Did you ever have “one of those days”? The kind of day that makes you want to just quit and go back to bed—and try again tomorrow? The kind of day that makes you envious of Alexander’s day from the children’s book, “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day?"
That’s kind of how I feel today. Anyone want to join me in a pity party? I knew we weren’t off to a very good start when my shower was interrupted 3 times by people banging on the door to ask me questions! We did arrive on time for 7:15 piano lesson but as soon as I got to my office, I realized that I had left my lunch at home. Once home, I discovered that it was really in the back seat of the car! Then my husband discovers that the milk we had in the church refrigerator was bad. He makes a quick trip home! As soon as he returns, I hear from my daughter that she forgot a crucial item involving standardized dress that necessitated a 3rd trip home! Now it’s time to teach catechism and all that early prep time that I thought I was going to have just disappeared. After class, I finally got around to getting out my laptop for the day. No wireless connection. After staff meeting, I tried to play around with it to see if I could figure out the problem but finally gave up! And made one more trip home where I could use the internet and get some work done. Through my frustrations, I made a second travel mug of coffee and resorted to candy and potato chips! I’m sure many women out there can relate! Through everything, I kept hearing the words of Psalm 46,
10 "Be still, and know that I am God.”
My day seems to be going out of control but I have to keep reminding myself that God is in control. A bad day? Let’s put this in perspective. Compared to what? Let’s compare it to the fears of the earlier verses in Psalm 46.
Psalm 46 (English Standard Version)
God Is Our Fortress
1God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
2Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
3though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling.
Through all kinds of natural disasters and terrible troubles that can enter our lives, Christians do not need to fear. God will be our refuge—our protection in all danger and distress. I think sometimes it’s easier to see this when the big things hit our lives. When we are dealing with earthquakes or floods, cancer or heart attacks, we know we can’t handle it alone. We know we need God’s protection. Sometimes on these “bad days”, we forget that we don’t have to handle them alone either. We forget that God wants us to depend on Him during those times too. God took care of our biggest problems—sin, death and the devil—through the perfect life, death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ. He can certainly take care of our “bad days!” Psalm 46.10 is good advice for every day.
10 "Be still, and know that I am God.”
Heavenly Father,
We praise You for being the God of all creation. We ask You to be our refuge through the storms of life. Forgive us for all the times we think we handle things on our own. Thank You for the calm assurance we receive we heed Your Words to “Be still, and know that I am God.”
In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Redemption Center
Last Friday night our school hosted a “Fall Festival” complete with inflatable bouncing houses and carnival type games. As I walked through the hallway during set up, I couldn’t help but notice the big booth where the kids could turn in their winning game tickets for prizes. It was, of course, full of things to light up every child’s eyes and to make every parent groan—“Please, don’t bring that huge ball home!” It’s a little harder to make large items mysteriously disappear! What really caught my attention as I walked past this booth was the large sign at the top of the backboard—“Redemption Center.” I had to do a double-take to realize what this was all about. Oh, yeah. This is where you redeem all the tickets that you have collected for a prize. Now, of course, when I saw the words “Redemption Center”, I was thinking church! I was looking for a cross. I was looking for a baptismal font.
Jesus’ death on the cross paid the price for all my sins. At the baptismal font, I received that gift of faith through the power of the Holy Spirit which covers all my sins with the robe of His righteousness.
We just started “The Apostles’ Creed” this morning in 7th grade Catechism class. I can’t think of redemption without hear the explanation of The Second Article in my head:
“I believe that Jesus Christ....has redeemed me, a lost and condemned person, purchased and won me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil; not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious blood and with His innocent suffering and death….”
And now we are adopted into the kingdom—we have a share of the inheritance!
Colossians 1:11-14 (English Standard Version)
11 May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. 13He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
And now I’ll continue my day humming the song “I’ve been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. I’ve been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. I’ve been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb, Filled with the Holy Ghost, I am. All my sins were washed away. I’ve been redeemed.”
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for Your Son’s journey to the cross which redeemed me from the kingdom of darkness. Please strengthen all Your saints with Your Spirit to continue walking in the light of Your redeeming grace.
In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen
Jesus’ death on the cross paid the price for all my sins. At the baptismal font, I received that gift of faith through the power of the Holy Spirit which covers all my sins with the robe of His righteousness.
We just started “The Apostles’ Creed” this morning in 7th grade Catechism class. I can’t think of redemption without hear the explanation of The Second Article in my head:
“I believe that Jesus Christ....has redeemed me, a lost and condemned person, purchased and won me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil; not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious blood and with His innocent suffering and death….”
And now we are adopted into the kingdom—we have a share of the inheritance!
Colossians 1:11-14 (English Standard Version)
11 May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. 13He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
And now I’ll continue my day humming the song “I’ve been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. I’ve been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. I’ve been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb, Filled with the Holy Ghost, I am. All my sins were washed away. I’ve been redeemed.”
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for Your Son’s journey to the cross which redeemed me from the kingdom of darkness. Please strengthen all Your saints with Your Spirit to continue walking in the light of Your redeeming grace.
In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Integrity of Mind
Our Bible study for Wednesday Woman this week is entitled, “The Mind: A Terrible Thing to Waste.” It is based on several passages from Romans.
Romans 1:21 (English Standard Version)
21For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.
All of creation told them that God existed, but they refused to recognize Him. Once they failed in acknowledging that reality, other thoughts became misguided as well. And as they failed in their minds to recognize God, they also failed in their hearts. And the result is not a pretty picture. Sin never is.
King David, in an effort to be a man of integrity, made a vow before his people. When our boys were young, my husband would have this verse taped to the television as a gentle reminder. He used the New King James Version at that time.
Psalm 101:3 (New King James Version)
3 I will set nothing wicked before my eyes;
I also like the English Standard Version where it exchanges wicked for worthless.
Psalm 101:3 (English Standard Version)
3I will not set before my eyes
anything that is worthless.
I like thinking about avoiding things that have no value. But we know that even King David failed in this promise. He did not avoid looking at the beautiful Bathsheba and succumbing to the other sins that followed.
Although, like King David, we, too, may fail miserably, we, too, like King David, can hold to the promise of the one who did live a life of perfect integrity—David’s descendant, Jesus Christ.
Romans 5:10-11 (English Standard Version)
10For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. 11More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
Dear Father in Heaven,
We acknowledge you as the creator of all good gifts. We ask that you forgive us for the many times that we fail in our efforts to do Your will. Thank you for the reconciliation we receive by faith in Your Son, Jesus Christ. Please bless our efforts to serve You with integrity.
In Jesus Name we pray.
Amen
Romans 1:21 (English Standard Version)
21For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.
All of creation told them that God existed, but they refused to recognize Him. Once they failed in acknowledging that reality, other thoughts became misguided as well. And as they failed in their minds to recognize God, they also failed in their hearts. And the result is not a pretty picture. Sin never is.
King David, in an effort to be a man of integrity, made a vow before his people. When our boys were young, my husband would have this verse taped to the television as a gentle reminder. He used the New King James Version at that time.
Psalm 101:3 (New King James Version)
3 I will set nothing wicked before my eyes;
I also like the English Standard Version where it exchanges wicked for worthless.
Psalm 101:3 (English Standard Version)
3I will not set before my eyes
anything that is worthless.
I like thinking about avoiding things that have no value. But we know that even King David failed in this promise. He did not avoid looking at the beautiful Bathsheba and succumbing to the other sins that followed.
Although, like King David, we, too, may fail miserably, we, too, like King David, can hold to the promise of the one who did live a life of perfect integrity—David’s descendant, Jesus Christ.
Romans 5:10-11 (English Standard Version)
10For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. 11More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
Dear Father in Heaven,
We acknowledge you as the creator of all good gifts. We ask that you forgive us for the many times that we fail in our efforts to do Your will. Thank you for the reconciliation we receive by faith in Your Son, Jesus Christ. Please bless our efforts to serve You with integrity.
In Jesus Name we pray.
Amen
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Wisdom
It’s a normal back to the office kind of day. Tuesdays are my LONG day. My daughter usually has piano lessons before school and choir after school. I teach a 7th grade Catechism class first thing in the morning and a religion class for public school students in the evening. I am usually in the building from until except for about an hour or two that we scrounge something for dinner!
One of the prep things on my Tuesday agenda is our Wednesday morning women’s Bible study. Our topic this week is on “Wisdom” and many of the Bible references come from Proverbs. When we think of wisdom and advice many of us immediately remember some of the advice that our parents gave us or a familiar saying of a grandparent. We couldn't leave my grandmother's house without her saying, "Buckle up and push the button." That meant, "Fasten your seat belt and lock your doors." That was back before electric locks and you locked your car doors by pushing down the little button on the door near the window! That was her way of saying, "I love you!"
One of the prep things on my Tuesday agenda is our Wednesday morning women’s Bible study. Our topic this week is on “Wisdom” and many of the Bible references come from Proverbs. When we think of wisdom and advice many of us immediately remember some of the advice that our parents gave us or a familiar saying of a grandparent. We couldn't leave my grandmother's house without her saying, "Buckle up and push the button." That meant, "Fasten your seat belt and lock your doors." That was back before electric locks and you locked your car doors by pushing down the little button on the door near the window! That was her way of saying, "I love you!"
Proverbs 4.1 states:
1 Hear, O sons, a father’s instruction,
and be attentive, that you may gain insight,
and be attentive, that you may gain insight,
King Solomon gives good advice to listen to your elders and to learn from their experience. We especially want to learn from those faithful followers of Christ.
Proverbs 1.7 tells us:
7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge;
fools despise wisdom and instruction.
fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Those who fear the Lord, who put him first above all things, are the ones with true wisdom. True wisdom is not the wisdom of the world. The world sees the wisdom of the cross and Christ crucified as foolishness but to the ones being saved it gives strength and power and life everlasting.
These words also serve as a reminder to parents who want their children to listen to them. Trust me, I am feeling very convicted! Are you grounded in the Word? Are you reflecting the “fear of the Lord” in your life and in your home?
I would like to close with the very simple prayer from the Lutheran Study Bible.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Book review: "Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids"
“Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids” by Sarah Young
“Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids” offers a short devotional for children to read on their own each day. Each page contains a Bible verse, a devotional written as if God is speaking to the child, and suggested additional Bible reading.
While it has some good thoughts in it I am uncomfortable with it being written as if Jesus is speaking. I would prefer to hear “God” and “Jesus” emphasized more. I am afraid a child might lose that focus. I also am disappointed that there are no prayers or suggestions to pray included in the devotional.
“BookSneeze” provided me with a copy of this book to review.
“Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids” offers a short devotional for children to read on their own each day. Each page contains a Bible verse, a devotional written as if God is speaking to the child, and suggested additional Bible reading.
While it has some good thoughts in it I am uncomfortable with it being written as if Jesus is speaking. I would prefer to hear “God” and “Jesus” emphasized more. I am afraid a child might lose that focus. I also am disappointed that there are no prayers or suggestions to pray included in the devotional.
“BookSneeze” provided me with a copy of this book to review.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Refreshment
The Southern Illinois District of the LCMS is holding their fall pastor’s conference at Pere Marquette Lodge in Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton, IL. Besides having wonderful speakers, we have had beautiful fall weather—Crisp mornings with warm sunny days. My husband and I got up early this morning and went up a short hike to a look out point where the IL and MISS rivers meet to see the glow of the sunrise before heading back down for a different kind of mountain-top experience in divine worship. It is so refreshing to see and ponder God’s wonderful creation but it is also refreshing to worship and commune together with other Christians—and especially a room full of professional church workers and spouses. These are the times that we want to say like Peter said at Jesus’ transfiguration in Matt 17, “Lord, it is good for us to be here.” And like Peter, the desire is strong to pitch our tents and stay! But like Peter and James and John, God calls us back down from the mountain to continue His work. The work is never done! There is always someone who still needs to hear about Jesus and His death and resurrection. For Christians, the work is never done!
For the pastors, much of their work involves ways to enable all Christians to experience this time of refreshment. Christians receive that refreshment and encouragement each week when we attend church and Bible Study. We receive the encouragement to return to our daily tasks—wherever and whatever they may be—and to see those tasks as a way to serve our neighbor and to give God glory.
Dear God,
Thanks you for the many opportunities that you provide to refresh and strengthen us in our faith. Give us the desire to always seek those opportunities to commune with you and to worship with fellow believers. Let Your Holy Spirit guide and encourage us as we return to our daily tasks.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
For the pastors, much of their work involves ways to enable all Christians to experience this time of refreshment. Christians receive that refreshment and encouragement each week when we attend church and Bible Study. We receive the encouragement to return to our daily tasks—wherever and whatever they may be—and to see those tasks as a way to serve our neighbor and to give God glory.
Dear God,
Thanks you for the many opportunities that you provide to refresh and strengthen us in our faith. Give us the desire to always seek those opportunities to commune with you and to worship with fellow believers. Let Your Holy Spirit guide and encourage us as we return to our daily tasks.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Good All Day
I had a wonderful conversation with a Kindergarten student this morning. I was walking down to the 7th grade classroom in preparation for Catechism class as one of my Sunday School students was arriving for the day. He saw me coming down the hall and stopped to say Hi. We had an interesting conversation.
“Hi, Miss Carol.”
“Hi, Blake. Are you ready for another day of Kindergarten?”
“Yes. And I’m going to be good all day today.”
“That’s good. Is that what you promised your mother?”
“Uh-huh.”
“Aren’t you always good?”
“Most of the time.”
Then we split into our separate paths.
I loved that conversation with Blake. It not only made me smile but made me appreciate the honesty of a 5 year old. If we were all that honest, we know that if someone had that same conversation with us, we would have the same answers.
“Are you ready for a new day?”
“Yes. And I’m going to be good all day.”
“Is that what you promised God?”
“Uh-Huh.”
“But aren’t you always good?”
“Not most of the time.”
Like Blake, I often fail in the promises that I make to God and to those around me. There is a chance that Blake’s mom might be disappointed tonight when she hears the report of Blake’s day, but I know that she will still give him hugs and kisses and let him know that she loves him. God does the same for me. He continues to love me and give me good things. He loved me and all of us sinful human beings so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for our sins. Because of our faith in Jesus, we can say, “I’m sorry for the mess I made of this day.” And God will always offer us forgiveness and a fresh start for a new day. And tomorrow, because Blake loves his mother, he will again promise to be good all day. And out of thankfulness for that gift of forgiveness God gives us, we also will continually make that promise to try harder next time—with the help of the Holy Spirit.
1 John 4:19 (English Standard Version)
We love because he first loved us.
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for Your Son’s death and resurrection which paid the price for our sins. Thank you for the gift of faith that the Holy Spirit has worked in our lives. Thank you for the gift of eternal life that we receive through that faith in Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Help us to show our love to You and to those around us out of thankfulness for the great love that You have shown us.
In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen
“Hi, Miss Carol.”
“Hi, Blake. Are you ready for another day of Kindergarten?”
“Yes. And I’m going to be good all day today.”
“That’s good. Is that what you promised your mother?”
“Uh-huh.”
“Aren’t you always good?”
“Most of the time.”
Then we split into our separate paths.
I loved that conversation with Blake. It not only made me smile but made me appreciate the honesty of a 5 year old. If we were all that honest, we know that if someone had that same conversation with us, we would have the same answers.
“Are you ready for a new day?”
“Yes. And I’m going to be good all day.”
“Is that what you promised God?”
“Uh-Huh.”
“But aren’t you always good?”
“Not most of the time.”
Like Blake, I often fail in the promises that I make to God and to those around me. There is a chance that Blake’s mom might be disappointed tonight when she hears the report of Blake’s day, but I know that she will still give him hugs and kisses and let him know that she loves him. God does the same for me. He continues to love me and give me good things. He loved me and all of us sinful human beings so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for our sins. Because of our faith in Jesus, we can say, “I’m sorry for the mess I made of this day.” And God will always offer us forgiveness and a fresh start for a new day. And tomorrow, because Blake loves his mother, he will again promise to be good all day. And out of thankfulness for that gift of forgiveness God gives us, we also will continually make that promise to try harder next time—with the help of the Holy Spirit.
1 John 4:19 (English Standard Version)
We love because he first loved us.
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for Your Son’s death and resurrection which paid the price for our sins. Thank you for the gift of faith that the Holy Spirit has worked in our lives. Thank you for the gift of eternal life that we receive through that faith in Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Help us to show our love to You and to those around us out of thankfulness for the great love that You have shown us.
In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Childlike Faith
Our Wednesday morning Bible study this week will be looking at Mark 10 as we focus on “The Wisdom of the Master Teacher”. It’s the first lesson in a study from CPH entitled “Health and Well-Being.” I will admit that I almost didn’t give it a closer look after reading the title. But after just reading the titles of the weekly topics, I knew it was worth a second look. I’ll keep you posted on how it goes with our group. Several things have struck me from this chapter. First is in the first verse.
Mark 10:1 (English Standard Version)
1 And he left there and went to the region of Judea and beyond the Jordan, and crowds gathered to him again. And again, as was his custom, he taught them.
As usual, Jesus is teaching. He takes advantage of every opportunity to teach those around him and, in most cases, it is to a crowd! Jesus had the ultimate public preaching ministry.
Then later in the chapter Jesus takes advantage of a teaching moment when He sees the disciples rebuking people for bringing their children.
Mark 10:13-16 (English Standard Version)
Let the Children Come to Me
13 And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. 14But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, "Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. 15 Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it." 16And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.
What an example Jesus is giving us as he shows us the value of children—and the value of children in church. And especially, he shows us the value of a childlike faith. This can provide great comfort to us as we see the simple faith of a child. The kingdom of God—salvation—belongs to these children. These children didn’t do anything to earn salvation. They received it by grace through faith in Jesus. What comfort this can give each of us as Jesus admonishes us to receive the kingdom of God like a child. Quit trying to get there by works. Give up the self-righteous efforts. Take the gift that is freely offered. This is a strong admonition. He doesn’t say that this is one way to receive the kingdom. It says that it is the only way! If you don’t receive the kingdom like a child, you won’t enter! Like a helpless child, each of us can receive the kingdom of God by grace through faith in Jesus as our risen Lord and Savior.
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who was willing to suffer and die on the cross for our sins. Help us to humbly receive the kingdom of God with the trusting faith of a child.
In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen
Mark 10:1 (English Standard Version)
1 And he left there and went to the region of Judea and beyond the Jordan, and crowds gathered to him again. And again, as was his custom, he taught them.
As usual, Jesus is teaching. He takes advantage of every opportunity to teach those around him and, in most cases, it is to a crowd! Jesus had the ultimate public preaching ministry.
Then later in the chapter Jesus takes advantage of a teaching moment when He sees the disciples rebuking people for bringing their children.
Mark 10:13-16 (English Standard Version)
Let the Children Come to Me
13 And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. 14But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, "Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. 15 Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it." 16And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.
What an example Jesus is giving us as he shows us the value of children—and the value of children in church. And especially, he shows us the value of a childlike faith. This can provide great comfort to us as we see the simple faith of a child. The kingdom of God—salvation—belongs to these children. These children didn’t do anything to earn salvation. They received it by grace through faith in Jesus. What comfort this can give each of us as Jesus admonishes us to receive the kingdom of God like a child. Quit trying to get there by works. Give up the self-righteous efforts. Take the gift that is freely offered. This is a strong admonition. He doesn’t say that this is one way to receive the kingdom. It says that it is the only way! If you don’t receive the kingdom like a child, you won’t enter! Like a helpless child, each of us can receive the kingdom of God by grace through faith in Jesus as our risen Lord and Savior.
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who was willing to suffer and die on the cross for our sins. Help us to humbly receive the kingdom of God with the trusting faith of a child.
In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
September 7
Today is my eldest son’s birthday. Children probably don’t realize this but their birthdays are an opportunity for their parents to reflect on their parenting!
As parents, we love to quote Ephesians 6.1-3 to our children.
Ephesians 6:1-3 (English Standard Version)
Children and Parents
1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 "Honor your father and mother" (this is the first commandment with a promise), 3"that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land."
As parents it is also important that we continue reading verse 4.
4Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
That’s a pretty heavy responsibility. As parents, we can and should take that very seriously and strive to do our very best. But as sinful human beings, we know we will always fall short of that mark of perfection. Many days we need to confess our shortfalls—not only to God but also to our children. I frequently tell young mothers that our children survive and thrive not because of us but in spite of us. The Lutheran Study Bible contains an article entitled “Law and Gospel Parenting.” It makes the statement: “The best way for a Christian to parent a child is to remember that he or she is a child: God’s child.” What better example of parenting than to look to the example of how God parents us—always showing us His Law and His Gospel. As our children become adults, we continue to pray for them and encourage them in their faith journey with the Lord. And when we want to beat ourselves up over the mistakes we have made or blame ourselves for the bad choices our children have made, remember that we are still “Children of the Heavenly Father.” Rest secure in the knowledge that He never forsakes His children.
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the blessing you give us in children. Help us to recognize them as gifts on loan from You. Thank you for the perfect example of parenting you show us every day as you deal with us. Help us to show that same Law & Gospel to our children. Thank you for the blood of the Perfect Lamb, Your Son, which forgives us all of our many sins and failures. Thank you for never forsaking Your children!
In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen
As parents, we love to quote Ephesians 6.1-3 to our children.
Ephesians 6:1-3 (English Standard Version)
Children and Parents
1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 "Honor your father and mother" (this is the first commandment with a promise), 3"that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land."
As parents it is also important that we continue reading verse 4.
4Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
That’s a pretty heavy responsibility. As parents, we can and should take that very seriously and strive to do our very best. But as sinful human beings, we know we will always fall short of that mark of perfection. Many days we need to confess our shortfalls—not only to God but also to our children. I frequently tell young mothers that our children survive and thrive not because of us but in spite of us. The Lutheran Study Bible contains an article entitled “Law and Gospel Parenting.” It makes the statement: “The best way for a Christian to parent a child is to remember that he or she is a child: God’s child.” What better example of parenting than to look to the example of how God parents us—always showing us His Law and His Gospel. As our children become adults, we continue to pray for them and encourage them in their faith journey with the Lord. And when we want to beat ourselves up over the mistakes we have made or blame ourselves for the bad choices our children have made, remember that we are still “Children of the Heavenly Father.” Rest secure in the knowledge that He never forsakes His children.
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the blessing you give us in children. Help us to recognize them as gifts on loan from You. Thank you for the perfect example of parenting you show us every day as you deal with us. Help us to show that same Law & Gospel to our children. Thank you for the blood of the Perfect Lamb, Your Son, which forgives us all of our many sins and failures. Thank you for never forsaking Your children!
In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Commit your work to the Lord
August 31, 2010
I have spent my morning trying to coordinate my calendars. I have been taking the information from all the separate pieces of paper cluttering my desk and putting it on my computer calendar which will sync to my phone calendar. I am trying to find available dates to plan even more activities! The calendar is starting to look overbooked! As I plan for this upcoming year, I am reminded of the wise words of Proverbs 16. The first 3 verses of chapter sixteen read:
1The plans of the heart belong to man,
but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD.
2 All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes,
but the LORD weighs the spirit.
3 Commit your work to the LORD,
and your plans will be established.
We use our human thoughts and reasoning to make what we think to be good plans but God has the final say in all things. He sees the big picture. And even more importantly He sees the spirit in which we make our plans and do our work. Commit your work to the Lord. Any work done in faith and accompanied by much prayer will be established according to God’s will.
Heavenly Father,
Help us to plan all our days with prayer that our work would be in accordance with Your will. May all our efforts give You glory. And when we fail miserably, we thank You for Your steadfast love and mercy which offers us forgiveness through the death and resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ. It is in His name we pray.
Amen
I have spent my morning trying to coordinate my calendars. I have been taking the information from all the separate pieces of paper cluttering my desk and putting it on my computer calendar which will sync to my phone calendar. I am trying to find available dates to plan even more activities! The calendar is starting to look overbooked! As I plan for this upcoming year, I am reminded of the wise words of Proverbs 16. The first 3 verses of chapter sixteen read:
1The plans of the heart belong to man,
but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD.
2 All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes,
but the LORD weighs the spirit.
3 Commit your work to the LORD,
and your plans will be established.
We use our human thoughts and reasoning to make what we think to be good plans but God has the final say in all things. He sees the big picture. And even more importantly He sees the spirit in which we make our plans and do our work. Commit your work to the Lord. Any work done in faith and accompanied by much prayer will be established according to God’s will.
Heavenly Father,
Help us to plan all our days with prayer that our work would be in accordance with Your will. May all our efforts give You glory. And when we fail miserably, we thank You for Your steadfast love and mercy which offers us forgiveness through the death and resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ. It is in His name we pray.
Amen
Thursday, August 19, 2010
First Day of School
Today is the first day of school at Good Shepherd Lutheran School. My baby just walked in to her last classroom at Good Shepherd. She is now an 8th grader. I don't think that I have ever cried on the first day of school--with the oldest or the youngest! With the oldest, there were still too many little ones at home. With the youngest, it was time for a break! When she started all day school in first grade, it was the first time in 21 years that I did not have a little one home during some part of the day!
Today isn't a crying day but it is a reflecting day! Reflecting on the blessings of a Christian education and knowing that it will not end thanks to Metro East Lutheran High School. But the insight into the daily life of the school at Good Shepherd that can only come from being a parent will somewhat change. I still will be teaching 7th grade Catechism in the school (God willing) and will still know many of the moms and students through my ministry work at Good Shepherd. But it won't be the same. I know from past experience that this will also end the extra insight into the daily life of my child. I won't have those chance opportunities to see her during the day. This is the last year that she can just buzz my office if she left something at home or needs permission to take a Tylenol! It's a step toward the next season of life for both of us.
Our school theme this year comes from Isaiah. It reminds us that the God who redeemed us will never forsake us.
But now thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel:
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name, you are mine." Is 43.1
Fear not! I don't know what the future holds but I know who holds the future. Or as Bob the Tomato so eloquently put it:
God is bigger than the boogie man.
He's bigger than Godzilla,
or the monsters on TV.
Oh, God is bigger than the boogie man.
And He's watching out for you and me.
May God watch over all students and their families. And I especially ask that He would help me enjoy and appreciate this last year as a Good Shepherd Lutheran School parent!
Today isn't a crying day but it is a reflecting day! Reflecting on the blessings of a Christian education and knowing that it will not end thanks to Metro East Lutheran High School. But the insight into the daily life of the school at Good Shepherd that can only come from being a parent will somewhat change. I still will be teaching 7th grade Catechism in the school (God willing) and will still know many of the moms and students through my ministry work at Good Shepherd. But it won't be the same. I know from past experience that this will also end the extra insight into the daily life of my child. I won't have those chance opportunities to see her during the day. This is the last year that she can just buzz my office if she left something at home or needs permission to take a Tylenol! It's a step toward the next season of life for both of us.
Our school theme this year comes from Isaiah. It reminds us that the God who redeemed us will never forsake us.
But now thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel:
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name, you are mine." Is 43.1
Fear not! I don't know what the future holds but I know who holds the future. Or as Bob the Tomato so eloquently put it:
God is bigger than the boogie man.
He's bigger than Godzilla,
or the monsters on TV.
Oh, God is bigger than the boogie man.
And He's watching out for you and me.
May God watch over all students and their families. And I especially ask that He would help me enjoy and appreciate this last year as a Good Shepherd Lutheran School parent!
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
"wise for salvation"
Proverbs 2:1-6 (English Standard Version)
The Value of Wisdom
1My son, if you receive my words
and treasure up my commandments with you,
2making your ear attentive to wisdom
and inclining your heart to understanding;
3yes, if you call out for insight
and raise your voice for understanding,
4if you seek it like silver
and search for it as for hidden treasures,
5then you will understand the fear of the LORD
and find the knowledge of God.
6For the LORD gives wisdom;
from his mouth come knowledge and understanding;
With the start of school this week, a lot of attention is focused on learning. Teachers are planning their lesson outlines for the year. There are goals set for what each child should learn during this academic year. My daughter is getting ready to start her last year at Good Shepherd. My son just went to freshman orientation for his first year of college. I’m excited for all the wisdom they will gain this year. But these verses remind me of how wisdom comes from the Lord. While I want my children to be wise and competent, I am even more concerned that they become wise in the fear of the Lord and the knowledge of God. I want them to be “wise for salvation.” as we read in 2 Timothy.
2 Timothy 3:14-15 (English Standard Version)
But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it 15and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
This wisdom doesn’t end with a graduation. This learning continues throughout our lifetime. The start of the school year also starts a lot of other activities and opportunities.
Take advantage of some of those “learning” opportunities at home and at church as you attend Sunday School and Bible Class on Sunday mornings, have family devotions, take advantage of worship opportunities and attend other weekday Bible studies.
Heavenly Father,
Keep us ever focused on Your Word that we might receive true wisdom so that we might become “wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” May we always seek and treasure Your wisdom.
In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen
The Value of Wisdom
1My son, if you receive my words
and treasure up my commandments with you,
2making your ear attentive to wisdom
and inclining your heart to understanding;
3yes, if you call out for insight
and raise your voice for understanding,
4if you seek it like silver
and search for it as for hidden treasures,
5then you will understand the fear of the LORD
and find the knowledge of God.
6For the LORD gives wisdom;
from his mouth come knowledge and understanding;
With the start of school this week, a lot of attention is focused on learning. Teachers are planning their lesson outlines for the year. There are goals set for what each child should learn during this academic year. My daughter is getting ready to start her last year at Good Shepherd. My son just went to freshman orientation for his first year of college. I’m excited for all the wisdom they will gain this year. But these verses remind me of how wisdom comes from the Lord. While I want my children to be wise and competent, I am even more concerned that they become wise in the fear of the Lord and the knowledge of God. I want them to be “wise for salvation.” as we read in 2 Timothy.
2 Timothy 3:14-15 (English Standard Version)
But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it 15and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
This wisdom doesn’t end with a graduation. This learning continues throughout our lifetime. The start of the school year also starts a lot of other activities and opportunities.
Take advantage of some of those “learning” opportunities at home and at church as you attend Sunday School and Bible Class on Sunday mornings, have family devotions, take advantage of worship opportunities and attend other weekday Bible studies.
Heavenly Father,
Keep us ever focused on Your Word that we might receive true wisdom so that we might become “wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” May we always seek and treasure Your wisdom.
In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Back to school. That seems to be on everyone’s mind these days. Today was the “Day of Spiritual Renewal” for the church workers in the Southern Illinois District. At the opening worship service this morning, we heard the Gospel lesson from last Sunday from Luke 12. We read in verses 22 & 23: And he said to his disciples, "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing."
You know, one hour on Sunday is just not enough for most of these texts. I heard the sermon about worry on Saturday night at Good Shepherd Lutheran, spoke to the preschoolers about this during the sermon on Sunday morning at Good Shepherd Lutheran, and then heard President Mueller preach an excellent sermon on this again this morning. What a blessing! I suppose that means I should be through with all worrying! NOT! Satan continually puts those worrisome thoughts into our heads.
I mentioned to the preschoolers on Sunday that they might be both excited and nervous about the start of school. Maybe they are going to school for the first time. Maybe they are going to a new school. Maybe they won’t know anyone on their first day. Maybe this is their first time away from Mommy. Those are real worries for many children. Older children worry about fitting in, about their hair and clothes and shoes, about their new teacher, about making the team, about their grades. Back to school brings worries for parents, too. They worry for their child’s safety and for their happiness. And the teachers—even the experienced ones—worry about this new school year. What will the students be like? What will their parents be like? Will I be able to make a difference?
As we enter in to this fear of the unknown, one thing is certain. We are not alone. We do have a friend with us in all situations—our best friend, Jesus. And even as we worry about all the uncertainties of life, Jesus reminds us in verse 32 why we needn’t worry: "Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”
We have the kingdom! We have forgiveness! We have the gift of eternal life! God has taken care of our sin problem (and what problem could possibly be bigger than that?) through His son, Jesus Christ. Trust Him to take care of everything else as well.
Heavenly Father,
We thank you for Your gift of salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ, Your Son. Please fill us with Your peace as we face the many uncertainties of life, confident of the certainty of Your care for us.
In Jesus name we pray. Amen
You know, one hour on Sunday is just not enough for most of these texts. I heard the sermon about worry on Saturday night at Good Shepherd Lutheran, spoke to the preschoolers about this during the sermon on Sunday morning at Good Shepherd Lutheran, and then heard President Mueller preach an excellent sermon on this again this morning. What a blessing! I suppose that means I should be through with all worrying! NOT! Satan continually puts those worrisome thoughts into our heads.
I mentioned to the preschoolers on Sunday that they might be both excited and nervous about the start of school. Maybe they are going to school for the first time. Maybe they are going to a new school. Maybe they won’t know anyone on their first day. Maybe this is their first time away from Mommy. Those are real worries for many children. Older children worry about fitting in, about their hair and clothes and shoes, about their new teacher, about making the team, about their grades. Back to school brings worries for parents, too. They worry for their child’s safety and for their happiness. And the teachers—even the experienced ones—worry about this new school year. What will the students be like? What will their parents be like? Will I be able to make a difference?
As we enter in to this fear of the unknown, one thing is certain. We are not alone. We do have a friend with us in all situations—our best friend, Jesus. And even as we worry about all the uncertainties of life, Jesus reminds us in verse 32 why we needn’t worry: "Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”
We have the kingdom! We have forgiveness! We have the gift of eternal life! God has taken care of our sin problem (and what problem could possibly be bigger than that?) through His son, Jesus Christ. Trust Him to take care of everything else as well.
Heavenly Father,
We thank you for Your gift of salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ, Your Son. Please fill us with Your peace as we face the many uncertainties of life, confident of the certainty of Your care for us.
In Jesus name we pray. Amen
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
At our church, we give parents the option on Sunday morning of sending their preschoolers out to the narthex during the sermon. They hear a simplified version of the sermon, sing songs and pray. Usually, whichever pastor isn’t preaching, does the children’s message. On Saturday I realized that we had a pastor on vacation so I could probably assume that I was doing the children’s message. Sometimes I don’t realize this until the middle of the service on Sunday morning! I shared a verse with them last Sunday that Pastor was sharing in the sermon.
1 Timothy 6:10 (New King James Version)
For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
That is such a misquoted verse. It doesn’t say that money is evil but that the LOVE of money is a root of evil. That love of money and of the things it can buy is where many evils start to grow. We all need money. We all like money. We all (adults and children alike) like the things money can buy. The problem comes when we love money and the things that money can buy MORE than we love God. We love God because He first loved us and gave Himself up for us. None of those “things” we love has ever done that nor can they ever do that. I gave each of the kids a penny and asked them to drop it in the offering plate. (Kids don’t always like to let go of that money! Adults, either, for that matter!) Every time they put money in the collection plate they should remind themselves, “I love money. BUT I love God more.”
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the many gifts you give us on this Earth. Help us to receive these blessings with thanksgiving. Help us also to hold loosely to these earthly blessings while we hold tightly to the gift of life and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. May You always be our first love.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
1 Timothy 6:10 (New King James Version)
For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
That is such a misquoted verse. It doesn’t say that money is evil but that the LOVE of money is a root of evil. That love of money and of the things it can buy is where many evils start to grow. We all need money. We all like money. We all (adults and children alike) like the things money can buy. The problem comes when we love money and the things that money can buy MORE than we love God. We love God because He first loved us and gave Himself up for us. None of those “things” we love has ever done that nor can they ever do that. I gave each of the kids a penny and asked them to drop it in the offering plate. (Kids don’t always like to let go of that money! Adults, either, for that matter!) Every time they put money in the collection plate they should remind themselves, “I love money. BUT I love God more.”
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the many gifts you give us on this Earth. Help us to receive these blessings with thanksgiving. Help us also to hold loosely to these earthly blessings while we hold tightly to the gift of life and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. May You always be our first love.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Thoughts on Convention Opening Service
This has taken me three weeks to write. Three weeks ago we were in Houston for the LCMS convention. I was so excited to have my daughter experience an opening service. I still have great memories of my first several back in the 70’s. Coming from a small town and a small church, that was quite an experience. Opening services were amazing—large crowd and everyone (especially the men) singing with great gusto. I wanted that experience for my daughter. Unfortunately she did not get it. Someone in their great lack of wisdom tried to design one worship service with a little bit of everything in it in an effort to please everyone. It didn’t work. Individually much of the music was great, collectively it was a disaster. And the service just didn’t flow. From where we were sitting the drum was painfully loud and distracting. Even the songs that should have been easy and familiar to sing became difficult. You didn’t know when to come in and it was very hard to follow the melody—especially when they did things like suddenly throw a jazz beat accompaniment in on one of the verses of “The Church’s One Foundation.” Many of the songs with the “praise band” made for great entertainment but I wasn’t attending a concert, I was attending WORSHIP. And the laser lights only added to the theatrics.
After the service my daughter and I were walking back to our room with my sister and 2 other women (I think they sincerely enjoyed the service). One of the ladies turned to my 13 year old daughter and said, “I want to hear what a young person thought about that worship service.” At this point my daughter shivered and said, “Oooohh, it was too ‘pop’py. They tried to make it like the ‘pop’ular music and that’s just not right.” SCORE! The poor lady had to pick her jaw up from the floor. I was so proud of my daughter. She nailed it! She has attended concerts and loved it—but she recognizes that it is not the same as worship. I do need to add that these were wonderful ladies and we did still talk and spend time together for the next several days!
Now, to prove that I am not totally against drums, I would like to share a youtube video from Rev. Jonathan Fisk. I would invite you to watch the whole thing but the part that fits this topic is at 2:25-5:25.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mb5YfX6Y4o&feature=related
BTW. The opening service is available to watch for a few more days(30 days following the service)at the following link. See for yourself.
http://www.lcms.org/ca/convention/vids/saturday/opening_worship.html
After the service my daughter and I were walking back to our room with my sister and 2 other women (I think they sincerely enjoyed the service). One of the ladies turned to my 13 year old daughter and said, “I want to hear what a young person thought about that worship service.” At this point my daughter shivered and said, “Oooohh, it was too ‘pop’py. They tried to make it like the ‘pop’ular music and that’s just not right.” SCORE! The poor lady had to pick her jaw up from the floor. I was so proud of my daughter. She nailed it! She has attended concerts and loved it—but she recognizes that it is not the same as worship. I do need to add that these were wonderful ladies and we did still talk and spend time together for the next several days!
Now, to prove that I am not totally against drums, I would like to share a youtube video from Rev. Jonathan Fisk. I would invite you to watch the whole thing but the part that fits this topic is at 2:25-5:25.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mb5YfX6Y4o&feature=related
BTW. The opening service is available to watch for a few more days(30 days following the service)at the following link. See for yourself.
http://www.lcms.org/ca/convention/vids/saturday/opening_worship.html
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Devotions
We have 2 people in our congregation that have been on emotional and physical roller coasters for the past several years. One is a 30 year old nurse who contracted a rare virus several years ago that destroyed her kidneys. The other is a 22 year old student with Crohn’s disease who also developed kidney failure several years ago from some complications. Both were very blessed to receive very selfless gifts. The young mom received a kidney about 3 years ago from the mom of one of her son’s classmates. God’s hand was in it as the donor mom (who really only casually knew the other mom) was tested and deemed a match! The young student had several relatives tested as possible donors and one of his uncles was deemed to be the best match. 2 years ago he received his uncle’s kidney. Life was good. Everyone felt overjoyed by the blessings from God as these 2 were restored to good health because of these selfless donations from fellow Christians. But then our young mom got sick again. Complications began that started to destroy this gift of life, her donated kidney. Over the past year we saw her health and energy begin to diminish until last month she was forced to return to the life of dialysis and of waiting on a new kidney donor. Last week, our young student went to the doctor for tests. His numbers were alarming. He was immediately placed in the hospital and put through a battery of tests. What they had hoped was just a blockage, turned out to be rejection. He began dialysis last night with a slim chance that an overnight treatment might kick start his kidney but knowing that the probability of needing a new kidney was very real. As a church family, we are heartbroken and questioning. God gave us these great blessings just a few years ago and now he appears to be taking them back! We find ourselves with the age old question, “Why, Lord?” It just doesn’t make sense! And I am reminded of the words in Romans 11.24: For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?”Definitely not me!
The mother of the young man sent me a message yesterday that simply said “Philippians 4.4-7. The Lord is at hand.” My first thought was, “Wait. That’s the rejoice passage—pray about everything with thanksgiving. Peace of God stuff. We all have memorized those verses at some time in our lives. The Lord is at hand? Wow. That section is packed with so many jewels and she picked out "The Lord is at hand." I had to look at it again. Let me read those wonderful verses.
Philippians 4.4-7 4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.Well, of course. That makes sense. We can let everyone know our reasonableness, our patience with whatever situation because the Lord is at hand. I have to quote the footnote from the Lutheran Study Bible. “The Lord is at hand. The Lord is near to give you patience, wisdom, and help. The Lord is near in coming for you. This is life from a resurrection and eternal perspective.” Wow. You bet. He’s here. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Wait a minute. Kidney failure--small stuff? Compare it to forgiveness of sins, life and salvation! Yep. Small stuff. We’ve already trusted Him on the big stuff (forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ who lived, died and rose again for us and for our salvation), now trust Him to know what’s best for all the details of this earthly life. And to quote the LSB one more time on verse 7: “When life makes no sense, God’s peace sustains and directs us.”
Heavenly Father,
We thank you and praise you that are our God—the God Who sustains us through all of life’s trials--especially those that make no sense. Lord, many of your children are hurting. They face many physical difficulties in their life. They are confused and questioning. Please lead them to Your Word which gives forgiveness of sins, life and salvation that they might be able to feel Your Peace in all circumstances. The Lord is at hand! Amen
The mother of the young man sent me a message yesterday that simply said “Philippians 4.4-7. The Lord is at hand.” My first thought was, “Wait. That’s the rejoice passage—pray about everything with thanksgiving. Peace of God stuff. We all have memorized those verses at some time in our lives. The Lord is at hand? Wow. That section is packed with so many jewels and she picked out "The Lord is at hand." I had to look at it again. Let me read those wonderful verses.
Philippians 4.4-7 4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.Well, of course. That makes sense. We can let everyone know our reasonableness, our patience with whatever situation because the Lord is at hand. I have to quote the footnote from the Lutheran Study Bible. “The Lord is at hand. The Lord is near to give you patience, wisdom, and help. The Lord is near in coming for you. This is life from a resurrection and eternal perspective.” Wow. You bet. He’s here. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Wait a minute. Kidney failure--small stuff? Compare it to forgiveness of sins, life and salvation! Yep. Small stuff. We’ve already trusted Him on the big stuff (forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ who lived, died and rose again for us and for our salvation), now trust Him to know what’s best for all the details of this earthly life. And to quote the LSB one more time on verse 7: “When life makes no sense, God’s peace sustains and directs us.”
Heavenly Father,
We thank you and praise you that are our God—the God Who sustains us through all of life’s trials--especially those that make no sense. Lord, many of your children are hurting. They face many physical difficulties in their life. They are confused and questioning. Please lead them to Your Word which gives forgiveness of sins, life and salvation that they might be able to feel Your Peace in all circumstances. The Lord is at hand! Amen
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Waiting--July 6 devotion
Waiting. We seem to always be involved in waiting. I will admit that I am not very patient with waiting. Traffic, doctor’s office, restaurant, airport, and so many other places where we seem to be stuck waiting. Then there are the bigger waits, for vacation, the family visits, weddings, 1st day of school, spring, driver’s license, graduation, the inevitable death of a sick loved one and, of course, the birth of a baby. Most of those waits have an end in sight. We know it won’t last forever even though it may seem like it at times. Simeon in Luke chapter 2, was waiting also. Like many Jews, he was waiting for the coming Messiah. Unlike the others, Simeon had a promise from God that the Messiah would come in his lifetime. As Christians, we have a big wait as we wait for the second coming of Christ. We also know that it won’t last forever. There will be an end. But, unlike Simeon, we do not have the promise that it will be in our lifetime. The Bible tells us in Matthew 24 that no one knows the day or the hour of Christ’s return.
While we wait for that second coming, we still have the opportunity to regularly come face-to-face with our Savior in Holy Communion. It is following this time of Communion that we can join in the words of Simeon from Luke 2.29-32.
29"Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
according to your word;
30for my eyes have seen your salvation
31 that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and or glory to your people Israel."
Then we can return to our families, neighborhoods, and jobs with renewed encouragement to face the wait and to share Christ with others so that they may join us in the fellowship.
Heavenly Father, We praise You for Your perfect timing. Please teach us to wait patiently and to use those times of waiting as a service to You. Come, quickly, Lord! Amen
While we wait for that second coming, we still have the opportunity to regularly come face-to-face with our Savior in Holy Communion. It is following this time of Communion that we can join in the words of Simeon from Luke 2.29-32.
29"Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
according to your word;
30for my eyes have seen your salvation
31 that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and or glory to your people Israel."
Then we can return to our families, neighborhoods, and jobs with renewed encouragement to face the wait and to share Christ with others so that they may join us in the fellowship.
Heavenly Father, We praise You for Your perfect timing. Please teach us to wait patiently and to use those times of waiting as a service to You. Come, quickly, Lord! Amen
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
June 15
Last week I talked about the seasons of life--one son moving out in preparation for college, another son getting married. We not only survived our first wedding this past weekend, we enjoyed it. I really enjoyed every minute of the day. It was so great to see all 5 of my children together and all dressed up!!!! It was a special privilege for my husband to get to perform the ceremony. Weddings also cause you to reflect on your own marriage. This was especially the case with us because two days after the wedding was our own 30th anniversary. Paul was also blessed to have both of his grandparents at the wedding. Later this month my in-laws will celebrate 55 years of marriage and my parents will celebrate 61 years! What blessings! But what challenges. I looked at Psalm 103 to express my joy.
Psalm 103:1-5 (English Standard Version)
Bless the LORD, O My Soul
Of David.
1 Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and all that is within me,
bless his holy name!
2 Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits,
3who forgives all your iniquity,
who heals all your diseases,
4who redeems your life from the pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
5who satisfies you with good
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
This Psalm also reminds me of those challenges. It reminds me of our sinful condition—our need for forgiveness and healing and redemption. Because the Lord has done all those things for us and continues to forgive us every day, we can forgive that other sinful person in our marriage. The Lord truly crowns us with steadfast, never wavering love and mercy. The Lord satisfied me with such good this weekend that I really felt renewed by all His blessings. I will admit that my youth was gone by the time I fell into bed Saturday night!!! But I remained “satisfied” with good! Bless the Lord, O My Soul!
Heavenly Father,
We bless you for your many good gifts, including the gift of marriage. Encourage all couples to look to You as the source of forgiveness and healing when they encounter the daily struggles of marriage. Help us always to show love and forgiveness to others as a reflection of the love and forgiveness that we have been shown through Christ’s death and resurrection. In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen
Psalm 103:1-5 (English Standard Version)
Bless the LORD, O My Soul
Of David.
1 Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and all that is within me,
bless his holy name!
2 Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits,
3who forgives all your iniquity,
who heals all your diseases,
4who redeems your life from the pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
5who satisfies you with good
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
This Psalm also reminds me of those challenges. It reminds me of our sinful condition—our need for forgiveness and healing and redemption. Because the Lord has done all those things for us and continues to forgive us every day, we can forgive that other sinful person in our marriage. The Lord truly crowns us with steadfast, never wavering love and mercy. The Lord satisfied me with such good this weekend that I really felt renewed by all His blessings. I will admit that my youth was gone by the time I fell into bed Saturday night!!! But I remained “satisfied” with good! Bless the Lord, O My Soul!
Heavenly Father,
We bless you for your many good gifts, including the gift of marriage. Encourage all couples to look to You as the source of forgiveness and healing when they encounter the daily struggles of marriage. Help us always to show love and forgiveness to others as a reflection of the love and forgiveness that we have been shown through Christ’s death and resurrection. In Jesus’ name we pray.
Amen
June 8 devotion
This week I keep hearing the words of Ecclesiastes 3 in my head. These verses were made popular in the sixties when Pete Seeger put the words to music and added the phrase “Turn, Turn, Turn,” I keep repeating the first line, “To everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven.”
Ecclesiastes 3
A Time for Everything
1For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
2a time to be born, and a time to) die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; 3a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; 5a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; 6a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; 7a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; 8a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace.
My youngest (and 4th) son just graduated from high school and left last Friday for Chicago. He plans to attend the University of IL at Chicago this fall and live with his older brother who is a CPA in Chicago. He decided to move up there for the summer.
Our 3rd son is getting married this Saturday--the first of our five children to get married. I am so excited to have another daughter and she is truly a blessing for my son. We thank God for this great gift. BUT it’s all changes. You know they say that motherhood is the only job where your goal is to work your way out of a job. Thankfully I still have a 13 year old daughter to ensure my “mother” job for a few more years!!!!
I also look a little further in chapter 3 and find comfort in verse 14.
14 I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it.
I thank God for the gift of faith he gave to these children through their baptism. Just as they became our child through birth, they became a child of God at their baptismal “rebirth.” While I may still worry and fret over them as they move on in their independence, I know in my heart that God will continue to hold them in His hands—and that is more powerful than any of my concerns.
Heavenly Father, many of your children are experiencing changes in their lives—children moving away, children getting married, divorce, death, job loss. Help us to remember that You are the CONSTANT amid all the turmoil. You do not ever change and Your promises are always fulfilled. You are the God of peace and have promised that peace to Your children. Help us to live as children of the promise with the constant assurance of Your grace through Jesus Christ to sustain us through all situations. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Ecclesiastes 3
A Time for Everything
1For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
2a time to be born, and a time to) die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; 3a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; 5a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; 6a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; 7a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; 8a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace.
My youngest (and 4th) son just graduated from high school and left last Friday for Chicago. He plans to attend the University of IL at Chicago this fall and live with his older brother who is a CPA in Chicago. He decided to move up there for the summer.
Our 3rd son is getting married this Saturday--the first of our five children to get married. I am so excited to have another daughter and she is truly a blessing for my son. We thank God for this great gift. BUT it’s all changes. You know they say that motherhood is the only job where your goal is to work your way out of a job. Thankfully I still have a 13 year old daughter to ensure my “mother” job for a few more years!!!!
I also look a little further in chapter 3 and find comfort in verse 14.
14 I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it.
I thank God for the gift of faith he gave to these children through their baptism. Just as they became our child through birth, they became a child of God at their baptismal “rebirth.” While I may still worry and fret over them as they move on in their independence, I know in my heart that God will continue to hold them in His hands—and that is more powerful than any of my concerns.
Heavenly Father, many of your children are experiencing changes in their lives—children moving away, children getting married, divorce, death, job loss. Help us to remember that You are the CONSTANT amid all the turmoil. You do not ever change and Your promises are always fulfilled. You are the God of peace and have promised that peace to Your children. Help us to live as children of the promise with the constant assurance of Your grace through Jesus Christ to sustain us through all situations. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
June 1 devotion
Last Sunday seemed to be a comedy of errors with our preschool Sunday School staff. Our craft station leader comes in and asks me if I had made copies of a particular paper for that day. It didn’t look familiar to me. It was not the coloring sheet I had copied for the "leaflet/review" station. We eventually determined that she was a week ahead of herself! She was thinking summer mode already and had looked at the craft suggestion for the first Sunday in June! In a few minutes, our storytelling station leader came in. She commented that we were doing a strange lesson for this Sunday. She had looked at the wrong lesson also—but a different one than the craft leader!
I came across this verse in Deuteronomy that made me think of last Sunday!
Deuteronomy 28:28
The LORD will afflict you with madness, blindness and confusion of mind.
It’s really an admonition to the Israelites of what will happen to those who do not obey the Lord but I was thinking that it sort of described us for a few minutes last Sunday morning!
But God was merciful and allowed us to quickly pull together the correct lesson for the day.
And the interesting thing was that our lesson was really on The Beatitudes. Our puppet, Sprout, asked the teacher, “Jesus also said, ‘Blessed are the merciful.’ What does it mean to be merciful?” And the teacher responded, “To be merciful means to be kind and loving, even when people do not deserve it.” We goofed. We did not deserve God’s mercy when we were unprepared for last Sunday’s lesson but God was merciful and allowed us to quickly regain our confidence and share His message with His children.
The Beatitudes
2And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
3 "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
5"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
6"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
7"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
8"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
9"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
10 "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 "Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Heavenly Father, Thank you for the mercy You show us every day. Thank you for being kind and loving even when we do not deserve it. Help us to show that mercy to others. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen
I came across this verse in Deuteronomy that made me think of last Sunday!
Deuteronomy 28:28
The LORD will afflict you with madness, blindness and confusion of mind.
It’s really an admonition to the Israelites of what will happen to those who do not obey the Lord but I was thinking that it sort of described us for a few minutes last Sunday morning!
But God was merciful and allowed us to quickly pull together the correct lesson for the day.
And the interesting thing was that our lesson was really on The Beatitudes. Our puppet, Sprout, asked the teacher, “Jesus also said, ‘Blessed are the merciful.’ What does it mean to be merciful?” And the teacher responded, “To be merciful means to be kind and loving, even when people do not deserve it.” We goofed. We did not deserve God’s mercy when we were unprepared for last Sunday’s lesson but God was merciful and allowed us to quickly regain our confidence and share His message with His children.
The Beatitudes
2And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
3 "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
5"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
6"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
7"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
8"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
9"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
10 "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 "Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Heavenly Father, Thank you for the mercy You show us every day. Thank you for being kind and loving even when we do not deserve it. Help us to show that mercy to others. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen
May 25 devotion
Psalm 55
1 Give ear to my prayer, O God,
and hide not yourself from my plea for mercy!
22 Cast your burden on the LORD,
and he will sustain you;
he will never permit
the righteous to be moved.
Did you ever feel like all your plans and hard work seem to be just falling apart all around you? This is my week to lament over VBS and to hopefully give some encouragement to those who are working hard in the planning stages of VBS or some other ministry project. After so many years of “doing” VBS it seems to run more smoothly every year. Then there is this year where the great ideas keep running up against road blocks. People that you count on (maybe even take for granted) suddenly say, “I just realized that I won’t be available that week.” You are less than a month away from VBS and there are still blanks to fill! Why me? And why this year? I also have a son getting married 8 days before the start of VBS. I have other things on my plate besides VBS!
I’m a little slow sometimes and God has to hit me a little harder than either of us would like. Today He’s telling me, “Let’s switch this focus.” Leave the pity party! Let’s spend more time praying for the people God wants to use in ministry this year. And let’s definitely spend more time giving God the credit for success! God doesn’t want us to simply spend all our time in prayer and not do any prep work, but sometimes we get so caught up in the “work” of a project that we forget about keeping “God” and “His will” in all the plans.
Ephesians 3:20-21
20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Heavenly Father, we praise You for being the God of order and truly having control over all things. We ask that You would guide all our planning efforts so that whatever we do would lead others to Jesus as their Lord and Savior and bring glory to Your name.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen
1 Give ear to my prayer, O God,
and hide not yourself from my plea for mercy!
22 Cast your burden on the LORD,
and he will sustain you;
he will never permit
the righteous to be moved.
Did you ever feel like all your plans and hard work seem to be just falling apart all around you? This is my week to lament over VBS and to hopefully give some encouragement to those who are working hard in the planning stages of VBS or some other ministry project. After so many years of “doing” VBS it seems to run more smoothly every year. Then there is this year where the great ideas keep running up against road blocks. People that you count on (maybe even take for granted) suddenly say, “I just realized that I won’t be available that week.” You are less than a month away from VBS and there are still blanks to fill! Why me? And why this year? I also have a son getting married 8 days before the start of VBS. I have other things on my plate besides VBS!
I’m a little slow sometimes and God has to hit me a little harder than either of us would like. Today He’s telling me, “Let’s switch this focus.” Leave the pity party! Let’s spend more time praying for the people God wants to use in ministry this year. And let’s definitely spend more time giving God the credit for success! God doesn’t want us to simply spend all our time in prayer and not do any prep work, but sometimes we get so caught up in the “work” of a project that we forget about keeping “God” and “His will” in all the plans.
Ephesians 3:20-21
20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Heavenly Father, we praise You for being the God of order and truly having control over all things. We ask that You would guide all our planning efforts so that whatever we do would lead others to Jesus as their Lord and Savior and bring glory to Your name.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen
May 18 devotion
Luke 24:50-53
The Ascension
50Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. 51While he blessed them, he parted from them and was carried up into heaven. 52And they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, 53and were continually in the temple blessing God.Last Sunday our Sunday School lesson was about Jesus’ Ascension into heaven 40 days after Easter. In our preschool and Kindergarten opening I was getting the kids ready to hear the story of Jesus’ return to His heavenly home. I asked them questions such as, “Do any of you live in a Cave?” “Who lives in a cave?” “How about a nest?” “Who lives in a nest?” “Who lives in the ocean?” “Do any of you live in a house?” “Who lives in an apartment?” I finally got to the last question. “Who lives in heaven?” I was expecting a typical Sunday School answer of “Jesus!” A kindergartener whose 14 year old sister died during Holy Week quickly replied, “My sister!” Yes!!!! That’s right, Skylar. You’re adopted sister, Mackenzie, who was baptized just months before she died. You’re right, she no longer needs a wheelchair or a feeding tube or glasses. She now talks face to face with Jesus and lives in her heavenly home with Him forever.
Skylar led us right to the “Key Point” of our lesson. Jesus, our risen Savior, ascended into heaven to prepare a place for us there with Him.
John reminds us of this in his Gospel.
John 14:1-3 (New International Version)
Jesus Comforts His Disciples
1"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. 2In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.
Lord, We thank and praise You for coming to earth to be our Savior. Thank You for returning to Your home in heaven to prepare a wonderful place for us there with You . Help us to trust that, even though we can not see You, You are still with us always. In Your name we pray. Amen.
The Ascension
50Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. 51While he blessed them, he parted from them and was carried up into heaven. 52And they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, 53and were continually in the temple blessing God.Last Sunday our Sunday School lesson was about Jesus’ Ascension into heaven 40 days after Easter. In our preschool and Kindergarten opening I was getting the kids ready to hear the story of Jesus’ return to His heavenly home. I asked them questions such as, “Do any of you live in a Cave?” “Who lives in a cave?” “How about a nest?” “Who lives in a nest?” “Who lives in the ocean?” “Do any of you live in a house?” “Who lives in an apartment?” I finally got to the last question. “Who lives in heaven?” I was expecting a typical Sunday School answer of “Jesus!” A kindergartener whose 14 year old sister died during Holy Week quickly replied, “My sister!” Yes!!!! That’s right, Skylar. You’re adopted sister, Mackenzie, who was baptized just months before she died. You’re right, she no longer needs a wheelchair or a feeding tube or glasses. She now talks face to face with Jesus and lives in her heavenly home with Him forever.
Skylar led us right to the “Key Point” of our lesson. Jesus, our risen Savior, ascended into heaven to prepare a place for us there with Him.
John reminds us of this in his Gospel.
John 14:1-3 (New International Version)
Jesus Comforts His Disciples
1"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. 2In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.
Lord, We thank and praise You for coming to earth to be our Savior. Thank You for returning to Your home in heaven to prepare a wonderful place for us there with You . Help us to trust that, even though we can not see You, You are still with us always. In Your name we pray. Amen.
May 11 devotion
As I was walking through the school on an errand earlier I noticed that this was the final day for a program we have at our school called “Lunch Buddies.” And it really touched my heart to see some of the interaction going on between the adults and students. Many students at our school as at most schools struggle with many issues. Some struggle because of a divorce or a death in their family. Some struggle because they are the “new kid” and they do not make friends easily. The lunch buddy program looks for adults who are willing to give one hour a month and eat lunch with one of these children. It’s a great opportunity for a child to have the one-on-one, undivided attention of a Christian adult. I particularly noted the joy and excitement a junior high student was experiencing while playing a board game with a seminary student! I believe this is fulfilling what St. Paul encouraged the early church to do when he says in 1 Thessalonians 5:14 (New International Version)
14And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone.
That sounds like the definition of a mentor! We tend to hear that word a lot these days and most churches offer many opportunities to “mentor.” I know this year we also started a program of having men in the congregation be “encouragers” to the boys in the Confirmation class. Our MOPS (Mothers of PreSchoolers) group has Mentor Moms. I consider every Sunday School and VBS leader to be a mentor to the students in their group. What a great opportunity we have as Christians to impact our community, our country and the world by investing in the life of an individual.
Heavenly Father,
I thank you for the Christians who invested their time in my life. Please encourage all Christians to take advantage of the opportunities you place before them to strengthen and encourage those around them. Send Your Holy Spirit to guide us as we find ways to share our faith in Your Son, Our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
14And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone.
That sounds like the definition of a mentor! We tend to hear that word a lot these days and most churches offer many opportunities to “mentor.” I know this year we also started a program of having men in the congregation be “encouragers” to the boys in the Confirmation class. Our MOPS (Mothers of PreSchoolers) group has Mentor Moms. I consider every Sunday School and VBS leader to be a mentor to the students in their group. What a great opportunity we have as Christians to impact our community, our country and the world by investing in the life of an individual.
Heavenly Father,
I thank you for the Christians who invested their time in my life. Please encourage all Christians to take advantage of the opportunities you place before them to strengthen and encourage those around them. Send Your Holy Spirit to guide us as we find ways to share our faith in Your Son, Our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
May 4 devotion
Galatians 5:13-14 (New International Version)
13You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. 14The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."
Today I am substitute teaching in a 5th grade classroom. I have spent my entire morning supervising 5th graders as they work together in groups of 5 or 6 to write a puppet show that they will perform for the 1st graders. Before the first class began their work on their project, I asked them a hypothetical question. If you had 2 minutes to talk on the radio, what would you want to say to all the listeners? I got some great responses—and many typical “Lutheran school” responses! Many of these kids also know me as their 5th & 6th grade youth group leader! The first response was, “Tell them to be kind.” This was followed by, “Tell them about Jesus.” “Tell them to attend worship.” “Tell them that Jesus died on the cross to forgive their sins.” “Tell them to tell others about Jesus.” “Tell them to treat others like they would want to be treated.” Okay, we summed all that up by saying that we attend worship and treat others kindly because of what Jesus did for us on the cross. No great insights there but good solid advice. Then I proceeded to explain the expectations for their work on their projects and set them free to work on this for over an hour (2 class periods). This was when their advice really made an impact. I saw these students working together without any complaints or arguments. Each group seemed to truly show a spirit of cooperation and of kindness. They worked diligently even though they could have really abused this somewhat “free” time.
The bell rang and the next 5th grade class came in. This time I did not take any time to ask them for “radio ideas.” Maybe I should have. I proceeded to explain the ground rules of using the puppets and the expectations of the rest of the morning. I then told them that they had until lunch to work on this project. This group seemed to “indulge in their sinful nature” a little more. Within 5 minutes several students were tattling on others in their group who were not “doing what they are supposed to!” Several times I had to ask this class to “lower the volume.” I had to ask several students “Where is your group?” And “Why are not in it?” 25 minutes into the class I had to threaten the ultimate “no free dress day” for anyone out of their group! I am so thankful that the teacher left me with that little gem—much more effective than detention.
Just like some of the 5th graders took advantage of their “freedom” so I am reminded that our freedom is a freedom “from” sin and not a freedom “to” sin. I need to be reminded every day of God’s abundant grace that has been given so freely to me so that I might respond to others out of thankfulness for that gift of forgiveness, life and salvation.
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your abundant gift of grace which gives us the freedom from sin. Help us to show our thankfulness to you in our interactions with others.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
13You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. 14The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."
Today I am substitute teaching in a 5th grade classroom. I have spent my entire morning supervising 5th graders as they work together in groups of 5 or 6 to write a puppet show that they will perform for the 1st graders. Before the first class began their work on their project, I asked them a hypothetical question. If you had 2 minutes to talk on the radio, what would you want to say to all the listeners? I got some great responses—and many typical “Lutheran school” responses! Many of these kids also know me as their 5th & 6th grade youth group leader! The first response was, “Tell them to be kind.” This was followed by, “Tell them about Jesus.” “Tell them to attend worship.” “Tell them that Jesus died on the cross to forgive their sins.” “Tell them to tell others about Jesus.” “Tell them to treat others like they would want to be treated.” Okay, we summed all that up by saying that we attend worship and treat others kindly because of what Jesus did for us on the cross. No great insights there but good solid advice. Then I proceeded to explain the expectations for their work on their projects and set them free to work on this for over an hour (2 class periods). This was when their advice really made an impact. I saw these students working together without any complaints or arguments. Each group seemed to truly show a spirit of cooperation and of kindness. They worked diligently even though they could have really abused this somewhat “free” time.
The bell rang and the next 5th grade class came in. This time I did not take any time to ask them for “radio ideas.” Maybe I should have. I proceeded to explain the ground rules of using the puppets and the expectations of the rest of the morning. I then told them that they had until lunch to work on this project. This group seemed to “indulge in their sinful nature” a little more. Within 5 minutes several students were tattling on others in their group who were not “doing what they are supposed to!” Several times I had to ask this class to “lower the volume.” I had to ask several students “Where is your group?” And “Why are not in it?” 25 minutes into the class I had to threaten the ultimate “no free dress day” for anyone out of their group! I am so thankful that the teacher left me with that little gem—much more effective than detention.
Just like some of the 5th graders took advantage of their “freedom” so I am reminded that our freedom is a freedom “from” sin and not a freedom “to” sin. I need to be reminded every day of God’s abundant grace that has been given so freely to me so that I might respond to others out of thankfulness for that gift of forgiveness, life and salvation.
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your abundant gift of grace which gives us the freedom from sin. Help us to show our thankfulness to you in our interactions with others.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
April 20 devotion
John 20.27
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.
I love Good Shepherd Sunday, Everything about it is so warm and cuddly and comforting. I used to look at being “known” by God from a Law perspective. It was a scary thought that God knew everything I did. But as I matured I saw the pure grace in that statement. God knows me as only He can. He knows everything about be including my firm hope of salvation through the blood of the Lamb.
“I am Jesus Little Lamb” was a favorite bedtime lullaby at our house. My husband spent many nights walking the floor with a fussy baby while repeatedly singing those verses. One night we were at a friend’s house and it was getting late. We were preparing to leave but still talking when one the toddlers started pulling on Dad’s pants leg while crying, “I Jesus Lamb. I Jesus Lamb.” He had had enough. It was time to go home—to feel the security of Dad holding him and the comfort of the words of “I Am Jesus’ Little Lamb.”
As I was reading over the Growing in Christ material for this Sunday’s Bible Class lesson on John 10, they note that “I Am Jesus’ Little Lamb” was included in the Lord’s Supper section in some older hymnals. We think of it as a simple children’s song but the second verse reminds us of the sacraments: “When I hunger, Jesus feeds me,/ Into pleasant pastures leads me. When I thirst He bids me go/ Where the quiet waters flow.” He feeds us with righteousness at His table and daily quenches our thirst for forgiveness as we look to the waters of Baptism.
Heavenly Father, We thank and praise you for being Our God and for knowing us as only You can. We thank you for being The Good Shepherd. Help us to always hear Your voice and to follow You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.
I love Good Shepherd Sunday, Everything about it is so warm and cuddly and comforting. I used to look at being “known” by God from a Law perspective. It was a scary thought that God knew everything I did. But as I matured I saw the pure grace in that statement. God knows me as only He can. He knows everything about be including my firm hope of salvation through the blood of the Lamb.
“I am Jesus Little Lamb” was a favorite bedtime lullaby at our house. My husband spent many nights walking the floor with a fussy baby while repeatedly singing those verses. One night we were at a friend’s house and it was getting late. We were preparing to leave but still talking when one the toddlers started pulling on Dad’s pants leg while crying, “I Jesus Lamb. I Jesus Lamb.” He had had enough. It was time to go home—to feel the security of Dad holding him and the comfort of the words of “I Am Jesus’ Little Lamb.”
As I was reading over the Growing in Christ material for this Sunday’s Bible Class lesson on John 10, they note that “I Am Jesus’ Little Lamb” was included in the Lord’s Supper section in some older hymnals. We think of it as a simple children’s song but the second verse reminds us of the sacraments: “When I hunger, Jesus feeds me,/ Into pleasant pastures leads me. When I thirst He bids me go/ Where the quiet waters flow.” He feeds us with righteousness at His table and daily quenches our thirst for forgiveness as we look to the waters of Baptism.
Heavenly Father, We thank and praise you for being Our God and for knowing us as only You can. We thank you for being The Good Shepherd. Help us to always hear Your voice and to follow You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen
March 9 devotion
Psalm 101:1
[ I Will Walk with Integrity ] A Psalm of David. I will sing of steadfast love and justice; to you, O LORD, I will make music.
I have been working on Confirmation banners the past two days. This morning I am putting together the last one. As I looked up the verse that is going on this banner, I fell it love with it. That’s what I would like to share today. It’s Psalm 101.1. The more I thought about this verse the more I liked it. At first “steadfast love” seems far apart from “justice”. But really they go hand in hand. As a human, my love is not very steadfast—my emotions and moods fluctuate and as a result my “justice” is not often very just. But God administers justice not out of anger or spite but out of steadfast (unmoving, unchanging, perfectly loyal) love. But His perfect, steadfast love does not stop Him from administering the deserved justice. The justice we deserve for our sins is complete separation from God for eternity. But thanks be to God for the gift of His Son who willing gave His life as a sacrifice for our sins so that all who believe in Him could have eternal life.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for your steadfast love and for your justice. We thank you for the sacrifice of your Son for our salvation. Help us to sing praises continually for all your good gifts. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
[ I Will Walk with Integrity ] A Psalm of David. I will sing of steadfast love and justice; to you, O LORD, I will make music.
I have been working on Confirmation banners the past two days. This morning I am putting together the last one. As I looked up the verse that is going on this banner, I fell it love with it. That’s what I would like to share today. It’s Psalm 101.1. The more I thought about this verse the more I liked it. At first “steadfast love” seems far apart from “justice”. But really they go hand in hand. As a human, my love is not very steadfast—my emotions and moods fluctuate and as a result my “justice” is not often very just. But God administers justice not out of anger or spite but out of steadfast (unmoving, unchanging, perfectly loyal) love. But His perfect, steadfast love does not stop Him from administering the deserved justice. The justice we deserve for our sins is complete separation from God for eternity. But thanks be to God for the gift of His Son who willing gave His life as a sacrifice for our sins so that all who believe in Him could have eternal life.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for your steadfast love and for your justice. We thank you for the sacrifice of your Son for our salvation. Help us to sing praises continually for all your good gifts. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Feb 23
Eph. 3:19
14For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
I want to share with you something from our Wed morning Women’s Bible study from last week (Ash Wednesday). Now our ladies are all about visiting and sharing and encouraging in a great way. And, of course, that always includes food. I suggested that perhaps we might do something different for Ash Wednesday and not have food at our Bible Study and maybe meet in the sanctuary instead of the fellowship hall. They agreed. I was a little hesitant, thinking maybe I was just being selfish in not having to prepare a “real” lesson but I forged ahead anyway. We usually have a time of sharing prayer requests. This week I asked them to put their requests on slips of paper and place them in a basket. We still allowed the verbal sharing of things for the whole group before spending time singing Lenten hymns. After about 6 hymns, I passed out a few Ash Wednesday devotionals as well as some information about the imposition of ashes and then allowed the women about 40 minutes of quiet time. They could sit anywhere in the church, use the devotional sheets, use the pew Bibles, pray silently in their pew or kneel at the communion rail. This was like giving some of these young mothers gold. Their children were safely attended to in the nursery and they could finally have that quiet time that somehow always gets interrupted or pushed aside by the myriad of urgent things that always seems to fill the to do list.
14For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
I want to share with you something from our Wed morning Women’s Bible study from last week (Ash Wednesday). Now our ladies are all about visiting and sharing and encouraging in a great way. And, of course, that always includes food. I suggested that perhaps we might do something different for Ash Wednesday and not have food at our Bible Study and maybe meet in the sanctuary instead of the fellowship hall. They agreed. I was a little hesitant, thinking maybe I was just being selfish in not having to prepare a “real” lesson but I forged ahead anyway. We usually have a time of sharing prayer requests. This week I asked them to put their requests on slips of paper and place them in a basket. We still allowed the verbal sharing of things for the whole group before spending time singing Lenten hymns. After about 6 hymns, I passed out a few Ash Wednesday devotionals as well as some information about the imposition of ashes and then allowed the women about 40 minutes of quiet time. They could sit anywhere in the church, use the devotional sheets, use the pew Bibles, pray silently in their pew or kneel at the communion rail. This was like giving some of these young mothers gold. Their children were safely attended to in the nursery and they could finally have that quiet time that somehow always gets interrupted or pushed aside by the myriad of urgent things that always seems to fill the to do list.
Feb 9 devotion
The NT reading for today in the Treasury of Daily Prayer was John 3.1-21. The last section (vs. 16-21) talks about the light and darkness.
16"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. 18Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. 19 And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. 20 For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. 21But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God."
Last night I was abruptly awakened by a cat knocking over a tray table with a half-full mug of hot chocolate on it! As I was cleaning up the mess and kicking the cat back down to the basement, I stopped to look outside. I love the brightness of a fresh fallen snow. I actually walked to the front door because I thought someone had left the porch light on. It was actually just the brightness of the snow. It was really beautiful. But I also thought about how hard it is to hide with fresh snow! I could clearly see in the brightness that nothing had disturbed the snow yet—there were no footprints, no paw prints, no tire tracks. (A few hours later that was not the case. I could see my husband’s footprints from shoveling the walk. I could see my son’s tire tracks as he left for work.) Like these verses say, the light exposes our works. Many nights you do not see when a neighborhood dog walks through your yard or a neighbor gets home really late or maybe leaves for work before daybreak. But in the brightness those things become evident. But all our deeds done in the darkness of sin are seen in the light of Jesus. His Word exposes our sins and drops of to our knees in repentance. But the other thought I had as I looked at the snow was from Psalm 51 verse 7.
7Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean;
wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
I have been humming that song in my head all morning—especially as I opened the drapes several hours later and the sunlight on the snow was almost blinding!
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the light which has come into the world—the light of your Son, Jesus Christ. And thank you for His death on the cross which allows us to washed “whiter than snow!” Help us by the Holy Spirit to continually walk in the light. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
16"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. 18Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. 19 And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. 20 For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. 21But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God."
Last night I was abruptly awakened by a cat knocking over a tray table with a half-full mug of hot chocolate on it! As I was cleaning up the mess and kicking the cat back down to the basement, I stopped to look outside. I love the brightness of a fresh fallen snow. I actually walked to the front door because I thought someone had left the porch light on. It was actually just the brightness of the snow. It was really beautiful. But I also thought about how hard it is to hide with fresh snow! I could clearly see in the brightness that nothing had disturbed the snow yet—there were no footprints, no paw prints, no tire tracks. (A few hours later that was not the case. I could see my husband’s footprints from shoveling the walk. I could see my son’s tire tracks as he left for work.) Like these verses say, the light exposes our works. Many nights you do not see when a neighborhood dog walks through your yard or a neighbor gets home really late or maybe leaves for work before daybreak. But in the brightness those things become evident. But all our deeds done in the darkness of sin are seen in the light of Jesus. His Word exposes our sins and drops of to our knees in repentance. But the other thought I had as I looked at the snow was from Psalm 51 verse 7.
7Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean;
wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
I have been humming that song in my head all morning—especially as I opened the drapes several hours later and the sunlight on the snow was almost blinding!
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the light which has come into the world—the light of your Son, Jesus Christ. And thank you for His death on the cross which allows us to washed “whiter than snow!” Help us by the Holy Spirit to continually walk in the light. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Feb 2 devotion
I was reading the story in Luke 5.1-11 where Jesus calls his first disciples. Jesus is in a boat teaching. When he finishes teaching, he tells Simon "Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch." Then in verse 5 we read 5Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets." Now with our 20/20 hindsight we want to tell Simon, “This is the Son of God—Don’t argue, just DO IT!” And that’s when I have to stop and remind myself of all the times I have argued with God. I know God is speaking directly to me through His Word telling me what I SHOULD do but I can always come up with excuses. I don’t have time today. But it really wasn’t my fault. She started it—why should I be the one to apologize. But someone else should make that call. Someone else should speak to that visitor. Like a child arguing about doing her chores—we spend more time making excuses than it would take to just do it! And, like Peter we end up falling at Jesus’ knees and confessing our sinfulness. And we, once again, are comforted by the assurance of forgiveness because of our faith in Jesus, our risen Lord and Savior.
Heavenly Father, Forgive us for the many times we hesitate to do your will. Help us, by the power of the Holy Spirit, to listen more clearly to Your Word and to obey more willingly to your commands. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Heavenly Father, Forgive us for the many times we hesitate to do your will. Help us, by the power of the Holy Spirit, to listen more clearly to Your Word and to obey more willingly to your commands. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Jan 19 devotion
Are you a bargain shopper?
Anyone who knows me, knows that I am always looking for a bargain. I am a fan of a Facebook site that tells you about Freebies (or at least very good deals) every day. Everybody likes to get things for FREE! Most freebies are samples. You provide them with your address and they mail you a sample. I saw that a friend had become a fan of a page to get a free pair of boots! It really looked too good to be true. My curiosity caused me to click on it to check it out. While all the hype said “FREE”, the “conditions” were fairly long and included cutting and pasting (which would take you away from Facebook) and messaging ALL your friends! Well, to me this screamed SPAM. Now, I am not considering this a FREE offer. There are now things I must DO in order to get this item. While they may not cost “money,” there is a cost involved.
That got me thinking about SALVATION—this FREE gift from God through faith in Jesus. No strings attached. Many times our sinful self wants to add strings, many religions want to add strings. “It is a free gift, all you have to do is……..” The Bible speaks clearly in Romans 6.23.
Romans 6:23 (English Standard Version)
23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your FREE GIFT of eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. May our lives reflect our thankfulness for this merciful gift. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Anyone who knows me, knows that I am always looking for a bargain. I am a fan of a Facebook site that tells you about Freebies (or at least very good deals) every day. Everybody likes to get things for FREE! Most freebies are samples. You provide them with your address and they mail you a sample. I saw that a friend had become a fan of a page to get a free pair of boots! It really looked too good to be true. My curiosity caused me to click on it to check it out. While all the hype said “FREE”, the “conditions” were fairly long and included cutting and pasting (which would take you away from Facebook) and messaging ALL your friends! Well, to me this screamed SPAM. Now, I am not considering this a FREE offer. There are now things I must DO in order to get this item. While they may not cost “money,” there is a cost involved.
That got me thinking about SALVATION—this FREE gift from God through faith in Jesus. No strings attached. Many times our sinful self wants to add strings, many religions want to add strings. “It is a free gift, all you have to do is……..” The Bible speaks clearly in Romans 6.23.
Romans 6:23 (English Standard Version)
23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your FREE GIFT of eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. May our lives reflect our thankfulness for this merciful gift. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
April 27 devotion
I am still basking in the afterglow of Good Shepherd Sunday! It was such a great service. Last week I shared one of the verses from last Sunday’s Gospel where Jesus says in John chapter 20, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”
Saturday night we were blest at Good Shepherd to see a living example of that Gospel verse. One of our members, Dennis, was recently diagnosed with cancer. As the cancer spread rapidly, his body was not able to heal sufficiently to even begin treatment. Hospice was called in last week and he was taken to his split-level home. His one desire was to attend church—to hear again the voice of his Shepherd that he knew so well. A few phone calls were made and several men in the congregation agreed to help him make that trip from his “non-wheelchair” accessible house. Amid the sound of tornado sirens, they made the decision to go ahead and make the trip to church. What an inspiration to see this family in worship together—to see them together at the communion rail, to see them join their voices in singing “I Am Jesus Little Lamb.”
And what comfort the family received from the other Scripture reading from last Sunday from Rev. 7.17 as Dennis joined his Good Shepherd before the throne of God on Sunday afternoon.
Revelation 7:17 (English Standard Version)
17For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd,
and he will guide them to springs of living water,
and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes."
Heavenly Father, we know that you have each of our lives in Your good and gracious hands. Help us to always have that fervent desire to hear Your Word and to worship You. We pray for all those who mourn, that You would “wipe every tear from their eyes” as they look and listen to The Good Shepherd Who laid down His life for our salvation. In His name we pray. Amen.
Saturday night we were blest at Good Shepherd to see a living example of that Gospel verse. One of our members, Dennis, was recently diagnosed with cancer. As the cancer spread rapidly, his body was not able to heal sufficiently to even begin treatment. Hospice was called in last week and he was taken to his split-level home. His one desire was to attend church—to hear again the voice of his Shepherd that he knew so well. A few phone calls were made and several men in the congregation agreed to help him make that trip from his “non-wheelchair” accessible house. Amid the sound of tornado sirens, they made the decision to go ahead and make the trip to church. What an inspiration to see this family in worship together—to see them together at the communion rail, to see them join their voices in singing “I Am Jesus Little Lamb.”
And what comfort the family received from the other Scripture reading from last Sunday from Rev. 7.17 as Dennis joined his Good Shepherd before the throne of God on Sunday afternoon.
Revelation 7:17 (English Standard Version)
17For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd,
and he will guide them to springs of living water,
and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes."
Heavenly Father, we know that you have each of our lives in Your good and gracious hands. Help us to always have that fervent desire to hear Your Word and to worship You. We pray for all those who mourn, that You would “wipe every tear from their eyes” as they look and listen to The Good Shepherd Who laid down His life for our salvation. In His name we pray. Amen.
Feb. 16 devotion
Matthew 16:24 (English Standard Version)
24Then Jesus told his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.
What are you giving up for Lent? What does it mean when Jesus tells us to deny ourselves? Am I obeying Him when I deny myself chocolate or Facebook or sugar for the season of Lent? Is doing that wrong? Many people try to “give up” something that they love in order to focus on the sacrifice Jesus made for us on the cross. While not “wrong”, somehow “chocolate” doesn’t seem to compare to “crucifixion”. When we deny ourselves we are simply denying that we are number 1! We put Christ first in our lives and submit to His will for our lives. We realize that the end for Christ and for us is not the CROSS but eternal life in God’s Kingdom!
I would challenge you during the season of Lent to also ask “What can I ADD for Lent?” Maybe you might be encouraged to read your Bible daily, to spend more time in prayer, to have family devotions every day, to attend every Lenten service, or to more conscientiously share your faith with those around you. We don’t add these things to prove we are a great Christian or to gain our heavenly reward. We do these things out of gratitude for the Father’s unfailing love that sent His only Son to Earth to suffer and die for our sins.
One of my favorite hymns is “Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed.” Vs. 5 says:
But drops of grief can ne’er repay.
The debt of love I owe.
Here Lord I give myself away:
‘Tis all that I can do.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for that unfathomable gift of love you gave us in the suffering, death, and resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ. As we focus on His sacrifice during this season of Lent, may we be moved to give of ourselves as we seek to follow His will for our lives. In Jesus name we pray. Amen
24Then Jesus told his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.
What are you giving up for Lent? What does it mean when Jesus tells us to deny ourselves? Am I obeying Him when I deny myself chocolate or Facebook or sugar for the season of Lent? Is doing that wrong? Many people try to “give up” something that they love in order to focus on the sacrifice Jesus made for us on the cross. While not “wrong”, somehow “chocolate” doesn’t seem to compare to “crucifixion”. When we deny ourselves we are simply denying that we are number 1! We put Christ first in our lives and submit to His will for our lives. We realize that the end for Christ and for us is not the CROSS but eternal life in God’s Kingdom!
I would challenge you during the season of Lent to also ask “What can I ADD for Lent?” Maybe you might be encouraged to read your Bible daily, to spend more time in prayer, to have family devotions every day, to attend every Lenten service, or to more conscientiously share your faith with those around you. We don’t add these things to prove we are a great Christian or to gain our heavenly reward. We do these things out of gratitude for the Father’s unfailing love that sent His only Son to Earth to suffer and die for our sins.
One of my favorite hymns is “Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed.” Vs. 5 says:
But drops of grief can ne’er repay.
The debt of love I owe.
Here Lord I give myself away:
‘Tis all that I can do.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for that unfathomable gift of love you gave us in the suffering, death, and resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ. As we focus on His sacrifice during this season of Lent, may we be moved to give of ourselves as we seek to follow His will for our lives. In Jesus name we pray. Amen
June 29 devotion
Our women’s Bible study this morning was on the Archangel Gabriel. We were reading about the different appearances of Gabriel to Daniel and to Zechariah and to Mary. In Luke chapter 1, verses 26-38 records Gabriel’s conversation with Mary when he tells her that she will have a son named Jesus. Mary totally trusts that the words spoken by Gabriel will happen but she does question how they will happen since she is a virgin. Gabriel goes on to tell her that this baby will be conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and will be the Son of God. He also tells her about her elderly relative, Elizabeth, who is also going to have a baby when people thought it was impossible. Then Gabriel tells her the words that many of us remember as being somewhere in the Bible and many of us need to remember every day in our walk with the Lord. In Luke 1:37 Gabriel says, “For nothing will be impossible with God.”
We read God’s commands and promises about the Sabbath Day and we think, “But how?” I need that day for me. It’s my only day to sleep in and get rest. We forget that we find our true rest—our spiritual rest—in Him. We read God’s commands about tithing and we think, “But how?” If I tithe from my first fruits some bill will not get paid this week. We forget God’s promise to provide—not for all our wants but for all our needs. We read God’s command to be His witness and we think, “But how?” I can’t speak very eloquently. I won’t know the right words to say. We forget God’s promise to be with us at all times. We see many things that we know we should be doing as “impossible.” It’s easy to say, “I can’t.” That’s when we need to be reminded of those words from Luke: “For nothing will be impossible with God.” That’s right—I can’t! But God can.
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for Your Word which points us to Your Son and His saving sacrifice for our sins. Help us to begin all our tasks with the Lord, knowing that “nothing will be impossible with God.” In Jesus’ Name we pray.
Amen
We read God’s commands and promises about the Sabbath Day and we think, “But how?” I need that day for me. It’s my only day to sleep in and get rest. We forget that we find our true rest—our spiritual rest—in Him. We read God’s commands about tithing and we think, “But how?” If I tithe from my first fruits some bill will not get paid this week. We forget God’s promise to provide—not for all our wants but for all our needs. We read God’s command to be His witness and we think, “But how?” I can’t speak very eloquently. I won’t know the right words to say. We forget God’s promise to be with us at all times. We see many things that we know we should be doing as “impossible.” It’s easy to say, “I can’t.” That’s when we need to be reminded of those words from Luke: “For nothing will be impossible with God.” That’s right—I can’t! But God can.
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for Your Word which points us to Your Son and His saving sacrifice for our sins. Help us to begin all our tasks with the Lord, knowing that “nothing will be impossible with God.” In Jesus’ Name we pray.
Amen
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)