Make Disciples

 

     Some say faith is a private issue and it is a personal and unique relationship between an individual and God. True, but, as Christians, the Holy Spirit fills us to the brim with the living water of Jesus and we have to speak! Peter and John had been arrested. They were forbidden to speak about Jesus.

     Did that stop them? Not at all. They were right back out in the public square preaching the news. This news was too good to keep to themselves. The Spirit within them would not allow them to be quiet. Here is their response:

Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, “Which is right in God’s eyes, to listen to you or to Him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about all we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:18-20

     As for us, we can’t help speaking of all we have seen and heard. Let it be true of us as it was for Peter and John.

Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.  And surely I am with you always to the very end of the age. Matthew 28:19-20

 Jesus,

Let us speak in Your name, even as we are persecuted and ridiculed. You want everyone to know You.

Amen

 

Go and Tell

 

     Each of us, as believers, have a story to tell. Some of us have known Jesus since childhood, others met Him as seniors. I love the fact that Jesus is ready whenever we are. He knows when our hearts are ready to receive Him.

     I have witnessed how He places the right people at the right time in our lives to share the Gospel. Sometimes we just don’t want to hear it from our own family or friends. A stranger could just “happen” to walk into a life with the good news.

     If you know Jesus, you have a testimony. No one else met Him in the same way, at the same time. All of our stories have meaning and purpose. Maybe God is preparing you to share the love of Christ, how He has changed you, how He has opened your heart, how He loves you, how He offers peace and joy and hope. Your story is unique and maybe, just maybe, someone around you is ready to listen. Don’t be afraid. The Holy Spirit will give you the words.

At that time, you will be given what to say. Matthew 10:19b

For the Holy Spirit will teach you, at that time, what you should say. Luke 12:12

     Go and tell what God has done for you.

I will give thanks to You, Lord, with all my heart. I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. Psalm 9:1

Father,

We lean on You to help us speak of Your wonderful deeds. Lead us to those ready to hear Your voice and let the Holy Spirit give us just the right words.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Seeking God?

 

     God is waiting for you. Have you noticed a yearning in your heart? Are you hesitant to come closer? See if Jesus is for real? Is it possible God truly sent His Son to earth over 2,000 years ago?

     The profound and transforming answers to those questions will change your life. The blessed assurance of finally and forever letting yourself go safely into His arms will set you free. Free from the penalty of sin, free to find peace for your soul, free to be loved forever, free to hope for the reality of eternity.

     How can you go wrong? Here is His voice speaking to your heart.

You will seek Me and find Me, when you seek Me with all of your heart. Jeremiah 29:13

“Come to Me, all you who are weary and heavy-burdened and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

     Believe He will answer your seeking heart.

I sought the Lord and He answered me. He delivered me from all my fears. Psalm 34:4

     All of us fall short of the glory of God. All of us. God gave us a way to Him through Jesus. Jesus Christ died for you and for me. He rose again and conquered death and He is alive! He has risen! No more death and all we have to do is believe. Here is the good news for those of you seeking an answer.

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe resulting in righteousness and it with your mouth you confess resulting in salvation. Romans 10:9-10

     It is a pure gift of grace. None of us deserve it. None of us can attain it without the one and only Son, sent from the Father.

The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1;14

Lord,

There are no words that can express the thanksgiving we have in our hearts for Jesus. Please open more hearts to His truth, to His Gospel, to His grace.

In Jesus name,

Amen

The Times of Your Life

 

     This week we have looked at our relationships including friendships, spouses and grandchildren, along with the relationships we have to end.  Thank you for allowing me to share stories from my life. I love hearing yours, too.  We are on this journey together. My husband and I  heard an old song by Paul Anka this week and the lyrics seemed to fit.:

Good morning, yesterday
You wake up and time has slipped away
And suddenly it's hard to find
The memories you left behind

Remember the times of your life.

The laughter and the tears
The shadows of misty yesteryears
The good times and the bad you've seen
And all the others in between
Remember, do you remember the times of your life?

Reach out for the joy and the sorrow
Put them away in your mind
The memories are time that you borrow
To spend when you get to tomorrow

Here comes the saddest part
The seasons are passing one by one
So gather moments while you may
Collect the dreams you dream today
Remember, will you remember
The times of your life?

     The Bible leads us in two separate directions. First, to look back and learn and remember. The second, to move on. Often, it is hard to do both. Today be grateful for those around you, savor the memories and look ahead with hope and trust. You are loved.

This is what the Lord says, “Stand at the crossroads and look, ask for the ancient paths. Ask where the good way is and walk in it and you will find rest for your souls.” Jeremiah 6:16a

Remember the former things, those of long ago. I am God and there is no other. I am God and there is none like Me. Isaiah 46:9

     Look back and remember and learn and look ahead.

“Forget the former things, do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up. Do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the desert.” Isaiah 43:18-19

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it, but  one thing I do. Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead. Philippians 3:13

     It takes perseverance and patience to move ahead. Remember, learn and move.

Jesus,

The times of our lives remain in our hearts and minds. As we age, the memories warm our hearts. Help us to hold onto the good, learn from the bad and hold onto hope in You.

Amen

Superhero

 

     Today our sweet, happy, hockey-playing, silly and smart super hero, Gavin, turns 6. Our hearts are so full of gratitude for this child. After dealing with a rare form of epilepsy that often does not respond to medication, we witnessed a miracle and he has been seizure-free for going on three years!

     That time was one of the toughest in our lives. Seeing a small child suffer and facing an unknown future, brought us completely to our knees and we relied on the prayers of so many to hold us all up. And God answered our prayers.

     He loves superheroes and loves to dress up as each one. Superheroes may leap tall buildings in a single bound and use mighty weapons to catch the bad guys. To us, Gavin has fought his own battles and won! He is our true superhero. He loves kindergarten, riding dirt bikes, helping dad and giving bear hugs. Happy birthday to our sweet boy Gavin and thank you all, once again, for your prayers.

I thank my God every time I remember you. Philippians 1:3

Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children. Proverbs 17:6

Father,

We praise You for giving us Gavin today. Bless all of our children and grandchildren as we teach them about You. We love you.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Opposites

 

     My husband puts up with so much. I talk a lot, move too much, become distracted easily. I live in the gray areas of life, with deep emotion. He is solid and stoic, doesn’t talk much, (maybe can’t get a word in) loves straight lines and even spaces, sees the world in black and white. We are the quintessential “opposites attract.”

    God’s timing, as always, was prefect. At just the season in life, when I would need someone the most, Nip came along.  He stood by me when I was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease right after we became engaged. He was my rock after my mom’s death, the day after our wedding. Soon after her death, he lost his job and we were on a roller coaster of grief, tough questions, an unknown future and deep love. Our struggles made us stronger.

     He took over the chauffeuring duties when I gave up driving at 41, with no complaint. He suffered a stroke when he was 55 and we watched in awe as he recovered, once again, with no complaining. Our testimony of faith is often seen through the tough times. Our tests become our testimony, our struggles become our stories.  Jesus sees us through. How about you? We all have those days, those seasons, those years when we cling to God and to each other, wondering how we will make it through.

     Through the years, the happiness and blessings have far outweighed any of the tough times and we are so proud of our two daughters, our sons-in-law and our five grandchildren. Every day is filled with treasures. 

Husbands, love your wives as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her. Ephesians 5:25

     Jesus is called, “the bridegroom” of His church. He offers us a vision of what true love and sacrifice looks like. I am grateful to be married to a man who shows me that type of love every single day.

Lord,

Today we thank You for spouses and all they bring to our lives. Comfort those who have lost spouses and help heal hurting marriages. Thank You for the relationships in our lives.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Closing Doors

 

     Old and new relationships fill our lives. Have you had to take a step away from someone close to you?  This decision had to be made by me several years ago. It was such a difficult decision to close a relationship that had once meant so much. It was a prayerful decision and God was able to provide peace for me.

     The Bible instructs us to be careful. The book of Proverbs is filled with advice on staying away from bitterness, anger, gossip, envy and greed. I still pray for the one I no longer see and pray she is happy and healthy. The words and actions that hurt my heart have been forgiven.  Listen to God’s voice when you have to make difficult relationship decisions. He is there, ready to listen and guide your heart.

I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Stay away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naïve people. Romans 16-17-18

     Difficult, but necessary advice. Hang on to those that care deeply from the heart. Forgive those that turn against you or hurt you. Reconcile when possible. We are blessed to know what love is, through Jesus Christ.

Father,

Teach us to be discerning and obedient, even when it is hard. Show us what to do with difficult relationships and when to close a door. We love You and thank You for the healthy relationships in our lives.

In Jesus name,

Amen

 

Friends

 

A friend loves at all times…Proverbs 17:17a

    Do you have good friends? Maybe a sibling or a life-long buddy, a new acquaintance that gets you. Friends should be treasured and I sure treasure mine.  It’s my bestie’s birthday today. It’s mind-boggling to me that we have been friends for over sixty-five years. Needless to say, we have a million memories. Shelly lived across the alley and three doors down. Her mom, Dorothy, loved to remind me, I was the last to be potty trained. My mom would stand by our garage and watch me toddle down the alley to meet Dorothy and Shelly, with my diaper hanging below my dress.

     Too many laughs to count, along with some tears. Grade school, junior high with our first crushes, high school shenanigans with friends, marriages, kids, the list goes on. Shelly would meet her true love right there in the catalog department at Sears where we started our very first jobs.  

     I am so grateful she knew both of my parents. My dad died when I was 14, my mom when I was 31.  How wonderful to be able to relive some moments few remember.

      I was honored to speak at her mom’s funeral as well as her husbands. Yes, her beloved, Steve,  left us way too soon. She remains optimistic, full of life and laughs and I admire her so much. Treasure your friends. Relive memories and savor the new ones. Happy birthday Shelly!  I love you.

     God values friendship. A good friend doesn’t necessarily have all of the answers. Often it is a listening ear, a hug, an understanding heart with no judgment. They bring the fragrance of life.

Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice. Proverbs 27:9

Father,

Give us good friends to love and to love us back. Give us friends with wisdom and the heartfelt advice You provide. We bring our thankfulness to You.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Dreaming Beyond

 

     The hopes and dreams of Martin Luther King, Jr. have not been realized. That doesn’t mean we stop praying or hoping for a time of peace. Jesus does warn us of the evil in the last days on earth. Wars and rumors of wars, famine, extreme weather, violence and drug abuse. Kind of describes our world, doesn’t it?

     As we move ahead, we trust His promises. As one writer put it, we fight FROM victory not FOR victory. God wins the final battle when the new heaven and the new earth will be ours forever.

But in keeping with His promises, we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells. 2 Peter 3:13

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away and there was no longer any sea. Revelation 21:1

     I love imagining earth renewed. We will move from place to place easily with our resurrected bodies, learning, serving, enjoying creation in all of perfected glory. Imagine sharing life with the angels!  And best of all, with Jesus. He will be our eternal light.

The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light and the Lamb is its lamp. Revelation 21:23

     More than we can hope or imagine. The apostle, John, was given the Revelation of Jesus Christ to share with us. Revelation 21 and 22 are filled with visions of heaven. And Revelation 22 ends with these words,

He who testifies to these things says, “Yes I am coming soon.” Amen Come, Lord Jesus. The grace of the Lord be with God’s people. Amen Revelation 22:20-21

 

 

 

 

 

An Eternal Dream

 

     Keep an eternal perspective as your life continues to unfold. The Bible helps us do just that, reminding us of the short journey we have on earth. Most of us have said our earthly goodbyes to some precious loved ones. We grieve at the separation, but we can grieve with hope!

Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve as the rest of mankind who have no hope. 1 Thessalonians 4:11

     Hope remains when we have Jesus. We grieve, but we grieve with hope, the hope of heaven, the hope of reunion, the hope of spending a beautiful eternity in the presence of Jesus. Life is fleeting.

For all people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall. 1 Peter 1:24

Why you don’t even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. James 4:14

    Most of the world fears death, placing all of their hopes on this life. With an eternal perspective, forever sits in contrast to, at the most, 90 or 100 years, most even more brief. Whether we are in the body or with the Lord, we are His.

Father,

Help us keep eternity ever on the horizon, working to honor You through our short days here on earth. Your Gospel can be shared. Your glory is available to shine. Your sacrifice and Your resurrection take away our fear as we move closer and closer to heaven.

In Jesus name,

Amen

 

Dreams of No Pain

 

     Heaven is just a breath away. Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith. He knows the end from the beginning. Evil will be vanquished one day and His will and His promises will remain forever. Let your mind move with anticipation into the throne room of heaven.

However, as it is written, “what no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived-the things God has prepared for those who love Him-these are the things God has revealed to us through His Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. 1 Corinthians 2:9-10

But according to His promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. 2 Peter 3;13

    Today what God sees as evil is being called good and good, evil, just as the book of Daniel predicted. One day all things will be renewed, all will be transformed, even our bodies. For now, we are in a temporary tent, one day to be transformed into a forever body, like the Lord’s after His resurrection.

For we know that in this earthly tent that we live in is taken down (that is, when we die and leave this earthly body) we will have a house in heaven, an eternal body made by God Himself, not by human hands 2 Corinthians 5:1

     I encourage you to read more about our eternal bodies in the beautiful verses found in 1 Corinthians 15:35-58

     Longing for heaven? Somedays I do. As my 90-year-old friend, Phyllis, said, “Aging is not for sissies!”  I can’t wait to have perfect vision again, or to see my brother, who died of a debilitating Parkinson’s disease leaping for joy. Yes, it will come to pass. Stay at peace. Jesus is waiting with your resurrection body and a mansion prepared just for you, never to perish or wear out. It’s made for forever!

Lord,

We wait with anticipation and hope for heaven. While we are here, give us the peace that transcends all understanding, the comfort that comes from Your Spirit. Give us angels to surround us and shine your everlasting light upon us now.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Dreams of Hope and a Future

 

     Are you looking forward to an event, a birth, a wedding, a family celebration, a vacation? As we journey through life, we often look ahead. What’s next? College, job, retirement? Life marches on. Memories form and hope remains. Hope for a future, and a plan with a loving God and Father.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”  Jeremiah 29:11

     “Hope and a future,” are, indeed, words of anticipation. Place your trust in Jesus today and forever. Heaven awaits and whether we are here or there, we are in good hands.

For we live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So we make it our goal to please Him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. 2 Corinthians 5:7-9

     Paul wrote the verses above. He was one of a few escorted into the throne room of heaven and he longed to go back over his lifetime of ministry. Be at peace. The anticipation of heaven is real. We need have no fear of death. We will be present with the Lord. Place your life in His hands. We await heaven!

Father,

Your plan for us is good, whether here or there, now or forever. What a glorious homecoming awaits us! You long for us as much as we long for You. We walk by faith as we live with hope in our hearts.

In Jesus name,

Amen

I Have A Dream

 

     Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. made an impact on our nation. We celebrate his legacy today as we continue to dream of a day reigning with peace and equality, of hope and a future. His faith shone through him and he believed in the power of prayer.

     Many years ago, our daughter’s 4^th grade class was asked to write a paragraph called, “I Have A Dream.” Back then I helped out at the school a couple days a week. As I arrived the week of MLK day, Angela’s teacher pulled me into the hallway where the essays of the class were displayed.

     One boy dreamed of becoming a race car driver, one girl dreaming of riches and mansion, still another to become a ballerina. Mrs. Jonasen  came to me with tears in her eyes and said, "Read Angela's." 

      The dream of our sweet 10-year-old was not anything for herself, but that my eyes would be healed! She said the way she would help make this happen was to pray for me each and every day. Well, you can imagine my response. I still have her “I Have a Dream” as a prized possession  and you can see a photo on Facebook today.

     We want to protect our children from struggles and complications, striving to make them happy and content. In reality, the struggles can bring out compassion at an early age, a heart that understands we need each other. We can be honest and teach them to trust God and the power of prayer.

     God has used my eye disease in countless ways over the decades. He is faithful and walks beside us, using our struggles and grief to show His glory. Our daughters are both compassionate, faith-filled believers and I praise God for that.

     Maybe the dreams planted in your heart are for loved ones in your own life. Let’s be there for each other.  In honor of Angela this morning I will share her favorite verses. They include both prayer and peace.  Good reminders for this day. The peace of our souls.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your needs known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Father,

Today we thank You for the lessons we learn from our children and grandchildren. Teach them to be kind and compassionate and to grow into Your dearly loved children. I thank You this morning for our daughters and the blessings they continue to bring to our lives.

In Jesus name,

Amen

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

    

Love Covers All

 

     Critical judgments, holding onto guilt, blaming others and holding ourselves and others to a rigid and rule-oriented standard are exhausting and worthless. All of the above will keep us from a more intimate relationship with God. But, with God, they can be overcome with love and with His word.

     When you want to hurl a stone of hurt or gossip, Jesus says:

“But I tell you love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you.”  Matthew 5:44

“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great and you will be children of the Most-High, because He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.”  Luke 6:35

     Jesus forgives us and others. When we want to blame ourselves or others, holding onto or offering guilt, again we are asked to love.

 Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.  Proverbs 10:12

Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.  Proverbs 17:9

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.  1 Peter 4:8

     James reminds us that “mercy triumphs over judgment.” James 2:13  Mercy, grace and love above all else.

     Jesus accused the law keepers of pride and hypocrisy. Holding ourselves and others to too high a standard and putting on a show for others to see, takes a toll on our spiritual, emotional and physical health. Allow your heart to find Jesus. Move the knowledge of His grace from your head to your heart. He sees through our lines of defense and the outer trappings of our lives. Rigid rules and rituals have been replaced by grace.

The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14

For the law was given through Moses, grace and truth through Jesus Christ. John 1:17

Lord,

Thank You for opening our hearts to You. You offer love and grace, forgiveness and mercy and you offer us freedom from all that binds us. Remove all of the heavy chains we carry around with us and reduce us to love.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Dearly Loved by God

 

     Having talked about some of the pitfalls in being human this week, I think we need to end the week with grace and love. Jesus sees us as unique, highly valued, deeply loved. Let’s take it in and share the love. You were created as God’s workmanship.

For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus, created for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10

     You are here for a reason and you are wonderfully made!

I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful. I know that full well. Psalm 139:14

     Praise Him for creating you. His heart is tender toward you and He has offered you the kingdom!

Do not be afraid little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Luke 12:32

     The good Shepherd calls us “His little flock.”  I just love that. He offers us the kingdom of heaven and He offers us His love and guidance for our days on earth. You are dearly loved children of the most-high God. Soak it in.  Feel His presence.

For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that He has chosen you. 1 Thessalonians 1:4

     So, little flock, dearly loved by God, remember, you are God’s workmanship, fearfully and wonderfully made, chosen for a time such as this.

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12

     Only with the fullness of God’s love can we dress up in our fancy spiritual clothes. Not the outside beauty of fancy earthly clothes and bling, but our inner clothes, the beauty of deep love and grace.

Father,

We thank You for the words you give us, reminding us of who we are in Christ. The love is overwhelming and so needed in our world. Thank You.

In Jesus name,

Amen

 

Lawmakers

 

    Jesus used His harshest words on the religious leaders of the day. They knew the law, every jot and tittle, every crossed “t” and dotted “i.” They tested Jesus, daring Him to do something wrong. Here is what they didn’t know Jesus wrote the law. Jesus is the word of God. But beneath the regulations, He came to fulfill the law and bring freedom and grace. He came for our hearts.

     The rituals, rules and religiously righteous believe we have to behave a certain way, believe a certain way, perform a certain way obey a certain way. And then came grace. The Pharisees had no clue. They missed the love. They had no compassion. But our kind, compassionate, sinless Jesus said these words to the keepers of the law:

“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside, but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean.”  Matthew 23:27

     Whoa! Go Jesus! You can feel the anger of the Messiah. This is just one verse of many in this chapter accusing these leaders filled with greed and self-righteousness and pride, of placing heavy burdens onto others without lifting a finger of their own. The heart matters to Jesus.

     I want my heart to yearn more and more for intimacy with Him. He will guide us into obedience, not because we have to, not because of rules and regulations or guilt, but because we want to follow Him. Why? Because of His love and sacrifice. I want to love the Lord with all of my heart and all of my strength and all of my mind. And all the rest will come.

Dear Lord,

Your anger is against false piety and putting ourselves before others, vying for attention and caring only for ourselves and the way we appear to others. Change our hearts to be like Yours and help us to stand for mercy, faithfulness and justice.

Amen

 

Guilt Finders

 

     We blame ourselves. We blame others. We blame God. There’s plenty of guilt to throw around. “She didn’t have enough faith for healing. They deserve the suffering.” Look at Job.  Job suffered more than most. He lost his children, his home, his livelihood and his health. His so-called friends and even his wife blamed him. What did you do for God to punish you like this?

     As believers, we might wonder the same. Why do we suffer? There is danger in believing we will be prosperous, healthy and blessed every day of our lives. God walks with us through our suffering. He may walk us through, steer us around, or miraculously deliver us.  Our suffering can draw us closer to Him, making our faith even stronger. Job did what we need to do. He looked up.

“The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the  name of the Lord.” Job 1:21b

     Even the disciples questioned Jesus about a man blind from birth.

His disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”  John 9:2

Jesus answered:

“Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.”  John 9:3

     Here we are thousands of years later reading and discussing both Job and the blind man. The man born blind was used to show the healing power of Christ. Job’s suffering was used to show the possibility of trust and deep faith even when everything is taken from us. Get rid of the guilt and look up. The one of your heart is there in the midst of it. We just may be used to display the works of God.

Dear Lord,

Our suffering has meaning for You. Take away our guilt or the temptation to blame others. You meet our needs whatever we do and wherever we are. Comfort those in grief and doubt today with Your presence. You have the grace to cover it all.

Amen

Stonethrowers

 

     The law of Moses was clear. For certain offenses, there were stones to be thrown. Judgment cast. Stone throwers called to the courtyard. Our stones may not be physically thrown these days, but our stone throwing still packs a punch. Shaking our heads at certain sins. Can you believe? Did you hear?  

     Gossip and critical judgments come so easily and make us feel just a little better about ourselves. We certainly would never do that! Or that! Or even that! The aim is easy when it’s thrown at others. Let’s look back.There they were; the stone throwers of the day, ready to hit and kill the woman accused of adultery. And the keepers of the law tested Jesus.

“In the law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?’ John 8 6

 When they kept on questioning Him, He straightened and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.”  John 8:7

     Jesus does that, doesn’t He? He stops us in our tracks just as we are about to throw out another stone. All of us fall short of the glory of God. All of us. Each and every one of us. And He looks at us with compassion and deep sadness, willing us to look at Him and believe. He suffered it all, from a white lie, to adultery, to a murderous thief and everything in between. Soon it is just Jesus and the guilty woman. And it is just Jesus and me, Jesus and you.

Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus answered. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”  John 8:10-11

     Jesus never condemns. He loves and listens, forgives and leads us out from our sinful natures into His glorious light.

Dear Lord,

You love us despite all of our flaws. Lead us from our lives of sin. Show us how to live the life You prepared for us before the beginning of time. The life of inner joy and peace, filled with Your undying love.

Amen

New Light

 

     The sun comes up late and goes down early. A New Year is here. We could choose to focus on the darkness. Or we could watch for the first rays of the dawn and dream of longer days ahead. The shortest and darkest days of the year bring the end of one season and the beginning of another.

     With God, each ending brings a new beginning. Each omega brings the promise of another alpha. Darkness comes just before the dawn. Satan wants us to focus on the darkness. He confuses darkness with light and sometimes we are fooled. We find ourselves remaining in a dark place without believing in a way out. It feels comfortable. We make the best of it.

     God offers full light, beacons of hope before the fullness of the sun. His hope remains. Brightness is ahead. Full summer days to bask in His light. Let the hope of fresh beginnings fill you this morning.

You, Lord, keep my lamp burning. My God turns my darkness into light. Psalm 18:38

The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:5

     Take a deep breath and watch for the dawn. Count your blessings and pray for fresh light.

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up. Do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:19

     God is making a new way just for you!

Father,

We wait in hope for the new beginnings you have in store for us. Shine your beacon of hope through the darkness of these days. You are making a new path for us. You are the God of new beginnings.

In Jesus name,

Amen

 

Godly Wisdom

 

    As we look ahead to another new year, one of the best things we can do is to ask for Godly wisdom. God works from the inside out. Everything is a matter of the heart to Him. Godly wisdom will shut our mouths when we want to shout. Godly wisdom will bring patience when we are anxious to move ahead. Godly wisdom will take us to His word and away from the world. Godly wisdom will shine light in the darkest recesses of our heart.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. James 1:5

     Ask for Godly wisdom and His attributes will begin to show through in your life.

But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure, then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. James 3:17

Lord,

We ask for Your wisdom throughout this new year. You promise to give to us generously. Teach us to wait for Your ways, instead of rushing ahead into the chaos of this world and all that is not from You.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Patient in Hope

 

     Transforming change is right around the corner. God takes us one step at a time into a bright and hope-filled future. Stay patient. Move slowly. Protect your heart. Listen to His voice. When you can’t see ahead, trust God. He moves in ways we don’t always perceive. He takes us up steep slopes and over rocky paths in order for us to find the straight and smooth path once again. .

I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them. I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do. I will not forsake them. Isaiah 42:16

     Take God at His wonderful word. Take His mighty hand and He will make those rough places smooth. The path may be unfamiliar and appear a bit scary, but God will never leave us or forsake us and the darkness will become light because of Him.

Lord,

Keep us patient for Your way to be made clear. You hold us in Your hand and You guide us along paths unfamiliar to us. Keep us steadfast on the solid ground of our faith as we move into a future known only by You.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Hope 2024

 

     My word for 2024 is “hope.” Hope is eternal. Hope is for new beginnings and what better time to imagine a hope-filled future than turning the page into a brand new year? Let’s let go of unforgiveness, of unhealthy relationships, of anger and bitterness and move to hope and peace.

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do. Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead. Philippians 3:13

     Pray to let go of all that is hurtful and harmful. Hang on to the goodness, the memories that warm your heart and take a step ahead. As you let go of pain and darkness, hang on to light and blessings and hope. God will never let go of you.

I give them eternal life and they shall never perish. No one will snatch them out of My hand. John 10:29

Father,

We pray to let go of past hurts, of present harm and move with purpose into a future filled with hope. You are the author and finisher of our faith. Give us a brand-new start.

In Jesus name,

Amen