Read Mark 4:35-41. Key Verse: And they were filled with great awe and said to one another, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?" (v.41)
I live near the Gulf of Mexico. As I drive early morning on trips outside of my city, I purposely drive along the Gulf so I can be reminded of where and how beautiful is the place where I live. On some mornings it is incredible that the water is like glass and not a ripple in it. Not a wave, nothing. It is later in the day when boats or ships push along the waters that it begins to have the waves. It is on other days that the waves splash mightily along the seawall. I respect the sea.
The sea respected Jesus in this passage. As the disciples and Jesus tried to make their way across the sea, He fell asleep and a storm arose. The disciples feared for their lives and when awaken, Jesus calmed the sea, leaving the disciples to ask the question, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?" Who is Jesus indeed? That's a question that many want answered especially as they encounter the winds and storms of life. Do they see in us the hope and trust of the One who can calm the sea and command the wind to be still? Or, are we like them, living a life filled with fear and uncertainty?
Ours is a task to live as those who know the One who calms the sea and stills the wind.
PRAYER: Loving God, help me to be among those who live lives of faith and trust in You. May my life help answer the question for those who do not yet know of the One who can calm the sea and still the wind; in Jesus I pray, amen.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Seeing Beyond Our Own Needs?
Read Mark 1:29-39.
The mission of the Church is to follow the mission of Jesus Christ. As Jesus taught His disciples, so he taught us; to bring healing and hope to all who are in need of it. As we make disciples, are we teaching them as well? Have you learned this? Sadly, many churches teach their members to be on committees and to consider that as "their ministry." Making some decisions may be a form of ministry in some settings, but making disciples is on a "whole 'nother level." The passage of today shows how Jesus met the needs of a household and then expanded the ministry to those who gathered near in search of what Jesus had to offer. Early the next day, Jesus devoted His usual time for prayer and reflection. Once discovered by His disciples they pressed Him about what was next and Jesus said that what was next was to expand the work to the surrounding towns.
How wide is our vision as a Church? How often do we look beyond what we are doing to meet our household needs, to see what we could be doing in another place? Are there not people whose lives we could bless by reaching out to them? Where would the church have been had Peter said to Jesus, "Master, stay here with us. My mother-in-law is well now, but tomorrow my wife may get sick or one of my children might be in need of something; if nothing else, think of the huge blessing my town would have if you set up your ministry here among us!" Thankfully, that did not happen and the work of Jesus Christ spread around the world, and guess what, the need continues and it may just be that it could start across the street from your Church building.
PRAYER: "Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit Divine," to the needs that start at my front door and the front door of my church. Help us to catch the vision of sharing Jesus with all. In jesus' precious and powerful name we pray, amen.
The mission of the Church is to follow the mission of Jesus Christ. As Jesus taught His disciples, so he taught us; to bring healing and hope to all who are in need of it. As we make disciples, are we teaching them as well? Have you learned this? Sadly, many churches teach their members to be on committees and to consider that as "their ministry." Making some decisions may be a form of ministry in some settings, but making disciples is on a "whole 'nother level." The passage of today shows how Jesus met the needs of a household and then expanded the ministry to those who gathered near in search of what Jesus had to offer. Early the next day, Jesus devoted His usual time for prayer and reflection. Once discovered by His disciples they pressed Him about what was next and Jesus said that what was next was to expand the work to the surrounding towns.
How wide is our vision as a Church? How often do we look beyond what we are doing to meet our household needs, to see what we could be doing in another place? Are there not people whose lives we could bless by reaching out to them? Where would the church have been had Peter said to Jesus, "Master, stay here with us. My mother-in-law is well now, but tomorrow my wife may get sick or one of my children might be in need of something; if nothing else, think of the huge blessing my town would have if you set up your ministry here among us!" Thankfully, that did not happen and the work of Jesus Christ spread around the world, and guess what, the need continues and it may just be that it could start across the street from your Church building.
PRAYER: "Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit Divine," to the needs that start at my front door and the front door of my church. Help us to catch the vision of sharing Jesus with all. In jesus' precious and powerful name we pray, amen.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Do Not Fear, Only Believe
Read Mark 5:21-24, 35-43. Key Verse: But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the leader of the synagogue, "Do not fear, only believe." (v. 36)
The illness of a child, no matter how minor, worries a parent. The first fever of a newborn, a scrape or cut on a knee, dental surgery; all make for worries not matched easily by other things. The illness of a child near death is something no one deserves nor desires on their worst enemy. Such was the feeling of Jairus, a leader of his synagogue. His position is one that most would associate with those in power and at odds with this traveling rabbi, miracle worker, trouble-maker Jesus; but at the point of having no other options, Jairus goes to Jesus and falls at his feet and begs for his daughter's life. "Come, touch my daughter and make her well," his way of saying, "I don't want her to die; give her new life."
The illness of our Church is something that has taken us to several doors and to no avail. Yesterday a dear friend and I spoke of how it seems every year we try something or someone new, with hopes that this new person will have the answer to our ailing, precious Church. I truly believe we have not fallen at the feet of Jesus in complete surrender to Him with our pleas for our dying Church. We have to have the belief of Jairus that the touch of Jesus on our hearts may be that which will revive our Church, and not for our sake, but for the sake of those who are dying because our ministry has not yet touched them. We have not yet heard, and here is that word again, "listen" to Jesus in the above key verse, "Do not fear, only believe."
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I and the person praying this prayer, fall at Your feet in surrender and belief, asking and pleading for Your will to be done regarding our work here on the earth. May an awakening and revival occur first in my heart and let it be contagious as we seek to do that which will reach the world for You. I pray in Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
The illness of a child, no matter how minor, worries a parent. The first fever of a newborn, a scrape or cut on a knee, dental surgery; all make for worries not matched easily by other things. The illness of a child near death is something no one deserves nor desires on their worst enemy. Such was the feeling of Jairus, a leader of his synagogue. His position is one that most would associate with those in power and at odds with this traveling rabbi, miracle worker, trouble-maker Jesus; but at the point of having no other options, Jairus goes to Jesus and falls at his feet and begs for his daughter's life. "Come, touch my daughter and make her well," his way of saying, "I don't want her to die; give her new life."
The illness of our Church is something that has taken us to several doors and to no avail. Yesterday a dear friend and I spoke of how it seems every year we try something or someone new, with hopes that this new person will have the answer to our ailing, precious Church. I truly believe we have not fallen at the feet of Jesus in complete surrender to Him with our pleas for our dying Church. We have to have the belief of Jairus that the touch of Jesus on our hearts may be that which will revive our Church, and not for our sake, but for the sake of those who are dying because our ministry has not yet touched them. We have not yet heard, and here is that word again, "listen" to Jesus in the above key verse, "Do not fear, only believe."
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I and the person praying this prayer, fall at Your feet in surrender and belief, asking and pleading for Your will to be done regarding our work here on the earth. May an awakening and revival occur first in my heart and let it be contagious as we seek to do that which will reach the world for You. I pray in Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Listen!
Read Mark 4:1-9 1 Again he began to teach beside the sea. Such a very large crowd gathered around him that he got into a boat on the sea and sat there, while the whole crowd was beside the sea on the land. 2 He began to teach them many things in parables, and in his teaching he said to them: 3 "Listen! A sower went out to sow. 4 And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5 Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil, and it sprang up quickly, since it had no depth of soil. 6 And when the sun rose, it was scorched; and since it had no root, it withered away. 7 Other seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no grain. 8 Other seed fell into good soil and brought forth grain, growing up and increasing and yielding thirty and sixty and a hundredfold." 9 And he said, "Let anyone with ears to hear listen!"
It was many, many, years ago, that I took the seeds from a slice of watermelon that I had been eating and decided to plant them in some soil in our backyard in Kingsville, Texas. I watered the ground and came out every day for many days to see what would become of this experiment in growing. Soon there was a plant and later a larger plant and leaves started to grow from this plant until soon a bud that seemed to be a little watermelon appeared. Soon enough it was a tiny watermelon and then a small watermelon, later a medium watermelon and I could wait no longer. I torn it from its plant and decided to eat it. I had not been patient enough.
Jesus begins this parable with the word, "listen!" A great tv preacher, whose voice I enjoy hearing, at some points in his younger years, would insert that word in key places, sometimes saying, "Now, listen." A letter recently came across my desk of someone upset that his or her pastor said that once in a sermon and this person felt that the preacher was assuming that the congregation was not listening. Listen, Jesus said, meaning that not only should we hear these words, we should allow them to go down deep enough for them to take root and bear some fruit from their teaching. And this was indeed a sermon story about planting and the results of this method of sowing seeds, a common practice for Jesus' day. And the story ends with the same admonishment, "Let anyone with ears to hear listen."
Are we, the Church, listening to Jesus? Are we patient enough to hear what God is sharing with us even to this day about God's love for all people? Are we willing to take the seed of God's word beyond our campuses to places where we know God needs them taken? Last night's preacher shared a story of a young man, Michael, who ran afoul of the law and was sentenced to 45 days of community service in his town's garbage dump. On his first day there, a woman pastor named Phyllis came out and Michael asked if he could help her with her trash. She replied she was not there for help with trash, she was there for him. She began by saying, "No matter what you may have done, you are a good man. and Jesus cares very much for you." And thus began a 45 day daily visit with this man. By the end of the 45 days this young man's life was different and he even joined Pastor Phyllis' church. The bishop telling the story said that he learned the story at Pastor Phyllis' memorial service. Right around the time she started her ministry with Michael was the time she learned she had terminal cancer and she decided she needed to do something to bless someone during the time she might have left on the earth.
What are we the Church doing with the time we have on the earth?
PRAYER: Loving God, may I and the Church, listen to what You are saying to us. May we listen with open and loving hearts so that we can be, even today, sowers of Your love and word. In Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
It was many, many, years ago, that I took the seeds from a slice of watermelon that I had been eating and decided to plant them in some soil in our backyard in Kingsville, Texas. I watered the ground and came out every day for many days to see what would become of this experiment in growing. Soon there was a plant and later a larger plant and leaves started to grow from this plant until soon a bud that seemed to be a little watermelon appeared. Soon enough it was a tiny watermelon and then a small watermelon, later a medium watermelon and I could wait no longer. I torn it from its plant and decided to eat it. I had not been patient enough.
Jesus begins this parable with the word, "listen!" A great tv preacher, whose voice I enjoy hearing, at some points in his younger years, would insert that word in key places, sometimes saying, "Now, listen." A letter recently came across my desk of someone upset that his or her pastor said that once in a sermon and this person felt that the preacher was assuming that the congregation was not listening. Listen, Jesus said, meaning that not only should we hear these words, we should allow them to go down deep enough for them to take root and bear some fruit from their teaching. And this was indeed a sermon story about planting and the results of this method of sowing seeds, a common practice for Jesus' day. And the story ends with the same admonishment, "Let anyone with ears to hear listen."
Are we, the Church, listening to Jesus? Are we patient enough to hear what God is sharing with us even to this day about God's love for all people? Are we willing to take the seed of God's word beyond our campuses to places where we know God needs them taken? Last night's preacher shared a story of a young man, Michael, who ran afoul of the law and was sentenced to 45 days of community service in his town's garbage dump. On his first day there, a woman pastor named Phyllis came out and Michael asked if he could help her with her trash. She replied she was not there for help with trash, she was there for him. She began by saying, "No matter what you may have done, you are a good man. and Jesus cares very much for you." And thus began a 45 day daily visit with this man. By the end of the 45 days this young man's life was different and he even joined Pastor Phyllis' church. The bishop telling the story said that he learned the story at Pastor Phyllis' memorial service. Right around the time she started her ministry with Michael was the time she learned she had terminal cancer and she decided she needed to do something to bless someone during the time she might have left on the earth.
What are we the Church doing with the time we have on the earth?
PRAYER: Loving God, may I and the Church, listen to what You are saying to us. May we listen with open and loving hearts so that we can be, even today, sowers of Your love and word. In Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Don't Tell A Soul!?
Read Mark 3:7-12.
Jesus' power and fame preceded Him everywhere He went. People heard of the great, unexplainable things that He was doing and so they would show up. It was usually people with needs of body, soul, or spirit. People with curiosity would also show up in hopes or seeing something wonderful to ooh and ah. Those called by Jesus also followed for it was their duty. They saw and witnessed much and yet many times did not understand.
It is pretty much the same way every time the church meets to worship God. There are people there with needs of body, soul, and spirit; and there are people there with curiosity, and there are those who feel it is their duty to be there. Interestingly enough, some two thousand years later it is our group that is obeying Jesus in not saying a word about Him as Jesus asked in verse 12. We saw a video last night of a majestic old church started in the 1880's that closed in 2010, because they kept their mouth closed about Jesus, and more so with new neighbors who did not look like them.
The reality is that we have to start telling ALL people about Jesus and all that Jesus offers or our church is going to close down.
PRAYER, Awesome God, we can keep quiet no longer. We must tell ALL people about You, Your love, and Your desire to be in relationship with us. give us courage and boldness and a contagious excitement to reach everyone, especially our new neighbors. We pray this in Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Jesus' power and fame preceded Him everywhere He went. People heard of the great, unexplainable things that He was doing and so they would show up. It was usually people with needs of body, soul, or spirit. People with curiosity would also show up in hopes or seeing something wonderful to ooh and ah. Those called by Jesus also followed for it was their duty. They saw and witnessed much and yet many times did not understand.
It is pretty much the same way every time the church meets to worship God. There are people there with needs of body, soul, and spirit; and there are people there with curiosity, and there are those who feel it is their duty to be there. Interestingly enough, some two thousand years later it is our group that is obeying Jesus in not saying a word about Him as Jesus asked in verse 12. We saw a video last night of a majestic old church started in the 1880's that closed in 2010, because they kept their mouth closed about Jesus, and more so with new neighbors who did not look like them.
The reality is that we have to start telling ALL people about Jesus and all that Jesus offers or our church is going to close down.
PRAYER, Awesome God, we can keep quiet no longer. We must tell ALL people about You, Your love, and Your desire to be in relationship with us. give us courage and boldness and a contagious excitement to reach everyone, especially our new neighbors. We pray this in Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
NET FISHERS?
Read Mark 2:13-17. Key Verse: "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I have come to call not the righteous but sinners." (v. 17)
The bishop preaching last night, Bishop Larry Goodpaster, said that when the Bible talks about fishing, especially in the New Testament, is is net fishing. When Jesus calls the first disciples Jesus wanted them to keep fishing in that way but not for fish but for people. The bishop continued, "We, when we fish at all, is usually for one, and usually one that looks and acts like us." There is much truth in that. We usually try to find people just like them and try to win them for our church. We've already failed in that we're not about membership drives, we should be about relationship invitations. Ours is to call as many as we can into a living, loving relationship with God through Christ.
This passage dramatically demonstrates just that. Jesus called the least likely of those who should have been called. The call of Levi upset all those who knew him. Their quote tells it all, "Why does Jesus eat with tax collectors and sinners?' What an interesting mix of people! The majority of the population at that time lumped the two together; it was as if saying, "Why eat with the worthless members of our society?"
It may be that in the eyes of someone, you and I are different to the point that we might have been seen as not belonging or worse, being worthless. But the message of God to all people is that we matter to God and God calls us through Christ to be a part of that relationship of love. What are we doing about it? How are we going to convince our churches to do some more net fishing?
PRAYER: Loving God, make us truly fishers of people, the net kind, that seek to reach all. Help us learn that we, like all, matter to You. In Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
The bishop preaching last night, Bishop Larry Goodpaster, said that when the Bible talks about fishing, especially in the New Testament, is is net fishing. When Jesus calls the first disciples Jesus wanted them to keep fishing in that way but not for fish but for people. The bishop continued, "We, when we fish at all, is usually for one, and usually one that looks and acts like us." There is much truth in that. We usually try to find people just like them and try to win them for our church. We've already failed in that we're not about membership drives, we should be about relationship invitations. Ours is to call as many as we can into a living, loving relationship with God through Christ.
This passage dramatically demonstrates just that. Jesus called the least likely of those who should have been called. The call of Levi upset all those who knew him. Their quote tells it all, "Why does Jesus eat with tax collectors and sinners?' What an interesting mix of people! The majority of the population at that time lumped the two together; it was as if saying, "Why eat with the worthless members of our society?"
It may be that in the eyes of someone, you and I are different to the point that we might have been seen as not belonging or worse, being worthless. But the message of God to all people is that we matter to God and God calls us through Christ to be a part of that relationship of love. What are we doing about it? How are we going to convince our churches to do some more net fishing?
PRAYER: Loving God, make us truly fishers of people, the net kind, that seek to reach all. Help us learn that we, like all, matter to You. In Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
It Begins Today!
Read MARK 1:14-20. Key Verse: "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news." (v. 15).
"It begins today!" is a more modern adaptation of Jesus' "The time if fulfilled," words that He used to start His ministry. And it is chosen because today The 2012 General Conference begins. Delegates from all over the world whose lives were touched by Jesus Christ through United Methodist efforts in some way, in some place, at some time; elected by their peers to represent them, come to make holy decisions for our denomination. This happens only every four years. This is the only voice that The United Methodist Church has. Whatever is "said" here stands for the next four years. It is a sacred but daunting task. You and I and many, have been in prayer for what is to happen here. We are trusting God to help us understand what it is that we should do and what we should "say" about who we are. In the passage used today, Jesus came to the water's edge to call the first disciples and today we will be, in Tampa, Florida, by the water's edge, to see what the modern disciples have been up to since that first calling of disciples.
Our mission statement as a church is to "Make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world." May all we "say" reflect that we are serious about not only being, but making disciples of Jesus Christ for this important task. May the vision of what a transformed world look like be reflected in our decisions and actions today and all days.
PRAYER: Loving God, move among us as we convene for this important conference. Speak to us and whatever it is that we "say" in our actions throughout the ten days that we meet, reflect the loving, transforming presence of Your Holy Spirit. We pray in Christ Jesus, amen.
"It begins today!" is a more modern adaptation of Jesus' "The time if fulfilled," words that He used to start His ministry. And it is chosen because today The 2012 General Conference begins. Delegates from all over the world whose lives were touched by Jesus Christ through United Methodist efforts in some way, in some place, at some time; elected by their peers to represent them, come to make holy decisions for our denomination. This happens only every four years. This is the only voice that The United Methodist Church has. Whatever is "said" here stands for the next four years. It is a sacred but daunting task. You and I and many, have been in prayer for what is to happen here. We are trusting God to help us understand what it is that we should do and what we should "say" about who we are. In the passage used today, Jesus came to the water's edge to call the first disciples and today we will be, in Tampa, Florida, by the water's edge, to see what the modern disciples have been up to since that first calling of disciples.
Our mission statement as a church is to "Make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world." May all we "say" reflect that we are serious about not only being, but making disciples of Jesus Christ for this important task. May the vision of what a transformed world look like be reflected in our decisions and actions today and all days.
PRAYER: Loving God, move among us as we convene for this important conference. Speak to us and whatever it is that we "say" in our actions throughout the ten days that we meet, reflect the loving, transforming presence of Your Holy Spirit. We pray in Christ Jesus, amen.
Monday, April 23, 2012
SET APART BY GOD
Read Matthew 22:15-22.
During a sermon some years ago, I asked the congregation one of those questions you expect to be answered silently; Are we Americans first or Christians first? Without fail, what I feared was yelled loudly, "Americans!" It did allow me to make the point of my sermon and the point of this passage in which Jesus teaches, that we live in two worlds, the world's world, and the Kingdom of God's world. Those of us who are citizens of the United States can say we are, "Americans," realizing of course, the Americas cover North, South, and Central America; but more importantly, those who have professed faith in Jesus Christ are also a part of what Jesus came to establish, the Kingdom of God. Our faith, our baptism, has set us apart. We should be good citizens of the world in which we choose to live, but also live the world that should live in us, namely a world that lives by a higher, more loving standard. Do not be tricked easily by questions meant to trick Jesus and Jesus' followers.
The question posed to Jesus was about paying taxes. This during a time of wide spread hatred towards Roman occupation and divided loyalties among party and national lines. The Herodians had their view as did the Zealots; the Scribes, Pharisees, and Sadducees. Jesus, understood the realities but when asked the question answered with a question using a coin of the day. "Whose image is on this coin?" The response, "The emperor or Caesar." Jesus' reply, "Then render unto Caesar the things that are Casesar's and to God the things that are God's." Jesus was not then nor now, easily tricked.
How are we living what we have been taught in our churches and Sunday schools? Are we truly demonstrating to Christ that we belong to God and good citizens of God's Kingdom, or are we more convinced of the importance of our earthly citizenship and all that goes with that? Imagine a world where the things of God mattered more and people called and set apart by God truly lived the things of God.
PRAYER: Loving God, may we render unto You, ourselves and that which You have lovingly taught us. May our lives make a positive difference in those places in which we live. May our loyalty to You never be questioned because of the decisions we make, the lives we live and the blessings we bring to You and Yours. In Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
During a sermon some years ago, I asked the congregation one of those questions you expect to be answered silently; Are we Americans first or Christians first? Without fail, what I feared was yelled loudly, "Americans!" It did allow me to make the point of my sermon and the point of this passage in which Jesus teaches, that we live in two worlds, the world's world, and the Kingdom of God's world. Those of us who are citizens of the United States can say we are, "Americans," realizing of course, the Americas cover North, South, and Central America; but more importantly, those who have professed faith in Jesus Christ are also a part of what Jesus came to establish, the Kingdom of God. Our faith, our baptism, has set us apart. We should be good citizens of the world in which we choose to live, but also live the world that should live in us, namely a world that lives by a higher, more loving standard. Do not be tricked easily by questions meant to trick Jesus and Jesus' followers.
The question posed to Jesus was about paying taxes. This during a time of wide spread hatred towards Roman occupation and divided loyalties among party and national lines. The Herodians had their view as did the Zealots; the Scribes, Pharisees, and Sadducees. Jesus, understood the realities but when asked the question answered with a question using a coin of the day. "Whose image is on this coin?" The response, "The emperor or Caesar." Jesus' reply, "Then render unto Caesar the things that are Casesar's and to God the things that are God's." Jesus was not then nor now, easily tricked.
How are we living what we have been taught in our churches and Sunday schools? Are we truly demonstrating to Christ that we belong to God and good citizens of God's Kingdom, or are we more convinced of the importance of our earthly citizenship and all that goes with that? Imagine a world where the things of God mattered more and people called and set apart by God truly lived the things of God.
PRAYER: Loving God, may we render unto You, ourselves and that which You have lovingly taught us. May our lives make a positive difference in those places in which we live. May our loyalty to You never be questioned because of the decisions we make, the lives we live and the blessings we bring to You and Yours. In Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Reaching New Heights?
Read Psalm 118:1-4. 1 O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his steadfast love endures forever! 2 Let Israel say, "His steadfast love endures forever." 3 Let the house of Aaron say, "His steadfast love endures forever." 4 Let those who fear the Lord say, "His steadfast love endures forever."
Our three year-old grandson is in daycare at a UMC. We've noticed now that he sings a lot. Songs about Jesus and songs that we learned at his age. It warms our heart to hear from a tiny voice praises being lifted to God about what God has done. Our grandson is usually "flying" an airplane or "driving" a truck, or "engineering" a train, but his voice and thoughts are soaring to God. The "pull" of the earth does not keep him from reaching the heights of heaven in his thoughts.
The Psalms are that way as well. The thoughts of the psalmist were on God as he faced four-legged and two-legged enemies. The pull of the earth did not keep him from reaching the heights of heaven with his praises. Nor should our churches fail to do the same. The pull of carpet colors or projection screens should not drag us to the ground in agony and defeat. We should seek even in the midst of these things to see how our service and worship can lift us up to faithfulness and praise. Ours is a mission to share the news of the goodness of God and God's love for all humanity.
PRAYER: Loving God, let us lift our eyes and hearts towards You even in the midst of that which seeks to drag us down. May we seek ways to reach even newer and higher heights. We pray in Christ jesus, amen.
Our three year-old grandson is in daycare at a UMC. We've noticed now that he sings a lot. Songs about Jesus and songs that we learned at his age. It warms our heart to hear from a tiny voice praises being lifted to God about what God has done. Our grandson is usually "flying" an airplane or "driving" a truck, or "engineering" a train, but his voice and thoughts are soaring to God. The "pull" of the earth does not keep him from reaching the heights of heaven in his thoughts.
The Psalms are that way as well. The thoughts of the psalmist were on God as he faced four-legged and two-legged enemies. The pull of the earth did not keep him from reaching the heights of heaven with his praises. Nor should our churches fail to do the same. The pull of carpet colors or projection screens should not drag us to the ground in agony and defeat. We should seek even in the midst of these things to see how our service and worship can lift us up to faithfulness and praise. Ours is a mission to share the news of the goodness of God and God's love for all humanity.
PRAYER: Loving God, let us lift our eyes and hearts towards You even in the midst of that which seeks to drag us down. May we seek ways to reach even newer and higher heights. We pray in Christ jesus, amen.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
LET US BLESS THE LORD!
Read Psalm 26. 1 Clear my name, God; I've kept an honest shop. I've thrown in my lot with you, God, and I'm not budging. 2 Examine me, God, from head to foot, order your battery of tests. Make sure I'm fit inside and out 3 So I never lose sight of your love, But keep in step with you, never missing a beat. 4 I don't hang out with tricksters, I don't pal around with thugs; 5 I hate that pack of gangsters, I don't deal with double-dealers. 6 I scrub my hands with purest soap, then join hands with the others in the great circle, dancing around your altar, God, 7 Singing God-songs at the top of my lungs, telling God-stories. 8 God, I love living with you; your house glows with your glory. 9 When it's time for spring cleaning, don't sweep me out with the quacks and crooks, 10 Men with bags of dirty tricks, women with purses stuffed with bribe-money. 11 You know I've been aboveboard with you; now be aboveboard with me. 12 I'm on the level with you, God; I bless you every chance I get.
This is one psalm that I like better in The Message version rather than the NRSV. It speaks of the prayer life of the psalmist and on this day the psalmist is reflecting on his life and he is admitting, through prayer, that he believes that he has done a pretty good job of living right. Those days are rare for most of us, but there are those days when we have done what we believe God asked us and we have been in the places where God needed us; yet, even on those days we may feel like we're still not quite "there" yet. And such was the petition of the psalmist in these words written so long ago.
We as individuals and perhaps our churches have reached some good points of faithfulness and service, but we're still not "there" yet. We may not even know now what "There" looks like, but on we strive, with God's help and guidance to reach new levels and especially to reach new people.
PRAYER: Loving God, let us "bless you every chance I get." In Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
This is one psalm that I like better in The Message version rather than the NRSV. It speaks of the prayer life of the psalmist and on this day the psalmist is reflecting on his life and he is admitting, through prayer, that he believes that he has done a pretty good job of living right. Those days are rare for most of us, but there are those days when we have done what we believe God asked us and we have been in the places where God needed us; yet, even on those days we may feel like we're still not quite "there" yet. And such was the petition of the psalmist in these words written so long ago.
We as individuals and perhaps our churches have reached some good points of faithfulness and service, but we're still not "there" yet. We may not even know now what "There" looks like, but on we strive, with God's help and guidance to reach new levels and especially to reach new people.
PRAYER: Loving God, let us "bless you every chance I get." In Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Friday, April 20, 2012
The God Who Provides!
Read Joshua 5:9-12. Key Verses: 11 On the day after the passover, on that very day, they ate the produce of the land, unleavened cakes and parched grain. 12 The manna ceased on the day they ate the produce of the land, and the Israelites no longer had manna; they ate the crops of the land of Canaan that year.
God provided and God provided. This passage is about provision and obedience. It comes at a time when the people of God celebrated their first Passover in the Promised Land. It is interesting to note this significant event shows that while they wandered in the wilderness, God provided this heavenly bread known as manna. It was shared with them at a point where they doubted their decision and commitment to leave Egypt (which honestly was most of the 40 years journey). God provided this flaky bread as well as quail for their meals. On the very day after the celebration of Passover, "they ate the produce of the land," as had been promised, and "unleavened cakes and parched grain." They also noticed that the manna that God had provided for many years ended on that day. The rest of their lives from that point on, "they ate the crops of the land of Canaan that year."
A dear friend was sharing with me last night that upon marrying his wife and getting to know his new in-laws, he noticed a great difference in the way his family had eaten meals and hers. His family offered what we Southerners call "a spread," a huge meal with two meats, and choices of many vegetables. Her family ate from what he described "a small casserole." The routine became that after dinner with her family he would stop at a McDonald's or other fast food place for his "real supper." It's interesting how we mark passages and memories with food. This passage is no difference. We know and celebrate and thank God for God's provision to us all the time. It is an acknowledgement of God's presence and involvement in our lives.
The Church celebrates meals, too. Every month the United Methodist Church celebrates at least once, the Sacrament of Holy Communion. It is a celebration and reminder of what God did, is doing, and will do in our lives. The Church also is known for its fellowship meals, in which we celebrate our being alive and together in God's work. May it also be a reminder of the message we still have to share with so many. I learned from a pastor friend many years ago to ask at the end of Communion, "Has everyone been served?" with a loud answer, "NO! Look around there are still to many missing who have yet to hear from us what God has done for them. It is up to us to share with them this precious meal that awaits them."
PRAYER: Indeed, precious, providing God, You have shared so much with us and we are thankful. Forgive us for not sharing and inviting others as we should. May the day come when here on the earth many will have come because of our invitation and example of how much You care and love for them. We pray in the name of He who provided His body and blood for us, Jesus the Christ, our Lord and Savior, amen.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Precious Shepherd
Read Psalm 23. Key Verse: he restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. (v. 7)
The 23rd Psalm, like the Lord's Prayer, is brief but powerful. In it are contained the millions of sermons preached from it and perhaps millions upon millions of people whose lives have been comforted, challenged, and changed by it. Written, it is believed by the boy David, it reflects a special relationship between him and God while at the same time inviting us to that same relationship. The relationship is defined; God is our shepherd, we are his sheep. Take note of that dear ones, for sheep are the ones the Lord favors, not goats. Sheep are obedient, goats are not. Sheep know the shepherd's voice, the goats can't stop talking long enough to hear anyone else, not that they would obey if they did. Sheep know the wisdom of the shepherd. They know that the shepherd knows just where to lead them. Sheep know the shepherd protects them. They also know the shepherd cares for them. Goats, not so much, if at all.
The 23rd Psalm has spoken to presidents, generals, ambassadors, heads of state, laborers, housewives and househusbands; all with the same message; in this relationship of obedience and trust, God can and does provide for us. Through the good and through the bad, the shepherd is with us. Even when the going gets really bad, God is there, and God's purpose is restoration and healing. And God is the host of a banquet where we can sit and know that with God on our side we can vanquish our enemies, sin and death, doubt and despair. It's our choice where we will spend our time. The shepherd king, as David would later become, wrote that he would dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
May this General Conference be a time when delegates and visitors feel the invitational spirit of the Shepherd. May it be a time when new relationships with God are formed and faithfulness will lead all to fruitfulness.
PRAYER: Move among us, loving Shepherd, now and always. Make Your invitational Spirit real and present in the hearts, minds, souls and bodies of the General Conference delegates, presiders, guests, and staff. May new relationships with You be formed, and may we truly become a Church of faithfulness and fruit. We pray this in Christ Jesus, precious Savior, powerful Shepherd, amen.
The 23rd Psalm, like the Lord's Prayer, is brief but powerful. In it are contained the millions of sermons preached from it and perhaps millions upon millions of people whose lives have been comforted, challenged, and changed by it. Written, it is believed by the boy David, it reflects a special relationship between him and God while at the same time inviting us to that same relationship. The relationship is defined; God is our shepherd, we are his sheep. Take note of that dear ones, for sheep are the ones the Lord favors, not goats. Sheep are obedient, goats are not. Sheep know the shepherd's voice, the goats can't stop talking long enough to hear anyone else, not that they would obey if they did. Sheep know the wisdom of the shepherd. They know that the shepherd knows just where to lead them. Sheep know the shepherd protects them. They also know the shepherd cares for them. Goats, not so much, if at all.
The 23rd Psalm has spoken to presidents, generals, ambassadors, heads of state, laborers, housewives and househusbands; all with the same message; in this relationship of obedience and trust, God can and does provide for us. Through the good and through the bad, the shepherd is with us. Even when the going gets really bad, God is there, and God's purpose is restoration and healing. And God is the host of a banquet where we can sit and know that with God on our side we can vanquish our enemies, sin and death, doubt and despair. It's our choice where we will spend our time. The shepherd king, as David would later become, wrote that he would dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
May this General Conference be a time when delegates and visitors feel the invitational spirit of the Shepherd. May it be a time when new relationships with God are formed and faithfulness will lead all to fruitfulness.
PRAYER: Move among us, loving Shepherd, now and always. Make Your invitational Spirit real and present in the hearts, minds, souls and bodies of the General Conference delegates, presiders, guests, and staff. May new relationships with You be formed, and may we truly become a Church of faithfulness and fruit. We pray this in Christ Jesus, precious Savior, powerful Shepherd, amen.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
CARING FOR OUR NEIGHBOR
Read Matthew 14:13-21. Key Verse: ""They need not go away; you give them something to eat." (v. 16)
The Church is modeled on Jesus' life. Jesus prayed. Jesus taught. Jesus preached. Jesus healed the sick. Jesus performed miracles. Jesus fed the hungry. Though he study this miracle often, we tend to forget the basic point behind this wonder, Jesus fed the hungry. After a day of following Him, the people found themselves almost at the end of the day in a place far from food. The disciples, thinking like most people, said, "Lord, send these people away." They could have said, "Lord, this is a worship space and/or worship center - we don't feed the hungry!" And in a sense they did. But Jesus said to them, as Jesus says to us, "They need not go away; you give them something to eat."
Churches that respond with care to the needs of their neighbors are the ones who grow. Churches who provide opportunities outside the church walls are the ones who are blessed for being faithful. Churches who care only about themselves and their needs are not really churches, but clubs. Do we need another club? What we really need are churches that love and serve.
Pray that during our time together before, during, and after General Conference, will be a time of loving and serving. Pray that you might be among those that lead the charge to help our neighbors with love and compassion.
PRAYER: Loving God, You supply all things; let us as individuals and as members of worship communities, be a part of responding and loving our neighbors. May we never forget the example of the life of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who modeled faithfulness and obedience. We pray in His name, amen.
The Church is modeled on Jesus' life. Jesus prayed. Jesus taught. Jesus preached. Jesus healed the sick. Jesus performed miracles. Jesus fed the hungry. Though he study this miracle often, we tend to forget the basic point behind this wonder, Jesus fed the hungry. After a day of following Him, the people found themselves almost at the end of the day in a place far from food. The disciples, thinking like most people, said, "Lord, send these people away." They could have said, "Lord, this is a worship space and/or worship center - we don't feed the hungry!" And in a sense they did. But Jesus said to them, as Jesus says to us, "They need not go away; you give them something to eat."
Churches that respond with care to the needs of their neighbors are the ones who grow. Churches who provide opportunities outside the church walls are the ones who are blessed for being faithful. Churches who care only about themselves and their needs are not really churches, but clubs. Do we need another club? What we really need are churches that love and serve.
Pray that during our time together before, during, and after General Conference, will be a time of loving and serving. Pray that you might be among those that lead the charge to help our neighbors with love and compassion.
PRAYER: Loving God, You supply all things; let us as individuals and as members of worship communities, be a part of responding and loving our neighbors. May we never forget the example of the life of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who modeled faithfulness and obedience. We pray in His name, amen.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Where is Your Trust?
Read Jeremiah 17:7-10. Key Verses: "Blessed are those who trust in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. 8 They shall be like a tree planted by water, sending out its roots by the stream. It shall not fear when heat comes, and its leaves shall stay green; in the year of drought it is not anxious, and it does not cease to bear fruit." (v.7&8).
My paternal grandfather was named Carlos. He was an interesting and loving man. From him I received the gift of humor. He came to the Lord late in life, having never had time for church nor the things of God. When he did come to Jesus, look out. He did not learn to read until he was in his 50s and once he could, he loved reading the Bible. His favorite verse was about trust, much like this one, but his was Psalm 20:7. It reads differently in Spanish for "chariot" reads "coach" and has more of a modern meaning, for he loved his "coches." (Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God." KJV). Though he had an assortment of what I would consider fine cars and those part-car, part-truck, the El Caminos and Rancheros, his trust was always in the Lord and not things. His bedtime prayers seemed meant for the neighborhood, for he prayed loud! He also had not air conditioning, so the neighbors could hear that if Carlos said he would pray for you, he prayed for you. My grandpa, materially speaking, never had much, but because of his trust in God, he had it all. Because of Carlos' trust in God, the little church in Alice never had to pay for someone to do their yard work or repairs, he did it all free. The rest of today's passage speaks of giving, that which God gives according to our hearts and minds, and in the case of my grandpa, God gave so much that Carlos had to give away of what he had.
Our churches should be filled with Carloses; people whose trust in in the Lord and live their lives that make true the power of verse 8: They're like trees planted by water, sending out roots, whose lives show faith instead of fear; fruits instead of frustration; gifts instead of gripes. But honestly, they're filled with people who trust things more than the One who gives all things. And their lives should it. Is it any wonder we find ourselves where we are?
Let our prayers for the Church begin today and trust God to change hearts and lives, to make real the promises of God's word.
PRAYER: Loving God, for the beauty of life, we are thankful. For the beauty and power of Your Word we are thankful as well. May the two come together in our hearts, minds, and service to and with You, for You and Yours; in Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
My paternal grandfather was named Carlos. He was an interesting and loving man. From him I received the gift of humor. He came to the Lord late in life, having never had time for church nor the things of God. When he did come to Jesus, look out. He did not learn to read until he was in his 50s and once he could, he loved reading the Bible. His favorite verse was about trust, much like this one, but his was Psalm 20:7. It reads differently in Spanish for "chariot" reads "coach" and has more of a modern meaning, for he loved his "coches." (Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God." KJV). Though he had an assortment of what I would consider fine cars and those part-car, part-truck, the El Caminos and Rancheros, his trust was always in the Lord and not things. His bedtime prayers seemed meant for the neighborhood, for he prayed loud! He also had not air conditioning, so the neighbors could hear that if Carlos said he would pray for you, he prayed for you. My grandpa, materially speaking, never had much, but because of his trust in God, he had it all. Because of Carlos' trust in God, the little church in Alice never had to pay for someone to do their yard work or repairs, he did it all free. The rest of today's passage speaks of giving, that which God gives according to our hearts and minds, and in the case of my grandpa, God gave so much that Carlos had to give away of what he had.
Our churches should be filled with Carloses; people whose trust in in the Lord and live their lives that make true the power of verse 8: They're like trees planted by water, sending out roots, whose lives show faith instead of fear; fruits instead of frustration; gifts instead of gripes. But honestly, they're filled with people who trust things more than the One who gives all things. And their lives should it. Is it any wonder we find ourselves where we are?
Let our prayers for the Church begin today and trust God to change hearts and lives, to make real the promises of God's word.
PRAYER: Loving God, for the beauty of life, we are thankful. For the beauty and power of Your Word we are thankful as well. May the two come together in our hearts, minds, and service to and with You, for You and Yours; in Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Who is Strongest?
Read 2 Samuel 11:1-15.
The Bible is an honest book. It portrays no one, except Jesus, as perfect. In fact, those whose positions should be a vehicle for nearing perfection in love, are sometimes the ones farthest from God. Such is the case of David the King. In the palace he is far from the poetic God-seeker that he was in the pasture. From the rooftop of his house he has a good view of all the blessings that God has shared with him, but it is also from that view that he sees the temptation that begins his moral spiral away from God. The woman he sees and desires is portrayed only as a beautiful woman whose name we know. She is not credited with having said anything other than she was with child after the adulterous encounter with her king. The other person in this story is her husband, whose life is shown to be one of trust and strong character. Given the opportunity to return home from war, he maintains solidarity with the troops and his general, refusing to enjoy any of the privileges of home, including time with his wife. His obedience to the king proves to be the fate he suffered, of dying in the line of duty.
The question we can ask, who was the strongest and most influential in this story? Who was the most righteous? And we should also ask, in our roles and positions, how are we using them for the good of God's people? Are we truly trying to be loving and compassionate or are we simply looking out for ourselves?
PRAYER: Loving God, may it be that we stay connected to You especially during times of temptation and testing. May our moral compass stayed true to You and not our passions or pleasures. May it be that we and our churches seek to be about sacrifice and service. We pray in the name of Jesus our Lord, amen.
The Bible is an honest book. It portrays no one, except Jesus, as perfect. In fact, those whose positions should be a vehicle for nearing perfection in love, are sometimes the ones farthest from God. Such is the case of David the King. In the palace he is far from the poetic God-seeker that he was in the pasture. From the rooftop of his house he has a good view of all the blessings that God has shared with him, but it is also from that view that he sees the temptation that begins his moral spiral away from God. The woman he sees and desires is portrayed only as a beautiful woman whose name we know. She is not credited with having said anything other than she was with child after the adulterous encounter with her king. The other person in this story is her husband, whose life is shown to be one of trust and strong character. Given the opportunity to return home from war, he maintains solidarity with the troops and his general, refusing to enjoy any of the privileges of home, including time with his wife. His obedience to the king proves to be the fate he suffered, of dying in the line of duty.
The question we can ask, who was the strongest and most influential in this story? Who was the most righteous? And we should also ask, in our roles and positions, how are we using them for the good of God's people? Are we truly trying to be loving and compassionate or are we simply looking out for ourselves?
PRAYER: Loving God, may it be that we stay connected to You especially during times of temptation and testing. May our moral compass stayed true to You and not our passions or pleasures. May it be that we and our churches seek to be about sacrifice and service. We pray in the name of Jesus our Lord, amen.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Checked Your Character Lately?
Read Esther 7:1-10.
The entire book of Esther is an interesting one. In fact, I could not choose a key verse from this passage. This passage is the one where the villain of the story, Haman, is at long last discovered and he receives his due punishment. His faults were ones I wish had long disappeared in us; racial hatred and envy, personal power lust, and selfishness. Esther, on the other hand has been a model of humility and trust in her uncle and in basic humanity. She is also raised as one who has trusted in the God of her people, which is also our God.
We can long argue as to what finally determines our character, but we cannot argue agains the power of God to change even the hardest of hearts, and that should be our prayer as we self-reflect on our own character and in our dealings with others. No one should ever believe that he or she is exactly at the point of perfection. Ours is a journey of perfection in love, as Wesley believed, and is one for all people called Methodist, not just ordained clergy. We are to love others and look for ways in which we can work towards bettering the conditions of those who are less fortunate than ourselves.
Social holiness begins with spiritual holiness and the two go hand-in-hand. May it be so for us today.
PRAYER: Loving God of us all, make my journey better as I seek to know You and Yours in deeper ways. Let me look beyond obvious differences of racial or cultural differences to the heart and soul found deep within others. May I also seek to know how I can work to make this world a better place, a place truly known as Your reign here on the earth. I pray this in Christ Jesus' name, amen.
The entire book of Esther is an interesting one. In fact, I could not choose a key verse from this passage. This passage is the one where the villain of the story, Haman, is at long last discovered and he receives his due punishment. His faults were ones I wish had long disappeared in us; racial hatred and envy, personal power lust, and selfishness. Esther, on the other hand has been a model of humility and trust in her uncle and in basic humanity. She is also raised as one who has trusted in the God of her people, which is also our God.
We can long argue as to what finally determines our character, but we cannot argue agains the power of God to change even the hardest of hearts, and that should be our prayer as we self-reflect on our own character and in our dealings with others. No one should ever believe that he or she is exactly at the point of perfection. Ours is a journey of perfection in love, as Wesley believed, and is one for all people called Methodist, not just ordained clergy. We are to love others and look for ways in which we can work towards bettering the conditions of those who are less fortunate than ourselves.
Social holiness begins with spiritual holiness and the two go hand-in-hand. May it be so for us today.
PRAYER: Loving God of us all, make my journey better as I seek to know You and Yours in deeper ways. Let me look beyond obvious differences of racial or cultural differences to the heart and soul found deep within others. May I also seek to know how I can work to make this world a better place, a place truly known as Your reign here on the earth. I pray this in Christ Jesus' name, amen.
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Confirmation!
Read 2 Corinthians 3:12–4:6. Key Verses: "Indeed, to this very day whenever Moses is read, a veil lies over their minds; but when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed." (vvs. 15-16)
This morning in our district we are doing one of the things we do best, confirmation. We are having a rally for all the confirmands of the district in our largest church and with the Bishop being absent it falls to me to share the Word. It is an exciting challenge and one that causes me to pray all the more for these young men and women who are presenting themselves to Jesus Christ for full, professing membership in the Body of Christ. Something or someone has encouraged them to make this decision and so much lies ahead for them and for us. They are already the Church and add to that that they are the future of the church as well. I have been praying and wondering, Lord, who among them will take my place in the pulpit and in leadership roles of the church? Who among them is already a Sunday school teacher or helper? Who among them will be the chair of the church council? Who among them already knows You and has a deep personal relationship with You?
Two days ago, our daughter who is in nursing school and doing clinicals, witnessed the birth of a baby addicted to heroin. The mother, in her early 20s screamed all during the process and even my not-yet-fully-trained daughter knew that this was out of the ordinary. The mother confessed she had had a hit of heroin and declared also she did not want her newborn son. The child was born crying and shaking, his little body craving more of that dangerous drug that his mom had introduced to him while he was yet unborn. I pray, Lord, let there be no one in this confirmation class that will need the addiction and destruction of drugs, of any kind, for their bodies. My prayer is that Your grace will be sufficient for the challenges of life.
May the veil of non-relationship with God be removed from these confirmands' eyes and spirits. May I and the Church be that which shows them the Lord Jesus Christ Who removes all veils and reveals glory, love, and power. May it be that the future of the Church be strong and solid because of what we helped share with them today.
PRAYER: Loving God, thank You for this day and the gracious opportunity of sharing You to confirmands. We pray not only for these confirmands but for all confirmands everywhere who are soon professing their desire to join Your Church. May it be, dear God, that they will also profess their faith and love in You. We pray in the precious and powerful name of Jesus Christ, amen.
This morning in our district we are doing one of the things we do best, confirmation. We are having a rally for all the confirmands of the district in our largest church and with the Bishop being absent it falls to me to share the Word. It is an exciting challenge and one that causes me to pray all the more for these young men and women who are presenting themselves to Jesus Christ for full, professing membership in the Body of Christ. Something or someone has encouraged them to make this decision and so much lies ahead for them and for us. They are already the Church and add to that that they are the future of the church as well. I have been praying and wondering, Lord, who among them will take my place in the pulpit and in leadership roles of the church? Who among them is already a Sunday school teacher or helper? Who among them will be the chair of the church council? Who among them already knows You and has a deep personal relationship with You?
Two days ago, our daughter who is in nursing school and doing clinicals, witnessed the birth of a baby addicted to heroin. The mother, in her early 20s screamed all during the process and even my not-yet-fully-trained daughter knew that this was out of the ordinary. The mother confessed she had had a hit of heroin and declared also she did not want her newborn son. The child was born crying and shaking, his little body craving more of that dangerous drug that his mom had introduced to him while he was yet unborn. I pray, Lord, let there be no one in this confirmation class that will need the addiction and destruction of drugs, of any kind, for their bodies. My prayer is that Your grace will be sufficient for the challenges of life.
May the veil of non-relationship with God be removed from these confirmands' eyes and spirits. May I and the Church be that which shows them the Lord Jesus Christ Who removes all veils and reveals glory, love, and power. May it be that the future of the Church be strong and solid because of what we helped share with them today.
PRAYER: Loving God, thank You for this day and the gracious opportunity of sharing You to confirmands. We pray not only for these confirmands but for all confirmands everywhere who are soon professing their desire to join Your Church. May it be, dear God, that they will also profess their faith and love in You. We pray in the precious and powerful name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Friday, April 13, 2012
It's Harvest Time!
Read Matthew 21:33-40. Key Verse: "Finally he sent his son to them, saying, "They will respect my son.'"
How much God trusts us! In this passage of the landowner with the wine press and the watch tower, Jesus is using a common connecting point story to tell of His father's desire to be in the right relationship with all people, yet, as the listeners of Jesus' day well knew, the story of God having sent the prophets served for a time and later the people disobeyed God and so it went, a cycle of obedience and trust and disobedience and doubt. Finally, as John 3:16 reminds us, God sent His Son. The purpose of Jesus' coming was all positive. Jesus came not in wrath and anger, rather with love and compassion, to save the world, even a world that did not and sometimes does not want to be saved. We just celebrated the end result of that mission. As Jesus foretold in this story, He was grabbed and killed. Those who reject Jesus, the story says, will face their judgment when the landowner returns.
As General Conference approaches we face the question of how much we truly respect the "son," and how much we are truly respecting the son's purpose and plan for our lives as a church. How are we reaching others and sharing the story of the Son's first visit? How much are we putting into practice those teachings and lessons we learned from Jesus? Are we a church that truly loves one another as Jesus said in His new commandment?
May we pray for obedience to be ours. May our prayers also ask for a deeper, stronger faith to truly be those who are known because of our love for all the world.
PRAYER: Loving God, may we be aware that it is harvest time and there is much work yet to be done. Grant us strength and boldness to do the work yet to be done. We pray in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
How much God trusts us! In this passage of the landowner with the wine press and the watch tower, Jesus is using a common connecting point story to tell of His father's desire to be in the right relationship with all people, yet, as the listeners of Jesus' day well knew, the story of God having sent the prophets served for a time and later the people disobeyed God and so it went, a cycle of obedience and trust and disobedience and doubt. Finally, as John 3:16 reminds us, God sent His Son. The purpose of Jesus' coming was all positive. Jesus came not in wrath and anger, rather with love and compassion, to save the world, even a world that did not and sometimes does not want to be saved. We just celebrated the end result of that mission. As Jesus foretold in this story, He was grabbed and killed. Those who reject Jesus, the story says, will face their judgment when the landowner returns.
As General Conference approaches we face the question of how much we truly respect the "son," and how much we are truly respecting the son's purpose and plan for our lives as a church. How are we reaching others and sharing the story of the Son's first visit? How much are we putting into practice those teachings and lessons we learned from Jesus? Are we a church that truly loves one another as Jesus said in His new commandment?
May we pray for obedience to be ours. May our prayers also ask for a deeper, stronger faith to truly be those who are known because of our love for all the world.
PRAYER: Loving God, may we be aware that it is harvest time and there is much work yet to be done. Grant us strength and boldness to do the work yet to be done. We pray in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
PRAYER IS KEY TO LIFE!
Read Isaiah 65:17-25 Key Verse: Before they call I will answer, while they are yet speaking I will hear.
There are several key verses in this passage; I recommend you read the passage again. In it are many promises of God to God's people, the first in the first verse of the passage: "For I am about to create new heavens and a new earth; the former things shall not be remembered or come to mind." God is a God of new creation. When we surrender our hearts and lives to God, God makes them new! When we seek to do God's will, God shows us a new way!
And the key verse selected for today is a promise regarding prayer. Prayer is our life's starting foundation, for it is through praying that we connect early in the day with God, and as we journey through the day, our prayers keep us focused and connected with the God of life and love. God's ears are big! As the verse says, while we are "yet speaking," God hears. And even greater? God answers all prayers! Not always the way we want, but we do know that our petition did go before God and we trust God to make God's will come true for our lives. And we trust God for our churches and whatever they may be facing today. Lift up your church, your pastors, your leaders, your volunteers, your members, and those yet to be members to God. Remember and claim the key verse: While we are yet praying, God will answer.
PRAYER: Loving God, how awesome it is to know that You hear and answer our prayers. May prayer take a greater role in my life and in the life of my church. May our churches turn to You in prayer asking for Your will to be done, not ours. We pray in Christ jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
There are several key verses in this passage; I recommend you read the passage again. In it are many promises of God to God's people, the first in the first verse of the passage: "For I am about to create new heavens and a new earth; the former things shall not be remembered or come to mind." God is a God of new creation. When we surrender our hearts and lives to God, God makes them new! When we seek to do God's will, God shows us a new way!
And the key verse selected for today is a promise regarding prayer. Prayer is our life's starting foundation, for it is through praying that we connect early in the day with God, and as we journey through the day, our prayers keep us focused and connected with the God of life and love. God's ears are big! As the verse says, while we are "yet speaking," God hears. And even greater? God answers all prayers! Not always the way we want, but we do know that our petition did go before God and we trust God to make God's will come true for our lives. And we trust God for our churches and whatever they may be facing today. Lift up your church, your pastors, your leaders, your volunteers, your members, and those yet to be members to God. Remember and claim the key verse: While we are yet praying, God will answer.
PRAYER: Loving God, how awesome it is to know that You hear and answer our prayers. May prayer take a greater role in my life and in the life of my church. May our churches turn to You in prayer asking for Your will to be done, not ours. We pray in Christ jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Do Not Fear
Read Haggai 2:1-9. Key Verse: My spirit abides among you; do not fear.
Churches close down. While this is a sad reality, it always hurts us to see that where once a worshiping community met now stands closed. The saddest are those boarded up and neglected, with weeds and tall grass serving as a stay away warning. We wonder, did this church lose its focus and close down as a result of misguided intentions? The truth is that a true connection with God was lost and the people cared to listen to each other instead of God and where their focus may have once, or never, been on the mission field, they chose to leave the building and go elsewhere.
The story in today's passage deals with the exiles returning back to find their temple is now in ruins, the question is asked if it can be restored to that splendor which still lives in their memories and the answer is yes. Anywhere the Spirit of God abides, anything is possible. That's the message for us, no matter how bleak we may see things, we must trust in God, listen to God and do the things we know God would have us do.
In all things, God has the last word.
PRAYER: Loving God of hope and love, speak to us again and again of Your strength to overcome all things. Speak to us of the possible and empower us to do Your will to reach this who do not yet know you. We pray in Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Churches close down. While this is a sad reality, it always hurts us to see that where once a worshiping community met now stands closed. The saddest are those boarded up and neglected, with weeds and tall grass serving as a stay away warning. We wonder, did this church lose its focus and close down as a result of misguided intentions? The truth is that a true connection with God was lost and the people cared to listen to each other instead of God and where their focus may have once, or never, been on the mission field, they chose to leave the building and go elsewhere.
The story in today's passage deals with the exiles returning back to find their temple is now in ruins, the question is asked if it can be restored to that splendor which still lives in their memories and the answer is yes. Anywhere the Spirit of God abides, anything is possible. That's the message for us, no matter how bleak we may see things, we must trust in God, listen to God and do the things we know God would have us do.
In all things, God has the last word.
PRAYER: Loving God of hope and love, speak to us again and again of Your strength to overcome all things. Speak to us of the possible and empower us to do Your will to reach this who do not yet know you. We pray in Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Got Spirit?
Read Exodus 32:1-14. Key Verse: Remember Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, your servants, how you swore to them by your own self, saying to them, "I will multiply your descendants like the stars of heaven, and all this land that I have promised I will give to your descendants, and they shall inherit it forever.' "
The stories in the Bible are our stories. What Israel does is usually something we have done, and it's usually the bad stuff. Today's passage is one of those things. Israel was richly blessed with the gift of freedom. You and I have been richly blessed with the gift of freedom from our sins. Israel, with God's help, faced death at many turns and lived to tell about it, so have we. The people of Israel were blessed with evidence of God's presence and power, yet they turned away. So have we. We have a wonderful worship experience in church or at a retreat setting and then we face something for which we want a rapid answer and we start looking for our own solutions and answers without waiting on GOD. Exactly, what Israel did.
God is faithful and just and through want we have just celebrated, God has blessed us with new life and the fullness/abundance of life- how can we turn away from that? Sadly, it is easy. We are by nature an impatient people, made more so by all the advances and inventions of our day. How easily we forget that God has even addressed this in God's gift of the Holy Spirit; "22 By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness," (Galatians 5:22)
Could it be we need to seek living in the Spirt and letting the Spirit live in us? Imagine the difference.
PRAYER: Come, Holy Spirit, into my heart and into the heart of my church. Bless us with these fruits of love, my, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, and faithfulness. In Jesus' precious and powerful name I pray, amen.
The stories in the Bible are our stories. What Israel does is usually something we have done, and it's usually the bad stuff. Today's passage is one of those things. Israel was richly blessed with the gift of freedom. You and I have been richly blessed with the gift of freedom from our sins. Israel, with God's help, faced death at many turns and lived to tell about it, so have we. The people of Israel were blessed with evidence of God's presence and power, yet they turned away. So have we. We have a wonderful worship experience in church or at a retreat setting and then we face something for which we want a rapid answer and we start looking for our own solutions and answers without waiting on GOD. Exactly, what Israel did.
God is faithful and just and through want we have just celebrated, God has blessed us with new life and the fullness/abundance of life- how can we turn away from that? Sadly, it is easy. We are by nature an impatient people, made more so by all the advances and inventions of our day. How easily we forget that God has even addressed this in God's gift of the Holy Spirit; "22 By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness," (Galatians 5:22)
Could it be we need to seek living in the Spirt and letting the Spirit live in us? Imagine the difference.
PRAYER: Come, Holy Spirit, into my heart and into the heart of my church. Bless us with these fruits of love, my, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, and faithfulness. In Jesus' precious and powerful name I pray, amen.
Monday, April 9, 2012
Your Choice!
Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
You've heard it said, "Your attitude determines your altitude" as well as the King James version of the proverb (23:7), "as a man thinketh, so he is.". The truth is that these quotes as well as today's text, are right. If we choose to rejoice that sets in motion an attitude of cheer. I've always thought that rejoice meant to have joy over and over again, thus the "re" in that word. Keep in mind the challenges and sufferings of early Christians, it was easy to give up and to be discouraged. The writer knew that his readers in that time as well as today could begin their day with a decision to have joy in their heart. The next step was to be in a state of prayer all the time, a worshipful setting of conversation with God, a constant connection with God. Then the last verse, to be thankful in all settings. You've known people like that. Why can't we be the same?
This is true for the Church. Ours is a gracious task to share the good news of God's love and yet we find in so many of them attitudes of despair and defeat. We have a choice each day as individuals and as churches, why choose that which can "steal, kill, and destroy?" (John10:10)
PRAYER: God of power and might, let me choose to follow Your Word and to be a person of joy, prayer, and thankfulness today and all days. Mi ask this in Christ Jesus my Lord, amen.
You've heard it said, "Your attitude determines your altitude" as well as the King James version of the proverb (23:7), "as a man thinketh, so he is.". The truth is that these quotes as well as today's text, are right. If we choose to rejoice that sets in motion an attitude of cheer. I've always thought that rejoice meant to have joy over and over again, thus the "re" in that word. Keep in mind the challenges and sufferings of early Christians, it was easy to give up and to be discouraged. The writer knew that his readers in that time as well as today could begin their day with a decision to have joy in their heart. The next step was to be in a state of prayer all the time, a worshipful setting of conversation with God, a constant connection with God. Then the last verse, to be thankful in all settings. You've known people like that. Why can't we be the same?
This is true for the Church. Ours is a gracious task to share the good news of God's love and yet we find in so many of them attitudes of despair and defeat. We have a choice each day as individuals and as churches, why choose that which can "steal, kill, and destroy?" (John10:10)
PRAYER: God of power and might, let me choose to follow Your Word and to be a person of joy, prayer, and thankfulness today and all days. Mi ask this in Christ Jesus my Lord, amen.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Resurrection Power!
Read Mark 16:1-8. Key Verse: But he said to them, "Do not be alarmed; you are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has been raised; he is not here."
Resurrection power! The power of the Creator to make all things can make the dead rise from the dead and that is what we celebrate today. To the women first, then the disciples, the message at first was not believed because fear is a powerful foe to defeat. Yet, in resurrection, God defeated more than fear, God defeated sin and God defeated death.
The resurrection message is for all days not just Easter Sunday and the power of resurrection is ours in all things even our churches. We who proclaim resurrection need to claim resurrection!
PRAYER: Loving God of Resurrection Power bring to my life and the life of my church, new, wonderful, compassionate, wonder-working life! In the Name of the Resurrected One I pray, amen.
Resurrection power! The power of the Creator to make all things can make the dead rise from the dead and that is what we celebrate today. To the women first, then the disciples, the message at first was not believed because fear is a powerful foe to defeat. Yet, in resurrection, God defeated more than fear, God defeated sin and God defeated death.
The resurrection message is for all days not just Easter Sunday and the power of resurrection is ours in all things even our churches. We who proclaim resurrection need to claim resurrection!
PRAYER: Loving God of Resurrection Power bring to my life and the life of my church, new, wonderful, compassionate, wonder-working life! In the Name of the Resurrected One I pray, amen.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Led or Fled?
Read John 19:38-42. Key Verse: They took the body of Jesus and wrapped it with the spices in linen cloths, according to the burial custom of the Jews.
In the church, twenty percent of the people do the majority of the work. Sadly, it was no different immediately after the Crucifixion of the Lord. The "key "leaders fled in fear. One after having denied Him. This passage names only two, and possibly some unnamed of their servants, who asked for the body and initially prepared it for burial. Joseph of Arimethea with his connections secures release of the body and Nicodemus bribgs 100 lbs of spices with which to prepare Jesus for burial. A new, unused tomb is used for Jesus.
What role do you play in the life of your church? Are you among the 20% who do most of the work or among the invisible 80% When it really counts? Do you flee when volunteers are needed to take down chairs and tables or help at the soup kitchen? When you see a person in need so you wish your pastor was there to deal with it instead of you? And we wonder why our Church is in the shape that it is?
PRAYER: Loving God, may I be among those who stand ready to serve. Forgive me those times I have fled or hidden in fear. In the name of He who needs you and me, Jesus the Christ, amen.
In the church, twenty percent of the people do the majority of the work. Sadly, it was no different immediately after the Crucifixion of the Lord. The "key "leaders fled in fear. One after having denied Him. This passage names only two, and possibly some unnamed of their servants, who asked for the body and initially prepared it for burial. Joseph of Arimethea with his connections secures release of the body and Nicodemus bribgs 100 lbs of spices with which to prepare Jesus for burial. A new, unused tomb is used for Jesus.
What role do you play in the life of your church? Are you among the 20% who do most of the work or among the invisible 80% When it really counts? Do you flee when volunteers are needed to take down chairs and tables or help at the soup kitchen? When you see a person in need so you wish your pastor was there to deal with it instead of you? And we wonder why our Church is in the shape that it is?
PRAYER: Loving God, may I be among those who stand ready to serve. Forgive me those times I have fled or hidden in fear. In the name of He who needs you and me, Jesus the Christ, amen.
Friday, April 6, 2012
The Power of This Day
Read John 18:1—19:42. Key Verse: There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, with Jesus between them.
Today has always been on a certain level a sad day. I long wondered how it could be called "Good Friday" when everything done to Jesus was bad. But when I learned of what Jesus did for me and you, I realized the good of Good Friday. A dear price had to be paid, and Jesus paid it. I realized the great love of God for me was proved on that day and the truth of John 3:16 became real.
The story of today is too important to keep quiet or to ourselves. It is a message that our churches have to share, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, so that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."
PRAYER: Awesome God, open the mouth of every church to boldly and loudly proclaim the power of this day. In Jesus I pray, amen.
Today has always been on a certain level a sad day. I long wondered how it could be called "Good Friday" when everything done to Jesus was bad. But when I learned of what Jesus did for me and you, I realized the good of Good Friday. A dear price had to be paid, and Jesus paid it. I realized the great love of God for me was proved on that day and the truth of John 3:16 became real.
The story of today is too important to keep quiet or to ourselves. It is a message that our churches have to share, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, so that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."
PRAYER: Awesome God, open the mouth of every church to boldly and loudly proclaim the power of this day. In Jesus I pray, amen.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
How Are You Known?
Read John 13: 1-7; 31b-35. Key Verse: By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." (v. 35)
It takes only 90 seconds for a first time guest to your church to know if she or he is ever going to return. Ninety-seconds! What does a guest learn at your church? From my experiences I have learned that in some churches longtime friends congregate together in some tightly knit ways that don't open up for guests. Oh, they may turn from their circle to smile and either hand you a bulletin or smile, but rarely has love been seen in those churches. But thank God, that in some churches, there is love seen almost immediately and people go out of their way to welcome you and make you feel a part of the family.
The passage of Maundy Thursday has in the new commandment that Jesus gave to His disciples that they love one another. And as the key verse says that by the way they showed that love would people know they were disciples of Jesus. Is that true in your life? Is that true in the life of your church?
We have a long way to go in most United Methodist Churches when it comes to showing love and loving others. We have to conquer the ages old -isms that keep people from feeling at home and wanting to join our "families." What are you doing to counter and change that?
PRAYER: Loving God, may it be true of me and this dear reader, that we will be known for our love for You and for one another. Help our Church recognize the need we have to truly love another. In Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
It takes only 90 seconds for a first time guest to your church to know if she or he is ever going to return. Ninety-seconds! What does a guest learn at your church? From my experiences I have learned that in some churches longtime friends congregate together in some tightly knit ways that don't open up for guests. Oh, they may turn from their circle to smile and either hand you a bulletin or smile, but rarely has love been seen in those churches. But thank God, that in some churches, there is love seen almost immediately and people go out of their way to welcome you and make you feel a part of the family.
The passage of Maundy Thursday has in the new commandment that Jesus gave to His disciples that they love one another. And as the key verse says that by the way they showed that love would people know they were disciples of Jesus. Is that true in your life? Is that true in the life of your church?
We have a long way to go in most United Methodist Churches when it comes to showing love and loving others. We have to conquer the ages old -isms that keep people from feeling at home and wanting to join our "families." What are you doing to counter and change that?
PRAYER: Loving God, may it be true of me and this dear reader, that we will be known for our love for You and for one another. Help our Church recognize the need we have to truly love another. In Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Faith is Our Platform
Read Isaiah 49: 1-7. Key Verse: Thus says the Lord, the Redeemer of Israel and his Holy One, to one deeply despised, abhorred by the nations, the slave of rulers, "Kings shall see and stand up, princes, and they shall prostrate themselves, because of the Lord, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you." (v. 7)
Troubled times do not last, though it seems that way. Suffering gives way to victory. The passage for today spoke to the heart of Jesus as it should speak to us, the Church. Pending death for He who died for us, would not be the end, nor shall it be that way for us. Faith is that platform from which great leaps can be made. And the greatest faith sometimes comes from those times that drive us to our knees in prayer. The one who realizes that it is God who holds the answers is the one who can best lead.
Our prayers for our church should be the building blocks of a great platform from which we will leap to do the great things of and for, God.
PRAYER: Loving God, grant us faith on which to build our lives. May we realize and accept that we must serve and sacrifice faithfully. In Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
Troubled times do not last, though it seems that way. Suffering gives way to victory. The passage for today spoke to the heart of Jesus as it should speak to us, the Church. Pending death for He who died for us, would not be the end, nor shall it be that way for us. Faith is that platform from which great leaps can be made. And the greatest faith sometimes comes from those times that drive us to our knees in prayer. The one who realizes that it is God who holds the answers is the one who can best lead.
Our prayers for our church should be the building blocks of a great platform from which we will leap to do the great things of and for, God.
PRAYER: Loving God, grant us faith on which to build our lives. May we realize and accept that we must serve and sacrifice faithfully. In Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
A WORLD-WIDE GOD
Read ISAIAH 49:1-7; JOHN 12:20-36 Key Verse: "I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.’"
The passage from the prophet Isaiah speaks of One called to minister to the earth. He mentions that this was a "servant" known even while forming in the womb. One who would be a "light to the nations," with a plan of "salvation" that would "reach to the end of the earth." Salvation is that restored relationship with God, reached when one realizes that with all the baggage of sin burdening our hearts we are going nowhere, but when God removes that sin upon our confession, we become a new creation, ready to receive and to share love. Salvation is that which leads us to new life, beyond just existence, to what Jesus called "abundant life" or "life to the fullest." And so it is with those who know, love, and trust Jesus; a life that goes beyond just breathing; a life filled with joy and wonder and opportunities for serving and helping.
As we pray for the coming General Conference of The United Methodist Church, may we pray that all delegates may be reminded of that wonderful relationship that is still available for us all, and that we have a task to take that message out of Tampa into all the world, until everyone has heard and everyone has had a chance to respond.
PRAYER: Loving God, may our prayers bless and protect all delegates, and may our prayers bring new life to our Church through You. We cannot do it without You. We pray in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
The passage from the prophet Isaiah speaks of One called to minister to the earth. He mentions that this was a "servant" known even while forming in the womb. One who would be a "light to the nations," with a plan of "salvation" that would "reach to the end of the earth." Salvation is that restored relationship with God, reached when one realizes that with all the baggage of sin burdening our hearts we are going nowhere, but when God removes that sin upon our confession, we become a new creation, ready to receive and to share love. Salvation is that which leads us to new life, beyond just existence, to what Jesus called "abundant life" or "life to the fullest." And so it is with those who know, love, and trust Jesus; a life that goes beyond just breathing; a life filled with joy and wonder and opportunities for serving and helping.
As we pray for the coming General Conference of The United Methodist Church, may we pray that all delegates may be reminded of that wonderful relationship that is still available for us all, and that we have a task to take that message out of Tampa into all the world, until everyone has heard and everyone has had a chance to respond.
PRAYER: Loving God, may our prayers bless and protect all delegates, and may our prayers bring new life to our Church through You. We cannot do it without You. We pray in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Holding the Hand of God
Read Isaiah 42:1-7; John 12:1-11. Key Verse: I am the Lord, I have called you in righteousness, I have taken you by the hand and kept you; I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations, open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness. (Isa. 42:6-7)
We as the Church represent Christ in all things, especially justice. And we must ask, in all things, what would Jesus say, think, and do in this matter? Where is the place we can show care and compassion? Our choice may be more prophetic than popular. We may even drive out some, but others will come in their place.
We as the Church must stop choosing our comfort over caring and compassion; rest over risk, and cute over courageous. We might even start doing things that are outrageous! After all, we are holding the hand of God, the One who cares for all.
PRAYER: Dear God, hold the hand of my church. Let us be all aboutYou and Yours, and not about the selfish trinity; me, myself, and I. In the Name of He who showed the Way, amen.
We as the Church represent Christ in all things, especially justice. And we must ask, in all things, what would Jesus say, think, and do in this matter? Where is the place we can show care and compassion? Our choice may be more prophetic than popular. We may even drive out some, but others will come in their place.
We as the Church must stop choosing our comfort over caring and compassion; rest over risk, and cute over courageous. We might even start doing things that are outrageous! After all, we are holding the hand of God, the One who cares for all.
PRAYER: Dear God, hold the hand of my church. Let us be all aboutYou and Yours, and not about the selfish trinity; me, myself, and I. In the Name of He who showed the Way, amen.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Have You Seen Jesus?
Read John 20:24-31. Key Verse: Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe." (v. 29)
You and I as believers are blessed by Jesus, for we came to faith without having seen the physical Jesus. There are still many "Thomases" who demand proof so that they may come to faith. They will be waiting a long time. You and I have seen the physical work of Jesus in loving acts, kind words, passionate sermons, answered prayers, the works and beauty of nature; such are the blessings Jesus spoke of.
The Church is the physical presence of Jesus in the world today. We serve as the hands, feet, lips, and heart of Jesus even to those who demand "to see" Jesus. Our task is ever before us and Christ is ever with us!
PRAYER: Blessed God, pour out Your strength upon Your Church to awaken us to truly be Christ for the world. In Jesus we pray, amen.
You and I as believers are blessed by Jesus, for we came to faith without having seen the physical Jesus. There are still many "Thomases" who demand proof so that they may come to faith. They will be waiting a long time. You and I have seen the physical work of Jesus in loving acts, kind words, passionate sermons, answered prayers, the works and beauty of nature; such are the blessings Jesus spoke of.
The Church is the physical presence of Jesus in the world today. We serve as the hands, feet, lips, and heart of Jesus even to those who demand "to see" Jesus. Our task is ever before us and Christ is ever with us!
PRAYER: Blessed God, pour out Your strength upon Your Church to awaken us to truly be Christ for the world. In Jesus we pray, amen.
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