Devotional thoughts tagged as: ''

A Mighty Fortress Is Our God

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble...
Psalm 46:1

The 46th Psalm was used by Martin Luther to write the hymn "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God". This hymn describes the struggle between good and evil. In this hymn God is called a fortress, bulwark and helper. Martin Luther was one of the leaders of the Evangelical reform movements of the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, usually called the Protestant Reformation. What is unique about the contributions of Luther is his continuing influence in church music, liturgy and theology for nearly five centuries.

A Mighty Fortress Is Our God

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble...
Psalm 46:1

Who's That Knocking?

A nurse on the pediatric ward, before listening to the little ones' chests, would plug the stethoscope into their ears and let them listen to their own hearts. Their eyes would always light up with awe. But she never got a response equal to four year old David's. Gently she tucked the stethoscopeinhis ears and placed the disk over his heart. Listen, she said, What do you do you suppose that is?

He drew his eyebrows together in a puzzled line and looked up as if lost in the mystery of the strange tap-tapping deep in his chest. Then his face broke out in a grin. "Is that Jesus knocking?" he asked.

This devotional thought was taken from the book Small Wonders: Children's Faith Stories from the Indiana United Methodist Church, compiled and edited by Lynne DeMichele.

Doing Good

God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; he went about doing good... (Acts 10:38)

The Bible suggests that doing good is a universal command. It is not limited to those we like or those who like me. Doing good is directed at everyone, even those who do not fit my definition of worthy to receive any good that I may direct their way. It is a universal command because no one is exempt from it. The responsibility to do good is a proactive. I must act and not wait to be asked to do good.

Doing Good

God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; he went about doing good... (Acts 10:38)

Doing Good

God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; he went about doing good... (Acts 10:38)

Spiritual Disciplines

Spiritual disciplines like fasting, attending worship, and praying to name a few, teach us to live our lives in harmony with something larger than ourselves and larger than that which secular society values as ultimate. Living in harmony with God who is made known in Jesus the Christ is to live our lives from the inside out.

As we live life from the inside out, the spiritual disciplines keep us in the presence of the living and loving God. It is in these practices we learn to hear and respond to God's direction. It is in these practices we learn of God's love for us. It is also where our love for God is nurtured and sustained. However, remember each of us is unique and different which will cause us to structure and practice different spiritual disciples in an order that is helpful to us.

Spiritual Disciplines

Increased Compassion

One of the benefits of the spiritual discipline of solitude is the potential for increased compassion or the ability to suffer with another's pain. When Paul talks about suffering with those who suffer he is talking about compassion, that supreme gift which helps make us fully human. From my perspective human survival is about having compassion. When we are confronted with a terrorist act, the breakup of a family, or a starving child what is our response? For some when confronted with helplessness we ignore the situation or seek not to feel. When we do this we deaden our capacity for love. From the Christian perspective, the cross stands as a reminder that love and suffering are two sides to the same coin.

Increased Compassion

Denying Self and Caring for Self

Self care is about understanding we are the object of God's love. Each one of us is embraced in the transforming love of God. We also must realize we live in a culture which is often destructive to self.

As Christians we are taught to live in harmony with something larger than ourselves and larger than that which the world values as ultimate. Put another way, Christians are asked to live life from the inside out.

Denying Self and Caring for Self

Adult Education

Adult religious education provides an opportunity for ongoing development enabling adults to examine their relationship with God and to understand their humanity. It enables them to become aware of God's activity in their lives and leads them to strive for deeper maturity as they reach out to others, society and the world.

A variety of learning approaches and processes are needed to make adult religious education effective. These include lectures, reflection, analysis, discussion, journaling, case studies and role playing. Adult education also needs to take into account fellowship and mutual support because adults do not attend classes for information. They attend for socializing and interaction. What they talk about among themselves before and after a session may be as important as what they hear in the formal session.

Adult Education

Determination

In several of the parables of Jesus, it would seem we must draw near to God with a determination to obtain the things we seek and not be put to shame by the seeming refusal or delay on God's part.

Consider the case of the Syro-Phoenician woman, Jesus seemed to put her request down with an uncharacteristic rudeness. Yet she continued to persist with the request. Finally, Jesus replied, "O woman, great is thy faith; be it unto thee as thou wilt." Matthew 15:28.

God does not always give us what we want at our first request. Rather it seems God trains us to work harder for the best things. He compels us to pray with determination. We need to keep hammering away at our prayer request until we obtain what we have requested.

Determination

In several of the parables of Jesus, it would seem we must draw near to God with a determination to obtain the things we seek and not be put to shame by the seeming refusal or delay on God's part.

Determination

In several of the parables of Jesus, it would seem we must draw near to God with a determination to obtain the things we seek and not be put to shame by the seeming refusal or delay on God's part.

Purposeful Reading

Paul Little, in his book How to Give away your Faith gives the reader seven questions which we might use after reading the Bible:

Is there an example for me to follow,
Is there a sin for me to avoid,
Is there a command for me to obey,
Is there a promise for me to claim,
What does this passage teach me about God or Jesus,
Is there a difficulty for me to explore, and
Is there something in this passage I should pray about today?

Drawing Near to God

The Lord did not cease being holy when the New Testament began; his nature did not change. If we would know him as he is, we need an old testament fear of God combined with a New Testament experience of his Grace.

After Solomon dedicated the temple, the glory of the lord descended and filled his house (II Chronicles 7:1-3). What was this glory? It was the light breaking forth upon humanity. It signified the Lord's actual person had drawn near!

The Hebrew people knew God was holy. Yet he was too holy for them to face as sinful individuals. They served him without relating to him. Today, as Christians, through the blood of Jesus, God has opened the way for us to enter the holy place of his presence (Hebrews 10:19-22).

Be careful, many Christians celebrate the forgiveness of sins in Christ, but end their experience on that level. Jews still fear God, but lived outside his divine presence because they did not understand the forgiveness of sins in Christ.

It is the union of both truths which produces the power of understanding in our lives and leads us into the presence of God.

Drawing Near to God

It is the union of both truths which produces the power of understanding in our lives and leads us into the presence of God.

Drawing Near to God

It is the union of both truths which produces the power of understanding in our lives and leads us into the presence of God.

Drawing Near to God

It is the union of both truths which produces the power of understanding in our lives and leads us into the presence of God.

Drawing Near to God

It is the union of both truths which produces the power of understanding in our lives and leads us into the presence of God.

The miracle of a brother's song

Like any good mother, when Karen found out another baby was on the way, she helped her three year son, Michael, prepare for a new sibling. They found out it was a girl and day after day and night after night Michael sang to his sister in Mommy's tummy. Then the labor pains came and complications followed before the birth. Finally Michael's little sister was born. She was immediately taken to neonatal intensive care unit in Knoxville, Tennessee. The little baby girl's condition worsened. The doctor's told the parents There is very little hope. During this whole process Michael kept begging his parents to let him see his sister and sing to her. After week two began, Karen, Michael's mother made up her mind. She would take Michael into the ICU unit to see his sister. If he did not see his sister now, he would never see her alive.

Karen dressed him in an oversized scrub suit. He looked like a walking laundry basket. When they entered the ICU, the head nurse told the mother children were not allowed. He is not leaving until he sang to his sister, stated Karen. She took Michael over to his sister's bedside and he began to sing. You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy when skies are gray. Instantly the baby girl responded. Her pulse rate became calm and steady. Keep on singing, Michael, Karen urged.

You never know dear how much I love you, Please don't take my sunshine away. The baby's strained breathing became smooth as a kitten's purr. The nurse began to cry. Michael continued singing, You are my sunshine my only sunshine. Please don't take my sunshine away. The very next day the little girl was well enough to take home. Women's Day magazine called it the miracle of a brother's song. Karen his mother called it a miracle of God's love.

The miracle of a brother's song

Ice Cream for the Soul

Last week at a restaurant, my six year old son asked to say grace. As our heads were bowed, he said, God is good. God is great. Thank you for the food and I will thank him more if Mom gets ice cream for dessert. And liberty and justice for all. Amen. One woman remarked, in a loud voice, That is what is wrong with this country. Kids today don't even know how to pray. Asking God for Ice cream, Why I never....

Hearing this my son burst into tears and asked me, Did I do it wrong? Is God mad at me? I held him and assured him he had done a terrific job. An elderly mad approached the table. He winked at my son and said, I happen to know God thought you had a great prayer. Then nodding his head toward the woman who had started the whole thing, he said, Too bad she never asks God for ice cream. A little ice cream is good for the soul.

Naturally, I bought my kids ice cream at the end of the meal. When my son received his ice cream, he stared at it for a moment. Then he picked up his ice cream and walked over and placed it in front of the woman. With a big smile he told her, Here, this is for you. Ice cream is good for the soul sometimes, and my soul is good already.

What are your thoughts about Ice Cream. Is it Good for your soul?

Ice Cream for the Soul

What are your thoughts about Ice Cream. Is it Good for your soul?

Choral Singing

The most popular and enduring arts-related activity in the United States is choral singing. Twenty-eight point five million people sing in one or more of about 250,000 choruses. There may be scientific reasons for this: Singing, particularly in groups, makes people happy.

Singing releases endorphins, the feel-good chemical of the brain—and choral singing has the greatest pleasurable effect. In one study, choral singers on average expressed greater happiness than the general public, even when those singers were carrying greater burdens than the average person not singing in choirs.

Another benefit of choral singing is based on the fact that it's a social activity, which gives a sense of belonging and combats loneliness. Singing is an essential part of any worship service.

The psalmist wrote:
By night may a song be on my lips, a prayer to the God of my life!
Psalm 42:8

Choral Singing

Another benefit of choral singing is based on the fact that it's a social activity, which gives a sense of belonging and combats loneliness. Singing is an essential part of any worship service.

The psalmist wrote:
By night may a song be on my lips, a prayer to the God of my life!
Psalm 42:8

Jesus is in My Heart

A four year old was at the pediatrician's for a check up. As the doctor looked in her ears, he asked, Do you think I will find big bird in hear? The little girl stayed silent. Next the doctor took a tongue depressor and looked down her throat. He asked do you think I'll find the cookie monster down there? Again the little girl was silent. The doctor put a stethoscope to her chest. He listened to her heart beat. He asked, Do you think I'll find Barney in there?

Oh no! The little girl replied. Jesus is in my heart. Barney's on my underpants.

Waiting on God's Word

It is not necessary we should discover new ideas in our prayers or meditations. This may only divert us and feed our vanity. It is sufficient if the Word, as we read and understand it, penetrates and dwells within us.

For example, as Mary pondered in her heart the things that were told to her by the shepherds, similar to us casually overhearing something which follows us for a long time, sticks in our mind, occupies, disturbs or delights us, without our ability to do anything about it, so in mediation God's Word seeks to enter in and remain with us. It strives to stir us, to work and operate in us, so that we shall not get away from it the whole day long. Then it will do its work in us, often without our being conscious of it.

Waiting on God's Word

The Ministry of Listening

The first service one owes to others in the Christian fellowship consists in listening to them. Christians, especially ministers, so often think they must always contribute something when they are in the company of others. They forget that listening can be a greater service than speaking. Many people are looking for an ear that will listen. They do not find it among Christians, because these Christians are talking when they should be listening. Pastoral care is distinguished from preaching by the fact that in addition to speaking the word, there is also the obligation of listening. Christians must learn to recapture the forgotten ministry of listening.

Martin Luther — The Bold Reformer

The great religious leader, Martin Luther, who entered a monastery as a youth, and who, as a man, shattered the structure of the medieval church. Luther spoke out against the corrupt religious practices then existing. He demanded that the authority for doctrine and practice be Scriptures, rather than Popes or Councils, roared across the face of the world and ignited the Great Reformation. Accused of heresy and threatened with excommunication and death, Luther maintained his bold stand and refused to recant. In his crusade to eliminate religious abuse, he did more than any other man to establish the Protestant faith.

One person in the right place at the right time can influence history.

What are your thoughts about key people who influenced history and our thinking for generations?

Dealing with Grief

When Job's friends came to see him after his children had died they sat with him for seven days and nights without saying a word because they saw how grief stricken Job was. Sensitivity in the presence of grief should make us more silent, more ready to listen. See Job 2:11-13.

Jesus wept at the tomb of a friend, in the presence of the person's sisters. Tears it seems are a valid and helpful expression of feelings. See John 11:35. Our response to Grief should be simple and matched to the needs as we see it. Time heals grief; love prevents scar tissue from forming.

Dealing with Grief

Angels in the Classroom

A teacher of third graders with her husband would pray at each desk before the start of the school year. They would pray God would place an angel behind every child to watch over and protect the children in this third grade class.

A month later the children were engaged in a writing exercise focusing on what they wanted to be when they grew up. During this exercise one child raised his hand and asked the teacher to spell the word mighty. After telling him how to spell the word. She asked him why he need to know. He stated when he grew up he wanted to a mighty man of God. One of the students next to this student asked what was a mighty man of God. The teacher gave the child permission to answer the other child's question. A mighty man of God is one who puts on the armor of God and is a soldier for God.

As the teacher turned away with a lump in her throat, the little boy motioned for her to come to come closer to him with his forefinger. He then whispered to her, and asked her a question, Did she believe in angels. She told him yes. The third grader then asked her if she thought people could see angels. She thought some people probably could. Then the child said he could see an angel standing child in the classroom.

Do you believe in Angels?

Angels in the Classroom

Do you believe in Angels?

Discoveries in Prayer — In Nothing be Anxious

Keep in constant touch with God. So when trouble small or large come your way, speak to God about your troubles. Do not forget to give thanks to God for what he has already done. What will be the results of such actions. The peace of God which passes all understanding will guard your heart and thoughts in the name of Jesus Christ.

Discoveries in Prayer — Do Not Neglect Prayer!

Prayer is God's way of allowing him to send us blessing and we instead choose to live in spiritual poverty because we neglect prayer. Consider this, Christ's ministry did not end with his death. According to Hebrews 7:25, Christ went to heaven to make intercession for us. Through his prayers for us God's grace abounds. Therefore, we must be like Christ giving ourselves to earnest and constant prayers of intercession for our neighbors and our church.

Discoveries in Prayer — Do Not Neglect Prayer!

The Humor of Will Rogers

Will Rogers used his humor to uncover a variety of human short comings and social injustices. Will did this in two ways: first, he wanted the public to be aware of the facts of an idea or situation; second, he wanted people to use common sense by weighting the situation or the idea with values such as honesty, selflessness, hard work and love of neighbor. He used his gags to help people experience a kind of self examination. Will's style was to appear as an uneducated cowboy. He then began with one direction of thought and then abruptly change direction.

Humor used properly can accomplish many things. I believe we need a bit more humor or the ability to laugh at our short comings and faults. If God wants us to enjoy life; then consider humor may not have been designed by God to wound or belittle someone. Maybe it was meant to get our attention. Then direct us to engage in a kind of spiritual self examination.

Focusing on Prayer

In Ephesians 6:18 we read about the need to focus on prayer — With all prayer and supplication praying at all seasons in the spirit, and watching with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints. (RSV) It seems the apostle Paul realized humanity's natural laziness — how we seldom pray all things to completion. We get right up to receiving great blessings in prayer and we just let it drop or get sidetracked with less important tasks.

Why is constant prayer by us so necessary? Consider this, we are not dealing with flesh and blood but with principalities, powers and the spiritual hosts of wickedness.

Focusing on Prayer

Why is constant prayer by us so necessary? Consider this, we are not dealing with flesh and blood but with principalities, powers and the spiritual hosts of wickedness.

Trust

A man knocked on Karen's door and offered to cut her lawn for forty dollars. Halfway through, his lawn mower broke down.

He knocked at her door again and asked for partial payment. "I'll fix the mower and come back," he said.

"How can I know you'll come back?" she asked.

"You can't," he said. "You'll just have to trust me."

She decided to risk twenty-five dollars on the man's keeping his word. The next day went by; he did not return. She felt foolish for trusting him.

The day after that, he returned and finished the job, just as he had said he would. Trusting others to keep their word is a risk we must take every day in our own relationships. There is the human tendency to be wary when persons ask us to trust them. However, it is wise to risk our trust—even when there are no guarantees. This is how relationships get built.

God trusted humanity by sending his son to us. Are we willing to trust God in a similar manner?

Solitude

It is impossible to live a spiritual life without solitude. Solitude is about setting aside a time and place for God. If we believe God exists and God is active in our lives – healing, teaching and guiding then solitude with God is a must. We need to give God our undivided attention. Jesus put it this way, "Go to your private room and when you have shut the door, pray to your father who is in that secret place." Matthew 6:6.

Solitude

A Cry for Help

During the Winter months it is not unusual for us to become burdened with all the challenges of life which can wear us down spiritually and emotionally. When this happens to me I turn to Psalm 42:1-6.

Like a hind crying for water, my soul cries for you, O God; my soul thirsts for God, the living God; O when will I come to appear before my God? My tears have been my food day and night; I am ever taunted with, Where is your God? When I think of this, I pour out my soul, how I walked with the crowd, moved with them, the festive throng, to the House of God with joyous shouts of praise. Why so downcast, my soul, why disquieted within me? Have hope in God; I will yet praise Him for his saving presence.

Questioning your Faith

A politician once stated that 62 percent of people who go to college lose their "faith commitment". Professor emeritus, columnist and author Garry Wills said, "I do not know how one measures such things, but I think it is inevitable that questioning our childhood beliefs should take place, at various stages of our life. The questioning of our faith commitment does not happen in our junior or senior year, it can happen at any time in our lives. It is part of a long process called life because minds grow by questioning things, and adolescence can be a period of questioning everything you know."

A character in a novel by Charles Williams puts the question this way: "Shall our tremors measure Omnipotence?" In other words, Does our inability to understand God diminish God?

No. Sincere questions only drive us deeper into the mystery that is God.

Saying Grace

A family invited some people to dinner. At the table, the mother turned to her six year old daughter and said, "Would you like to say the blessing?"

"I wouldn't know what to say," the girl replied.

"Just say what you hear mommy say," the woman answered.

The daughter bowed her head and said "Lord, why on earth did I invite all these people to dinner?"

This devotional thought was taken from the book Small Wonders: Children's Faith Stories from the Indiana United Methodist Church, compiled and edited by Lynne DeMichele.

Faith Healing

Mark 5:21-43

When the messengers from the house of Jarus came with news that his daughter had died, Jesus counselled the father not to fear, but to believe (v. 36). Jesus needed and wanted the faith of the father and others to make the healing or resuscitation easier. When he got there to the house he found the neighbours in mourning. He asked the reason for the uproar, since the child was not dead but sleeping (v.39). They reacted with laughter. Jesus sent the unbelieving group away. He went in to the girl with her parents and his closest disciples. For him to do a miracle there needed to be a climate of faith. It seems most of Jesus' healings were faith healings.

What can you do to create a climate of faith in your family, church or work place?

Faith Healing

Mark 5:21-43

What can you do to create a climate of faith in your family, church or work place?

Faith Healing

Mark 5:21-43

What can you do to create a climate of faith in your family, church or work place?

Faith Healing

Mark 5:21-43

What can you do to create a climate of faith in your family, church or work place?

The Reason for the Sabbath

The Bible states two reasons to keep the Sabbath. The first reason is taken from Creation. Exodus 28 states that God rested from his labors on the Sabbath. Therefore, humans, should also rest from their labor. The second reason stems from redemption. God redeemed the Israelite's from their bondage in Egypt. Therefore based on Deuteronomy 5 God's people should worship God for his acts of redemption. Historically the majority of Christians do not observe the Sabbath, which is the seventh day of the week, Saturday. Instead they tend to observe Sunday the day of Christ's resurrection, as a time of worship and rest. Enjoy your Sabbath.

The Reason for the Sabbath

Waiting Quietly for God's Response

It is good that one should both hope and wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.
Lamentations 3:26

The 5 poems in the Book of Lamentations, chapters 1-5, focus on the capture and destruction of Jerusalem by the Chaldeans in 586 B.C.E. There is a bitter realism in the book of Lamentations. This book presents a vivid picture of death and destruction. Yet Lamentations lifts up suffering as a threat to God's purpose in history. The third poem or third chapter of Lamentations is the climax of prayer focusing on dealing with suffering and asking God to help the nation of Israel deal with its suffering.

Patience is a hard virtue to practice when your life has been turned upside down by war or natural disasters. Take time to study the 3rd chapter of the Book of Lamentations and ask yourself, Do I have the necessary patience to wait quietly for God to respond to my prayers?

Waiting Quietly for God's Response

It is good that one should both hope and wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.
Lamentations 3:26

Waiting Quietly for God's Response

It is good that one should both hope and wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.
Lamentations 3:26

The Many Roles of a Teacher

In some of devotionals which appear on this web site I will be talking about the many roles of the teacher from the perspective of Christian education and public education.

Teachers perform many roles in the classroom. After a busy session with paint, poster or collage materials the teacher may feel the role of janitor is most fitting.

The Teacher as Friend

Another role a teacher can assume is that of being a friend to the student. We are not talking about a buddy-buddy relationship. We are emphasizing the personal, caring , loving, being with relationship that is important for persons to be able to communicate and grow with each other. Reflect for a moment on the teachers you have had as a student in the church or school. What makes you think of them as friends?

Some of the responses I have heard are as follows:

We had an opportunity to get to know them outside of class.

They were interested in things we were interested inn.

They really listened and cared about what we had to say.

I am sure you could add more from your own experiences. The point is Teachers have a chance to be remembered by the students they teach as persons who are their friends.

The Never-Ending Hug

My youngest daughter, Laura, said to me once, I think maybe heaven will be like a loving hug that never ends. She said this when we were having our night time routine of chatter, prayer and hugs. She especially likes a long hug. She said, That's the best part!

The hug—that's when the love becomes more than words, doesn't it? When the action expresses God's love—that's when it touches our hearts the most. We want to savor it! We don't want it to end.

Our individual bit of spirit is wrapped up in God's abundant spirit, the best place of all to be—in a never ending hug!

Debbie Russell
Frankfort, Indiana

This devotional thought was taken from the book Small Wonders: Children's Faith Stories from the Indiana United Methodist Church, compiled and edited by Lynne DeMichele.

The Never-Ending Hug

The hug—that's when the love becomes more than words, doesn't it? When the action expresses God's love—that's when it touches our hearts the most. We want to savor it! We don't want it to end.

Our individual bit of spirit is wrapped up in God's abundant spirit, the best place of all to be—in a never ending hug!

Debbie Russell
Frankfort, Indiana

This devotional thought was taken from the book Small Wonders: Children's Faith Stories from the Indiana United Methodist Church, compiled and edited by Lynne DeMichele.

All White Apples

A friend's son was in the first grade of school, and his teacher asked the class, "What is the color of apples?" Most of the children answered red. A few said green. Kevin, my friend's son raised his hand and said white. The teacher explained that apples could be red, green and sometimes golden but never white.

Kevin was insistent and said "Look inside."

Perception without mindfulness keeps us on the surface of things, and we often miss other levels of reality.

Joseph Goldstein, Insight Meditations

This devotional thought was taken from the book Small Wonders: Children's Faith Stories from the Indiana United Methodist Church, compiled and edited by Lynne DeMichele.

Christian Caring

I was a tent mother for a group of third and fourth graders during one of our church's marketplace Vacation Bible schools. In this program we recreate a scene as it might have looked in first century Jerusalem to give the children a sense of what life was back then. We had various market vendors, potters, weavers and even street beggars.

One day as we left the synagogue following worship, beggars approached us asking for money. Most of the children gave coins they had made earlier in the week. But one boy, after observing the situation ran to our family tent and came back with his lunch. Giving it to the beggars, he told them his lunch was theirs to eat.

This boy, new to our congregation, had earlier experienced years of physical and emotional abuse. He now had a loving family caring for him, and the message of Christian caring had taken root in his young heart.

Joyce Coleman
Floyds Knobb, Indiana

This devotional thought was taken from the book Small Wonders: Children's Faith Stories from the Indiana United Methodist Church, compiled and edited by Lynne DeMichele.

Christian Caring

Joyce Coleman
Floyds Knobb, Indiana

This devotional thought was taken from the book Small Wonders: Children's Faith Stories from the Indiana United Methodist Church, compiled and edited by Lynne DeMichele.

Prayer as a Request for Joy

In Philippians chapter one verses 2-7, Paul prays that the Philippians may abound more and more in love. Without love, your heart can never pray or praise effectively. Love for, as well as, the love of Christ enriches your life, according to Paul. This was because Paul viewed Christ as highly exalted and his prayers in Philippians demonstrate this belief.

Prayer as a Request for Joy

The Teacher in the Role of Lesson Planner

When I mention the role of a teacher as a lesson planner generally there will be no surprise. Put simply, the lesson that is planned and used with a group of students is the curriculum they experience. Thus in their role as lesson planner teachers must possess an awareness of how to write curriculum. This does not mean they dispense with the curriculum provided to them. Rather I am suggesting teachers must assume responsibility for tailoring the curriculum so it fits the needs of the specific class they are teaching.

Prayer for Our County

O God, keep our whole country under your protection. Wipe out sin from this land; lift it up from the depths of sorrow, O Lord, our shining light. Save us from deep grief and misfortune, Lord of all nations. Bless us with your wisdom, so that the poor may not be oppressed and the rich may not be oppressors. Make this a nation having no ruler except God, a nation having no authority but that of Love. Amen.

This prayer entitled "For Our Country" was written by Toyohiko Kagawa, a Christian leader and pacifist who spoke out against the militaristic policies of imperial Japan during the 1930's and '40's. His prayer for Japan has been adapted for use by persons of many nations. It shows the deep concern that can characterize those who feel constrained to criticize their native lands.

Prayer for a Privileged Position

This scripture can be found in Matthew 20: 20-28, and Mark 10: 35-45.

Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshiping him, and desiring a certain thing of him. And he said unto her, "What wilt thou?" She said unto him, "Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand and the other on the left, in thy kingdom."

The request of Salome, mother of James and John, was one Christ could not answer and it produced indignation among the other ten disciples.

Salome probably felt she had some basis for her petition. One of her sons, John was known as the disciple whom Jesus loved. Her other son James was one of three who witnessed the Transfiguration of Christ.

Yet Jesus answered Salome, "Ye know not what you ask." James endured the baptism of blood (see Acts 12:2) and John endured persecution and loneliness on Patmos (Revelation 1:9). Let us be careful how we pray. Some answers to our prayer petitions may be costly.

Prayer for a Privileged Position

This scripture can be found in Matthew 20: 20-28, and Mark 10: 35-45.

The request of Salome, mother of James and John, was one Christ could not answer and it produced indignation among the other ten disciples.

Prayer for a Privileged Position

This scripture can be found in Matthew 20: 20-28, and Mark 10: 35-45.

The request of Salome, mother of James and John, was one Christ could not answer and it produced indignation among the other ten disciples.

Prayer for a Privileged Position

This scripture can be found in Matthew 20: 20-28, and Mark 10: 35-45.

The request of Salome, mother of James and John, was one Christ could not answer and it produced indignation among the other ten disciples.

Prayer for a Privileged Position

This scripture can be found in Matthew 20: 20-28, and Mark 10: 35-45.

The request of Salome, mother of James and John, was one Christ could not answer and it produced indignation among the other ten disciples.

The Book of Exodus

Exodus means a going out. Broadly speaking this second Book of the Pentateuch teaches that redemption is essential to any relationship with a Holy God. As Exodus shows us even a redeemed people can not have fellowship with God unless they are constantly cleansed from the defilement of sin. Answered prayer is dependent on purity. (Psalm 66:18)

Exodus also presents Moses as a mighty intercessor. The powerful intercessions of Moses were more than a match for the murmurings of Israel against their God.

The Book of Exodus

Exodus also presents Moses as a mighty intercessor. The powerful intercessions of Moses were more than a match for the murmurings of Israel against their God.

Good News Cannot Be Contained

The following day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee, and He found Philip and said to him, "Follow me." Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the City of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathaniel and said to him, "We have found Him of whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." And Nathaniel said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and See."
John 1:43-46

Jesus called Philip to be his disciple and Philip was so enthusiastic about Jesus that he ran to Nathaniel with the news that he had found the Messiah promised in the scriptures. The good news can not be contained. Our challenge in this text it seems is merely to share what Christ means to us and invite friends and neighbors to come and see for themselves.

Good News Cannot Be Contained

Renew Your Strength

...those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up on wings of eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40: 31

The 40th chapter of the book of Isaiah begins to develop a picture of God as creator and sustainer of life. A God who never grows weary in his creative activity. If we trust God, our creator, we can draw strength from him in our time of need.

Take time today to talk to God and ask for the strength to accomplish your tasks and chores.

Renew Your Strength

...those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up on wings of eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40: 31

Take time today to talk to God and ask for the strength to accomplish your tasks and chores.

Renew Your Strength

...those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up on wings of eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40: 31

Take time today to talk to God and ask for the strength to accomplish your tasks and chores.

Jesus was a refugee

Have you ever thought about Jesus being a refugee? He was, according to the Christmas story in Matthew 2:13-15. Though his parent were Asia born Jesus and his family sought safety in Africa, avoiding the infanticide ordered by King Herod, the ruler of Palestine.

The text does not say where the family stayed. Wherever they ended up, we know Jesus, perhaps close to two years old at the start of the journey (2:16). spent at least some of his formative years in Egypt. Then when the family moved back to Palestine, they settled in Nazareth.

The story of Jonah

The story of Jonah being swallowed by a great fish is one of the most famous incidents in the Old Testament. It illustrates how far God was willing to go to ensure that his wayward prophet took the message of repentance to the people of Nineveh.

This large city was the capital of Assyria, a nation despised by the Israelites. Yet the Ninevites repented when they heard of God's impending judgment, unlike the Israelites who kept ignoring similar messages of judgment sent to them. Thus the book of Jonah is a challenge to the self-righteous and ethnocentric attitudes of the Israelites.

The story of Jonah

Consider the consequences of your actions

The people of Judah failed to think through the consequences of their choices. (see Lamentations 1:9) For generations they had ignored the Laws warning against idolatry, oppressing the poor and cheating in business. They maintained a pretence of worshiping the Lord by keeping temple rituals, but in reality they had turned away from God.

The Lord sent many prophets to warn the people of Judea of the impending disaster but the Judeans ignored them. Then when the Babylonians destroyed their way of life, the people were shocked.

In a similar way how much longer can Americans ignore our increasing national debt with other nations. What are the consequences of letting our national debt continue to increase? Will we be like the people of Israel when disaster strikes?

What is a Family?

Family systems theory is based on the belief that the family is a natural social grouping. Every individual functions within some large ecological unit, and for most people it is the family. A family system is a complex patterns of various parts working together for its existence and survival of some greater whole. A family system is a group of complex behaviors and ways of functioning that family members believe necessary in order for the family to survive and preform its tasks. Put another way, the family can be directly described as a system of interdependent relationships engaged in change and adaption and geared to the growth and support of each member.

It would follow that any attempt for the church to reach out to families must address the family as unit. This is difficult in a society which the individual is celebrated. However, there is a growing awareness that if education is understood as a life long process then the family as a unit of society must be involved. On a very basic level, what happens to one family member has an impact on all the members of the family.

What is a Family?

Focusing on the Family

Consider how important and how needed family Christian education is becoming.

Family Christian education needs to be an intentional program of learning experiences which are planned and guided to develop the full spiritual potential of individuals in their present and future roles as family members. The central concept of family Christian education is that of relationships through which personality and spirituality are developed. This would include a person or family's relationship to Jesus Christ.

Keeping a family intact is not easy. There are many social problems facing the family like drug addiction, alcoholism and increasing levels of spouse abuse, which negatively impact the family and its ability to adapt. Thus it would seem family Christian education is of increasing importance in the ministry of the church universal.

Focusing on the Family

Consider how important and how needed family Christian education is becoming.

Focusing on the Family

Consider how important and how needed family Christian education is becoming.

Examining the Gospel of Matthew

The Gospel of Matthew contains five key teaching sections by Jesus.

Matthew 5:1-7:27 — The Sermon on the Mount — given to a large crowd.
Matthew 9:35 to 10:42 — Instructions to the Twelve disciples chosen by Jesus.
Matthew 13:1-52 — Parables of the kingdom — given on a crowded beach.
Matthew 18:1-35 — Instructions on community — given to the disciples.
Matthew 24:1-25:46 — The Olivet Discourse, also given to the disciples.

Before and after each of these teaching sections there follows action sections by Jesus and his followers as they carry out God's Word. The Gospel of Matthew ends with what is called the Great Commission — Teach them to observe all things that I have commanded you. It seems the Gospel of Matthew is making a statement about Discipleship. Discipleship involves not only truth believed but truth applied.

Examining the Gospel of Matthew

The Gospel of Matthew contains five key teaching sections by Jesus.

Matthew 5:1-7:27 — The Sermon on the Mount — given to a large crowd.
Matthew 9:35 to 10:42 — Instructions to the Twelve disciples chosen by Jesus.
Matthew 13:1-52 — Parables of the kingdom — given on a crowded beach.
Matthew 18:1-35 — Instructions on community — given to the disciples.
Matthew 24:1-25:46 — The Olivet Discourse, also given to the disciples.

Corporate Sin and Corporate Confession

Can an entire group of people be held accountable for the sins of some of their members? Lamentations 1:18 says yes. God's people bear corporate responsibility. We may not have contributed directly to the wrongs committed in the past but just as we inherit benefits from our ancestors we must also accept the legacies of sin. Following after the example of Jeremiah, God's people can make a confession and seek healing for what we as the people have done and acknowledge the consequences that are still with us.

Today this means we must think about how we conduct our lives, knowing that the choices we make today may affect our grandchildren.

Corporate Sin and Corporate Confession

Today this means we must think about how we conduct our lives, knowing that the choices we make today may affect our grandchildren.

Corporate Sin and Corporate Confession

Today this means we must think about how we conduct our lives, knowing that the choices we make today may affect our grandchildren.

Prayer for our National Leaders

Let us pray.

Be with our national leaders, O Lord. Give them courage to face the truth, prudence to make sound judgments and a willingness to work for a strong government. We want to be your agents for peace in the world — not a peace based on military parity alone, but one based on harmony and justice for people everywhere. Help us be strong and alert in the face of threats to our security, help us to keep alive the vision of a world in which all people are free from political and economic oppression, free to celebrate their unity as your daughters and sons — children bound together in your love. We offer prayer in gratitude for the many gifts you have given us, especially the gift of freedom. Amen.

Prayer for our National Leaders

Let us pray.

Prayer for our Nation

Let us pray.

God, we pause to acknowledge your presence here with us; to remember your dream for us is abundant life — a life that is filled with joy, love and peace.

Lord, we are grateful for dedicated Americas who molded this nation into a land of the free and the home of the brave, a country for all people.

Those who passed the torch of liberty to us invested much of themselves in personal sacrifice. They gave energy to help their neighbors build homes. They gave food to feed those who lost employment. They gave their time to encourage the sick. They provided a place of rest to those who were homeless. Father, you have blessed us beyond the simple necessities of daily life. Grant us a clear vision of the needs of the poor. Help us emulate our forefathers by sharing our wealth with those less fortunate than ourselves. In so doing, we pass on to others the hope of opportunity and the encouragement of a caring nation. We know that is in giving we speak most clearly of our faith and patriotism. Bless us and guard our country. Amen.

Leadership in War and in Peace

Let's focus on 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 for our devotional thought.

It is difficult for one person to provide leadership in war and in peace.

The people of Israel felt the need for strong leadership. They lacked unity and enemies wanted to destroy them. David had shown ability to lead men in battle. The people reasoned David should be able to lead the country like an army. Their belief proved correct. However, it is incorrect to assume the same kind of leadership called for in war will be effective in peace.

The United States has had to enlist military heroes such as president. George Washington. He was an effective general and politician. Ulysses S. Grant was not. His administration was noted for corruptions and bad choices. Dwight D. Eisenhower was mediocre as a politician.

General MacArthur while never elected to political office showed himself to be both a great General and a strong administrator of the country of Japan in the post war years.

Choose your leaders carefully understanding we all are human and very much flawed by our sin.

Leadership in War and in Peace

Let's focus on 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 for our devotional thought.

It is difficult for one person to provide leadership in war and in peace.

General MacArthur while never elected to political office showed himself to be both a great General and a strong administrator of the country of Japan in the post war years.

Choose your leaders carefully understanding we all are human and very much flawed by our sin.

Leadership in War and in Peace

Let's focus on 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 for our devotional thought.

It is difficult for one person to provide leadership in war and in peace.

General MacArthur while never elected to political office showed himself to be both a great General and a strong administrator of the country of Japan in the post war years.

Choose your leaders carefully understanding we all are human and very much flawed by our sin.

Do not be anxious

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Jesus Christ.
Philippians 4:6-7

Being anxious or worried will not change anything. You need to decide what you can do to deal with the problem or situation and trust in God to take care of those things over which you have no control.

This is something you have to learn on your own. It must be experienced.

Do not be anxious

This is something you have to learn on your own. It must be experienced.

Why do you seek Christ?

Jesus observed in John 6:24-35, "Very truly I say to you, you are not looking for me not because you saw signs but because you ate your fill of the loaves."

Some of the people following Jesus did so because they sought to have their physical appetites satisfied. People follow Jesus for many reasons, not all of them good. We need to ask ourselves, why are we seeking Jesus?

In our time a lot of people are locked into what some call a welfare mentality. They are given money from the government. They have taken advantage of the welfare system for a long time and seem to be interested only in what they can get for themselves. They do not know how to live life abundantly through Christ. In Christ we are a new person, with new opportunities for spiritual and personal growth. So why do you seek Christ?

Understanding God's Love

In 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, King David pleads with his commanders to deal gently with his rebellious son, Absalom. Absalom had tried to unseat David from the throne, yet David still loved him. In this text we begin to catch a glimpse in David about what God's love for sinners might be like.

Absalom ended up getting caught in a tree and left dangling between heaven and earth. He was completely helpless. The result of his own treachery. In the end one of David's commanders killed Absalom to avoid future threats to the throne.

So how is God's love like the love David had for son Absalom? How would you want your son or daughter dealt with if they committed a serious crime? How does God treat us?

He forgives us because of Christ's death on the Cross. We are forgiven, but we do not deserve forgiveness. In a sense sinners are like Absalom, we are in completely helpless state, the result of our own choices.

How do you understand God's love for you?

Understanding God's Love

So how is God's love like the love David had for son Absalom? How would you want your son or daughter dealt with if they committed a serious crime? How does God treat us?

How do you understand God's love for you?

Understanding God's Love

So how is God's love like the love David had for son Absalom? How would you want your son or daughter dealt with if they committed a serious crime? How does God treat us?

How do you understand God's love for you?

The Speech of Children

"Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou might still the enemy and the avenger."
— Psalm 8:2, King James version.

Children often speak more clearly, wisely, truly and directly than their elders.

Wouldn't it be nice if more elected national politicians could learn to speak wisely, clearly and directly to the needs of the poor in this country.

The Speech of Children

"Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou might still the enemy and the avenger."
— Psalm 8:2, King James version.

Children often speak more clearly, wisely, truly and directly than their elders.

Wouldn't it be nice if more elected national politicians could learn to speak wisely, clearly and directly to the needs of the poor in this country.

The Speech of Children

"Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou might still the enemy and the avenger."
— Psalm 8:2, King James version.

Children often speak more clearly, wisely, truly and directly than their elders.

Wouldn't it be nice if more elected national politicians could learn to speak wisely, clearly and directly to the needs of the poor in this country.

What is a Mature Faith?

If we have a lot of money or we want a lot of money then we need to ask for God's grace to give up our love of that money to the exclusion of using it to love and bless others.

If we do not have enough money or we are angry at those who have a lot, we need God's grace to overcome our lack of trust in God to provide and to overcome our anger which hurts only ourselves.

This does not mean we stop working to help the poor and the way to deal with economic disparity. What it does mean is we need to stop seeing people as oppressors or victims. After all, Jesus healed and saved both the rich and the poor. He did not favor one group over another. He was ruler of all people.

What is a Mature Faith?

If we have a lot of money or we want a lot of money then we need to ask for God's grace to give up our love of that money to the exclusion of using it to love and bless others.

If we do not have enough money or we are angry at those who have a lot, we need God's grace to overcome our lack of trust in God to provide and to overcome our anger which hurts only ourselves.

What is a Mature Faith?

If we have a lot of money or we want a lot of money then we need to ask for God's grace to give up our love of that money to the exclusion of using it to love and bless others.

If we do not have enough money or we are angry at those who have a lot, we need God's grace to overcome our lack of trust in God to provide and to overcome our anger which hurts only ourselves.

Experiencing Jesus from a distance

In Luke 7:1-10, the centurion chose to encounter Jesus from a distance, even through Jesus was willing to come into his house and heal the servant. The centurion's humility did not permit him to presume a familiarity with Jesus. Only say the word and my servant will be healed. The centurion encountered Jesus from a distance through his friends and through his faith in the word of Jesus.

Since the Ascension of Jesus, we to are able to relate to Jesus from a distance. We have no other choice. Yet, if we trust in the power of Jesus' word to heal and give life, we do indeed encounter Jesus from a distance. All we have to do is place ourselves under his authority, like the centurion.

Experiencing Jesus from a distance

Holy People Holy Spaces

Solomon built the Temple and dedicated it to the worship of the Lord. By his actions, Solomon defined sacred space. Are there special places where we might encounter God or are all places equally sacred? Certainly the community of faith needs a place to worship.

Consider this, the Temple was destroyed because of the sins of the people which defiled this holy space. Based on my understanding of I Kings chapter 8, it is my belief there can be no holy place without a holy people. What do you believe about a holy people and their holy spaces?

Based on 1 Kings 8:22-23, 27-30, 41-43

Self Control

Like a city breached without walls, is one who lacks self control. Proverbs 25:28

Self control is about letting go of self gratification for a higher cause. Consider these three questions as you meditate on exercising self control during your devotional time:

How will your actions honor God?
How will your actions benefit your family?
Is there another way my energy, time, money or resources would produce a better outcome?

Freckles and Wrinkles

A grandmother and her little granddaughter spent the day at the zoo. The children were waiting in line to get their cheeks painted by a local artist, who was decorating them with tiger paws. A little boy in the same line remarked to the girl, You've got so many freckles, there's no place to paint. Embarrassed, the little girl dropped her head.

Grandmother knelt down before her.

I love your freckles, she said.

Not me, the little girl cried.

Well when I was a little girl I always wanted freckles. Freckles are beautiful.

The little girl looked up, Really?

Of course, said the grandmother. Why just name me one thing that's prettier than freckles.

The little girl peered into her grandmother's smiling face.

Wrinkles, she answered softly.

What is a Family?

In The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck the focus is on the plight of the poor families during the dust bowl days. It shows how the concept of the family enlarged during this period of crisis. Steinbeck tells this story using the Joad family's trials and challenges.

At the end of the book, the Joad family has been torn apart. The authority of the father was replaced with the leadership of Mrs. Joad and she, in turn, had her authority taken away by the younger generation. This turn of affairs leads to a different understanding of what it means to be a family They established bonds of kinship with other migrant families.

The Joads merge with the Wainrights and Wilsons because each family needs the other. The members do not share last names but they give support and sustenance to each in the form of food, blankets and a kind word.

Jesus redefined the concept of family by saying "Whoever does the will of my father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother." (Matthew 12:50)

How do you define family? What does it mean to be part of the family of God?

What is a Family?

Jesus redefined the concept of family by saying "Whoever does the will of my father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother." (Matthew 12:50)

How do you define family? What does it mean to be part of the family of God?

Ask, knock, seek and receive

Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks it will be opened.
Matthew 7:7-8

Our personal relationship with Jesus requires us to be his hands, feet and eyes. Part of the challenge of being a disciple of Jesus Christ is to possess what I call "Mission Ambition."

When you have mission ambition realize there is a biblical step by step approach for each mission project selected.

You begin this process by asking God for guidance and help. Next you seek a group of interested people to help spread the word about what you are doing.

Last of all Mission Ambition is about knocking on doors and asking more people to help.

This is part of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.

Ask, knock, seek and receive

Our personal relationship with Jesus requires us to be his hands, feet and eyes. Part of the challenge of being a disciple of Jesus Christ is to possess what I call "Mission Ambition."

When you have mission ambition realize there is a biblical step by step approach for each mission project selected.

You begin this process by asking God for guidance and help. Next you seek a group of interested people to help spread the word about what you are doing.

Last of all Mission Ambition is about knocking on doors and asking more people to help.

This is part of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.

Ask, knock, seek and receive

Our personal relationship with Jesus requires us to be his hands, feet and eyes. Part of the challenge of being a disciple of Jesus Christ is to possess what I call "Mission Ambition."

When you have mission ambition realize there is a biblical step by step approach for each mission project selected.

You begin this process by asking God for guidance and help. Next you seek a group of interested people to help spread the word about what you are doing.

Last of all Mission Ambition is about knocking on doors and asking more people to help.

This is part of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.

Why laughter is the best medicine

Albert Schweitzer was a medical doctor who employed humor not only to combat depression but also to keep him from falling into a state of helplessness.

Schweitzer found his use of humor helped him, as well as, those around him. He soon began to realize humor was a vital nourishment for the whole hospital community.

Empirical studies have shown humor and hearty laughter may affect every system of the body. Humor is important in resolving short term physical and mental illnesses.

Blocked Entry

During my prayer time, I was thinking of the veterans who have to wait a year for treatment. Mark 2:1-12 came to mind. Many people gathered around Jesus in a home and the paralytic and the people carrying him could not get in to be healed by Jesus. They had their entry blocked. However, nothing was going to prevent those who carried the paralytic from gaining access to Jesus for their friend.

In life I am sure some of us will be blocked from gaining entry to many things, sometimes due to a lack of imagination, faith or the willingness to take a risk. When you do, remember the friends of the paralytic mentioned in Mark 2:1-12.

After a few days, Jesus went back to Capernaum, and people heard that he was at home. So many gathered that there was no longer space, not even near the door. Jesus was speaking the word to them. Some people arrived, and four of them were bringing to him a man who was paralyzed. They couldn't carry him through the crowd, so they tore off part of the roof above where Jesus was. When they had made an opening, they lowered the mat on which the paralyzed man was lying. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Child, your sins are forgiven!"

Some legal experts were sitting there, muttering among themselves, "Why does he speak this way? He's insulting God. Only the one God can forgive sins."

Jesus immediately recognized what they were discussing, and he said to them, "Why do you fill your minds with these questions? Which is easier—to say to a paralyzed person, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up, take up your bed, and walk'? But so you will know that the Human One has authority on the earth to forgive sins"—he said to the man who was paralyzed, "Get up, take your mat, and go home."

Jesus raised him up, and right away he picked up his mat and walked out in front of everybody. They were all amazed and praised God, saying, "We've never seen anything like this!"

Blocked Entry

Some legal experts were sitting there, muttering among themselves, "Why does he speak this way? He's insulting God. Only the one God can forgive sins."

Jesus raised him up, and right away he picked up his mat and walked out in front of everybody. They were all amazed and praised God, saying, "We've never seen anything like this!"

Blocked Entry

Some legal experts were sitting there, muttering among themselves, "Why does he speak this way? He's insulting God. Only the one God can forgive sins."

Jesus raised him up, and right away he picked up his mat and walked out in front of everybody. They were all amazed and praised God, saying, "We've never seen anything like this!"

Father Figures

Elijah was a father figure for Elisha. Elisha realized he would soon be without the man he admired. More than anything, "Elisha wanted to be the older man's spiritual heir. He desired what his spiritual father had; he wanted to carry on the work Elijah had begun.

Maybe contemporary fathers should reflect on should reflect on 2 Kings 1:1-12. What kind of an inheritance should they leave their children? Wouldn't it be wonderful if our children wanted nothing more than a double portion of our spirit? What do you think?

Father Figures

The Power of Scripture to Enhance Your Prayers

Jesus prayed we would become followers of the Word of God.

For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them.
John 17:8

The power of prayer is increased when we combine it with the study of the word of God. It brings vitality, meaning to our lives and is relevant to what we are facing now.

The power of your church's prayers increase and it motivates your church to grow, change and be obedient to God and God's purpose for his church. Amen.

The Power of Scripture to Enhance Your Prayers

Jesus prayed we would become followers of the Word of God.

For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them.
John 17:8

The power of prayer is increased when we combine it with the study of the word of God. It brings vitality, meaning to our lives and is relevant to what we are facing now.

The power of your church's prayers increase and it motivates your church to grow, change and be obedient to God and God's purpose for his church. Amen.

Seek Out and Save the Lost

In John 17-18 Jesus asked God to sanctify us so we would be prepared to go out into the world, like the apostles. Sanctify means to be set apart and equipped for a special mission. That mission is to seek out and save the lost. Pray your church remembers to seek out and save the lost. Pray your church does not forget its mission, which God has given to them. Amen.

Seek Out and Save the Lost

I Want To Take His Place

A zealous man once phoned Woodrow Wilson when he was governor of New Jersey, in the wee hours of the morning, rousing him from his sleep.

Governor Wilson, your commissioner of highways just died, and I want to take his place.

If it's all right with the undertaker, it's all right with me, Wilson replied.

Be careful what you ask for and how you ask the question.

A Safety Net For Society

In the Books of Deuteronomy and Leviticus the Hebrews put a safety net under the entire society so all could survive. The first line of defence was the family. Their laws created an unbending stricture on family life. This was because the family was the glue which held the community together.

I would encourage you to skim through Deuteronomy and Leviticus and think about some of the safety nets we have in our own society today. Is the family really the glue which holds the community together?

A Safety Net For Society

Let Us Pray

Heavenly Father, we ask you to bless your children at play. We do not ask for favoritism. We do not ask for victory for ourselves and defeat for our friends. We do not seek intervention in the borderline calls and bounces of the ball. Keep us from praying piously and then talking trash.

We thank you for the skill and preparation of the players, coaches and especially the referees, without whom all of us fine Christians could not complete a single game without bloodshed. Spare the contestants from injury and the spectators from embarrassing themselves and their schools.

We ask this in the name of our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

What Is Patience?

We eat fast foods, consume computer information and honk our horns at others. We are rudely impatient. To talk of doing things in God's time bewilders us.

Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers in Genesis 37. His life would be changed forever. Joseph's life had been protected while he was with his father. Now he was to go through a time of testing and learning to be patient in Egypt.

However, while Joseph was learning to be patient, he used the time to develop his gift of dream interpretation in prison. God was to turn Joseph from a dreamer to an interpreter of dreams. Joseph, when standing before Pharaoh would tell him, dream interpretation was a gift from God.

Is there a spiritual link between using Godly patience to develop the personal gifts God has given you? Check out the story of Joseph in Genesis and judge for yourself.

What Is Patience?

We eat fast foods, consume computer information and honk our horns at others. We are rudely impatient. To talk of doing things in God's time bewilders us.

Is there a spiritual link between using Godly patience to develop the personal gifts God has given you? Check out the story of Joseph in Genesis and judge for yourself.

Pray for our children

Lord, we come before you in thanks and adoration for the children of this community. You have blessed us with the resources and abilities to meet the needs of all the children in our community. Help us we pray to keep our children safe from abuse of all kinds. Forgive us for not doing more for our children. In this past year we are aware of the number of children who lost their lives through gun violence and drugs. It is such a senseless loss. Help us we pray so families will no longer grieve the tragic death of their children in this community and our nation. Amen.

Pray for our children

Troubled Hearts

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
John 14:27

True spiritual peace begins within our hearts and shows itself in our actions about how we treat other people. In this world there are many people with points of view different from our own. Some of these points of view can be quite radical.

How do we deal with people who are not like us? If we look at the 12 disciples who followed Jesus we may learn something to apply to our lives. You had a terrorist, a tax collector and a couple of wealthy brothers who made up the disciples of Jesus.

Take time to study the 12 disciples of Jesus Christ because I believe they can teach us something today about receiving the peace which passes all human understanding.

Troubled Hearts

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
John 14:27

Take time to study the 12 disciples of Jesus Christ because I believe they can teach us something today about receiving the peace which passes all human understanding.

Troubled Hearts

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
John 14:27

Take time to study the 12 disciples of Jesus Christ because I believe they can teach us something today about receiving the peace which passes all human understanding.

Prayer for pregnant teenagers

O God, we lift up to your loving care all the pregnant teenagers and their parents. Let them know they are never alone. There are many willing to open their hearts and minds to the needs of these teenagers. Let them know your church is open to serve and assist them. Grant the protective power of the Holy Spirit to cover and protect each mother and unborn child.

Pray that we act, not to condemn, but rather seek to guide rightly the young mother and father. Finally we pray, may God provide us with the means to instruct our children in word and deed of what it means to be a community which leads a moral life.

Runaway children

Father, for the sake of your son, hear our prayers. We have fallen short in listening to one another and we have many broken homes in our community. We have bitter and discouraged children who have run away, often into the arms of people who mean them harm or wish to exploit them. We have parents who are afraid and do not know what to do. Father, hear our prayers.

Watch over the children who have run, who are not at home today. Calm the fears of their parents who care about them. Give the children the gift of courage to return home. To those who do return home, may they receive the spirit of forgiveness.

Last of all, Jesus, where there are home where parents truly do not care, provide their children with a safe shelter with someone who truly does.

Lord guide us in your church universal to help with the problem of runaway children. Amen.

Runaway children

Last of all, Jesus, where there are home where parents truly do not care, provide their children with a safe shelter with someone who truly does.

Lord guide us in your church universal to help with the problem of runaway children. Amen.

Runaway children

Last of all, Jesus, where there are home where parents truly do not care, provide their children with a safe shelter with someone who truly does.

Lord guide us in your church universal to help with the problem of runaway children. Amen.

Runaway children

Last of all, Jesus, where there are home where parents truly do not care, provide their children with a safe shelter with someone who truly does.

Lord guide us in your church universal to help with the problem of runaway children. Amen.

Addiction

O Holy Spirit, help us rid ourselves of our bad habits and destructive behavior. We ask for guidance to help all in our community overcome with substance abuse or other damaging addictions that imprison them from achieving their full potential. Help us hold them accountable with love when they become addicted. Give them public resources and strategies to help them cope with life and relationships. Bring them back from the captivity of addiction through the strength and comfort of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Being called by God — Moses

As we look through the history of the Bible, when people are captured by a false idea or enslaved by a tyrant, God speaks to a single person, flawed by imperfection, who hears the unmistakable call of God.

Moses was at work keeping the flock of sheep under control for his father-in-law Jethro when his call came. The strangeness of the bush which did not burn up caused Moses to turn aside. The call of God has two sides to it, the voice of God and the willingness to hear God calling us by name. In the beginning Moses made excuses. I can not do what you ask. Yet God did not give up on Moses. When God calls to you will you yield to his will?

Being called by God — Moses

Being called by God — Isaiah

The call of Isaiah focused on his lips and the lips of the people. This focus was because of the people's false speaking and false living. Isaiah's call was to confront the people about their hypocrisy of saying I believe and then doing the opposite.

In Isaiah's vision, one of the seraphs flew to the altar, took a burning coal and touched Isaiah's lips. (Isaiah 6:6-7) It is interesting to observe the symbol of heat, fire or flames as it accompanies the experience of the divine. For Moses, it was the burning bush, Isaiah with a hot coal to his lips, and Jeremiah had the Word burning in his bones. Have you ever heard the words spoken in your church, I am on fire for the lord? Now you know the brief history of this phrase.

Being called by God — Isaiah

Being called by God — Jeremiah

To Jeremiah God said, "Before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations."

When Jeremiah spoke his call to repentance was severe. This may have been because his own call was severe "There is something like a burning fire shut up in my bones." (Jeremiah 20:9).

With such a calling it is no wonder why he called the people to acknowledge their guilt, there shallow piety, their religious infidelity and the luxury loving rich—who did not help the poor. How do we call people to repentance today in our churches?

Being called by God — Jeremiah

To Jeremiah God said, "Before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations."

When Jeremiah spoke his call to repentance was severe. This may have been because his own call was severe "There is something like a burning fire shut up in my bones." (Jeremiah 20:9).

Being called by God — Ezekiel

In 597 BCE Ezekiel and his wife entered into Babylonian exile. It was five years later the call came to Ezekiel by the river Chebar, a tributary of the Euphrates river, in Southeast Babylon. He was overwhelmed by the experience and remained in a stupor for 7 days (Ezekiel 3:15). Ezekiel was not called to announce destruction but to be a sentinel, to interpret changing circumstance from 587 until 571 BCE. His job was to comfort, warn and observe.

While I am still struggling with the visions of Ezekiel being complex and symbolic. There is no denying the call of Ezekiel.

Honoring Parents — The Fifth Commandment

The fifth commandment shifts the focus of the first 4 commandments away from God toward human relationships and responsibilities. Additional passages about parents can be found in Exodus 21:15, Exodus 21:17, and Leviticus 20:9.

This commandment points to the blessing of being in harmony with the divine order. In the family we learn about commitments to make and how to make them. We learn by observing our elders. Early Christians believed that whoever did not honor their family members had denied their faith and became whose than an unbeliever. (I Timothy 5:8)

How will your children treat you when you are old? They will likely do what you did to your parents.

Honoring Parents — The Fifth Commandment

How will your children treat you when you are old? They will likely do what you did to your parents.

Honoring Parents — The Fifth Commandment

How will your children treat you when you are old? They will likely do what you did to your parents.

Why Be Baptized?

From the beginning of the church, at Pentecost, Peter issued an invitation to baptism, affirming the promise is for you, for your children and all who are far away. (Acts 2:39) In 1 Peter 1:1-9 we find God has given us a new birth into a living hope through Christ's resurrection. Therefore, our response should be one of love for Christ and belief in him. Note the theme of grace and faith in this passage.

Would it be fair to say that baptism is one outward sign of an inward and spiritual grace? Is there a connection between baptism and salvation?

Why Be Baptized?

Would it be fair to say that baptism is one outward sign of an inward and spiritual grace? Is there a connection between baptism and salvation?

Why Be Baptized?

Would it be fair to say that baptism is one outward sign of an inward and spiritual grace? Is there a connection between baptism and salvation?

Why Be Baptized?

Would it be fair to say that baptism is one outward sign of an inward and spiritual grace? Is there a connection between baptism and salvation?

Baptism?

In baptism we are cleansed of the guilt of original sin; initiated into the covenant with God; admitted into the church; made an heir of the divine kingdom; and spiritually regenerated. This is the power of baptism.

It is also interesting to note there are three forms of baptism. They are pouring, sprinkling and immersion.

Watch your conduct

Let your conduct be without covetousness, and be content with such things as you have. For he himself has said, "I will not leave you nor forsake you."
Hebrews 13:5

Our society seems to teach us to want the newest and best of everything. From a spiritual perspective this is a form of covetousness. Instead Christians are challenged to live a simple life. Ask yourself, "What do I really need?

I would also ask you to consider are there others who do not have what I call the basics of life: enough food, clothing and shelter. Would you be willing help Habitat for Humanity build a house for someone in need?

Living Out Our Baptism

To live out our baptism is to let the community of faith nurture us so that we may discover the new opportunities for service where individual gifts and graces are discerned developed and used. All baptized Christians are commissioned or anointed to be in ministry.

Living out our baptism involves living out our calling to the priesthood of all believers. In the baptismal covenant we say "we" to our new brothers and sisters in Christ. Through baptism you are incorporated by the Holy Spirit into God's new creation and made to share in Christ's royal priesthood.

Living out our baptism involves us not only in our own spiritual growth but also in ministry to the needs of others. Our baptism calls us to confront the spiritual forces of wickedness and the evil powers of this world.

How are you living out your baptism?

The Biblical Basis of Christian Marriage

The institution of marriage is based on the order of creation. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27

In spite of the fact that most Bible translations still use the words man, he and his, it is plain that males and females are equally created in the image of God. Jesus recalled this created equality in his teaching on divorce: But from the beginning of creation, God made them male and female. Mark 10:6

The equality of male and female is clearly stated in such passages as Paul's declaration: For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither male or female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:27-28

The Biblical Basis of Christian Marriage

The institution of marriage is based on the order of creation. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27

The Biblical Basis of Christian Marriage

The institution of marriage is based on the order of creation. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27

Prayer Promotes Personal Holiness

Go through your Bible and you will find it stated every spiritual blessing is obtained by prayer. In Psalm 139:23-24 God searches us and knows our hearts, tries us and knows our thoughts, brings to light the sin that is there in us and delivers us from it. Psalm 19:12-13 tells us prayer cleanse us from secret faults. Check out Second Corinthians 3:18: But we are all reflecting as a mirror the glory of God, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory.

How do you reflect God's glory in your life?

Christian marriage is a lifelong covenant between a man and woman who are subject to one another out of reverence for Christ. (Ephesians 5:21) It is more than a contract. Covenant in contrast to contract involves giving of self unreservedly in love to the other. The couple encounters the risen Christ daily in their love for each other. They make a little family within the household of God, a little church in the body of Christ.

Prayer Promotes Personal Holiness

How do you reflect God's glory in your life?

Prayer Promotes Personal Holiness

How do you reflect God's glory in your life?

Prayer Promotes Personal Holiness

How do you reflect God's glory in your life?

At the Nursing Home

A pastor was called to a nursing home to perform a wedding. An anxious old man met him at the door. The pastor sat down to counsel the old man and began asking him several questions.

"Do you love her?"

"Nope", replied the old man.

"Is she a good Christian woman?"

"I don't know for sure", he answered.

"Does she have lots of money?", asked the pastor.

"I doubt it."

"Then why are you marrying her?", the pastor asked.

"She can drive at night", was the reply.

Life is always interesting.

The Kingdom of God

I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other cities also, for I was sent for this purpose.
— Luke 4:43

When you are participating in a Bible study and talking about the Kingdom of God or the Kingdom of Heaven, remember that there are three potential meanings to "the kingdom of God" or "the kingdom of heaven". Be sure to check out the context in which the phrase is found to determine its correct meaning for the Bible verses you are examining.

Generally, the first meaning is the immediate experience with Jesus. The second meaning has to do with God's judgment to those who are not ready. The third meaning concerns the culmination of history, or what some call the second coming.

The history behind the hymn Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus

This beloved Advent text by Charles Wesley touches the full range of biblical memory and human hope, evoking the promise of Christ's coming to transform human life in the present.

The tune Good Cheer by Welsh composer Rowland H. Prichard is one of the finest tunes from the late 19th century.

The Christmas Season

The Christmas season is a time of praise and thanksgiving for the incarnation of God in Jesus Christ. This second season of the Christian year begins Christmas eve or Christmas Day and continues through the Day of Epiphany. It is about 8 days long.

The name for the season comes from the name of the first worship service, called the Christ mass. The second or last Sunday of the season, called the Day of Epiphany, means manifestation. Signs of the season include a Chrismon tree, a nativity scene, a Christmas star, angels, poinsettias and roses.

The Christmas Season

Ingratitude — Taking Divine Grace for Granted

Ingratitude is a grave offense against God, and the closer to God we think we are, the more we are inclined to take divine grace for granted. Jesus makes this point in Luke 17:11-19. The psalmist continues to develop the theme by pointing out the possible problem with giving thanks. (see Psalm 106: 1-3)

The problem is this: humanity does not have sufficient words to praise God's goodness. So if we are not sincere in the expression of thanksgiving in our prayers to God, our voices may sound like a noisy gong or loud cymbal.

Ingratitude — Taking Divine Grace for Granted

Prayer for National Trouble

And Samuel took a lamb, and offering it for a burnt offering unto the Lord; and Samuel cried unto the Lord for Israel and the Lord heard him.
— 1 Samuel 7:9

The need for divine help felt in time of war drives men to God. Battlefield prayers were common in the early history of Israel. So Samuel prays before the battle of Ebenezar. The people asked him to pray for them in such an emergency. God heard Samuel's prayer.

What do we learn from this experience?

1. God is more ready to hear the prayers of his people when they repent than when they remain proud and disobedient. Amen.

2. God's ministers can pray with more comfort and confidence for a repentant people, than when the people do not repent.

Prayer for National Trouble

And Samuel took a lamb, and offering it for a burnt offering unto the Lord; and Samuel cried unto the Lord for Israel and the Lord heard him.
— 1 Samuel 7:9

What do we learn from this experience?

1. God is more ready to hear the prayers of his people when they repent than when they remain proud and disobedient. Amen.

2. God's ministers can pray with more comfort and confidence for a repentant people, than when the people do not repent.

Prayer for National Trouble

And Samuel took a lamb, and offering it for a burnt offering unto the Lord; and Samuel cried unto the Lord for Israel and the Lord heard him.
— 1 Samuel 7:9

What do we learn from this experience?

1. God is more ready to hear the prayers of his people when they repent than when they remain proud and disobedient. Amen.

2. God's ministers can pray with more comfort and confidence for a repentant people, than when the people do not repent.

Prayer for National Trouble

And Samuel took a lamb, and offering it for a burnt offering unto the Lord; and Samuel cried unto the Lord for Israel and the Lord heard him.
— 1 Samuel 7:9

What do we learn from this experience?

1. God is more ready to hear the prayers of his people when they repent than when they remain proud and disobedient. Amen.

2. God's ministers can pray with more comfort and confidence for a repentant people, than when the people do not repent.

Prayer for National Trouble

And Samuel took a lamb, and offering it for a burnt offering unto the Lord; and Samuel cried unto the Lord for Israel and the Lord heard him.
— 1 Samuel 7:9

What do we learn from this experience?

1. God is more ready to hear the prayers of his people when they repent than when they remain proud and disobedient. Amen.

2. God's ministers can pray with more comfort and confidence for a repentant people, than when the people do not repent.

The History Behind the Hymn I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord

Timothy Dwight, a president of Yale, was an important scholar, hymn writer, and Congregational pastor in the early years of the United States. This hymn is an expression of love and dedication to the Church and it is based on Psalm 137:5-6.

It is among the earliest texts written in America which is still in general use. Dwight writes of his love for the church. But the Church he speaks of is only represented by the tangible elements here on earth. The church itself consists of the redeemed, who are saved by Christ's own blood sacrifice.

I Love thy kingdom, Lord. Amen.

The History Behind the Hymn I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord

I Love thy kingdom, Lord. Amen.

Being a Responsible Father

But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
1 Timothy 5:8

Fathers have a responsibility to take care of their children. It saddens me when I read about the number of fathers who do not financially support their families.

When you become an adult you realize your choices have short and long term consequences.

So many children live in poverty that would not have to be if their fathers would take responsibility for being a parent.

Being a Responsible Father

But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
1 Timothy 5:8

Fathers have a responsibility to take care of their children. It saddens me when I read about the number of fathers who do not financially support their families.

When you become an adult you realize your choices have short and long term consequences.

So many children live in poverty that would not have to be if their fathers would take responsibility for being a parent.

Being a Responsible Father

But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
1 Timothy 5:8

Fathers have a responsibility to take care of their children. It saddens me when I read about the number of fathers who do not financially support their families.

When you become an adult you realize your choices have short and long term consequences.

So many children live in poverty that would not have to be if their fathers would take responsibility for being a parent.

The History Behind the Hymn Blest Be the Tie That Binds

John Fawcett, a Baptist minister working at a parish in Wainsgate received a call to join a larger parish in London. As he and his wife loaded the wagon with their possessions for the move, they were surrounded by their beloved parishioners. Moved by their love and concern, Fawcett ordered the wagon unpacked and stayed at Wainsgate for a total of fifty years. The hymn was first written under the title Brotherly Love.

Free of Fear

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.
— John 14:27

Prayer is the foundation of all peacemaking because through prayer we realize we do not belong to this world. We can say, we are for peace, only when we are not anchored in this world. Or when those you are fighting have no power over us. We can bear witness to the prince of peace only when our trust is in him and him alone.

Free of Fear

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.
— John 14:27

Free of Fear

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.
— John 14:27

Peacemakers: A Full-Time Vocation

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.
— Matthew 5:9

As peacemakers we are all called to say, think and dream about how we might bring peace to this world. None of us is excused from being a peacemaker. It is not something limited to specialists who are competent in political and military matters, or to radicals who have dedicated themselves to demonstrating and civil disobedience. The undeniable vocation of each Christian is to be a peacemaker. Peacemaking is a full time vocation for all God's people. We must follow Jesus, who was the greatest peacemaker of all.

Peacemakers: A Full-Time Vocation

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.
— Matthew 5:9

The Indwelling of God

There is one body and one spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, one lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.
— Ephesians 4:4-6

One of the discoveries we discern when we pray is the closer we come to God, the closer we come to all our sisters and brothers in the human family. God is not a private God. The God who dwells in our inner sanctuary is also the same God who dwells in the inner sanctuary of others.

Thus we recognize God's presence in our own hearts and in the hearts of others, because the God who has chosen us as a dwelling place gives us the eyes to see the God who dwells in others.

The Indwelling of God

Thus we recognize God's presence in our own hearts and in the hearts of others, because the God who has chosen us as a dwelling place gives us the eyes to see the God who dwells in others.

A Glimpse of the Divine

And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth.
— John 1:14

Lord Jesus, you became flesh and dwelt among us so you could speak with us, walk with us, pray with us, and even die with us. You became a human being among other human beings so nothing human would be alien to you, so in everything but sin, you could be like us. By doing this you showed the immense love of your heavenly father. Through Jesus we catch a glimpse of the father's divine love for humanity.

Let us pray. Jesus, in you the father's loving heart is glimpsed. Amen.

A Glimpse of the Divine

And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth.
— John 1:14

Let us pray. Jesus, in you the father's loving heart is glimpsed. Amen.

What Do You See in the Face of Jesus?

The Lord has anointed me, he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and release to the prisoners.
— Isaiah 61:1

This verse touches the spiritual dimension of all social concerns. The hunger of the poor, torture of people, the threat of war and all other immense human suffering. Yet in all this agony, we need to see the face of Jesus working to teach us the love of God, a love that reconciles, heals and unites. Help be the face of Jesus in your church, through its mission work.

What Do You See in the Face of Jesus?

The Lord has anointed me, he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and release to the prisoners.
— Isaiah 61:1

What Do You See in the Face of Jesus?

The Lord has anointed me, he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and release to the prisoners.
— Isaiah 61:1

A Prayer Teaching Us to Listen

Let us pray.

Lord, teach me to listen. The times are noisy and my ears are weary with the many sounds which daily overwhelm me. Give me the spirit of thechild Samuel when he said to you, "Speak for your servant hears."

Let me hear you speaking to me. Let me get use to the sound of your voice, that it may be pleasing to my heart. Let your voice be music for my soul.

Amen.

Surprise

Matt is six months older than our 11 year old son, Brandon, and they are best friends. They have grown up together being neighbors since their birth. Our family has been an influence on Matt, taking him places with us, including church and church related activities.

I was not sure how much or how positive our influence was until Matt went out to eat with us one evening. My husband, I, Brandon and Matt sat down and were about to begin eating when Matt stopped and said, "Aren't we going to pray first?" I just about fell out of my chair. So we stopped to say the blessing and then eat.

Just when you think you will never get through to them, the unexpected happens. Hang in there, because they do hear you and see you, and you do influence them.

Surprise.

Sue Stanton
West College Corner, Indiana

Surprise

Just when you think you will never get through to them, the unexpected happens. Hang in there, because they do hear you and see you, and you do influence them.

Surprise.

Sue Stanton
West College Corner, Indiana

A Prayer of Thanksgiving

Let us pray.

Eternal God, you have given us everything; we now focus our thoughts on thanking you for such generosity. You have given us life. Help us to use our lives wisely, to enjoy your creation, the continual passing of the seasons which delights our senses, the work of our hands, and the gift of friendship.

Through Jesus Christ you have given us the revelation of your love in the life Christ led, the proclamation of truth in the things he said, and your promise of eternal life through our faith in him. To each generation you give the gift of inspiration to serve Christ — knowledge of your Word, new understandings, new power to control and direct our lives.

We thank you for all you have given to us so in everything may we give glory to Jesus the Christ.

Amen.

A Prayer of Thanksgiving

Let us pray.

We thank you for all you have given to us so in everything may we give glory to Jesus the Christ.

Amen.

Wisdom Has Its Limits

There are limits to what wisdom can explain. Wisdom can not explain or predict the outcome of our actions or God's actions. People can not know the future, except for the reality of death. (chapter 9:1-3). The author goes on to contrast wisdom with folly or foolishness. However in the Hebrew understanding of the word foolishness, it means one who denies divine revelation. The author also makes clear both the wise and the foolish will all die. (chapter 2: 15)

Children Are A Gift

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is his reward.
Psalm 127:3

We have a Preschool at Paoli United Methodist church. It is fun to watch these young children as they are taught new things. Yet not all children are as fortunate as the children who attend our preschool. It is hard to believe, but there are children in the United States who do not have enough to eat.

A society can be judged by how it takes care of those who are unable to take care of themselves, like children and the elderly. When families are not able to provide enough food for a growing child who should step in and help out? It is a tough question to answer.

Whatever actions we have taken and might take in the future will be remembered by future generations.

What did Jesus say about children and how they should be treated?

Children Are A Gift

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is his reward.
Psalm 127:3

Whatever actions we have taken and might take in the future will be remembered by future generations.

What did Jesus say about children and how they should be treated?

Children Are A Gift

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is his reward.
Psalm 127:3

Whatever actions we have taken and might take in the future will be remembered by future generations.

What did Jesus say about children and how they should be treated?

Come to our Party

Protestant evangelist Tony Campolo gave a talk called "The Kingdom of God is a Party", which was later published as a book by the same title. Here are a few excerpts.

In Chapter 14 of Deuteronomy, we read every year all Jewish families came to Jerusalem and brought with them 1/10 of all the money they earned that past year. And it was blown on a party.

Everybody was invited. The lame, the blind, people who did not have any means of income, the widows and orphans. There was singing, dancing, and a lot of food. Who wouldn't want to go to church if church was meant to be a party?

According to Deuteronomy, church was meant to be a party.

God is a God who loves parties. He is a God who loves celebration. To all of us who are down, beaten, tired, and sad, He says, Come with me, we're going to have a party.

Jesus says the same thing. When asked what the Kingdom of God was like, he said The kingdom of God is like a wedding reception. A party.

Christians should be people who create fun and joy wherever they are placed.

Come to our Party

Protestant evangelist Tony Campolo gave a talk called "The Kingdom of God is a Party", which was later published as a book by the same title. Here are a few excerpts.

In Chapter 14 of Deuteronomy, we read every year all Jewish families came to Jerusalem and brought with them 1/10 of all the money they earned that past year. And it was blown on a party.

According to Deuteronomy, church was meant to be a party.

God is a God who loves parties. He is a God who loves celebration. To all of us who are down, beaten, tired, and sad, He says, Come with me, we're going to have a party.

Jesus says the same thing. When asked what the Kingdom of God was like, he said The kingdom of God is like a wedding reception. A party.

Christians should be people who create fun and joy wherever they are placed.

Come to our Party

Protestant evangelist Tony Campolo gave a talk called "The Kingdom of God is a Party", which was later published as a book by the same title. Here are a few excerpts.

In Chapter 14 of Deuteronomy, we read every year all Jewish families came to Jerusalem and brought with them 1/10 of all the money they earned that past year. And it was blown on a party.

According to Deuteronomy, church was meant to be a party.

God is a God who loves parties. He is a God who loves celebration. To all of us who are down, beaten, tired, and sad, He says, Come with me, we're going to have a party.

Jesus says the same thing. When asked what the Kingdom of God was like, he said The kingdom of God is like a wedding reception. A party.

Christians should be people who create fun and joy wherever they are placed.

The Facts of Life for a Church

Why should anyone be interested in expanding the teaching ministry of the church?

Consider this, every year most congregations have several people drop out for one or more reasons: A few die. A couple becomes disenchanted with the new pastor. A husband drops out following the death of his wife. Several marry into another church.

In smaller congregations this is about 3-5 percent of the reported membership. In medium sized churches the annual member loss rate is 6 to 9 percent. In large churches the rate is 10 to 25 percent. The teaching ministry ranks second only to excellent preaching as a means of attracting new people to join a church.

Thus an expansion of the teaching ministry of your church is probably the most effective means of reaching, attracting, and serving the new generations of younger members who represent a broad range of values, needs and desires.

However, there is an easier alternate to expanding the teaching ministry of the church. It is to grow smaller in size as the members grow old together.

The Facts of Life for a Church

Why should anyone be interested in expanding the teaching ministry of the church?

However, there is an easier alternate to expanding the teaching ministry of the church. It is to grow smaller in size as the members grow old together.

Insight into the Gospel of Matthew: Discipleship

Matthew presents a portrait of Jesus as the Christ, showing how the ministry, death and resurrection of Jesus is tied together with his role as Messiah. However, what separates Matthew from the other Gospel writers, is the focus on the church, its way of life in response to the message of Jesus.

In chapter 10 of Matthew verses 26-42, the rewards and cost of discipleship are presented. Disciples are to proclaim openly the Kingdom of God. Those who bear witness will be vindicated before God. Those who deny Jesus will be denied by the father.

So great are the demands of being a disciple of Jesus, it will lead to conflict with one's family and parents. This is in contrast to the Jewish faith where the family is the center of existence. This was a radical view. However, full conformity to live the authentic life God has intended may require disciples to give up their lives. To be a disciple of Jesus is very costly. You must leave behind your family and you must be willing to give up your life.

The last two verses of this text lay out the rewards to those who are kind to the disciples of Jesus.

Insight into the Gospel of Matthew: Discipleship

The last two verses of this text lay out the rewards to those who are kind to the disciples of Jesus.

The Christian Lifestyle

Consider Matthew's Sermon on the Mount and Luke's Sermon on the Plain. What was the purpose of these sermons? It would seem the focus is on those people who had already decided to follow Jesus. He was giving them a way of life that he expected them to follow. Guidelines for Kingdom living. For example, Jesus emphasized a type of forgiveness which went beyond the Jewish understanding of forgiveness. If a person speaks ill of you, shake it off. If someone slaps your face, turn your face to receive the second slap. However, you need to understand the reason for your actions. It was because God is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful just as your father is merciful (Luke 6:35-36).

It seems the goal of these sermons was to develop a Christian lifestyle which is gracious and generous to others. Forgive, and you will be forgiven; give and it will be given to you (Luke 6:37-38).

The Christian Lifestyle

It seems the goal of these sermons was to develop a Christian lifestyle which is gracious and generous to others. Forgive, and you will be forgiven; give and it will be given to you (Luke 6:37-38).

The Christian Lifestyle

It seems the goal of these sermons was to develop a Christian lifestyle which is gracious and generous to others. Forgive, and you will be forgiven; give and it will be given to you (Luke 6:37-38).

Thoughts on Gossip by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

From the book "Letters and Papers From Prison"

February 13, 1944

"... It sometimes makes me ashamed here to see how people lower themselves in their need to gossip, how they talk incessantly about their own affairs to others who are hardly worth wasting their breath on and who hardly ever listen; and the strange thing is that these people do not even feel that they have to speak the truth, but simply want to talk about themselves, whether they tell the truth or not."

"The wish for a good conversation, a meeting of the minds, is quite another matter; but there are very few people here you can carry on a conversation that goes beyond their own personal concerns. ... I think its infrequent here, because people are not ... concerned either subjectively or objectively about sin."

Is gossiping a sign of sin? What are your thoughts?

Thoughts on Gossip by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

From the book "Letters and Papers From Prison"

February 13, 1944

Is gossiping a sign of sin? What are your thoughts?

Thoughts on Gossip by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

From the book "Letters and Papers From Prison"

February 13, 1944

Is gossiping a sign of sin? What are your thoughts?

Ways to Make Your Teaching Ministry Successful

A good teaching ministry needs to go beyond the written and spoken word to communicate the gospel. Use music in your lessons.
Set up special occasions to draw big crowds.
Design your vacation bible school to attract new people to your church.
Use electronic teaching aids in the classroom.
If you plan to increase the number of participants in your teaching ministry and enhance the quality of your total program plan to quadruple your expenditures. Good education costs money.

Ways to Make Your Teaching Ministry Successful

A good teaching ministry needs to go beyond the written and spoken word to communicate the gospel. Use music in your lessons.
Set up special occasions to draw big crowds.
Design your vacation bible school to attract new people to your church.
Use electronic teaching aids in the classroom.
If you plan to increase the number of participants in your teaching ministry and enhance the quality of your total program plan to quadruple your expenditures. Good education costs money.

Insight into the Gospel of Matthew: Focus on the Church

In Matthew chapter 13 verses 24 to 30 we have the parable of the weeds. It is similar in focus to the parable of the sower. The message here is carry on your work faithfully in spite of mixed results. However, the results you achieve will be judged by God on Judgment day.

In verses 36 to 43 of chapter 13, we have an interpretation which does not come out of the tradition of the church but from the author, Matthew. Verse 41 gives us a clue about the author's purpose, The phrase Kingdom of the son of man is the church. It is contrasted with the kingdom of the father in verse 43. At present the church is a mixed body, containing both good and bad. These individuals will be judged by god at the end of the age. They are not to be judged by the church in this present time.

Insight into the Gospel of Matthew: Focus on the Church

Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Interpretation of the New Testament

From the book "Letters and Papers From Prison"

August 23, 1935

One crucial aspect of the struggle with the Confessing Church with the Reich Church and Nazi theologians at the time was over the correct interpretation of Scripture. Representatives of the Reich Church were not above distorting the Bible texts in order to justify the racial policies then in place or to reinforce from a seemingly spiritual point of view for the discriminatory laws against the Jews. Bonhoeffer took issue with the German Christians accusing them of sacrificing the to a pagan ideology. The German Christians sought to make Christianity justify itself before the present age rather than the present age which must be asked to justify itself before the Christian message.

Here is what Bonhoeffer states:

"... The relevant is and begins where God himself is in his Word. The Holy Ghost is the relevant subject not we ourselves, so the Holy Ghost is also the subject of the interpretation. ..."

Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Interpretation of the New Testament

From the book "Letters and Papers From Prison"

August 23, 1935

Here is what Bonhoeffer states:

"... The relevant is and begins where God himself is in his Word. The Holy Ghost is the relevant subject not we ourselves, so the Holy Ghost is also the subject of the interpretation. ..."

Death and Heaven

A preacher once overheard a conversation between an older and younger brother talking about the death of their grandmother.

The younger brother asked the older brother, How did Grandma get to heaven?

The older brother, himself still very young explained it this way:

Well Grandma put her hands up as high as she could while standing on her tip toes. Then God in heaven saw her reaching up and he put his hands down, down, down until his hands touched her hands. Then he puts his arms around her and slowly lifted her to heaven.

I couldn't have said it better myself.

What Can Your Pastor do to Expand the Teaching Ministry of Your Church?

The pastor teaches a class on Sunday morning,
The pastor acts as an aggressive advocate for the teaching ministry by preparing the schedule for Sunday morning and the rest of the year,
The pastor acts as an advocate for the teaching ministry at all stages of policy formation
The pastor accepts an active role in the identification and enlistment of teachers.

What Can Your Pastor do to Expand the Teaching Ministry of Your Church?

The pastor teaches a class on Sunday morning,
The pastor acts as an aggressive advocate for the teaching ministry by preparing the schedule for Sunday morning and the rest of the year,
The pastor acts as an advocate for the teaching ministry at all stages of policy formation
The pastor accepts an active role in the identification and enlistment of teachers.

All devotional thoughts