My Prayer: Psalm 96:10 (New International Version)
10 Say among the nations, "The LORD reigns."
The world is firmly established, it cannot be moved;
he will judge the peoples with equity.
The Reading: John 20-21
John 20:29 (New International Version)
29Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
My Thoughts: How many times have I said that I wanted to see a sign, something like a burning bush to clearly point the way? The diciples were lucky. They got to see Jesus at work. They got to see miracles and hear first the parables Jesus used to talk. They had daily proof of Jesus as savior and they saw with their own eyes his resurrected body. And they missed it just about every time. Jesus had to explain himself over and over and re-introduce himself to the men who worked and traveled with him. It's good to know that I'm not alone. I probably would have missed what was right in front of my face, too. Of course, we're lucky because Jesus left the Holy Spirit for all of us. So today, we have the Holy Spirit. We're never alone. We don't get to see the miracles performed the way the disciples did but we still get to see God at work in this world through believers.
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Day 33-Protection
My Prayer: Psalm 86:13 (New International Version)
13 For great is your love toward me;
you have delivered me from the depths of the grave
The Reading: John 17-19
John 17:15-16 (New International Version)
15My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. 16They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.
My Thoughts: This is a passage that I've never spent much time on, but Jesus is praying on behalf of his disciples and on behalf of everyone who would believe in his name. He wanted unity for his church. Boy, have we messed that up! It's really sad to think about what the world could be like with true unity instead of the division among Christians. That's how the world is supposed to find Jesus, through the witness of his people. Still, I'm not sure I've studied much on this prayer of protection...protection from the evil one. I am reminded again of how Jesus prays for us even when we don't know what to pray for.
13 For great is your love toward me;
you have delivered me from the depths of the grave
The Reading: John 17-19
John 17:15-16 (New International Version)
15My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. 16They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.
My Thoughts: This is a passage that I've never spent much time on, but Jesus is praying on behalf of his disciples and on behalf of everyone who would believe in his name. He wanted unity for his church. Boy, have we messed that up! It's really sad to think about what the world could be like with true unity instead of the division among Christians. That's how the world is supposed to find Jesus, through the witness of his people. Still, I'm not sure I've studied much on this prayer of protection...protection from the evil one. I am reminded again of how Jesus prays for us even when we don't know what to pray for.
Day 32-The Way
My Prayer: Psalm 147:5 (New International Version)
5 Great is our Lord and mighty in power;
his understanding has no limit.
The Reading: John 14-16
John 14:1-4 (New International Version)
Jesus Comforts His Disciples
1"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God[a]; trust also in me. 2In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4You know the way to the place where I am going."
My Thoughts: Jesus had just told the disciples about how he would be betrayed and they were upset. So Jesus comforted them. This is a crystal-clear picture of what made Jesus different. He loved them, even though he was going to have to die to save them. He wanted them to have hope in his return. He wanted to feel secure that they would be able to find him. Jesus said, "I am the way..." They knew Jesus, they knew how to find him again. I've read this passage at 2 funerals when my heart was completely and totally broken. But here is a reason for joy. I know the way home. They knew the way, too. The way to a permanent home.
5 Great is our Lord and mighty in power;
his understanding has no limit.
The Reading: John 14-16
John 14:1-4 (New International Version)
Jesus Comforts His Disciples
1"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God[a]; trust also in me. 2In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4You know the way to the place where I am going."
My Thoughts: Jesus had just told the disciples about how he would be betrayed and they were upset. So Jesus comforted them. This is a crystal-clear picture of what made Jesus different. He loved them, even though he was going to have to die to save them. He wanted them to have hope in his return. He wanted to feel secure that they would be able to find him. Jesus said, "I am the way..." They knew Jesus, they knew how to find him again. I've read this passage at 2 funerals when my heart was completely and totally broken. But here is a reason for joy. I know the way home. They knew the way, too. The way to a permanent home.
Day 31-Glory
My Prayer: Psalm 85:7 (New International Version)
7 Show us your unfailing love, O LORD,
and grant us your salvation.
The Reading: John 12-13
John 12:27-28 (New International Version)
27"Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say? 'Father, save me from this hour'? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. 28Father, glorify your name!"
My Thoughts: Maybe this is a clue to the answer about my questions about prayer. Jesus has told his believers to pray in his name and their prayers will be answered. So why aren't they answered? Why aren't my prayers answered? Jesus, instead of praying for safety or security or any of the escapes he could command, prayed only to glorify God's name. Bad things happen. Bad things happen to good people. It's true. It's not true that we were ever promised anything different. People don't get any good-er than Jesus who died like a criminal. But as one of those people who know Jesus, a good person can believe that when bad things happen, God's going to use them to change the world, to reach people, to save people. I'm pretty sure that's the mature view that I'm supposed to have. Maybe I'll get there someday.
7 Show us your unfailing love, O LORD,
and grant us your salvation.
The Reading: John 12-13
John 12:27-28 (New International Version)
27"Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say? 'Father, save me from this hour'? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. 28Father, glorify your name!"
My Thoughts: Maybe this is a clue to the answer about my questions about prayer. Jesus has told his believers to pray in his name and their prayers will be answered. So why aren't they answered? Why aren't my prayers answered? Jesus, instead of praying for safety or security or any of the escapes he could command, prayed only to glorify God's name. Bad things happen. Bad things happen to good people. It's true. It's not true that we were ever promised anything different. People don't get any good-er than Jesus who died like a criminal. But as one of those people who know Jesus, a good person can believe that when bad things happen, God's going to use them to change the world, to reach people, to save people. I'm pretty sure that's the mature view that I'm supposed to have. Maybe I'll get there someday.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Day 30-The Shepherd
My Prayer: Psalm 23 (New International Version)
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
The Reading: John 9-11
John 10:2-5 (New International Version)
2The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. 3The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. 5But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger's voice."
My Thoughts: We're supposed to recognize Jesus' voice. We're supposed to know Him and follow him the way the sheep follow the shepherd. Later he says, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me...no one can snatch them out of my hand." When I read this, I think about how much security those sheep have because of their trust. How much security I have because of my faith. I rememember talking about this in one of our bible studies at work, how we're supposed to recognize the Father's voice. There used to be 2 people in the world who could call me at work and I'd get choked up, no matter the purpose of the call. With my mother, it was a little better because we talked every day anyway, but almost without fail, if my dad called me at work, a sudden homesick feeling would hit me. And for some of that time, I lived 3 doors down from my parents! I might not see them for weeks, but one phone call got me all choked up. Totally weird, but it was just something about hearing his voice. He didn't have to identify himself or even say much at all and I knew who it was. All it took was a "Hey" and I recognized his voice. I don't know the sound of Jesus' voice that well. But I really want to. I want to know the safety that comes from knowing the shepherd is here, not some thief, not some stranger, but the shepherd who wants good things for me.
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
The Reading: John 9-11
John 10:2-5 (New International Version)
2The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. 3The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. 5But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger's voice."
My Thoughts: We're supposed to recognize Jesus' voice. We're supposed to know Him and follow him the way the sheep follow the shepherd. Later he says, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me...no one can snatch them out of my hand." When I read this, I think about how much security those sheep have because of their trust. How much security I have because of my faith. I rememember talking about this in one of our bible studies at work, how we're supposed to recognize the Father's voice. There used to be 2 people in the world who could call me at work and I'd get choked up, no matter the purpose of the call. With my mother, it was a little better because we talked every day anyway, but almost without fail, if my dad called me at work, a sudden homesick feeling would hit me. And for some of that time, I lived 3 doors down from my parents! I might not see them for weeks, but one phone call got me all choked up. Totally weird, but it was just something about hearing his voice. He didn't have to identify himself or even say much at all and I knew who it was. All it took was a "Hey" and I recognized his voice. I don't know the sound of Jesus' voice that well. But I really want to. I want to know the safety that comes from knowing the shepherd is here, not some thief, not some stranger, but the shepherd who wants good things for me.
Day 29-I Am
My Prayer: Psalm 89:8 (New International Version)
8 O LORD God Almighty, who is like you?
You are mighty, O LORD, and your faithfulness surrounds you.
The Reading: John 6-8
Exodus 3:14 (New International Version)
14 God said to Moses, "I am who I am . This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.' "
My Thoughts: Tricky, right? The notes in Bible mention that here, Jesus says over and over "I am..." I think there are seven different places where he says something that starts with this phrase ("I am the light of the world") and at the end of Chapter 8, Jesus says, "I tell you the truth, before Abraham was born, I am!" This is one of the names of Jesus that I've always been interested in. It really captures the eternal and god-like nature of Jesus...always has been, always will be powerful enough to do it...whatever it is. I like the song by Mark Schultz in the box. Check it out.
8 O LORD God Almighty, who is like you?
You are mighty, O LORD, and your faithfulness surrounds you.
The Reading: John 6-8
Exodus 3:14 (New International Version)
14 God said to Moses, "I am who I am . This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.' "
My Thoughts: Tricky, right? The notes in Bible mention that here, Jesus says over and over "I am..." I think there are seven different places where he says something that starts with this phrase ("I am the light of the world") and at the end of Chapter 8, Jesus says, "I tell you the truth, before Abraham was born, I am!" This is one of the names of Jesus that I've always been interested in. It really captures the eternal and god-like nature of Jesus...always has been, always will be powerful enough to do it...whatever it is. I like the song by Mark Schultz in the box. Check it out.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Day 28-Not to condemn
My Prayer: Psalm 57:10 (New International Version)
10 For great is your love, reaching to the heavens;
your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
The Reading: John 3-5
John 3:16-18 (New International Version)
16"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.
My Thoughts: God is love, right? We've all heard it, some of us have said it, and some of us believe it. It's difficult to reconcile a God of love with a God who will someday divide us up...those who know Jesus from those who do not. Really, we couldn't get to God before Jesus, and Jesus will be the one to divide us up...those who he knows and those of us he doesn't know, right? God loved us enough to make the ultimate sacrifice so that we would have a way back to Him. Jesus came and died for us, another example of amazing love. But he also says that someday, he's going to divide us up and say "Depart from me." Everyone has a choice to make. Jesus came to die to give us that choice. When the time comes, we'll be divided up based on what we did with that choice...those who know Jesus from those who don't. God sent the Way, but we have to make the choice.
10 For great is your love, reaching to the heavens;
your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
The Reading: John 3-5
John 3:16-18 (New International Version)
16"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.
My Thoughts: God is love, right? We've all heard it, some of us have said it, and some of us believe it. It's difficult to reconcile a God of love with a God who will someday divide us up...those who know Jesus from those who do not. Really, we couldn't get to God before Jesus, and Jesus will be the one to divide us up...those who he knows and those of us he doesn't know, right? God loved us enough to make the ultimate sacrifice so that we would have a way back to Him. Jesus came and died for us, another example of amazing love. But he also says that someday, he's going to divide us up and say "Depart from me." Everyone has a choice to make. Jesus came to die to give us that choice. When the time comes, we'll be divided up based on what we did with that choice...those who know Jesus from those who don't. God sent the Way, but we have to make the choice.
Day 27-Grace and Truth
My Prayer: Psalm 100:4 (New International Version)
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
The Reading: John 1-2
John 1:17 (New International Version)
17For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
My Thoughts: The law came through Moses, grace and truth through Jesus. What does that mean? Jesus answered over and over the questions of the Pharisees and teachers who tried to trip him up. He was a great teacher, a rabbi, a man who knew the law and boiled it down to the basics for us. And thanks to him, it doesn't have a hold on us anymore. We could never come to God while under Moses' law. We mess up. I mess up. Jesus brought grace and truth, light in the dark. We spend a lot of time doing our best to check off the list of things on our "Christian To-Do" list, given to us through the law of Moses. Thank God we aren't under that law anymore. I would never measure up. Jesus brought us a new law, a new agreement with God. All we have to do now is follow the Son, the son he sent to save the world.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
The Reading: John 1-2
John 1:17 (New International Version)
17For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
My Thoughts: The law came through Moses, grace and truth through Jesus. What does that mean? Jesus answered over and over the questions of the Pharisees and teachers who tried to trip him up. He was a great teacher, a rabbi, a man who knew the law and boiled it down to the basics for us. And thanks to him, it doesn't have a hold on us anymore. We could never come to God while under Moses' law. We mess up. I mess up. Jesus brought grace and truth, light in the dark. We spend a lot of time doing our best to check off the list of things on our "Christian To-Do" list, given to us through the law of Moses. Thank God we aren't under that law anymore. I would never measure up. Jesus brought us a new law, a new agreement with God. All we have to do now is follow the Son, the son he sent to save the world.
Day 26-They do not know
My Prayer: Psalm 100:3 (New International Version)
3 Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his [a] ;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
The Reading: Luke 23-24
Luke 23:34 (New International Version)
34Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.
My Thoughts: So maybe this is the best example of Jesus praying for sinners. He spoke to his Father on behalf of the people responsible for his crucifixion. In that moment of suffering and pain, he prayed for others, the very people responsible for his suffering. What an example. I don't know why I never thought of Jesus praying for me. He did it on the cross.
3 Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his [a] ;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
The Reading: Luke 23-24
Luke 23:34 (New International Version)
34Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.
My Thoughts: So maybe this is the best example of Jesus praying for sinners. He spoke to his Father on behalf of the people responsible for his crucifixion. In that moment of suffering and pain, he prayed for others, the very people responsible for his suffering. What an example. I don't know why I never thought of Jesus praying for me. He did it on the cross.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Day 25-Back to Peter
My Prayer: Psalm 54:4 (New International Version)
4 Surely God is my help;
the Lord is the one who sustains me.
The Reading: Luke 21-22
Luke 22:28-34 (New International Version)
28You are those who have stood by me in my trials. 29And I confer on you a kingdom, just as my Father conferred one on me, 30so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
31"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. 32But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."
33But he replied, "Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death."
34Jesus answered, "I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me."
My Thoughts: I think I may have posted this before when I talked about Jesus praying for us. Peter really is my favorite. Don't you know Jesus just had to shake his head sometimes in disbelief at Peter. Peter was going to do great things...but he wasn't there yet. Then later on, verse 61, after Peter has, yes, actually denied knowing Jesus 3 times, "The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered..." Oh, man. Can you imagine? Peter blusters and promises (and cuts off some dude's ear and Jesus has to fix it) and then he messes up in a big way...and then he has to meet Jesus' eye. Oh, man. That's so much worse than getting a phone call at work to talk about how I've messed up in a big way. I cringe, and fret, and stay up at night worrying about it. Can you imagine the upset Peter faced? And Jesus knew it would happen and loved Peter anyway, made plans for his rewards in advance. Peter got a second (or with Peter, third, fourth, fifth) chance. And he did the right thing, the thing that Jesus prayed for. Satan sifted Peter and he failed, but he didn't give up. He did turn back, and he went on to impact the world. Thank you, God, for giving me a second (third, fourth) chance.
4 Surely God is my help;
the Lord is the one who sustains me.
The Reading: Luke 21-22
Luke 22:28-34 (New International Version)
28You are those who have stood by me in my trials. 29And I confer on you a kingdom, just as my Father conferred one on me, 30so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
31"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. 32But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."
33But he replied, "Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death."
34Jesus answered, "I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me."
My Thoughts: I think I may have posted this before when I talked about Jesus praying for us. Peter really is my favorite. Don't you know Jesus just had to shake his head sometimes in disbelief at Peter. Peter was going to do great things...but he wasn't there yet. Then later on, verse 61, after Peter has, yes, actually denied knowing Jesus 3 times, "The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered..." Oh, man. Can you imagine? Peter blusters and promises (and cuts off some dude's ear and Jesus has to fix it) and then he messes up in a big way...and then he has to meet Jesus' eye. Oh, man. That's so much worse than getting a phone call at work to talk about how I've messed up in a big way. I cringe, and fret, and stay up at night worrying about it. Can you imagine the upset Peter faced? And Jesus knew it would happen and loved Peter anyway, made plans for his rewards in advance. Peter got a second (or with Peter, third, fourth, fifth) chance. And he did the right thing, the thing that Jesus prayed for. Satan sifted Peter and he failed, but he didn't give up. He did turn back, and he went on to impact the world. Thank you, God, for giving me a second (third, fourth) chance.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Day 24-The mission
My Prayer: Psalm 56
3 When I am afraid,
I will trust in you.
4 In God, whose word I praise,
in God I trust; I will not be afraid.
What can mortal man do to me?
The Reading: Luke 19-20
Luke 19:10 (New International Version)
10For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost."
My Thoughts: I like this story about Zaccheus the tax collector, mainly because Luke tells us that Zaccheus, being a short man, couldn't see over the crowd so he climbed a tree. For some reason, this strikes me as funny. Still, he was dedicated and he was one of the sinners that the teachers of the law didn't approve of. And seeing Jesus was important enough that he climbed a tree. He was an important, rich man. He saw Jesus, Jesus saw him, and Zaccheus made the change...salvation came to his house. My notes say that this verse is the summary of the purpose of this gospel...emphasis on Jesus as the true Messiah, the one eagerly awaited, who came to save what was lost. Who Jesus was and what he was here for in one sentence. And he said it to Zaccheus the sinner.
And just a note...how many days does it take to form a new habit? So I did pretty well for the first 23 days. Today I was too busy fretting over work to get myself together in time to do this in the morning. I keep waiting for everything to kick in...the good habits.
3 When I am afraid,
I will trust in you.
4 In God, whose word I praise,
in God I trust; I will not be afraid.
What can mortal man do to me?
The Reading: Luke 19-20
Luke 19:10 (New International Version)
10For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost."
My Thoughts: I like this story about Zaccheus the tax collector, mainly because Luke tells us that Zaccheus, being a short man, couldn't see over the crowd so he climbed a tree. For some reason, this strikes me as funny. Still, he was dedicated and he was one of the sinners that the teachers of the law didn't approve of. And seeing Jesus was important enough that he climbed a tree. He was an important, rich man. He saw Jesus, Jesus saw him, and Zaccheus made the change...salvation came to his house. My notes say that this verse is the summary of the purpose of this gospel...emphasis on Jesus as the true Messiah, the one eagerly awaited, who came to save what was lost. Who Jesus was and what he was here for in one sentence. And he said it to Zaccheus the sinner.
And just a note...how many days does it take to form a new habit? So I did pretty well for the first 23 days. Today I was too busy fretting over work to get myself together in time to do this in the morning. I keep waiting for everything to kick in...the good habits.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Day 23-When or where
My Prayer: Psalm 51:12 (New International Version)
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
The Reading: Luke 17-18
Luke 17:26-27 (New International Version)
26"Just as it was in the days of Noah, so also will it be in the days of the Son of Man. 27People were eating, drinking, marrying and being given in marriage up to the day Noah entered the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all.
My Thoughts: It's hard to imagine that one day, I'll be going about my normal business and then in the blink of an eye it's all over. And I won't know when or how or where. Thank God. So what do I do? Am I ready to be judged on this life today? Not really. I've still got plenty to figure out and I hope there's more time to fulfill my purpose.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
The Reading: Luke 17-18
Luke 17:26-27 (New International Version)
26"Just as it was in the days of Noah, so also will it be in the days of the Son of Man. 27People were eating, drinking, marrying and being given in marriage up to the day Noah entered the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all.
My Thoughts: It's hard to imagine that one day, I'll be going about my normal business and then in the blink of an eye it's all over. And I won't know when or how or where. Thank God. So what do I do? Am I ready to be judged on this life today? Not really. I've still got plenty to figure out and I hope there's more time to fulfill my purpose.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Day 22-Lost sheep
My Prayer: Psalm 139:1-2, 5 (New International Version)
1 O LORD, you have searched me
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
5 You hem me in—behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
The Reading: Luke 14-16
Luke 15:3-7 (New International Version)
3Then Jesus told them this parable: 4"Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' 7I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.
My Thoughts: Some people had trouble with Jesus because he spent so much time with sinners instead of "good" people who followed the rules. I've always liked this parable. I think it's because it's easy for met to understand. I lose things. A lot. I am very familiar with the desperate desire to find something (like my debit card). I'll do what it takes to find what's lost. I like this parable because of the shepherd picture. When he finds the sheep, he doesn't yell at the sheep or beat the sheep. He picks the sheep up, carries it back, and tells everyone to celebrate because the sheep is found. And our Shepherd tells us that there's a party in heaven every time a sinner comes back. There's no grumbling over how stupid we sheep are to have gotten lost, separated. There's a party when we come back. Jesus comes to us where we've gotten mired and lost because of our bad decisions, and he picks us up to carry us back. And there's a party to celebrate.
1 O LORD, you have searched me
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
5 You hem me in—behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
The Reading: Luke 14-16
Luke 15:3-7 (New International Version)
3Then Jesus told them this parable: 4"Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' 7I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.
My Thoughts: Some people had trouble with Jesus because he spent so much time with sinners instead of "good" people who followed the rules. I've always liked this parable. I think it's because it's easy for met to understand. I lose things. A lot. I am very familiar with the desperate desire to find something (like my debit card). I'll do what it takes to find what's lost. I like this parable because of the shepherd picture. When he finds the sheep, he doesn't yell at the sheep or beat the sheep. He picks the sheep up, carries it back, and tells everyone to celebrate because the sheep is found. And our Shepherd tells us that there's a party in heaven every time a sinner comes back. There's no grumbling over how stupid we sheep are to have gotten lost, separated. There's a party when we come back. Jesus comes to us where we've gotten mired and lost because of our bad decisions, and he picks us up to carry us back. And there's a party to celebrate.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Day 21-Dearest Friends
My Prayer: Psalm 37:3-4 (New International Version)
3 Trust in the LORD and do good;
dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
4 Delight yourself in the LORD
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
The Reading: Luke 11-13
Luke 12:27-34 (The Message)
"Has anyone by fussing before the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? If fussing can't even do that, why fuss at all? Walk into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They don't fuss with their appearance—but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them. If God gives such attention to the wildflowers, most of them never even seen, don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you?
"What I'm trying to do here is get you to relax, not be so preoccupied with getting so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep yourself in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. Don't be afraid of missing out. You're my dearest friends! The Father wants to give you the very kingdom itself.
My Thoughts: This is the passage where Jesus says, "Consider how the lilies grow..." but sometimes I like so see what The Message translation says (www.biblegateway.com is easy, easy, easy to do this) because it's supposed to be updated (in a paraphrase sort of way). The NIV says, "Do not be afraid, little flock..." and here we're "dearest friends." I've read over and over now that we are loved like children, and even sinful fathers want good things for their children. How much more will God give to us? This is also the passage that ends with Jesus telling us to store up our treasures in heaven. The Message says, "It's obvious, isn't it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being." It's good advice...again, focus on that one thing (from yesterday) and the details will be taken care of.
3 Trust in the LORD and do good;
dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
4 Delight yourself in the LORD
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
The Reading: Luke 11-13
Luke 12:27-34 (The Message)
"Has anyone by fussing before the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? If fussing can't even do that, why fuss at all? Walk into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They don't fuss with their appearance—but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them. If God gives such attention to the wildflowers, most of them never even seen, don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you?
"What I'm trying to do here is get you to relax, not be so preoccupied with getting so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep yourself in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. Don't be afraid of missing out. You're my dearest friends! The Father wants to give you the very kingdom itself.
My Thoughts: This is the passage where Jesus says, "Consider how the lilies grow..." but sometimes I like so see what The Message translation says (www.biblegateway.com is easy, easy, easy to do this) because it's supposed to be updated (in a paraphrase sort of way). The NIV says, "Do not be afraid, little flock..." and here we're "dearest friends." I've read over and over now that we are loved like children, and even sinful fathers want good things for their children. How much more will God give to us? This is also the passage that ends with Jesus telling us to store up our treasures in heaven. The Message says, "It's obvious, isn't it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being." It's good advice...again, focus on that one thing (from yesterday) and the details will be taken care of.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Day 20-Mary in a Martha World
My Prayer: Psalm 113:2-3 (New International Version)
2 Let the name of the LORD be praised,
both now and forevermore.
3 From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets,
the name of the LORD is to be praised.
The Reading: Luke 9-10
Luke 10:38-42 (New International Version)
At the Home of Martha and Mary
38As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. 40But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!"
41"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, 42but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."
My Thoughts: There's a book that we sold at Lifeway called (something like) Being Mary in a Martha World. I haven't read it, but I get the concept. We have lives that are packed with activities and responsibilities and hobbies and things that take all our energy to keep going. Most of the time, these things feel like neccessities. Martha felt it was neccessary to make Jesus feel comfortable and welcome in her home. These were good goals until they distracted her from what's really important. Mary understood what was important. She had an opportunity that few had and that she would never have again. She had a chance to be near Jesus. I think Jesus might say the same thing to me that he said to Martha..."Cheryl, Cheryl, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed." So then the challenge becomes making that one thing the focus and making the right choices over and over again. Right. Well, I can usually tell when I'm worried and upset, so maybe I can just switch my thoughts to the one thing that matters...being close to Jesus.
2 Let the name of the LORD be praised,
both now and forevermore.
3 From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets,
the name of the LORD is to be praised.
The Reading: Luke 9-10
Luke 10:38-42 (New International Version)
At the Home of Martha and Mary
38As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. 40But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!"
41"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, 42but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."
My Thoughts: There's a book that we sold at Lifeway called (something like) Being Mary in a Martha World. I haven't read it, but I get the concept. We have lives that are packed with activities and responsibilities and hobbies and things that take all our energy to keep going. Most of the time, these things feel like neccessities. Martha felt it was neccessary to make Jesus feel comfortable and welcome in her home. These were good goals until they distracted her from what's really important. Mary understood what was important. She had an opportunity that few had and that she would never have again. She had a chance to be near Jesus. I think Jesus might say the same thing to me that he said to Martha..."Cheryl, Cheryl, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed." So then the challenge becomes making that one thing the focus and making the right choices over and over again. Right. Well, I can usually tell when I'm worried and upset, so maybe I can just switch my thoughts to the one thing that matters...being close to Jesus.
Friday, June 15, 2007
Day 19-The Golden Rule
My Prayer: Psalm 119:89-90 (New International Version)
89 Your word, O LORD, is eternal;
it stands firm in the heavens.
90 Your faithfulness continues through all generations;
you established the earth, and it endures.
The Reading: Luke 6-8
Luke 6:31 (New International Version)
31Do to others as you would have them do to you.
My Thoughts: We learned the Golden Rule in elementary school. It's a good lesson, but it's easy to forget. Many times we really go for "Do to others before they do to you." Jesus tells us to treat others the way we want to be treated before he talks about loving our enemies...because even sinners can love the people who love them. Most of the time, I get caught up in treating people the way they treat me. If they disrespect me, then I'm so, so, so tempted to return the favor. I'm supposed to be better than that. I'm supposed to be changed. I'm supposed to treat others the way I want to be treated, not return what I'm getting. It's really too bad we don't have the Golden Rule posted around as a reminder the way I did in elementary school. Maybe it would help us remember.
89 Your word, O LORD, is eternal;
it stands firm in the heavens.
90 Your faithfulness continues through all generations;
you established the earth, and it endures.
The Reading: Luke 6-8
Luke 6:31 (New International Version)
31Do to others as you would have them do to you.
My Thoughts: We learned the Golden Rule in elementary school. It's a good lesson, but it's easy to forget. Many times we really go for "Do to others before they do to you." Jesus tells us to treat others the way we want to be treated before he talks about loving our enemies...because even sinners can love the people who love them. Most of the time, I get caught up in treating people the way they treat me. If they disrespect me, then I'm so, so, so tempted to return the favor. I'm supposed to be better than that. I'm supposed to be changed. I'm supposed to treat others the way I want to be treated, not return what I'm getting. It's really too bad we don't have the Golden Rule posted around as a reminder the way I did in elementary school. Maybe it would help us remember.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Day 18-Because you say
My Prayer: Psalm 5:3 (New International Version)
3 In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice;
in the morning I lay my requests before you
and wait in expectation.
The Reading: Mark 3-5
Luke 5:4-8 (New International Version)
4When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch."
5Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets."
6When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.
8When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!"
My Thoughts: Because you say so, I'll try again. Simon Peter had fished all night with no results...wrong timing, wrong place, some other fishery thing that just wasn't quite right. Then Jesus says, "One more time...right here...right now." And Simon Peter does it, against his own judgement, and reaps the rewards. Rewards beyond what could be expected. And his first reaction is to push Jesus away because he is very aware of his sin, that close to Jesus he knows he doesn't deserve what he's been given. How many times does God's goodness remind me of how little I deserve it? And all Jesus says is "Don't be afraid." Nothing about how bad you are, what you deserve, or things to change to get better...he wants to give you good things and will. Thanks goodness we don't get what we deserve. Thank goodness we get so much better.
3 In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice;
in the morning I lay my requests before you
and wait in expectation.
The Reading: Mark 3-5
Luke 5:4-8 (New International Version)
4When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch."
5Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets."
6When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink.
8When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!"
My Thoughts: Because you say so, I'll try again. Simon Peter had fished all night with no results...wrong timing, wrong place, some other fishery thing that just wasn't quite right. Then Jesus says, "One more time...right here...right now." And Simon Peter does it, against his own judgement, and reaps the rewards. Rewards beyond what could be expected. And his first reaction is to push Jesus away because he is very aware of his sin, that close to Jesus he knows he doesn't deserve what he's been given. How many times does God's goodness remind me of how little I deserve it? And all Jesus says is "Don't be afraid." Nothing about how bad you are, what you deserve, or things to change to get better...he wants to give you good things and will. Thanks goodness we don't get what we deserve. Thank goodness we get so much better.
Day 17-Telling the story
My Prayer:Psalm 73:28 (New International Version)
28 But as for me, it is good to be near God.
I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge;
I will tell of all your deeds.
The Reading: Luke 1-2
Luke 1:3-4 (New International Version)
3Therefore, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, 4so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.
My Thoughts: As I was reading Luke, I started thinking that I might get more out of it if I read something else first. The gospels are different but similar enough to make it difficult to really see the differences. But the more I read of Luke, the more I see and the more I like parts of his account. Luke, the doctor, studied and investigated many sources to build a chronological account of Jesus' life for Theophilus, "one who loves God", who must have been an important guy.
The notes in my Bible say the gospels differ in emphasis of different parts of Jesus' life because of the special interest of the writer. Luke stressed a universal theme, that this savior was for both Jew and Gentile, and he had in interest in the role of women and importance of family, care for the poor, and sinners. He also included more parables than the other gospels. The fact that they differ probably concerns some people who might view this as an example of fallibility. Writers know differently. Actually, story-tellers know differently. There are a lot of different ways to tell the story and you can change the way it's told depending on your audience. So, I'm going on through Luke because I'd like to hear his side of the story.
28 But as for me, it is good to be near God.
I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge;
I will tell of all your deeds.
The Reading: Luke 1-2
Luke 1:3-4 (New International Version)
3Therefore, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, 4so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.
My Thoughts: As I was reading Luke, I started thinking that I might get more out of it if I read something else first. The gospels are different but similar enough to make it difficult to really see the differences. But the more I read of Luke, the more I see and the more I like parts of his account. Luke, the doctor, studied and investigated many sources to build a chronological account of Jesus' life for Theophilus, "one who loves God", who must have been an important guy.
The notes in my Bible say the gospels differ in emphasis of different parts of Jesus' life because of the special interest of the writer. Luke stressed a universal theme, that this savior was for both Jew and Gentile, and he had in interest in the role of women and importance of family, care for the poor, and sinners. He also included more parables than the other gospels. The fact that they differ probably concerns some people who might view this as an example of fallibility. Writers know differently. Actually, story-tellers know differently. There are a lot of different ways to tell the story and you can change the way it's told depending on your audience. So, I'm going on through Luke because I'd like to hear his side of the story.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Day 16-Satisfying the crowd
My Prayer: Psalm 91:2 (New International Version)
2 I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust."
The Reading: Mark 15-16
Mark 15:15 (New International Version)
15Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.
My Thoughts: It's hard to understand why Pilate would think releasing a man who was in prison for murdering during an uprising instead of a man who taught loving your neighbor as the most important commandment was a good decision. He wanted to satisfy the crowd. It's even harder to understand how the crowd got there, but Pilate had a chance to change things. Instead, he went along with the crowd. They shouted louder than Pilate's good reason and he washed his hands of the whole thing. This was all a part of the plan, but it's also a good example of how we make the wrong decision, the easy decision. We make decisions to satisfy the crowd. Instead of being different, like we're supposed to be, we do our best to fit the world.
2 I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust."
The Reading: Mark 15-16
Mark 15:15 (New International Version)
15Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.
My Thoughts: It's hard to understand why Pilate would think releasing a man who was in prison for murdering during an uprising instead of a man who taught loving your neighbor as the most important commandment was a good decision. He wanted to satisfy the crowd. It's even harder to understand how the crowd got there, but Pilate had a chance to change things. Instead, he went along with the crowd. They shouted louder than Pilate's good reason and he washed his hands of the whole thing. This was all a part of the plan, but it's also a good example of how we make the wrong decision, the easy decision. We make decisions to satisfy the crowd. Instead of being different, like we're supposed to be, we do our best to fit the world.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Day 15-Do what you can
My Prayer: Psalm 25:4-5 (New International Version)
4 Show me your ways, O LORD,
teach me your paths;
5 guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.
The Reading: Mark 12-14
Mark 14:3-9 (New International Version)
3While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head.
4Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, "Why this waste of perfume? 5It could have been sold for more than a year's wages and the money given to the poor." And they rebuked her harshly.
6"Leave her alone," said Jesus. "Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 7The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. 8She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. 9I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her."
My thoughts: There will always be those people who think your gifts aren't enough or at the very least not good enough. They see how much it costs in money and compare it to their own gifts, but Jesus sees the heart. This woman could have sold her perfume and given the money to the poor and been judged well, but she was moved to give it away in an offering to Jesus. It might have been the most precious think she had and she gave it all away. More than a year's wages and she gave it away in an instant. And Jesus says, "She did what she could." And then says that her story will be told wherever the gospel is preached. She got it right. What's her name? I guess it doesn't matter. Jesus knows it and we all know her story. She made a sacrifice, she gave the right thing at the right time. Can the same thing be said of me? I have to do what I can.
4 Show me your ways, O LORD,
teach me your paths;
5 guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.
The Reading: Mark 12-14
Mark 14:3-9 (New International Version)
3While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head.
4Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, "Why this waste of perfume? 5It could have been sold for more than a year's wages and the money given to the poor." And they rebuked her harshly.
6"Leave her alone," said Jesus. "Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 7The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. 8She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. 9I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her."
My thoughts: There will always be those people who think your gifts aren't enough or at the very least not good enough. They see how much it costs in money and compare it to their own gifts, but Jesus sees the heart. This woman could have sold her perfume and given the money to the poor and been judged well, but she was moved to give it away in an offering to Jesus. It might have been the most precious think she had and she gave it all away. More than a year's wages and she gave it away in an instant. And Jesus says, "She did what she could." And then says that her story will be told wherever the gospel is preached. She got it right. What's her name? I guess it doesn't matter. Jesus knows it and we all know her story. She made a sacrifice, she gave the right thing at the right time. Can the same thing be said of me? I have to do what I can.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Day 14-Like a child
My Prayer:Psalm 13:5-6 (New International Version)
5 But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
6 I will sing to the LORD, for he has been good to me.
The Reading: Mark 9-11
Mark 9:23-24 (New International Version)
23" 'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes."
24Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"
My Thoughts: Now this is a prayer...I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief! The notes in my Bible say: "Since human faith is never perfect, belief and unbelief are often mixed." Later on in the same chapter Jesus says, "I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." It has to be taken as a gift. Sometimes I don't understand it all, but I don't have to.
5 But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.
6 I will sing to the LORD, for he has been good to me.
The Reading: Mark 9-11
Mark 9:23-24 (New International Version)
23" 'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes."
24Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"
My Thoughts: Now this is a prayer...I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief! The notes in my Bible say: "Since human faith is never perfect, belief and unbelief are often mixed." Later on in the same chapter Jesus says, "I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." It has to be taken as a gift. Sometimes I don't understand it all, but I don't have to.
Saturday, June 9, 2007
Day 13-A solitary place
My Prayer: Psalm 9:10 (New International Version)
10 Those who know your name will trust in you,
for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.
The Reading: Mark 6-8
Mark 6:30-31 (New International Version)
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
30The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. 31Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest."
My Thoughts: Even the disciples had to take some time out to rest. Even Jesus had to have a little bit of time to himself in a quiet place to get some rest. Time was short and there was too much to do to even take the time out to eat, but Jesus took them somewhere to rest. Away from the crowds and all the good work. Sometimes all it takes is a little time in a solitary place, away from all the demands, to recharge, to get ready to go out again and feed the 5,000. I have trouble slowing down when there's so much to do, so many errands, so many deadlines. Even Jesus needed time in a solitary place. Now...the hard part is finding a solitary place. I don't think I'm up to a boat out on the lake.
10 Those who know your name will trust in you,
for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.
The Reading: Mark 6-8
Mark 6:30-31 (New International Version)
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
30The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. 31Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest."
My Thoughts: Even the disciples had to take some time out to rest. Even Jesus had to have a little bit of time to himself in a quiet place to get some rest. Time was short and there was too much to do to even take the time out to eat, but Jesus took them somewhere to rest. Away from the crowds and all the good work. Sometimes all it takes is a little time in a solitary place, away from all the demands, to recharge, to get ready to go out again and feed the 5,000. I have trouble slowing down when there's so much to do, so many errands, so many deadlines. Even Jesus needed time in a solitary place. Now...the hard part is finding a solitary place. I don't think I'm up to a boat out on the lake.
Friday, June 8, 2007
Day 12-Always have hope
My Prayer: Psalm 71:14 (New International Version)
14 But as for me, I will always have hope;
I will praise you more and more.
The Reading: Mark 4-5
Mark 4:13-20 (New International Version)
13Then Jesus said to them, "Don't you understand this parable? How then will you understand any parable? 14The farmer sows the word. 15Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. 16Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. 17But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 18Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; 19but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. 20Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—thirty, sixty or even a hundred times what was sown."
My Thoughts: I know some people who've claimed a certain verse as their own, it's a life verse, something that sums up their belief. I don't really have one, but I like the Psalm above. I want to be filled with hope. I want to be like the seed sown on good soil, not the on the rocks or thorny soil. And right now, I think I'm getting hung up in the rocks. So, what do I do? Build roots. To hold on, I need roots. Or to mix my parables, I need to be a stronger branch...by staying closer to the vine...or something like that. Anyway, God doesn't change...Jesus doesn't change. But I do. Or I can change if I want to. Maybe this Psalm can be mine "But as for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more."
Check out the Chris Tomlin song...How Great is Our God.
14 But as for me, I will always have hope;
I will praise you more and more.
The Reading: Mark 4-5
Mark 4:13-20 (New International Version)
13Then Jesus said to them, "Don't you understand this parable? How then will you understand any parable? 14The farmer sows the word. 15Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. 16Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. 17But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 18Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; 19but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. 20Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—thirty, sixty or even a hundred times what was sown."
My Thoughts: I know some people who've claimed a certain verse as their own, it's a life verse, something that sums up their belief. I don't really have one, but I like the Psalm above. I want to be filled with hope. I want to be like the seed sown on good soil, not the on the rocks or thorny soil. And right now, I think I'm getting hung up in the rocks. So, what do I do? Build roots. To hold on, I need roots. Or to mix my parables, I need to be a stronger branch...by staying closer to the vine...or something like that. Anyway, God doesn't change...Jesus doesn't change. But I do. Or I can change if I want to. Maybe this Psalm can be mine "But as for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more."
Check out the Chris Tomlin song...How Great is Our God.
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Look what I did!
I managed to add some music to the sidebar. The only song that I've mentioned here that's actually over there right now is What If by Nichole Nordeman from days ago. If you'd like to actually hear it, you can check it out over there. I think it's working...
Day 11-Burdened by good things
My Prayer: Psalm 16:5-6 (New International Version)
New International Version (NIV)
5 LORD, you have assigned me my portion and my cup;
you have made my lot secure.
6 The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
surely I have a delightful inheritance.
The Reading: Mark 1-3
Mark 2:27-28 (New International Version)
27Then he said to them, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. 28So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath."
My thoughts: There are still Pharisees in today's Christian world, people who pride themselves on knowing the rules so that they can watch for people to step out of line to be judged. And the world knows that they are Christians because they're like perfect poster children, doing the right things, saying the right things, in the door every time the church is open, so the world sees and rejects this judgement (and the hypocrisy that can almost certainly follow). The Pharisees were objecting to the disciples pulling heads of grain as they walked through a field on the Sabbath when they weren't supposed to work. And Jesus says the Sabbath was created for man to have an opportunity to take a break from work. It was a good thing for men, not meant to be just another burden. I think that happens too much in the Christian life. We take things that were meant to be blessings (worship, fellowship with others, service) and make them burdens on ourselves...and others. We lose that joy, we fight about it amongst ourselves, and can fall into the trap of looking down on others who don't do what we do. So is this hypocrisy because Christ's people are supposed to love their neighbors, right? Well, they're also human which means they're not perfect. But...the world sees it.
New International Version (NIV)
5 LORD, you have assigned me my portion and my cup;
you have made my lot secure.
6 The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
surely I have a delightful inheritance.
The Reading: Mark 1-3
Mark 2:27-28 (New International Version)
27Then he said to them, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. 28So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath."
My thoughts: There are still Pharisees in today's Christian world, people who pride themselves on knowing the rules so that they can watch for people to step out of line to be judged. And the world knows that they are Christians because they're like perfect poster children, doing the right things, saying the right things, in the door every time the church is open, so the world sees and rejects this judgement (and the hypocrisy that can almost certainly follow). The Pharisees were objecting to the disciples pulling heads of grain as they walked through a field on the Sabbath when they weren't supposed to work. And Jesus says the Sabbath was created for man to have an opportunity to take a break from work. It was a good thing for men, not meant to be just another burden. I think that happens too much in the Christian life. We take things that were meant to be blessings (worship, fellowship with others, service) and make them burdens on ourselves...and others. We lose that joy, we fight about it amongst ourselves, and can fall into the trap of looking down on others who don't do what we do. So is this hypocrisy because Christ's people are supposed to love their neighbors, right? Well, they're also human which means they're not perfect. But...the world sees it.
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Day 10-In all the earth
My Prayer: Psalm 8:1 (New International Version)
1 O LORD, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory
above the heavens.
The Reading: Matthew 27-28
Matthew 28:18-20 (New International Version)
18Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
My thoughts: Immanuel, God with us...always, to the very end. In the first chapter, we're told he'll be called Immanuel or "God with us" and here Jesus says that he'll be with us forever. We've got work to do, difficult work sometimes, but we're not alone and in 27 chapters we've seen what having Jesus with us means: power, mercy, kindness, discipline, compassion, wisdom...good things to have with us always.
1 O LORD, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory
above the heavens.
The Reading: Matthew 27-28
Matthew 28:18-20 (New International Version)
18Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
My thoughts: Immanuel, God with us...always, to the very end. In the first chapter, we're told he'll be called Immanuel or "God with us" and here Jesus says that he'll be with us forever. We've got work to do, difficult work sometimes, but we're not alone and in 27 chapters we've seen what having Jesus with us means: power, mercy, kindness, discipline, compassion, wisdom...good things to have with us always.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Day 9-Only human
My Prayer: Psalm 118
1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;
his love endures forever.
The Reading: Matthew 25-26
Matthew 26:31-36 (New International Version)
Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial
31Then Jesus told them, "This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written:
" 'I will strike the shepherd,
and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.'[a] 32But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee."
33Peter replied, "Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will."
34"I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times."
35But Peter declared, "Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you." And all the other disciples said the same.
My Thoughts: They all failed. These are the original disciples we're talking about and they all failed to claim Jesus when it came right down to it. Judas was the one who betrayed him for silver and Peter is the one who denied Jesus repeatedly, but the rest just ran away in fear. And these were the disciples! They failed in a big way, but then...they accomplished the work that Jesus must have known they could do. It would be tough to pick friends if you already knew how they would let you down, wouldn't it? It's good that we don't have that problem. And that Jesus also knew what these men could do, would do, to change the world. And he chose them anyway. Just like he knows how I'm going to fail, to stumble, but there must be something in me, in you if he's picked you, that's he's going to use to change the world. The world? That seems impossible, but I know he can use my life accomplish his work in this world. And yours, too. If we let him.
And a song (I have to figure out how to add mp3's to this...anyone?) I had a very serious song by Michael W. Smith here that matches the Psalm...but then, I decided to go with theology by Billy Joel brought to mind by my heading.
1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;
his love endures forever.
The Reading: Matthew 25-26
Matthew 26:31-36 (New International Version)
Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial
31Then Jesus told them, "This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written:
" 'I will strike the shepherd,
and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.'[a] 32But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee."
33Peter replied, "Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will."
34"I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times."
35But Peter declared, "Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you." And all the other disciples said the same.
My Thoughts: They all failed. These are the original disciples we're talking about and they all failed to claim Jesus when it came right down to it. Judas was the one who betrayed him for silver and Peter is the one who denied Jesus repeatedly, but the rest just ran away in fear. And these were the disciples! They failed in a big way, but then...they accomplished the work that Jesus must have known they could do. It would be tough to pick friends if you already knew how they would let you down, wouldn't it? It's good that we don't have that problem. And that Jesus also knew what these men could do, would do, to change the world. And he chose them anyway. Just like he knows how I'm going to fail, to stumble, but there must be something in me, in you if he's picked you, that's he's going to use to change the world. The world? That seems impossible, but I know he can use my life accomplish his work in this world. And yours, too. If we let him.
And a song (I have to figure out how to add mp3's to this...anyone?) I had a very serious song by Michael W. Smith here that matches the Psalm...but then, I decided to go with theology by Billy Joel brought to mind by my heading.
Monday, June 4, 2007
Day 8-Ready?
My Prayer: Psalm 27:1 (New International Version)
1 The LORD is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid?
The Reading: Matthew 22-24
Matthew 24:36-40 (New International Version)
The Day and Hour Unknown
36"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 37As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. 38For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; 39and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. 40Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left.
My Thoughts: I was joking (sort of) with someone a week or two ago about the only solution to one of my problems being for Jesus to just come on back. I was going to start praying for that. Of course, I have thought about it, but it doesn't really seem like a practical solution so I'm back to thinking about others (I had a slightly heated discussion with another somebody about how I shouldn't "worry" about anything but it's OK to think a lot about and try to come up with solutions which seems a little like the definition of worry but that's just this other person for you.) When I read this, I started thinking about what would happen if today were the day Jesus came back. What if today were the day? Would I be ready? No more time. This is what I've done with my life. This is what I have to show. Would I be ready? Would you?
1 The LORD is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid?
The Reading: Matthew 22-24
Matthew 24:36-40 (New International Version)
The Day and Hour Unknown
36"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 37As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. 38For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; 39and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. 40Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left.
My Thoughts: I was joking (sort of) with someone a week or two ago about the only solution to one of my problems being for Jesus to just come on back. I was going to start praying for that. Of course, I have thought about it, but it doesn't really seem like a practical solution so I'm back to thinking about others (I had a slightly heated discussion with another somebody about how I shouldn't "worry" about anything but it's OK to think a lot about and try to come up with solutions which seems a little like the definition of worry but that's just this other person for you.) When I read this, I started thinking about what would happen if today were the day Jesus came back. What if today were the day? Would I be ready? No more time. This is what I've done with my life. This is what I have to show. Would I be ready? Would you?
Sunday, June 3, 2007
Day 7-Trees
My Prayer: Psalm 1:1-3 (New International Version)
1 Blessed is the man
who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked
or stand in the way of sinners
or sit in the seat of mockers.
2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.
The Reading: Matthew 19-21
Matthew 21:21-22 (New International Version)
21Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done. 22If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."
My Thoughts: This last verse is the source of one of my struggles with my Christian faith and growth. I believed it and I prayed for good things...and they didn't come. Of course, I've heard over and over that I have to understand God's will and pray for the right things, but sometimes that seems like a loophole to a fairly clear promise. So what do I do when I'm disappointed in the answer? The answer depends on the day. Sometimes I think I've gained more wisdom with the passing of time and can see the reasons why I should have prayed for a different outcome or reasons why God's answer was better. But sometimes I'm just disappointed and angry. I think those times are becoming fewer as I mature, and I hope that someday, when I can see what my life became thanks to the change Jesus made, that it's all going to be clear. Until then, I have to battle those doubts and disappointments...my Father wants to give me the best in life, better things than I even know to ask for. And He has a plan for that life, a plan far above what I can plan. And He's going to take every bad thing that happens to me and turn it into something good. Here's another translation that seems a little more believable to me...I believe that God does care about the insignificant parts of my life as well as the big decisions. And, thanks to prayer, I've already successfully done things in my life that felt like telling the mountain to go jump in a lake. I have to remember these when I'm confronted by the disappointments.
Matthew 21:21-22 (The Message)
21-22But Jesus was matter-of-fact: "Yes—and if you embrace this kingdom life and don't doubt God, you'll not only do minor feats like I did to the fig tree, but also triumph over huge obstacles. This mountain, for instance, you'll tell, 'Go jump in the lake,' and it will jump. Absolutely everything, ranging from small to large, as you make it a part of your believing prayer, gets included as you lay hold of God."
Saturday, June 2, 2007
Day 6-What's important?
Instead of going to the family reunion, I decided to something out of ordinary...no time to think, no time to be sad. I went for a hike at Lake Catherine, a place I've never been before. And I think it almost worked. I pushed my body to the limit (which really isn't all that far), and only spoke to people who didn't know me or my story, and drove with the top down. It was a good day. Now I just have to stop feeling bad about it.
Anyway, back to my program...
My Prayer: Psalm 63:1 (New International Version)
1 O God, you are my God,
earnestly I seek you;
my soul thirsts for you,
my body longs for you,
in a dry and weary land
where there is no water.
The Reading: Matthew 16-18
Matthew 16:15-18 (New International Version)
15"But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?"
16Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."
17Jesus replied, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven. 18And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.
My Thoughts: Peter knew Jesus. He's one of my favorite people to read about because he didn't do things perfectly but he got the important stuff. There's a book titled If You Want to Walk on Water You Have to Get Out of the Boat by John Ortberg. It's a good book, a thorough look at Peter's episode of getting out of the boat...where he almost got it right. He had a good heart, but he messed up. And Jesus knew that would happen, knew that he would mess up over and over. But Peter knew Jesus, and proclaimed his faith...and he would be used to change the world. He wasn't perfect, but he got the important stuff.
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