Here’s a question: What was the main job of a priest in the Bible? The priest’s role was to serve as a mediator between God and the people, approaching God on behalf of the people and helping the people to receive God’s instruction and blessing. The priests of God’s people were appointed to teach God’s law, explaining how to live in relationship with the holy God, turning away from sin and seeking to live God’s way. In Exodus 19:6 we read that God called his people to be a whole nation of priests so that they could bring God’s blessings to the nations. In the New Testament, this same mission is given to the church. The church is made up of all people who follow Jesus, who is both our great high priest (Hebrews 4:14-16) and our Savior from sin (Matthew 1:21). By his death on a cross, he paid the price of our sin to reconcile us with God and to give us new life forever with him. Through Jesus, God has provided for each one of us the way out of sin to full life.
Heavenly Father, when we eat the Lord’s Supper, recognizing Jesus’ gift of himself for our sake, may we know your justice and mercy so that we, your priests, may be enlivened to share your good news with the world. Amen.
Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. . . . — Philippians 3:20
One of my favorite movies is the animated film Up. In this film, an old man named Carl attaches thousands of helium filled balloons to his house, which then takes him and his young friend Russell up and away to fantastical adventures. Before eating the Lord’s Supper, Christians in some traditions pray these words, “We lift up our hearts to the Lord.” After Jesus died and was raised to life again, he ascended up and away to heaven. But Jesus is never far away from his people, especially when they worship, hear God’s Word, and eat the meal he gave them. But this leads to a practical question: when we eat this meal together, does Jesus come down from heaven to meet with us on earth? John Calvin, a French pastor who lived 500 years ago, answered, “No. Actually, through the mysterious power of the Holy Spirit, we, the church, are pulled up to heaven to meet with Jesus.” So even as we sit in worship, somehow our space has been pulled up to overlap with heaven. Some theologians have called this Calvin’s “virtual” theory of the Lord’s Supper. Someday, when Jesus comes again, heaven will come down to earth with him, and all who believe in him will be able to live with him. Then, with heaven and earth completely overlapping, all creation will be renewed, and we will enjoy full life with the Lord forever (Revelation 21-22).
Lord, may your kingdom fully come on earth as it is in heaven. Till then, draw us up to you by your Spirit. Amen.
He was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. — Acts 1:9
Let me ask you a question: Where is heaven? This is not an easy question to answer. But perhaps your first reaction is to look up, or maybe to point up with your finger. This is how the ancients thought about heaven. But we humans today have been to outer space, and we know it stretches farther than we can imagine—and we have not found God’s throne floating around out there. After his death and resurrection Jesus ascended into heaven. He was “taken up” from the ground, and “a cloud hid him” from the sight of his followers. Jesus went up and behind something to somewhere. So while heaven may be up, it is also apparently a dimension that exists behind or beyond our three-dimensional world. Perhaps heaven is actually quite near to us, just beyond a veil or curtain in our 3-D world. Even more important, though, we can experience a bit of heaven whenever God draws us close. One of the ways this can happen is when the church gathers for worship. And I think Christ draws us especially close when we take part in the meal he has given us. In the actions of receiving and giving bread and wine (or juice), when Christ tells us that these elements are his body and blood and we are spiritually nourished, heaven and earth intersect, and we are blessed and strengthened.
Christ our Lord, thank you for drawing us close and allowing us to experience a bit of heaven when we gather to eat at your table. Amen.
Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” — John 6:35
God had rescued his people from slavery in Egypt, and they soon found themselves in a barren desert without food. But God knew what his people needed before they asked him, and God told Moses that “bread from heaven” would rain down for them (Exodus 16:4). Bread from heaven? Really? Psalm 78 is even more descriptive: “[God] opened the doors of the heavens; he rained down manna for the people to eat, he gave them the grain of heaven. Human beings ate the bread of angels. . . .” (vv. 24-25). In John 6, Jesus compares himself to this heavenly bread. Jesus too came from heaven to earth. He too came to give life to humanity. He even says, “Everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life.” Our receiving of Christ into our lives is reflected in our reception of the heavenly food he gives us in the Lord’s Supper. Though we are not “saved” by eating and drinking the Lord’s Supper, eating and drinking the Lord’s Supper helps us grow ever deeper into the abundant Christ-life that God gives us.
Lord Jesus, each day, and especially when you give us your heavenly food, may we receive you and all your good gifts, that we may have full life forever with you. Amen.
When the Israelites saw it, they said to each other, “What is it?” For they did not know what it was. — Exodus 16:15
The Israelites in the wilderness had little faith in God’s goodness, and they had little imagination for how God might provide for them. But, just as God had promised, they found “thin flakes like frost” on the desert floor. According to Numbers 11:7-8, these flakes were like coriander seed, and cakes of it tasted like they were made with olive oil. The flakes were whitish-yellow like a resin called bdellium. It is worth noting here that bdellium was one of the valuable resources in Eden (Genesis 2:12, RSV). Perhaps the author was pointing out that just as God provided resources in Eden, God was again providing for his people in the desert. The Israelites’ first reaction to this substance is understandable: “What is it?” Moses replied that it was bread from God. Eventually it became known as manna, which sounds like the Hebrew for “What is it?” The people did not fully understand this food, but they could still receive it and be nourished by it. Throughout Christian history many scholars have argued about the bread and wine (or juice) given at the Lord’s Supper. What is it, really? How does God use it to give us spiritual nourishment? These are important discussions that can help us reflect on God’s power and love. But it is more important to eat and drink, remembering that Jesus gave himself for the forgiveness of our sins.
Lord, your ways can be mysterious, but we know that your love is more than enough for us, in Jesus. Amen.
“‘At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God.’” — Exodus 16:12
After God rescued his people from slavery in Egypt, they soon found themselves out in the desert without food and water. And here the people defaulted to complaining and wondering if God wanted anything good for them. After being away from slavery for just a short while, their memory got distorted: “Remember Egypt, where we had plenty to eat? Those were the good old days!” God had done amazing miracles to deliver his people from Egypt. But it would take time and many trials for them to learn to trust God to provide for them each day. God endured their grumbling and graciously rained down food upon them. In the evening they received quail for meat, and in the morning they discovered thin flakes of a mysterious “bread from heaven” on the ground. My African friends—many of whom know what it means to have to trust God for “daily bread”—often say, “God makes a way where there is no way.” When we come to the Lord’s table, we receive the miraculous gift of grace in the form of bread and wine (or juice). This simple practice can actually train us in the discipline of trusting God. God takes care of his people.
Lord, trusting you does not come naturally to us. Thank you for enduring our grumbling and impatience and for showing us, again and again, that you will take care of us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat food from it all the days of your life.” — Genesis 3:17
As we noted yesterday, God placed human beings in a garden sanctuary where God could live and work with them to bring about the flourishing of his world. But through the deceit of the serpent, humans were tempted to disobey God and eat the forbidden fruit. They desired to be “like God, knowing good and evil.” But the hidden reality was that, unlike God, human beings could only know good and evil by becoming a mingled mess of good and evil. As they ingested the fruit, brokenness moved into every part of their being. Genesis describes the brokenness that followed as a “curse,” especially in relationships. Humans’ relationships with themselves, with one another, with nature, and with God became damaged. At the same time, though, God pronounced that someday the serpent, along with the curse of sin and death, would be defeated. And in the finished work of Jesus on the cross and by his resurrection, all of that became true. Now the curse is being undone. And when we eat the Jesus-meal, the Lord’s Supper, our damaged relationships can begin to mend. We receive God’s restoring nourishment in our own lives, and we share the meal with one another. In addition, from the cursed ground we can still grow good food by which God communicates his love and care for us.
Lord Jesus, thank you for the love by which you gave yourself for us, and for the grace that restores all things. Amen.
In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. — Genesis 2:9
In the beginning, as God developed his new world, he formed a garden in which he could live in loving partnership with human beings. God wanted humans to flourish, and he wanted creation to flourish through their care for it. In the Garden of Eden human beings lived together in harmony with the rest of creation, serving and communing with God. There humans were free to eat from any tree they wanted—except one called the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Maybe you know how this story goes—humans disobeyed God and ate the forbidden fruit, bringing chaos into God’s good world (Genesis 3). Why did they eat the fruit when they were told not to? Well, it all began with temptation and desire. They were tempted to think that the fruit would make them like God, knowing good and evil, and they began desiring what was forbidden. They were tempted to think that God was keeping good things from them. In the Lord’s Supper, God is saying, essentially, “No, I am not keeping good things from you. See, just as I did long ago, I give you good things to eat, to heal you and to nourish you. By this gift from my hand, may you realize that you cannot flourish apart from my love.”
Father, thank you for your plans for us—not to harm us but to allow us to grow and flourish in your good world. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
“The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are, and when I see the blood, I will pass over you.” — Exodus 12:13
One of the fun things about celebrating holidays is that we often enjoy special foods that we might not have at other times of the year. What are some foods or drinks that you enjoy on special days? When Jesus first gave his disciples the special meal that we call the Lord’s Supper, they were actually already celebrating a holiday called Passover. Hundreds of years earlier the Israelites had been slaves in Egypt. But the Lord rescued them through a number of powerful acts. On the day that God led them out of Egypt, the Israelites prepared a lamb as a sacrifice, and they spread the lamb’s blood on the doorframes of their houses as God had told them to. Then God allowed a plague of death to pass through Egypt, taking the firstborn of every household, but the plague “passed over” all the homes where the doorframes were covered with blood, and the firstborn in those families were spared. Every year after that, God’s people celebrated a special Passover meal, and Jesus and his friends did the same. But on this particular Passover, things were different. God was again rescuing his people, and this time he was preparing Jesus to rescue them from sin, death, and evil. On this Passover, Jesus took the place of the lamb, once and for all, and he was the only firstborn who died. And today we, his followers, are marked by his blood so that we can escape death and have life in him.
Lord, thank you for rescuing us from sin, death, and evil. Help us to live for you. Amen.
After taking the cup, he gave thanks. . . . And he took bread, [and] gave thanks. . . . — Luke 22:17-19
The simple but sacred meal that we call the Lord’s Supper has several different names. Many people simply call this meal the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:20). We do this because Jesus, our Lord, our God and King, gave us this meal. Many followers of Christ also call this meal “communion” because in this celebration they commune with the Lord and with each other, united in love, faith, and hope in Christ and all of God’s promises. Many Christians also call this meal “the Eucharist,” which basically means “thanksgiving.” When Jesus celebrated this meal with his disciples, he gave thanks to God for it. And ever since then, the church has given thanks to God for providing this meal. Early Christians had another name for this meal too, calling it the “love feast” or “agape feast” (see Jude 12). In some cases this may have included a larger fellowship meal along with the celebration of the Lord’s Supper. Why did they call it this? Because it showed that Jesus loved his followers so much that he was willing to die to defeat sin and death for them. At this meal we have the opportunity to say that we love God too. And as we pass the food and drink to each other, we acknowledge that we love (or are trying to love) the people in our church family too.
Lord, we thank you for this meal by which you not only remind us of your love but also call us to experience your love and share it with others. We love you too. Amen.
“This [bread] is my body, which is for you. . . . This cup is the new covenant in my blood. . . .” — 1 Corinthians 11:24-25
If you have seen or participated in the Lord’s Supper (communion) in a church service, you’ll probably remember the pastor breaking bread and pouring wine or juice into a cup. Take a moment to reflect on these images. Some of the holiday meals we enjoy, or grand celebrations—such as weddings or anniversaries—might have different courses and many kinds of food. But the Lord’s Supper, the Jesus-meal, looks quite simple in comparison. Even if this meal takes place in a great cathedral, it has only two parts—bread (or wafers) and wine (or juice). Even so, probably more ink has been used to explain this meal than almost any other topic in church history. And there is good reason for that. There are important questions worth asking—and perhaps answering, if we are able. What did Jesus really mean when he said, “This [bread] is my body,” and, “This cup is . . . my blood”? How might Jesus be present with us when we eat this meal? Why did Jesus tell his followers to celebrate this meal regularly? Why does this meal matter at all? You see, this meal is truly special. In the church we even call it “sacred.” Spend some time reflecting and talking with others about some of these questions.
Lord Jesus, your disciples were often puzzled by your words and actions. And, if we are honest, we are sometimes puzzled too. Still, we thank you for this sacred meal. In your name we pray. Amen.
“When your children ask you, ‘What does this ceremony mean to you?’ then tell them, ‘It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord. . . .’” — Exodus 12:26-27
A few years ago at a Good Friday worship service, my wife and I enjoyed the whispers we overheard as the pastor broke a loaf of bread and poured juice from a pitcher into a cup. A little girl stood on her seat near us, peeking over the heads of the people in front of her. Suddenly she turned to her mom and asked, “What is that?” as the juice was poured out. She was told, “That is Jesus’ blood. It helps us remember that Jesus died for us.” The little girl paused to consider this, and then, perhaps not entirely satisfied with the answer, she turned to her dad and asked the same question. This time she was told, “It is some grape juice.” She then turned back to her mom and said, “It’s just juice!” Little did this young child realize that she was stepping into a complex and intense conversation that has been going on for thousands of years. I loved hearing her questions and seeing her curiosity. I hope we all can engage with questions and curiosity this month as we think about this beautiful, mysterious meal that Jesus gave us to remember him by. I like to call it “the Jesus-meal.” What do you think? Is it really “just juice” and “just bread” that we take in at the Lord’s Supper (communion)? Or is there more to this simple meal than meets the eye?
Heavenly Father, whether we are very young or very old, we are all your children. Stir in us a deep curiosity about all that you want to teach us. In Jesus, Amen.
Do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? — Romans 2:4
Romans 2:4 reveals the path by which we and others come to repentance. It’s all because of God’s kindness. But too often we assume that the threat of judgment is what leads to repentance. “If only we can show people how bad they are, then they will be sorry,” we think. Or perhaps if we can show them the consequences of their actions—like some negative life outcomes, or the ultimate punishment of going to hell—then they will repent, right? But the path to repentance is quite different. Instead, God is kind with us. And God waits patiently for us to notice his kindness. And rather than showing us our consequences, God actually holds back our consequences—at least many of the worst ones. Holding back consequences is called forbearance. God forbears with us until we see his kindness. It is God’s kindness that leads to our repentance. God’s example challenges us to somehow forbear with other people’s unrepentant attitudes. It’s not our place to judge them or bring about their consequences. In fact, perhaps, like Christ, we ought to help bear others’ consequences. We should show the kindness, patience, and forbearance that God has shown us.
Dear Jesus, this world is still full of vices. Help us to endure in forbearing with others, just as you have endured with us. Amen.
They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil. — Romans 1:29-31
Ever since sin came into our world, we human beings have been thinking up new ways to do bad things or to do things badly. And if we think we are immune from this, we are only deceiving ourselves. Creativity is part of the image of God given to human beings, and, sadly, we have put our creativity to use to destroy as much of the rest of God’s image in us as possible. That’s what our passage today in Romans warns about. God has always been there for us to find, but until the Lord came into our lives, we refused to find him. We didn’t want to. Our sinful nature turned us away from God. We wanted to pursue bad things, or if we wanted to pursue anything good, we wanted to do it our way. In the opening chapter of Romans, Paul is clearly angry about all the evil that people have done in the world, and then in chapter 2 he turns a corner. Every person has had some part in this creative sinfulness we’ve brought into the world, and if any of us thinks we can judge another, we are condemning ourselves. Even so, God has been kind and merciful to forgive us and show us a better way. And since God has been kind to us, we can and must spread that kindness to everyone else as well.
Dear Jesus, remind us that your way is better than our old way. Show us all your kindness, forbearance, and patience, we pray. Amen.
Make every effort to add to your faith goodness . . . knowledge . . . self-control . . . perseverance . . . godliness . . . mutual affection . . . love. — 2 Peter 1:5-7
Have you ever stopped to think about what “goodness” actually is? It was probably one of the earliest concepts we learned. Something was good if we felt positively about it. And later, as we grew, we learned to add descriptions such as beautiful, healthy, pleasant, and more. The kind of goodness that Peter describes here was prized in the Greek culture. It pointed to a kind of excellence that could overcome a great difficulty. For example, this would describe a Greek athlete who gained a victory despite an injury that would have kept most others from competing. Christ challenges us to make our best efforts in striving with excellence to live like him. By his Spirit, he has given us the power—and even the victory. And in line with our being made in God’s image, I believe, we can find great satisfaction in our productive efforts to live as we are called. The level of goodness described in this passage is about doing our very best to live for Christ, and at the end of the day we can look back with satisfaction on the spiritual challenges we have faced and thank God for helping us.
Lord, help us to strive for goodness/excellence as we seek to live for you each day. Amen.
“Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold.” — Matthew 24:12
As time passes, this passage becomes more frightening. Perhaps every generation feels that the signs of the end times are increasing. Perhaps the signs are increasing. Certainly the generations that are still living have seen plenty of earthquakes, famines, and wars. And certainly today we see an increase in wickedness, at least in some places. The particular wickedness Jesus warns about in verse 12 could be called “lawlessness.” It goes beyond refusing to live God’s way, and it basically refuses to live according to anyone’s rules. It’s the attitude that believes “It’s only illegal if I get caught.” The problem with this wickedness, according to Jesus, is that it works against love. It holds no commitment to another and has no willingness to sacrifice for anyone. In the end times most people will care only about themselves, and most people’s love will grow cold. Taken to the extreme, that’s a bone-chilling thought. It will be “survival of the fittest” among people who are most violent and crafty. May Christ return before we become so lawless.
Spirit of Jesus, guide our lives to save us from lawlessness. Fill us with your love and wisdom, we pray. Amen.
“Learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” — Matthew 9:13
Some years ago the United States Senate held confirmation hearings for a top government position. The appointee had done something bad in the past but had also done some good things since then. Sadly, the most disappointing part of the process was in the arguments that were made in favor and against. The underlying belief on both sides was that bad people stay bad and good people stay good. People don’t change. Jesus didn’t believe that about people. The whole point of Jesus’ coming was to change people. And while only God can truly change people, God grants those changes abundantly. That’s because God acts with mercy, and he calls us to do the same. Too often people get caught up in trying to please God by their acts of worship, including sacrifices—that is, giving things up in order to please God. But if our actions are just self-serving, they are not sacrificial. Yet, ironically, if we act with mercy toward someone struggling to turn their life around, that is a sacrifice that pleases God. In Christ, we can believe that a person’s life can change. And if you are wondering if God will accept you despite what you’ve done with your life, yes, he absolutely will accept you. Give your life to him today, and pray for others to encourage you in your life of faith.
Dear Jesus, thank you for your grace in turning our lives around. Help us never to withhold the mercy you have shown to us. Amen.
They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord. — Jude 1:4
The small book of Jude is about people who are part of the church but mistake the grace of God for a license to do whatever they want. Jude points out that by their actions these people deny that Jesus is the Lord of their lives. If they are not serving Jesus, whom are they serving? Many sins seem good in the moment. The question we often fail to ask is, “How does this actually benefit me?” Or if we do ask that question, we settle for a superficial answer. Sometimes we may not feel sure that doing things God’s way will bring much of a benefit—or perhaps the benefit God offers won’t come about for a long time. To truly follow Christ means to live as he lived. It means treating his grace not as a license to sin but as a license to grow away from sin. Jude makes clear that we often can’t tell when people who sin without remorse have “slipped in among” us. It’s easy to be confused because although we try to live into Christ’s freedom from sin, we often mess up too. All Christians sin, and Jesus forgives us for that. But living as if our sins don’t matter in this world can cause tremendous hurt and pain to others and ourselves. So let’s not be fooled—real freedom belongs to those who choose to follow Christ.
Lord Jesus, show us the damages of our sin, and transform us to want to live your way always. Amen.
“Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to . . . test the inhabitants of the earth.” — Revelation 3:10
Jesus suffered terribly because of how sinful our world is. After suffering, Jesus even died because of our sins. He endured suffering and died so that our sins would be paid for and our deaths could be overcome. Then, on the third day, Jesus rose from the dead in triumph—yet we must not lose sight of his suffering. The believers who made up the church in ancient Philadelphia (in Greece) held tightly to the story of Jesus’ suffering. It inspired them enough to face their own suffering and persecution. And Jesus said they would be rewarded for their steadfast endurance. In this passage, what is called “patience” is more like extreme patience. It’s the kind of patience that is required to endure doing the right thing and living the right way even when you can’t see any benefit in doing so. It is the virtue of holding on even when the reward might not come in this life. Jesus’ reward was that his death opened up a door to allow us to spend eternity with him. And our reward is that being devoted to Jesus allows us to step through that door and spend eternity with him. He believed that you and I are a reward worth dying for. Do we believe the same about him?
Dearest Jesus, when this world refuses to reward us for being like you, help us to focus on the reward of living with you forever. Amen.
“Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” — Luke 12:15
I didn’t think I was greedy until I read this passage again. Jesus warns us to watch out for all kinds of greed. The kind of greed I usually thought about had to do with very wealthy people wanting more. But Jesus doesn’t focus on that kind of greed here. In the context of this passage, a man is arguing with his brother over their inheritance. The family has enough to hand down, but Jesus sees that this man is still worried if he will truly have enough. He is greedy not for luxury but for security. Ouch! I didn’t even know that kind of greed existed. But many of us have it. We want a little bit more so that we don’t have to worry. Jesus points us away from greed based on worry. So long as we aim to live God’s way, aligning ourselves with God’s purpose for us in this world (seeking his kingdom), and so long as it is not yet time for our heavenly inheritance, God will give us what we need to live for him each day. Wanting more than that is a type of greed. And that will distract us from fully living the life of joy and peace we are created for. So let’s repent and learn to let go of our worry-based greed.
Creator and Provider, we exist because you want us to. Forgive us for trying to build our own security. Our worries cost this world too much. Amen.
Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life. — Proverbs 22:4
The rewards promised in Proverbs 22:4 are fleshed out in verses 1-3. Avoiding pride is not enough. We need to lean away from it and become humble. God makes both the rich and the poor, says verse 2. In this context, “rich” does not refer to having an extravagant life. Having riches, or wealth, means that when we are doing God’s work—that is, living God’s way—we can count on receiving everything we truly need to keep going. And wealth isn’t the most important reward. Honor, a good name, is more desirable than great riches, says verse 1. By humbly following God, we gain the respect of other good people, and we probably gain some respect from some not-so-great people also. The most reliable reward of humbly following God is life itself. When we are humble enough to rely on God’s direction, it is amazing how many pitfalls we avoid. We avoid the problems that pride falsely says we can handle ourselves. When we are humble, we are amazed how often God helps us steer clear of trouble that we didn’t even see coming. When we are humble and we see or hear of someone’s folly leading to ruin, we learn to say, “There, but for the grace of God, go I.” That’s because, as verse 3 notes, the unwise keep going right into trouble; they don’t have God to guide them.
Dear Jesus, life can be so tricky. I could easily fall into troubles that would hurt me physically or financially or even ruin my good name. You alone can guide me safely through. Amen.
Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. — Proverbs 16:18
The same two kinds of pride show up in many languages. Both kinds have to do with being majestic or exalted in some way. One kind of pride is good—for example, when parents view the development of their children as remarkable. But the other kind of pride is very bad. Throughout Proverbs we read about the good development that can happen when someone pursues wisdom. True wisdom is gained through God. And even though a wise person can go through many ups and downs in life, the wisdom they’ve gained will help to hold their life together. But beware of trying to keep it all together on your own. Beware of the pride that makes you think that anything you built on your own is worth more. Or that because you built it by yourself you won’t need anyone’s help to hold it together. Or, most dangerous of all, that because you have been self-sufficient, you are a greater person than people who have relied on others. That kind of pride leads to destruction. Poetically this verse is saying that if you have built something without God, then it isn’t built very well. It’s not built to last. Sooner or later, the so-called majestic life you built without God will simply fall apart.
Father God, keep us from the foolish pride that prompts us to build our lives on the rickety version of success prized by this world. Amen.
I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. — Philippians 4:11
Contentment was a powerful word to the Greek-speaking people of Paul’s day. To be content literally means “to find everything you need within yourself.” Many teachers in that day believed that contentment was the greatest virtue. But their version of contentment was based on self-accomplishment. To become content, they taught, a person had to be able to provide completely for himself or herself. Paul knew that it was a myth to think that a human being can be completely self-sustaining. And yet here he looks within himself and finds that everything he needs is there within him. How did it get there? God put it there. God’s own Spirit had begun living inside of Paul. This contentment provided by the Spirit of God gave Paul tremendous freedom. He goes on to say that sometimes his physical needs have been met, and sometimes they have not been met. But even when he has not had enough food, clothing, money, or other basic needs, he has still found that God’s peace and strength have been present within him.
Jesus, live in us. Fill us with your Spirit’s strength and peace, we pray, and help us to trust that you will provide whatever else we need for today. Amen.
I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. — Philippians 4:11
Contentment was a powerful word to the Greek-speaking people of Paul’s day. To be content literally means “to find everything you need within yourself.” Many teachers in that day believed that contentment was the greatest virtue. But their version of contentment was based on self-accomplishment. To become content, they taught, a person had to be able to provide completely for himself or herself. Paul knew that it was a myth to think that a human being can be completely self-sustaining. And yet here he looks within himself and finds that everything he needs is there within him. How did it get there? God put it there. God’s own Spirit had begun living inside of Paul. This contentment provided by the Spirit of God gave Paul tremendous freedom. He goes on to say that sometimes his physical needs have been met, and sometimes they have not been met. But even when he has not had enough food, clothing, money, or other basic needs, he has still found that God’s peace and strength have been present within him.
Jesus, live in us. Fill us with your Spirit’s strength and peace, we pray, and help us to trust that you will provide whatever else we need for today. Amen.
Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come. . . . — Revelation 19:7
In the school where I teach, our senior students spend a lot of their spare time planning their graduation banquet. They taste samples from a banquet menu, raise funds so that they can have a special celebration, and imagine how great it will be to celebrate their long-awaited milestone. A great feast is also at the culmination of God’s great story of redemption in the Bible. Throughout Scripture, many stories show how God feeds his people. It’s like a long bread-thread woven through and baked into the whole story of God’s amazing work in and through his people. And this great feast will have the finest and best of breads—no meal could be complete without it. This great feast combines so many things at once: it is high and long and wide and deep with the love of Christ; it celebrates manna in the wilderness and the “bread of the Presence” of God; it multiplies the feeding of the 5,000 exponentially; it recalls the bread that Jesus gave thanks for and broke with his disciples; and it fills us with Jesus himself, the bread of life. All of these great memories and the fullness of every promise come together at the great supper of the Lamb in the new heaven and earth.
“Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever. Amen!” (Revelation 7:12)
Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come. . . . — Revelation 19:7
In the school where I teach, our senior students spend a lot of their spare time planning their graduation banquet. They taste samples from a banquet menu, raise funds so that they can have a special celebration, and imagine how great it will be to celebrate their long-awaited milestone. A great feast is also at the culmination of God’s great story of redemption in the Bible. Throughout Scripture, many stories show how God feeds his people. It’s like a long bread-thread woven through and baked into the whole story of God’s amazing work in and through his people. And this great feast will have the finest and best of breads—no meal could be complete without it. This great feast combines so many things at once: it is high and long and wide and deep with the love of Christ; it celebrates manna in the wilderness and the “bread of the Presence” of God; it multiplies the feeding of the 5,000 exponentially; it recalls the bread that Jesus gave thanks for and broke with his disciples; and it fills us with Jesus himself, the bread of life. All of these great memories and the fullness of every promise come together at the great supper of the Lamb in the new heaven and earth.
“Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever. Amen!” (Revelation 7:12)
“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. . . . I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” — Revelation 3:20
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people struggled even more than usual with loneliness and isolation. Not being able to meet and eat with friends and family weighed heavily on populations worldwide. For many people and for many different reasons, though, eating alone was a reality long before COVID restrictions came along, and in those cases the lifting of restrictions won’t mean there will suddenly be people to eat with. So Jesus’ words of invitation here may be especially welcome for people who yearn to eat with someone who loves them. Jesus’ words in this passage echo some of the lines in another book of the Bible, which is associated with tender, intimate love: the Song of Songs. In Song of Songs 5:2, the woman says, “Listen! My beloved is knocking.” And her beloved says: “Open to me. . . .” Both the scene in Song of Songs and this scene in Revelation are very tender, and the word for “love” here is phileo, referring to love that is affectionate, as warmhearted as a close friend, and as near to one’s heart as a lover. It makes sense, then, that the great feast that culminates the entire story of God’s love for his people is the wedding supper of the Lamb, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Listen, he stands at the door and knocks. Will you open the door and let Jesus in?
Lord Jesus, I hear you at the door, knocking. Thank you! Lord, please come in and eat with me. Amen.
“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. . . . I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” — Revelation 3:20
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people struggled even more than usual with loneliness and isolation. Not being able to meet and eat with friends and family weighed heavily on populations worldwide. For many people and for many different reasons, though, eating alone was a reality long before COVID restrictions came along, and in those cases the lifting of restrictions won’t mean there will suddenly be people to eat with. So Jesus’ words of invitation here may be especially welcome for people who yearn to eat with someone who loves them. Jesus’ words in this passage echo some of the lines in another book of the Bible, which is associated with tender, intimate love: the Song of Songs. In Song of Songs 5:2, the woman says, “Listen! My beloved is knocking.” And her beloved says: “Open to me. . . .” Both the scene in Song of Songs and this scene in Revelation are very tender, and the word for “love” here is phileo, referring to love that is affectionate, as warmhearted as a close friend, and as near to one’s heart as a lover. It makes sense, then, that the great feast that culminates the entire story of God’s love for his people is the wedding supper of the Lamb, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Listen, he stands at the door and knocks. Will you open the door and let Jesus in?
Lord Jesus, I hear you at the door, knocking. Thank you! Lord, please come in and eat with me. Amen.
“To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna.” — Revelation 2:17
Whenever we read from the book of Revelation, it’s important to keep in mind that it is full of symbolism. It isn’t meant to be read literally, and if we try to read it that way, we will run into many difficulties. In this passage, the apostle John is writing down a message from Jesus to a church that needs to hear encouragement as well as a warning. The bottom line is this: Stay true to God’s Word. Don’t get distracted by other slick ideas that might lead you in directions where you can get defeated and discouraged. Keep your eyes on Jesus! Whoever does this will be victorious, and whoever is victorious will be given “some of the hidden manna.” “Hidden manna” is probably a reference to the manna that was placed in the ark of the covenant (Exodus 16:33-34; Hebrews 9:4); this reminded the people that God was present with them in every situation. This manna was some of the bread sent from heaven, a reminder of God’s abundant provision to his people in their need. It was a sign of God’s generous hospitality and God’s presence. It also pointed to Jesus’ coming to save us and give us new life. Jesus’ offer of “hidden manna” reminds us that he is the bread of life (John 6:32-35). So let’s keep our eyes on Jesus and trust that he will help us stand firm in faith, no matter what challenges may come.
Lord Jesus, our eyes are fixed on you. We trust you to give us all we need in every situation, that we may remain true to your name. Amen.
“To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna.” — Revelation 2:17
Whenever we read from the book of Revelation, it’s important to keep in mind that it is full of symbolism. It isn’t meant to be read literally, and if we try to read it that way, we will run into many difficulties. In this passage, the apostle John is writing down a message from Jesus to a church that needs to hear encouragement as well as a warning. The bottom line is this: Stay true to God’s Word. Don’t get distracted by other slick ideas that might lead you in directions where you can get defeated and discouraged. Keep your eyes on Jesus! Whoever does this will be victorious, and whoever is victorious will be given “some of the hidden manna.” “Hidden manna” is probably a reference to the manna that was placed in the ark of the covenant (Exodus 16:33-34; Hebrews 9:4); this reminded the people that God was present with them in every situation. This manna was some of the bread sent from heaven, a reminder of God’s abundant provision to his people in their need. It was a sign of God’s generous hospitality and God’s presence. It also pointed to Jesus’ coming to save us and give us new life. Jesus’ offer of “hidden manna” reminds us that he is the bread of life (John 6:32-35). So let’s keep our eyes on Jesus and trust that he will help us stand firm in faith, no matter what challenges may come.
Lord Jesus, our eyes are fixed on you. We trust you to give us all we need in every situation, that we may remain true to your name. Amen.
He broke [the bread] and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” — 1 Corinthians 11:24
In the Lord’s Supper (communion) bread symbolizes nourishment and sustenance in faith, but it also symbolizes the death of Jesus that saves us from destruction. It’s like water and wine. These symbols are like a double-edged sword: water can sustain life, but it can also create deadly floods. Wine can gladden the heart, but it can also destroy people’s lives. Some stories about bread in the Old Testament include this element as well: manna that was greedily kept until the next day became rotten and unsafe to eat (Exodus 16:20); a soldier’s dream showed a loaf of bread destroying the Midianite camp (Judges 7:13); and the odd bread that Ezekiel had to eat warned the people of an impending siege (Ezekiel 4:16). And here, in 1 Corinthians, the Lord’s Supper reminds us and warns of judgment and how Jesus came to save us from certain destruction. There is an element of being completely open with God and each other when we come to the Lord’s table, especially because we gather to eat together. None of us really wants our life to be scrutinized, but at God’s table, there is always mercy. Mercy is greater than judgment; provision is greater than scarcity; life is greater than death; “perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18). And God’s presence with us through the bread of Christ is greater than anything we could ever ask or imagine.
Thank you, Jesus, for your death, which gives us eternal life. Amen.
He broke [the bread] and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” — 1 Corinthians 11:24
In the Lord’s Supper (communion) bread symbolizes nourishment and sustenance in faith, but it also symbolizes the death of Jesus that saves us from destruction. It’s like water and wine. These symbols are like a double-edged sword: water can sustain life, but it can also create deadly floods. Wine can gladden the heart, but it can also destroy people’s lives. Some stories about bread in the Old Testament include this element as well: manna that was greedily kept until the next day became rotten and unsafe to eat (Exodus 16:20); a soldier’s dream showed a loaf of bread destroying the Midianite camp (Judges 7:13); and the odd bread that Ezekiel had to eat warned the people of an impending siege (Ezekiel 4:16). And here, in 1 Corinthians, the Lord’s Supper reminds us and warns of judgment and how Jesus came to save us from certain destruction. There is an element of being completely open with God and each other when we come to the Lord’s table, especially because we gather to eat together. None of us really wants our life to be scrutinized, but at God’s table, there is always mercy. Mercy is greater than judgment; provision is greater than scarcity; life is greater than death; “perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18). And God’s presence with us through the bread of Christ is greater than anything we could ever ask or imagine.
Thank you, Jesus, for your death, which gives us eternal life. Amen.
Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts. . . . — Acts 2:46
For a time, our church received donations of day-old bread from a bakery nearby. An elderly man from a neighboring church would pick up the bread and bring it to us on Sunday mornings. Some of it, however, was too tough for his church members to eat, he said, because many of them couldn’t afford dental care and were missing teeth. They could enjoy soft breads, but not the bagels, artisan loaves, and so on. So I suggested that some members in our church might like the breads that their members couldn’t use, and the elder thought that would make a great arrangement. Early each Sunday morning, he dropped off a few gigantic bags of bagels and seedy artisan loaves, joking each time that this was his gift for “the church of the strong teeth”—and every week without fail we laughed about it. He saved the soft bread for his congregation, and our young people ate bagels after the morning service—and then also each morning throughout the week. This became a regular part of our Sunday gatherings. Our churches became closer because of it, and in a very real way we “ate together with glad and sincere hearts.” Acts 2 gives a glimpse of the early church and how they gathered for worship and ate bread together. When we break bread together with glad hearts, we remember Jesus and take part in the joy shared by those early followers.
Jesus, by your Spirit be present among us as we break bread together. Amen.
Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts. . . . — Acts 2:46
For a time, our church received donations of day-old bread from a bakery nearby. An elderly man from a neighboring church would pick up the bread and bring it to us on Sunday mornings. Some of it, however, was too tough for his church members to eat, he said, because many of them couldn’t afford dental care and were missing teeth. They could enjoy soft breads, but not the bagels, artisan loaves, and so on. So I suggested that some members in our church might like the breads that their members couldn’t use, and the elder thought that would make a great arrangement. Early each Sunday morning, he dropped off a few gigantic bags of bagels and seedy artisan loaves, joking each time that this was his gift for “the church of the strong teeth”—and every week without fail we laughed about it. He saved the soft bread for his congregation, and our young people ate bagels after the morning service—and then also each morning throughout the week. This became a regular part of our Sunday gatherings. Our churches became closer because of it, and in a very real way we “ate together with glad and sincere hearts.” Acts 2 gives a glimpse of the early church and how they gathered for worship and ate bread together. When we break bread together with glad hearts, we remember Jesus and take part in the joy shared by those early followers.
Jesus, by your Spirit be present among us as we break bread together. Amen.
Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread. — Luke 24:35
There’s a story about a woman who happened to wander into a church on a Sunday morning. She was an atheist, so she wasn’t quite sure why she decided to sit there in a pew, and then when she was offered communion, for some reason she didn’t turn it down. As she heard the words “Take this bread” and ate the piece of bread, it was as if she received a revelation. From that moment on, she followed Jesus and then started a food bank so that she could help feed others. This story and our reading in Luke today give glimpses of what’s possible even when people aren’t aware of who Jesus is. When we read the story of the men walking on the road to Emmaus, it’s hard not to wonder why Jesus kept them from recognizing him. He could easily have told them earlier who he was and filled them with joy. Yet God’s ways are not our ways. And then somehow, when Jesus “took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them,” their eyes were opened. Can we accept that we can’t control how or when Jesus reveals himself to us, and that it may not depend on our intellectual ability? Jesus allowed these followers, on the very day of his resurrection, to recognize him first and foremost in the breaking of bread, permitting them to understand and even to taste the truth of who he really was.
Lord, our hearts are burning within us too. As we taste your goodness, we know that you are the risen Savior. Amen.
Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread. — Luke 24:35
There’s a story about a woman who happened to wander into a church on a Sunday morning. She was an atheist, so she wasn’t quite sure why she decided to sit there in a pew, and then when she was offered communion, for some reason she didn’t turn it down. As she heard the words “Take this bread” and ate the piece of bread, it was as if she received a revelation. From that moment on, she followed Jesus and then started a food bank so that she could help feed others. This story and our reading in Luke today give glimpses of what’s possible even when people aren’t aware of who Jesus is. When we read the story of the men walking on the road to Emmaus, it’s hard not to wonder why Jesus kept them from recognizing him. He could easily have told them earlier who he was and filled them with joy. Yet God’s ways are not our ways. And then somehow, when Jesus “took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them,” their eyes were opened. Can we accept that we can’t control how or when Jesus reveals himself to us, and that it may not depend on our intellectual ability? Jesus allowed these followers, on the very day of his resurrection, to recognize him first and foremost in the breaking of bread, permitting them to understand and even to taste the truth of who he really was.
Lord, our hearts are burning within us too. As we taste your goodness, we know that you are the risen Savior. Amen.
“Take wheat and barley, beans and lentils, millet and spelt; put them in a storage jar and use them to make bread for yourself.” — Ezekiel 4:9
In some grocery stores you can find “Ezekiel 4:9 Bread,” which contains the same ingredients God told Ezekiel to use here to make bread. But the recipe God gave Ezekiel wasn’t intended to be an expensive specialty food. Although the combination of grains forms a complete protein and would have given Ezekiel a lot of important nutrients as he ate the small portions he was told to eat, the mixture of those ingredients was not part of his cultural tradition. It pointed to a pared-back diet for times of poverty and crisis. The wheat was to be mixed with grains and legumes that made for a scant vegetarian diet and weren’t very desirable. To make matters worse, Ezekiel had to cook the bread over manure! This strange story is unsettling: Why would God ask Ezekiel to do this? And why did Ezekiel follow through even though it was awfully uncomfortable to do so? There are no easy answers, but it seems that the message God intended here was that there would be harsh consequences for Israel’s disobedience, and yet this unusual bread would sustain people. A coming siege would bring horrible discomfort, but it would not completely obliterate God’s people. It would be a wake-up call to turn back to God. Many years later, Jesus would sound a similar call for the people to recognize God in their midst.
Lord, your ways puzzle us sometimes, and yet we trust you to turn us back to you. Amen.
“Take wheat and barley, beans and lentils, millet and spelt; put them in a storage jar and use them to make bread for yourself.” — Ezekiel 4:9
In some grocery stores you can find “Ezekiel 4:9 Bread,” which contains the same ingredients God told Ezekiel to use here to make bread. But the recipe God gave Ezekiel wasn’t intended to be an expensive specialty food. Although the combination of grains forms a complete protein and would have given Ezekiel a lot of important nutrients as he ate the small portions he was told to eat, the mixture of those ingredients was not part of his cultural tradition. It pointed to a pared-back diet for times of poverty and crisis. The wheat was to be mixed with grains and legumes that made for a scant vegetarian diet and weren’t very desirable. To make matters worse, Ezekiel had to cook the bread over manure! This strange story is unsettling: Why would God ask Ezekiel to do this? And why did Ezekiel follow through even though it was awfully uncomfortable to do so? There are no easy answers, but it seems that the message God intended here was that there would be harsh consequences for Israel’s disobedience, and yet this unusual bread would sustain people. A coming siege would bring horrible discomfort, but it would not completely obliterate God’s people. It would be a wake-up call to turn back to God. Many years later, Jesus would sound a similar call for the people to recognize God in their midst.
Lord, your ways puzzle us sometimes, and yet we trust you to turn us back to you. Amen.
“Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me.” — John 6:57
Jesus tells the people who have come to him with questions that he is the bread of life and that whoever feeds on him will live forever! This is a strange teaching, and not all of the people who heard it could accept it. Can you blame them? It is quite unusual for a teacher to say that whoever eats their flesh will live. When they heard this, some people turned away, saying they could not accept this teaching. Yet this mystery that we cannot explain rationally is at the heart of the sacrament of communion, the Lord’s Supper. Symbolically we eat and drink the body and blood of Jesus Christ, our Lord, because we accept that he is the one whom God has given to provide us salvation and eternal life. Jesus knows that some people will find this offensive, but he isn’t bothered by that. He promises that the Spirit gives life and that the words he has spoken are “full of the Spirit and life” (John 6:63). Even today these words are hard to explain. They only make sense in the context of faith when we, like Simon Peter, say, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.”
Lord Jesus, your words are “full of the Spirit and life.” Help us not to be afraid or alarmed when some people find your words offensive, but enable us to trust your word completely, to feed on you, and to receive the eternal life that only you can give. Amen.
“I am the bread of life. . . . I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.” — John 6:48, 51
There were reasons why people were so happy to have an abundance of bread out on the mountainside (John 6:1-13). They were really hungry, and suddenly—miraculously—there was fresh, free bread! But on the next day some people come to Jesus with a few questions. They know the story of Moses and how God fed his people with manna in the desert (Exodus 16), and they are trying to understand who this new bread-making miracle worker is. They know that their ancestors were fed in the wilderness long ago, so how can Jesus claim to be the one sent by the manna-giving God? When Jesus tells them that he himself is the bread that came down from heaven, they just can’t believe it. Jesus is saying that he has been sent by God and that he has seen God. And when Jesus says, “Whoever eats this bread will live forever,” he is referring back to the miracles God did in the past, and he is pointing forward to the everlasting life that is to come. Jesus is putting himself at the very center of the story of all that God is doing to save the whole world. And the only thing we need to do to be a part of what God is doing is to believe in the one God has sent (John 6:29).
Jesus, we believe that you have been sent by God, and we believe that you are the bread of life, which you have given for the life of the whole world. We receive your gift with humble thanks. Amen.
Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. — John 6:11
This story of the miraculous and abundant provision of bread for a hungry crowd is included in all four gospel accounts of Jesus’ life and ministry: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. That’s not a coincidence. This story captures the reality of our deep hunger, Jesus’ surprising and abundant provision, and the various human reactions that followed this miracle. Jesus truly prepared a table for his people! There’s something so captivating and satisfying about this scene that it’s no wonder it’s included in each gospel account. With a delightful twist Jesus tests his disciples, saying, “Where should we get bread for these people?” And all the while he knows very well what he is about to do. Imagine Jesus’ joy at being able to provide for everyone! And the way he does this is unexpected: the loaves he multiplies are brought forward by a boy. How is it possible that Jesus could do this? And how could so many people all have “as much as they wanted”? Jesus could do this because he is God. And this miracle is merely a sign pointing to something greater—for Jesus is about to reveal to the people (as we will see tomorrow) that he is actually the real bread of life.
Lord Jesus, bread of life, giver of every good gift, we praise and thank you! We look to you in our hunger, and you satisfy us with your abundance. You are truly a miracle-working Savior. Amen.
“How much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” — Matthew 7:11
Where I live in Canada, many students and teachers are preparing to go back to school—and for our family that means making school lunches again. We go through quite a lot of bread because we often make sandwiches for lunch. Sometimes one of our kids will come home with an uneaten sandwich, and that can make me wonder, Was it not good? Were they not hungry? Did they not have time to eat it? In Matthew 7, Jesus emphasizes that if we human parents, as imperfect as we are, know how to provide for our children, how much more does our Father in heaven provide good things for us! The problem is that we don’t always recognize how God provides for us. We expect something else, or we wait for God to feed us only what we want. Sometimes we have no appetite because we’ve filled ourselves with other things. Perhaps we have no time to pay attention to God’s goodness because we’ve filled our schedules with other activities. Hopefully, reflecting on the theme of bread in the Bible will help us to slow down and notice the many ways God satisfied his people in the past, and that God continues to satisfy our needs through his Word and presence in our lives today. Jesus promises to nourish us—in both body and soul.
Lord, thank you for all of your good gifts. Help us to ask for what we need, and to recognize the ways you provide for us each day, that we may receive all that you intend for us in Christ. Amen.
“Give us today our daily bread. . . .” — Matthew 6:11
As I was growing up, my parents led our family in reading Today devotions after supper each day. One of us four kids would read the Bible passage, and another would read the meditation. It’s no wonder that, for me, reading and reflecting on Scripture is strongly associated with eating bread. Maybe you also read these devotions in connection with a meal. How does your experience of eating influence your appreciation for the nourishment of God’s Word? Jesus taught his disciples to pray by saying “Give us today our daily bread.” And this reveals a few things. We can boldly ask God to provide for our daily needs. And we can trust that God does provide, though not always in a way we might expect. Our daily bread is something we need, and we are encouraged to ask for it every single day. The Bible is filled with marvelous stories of how God feeds and cares for his people, showing in particular that bread is a rich symbol of God’s provision and presence. Our response to God’s gift of daily bread is often an indicator of where we stand in relationship with God. Do we trust God to provide, or do we try to take things into our own hands? And can we see that the many passages about bread in the Bible somehow point to the nurturing gift of Jesus, the bread of life, who is given for us?
Lord, we are hungry—in body and soul—for what only you can provide. “Give us today our daily bread.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. — 1 John 4:1
This month we have reflected on submitting to God so that we can discern how to live by his will. And here John helps us remember that we need to test all the words and voices and messages we hear “to see whether they are from God.” False spirits and their false teachings can cause us to stray from fully depending on God. But we do not stand alone—nor should we—as we face the challenges of persevering in the faith. Alongside the Bible and the Holy Spirit, we have pastors, parents, teachers, and friends who can help us “test the spirits.” Believers in Jesus have been given communities of faith to help and encourage us—and to be ready, in turn, to receive our help as well. Pray for your church leaders, asking that they will be faithful servants of the Lord’s people. Give them time to wait for directions of wisdom from the Lord for Jesus’ sake. Pray with your family when decisions need to be made. Pray for school administrators and teachers, asking that they may follow the way of Jesus in their teaching and in guiding children. Pray also for government leaders, appointed by God to lead in their particular areas and regions. Never forget that our God is Lord over all, and that Jesus is the image of the invisible God. Be humble before him and bear the fruit of the Spirit, to his honor and glory.
Lord of all, guide us to live by your wisdom, for Jesus’ sake. Fill us with your Spirit to serve for your glory. Amen.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. — Proverbs 3:5-6
I cannot count the times my mother quoted this verse to me—and with good reason. I was heading down a proverbial path that would only cause me disappointment or pain—yet I was too young to understand. Even though my own understanding seemed good to me at the time, I slowly learned to seek the Lord with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Sin has polluted our willingness to submit to the Lord. The devil tempts us to trust our own way and intuition. God seeks to draw us to himself because he knows best. We are constantly caught in that tug-of-war, leaning one way and then the other. There was a time when I thought I knew it all, but the one thing I did not know was that God had a better way that he was waiting to show me. God’s Word taught me to trust him with the directions. We are taught to love the Lord God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves (Mark 12:30-31). I need to pray this prayer more often:
Father, I have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed by what I have done and not done. I have not loved you with my heart, soul, mind, and strength; nor have I loved my neighbor as myself. Forgive me, for Jesus’ sake—that I may be a cleansed servant of yours in the world. Amen.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. — James 1:2-4
When James writes that we should face trials with joy, he is talking about challenges to our faith that can help us learn and grow. He is talking about hardships we may face as believers in Christ, and how those can strengthen our faith and help us discern God’s will. For example, the first followers of Jesus were often persecuted. The apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit to preach the good news of Jesus and even to heal people in Jesus’ name (Acts 2-3). And they were thrown in jail by the ruling authorities who did not believe in Jesus and his resurrection. The apostles were put on trial and asked where they got the authority to do such things. But they did not back down. Filled with the Spirit, they said, “There is no other name under heaven . . . by which we must be saved,” and, “We must obey God rather than human beings!” And even though they were punished and brutally whipped for their faith and their actions, they had joy “because they had been counted worthy of disgrace for the Name” of Christ (see Acts 4-5). Another example can be that we are always “prepared to give an answer . . . with gentleness and respect” to explain the hope that we have in Christ. “For it is better . . . to suffer for doing good than for doing evil” (1 Peter 3:15-17).
Lord, give us the courage we need to serve you and to face trials when they come, that we may grow mature in you. Amen.
The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. — Colossians 1:15
If a god is something or someone you trust in to guard you, provide for you, and keep you healthy, wealthy, and wise, the Colossian people had no shortage of gods. In their culture, there was a god for almost anything. Fortunately, today we are free of those misguided ideas, right? Wrong! Look at television commercials, internet ads, highway billboards, and magazine spreads, and they will tempt you to depend on money, pearly white teeth, the right outfit, gambling, and much more. May the God of heaven help us—and he has! Paul taught clearly that Jesus, the Son of God, is the visible image of the invisible God. He is the author of creation, the Lord of lords and King of kings. “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” All the fullness of God is in him. Jesus made peace between God and humanity through his blood, sacrificed on the cross for the world that God has so loved since the beginning. The Colossians needed to hear this and to believe it with such commitment that they would flee from everything else that was tempting them. It is good for us to hear these words too—and to memorize them. Jesus is the cornerstone of our faith, and we need to remember this always, trusting in him and seeking to live for him day by day.
Lord of all, we submit ourselves to you. We confess that we often trust other things more than we want to admit. Hear our confession now, and forgive us our sins, we pray. Amen.
We continually ask God to fill you. . . . — Colossians 1:9
In late August in the area where I live, it’s not unusual to hear about harvesting. Harvest time is near, and what was planted in spring and cared for in summer is almost ready to fill baskets and bins. Paul knew that the Colossians’ faith, love, and hope were rooted in Christ. And that meant a bountiful harvest would come for the church. Paul said that he and others continually asked God for the Colossians to be filled to overflowing with the knowledge of God’s will through the wisdom and understanding of the Holy Spirit. This knowledge is not mere head knowledge; it is heart knowledge that comes with wisdom and understanding. This involves the process of discerning the will of God, which comes through putting oneself aside and becoming filled with Jesus and the Spirit. It is not easy to put ourselves in that position. It requires discipline, spiritual discipline. Jesus took time to be alone with his Father in order to remain focused, and we need to do the same, offering ourselves to the Father’s will, not our own. Like Jesus, we need to develop the habit of seeking after and waiting for the will of God to be revealed to us. God wants us to know his will—and, rest assured, it will always conform to what the Bible teaches.
God of bounteous grace, help us to slow down to know you and your will better, that we may live faithfully for you. Amen.
We have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people. . . . — Colossians 1:4
It’s wonderful when someone comes into the kingdom of God. That person receives God’s gift of grace through faith in Jesus, and they begin a new life of walking with the Holy Spirit. The new believer realizes that their old life of selfish pursuits offers nothing that will ever satisfy. They have turned their back on the darkness and are enjoying the light of the world, Jesus. Praise God for his love! Paul is filled with thanks to hear that the people of Colossae have come to faith in Christ Jesus and are showing their love for all God’s people. He even says, “We always thank God . . . when we pray for you . . .” They have become wonderful examples of living by faith in Jesus. They believe and trust, they love, and they hope in what God has already stored up in heaven for them. Drawing all this together, we can say with Paul that the faith of the Colossian believers is rooted in Jesus Christ. Friends, my prayer is that you will have faith in Christ Jesus; my hope for you is that in Jesus’ name you are loving others, giving yourself up for them, and growing in hope in all that God has promised and is storing up for you in heaven. Stay rooted in Christ, anticipating the reality of God’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
Gracious God in whom we hope, strengthen our faith in Jesus, the Savior of the world. Increase our love for others and build our hope in what we know is yet to come. Amen.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. — Philippians 4:6
Life gives us opportunities to enjoy calm and peacefulness. Life also gives us opportunities to be anxious. We can grow anxious when sickness comes—especially when sickness might lead to death. We can also feel anxious when we run out of money for food or for our monthly bills. Relationships can create times of anxiety when tempers flare and anger burns. I remember a dark, cold, windy night when I had to walk along a lightless street to get home. I was frightened by all kinds of shifting shadows. I raced down the middle of that street as fast as I could till I was safely home. What do you become anxious about? I heard a good sermon recently about a correlation between anxiety and prayer. When we are anxious, we can turn to the One who is aware of all our circumstances and who will meet us in our times of anxiety. To him we pray, thanking him for who he is and telling him our anxieties. He says, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Being still gives us time to discern God and his love. I repeat the word “Father” over and over until I am at peace with God my Father. Then anxiety has its rightful place; it is in his hands, not mine. The peace of God awaits those whose hearts are set on God.
Father, Father, Father, you are God, and I am your child. Draw me to yourself today and always, helping me trust that I can leave my anxiety with you. Amen.
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus. — Philippians 2:5
We all have relationships. These may include family members, friends, neighbors, coworkers, church members, and especially Jesus. In the city of Philippi, Paul had relationships with a jailer and his household, the city magistrates, Lydia and her household, a female slave who was tormented by a spirit, and the slave girl’s owners. Several of those people became part of the first church in Philippi (see Acts 16:11-40). Paul had the attitude of Jesus in all those relationships. His mindset was humility, giving up privilege to be a servant like Jesus, putting himself in positions where his service for Christ might even cost him his life. Paul was willing to do that because he was confident of the eternal life that Jesus came to make available for us all. Jesus, who is Lord and King over all, came to give us eternal life. He humbled himself and paid the price for our sin. By doing that, he made eternal life possible for all who believe in him. Paul humbled himself and told others about Jesus so that they too would hear the good news and “acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Our attitude toward others should follow the same pattern. Make yourself a servant to someone today, for Jesus’ sake.
Lord Jesus, you are King of kings and Lord of lords. Forgive me for the times when I have not been a faithful servant to others. Bring glory to your name through me today. Amen.
Make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. — Philippians 2:2
In our reading for today, Paul urges all who believe in Christ to live together in unity, showing a like-mindedness that points to Jesus and the love he has for everyone. Christ came so that all people could have life “to the full” (John 10:10), as God has always intended. Paul lists some of the benefits that we, like the Philippians, have received from God as his children in Christ: encouragement, comfort, tenderness, compassion, humility, and value. Being united with Christ is to live as Jesus did. Jesus showed love and compassion to everyone. He loved people with God’s unconditional love. He served people selflessly, humbling himself and lifting others up. No one was unimportant or too small or low-down to receive his attention. We are called to live as servants of Jesus, free of selfish ambition and vain conceit. We are called to value others above ourselves, and when we serve others in their need, we are serving Christ himself (see Matthew 25:31-40). In union with Jesus, you and I have a responsibility to live in such as way that all who come into contact with us will sense that Jesus is leading us. His love and character should flow from of us. Indeed, we have an awesome responsibility!
Thank you, Father, for filling us with life through Jesus, our Savior and King. Fill us to overflowing with your Spirit so that we can live like him, honoring you above all. Amen.
Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. — Galatians 6:7
Our theme this month has been about discerning God’s will as we seek to honor and obey him. In our text for today Paul warns us not to deceive ourselves. We should not think more of ourselves than we ought, and we should be faithful in carrying each other’s burdens. This means caring for one another and doing good to all people, not taking pride in our own position of strength or health in any area. If we have health and strength and we are in a position to help someone, we need to realize that God is the one who has given us that position—so that we may honor him in doing good. If we begin thinking that we have earned that position for ourselves, we are in danger—because God will not be mocked. Again we are challenged to beware of the path we take in life. We will reap what we sow, so we should sow what is good and true. Paul describes two ways of living. Either we will seek to please our own sinful nature and reap destruction, or we will seek to please the Spirit of God. In Christ, God has provided the way to eternal life. And because we are given full life in Christ, we can strive to do good to all people. We can love our neighbors by doing good as we have opportunities. And opportunities abound, so we can do good all of the time.
Father in heaven, help us to sow what is good and true, that we can contribute to a harvest that honors you. Give us your wisdom. In Jesus, Amen.
The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. — Galatians 5:22-23
The apostle Paul teaches the Galatian believers to “walk by the Spirit,” be “led by the Spirit,” and “keep in step with the Spirit.” Though I have never been in a marching band, I am always impressed by how a marching band keeps in step. The players’ steps are orderly and coordinated, and they keep both the music and the band moving forward. Paul warns about what happens when our steps in life are not in coordination with the Spirit. There is immorality, impurity, conflict, selfish ambition, jealousy, discord, rage, and more. That is a dangerous place to be, and if we live that way, we will not inherit the kingdom of God. Being in step with the Spirit, however, produces “love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Life in Christ is designed to be harmonious. It involves a community loving and serving each other, just as the Trinity—God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—love each other. These verses can serve as a litmus test of your own life. Do you exhibit selfishness, pride, and conflict? Or do you live with love, goodness, and self-control? How about the community you are a part of? If any of you are out of step with the Spirit, be sure to humble yourselves and be led by the Spirit.
Triune God, help me to love and serve you and my neighbors, including my enemies. Let my life shine as an example of your love. Amen.
Understand, then, that those who have faith are children of Abraham. — Galatians 3:7
Now and then I will spend time studying my ancestry. It is easy to get caught up in finding information on one person, and then another. So far, I have been able to trace my family line back to an ancestor born in 1760. The Jewish people claim their lineage back to Abraham, from around 2000 B.C. God had given Abraham the sign of circumcision as a symbol of his covenant with him (Genesis 17), so circumcision became part of the Jewish law. In Galatia, some zealous Jews had been teaching that if people wanted to be Christ-followers, they had to have all of their males circumcised. Then the people would be obedient to God’s law and they could live in righteousness, they said. But Paul had rightly taught that circumcision was not needed because God had credited Abraham with righteousness long before giving him the sign of circumcision. As Genesis 15:6 says, Abraham “believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.” So Abraham was not righteous by obeying the law but by believing God. Righteousness is by faith, said Paul. That was what he had preached to the Galatians, and that was all they needed. So, he added, all who have faith are “children of Abraham.” If you have faith in Jesus, you are a child of Abraham. And your genealogy goes back 4,000 years to a person of faith, not works. Praise God!
Faithful God, thank you for making your children secure in Jesus and not on the basis of keeping the law. Amen.
They only heard the report: “The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” And they praised God because of me. — Galatians 1:23-24
Paul had started the young churches in the region of Galatia, but now they were floundering because some false teachers had led them astray (Galatians 1:6-10). Instead, they had needed to be encouraged and enfolded to remember the good news of Jesus and to live for him alone. So Paul tells briefly how God changed him from a persecutor of Christ-followers to a fully committed ambassador of Jesus (see Acts 9). His transformation was not about him but about Jesus. And eventually he went to Jerusalem to meet with the leaders of the church who lived there. Then Paul moved on to spread the gospel to regions north of Judea. And when the churches in Judea heard about him, the Spirit made clear that Paul was truly converted to “preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” That brought all the believers to praise God. And instead of fearing Paul, they rejoiced on account of him. People who come to know Jesus as their Savior need to be received with praise to God. They have been saved from darkness and brought into the light. They need friends who will bless them and encourage them. Do you know someone whom you can encourage in this way? Be sure to do so!
God of grace, move us to praise and give thanks to you for bringing sinners to your Son, Jesus, and guide us to encourage and enfold them. Amen.
“Those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.” — Luke 14:33
As a homeowner, I need to keep my lawn mowed in the summertime, and that’s something I do myself. The weather can get warm in August, so I can spend quite a bit of energy doing the lawn. The exercise is good, but when I am done, I can tell that I have used up strength and energy. It costs me something to do the work. In our reading for today, Jesus talks about the cost of following him. Some of his words sound harsh, and sometimes Jesus spoke this way to make clear that following him is not easy. Instead, it can be very hard work. For example, following Jesus can mean that our relationships with family and friends become strained because they do not believe in him. But Jesus is not saying we must literally “hate” them, because we also know that he calls us to love everyone, even our enemies (Matthew 6:44). In another passage Jesus states the same thing in a way that is easier to understand: “Anyone who loves their father or mother . . . [or] son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me” (Matthew 10:37). In other words, to follow Jesus, we need to put him first in our lives. We need to be willing to put aside everything else we have to be his disciples. Friends, following Jesus will cost you. Others might ridicule you, laugh at you, beat you, or even kill you. But, rest assured, nothing can separate you from the love of God.
Lord, strengthen the faith of all who are persecuted because of you. Give us the courage to follow you, whatever the cost. Amen.
I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.” And you forgave the guilt of my sin. — Psalm 32:5
It has been said that “confession is good for the soul.” This statement is not in the Bible, but God’s Word indicates that when we confess our sins in true repentance, God forgives us in his mercy, and we find peace with God. We are released from the guilt of our sin, and we find comfort in the Lord’s unfailing love. Psalm 32 describes this process beautifully. It opens with these words: “Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.” And near the end it says that “the Lord’s unfailing love surrounds the one who trusts in him.” The psalmist admits that trying to keep his sin hidden, or secret, weighed heavily on him. The guilt of sin became such a great burden that it sapped his strength. Deep down, he knew he could not hide his sin from God, so he gave up trying. He confessed his sin, and he received forgiveness. What a relief! The weight of all that guilt was lifted. Confession requires that we allow the light of the Spirit of God to penetrate our heart; identify ungodly thoughts, words, and actions; and turn them over to God. God is the one able to forgive, for Jesus’ sake—and he does.
Loving Father, thank you for sending your Son to pay the price for our sins. He not only accomplished that for us but also rose to life again, to give eternal life to all who trust in him. All glory be to God, our Savior! Amen.
Immediately the girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. — Mark 5:42
When Jairus’s daughter got up and started walking around, the people there were astonished. We do not need to wonder why. The young girl had died but was alive again! When Jesus had arrived at the house, the community mourners had already begun their customary crying and wailing. The people figured there was no reason to bother Jesus anymore, for the girl had died. Their behavior contrasted with the calm and persistence of Jesus, however. And when he said, “Don’t be afraid; just believe,” the people laughed at him. Ordering all those people out of the house, Jesus took the father and mother, along with three of his disciples, to where the child was. And I wonder if Jesus smiled a little himself. He knew Psalm 2:4-6: “The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them . . . saying, ‘I have installed my king. . . .’” The confirmation of Jesus as King meant that weeping would be turned into joy, and Jesus knew that he would turn wailing into amazement. Jesus calmly and gently ordered the girl to get up. No more death, just life and praise to God as a sign of his kingdom coming to earth. In your dark times, watch for Jesus; he still comes with power, bringing hope.
Risen Lord, forgive us for seeing darkness instead of your light. Walk into our situations with us, reveal yourself, and strengthen our hope in you, Prince of peace. Amen.
Then one of the synagogue leaders, named Jairus, came, and when he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet. — Mark 5:22
Before I was born, a brother of mine passed away at the age of fourteen months. My parents had done all they could to find medical help and healing for him. Similarly, Jairus, a synagogue leader, feared losing his young daughter, and he also did all he could to gain healing for his child. Jairus was responsible to help with the smooth running of the synagogue in town, which led worship and instruction for the local Jewish community. He likely had also heard that some other religious leaders, the Pharisees, didn’t like Jesus and had warned people to watch out for him. The Pharisees enjoyed their position of power as teachers of the law and rulers of the people, and they felt threatened by Jesus’ popularity and his amazing miracles. They had even begun plotting to find a way to kill Jesus (Mark 3:6). Despite all that, Jairus wanted healing for his daughter. So he went to see Jesus. Jairus also left his pride and dignity behind. As a respected leader in the community, he was not expected to submit to a stranger in his town, and yet he fell at the feet of Jesus in great humility. Jairus did not care who saw him do this because he knew he needed Jesus’ help. Followers of Jesus leave their preconceptions and pride behind when they come to Jesus. He is Lord and King of all. In him we find the power to heal—body and soul.
King Jesus, help me to realize who you are, and to be humble before you. Thank you for your love and care. Amen.
Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked straight at Elymas and said, “You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right! . . . Will you never stop perverting the right ways of the Lord?” — Acts 13:9-10
Barnabas, Saul (Paul), and John (Mark) were on a mission to bring the good news of God’s salvation in Jesus to people who had not heard it before. And they met some resistance from Elymas, a sorcerer and false prophet. Our enemy, the devil, was trying to stop the gospel from being preached there. Elymas went so far as to try turning his employer, the proconsul, away from having faith in Christ. Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, let the power of the Spirit do his work against this demonic influence. The words sound harsh, but then so did Jesus’ words to Peter when he said, “Get behind me Satan” (Matthew 16:23). There is only one way to be right with God. And that means opening ourselves to be filled with the Spirit of God, “the Spirit of truth” who guides us “into all truth” (John 16:13). In response to the teaching about the Lord, and having seen the powerful work of the Spirit through Paul, the proconsul believed. In a battle between God’s Spirit and the devil’s lies, the Spirit will always win. Let us be wise in who we follow.
Thank you, Father, for the gift of your Son, Jesus, and for the empowerment of your Spirit in your church. May the church be humble, strong, and faithful. Amen.
While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” — Acts 13:2
In Acts 1:8 Jesus told his disciples they would be his witnesses “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” In Acts 13 the church at Antioch, including Saul and Barnabas, prayerfully waited for direction from God. The church of Jesus Christ is called to listen for the Spirit’s leading as we ask, “What do you want us to do next?” The Antioch church was fasting and praying in a position of readiness, eager to hear the Lord’s orders and to obey them. And the Spirit of God responded with a clear directive: “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” They were not to go on their own mission project, nor the church’s. They were to do the work of the Holy Spirit. They needed to continue to listen for what the Spirit would tell them to do and where to do it. You and I must have a heart of submission to the Spirit. We need to be open to the plans that the Spirit of God has for us so that God can work in and through our lives. The Spirit is looking for us to continue the work of Jesus.
Loving God, each person in this world is an object of your love. And by your Spirit you call us to bear witness to your truth. Give us your clear directions, we pray. Amen.
The Berean Jews . . . received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. — Acts 17:11
A class I taught at a local Christian college was called “Gateway to Excellence.” It was an introductory class for all new students. When asked by others what the class was about, I would initially say that it was meant to equip students to become better thinkers and responsible followers of Jesus in their career choices. As a follower and servant of Jesus, I must be fully committed to his cause. Because of his love for me, Jesus died for me and equipped me with spiritual gifts so that I can serve him here on earth. And through his Spirit, Jesus promises to be with us until he comes again. When Paul went to Berea, he taught these things to the people there. And the Bereans were good thinkers who did not just take information at face value; they also examined the Scriptures to confirm what Paul was saying. Recognizing the truth of God in Paul’s message, many of them became believers in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, the Savior. Smart people need to be wise people, and wise people need to be listened to, talked with, questioned, and accepted if what they are saying is the truth. Be a student and thinker who digs into God’s Word, finding the way, the truth, and the life.
God of wisdom, fill our hearts with the truth of your Word so that we will be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry” (James 1:19), showing grace and patience for your sake. Amen.
“When evening comes, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,’ and in the morning, ‘Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.’” — Matthew 16:2-3
The month of August provides some of the warmest days of the year where I live. And in the morning, if the sky is red in the east, there is a good chance of stormy weather, just as people said in Israel back in Jesus’ day. Jesus used that well-known pattern as a “heads up” to the Pharisees and Sadducees who had asked him to show them a sign from heaven. In return he used a sign of the heavens to test them about their belief in him as God’s anointed King. They had already seen and heard about Jesus’ teaching and healing miracles, and they were inclined to dismiss them—and him as well. When it came to the gift that God had given them in Jesus, they had ears but could not hear, and they had eyes but could not see. Jesus predicted another sign as well—not to satisfy their question but to announce that he would rise from the dead. Did you notice that he mentioned “the sign of Jonah”? This meant that just as Jonah was in the belly of a great fish for three days before being spit out on the shore, Jesus would be in a tomb, and on the third day he would rise from the dead. Many of Jesus’ challengers missed that sign too. People still miss it today, but many see, believe, and live the resurrected life with Jesus. Are you living that life too?
Risen Lord, you are the giver of abundant life. Thank you for your amazing gifts. May we help others to see who you really are. Amen.
Who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults. — Psalm 19:12
When I was in grade school, there were many times that I thought a teacher or a parent had eyes in the back of their head. I could not get away with anything I was not supposed to be doing. Sometimes my hidden thoughts were identified by those who were not even looking at me. And to prevent me from even trying something out of line, they said, “Just remember, God sees everything you do.” Having someone watching our every move can help to keep our actions in check, but what about our thoughts and the things we are tempted to say? When we allow the bright light of God’s law to shine into our inner self, it illuminates our hidden faults and lights up a warning. Without God’s law we are blind to what separates us from God. The psalmist knows that he cannot see his faults by looking into a mirror. He looks instead into God’s law and asks God to forgive not only his visible sins but also his hidden faults. And the God of the Bible does forgive. Knowing the fact of God’s forgiveness assures the psalmist that he will be blameless in God’s sight. Not perfect yet, but blameless now.
Father God, even though your law is good and I want to obey it, I know I do not. Thank you for Jesus, who kept it perfectly so that by faith I can become one with him in your eyes. I love you, Jesus, and I thank you for loving me. Amen.
They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. — Psalm 19:3-4
In my first German-language lesson in high school, I was taught to ask, “Where is the post office, please?” If I were in Germany and needed to mail a letter home, I would need to ask, “Wo ist das Post, bitte?” If you travel to countries where the language is unfamiliar, you know how important it is to learn some basics in the local language. But how do we learn a language that has no words and no sounds? Psalm 19 teaches us that the language of the heavens and the skies has no words, yet their voice goes out to the ends of the earth, revealing knowledge. Some never notice it, but others learn and understand. God has gifted them to observe that creation has an amazing Creator. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the Spirit of God helps us understand. A discerning mind sees and hears God’s hand in all he has created. And we can praise God for all these things. Look up at the heavens. Look down at the flowers. See the stars and smell the roses. They all proclaim that the mighty God has graced us with breathtaking displays of his creative hand. To God be the glory!
God of creation, Lord of all that we see and hear and touch and smell, thank you for this great world you have given us to live in and care for. We praise your great and powerful name. Amen.
The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. . . . — Psalm 18:2
David, who was anointed to become king of Israel, had many enemies, and he wrote the words of Psalm 18 at a time when God delivered him from those enemies, including Saul, the king he would replace (see 2 Samuel 22). At times David was so overwhelmed by his enemies that he felt as if “the cords of death entangled” him. He felt that his end was near. In response, David called on the only one who could help. “I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I have been saved from my enemies.” David displayed great courage based on his trust in God, his rock and deliverer. David had been taught and had learned from experience that the Lord was always present for him. No enemy could separate him from the care of the Lord. When we know that we depend on God for all good things, as David did, we know that calling on God will help to bring the solutions we need. This doesn’t mean we should ignore emergency services or other kinds of help that are available when we might need them. God provides those resources in our communities for the good of everyone. But realizing that we can rely on God to help us with all our needs is a great comfort today just as it was for David. Let’s be sure to call on God whenever we need help of any kind.
O God, often we forget to look to you for help when we need it. Teach us to lean on you for protection, guidance, and all that we need, knowing you provide all good things. Amen.
Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. — Mark 1:35
In the streaming series The Chosen, one episode depicts Jesus returning to a camp where he and his disciples are staying for the night. It is late, and Jesus has spent the day healing crowds of people. He stumbles into camp, exhausted from the day’s ministry. The disciples can only watch him, surprised at how tired he is. His teaching and healing work must have been exhausting. Though he was fully God, Jesus was also fully human, so he got tired and needed sleep (see Mark 4:38; John 4:6). Our reading for today explains that after a long day of teaching and healing, Jesus rose early in the morning to pray. Jesus needed time to connect with his Father in prayer, resting in his Father’s presence and focusing on his purpose. He had come to do much more than heal people in Capernaum, even though that was clearly important while he was there. When the disciples went out and found him, he said, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” Jesus spent time in prayer with his Father, and he remained focused on his purpose. If this was important to Jesus, it is certainly important for his followers too. Let’s be sure to spend personal time with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit each day.
Father, I need to spend time with you, just as Jesus did. Lord, lead me, guide me, and give me the strength I need for the work you have planned. Amen.
The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him.” — Mark 1:27
When God’s enemy and ours, the devil, tempted Adam and Eve and humanity fell into sin (Genesis 3), all of our relationships were broken—with God, with each other, with ourselves, and with creation. Temptation and sin opened the way for the devil and his followers—impure spirits—to attack and influence our lives, sometimes even taking possession of people’s hearts, minds, and bodies. God’s Son, Jesus, came into the world to rebuild what was broken and to restore the goodness of creation, healing many people’s bodies and minds. Jesus came as God’s authoritative Word, and with power he drove impure spirits out of the people they had possessed. The crowd in Capernaum heard the Word of God and saw the power of God that Sabbath day. They were amazed to see God’s love presented to them in the person of Jesus. And as he worked wonders in God’s great plan of salvation, Jesus showed that his power was far greater than any demonic presence. The people heard Jesus speak God’s Word, and they saw his amazing acts of restoration. They witnessed “God with us,” Immanuel, and they spread the news about him everywhere.
Lord, thank you for showing your love in the person of Jesus Christ. May we seek him in the written Word you have given us, and may we tell of your power and love everywhere. Amen.
Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan!” . . . You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.” — Matthew 16:23
The words of Jesus to Peter here came soon after the faith-filled profession Peter had made when he said to Jesus, “You are the Messiah” (Matt. 16:16). Jesus was now teaching his disciples that he had come to suffer, be killed, and rise again. He would offer himself as a sacrifice for the sins of the world. Hearing that, Peter rebuked Jesus, saying, “Never, Lord! . . . This shall never happen to you!” So Jesus called Peter out and revealed that he had missed the main point of Jesus’ mission. From a human standpoint we can sympathize with Peter. We too would likely be shocked to hear that Jesus had come to suffer and die in order to rise again and give us new, abundant life. Today, though, we know how important it is to discern truth from lies, listening for God’s Word rather than listening to the lies of false religions and false teachers around us—don’t we? It should be clear to us that it takes effort and perseverance to prepare ourselves to discern properly. So until Jesus returns to make all things new, we must read the Bible and listen to Jesus, who died because he loved us, rose from the dead, and ascended to heaven to make his abundant life available for all who believe in him. Trust the truth, the way, and the life.
Risen and ascended Lord, you are the Messiah, and I confess that my actions and words do not always confirm that. Give me the strength and courage to stand up for you always. Amen.
“What about you?” [Jesus] asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” — Matthew 16:15-16
A trip to Israel, to visit places where Jesus walked, may include a stop at Banias in the northern part of the country. Banias was a settlement at the foot of Mount Hermon, and a spring from there makes a river that flows into the Jordan River. At the time of Jesus’ ministry, Banias was called Panias and was dedicated to the worship of the Greek god Pan. So it is not surprising that as Jesus and his disciples went into that area, he asked them a defining question: “Who do you say I am?” In other words, “Do you recognize me for who I really am, or am I just another object of worship like you see here? How do you discern my person, my teaching, and my miracles?” Peter, inspired by God, responded by saying, “You are the Messiah”—that is, the Christ (“Anointed One”). Peter declared that Jesus was the anointed Son of God who came to bring the kingdom of God. Jesus came to restore all that is broken by sin. Decidedly different from false Greek gods and the worship they were known for, Jesus is the true “Son of the living God.” Jesus is the real thing. Who do you say Jesus is?
Loving God, you sent Jesus into this world to provide freedom for everyone held captive by sin, suffocating under the lies of spiritual darkness. Thank you for guiding us to know Jesus for who he really is. For Jesus’ sake, draw many more to him today. Amen.
There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death. — Proverbs 16:25
On family road trips we would use a map so that we could know where we were, how far we had gone, and how far we needed to go. Those trips provided opportunities for addition and subtraction problems (especially in trying to figure out signs like one on Interstate 80 in Pennsylvania that read, “Mile Run – 2 miles”). Today GPS services and electronic maps make those old maps nearly obsolete. The mapping service gives us options for the fastest route and some alternate routes—with and without tolls. Travelers soon learn that there is often more than one way to their destination. And, who knows? The one you choose might just become your favorite way. The Bible shows that there are right roads and wrong roads when it comes to recognizing and following God’s way. A discerning mind will seek to determine if an opportunity honors God or not. That opportunity might look good at first, but it could end up at a dead end spiritually, emotionally, and even physically. The Spirit of God equips us with eyes to see and ears to hear what God says is the right way. If there is no confirmation of God’s approval, then it might be better to look for another route.
God of wisdom, fill us with your Spirit so that the direction of our lives will stay on course with your will and way. Bring us home to you, for your glory. Amen.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. — Proverbs 9:10
I tend to err on the side of caution. If there is risk involved, I will pause and evaluate the situation so that I can make a decision that will keep me as safe as possible. At an early age I learned that respecting things like the law of gravity and the authority of people in charge was better than disrespecting things that I cannot control. That helps me understand what the author of Proverbs is saying here. Fearing the Lord does not mean being scared of God, as if he were a tyrant waiting to take his anger out on us. To fear the Lord is to give him respect and reverence. After all, God is the Creator who graciously made a covenant with his people. He deserves our respect. God has promised to provide his people with all that they need. He deserves our reverence. Revering the Lord is the first step in developing a vibrant relationship with him. Revering God calls for us to submit ourselves humbly to him—seeking him, listening to him, and obeying him. Fearing the Lord puts us in the position of a servant who loves God and trusts God. That is where God wants us to be, and that is where we need to be.
Creator God, you are good, and you are great. Thank you for letting me know you, and thank you for always being willing to know me. Amen.
This is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best. . . . — Philippians 1:9-10
The apostle Paul and the church in Philippi shared a great love for each other. Because of his love for them, Paul wanted the Philippians’ love to abound in knowledge and insight so that they could live more like Jesus. With knowledge and insight, the Christians in Philippi could better discern all that is true and good. Knowing what is true and good would prepare them to love as Jesus does. The focus for a follower of Jesus is to love God above all and to love your neighbor as yourself. How can I love God and my neighbor without knowing the will of God? To try to love God and my neighbor apart from knowing God’s will and his ways would put me in a battle against God—with my will versus God’s will. But that would be a battle I would always lose. Thankfully, I do not have to take on that kind of battle. In his love for us, God gave us his Word (the Bible), and he sent Jesus (the living Word) to show us how to live. Following Jesus’ example, we too, like Paul and the Philippians, can grow to abound in knowledge and insight as we humbly seek to love God and our neighbor.
Gracious Father, thank you for sending us Jesus to reveal your love and to show us a new way of life. Fill us with your Spirit, that we may strive to follow Jesus today. Amen.
“Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things. . . .” — Psalm 98:1
Hearing the invitation to “sing a new song,” I’ve written one. These lyrics go with the tune for “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” To God be all glory, honor, and praise! In Christ Jesus God befriends us, comes to meet us in our need; by his wounded flesh Christ heals us, from the powers sets us free. With a shepherd’s eyes he finds us; in his arms we are embraced. Through his teaching we learn wisdom, at the cross we meet God’s grace. God brings help for those who struggle, and relief from poverty when we act with love toward strangers, risk ourselves to set them free; lay the walls of hate to rubble till the cries of war are ceased; when the rich in generous measure share with those who have the least. Creeds cannot dispel the hunger that brings children to their knees, nor can weekly rites of worship ease the pain of dread disease. Only love, made real in service, reaches others in their need; Holy Spirit, move our faith from holy words to holy deeds. All my neighbors, near and distant, must enjoy God’s friendship too. They are waiting to be welcomed to the feast where life’s made new. Let us join our hands together, raise our voices, shout our prayers; live the life that Christ commands us till there’s justice everywhere.
“Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” — James 2:17
If you have ever gone bowling, you know that the real value of a strike lies in what follows. A strike by itself is worth 10 points, but the real benefit lies in the pins you knock down in the next two throws. Throwing well could make that first strike worth 30 points! The life of faith and discipleship is something like that. Following up is all-important. It is one thing to hear the gospel, and it is quite another to embrace the gospel fully and be transformed by it. It is wonderful to receive forgiveness, and yet a richer blessing awaits all who extend that forgiveness to others. It is a joy to be welcomed into the family of God, and even greater joy comes with inviting and welcoming others. The good deeds that James is talking about are “follow-up throws” that multiply and expand the gift of faith—so much so that failing to follow up can render that faith lifeless. We’ve been reflecting on God’s heart for the poor and what that means for us. Learning about poverty is one thing. Believing that we are called to compassionate service is another. And following up with action for the poor and others in need makes knowing and believing genuine. After all, what good does it do a hungry person if all you give are caring thoughts and words?
God, we thank you for teaching us in your Word and showing us in Jesus how to live. Make our faith alive in good deeds for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. . . . Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. . . . — Romans 12:9-12
The people I’ve met who live in poverty have needed many different things: housing, new skills, friendship, advocacy. And the one thing they have all needed is hope, the sense that life is still full of possibilities. Hope convicts us that the world-as-it-is is not the world-as-it-can-be. Christians are above all a people of hope—and this does not refer to wishful thinking or naïve optimism but hope as “resurrection thinking and living.” In Jesus Christ, God has assured us that the future is open to God’s grace. St. Augustine said that hope has two daughters: “Anger and Courage. Anger at the way things are, and Courage to see that they do not remain as they are.” Because God desires shalom for the whole creation, we are right to be angry at poverty and all that interferes with shalom. “Hate what is evil,” says Paul. Indifference or apathy about injustice, oppression, and the suffering of others cannot produce hope. But anger by itself cannot bring positive change. Anger at evil must be accompanied by courage to act in ways that overcome evil. Paul describes that hopeful courage as consisting of patience, sharing both joys and sorrows, showing hospitality, bearing each other’s burdens, and more. Some of the poorest folks I have met are also the most hopeful. They are wise enough to hate evil and determined enough to face each day with courage. Theirs will be the kingdom of heaven.
Lord, teach me to long for a world of justice and peace, and use me to do your will. Amen.
He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” — Revelation 21:5
Have you ever wondered what the future will be like? I do. I wonder if doomsday forecasts will come true or whether we will find pathways toward a better future. If I look only to myself and what I know now, I am not always especially hopeful. Some problems seem impossible to solve, and reasons to feel gloomy abound. But God gives us many good reasons to be hopeful. First, God loves his creation, including us. God sent his Son to redeem us and to show us a better way of life, the kingdom way. God offers us forgiveness and new life: more than pardon, this is the gift of a new future made possible through Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul says that when we are “in Christ,” the old is gone and the new has come (2 Corinthians 5:17). And in Revelation 21:5 we read that God is “making everything new.” Isaiah paints a picture of God’s new future in very practical terms. People will live long. Infant mortality will be gone. People will stay in their own homes. They will reap the rewards of their labor, not toiling merely for the benefit of others. There will be peace—so much so that even natural enemies will cooperate. That’s a beautiful picture of the future into which God invites us already today.
Lord, help us to do justice, love mercy, trust Jesus, and follow him. Help us to enter your good future. Give us hope as we participate and invite others. Amen.
I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge. . . .” — Psalm 91:2
It was a scene of great joy when three siblings and their family members were reunited after a long separation. Seeking safety, they had fled their homeland in the midst of a civil war, and for eight long years they had lived in different refugee camps, moving from one place to another and searching for each other. Now, in a crowded airport, they were finally reunited. Our church, responsible for their resettlement, had provided housing, but it would not be “home” until the arrival of their loved ones. Home is supposed to mean safety, belonging, and welcome. But for millions of people their home region has become dangerous and unwelcoming. War, violence, discrimination, and even natural disasters have forced millions to leave their homes. Some get to start a new life. Others languish, homeless and growing hopeless. Baby Jesus was a refugee when his family fled to Egypt to escape death (Matthew 2). He later said that he had nowhere to rest his head. He understands the pain and sorrow of a refugee. God has great concern for refugees. Psalm 68 says that God will give the desolate a home, and in Isaiah 65 we read of a “new” time when people can build houses and stay in them. More than that, God offers the deep shelter of belonging to him—under his wings we find refuge.
Heavenly Father, we give thanks for our homes. Please care for the homeless. Thank you for being our dwelling place. In Jesus, Amen.
Praise the Lord . . . who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion. . . . — Psalm 103:2-4
Her name was Shapla, and I could see the fear in her teenage eyes. When strangers came to her village in rural Bangladesh, she feared they would take her away. This had happened to her sister. Shapla’s family was very poor; they had become indebted to a ruthless moneylender. Her sister had been “traded” to pay some of the debt, but part of the debt remained. These new visitors, however, had come to help launch a village savings and loan program. This would help Shapla’s parents and their neighbors to save money and take low-interest loans so that they could buy seed and fertilizer to grow healthy crops. This new venture would also put the local moneylender out of business and free Shapla’s family from their debt to him. They were “redeemed” from that debt. In the Bible redemption is not only a spiritual concept but also a practice by which one person can “redeem” another by paying a price. The book of Ruth tells a story about that. Similarly, Shapla’s family was redeemed of their debt by the intervention of their village savings and loan program. Ultimately, of course, only God can redeem us from sin and guilt, and he graciously does this through the precious gift of Jesus, who gave his life so that we can live with him.
Dear God, thank you for redeeming us in Jesus Christ. And thank you for programs that liberate people from crippling debt. With our whole being we praise you, Lord! In Christ, Amen.
“I will make rivers flow on barren heights, and springs within the valleys.” — Isaiah 41:18
Quebrada Honda is a village in Honduras. The name means, literally, “deep creek.” When our team of volunteers came to build a water system, there was no creek in sight. The riverbed was dried up and dusty. Drinking water was either hauled in for a high fee or carried a long distance by women and children. There were no household vegetable gardens because there was no water for growing produce. That was a few years ago. Since then a water system has been constructed to bring water to a faucet at every home and smiles of joy to every face. Everyone has access to drinking water; laundry can be done at home; and splashy baths are frequent! Abundant vegetables are growing there also—not just in gardens but also in aquaponic tanks, where the water is alive with both vegetables and fish. Living water to sustain living people! The Bible makes many references to living water, promising springs in the desert and rivers whose streams bring gladness. There are waters of cleansing, waters of healing, and waters that refresh dry and thirsty lives. Jesus said that all who are thirsty can come to him for living water and never thirst again (John 4:13; 7:37-38). Doesn’t that sound good? Doesn’t that sound like something you need? Ask him today, and discover the deep joy of knowing him.
Bountiful God, thank you for providing water for our bodies and living water for our souls. Fill our cup, we pray, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you. . . .” — Isaiah 43:2
These words about passing through waters had a special meaning for the people of Israel. When they fled from Egypt, they came to the impassable Red Sea, and it seemed they would be trapped by the pursuing Pharaoh and his army. But God miraculously opened a way so that they could cross on dry land (Exodus 14). Later they also crossed the Jordan River on dry ground to enter the promised land (Joshua 3-4). So the idea of passing through waters became a shorthand way of saying that God would watch over them through all kinds of adversity. These words have special meaning for the people of Satkhira in southern Bangladesh. They live on a huge flood plain near the world’s largest mangrove forest. They often experience cyclones and storm surges that cause massive flooding. Rising sea levels are also flooding miles of rice paddies with saltwater, destroying farmland, displacing families, and leading to economic hardship, food insecurity, and climate refugees. As these folks “pass through the waters,” they are not alone but are being accompanied by Christian organizations who help them learn new skills, find new employment, and adapt their farming techniques. And they are learning to trust God. All of us can trust God in the storms and challenges of life. He is right there with us.
God, grant your mercy in the lives of everyone facing challenges. As you promise, be with us all as we “pass through the waters.” Amen.
We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth. . . . — Romans 8:22
The creation has been groaning, says the apostle Paul in Romans 8. We have all been distressed by news of natural disasters around the world. Wildfires, droughts, floods, hurricanes, cyclones, blistering heat waves! God’s good creation, designed to function beautifully and predictably as our dwelling place, suffers under the curse of sin. The groaning of creation is echoed in the groaning of people whose lives are affected by extreme weather events: subsistence farmers who wait in vain for rain; coastal people whose land erodes under their feet; refugees in tent cities who cannot escape rains that have swept their homes away; farmers who watch floodwaters destroy their life’s work; whole communities that have to evacuate their homes to flee firestorms. As always, the impact is greatest on people who are most vulnerable, living on the edge of survival. Many gains made against global poverty in the past decades are being undone by climate events. The Bible teaches that God loves his creation, summons it to sing forth his praises, and gives it to us for our care and enjoyment. Our sin has spoiled creation, but God promises that creation itself will be “liberated from its bondage to decay” and brought into freedom! Let’s live in a way that shows we care for God’s creation—for the sake of all people and especially our Savior!
Creator God, help us to live in the hope of your liberation for us and for our home, the earth. In Jesus, Amen.
The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time. — Psalm 145:15
One of the most heartbreaking scenes that I remember from living and working in Bangladesh was when I saw a couple of children, who were obviously malnourished and hungry, staring at pictures of delicious food in a glossy magazine they had found in the garbage. One of the children lifted the magazine to her mouth and licked a picture of an ice-cream cone. We were there to help alleviate hunger and its cause—poverty—but I felt incredibly helpless and useless in the face of such misery. I groaned a lament based on Psalm 145: “Lord, when will you give them their food? Is now not the proper time?” Since those days in the early 1990s, the number of people who experience hunger and food insecurity has declined as poverty alleviation programs have increased. I am grateful for that and for organizations that have led the charge. But those children still haunt me, as they should, because today hunger is again on the rise. More than 780 million people will go to bed hungry tonight. Each one matters to God. Each one must matter to us. When I pray for them, as I must, I know that God has called me to be part of the answer to my own prayer.
O God, we lament the reality of poverty and hunger that causes so much suffering among the people you love. We know that each one matters to you. We pray for your mercy in their lives, and we ask that you use us for your purposes. In Christ, Amen.
“He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty.” — Luke 1:53
Mary’s song speaks of a great reversal and disruption! The proud are brought low, and the humble poor are lifted up. Hungry folks are filled, and the rich are emptied. Does that scare you? Some people have wondered, Does this mean that God has favorites? Does God love the poor more than the rich? God loves everyone, right? God makes clear that he loves the poor and is deeply concerned about them. Hundreds of Scripture passages testify to God’s concern for the poor and oppressed and his intentions to uphold their cause. Actually, God loves both the poor and the rich—but not because they are poor or rich. God loves them because they are his children and he wants everyone to flourish. God wants the poor to be able to live into the fullness of their identity and vocation. He focuses on them like a firefighter on a burning house. God promises to help the poor and relieve their suffering. God calls the rich to the fullness of their humanity too. He warns them against the dangers of greed, the temptations of excessive wealth, and the sins of ignoring or abusing the poor. These vices interfere with discipleship and contribute to poverty. These warnings are expressions of grace. God loves all of us and calls us to live in obedience to his sovereign rule. That’s how we get to shalom.
God, thank you for your care and provisions, and give us the grace to live like Jesus, who became poor for the sake of us all. Amen.
I know my transgressions. . . . — Psalm 51:3
When the COVID-19 pandemic started, everyone became more aware of the meaning of exposure. Exposure to the deadly virus was bad, something to be avoided. People didn’t want to be exposed. But this virus turned out to be not only something we could be exposed to, but also something we could be exposed by. COVID-19 has exposed some troubling realities about our world that tended to be overlooked before. For example, excessive numbers of infections and deaths occurred in long-term care facilities, not just because elderly residents were more susceptible but also because “essential” staff, often ethnic minority workers, were underpaid and needed more than one job, making them more likely to spread the virus. Ethnic minorities also tend to have higher mortality rates because they have limited access to medical assistance. And from a more global view, wealthy nations have a surplus of vaccines while low-income nations have to deal with limited availability of vaccines. In these ways, some of our shortcomings and misplaced priorities in society and in global concerns have been exposed. Biblically speaking, exposure can be a good thing, though, because it makes clear that we need to seek God’s mercy, to repent, receive forgiveness, and be restored. That’s good news in rough packaging!
O God, we are constantly exposed before you. Help us all to learn from reality checks like the pandemic so that by your grace we can be renewed. In Christ, Amen.
“Lord, when did we see you hungry . . . ?” — Matthew 25:37, 44
Jesus’ parable about sheep and goats teaches us that he is present among the poor, sick, imprisoned, strangers, outcasts, and others who may be disadvantaged. He identifies with these people so closely that an act of kindness done to them is one done to him. And the “reward” for caring for these people is to be welcomed into the kingdom of God. A wonderful feature of this parable is the absolute surprise of the sheep when they hear the good news of their welcome. They don’t expect it. When the King tells them that by caring for these people they have fed, clothed, and visited him, they are astonished. When did we see you hungry or naked or thirsty? In other words, we only saw other humans in need and were happy to serve them simply because they were human, not because we thought it would bring us any reward. We did it because it was the right thing to do. The goats, on the other hand, are equally surprised. They hear that they will not receive their inheritance because they neglected the people in need. Their response suggests that because they did not see the King among those people, the poor and others in need were not worthy of their care and attention. Blessed are all who bless the poor and outcast and all others in need with kindness, food, clothing, and more without expecting to be rewarded.
Lord, forgive me if I withhold acts of mercy and kindness because I think people are undeserving. Guide me to show your love and generosity. Amen.
I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. — Revelation 21:2
God doesn’t tell us exactly what his coming kingdom will be like. But God does give us some pictures in the Bible to help us look forward in hope. In Revelation 21, John describes a vision of the new heaven and new earth. He sees the city of Jerusalem coming down out of heaven. In the world as John knew it, the people could go to the temple in Jerusalem to be with God. But in this vision, the city comes down out of heaven to be with the people. John describes the city as “a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.” The city was radiant, looking beautiful for the sake of celebration and love. All of this sounds nice, but the best news comes when John hears what this means. A voice tells him that the coming of this beautiful city means that God will now live with his people. Because of the presence of God, in the new heaven and earth there will be “no more death or mourning or crying or pain.” God will restore his creation to complete wholeness and peace. When you face death or mourning or crying or pain in your life today, take courage. Though these things are very difficult, they are not forever. God will make all things new.
God of hope, be near to us in our struggles. Give us courage to face the unknown future. Give us trust that we can know that you will make all things new. Amen.
How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation. . . . — Isaiah 52:7
When I watch or read the news, I sometimes feel sad because of all the pain and violence in the world. Other times I feel angry, and it seems that the news is even designed to make people angry. I’m ready to hear good news. The prophet Isaiah spoke to God’s people at a time when they needed to hear good news. They were in exile, and they longed to return to their homeland and the city of Jerusalem. God had such good news for the people that Isaiah said the feet of those who brought this news were beautiful. It’s not that the messengers’ feet were actually beautiful; they were probably dirty, blistered, and smelly after a long journey! But the news of restoration was so good and full of the hope of blessing that it helped people to appreciate the feet that brought this news to them. The good news was that God reigns. No matter what bad news we hear, God is still in control of this world. No matter how sad or angry we might feel about the news of the world, God promises us a future of beauty and perfect peace. Just as God restored his people in ancient times, so too God will one day restore the world for all time. This is such good news that it helps us to persevere, looking ahead to the day when God will renew all things.
God, you rule over all things, and you will make everything beautiful again someday. Thank you for that good news! Amen.
On this mountain the Lord Almighty will prepare a feast. . . . The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces. . . . — Isaiah 25:6-8
As we reflect on the beauty of God, the beauty of his creation, and the beauty of living and serving together as God’s people, it’s important also to look ahead. The Bible includes many promises about the restored beauty that Jesus brings, and about the beautiful life that this restoration invites us to live. The world we live in now is still tainted by the pollution and ugliness of sin, but we need to remember that it is also filled with signs of beautiful hope. The Bible promises that one day Jesus will return to make all things new. For example, Isaiah 25 points to a future celebration, a feast on the holy mountain of God. The joy and happiness that we feel at a wedding celebration or at an anniversary party is like a glimpse of the future celebration that God has in store for us. And in that beautiful future, Isaiah says, God will take away all sadness and sorrow and disgrace. The prophet was speaking to people who were in exile, who had reason to be afraid—but he gave them words of hope. We too live in hope as we await this beautiful future. We can trust that God will keep his promises.
God of the future, thank you for the promises you give us in your Word, saying you will make all things new. Give us hope and help us to serve you as we await that beautiful day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. — Acts 2:42
God has redeemed us in Jesus and called us to live beautiful lives of gratitude and joy. Each of us can do that alone in some ways. Alone, I can pray to God, read Scripture, and enjoy and care for God’s creation. However, God also calls us to live beautiful lives of gratitude and joy together, as a community. The first followers of Jesus provide us a model of how to do this well. Their ordinary, everyday habits helped to make this community beautiful. They committed their time to doing ordinary things like learning from their teachers, spending time together, eating together, and praying together. They didn’t worry about accumulating money and possessions; they shared with anyone who was in need. They celebrated the Lord’s Supper and shared celebratory meals together. Participating in a local church is the best way to live out this kind of beautiful Christian community today. And if that isn’t possible, perhaps you can connect with a Christian ministry online or by phone or mail. Join with others in correspondence and prayer, and try to participate in Christian community as much as possible, expressing the beauty of life together in the name of Jesus.
God, thank you for the gift of Christian community. Show us opportunities to follow you in the way we live our lives together. Shape us into a beautiful community, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head. . . . — Psalm 133:1-2
The unity of God’s people is a beautiful thing. The Bible calls it “good and pleasant.” “Good and pleasant” unity is not always easy to see, however. You may not feel the beauty of unity with other Christians when you disagree with them. Or when you feel that they are cruel to you or to others. Or when you simply do not understand why they act and believe the way they do. You might find yourself thinking, “How could unity with them be beautiful?” Psalm 133 says that the unity of God’s people is like oil anointing a priest, or like dew on a mountain. Those were both considered beautiful things by the people of Israel. And those were both seen as gracious gifts from God. The people didn’t give the priest his authority (represented by anointing oil); that was God’s doing. And the people didn’t put the dew on the mountain; only God could do that. Similarly, we cannot create Christian unity by our own efforts. Only the grace of Jesus can unite us with each other in Christian community. We know that each one of us is saved only by the grace of Jesus. This means that none of us deserves salvation—and yet we receive salvation anyway. We can live in unity by the power of that grace.
God of grace, show me the beautiful and gracious gift of Christian unity. Unite me with Jesus and with all who follow him. Amen.
“Leave her alone,” said Jesus. “Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me.” — Mark 14:6
After Jesus died, his body was supposed to be anointed. That was the custom with dead bodies, to honor the deceased and help keep away the smell of decay. But when a group of women came to anoint Jesus’ body in the tomb (Mark 16), they could not find it! Jesus had risen from the dead. This helps to explain an important detail in our reading for today. A few days before Jesus died, a woman anointed him at a dinner gathering using expensive perfume. Some of the guests were offended at the waste, but Jesus was not. He said, “She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial” (v. 8). Even if the woman didn’t know it then, her act of honor and devotion hinted at the resurrection; she was anointing Jesus because he wouldn’t be anointed later. Jesus said that what she did was beautiful. Any action that points to the resurrection of Jesus is beautiful. When we preach about the resurrection today, it is beautiful. When a hospice nurse gives tender care to a dying person, it is beautiful. When we raise children to live with courage in a world of fear, it is beautiful. When we are willing to give up trying to control things that we can’t control, even though it makes us afraid of our limits, it is beautiful. Jesus rose from the dead, and celebrating that fact is a beautiful way to live.
Risen Lord Jesus, we praise you for your victory over death. We praise you that as the anointed King, you would die and rise again to give us new life. Amen.
“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example. . . .” — John 13:14-15
A few days ago (June 19) we reflected on 1 Corinthians 13, which gives a picture of the beautiful love that Jesus calls us to live by. It’s a love that is patient, kind, does not envy, does not boast, and is not proud. We show this kind of love in humility and with acts of kindness and service. Jesus showed this kind of love when he washed his disciples’ feet. John 13 tells us about it. Jesus dressed himself like a servant, wrapping a towel around his waist and getting down on the floor. The disciples felt embarrassed that Jesus would do such a thing. But he explained that a beautiful life consists of receiving this kind of servant-love from him and then sharing it with others. This is one of the most direct commands that Jesus gives us in the Bible about how to follow his example. Though washing people’s feet may not be a part of our culture today, there are many other ways to serve people with the love of Christ. We can listen to them; we can advocate for them; we can share our time and gifts. We can show people everywhere the humble love of Christ, and we can encourage them to show Christ’s love to others. In this way the love of Christ can spread everywhere and transform the world!
Jesus, our servant-King, we are so grateful for the humble love you have shown to us. Give us the humility to receive this love from you and to share it with others everywhere. In your name, Amen.
One thing I ask from the Lord . . . to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. — Psalm 27:4
The word sanctuary can refer to two different things. It describes a place that is holy, set apart for worship. It also describes a place of safety, where someone in danger can go to find shelter and protection. Psalm 27 helps us understand how the two meanings of this word overlap. When we have received salvation from God, we are called to worship God. We go to the sanctuary to offer God our worship. We do this not for our own sake, but for God’s sake. God is holy and beautiful and calls us to worship him, so we offer God our worship. But when we give God our worship, we receive a wonderful gift as well. Psalm 27 describes the presence of God as a place of safety. Because God is our Savior, we receive comfort and security in God’s presence. When we go to the sanctuary to worship God, we give God worship, and we receive peace from God. This is why the psalmist longs to worship God. The beauty of the Lord compels the psalmist to go to the sanctuary of the Lord and worship him. We can rejoice in following God’s command to worship too. For as we worship God, we receive his comfort, peace blessing, strength, and renewed energy to live for him. God is our stronghold—of whom shall we be afraid?
Beautiful Lord, help me to worship you. May I humbly offer you all my praise. Thank you also for granting me peace and security in your presence. Amen.
God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. — Romans 5:5
In the film Tender Mercies, a man and a young boy are baptized. Afterward, the boy says, “Everybody said I was gonna feel like a changed person. I guess I do feel a little different, but I don’t feel a whole lot different. Do you?” The man responds: “Not yet.” It’s a charming, light-hearted conversation, but it gets at something true about the Christian life. When you are saved by Jesus, or when you are baptized as a sign of your salvation, you do not instantly become a good person. We even notice that sometimes non-Christians are more kind or more generous than some Christians are. The Bible explains that the Holy Spirit is at work in every person’s life. When a person is being transformed by Jesus, the process is gradual. The person’s life begins to change, to become more beautiful—and it might happen so slowly that we barely notice it. But Romans 5 promises that the Holy Spirit is at work both now and in the future, in good times and in bad. The Spirit uses even the suffering in our lives to shape us into people of perseverance, character, and hope. If you have committed to following Jesus, you might not feel different yet. But you can trust that the Holy Spirit is working in your life.
Holy Spirit, change me to make me more like Jesus. Give me patience with your steady work in my life. Make my life a beautiful reflection of God’s love for me. Amen.
That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers. — Psalm 1:3
A group of volunteers planted some new trees last spring in the neighborhood where I live. As a resident, I received the gift of two trees in front of my house. My responsibility now is to make sure the trees are well-watered so that they can flourish and grow. The huge old oak trees in my backyard do just fine with rainwater alone. But the new young trees need some extra watering until they grow deep roots and can survive on their own. The Bible’s message is that God created us in love and has saved us through faith in Jesus, by grace alone. As people saved by grace, we are invited to live the good life that God has designed for us. We live this way not to earn our salvation, but to show our gratitude to God, to grow in faith, and to flourish in the good life God wants for us. God has given us salvation as a free gift, and we gratefully aim to follow God’s law because it’s the best way to live. It’s what we were designed for. Psalm 1 says that living this good life is like being a tree planted by streams of water. That tree will yield fruit and will not wither, because the tree is living the way it is meant to live, nourished by the water of life given by its creator. So it is with people. When we are planted and nourished by God’s way of love, we will flourish.
God, make me like a tree planted by streams of water. Root my life in your law of love, so that I can live the way you have designed me to live. Amen.
If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. — 1 Corinthians 13:1
Imagine that you want to impress a friend with a special party. You put all your energy and attention into getting the details just right. But you get so stressed out in the process that you ignore your friend. Your friend might say, “I don’t want a fancy party; I just want to spend time with you!” In your efforts to make something beautiful, you end up missing the point. Your friend doesn’t require a lot of fanfare and expense; your friend just wants the beauty of your personal time and attention. Some of the Christians in the city of Corinth had the special gifts of speaking in tongues and prophesying. They thought these gifts were impressive, and the whole community tended to focus on these displays of faith. As a result, though, they ended up missing the point of Christian community, which is to love one another. The apostle Paul wrote them a letter (1 Corinthians) to encourage them to get back to the basics. And in chapter 13 he describes the self-sacrificial kind of love (agape) that follows the pattern of Jesus himself. Jesus has shown us the most beautiful way, the way of love. Following his example, we can let go of worrying about being impressive. Instead, we can focus on what’s truly beautiful—and that is self-sacrificial love.
God, sometimes we get distracted and forget about the most beautiful thing of all. Restore us again to the beauty of your love in Jesus. Amen.
[Jesus] gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. — Matthew 27:50-51
You might wonder why the title of this meditation is “Beautiful Death.” The Bible affirms life, so how could any death be considered beautiful? But, in a way, this title is similar to the name “Good Friday,” which we use to refer to the day of Jesus’ death. In some ways that day was not good at all. We mourn the death of Jesus, and we regret the sin that caused him to die. But in other ways the day has been very good indeed. The death of Jesus is good news for the world, because in his death Jesus tore down the barrier between God and sinful humanity. Now we can be united with God because of Jesus’ death. So we can say that the death of Jesus was beautiful. The book of Matthew adds that at the moment of Jesus’ death, “the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.” That curtain barred the way to the holiest room in the temple. It represented the separation between the holy God and his sinful people. But because of Jesus’ death, the curtain was not needed anymore. People could be united with God again. God loved the world so much that he sent Jesus to die, uniting us with himself again—and that is beautiful!
Lord Jesus, we praise you for your great love, shown by your death for all who believe in you. Thank you for your beautiful death, which unites us with God again. Amen.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” — Matthew 5:3-5
People often say that they are “blessed” when they are enjoying good things in life: a beautiful sunset, time with their loved ones, a comfortable place to live, exciting travels. But when we hear what Jesus taught about being “blessed,” we get a different picture. Jesus describes a number of people who seem to be the opposite of blessed. The list includes people who are broken down, struggling, or even persecuted. How could Jesus call them blessed? Through his life and teaching, Jesus introduced a new kind of world. It was a new way of understanding what a beautiful community looks like. Jesus called this beautiful new community “the kingdom of God” or “the kingdom of heaven.” And in God’s kingdom, the typical priorities of our world (wealth, pride, winning at all costs) are turned upside down. In God’s kingdom, Jesus says all people are welcome, not just those who are rich or respectable. In God’s kingdom, a beautiful life of mercy and peace is possible by God’s grace. We may feel disoriented at first when we follow Jesus, because his values are not the values of the world. But the right-side-up kingdom of God is good news for us and for the whole world, because it is the most beautiful kingdom possible.
Jesus, thank you for bringing the kingdom of God. Thank you for teaching us about a beautiful new kind of world, even though it can seem upside down to us at first. Amen.
“Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it. . . . How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God.” — Genesis 28:16-17
I often pray that God would give me more clear examples of his presence and beauty in my life. I hear about Christians who have a vibrant prayer life, or who feel the presence of God so surely, and I wish that I had those experiences more often myself. I pray that God would show up more in my life. Those are good desires to have and good prayers to pray. But I could also pray for the ability to see God’s beautiful salvation that is already present in my life and in the world. That’s what Jacob was able to see. He had a dream about a stairway with the angels of God going up and down on it. God spoke directly to Jacob in that dream, reminding him of God’s promises to love him and to care for his family. When Jacob awoke, he said, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” The beauty of God’s salvation had been with him all along. That doesn’t always happen in dreams, but God does assure us that he is true to his promises. I am thankful that God’s presence is always with me, whether I recognize it or not. I pray that God will be near, and I also pray that I will be able to recognize God’s presence and beauty all around.
God of Jacob, I praise you for your presence in my life. Thank you for the times when I am surprised by your beauty and your loving presence, assuring me that you are always with me. Amen.
Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you. — Psalm 40:5
Sometimes we act as if we can fix the problem of sin in our lives. We imagine that if we improve ourselves, we can be free of sin and guilt. We think that if we just work hard enough, our lives will become better. And if our friends and family would just listen to us, our relationships would become better too. But the problem is too big for us. We cannot save ourselves from the problem of our separation from God. We cannot even stop ourselves from sinning. Only God can do that. Psalm 40 sings praise to the God who saves us. It sings praise to the God who is strong enough to conquer sin and is gracious enough to do that for us. It sings praise to the God who chose not to stay separated from us but came to save us and restore us to himself. Psalm 40 sings of a salvation so great that only God could accomplish it. God has loved us in so many ways. The psalmist says to God, “Were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare.” The many wonders God has done to save us are beautiful. Our abundant and beautiful salvation comes from God, the only one who can save us.
God of salvation, I am overwhelmed by the beauty and greatness of your love for us all. Thank you for saving me; I could not save myself. Help me to praise you for the wonders you have done. Amen.
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. — Psalm 51:10-11
Sometimes we use fancy language in our prayers to God. It can sound as if we are trying to make a good impression. Other times, though, we are direct and brutally honest in our prayers, confessing our sin with a broken heart because we know we have failed. Psalm 51 is a brutally honest prayer. The psalmist describes sin as a great stain on his life. He knows that the sin he has done messes up the beauty of his life. Sin is offensive to God, and it needs to be washed away. Just as surely as sin stains a person’s life, God has the power to wipe that life clean again. The psalmist prays for forgiveness, asking God to cleanse him and make his life beautiful again. The honesty of the confession is possible because of the trust that God will hear and forgive. Because of the grace of Jesus shown to us on the cross, we can also pray to God with brutal honesty, confessing the stain of our sin and asking God to give us pure hearts again. God promises to cleanse us and make us beautiful again. God promises to take away our guilt and shame and to renew our spirits. Our honest confession is met with God’s faithful grace and love.
God, I need your forgiveness. When I’m honest, I know that I have sinned against you. By your grace and love, take away my sin and restore me to beauty and wholeness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
The life of mortals is like . . . a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone. . . . But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him. — Psalm 103:15-17
Like many insects, the mayfly has a lifespan of less than a day. Even if it is healthy and isn’t squashed by someone’s shoe, the mayfly will not live more than 24 hours. This seems so brief to us! But in the grand scope of the universe, human life is also brief. Compared to the age of our planet, a human life of even a hundred years seems short. Psalm 103 uses the example of flowers in a field to describe how short our life is. These plants are beautiful, but they last for just a season, and some of them bloom for only a day. The same is true for us. Even though our lives have value and beauty, our bodies will eventually die. This can feel frightening to us. It can make us feel insignificant, and it shows us we have no control over the circumstances of our own death or when it will come. But Psalm 103 assures us that we can place our hope in God, who created us and watches over our lives. “From everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him.” This promised love will last longer than we could imagine. The beauty of our lives will fade, but the beauty of God’s care, protection, and love for us will last forever.
Eternal God, I confess that I can be frightened by the briefness of my life and of the lives of people I love. Teach me to rely on your love, which is “from everlasting to everlasting.” Amen.
Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck. I sink into the miry depths. . . . — Psalm 69:1
Imagine being a sailor or part of a fishing crew at the time the biblical psalms were written. The waters are important for your livelihood, but they can also threaten you. The waters of a river, lake, or sea can turn dangerous and chaotic. Stormy waves can be scary, and heavy rains can bring dangerous, destructive flooding. Psalm 69 uses this imagery to describe troubles and hardship that threaten to turn God’s beauty and order in our lives into chaos. Our own sin and the sins of others can disrupt our lives so much that it can feel like we are drowning. Some of us know from experience what it’s like to deal with flooding or with a storm at sea. And all of us have seen destructive threats to our own lives and in the world around us through broken relationships, addiction, violence, division, and disease. When we are threatened by such chaos, we can cry to God for help. The writer of Psalm 69 prays, “In your great love, O God, answer me with your sure salvation.” God’s salvation is sure indeed, even when we feel afraid. The threatening waters of sin and brokenness will not overwhelm us in the end, because God promises to keep us safe.
Rescuing God, sometimes things in this world and in my own heart threaten to overwhelm me like a flood. Save me, Lord, by your great power and love. Amen.
Some wandered in desert wastelands, finding no way to a city where they could settle. — Psalm 107:4
One way to understand the beauty that God created is to understand its opposite: the ugliness and sorrow of being separated from God. Because of our sin, this world is not the way it ought to be. Sin has brought hardship and ugliness into our lives and into this world, though God designed it all to be beautiful. We know that God has restoration in mind because we don’t feel “at home” in a world broken because of sin. We are homesick for a world of peace and beauty. We are homesick to be with God. When we’re stuck in brokenness and facing the ugliness of this world of sin, we feel homesick for God’s world of goodness and beauty. Psalm 107 points out the sorrow and longing of this homesickness. The world can feel like a wasteland, providing no place where people can rest, no place where they can settle and be at peace. But the Lord, whose “love endures forever,” offers redemption. The Lord hears his people cry out in their trouble caused by sin, and he delivers them from distress. God brings them to a place where they can settle and live in peace. “He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.” Ultimately we know that all of life’s goodness and beauty will be restored when Jesus comes again, and the new life he provides us even now gives us hope for eternity with God.
Lord, we feel homesick for you and for your peace when we struggle with the hurt and brokenness of this world. Bring us near to you, we pray. Amen.
Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness. . . . He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in his faithfulness. — Psalm 96:9, 13
God is perfectly beautiful “in the splendor of his holiness.” The more we know about God’s perfect holiness, the more we realize that we are not perfectly holy and beautiful. We realize we don’t live up to the way God created us to live. We don’t love other people the way God wants them to be loved. We don’t live the way God designed us to live. Our sin separates us from God, because sinfulness cannot stand in the presence of God’s perfect, beautiful holiness. Psalm 96 describes the greatness and splendor of God, who is perfectly holy and calls us to come before him with an offering. We are called to “worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness,” and yet we know how often we have failed to live as God commands. How can we truly worship God if we are not holy? The good news that we know today is that God deals with the imperfection of our sin by giving us his perfect grace. God chooses to get rid of our sin—not by punishing us—but by taking the punishment on himself in Jesus. The more we see God’s perfection, the more we know our own imperfection. And the more we know our own imperfection, the more we are grateful for God’s perfect love, which accepts us by grace through the gift of Jesus’ life for us.
Holy God, we confess that our lives do not reflect the perfect beauty of who you are. We need your forgiveness and grace to bring us back to you. Amen.
God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it.” — Genesis 1:28
In earlier parts of the creation story in Genesis 1, we are told that God looked on his work and “saw that it was good” (Genesis 1:9, 12, 18, 21, 25). God knew that his creation was beautiful and good, and God affirmed that goodness as he created new things. Then, after God had finished creating everything in this world, including humankind, “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.” The very goodness of God’s creation is good for us to remember as we hear the command that God gives to the man and woman in Genesis 1. God told people to be fruitful, and he told them to subdue the earth. We are often tempted to hear this command as a mandate to use the earth in whatever way we might wish. But God wants us to care for the beautiful earth that he declared to be “very good.” As the story continues, we learn that God placed humankind in the garden “to work it and take care of it” (Genesis 2:15). So our calling is to preserve the earth and to tend it well, celebrating the beautiful place God made it to be. Subduing the earth and ruling over it is something we do with humility and gratitude, giving honor and glory to our creator for the very good place he has given us to live.
Mighty God, we praise you for creating the world to be very good. Give us humility and grace to care for your world and to tend it well, to your honor and glory. Amen.
“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know!” — Job 38:4-5
In a poem, the Dutch writer Corrie Ten Boom compares her life to a tapestry woven by God. She says that God weaves both joy and sorrow into her life, and it is as though she sees only the back of the tapestry. She says she cannot understand how the strands could ever make something beautiful. But God understands and has a plan for how everything in her life will come together for his beautiful purpose. Job, to whom God is speaking in our reading today, is a bit like that—seeing only the back of the tapestry of his life. Job has had to deal with terrible suffering and tragedy, and he does not understand why it all happened. God responds with a poetic speech about the creation of the world. God is the one who created everything, including things that are so mysterious that we don’t even know how to speak about them. God reminds Job of this in order to both challenge and assure him. God challenges Job to be humble about his own knowledge. And God assures Job that he has a plan, even though it may be hard to understand. We are like Job in this way too. There are many things about God’s purposes that we do not understand. But God promises to provide for us and for the world he has beautifully made.
Provider God, you have assured us that you love us and are at work in our lives. Give us confidence to trust in you. Amen.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. — Psalm 139:14
It’s easy for us to think that we lack beauty. For example, you may feel that you don’t meet the beauty standards set by the world today. If you don’t look like a fashion model, maybe you feel less beautiful than others. Or you may feel that your life doesn’t meet the standards of a beautiful life. Maybe you have made mistakes in the past that you continue to regret. Perhaps your family and professional life haven’t turned out the way you had hoped. Or you may have habits and behavior that you aren’t proud of. You may also feel that you don’t have much internal beauty either. But God has something different to say. In Psalm 139, God assures us that we are “wonderfully made.” God’s creative power was at work not just in forming galaxies at the beginning of time, but also in forming each unique part of you. God made you beautiful. Psalm 139 assures us that the God who formed us before we were born is still intimately involved in our lives. The God who made you beautiful at the beginning continues to show you grace and to restore you to beauty every day. By God’s grace, you are not defined by the mistakes you have made or the ugly parts of your life. You are defined by the love of the God who created you in beauty.
Ever-present God, you know everything about me, even my failures, and yet you love me. Thank you for creating me to be beautiful. Thank you for your grace that sees me as beautiful still. Amen.
How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. — Psalm 104:24
Some of my friends have gotten into birding in the past few years. They keep a list of every type of bird they see. They travel to parks and other special places where they are likely to see a new species of bird to add to their list. When they tell me about it, I am amazed at the number of different species of birds that are out there to be seen. This is true across the animal kingdom: scientists say that the number of different types of creatures on the earth is in the millions. This vast diversity is a beautiful part of God’s creation, as Psalm 104 shows. In his wisdom God made so many different animals and plants that we haven’t been able to count them all. And in his wisdom God made many different cultures and people as well. This psalm uses poetry to tell about the powerful and beautiful way God made the world. It invites us to praise God for such diverse beauty and for creating the world in the best way possible. Each of us brings our own type of beauty to the world. Each little brown sparrow sings just a few notes. And God combines with that the huge variety of sounds and other signs of beauty in this world. In all these ways God displays his love for his creation. Let’s praise God for creating a world that is so beautiful and diverse!
Creative God, I praise you because you knew exactly what to create to make the world so beautiful. Thank you for this world that bursts with more variety than I can understand. Amen.
God saw that it was good. Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness. . . .” — Genesis 1:25-26
Imagine an artist who works hard at a sculpture day after day. Often she’ll stand back to look at her work, and if she’s not satisfied with how it looks, she’ll keep working on the sculpture. When she’s happy and proud of what she’s completed, she’ll say that the work is good. She’ll look on it with satisfaction and joy. When Genesis 1 speaks of God creating the heavens and the earth, it does so by describing a pattern of six days. And several times in the process we read, “God saw that it was good.” God took joy and satisfaction in the things he created. God saw that the world was good and beautiful. God made the world to be beautiful: the light, the sky, the land, the sun, the fish, the animals. God called all of these things “good.” And when God created human beings, God created them in his own image. Men and women are all created in the image of God, beautiful like their creator. If you are ever tempted to doubt your own worth as a person, remember that the creator of the universe made you in his own image. Remember that God looks on his beautiful creation, including you, and calls you “good” and beautiful.
Creator God, thank you for making a good world and for making us in your own image. Help us to recognize your beautiful image in others and in ourselves. Amen.
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech. . . . — Psalm 19:1-2
Think of the ways we can give glory to God. When we speak, we can glorify God with our words. We can talk about God in ways that honor him. We can communicate God’s love for us and for the whole world. We also learn and grow to know about God’s glory when we hear others speak about it. Psalm 19 shows that we can even learn about God’s glory through nature. It says, “The heavens declare the glory of God.” Another way to put it, according to this psalm, is that “the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” This is a strange and poetic picture. The sky can’t talk! The psalm acknowledges this in verse 3: “They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them.” And yet the sky, by its simple, beautiful existence, communicates to the world about God, its creator. God has created a beautiful world. This world, simply by being what God created it to be, gives voice to the beauty of God himself. People can glorify God with their words, by loving each other and themselves, and by caring for the world that God loves. The sky uses its clouds, rainbows, and shades of gray and blue to tell about the glory of God. Think of all that we can do as we use our words and even our whole life to share about the glory of our great God!
Glorious God, just as the sky proclaims your creative love and power, let me give you glory in all I think, say, and do. Amen.
To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. — Ephesians 3:21
As we come to the end of our month-long focus on the Apostles’ Creed, it’s appropriate to wrap up with the closing word “Amen.” There’s nothing magical about the creed as a statement of the Christian faith. It’s not an incantation or a mantra to be said again and again for protection or for gaining some benefit. Based on the Bible’s teaching shared with us by Christ’s apostles, the creed’s clear yet eloquent statements help us remember the truths that Christians have learned and said together for nearly 2,000 years. So in that respect, it’s worthwhile to say the creed again and again. Further, the Apostles’ Creed does not directly teach us in how to live out our faith every day. But this short summary provides an unshakable foundation for building vibrant churches and shaping godly lives that center on the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. These truths help to shape and guide our thoughts and actions so that we faithfully proclaim who God is and who we are as his people serving him in the world. As Paul closes his prayer of praise in Ephesians with “Amen”—the little Hebrew word meaning “So be it”—so the Apostles’ Creed ends on the same note. At the conclusion of this confession about God we appropriately say together, “Amen (‘So be it’).”
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, grant us wisdom, strength, and courage to live faithfully and to proclaim your goodness to all the earth until Jesus comes again. Amen.
We fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. — 2 Corinthians 4:18
Maybe you have had some great times with family and friends, with delicious food to enjoy, and perhaps even a sunny, blue sky overhead, a soft breeze blowing, and the world radiating God’s glory in creation. Times like that can give us a peek at what we mean when we say, with the Apostles’ Creed, “I believe in . . . the life everlasting.” Even so, our fleeting moments of joy in this life pale in comparison to the eternal joy we can look forward to in Christ. Yet this we know with certainty: one day, we will stand before God’s throne with Jesus, surrounded by countless sisters and brothers from around the world, completely freed from all fears, and filled with perfect peace and joy (Revelation 7). There we will be fully doing what we were created for: “to glorify God and enjoy him forever” (Westminster Catechism). Until that time, we may have only fleeting glimpses of our ultimate destiny—and those moments may come in the midst of struggles, challenges, and sometimes even utter defeat. But we are encouraged not to despair in the midst of hard times but to wait with hope for the day when Jesus will be all and all, when his kingdom will come in power and glory.
Lord Jesus, we look forward to being with you forever. Until that day, help us serve you wherever we are with deeds of love in your name. Amen.
When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.” — 1 Corinthians 15:54
While we are alive, our spirits are united with our bodies. When we die, our spirits depart, and our lifeless bodies return to the earth. Is that the final destiny for our bodies? Some religions welcome death as a release from the “prison” of the body. But, according to the Bible, God made us to have both souls and bodies; moreover, he made our bodies good (Psalm 139:14). So when the two are separated by death, we cease to be as God made us. For that reason, we say, with the Apostles’ Creed, “I believe in the resurrection of the body.” How can that be? Our bodies are vulnerable and frail. They break down and eventually just give out. Yet our bodies remain integral to who we are as God has made us. Without our bodies, we are no longer fully ourselves. For all of us who believe in Christ, we can take great comfort that when we die, our souls will immediately be with Jesus. And when Jesus returns, our bodies and souls will be reunited. Then we will again be fully ourselves. On that day, though, our bodies will no longer be frail and mortal. Death will be conquered, and we will have “glorified” bodies, just like Jesus’ body at his resurrection.
Lord Jesus, thank you for our bodies, fearfully and wonderfully made. Help us to treat them with care and respect while we wait to share with you the fullness of resurrection life. Amen.
Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases. . . . — Psalm 103:2-3
We don’t always like to bring up the topic of sin. But in our life of faith it’s necessary to face up to our desperate predicament. Sadly, none of us acts the way we should toward God, others, ourselves, and God’s creation. We persistently choose to disregard our maker, contend with others, deceive and harm ourselves, and mistreat creation. Our sin not only leads to trouble and misery but also shows that we rightfully deserve punishment. So with great relief and joy we confess, with the Apostles’ Creed, “I believe in . . . the forgiveness of sins.” The heart of the creed’s teaching emphasizes our need for the Savior, Jesus Christ. Through his atoning sacrifice, Jesus washed away our sin. Even though we still continue to struggle with sin, Jesus assures us that God will not judge us as we deserve because we have been forgiven. The forgiveness of sins stands at the core of following Jesus. Because we have been forgiven, we can, through the power and help of the Holy Spirit, strive each day to faithfully serve Jesus. As he gave himself for us, out of thanksgiving we can live for him.
Lord Jesus, you gave yourself so that we can be forgiven. Now help us to give ourselves to you in loving gratitude and service to others. In your name we pray. Amen.
In Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. — Romans 12:5
Many years ago I heard someone say, “I believe in the communication of the saints.” While good communication is essential in all kinds of relationships, our connectedness in Christ goes beyond communicating well with each another. When we say, with the Apostles’ Creed, “I believe in . . . the communion of saints,” we are saying that through Jesus’ blood we not only belong to him but also to each other. Our blood relationship in Jesus transcends even the real blood we share with our own family members. And our communion with each other is more than just a statement of fact. Paul goes on to explain that belonging to one another has a crucial function. Each of us has been given gifts by the Holy Spirit. Though our gifts vary, the purpose for them is the same: to build one another up in service to the Lord and for the benefit of all. Using our gifts leads to all kinds of ways in which we can show God’s love to one another and to all the people around us. The gifts we have may include preaching (prophesying—bringing God’s Word to people), teaching, leading, serving, giving, or a number of other abilities. Jesus wants us to use these gifts with thanksgiving and love to strengthen his body so that all can join in the communion of saints.
Lord Jesus, just as we belong to you, we belong to each other. Help us to use our gifts faithfully to build up your body and share your love with everyone. Amen.
Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.” — Galatians 3:13
The cross of Jesus is often featured in jewelry, sculpture, posters, logos, and other kinds of art. This symbol has become so common that we hardly ever think of its horror. In ancient times, though, crucifixion, or being hung on a pole, was a terrifying sentence of death for murderers, idol worshipers, sorcerers, and other convicted criminals. The guilty died a slow, agonizing death in public, and they were considered cursed by God (Deuteronomy 21:23). Why does the Apostles’ Creed emphasize that Jesus died in this wretched way? Because the Bible teaches that Jesus’ death on the cross means he took on the curse of God for our sake. Jesus shouldered that burden for us. In Galatians 3 the apostle Paul explains that people who try to live by the law (as given in the Old Testament) and fail to keep it are guilty. And of course no one except Jesus could keep the law perfectly. As Paul notes in Romans 3:23, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” We are all guilty before God, and we all deserve God’s judgment. But the good news is that “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us” through his death on a cross. Next time you see a cross, wherever it may be, pause and think about the magnitude of Jesus’ sacrifice for us.
Jesus, our Lord and Savior, you took on the dreadful curse of sin for us and set us free. Help us to live for your praise and glory. Amen.
With loud shouts they insistently demanded that he be crucified, and their shouts prevailed. So Pilate decided to grant their demand. — Luke 23:23-24
Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea, is a pitiful figure in history. Though he was conflicted about sentencing Jesus to death, Pilate gave in to the mob calling for Jesus to be crucified. Why does the Apostles’ Creed note that Jesus suffered “under Pontius Pilate”? This statement points out the historical fact that Jesus was condemned to suffer and die by the governing authority of that day. Pilate represented the Roman government, and his judgment made Jesus’ sentencing and suffering an official event in history, even though Jesus was totally innocent and without sin. We all need a Savior because we are guilty of sin and deserving of punishment. And in his mysterious wisdom, God used the government of Rome, flawed as it was, in the process of bringing salvation for our sake. By suffering “under Pontius Pilate,” Jesus took on himself the condemnation we deserve. And through his suffering Jesus has extended God’s grace to us, covering us with his own righteousness and granting us peace and the blessings of fellowship with God forever. Through his weak and wrongful judgment, Pilate served Jesus a hideous sentence. But God, through his power and wisdom, used Jesus’ suffering to redeem us. What amazing grace and love!
What love is this, Father, that caused you to send your Son to suffer and die for us? Thank you for your amazing love and grace. Amen.
“The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.” — Luke 1:35
Maybe, like me, you enjoy mystery novels. Many people like mysteries because they are like puzzles that need to be solved. The story of Jesus’ birth is one of the most mysterious events in human history, and some parts of the puzzle remain unknown. With the Apostles’ Creed, we confess that Jesus “was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary.” This statement summarizes a profound truth about Jesus, our Savior. The Bible teaches that Jesus is fully God and fully human. Jesus, the creator of the universe, was born in the same way each of us was born, from our mother’s womb. But the seed planted in Mary’s womb was not from Joseph, who was pledged to be her husband. The seed in Mary was planted by God the Holy Spirit. Why did Jesus need to be fully God and fully human? The answer is that only a Savior who was both fully God and fully human could heal the breach opened by our rebellion in our sin against God. The how of the virgin birth remains a mystery. Through the ages some people have rejected it as impossible. Human logic will never solve the puzzle of how the Son of God became fully human. Yet the deeply satisfying truth of this story remains: Jesus, fully God and fully human, solved the problem of our separation from God. Praise be to God!
Thank you, Jesus, for becoming one of us in order to save us and restore us to full life with God. Amen.
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” — Romans 10:13
After making a weighty statement, it’s good to pause and let the meaning of the words settle in. In a sense, that’s what happens after we say, with the Apostles’ Creed, “I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.” This is a lot to take in. The word for “lord” in the New Testament comes from the Greek word kyrios. In the Mediterranean world, someone with power and authority over others was called a “lord” or “master.” In the New Testament, Jesus is addressed or referred to as “Lord” more than 700 times. Jesus is addressed as “Lord” in two ways. First, he is called “Lord” in the same way as he is often called “Rabbi” or “Teacher” when someone asks him a question or requests healing. After Jesus’ death and resurrection, however, calling him “Lord” takes on much greater meaning. It signifies that Jesus is God himself. It signifies that God the Father has given Jesus all authority over heaven and earth. And, ultimately, it looks ahead to the day when “every tongue [will] acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:11). We rightly pause when we call Jesus “our Lord.” We confess both his true identity and our just response. Then in awe and gratitude we ask and seek out how to serve him.
Jesus, Lord of lords and King of kings, help us to honor and serve you as we await the day when all creation will bow and worship you. Amen.
No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known. — John 1:18
Can you imagine having an argument at the supermarket about whether Jesus Christ is God? Today, Christians everywhere accept the fact that Jesus, God’s Son, is fully God. But in the early church, Christians argued vehemently about whether Jesus could be God if he was God’s only Son. When we call someone a son, we naturally conclude that the father came first and the son came second. So when we refer to Jesus in the Apostles’ Creed as God’s “only Son,” are we somehow putting him in second place? No. Since the fourth century the church has officially upheld what the Holy Spirit inspired John to write in our passage for today: “No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.” We can’t fully comprehend the mysterious relationship of God the Father and his only Son. But by faith we believe that Jesus is God’s Son. By faith we believe, with John, that through God’s only Son all of creation was made (John 1:1-3). By faith we also believe that only God’s own Son, through his death, could bring us into a new life filled with everlasting peace and joy. As we live in the love of God and his Son each day, we can look for ways, wherever we are, to share that love with others.
Jesus, we believe you are God’s only Son. Help us to share your love wherever we are. Amen.
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news. . . .” — Luke 4:18
Have you ever spilled olive oil or some other kind of oil? Oil can be messy to work with and hard to clean up. Our experience with that may make it hard to grasp the biblical beauty of being “anointed” with oil. In the Old Testament, people who were anointed with oil were set apart for special service to God for his people. When the Israelites anointed someone, they took olive oil and blended it with expensive spices (Exodus 30:22-25). Then they rubbed, smeared, or poured the concoction on the head of the person being appointed. Priests and prophets were anointed with this oil. Kings were anointed with it too. The most important anointing in the Bible doesn’t involve oil, however. When Jesus returned to his hometown synagogue, he opened God’s Word and declared that he had been anointed with the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God himself anointed Jesus to proclaim the good news of salvation. As we confess with the Apostles’ Creed, God anointed his Son, the long-expected Messiah, “the Anointed One,” the Christ, to be our Prophet, Priest, and King. With his word, he guides us. With his sacrifice, he redeems us. And as our King, he guides and protects us. Jesus was anointed for us. And he anoints us with his Spirit to serve him in this world.
Jesus, you are the Christ, the Anointed One, our Savior. Help us, your anointed servants, to share your love with the world. Amen.
“You are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” — Matthew 1:21
Have you ever wondered why your parents chose your name? Maybe they named you after a family member. Perhaps they named you after a person in the Bible. Or maybe they chose your name because they liked the way it sounded. When Mary was about to give birth, she and Joseph didn’t have a choice. Through an angel, God commanded them to name the child Jesus. The name Jesus is Greek for the Hebrew name Joshua, whom God chose to lead Israel into the promised land (Joshua 1). The Hebrew name Joshua means “God is deliverance,” and that was a fitting name for the man who led Israel out of their wandering in the wilderness and into the land God had promised them. And in God’s great story, the life of Joshua points toward an even greater figure. When we say, with the Apostles’ Creed, “I believe in Jesus,” we affirm that God’s Son, Jesus, is our salvation. God’s own Son rescues us from the dark pit of our sin into the light and spacious peace of knowing and resting in God. So many things promise deliverance in this life. Yet the Bible states clearly that there is only one way to know God—and that is through his Son, Jesus (John 14:6). Do you believe in him? Do you trust in him? His name means “Savior,” or “the Lord saves,” revealing that Jesus is God’s deliverance.
Jesus, name above all names, you have washed away our sins and made us right with God. Help us to follow and serve you in all we do. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Mark 8:31-38**
“Whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.”
Mark 8:35
In two weeks it will be Good Friday, when we remember Jesus’ death on the cross. He gave up his own life to save us from sin and death.
In the meantime, we are wrapping up the season of Lent, a 40-day period of spiritual reflection. During Lent we focus on the purpose of Jesus’ coming—to pay the price of all our sin by dying in our place, and then to rise again in victory over death so that we can have new life with God forever!
Lent is a time for self-examination, confession, spiritual exercise, discipleship training, and refreshing our perspective on what it means to follow Christ today. It is a spiritually challenging time, and it will conclude on Easter as we celebrate Jesus’ victory.
Think of the Savior who went to Jerusalem to die for us. Jesus was betrayed and handed over to the religious leaders, who condemned him to death. He was mocked, spit on, whipped, and crucified. He died and was buried. Then, on the third day he rose again, victorious over death. And he did all of this for us so that we could be forgiven and receive new, eternal life.
It was a hard path for Jesus, and it may be hard and fearful for us who follow him. This month, imagine being a disciple following Jesus on the road to Jerusalem. What do you think will happen? What will it be like? In following Christ, we may face hardships and even be called upon to suffer in his name, but he promises that it will end well.
Lord Jesus, guide me to trust in you, and give me courage to follow where you lead. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 32:1-8**
Each one will be like a shelter from the wind and a refuge from the storm, like streams of water in the desert. . . .
Isaiah 32:2
How amazing parents are! They sacrifice so much for their children and are eager to provide opportunities for them. A key preoccupation of seafarers during their visits to ports around the world is to buy books, toys, and clothes to bring back for their children. Parents show love and protection in so many ways for their children, and God does the same for us.
In Isaiah 32, God shares a wonderful announcement. This comes in the midst of warnings to God’s people, who have turned away from him to rely on the power of other nations (see Isaiah 28-31). But even though the people have been unfaithful, Isaiah reminds them that God has promised a kingdom of righteousness.
Today we know that the King who “will reign in righteousness” is Jesus, and leaders who follow his ways will rule with justice. This means that everyone—young and old, men and women, parents and children—all will be able to flourish and learn and grow in peace.
God’s kingdom is a refuge from the storms and troubles of life. The Savior, Jesus, has given us new life and promises it “to the full” (John 10:10). We need not fear or dread the future. Families and communities can thrive. And our King invites us to welcome others in from the storm.
Lord, King, and Savior, you are our refuge and strength. You care for us with love and compassion. Help us to care for and love others as you have done for us. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Job 38:1-33**
“Who shut up the sea . . . when I fixed limits for it and . . . said, ‘This far you may come and no farther; here is where your proud waves halt’?”
Job 38:8-11
The book of Job explores the relationship between humans and God. Job, who is faithful to God, goes through a difficult series of tests. He loses all his children, all his livestock, and his livelihood. He also loses his health. But he never stops trusting God (Job 1-3).
Job’s friends come around, and instead of consoling him, they say he must have done some terrible wrong, or all this trouble would not have happened. But they are mistaken, and their words do more harm than good. Job wonders why all this calamity is happening. And eventually he calls on God to answer him (Job 4-31).
Another friend speaks up and offers wise insights about the all-powerful God, who has created all things. We cannot understand all of God’s ways because God is so different from us. Yet God cares for us, teaches us wisdom, and is righteous and just (Job 32-37).
Then God himself speaks (Job 38-41), asking Job if he knows how the earth was made, who gave the sea its limits, and how the forces of nature work to bring food and water for all living things.
Of course, Job does not know these things—and neither do we know all things. But God is good, and our lives are in his hands. God allows storms and trouble to come our way, and often we are not at fault. But God can also bring us through and heal us. We can trust that in God our future is secure.
Lord and God, Maker of heaven and earth, the universe is full of your glory. Save us, we pray, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
1 Kings 19:1-18**
A great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind.
1 Kings 19:11
The prophet Elijah was running for his life. He had been faithful to God, warning King Ahab and Queen Jezebel that they needed to obey God and stop misleading the people of Israel. But Ahab and Jezebel would not listen—not even after God showed his power through Elijah in a dramatic showdown (1 Kings 18). Instead, Jezebel threatened to hunt Elijah down and kill him.
So Elijah ran away into the wilderness. There God sent an angel to care for him, and that gave him energy to keep traveling all the way to Horeb (Mt. Sinai), where God had met Moses and the people of Israel many years earlier (Exodus 19-20).
In a cave on Mount Horeb, Elijah heard God calling him to come out and meet him as he passed by. A series of storms came. A great wind tore at the mountain and shattered rocks. But God was not in the wind. Then the earth shook, and fire came out of nowhere, but God was not in the earthquake or the fire.
Then there was a sound of stillness. And Elijah emerged, with his face covered, to meet with God. God spoke with encouragement and care, giving Elijah new tasks to do. And these included anointing another prophet so that Elijah would no longer work alone.
In this way the Lord reaffirmed Elijah, and Elijah continued to serve God faithfully.
Dear Lord, we long for your guidance in our lives today. Thank you for your encouraging Word. Help us to serve you faithfully. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Hebrews 12:18-24**
You have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom and storm. . . . But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem.
Hebrews 12:18-22
In the Old Testament, it was not unusual for people to be terrified and in awe of God’s presence. For example, in Exodus 20:18-19, “when the people saw the thunder and lightning and heard the trumpet and saw the mountain in smoke, they trembled with fear. They stayed at a distance and said to Moses, ‘Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not have God speak to us or we will die.’” The people were afraid because they knew they were sinful and that God is holy and awesome, with power beyond imagining.
The book of Hebrews helps to explain the significance of Jesus’ death for our sake. When Jesus died on the cross, he experienced the same separation from God that so terrified Israel. By paying for our sins and reconciling us to God, Jesus cut through that darkness forever. The terror of being in God’s presence is no longer there because we can approach God through Christ, the one he loves and accepts.
Hebrews urges us to approach God at any time. Through Jesus, God made himself accessible to all people, regardless of their situations or circumstances. God loves us all, and he is ready to give grace to anyone who comes to faith through his Son.
Father in heaven, thank you for providing the way for us to come to you—through Christ, the one and only Savior. Help us to live for you always. In Jesus, Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
2 Corinthians 11:23-33**
Three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move.
2 Corinthians 11:25-26
On September 2, 2015, news outlets around the world reported a horrible tragedy: the body of three-year-old Alan Kurdi had washed up on a beach near Bodrum, Turkey. Alan’s family of Syrian refugees were trying to cross the Mediterranean Sea to a Greek island when their inflatable boat capsized. This tragedy testified to the refugees’ desperation: they chose to risk the harsh sea in a raft to escape the threats of terrorists in their homeland. The accident also reminds us of the long history of shipwrecks in that area.
The Mediterranean Sea was a key part of the apostle Paul’s missionary travels. He tells of being shipwrecked three times and being stranded on the open sea. In Paul’s work of spreading the good news of Jesus, he was also sometimes beaten, pelted with stones, and thrown into prison. That happened because people in some places were hostile to the message of Christ. In addition, there were false teachers who twisted the message of Jesus for their own profit, fame, and power. Sadly, false and corrupt leaders are still doing similar things today.
As Paul (and Jesus) explained, challenges and dangers often go with sharing the good news because the devil is opposed to it. Satan doesn’t want anyone to be saved. But in God’s strength, the good news of Jesus keeps spreading.
Will you help to share it too?
Lord, guide us to share your good news everywhere, and help us to deal faithfully with challenges that arise. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Jeremiah 30:18-24**
The storm of the Lord will burst out in wrath, a driving wind swirling down on the heads of the wicked.
Jeremiah 30:23
On nautical maps, an important feature is the “wind rose,” a graphic image used by meteorologists to show how wind speed and direction are typically distributed in a certain place. This tool can be very useful to mariners for avoiding trouble spots at sea.
In some ways, this passage in Jeremiah 30 is like a “wind rose.” It helps God’s people see how the Lord was going to act in order to restore them. You see, at this time in history, God’s people were in exile for rebelling against God. They had followed after other gods and had refused to honor the Lord, who had made them into a great nation. So God had disciplined them by sending them into exile.
Sadly, though, their conquerors had brutally enslaved them and carried them away after destroying their land. And when God’s people cried out in their distress, the Lord heard them.
So how would God act to restore his people? “The storm of the Lord” would burst out like “a driving wind swirling down on the heads of the wicked.” God is powerful enough to overwhelm evil. The people needed God to save them from this enemy that had exploited them.
Explaining all this, God promised to bring them honor again, saying, “So you will be my people, and I will be your God.”
Lord and God, your power is greater than any other. Thank you for being merciful and just. Help us to honor you above all and to serve you faithfully. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Psalm 83:1-18**
Pursue them with your tempest and terrify them with your storm.
Psalm 83:15
Many of us think of the water as a place to relax and play, like on a day at the beach. For seafarers, winds and waves are part of their daily work and can be deadly enemies. Regular maintenance is essential to make sure a ship is ready for a storm that might come up.
Seafarers take their enemies seriously, and God’s people need to do that too. The writer of Psalm 83 recalls how God delivered his people in the past, and the writer pleads with God to help them again. The psalmist speaks of blowing the enemies around like dust or sending a firestorm or a tempest to terrify them and make them repent.
At first, these verses might make us uncomfortable, but they describe the power necessary to overcome the enemy. God’s power is not arbitrary or cruel; it shows that God is loving and just. Both the enemies and the people of God will come to know that the Lord alone is “Most High over all the earth.”
Only God can banish evil. God’s action, described as a kind of storm in these verses, has tremendous power to overwhelm an enemy.
We can call on God to defend us. Jesus himself had to defend against Satan, the great enemy. And in Jesus’ case, he used the power of the Word of God—and Satan could not overcome it (Luke 4:1-13).
Dear God, protect us from the enemies of your kingdom—sin, death, and the devil. Thank you for the power of Jesus Christ in our lives. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
1 Samuel 12:16-25**
Samuel called on the Lord, and that same day the Lord sent thunder and rain. So all the people stood in awe of the Lord and of Samuel.
1 Samuel 12:18
Samuel was Israel’s prophet at the end of the period of the judges (which lasted about 300 years after the time of Moses and Joshua—see Joshua 1). In our reading for today, Samuel gives a speech after confirming Saul as Israel’s king.
Samuel walked closely with God and was a faithful leader. But the people had often turned to worship the false gods of the nations around them, and they now insisted on having a king like the other nations, even though the one true God was their King. In his speech Samuel reminded the people of their sins. He also asked the Lord to use a storm to prove his point. And the Lord sent a storm.
In that society many of the people were farmers. They were always watching the weather, especially at the time of harvest. If the crops became wet, mold would grow on them, and they could not be harvested and stored. So this rain was very disturbing for Samuel’s audience.
Yet God’s mercy is always available. The people now understood how great their sin was in asking for a king, and the Lord and Samuel now had their attention. But Samuel also reassured them that he would pray to God for them and continue teaching “the way that is good and right.”
Dear Lord, please forgive us when our hearts are drawn toward the things of this world rather than you. You are the only true God. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Zechariah 10:1-12**
Ask the Lord for rain in the springtime; it is the Lord who sends the thunderstorms. He gives showers of rain to all the people, and plants of the field to everyone.
Zechariah 10:1
Many Bible texts talk about the destructive power of storms and how sometimes God uses storms to bring judgment. But many other texts describe storms as bringing blessings, especially in the rains that water the land.
Regular rainfall was essential for ancient cultures with limited irrigation systems. When Jacob sent his sons from Canaan to buy food in Egypt (Genesis 42), it was impossible to grow food where they were. They needed rain for their crops, but instead they had a massive famine. Can we imagine that kind of need? Access to clean water is essential for survival.
Zechariah reminded God’s people that the Lord is the source of rain. Zechariah’s prophecies were pastoral, emphasizing that God is at work in nature and is the source of the people’s power. We all need to ask God for his blessing and to live lives that reflect the source of that blessing. At that time, the people were rebuilding the temple of God in Jerusalem, so Zechariah reminded them that God calls everyone to turn away from sin and to serve him in faith.
The closing chapters of Zechariah begin pointing to the coming Messiah (Christ), the Savior. Not only does the Lord provide rain for everyone, but in the coming kingdom God will provide all that everyone will need.
Dear Lord, thank you for providing for our daily living. Nourish us too with your Word, and fill our hearts with your love forever. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Nahum 1:1-8**
The Lord will not leave the guilty unpunished. His way is in the whirlwind and the storm, and clouds are the dust of his feet.
Nahum 1:3
About 150 years after the time of Jonah (see March 21), Nahum prophesied about the fall of Nineveh. This city was the capital of what was now the vast Assyrian Empire.
With the great river system that connects the Mediterranean region to the Indian Ocean, Nineveh had access to enormous wealth. In trade and business, the Assyrians accumulated gold, silver, and copper from all over their empire.
But the Assyrians also exploited the people they ruled. The Bible tells of how Assyria pillaged ten of the tribes of Israel and took them away as slaves, leaving the two tribes of Judah and Simeon as its vassals. This injury to God’s people was never undone.
Though Jonah had preached God’s grace to Nineveh and the people had repented back then, the Assyrians had grown proud and corrupt as they expanded their empire. Nahum preached that Nineveh would fall, and in the end Assyria reaped what it had sown. A bitter civil war saw Nineveh sacked by its former subjects.
Through Nahum, God told his people that they needed to trust in him rather than the ways of the world. The storms of war brought low the greatest empire at that time, and the guilty did not go unpunished. God alone “is good, a refuge in times of trouble.”
Lord, your power overwhelms us. Keep us away from sin, and turn our hearts continually to you. Let us find refuge in you always. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Jonah 1:1-17**
The Lord sent a great wind on the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship threatened to break up.
Jonah 1:4
Despite many advances in technology, seafaring is still dangerous today. In the past 10 years, more than 1,000 large ships have been lost worldwide. We often don’t hear about these shipwrecks in the news unless they affect our own country or region. Many of us in North America, however, heard that the United States-flagged cargo ship El Faro, on its way to Puerto Rico, sank at sea with all 33 crew members on October 1, 2015, after sailing into Hurricane Joaquin.
The prophet Jonah boarded a ship heading for Tarshish, a destination as far away as he could go from where the Lord had sent him to preach—in Nineveh. But despite Jonah’s rebellion, the Lord brought him back in the right direction. God sent a storm that threatened to wreck the ship until Jonah was thrown overboard. Then, as the storm quickly cleared, the sailors worshiped the Lord, and God sent a huge fish to bring Jonah back to dry land.
This story shows the amazing power of God—not only over nature but also to bring repentance and salvation. God turned Jonah around and brought him to preach a message of grace to Nineveh. And the people there repented and were spared from destruction.
Have there been storms in your life that God has used to bring repentance and faith?
Lord God, we ask for forgiveness, for we have sinned against you and our neighbors. We look to you in the storms of life to build our faith in Christ. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
James 1:1-18**
When you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.
James 1:6
There is a seafarers’ mission in Hong Kong that, rather than waiting for ships to come to the dock as most missions do, sends chaplains out to visit seafarers anchored in the harbor. The chaplains travel to the ships on small boats. When a ship is out in the harbor, visitors need to climb up the side on a rope ladder in order to get on board. Though it is safe, the rope ladder can sway back and forth a lot, out in the midst of the wind and waves.
I once visited the Hong Kong mission and had the opportunity to board ships out in the harbor. At the first ship, our small boat bobbed up and down several meters at a time. I was given one key piece of advice: “You must commit.” It would not work to let your doubts stop you halfway while reaching out for the ladder. You had to lean out of the boat to grab on, and if you had doubts about grabbing the ladder, you could plunge into the cold swells of the ocean.
James understood the problems of doubt. Doubts in our hearts can create our own internal storms. We cannot find solid footing when our lives are blown and tossed about by winds of our own making. Committing to the Lord helps us to move through the challenges of life, knowing that the testing of faith produces perseverance.
Lord Jesus, help us to commit our lives to you. Keep our feet firm in your Word and hold us tightly in your love. In your name, Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Matthew 7:24-29**
“The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house [built on sand], and it fell with a great crash.”
Matthew 7:26-27
Economic and political turmoil has unfortunate, direct consequences on many seafarers. During the 2008 global financial crisis, hundreds of ships were suddenly laid up without work to do. Shipowning, a business that had been profitable for many years, was suddenly in deep trouble. History is full of similar tragedies. Change is constant, and any hope we put in the status quo will be disappointed.
Every economy and culture will fail eventually. Jesus knew this as he was teaching the crowds. Some of his listeners probably felt good about their life the way it was. Maybe they had become successful in business and were popular in their community, and maybe they thought they deserved all the blessings they had. We all like to feel secure in ourselves and in our own situations.
But Jesus warned that if people trust only in themselves, their life can easily crash down around them. There is only one way to build a storm-proof house, and there is only one rock we can build securely on. We must build our lives on the rock of Jesus, the one and only Savior. He promises a new life that begins now and will last with God forever. Storms may surround us, but if our life is built on the rock of God our Savior, our future will be secure.
Lord, help us to build our lives securely on you. Thank you for your protection when the storms of life come our way. Keep us focused on Jesus, we pray. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Acts 28:1-10**
The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold.
Acts 28:2
Great stories often include scenes of danger and courage. This story about the apostle Paul on Malta follows a gripping account of a two-week storm at sea and a shipwreck (Acts 17). And although this story tells of a deadly snakebite and miraculous healings, it focuses at first (and at the end) on what may seem rather mundane: hospitality. Paul and his companions were shipwrecked, wet, and cold, so the islanders of Malta welcomed them by making a fire.
Simple hospitality can have a profound effect on people caught in the storms of life. Hebrews 13:2 encourages us: “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” Did the Maltans know who they were welcoming, or what mission they were advancing, when they went out in the rain and cold to meet these strangers?
Paul’s ministry of spreading the good news of Jesus was often supported by the kindness of others. The Maltans showed hospitality before they even heard Paul’s teaching or saw the miracles he did in Jesus’ name.
Can you remember a time when others showed unusual kindness to you? Whom could you show kindness to today? Showing kindness should flow freely from a heart full of joy because of Jesus’ teaching.
Thank you, Lord, for the unusual kindness you have shown to us. Help us to reflect your love and to welcome the people around us, so that others may know the joy of your salvation. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Proverbs 10:21-30**
When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm forever.
Proverbs 10:25
The Bible includes many passages about the destruction of the wicked—that is, people who refuse to live God’s way. They decide to go their own way instead, and that leads only to destruction. That’s because we are all sinners. Born with a sinful nature, we cannot live pure and perfect lives on our own. Everything we do is somehow tainted with sin, and we can see this easily because nothing we ever do is perfect.
But there is hope. God has reached out to us with the offer of salvation and new life. We cannot save ourselves or live perfectly on our own, but Jesus Christ, God’s Son, has come to pay the debt of our sin—and when we believe in him as Savior, God credits us with Jesus’ righteousness. This means we can actually be righteous even though we have no way to be righteous on our own. This also means that when the storm of God’s judgment comes at the end of time, we will not be swept away with the wicked. Because of Jesus Christ and his finished work, we will be saved.
Are you a believer in Jesus, the Son of God, who came to save us and give us full life forever with him? If not, ask him to save you today! Ask God to forgive your sins for Jesus’ sake, and to guide you to live for him by the power of his Spirit. God is our sure and only refuge from destruction, and we need him to help us live faithfully each day.
Father, forgive us our sins. Help us to trust in your power to save us through Jesus Christ, and guide us to live for you each day. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Psalm 55:1-8, 20-23**
“Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest. . . . I would hurry to my place of shelter, far from the tempest and storm.”
Psalm 55:6-8
What turmoil the psalmist experienced here! Enemies watched him constantly, eager to threaten and accuse whenever they could. The worst part was that some of them were people he had trusted as friends.
Our inner storms can be intense when we are betrayed by someone close to us. In storms like that, we often cannot think straight. We question everything. Where can a solution be found?
The writer of this psalm wanted the same solution we would—to get away. How wonderful it would be to fly away like a bird when we are faced with betrayal. It would be such a relief to leave all our troubles behind, to unplug from all the challenges.
But that was not possible for the psalmist. Enemies dogged him again and again. The threats on his life continued.
Have you felt the sting of betrayal by someone who was close to you? Perhaps you are living in that kind of storm now.
At the end of the psalm, the writer provides the wisest response we can give in situations like this: “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you.” Whether we can fly away from our enemies or not, we can give our burdens over to the Lord, and we can trust in him to set things right.
Lord, please heal our minds and hearts. We give our burdens over to you. Forgive us our sins, and help us to forgive the people who have sinned against us. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
2 Peter 2:1-3, 17-19**
These people are springs without water and mists driven by a storm. Blackest darkness is reserved for them.
2 Peter 2:17
In our lives, as in nature, some of the storms that we encounter are human-made. Yes, the Bible warns that even in the church there are greedy abusers who take only for themselves. How often do we hear news of church leaders lying, taking money, destroying marriages, abusing children, or seeking power and influence? Even on a smaller scale, many ministries set out to help people in need but end up exploiting them. This is not a new phenomenon, because we read about it in 2 Peter 2.
Storms and trouble in life can come to us through people who try to draw us into their stormy souls. Indeed, we must all be vigilant that we do not hurt people we claim to help. We are warned that this is like storm clouds that appear in a dry season but bring no rain, or like a spring without water. False teachers take the words and promises of God and twist them in order to control and destroy others.
We ought to be on guard against anyone who twists the Word of God for their own gain. We ought to “test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (1 John 4:1). Likewise, we must ask God to “deliver us from the evil one” (Matthew 6:13) so that we and the leaders of our churches may be faithful.
Dear Jesus, protect us from the storms that false teachers can create. Give us leaders who are faithful in private as well as in public. Forgive us our sins, Lord, and guide us to live for you. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Exodus 9:13-35**
The Lord rained hail on the land of Egypt; hail fell and lightning flashed back and forth. It was the worst storm in all the land of Egypt since it had become a nation.
Exodus 9:23-24
Seated on the banks of the Nile River, Egyptian society prospered with abundance and sophistication. It was the envy of all its neighbors. The climate was mild. Water came not so much from rainfall, but by the regular flooding of the Nile, refreshing the whole delta with moisture and nutrients. All the land was owned by the Pharaoh, and his priests and officials governed the whole society.
In the story of the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7-12) we see a Pharaoh who refused to recognize the God of Israel as the one true God of heaven and earth. So God sent more thunder and lightning, rain and hail on Egypt than it had ever seen before.
This is sometimes another purpose of storms. How often in the Bible do we see the proud and mighty being overwhelmed before the power of God? They cannot stand before him. Humans may appear to be strong (at least to each other), but in any storm our weakness is quickly evident.
Rather than standing before God in our own strength, we should bow and pray.
“Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake their ways. . . . Let them turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy” (Isaiah 55:6-7).
Lord God of heaven and earth, teach us humility. Forgive us for our pride. Thank you for looking on us in grace and mercy and for redeeming us in Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Psalm 91:1-16**
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
Psalm 91:1
Is there a light on near you? Look at it. Feel the heat coming from it. See its blinding brightness—how this tiny thing can light up a room. Now imagine a small warehouse full of nothing but lightbulbs shining, lining its shelves from top to bottom—this is like the brightness of a single bolt of lighting.
Lightning is a striking display of raw power in nature, stunning and destructive. People need to protect themselves from lightning. Many cultures throughout history feared lightning as a god.
Sometimes, we say, sudden events strike us like lightning. A sudden death or accident or disaster—even an overwhelming temptation—can grip us like a bolt from the blue. When that happens, where can we find a place of protection and safety? What is so powerful, so firm, to keep us safe from the outpouring of danger and destruction?
The Lord is our refuge, our fortress, our rock. This is a common theme in the psalms. The world and all the forces of evil cannot approach or destroy the safety we have in God. Whatever comes at you, God holds you in peace—safe and close in his care.
“Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God” (Psalm 90:1). Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Psalm 89:1-13**
You rule over the surging sea; when its waves mount up, you still them.
Psalm 89:9
The biggest wave on record was recorded on July 9, 1958, in Lituya Bay, Alaska. It was caused by an earthquake followed by a landslide, resulting in a towering tsunami more than 100 feet high. Just imagine a 10-story wall of water hurtling toward you.
The psalmist shares that God is in control of the surging seas. He is in control of its every motion. This psalm is a song reminding God’s people of all the great things he has done. “I will sing of the Lord’s great love forever,” it begins. The psalmist sings about how God rules over the whole creation.
God shows his greatness in the sea. Try to imagine how far it extends, all of the life that is in it, the power it exerts on land as it crashes against the continents. God created the sea through his Word, and he still moves it and watches over it today.
When we need help, we can call on God because he rules our world. As the psalmist sang about God’s power to still the waves, so we can pray to our Lord to take care of us in the storms of our lives.
Do you have a storm in your life that you want to ask God to take care of? Pray to the Lord. Sing his praises.
Dear God, you know the storms that are in my heart and my life. Still my heart and calm my storms so that I can praise you in peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Genesis 1:1-8**
So God made the vault and separated the water under the vault from the water above it. And it was so. God called the vault “sky.”
Genesis 1:7-8
A storm is a massive movement of water from gas to liquid, above to below, sky to earth. It is a key part of a natural cycle we depend on for daily living.
What must God have been thinking when he made something as wondrous as water? It is the only chemical that naturally exists in our atmosphere in all three phases—solid, liquid, and gas. Mountains of solid ice float. Water dissolves almost everything, and it stays cool even under a blazing sun. We live by water in all its forms.
Water also exists in vast quantities as vapor in the atmosphere. Scientists estimate that there are 3.3 quadrillion gallons of water in the atmosphere—enough to cover the entire surface of the Earth with one inch of rain, if condensed. And all of it is recycled 40 times each year, traveling the world in clouds and pouring into lakes and oceans.
Genesis testifies that God created these waters, above and below. The moisture on our tongues, the blood pulsing through us, the sweat that cools us—all these are the work of God.
Water for life, with seasonal rains and snows to keep the earth well-watered and its creatures supplied with food—let’s praise and thank God for all these good things in his wonderful creation.
Dear God, we praise you for your amazing creation. You are all-powerful and Lord over all. Thank you for your care for us in all seasons of life. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Matthew 5:43-48**
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He . . . sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”
Matthew 5:44-45
Caring for our own is one of our most powerful motivations. We tend to love those who are closest to us, including ourselves. And anything or anyone who hurts us or our loved ones becomes our enemy.
Jesus observed that the people around him had a saying: “Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.” People felt that love was wasted on strangers, and love for people who hurt or threatened them was doubly wasted.
But Jesus came to reveal the character of God, our Creator who loves and cares for us all. He sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. God is our good Father who richly provides all things for our enjoyment (1 Timothy 6:17). In the original Greek language of the New Testament, there is a specific word describing love that does not seek personal gain: agapé. Throughout the Bible we find that this is the kind of love God shows us.
God sent his beloved, one and only Son to die for us when we were his enemies (Romans 5:10). And Jesus—God’s gift to his enemies—calls us to show this same kind of love. We cannot produce this kind of love by ourselves, but we receive it from God—as freely as the sun shines on us. And we are called to share it freely with everyone around us.
Loving and gracious God, we worship you as our Creator and sustainer. Thank you for the love you have shown to us in Jesus. Help us to love others as you have loved us. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Genesis 7:1-12**
All the springs of the great deep burst forth, and the floodgates of the heavens were opened. And rain fell on the earth forty days and forty nights.
Genesis 7:11-12
The story of Noah and the flood is not usually described as a journey at sea, but Noah was one of the Bible’s most gifted seafarers. He built a massive ship that housed his family and all kinds of animals. And with God’s help he navigated 40 days and nights of storming and flooding. Then they all waited months for the waters to recede.
It must have been extraordinary to see the waters coming from all directions—from the ground, from the sea, from the sky—a cataclysm bringing destruction on the earth. Though Noah had built the ship and prepared for this over many years, the force of the storm and the scale of devastation must have been shocking and overwhelming for Noah and his family.
Yet God had prepared a way of salvation. God taught Noah how to build the ark. And when the flood came, God guided Noah, his family, and all the animals to a place where they could land. God also promised that a flood like that would never come again.
The Bible shows that God’s justice flows together with his love and mercy. Despite the trauma and destruction of the flood, God provides shelter and promises new and full life. Today we see this even more clearly in Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection for all who believe in him!
Father in heaven, thank you for always being faithful to your promises. Protect us in the storms of life, and guide us in your mercy. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 25:1-12**
You have been . . . a refuge for the needy in their distress, a shelter from the storm. . . . For the breath of the ruthless is like a storm driving against a wall. . . .
Isaiah 25:4
The old saying “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” can be helpful for teaching kids to remain calm in the face of a bully. Even so, harsh words can have a striking effect on our lives. Unexpected criticism, hateful comments by a supposed friend, or an offhand remark from a family member can cut deep into our hearts and fester. To our shame, we often retaliate with spiteful words of our own.
Isaiah 25 says that “the breath of the ruthless is like a storm driving against a wall.” God’s people had been cornered and overwhelmed by ruthless words. They could not keep going in their own strength.
But the prophet reminds them that God is their shelter in the storm. Isaiah 25 begins with this joyful proclamation: “Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done wonderful things, things you planned long ago.” God has planned from the beginning to protect and guide us, giving us hope and a future with him—as well as many blessings in our lives each day.
Maybe you feel trapped in a corner as ruthless words bear down on you. Know that the Lord can be your shelter. He can give you peace, lifting your heart to remember and sing about the great things he has done for you.
Precious Lord, open our mouths so that we can sing your praises. Help us to use our words to bring peace rather than a storm. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Acts 27:13-44**
When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and the storm continued raging, we finally gave up all hope of being saved.
Acts 27:20
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, there were many questions about seafarers’ being able to get home. Long delays, extended contracts, and quarantine requirements weighed heavily, and the sheer uncertainty of when it all might be over caused mental anguish. Facing a storm can be hard enough, but when people face the possibility that the storm might not pass, they can run the risk of losing all hope.
The story in Acts 27 describes the apostle Paul traveling to Rome as a prisoner on a ship. Bad weather at sea could be expected for a few days at a time, but in this case the ship was caught in a storm that had been raging for a couple of weeks. Without seeing the sun or stars, the sailors could not even guess the position of their vessel. The crew and passengers must have felt battered and beaten. The text says they had stopped eating; many gave up hope and were ready to die.
But God sent an angel to give everyone a message through Paul: “. . . God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.” They were soon shipwrecked, but all were able to get to shore safely. The storm ended. God was directing the situation, even when they had lost human hope.
Dear God, strengthen our faith and show us the hope that is found in you. Keep us safe when storms rage in our lives. We ask for the protection of your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 43:1-4**
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.”
Isaiah 43:2
In most seaports there are special pilots that join with an incoming ship to guide it into port. These harbor pilots know the unseen obstacles under the water, as well as the currents and other details of the local port. The ship’s crew needs the harbor pilot with them on board so that they can respond immediately if there is danger ahead.
In Isaiah 43 we find a similar description from God. The Lord guides us through the overwhelming waters of life. The way ahead is unexplored and dangerous to us, but God comes alongside to reassure us. He is not impersonal, like the waters—or even like a pilot who guides a ship because it is his job. God calls us by name, and he assures us, “You are mine.” The Lord shows us tender compassion, spending time with us in the midst of our struggles. God not only knows the way; he also knows us as we travel it.
Jesus is with us always (Matthew 28:20). He is Immanuel, “God with us” (Matthew 1:23). It is a profound truth of the Christian faith that we are not alone but that our Lord and Savior continues to lead and guide us. If you feel like you are in the deep waters of life, know that Jesus is with you and let him be your hope.
Lord God and Father of all, thank you for guiding us in this life. We are in your hands; we are your people. We marvel at the truth that Jesus gave himself to die and rise again for us. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Matthew 16:1-4**
“You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times.”
Matthew 16:3
The teaching that Jesus mentions in this passage has become a rhyme related to sailors: “Red sky at night, sailor’s delight. Red sky at morning, sailors’ warning.” The sky appears red when the sun, at morning or evening, shines through clouds—the water particles in the clouds break up the light rays so that we see an orange-red glow.
As storms in the region tended to move from east to west, seeing the red light from clouds in the east meant that a storm was coming toward you, and seeing it in the west meant that it was moving away. Though they have much more sophisticated tools today, a red sky can still mean a lot to seafarers.
At the beginning of Matthew 16, we read that the religious leaders came to test Jesus by asking for a sign from heaven. This question is surprising since it came soon after Jesus’ miracle of feeding a huge crowd of “four thousand men, besides women and children” (Matthew 15:38). Was that not enough of a sign?
Jesus’ miracles were signs of the kingdom of God coming near (Mark 1:15), but few people were reading those signs. So Jesus hinted that his critics should take note of this. But they were stubborn and would not open their eyes. What was coming—in some ways like a storm—was good news: the Son of God, Jesus himself, had come to die for everyone’s sin so that all who believe in him could be saved.
Lord, teach us more each day about the new life you give us through your death and resurrection. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Psalm 107:29-32**
They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven. Let them give thanks. . . .
Psalm 107:30-31
In 1928 the American author John A. Shedd wrote, “A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.”
In the history of shipbuilding, some improvements have come with technology, but most improvements are made in response to disasters at sea. The sinking of the Titanic, for example, made clear that there should be enough lifeboats for all passengers. After the Exxon Valdez oil spill in Alaska, new oil tankers in the United States are fitted with full double hulls. These requirements, born of past disasters, have saved lives and prevented further disasters.
Knowing the history of shipwrecks and disasters, mariners take all storms seriously. There is a sense of relief when any storm passes and the waters grow calm. When the ship can sail safely through a storm, the crew can work calmly and make their way to the next port of call. But they remember it happened.
The seafarers described in Psalm 107 had that sense of relief. Their ship was spared, and they arrived safely at their destination. Safe passage calls for thanksgiving!
Looking back at the storms of your life, are you thankful to God for bringing you through? Can you see his unfailing love and wonderful deeds for you?
Dear Lord, protector of all life, thank you for the wonderful deeds you have done in my life. Thank you for guiding me and hearing my prayers. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Psalm 107:25-29**
They reeled and staggered like drunkards; they were at their wits’ end. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress.
Psalm 107:27-28
The purpose of the church is often misunderstood. Many people see a “holier than thou” attitude among its members. Yet Scripture teaches that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
Many others see the church as a place of spiritual relaxation or material blessing. That misconception causes frustration for people who are faithful believers but still have trouble and distress in their lives. If we describe it in nautical terms, the church is not a warship or a cruise ship but a lifeboat.
The seafarers described in Psalm 107 were helpless in the storm. They had no control over the movements of their ship. But they “cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress.” They could not rely on their own strength, but they could trust in the power of the Lord.
This is still true today. God’s Word does not say we will not experience “the valley of the shadow of death,” but it does promise that God is with us (Psalm 23:4). God does not ignore the cries of his people; he hears us in our distress.
Are you spinning around in a storm in your life? Rather than trying to fix things in your strength alone, ask the Lord to be with you in your distress and to have mercy on you.
Dear Lord, please carry us through the storms of life. Guide us not to rely on our own strength but to trust in you. We call out to you for help, Lord and Savior. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Romans 5:1-11**
“Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.”
John 15:12-14
I am a father and a grandfather. I like to think that I would readily lay down my life to save my child or grandchild if necessary. I’m sure other parents and grandparents would do the same. But am I willing to die for a friend?
I can think of some very good friends who are a treat to be with. But I can’t think of one that I would readily die for. That would take a level of love beyond what I have attained.
It would be rare, as Romans 5 says, for a person to give up their life for someone who is good—not to mention one who is not.
And yet “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” And “while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son.” Jesus’ self-sacrifice was the ultimate demonstration of love for others. He called his disciples friends, and he has shown all of us that he is the best of friends.
Given the difficulty of Jesus’ sacrifice, I can understand why Reinhold Niebuhr called such love “the impossible possibility.” Only in Christ, the Son of God, who emptied himself to come and die in our place, is such love possible. And only through Christ can we even come close to living out the possibility of such love.
Lord Jesus, I often feel confused or hurt because of friends—and even worse because of enemies. But you are the best of friends. Give me your love at the center of my being. Help me to be like you. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Matthew 5:43-48**
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. . . .’”
Matthew 5:43-44
This is the hardest command I know. Love my enemies?
Yet this truly is Jesus’ command for you and me. It gets to the heart of the good news of Jesus. It shows that God’s love in Christ undermines our naturally sinful and broken way of life.
An enemy is, by definition, someone we hate. Christ overthrows this by replacing our natural hatred with his supernatural love.
We cannot possess such love without Christ. I can’t; you can’t. On my own, I will keep on hating people who have hurt me, or whom I think are despicable. I do not have the capacity to love my enemies, but Christ does.
In Romans, Paul writes that “while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son” (Romans 5:10). This verse is a short summary of salvation in Christ. We were once the enemies of God, but Christ reconciled us to God so that now we are friends.
Christ reconciled an entire world-full of enemies to God. So he can surely handle the reconciliation needed between me and my enemies. But I will have to ask him for that supernatural love. It will take a prayer something like this:
O God, in my own strength I cannot forgive or love my enemies. Give me the love that Jesus showed by dying to pay for my sin when I was your enemy, and help me to reconcile with my enemies for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Revelation 20:11-15**
Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.
Revelation 20:15
This may be the scariest passage in all of Scripture. The dead, including you and me, will be judged according to what we have done.
What we do matters. Our actions reflect and have an influence on the person we will be. We are either becoming more like the person we are called to be in Christ, or we are following our sinful nature and wandering away from God toward certain destruction. Even if we say we love Christ but our actions show the opposite, we are denying the love of Christ within us. What we do is proof of who we are. As James 2:17 puts it, “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
A song I learned as a child talks about this: “Oh, be careful little hands what you do./ Oh, be careful little hands what you do./ For the Father up above is looking down in love,/ so be careful little hands what you do.” Other verses remind little mouths to be careful what they say, and little feet to be careful where they go.
God’s record of our words and deeds places great responsibility on us. We need to ask, “Are we acting as obedient, loving believers, or as destructive lawbreakers?”
But because of God’s love in Christ, we need not despair. We can repent of our wrongdoing, ask forgiveness, and be assured that Jesus’ sacrifice pays the debt of all our sin.
O God, you know what we do. You care what we do. Help us always to do what’s right, showing your love and obeying your commands, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Romans 13:8-14**
Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
Romans 13:10
If we really loved one another, we could forget all the other commandments. For, indeed, love fulfills the law.
Love is a moral principle. A principle covers all the world’s moral activity. There are a few other moral principles, such as be holy, do justice, do no harm, and so on. These principles apply in all times and places. We can never say, “No, I don’t have to love here,” or “I don’t have to do justice there.” In all cases moral principles apply.
When we love someone, we should not need to be reminded not to steal from them, or lie about them, or cheat them. Such reminders are almost impertinent for someone who loves another. Paul says, “Love does no harm to a neighbor.” But doing no harm, or merely observing the law, is not enough. Only the perfect love that Christ showed when he gave his life for ours is sufficient to fulfill the law. Christ removed the curse of lawlessness and has given us everlasting life.
To love as Jesus did means that we incorporate God’s self-sacrificing love into our hearts. In Christ, God showed us not only perfect obedience to the law but perfect love.
And only Christ fully lives out that perfect love. We who live in this hostile world still struggle with desires to make gains for ourselves or to harm others. Since we still live with this tension, we still need the law.
God, forgive us when we harm our neighbor. Help us to truly love you and others, guiding us by your own perfect love shown to us through Christ, our Lord. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Exodus 21:33-22:15**
“If anyone [digs] a pit . . . and fails to cover it and an ox or a donkey falls into it, [they] must pay the owner for the loss and take the dead animal in exchange.”
Exodus 21:33-34
Do you own an ox? How about a donkey? Then this law has little to do with you, right?
Perhaps. This is one of many civil laws found in the Bible. In ancient Israel, these laws were intended to keep order in society. All cultures have similar laws about property, but the nature of the property may vary from one society to another. All such laws aim at the same thing: civil justice.
The laws in this passage are specific to the agricultural society of ancient Israel. If you live in a society today with oxen and donkeys, you might want such a law in effect.
But even in societies that do not use oxen and donkeys, such laws can be useful. This one illustrates the principle of fair compensation. The pit digger should have covered up the hole. As a result, someone else lost something of value. Thus the pit digger should pay the owner for the loss of the animal.
How about an automobile? Do you have one of them? Do you drive responsibly? Are you insured so that if you harm someone else, you can provide compensation for their loss? If so, you are following a similar law in your own society.
Lord, thank you for our government and for the laws you give to our nation. We know that you seek justice at all levels and among all people. Show us where we might fail to do justice, and how we might correct injustice. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Leviticus 19:18-37**
“Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.”
Leviticus 19:28
Why are strange commands like these in the Bible? Do we have to obey them?
No. Many of the laws found in the Old Testament need not be kept by Christians today. Though they remain part of Scripture, their demands were satisfied later by Christ. Such commands are called ceremonial or ritual laws.
Ceremonial laws created categories of unclean, clean, and holy living. The normal state of things was cleanliness. Corruption led to uncleanness, but sacrifice or offering led to holiness. When something became corrupted or polluted, it was unclean. When something was specially dedicated to God, it became holy.
Some of the commands in our reading for today were meant to keep God’s people from corrupting themselves with the practices of their pagan neighbors. Some of the religions of other nations included rituals for the dead that called for cutting oneself. Others insisted on marking themselves with tattoos to show which god or tribe you belonged to.
Since Christ sacrificed himself to make us holy, we need not worry about becoming unclean because of tattoos, dining customs, and so on. But it is still important to show love and respect to all people, and to deal honestly with everyone. Jesus is our best example, and the Holy Spirit is our guide.
Dear God, by your Holy Spirit, help us to live holy lives that reflect the life of Christ within us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Matthew 23:1-15**
“You must be careful to do everything [the teachers of the law] tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.”
Matthew 23:3
The teachers of the law and the Pharisees were the leading citizens among the Jews. They knew what God’s law said, and they could tell people how to apply it. But they were hypocrites. They added their own laws on top of God’s laws, thinking that would “protect” the law of God from being disobeyed. But in doing so, they violated the spirit of the law, which is love.
Christians can do the same as the Pharisees if they add their own social standards to God’s law. “Surely a Christian would never listen to that kind of music, or wear those clothes, or dance, or . . .” We might think we are being especially zealous for the law of God by adding such restrictions. But God desires love, not legalistic additions to his law.
Following human standards while ignoring God’s call to love can lead to terrible results. It has led to racism: “We just followed the rules of apartheid!” It has led to sexism: “She should have known better than to wear that.” It has lead to nationalism: “We were just following our leaders’ orders.”
Such hypocrisy will condemn us on the day of judgment. Laws that do not aim at love for all people are not God’s laws. The Ruler of heaven and earth is not fooled by distorted rule-following.
Father, forgive us when we set up false standards. Forgive us if we have judged others unlovingly. Help us to love everyone as you do. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Psalm 119:1-16**
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.”
John 14:15 (RSV)
I remember learning this verse in our church boys club, called “Cadets.” It is certainly a good verse for boys to learn, but keeping God’s commands is a good plan for everyone.
To some of us, this verse might seem so obvious that only a child would need to learn it. Of course! How could I love someone and then hurt them, or steal from them? That’s no way to treat anyone, especially someone I love.
In Psalm 119 we can tell that the writer loves God and wants to live God’s way. “I seek you with all my heart,” the psalmist writes; “do not let me stray from your commands.” If we are like this believer, we have a deep trust in God, and we know that only God’s faithful love and care can help us live by God’s law of love.
Though the commandments are often stated negatively—do not worship other gods; do not kill; do not steal; and so on—the summary of them all is positive: do love the Lord your God; do love your neighbor as yourself. (See Matthew 22:37-40; Mark 12:29-31.)
The commandments are not external demands; they are the framework on which love for God can grow and flourish. And without God’s love and the framework he gives us to live by, nothing will stand.
Lord, because of your love and care for us, we want to show you and our neighbors love. Help us to do that by keeping your commandments. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
Romans 12:9-21; 13:8-10**
Whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.
Romans 13:8
To help my students think about the relationship between love and God’s law, I would ask them, “How would you like to use the following for your wedding vows?
“I promise not to kill you, not to steal from you, not to cheat on you, not to swear at your parents. . . .”
Not once did a student say, “Wow, that sounds great! Can you send me a copy for my wedding?” That’s because these are negative legal statements, not positive promises of love.
Laws prohibit harm, whereas love promises good. Of course, you wouldn’t want to marry someone who vowed to kill you or steal from you. But promising not to harm someone would not give them much of a reason to marry you, either. You should not harm anyone, of course. And you should promise lifelong love to only one person.
So how do love and law work together? In Romans, the apostle Paul explains that we show love by serving and obeying the Lord, whose law reminds us and guides us to love God and love others. Paul writes, “Whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.”
Still, plenty of questions remain. How is the law fulfilled by love? How does the work of Christ change our relationship to the law? Why do we still need to obey the law? The way Christians live out the answers to such questions will direct our lives.
Lord, thank you for your love and your law. Help us to love and obey you, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
**Scripture Reading:
John 17:20-23**
“[Father,] I pray also for those who will believe in me . . . that they may be one as we are one . . . that they may be brought to complete unity.”
John 17:20, 22-23
My daughters and I were privileged to be at their mother’s bedside when she spoke her last words. There is something very special about people’s final words.
Jesus’ prayer in John 17 is his final prayer with his disciples—just prior to his struggles in the garden and his betrayal, trial, and crucifixion. These words reveal his heart for all who believe in him!
Note what Jesus did not pray for. He did not pray for victory over Roman oppressors. He did not plead for the health and wealth of his followers. He did not ask for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. He did not even mention concern over worship practices or theological questions.
Jesus prayed for unity!
His prayer was that all who believe in him would be united with God and therefore be united with one another in “complete unity”—in all the days and years that followed!
Earlier that same evening Jesus said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. . . . By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34-35).
Love is an action word. As lovers of God, pray daily for grace to love your neighbors as yourself. That is what Jesus wants.
Father, Son, and Spirit, your love is amazing. Fill us so full of your love that it overflows to all of us and our neighbors, making us one in you. Amen. (AM)
**Scripture Reading:
Matthew 28:18-20**
“Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them . . . and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
Matthew 28:19
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, I never would have predicted that I would be preaching live on the internet. I would have thought that would be my worst nightmare. But God opened the way for hometown preachers like me to share the good news of Jesus to a world hunkered down by a deadly virus.
But as the months dragged on, viewers dwindled. Surveys show that most people come to know Christ through personal interaction with others whose faith and actions are appealing and consistent.
Before returning to heaven, Jesus instructed his disciples (and us) to spread the story about him—how he paved the way for us to be set free from sin and to live fully and forever by God’s grace. This news is too good not to share.
My brother-in-law who is Muslim, my manicurist who is Buddhist, my oncologist who is New Age, and my friends who are turned off by “evangelical Christians” are all watching and listening to me. Your neighbors are watching and listening to you. Is the Jesus living in us someone they want to know? Can Jesus use us to love them into the fold?
As we walk our neighborhoods, go shopping, get haircuts, attend sporting events, and go to church, let us speak freely about Jesus’ saving grace.
We don’t feel worthy to represent you, Jesus, but your Spirit empowers us for this awesome task. Help us to live in a way that draws others to find life in you. Amen. (BMB)
**Scripture Reading:
John 21:15-19**
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked . . . [a] third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things. . . .”
John 21:17
In our reading today, Jesus is calling Peter back into service, showing that he has forgiven Peter for his hasty denials when Jesus was arrested. That night, Peter had denied three times that he even knew Jesus, even though he was one of Jesus’ closest disciples (Luke 22:54-62).
We might think that Peter’s sin was unforgivable, but Jesus turned the other cheek and not only forgave Peter but also restored him as a leader. We witness Jesus inviting Peter not once, not twice, but three times to reaffirm his love and allegiance. Then Jesus commissions Peter to follow him faithfully, all the way to death if necessary. And history shows that is what Peter did.
In a time of “cancel culture,” Peter’s role would likely have ended and his name might have been erased from Scripture. But we read of his many actions as a disciple of Christ, both good and bad, and of his leadership in the church (see Matthew–Acts and 1-2 Peter). His mistakes and sins did not define him, but instead God used those experiences to shape Peter as a leader.
Our Christian leaders and friends can let us down and disappoint us too. Forgiveness may seem undeserved. Yet none of us is beyond the reach of God’s grace for wretches like me or you.
“Lord, you know all things, you know that [we] love you,” and yet we disobey and disappoint you daily. Forgive us our sins, and help us to extend grace to others who have fallen. For Jesus’ sake, Amen. (BMB)
**Scripture Reading:
Hebrews 13:7-17**
Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.
Hebrews 13:7
As we think about the neighbors we are called to love and respect for Jesus’ sake, it’s important to remember that our leaders are our neighbors too.
Most of us appreciate good leadership and generally look up to our leaders. So it’s very important for leaders to serve faithfully. To the best of their ability, they need to earn and maintain the trust that people have in them.
Most of us also realize that being a leader is not easy. Leaders are appointed or elected to guide us in making decisions and moving us ahead as a community. And they are called to lead wisely in times of crisis and struggle.
In our church communities today, as in the time when Hebrews was written, we have Christian pastors and other religious leaders. And we need to love, respect, and pray for them as they aim to lead with godly wisdom.
Sadly, many Christians today are polarized over vaccinations, racial justice, climate change, sexuality, and more. Within these tensions, it can be especially difficult for Christian leaders to call people to follow Jesus in practical ways without fallout from the right or the left.
Let’s pray faithfully for our religious leaders. May they serve boldly and wisely in calling us “to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with [our] God” (Micah 6:8).
Jesus, thank you for servant-leaders for your church. Guide them to lead boldly and well, and may we all serve you faithfully. Amen. (AM)
**Scripture Reading:
Luke 24:13-19**
As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them.
Luke 24:15
Social media does not provide a healthy setting for Christian debate on controversial issues. It’s too easy for users to sound off with hurtful words over people’s interpretations of Scripture, judging them to be dead wrong or even devil-led.
Imagine such an online debate between people who believed in Christ’s resurrection and those who considered it fake news. Thankfully, the calm, respectful discussion we find on the road to Emmaus invites a genuine discovery of the truth. Where these two gathered, Jesus showed up and was there with them (see Matthew 18:20; 28:20).
God designed that his people would live, learn, and grow together in community. None of us has perfect knowledge of God’s Word, but we gain insight by studying it with others. “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17).
I have participated in many small groups in which we studied the Bible, which is “useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16), and applied it to life situations. As a pastor, I do not have all of the answers, but I have found that when we communally seek to know him better, Jesus joins us and we sense his presence.
As Christ-followers, we can scare people away with our insistence on being right, or we can attract people with our invitation to walk and learn together with Jesus as our guide.
Thank you, Lord, for being with us in our life of faith, and for guiding us to search for truth together. Amen. (BMB)
**Scripture Reading:
John 11:17-37**
When Jesus saw her weeping . . . he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. . . . Jesus wept.
John 11:33-35
The 20-year-old son of my dear friends died suddenly in a skateboarding accident, causing their world to stop and flooding them with a tsunami of grief. Their beloved son with his joy-filled, larger-than-life personality was gone. I believe Jesus weeps with them.
I can imagine my friends running up to Jesus like Martha and Mary did and blurting out, “Where were you? If you had only been here, our son would still be alive!” It’s no wonder the mourners there wondered why Jesus, who had healed blind people, did not keep Lazarus from dying.
For many of us, weeping at a funeral comes naturally; we feel compassion for those who are grieving. We are moved by their tears. Death is a harsh reality on this side of eternity. It’s not the way things are supposed to be.
Not all tears move us, however. The sobbing of a teen who is pregnant, a mother whose son was racially profiled, a protester who was sprayed with tear gas, or a mass shooter who was bullied in school might generate judgment instead. Do we reserve our sympathy for the innocent and like-minded? Christians are called to weep with all who weep, as modeled by Christ, who saw broken people as sheep without a shepherd.
When you wept, Jesus, you showed the depths of your compassion for us. Lord, inject our hearts with the same compassion, and move us to come alongside all who are hurting. Amen. (BMB)