Do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. . . . — Ephesians 5:17-18 People who do not know Christ have no heavenly hope. Without hope, it can be tempting to live in unhealthy ways that cause harm and can even be deadly. The Bible warns against drunkenness, for example. Drinking heavily can be a temptation for believers as well as nonbelievers. But God calls believers to wise living in the Spirit. When our hope is in Christ, we look forward to a heavenly feast, and the Holy Spirit confirms this hope. Through the Spirit we can already taste in our present lives the fruits of joy, peace, and love. When we allow ourselves to be filled by the Spirit on a daily basis, we can grow in the Spirit’s fruitbearing and guard against despair or boredom, which can lead to all sorts of excesses. People who drink too much wine or other alcohol detach themselves in a totally wrong way. But by the Spirit of God we can detach ourselves from ourselves in a way that is perfectly good. As Paul writes, we are to “be filled with the Spirit.” Every believer is called to desire that filling daily. This is a privilege that we can and should seize. Otherwise the danger is that we will exhaust ourselves by trying to live as good Christians on our own. Real Christian living is impossible without the influence of the Spirit. Spirit of God, thank you for entering our lives as the promised counselor. Guide us so that we may bear the fruit of a life filled with you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. — Ephesians 5:15-16 The apostle Paul urges Christians to live a life of wisdom and self-control. All Christians are called to be holy people in a fallen world, and times are often hard. A Christian must be recognized by wise living. Life is short, and God calls us to live for him. He is the Lord, our Creator, and we are his. God calls us to make the most of our time—that is, to make the best use of it. Time is one of the precious gifts God has entrusted to us, so it is our responsibility to manage it well. In some evangelical churches in Africa, and perhaps also in Europe, Christians are encouraged to wait passively for the things of heaven. They think their responsibility is limited to praying, praying, and praying more. With that type of attitude, their responsibility is not sufficiently called upon. But with God's help, we can make the most of our time, in a good way, by thinking carefully about how we want to use our hours, whether it’s in our work, in needed rest or relaxation, or in giving time to others. All of these things contribute to the coming of the kingdom of God. What would be the consequences of misusing our time? Why is a good use of time an important aspect of our faith? How can we help young people in this regard? Father in heaven, everything we have is a gift from you, including our time. Help us to make the most of every opportunity and to honor you in the process. Amen.

Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. — Ephesians 5:8-10 Every year at Christmastime we celebrate the birth of the Savior with many lights. These lights illuminate our streets, trees, and houses. In some places people light special decorations as well. Why do we celebrate Christmas with so many lights? Because the baby Jesus was himself the light. When he came to earth, he became a light for people who were walking in darkness. And we are part of that group of people. Just as the great light of the sun literally illuminates us, Christ—the Son of God—figuratively illuminates the world so that the darkness is dispelled. In him we also become light, called to shine. The fruits of light are all kinds of goodness, justice, and truth. And the absence of these things is what makes our world so sad and dark in many places. In order to shine the light ourselves—and not just at Christmastime!—all we have to do is walk in the light of Christ, following him. He then shines through us. As you think about shining in the world around you, consider this question: How much light is needed in your school or workplace? How do you, as a follower of Christ, provide good influence to the people around you because you walk in the light? Light of life, thank you for coming into the darkness of our world. By your Spirit, help me to walk in the light so that others may see you in me. In your name, Amen.

Among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. — Ephesians 5:3 One major difficulty for many believers is to try to live up to the Bible’s high standard for purity. The morals of the societies we live in—along with the internet and other media—do not make it easy to live God’s way. In Africa, many of my fellow believers are first-generation Christians in our families. We are often the children of our father's second or third wife. My own father, for example, married nearly ten wives, and my mother was his second wife. As you can see, the way sexuality was treated in my family is extremely different from what I read in the Bible. Yet Paul says that Christians must not have even a hint of sexual immorality, other impurity, or greed. Here Paul is addressing the desires of our hearts. What drives you? What is most important to you? What is your greatest desire? Does it match with what God’s Word calls you to be? Our view of sexuality, and of desires in general, must be constantly renewed in a personal relationship with the Lord and his Word. This is true for all Christians, no matter where we live. The apostle reminds us that we are holy through our union with Christ. And, as a result, we are called to new life that is marked with a deep desire for God’s kingdom. Dear Father, thank you for making us holy through your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to live for you in the choices we make, following the instructions in your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. — Ephesians 5:1-2 John teaches that “God is love.” One of the clearest ways God has shown his love to us has been through sending Jesus to us. And it’s important to note when God did this: “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). God wants us to reflect the love he has shown to us as we interact with the people around us. As John puts it, “Since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” Likewise, Paul calls us to “follow God’s example” by showing love to all people. In some ways, love is what makes Christianity special. Other religions seem to focus more on obedience or a system of rewards for certain actions. And human reason cannot make sense of the focus on love. Loving actions that reflect the love of God can be so contrary to corrupt human reason. Our hearts are used to a quid pro quo—I’ll do this because you did that. Following that system, love is merely earned and not a gift. But if God's love had to be earned, none of us could ever be loved. Christian love is free; it is expensive for the one who offers it, but not for the one who receives it. Whom is God calling you to love today? Father, thank you for showing your love to us in Christ Jesus—while we were sinners! This is good news for our weary hearts. Give us the grace to show love to everyone around us. Amen.

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. — Ephesians 4:32 Nelson Mandela courageously fought against apartheid in South Africa. His actions led to wrongful convictions and time in prison because of political enemies. As he was leaving prison, he was quoted as saying, “As I stand at the door of my freedom, I realize that if I don't leave my pain, anger, and bitterness behind, I will always be in prison.” Self-imprisonment is worse than the imprisonment that is imposed on you. Many people suffer from self-imposed prisons by refusing to forgive. But the inner walls of anger and resentment do not make us strong; instead, they make us bitter and miserable. When Nelson Mandela later came to power as the president of his country, he did not establish the law of the victor. Rather than seeking revenge against his political enemies, he showed forgiveness to all. The film Invictus, inspired by his actions, shows the power of forgiveness. Jesus teaches us to love our enemies, and he even died for his enemies—that is, all of us. Christ's compassion for us is incomprehensible; he showed it by forgiving us all and dying for us. This love also moves us to forgive others for their faults against us. The Lord can help us to forgive everything. Are you aware of your daily need for God’s forgiveness? Why do you think it’s difficult to forgive others? To whom is God calling you to offer forgiveness today? Father, thank you for the forgiveness you offer us in Christ Jesus. Help us to be gracious, forgiving, and compassionate for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. — Ephesians 4:31 The Bible urges us to guard our hearts, for our actions flow from what is in our hearts (Proverbs 4:23). In our reading today, Jesus teaches that whatever fills the heart overflows into our words and actions. He points out that if there is wickedness in our words, that is the result of what is rooted in our hearts. It is so easy to harbor negative or destructive feelings in our hearts. Biblical history is full of stories of bitterness, envy, and anger that caused serious problems in families and among God's people. Cain, Adam's first son, was bitter about how Abel’s offering was received with God’s favor. Rather than dealing with his anger, he let bitterness and envious anger rule his heart. Because he could not quench this fire in his heart, the fruit followed: he committed the first murder (Genesis 4). In another story, Joseph's brothers were so blinded by their jealousy of Joseph that they sold him into slavery (Genesis 37). These are just two examples about anger causing serious problems in people’s lives. In the history of the church, we see divisions without justifiable causes; conflicts and individual interests have often been the root of these problems. As adopted children of God, we are already seated with Christ in heavenly places, but we must daily examine our attitudes and motives to see if our desires match with who we are in Christ. Dear God, please prevent us from harboring bitterness and anger in our hearts. Give us grace to make peace with the people around us. Amen.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. — Ephesians 4:29 A study showed that in order to cancel the devastating effects of one negative word, four positive words need to be spoken. This shows how negative, harsh, and humiliating words can do great damage to human beings. Our passage for today uses vivid imagery to speak about the impact our words can have. Just as a small rudder can steer a ship or a bit can control a horse, so the words of our mouths can make a big difference in life. Further, our speech can have the same effect as a spark: it can cause great destruction! We are encouraged, then, to choose our words carefully and to recognize the impact our speech makes. In Ephesians 4, Paul provides similar teaching about positive language; we are called to build others up and speak in a way that helps the people who hear our words. Children are often the first victims of negative language. I grew up in a family in which my mother was often beaten harshly by her husband, my adoptive father. The demeaning words he used against her continue to haunt me, and they come back in my dreams. Thankfully, the love of Jesus has healed much of this trauma, and by grace I am able to show love to my family. As we reflect on the power of words, let’s consider how—with the Spirit’s help—we can bring healing for people who have faced trauma. Lord, help us to be people marked by kind, uplifting, gracious, and healing words. Amen.

Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. — Ephesians 4:28 Everyone knows what stealing is, and in all cultures stealing is considered shameful and unacceptable. In my local context, a thief who is caught may be beaten by an angry mob. Things may be different in other countries of the world, but the verdict on a thief is often harsh and negative. The Bible teaches that stealing is not limited to deliberately taking something from another person. In the Old Testament the Lord makes clear that stealing is not only about taking money or things but also about depriving people of money or help when they are entitled to it. Stealing can take many forms: withholding a worker's wages, not paying tithes and offerings, or depriving the poor, widowed, or orphaned of the help they need. Stealing happens actively and passively. Active theft is shameful, and few people do it. But who can claim to be innocent of passive theft? We like to think of help to the poor, to prisoners, to the sick, to strangers—and more—as charity, not as an obligation or as a call to justice. But Paul reminds us that the wealth we earn isn’t just for our families; we are called to share generously with people in need. Who are some of the most generous people in your life? What traits and values characterize them? How can we share with others in new and creative ways? Lord Jesus, thank you for your generous gift of eternal life. Guide us to be people marked by generosity, pointing others to you. Amen.

“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. — Ephesians 4:26-27 The Mossi make up the largest people group in Burkina Faso, where I live. They have a strict concept of self-control. They say that a leader—or any real man—should never laugh but always be serious. This notion is passed on through the generations. Fathers do not congratulate their children. If a father is proud of his child, he must hide it so that the child does not relax and take life too easily. It is believed that being strict with children trains them to be strong. Fortunately the Bible is more realistic and balanced about self-control. It even teaches that it’s okay to be angry—but if you don't control your anger, you will end up sinning. The consequences of uncontrolled anger are many and damaging. Anger is not good for our self-esteem, and it grieves the Holy Spirit within us. In addition, there are often victims. Most violence begins with uncontrolled anger. In this broken world, relationships are precious and vulnerable. But anger can enter in and give the devil a foothold. How have you learned to control your anger? The healing power of forgiveness is an amazing antidote. Forgiveness restores relationships and gives them a new chance. How is God calling you to help people who struggle with anger or are victims of it? Father, you have shown us mercy and grace instead of being angry with us. Help us not to sin in our anger; instead, let us be people of your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. — Ephesians 4:25 Social media has changed our world. Even in Burkina Faso, a fairly isolated country, the internet has made it much easier for people to connect with the rest of the world. This was a tremendous benefit during the COVID-19 crisis. But there is another side to the use of the internet. Social media has had negative effects on society and even on faith. Sharing information and rumors—often from questionable sources—has become easy and very tempting. Many people in Africa, including Christians, are doing this. We especially like to share news about scandals, dramas, and conspiracies. We might think that these kinds of things are so common that they are harmless. But sharing false information is the same as lying. I find it fascinating that Paul gives the following reason to speak truthfully: we are all members of one body. Each body part affects the whole body. So if believers in Christ spread misinformation, we reduce the truthfulness of the church. Christians are then seen as untrustworthy, and this dishonors Christ and ultimately harms our ability to be taken seriously when we share the good news of Jesus. Christians are called to live by the truth. That doesn't mean you have to stay away from social media. It means you must follow Jesus, who says, “I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). Let's look for ways to make that resonate in the social media world. Holy Spirit, let us be people marked by the truth. And may the truth reach many people with the gospel. Amen.

Each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor. . . . — Ephesians 4:25 Our readings for today instruct us to be honest with the people in our lives. Jesus speaks about this in terms of keeping oaths, and Paul urges us to speak truthfully. These teachings remind me of two situations in my context. In Burkina Faso, it is not easy to say “no” to others because that is seen as showing disrespect. So a “yes” can mean yes or no; only the person answering knows what the “yes” means. So we say “yes” even if it is actually no. But instead we must learn to say “no” with love. We must also learn to accept it when another person says “no.” Otherwise, relationships become unreal and hypocritical because we are not able to provide clear answers to each other. Similarly, we have what we call “African time.” This means that people can arrive between fifteen minutes to an hour after the agreed time without any problem. This may seem like a blessing and relief to someone who is hurried and stressed, but it frustrates and disadvantages people who are punctual. If we hide the truth from others, that is lying. In other situations, we might also be ashamed of our actions, so we might try to cover them up with lies. But telling the truth means giving correct information, keeping our word, fulfilling obligations, and being punctual. It means not making promises we cannot keep. How can you “speak truthfully” to the people in your culture and life today? Lord, we want to be people of truth. Help us to be honest with you, ourselves, and others. Amen.

Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. — Ephesians 4:24 At the invitation of a French church, one of my colleagues was able to travel to Europe. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for him, but the very long flight was rather difficult for him. He was thirsty and hungry, and yet he refused any food or drink from the flight attendants. The reason? He thought he would have to pay a lot of money for the food, and he had no extra money with him. He didn’t realize the food was already included in the price of the flight. Many Christians are like my colleague. They do not realize that the price has already been paid. As Christians, we are—so to speak—in a new system. We are no longer prisoners of our old lives. Every child of God has a new life in Jesus Christ. We have entered a new reality. In Christ, your old life has been put to death, and you are called into new life. You have received a new nature, conformed to Christ and pleasing to God. This is good news for us all. Instead of feeling weak and powerless against our sinful nature, we can live into the new reality that Christ has paid for everything we need in order to be saved to new life. By the power of the Holy Spirit, we can live grateful lives that are filled with God’s righteousness and holiness. Heavenly Father, sometimes I fail to remember how great your grace is in my life. Forgive me for those times, and give me the grace to embrace my new identity as your child. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. — Ephesians 4:17 In some translations of the Bible, this passage tells us not to live “as the pagans do.” That term “pagans” might make you think of primitive tribes, with idols and all sorts of superstitions and outdated religious rites. But Paul thinks differently. In this passage, “pagans,” or “Gentiles,” are people who get stuck in idle thoughts and unrestrained behaviors associated with greed. The idols of these people are mainly in their own hearts. This problem is subtle; it hides behind all sorts of modern-day expectations and appearances. The behaviors associated with greed are complacency, the need to be in the limelight, material comforts, popularity, fashion, freedom, and more. And all of these are idols. When Israel entered the land of Canaan, God warned them not to imitate the neighboring peoples in their pagan behaviors (Deuteronomy 8:17-20). And Jesus prayed for his disciples, knowing they were still in the world but “not of the world” (John 17:16). In Ephesians, Paul reminds us again that the Lord calls us to follow him and to leave our old, pagan ways behind. What types of idols call out to your heart today? How can the community around you—your school, church, or family—help you to live a different life for Jesus? Dear Lord, thank you for calling us into new life with you. Please protect us from the idols of our hearts. Help us to be your faithful followers. Amen.

From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. — Ephesians 4:16 Our body is controlled by our head (not the other way around). Our head is the coordinating center of our body. It’s the same way with the church, which is called the body of Christ. We draw our strength from Christ, our head. “Remain in me,” he says; “apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Christ guarantees the survival of his body. Jesus assures us, “I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it” (Matthew 16:18). Jesus is the one who makes each member grow, holds the whole body together, and nourishes all the parts to build each other up. No matter how useful we are, how well we do, or how much we accomplish, we are called to be servants in the body. It is Christ who bears the fruit in us. We don’t seek glory for ourselves; to him alone is the glory. Daily dependence on Christ is vitally important. We will never be competent enough to cope without living daily in communion with him. When the church forgets this principle, it becomes a lifeless body, a religion without a soul. Consider some of the many ways in which you depend on God. What are some ways that God is using you in the church? How can you serve him more faithfully? Dear Jesus, thank you for calling us into a living relationship with you. Help us to remember that we fully rely on you in order to bear fruit. In your name, Amen.

We will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching. . . . — Ephesians 4:14 Many societies in the world today tend to neglect elderly people. They often focus on youth, innovation, and the desire to get ahead. Being young is fashionable, and people who can't keep up are often pushed aside. An old African proverb puts it differently: “What an old man can see sitting down, the youth cannot see standing up.” In other words, young people are full of youth and energy, but they don’t have the wisdom that is acquired through experience. Even in the early days of the church there were winds that could blow new believers off course. Ideas, ideals, and ideologies could sway new Christians one way and then another. In order to withstand the storm of doctrines and sort out what is wise from what is foolish, it is important to become mature. An immature Christian may be joyful and full of energy but can also be unstable and undiscerning. Mature Christians confess the truth in love while continuing to grow. They know that love and truth, doctrine and life, grace and holiness go hand in hand and should not be separated. It is wonderful to be able to grow in this way. All of us continue to grow in faith, no matter how long we have followed Jesus. In what ways can you keep growing in spiritual maturity? How is God calling you to support and encourage the next generation of believers? Lord, help us to speak and live by the truth in love, helping others to grow in faith. Amen.

Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service. . . . — Ephesians 4:11-12 Theologians sometimes speak about a difference between the church on earth and the church in heaven. Christ has triumphed over his enemies and is seated victoriously in heaven, and the church is there with him. Yet the church on earth must still face struggles and spiritual battles. We still have to learn, to train during the struggle, and to strive to reach the calling we have from Christ. How does the Lord Jesus help us in this? In Ephesians 4, the apostle Paul helps us to see that Jesus gives us people with particular callings, particular ministries. He has given us the apostles and prophets as a foundation for the church. We have their words with us in the Bible. In addition, he gives us people who proclaim the gospel: evangelists, pastors, and teachers. All of these callings equip and build up believers. So if church pastors or other leaders focus on reputation, influence, or income, they lose sight of what they are called to do. They should be characterized by selflessness and willingness to serve. Being humble and gentle, as Paul noted at the beginning of Ephesians 4, is especially true for pastors, who are given authority to lead in the church. What particular service are you called to in the church? How do you keep your motivations in check so that you can serve the body of Christ as you are called to do? Lord, thank you for the many gifts and callings you have given us in the church. Help us to serve you faithfully. Amen.

He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe. — Ephesians 4:10 An African proverb says, “If a blind man says he will throw a stone at you, he probably has his foot on one.” In other words, don't underestimate the danger of a threat. When someone says something like that, you should be aware of the possibility of harm. Something similar is happening in this world. The gospel of Jesus Christ may seem powerless, like a blind man. But make no mistake: the reality is different! By his death on the cross, Christ has put Satan to shame and has stripped away the power that sin had over us. Christ, having received all authority (Matthew 28:18), has poured it out on his disciples. As followers of Jesus, we have received power from the Holy Spirit, through whom we reign with him. We are united with Christ in his victory, so we too are powerful. Christ has overcome, and we are therefore overcomers—but not by ourselves, for this is a gift. Christ's victory makes us rulers with him. It is important to recognize that we have this position in life. The Spirit in the church is proof of Christ's victory. How are you demonstrating the power of the Holy Spirit in your life today? How is God calling you into servant leadership with the gifts he has given? Receive the Holy Spirit, and ask God for help in using the gifts he has given you. Dear Jesus, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Thank you for the great gifts the Spirit has given us. Help us to demonstrate your power and love to the people around us. In your name, Amen.

To each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. — Ephesians 4:7 A story is told in Africa about a proud politician. This senior official had his own driver but did not treat him well. On a business trip he stopped at a restaurant and enjoyed a full meal, but he left his driver outside. On the way to a meeting afterward, the hungry driver decided to teach his boss a lesson. He turned off the car’s engine and pretended the battery was dead. “I guess we’ll have to push the car,” the driver said. After they pushed the car a short distance, the driver said he would try to start the engine again, and it started. The sweaty politician learned that his driver was important too: he needed him in order to go places and to get there on time. This story includes some important reminders for the church. No member is more important than the others, and each one has gifts from God that can bless others. In the church, there are often people who think they have not received any special gifts from God. They think they have little or nothing to contribute. But that is a mistake. Another mistake is for people to think they don't need others or the gifts they can share. But God has given us many gifts and abilities, and we depend on each other in many ways. What have you received from the Lord that you can share with others? And with what gifts from God have others blessed you? Father, all that we have is a gift from you. Help us not to be proud of what we have or too proud to receive from others. Give us humble and gracious hearts. Amen.

There is . . . one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. — Ephesians 4:4-6 Citizens of the same country have many things in common. For example, they share the same territory, language, and history. In a similar way Christians are one in Christ. We are united spiritually with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. In terms of doctrine, we are united by the same confession: the same faith, the same hope, the same baptism. And in day-to-day life we as Christians are called to demonstrate this unity. Rather than focusing on differences, which are only of minor importance, Paul lays the foundation for our unity. We have all been baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We profess the truths that Jesus lived among us, died on the cross, and rose from the dead. Our lives are led by the same Lord. As Christians, we share the same hope of living in the fullness of joy in Christ forever. As Christians, we are filled with the same Spirit, through whom we cry, “Abba, Father” (Romans 8:15-16). Let us therefore make this unity visible. When we are focused on the things that bind us together, we can live in unity and maintain the bond of peace. Where might there be differences in your family, church, and community? How can you emphasize what you have in common rather than what your differences are? What can you do to foster Christian unity despite the differences? Father God, you call us to one common faith. Help us, your church, to strive for unity and to live for you. Amen.

There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called. . . . — Ephesians 4:4 On August 4, 1983, Thomas Sankara, a young military captain, and his supporters took power in the country of Upper Volta and renamed it Burkina Faso. Four years later he was assassinated. He left no property or money. His legacy was the example of one who loved his country, served it with self-sacrifice, and treated women, children, and farmers with dignity. Today he is still an example for millions of young people in Africa: a leader who wanted to serve his brothers and sisters. He loved his country with all his heart. He also fought for African unity. In some ways this young leader’s example reminds me of the only man who lived to serve, Jesus Christ. Our Lord prayed that his church would be united, that all who believe in him would be one. In that way the church can be a unified body. Even though it has many members, it is one because all have the same Spirit and the same hope. The unity of the church is the foundation for serving one another. Just as all the parts of a physical body work together for the good of the whole body, so the members of the church serve each other. We don’t reject or compete with each other; we complement one another. What obstacles might your congregation be facing in terms of unity? How can you and your family promote the unity of the body of Christ? Lord of the church, we thank you for giving your life so that we can have life. Help us to promote unity in the church today, serving you and one another. Amen.

Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. — Ephesians 4:3 Many countries in West Africa have been dealing with armed conflict in recent years. Even so, peace is deeply rooted in our traditions. In the past, each community had an official conciliator, the blacksmith. He was believed to be a mediator between the world of the living and the spirit world—and also between people themselves. If the blacksmith intervened in a conflict, the hostilities would stop. Paul urges us as followers of Christ to “keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” As Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” When we strive to live together in peace, the Spirit brings unity, but each of us can promote unity or destroy it. The unity of the church and of society must be preserved by the bond of peace. In Christ we have found peace with God; he came to save us even though we were his enemies (Romans 5:8-11). Jesus is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), and he invites us to make peace in his name. The people around us will not always be nice, fair, or do what is right. But even then, our role is to bring peace. We do this in our families, our churches, and wherever we spend our workdays. In this way we can help to make our world a place that reflects more of the values of God’s kingdom. In what ways can you make peace in complicated relationships? Prince of Peace, thank you for bringing us peace with God. Help us to bring peace to the people around us. Amen.

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. — Ephesians 4:2 In Jesus’ day people despised the local tax collectors for collaborating with the Romans, who had taken over their nation. The tax collectors could also overcharge people in order to pay themselves, so they often got rich at the expense of their local community. When Jesus came to visit, he shocked Zacchaeus, the local tax collector, and everyone in the crowd by inviting himself to stay at Zacchaeus’s house. In this way Jesus showed Zacchaeus great honor and respect, and that turned Zacchaeus’s life around. The tax collector stood up and acknowledged his wrongdoing, made amends, and gave half of his wealth to the poor. What joy in the city of Jericho! Zacchaeus met grace in the person of Jesus, who accepted and honored him instead of rejecting him. He was overwhelmed and humbled, and immediately he became generous to the people around him. In Ephesians, Paul invites us to live a life that responds to God’s grace. He calls Christians to be humble, gentle, and patient. As people who have received generous grace, we are called to live gracious lives. God's grace to us fuels us to show grace and generosity to others. How does the grace you receive affect your relationships with the people around you? What can you do to show humility and gentleness in your relationships at home, at work or school, and in the church? Jesus, thank you for showing us grace despite our many sins. By your Spirit, empower us to show grace to everyone we meet today. Amen.

I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. — Ephesians 4:1 I live in the country of Burkina Faso. In Sabou, a village west of the capital, Ouagadougou, the crocodiles are considered sacred. No one in the village kills them, and the crocodiles never attack the villagers. This relationship is so reliable that tourists can take pictures sitting on the crocodiles of Sabou without risk of injury. A traditional story explains this relationship between the villagers and the crocodiles. It is said that a crocodile once saved the life of the village ancestor. In gratitude, this man ordered his descendants never to harm the crocodile, and this tradition is still alive. In other words, the man was so filled with gratitude for his life that he committed to honor and protect the crocodile. Throughout this month we will focus on the theme of gratitude as we reflect on passages in the book of Ephesians. In chapters 1-3 the apostle Paul shows how we were dead in our sins and how God—in his mercy—has given us new life in Christ by pure grace. Then in chapter 4, Paul urges us to respond with gratitude to this good news. How can we show appreciation for the gift of new life that God has made possible for us? And, like the village ancestor, how can we show our children and others around us how to live in gratitude? Gracious God, we thank you for the great gift of salvation in Jesus Christ. Thank you for showing us mercy and grace. Help us to live thankfully and to share this good news with our families, neighbors, friends, and others everywhere. Amen.

We are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses. . . . — Hebrews 12:1 This month we have focused on serving as Jesus’ witnesses. Jesus ended his ministry on earth by commissioning his followers to be his witnesses in their immediate area, in the surrounding regions, and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). Hebrews 12 offers some helpful encouragement in this work. In the previous chapter, Hebrews 11, the writer has listed examples of faithful followers of the Lord from early times—Noah, Abraham, Moses, Rahab, and many, many more. They all lived as faithful witnesses of God and of the ways God worked in their lives. Then in Hebrews 12 we are told that these souls make up a great cloud of witnesses who cheer us on as we serve the Lord today. One person in that cloud is Johanna Veenstra. More than a hundred years ago, Johanna—a woman in her twenties who was part of my church—went to serve as a missionary to the African country of Nigeria. Today there are more than 700,000 followers of Jesus in our partner church in that country. And, of course, there are even more in other Christian denominations! We see the power of faithful witnesses all around the world. The gospel is bearing fruit on every continent. You and I, wherever we find ourselves, are invited to fix our eyes on Jesus and run the same race. May God bless and equip each one of us to be his faithful witnesses! Jesus, thank you for the cloud of witnesses who cheer us on. Help us, we pray, to be your faithful witnesses always. Amen.

“The city streets will be filled with boys and girls playing there.” — Zechariah 8:5 The Sabbath day is a good time to be reminded of the importance of play. While our work and service are important in life, play is also important for the health of our body and spirit. Awhile ago I visited a Central American country with a group of ministry leaders. We toured a number of ministry sites to see how God was at work. One site was a reclaimed sports and recreation area: a soccer pitch stood on land that had once been used as a garbage dump. As we listened to the story about this redeemed piece of land, some young women showed up in their soccer uniforms for practice. Soon afterward, someone came over and told us in Spanish that the soccer players wanted to challenge us to a match. Game on! We didn’t have the right clothes or shoes and we couldn’t speak the language, but we had a great time of fun and laughter. We were also aware that these young women lived difficult lives, facing many obstacles from poverty to injustice in their society. But in that brief time of play, we experienced community and connection in a profound way. Examples like this can also be an expression of our Christian faith. God delights in us and in his world. We are invited to do the same. Can you find some time to both worship and play today? God, thank you for creating us to both work and play. Help us to be serious about both of these gifts. Grace us also with times of delight and laughter. Amen.

She said to herself, “If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed.” — Matthew 9:21 I am part of a group of pastors who gather each year for a retreat. Our routine is always the same: we grab breakfast in a local diner, play some pick-up hockey at the local rink, and then spend the rest of the day sharing stories and praying for each other. This year, when we had eaten our breakfast and were preparing to leave, it was clear that our waitress had figured out from our conversation that we are Christians. She stopped us at our table and said, “Before you go, I need you to pray for me. Tomorrow, I am quitting smoking once and for all, and I know I can’t do it by myself. Please ask God to help me.” So, we gathered around her and prayed fervently for her freedom. I don’t know the rest of the story, but I do know that Jesus was present with her and that he longs to set his children free. This kind of thing was common in the ministry of Jesus. People sensed that he could help them with their day-to-day struggles. Like the woman in our Scripture passage for today, they were willing to do whatever it took to grab hold of Jesus and be healed. May the people around us sense that same power and love of Jesus. And may we have the courage to pray for healing. Lord, thank you for the reminder that you minister among us in powerful ways. Heal the broken places in our lives, and hear our prayers for the hurting people we encounter. Amen.

Then Philip . . . told him the good news about Jesus. — Acts 8:35 Valerie sat in my study for the first time. With excitement, she introduced herself and said, “I have met God, and he has changed my life.” But then she asked me the question that was on her heart: “But who is Jesus? I need to know.” She went on to share how she had been set free from a long struggle with addiction through Alcoholics Anonymous, where her desperate prayers to God had been remarkably answered. A conversation with her doctor led her to realize that this was the God of the Bible. And that’s why she came with her question to me, her doctor’s pastor. God had set her free, but she was hungry to know more. So we talked. We talked about the Bible and the good news it reveals about God's love for a broken and rebellious world. We discussed how Jesus is the full expression of God’s love and forgiveness. With Jesus, there can always be a brand-new start and a lifelong journey of growing in faith, hope, and love. Wonderfully, Valerie came to embrace Jesus as her Lord and Savior. As a song puts it, we are blessed that God “is mighty to save.” This is the power of the gospel. Who is Jesus? Whatever you might be facing today, know that Jesus is your Savior, Lord, and friend. Dear God, reveal yourself to us today. May we experience the life-giving power of Jesus in all the broken places of our lives. Amen.

“Young man, I say to you, ‘Get up!’” — Luke 7:14 I am not a morning person. I wish I were. I have learned to get up early out of necessity, but it takes some time and coffee to get me going. In our reading from Luke 7 today, we see a remarkable awakening. A young man has died. Jesus sees the funeral procession, and his heart goes out to the young man’s mother, who is also a widow. He walks up to the funeral stretcher and says, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” Jesus uses a Greek word here that literally means “wake up.” Jesus treats the young man as if he is not dead but asleep. And when he wakes up, the young man starts to talk, which seems like a funny detail to include. Maybe he is a morning person! Later in the passage, the same word is used again. The crowd that had seen this miracle declared with awe, “A great prophet has appeared among us.” More literally, this can be translated: “A great prophet has awoken among us!”—meaning that the people could see they were in the presence of someone specially sent by God. They didn’t know much about Jesus yet, but they would soon learn. I don’t know if you are a morning person or not, but here is a helpful prayer we can offer anytime: “Jesus, please awaken me!” Ask the Lord to wake you up to see and care about the people around you. Dear Jesus, as you worked your resurrection power in that young man, will you work the same power in my life and spirit today? Help me to serve you faithfully. Amen.

“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you.” — Acts 1:8 A radio show once asked, “If you could choose between having the power of invisibility or flight, which would you choose?” Most answers were not flashy or heroic. Some people said they wanted invisibility so that they could sneak into the movies or onto airplanes. Others said they wanted to be able to fly so that they could stop taking the bus. Almost no one said they would use their power to fight crime or to help others. People weren’t much interested in using their power to make the world a better place. It seems we have a natural tendency to misuse even imaginary power! This is important to think about. In Acts 1:8 Jesus says to us, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you.” This is nothing like any other power, real or imagined. Jesus is speaking of the very power of God himself. It is the same power that spoke creation into existence and raised Jesus from the dead. This power is what brings us from death to eternal life, and it is now at work in us and through us. Jesus gives us this power for a specific purpose: to be his witnesses. The power of the Spirit is not for selfish gain or to make our life easier. Instead, we receive it so that others might encounter the love and forgiveness of Jesus through us. May we steward it well. Lord God, thank you for sacrificing your Son so that your Spirit may live in us. Holy Spirit, work within us so that we can know you better and share your amazing love with others. Amen.

“He has anointed me to proclaim good news. . . .” — Luke 4:18 As I sat with a group of pastors in a Central American country, I found myself deeply convicted by their stories. They had come from a tradition that focused on knowing Christ as your personal Lord and Savior. This was a good thing. But as these pastors had worked with our partners in their community, they had also begun to realize that the gospel (the “good news”) is far bigger than individual transformation. The work of Jesus touches every part of our broken world: creation, relationships, justice, finance, political power, and more. As these pastors embraced a wider Christian worldview, their ministries began to change. They invited people to wonder how Jesus might care for the poor and the oppressed people in their midst. They also spoke prophetically against political systems in their country that treated many people unjustly. As these pastors shared about their experiences, I could see the joy in their eyes. But they also spoke of growing persecution. Earlier, no one had cared if they just spoke about having a personal faith. Now that they were calling for the rich to share with the poor, for the powerful to care for the weak, and for the wrongly imprisoned to be set free, they were becoming a threat to the powers in their society. To share the good news means bearing witness that Jesus came to bring peace and to right the wrongs of this hurting world. Jesus, you care for the poor and oppressed; help us to do that as we witness for you. Amen.

“When you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’” — Luke 10:5 A few years ago there was a social media trend in which people posted good things about themselves and tagged them with “#blessed.” I did a search of “#blessed” and got 140 million results. Everything from pictures of people holding babies, to nice cars and beaches. And about 100 million selfies. We tend to think of being blessed in terms of material blessings. But that’s not what Jesus teaches. In fact, part of being a witness to Jesus is to bring his blessing of God’s love and good news wherever we go. This is our mission. We see this clearly in Luke 10. Jesus sent 72 of his followers to bring the good news of God’s kingdom to the people in nearby towns and villages. And when they entered people’s homes and communities, they were to declare peace on them and say, “The kingdom of God has come near to you.” The Savior has come! Salvation and hope are here! These blessings are still what God offers us and the world today. And like those 72 followers, we are called to bring peace and to announce the good news wherever we go. May Jesus equip us with his Spirit to be his faithful witnesses, sharing his blessings with the people we meet today. Jesus, it can be daunting to live into the words of this passage. Thank you that we are not alone. Pour your blessings on us so that we can share them with others wherever we go today. Amen.

Whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. — 1 Corinthians 11:26 Today is Sunday, and if you attend a worship service today, you might celebrate the Lord’s Supper, or Holy Communion. Many churches around the world will gather and focus on the bread and cup and hear these powerful words: “This is my body, given for you. . . . This is my blood, shed for you.” In a way, the tangible elements of bread and grape juice (or wine) bear witness to the love of Jesus shown in his sacrifice on the cross. We are invited to take and eat so that we may remember and believe that in Jesus’ death and resurrection we find forgiveness and new life. We are also reminded that when we participate in communion, we “proclaim the Lord’s death” until he returns. Communion itself is a witness to Jesus and all he has done for us. I remember an unusual experience of communion many years ago. It was the week after our young family was involved in a serious car accident. No one had been hurt, but it could have been so much worse. As I held those symbols of Jesus' death in my hands, I saw with fresh eyes how his sacrifice brings life. We had experienced a close brush with death ourselves, but God had decided that our purpose here wasn’t finished. In life and in death, we belong to him—the one who gave his all for us (Q&A 1, Heidelberg Catechism). Jesus, you are the bread of life. As we worship you, may we experience close communion with you and our brothers and sisters in faith. Thank you for the gift of your life. Amen.

Your faith in God has become known everywhere. — 1 Thessalonians 1:8 I have a soccer friend who quit his full-time job to become a social-media influencer. He focuses on differences between Canadian and American products. Did you know that Corn Pops™ cereal is almost completely different in Canada from what it is in the United States? Of course, influencers are into everything from home design to fashion to video games and parenting. There’s no end. But influencing is not new to our generation. In his letter to the Thessalonians, Paul reflects on the powerful effects of influence in this young church. Through Paul and his companions they were introduced to Jesus and, in turn, began to reflect Jesus themselves. Listen to what Paul says in verse 7: “You became a model to all the believers in [the surrounding area]. . . . The Lord’s message rang out from you . . . your faith in God has become known everywhere.” Talk about influence! Think about your own faith journey and who has influenced you. Who made Jesus real to you? And how about your own influence? What would it look like for the good news of Jesus to ring out from your life today? Dear Jesus, may our lives be so open to the influence of your love and forgiveness that we bring that same influence to all the people in our lives and in all the places we go today. In your name we pray. Amen.

I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling. — 1 Corinthians 2:3 When I was a seminary student, our training included opportunities to preach at nearby churches, and students like me would preach and then receive feedback on our sermons. Sometimes the reviews were kind and helpful. Sometimes, not so much. One of my classmates received this response from a reviewer who was asked to comment on the main points of the sermon: “I don’t know; I fell asleep.” Ouch! What a humbling reminder to him and the rest of us that we had a long way to go before we spoke with wise or persuasive words. How remarkable, then, to read Paul’s testimony that he did not speak with deep wisdom or persuasive arguments. Yet Paul is considered to be one of the greatest evangelists in church history. What was his secret? Paul explained that his message came “with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power,” which meant that Paul did not feel the need to put Paul on display. He put God first and shared the good news about Jesus and how he came to save us. What a great reminder that while words are important, they are not everything. And it doesn’t matter if we are preachers or if we are just sharing our faith with another person—the main thing is that we help people encounter the living God and experience his love and forgiveness. May others see and sense the Spirit’s power at work in us. Lord, thank you for the gift of your Spirit. Open our hearts so that you can work through us to help others experience your love. Amen.

“The time has come…the kingdom of God has come near.” — Mark 1:15 When Jesus launched his ministry, he announced: “The time has come. . . . The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” It is hard to overstate how startling and even dangerous this moment was. In Jesus’ day, people were often reminded (brutally) that there was one kingdom—Rome—and there was one king—Caesar. And whenever a new Roman emperor rose to the throne, messengers were sent throughout the empire to announce it, calling it “good news.” So here was Jesus, declaring with boldness, “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” We can see why this was a radical and politically dangerous message. But for the people who heard it, it really was good news. As they would soon discover, Jesus did not come to topple Rome but to usher in the kingdom of God, which is not of this world but nevertheless rules over it. This kingdom is characterized by love, mercy, forgiveness, new beginnings, and service. To follow Jesus is to become a citizen of God’s eternal kingdom. This good news is just as countercultural today as when Jesus first announced it. And this is the message we get to proclaim in his name: Jesus, the King, has come, bringing new life in his name! He holds this world in his hands! Come and follow him! Lord Jesus, may I receive your good news with fresh ears today. Thank you for inviting me into your kingdom! Amen.

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. — John 1:14 In the neighborhood where my wife and I live, people tend to keep to themselves. Last summer, though, when we invited our neighbors for a social gathering, many of them said to each other, “I’m glad you’re my neighbor!” and, “I am so grateful to live in this kind neighborhood.” We were surprised by how much it meant for them to know who the neighbors were on our street, even if most of us were not connected socially. Presence is a big part of our witness. Our passage today has been famously paraphrased by Eugene Peterson to say that Jesus “became flesh and blood and moved into the neighborhood” (The Message). When we reflect Jesus by showing up with an open posture, kindness, and generosity, we build trust and connection. Recently our next-door neighbors were out of the country when a small problem came up at their house. They texted us about it, and I was able to fix the problem. It was a simple thing, but they were so grateful—and I knew they would do the same for us. We are present for each other. As Jesus intentionally entered our world and became present with us, we have the opportunity to discern how we can bring Jesus’ presence into our neighborhood. How do we show up in a way that can give people a sense of our Savior’s heart for them? Jesus, thank you for making your home among us. Because of your presence in our world, we are free. Please help us to be a caring presence in our community. Amen.

Zacchaeus . . . said to the Lord, “. . . Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” — Luke 19:8 The story of Zacchaeus always fascinates me. Zacchaeus heard that Jesus was coming to town. Word had spread about Jesus, and Zacchaeus wanted to get a glimpse of him. The crowds were so thick that Zacchaeus had to climb a tree in order to see Jesus pass by. But then Jesus stopped right in front of the tree Zacchaeus was in, looked up at him, and said, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” The crowd overhearing this exchange was surprised—and not in a good way! Zacchaeus was a tax collector for the Romans, and the people saw tax collectors as greedy collaborators who took advantage of hardworking local citizens. But then the crowd watched Zacchaeus transform. He gave generously to the poor, and he paid back four times what he had cheated from people. This whole scene was unlike so many of Jesus’ other interactions with people. Jesus didn’t heal Zacchaeus from a physical illness. He didn’t give Zacchaeus food or water. In fact, Jesus asked Zacchaeus for something—a place to stay. If you’re like me, you might tend to wait for an invitation from someone to spend time with them—especially when you’re busy. But is there anyone whom God might be prompting you to connect with today? God, thank you for all of your work in the lives of the people around me. Please help me to see whom I can reach out to and connect with. Amen.

Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon. — John 4:6 When we try to share a brief story of Jesus with others, we often focus on his birth, his death for our sake, and his resurrection. We might also mention some of the amazing things about his teachings and miracles. But how often do we think of what Jesus’ day-to-day life was like? Jesus was fully God and fully human, which means that he got thirsty, tired, and hungry. Several passages in the Bible describe Jesus’ spending time with his followers and doing very human things: he feasts at a wedding, he travels with his disciples, and in our reading today he gets tired and sits down by a well, where he asks a Samaritan woman for a drink of water—and ends up telling her that he is the Messiah! I wonder how many meals Jesus ate with his followers, how many walks he went on, and how many jokes he cracked over a campfire at night. I wonder if Jesus’ disciples experienced God’s glory as much through Jesus’ everyday conversations and the way he lived each day as they did through his parables and miracles. Maybe living a life like Jesus is not as intimidating as it sounds. He did lots of ordinary things in his day-to-day living, just as we do. How can we help to bring the presence of Jesus in ordinary ways as we spend time with the people God has placed around us? Lord God, thank you for sending Jesus to live among us. Help us to see and share with others the ways you are working in our daily lives. Amen.

It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High. — Psalm 92:1 Today we pause from the regular rhythms of our daily lives to focus on the God of the universe. And he calls us to worship! This month, as we reflect on what it means to be Jesus’ witnesses wherever we go, it can be tempting to think that this work is on our shoulders. If we don’t do it, who will? So the gift of Sabbath helps us remember that ultimately this is God’s work, not ours. Recently I went into the office anticipating a big pile of work that was waiting for me. When I arrived, I discovered that a generous colleague had already taken care of it. When I realized what they had done, I remember feeling both relief and gratitude. What a gift! Psalm 92 expresses similar feelings toward God. “You make me glad by your deeds, Lord; I sing for joy at what your hands have done. How great are your works, Lord, how profound your thoughts!” What a relief it is to know that this world sits firmly in God’s capable, good hands. He has not stopped working; rather, he has prepared good works for us to do in his kingdom (Ephesians 2:10). Sabbath gives us an opportunity to join with brothers and sisters to praise and honor the One who has already done it all for us. We have a Savior who walks with us on mission, wherever God has called us! Hallelujah! O God, I join with the psalmist in giving thanks to you and singing your praises! Thank you for saving me and calling me to be a part of your work. Amen.

“Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” — Acts 8:4 Have you ever landed in a difficult situation and wondered, “Why did this happen?” Johnny is a missionary I work with who served for several years in Haiti. Because of the political struggles and increased violence there, he came back to the United States with his family. It was a difficult transition. How do you leave behind the colleagues and friends you love dearly? How do you process the trauma of living in such an unsettled environment? But as Johnny and his wife began to settle and heal, they discovered a remarkable thing. Thousands of Haitians had also moved to where he and his family were now living, and God was creating opportunities for them to minister among the Haitian community right where they were. So now Johnny is working with a Haitian pastor to raise up Haitian leaders and plant Haitian churches. They have a dream to launch 10 new Haitian church plants in the next few years! God took a painful situation and used it to open up new opportunities in North America! God did something like that with the early Christians too—like Philip, who was forced to flee to Samaria. In all kinds of situations the Holy Spirit continues to spread the good news of Jesus in surprising ways around the world. Dear God, even when we are recovering from a painful situation or heartache, you pour out your healing in your good time and provide new opportunities for us to serve you. Thank you, Lord! Amen.

“May our Lord Jesus Christ himself . . . encourage your hearts and strengthen you. . . .” — 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 As we sat down for breakfast at a restaurant, Jack said to me for about the tenth time, “I love you, brother; I love you so much!” I certainly didn’t feel worthy of that love because I hadn’t seen Jack for years. I was there because a friend had faithfully kept up contact much better than I had done. So this breakfast meeting was long overdue. Some years ago, I had been in contact with Jack quite a lot. He was going through a painful time with lots of personal struggles. He had a young daughter he was trying to care for, and I was one of several people who did our best to surround him with care and encouragement. He saw it all as a gift from Jesus. But time passed, Jack moved to another area, and I hadn’t seen him in a long time. As I processed my own feelings of guilt for letting our friendship slide, I also began to see with new clarity what a gift Jack was to me. He showed me what resilient faith looks like in the midst of a hard story. Despite my long absence, he bore me no ill will—he was just overjoyed that I showed up. Another friend and I joked that we heard “I love you” that day more times from Jack than we had heard from our family members in a while. I was reminded of how powerful just being present can be. This also helped me remember that the Lord Jesus is present with us always (Matthew 28:20). Lord, thank you that no matter where we go, you are already there. Help us to bring your love to others. Amen.

“I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.” — John 17:20-21 Our calling—our mission—starts with prayer. God works powerfully through prayer, and you can always go to God in prayer. You can spend time with the Lord any time of the day. In one of the best-known prayers in the Bible, Jesus prays for you and me in John 17. What a comfort it is to see him reaching out to us. And what a role model he is for us in our life of prayer. Many Christians and churches receive prayer requests regularly. Praying for neighbors or others in your life, whether for a specific request or a general blessing, is a great way to participate in the work of the Lord. But I also want to encourage you to be a leader in prayer. Reaching out to others and asking “How can I pray for you?” can be exactly what people need to hear. Joining God’s mission doesn’t necessarily mean moving to a different region or country; you can be a missionary right in your own neighborhood! Many believers are often surprised that people who don’t seem to be religious will often welcome prayer if they are asked. Being a part of prayer with others reminds them that they are seen not just by you but also by God. Lord, you reached out to me; help me to reach out to others. Give me eyes to see my neighbors in need of prayer—that your church may grow and your people may be one. Amen.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” — John 15:5 How do we “remain” in Jesus? I think it has a lot to do with prayer. I grew up in the church, and I remember that when I was young, prayer always seemed boring. We clasped our hands, closed our eyes, and bowed our heads as the pastor prayed for what seemed a long, long time. But as I grew older and Jesus became more real to me, my prayer life started to change. There’s nothing wrong with the posture of folding your hands and closing your eyes—I still sometimes take that posture to concentrate. But as I grew in faith, prayer became much more about spending time with God. I not only learned to praise God and lift up my requests to him; I also learned to spend time reading the Bible and listening for what the Spirit had to say. I’ve found that when I make sure to spend time with Jesus in prayer, I’m a much more patient person—even in the midst of life’s challenges. On days when there is too much to do, I’m more likely to be kinder and slower in my responses to family and friends. I’m also more likely to take time for a conversation with a neighbor who passes by. And I’m more likely to look for and respond to the Holy Spirit’s promptings. Lord, thank you that we’re able to spend time in your presence through prayer. Help us to be intentional about spending time with you so that your love and grace can transform us to become more like you. Amen.

“Give ear, Lord, and hear; open your eyes, Lord, and see. . . .” — 2 Kings 19:16 I recently spent a morning with Pastor Obelto, who leads a network of Haitian church plants in Florida. I will never forget his words: “Like Hezekiah, we prayed and prayed and prayed.” His growing church was meeting in a storefront when the owners told them they had to leave to make way for a new restaurant that was coming to town. This group of recent Haitian immigrants had very little money, and whatever money they did have they were sending back to their relatives, who were struggling in their home country. But they needed a worship place where they could meet the spiritual needs of their community as they dealt with significant trauma and a sense of displacement. So they looked to the Bible, and they were inspired by the story of Hezekiah. They called on God with boldness and conviction, and God answered their prayers. I had the wonderful privilege of walking through this answer to prayer with them—a fitting house of worship unique to their Haitian culture that can proudly share the ministry of Jesus. Today their church provides a place of solace for a community that has been struck by devastation. Their story is a reminder that God hears us when we call on him. God knows all that we need, and he provides. Lord, I confess that at times I can lose my passion for prayer. Rekindle in me a hunger to call on you like Hezekiah did, and like so many others around the world. In Jesus, Amen.

I want to know Christ. . . . — Philippians 3:10 Researchers in Europe went door to door, asking people about their belief in God. One question was this: “Do you believe in a God who intervenes in human lives, who changes the course of history, and performs miracles?” A typical response to this question was “No, I don’t believe in that God. I believe in the ordinary God.” I admit that it can be tempting to prefer “the ordinary God”—that is, a God who is there when I need him but who remains mostly quiet in the background while I go about my life. Fortunately the Scriptures do not let us settle with that notion of an ordinary God. The Jesus we meet in the New Testament entered our world, carried our burden of sin to the cross, died in our place, and then rose from the dead and later ascended to rule with God in heaven. This is no ordinary God. The God of the Bible does in fact break into our lives in all kinds of surprising, beautiful, and disruptive ways. In fact, the one true God is beyond extraordinary. And all of this is conveyed in this remarkable prayer of Paul: “I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings” and then to experience that resurrection as well. What a prayer! How would my life change if this became my life’s prayer? What could happen if I prayed this for the people in my life? Dear Jesus, I want to know you. Make me like you so that I may experience the power of your resurrection. Amen.

“. . . the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God.” — Exodus 20:10 I am not very good at resting. I have noticed that I’m becoming more distracted by my phone and more captivated by the world online. I love to learn, and the internet provides endless opportunities to keep exploring information. I have to admit that for all of my good intentions, my life has gotten busier, not quieter. Busy seasons probably crop up in your life too, even if you are good at taking care of yourself. We live in a world that prizes busyness and ever-increasing productivity. Well, today is Sunday. This is a reminder that we are not designed to stay busy all the time. God declared long ago that we need a good rhythm of rest and work. Then, to honor the day of Jesus’ resurrection, Christians shifted the celebration of Sabbath from Saturday to Sunday. What I like about celebrating Sabbath on the first day of the week is that it reminds us that we begin our week with rest. Whether or not you are able to rest today, I pray that you may find time in your weekly rhythm to stop, rest, and listen anew to God, taking time to worship the Lord and to rest. Give thanks and praise God for all the good things he has done in this world and in your life. Reflect, pray, and listen to his guiding Word in the Bible and in your heart. What might God be saying to you? Lord, thank you for the Sabbath. Thank you for giving us time to rest. Help us to rest well today, and to make sure we take time in our lives to rest in your presence. Amen.

I have posted watchmen on your walls, Jerusalem. . . . — Isaiah 62:6 In this vision of hope we find a powerful call to action. In verse 6, God says: “I have posted watchmen on your walls, Jerusalem. They will never be silent day or night.” This is a powerful picture of intercessory prayer, in which people pray for others and for God’s work in their lives. In ancient times the purpose of watching on the walls of a city was to observe what was happening and to spot enemies or danger that might approach. We don’t have literal watchers on the walls in our culture today, but there are lots of people who do something similar. Weather forecasters tell us what weather is coming. Financial experts keep an eye on the markets. Others watch what’s going on in geopolitics. Here, in Isaiah, God says that he has put watchmen on the walls—people who discern what is going on in the spiritual realm and pray about it. They are like believers who pray with passion and deep conviction, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10). Is there a situation stirring your heart to prayer? How might the Spirit be calling you to pray for your neighbors, co-workers, or fellow students? God invites you to be a watcher on the wall. Strong prayer for others and for the coming of God’s kingdom is a key strategy in his mission. Thank you, God, for the power of intercessory prayer. As watchers on the wall, we pray for your kingdom to come and your will to be done on earth as in heaven. Amen.

Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great faith!” — Matthew 15:28 In today’s story Jesus and his disciples were in an area where most of the people did not know or worship God. The disciples were not familiar with the customs and culture and likely would have felt uncomfortable there. Then they met a woman whose daughter was “demon-possessed and suffering terribly.” Jesus’ response to her sounds puzzling. Was he making a point to everyone listening? Was he testing her? He said that as a non-Jewish person, she was not the focus of his ministry. But she was determined to find help for her hurting daughter. She said, in effect, “Whatever crumbs of goodness you are willing to throw to us will be enough.” And Jesus celebrated the woman’s faith and healed her daughter “at that moment.” Amazing! Sometimes we think that witnessing is about bringing Jesus into our conversations and relationships. But here we are reminded that God is always ahead of us. The woman already had an emerging trust that Jesus was her one true hope. To be a witness is to discern and celebrate where God is already at work. Where do you see God moving ahead and stirring people’s faith, questions, and longings? Dear God, give us the eyes to see where you are already at work in the places we go today and in our neighborhood. Help us respond faithfully to the good work of your Spirit. Amen.

In all our distress and persecution we were encouraged about you because of your faith. For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord. — 1 Thessalonians 3:7-8 Paul thanked God for his Thessalonian friends, who, despite knowing they would suffer for their faith in Jesus, were sure of the security they would find in him. What a witness they were to the Savior! The Thessalonians were persecuted, but they remained steadfast in their faith—and that is not always easy. It can be difficult to remain faithful, especially when life presents unexpected challenges. When Paul sent Timothy to check on the Thessalonians, he was encouraged and filled with joy that their faith had remained strong. He said, “For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord.” Remaining firm in Christ is not always easy—but God tells us about the peace, comfort, and redemption he provides when we stay near to him despite our challenges. Life can bring grief, worry, fear, and a host of other difficult and uncomfortable emotions. It can be hard to accept circumstances that are unpredictable and far outside of our own control, especially when our hearts yearn to make things better. But when we draw near to God, he promises to give us his peace that surpasses all understanding. God’s presence strengthens our weary hearts through challenges, persecution, and unforeseen circumstances—and for that we praise him! Lord, plant our feet firmly in you. Help us to draw nearer to you in challenging times and to trust in you. Amen.

In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ will be persecuted. — 2 Timothy 3:12 As we explore what it means to be witnesses for Jesus, it is important to talk about the cost of witnessing. Did you know that in the Bible the Greek word for “witnesses” is martyres, which also gives us the word “martyr”? Since the beginning of the church, there has been strong opposition to the Christian faith. The New Testament includes many stories of the persecution of Christians. And persecution continues today. Christianity Today magazine reported that about 13 Christians worldwide are killed every day because of their faith. In addition, 12 Christian buildings or churches are attacked, and 12 Christians are unjustly arrested each day. More than 360 million Christians in the world live with some kind of persecution or oppression because of their faith. They all bear witness to their faith and trust in Jesus as their living hope and Savior. In 2 Timothy, Paul describes the ways he was persecuted, and he says that believers can expect persecution for living “a godly life in Christ.” But he offers hope too. Although he faced many persecutions, Paul said, “The Lord rescued me from all of them.” Paul also reassures us that “all Scripture is God-breathed” and that it trains and equips us to face all kinds of worldly obstacles as we live “through faith in Christ Jesus.” Lord, please protect all of your servants around the world today. Comfort them as they encounter persecution, and work through them to shine your light to people everywhere. Amen.

“. . . and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 1:8 Have you ever received a gift but were not quite sure what to do with it? I once received some freeze-dried army food. I didn’t need it right away, so it sat in my closet for a long time, waiting for the right moment to be used—which never came. One day I quietly got rid of that unopened gift. Jesus’ gift to us is not like that. He gives us the Holy Spirit, and he explains what this gift is for and where we will use it. “You will be my witnesses,” he said to his followers, “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Those locations had specific meanings for Jesus’ first disciples. Jerusalem was the place they were in, and the Spirit would send them to be witnesses to the people in that local area. Judea was the region around Jerusalem, where the people were a lot like them. Samaria was a neighboring region that included people of different cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The Holy Spirit would send them to those places and then also to “the ends of the earth,” to share the good news of Jesus with people who lived far away. Jesus offers the same gift of the Spirit to us. Who are the people living in our “Jerusalem,” “Judea,” and “Samaria,” and in all nations to the ends of the earth? How can we support God’s mission in each of those places? Jesus, thank you for pouring out the gift of your Spirit in our lives, inviting each one of us to join you in sharing the good news in our neighborhoods and around the world. Amen.

“See, I am doing a new thing!” — Isaiah 43:19 Recently my wife and I replaced our old kitchen stove with a new one. The first time I used it, I put a pan of milk on the range to make oatmeal and turned it on high. I turned around briefly to get some other ingredients—and the next thing I knew, milk was running everywhere, even between the glass panes of the oven door. Would our new stove be ruined? As we removed screws to get at the glass, we wondered, “How did this happen? Will it ever be fixed?” For many people, it seems the world is that way too. Problems in the world and in our lives can feel overwhelming. We find ourselves asking, “Will things ever be fixed”? In Isaiah 43, God speaks to his people as they struggle with feeling that way. They are in exile, and their country is in ruins. In despair, they are thinking it will never be fixed. But God declares, “See, I am doing a new thing! . . . Do you not perceive it?” We are reminded that God is at work doing something new, and he invites us to join him. Our stove eventually got fixed. And God’s plan for the world is far greater. He shows us that things will not just be restored—they will be even better than before! Do we have the eyes to see? Lord of all, thank you for the new things you are doing in our world. Please give us eyes to see what you are doing today, and help us to notice all that you are making new in our lives! In Jesus, Amen.

“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses. . . .” — Acts 1:8 I once served as a witness on a legal matter. The lawyers determined to make sure that my memories were clear and that the timeline of events was accurate. They also told me to share everything about the situation that I could; they would decide which details were important and which ones weren’t. It is significant that Jesus, before he ascended to heaven, commissioned his followers with these words: “You will be my witnesses. . . .” We serve as witnesses to Jesus, the Lord of the universe. I don’t know about you, but this feels like a daunting task, especially when Jesus says that our witness begins where we are and extends to the ends of the earth. Do I have what it takes to be that kind of witness? Thankfully, we do not do this alone. As Jesus commissions us, he promises the gift of his Holy Spirit. He also commissions us, his followers, as a community. This is our task, together. This month, let’s explore how to bear witness to Jesus. In my work with Resonate Global Mission, I see examples of faithful witness every day. The Spirit is alive and well around the world! I look forward to exploring and sharing with you what mission looks like in our lives today. Jesus, as we explore what it means to be your witnesses, we want to open our hearts to your call. Fill us with your Spirit and teach us how we can grow as witnesses for you. Amen.

Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord . . . you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.” — John 21:17 Recently I recalled the day my husband asked me to marry him. We were both students and had come from different backgrounds. We talked about questions like “What is love?” and “How do we know if we’re in love?” and “What would it look like if we decided to make this relationship permanent?” For me, coming from a long background of faith and solid examples of strong marriage made it easy for me to say that I loved him. For him, coming from a few years of faith and not so solid relationships made it harder to trust a longtime commitment. But we knew we had faith and a choice to try. And for over 44 years we have offered each other the best of ourselves. Jesus’ question to Peter was about deep commitment. And Peter was probably feeling a mix of emotions as he stood on the beach facing Jesus that day. Peter had denied Jesus three times (John 18:17, 25-27), and yet there in front of him was the one who had defeated death. And now Jesus was asking the hard question: “Do you love me?” Of course Peter loved him, but Jesus wasn’t asking for a simple relationship. He was asking Peter if he was ready, no matter what the cost, to bring the good news about him to people who hadn’t heard it. What is your answer to Jesus’ question? Lord, thank you for loving us. Help us today to love you with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to share the good news about you everywhere. Amen.

Simon Peter . . . dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. — John 21:11 Years ago we lived on the edge of a lake in eastern Ontario. We often took our fishing poles out to see what might be swimming in the water. Some seasons were better than others, and we released many sunfish so that they could grow bigger. Some bass ended up in the frying pan, but we certainly were not experts. The fishermen in today’s story were experts. They didn’t know who was calling out to them from the shore, but they knew what it was like to try fishing on the other side of the boat. Yet on this day they were not sure what to expect; they had been fishing all night and had caught nothing. These men had also had a rough time lately. They had been following Jesus, the Messiah, but they were confused with the outcome. Jesus had died and risen again, but Rome was still in control. What was the Messiah up to? Then, after throwing their nets on the other side and getting so many fish that they couldn’t haul the net in, something triggered in their minds: “It is the Lord!” (See Luke 5:1-11.) Eventually they dragged their overflowing net ashore, and it was not even torn. A reminder that God can do more than we can ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). Today Jesus wants to remind us that he has called us to follow him too. What is Jesus up to in your life? In your neighborhood? Your community? Your area? Is he calling you to trust him again like you did when you first met him? Lord, thank you for your abundant love as you keep calling us to love you and others. Amen.

“Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” — Luke 24:32 At a concert, the usher at the door looked so familiar to me. But I could not recall where or when I might have met him before. After a brief conversation with him, we recalled that years ago he had been our son’s grade-8 teacher. We enjoyed sharing a few memories of that time in our lives. I think the situation was slightly different as the two followers of Jesus walked along toward their home in Emmaus. They didn’t recognize that they were talking with Jesus, even though they had seen him recently. Did he not look the same? Jesus asked questions and taught them about the Scriptures, but it wasn’t till they sat and shared bread together that their eyes were opened to see him. What a wonderful feeling that must have been! Then, after Jesus “disappeared from their sight,” they joyfully made the long trip back to Jerusalem to share their story. They could not wait to share their experience. Their love for Jesus and the others was enough to propel them back to Jerusalem to share. With a text message from my cell phone, we eagerly shared with our son that we had talked with his grade-8 teacher at the concert that night. And it was fun to share that with him. Are we eager in a way like that to share with others about our times with Jesus? Lord, thank you for moments when you meet with us in a fresh new way. Open our eyes and hearts to your work in our everyday lives, realizing you are closer than we might think. Amen.

Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). — John 20:16 There are times in life when we have to do some things we don’t want to do. Tough things. There’s that phone call we have to make. Or that task ahead of us that looks bigger than we bargained for. Or maybe we have received news that shatters our thinking, and we can’t imagine how we can deal with the situation. I am sure that is how Mary felt. Her heart was heavy with the news of Jesus’ death. She knew that his body was placed in the tomb, and she and some others had wanted to make sure his body was prepared properly (Mark 16:1-7; Luke 24:1-12). Imagine their surprise when the tomb was empty. How could this be? After sharing the news with Jesus’ disciples (John 20:1-2), Mary went back to the tomb and stood there. Her heart was heavy, and the tears for her Lord trickled down her face. Someone else was there too. A gardener? Perhaps he might know something. He said, “Why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Then he spoke her name. And she knew it was Jesus. Her whole outlook changed. What a glorious encounter! Whatever circumstances you are in and no matter what struggles you are facing, be assured that Jesus is with you (Matthew 28:20) and that he knows your name. When we are distracted by tough circumstances in our lives, thank you for interrupting us, Lord, to call our name. Thank you for being there and reminding us how much you love us. Amen.

Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?” — John 18:4 Not long ago I received a call that a dear friend might have only hours—or a few days, at best—to live. I rearranged my day and left for the hospital. I should have asked for the room number ahead of time, but as I stood near the nurses’ station, someone asked me whom I was looking for. She kindly directed me to the room—and after I walked in, I soon realized I was saying good-bye. Jesus knew what would soon happen as he saw soldiers and officials coming for him. This was the plan ahead of him, and he faced it head-on. He even unnerved his pursuers by stepping forward and identifying himself. There was no fight from Jesus—just resolution that he was okay with accepting God’s plan for him and for the world. When God calls us and asks us to step into the plan he has designed for us, do we step away or step in? When everything feels safe, it’s not hard to step in. When the storyline involves suffering or pain, however, it’s easier to back up and hesitate. I admit that I have argued with God on occasion, telling him I didn’t have time for his plan. I preferred a different way. That didn’t change the plan, though, and when I took the posture of trusting over fighting, I appreciated the choice God took for me so that I could trust him then. Can you? Dear Jesus, as the soldiers approached, looking for you, you stepped forward and faced them. Will you help us today to have the courage to accept the plan that you have designed for us? Amen.

When [Jesus] came back, he again found them sleeping. . . . They did not know what to say to him. — Mark 14:40 You have had a full meal, and it has been a long day. In fact, the past several days have been really challenging—emotionally and physically. You are worn out and tired. Even in the cool night air, you can barely stay awake. You know you need to pay attention because Jesus has asked you to keep watch, but your eyelids are getting heavier by the moment. Soon your head bobs, and you are fast asleep. You didn’t plan it that way. Jesus nudges you awake and asks, “Couldn’t you keep watch for one hour?” Startled, you hear him say, “Watch and pray. . . .” You nod in agreement, feeling horrible that you haven’t managed to stay awake. He steps away, and the heaviness settles in again. Your eyelids close. Later he wakes you again, and you don’t know what to say. Then a third time you are awakened—and now there is a crowd coming. Sleep vanishes. You look at the one who asked you to pray, and he is in the hands of his enemies! Though our lives today are much different from the disciples’, the need for staying alert and praying is not. Our world is in need of our attention, and the Lord is calling us to stand watch. It is encouraging to know that Jesus is now seated at the right hand of the Father, praying for us (Romans 8:34), but today he still needs us to do the same for his world and for all God’s children in it. Lord, help us to be alert, watching and praying for your sake. Guide us to live faithfully, that all your children may come to know you. Amen.

“The greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.” — Luke 22:26 Have you ever played “shotgun”? Usually it’s about getting “the best” passenger seat in the car—in the front seat by the driver. Our kids believed it was the middle seat in the back of the car. I can still hear the arguments and the mad dash for that seat. I am thankful that children’s car seats have taken away the mania of that game for my grandkids. Our desire to be in first place can get in the way of how we respond to a situation. Can you imagine being at the Last Supper with Jesus and having an argument break out about who is the greatest? Had the disciples learned nothing from Jesus about service in God’s kingdom? Jesus patiently tried again. He told his disciples that they were not like kings and other worldly leaders who lorded it over others; instead, his followers were citizens of heaven, where serving is more important than being served. He said, “I am among you as one who serves.” And he assured them they would be able to eat and drink at the table in God’s kingdom, but the time for that would come later. As you reflect on this story, what is your posture? Do you need to be seen, or are you willing to open doors so that others will be treated in a way that brings glory to God? Jesus, help us to remember that you set an example for us to follow. Guide us as we strive to follow you in attitude and posture. Thank you for your servant heart for us. Amen.

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” — John 14:6 Homelessness is a problem throughout our world. So many people live rough and feel that they have no future. Many have lost their space to the greed of others, and this becomes a bigger story every day. Conversations and action plans are initiated, but solutions are hard to achieve. I wonder if Jesus’ disciples were beginning to feel displaced as he talked about leaving them. Jesus had talked about his betrayal and about dying and going away (John 12-13). That probably made them confused and upset, because they didn’t expected those things would happen to the Messiah, God’s Anointed One, who had come to be the Savior. But there was a lot they didn’t understand. What was going to happen next? Jesus offered comfort by moving the conversation in a different direction and focusing on living with him and the Father in heaven. This is something we should all pay attention to. With his question here, Jesus reminds his followers that there is a secure place for each of them in eternity with him. God’s house is big, and it has many rooms. This same promise is for us and for everyone we share Jesus’ story with. God has prepared a place for all of us who believe in Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life! Jesus, thank you for your promise of sharing eternity with us and that you have a big house with room for all. Help us to walk faithfully with you into eternity. Amen.

“This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” — John 11:4 I know what it is like to lose a brother too young. He had cancer, and it seemed that surgery would help—but then a complication arose, and surgery did not go as planned. The day did not turn out as we expected. He was put on life support so that we could have some time with him. We gathered at the hospital with him and asked God to intervene. We prayed for healing and anything else that would change the outcome. It did not, and the doctor who brought things to a close that day was kind and compassionate. We too wondered, “What if Jesus had been there . . . ?” A few months later we learned that the doctor who was with us that day had come to faith because of the interaction with our family. Jesus had been at work there in ways we had not imagined, and the glory given to God through this was evident. We had been able to share a hope beyond the walls of the hospital, trusting that eternity in Christ would be ours together, no matter what happened. Martha believed with the same hope. Yet Jesus had another plan. With tears in his eyes, he asked where they had buried his friend Lazarus. When Lazarus came out of the tomb, I am sure that day wasn’t what the people there expected either. The glory given to God was real, and many came to faith in Jesus that day. Where will God be glorified in your story today? God, be glorified in our lives. Whatever we may be facing, we thank you for your compassion and love. Fill us with hope, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” — John 6:68 Have you ever had a morning when you crawled wearily out of bed, stubbed your toe, burnt your toast, and had all kinds of other things go wrong? A day like that makes you want to go straight back to bed. Or maybe the circumstances are harder, and someone is telling you to hang on when you want to let go. I wonder if Jesus’ disciples felt in a way like that when a lot of people turned away from Jesus after he shared some hard but true teachings. I wonder how many times the disciples weren’t quite sure what to do with Jesus. Was it embarrassing or confusing or overwhelming for them? Already fully committed to Jesus, they knew they couldn’t give up or let go. Jesus, who was clearly the Son of God, had met the longings of their hearts—and even on the worst days they had experienced, they knew that traveling with Jesus was enough. When he asked, “Are you going to leave too?” Peter replied with words that confirmed what the disciples were feeling: “There’s no one else to go to, and you are all we need.” On days when you feel like giving up, throwing in the towel, or walking away from your faith, where will you go? It is too much to walk away from the one who holds you close through his presence and his words. By his character he assures you that even on a bad day, he is there. Jesus, only you “have the words of eternal life.” Help me to search them out, understand them, and obey them, trusting in you as the Lord and Savior. Amen.

Jesus said to the centurion, “Go! Let it be done just as you believed it would.” And his servant was healed at that moment. — Matthew 8:13 I was asked to officiate at a funeral for a young man (age 37) who had died from a fentanyl overdose. He had been living on the street for years and was addicted to some pretty strong drugs. He also visited our church during the week and came for most of the worship services. When he wasn’t high, he could carry on great conversations, and I learned so much of his story. Regardless of his state of mind, he had a phrase that he often used, and I repeated it at his funeral. He would say, “I am always safe in the arms of Jesus.” Regardless of what was going on in his life, he had faith, knowing that Jesus offers grace. In our Bible reading today, a Roman centurion also had faith in Jesus. And even though Jesus offered to go to the man’s home, the centurion said that he knew Jesus could heal his servant by just saying the word—and that’s how the servant was healed. He knew that his servant was safe in the arms of Jesus, even from a distance. And Jesus praised the centurion for having more faith than anyone he had encountered in his ministry. We too can have faith enough to ask Jesus for all we need. He is willing to come and help, regardless of where we are and what we need. In fact, he promises that he is always with us (Matthew 28:20), so we can trust that we are always safe in his arms. Lord Jesus, help us to reach out in faith for your grace and help. Thank you that you listen and answer. Amen.

“If anyone has ears to hear, let them hear.” — Mark 4:23 Someone gifted me a very large flashlight, and I thought, “What a perfect thing to put in our guest room, just in case.” My mom often comes to stay the night, and she uses that room. If she needs to get up in the dark, a big flashlight can be more helpful than a small nightlight. One day, when I was cleaning that room, I picked up the flashlight and turned on the switch. But no light came on. Checking further, I found there were no batteries in the flashlight. It really would not have helped my mom or another guest that way. I wonder if sometimes we are like that too. We want to be a light for the world, but our batteries are dead or missing, or we haven’t plugged in our lamp. In this parable Jesus points out that we don’t bring a lamp into a room in order to cover it up. The lamp is there to brighten the room and to show us things that we need to pay attention to. Charles Spurgeon, a great preacher in his day, once said, “The Bible is not the light of the world; it is the light of the church. But the world does not read the Bible; the world reads Christians! You are the light of the world.” Today, let your light shine. No more hiding. Be the lamp that illuminates Jesus to the world. Thank you, Jesus, that you ask us to be your light. Please help us to shine the truth of your love and grace to the world you have called us to brighten up. Amen.

“In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” — Luke 15:10 Over the years my family members have tried to help me remember where I put things. They really have. They have given me special keychains, electronic devices, and other things to help me locate my glasses, car keys, and so on. My husband now has a checklist for me as I leave the house. I have a friend who assures me she understands completely. Maybe some of you understand too. Jesus’ parables about lost things inspire me. When my glasses or keys seem to have grown legs and walked away from where I set them down, it often helps to try to think back on my steps and movements to find them. And, like the woman who found her lost coin, I celebrate too. For her, the loss of a coin that was worth a day’s wages was significant. She was determined to find it, and when she did, she wanted to celebrate with her friends and neighbors. In this story, like the other ones in Luke 15, Jesus is illustrating how important it is when one of his children, who has been lost, is found and can be brought back into his family. Even the angels sing and celebrate. Jesus’ story is a thoughtful reminder that no matter who you are or what your circumstances are today, there is a Savior who is looking for you and watching over you—always. Thank you, God, for loving us so much that you come searching to find us when we are lost. Thank you for stories that help us understand your love for us. We are grateful. Amen.

“How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?” — Matthew 7:4 Jesus gives us an important reminder here. How quick we can be to look outward and criticize others instead of looking inward to see our own faults. Some examples of this are what we refer to today as conscious or unconscious bias. We tend to like what we are familiar with, and we tend not to like what we find to be different. And these things have a way of shaping our judgments about others. We also tend to think that others would be happier if they were like us. But we don’t take the time to think about what that says about us. Jesus wants us to look inwardly and to see what our own faults are before we address the faults of others. It’s not easy to admit we have blind spots, but when we begin to see them, we have a new appreciation for others, and it is easier to show God’s grace and love. I wonder what our conversations might look like if we took the time to talk with one another, hear each other’s stories, learn to care for one another, and discover that we might not be so different after all. Today is a good day to try clearing our own faults out of our lives. Lord, teach me to appreciate the rich diversity you have created, and help me not to judge others based only on my perception. Help me to see my own blind spots, and forgive me when I have failed to offer your love and grace. Amen.

“What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him. The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.” — Mark 10:51 When I am in my car alone, I often have conversations with God. It’s the perfect time to talk out loud and express what is going on in my thoughts and my life. This is really easy as long as I am doing the talking. But when I go silent and listen, it’s a different story. I hear the same question that Jesus asked Bartimaeus: “What do you want me to do for you?” It seems like a straightforward question that I can answer easily. But, knowing about Jesus and how he calls us to live, I realize that I need to think carefully. Fulfilling a desire that is on my mind would be great—but what about that person I know who has not yet come to faith in Christ? Or what about that person who is suffering and needs healing? My list can be rather lengthy. And all of the things on my list are worth asking for. Bartimeus believed in Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of David. He knew he was crying out to the Savior, and he was sure of his answer. And when he was healed, he left everything behind to follow Jesus. As I write this, I realize that I too need to trust so fully in Jesus that I can see he is the one who is capable of doing anything. Sometimes I want the miracle more than I want the one performing it. When Jesus asks us, “What do you want me to do for you?” may our trust in him clarify our answer. Then, like Bartimaeus, let us ask boldly. Lord, have mercy on us. Hear our prayer. Thank you that you are indeed our Savior and Lord who cares for us. Amen.

“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:44-45 When someone hurts you or wrongs you, it’s easy to think of revenge and wanting to “get even.” Some people have lived a big part of their lives being the victim of someone else’s cruelty. And it can be very hard to let go of that pain. Loving someone whom we like is easy, but loving someone who has given us every reason not to like them is hard. Yet Jesus says that if we want to be like him, forgiveness is at the foundation of our Christian walk. This is what grace is all about. God loved us so much when we were his enemies that he sent Jesus to renew and restore us to him (John 3:16-17; Romans 5:8-11). God has every right to reject us—and yet he keeps loving us fully. What’s more, God asks us to do the same to everyone around us. Grace is the standard that God sets, and if we as believers accept that grace, we are to live with grace and forgiveness toward all others. Jesus modeled that we are to love others regardless of nationality, personality, faith, or circumstance. Jesus challenges us to be the grace differential so that others may know that we too have been loved and forgiven. Thank you, Lord, for your grace and your perfect example of loving us. Please help us to love everyone with your love, even when it is hard. Teach us to be more like you every day, we pray. Amen.

Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” — Matthew 14:31 What is the craziest thing you have ever done? I could mention a few things from my younger days, but let’s leave that to the imagination. How about in your life of faith? What is the craziest thing God has ever challenged you to do? Were you up for the challenge, or did you hear excuses in your head about why you couldn’t possibly try? Did you jump in with both feet and find, to your surprise, that maybe it wasn’t so impossible after all? I wonder how big the smile was on Jesus’ face when Peter said, “Lord, if it’s you . . . tell me to come to you on the water.” I love it that Peter was ready to test his faith even when things looked impossible. He stepped out of the boat looking at Jesus. And as long as he kept his eyes on Jesus, his steps went in the right direction. Even with little faith, his walk on water was possible. But when Peter looked around him and saw the wind and deep water, he became afraid and started to sink. When Jesus asks for our trust, he knows there is a bigger story to be written. There are days when circumstances muddy the waters and the trust factor diminishes. Perhaps today is a day to refocus where you are looking. How can you keep your eyes on Jesus? Lord, help me to trust you with my life. Will you help me to walk and keep walking toward you? I need your help to keep my eyes focused on you and to trust you in the midst of the impossible. Amen.

“Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” — John 8:7 The religious leaders tried to set a trap for Jesus. They wanted to be able to accuse him of breaking the law. If Jesus said the woman should not be executed, he would break the law of Moses. But if Jesus said the woman should be executed, that would break the law of the Romans, who said only a Roman judge could sentence someone to death. I have also wondered why the man who was involved with the woman wasn’t brought before Jesus as well. It didn’t take long for a crowd to gather. People can easily be drawn into an intriguing story. Jesus responded in a most unusual way. He bent down and began to write in the dirt. As he continued to write, curiosity built and the accusers demanded an answer. Jesus replied that anyone who was without sin could cast the first stone. He went back to writing in the dirt. And, one by one, the accusers left. I love the fact that Jesus cares more about us than that we keep all the rules. As he stood alone with the woman, Jesus knew that he was the only one with a right to pick up a stone—and yet he chose forgiveness as he asked where her accusers were. Today let’s remember that Jesus chooses forgiveness for sinners. Thank you, Jesus, for your love and your forgiveness. When we feel judgmental toward others, help us to remember that you have forgiven us all our sins. Help us to live as you call us to. Amen.

“Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” — John 5:7 Do we sometimes hold back from accepting Jesus’ transforming power in our lives? Have we become so used to struggling that we can’t imagine things going another way? Sometimes the crutch we know is easier than the walk we haven’t experienced, and that crutch can become a convenient excuse. It’s often easier to rely on the ways we are familiar with, rather than trying a new way that means change and transformation. When Jesus asks this man if he wants to be made well, he does not answer with a yes—only a reason why it can’t happen. He’s had 38 years of only seeing the story one way; the thought of anything else hasn’t entered his thinking. But Jesus is offering so much more than this man can fathom or imagine. When Jesus asks us this question, do we limit him on the basis of our experience, or do we have hope that he can do something more? When we are confronted with the question of change, of thinking bigger than we have imagined before, can we say yes? When we begin to understand that the one asking the question is our Lord and Savior, our Creator, our healer, and our friend, who loves us and cares about the details of our lives, can we say anything but yes? Today is a day to imagine what the Lord can do if we don’t hold back. Lord Jesus, forgive us when we limit you to our own thoughts and ideas. Help us to see with your eyes and to say yes when you ask. Amen.

“Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” — Matthew 6:33 In my work I travel a lot throughout the year, and I have a suitcase that is just the right size for an overhead bin in an airplane. But that doesn’t work so well if I am away for more than four days. I often need a different outfit each day, and what if I spill something on one of them? Or what if I need an extra shirt in case the weather is cooler? I have to pack it all just right so that the suitcase closes. On these trips I also wonder about the places where I am going and who I will be meeting. In prayer I wonder about the encounters that will happen and what God might be wanting to teach me. What needs to go into the suitcase of my heart? Jesus was pretty clear as he taught about life and our worries. I think he was saying, in effect, “Don’t sweat the small stuff. Pay attention to what is really important. When you put your focus on me and trust me, the rest will come together. I will be enough for you.” Emotional baggage can be heavy, can’t it? Whatever you might be stressing about, remember that God knows, God cares, and God loves you —and by his grace he will carry you. With God looking after us, we can pack light. Thank you, God, that I don’t need to worry because you have all the details in your hands. Thank you that you love me and know the plans you have for me. Help me to put down the day’s anxiety for the peace you give freely. Amen.

Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. — Mark 8:25 On a work trip recently, I lost my glasses. I think they are hanging on a cactus somewhere in Arizona. After my glasses disappeared, the last few days of the trip were a bit blurry, to say the least. I have since ordered new glasses, but in the meantime I am wearing an old pair. Not quite as blurry, but definitely not clear and sharp. It’s important to be honest. The blind man in our story today had the choice to tell Jesus the truth or to go through life seeing a blur. Because of the man’s honesty, Jesus touched him a second time and brought him from blurry vision to clear sight. I bet he was beyond overwhelmed at what he could see. There are times when we have been blinded by our circumstances, our pain, or all the distractions around us. A friend may step in and invite us into a conversation with Jesus. If we accept the invitation, we may have an opportunity to be healed by Jesus. What I love about this story is that Jesus asks, in effect, “What are you seeing?” Sometimes our healing can take place progressively rather than instantaneously. Jesus walks with us. He continues to engage in the conversation, and he asks for our honesty. When we admit where we are in our circumstances, Jesus continues taking us from blurry sight to clarity. What do you see today? Jesus, help us to be honest and to accept that you bring clarity. Show us your love for us and for others. Amen.

Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” — Mark 9:24 Around Christmastime last year, we decided that making memories was more important than gifts under the tree, so we booked a week of holidays with our grandkids and had a wonderful time. The problem was that the holiday week was in November, and when December came around, our grandson, with soulful eyes, said, “Grandma, there will still be presents under the tree, right?” I looked at him and winked, assuring him that I was still a Christmas fanatic. He was much relieved that I had given him hope. In the commotion of our Bible story today, a father is desperate for his son to be well. The disciples aren’t able to send an impure spirit out of him, and chaos erupts when they argue with the local religious leaders. As Jesus comes on the scene, the desperate father looks to him for hope. And I wonder if there isn’t a moment of sarcasm or a wink as Jesus responds, “If I can?” Immediately the boy’s father has renewed hope, and he pleads with Jesus to help him overcome his doubts. Jesus, the relational Savior, sends the spirit shrieking and restores the boy to his father. Jesus also tells the disciples that sometimes hope and prayer need to go together. Today let’s remember that with Jesus “everything is possible.” Thank you, Jesus, that you can do all things. Thank you for the reminder and hope of this truth. Help us with our doubts and anxieties to trust you for the answers. Amen.

“How many loaves do you have?” he asked. “Go and see.” When they found out, they said, “Five—and two fish.” — Mark 6:38 When I am at our grandkids’ home as they pile in after school, I watch them empty their backpacks and then head to the fridge or the cupboard. “I’m hungry,” they cry, and they go looking for a snack. Though there is plenty to satisfy them, they often seem to have trouble finding just the right thing. But after some suggestions from their parents, they figure it out. The large crowd of people with Jesus had been with him the whole day. Jesus could see that all of these people following him were spiritually hungry and wanted something more. Even his disciples noticed, and they tried to convince Jesus to send them away. But Jesus responded by sending the disciples to see what was “in the cupboard.” They found that they had a total of five loaves and two fish. Jesus was satisfied with what they brought, and he instructed them to seat the crowd. I wonder what it was like to keep handing out pieces of fish and bread—so much that the leftovers filled 12 baskets! When we give Jesus what we have, even though it seems small, he multiplies it. Jesus also includes us in his work, setting us on a mission. “Seek and you will find.” And in our shared search, together we find and together we share. Perhaps today he is asking you what you might find—what are you willing to give so that it might be shared? Jesus, thank you for asking the hard questions and inviting us into the solution. Help us to see and believe that you can do anything. Amen.

He got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. — Matthew 8:26 This past year I was privileged to be on a wonderful mission trip to the small town of Mahdia in Guyana. I became a little fearful one day, though, when I saw a tarantula hanging on the wall of an outhouse. I was incredibly thankful for a pastor who knew how to bring calm into that scary situation for me. He did it with a gracious smile on his face and a broom in his hand—and I still wonder what he was really thinking of this Canadian at that moment. Jesus’ disciples had been with him long enough to have watched him step in, heal the sick, provide food, and do other miracles. And yet there in a boat, in the midst of “a furious storm,” fear showed up again. This storm was probably bigger than most of the storms these fishermen had seen over the years—and the moment of panic set in. I sometimes wonder if they had forgotten who was in the boat with them, or if maybe they were just annoyed that he was sleeping. Nevertheless, Jesus’ question applies to us today just as it did to his first followers: If you know me, “why are you afraid?” In what difficulties do you hear him say, “Trust me in whatever you are facing, and see what I can do”? God, forgive us when we walk in fear instead of faith. Thank you for being bigger than our fear. Help us to remember that even in the midst of the biggest storms, you, the Lord of all, are able to bring calm. Amen.

When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” — John 4:7 Often when I invite someone into my home, I’ll ask if they would like a drink. Coffee, tea, water, perhaps? It would be rare, though, for someone to come in and ask for a drink—unless it was very hot outside or the visitor was a grandchild. Jesus’ request for water was also unusual. Not only was he not supposed to talk to a Samaritan woman, but he was a guest at the well where she had come to draw water. She had also come alone at the hottest time of day, probably to avoid judgmental eyes and gossip. And there Jesus met her and reached out to her. It began with a question that led into a conversation in which Jesus declared who he really was. Jesus also knew the woman’s life story before inviting her into his story. Jesus always invites. He does not demand but, rather, chooses to connect with each one of us just as he did with the Samaritan woman. In the places where you go to step away from others, Jesus is waiting with a question: “Will you join me in a conversation about your life and where you would like it to go?” What question would you like to ask Jesus? What are the circumstances that may have brought you to this place? When the woman came to the well, she was expecting only to get a jar of water. Instead she received living water (hope in the Messiah) that would fill her soul and change both her and her community (vv. 28-42). What is Jesus asking of you today? Jesus, thank you for your living water and for listening to us. Fill our hearts to overflowing with your love. Amen.

At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He . . . asked, “Who touched my clothes?” — Mark 5:30 I don’t know about your family, but ours has a few pranksters. One game they love to play is to walk up behind someone and tap their shoulder from the opposite side and pretend it wasn’t them. Maybe you have had someone do that to you too. For the woman who had been sick for 12 years, she knew that her only hope would be to touch Jesus. She thought, “If I just touch his cloak, no one will notice, and yet it will be enough to make me well.” She had incredible faith. Jesus knew when she touched him because he felt the healing power flow out from him. So he asked, “Who touched my clothes?” In the midst of our worst circumstances, when we have given up hope or tried everything, this story reminds us that reaching out to Jesus gets his attention. He is not asking us to get everything in our lives cleaned up first. He is present at all times. Jesus is also waiting for us to admit that we need him. He knows each one of us, and even in a crowd he knows when we reach out for him. Are you ready for a conversation with Jesus today? Thank you, Lord, for being there for me. Thank you that you know when I reach out to you. Thank you for your healing power. Amen.

[Jesus’] mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” — John 2:5 While my grandson was out shopping with me, he decided that I needed two new plants: a lemon tree and a prayer plant. He carefully chose both and placed them in the cart. My own grandmother had grown lemons, so I thought, “Why not?” I now have both the lemon tree and the prayer plant in my office. The lemon tree eventually started to flower, and now it is beginning to bear fruit. One lemon has been the star of the show and is now the size of an apple. For a long time, the lemon was bright green, so I heard a lot of comments that maybe I had a lime tree. But now the yellow color is beginning to show. Maybe in a few more weeks we’ll have a lemon pie worth making a party for. In the Jewish culture of Jesus’ day, celebrations were important, and weddings were often lavish events. No one would want to see a failed wedding party. However, in this case the wine had run out, and Jesus’ mother, Mary, knew the best solution to the problem. She knew that Jesus could solve this. And she didn’t look for other options. How often don’t we also know whom to turn to—and yet we often look for other solutions first? Today, as Mary suggested, we should do whatever Jesus tells us to. Are we ready to involve him? What might the possibilities be? Lord Jesus, thank you for loving people so much that you step into our lives. Thank you for your compassion and care. May we always call on you first, and may you be glorified. Amen.

“We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ). — John 1:41 Our Bible reading today begins with an announcement from John the Baptist saying, “Look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” That was quite an announcement! God’s people had been waiting for the promised Messiah for a long time—hundreds of years. Could this be the deliverer God had promised through his prophets so long ago? John heard a voice from heaven describing Jesus as “God’s Chosen One,” so he shared that news with everyone who could hear him that day. Then, the next day, two of John’s disciples who heard this message left to follow after Jesus. Would he be the one to fulfill their souls’ deepest longings? As they began to follow him, Jesus turned around and asked, “What do you want?” They seemed a little tongue-tied but managed to ask where Jesus was staying. They were not so much concerned about location but about abiding with him, wherever he might go. He said, “Come and see.” Could they be welcomed into his life, his journey, his story? Jesus’ invitation brought them into relationship, and what they were looking for was fulfilled enough for them to invite someone else, and then others, and so on. Today, come and see. Jesus, thank you for inviting us into your story. May we learn from you and follow you faithfully. Help us to accept your invitation to grace, sharing the good news that you are the Lamb of God. Amen.

When they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem to look for him. — Luke 2:45 When our son was five years old, we visited my mother-in-law, who lived across the street from the Niagara River. There were no barriers to prevent children from wandering to the riverside—there was just the street, the riverbank, and then open water. We could see Brandon’s shoes, but no Brandon. We called his name, probably yelling, but heard no answer. We walked along in panic and saw nothing but the current. After an hour we were joined by neighbors, who circled the block and went further into the local village. Still no Brandon. In total fear, my husband picked up the phone and called the police. As he described what our son looked like, a small figure walked out from the bedroom behind him. Brandon explained that he was hiding from his sister. We weren’t so sure it was the best explanation, but our hearts were relieved, and we stopped worrying. I suspect Mary and Joseph had that same sense of panic. Jesus was already 12 years old then, but he wasn’t answering either. When they found him in the temple, his answer was a question: Didn’t they know that he needed to be there, about his Father’s business? On days when Jesus may feel distant, we can be assured that he is still doing the will of his Father. Look for him, and you will find him—and he might have a question for you. Dear God, when we are distracted and missing you, help us to refocus and realize that you are where you need to be. Keep us in tune with you, we pray. Amen.

“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” — Luke 10:27 When we moved into our house 12 years ago, there were only five other houses on the street and a lot of empty lots where new homes would be built. We imagined what the houses and neighbors would look like—and now, with almost 100 houses on our street alone, we have made friends with many of our neighbors. Along the way we decided to become “muffin people,” delivering those treats to about a dozen houses nearby. We introduced ourselves without thinking who might be behind the door except that they were neighbors. We began a soup and buns night with neighbors too, learned their stories, and shared life with them. It may have cost us a bit, but the reward of sharing experiences has been life changing. The parable of the good Samaritan offers a picture of what Jesus was trying to show a religious leader who wanted to test him. It is about risk and relationship with people who are not identical to us. It is about seeing the one that Jesus has placed in front of us and becoming involved in their story. It is about addressing hurts and loneliness because that is what Jesus is asking us to do. It is about paying attention to the needs of people around us and not stepping aside or walking by, thinking that someone else can take care of them. Who is your neighbor? Lord, open our eyes and hearts to all the people whom you have given us to be our neighbors. Help us to see and share your love for all. Amen.

“What about you?” [Jesus] asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.” — Mark 8:29 When we meet people and get to know them a bit, it’s not unusual to ask each other about work or hobbies or other interests. We look for information to learn about others and to see what we might have in common. It would be rare, though, to hear a question like this one that Jesus asked: “Who do you say I am?” And yet this is one of Jesus’ most important questions because it focuses on his identity and purpose. Jesus asks this question of each of us too. And it is not an easy question. It takes deep thought and reflection because our response will reveal how we go about our everyday life and in whom (or what) we believe and have faith. Peter answered Jesus by saying, “You are the Messiah”—that is, the Christ, the Son of God, who came to save us from sin and death. And if we say the same, we declare that our faith and life are grounded in Jesus Christ. This affects how we pray, how we interact with others—how we live our whole lives. It also directs us to find peace and security in the Lord who loves us and has this world in his hands. If we merely think that maybe Jesus is the Messiah, that will affect our lives too, and our foundation will feel less secure. Hopefully it will prompt us to ask Jesus himself, “How do you want me to live?” As we begin this month of reflecting on Jesus’ questions, who do you say Jesus is? Jesus, give us the courage today to say that you are the Lord and Savior and to show in our lives that we believe it. Amen.

“‘He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” — Revelation 21:4 Have you ever wondered if we will sleep in heaven? We already know that all creatures need sleep and that God in his mysterious wisdom created in us the need for sleep. Further, we can assume that the need for sleep isn’t because of sin. So will we sleep in heaven? The Bible reveals that some basic things in human society, like marriage, will end when we are living in God’s presence forever. But what about sleeping and other basic human functions that we might enjoy in this earthly life? We can say with certainty that if sleep is a problem in this life, it’s the result of other challenges we face in our fallen world. But since the Bible doesn’t actually tell us, we don’t know if we will need sleep in heaven. Although we have to live with that uncertainty now, we can live confidently with a sure and lasting promise. In heaven, when we live in the presence of the Lord, all that ails us now will be a thing of the past. Until then, our future hope should fill us with confidence as we trust and serve God by day and lie down to sleep at night. Father, by your wisdom we have been fearfully and wonderfully made. Help us to trust you in all things, including our sleep, as we serve you and wait to be with you in heaven. Amen.

Let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober. — 1 Thessalonians 5:6 Where I live, the summer sun doesn’t set until late in the evening. When our children were young, they would sometimes say at bedtime, “We can’t go to bed yet. It’s not dark out.” They associated darkness with sleep. The apostle Paul does that too. Paul contrasts day and night in two ways. First, people who reject Jesus or don’t know him live in darkness. They are unaware of Jesus’ promised second coming. And when he does return, Jesus will catch them off guard, “like a thief in the night.” Second, and sadly, people who are without Jesus are “asleep,” living in frustration and without hope. Christians, though, are awake in Jesus and should always walk by the light of the “Son.” How does Paul suggest we live in the light? He advises us to prepare for daily struggles and be alert. Our daily battles with temptation and sin require faith in Jesus, and for our faith to grow we should spend time reading and reflecting on God’s Word, letting it permeate the deepest reaches of our hearts. We should also be faithful in prayer, “praying always” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). As our lives orbit around Jesus, his love in us will shine out to the people around us, especially to those without Jesus. Growing in faith and love will develop our hope as we serve Jesus and eagerly await his return. Lord, thank you for awakening our hearts and letting us live for you in your light. Please move us to share your light and life with people who don’t know you. Amen.

We will be with the Lord forever. — 1 Thessalonians 4:17 What happens to our souls when we die? Across the ages, many people have offered ideas on our destiny after death. But what does the Bible say? The Old Testament says that when we die, our bodies will return to the earth but that our souls will return to God (Ecclesiastes 12:7). And here in the New Testament the apostle Paul describes death for believers as being “asleep” in Christ (see also 1 Corinthians 15:20; July 26). Some Christians have suggested that when we die, we are in a state of “soul sleep”—but that may not be the best way to describe it. There’s also the promise from Jesus to the thief on the cross: “Today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43). In addition, the apostle Paul provides a promise in 1 Thessalonians 4, describing one of the most striking scenes in the Bible about the Lord’s return. With the shout of the archangel and the blast of a trumpet, the Lord Jesus will descend from heaven. All who belong to Jesus will be raised from the dead, and the living will be gathered to him. And here Paul supplies an indelible, eternal promise: “We will be with the Lord forever.” With this assurance we can be filled with hope and encourage one another. Dear Jesus, although the unknown moment of our death is a reality for each of us, we give thanks that you will never leave or forsake us. Amen.

Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry. — Ephesians 4:26 Some good advice for getting regular rest includes having a consistent bedtime, engaging in a quiet activity before sleep, sleeping in a cool, dark room, and shutting off “blue lights” (our phones). The apostle Paul adds another timeless piece of wisdom: “Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.” In his letter to the Ephesians, after providing a deeply textured explanation of God’s love for us in Jesus Christ, Paul describes how we should live daily in the light of God’s amazing grace. Among other things, Paul offers advice about dealing with anger. As creatures made in God’s image, we all have emotions, including anger (even Jesus got angry sometimes). Paul acknowledges anger and then urges us to deal with it in a godly way. He suggests that we deal with our anger quickly, perhaps by beginning to forgive as we have been forgiven, as he says in Colossians 3:13. Why? Because unresolved anger destroys our relationships with God and with others and can devour us alive. When we are angry, we should acknowledge this strong emotion, perhaps take some deep breaths, ask God to help us calm down, and then commit ourselves to taking timely steps to resolve our anger. We’ll sleep better if we do. Father, your just wrath for our sin and rebellion against you has been satisfied in Jesus. Help us, we pray, to forgive others as you have forgiven us. Amen.

I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep. . . . — 2 Corinthians 11:27 In these passages Paul describes many of his sufferings for the cause of Christ. In a way these litanies can sound like boasting, and Paul admits that. But his aim, he says, is to show his own weakness in comparison to Christ. Paul’s encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus changed his life forever (Acts 9). The Lord called him to be an apostle to the Gentiles—non-Jewish peoples—so Paul traveled to countless destinations, mostly walking, sometimes on a donkey or riding in a cart, and other times by ship. He spent many nights in unfamiliar and uncomfortable places—perhaps frequently on the cold, hard ground. Though sometimes he probably fell asleep from sheer exhaustion, he often went for long periods without enough sleep or without sleep at all. He also may have spent many nights filled with anxiety about impending dangers or concerns for his fledgling churches. But Paul refuses to boast or wallow in the hardships he faced. He says that if he is going to boast, he will boast only about Jesus, who suffered so much more for him. Paul counts it as a joy that he has had the opportunity to serve Jesus. If we are tempted to wallow in our own loss of sleep and hardships, we too should remember and boast in Jesus. Lord Jesus, you suffered on the cross and died for us. Help us, we pray, to bear our crosses as we seek to follow and serve you. Amen.

But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. — 1 Corinthians 15:20 Do you ever use euphemisms? Euphemisms are nice-sounding phrases that we use to talk about something harsh or difficult. For example, we may say “golden years” rather than “old age.” And many cultures describe dying in terms of “passing away.” Paul describes Christians who have died as being “asleep in Christ.” The ancient Hebrews commonly used “sleep” as a euphemism for death. The accounts of Israel’s kings often end by saying “he slept with his fathers” or “rested with his ancestors” (see 1 Kings 2:10). In our reading for today, Paul uses “sleep” several times to describe death. And he does this in a new way in connection with believing in Christ. Apparently some people in the church at Corinth were questioning whether God had truly raised Jesus from the dead. But of course God has done that, Paul says, adding that if God didn’t raise Jesus, then his followers would be the most pitiable of all people. Indeed, Jesus is risen! And, as Paul describes it here, all who have died believing in Jesus are merely “asleep” in him. Because of Jesus’ victory over sin and the grave, death has been conquered. Paul describes death as “sleep” because death has been defeated! Until Jesus returns, we will all die, but through his death and resurrection we have all been made alive in him. And one day he will raise our bodies again to live with him forever. Thank you, Jesus, for conquering death so that we can live with you—body and soul—forever. Amen.

Do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake from your slumber. . . . — Romans 13:11 I generally try to get between seven and eight hours of sleep each night. Often, though, I get less than that. And at those times when I’m a little “sleep deprived,” I can be a bit grouchy. Maybe you’re that way too. So why does Paul urge us to sleep less and not more? Paul isn’t talking about restful slumber here. He’s talking about getting drowsy in our spiritual lives. After reminding us that love should be at the center of our hearts, Paul urges us to wake up from our spiritual sleepiness. He spurs us on to live with the commitment and vitality that we had when we first became believers in Jesus. Although we may not be guilty of the “big” sins Paul lists in this passage, we may well need to be reminded about treating our neighbors with love. In our attitudes and actions, it’s easy to treat the people around us—including those whom we love most—with less love than Jesus commands and they deserve. I’ve been a Christian for a long time, but, sadly, I still need daily reminders to wake up from my spiritual slumber to love and obey God and to love and serve the people around me with the same urgent selfless love that God has shown me in Jesus. What about you? Lord Jesus, wake us from our spiritual slumber to love you and others with the love you have shown to us. Amen.

The people took the young man home alive and were greatly comforted. — Acts 20:12 Have you ever fallen asleep in a public place, like during a long talk by a speaker or a preacher? Maybe your eyes began drooping, and your head started to nod. Then, despite your best efforts, you dozed off. Though falling asleep like that can be embarrassing, it’s not usually fatal. But it was for Eutychus, who fell three stories from an open window to the ground. What should we make of this strange story? Should we judge Paul for being insensitive to his audience? No, Paul was doing just as he was commanded, teaching the good news about Jesus everywhere. Should we criticize Eutychus for falling asleep in “church”? Probably not, since it was midnight and Paul had been talking “on and on.” In fact, this story isn’t mainly about Paul or Eutychus; it’s about the power at the center of the book of Acts, the resurrection of Jesus. The Greek name Eutychus means “fortunate,” and Eutychus was fortunate that Paul was able to raise him from the dead. But Paul performed this miracle only through the power of Jesus Christ, the risen Lord. This story and everything the apostles say and do in Acts points to the resurrection. In Jesus’ resurrection, God decisively defeated sin and death. The power of the resurrection of Jesus still resounds in the world today as we wait for Jesus’ return and our eternal resurrection. Father, through Jesus, you have defeated sin and death for our sake. Help us to live victoriously as we look forward to Jesus’ return. Amen.

Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. — Acts 12:6 Sometimes we awake from a dream feeling relieved that it was only a dream. Other times we awake and wish the dream were real. After being locked up in prison, Peter awoke when an angel came to free him, “but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision.” Later he realized that a miracle had taken place and he was no longer in prison. The book of Acts shows us what the early church suffered for preaching and teaching about Jesus. King Herod had executed James, one of Jesus’ disciples. Seeing that his actions pleased the Jews, Herod arrested Peter, the disciples’ leader, intending to try him in public (Acts 12:1-4). But God had other plans, as we see in Peter’s dramatic escape. This surprising episode teaches us some important things. For example, we see the power of prayer. After Peter’s arrest, the church in Jerusalem prayed earnestly for him. God hears and answers the prayers of his people. We also see the passion and commitment of the early church to keep proclaiming the good news of Jesus, despite persecution. Their sharing of the love of Jesus changed the world, and our sharing of Jesus’ love can do that too. Lord Jesus, you suffered for us. Help us to embrace the cost of following you and sharing your story with our world. Amen.

He returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. — Matthew 26:40 After an exhausting day, have you still had more to do even though it was bedtime? And have you kept on, barely able to stay awake? That’s the kind of day the disciples had when they went with Jesus to the garden of Gethsemane. After telling his disciples to wait, Jesus went deeper into the garden to pray. Returning an hour later, he found Peter, James, and John fast asleep. Jesus scolded them and warned them to stay awake and alert. Yet, after going to pray and returning twice again, he found them sleeping. Why did Jesus take a rough tone with them? After all, they had become totally worn out physically, emotionally, and spiritually—not to mention having a cloud of danger and doom hanging over them. Though Jesus rebuked the disciples’ sleepiness, this scene reveals more about his own situation. Overwhelmed with sorrow, Jesus was weighed down with the great burden of suffering he would soon face. But his confession—“My Father . . . not as I will but as you will” and “May your will be done”—resonates through the centuries to us today. The disciples’ powerlessness to stay awake only highlights Jesus’ pain and suffering, which ends in his excruciating death on the cross. The suffering that Jesus shouldered for us brings us to our knees in humility and gratitude. Lord, we are so weak. Only you had the will and ability to carry the burden of our sin. Help us to stay alert and share your love. Amen.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28 Do you ever feel completely worn out? Health experts may advise remedies such as eating right, exercising regularly, and getting enough rest. To feel truly rested, many of us need seven to eight hours of sleep each night, and some of us may need even more. This is good advice, but sleep isn’t the only rest we need. Jesus offers us true rest. Jesus promises a kind of spiritual rest unrecognized by the world’s physical health experts. As the Creator of the world and of all humanity, Jesus knows us. He knows our weaknesses, our brokenness, and our struggles. He knows what weighs us down and wearies our bodies and souls. He also knows exactly what kind of rest we need. No healthy sleep routine with adequate deep sleep, dream sleep, and light sleep will provide the spiritual rest we need. Only Jesus can provide the rest that reaches to the depths of our souls. Jesus invites all who are exhausted—weighed down by the cares, obligations, stresses, and problems of life—to come to him. He invites us simply to ground ourselves in him and to follow him every day. Though Jesus doesn’t promise us an easy path, he assures us he is “gentle and humble in heart”—and only in and through him will we find true rest for our souls. Jesus, our Savior and Lord, only in you can we find rest for our souls. Please provide the spiritual rest we need in you. Amen.

Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. — Mark 4:38 There are some places—like on airplanes—where I find it impossible to sleep. In our story today, though, we read that Jesus fell into a deep sleep on a small boat that was out on a lake—in the middle of a storm! Though a cushion may have aided his sleep, this brief scene about Jesus’ nap on a boat reveals two important truths about him. Like us, Jesus needed sleep. Too often when we read the stories of Jesus, we focus only on his divinity—that he is God. But this story also reminds us of Jesus’ humanity—that he is human, just like us. To be our Savior, Jesus became like us in every way, except that he was without sin (Hebrews 2:17; 4:15). He became fully human so that he could pay the price of sin for us. But he also had to be fully God so that he could save us from our estrangement with God. In the boat, Jesus’ disciples shook him awake, fearing that they would drown in the storm. Sitting up and perhaps rubbing his eyes, Jesus calmly rebuked the wind and the waves. “Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.” Only God can do that. Fully human and fully divine, only Jesus can rescue us. As he called his disciples to believe in him, so he calls us to trust him for forgiveness and for safe passage through the storms of life. Jesus, Lord and Savior, thank you for your love and forgiveness. Please help us to trust you in the storms of life. Amen.

When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him. . . . — Matthew 1:24 Have you ever dreamed that an angel commanded you to do something? I’ve had some serious dreams, but I’ve never had a dream where I awoke convinced that God had told me to do something. Joseph had that kind of a dream, though. He had become engaged to a young woman named Mary, but then he discovered she was pregnant—and he knew that he wasn’t the father. Being both a devout and decent man, Joseph decided to end the engagement quietly. In this way he was responding to the wisdom of his faith and the compassion in his heart. But he soon learned in a dream that God had a special plan for him. Before Joseph could act, an angel of the Lord commanded him to take Mary home as his wife. The angel said that her child was to be named Jesus because he would save the people from their sins. When Joseph awoke, he obeyed what God had commanded, taking Mary as his wife. Joseph also had some other dreams that revealed God’s mysterious power (see Matthew 2). And in each case Joseph did as the Lord commanded. Can God speak to us in the same way? Certainly he can, but God calls us in many ways, ordinary and extraordinary, to be obedient to his will in our daily lives. And when we trust and obey, as Joseph did, our obedience glorifies God and blesses the world. Father, thank you for the mysterious and powerful ways you work in our world. Help us to obey and honor you, reflecting your glory. Amen.

“I, Daniel, was troubled in spirit, and the visions that passed through my mind disturbed me.” — Daniel 7:15 On occasions when I have visited places plagued with malaria, I have taken antimalarial drugs. The lifesaving benefits of these medications certainly outweigh the side effects, but these pills can trigger vivid, bizarre, and even frightening dreams. The prophet Daniel sometimes had strange dreams, but they weren’t induced by medications (see Daniel 7-12). He received those dreams from the Lord, and they were given to assure God’s people that the Lord will always care for them and that his kingdom will never be destroyed. Like Daniel, many people have struggled to understand and interpret these dreams. And as Daniel himself said, the dreams left him “troubled,” “exhausted,” and even sick. Beyond the question of interpretation, Daniel’s dreams may lead us to wonder about the purpose of our own dreams. Sometimes our dreams may reveal or highlight a spiritual truth to us, though not in the same way as dreams in the Bible do. Most of our dreams, though, will remain a mysterious part of our inner lives. Nonetheless, we can be assured that the one who created in us the ability to dream also knows and loves us completely. The Lord will never abandon us, even in our most troubling dreams. Father, you have created us to dream. Please show your presence in all areas of our lives and keep us trusting in you always. Amen.

The sleep of a laborer is sweet, whether they eat little or much, but as for the rich, their abundance permits them no sleep. — Ecclesiastes 5:12 Ecclesiastes connects sleep with a sense of peace and satisfaction in life. These blessings are linked with honest work and recognizing that all good things come from God, who provides what we need. The ability to accept and enjoy the life we have and to be happy in our work is a great gift from God. This brings us peace of heart so that we can sleep well, knowing we are always in God’s care. Ecclesiastes warns about the insatiable pursuit of wealth and its spiritual perils. Though it doesn’t condemn wealth, this passage warns that it’s better to have little and enjoy it than to have too much and be spoiled by it. Wealth and abundance are blessings from God, but pursuing wealth for its own sake shows a heart of greed and a lack of gratitude that will impoverish our lives and even harm our souls. Directing our resources, pursuits, and passions toward God is far better. Jesus draws from some of the wisdom here and helps us understand it more clearly when he says, “Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? . . . Your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:25-33). Help us, Lord, to focus on living for you, seeking to put your kingdom first in our lives and in your world. Amen.

How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? — Proverbs 6:9 Years ago, when we lived in Taiwan, we awoke one morning to find a column of ants marching across our house, from one end to the other. Ants are truly amazing. They seem so driven, directed, and industrious. In fact, Proverbs describes them here as a model of organization and industry and as a spur against laziness. This passage does not suggest that we must always be busy or that rest is unimportant. For human beings, both rest and work together reveal our identity as imagebearers of Creator God. As such, we have an innate desire—even need—to create flourishing. What might that mean? Flourishing results from seeking to serve and honor God in all we do. In all our work, hobbies, rest, recreation, and more, we can nurture and be nurtured by life in this world God has made—whether we are cooks, programmers, builders, medical workers, gardeners, maintenance workers, artists, teachers, drivers, farmers, and more. But if we squander our time and talents, we deny who we are and waste opportunities to serve God and others. All of our daily work, at home and in the world, will not resemble ants marching in line. We are not ants. We are imagebearers of God, and the work and service we do will be creative and purposeful, punctuated by sabbath rest and refreshment, bringing glory to God and joy to creation. Lord, help us to use all of the gifts and talents you have given us to bring you glory and to bless others. Amen.

When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. — Proverbs 3:24 Last night I slept well. I fell asleep quickly, got up only once, had pleasant dreams, and awoke refreshed and ready to greet the new day. As the writer of Proverbs might have said, it was a “sweet” night of sleep. King Solomon, the author of the first part of Proverbs, advises his son that wisdom is found only in the Lord. The king urges his son to seek wisdom and understanding. Make them “an ornament to grace your neck,” he says. “They will be life for you.” So, what constitutes wisdom? Wisdom here and throughout the Bible means discerning God’s design for how we should live in his world. This means trusting in God, following his commands for living, and seeking God’s guidance in all we do. Does this mean that if we live according to God’s design, everything in our lives will go smoothly? And if we follow God well during the day, we’ll sleep sweetly at night? Not necessarily. The evil unleashed by human rebellion in the world continues to wreak havoc on us, on others, and on creation. Still, we can trust God’s design for us and follow him in all of life’s circumstances. Then, even though our world may be chaotic and filled with threats, we can experience the sweetness of resting in God, both day and night, now and forever. Father, you have made us for yourself, and only in you can we find true rest. Lead us, we pray, in your paths of rest now and always. Amen.

“I will allow no sleep to my eyes or slumber to my eyelids, till I find a place for the Lord. . . .” — Psalm 132:4-5 What’s the longest time you’ve ever gone without sleep? On long trips sometimes, I’ve stayed awake for more than 30 hours. Normally I can only stay awake for relatively short periods of time. Even dogged determination won’t keep me awake after a certain point. So what should we make of King David’s plan not to sleep? After consolidating his rule over Israel, David built a fine palace for himself. Afterward, though, he felt guilty for not building a splendid house for God. In Psalm 132 we hear about David’s determination to build a marvelous temple for God. Using exaggerated language, he declares that he will not rest until he has found the right place for God to dwell. Though God is pleased with David’s devotion, he doesn’t allow him to build the temple, saying that the task is for his son Solomon (see 2 Samuel 7). Though it’s wise to avoid making exaggerated “I will never . . .” statements, we do well to honor God and give him first place in our lives. God is the only source of true satisfaction and rest, and we need to honor him in all we think, say, and do—with our bodies as well as our minds. God also calls us to build: investing our time, talents, and treasure to work with him in building his church and kingdom. How? By worshiping and praying together, sharing each other’s burdens, and bringing his good news to the world. Lord, help us to please you and to join in building your church and kingdom at home and around the world. Amen.

In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for he grants sleep to those he loves. — Psalm 127:2 Do you ever find yourself “burning the candle at both ends”—working day and night to get something done? While there may be times when we need to stay up late to meet a pressing deadline, losing sleep to get everything done may suggest a spiritual problem. In Psalm 127, King Solomon of Israel offers some wisdom about work and sleep. Though it’s important to be productive, we need to be aware that if we focus only on our own efforts, we miss the bigger picture. Instead of frantically trying to get everything done, we are encouraged to focus on God—and specifically on his blessings. Instead of agonizing over all that needs to be done, we should look to God for guidance in our daily tasks, seeking to please the Lord by admitting our dependence on him and rejoicing in his compassion. By throwing off self-imposed false burdens, we are free to simply please our merciful God. How we view rest can be a sign of our trust in God. The Lord wants to bless us with sleep, with rest, with renewal. Though there may be times when we lose sleep, if we put our trust in God and serve him with gratitude in all our tasks and challenges, we can enjoy the rest he gives. Father, when we work without you at the center of our lives, we work in vain. Help us to look to you and to rest in you. Amen.

Indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. — Psalm 121:4 I often feel sleepy around three o’clock in the afternoon. Sometimes I’m even tempted to put my head on my desk for a quick doze. But that’s not a good idea. Getting up and walking around will usually help to wake me up again. In Psalm 121 we are assured that God’s watchful attention never lapses—not even for a quick nap. The setting of this psalm is the pilgrim’s road to Jerusalem for a worship festival. Though dangers may lurk in the shadowy hills and turns along the roadway, the psalmist assures God’s people that the Lord will watch over them. Nothing will prevent God from watching over us, says the psalmist: nothing in the day or night and nothing from any direction, because God does not sleep. How do God’s people know this? God is the Creator of the universe, and nothing can distract or draw his attention away from his beloved creatures, especially his children. The all-powerful God who steers the universe has promised to watch over us wherever the journey of life takes us. With the confidence of knowing this, we can serve him in the world each day. With God’s people throughout the ages, we can say boldly, “[Our] help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” We know, Father, that you are our Creator, and we say with confidence that our help is in you. Amen.

You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day. . . . — Psalm 91:5 Years ago, when we lived in Beijing, a thief broke in through our daughter’s window at night. Though nothing much was taken, we felt vulnerable after our home had been violated. Our daughter even asked to have her window bricked up. Thankfully, stronger window bars and a watchdog solved the problem. Psalm 91 assures us that “whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” All who trust in God will be protected by him. He will protect his children from their enemies, from those who lay traps to harm them. He will shelter and shield his children under his wings. The Lord himself makes this bold promise: “You will not fear the terror of night.” These are beautiful words of assurance. But does this mean nothing bad will ever happen to us? No. Because of sin’s effects on the world, bad things sometimes happen to everyone. Jesus himself was attacked by the evil one, and this psalm even points ahead to our Lord’s temptation in the wilderness (v. 11-12; see Matthew 4:6). This psalm assures us that as we keep trusting and holding on to the Lord—no matter what troubles we face—he will deliver us. When we call his name, God will answer. He will show us his salvation. Father, we don’t understand how in all things you work for our good (Romans 8:28), but we know that you have shown us salvation in Jesus. Help us to trust in you always. Amen.

Awake, Lord! Why do you sleep? Rouse yourself! Do not reject us forever. — Psalm 44:23 We all need sleep. Without it our bodies and minds can’t function properly. Though we don’t know why, God built sleep into what it means to be a human being. But what about God—does God ever sleep? In Psalm 44, the psalmist asks if God is asleep and urges God to rouse himself. What?! In another passage, the Bible assures us that God, who created the heavens and the earth, will “neither slumber nor sleep” (Psalm 121:4). But in Psalm 44 it seems that, to the psalmist and the people, God is silent. It feels to them like God is asleep. We don’t know the circumstances of this lament, but we can see that God’s people are in a desperate situation. They have been defeated by an enemy, and it seems that God has rejected them (vv. 5-11). Yet the people feel innocent, saying they had not forgotten God or his promises (vv. 17-18). They remind God of his past faithfulness and urge him to show with power his steadfast, unfailing love for his covenant people. Psalm 44 ends on a bleak note, without any clear declaration or assurance from God. Yet two things are clear in this psalm: God wants us to call out to him in our desperate times, and he takes it as a mark of trust and love when we do. God’s answer may not be immediate or to our liking, but he knows what we need and when. Father, you never sleep, and you are always faithful. Help us to trust in you as we wait for your answers to all our needs. Amen.

In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. — Psalm 4:8 In my younger days I looked forward to falling into bed at night with the sigh, “Sleep at last!” I still look forward to sleeping, but now I don’t always look forward to bedtime. Sometimes, as night falls, I begin brooding about disappointments, regrets, unsolved problems—and I fear taking my anxieties to bed. In Psalm 4 it seems that King David may be brooding again about the rebellion of his son Absalom (Psalm 3; July 8)—not to mention his many other enemies. This psalm gives us a heightened sense of his desperation. We can almost see David twisting and turning, messing up the covers on his bed. Here again he calls out to God, pleading for mercy. In the middle of the psalm, though (v. 4), David offers some sound advice for such times of struggle in the darkness: searching one’s heart and asking for forgiveness for any sins one may have done. Then, as often happens in the psalms, David moves from turmoil and agony toward trust. He does this by deliberately turning his mind toward God’s faithfulness and provision. David’s struggles aren’t fully resolved in this psalm. But in reaffirming his trust in God, he sees a way forward. He ends with a declaration about peaceful sleep, a complete letting go into God’s faithfulness. In all of our struggles, Lord, help us to cry out to you and in faith to turn to you in trust and gratitude for the gift of sleep. Amen.

I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. — Psalm 3:5 Maybe you don’t have difficulty falling asleep. But do you ever have trouble staying asleep? Sometimes I jolt awake in the middle of the night and begin mulling over things: a harsh word, a pressing obligation, a painful family situation, or some other upsetting circumstance. Daytime events can cause us to lose sleep at night. In King David’s case, he was beset by family troubles. We can read the sad account of his family’s grief and struggle in 2 Samuel 13-18. Psalm 3 cuts to the heart of David’s deep distress. His beloved son Absalom is leading a revolt against him, his enemies surround him, and God seems far away. Yet, as the psalm unfolds, we see that David’s faith has not deserted him. He calls out to God, professing that the Lord is his shield and protection. David trusts in God’s power and presence. Despite the circumstances David declares, “I lie down and sleep; I awake again, because the Lord sustains me.” Our own troubles and anxieties may not be like those of King David. And his words are no simple answer for sleepless nights. But they do point us to a deep confession: “The Lord sustains us.” This isn’t merely an attempt at positive thinking. It’s the bedrock of our faith, night and day. Father, in our tossing and turning, keep our faith in you strong, and help us to believe and say that you sustain us. Amen.

That night the king could not sleep; so he ordered the book of the chronicles, the record of his reign, to be brought in and read to him. — Esther 6:1 Like many people, I occasionally have trouble falling asleep. When that happens, I often start counting backwards in Chinese from a thousand, hoping to fall asleep before reaching yi (“one”). That usually works, but if it doesn’t, I eventually get up and rummage through the fridge for something to eat. King Xerxes of Persia had insomnia one night, so he called to his servants to read to him from the record of his reign. The king discovered that Mordecai, an exiled Jew living under his rule, had saved the king’s life without being rewarded. So the king ordered that Mordecai be honored throughout his kingdom. As we read more of this story, we discover that the king’s sleepless night plays a key role in the deliverance of the Jews from being annihilated (Esther 2:19-8:14). Here we can see God working behind the scenes to protect his people. Evil forces were arrayed against the Jews, but God used his captive, humble servants to touch the king’s heart and turn destruction away from his people. God uses Xerxes, Mordecai, and Esther to keep his promises “for such a time as this” (4:14). Even in our moments of sleeplessness we can be assured that God is always working to keep his promises. We can always be assured of his love and care. In our times of sleeplessness, Lord, help us to turn to you, trusting and resting in your sure and unfailing love. Amen.

He lay down under the bush and fell asleep. — 1 Kings 19:5 Yesterday I mowed our overgrown lawn, cleaned our cluttered garage, and washed some of the filmy windows on our house. Physically exhausted at the end of the day, I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow. In our reading for today, Elijah is exhausted and falls asleep under a bush in the wilderness. But Elijah isn’t exhausted from doing chores. He has just had a dramatic confrontation with the priests of Baal (see 1 Kings 18:16-46), and now he is fleeing for his life from King Ahab and Queen Jezebel. Totally shattered—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—Elijah asks God to take his life. Yet God doesn’t answer his plea. Instead, through an angel, God provides Elijah with sustenance for the road ahead. Then, after some more restful, restorative sleep and more food and drink from the angel, Elijah sets out on the journey ahead of him. What can this extraordinary story teach us? We are reminded of our basic need for sleep and its restorative benefits. Even more importantly, we see that God tenderly cares for us, feeds us, and watches over us—even in our deepest, darkest moments. Though our own story may not be as dramatic as Elijah’s, God will provide what we need so that we too can take up the journey ahead of us. In fact, God has already provided for us through his Son, Jesus, who invites us to come and rest in him (Matthew 11:28-30). Lord, our only hope for true rest is in you. As you reach out to us, help us to come to you. Amen.

Joseph said to Pharaoh, “The dreams of Pharaoh are one and the same. God has revealed to Pharaoh what he is about to do.” — Genesis 41:25 When I awake from a troubling dream, I usually breathe a sigh of relief, thankful that it was only a dream. But in ancient times people took their dreams very seriously and kept note of the details. For them, good dreams meant something positive, while bad dreams meant a person could face harm. Pharaoh was disturbed when he awoke from two troubling dreams. The first dream was about seven thin cows that devoured seven fat cows. The second dream was about seven withered heads of grain that swallowed up seven healthy ones. Pharaoh consulted with all of his wise men, but they could not interpret these dreams. Then he heard that Joseph could interpret dreams. With God’s help Joseph was able to tell Pharaoh that a great famine was coming and that they should store up grain for food before the famine came. Pharaoh’s dreams were about deliverance, and these particular dreams remind us that God works not only through his children but also through people in our world who may not yet know him. Just as our sleep and our dreams remain a mystery to us, God’s work in history can be mysterious. But God always works according to his wise plan. And there’s one mystery in which we can always find comfort and assurance: God in his love will never leave us or forsake us. Lord God, we take comfort in knowing that you love and care for us. And in all things you work for our good. Amen.

Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him all the more. — Genesis 37:5 Do you know anyone who likes to share about dreams over breakfast? Our dreams often have striking details and characters, but they can also be illogical and hard to follow. Joseph, who was despised by his brothers, shared a dream with them—and “they hated him all the more.” That’s because his dream predicted they would all bow down to him. Joseph was his father’s favorite, and his brothers hated him so much that they wanted to get rid of him. Eventually they sold him into slavery in Egypt (Genesis 37:19-28). Joseph’s story in the rest of Genesis reads like a gripping nightmare at times—but it has a happy ending. Joseph not only dreams but also interprets the dreams of others. And ultimately he rescues his entire family from starvation (Genesis 45-50). Joseph’s story isn’t mainly about his dreams, though. It’s about God’s mysterious plan and way of working to save his people, despite all kinds of efforts to thwart him. Though we may often find God’s ways or methods surprising, we can take comfort from Joseph’s story, seeing that God rescues his people from calamity and the consequences of sin. What’s more, Joseph’s story points ahead to the story of Jesus, our Savior, who came to rescue us from sin and death, restoring us to full life with God. Lord, sometimes our lives, like our dreams, can seem chaotic. But you, Lord, have our lives in your hands as you carefully guide us every step of the way. Amen.

When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he thought, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” — Genesis 28:16 In ancient times, most people didn’t sleep with fluffy pillows as many of us do today. Instead they often slept with their heads propped on wood, bronze, or stone. In our reading today, we find Jacob traveling on foot to the land of Harran, and he uses a stone for a pillow. The hardness of that pillow didn’t seem to affect Jacob’s sleep. He was exhausted, fleeing from his murderously angry brother after stealing their father’s blessing. Jacob probably fell asleep quickly on this particular night, but then he drifted into a dream about heaven. In his dream, he saw angels ascending and descending a stairway that reached to the heavens, and God himself was there. After identifying himself as the God of his fathers, God promised to give Jacob countless descendants as well as the land he was sleeping on. When Jacob awoke, he was frightened and amazed, and he promised to commit himself to the God of his fathers. Today God speaks to our hearts through his Word and Spirit—and perhaps sometimes in our dreams. When we awake from a particularly vivid dream, we should remind ourselves that God sometimes reveals himself to us in peculiar ways. And, like Jacob, we can recommit ourselves to following and serving God in our everyday lives. Thank you, God, for your Word and Spirit, and for your ability to speak to us through our dreams, which can remind us of your love and faithfulness. Amen.

As the sun was setting, Abram fell into a deep sleep, and a thick and dreadful darkness came over him. — Genesis 15:12 I awoke this morning from a weirdly confusing dream. Scientists call the dreaming phase of sleep “rapid eye movement” (REM) sleep. In REM sleep our minds process and assimilate information from our day-to-day experiences. Sometimes, as we learn in the Bible, God uses REM sleep to communicate with people. Our Bible reading today tells us about two of God’s messages to Abram. First, in a vision, God gives an astounding promise: he will make Abram the father of many descendants—as many as the stars in the sky (vv. 1-6)! Then, at sunset, Abram falls into “a deep sleep”—a dark hole of dreams in which God promises that he will inherit the land he is living in. Though Abram may have been perplexed by these messages, he took God at his word, and God “credited it to him as righteousness.” Later, as a sign of his promises, God also renamed Abram as Abraham, which means “father of multitudes'' (Genesis 17:5). Most of our dreams just leave us confused, but in this story sleep plays an outsized role in God’s promise to bless Abraham and all of humankind. God reveals his great love in a grand design that ultimately points to Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Not every dream carries a message. But our dreams can remind us to trust the one who created us with the ability to dream. Father God, even when we are asleep, we can be assured of your presence and promise in our lives. Help us to trust and rest in you. Amen.

The Lord God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep; and while he was sleeping, he took one of the man’s ribs and then closed up the place with flesh. — Genesis 2:21 When God created the world, he built into his creatures the need for rest and sleep. Some creatures, like frogs, barely sleep at all; but others, like koalas, sleep over 20 hours a day. We humans spend about a quarter to a third of our lives sleeping. Without sleep, our bodies cannot restore and repair themselves. In Genesis 2 we read of a particular occasion when God causes Adam, the father of humankind, “to fall into a deep sleep.” God’s purpose wasn’t to trick or deceive Adam while he was sleeping. At this pivotal moment in history, God continued his creative work in order to bless Adam, all humanity, and all of creation. While Adam was asleep, God used one of his ribs to create a woman, who would be the mother of humankind. And she was named Eve to reflect that (Genesis 3:20). This story tells us much about the beginnings of human life. It shows God’s creative power and his care for us as he brings us into the world he has made. We learn that we need God, we need each other, and we need the world God created for us. As we live in and take care of this world, we also need sleep. What’s more, God used sleep in a special way to complete his creation. As you prepare for sleep today, give thanks for the blessings of rest and sleep—and for God’s faithful sustenance and care. Father, by your hand we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Thank you for sleep and for your care over us as we rest in you. Amen.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. . . . — Psalm 23:4 Some situations in our lives can make us fearful, like a dark valley where danger lurks. Maybe we’ve received a surprising medical report or a layoff notice. Maybe we’ve lost a dear loved one. Maybe our marriage is falling apart. Or it could be any number of hard situations at once. What a blessing it is to have the Lord at our side in such times! The psalmist did not fear because he knew the Lord was with him, always caring for him like a good shepherd. He had enjoyed good and peaceful times in God’s presence, when all seemed to go well. And he trusted that the good shepherd would not abandon him in difficult times. We can trust that God will never abandon us because his promise is not only to be with us here in this life but for all eternity. Jesus’ sheep are happy because he is the good shepherd who has laid down his life for them and will never let them go (John 10:11-18, 27-30). He supplies all of their needs. He protects them from evil. Even in the darkest valleys of life, Jesus’ sheep need not fear because their shepherd has defeated death. Jesus has already taken away the sting of death—and now he offers us, free of charge, through faith, a happy and eternal life! Lord, in you I have peace at all times, because you are always with me. The certainty of your presence assures me that I am safe in your omnipotent care. Thank you, Lord. Amen.

Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. — Psalm 32:1 Many people are plagued with guilt. They live as prisoners of sin, without peace in their souls. As a result, many people have sought refuge in false solutions, and their attempts to appease their feelings of guilt have failed miserably. Some people try to escape this overwhelming feeling by going on adventures. Others try to numb themselves with alcohol or drugs, creating even deeper pain. Some try to calm their anguish with self-help philosophies and mystical experiences. But no ritual or exercise can alleviate a guilty conscience. Only the blood of Jesus can blot out our sins and free us from the guilt of our wrongdoing. Only Jesus can break the bars of our prison and break our chains. Only Jesus can offer us true forgiveness and eternal happiness. Seeking forgiveness from another source is like trying to find water in a dried-up well. The psalmist learned similarly that while he kept silent (not seeking God’s forgiveness), his “bones wasted away” and his “strength was sapped as in the heat of summer.” Only when he opened his heart to God and acknowledged his sin did he find healing for the affliction of his soul. For he found that God “forgave the guilt of [his] sin.” Hallelujah! Because of your mercies, O Lord, we are not consumed. Your forgiveness cancels the power of guilt and sin. We praise you, Lord, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 5:10 Let’s focus again today on Jesus’ statements of blessing (beatitudes) in Matthew 5. These statements have been a source of encouragement for believers struggling with adversity, harassment, and oppression. These words may not seem so attractive today, however, when success and self-sufficiency are so highly valued. Our Scripture reading today, especially, might cause us to wonder what happiness there can be in facing persecution because of Jesus. Suffering for our own mistakes tends to be a source of shame. But to suffer for the sake of righteousness (because we are followers of Jesus) is a cause for joy in the Lord. The Lord’s prophets and apostles who lived before us suffered many kinds of humiliations for the sake of righteousness and justice—just because they were trying to live God’s way. Jesus, likewise, was persecuted for doing good and teaching about the kingdom of God. The apostle Paul says that “everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). So we can expect to face some kind of suffering as Jesus’ followers. But, as Paul also teaches, “our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). The happiness we enjoy now is just a prelude to our eternal happiness! Lord, despite the difficulties we may face, fill our hearts with peace and happiness in serving you, knowing we will live with you forever! Amen.

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” — John 10:10 In our reading today Jesus explains that he is our shepherd, “the good shepherd” who “lays down his life for the sheep.” Jesus also says that the purpose of his coming into the world is to give us life in abundance. Unlike the thief, who comes to steal, kill, and destroy the sheep, Jesus came so that we can experience permanent joy, lasting peace, and eternal happiness. Once, during a feast in Jerusalem, Jesus stood up and declared, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them” (John 7:37-38). True happiness is in knowing Jesus by experiencing him and enjoying him. This is not just a theoretical or intellectual knowledge. Jesus is the water of life. We need to drink this water. Whoever drinks this water will never be thirsty again. Jesus quenches our existential thirst, our hunger for meaning. Although we may feel like an insignificant speck in the vast universe, Jesus became human, just like us. He, more than anyone, values his creation and gives us an unmatched gift: abundant life. Lord Jesus, anyone who loves you lacks nothing. You have promised us abundant life. Guide us each day to live fully for you, with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Thank you for coming to save us, and help us to share your love with everyone. In your name we pray. Amen.

“’This son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.” — Luke 15:24 Jesus’ parable of the lost son is one of the most moving stories in the Bible. It is about a young man who felt dissatisfied in his father's house. He thought he could find happiness far away from his family home. So one day he asked for his share of the family inheritance and left. At first, while he had money, the young man had plenty of friends and lots of fun. He spent everything he had on riotous living. But then hunger came, and he knew what it meant to be in need. He found work taking care of pigs. The happiness he had thought he would find was just a mirage. The lost son had been happy in his father's house but didn't know it. Now he was consciously unhappy, so he decided to return home and ask his father for forgiveness. The lost son was willing to be received only as a servant. But when he returned home, he was surprised. His father was waiting for him and ran to meet him. His father hugged him, kissed him, and threw a party for him, saying, “Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine . . . was lost and is found.” Jesus said there is rejoicing in heaven when a sinner repents and returns to God (Luke 15:7, 10). In the same way, let’s celebrate when anyone among us does the same! Dear God, thank you for making us part of your family, and for sending Jesus so that we can return to you. May we also share in rejoicing whenever another child returns to share in your happiness. In Jesus, Amen.

Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in obedience to him. — Psalm 128:1 Psalms 128 reminds God’s people of the blessings of family life. (See also Psalm 127; June 10.) One of the greatest blessings we have is our family. A happy marriage is worth more than any fortune; a united family is worth more than any wealth. A family that honors God is a valuable testimony to the richness of God’s blessing in life. A family dedicated to serving the Lord in all things is a family that knows happiness. The husband who fears the Lord and wants to live God’s way works with all his energy for a safe and godly home for his family members. He loves his wife “just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” (Ephesians 5:25); he is united to and faithful to his wife, who is “like a fruitful vine.” They respect and care for one another. And if they are blessed with children, their children are “like olive shoots,” fruitful in bringing more blessing into their lives. Godly parents teach their children in the ways of the Lord so that they may be blessed all the days of their lives. And if God wills it, they may live to see their children’s children, receiving even more blessing and joy from God’s hand. With blessing the Lord brings prosperity, peace, and joy to families who seek to honor him. When you honor God in your home, you will always have him as an ally. Father, bless our homes and families with your love. Give us unity, joy, fidelity, forgiveness, and prosperity—that we may share with others and help them to know you too. In Christ, Amen.

Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. . . . — Ephesians 5:18 In Brazil there is a popular festival each year called Carnival. Sponsored with public funds and promoted by political authorities, Carnival attracts millions of tourists from around the world. Parading cars and floats with all kinds of decorations fill the main streets of large cities. Samba schools parade to the rhythm of the batucada before the euphoria of a crowd thirsty for pleasure. Carnival is the festival of masks. Sadly, it is a drunken party. Carnival is a vain effort to find joy where there are only ashes of frustration. The false joy that Carnival promotes leaves a bitter taste. In the setting of this festival, decency is sacrificed, immorality is celebrated, and the wise values of dignified family life are tossed aside. Lulled by amazing spectacles, the crowds jump and dance, animated by worldly ideas of joy. But people’s hearts at the end of this event are empty. Carnival, in fact, is a party where true joy does not find expression. Instead, however, we can give thanks that God offers us true happiness. We are invited to be filled with the Holy Spirit, who makes our bodies a holy dwelling place for God (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). Only in the Lord can we find the peace and tranquility that our souls long for. Blessed God, transform our hearts. Free us from trying to solve our problems and to escape our struggles with the excesses of empty celebrations. Turn us to find true life in Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.

King Belshazzar gave a great banquet for a thousand of his nobles and drank wine with them. — Daniel 5:1 There are parties that end in tragedy. Our Bible reading for today talks about a party that ended with the sudden fall of a kingdom. This happened in the palace of the most powerful king in the world at that time. He literally saw “the writing on the wall” that told him his days were numbered (see Daniel 5:25-30), and the king was terrified. The feast of King Belshazzar of Babylon included only select people. Nothing was missing at this party: the best food, expensive wines, beautiful women, even the golden goblets raided from the temple of God in Jerusalem. Then, in the midst of this revelry, a hand appeared and wrote a message on the wall. But none of the king’s guests or his wise men could read it. The rest of Daniel 5 explains that Daniel was summoned to interpret the writing on the wall. It was a message from God announcing the end of Belshazzar’s kingdom. And on that night the kingdom was overthrown. How hard it is to hear that one’s kingdom is coming to an end! Maybe the words come from a doctor or in a bankruptcy declaration. Maybe the greatest of dreams and plans has gone up in smoke. We cannot live in a way that goes against God or is indifferent to the eternal life that only God can provide. Why would we want just fleeting happiness when the true God offers us life forever, full and free? Lord, we know that seeking pleasure at all costs brings bitter consequences. Spare us from ruin, turning our hearts to follow you. Amen.

“’He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” — Revelation 21:4 The book of Revelation speaks of conflicts and battles involving mysterious powers of evil, and we may wonder how and when such things might actually take place. Yet all who have hope in Christ have nothing to fear. The final result has already been announced. The Lord of heaven and earth has won the decisive battle through the finished work of Jesus, and the final triumph is assured. When the curtains of history close, there will be “a new heaven and a new earth” in which God lives with his people forever. God will wipe away every tear from our eyes, and mourning, death, and pain will disappear. Imagine the joy of living in the presence of the Lord, who has promised us his glorious inheritance. Our bodies will be renewed, and we will reign eternally with Christ. Sin will no longer be present in our lives, because nothing impure can stand in God’s presence. There will be no sickness or suffering. All injustice and conflict will be things of the past. All who are redeemed in Christ are welcomed into God’s kingdom by grace. Jesus is the only way that leads to God (John 14:6). And in the presence of God there is and will be fullness of joy forever! God of all eternity, thank you that one day all our sufferings will cease and you will wipe every tear from our eyes. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the Lord? — Deuteronomy 33:29 God's people are a blessed and happy people. They know the joy of having new life in Christ, and they have the sure hope of living eternally with him. For all who belong to the people of God, it is good to be reminded of these words of Moses to God’s people Israel. Moses wanted the people to remember how privileged they were, so he said, in effect, “Blessed are you, Israel! Who can be compared to you? The Lord himself has saved you.” God’s people are blessed because they have been chosen by God from eternity. They are the object of God's loving care in all circumstances. Salvation is the greatest of all gifts. It is a gift of eternal consequences. It is an expensive gift that all the riches in the world could not buy. This gift cost God the life of his own Son, Jesus Christ. And through this costly gift God freely gives us salvation. We cannot do anything to earn or accomplish salvation; nor do we deserve it in any way. God is pleased to give it to us by his merciful grace. Salvation and new life are an undeserved favor. The happiness of God's people lies in this capital truth: we are saved by the Lord! We praise your name, O God, for in your gift of salvation, full and free, we are truly and completely blessed! Thank you for loving us so much and for making us your people. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” — Matthew 5:9 Conflict can be difficult to avoid. Not even peace protocols and treaties ensure that nations will exist together without rivalries and tensions. Homes and families, which should be places of harmony and understanding, often become like war zones. In our cities, violence takes over in the streets. Even in sports, which should be a source of fun and healthful enjoyment, rivalries get out of hand. Christians have a high calling: in a world that creates ever deeper rifts in relationships, we are called to build bridges. Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” We have received the precious ministry of reconciliation. We are called to be ambassadors for Christ, through whom we call others to be reconciled with God (2 Corinthians 5:17-20). Instead of sowing conflict, we must strive for mutual understanding. Instead of pitting one against another, we should encourage alliance and cooperation. Instead of sowing discord, we should work to heal relationships. Serving as agents of peace, we find happiness in the Lord. And as peacemakers we are recognized as children of God. Loving God, only your grace can restore peace and bring forgiveness. Help us to work against breakdowns in our relationships. Help us to be agents of peace. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.

We brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. — 1 Timothy 6:7-8 Books about how to get rich fill the shelves of bookstores and are bought up quickly. The main idea is that money can give us security and happiness. Some people preach that message in their churches too. But that is not the message of Christ and the Bible. People who want only to pursue riches fall into temptation and end up tormenting themselves. Many have strayed from faith in their unchecked greed. In contrast, the apostle Paul testifies that godliness accompanied by contentment is great gain. When we have enough to eat and clothes to wear, we can be content. Our happiness and our security are not in money but in God. Is it bad, then, to have wealth? That is not what the apostle is saying. Money in itself is not bad. But “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” This is a helpful warning to believers who have been materially blessed. Paul urges the rich not to trust in the instability of riches, but in God. Money can be good when we own it, but not when it owns us. Money is a good servant, but it’s a bad master. We can use money to bring happiness when we distribute it generously and wisely, but not if we greedily withhold it or keep it for ourselves. Lord, help us to be content with having our needs supplied. And help us to share from the abundance you have given so that others too may be blessed—and praise you! Amen.

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope. . . . — 1 Timothy 1:1 Hope is the light that illuminates our pathway in life, leading us onward with the promise of eternal, full life with God. For all who know Christ, hope is an essential part of the journey. Indeed, as the apostle Paul says, Christ himself is our hope. Hope in Christ is not a mere wishful kind of hope that people sometimes talk about when they say, “I hope we have a beautiful day for our picnic,” or “I hope our sports team wins the championship.” If our hope is limited to this life alone, we will not find true happiness. What’s more, in Christ, our future is not uncertain. We are not heading into the unknown. Our end is not a grave or a tomb. Each day, even as we grow older and our bodies may grow weak and frail, we walk toward glory. We walk toward full life with the Lord, who will one day come again. We walk toward eternal happiness. As he did with Paul, the Lord pours his grace on us, mercifully forgiving all of our sins. Not one of our sins is too great for God to forgive; Christ’s death paid for them all. Believing in Jesus gives us hope for eternity. And that hope fills us with energy in the present, helping us to hold fast to Jesus and his promises. Eternal God, only with our eyes fixed on Jesus can we enjoy the hope of full, eternal life with you. For this we thank you, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. . . .” — Revelation 14:13 For most people, death stands out as one of their greatest fears. Death spreads panic and terror wherever it goes, without respect for age or social position. The Bible describes death as the last enemy to be defeated, and we take comfort in knowing that Jesus himself has already defeated death. What’s more, Jesus has promised that all who believe in him will one day rise from the grave to live with him forever. That is why the Scriptures speak of happiness despite the problem of death. In our reading for today, for example, we find a message that comes directly from heaven. This is not something that springs from someone’s imagination. No, it comes to us by way of “a voice from heaven” that says, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. . . .” In other words, though death may come to your body, your soul is safe with the Lord, who has also promised to raise your body to life again when he returns someday. For all who die in the Lord, death does not have the last word. Death has already been defeated. To die in the Lord is to find rest from toil and struggle. To die in the Lord is to “depart and be with Christ, which is better” than remaining in the body we have now (Philippians 1:23). Those who die in the Lord leave this life behind and enter into the joy of the Lord. O God, author of life, for all who are in Christ, death means resting in your arms. Your perfect love removes all of our fear. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! — Philippians 4:4 Sadness is the daily portion of many people. The world is full of suffering and hardship, and it can be difficult to find peace and happiness. As a result, people can become bitter about the adversity and struggles in their lives, and many blame God for their hardship and sorrow. The apostle Paul, however, had a different message to share. Though he was in prison and had gone through many hardships, he knew he could find joy in the Lord, his Creator and Savior. He wrote to the Philippians: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Joy in the Lord is not a trivial or fleeting emotion. Instead it results from the deepest possible peace of knowing that your destiny is secure in God’s hands. As a result, a person can have deep and lasting joy in the Lord even in the midst of great suffering and pain. Life is not an amusement park. We face struggles and cross dark valleys. But our happiness is not a superficial, fleeting emotion. Our joy does not depend on the circumstances in which we find ourselves. As Paul puts it, our joy is in the Lord. In other words, Jesus is the source of our joy. He is the content of our happiness. Our happiness is not just in the absence of bad things or in the presence of good things. Our happiness is in Jesus, knowing that he loves and cares for us and is with us always—forever! Lord and God, help me to have joy in you, knowing that I am secure in you always. In your saving name, Amen.

Blessed are those who have regard for the weak; the Lord delivers them in times of trouble. — Psalm 41:1 A compassionate heart is not among the most popular qualities in our world today. If you want to climb to the top, people say, you often have to trample on others. Compassion is considered an attribute of people who are weak. But what does God say about this? The Bible says, “Blessed are those who have regard for the weak.” And this does not mean just thinking about people who are disadvantaged; it means caring about them and doing something about it. People who care are those who open their hearts with the willingness to share what they have with people in need. Generosity goes hand in hand with compassion and care as people seek to show God’s love in this world. We find happiness not when we have everything in our hands but when we share with people in need, giving from our abundance as the Lord has given to us. The generous person sows happily and reaps the blessed fruit of God’s ongoing favor. God himself multiplies our sowing so that we can continue to give generously. God provides for us and gives us health and strength to do more by spreading his love to others. When we open our hearts, hands, and pockets to share from all that God has given us, we find joy and happiness in giving freely as the Lord gives, without strings attached. Lord God, help us to open our hearts to care about others and to share from the abundance you have given us. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” — Exodus 20:12 Most parents have to deal with disobedience from their children at some time or other. In the Ten Commandments we find that children who honor their parents receive a special promise from God: the blessing of a long life. Happiness is the result of obedience. No child can be happy being a nightmare to their parents. No child can build happiness on a foundation of rebellion. Sadly, children who disobey their parents and other authorities often reap misfortune and tragedy. Many children shorten their days because they follow the slippery path of disobedience, get involved with harmful friends, and seek excitement in dangerous places. They turn away and cover their ears so as not to listen to their parents’ advice. But unfortunately they often do so to their peril. Where can they look instead to find happiness and a life of blessing? As the Bible teaches, they can find happiness in obedience to the Lord, and that includes honoring their parents. Ephesians 6:1-3 summarizes this way: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise—‘so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.’” Great God, we all need to respect the established authorities in our lives. Help us to start at home, honoring our parents, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

This too, I see, is from the hand of God, for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment? — Ecclesiastes 2:24-25 Sometimes we think that people with more resources have the clear path to happiness. That is why famous artists, actors, athletes, and other celebrities have a large number of followers. We imagine them with the world at their feet and a smile on their lips. The writer of Ecclesiastes, who probably was King Solomon, dedicated much of his life to the pursuit of happiness. He was the richest, most famous, and most sought-after man of his time. Without limitations, he sought happiness in wealth and the pursuit of pleasures (see Ecclesiastes 2:1-23). He amassed great fortunes and took on great building projects, but all of his money and influence could not bring him true happiness. He sought happiness in the pleasures of wine and feasting and love affairs, but not even a great harem could provide satisfaction. Ultimately, he sought happiness in fame and success. And the only thing he got at the end of his pilgrimage was a feeling of emptiness. In the end he found that the object of his long search was actually the Lord, whom he had pushed aside! The happiness he sought in things and in adventures was in God, “for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment?” Lord, it is a frustrating and useless task to seek happiness apart from you. It’s like chasing the wind. There is only happiness when you are at the center of our lives. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance. — Psalm 33:12 Is happiness found in social and economic policies? Or in educational and cultural programs? These things can be good and helpful, but a nation can only find true happiness when its people recognize the Lord. This occurs when hearts transformed by the grace of God seek to do his will. In our pluralistic world today many people claim that all religions are equal and that all paths lead to God. Many national leaders today don’t even recognize the Lord. Is there any nation that serves the Lord today? Not truly. While some nations may claim to trust in God, their actions show that they follow the ways of the world. Even if they do some things right, their leaders seldom give credit to God. We should not be surprised, then, to see a moral and spiritual vacuum in so many places. Wickedness leads to perversion, and ungodliness leads to immorality. Within every nation, though, there are people who say, like the psalmist, “We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.” These are the people of God’s kingdom, and they know true happiness is found in Christ. They share his love with others, and he says to them, “Well done, good and faithful servant[s]! . . . Come and share your master’s happiness!” (Matthew 25:21). Lord and God, you are the solution our nations need today. Help us to honor you and seek to live your way for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” — Matthew 5:8 Faith is not disconnected from happiness. If you imagine the Christian as sullen and gloomy, that is not what God has in mind. Happiness is a matter of the heart, and it has to do with holiness and purity. As Psalm 24 says, those who have “clean hands and a pure heart . . . will receive blessing from the Lord.” They will be able to stand in the holy presence of the Lord. Or, as Jesus put it, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” Yet we cannot be pure in heart without the saving work of Jesus. As Proverbs 20:9 makes clear, “Who can say, ‘I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin’?” Only Jesus can say that, and only he has made it possible for us to be purified so that we can live in the presence of God. If we think that happiness lies in the pleasures that the world offers, we are mistaken. The attractions of the world may give pleasure for a moment, but they do not satisfy the heart forever. The blessed are not people who give free rein to their passions. The blessed are those whose hearts are made pure through the power of God in Jesus Christ. Indeed, they are abundantly blessed because God is the one who purifies them. They are truly and eternally happy! Majestic God, you are the only source of true happiness. I ask you to purify and renew my heart in holiness. In Jesus, Amen.

Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. — Psalm 127:3 If you have been blessed with children, do you see them as God sees them? In your struggles and challenges in raising children, do you look for encouragement in the Word of God so as not to give up in the task? Psalm 127 declares that children are “a heritage from the Lord,” and happy is the one “whose quiver is full of them.” Children are a gift from God. And we do not generate children for ourselves; God gives them to us so that we may raise them to know him. Our children need to know that, like us, they are called to live for God and to serve him. God gives our children life and many good gifts so that they can grow to know and learn what their calling in life will be. Their calling might be different from ours, and it might be very different from what we expect. But we can trust that God will guide our children so that their lives will glorify him. After all, God is their Creator, and they are his. They belong to him, body and soul, just as we do. Our children are a blessing, not a problem or an obstacle in our lives. And as a part of God’s family, they may help us when we are in need, just as other family and community members do. We are called to love our children and raise them “in the training and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). As God’s gifts, they bring happiness and joy. Father, help us to find happiness in the children you have given us. May we raise them to know and serve you faithfully. In Christ, Amen.

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. — Philippians 4:11 A prison would surely seem more like a cage than a classroom. But some of God’s faithful servants landed in prison, and they learned precious lessons from their time in captivity. The apostle Paul, for example, waited in a Roman prison for two years to appeal his case to Caesar. And during that time he was able to share the good news of Jesus with many people who visited him (see Acts 28:16-31). Paul had been through many trials and hardships—all related to sharing the gospel of Christ. And he gave thanks that even “the whole palace guard” had learned why he was in chains (Philippians 1:13). Instead of allowing bitterness to fill his heart, Paul wrote, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” Happiness is not a reality that is outside of us; it is an attitude that flows from within us. There are people who seem to have everything—and yet they have nothing. There are rich poor and poor rich. Though a person may be in chains, their heart can live in paradise. Others may tread on velvet carpets, but their soul can be in the torment of hell. Happiness is not automatic; it involves a learning process. We are happy when our source of pleasure is in God and not in material things, when our soul delights in the provider and not in the provisions. God is the source of our happiness, not things! Great God, source of all good, when the satisfaction of our soul is in you, we can have joy, whether we are poor or rich or somewhere in between. In Jesus, Amen.

In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” — Acts 20:35 As the apostle Paul states here, quoting from the Lord Jesus himself, there is more joy in giving than in receiving. Jesus, of course, knew all about giving. He gave up his glorious life in heaven to become one of us and even to die for our sake, so that we can live with him forever. And he has returned to heaven to rule there and to prepare a place for us. Think of all the amazing blessings that Jesus has made possible! Money and material goods can be a blessing or a temptation, and that’s why God urges us to be good stewards of all that he gives us. In addition, good stewardship is not only about what we give in church; it’s also about the generosity we show to people in need. Generosity is not an occasional activity but a lifestyle founded on the gospel: “Freely you have received; freely give,” says the Lord (Matthew 10:8). We are happy not when we accumulate treasures on earth, but when we gather them in heaven; not when we keep everything for ourselves, but when we give freely for the good of our neighbor. Happiness is not in how much we have, but in how much we share. Is there someone in need near you whom you can bless with your generosity today? Give me, O God, a merciful heart, willing to share with people in need. Remove selfishness from me so that I may be a generous giver. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

I rejoiced with those who said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” — Psalm 122:1 Have you felt the same emotion that the psalmist expresses here: “I rejoiced with those who said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord’? In Psalm 84:10 we find a statement that aligns with this joy: “Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere. . . .” Today, wherever believers can gather for worship, that place can be called the house of the Lord. There we meet as brothers and sisters in Christ who gather to worship the one true God. Around the world there are many different church buildings designed to be places where believers can gather to worship God. The King of the universe is not limited to a particular space or building. But a specially designed space can help us contemplate the Lord “in the splendor of his holiness” (Psalm 96:9). In the house of God—that is, in a place of worship—we can gain a clearer understanding of the transience of life and the need for God’s grace and forgiveness. And in the presence of God we are filled with joy to sustain us in the many challenges of our lives. As the psalmist says, “Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you” (Psalm 84:4). O God, my sin and self-pity try to keep me away from you. But draw me into your presence, meeting with others to worship you so that we may be renewed with joy to live for you each day. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near. — Revelation 1:3 Have you ever had the opportunity to read the book of Revelation? It is not an easy book to read, although many people are attracted by the astonishing events and mysterious characters on its pages. Focusing on things like the dragon or the beast or Armageddon can create fear and uncertainty in the hearts of many people. But the opening verses of this book give us the guideline on how to read it. After a brief introduction we read, “Blessed [or happy] is the one who. . . .” And this is not a coincidence. We should not be surprised that a book described as “the revelation from Jesus Christ” should include these words. The Lord Jesus often taught his followers with words of blessing, known as beatitudes (see Matthew 5:3-12; Luke 6:20-23). We are the Lord's church, and as the opening verses show, the book of Revelation is written for God's people. In fact, we who are God’s people receive not only the book of Revelation but also the entire Bible as a letter from God. Though the book of Revelation can be challenging to understand, we can trust that we are safe in the arms of Jesus, who has saved us to live with him in the new heaven and earth (Rev. 21-22). And our calling is to live by his Word, showing his love to everyone around us each day. Lord and God, the greatest happiness is to be a part of your people, knowing that we will live forever with you, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction. — Psalm 119:92 Happiness is not just about avoiding the way of wickedness and folly. And it’s not about staying away from people. The life of the monk or the hermit is not the ideal of the Christian faith, as some early Christians believed. Christianity is distinguished by a lifestyle in tune with the will of God. How can we know what God’s will is for our lives? Psalm 1:1-2 answers, “Blessed is the one . . . whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.” The Word of God is our source of joy and happiness. We are encouraged to meditate on it daily. We must fill our minds with God's truth. We must feed our hearts with the promises that come from the Word of God. His Word is better than refined gold and sweeter than honey. God’s Word restores the soul and gives wisdom to the simple. In this time when so much garbage circulates on the internet and other media, the Word is bread that nourishes and water that purifies. Through it we keep our hearts pure, and we triumph over the enemy. Today and every day, remember to feed on God’s Word and to enjoy the nourishment that sustains us, heart and soul, on the way to full life. Lord and God, guide us in the way of wisdom and life through daily meditation on your Word. Thank you for the joy that comes from being in communion with you. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers. . . . — Psalm 1:1 Happiness includes having the courage to avoid destructive situations. We can draw the line in uncertain friendships. We can walk away from compromising situations. We can say no to opportunities that could lead to wrongdoing. This is how God describes his followers who seek to honor him and to live by his Word. When we are supplied with wisdom from God, we can avoid misfortunes, regrets, and many troubles by learning to say no before it’s too late. Rather than walking in step with the wicked, “those who belong to Christ Jesus” can “keep in step with the Spirit” (Galatians 5:24-25). In Christ, we are given new life and “called to be free” (5:13). But that doesn’t mean we are free to follow our old sinful nature. Rather, we are called to “serve one another humbly in love” (5:13), following the whole law of God. If we walk in the way of the wicked, stand proudly with sinners, or sit dutifully among mockers, we will be just like them, and we will not enjoy the happiness of life that God wants for us. We will be blown away like dust in the wind, for “the way of the wicked leads to destruction.” Psalm 1 is often described as teaching about the two ways: the way of godly wisdom, and the way of foolish wickedness. “Blessed [or happy] is the one who . . .” avoids the way of wickedness but delights in the way of the Lord. O God, free us from sinful, foolish ways and guide us by your wisdom for living, in line with your law of love. Amen.

As for me, I am poor and needy; may the Lord think of me. You are my help and my deliverer; you are my God, do not delay. — Psalm 40:17 One of the most comforting truths for our lives is the providence of God. The Lord Almighty takes care of us. The same God who created us also sustains us. In this comfort we live and move and have our being. God is the one who gives us breath and everything we need. God gives life to the seeds and plants we need for food. God gives us our daily bread and good health to enjoy. He even gives flavor to our food so that we can savor it. God is the one who preserves our life and delivers us from evil. The Lord God is our creator, provider, protector, redeemer, and comforter. The apostle Paul asks, “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32). Our life does not drift at random, at the mercy of mere circumstances. We are in the hands of the one who controls the universe. How comforting it is to know that the God who rules the world is in control of our lives! It is a great assurance to troubled souls and burdened hearts to know that God cares for them. He is thinking about you right now and has not forgotten your pain and need. Knowing this, everyone who seeks the Lord can be filled with joy. Sovereign Lord, thank you for your providence. From your hands we receive more than we need, that we may praise you and share with others. In Jesus, Amen.

We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. — Ephesians 2:10 Why are we here? What is our purpose for living here and now? Maybe you have asked or heard these questions before. These are philosophical questions that have kept some of the brightest people busy. Do you have an answer? The Bible teaches that we are created by God and made in his image. “We are God’s handiwork,” and he sent Jesus to redeem and renew us so that we can have eternal life with him. God renews us so that we can do good, and this is our purpose in life. With the new life that God makes possible for us in Christ, we seek to live God’s way and to do good so that we can show others the way to know God. We find true happiness in being created by God for an extraordinary purpose. We are not a piece of wood floating aimlessly through the ocean of life. We are not like a loose leaf carried by the wind. Life has a truly meaningful purpose. We are created by God to have full life with God and to shine the light of his love to others. God is the source and the destiny of our life. The very meaning of eternal life is to know God and his Son, Jesus Christ, through the life-giving work of his Holy Spirit. There lies our greatest and most complete happiness. What is the origin of life? What are we doing here? How will you help someone answer these questions? Father God, our life only makes sense with you. Lord, guide us to live each day for the glory of your name. In Christ and by your Holy Spirit, Amen.

You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. — Psalm 16:11 God created us to enjoy the greatest of happiness: communion with him. We experience true happiness by loving God and enjoying intimacy with him. In the presence of God there is fullness of joy. The best gifts in life come from God. But some people prefer to look elsewhere. Many seek happiness in money; others, in fame. People also seek happiness in pleasures, or they follow their dreams of success, hoping to find fulfillment in their lives. But in the end they discover that those things offer only a mirage and not true happiness. Happiness is a legitimate desire. Many people look for it eagerly every day of their lives, but they end up empty-handed. The source of happiness is not in things or in our own selfish pursuits, but in God. The best things of this world cannot make us happy, but God can, because he created us, calls us by name, and makes us his own. We become truly happy only when we know God and love him with all our heart and soul. If we do not have a safe guide, it is easy to take the wrong pathways in life. And whom can we trust but God to faithfully show us the way? Dear God, may nothing replace the joy we have in being in your presence. Help us always to find satisfaction in you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. — Galatians 6:9 It can be hard not to grow weary of doing good. Physically tired, emotionally and spiritually drained, we might be ready to give up. The brokenness in our world knows no end. There is always another hungry person to be fed. No sooner is a hospital bed open, and another person fills it. Someone who is healthy today will be sick tomorrow. In a sinful and broken world, there will always be hungry, sick, lonely, imprisoned, or impoverished people. Wars and rumors of wars will always produce refugees. The world’s problems will last until Jesus returns. In the meantime, though, we are encouraged, “Do not grow weary of doing good!” And only in God’s strength can we continue. We may certainly resign from a committee, leave a specific ministry of mercy, and stop volunteering at a soup kitchen. But we must not grow weary of doing good! If we change ministries, we can still continue to minister in other ways. In the end, as we become people who must be fed, clothed, and visited, our ministry may be reduced to a smile, an encouraging word, or a prayer. And that may be our most effective ministry of all. By God’s grace, may we all rejoice to hear the words “Well done, good and faithful servant!” Dear Jesus, sometimes we grow weary and discouraged. Help us, in the power of your Spirit, to press on. Thank you for giving us eternal life and for welcoming us into your kingdom. Amen.

Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering. — Hebrews 13:3 It is hard for me to forget the look on my neighbor's face. My daughter asked what I was planning to do that evening, and I said I was going to jail. The neighbor, sitting on his side of the fence that separated our yards, had a look of astonishment on his face. After dinner that evening, I headed over to the county jail with a group of men, and we shared the love of Jesus with some of the inmates there. Visiting prisoners has been one of the richest experiences of my life. Week after week, we gathered with a group of mostly young men. We were in the highest security section of the prison. These were people charged with murder. If found guilty, they would likely be sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of parole. When these men entered the jail, they often prayed that they would be found innocent. But after several months of meeting around God's Word, these men changed their prayers. They began to thank God for putting them in jail. They asked for forgiveness for their crimes and their sins. Joy replaced fear and anxiety. Having been on the path to destruction, they had met the risen Lord and were now living in the kingdom. Though in prison, they knew they were free in Christ—and few look forward to life in the new kingdom more than they do! Jesus, help us to remember prisoners. We were all prisoners to sin and death—and you freed us, giving us new life! May we use our freedom to lead others to freedom. In your name, Amen.

“I was sick and you looked after me. . . .” — Matthew 25:36 There are so many excuses people make for paying little or no attention to those who are sick: “I don’t like visiting people in the hospital, it makes me feel uncomfortable.” “I can’t take the smell in the nursing home. There is a lady there who keeps yelling, ‘Take me home!’ and I can’t handle it.” “I don’t know what to say when I am with that person.” “Actually, isn’t that the pastor’s job? And, besides, I am too busy.” Sad to say, I have tried to make these excuses as well. Jesus simply cuts through it all and says, “I was sick and you looked after me,” or, “I was sick and . . . you did not look after me.” While our health-care systems can help with most of a sick person’s physical needs, their spiritual and emotional needs remain. Visiting a person who is sick will often make a greater impact than we know. Family, health care workers, and staff also notice when the sick are being visited. Yes, visiting with people who are ill can sometimes be challenging. It pushes us outside of our comfort zones. But, as with many things, it usually gets easier with practice. And we will often find that we are blessed by making a visit! And what greater blessing can there be than to hear the Lord say, “I was sick and you looked after me”! Jesus, we are experts at making excuses. Please fill us with compassion instead of excuses, and help us to truly care for one another. We pray in your name. Amen.

“I needed clothes and you clothed me. . . .” — Matthew 25:36 News reports have noted that the world has an overabundance of used clothing. In many ways, that is a good thing. Even the poorest of the poor can have access to clothing! But does that make Jesus’ statement irrelevant in the 21st century? No. The clothing that people may have is not always suitable. A warm jacket in subzero weather is a necessity! There is also another sense in which people who sleep in a cardboard box in the dead of winter are in need of “clothing.” Extreme poverty still exists. There are countless people in the world with insufficient resources to pay for housing, buy food, and access medical care—not to mention paying for education and other costs to maintain a livelihood. What should our response be in the face of poverty? The world is blessed with many organizations that strive to meet urgent needs and to uproot the causes of poverty. Issues are complex, and solutions are difficult to find. Though we may feel, and maybe often be, powerless to create effective solutions to these issues, a godly love for mercy calls for prayerful compassion when we are tempted to turn a blind eye. We need to seek God’s help and wisdom in caring for people in need. Lord, move us to compassion for all who struggle in poverty. Help us to look for sustainable solutions. You created a world full of resources, and we pray for wisdom in their use. Amen.

When we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” — 2 Thessalonians 3:10 God makes clear in this passage and in other Scriptures that there are limits to caring for the needs of others. Paul taught the Thessalonians, “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” Our responsibility to people who are capable of working but who refuse may be to admonish them rather than to support their laziness. As Proverbs 10:4 teaches, “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” People are not necessarily entitled to live off the generosity of others. It is important to note, though, that Paul is writing to a church concerning their own members. When it comes to applying this teaching today, we face a number of challenges. The first is to find out whether a person who is seeking aid is truly able to work and has the opportunity to do so. In our economic systems today, it seems, there are nearly always people who are unemployed and unemployable. Though we may feel certain that an individual has the ability and the opportunity to work, we may be wrong. Mental illness can be a factor that is every bit as debilitating as a physical condition. And whatever the case, we are also responsible to establish relationships with people in the hope of having opportunities to lead them to know Christ, as the Spirit leads. Lord, we know that you love a cheerful giver. Help us to discern when it may be inappropriate to give. And if we are not sure, help us to err on the side of mercy. Guide us in leading people to you, we pray. Amen.

“I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink. . . .” — Matthew 25:35 I meet a lot of hungry people at the college where I serve as a campus pastor. Some are hungry because they are too busy to cook and eat. I know a student who works the night shift, catches a couple of hours of sleep, and rushes off to her 9:00 a.m. class. She later arrives at our interfaith center and is hungry. Other students are hungry because they are unable to find a job. They face the choice of paying tuition and rent or buying food. They cannot afford to do all three. Many full-time students work two and even three jobs to pay their bills—and sometimes even that is not enough. In the world today nearly a billion people suffer from severe food insecurity. Millions face the prospect of starving to death. The causes of hunger vary widely—drought, war, sickness, disaster, unemployment, mental illness, addictions, and more. One day each of us will stand before the Lord, and we will hear Jesus say either “I was hungry and thirsty, and you gave me food and drink” or “I was hungry and thirsty, and you gave me nothing.” Each of us is also called to show God’s love through the gifts and resources we have—however large or small. We all have a choice. Which of those responses will we hear from the mouth of Jesus? Lord Jesus, when we meet or see people who are in need, may we not turn away but recognize your invitation to show love and care, knowing that you are calling us to serve you. Move us to be people who love your mercy! Amen.

“Do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Leave them for the poor and for the foreigner residing among you.” — Leviticus 23:22 The small prairie city where I live is home to a large population of Canada geese. There are two reasons for this. Our power plant is located along the river, and the warm water that flows from the plant means there is open water all year long. In addition, there is a large food supply in the grain fields surrounding the city. Every day thousands of geese fly from the open waters and glean food from the fields before returning to the city at nightfall. The habits of these birds remind me in some ways of God’s instructions to the people of Israel. They were to harvest their fields in such a way that there was plenty left for the poor and the foreigner. Similarly, the people were to leave their fields fallow every seventh year, and their vineyards and olive groves as well, leaving the produce for people who struggled to make ends meet (Exodus 23:10-11). Though farming practices and urbanization today have made those old gleaning practices impossible in many areas, God’s call to care for poor and needy people still stands. And many charitable organizations have found ways to help others who cannot provide for themselves. As followers of Jesus, what can we do to help needy people in the places where we live? Lord, give us insight to follow your call to show love and mercy to our neighbors—both nearby and far away. Help us to find truly helpful ways to be a blessing to people in need. Amen.

What good is it . . . if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? — James 2:14 Many of us have heard the old saying “Actions speak louder than words.” But this statement is not always true. Sometimes a few careless words spoken in anger or frustration can cause irreparable damage. Like a spark that can set a whole forest on fire, words can be incredibly destructive (James 3:1-12). However, in many cases actions do speak louder than words. This is James’s point when he says that faith without deeds is dead. Faith that does not lead to doing good deeds is useless, says James. A fruit tree that does not produce fruit only takes up space in an orchard. It is cut down and burned, and a new tree is planted in its place (Matthew 7:15-20). Because true faith produces fruit, we are often told that we will be judged according to our deeds. In Revelation 20:12-13 we read that “each person was judged according to what they had done.” Paul makes clear in Ephesians 2:8-10 that we are saved by grace and not by works. Yet James points out that all who are saved by grace will begin to produce good works. That is why in Matthew 7:15-20 Jesus says people can be known by their fruit—revealing whether they are citizens of the eternal kingdom of God or citizens of this world, which is passing away. Help me today, Lord, to examine my life to see if I am producing fruit that shows I am a child of yours. Help me to put off my old sinful nature and to live for your glory alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. . . .” — Matthew 5:43-44 These words of Jesus can surprise and even shock us. And who, exactly, are our enemies? In the book of Psalms, King David spoke often of his enemies. David’s enemies wanted him physically dead. They wanted to destroy his kingdom—which was intended to represent the kingdom of God. Those enemies were people who opposed the rule of God in the world. If we follow Christ today, we might not encounter people who want us physically dead, but we certainly can come into contact with people who would celebrate the end of the church and the end of the Christian faith. We might also think of politicians as enemies if they are working to replace some of our nation’s laws with measures that are openly against God’s Word. While we know that our citizenship is in heaven, we still live as residents of an earthly nation. Further, people who want to destroy our country may also be considered our enemies. The apostle Paul says, “Hate what is evil; cling to what is good” (Romans 12:9). He does not say, “Hate who is evil,” but what is evil. This means that while we may hate laws and policies and actions that are evil, we are still called to love people who promote and do such things. And we are not to slander or curse them but to pray for them. Lord, help us to love our enemies. As we work against sin in this world, help us to remember that you loved us even when we were your enemies, as sinners. Amen.

“‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. . . .” — John 15:20 Are we living in “the last days”? Some people in nearly every generation think so. Yet there is one thing we can be sure of: the problems described in 2 Timothy 3 are happening today, just as in many other periods of history. People have noted that Christianity has long had a privileged position in the “Western world,” at least since the time of the Roman emperor Constantine, who converted to Christianity. After the Edict of Milan in A.D. 313 and other developments, many of the laws in the Western world became rooted in biblical teaching. As a result, many people have been heavily influenced by the Bible on how to live their lives. This does not mean that all of these people, or even the majority, have been Christians. But Christians in the West have often been free of persecution, and yet that has not been the case in other parts of the world. Nor was this what Jesus prepared his followers to expect. He taught them to expect persecution. Today Christianity is fading in the West, and so is Christian influence on the laws and policies of Western nations. As time goes on, it may become harder for Christians to live day by day without being persecuted. But there is no reason to fear or lose hope. The Lord is faithful, and the Lord is King. His kingdom is not of this world, and we are called to serve him, following the teachings of Scripture and living by God’s way of love. Lord, in the face of many changes today, help us to live truly Christian lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

There before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. — Revelation 7:9 In our campus ministry we gather at 5:30 on Thursday afternoons for a time of worship, Bible study, and prayer. We also break bread and enjoy fellowship together. On one occasion, we had 16 people gathered from nine different countries. They were from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, and North and South America. Sometimes people say that Christianity is a “Western” religion, but God’s kingdom is made up of people from all over the world! Sadly, in Europe and North America, the church is growing stale. Countless congregations across Canada, the United States, and Western Europe have closed. Many others are struggling to remain open. Weekly attendance at worship services has been decreasing. Yet newcomers from other lands are breathing new life into our worshiping communities. Though many newcomers arrive in the “West” lacking financial resources, they often come with an amazing, infectious passion for Jesus Christ. We do well to embrace and enfold our brothers and sisters in Christ, seeking together to build revitalized worshiping communities. This helps us to glimpse what John describes in Revelation 7. It is hard to find anything more beautiful than worshiping together with people of every nation. Lord, thank you for breathing new life into our churches through newcomers from all nations. Keep growing your kingdom, we pray, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

A great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. . . . Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. — Acts 8:1, 4 History has shown that the church has often grown during times of persecution. While the early church was growing rapidly in Jerusalem, it also began to spread widely as people scattered from persecution and “preached the word wherever they went” in the surrounding territories. At the college where I serve as a campus minister, I often see a similar thing happening. Christian students come to the college from Africa, Asia, and South and Central America. Many of these foreign students have a passion for sharing the good news of Jesus with friends and classmates. It is exciting to see the kingdom of God advancing as Christians from other lands reinvigorate the church here. It is also exciting to see the kingdom welcoming newcomers among students who did not know Jesus before they came to this land. I routinely meet people who are unhappy about the number of immigrants coming to the “West” from around the world. But for those who are kingdom-minded rather than country-minded, those objections pale in comparison to the joy of seeing God’s kingdom growing. Lord God, thank you for Jesus, who bled and died for us and then called us to be his witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, “and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). We rejoice and marvel at the growth of your kingdom! Amen.

Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. — Acts 2:5 On the day of Pentecost, God-fearing Jews from many nations were staying in Jerusalem. They were gathering to celebrate the Feast of Weeks that God had established for his people Israel some 1,500 years earlier (Deuteronomy 16:9-12). They all converged on the temple on Pentecost (fifty days after the Feast of Passover) to bring offerings of the firstfruits of their harvests. That day people from many nations heard the good news of Jesus for the first time. And about 3,000 believed and were baptized (Acts 2:41). Scholars estimate that the world population was about 300 million people at that time. That is 1/27th of today’s population. It took 1,800 years for the world’s population to grow to a billion. Prior to the 1800s there were few formal immigration laws. But with the world’s population at over 8 billion today, almost every country has decided to regulate immigration. Christians are free to differ and disagree over the details of immigration laws. However, as immigrants, migrants, refugees, and others cross borders today, many hear the gospel for the first time. God’s people have the opportunity and responsibility to share the gospel with them. And as the gospel is shared, many people continue to enter God’s kingdom each day! That of course is a good thing—regardless of our views on immigration. Lord, we pray for every person who has left their homeland to find a new home. Enfold them into your kingdom, we pray, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” — Luke 10:27 Soon after we moved into our house, new neighbors moved into the house next door. Their children were the same ages as ours. We found that we shared many of the same values. They were good neighbors, and our kids played together and even slept over at each other's houses. My neighbor also knows that he can borrow my pickup truck whenever he needs it. Sometimes I smugly think, “I love my neighbor as myself.” A teacher of the law tried to test Jesus by asking the way to eternal life. Jesus answered by summarizing God’s law, saying, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind; and love your neighbor as yourself.” Perhaps the teacher of the law should have left the matter there. But then he also asked, “And who is my neighbor?” He likely expected Jesus to say something like “Your neighbor is someone who has the same faith and values that you have.” But Jesus took the conversation in a much different direction. “Your neighbor,” Jesus said, in effect, “is someone with a different ethnicity and religion, from a people you generally despise. . . . Now go and love him too!” Thank you, Jesus, for pushing us out of our comfort zones. Thank you for reminding us to love people who are different from us—even our enemies—for we are all created in the image of God. Amen.

Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. — Romans 13:1 I have never met a president or a prime minister. (I did see Queen Elizabeth II of England from a distance on two occasions, though!) As a regular citizen, I have little influence over the laws and policies of my country. My vote is just one among millions, and attending policy meetings does little to set the nation’s direction. This is true for immigration laws and policies as well as for most other laws. But just because I do not write my country’s laws and policies, I do not have the right to ignore them or to rebel against them. Even when I think the laws are horrible and destructive, I do not have the right to break them. Thankfully, however, in many countries like mine, people have the right to protest unfair policies. And if a government’s demand is in direct conflict with God’s commands, we must choose God’s way (Acts 5:29). Still, Jesus taught his followers to give to Caesar what was due him (Mark 12:17), even though Caesar may have used taxes for unethical purposes. Even when we are disillusioned with our government and its policies, we cannot use that as an excuse to treat other people poorly. Whether we are pro-immigration or anti-immigration, for example, the God who told Israel to love the foreigner among them also calls us to do the same, loving our neighbors as ourselves. Lord Jesus, help us to obey our governing authorities as you did, and to love all our neighbors as ourselves. For your sake, Amen.

“The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself. . . .” — Leviticus 19:34 The Bible includes a number of stories about God’s people fleeing their homes to find refuge elsewhere. Abram and Sarai took refuge in Egypt because of a famine (Genesis 12:10). So did Jacob and his whole clan (Genesis 46). Elimelek and Naomi did something similar (Ruth 1:1-2). Jacob had also fled for his life after stealing his brother’s birthright (Genesis 27:41-44). And Joseph and Mary fled with baby Jesus when King Herod sent soldiers to kill him (Matthew 2). As we read these stories, we are relieved to find God’s people welcomed into foreign lands! The Bible also instructs God’s people on how to treat foreigners. Leviticus 19:34 makes clear that the foreigner was to have the same legal protection as the native-born Israelite. Like a neighbor, the foreigner was also to be loved as oneself! Our world remains a place where countless people flee from one place to another. Escaping from war, famine, persecution, and poverty, millions of people are on the move. Is there any reason to think that God would have his people treat foreigners differently today than long ago? In what ways can we show God’s love and care for the foreigners among us? Lord, help us to love foreigners as we love ourselves. Please help us to see each person we meet as your imagebearer, and to love everyone as you love us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. — 1 Corinthians 3:14 My wife is an accomplished pianist. On occasion we attend a local symphony. When possible, she arranges for us to sit in a location that gives a clear view of the pianist’s hands and feet. She watches the pianist’s movements with intensity and amazement. While I thoroughly enjoy listening to the symphony, my level of enjoyment pales in comparison to hers! In a similar way, it seems, God’s children will enjoy varying levels of reward when they enter his kingdom in all its glory. Though everyone in God’s presence will be filled with wonder and joy, apparently some will be rewarded with more blessing and joy than others, based on the life they have lived here and now. The important thing, though, as Paul points out, is to “build with care,” striving to base our lives on the foundation of Jesus Christ. As God’s children, welcomed into God’s family through the finished work of Christ, we are called to live like Jesus, following his example in all we think, say, and do. And we are called to do this in line with the gifts and resources we are given. In our daily living, we are called to love God first in our lives and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-40; see also 25:14-46). God grants salvation by grace alone and not through works (Ephesians 2:8-10), but God also rewards his servants for their faithful service. What an amazing God we serve! Lord, we marvel at your grace and mercy! You add blessings upon blessings, and we praise your holy name! Amen.

“Use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.” — Luke 16:9 The parable of the shrewd manager is one of Jesus’ most puzzling teachings. It can seem confusing because the dishonest manager is commended for acting shrewdly. But this does not mean Jesus approves of theft and dishonesty. In this parable Jesus is challenging us to be resourceful with an eye to the future. With a shocking illustration that grabs people’s attention, Jesus teaches a practical way of storing up treasures in heaven. Rather than simply gathering our earthly wealth for ourselves, he is saying, we should use our earthly wealth to make an impact for the kingdom of God. This parable is sometimes called a crisis parable with an end-time meaning. In that way it is similar to Jesus’ parables in Matthew 25 about being watchful and ready at all times to use our resources for God’s kingdom and to show his love to our neighbors. There are hints in this parable about building relationships too. Could it be that the friendships we make on earth will stretch on into eternity? Could it be that making friends with homeless and hungry people will lead to fruitful fellowship with them in the new heaven and earth? We may need to grow in our understanding of what eternal life will bring. The way we live today will follow us into eternity. Lord, we have many questions about eternal life. Help us to see that it will be better than anything we can imagine! Amen.

“Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” — Matthew 6:20 Some people have called this the greatest investment tip of all time. Jesus tells his followers to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth. Life on earth, as we know it, is temporary, and so are its treasures. Moths eat holes in clothes. Rats and mice chew up and ruin things we have set aside for safekeeping. Metals corrode and discolor over time. Storing up treasures on earth might be a little more sophisticated today than it was in Jesus’ day, about 2,000 years ago. We might invest in stocks and bonds, real estate, and other things. But none of that really changes the truth of Jesus’ teaching. Markets crash. Inflation guts the value of our currency. It can happen slowly—or overnight. In Alberta a fire destroyed a garage filled with dozens of vintage cars. Natural disasters bring enormous damage and destruction for millions of people every year. Earthly treasures will never be secure. And, to top it all off, death quickly separates us from any earthly treasure we might accumulate. But not all is lost! Jesus promises that when we invest our time, efforts, and resources into God’s kingdom here on earth, we will reap dividends for eternity. Lord, please give us your wisdom for living. All things belong to you. Help us to use the time, gifts, and resources that you give us to serve in your kingdom. Amen.

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who . . . correctly handles the word of truth. — 2 Timothy 2:15 A woman from a local church volunteers three hours each Wednesday with our campus ministry. She gives grandmotherly advice, prays with students, and provides a lot of them with food. She is also a good storyteller! She tells students that, years ago, she inherited a wolfdog. As a pup, he was content to live a dog’s life, but when she moved north, where wolves still roam (and howl), the dog became restless and wanted to roam also. Then one day he ran off to follow the call of the wild and was seen no more. In some ways a similar thing can happen in our life as followers of Jesus. Our old sinful nature still clings to us—and as the world calls out to us with alluring temptations, that old nature can stir within. Selfish and sinful tendencies can try to come back to life. Social media and every other form of media make their impact. The people around us influence us greatly. We can also be “dragged away by [our] own evil desire and enticed” (James 1:14). We do well to take time as individuals, as families, and as groups of believers to practice accountability, discussing some questions like these: “Is my life and what I believe in line with godly living and the kingdom of God? Or is it bending toward my old sinful nature and the values of the world? Holy God, remind us each day to examine our hearts, our minds, and our lives. Help us to stay faithful to your Word and your kingdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” — Matthew 6:9-10 When we pray, “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven,” we are asking God to help us follow the example of the angels and other creatures who serve God faithfully in the heavenly realms (see Revelation 4-5). We are praying that we may have the strength and the guidance to do God’s will as we live here on earth, as citizens of God’s kingdom—here and now. As God’s children, we want to serve him willingly and cheerfully. But as anyone who has been tempted knows, there are also powerful forces, led by Satan, that try to lure God’s people away to join them in rebellion. Paul writes in Ephesians 6:12, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” All who have been redeemed through Christ are given new, eternal life. Yet we continue to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit of Christ living in us to live faithfully each day for the glory of God and his kingdom. That is why we pray, “Your will be done. . . .” In what ways are you doing God’s will today? Heavenly Father, help me to do your will today. May my every thought, word, and deed be fitting for a citizen of your kingdom! In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“This . . . is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. . . .’” — Matthew 6:9-10 Most of us face many, many choices each day. What clothes will I wear? What will I have for breakfast? What route will I take to work? What do I need at the store? Which tasks will I focus on? There is one choice, however, that is far more important than all the others: Which kingdom will I serve? Where will I spend my best efforts—in the kingdom of God or in the kingdom or domain or country or community or family that I am dwelling in? Jesus teaches us to pray, “Father . . . your kingdom come.” As we pray these words, we are making a commitment to living God’s way. “Your kingdom come” means, first of all, “Rule over me! Master my soul. Make me a loyal citizen of your kingdom.” It means, “Lord, rule in my life and master me in such a way that my deepest desire is to walk with you. May your principles and ways be the air that I breathe.” “Your kingdom come” also means, “Help me to see your kingdom advance in the people around me—my family, friends, classmates, coworkers, and neighbors. Help me to foster a love for kingdom living in them as well.” This also means seeing institutions and organizations align with the principles of God’s kingdom. And as the Lord’s kingdom comes, any forces that revolt against him will be overwhelmed and shattered. Lord, in all that I think, say, and do, may I serve to advance your kingdom in my life and in the world around me. Lord, I pray today, ‘Your kingdom come!’ In Jesus’ name, Amen.

What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. — Micah 6:8 The prophet Micah spoke out for the Lord against the unjust practices of his day. He pictured people asking how they might please God with offerings in order to pay for their sins: “What is it that God wants from us? How much must we sacrifice before God will be happy with us?” The answer is simple and yet profoundly life-changing: As long as you practice injustice, it doesn’t matter how much you sacrifice to God. The Lord calls you to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with him! Then you may bring your offerings and find favor with God. Get rid of your rigged scales. Stop your price gouging. End the practice of driving people into poverty so that you can buy them as servants and slaves. Practice justice. And even more than that—love mercy. Give freely to your poor neighbor rather than scheming up ways to make them your slaves. Find ways to relieve poverty rather than profiting from it. At the college where I serve as a campus minister, foreign students often struggle financially. But many of them have been embraced by local churches. On Monday mornings when they come to school, they often tell me with beaming faces how their church communities have blessed them on Sunday. God smiles along with these students as he sees his people showing love and mercy. We love you, merciful God. Teach us to love by showing mercy to others. Guide us to act with justice each day for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

“When will . . . the Sabbath be ended that we may market wheat?”—skimping on the measure, boosting the price and cheating with dishonest scales. . . . — Amos 8:5 Many of Israel’s rich and powerful merchants and other leaders despised God’s rest and justice. For them, the Sabbath was not a day for observing physical and spiritual rest in honor of God’s promises to his people. Instead the Sabbath was an unwelcome intrusion into their crooked, unjust business practices. It was as if they said, “When will this Sabbath be over so that we can overcharge for wheat, and use faulty scales to cheat the people? We will drive them into poverty so that we can buy them as our servants and slaves for the price of a pair of shoes! And in the meantime we will pretend we are good, God-fearing, law-abiding citizens.” Their sin was a violation of nearly every law that God had given to the people before they entered the promised land. Israel was intended to be a nation of truth and justice, but the ruling class generally despised those important values. God’s verdict: “I will expel you from my kingdom. Not because I want to, but because you want to live unjust, unforgiven, and God-forsaking lives.” Let’s examine our own hearts and minds to see if we are living in the way God calls us to. Lord Jesus, send your Spirit into our hearts and minds today. Guide us into living by the values of your kingdom rather than by the ways of this world. Amen.

Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience. — Hebrews 4:11 Justice requires that debts be paid. God created us to love him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. He also instructs us to love our neighbors as ourselves. But every day we fall short of God’s requirements, adding to our debt. Jesus, the eternal Son of God, came from heaven to become human and live among us. He kept God’s law of love perfectly. Then, although he was innocent, he gave up his life on a cross for us, paying the debt of sin for all who would believe in him. This is the good news that we are called to believe so that we can enter God’s rest. In the Old Testament, some of God’s people disobeyed and would not accept the good news that God would give them the promised land. They would not trust in God to bring them into his rest (Numbers 14). And today, as the book of Hebrews explains it, the situation is similar: we need to trust in the good news of God’s salvation through Jesus so that we can enter into his rest—enjoying the full, eternal life that God has in store for us. This is also called the “Sabbath-rest for the people of God,” and the Sabbath day is a weekly reminder pointing to that rest. Repenting of sin and placing our faith in the crucified and risen Lord Jesus brings us into his rest. So we do well to ask, “Have I entered his rest, or am I still struggling in my own strength to find peace with God?” Lord, thank you for the gift of true rest through faith in Jesus. Amen.

Ahab said to Naboth, “Let me have your vineyard to use for a vegetable garden. . . .” But Naboth replied, “The Lord forbid that I should give you the inheritance of my ancestors.” — 1 Kings 21:2- 3 When God gave Israel the land he had promised them, each clan received a tract of land as their inheritance. God also made clear that this inheritance was to remain in each family throughout the generations. When times were hard, some families in debt had to sell their land, but in those cases the sale was never meant to be permanent. (See Leviticus 25; Joshua 13-21.) However, King Ahab of Israel was wicked and did not want to live in line with God’s way. Near the king’s palace was a vineyard owned by a man named Naboth. Ahab offered to buy the land from Naboth, but Naboth refused to sell because God had said the land should remain in the family to whom it was given. That made Ahab angry, so, with the help of his wife, Jezebel, he came up with a plan. They plotted to have Naboth put to death by having him accused of cursing both God and the king. Ahab then stole the dead man’s land. As the king of Israel, Ahab was responsible to be a representative of God, the true King. But this abuse of justice was intolerable, and Ahab and Jezebel would pay a heavy price. (See 1 Kings 21:17-29; 2 Kings 9:30-37.) Perhaps our blood boils as we read of Ahab and Jezebel’s actions, but are we outraged when we see injustice today? Father, thank you for being a God of justice. Make us a people of justice too! In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

“Take your evil deeds out of my sight; stop doing wrong. Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. . . .” — Isaiah 1:16-17 Justice is an important attribute of God. Justice lies at the heart of God’s character. Because God is just, justice is a hallmark of his kingdom. In the Old Testament, God’s people Israel were meant to serve as a physical, earthly representation of God’s kingdom that would one day fill the whole earth. As a result, we find countless calls for Israel to be a just nation because God is just. Judges were to rule impartially. Neighbors were to treat each other justly. Foreigners were to be treated justly and fairly always (Exodus 22:21; Deuteronomy 24:17-18). But Israel failed again and again to exercise justice. That brought God’s discipline on them, and he sent them into exile. However, leading up to and during their exile, God spoke through the prophet Isaiah to urge the people to change their ways. Isaiah also delivered songs of hope and praise describing what the kingdom would look like if the children of God would truly embrace justice in the land. (See Isaiah 2:1-5; 4:2-6; 9:2-7; 11:1-12:6.) The God of the kingdom of heaven is the same God who led Old Testament Israel. His name remains synonymous with justice. And as citizens of God’s kingdom, we too are called not only to act justly but also to love justice. We bow before you, Lord and King, to praise you for your justice. Empower us by your Spirit to truly love justice and to live by doing justice in this world. Amen.

Since . . . you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above. . . . — Colossians 3:1 In my work as a campus minister I spend a lot of time with international students. Each year hundreds of students come to our community college from around the world. While some of these students simply come for a Canadian education, many have their hearts set on obtaining Canadian citizenship. The cost for most students is high. Many leave family and friends behind—in some cases for years. And along with having a rigorous academic schedule, many of these students work two or even three part-time jobs. Tired and hungry, they press on, for their hearts are set on graduation, work permits, permanent residency, and eventually citizenship! To set one's heart on something means to desire it more than anything else, regardless of the costs. At the center of setting our hearts “on things above” is desiring a relationship with the triune God and knowing his friendship and favor. Counting ourselves as citizens of God’s kingdom moves us to live God’s way rather than by the way of the world. And dreaming of the day when we will see Jesus face to face and be able to live in perfect joy for eternity—that is what God calls us to set our hearts on. Heavenly Father, may our hearts burn with a desire to know you better and love you deeper. Claim our deepest affections and cause an ever-deepening homesickness within us until the day you bring us into your kingdom in all its glory. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. — Colossians 3:2 Being born again to live in the kingdom of God calls for a dramatic shift in our thought patterns. God comes to us and says, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” But we may wonder, “If we ignore earthly things that need to be taken care of, won’t our lives just become more chaotic? Is God really telling us to quit focusing on the day-to-day matters all around us?” Setting our minds “on things above” has to do with leaving our old sinful lives behind so that we can put on the new life we are called to live in Christ. Instead of living in “immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed,” we are called to show “compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience,” and more. We are to live as the people of God’s kingdom. This means we regularly spend time with God, reading and studying the Bible, praying, worshiping, enjoying fellowship with other believers, learning from Christian thinkers and artists, and more. In this way our earthly lives become increasingly focused on the greater purposes and good that God has in store for us while we live for him in this world. If, however, we spend each day immersed in our old, selfish ways and in the false promises of the world, we will find ourselves drifting away from the full life God wants for us. Jesus, draw our minds to focus on living for you. Starve out our sinful earthly desires, and bring us to flourish as joy-filled citizens of your eternal kingdom. Amen.

Our old self was crucified with him so that . . . we should no longer be slaves to sin. . . . — Romans 6:6 Obtaining my Canadian citizenship was easy—well, for me, at least. (It took more effort on my mother’s part!) Being born in Canada qualified me for Canadian citizenship. However, becoming a citizen in the kingdom of heaven is more complicated. To be a citizen in God’s kingdom, we must die and be born again. In Romans 6 and in other passages, the apostle Paul speaks of being crucified with Christ, dying with Christ, being buried with Christ, and rising with Christ. Jesus teaches that unless we are born again, we will not see the kingdom of God (John 3:3). As Paul explains in Ephesians, we are “to put off [our] old self”—our old sinful nature—and “to be made new . . . to put on the new self, created to be like God in righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:22-24). Dying and being born again calls for a radical change in how we think and act. But this is not a transformation we can manage on our own. As Paul puts it, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). God gives us new life through the Spirit, putting the old sinful nature to death. And even before that, the Spirit of God moves us to recognize our sin and our need for new life. So we pray in repentance and ask God for forgiveness, trusting in his power to save us through the finished work of Jesus Christ. Holy Spirit, put to death every part of our sinful nature, and bring us to live all of life for the glory of God. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

“The God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed. . . . It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, but it will itself endure forever.” — Daniel 2:44 Long before Jesus came, God gave King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon an amazing, puzzling dream. Deeply troubled by it, the king called on his advisers to tell him both the dream and its meaning! With trembling voices they lamented that the king was asking the impossible (Daniel 2:1-11). Daniel agreed that mere humans could not meet the king’s demand. But Daniel explained that “there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries.” And Daniel explained that God had revealed the king’s dream and its meaning to him in a vision (see Daniel 2:17-19). Daniel told King Nebuchadnezzar that he had dreamt of an amazing statue that was destroyed by “a rock cut out of a mountain, but not by human hands.” The great statue represented the kingdoms of this world, which rise and fall. But the rock represented the coming kingdom of God and Jesus Christ—and this kingdom would grow to fill the whole earth. The Bible teaches that God calls all of us to believe in him and become a part of his kingdom. By trusting in Jesus, God’s Son, as our Savior, we can have life to the full. So each of us faces a choice: Will I pledge my life to an earthly kingdom or to the kingdom of God? The way we respond makes all the difference in life. Sovereign Lord, thank you for sending Jesus to give us full life in your kingdom. May we live for you each day. Amen.

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. Where can I go and meet with God? — Psalm 42:1-2 Our relationship with God is a journey of seeking and drawing near to him. Like a deer longing for water, our souls thirst for God’s presence, yearning to meet with the living God. We grow deeper in our relationship with God through intentional pursuit. We carve out moments in our day to seek the Lord in prayer, worship, and meditation on his Word. As we spend time in God’s presence, we are transformed by his love and truth. The more we know God, the more we are conformed to his likeness and character. We are gradually “transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit” (2 Corinthians 3:18). The desire to know God intimately is nurtured through obedience and surrender. We yield our lives to him, allowing his Spirit to lead and guide us into deeper communion. In our pursuit of God, we discover that he delights in revealing himself to us. As we draw near to God, he draws near to us, filling our hearts with joy and peace. Eternal God, my soul yearns for your presence. Guide me to seek you with all my being. Draw me close in prayer and teach me from your Word. Transform me with your love and truth. I long to know you more and to live for you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea. . . . — Psalm 46:1-2 Life is filled with unexpected twists and turns, but in the midst of uncertainty we can find refuge in God’s unwavering presence. He is our rock and strength, our help in times of trouble. When life throws us curveballs, we remember that God is still sovereign. He is in control, working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). In God’s hands, even the most chaotic situations find purpose and meaning. In times of trouble, we turn to God in prayer, seeking his guidance and wisdom. He provides the peace that surpasses all our understanding, calming our fears and steadying our hearts. Though the storms of life may rage, we anchor our hope in the Lord our Creator, who faithfully protects our souls. Our destiny is secure in him. God’s promises are sure, and his love for us is unfailing. As we trust in the sovereign Lord of heaven and earth and all that is in them (Psalm 24:1), we walk with confidence, knowing that nothing can separate us from his love (Romans 8:39). Mighty God, when we face life’s unexpected twists and turns, we find refuge in your presence. Help us to trust in your sovereignty and promises. Fill us with peace, knowing that you will guide us through every storm. May we stand firm in faith, knowing that you are in control. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

“I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. . . .” — Isaiah 42:6 Changes and transitions can bring uncertainty and stress, but they also present new opportunities for growth and transformation. In times of change, we can find comfort and assurance in recognizing that God is leading us, making a way even in the most challenging circumstances. As we step into new seasons, we can trust that God is leading us on a path of purpose and fulfillment. Like a stream in the wasteland, God provides us with refreshment and direction in situations that are unfamiliar and may even be threatening (Isaiah 35). Though changes in our lives may feel overwhelming —especially if they are forced on us—we have the promise that God is with us every step of the way. God equips us with the strength and wisdom we need to face the future with confidence. In times of transition, let’s surrender our plans and desires to God, seeking his will and guidance. As we embrace new beginnings, we can move forward in faith, knowing that God is our constant companion and the author of our story. Faithful God, in times of change help us to trust in you for guidance and provision. Open our eyes to new things that you are doing in our lives. Help us to embrace change with courage and faith, knowing you are always with us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. — Philippians 2:3-4 As followers of Christ, we are called to embrace a servant attitude, putting the needs of others before our own. This humility echoes the very heart of Jesus, who came not “to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). In a world that often exalts self-promotion and personal gain, we stand apart by valuing others above ourselves. We seek to meet the needs of people around us, extending kindness, empathy, and compassion. A servant attitude begins with a heart transformed by God’s love. As we live in God’s presence, we learn to lay down our ambitions and egos, making room for selflessness and sacrificial love. We act with grace and love toward others, just as God has done for us. In every interaction, let’s consider the interests of others, seeking opportunities to serve in both big and small ways. May we be known not by our accomplishments but by our love and by our servant hearts that follow the example of Jesus. Spirit of God, mold my heart in humility and love to imitate the Lord Jesus. Help me to value others above myself and to serve selflessly. May I reflect Christ’s love for the benefit of others in this world each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord. . . . — Colossians 3:23 Work is not merely a means of earning a living; it is an opportunity to serve God with excellence. Whether it’s in our job or career, our studies, or our daily chores and tasks, we can bring glory to God by working with diligence and wholeheartedness. Our attitude toward work reflects our devotion to Christ. When we view our labor as an offering to the Lord, even mundane tasks take on significance. Every effort made with love and dedication is an act of worship. God calls us to work for him and not for human approval. We find our ultimate reward in him. Knowing that God sees and values our efforts, we serve with joy and a sense of purpose. May our work ethic be characterized by integrity and humility. Whether we are enjoying success or facing challenges, we can keep our eyes fixed on the One we serve, knowing that our labor is not in vain. And as we go about our work each day as working for the Lord, we become a reflection of God’s love and a light in this world. Lord, I offer my work and all I do as worship to you. Help me to serve diligently and with integrity. May my labor bring you glory and reflect your love to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Who is like you, Lord God Almighty? You, Lord, are mighty, and your faithfulness surrounds you. — Psalm 89:8 Uncertainty can leave us feeling vulnerable and afraid. But in the midst of life’s unknowns, we have a trustworthy anchor: God’s unwavering presence and faithfulness. When we are faced with uncertainty, we remember that God is in control. God is faithful, and his plans for us are good. We can trust the Lord to strengthen and help us, upholding us with his righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10). In the face of uncertainty and the unknown, we find comfort in the reliability of God’s character and faithfulness. God is our refuge and strength, always present to help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1). With the Lord by our side, we need never fear the future. “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of [his] throne; love and faithfulness” surround him. When we face uncertain times, let’s lean on God’s promises. We can draw near to God in prayer, seeking his guidance and wisdom. In the Lord’s embrace, we can find the assurance that he is leading us on a path of purpose and fulfillment. Almighty God, in times of uncertainty, I trust your faithfulness, power, and love. Help me to lean on your promises, finding refuge in your presence. Guide me on a path of right living for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. — Psalm 34:18 Grieving is a natural response to loss and sorrow. In the midst of our pain we find comfort and peace in the assurance that God is near to the brokenhearted. When we experience loss, we turn to God in prayer, pouring out our hearts before him. He understands our pain, and in his tender compassion the Lord offers comfort and peace. Grieving is a process that requires time and grace. We allow ourselves to mourn, knowing that God wipes every tear and holds us close to his heart. In times of sorrow, we can draw strength from fond memories of the ones we have lost. Their legacy lives on through the impact they have had in our lives, and we can thank God for the ways he has blessed us through them. As we walk through grief, we find hope in the resurrection and eternal life promised in Christ, our Savior. Trusting in all of God’s promises, we hold on to the assurance that our loved ones who have passed away are safe in his loving arms. Compassionate God, in our grief may we find comfort in you. Draw near and hold us close as we mourn. Thank you for all of your promises. Thank you for understanding our pain and our tears. Help us to find hope in the resurrection and eternal life you have made possible for us in Jesus. Amen.

The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. — Philippians 4:7 In a world filled with uncertainty and turmoil, the peace of God offers us solace and tranquility. It is a peace that surpasses all understanding, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. To experience the peace of God, we surrender our anxieties and worries to him in prayer. We present our requests with thanksgiving, knowing that God cares deeply for us. In God’s presence we find comfort, assurance, and a quiet confidence that he is in control. The peace of God is not dependent on our circumstances but on our trust in him. It is a supernatural peace that defies logic and goes beyond human understanding. As we focus on the Lord and on his great mercy, care, and faithfulness to us, we find peace that transcends the chaos around us. In every situation, let’s turn to God, seeking his peace. May we cultivate a heart of gratitude, knowing that God is our source of strength and security. As we abide in him, his peace will guard our hearts and minds, enabling us to navigate life’s challenges with grace and confidence. Lord, fill us with your peace that “transcends all understanding.” Guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Help us to focus on you and to cultivate a heart of gratitude. In your presence may we find tranquility and strength. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly. — Proverbs 14:29 Anger is a powerful emotion that, if left unchecked, can lead to hurtful words and actions. As followers of Christ, we are called to deal with anger in a way that honors God and promotes reconciliation. When anger rises within us, we pause and take a moment to reflect. We invite the Holy Spirit to help us respond with gentleness, self-control, and understanding. Rather than allowing anger to control us, we yield to the transforming power of God’s grace. Cultivating a spirit of gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and self-control involves seeking to understand the root causes of our anger and addressing them with wisdom and discernment. We practice empathy and compassion, considering the perspectives and feelings of others. And in humility we apologize where necessary and seek reconciliation. God’s Word teaches us to be slow to anger and quick to listen (James 1:19). We find strength in prayer, inviting God to heal our hearts and fill us with his love. As we cultivate a spirit of peace and forgiveness, we become vessels of God’s grace, bringing restoration to our relationships. Loving Father, grant us gentleness and self-control when anger rises within us. Fill us with wisdom and understanding. Guide us to listen, empathize, and seek reconciliation. May your love, reflected in our actions, bring healing and restoration. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. — Romans 12:18 Conflict is an inevitable part of life, but as followers of Christ we are called to pursue peace and reconciliation. In the midst of conflict we have the opportunity to demonstrate God’s love and bring healing to broken relationships. When facing conflict, we begin by examining our own hearts and seeking humility. We strive to understand the perspectives of others and to respond with kindness, empathy, and forgiveness. Our goal is not to win arguments but to build bridges and restore relationships. The process of reconciliation requires patience, grace, and a willingness to listen. We invite God to work in us and through us, enabling us to extend forgiveness and to seek restoration. As we yield to the Lord’s guidance, he empowers us to respond with love and wisdom. In dealing with conflict, we rely on the Holy Spirit to guide our words and actions. We pray for the strength to lay down our pride, extend forgiveness, and pursue peace. Through our peacemaking efforts, we reflect the character of Christ and become agents of his reconciliation in a broken world. Prince of Peace, in situations of conflict, help us to seek your wisdom. May we respond with love, kindness, and forgiveness. Grant us humility for reconciliation, and give us the strength to pursue peace. Bring healing and restoration, Lord. Amen.

In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. — Proverbs 16:9 Discerning God’s will calls for seeking God’s wisdom and aligning our hearts with his purposes. As we desire to make choices that honor the Lord, we can trust that he will guide our steps and direct our paths. To discern God’s will, we must seek his wisdom through prayer and by meditating on his Word. We invite God into the decision-making process, surrendering our desires and plans and opening our hearts to his leading. God speaks to us through his Spirit, through the godly counsel of others, and through circumstances that align with his Word. As we grow in our relationship with God, we become more attuned to his voice and more aware of what aligns with his will. In times of decision making, let’s surrender our own understanding and submit to God’s perfect plan. May we rely on God’s wisdom rather than our own limited perspective. As we trust in the Lord, we can have confidence that he will guide us along the way that leads to fulfillment and joy. Wise and loving God, we seek your wisdom to discern your will. Help us to hear your voice. Give us courage to follow your leading. May your will prevail in every aspect of our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there . . . and make money.” . . . [But] you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” — James 4:13-15 Transitions in our lives can be exciting and challenging. Whether it’s a new job, a change in relationship status, or a move to a different city, transitions require us to trust in God’s guidance and to surrender our plans to him. In times of transition, we may feel uncertain and overwhelmed. Yet we can find comfort in knowing that God is with us every step of the way. As we trust in the Lord with all our heart, he directs our paths and provides the wisdom and strength we need (Proverbs 3:5-6). During transitions, we can seek God’s will through prayer, aligning our desires with his Word, and by searching out the wise counsel of others. We trust that the Lord will make our paths straight, even when the way seems unclear. He knows the plans he has for us (Jeremiah 29:11), and his timing is perfect. As we navigate transitions in life, let’s embrace them with faith and hope. May we rely on God’s guidance and be open to the opportunities he presents. In every season of change we can trust that God is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). Gracious God, in all our transitions help us to trust in your guidance and submit to your will. Grant us the wisdom and strength to serve you in all we do. Amen.

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust and am not afraid. — Psalm 56:3-4 Doubt can cast a shadow on our faith, causing us to question God’s faithfulness and promises. But in the midst of doubt we can find assurance by anchoring ourselves in the unwavering truth of God’s Word. When doubt arises, we turn to God in prayer, pouring out our hearts honestly. We express our fears, uncertainties, and questions, knowing that the Lord welcomes our honesty. In his presence we find reassurance, comfort, and the strength to persevere. It’s important to remember that doubt is not a sign of weakness but an invitation for growth. It presents an opportunity to seek a deeper understanding of God’s character and of his plans for our lives. We can find encouragement in the testimonies of others who have experienced God’s faithfulness in the midst of their doubts. As we experience doubt, we hold fast to the promises of God. We remind ourselves of his past faithfulness and lean on his unfailing love. We invite God to reveal himself to us, to increase our faith, and to dispel the shadows of doubt with the light of his truth. Faithful God, when I am in doubt, guide me to trust your unwavering faithfulness. Help me to bring all my doubts to you, seeking comfort. Increase my faith. Reveal yourself in profound ways. Grant me the strength to overcome my doubts and to walk in truth. In Jesus, Amen.

Come near to God and he will come near to you. — James 4:8 Intimacy with God is a precious invitation that is extended to each one of us. Our relationship with God is not distant but brings us in close communion with the Creator of the universe, who desires to reveal his love and purposes to us. To experience intimacy with God, we must prioritize our relationship with him. We set aside dedicated time for prayer, for studying his Word, and for worship. We cultivate a heart of surrender, seeking God’s will above our own. Intimacy with God is a two-way relationship. As we draw near to him, God comes near to us. In his presence we find comfort, healing, guidance, and peace. God speaks to our hearts, transforms our lives, and empowers us for his purposes. Let’s pursue intimacy with God passionately, longing to know him deeply and to be known by him. May we invite God into every aspect of our lives and open our hearts to his presence. In the Lord’s embrace we find rest, joy, and a love that surpasses all understanding. Loving Father, draw me near. Help me to prioritize our relationship, creating space for intimacy. Thank you for the privilege of knowing you closely. May my heart be receptive to your presence and voice. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. — Ephesians 6:11 In our journey of faith we are engaged in spiritual battle. The enemy seeks to distract, discourage, and deceive us. But there is no need to fear because in Christ we are equipped for victory. God has provided us with spiritual armor to stand against the schemes of the devil. We are called to put on the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. To engage in spiritual warfare, we must be vigilant, watchful, and prayerful. We rely on God’s strength and guidance, knowing that the battle belongs to him. Our weapons are not of the world, but they are powerful and effective through God to pull down strongholds. As we navigate spiritual warfare, let’s stand firm in the truth, unyielding in righteousness and steadfast in faith. Let’s immerse ourselves in God’s Word, allowing it to guide and protect us. In every battle may our prayers be fervent and our trust unwavering. Mighty God, strengthen us for spiritual battle. Help us stand firm in truth, righteousness, faith, and your Word. Grant us discernment and victory over the enemy’s schemes. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

I wish that all of you were [unmarried] as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that. — 1 Corinthians 7:7 Singleness is not a season to be endured but a gift to be embraced. People who are single have a unique opportunity to focus wholeheartedly on their relationship with God and his purposes for their lives. A single person can serve the Lord with undivided devotion, exploring their passions, and using their time and resources to serve for the benefit of others. Singleness allows a person to develop a deeper intimacy with God and to fully pursue God’s calling in their life. Though society may emphasize romantic relationships, God sees the value and potential in being single. He equips us with unique gifts and opportunities to make a difference in the world. Let’s remember that our worth is not defined by our marital status but by our identity as beloved children of God. If you are single, seek God’s guidance, surrendering your desires and plans into his loving hands. Ask God for wisdom in using your singleness to glorify him and invest in meaningful relationships, serving others and sharing the love of Christ. Dear God, thank you for the gift of singleness. Help all who have this gift to embrace it fully, seeking your purpose and serving others. Grant us contentment, wisdom, and intimacy with you. Use each one of us for your glory and purpose in this world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. — Proverbs 3:5-6 God invites us to trust in him, to surrender our worries, doubts, and fears into his capable hands. This involves a conscious choice to rely on God’s wisdom and guidance rather than leaning on our own limited understanding. In a world filled with uncertainty, we can find solace in the unchanging character of God. The Lord is faithful, steadfast, and true. He will fulfill every promise he has made. When we place our trust in the Lord, we tap into the wellspring of his grace, strength, and peace. Trusting God doesn’t mean that we will never face challenges or hardships. But it does mean that we can confidently face hard times, knowing that God is with us, working all things together for our good. We can rest in the assurance that God is in control and that his plans for us are perfect. Trusting God requires humility—a recognition that his ways are higher than ours. It involves surrendering our need for control and embracing his divine wisdom and timing. As we submit our lives to the Lord, he directs our paths, leading us on a journey of purpose and fulfillment. Let’s trust God with all our heart. In every circumstance, may we lean on his understanding and submit to his will. As we trust God, we experience his faithfulness, and our lives become a testimony to his goodness and grace. Lord, guide us to trust in you completely. Help us to live faithfully for you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” — Matthew 20:28 In a world that often values power and authority, servant leadership stands as a powerful model for those who seek to make a lasting impact. Jesus, our ultimate example of servant leadership, has shown us that greatness is found in humble service and selfless sacrifice. Servant leaders place the needs of others before their own. They lead with compassion, empathy, and a genuine desire to uplift and empower the people they serve. Instead of seeking to be served, they willingly serve others, pouring out their time, talents, and resources for the well-being of the team or community. Servant leadership is not about the accumulation of titles or accolades, but about making a positive difference in the lives of others. It involves active listening, fostering an inclusive environment, and recognizing the value and contributions of each person. As followers of Christ, we are called to embrace servant leadership. By imitating Jesus’ selflessness and humility, we reflect his love to the people around us. We lead by example, showing integrity, compassion, and grace in our interactions and decisions. As we embrace the call to servant leadership, may we follow in the footsteps of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve. May our lives inspire others to live this way too, bringing positive change to our families, workplaces, and communities. Lord Jesus, may our leadership reflect your love and selflessness and bring glory to your name. Amen.

“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” — Mark 10:43 Leadership is not about exerting power and control but about serving others with humility and love. Jesus, our ultimate example of leadership, taught us that true greatness lies in sacrificial servanthood and selfless influence. In a world that often values ambition and self-promotion, leadership that is rooted in humility and compassion stands out. A servant leader seeks the well-being and development of the people they lead, empowering them to reach their full potential. A servant leader listens, supports, and guides with empathy and grace. True leadership is not defined by titles or positions but by the impact we have on others. Every interaction, decision, and action provides an opportunity to lead with integrity, authenticity, and a genuine concern for others. As leaders, we are called to follow Jesus’ example. We are called to lead with love, inspiring and empowering the people around us to grow and flourish. Our influence should reflect the character of Christ, nurturing an environment of trust, collaboration, and mutual respect. May we embrace the call to leadership with humility and grace. May we put the needs of others ahead of our own, seeking to serve rather than be served. As we lead with compassion and integrity, let’s point others to the ultimate servant leader, Jesus Christ. Lord Jesus, teach us to lead with humility, love, and grace, following your example. Grant us wisdom, discernment, and compassion, we pray. Amen.

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. — 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Gratitude is a transformative attitude. It helps us to shift from looking at what we don’t have to seeing the abundance of blessings around us. In our gratitude we choose to recognize and appreciate the goodness and faithfulness of God in every aspect of our lives. Gratitude opens our eyes to the wonders of creation, the kindness of others, and the countless gifts bestowed on us by our heavenly Father. Gratitude is not limited to favorable circumstances; it prompts us to give thanks in all circumstances. Even in the midst of trials and challenges, we can find reasons to be thankful. We can express gratitude for God’s presence, for his comfort, and for lessons learned through difficult experiences. Our gratitude flows from realizing we are saved from sin and death through the loving sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We are recipients of unmerited grace, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life. Today let’s cultivate a heart of gratitude. May we pause to count our blessings, expressing gratitude to God and to the people around us. In every season let’s remember that gratitude is not just a momentary feeling but a way of life. As we live with hearts full of gratitude, we will experience joy, contentment, and a deep relationship with our loving Father. Dear Lord, we thank you for countless daily blessings. Help us to see your goodness in all aspects of life and to give thanks in all circumstances. May our lives overflow with gratitude to you. Amen.

If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. — Romans 10:9 Salvation is a precious gift offered to everyone, and all who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior receive salvation. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection we are reconciled with God, forgiven of all our sins, and granted eternal life. This salvation is based not on anything we have done but on God’s grace alone. Our salvation depends not on our feelings or circumstances but on the unchanging character of God and the finished work of Christ. We are saved by grace through faith, and nothing can separate us from God’s love for us in Christ. Assurance of salvation brings peace and security to our souls. Yet this does not mean we can grow complacent or have a license to sin. The gift of salvation prompts us to live in gratitude and obedience. Knowing that we are saved, we are motivated to live lives that honor and glorify God. We strive to grow in faith, walking in step with the Spirit and sharing the hope of salvation with others. Today let’s rejoice in the gift of salvation and the assurance it brings. May we embrace the truth that our salvation is secure in Christ. Let’s live with grateful hearts, striving to live out our faith and share the good news of salvation with a world in need. Gracious God, we thank you for salvation in Jesus Christ. Help us to live faithfully by honoring and glorifying you. Give us boldness to share this good news with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers . . . nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. — Romans 8:38-39 Unconditional love is a gift from God that surpasses our understanding. It is a love that knows no bounds, that remains steadfast through every season of life. With unconditional love our heavenly Father lavishes us with his grace and mercy. Human love often comes with conditions and limitations. But God’s love is different. God’s love embraces us in our brokenness, forgives our failures, and offers redemption and restoration. God’s love is unwavering, extending to every corner of our existence. In a world that craves acceptance and belonging, unconditional love provides support and affirmation. It reminds us that we are valued and cherished—not because of our performance or worthiness—but simply because we are God’s beloved children. God calls us to love others as he has loved us, extending grace and forgiveness in all our relationships. Through our words and actions, we have the privilege of sharing God’s boundless love with a hurting world. Today let’s embrace the beauty of unconditional love. May we open our hearts to receive God’s love fully, knowing that nothing can separate us from his embrace. And may we overflow with love for others, illuminating the world with his unconditional grace. Lord, we are in awe of your unconditional love. Help us to receive and extend your love everywhere. In Jesus, Amen.

“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” — Isaiah 41:10 Fear has a way of paralyzing us, hindering our progress, and robbing us of peace. Yet, as children of God, we are called to overcome fear and walk in the confidence of his presence and power. When fear tries to grip our hearts, we can find strength in God’s promises. The Lord assures us that he is with us, holding us in his mighty hand. In the face of uncertainty, we can trust in God’s faithfulness and goodness. Overcoming fear requires a shift in our perspective. Instead of dwelling on our anxieties, we can focus on the truth of God’s Word. We are reminded that we serve the God who is greater than any fear we may face. His strength and help are readily available. Courage is not the absence of fear but the choice to press forward despite our fear. As we surrender our fears to God, he equips us with his strength, enabling us to face challenges with boldness and resilience. In God we find refuge, peace, and the assurance that we are never alone. Today let’s release our fears into God’s capable hands. May we meditate on his promises, allowing his truth to banish fear from our hearts. With confidence in his presence and strength, we can step forward into the purposes God has for our lives, knowing that he is faithful to uphold us. Father, thank you for your presence and power in our lives. Help us to overcome fear by focusing on you and your promises. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. — Psalm 42:11 In our lives we can often face times of discouragement. Our spirits can feel heavy and our hearts burdened. When that happens, however, we can turn to God and lean on him, finding hope in his promises and unfailing love. Discouragement can come from various sources—disappointments, failures, prolonged challenges. Yet even in the midst of such trials we can choose to put our hope in God. He is our refuge and strength, the one who sustains us through every season. When discouragement threatens to overwhelm us, we can find solace in God’s Word. His mighty acts and daily provisions remind us of his faithfulness, and his promises give us hope for the future. God is always present to help in times of trouble, and his love and grace are sufficient for us (Psalm 46:1-11; 2 Corinthians 12:9). As we anchor our hope in God, our perspective shifts. We begin to see beyond our present circumstances, and we focus on the unchanging nature of our heavenly Father. He is the source of true joy and peace, and in him we find strength to persevere. Today, if you find yourself discouraged, turn to God in prayer. Pour out your heart before him and listen for his comforting voice. Trust in his perfect timing and purposes, knowing that he is working all things together for your good. O God, when we are discouraged, may we turn to find hope, peace, and strength in you. Fill our hearts with praise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“True worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth. . . . God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” — John 4:23-24 Jesus shares this important teaching while he is talking one day with a Samaritan woman (John 4:1-26). Worship is a sacred act that connects us intimately with God. It goes beyond rituals and outward expressions. It is a heartfelt response to God’s majesty and goodness. In worship, we surrender our hearts and minds to God, recognizing his worthiness, glory, and love. We draw near with awe and reverence, offering praise, adoration, and gratitude. True worship involves more than words and songs; it occupies our entire lives. It means aligning our thoughts, actions, and desires with God’s will each day. Worship occurs not only in a church gathering but also in our homes, workplaces, and communities. When we worship the Lord in spirit and truth, we encounter the transformative power of God. His Spirit ignites our hearts, renewing our passion for him and aligning our lives with his purposes. In the presence of the Almighty, we find joy, peace, and strength to navigate life’s challenges. Let’s be true worshipers, offering our lives as a continual act of worship to God. May we seek God with sincerity, authenticity, and a desire to know him more deeply. As we worship in spirit and in truth, may our lives reflect his glory, drawing others to experience the wonder of God’s love. In your Spirit and in truth, Lord, may our lives be a continual offering, reflecting your glory and drawing others to your love. Amen.

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. — Ephesians 5:25 Marriage is a sacred union designed by God, a reflection of his love and commitment to his people. It is a covenant relationship that calls us to sacrificial love, selflessness, and mutual support. In a world that often prioritizes self-gratification, marriage is meant to show the beauty of sacrificial love. As husbands and wives, we are called to follow the example of Christ’s love for the church by giving ourselves fully for the well-being and flourishing of our spouse. Marriage is a journey of growth, forgiveness, and shared experiences. It is a partnership in which two individuals strive to understand, honor, and cherish one another. It requires open communication, vulnerability, and a commitment to work through challenges together. In the highs and lows of married life, we find opportunities for growth, grace, and deepening intimacy. In the context of marriage we learn to offer encouragement, extend forgiveness, and support one another’s dreams and aspirations. Today let’s honor the sacredness of marriage. May we embrace the call to love and serve our spouse, imitating Christ’s selfless love. Let’s cultivate a spirit of humility, understanding, and compassion in our relationships. May our marriages reflect God’s love and faithfulness, bringing glory to him and serving as a beacon of hope in a broken world. Lord, grant us grace and strength to show sacrificial love. May our love testify to your faithfulness. In Jesus, Amen.

As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him. — Psalm 103:13 Fatherhood is a sacred role for dads, an opportunity to reflect the heart of our heavenly Father in the lives of children. This is a responsibility that carries great significance and impact, as fathers have the privilege of nurturing, guiding, and loving their children. In a world longing for strong and loving father figures, we are called to show the compassion, grace, and wisdom of our heavenly Father. All of us who are fathers today have the privilege to provide security, support, and affirmation to our children, cultivating an environment where they can grow and flourish. Fatherhood is more than a biological connection; it is a call to be present, engaged, and intentional in our children’s lives. It is a call to lead by example, teaching values, and instilling a love for God and others. We can shape our children’s character, cultivate their gifts, and walk alongside them in their journey. As imperfect beings, we may stumble and fall in this role. But God’s grace is abundant, providing us with the strength and wisdom we need. God is the ultimate Father who guides and equips us to fulfill our role with love and grace. As fathers today, may our lives exemplify God’s love, compassion, and provision, leaving a lasting legacy of faith and love for generations to come. Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of fatherhood. Grant us wisdom, patience, and love as we lead our children. Help us to reflect your grace and righteousness. Fill our hearts with your joy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. — Revelation 7:9 In his grand design God calls us to embrace cross-cultural connections and celebrate the diversity among us. The vision in Revelation reveals a glimpse of the eternal kingdom, where people from every nation, tribe, and language will stand united before the throne, worshiping our Lord and Savior. Cross-cultural connections allow us to experience the richness and beauty of God’s creation. As we interact with people from different cultures, we can learn, grow, and broaden our perspectives. We discover the immense tapestry of humanity, woven together by the Creator’s loving hand. This also requires humility, openness, and a willingness to step out of our comfort zones. It calls us to set aside preconceived notions and to appreciate the backgrounds and experiences of others. Through genuine relationships, we can foster unity, break down barriers, and bridge gaps that divide us. Following Jesus’ example, we learn to love and accept others as they are. Doing so, we become ambassadors of reconciliation and unity, reflecting the heart of God to a fragmented world. Today let’s seek opportunities to engage with individuals from different cultures, listening, learning, and building meaningful relationships. And may our lives bear witness to the power of God’s love, fostering unity among all peoples. Lord, we cherish your diverse creation. Use us for unity and reconciliation, reflecting your love. In Jesus, Amen.

“Come, follow me,” Jesus said. . . . At once they left their nets and followed him. — Matthew 4:19-20 When Jesus called his disciples, he issued an invitation that went beyond mere companionship. He called for a radical commitment to follow him completely. This call echoes through time, extending to us as his followers today, urging us to embrace the path of discipleship. Discipleship is more than attending church or learning about Jesus. It is a transformative journey of surrender, obedience, and growth. Just as he called his first disciples to follow him, Jesus invites us to do the same. This might even mean changing the work we do. The main point is to let go of pursuits that would hinder our devotion to him. Our aim as disciples is to follow our Master by living out his teachings. Through an intimate relationship with Jesus, we are transformed into his likeness and empowered to make an impact for good in the world around us. Discipleship isn’t without challenges, but it also offers abundant life and eternal purpose. We discover the joy of knowing Jesus deeply, experiencing his presence, and becoming agents of his kingdom. In this context our faith is refined, our character is shaped, and our lives bear lasting fruit. Today let’s respond to Jesus’ call with wholehearted commitment. And may our lives testify to his love, grace, and transformative power. Lord Jesus, thank you for your call to discipleship. Transform us with your love to follow you faithfully, knowing you are with us. Amen.

Moses said to the Lord, “Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent. . . . I am slow of speech and tongue.” — Exodus 4:10 In our life of faith, there are times when God calls us to tasks that can seem beyond our abilities. Like Moses, we might think we lack the skills or eloquence to do what God has asked. Doubts and insecurities can grip our hearts, causing us to question whether we can truly serve God’s purpose. When God called Moses to go before Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses hesitated. He felt that he could not communicate the message well. He may even have had a speech impediment. But God said, “Who gave human beings their mouths?” In other words, God is the one who equips and empowers the ones he calls. So he assured Moses that he would be with him, guiding his words and actions. Just as God did not overlook Moses’ concerns, he also sees our doubts and knows our limitations. But God chooses us, imperfect as we are, to accomplish his plans. And it is in our moments of weakness that God’s strength shines through. He delights in using us to accomplish extraordinary feats for his glory. When we feel inadequate, let’s remember that our sufficiency comes from God alone. He provides the necessary resources, wisdom, and strength to carry out his purposes. We can trust that God will equip us with exactly what we need, and he will never leave us to face our challenges alone. Lord God, thank you for choosing us despite our weaknesses. Strengthen us to step out in faith to serve as you call us to do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Now [God] has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation. — Colossians 1:22 I have friends and family who have been estranged from one another. It is, at best, unpleasant. At worst, it is horrible and painful. Spouses despise each other; children and parents don’t speak to each other for years; business partners want to be rid of each other. Things can get ugly in this old world. This is why the news of God’s reconciliation is so marvelous. The hatred, enmity, and hostility are scrubbed away. We are doused in the cleansing blood of Jesus. We can be reconciled to God and to others because we are made blameless and spotless again through Jesus. Jesus makes us spotless and blameless through his own body and blood. We are no longer stained, sinful, and bitter. We are new people, remade with holy ingredients. Once we are reconciled with God, we learn to forgive as the Lord has forgiven us (Colossians 3:13). It is no longer the old sinner who comes forward to bind up the ruptures we have with others. It is a new person, who is holy and without blame or blemish. Once we are made new in Christ, we can respond to others as Jesus responded to them. And they can see us not as the blameworthy people who harmed them, but through the eyes of Christ, who accepts us all. Anyone who is reconstituted in Jesus can and should accept another. God, thank you for reconciling us to yourself through the death of Jesus. Help us to be reconciled with others through Jesus as well. Amen.

I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit. . . . — John 15:5 Are we really united to Jesus like branches to a vine? Yes, and amen! And does that mean we are also united with other people who are Christians? Yes, it does. If we are united with Christ, we are like a branch of the holy vine of God. Yet there are other branches too, and the people represented by all those branches are loved by God just as we are—even if we might disagree with them in some ways or don’t understand why they believe as they do. Sadly, there are divisions in the worldwide church of Jesus Christ, and those can often be ugly and unnecessary. Do different Christians see things differently? Yes. Do they act differently? Yes. May we separate from them, when they are living branches in the vine of Christ? No. To do so would be arrogant and hurtful. Sometimes, however, people come up with false teachings that deny the truth of Christ (as in 1 John 2:18-27). And if they insist on following those teachings, they can mislead others and cut themselves off from the vine of Christ. That is a terrible tragedy, and we need to know how tragic it is when something like that happens. Let’s do all we can to remain united with Christ and with the other branches of Christ’s church. Jesus says, “If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love. . . . Love each other as I have loved you.” Forgive us, Lord, if we think that we are always right and that others should conform to our way. May we seek unity in you, the true vine. Amen.

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” — John 11:25 This quotation is a brief summary of the good news of Jesus. He says that anyone who believes in him will live, even after death. He says that life comes only through him. And he does not merely say that he knows how to find the resurrection and the life; he says, “I am the resurrection and the life.” This occurs amid the dramatic story of the raising of Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha, Jesus’ close friends. Lazarus became ill and died while Jesus was away. Jesus even waited to come so that everyone would know Lazarus was surely dead by the time Jesus arrived. Jesus did this so that his followers would believe, learning that he had the power to raise someone from the dead. Then Jesus went to Lazarus’s tomb and brought his friend back to life, so that everyone would believe and see the glory of God (John 11:1-44). Soon after that, resurrected life became available to all—through Jesus’ own death and resurrection. As the apostle Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 15, Jesus became “the firstfruits” of resurrection life for all who “belong to him”—that is, for all who believe in him as Savior and Lord. Because of Jesus’ resurrection, all can rise with him. All that God requires is that we believe Jesus is indeed the resurrection and the life. Jesus, you are the resurrection and the life. Raise us with you. Thank you for giving us life after death, that we may live with you as part of God’s family forever. Amen.

This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life. . . . — Deuteronomy 30:19 In Deuteronomy, Moses is giving his farewell speech to God’s people Israel. So he tells the Israelites straight up: “You can go one of two ways—the way of blessings and life, or the way of curses and death. Choose life!” The choice seems rather simple and obvious, right? I can’t imagine people saying, “Well, I’ll choose curses and death.” But some do. Some people reject or ignore the choice that God gives them. The same thing happens today. People reject or ignore the choice to follow Christ. In Moses’ day, God laid the choice in front of Israel in terms of a “covenant.” That was a pact between God and his people—a pledge of fidelity on both sides. God promised to be faithful to his people, and the people were called to reciprocate. They needed to be faithful to God. They needed to keep the terms of the covenant. Those terms made up the law, summarized in the Ten Commandments: do not worship or serve other gods; do not harm your neighbor; and so on. Yet no human could keep the terms of that covenant perfectly—till Jesus came. Jesus is the only human who kept every stipulation of the covenant. And he not only chose life for himself but also made it available to all who choose life in him. Thanks to Jesus, we have blessings and life! Jesus, you have blessed us in every way. You give us life now and forever. Help us share this good news everywhere. Amen.

God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. — John 3:16 Notice that God loves this whole, great big world. He doesn’t just love only a few people—or even all people—but the whole world. That includes all creation. Wow, that’s a big love! All of nature is God’s, and God loves all of it. True, we humans are the capstone of creation, but we are still very much a part of it. All of us, and all of creation, can and should give praise to our Maker. So, for example, the flower that grows in a meadow, unseen by humans, is seen by God. And God delights in it. God’s love, as revealed in Jesus, is the broadest, deepest, most penetrating love there has ever been. Its breadth extends to every creature God has ever made. The bear, the butterfly, and the amoeba all celebrate God’s love, praising their Maker by doing what they are created to do. God loves the whole world, and he sent Jesus to redeem all of it. As the crown of God’s creation, we must love it too. How can we do that? By treating the world as an object of our love, by saving the scarce flora and fauna that God put here, and by nurturing rather than destroying the world. God’s love is BIG. Our love needs to be like his. Jesus, you love the whole, big, world. Help us to love it too. Help us to care for it and protect it. Help us to share your love within it. Amen.

Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers . . . nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. — Romans 8:38-39 Most of the conquerors in history have been egotistical thugs. They established kingdoms by their own power and for their own glory, often killing many thousands of people to do so. But what we learn from Scripture is that Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords, has conquered all things by laying down his own life as a ransom for us. By doing that, he broke the power of sin’s hold on us. And that means no other power in all creation or even in the spiritual realms can separate us from God. Nothing can separate us “from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Sometimes the challenges we face are from circumstances and other people, but the root of all challenges to our faith comes from spiritual forces that are at war with God. Those spiritual powers would love to destroy us, but they cannot touch us because of God’s protection in Christ. Jesus has already won the battle. And because he won, we win! When Jesus rose from the dead, he overcame the ultimate weapon of the forces of evil—death. Never again can Satan and the powers of evil have a hold on us, because Jesus has brought us into everlasting life. With him, we are more than conquerors. Jesus, you won. You won for us. Help us to stand firm against all influences that want to challenge our faith in you. Help us to live for you each day. Amen.

The creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God. — Romans 8:21 Did you know that God’s plan of salvation includes more than the saving of human souls? For many Christians “Jesus saves” means that Jesus saves us from our sins, and that is true—but there is also much more. Jesus came to save the whole world, all of creation. So, when Jesus comes again, the world will not be obliterated—it will be renewed. The creation will no longer be subjected to the effects of human sin. It will be renewed, purified, and made whole. At the time of our first sin, the ground itself became cursed. And throughout human history we have often been a curse to the ground and to the air and the seas as well. We often spoil and wreck God’s creation rather than protecting, guarding, and cultivating it. In this situation, creation “groans” under the effects of the curse of sin. All of creation longs to be set free from this cursed state. The universe longs for Jesus to return, for his enemies to be conquered, and for his children to be revealed as his own. Then all creation will be set free, along with the children of God. O God, thank you for your solution of setting the whole world free from the curse of sin. Help us to guard and cultivate the world you came to save. Amen.

“My father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?” — John 14:2 There is nothing like a good homecoming. Perhaps you enjoyed one recently. Family members return home. Children, grandchildren, and other relations gather around, delighted to see each other and renew relationships. Or maybe a reunion brought together old friends who hadn’t seen each other in a long time. If you were making preparations, didn’t you scurry with anticipation—planning, preparing food, and making sure that accommodations were made and rooms were ready? Jesus is preparing for us to come home. He loves us so much that he wants all of us to be there. In fact, the whole reason he came to live among us was so that we could later join him in our Father’s house. He came to rescue us from the curse of sin and death so that we can enjoy new life with him forever. Then he went back to heaven when his work here was complete. And now in heaven he is preparing a place for us. I can imagine the kind of place being prepared—with wonderful food, glorious music, delightful friends—and all in a context of perfect peace. Wow! If you have welcomed Jesus into your life, he waits, smiling and with outstretched arms, to welcome you into his Father’s home. Jesus, thank you for coming to live among us. We look forward to the amazing homecoming that awaits us in heaven, thanks to your finished work here on earth. Amen.

Like living stones, [you] are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. — 1 Peter 2:5 Jesus came as the Savior to bring us into God’s family, providing us a home with God. As Peter describes it, Jesus is also the cornerstone of our faith: “The one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” (See also Psalm 25:3; Isaiah 28:16.) And “like living stones,” we “are being built into a spiritual house” to serve God with “spiritual sacrifices.” Another way to say this is pictured in Ephesians 4:12-13: we are called to “works of service, so that the body of Christ [the church] may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God.” All of this imagery reflects the fact that, through Jesus, God has brought redemption for all who believe him, making them his family, his chosen people. Again, as Peter writes, “you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” We become royalty when we are adopted into the family of God. We are built together on the firm foundation of Christ with the love of God through the Holy Spirit. No storm can shake this house. This “dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit” will stand forever (Ephesians 2:22). Lord Jesus, you are our firm foundation. Hold us together in your holy church. Build us into a dwelling that is worthy of your name. Amen.

“Father . . . glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. . . . Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” — John 17:1-3 Many years before Jesus came, the Lord God Almighty called Abraham and made promises to him—and Abraham trusted and followed (Genesis 12:1-8). At that time most people believed in many different gods, and all the nations claimed they had gods of their own. The Lord, however, taught Abraham and his descendants that he is the only true God. And he often demonstrated that by overthrowing the false gods of other nations. For example, when God delivered his people Israel from slavery in Egypt, he sent ten plagues that showed his power over Egypt’s gods: the Nile god, the harvest god, the sun god, and so on (Exodus 7-12). God showed that he is the creator and sustainer of the whole world. The God of Israel was not attached to one aspect of the world, but moved throughout the whole world and controlled the events of history. Jesus came to reveal the one true God and his salvation for the whole world (John 3:16). And he calls everyone to believe in him as Savior. Jesus is also one with God and with the Holy Spirit (see John 14:8-21; 16:7-15). Even today people worship other gods—wealth, sports teams, Shiva and Vishnu, and more. They will all pass away. None of them could ever direct history or provide salvation. Only the God revealed in Jesus can do that. Worship only him. Dear Jesus, thank you for revealing the true God to us and for being our Savior. Amen.

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” — John 15:13 In our Scripture reading for today we see that Jesus calls his disciples “friends.” Friendship is based on mutual love. A friend is someone you can talk with about anything. A friend is someone whom you look forward to seeing. A friend is someone you care about. Jesus is the best friend you and I have ever had. He laid down his life for us so that we could be freed from the curse of sin and death and receive new life with God. Jesus proved the extent of his love for us when he died in our place. There may have been some people in human history who willingly died for someone else. But no one besides Jesus could possibly trade his life for the lives of millions and millions of his friends. An old hymn says, “What a friend we have in Jesus!” Jesus is indeed our friend, and, amazingly, he sees us as his friends! He is our lifelong friend whom we can talk to about anything. He loves to hang around with us. He cares about us. What is the result of this beautiful friendship? Joy! Jesus takes joy in us, his friends, and we take joy in him. Lord Jesus, we enjoy your friendship. We know that becoming our friend cost you dearly. Thank you for paying that price and for truly being our best friend forever. Amen.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. — John 1:1 In John 1 the Greek term for “Word” is logos. John chose this word carefully. In Greek philosophy the word logos referred to divine reason, or the power that made order out of chaos. This idea fits well with the scriptural teaching that God—whose word is always faithful and true, and who created all things—has revealed himself in a new way through his Son, the Word of God, who “became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” God has long been communicating with us—through creation, the prophets, and the Scriptures. But with the coming of “the Word”—that is, Jesus—God revealed himself even more. Earlier forms of communication were less clear. Since the logos became flesh, however, we can see, hear, and know that we have met God. Jesus is the best and the only perfect representation of God. This contradicts the teachings of other religions that claim they have a better or additional revelation of God. Why would you want or need to hear more about God once you have heard from the Word himself? Jesus showed that God is love and “the light [that] shines in the darkness.” We need to recognize that the true and complete Word of God has come into the world. That Word is Jesus Christ, “the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” Word of life, help us to trust in you for salvation and new life. Thank you for coming so that we can know the truth that sets us free from sin and death forever. Amen.

“Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” — John 4:14 Water is basic and fundamental to life. I once heard a biologist say that when God decided to create water, the rest of creation was details. This is not meant to minimize all the complexities of God’s creation, but it can help us to see how important water is. When Jesus asked the Samaritan woman for a drink of water, he was breaking two social taboos. He was talking to a woman, and he was talking to a Samaritan. Jewish people thought of the Samaritans as half-breeds and heretics, and the Samaritans did not have much respect for the Jews. But by asking the Samaritan woman for water, Jesus wanted her to reconsider all the things she thought she knew. She said, “You have nothing to draw water with and the well is deep. . . .” But Jesus wasn’t talking about H2O; nor was he talking about the kind of life that H2O makes possible. He was talking about himself—the water that brings eternal life. Jesus offered the woman everlasting life. And when she drank in the living water of Christ—that is, the good news of eternal life in him—she was filled with new life. Though we still have to drink enough H2O each day to keep our bodies going, we need only to drink the living water of Jesus to receive eternal life. O God, thank you for the gift of new life in Christ. Fill us with your living water, that your good news may flow from us to all the world, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

“I am the way and the truth and the life.” — John 14:6 It is sometimes hard to face the truth, especially when the truth is that we have messed up. Instead we make excuses. We think we are exceptional: “I didn’t really mean it that way.” “I thought it would be OK if . . .” And so on. But the truth is the truth. And Jesus is the Truth. The worst thing we can do is to ignore or deny this absolute and final Truth—that Jesus is the one and only Son of God who saves sinners. Though the truth about God’s nature and presence is clear to all, people tend to suppress it (Romans 1:18-20). We are all guilty of doing this. When we recognize the truth, we don’t like what we see. So we think it isn’t true for us, or that it doesn’t matter. But the truth does matter. Lying to ourselves matters, and it matters most if we lie to ourselves about God. Today we live in a media storm of falsehoods. Many, many voices today lie or bend the truth to suit their own views or preferences. But beyond all the deceptions in this world, the final authority is God in Jesus—the Truth himself. Believe what he says, and believe that he died and rose again so that you may have life everlasting. Dear Jesus, forgive us for our lies. We lie to try to prove we are right. We lie to try to make ourselves look good. Forgive us especially if we lie about who you are and what you have done. Amen.

We ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption. . . . — Romans 8:23 This passage in Romans says that we become adopted into God’s family through the finished work of Jesus Christ and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. This makes us “heirs of God and coheirs with Christ.” Amazing! So, while blood relation can determine who is part of a family, so can adoption. And this involves love—unconditional love—as well as deep, lasting, faithful commitment. God’s love and commitment to us provide the best possible foundation for our lives. It is indeed good news that we are adopted by God the Father through the work of Christ Jesus the Son and the Holy Spirit. Through Jesus and the Spirit, we become full sons and daughters in the family of God. Jesus, our older brother, brings us into the family. His commitment to us is so great that he gave up his life to free us from the curse of sin and death so that he could bring us into full life as children of God the Father. In our adoption God says yes to us: “Yes, you are mine. Yes, I am with you. Yes, I love you forever.” God’s love and commitment are immeasurable. Thanks to Jesus and the guiding work of the Spirit, we are heirs to all of God’s promises and blessings. Brother Jesus, thank you for making our adoption as children of God possible. We know that you are now seated at the right hand of the Father, claiming us as part of God’s family. We are no longer estranged, but beloved children. Amen.

He . . . shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. — Hebrews 2:14-15 In the beginning, when the first human beings brought sin into the world (Genesis 3), we became enslaved by the power of death—and that put us under the tyranny of the devil. But that is not the end of the story. Ever since that time, God also promised to redeem us. In other words, God would somehow pay our debt of sin and free us to live as he intended. And one day Jesus, God’s Son, accomplished that for us. As the apostle John put it, “The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work” (1 John 3:8). Jesus willingly laid down his life, giving himself over to death because death was the payment for sin. As Romans 6:23 puts it, “The wages of sin is death.” What’s more, Satan held us captive by the power of death because we had fallen for his temptation. And by falling into sin, we became subject to the curse of death. Jesus, however, did not fall for Satan’s lies. Jesus remained sinless. So when he gave his own life to pay for our sin, the devil could not hold Jesus in his grasp. Jesus broke through the power of death with new life. He conquered death. He annulled the binding contract that subjected us to Satan’s power. He gave the devil his due—a perfect human life, and that ransom payment set us free, bringing us back to enjoy life with God the Father forever. Jesus, thank you for redeeming us from the power of Satan. Help us to live for you. Amen.

Just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people. — Romans 5:18 Hell is not an easy subject to discuss when we are talking about faith in Jesus. It’s much more pleasant to focus on the love of God through Jesus that saves us from death and hell. Nevertheless, the subject of hell is mentioned in Scripture, and it is probably best described as condemnation or complete separation from God. Romans 5 helps us understand that “sin entered the world through one man”—that is, Adam (see Genesis 3)—and that death, or condemnation, “came to all people” because of that. But Jesus, the Son of God, who became human, came to turn that problem around. Jesus never sinned when he was tempted, so through his obedience all who believe in him are “made righteous.” God’s “abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness” are made possible “though the one man, Jesus Christ!” Sadly, all of us sin, so it is fair to say that we all deserve condemnation. Romans 6:23, for example, says that “the wages of sin is death”—and then it adds, “but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord”! All who have been rescued by Jesus have no need to fear. We will not be condemned. Jesus took on himself all of the sins that condemned us. So instead of being condemned to hell, we are promised new life forever with Jesus in the new heaven and new earth. Jesus, thank you for rescuing us from sin, death, and hell. Help us to share this good news with everyone! Amen.

“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.” — John 3:14-15 In John 3, Jesus teaches that the strange story about a bronze snake in Numbers 21 points to him and his work of healing. Jesus saves us from sin and death. The book of Numbers includes many stories about the Israelites’ complaining to God as they trekked through the wilderness. In Numbers 21 they complain again about the food. And in this case God punishes them for their rebellion and disobedience. Like many Bible stories, this one continues with a plea for forgiveness, and God provides a merciful response. But the response is very unusual. God says, “Make a snake and put it up on a pole. Then whoever looks at it can live.” The bronze snake that Moses made represented a sort of antidote to the venom of the snakes that were biting people. Looking to the bronze snake that was lifted up spared the people from death. Jesus brought up this old story while he was teaching about the work he had come to do. Jesus came to save us from the death we brought on ourselves by sinning and rebelling against God. Lifted up on a cross for our sake, Jesus died to pay the price of our sin. And when we look up to Jesus in faith, believing in the power of his sacrifice to save, “we may have eternal life in him. 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.” Jesus, thank you that we can look to you in faith and be saved. Amen.

“It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” But the temple he had spoken of was his body. — John 2:20-22 Did you know that the tabernacle in the Old Testament (Exodus 36-40), and the temple afterward (1 Kings 6-8), were made from heavenly blueprints? Hebrews 8 helps us to see this. All the features and furnishings were meant to show that the temple on earth was just a copy of the sanctuary in heaven. When Jesus came to live among us, he brought the temple with him—in his person. The temple was the place where God met his people. It was where the Israelites presented themselves and their sacrifices before God. When the Son of God became human, God and humankind were united as never before. God himself lived among us and was one of us. In fact, the original Greek text of John 1:14 tells us that Jesus “tabernacled” (“made his dwelling”) among us. Since God himself is present with us through Jesus, why would we need to meet with God anywhere else? The temple building in Jerusalem became obsolete after Jesus came, because God was present on earth in Jesus himself. And now a perfect human, Jesus, is present in heaven with God. The book of Revelation adds that in the new heaven and earth God himself will dwell among us, and there won’t be a temple structure because “the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb [Jesus] are its temple” (21:3, 22). And we will live there forever with God! O God, we long to be with you. Bring us into the holy place you have prepared for us. Amen.

Such a high priest truly meets our need—one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens. — Hebrews 7:26 Priests had a very important role in ancient Israel. They served as mediators between the people and God. They stood between the holy God and his sinful people, enabling these people to approach the Lord. But the priests themselves were also sinners. So even the best of them, the High Priest, had to purify himself before making sacrifices for the people. Jesus, however, was pure and sinless, the Son of God who took on human flesh and came to live among us. He came to perform the role of the ideal High Priest for us all. Whereas the Old Testament (Old Covenant) priests were sinful and mortal, Jesus is pure and immortal. Jesus therefore serves as the perfect High Priest forever for our sake. Now ascended and ruling in heaven, Jesus serves as our ultimate High Priest in the holiest place. He is the mediator at the right hand of God the Father in heaven, interceding for us. When God sees us now, he sees pure and blameless children of the new covenant mediated by the perfect High Priest, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Jesus, you are pure and blameless. You alone can be the mediator between us and God. Thank you for taking this role and for continuing to exercise it as you intercede for us in heaven. Amen.

We have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. — Hebrews 10:10 The book of Hebrews looks at Jesus’ life from the perspective of the Old Testament system of sacrifices. Today we will reflect on Jesus as the one and only sacrifice for sin. In ancient Israel, God commanded that sacrifices be made to cover the sins of the people. These sacrifices were symbolic, representing the sinner. By making a sacrifice, the sinner was saying, “I have done wrong and deserve punishment, but please accept this offering in my place.” The Israelites were required to make sacrifices for many things. If they touched a dead animal—make a sacrifice. If they harmed their neighbor—make a sacrifice. If they accidentally hurt someone—make a sacrifice. Making sacrifices was a part of everyday life. Why were there so many sacrifices? Because there were so many sins, and each sacrifice only (symbolically) covered one sin.When Jesus came, however, he gave up his life as a sacrifice. Though he was pure and perfect, he gave up his body in place of all our bodies. And his sacrifice did not symbolize just one man dying for his sin; Jesus, the perfect Son of God, offered himself as a sacrifice for all human sin. And because he committed no sin, Jesus’ sacrifice covered all the sins of all people, including you and me. Thank you, Jesus, for putting an end to the Old Testament system of sacrifices. We could never offer an acceptable sacrifice. But your perfect sacrifice makes us acceptable to God forever. Amen.

Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. — Matthew 4:1 Since the beginning, human beings have failed God’s test. In Eden, Satan asked, “Did God say . . . ?” and then misquoted God’s words. Adam and Eve responded by questioning the word of God and then doing what seemed right in their own eyes. So do we. Jesus, the Son of God, came to live among us as a human being. And, in his case, the Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness to be tempted. There Satan made some suggestions that sounded rather reasonable—“have something to eat; show your power; fall into the arms of God.” Jesus responded to each temptation with a quote from the Scriptures. Rather than twisting God’s words, he said, in effect, “No, I live by the Word of God.” This is still our challenge as well. Will we live by God’s Word, or will we do what seems right in our own eyes? Like Adam and Eve, we are experts at twisting God’s words to suit our own purposes. We lie, we lust, we get angry, we are greedy, we gossip—and so on. Rarely does a day pass in which we don’t yield to some temptation. We need to rely on the only one who passed the test. Jesus was “tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin” (Hebrews 4:15). What’s more, Jesus also laid down his life to pay the price for our sin—so that we can live forever with God. What a Savior! Father, forgive us, for Jesus’ sake, when we fail to live your way when we are tempted. Lord Jesus, thank you for living faithfully and giving your life for our sake. Amen.

“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” — Mark 8:34 Following Jesus means more than listening to him and agreeing with his teachings. Jesus says that whoever wants to be his disciple “must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow” him. Notice that Jesus says we must deny our selves, not that we must deny ourselves something—like chocolate or a new car. We are to deny our own self-interest, self-absorption, and pride. The misguided self must be replaced with a new self that is being shaped to be like Jesus. And, like Jesus, this new self is not here to be served, but to serve, and to give its life for others (Mark 10:45). What does it mean to take up our cross? It means being willing to sacrifice our own desires and to give of ourselves so that others may come to know Jesus and want to follow him. That’s what he did for us, and he calls us to follow his example, even to the point of suffering and giving up our own life, if necessary. Jesus took up his cross and let himself be crucified, once for all, so that our old selves could be crucified, set free from sin, and made new through him (Romans 6:6-7; Galatians 5:24). And by the power of the Holy Spirit, who gives us new life in Christ, we are called to take on the self-sacrificial life of Christ. Jesus explains: “Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.” Jesus, help us to follow you. Fill us with your Spirit so that we may deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow you. Amen.

No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame. . . . — Psalm 25:3 Shame is different from guilt. If you are guilty, you did something wrong, and you realize you are responsible for it. You can feel shame from being guilty, but feelings of shame are not always tied to guilt. Shame has more to do with a lack of self-worth, and that can come from not measuring up to a standard, from feeling insecure, from being bullied or abused in various ways, from public disgrace, ridicule, and more. When you are ashamed, you may or may not have done something wrong, but when others see you, you feel exposed, dirty, unworthy of respect. When Adam and Eve fell into sin, they realized they had done wrong. They saw that they were naked. They were exposed and felt shame. They tried to cover up and hide. But they couldn’t hide from God—and that was a good thing, because God loved them and valued them, despite what they had done wrong. God loves us all too, despite any bad we have done. Jesus came to take away the guilt and shame of our sin. And he did that by taking on the most shameful death possible: crucifixion on a Roman cross. He hung there naked, in public disgrace, exposed to the abuse of the jeering crowd. And yet he was innocent. “He endured the cross, scorning its shame” (Hebrews 12:2), so that we can be freed from all shame and live fully with him. Now, because of Jesus, we are forever clean. Lord Jesus, thank you for taking on the shame of all the world to free us from shame forever. In your name, Amen.

He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. — Isaiah 53:5 Never was someone treated so unjustly as Jesus was. Absolute good was attacked by absolute evil. And that evil was our evil, shared by all humanity. Our sins, along with those of the whole world, were like the nails that pinned him to the cross. Sometimes in our churches we skip over the excruciating suffering that Jesus endured for us on the cross. When he took our place to pay the price of our sin, Jesus was pierced and crushed and afflicted, “led like a lamb to the slaughter.” He was mocked and ridiculed. He was forsaken by God. Yet Jesus chose to take on that suffering for us. Even the thought of the agony he would experience caused him to sweat drops like blood (Luke 22:44). Our salvation was made possible through Jesus’ agonizing physical pain. Our salvation is a very physical event. God did not just “save souls”; he saved whole human beings. In the new heaven and earth we will have perfected and restored bodies (1 Corinthians 15). We will live in a renewed, physical creation. Christ’s salvation for us was a gruesome, physical affair. Thank God that our bodies and our physical world are saved through Jesus, who not only died for our sins but also suffered for them. Jesus, you suffered excruciating agony for us. You did so because of the joy it brought you to welcome us back into fellowship with our Father. Thank you for bearing our pain. Amen.

You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. — 1 Peter 2:9 A World War II veteran told me that he had never experienced complete darkness until he was on a ship in the Pacific Ocean during the war. There were no stars at night, and the ship’s lights were off so that no enemies could see it. When it is pitch dark, you can’t see your hand in front of your face. You have no idea what lies ahead of you or what might be near you. You have no idea of the risks you could face with every move. That is a compelling picture of being lost in sin. If Jesus had not come into our world, we would still be lost in the darkness of sin. We would have remained in hopeless blindness. But Jesus is “the light of the world.” He is the one who comes to us in our darkness and leads us into his glorious light. He shows us the way out of hopeless darkness and continues to guide us by the light of God’s mercy. “Whoever follows me,” he promised, “will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Into the darkness a light has shined. That light is the light of life and the light of the world. Do not walk in darkness; follow Jesus’ radiant light. Lord Jesus, you are the light of the world. Yet many people walk in darkness. Help us all to seek and to see your light. Help us to walk in your light faithfully, that we may live with you always. Amen.

Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. — Galatians 5:1 Pharaoh was the most powerful man in the world at the time of the Exodus, when God freed his people from slavery in Egypt. Pharaoh reigned over the prosperous civilization of the Nile. He had huge temples built in honor of his gods. His gravesite is still visible today in the Valley of the Kings at Luxor. Yet Pharaoh was unable to stop God from liberating his people. Through Moses, who had no army or political standing in the Egyptian court, God freed his people from slavery. Today God frees us from slavery too. Until we are saved through Jesus, we are slaves to sin. We are subjects of the world’s great powers; we are at the mercy of Satan. We have grown accustomed to our addictions. We need liberation. Moses showed Pharaoh that God had more power than all of the Egyptian gods combined. The gods of the Nile, of the cattle, of the harvest, and so on were all shown to be powerless in comparison to the God of Israel. Today false gods inhabit power structures as well. There are political powers, economic powers, military powers, familial powers, and corporate powers that oppress people. Yet God is stronger than all of them. Jesus, God’s Son, delivers us from all these powers, and he has already freed us from their grip, paying the price of sin and canceling the power of death for our sake. Lord Jesus, help us to trust in you to deliver us. Free us from the oppressive powers we face today. Strengthen us to follow you. Amen.

“Learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” — Matthew 11:29 Did God rest after creating the world because he was tired? No. When God rested, he set up a pattern for his people to follow so that they could take time to rest and to worship him (see Exodus 20:8-11). Finding our rest in God provides peace, as God intends for us all. God wants his people to be able to live in a good, peaceful place where they can rest—that is, where they can flourish and have full life. God brought his people Israel out of slavery for that purpose. But Israel rebelled and failed to believe that God could provide that for them. So they did not inherit God’s promised rest even though God eventually brought them to the land he had promised them (Numbers 13-14; Judges 2; Hebrews 3:7-4:11). Later God sent Jesus to show the way. Jesus knew that God could overcome any enemy that tried to prevent him from living God’s way and entering God’s promised rest. Jesus lived faithfully, trusting in all of God’s promises. And he finished the work God had sent him to do. We all work, and we all need rest. But none of us can do the job that will bring us eternal rest. Jesus has done that for us, however—so now all we need to do is follow him. We can rest and find peace in God through the work that Jesus has completed on our behalf. Dear God, forgive us when we fail to believe and trust that you will bring us into your rest. We cannot find the way to full life on our own. Help us to follow the Savior, Jesus. Amen.

Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’” — Matthew 4:10 It’s easy for us to be tempted. There are temptations everywhere—within our hearts and coming at us from all sides. Satan provides a master class on temptation in Genesis 3. He begins by suggesting that God is keeping us from enjoying something good. “Did God really say you can’t eat anything in this garden? Poor soul.” And when we feel we are missing out on something, the devil adds, “You can do this. Nothing bad will happen.” Then the thing we want looks good, and we think it will do us good. And we say, “Yes, that’s what I want. I’ll try it. It won’t hurt.” But it doesn’t work out that way. Right and wrong are really built into the universe. Just as God created limits for the waters and times for light and dark, he also created limits for our moral behavior. The first command—don’t eat the fruit of that one tree, was the initial moral law testing our parents’ obedience. That has since been expanded into God’s law for his people, summarized in Exodus 20, Micah 6:8, Matthew 22:37-40, and other passages. And we are tempted to break all of it. We dishonor God and hurt people. We lust, we envy, we get angry over trivialities. And yielding to these can lead into adultery, theft, and violence. Thank God that Jesus resisted all of Satan’s temptations (Matthew 4:1-11). He represents us in all his perfection before God’s throne. Father, thank you for sending Jesus and for crediting us with his perfection. Through his finished work we can stand before you. Amen.

Having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. — Colossians 2:15 We can tell from the story in Genesis 3 that a conflict was already going on behind the scenes when Adam and Eve sinned. As Revelation 12:7 describes it, “War broke out in heaven.” The devil, or Satan, rebelled against God and was thrown out with his rebellious followers. And they have been trying ever since to rule the world in their way, battling against God and trying to drag us humans along with them. The serpent who tempted Adam and Eve to sin is described in Revelation 12:9 as “that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray.” He tempted God’s children, created in God’s image, to disobey the Lord, and we caused a lot of grief for our Father. But the devil and his destructive forces are really no match for God. God sent his own Son, Jesus, to be born as a human being. And Jesus’ mission was to rescue his siblings from the mess they got into when they fell into sin. He laid down his own life to pay the price for human sin. As he did that, he disarmed the devil’s “powers and authorities . . . triumphing over them by the cross.” Then Jesus rose again, victorious over death, so that we can have eternal life with him (1 Corinthians 15:55-56)! We still face battles with temptations today. What do you struggle with? Alcohol, greed, porn, abuse, power? These and more create spiritual battles. Call on Jesus, who won the battle for us. Lord Jesus, help us to share in your victory over evil today. Amen.

If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! — 2 Corinthians 5:17 God loves, reasons, and creates. So do his children, made in his image and likeness. But instead of honoring the good, doing the right, and creating the lovely, we fell into sin (Genesis 3). As a result, we despise, pervert, and destroy our world and our relationships. Though we are still able to do some good (by the grace of God), it is painfully obvious that we do not live up to our created potential. We willfully do wrong, hurt others, and destroy. It is hard to imagine the disappointment and heartbreak God must have felt when we first turned against him. God might well have destroyed humanity and started over. And in a way he did make a new start. God sent his Son, Jesus, to bear his image without falling into sin; Jesus was fully human, like us in every way (see John 1:14; 3:16-18; Hebrews 2:17; 4:15). He loves and thinks and creates as a human made in God’s image should. He hit the restart button on human nature. The miracle of salvation through Jesus is that we can become part of the new creation and the new world he creates. We can become part of God’s family again. With the new life he makes possible for us, Jesus saves! Dear Jesus, thank you for being the first responder for all of creation. You have given us a new start. Help us to live faithfully in your name. Amen.

“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.” — Revelation 22:12-13 The closing words of Revelation 22 provide a fitting conclusion to our study of Jesus’ letters to the churches—and all of this applies to his worldwide church today. The churches in Revelation 2-3 were praised according to their faithfulness, and they were challenged to continue in spite of opposition and persecution to the point of death. Here Jesus blesses his followers and urges them to await his glorious return. “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.” The Revelation of Jesus Christ has been given to supply the church with courage and hope, grounded in the One who is the Son of God. He gave his lifeblood as payment for our sin, and he is the Son of Man who sits at the right hand of God the Father, reigning over the church and ruling over all the kings of the earth. Jesus is Lord over all. Nothing has happened or will happen apart from his rule. The church, by faith in Jesus Christ, will gather at the banquet of the kingdom and will live forever with him in the new heaven and new earth. “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.” Lord Jesus, thank you for your letters to the churches, encouraging us and giving us hope, calling us to repent, serve, and stand strong in you. Guide us into your future for your church today. Amen.

“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock.” — Revelation 3:20 Knock, knock jokes can be fun and amusing—and yet some can induce groans. But Jesus’ knock at the door in his letter to Laodicea was no joke. As we have learned, the Laodiceans were so bad off that Jesus threatened to spit them out of his mouth. But he also graciously knocks, wanting to provide forgiveness and to join with his followers in the banquet prepared for everyone in God’s eternal kingdom. This invitation has continued throughout history. Believers who respond are sinners saved by God’s amazing grace, restored and revived through Jesus. He is at the right hand of God the Father, who is, and was, and always will be. We can find comfort in this today and tomorrow and forever. As Jesus explained, he rebukes and disciplines those whom he loves. When you sense his love toward you, he is knocking at your door, calling for repentance and offering real, full life. Do not wait or be slow to remember. Repent and obey. The repentant person is met by the presence of Jesus, “the Amen, the faithful and true witness,” standing at the door of their heart, awaiting their response. When his call is received by a repentant heart, Jesus promises to come in and eat with that person, enjoying the kingdom banquet. The scene is that of victory, salvation, and full life with the Lord of lords and King of kings. No joke! Loving Savior, thank you for coming not only to invite me to your banquet but also to lay down your life to pay for my sin. Help me to live faithfully for you. Amen.

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” — Hebrews 13:5 Stock market values can make people wealthy or poor. Money is not a good god; it cannot love you, nor can it give you eternal life. The one true God, however, has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” The church in Laodicea had a big problem. Because their lukewarm attitude caused a less than effective ministry, Jesus warned them that he was about to spit them out of his mouth. They had bank accounts filled with money, tempting their eyes to turn from Jesus toward only themselves. But that made them “wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked” in Jesus’ eyes. Jesus did not shut the door on them, but he offered wise financial advice. He advised them to find true wealth in him, and to obtain the pure, white garments of his righteousness rather than the black-wool garments that Laodicea was famous for. And they should invest in the eye medicine of his insight, rather than the medicinal balm their region was known for. Money itself is not the problem, but trusting in money instead of Jesus will bring ruin (see 1 Timothy 6:10). Following the way of Laodicea puts the church at great spiritual risk. Let us thank God that he never leaves us but is always ready to discipline us in love. Lord and God, rich in grace and mercy, shield us from trusting in money and wealth. Turn our eyes to Jesus, and fill us with your glory and grace. Amen.

“ I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” — Revelation 3:15-16 Jesus’ letter to the church at Laodicea is striking. He has nothing positive to say about this church. But he does graciously warn them and call them to repentance, saying, “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline.” Here Jesus names himself the “Amen,” which means, “So be it” or, in other words, “This is the truth.” Jesus is the true One, and what he says is trustworthy and true. When he speaks, so be it. He is “the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation.” Jesus rebukes the Laodicean church for its ineffective ministry. The cold mountain water of Colossae, 10 miles away, and the hot mineral water of Hierapolis, six miles away, both served people well. Cold water refreshes, and hot water heals. But Laodicea did not have a natural water source, so when either the cold or hot water made it to them, it was lukewarm and not beneficial. Jesus uses this local situation to describe the ministry of the church. It neither refreshed nor healed; it was putrid. Jesus wished for this church to be either refreshing or therapeutic so that their ministry would be effective. These words were harsh but needed. The Spirit calls us to search our hearts too. Does Jesus’ rebuke apply to us in our churches today? Have we become lukewarm? Do we rely on wealth instead of the Lord? Lord Jesus, fill us with your Spirit of truth. Forgive and renew us, we pray. Amen.

“I will also write on them my new name.” — Revelation 3:12 The church in Philadelphia was going to be rebranded, receiving a new name. They had been given an open door that no one could shut; they were recognized as true citizens of the kingdom of God. People who tried to discourage and persecute them would recognize that the love of God was directed toward all who believed in Jesus as Savior and Messiah. The resurrected Jesus was now the way to full life through faith. The Philadelphia church would also be protected by Jesus through a time of great trial. And Jesus does not say he would take them out of the trial but would protect them through it. As they held on to Jesus’ promises, the Philadelphia church would become like “a pillar in the temple of God,” a permanent part of God’s presence in the world. On them would be written the name of God, the name of the new Jerusalem, God’s city, and Jesus’ new name (this may refer to Revelation 19:11-16). They would be rebranded to show that they belonged to God through faith in Jesus Christ. “Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says.” Childlike faith and perseverance in the name of the One “who is holy and true,” even through persecution, will result in citizenship in the eternal kingdom of God. Loving God, may we trust in you for all things, at all times, in every way. Strengthen our resolve to be your family. Amen.

“I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.” — Revelation 3:8 I love passages in the Bible that show how Jesus welcomed children, blessed them, and urged his followers to come to him with childlike faith. Jesus said, “Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3). Jesus expects us to be as trusting as children. David wrote in Psalm 34, “This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles,” and “Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord” (vv. 6, 11). The Philadelphia church had little strength. They had little power to make their presence felt. They were a small group of people without a lot of movers and shakers. But what they had was a deep and abiding faith, like that of little children. They trusted Jesus despite the lies told by local synagogue members. And although they couldn’t do much against those adversaries, they could believe in Jesus. To this church Jesus pointed out the open door to the kingdom of heaven. He had lovingly opened that door by his death and resurrection, and they had entered through faith. They had kept his word and had not denied his name. A child with faith willingly makes childlike but confident assertions about Jesus. Let’s remember that we are God’s children, whom he loves, and that we can trust him with childlike faith. Lord, teach us to be like little children who believe with awe and wonder. Help us to trust you fully and completely. Amen.

“These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David.” — Revelation 3:7 The church in Philadelphia is one of two churches that do not receive a complaint from Jesus (the other is Smyrna). What a compliment from “him who is holy and true”! Imagine what it was like for the church in Philadelphia to be greeted this way. The One who is holy and true is wholly set apart from all that is worldly. Everything that Jesus says and does is holy and true, both now and forevermore. This reminds me of the inspiring hymn “Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty!” based on Isaiah 6:1-3, Revelation 4:1-11, and other passages in Scripture. Jesus also says that he “holds the key of David.” In Isaiah 22:20-22 we find some background on this phrase. The one who holds this key can open and close the door of the house of David. (This probably refers to the kingdom that God promises to establish forever in Christ, a descendant of David—see 2 Samuel 7:11-16; Matthew 1:1; Revelation 22:16.) And when he opens or shuts the door, it is permanently open or shut. When Jesus died on the cross, the curtain in the temple in Jerusalem “was torn in two from top to bottom” (Mark 15:38). God did that, opening the way into his presence through the death of Jesus for all who trust in him as Savior. Jesus has opened the way to his kingdom. Will you enter in? Holy Spirit, open our hearts to your truth, the story of God’s love. Fill us with wonder and awe, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

“Yet you have a few people . . . who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy.” — Revelation 3:4 White shirts with ties and hats used to be the standard wear of male baseball fans (most of whom were playing hooky from their work at the office). White shirts and ties were also standard for many males who attended church (that really cramped my style as a young boy). But white robes will be the clothes of grace when the multitude that no one can count stands before the throne of God and the Lamb in heaven (Revelation 7:9). In Sardis, Jesus said, there were yet a few people who had “not soiled their clothes”—and they would be walking with him, rewarded for their faithful service. And not only will these believers be with Jesus, but their names are written in the book of life. Written in the Lamb’s book of life (see Revelation 21:27), our names will never be blotted out. The atonement sealed by Jesus through his one sacrifice for all is satisfactory before God forever. And the victory will come when we wake up, strengthen, remember, hold fast, and repent. God our Father desires that we be with him and walk with Jesus forever. Are you awake, remembering, repentant, and ready to wear the white robe prepared for you in Christ? Lord and Savior, when temptations come our way, give us courage and strength to resist. Keep us walking in step with you, alert and faithful for your sake. Amen.

“I will put my Spirit in you and you will live. . . . Then you will know that I the Lord have spoken. . . .” — Ezekiel 37:14 Ezekiel’s prophecy about dry bones being restored to life is a startling picture of hope in the darkest of circumstances. When God speaks life into what is dead, resurrection happens. Jesus had told the Sardis church, “You are dead.” But he didn’t stop there. He called them to “Wake up!” His power could strengthen what life remained in them, giving them hope. Jesus called them to remember what they had received and heard. Memory itself is a gift from God to cherish. May the church never lose its memory of God’s great gifts. Then “hold . . . fast” to what you were given, he said. In other words, obey and be on guard and on high alert. Watch, and watch out! And “repent.” Confession is good and necessary for the soul. Repentance and the forgiveness that follows are so freeing to our souls. In repentance we can admit who we are before God. And God mercifully forgives because he loves us and wants us to live with him. The Lord wants us all to wake up and be fully alive, flourishing as he created us to be, and sharing his goodness with others everywhere in this broken world. Father, I have sinned against you. I have not loved you with my whole heart, soul, mind, and strength. I need to be made right with you, remembering what you have given and done for me through Jesus. Fill me and renew my life, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

“I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up!” — Revelation 3:1-2 As a youngster, I often played a game with my friends called “King of the Mountain.” All we needed was a mound of dirt. One of us would declare ourselves king of the dirt pile and defeat all who would try to dethrone us. Of course, the king needed to watch all sides for a sneak attack. The city of Sardis had a citadel on top of a mountain. The residents considered themselves safe from all enemies. But they became complacent and lazy about defense, and the city was captured. The church at Sardis had apparently followed a similar path. Prone to laziness in their spiritual life, the church was headed for destruction. Jesus knew their deeds and was not impressed. Though they had a reputation of being alive and healthy, the Lord of the church saw the truth and said, “You are dead.” Ouch! Even so, Jesus graciously urged them to remember what they had received and heard. Calling them to repent, he gave them hope. Do you and your church need to remember what you have received and heard? Are you spiritually alert to dangers both within and outside the church? Are people’s lives being changed so that they are growing closer and closer to Jesus? If not, what does Jesus tell you to do? Lord of the church, help us to follow you faithfully, not growing lazy in our service but always growing closer to you. In your name we pray. Amen.

“You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophet . . . [and] misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols.” — Revelation 2:20 Yesterday we marveled at the grace-filled good deeds of the church in Thyatira. Jesus also saw that they “were doing more than [they] did at first.” They were improving and growing in good deeds. “Nevertheless, I have this against you,” he said. Some people in the church were tolerating a “Jezebel” who called herself a prophet but taught the seductive practices of idol-worship feasts and orgies. Jesus compared her to Queen Jezebel in ancient Israel (see 1 Kings 16:29-33; 21:5-26). Jesus was patient, giving her time to “repent of her immorality, but she [was] unwilling.” So he would bring punishment, urging those who followed her to repent as well. The Jezebel of the Old Testament received a cruel and ugly death (2 Kings 9:30-37). It seems that this false prophet in Thyatira—and those who followed her—would receive a horrible death too. All this would happen because of a refusal to accept God’s grace and turn around (repent) to live by God’s way of blessing and life to the full. Jesus promised, though, that all who repented and did not follow such ways would be victorious, able to reign with Jesus and receive the morning star (see also Rev. 22:16). May we all search our hearts and listen, repenting while we have time to turn and follow the Lord into real, full life. Thank you, Lord, for your mercy. You are good and gracious. By your Spirit, guide us to follow you. Amen.

“I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first.” — Revelation 2:19 The Son of God, with blazing eyes and feet like burnished bronze, knows the deeds, love, and faith of the Thyatira church. They were living as God’s handiwork, doing good work that God had prepared in advance for them to do (see Ephesians 2:10). They had been saved by God’s grace to bring grace to a dying world. The church of the living God is honored to continue to live in Jesus, in this world, by doing good works that share the love of God with others. The deeds of the Thyatira church shone like stars in the darkness. They loved God above all, and they practiced love for one another. They cared, they encouraged, they supported, they shared. They believed what was true, and they stood strong in their faith in Christ. When misleading words were spoken, they resisted the temptation to be led astray and wander from the light of Jesus into darkness. They were faithful and loving in their service to others in Jesus’ name, and they persevered. They did not back down. Empowered by the Spirit of God, they stood firm on their foundation of faith in the Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Persevering service is meant to be a hallmark of the church. What works of love and faith can Jesus highlight in your life and in your church? Thank you, Lord, for preparing us to serve you and others. We would not choose that on our own, but, by your Spirit, we can persevere. To you be all glory! Amen.

“These are the words of the Son of God. . . .” — Revelation 2:18 To the church in Thyatira, Jesus reveals himself as “the Son of God.” This is the first time we find this name for Jesus in the book of Revelation. Jesus also connects this name to the one “whose eyes are like blazing fire and whose feet are like burnished bronze” (see Revelation 1:14-15). In many cities like Thyatira in the Roman Empire, emperor worship and idol worship were impossible to miss. But if you worshiped the true Son of God, Jesus Christ, you could walk and move about with confidence amid the idol temples and altars. You could do that even if it meant you would be ostracized from the business world, rejected in your neighborhood, and perhaps beaten and put into jail or even put to death. John had been an eyewitness at the transfiguration of Jesus, and he had heard the voice from the cloud saying, “This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him” (Luke 9:35). John knew Jesus, and now Jesus presents himself as that same Son of God to the church in Thyatira. Do you know Jesus? Who is he to you? A good teacher, a miracle worker from storybooks? Or do you know him as the only Son of God who came to this world to provide salvation and to rule as King over all earthly kings and rulers? Jesus is the living and reigning Son of God whose eyes penetrate to the heart and whose feet stomp out injustice. Let us join with all true believers to worship him! Son of God, to you belong all praise, honor, and glory, for ever and ever. Amen!

“To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.” — Revelation 2:17 Jesus called the Pergamum church, some of whom were slipping into idolatry and immorality, to repent. Otherwise, judgment would come. But to all who would repent, to those who were eager to commit to Jesus, there would be victory. He would give them “some of the hidden manna,” he said. This refers back to God’s Old Testament people receiving a daily supply of manna for their food (Exodus 16). God sustained them in the desert with this “bread from heaven” as a sign of his love. Jesus built on that connection by announcing that he is the true bread from heaven who gives life to the world. All who come to Jesus in faith will receive bread that feeds the soul. Jesus, the bread of life, opens the door to eternal life (John 6:32-51). Jesus also said that each repentant believer would receive “a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.” We aren’t sure what this means, but it seems related to having a new relationship with God in Christ and a new character that is treasured deep within one’s heart. (See also some passages about names in Isaiah 43:1; 62:2-4, 12; Revelation 3:12; 19:11-16.) Though some details here are mysterious, the message is clear: Jesus calls us to live faithfully for him, and he promises eternal life to all who fully believe and trust in him. Lord Jesus, reign over our hearts as we live for you in this world. We trust in you for eternal life. Amen.

“I have a few things against you. . . . Repent therefore!” — Revelation 2:14-16 Many of the Christians in Pergamum remained true to Jesus. That would not have been easy. An altar to Zeus stood near the tip of the city’s mountaintop, in the shadow of a temple built by the emperor Trajan. Below stood a “healing center” dedicated to the god Asclepius. And the worship of Dionysus led to sexual perversions in pagan worship. Jesus commended his followers for remaining true to him. “Nevertheless, I have a few things against you,” he said. Some people in the church were trying to mix their faith in Jesus with pagan practices. Those practices included worship “parties” where food was offered to idols and people engaged in drunkenness and sexual perversions. And Jesus does not put up with that. Many years earlier, Balaam, a false prophet, had set up a plan to tempt the men of Israel to similar perversions (Numbers 25:1-3; 31:16). Jesus also mentioned the Nicolaitans (see Rev. 2:6), who seem to have wanted Christ’s followers to compromise their beliefs. But any compromise would oppose a wholehearted commitment to Jesus. So the church was to call its members to repent, said Jesus, or he would come “and fight against them with the sword of [his] mouth.” This meant he would bring his Word of judgment against them. This warning remains for all of us today. Let us take note, repent, and submit to Jesus. Lord Jesus, help us to follow you wholeheartedly. We confess our sins and repent, knowing you are faithful to forgive. Amen.

“These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name.” — Revelation 2:12-13 The city of Pergamum was the capital of the Roman province of Asia (present-day Turkey). The Roman ruler there held the power of the sword; at his decision someone could immediately be put to death. So in that setting Jesus, “the ruler of the kings of the earth” (Revelation 1:5), with “the sharp, double-edged sword” of his mouth (1:16; 2:12), claimed ultimate authority over eternal life and death. Jesus commends the church for “remaining true to [his] name” and staying in Pergamum. They took up permanent residence in this city filled with pagan temples and idol worship. They became rooted in the Pergamum community and built up the church in a most difficult location, where Satan lived and reigned. Jesus had previously taught his followers to do this: “On this rock [the so-called ‘gates of Hades’ at Caesarea Philippi in northern Galilee] I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it” (Matthew 16:18). Similarly Jesus is saying, “In Pergamum I will build my church, and the throne of Satan will not overcome it.” Satan will never overcome a faithful community of Jesus-followers. Trust the One who is Judge to keep his word on your behalf. Be humble, be obedient, be strong. King of kings, Lord of lords, guide us to follow you with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Open doors to your Word, and empower us to share it. Amen.

Paul devoted himself . . . to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah. But when they . . . became abusive, he . . . said . . . “From now on I will go to the Gentiles.” — Acts 18:5-6 The apostle Paul had become God’s “chosen instrument to proclaim [Jesus’] name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel” (Acts 9:15). As Paul ministered across Asia Minor, Macedonia, and Greece, his method was to go first to Jewish synagogues and then to the Gentiles, sharing the good news of Jesus. Acts 18:1-8 describes Paul’s ministry in Corinth. Some of the Jewish people there believed the gospel, but others “opposed Paul and became abusive.” So Paul shook out his clothes in protest and moved along, saying he would go and preach to the Gentiles. In Smyrna a similar situation developed. The church of Jesus was being persecuted by people who said they were Jews, God’s original chosen people, but they were being influenced by Satan. Though Jesus’ church there was healthy, it faced troubles. Jesus said he knew the people’s affliction and suffering for being his followers. He also knew their poverty. In the bustling city of Smyrna business thrived, but unless you offered incense to the city’s gods, you could not do business there. Without an income, you became poor. Yet Jesus said they were rich! The kingdom of God operates on a different scale: amazing grace! Friends, be strong in Jesus. All who are children of God in Christ will wear the victor’s crown. Faithful Father, help us to be strong in testifying to your great faithfulness and love. Amen.

“Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer.” — Revelation 2:10 If I had the privilege of being with Jesus throughout his ministry years, I would have been on the lookout for enemies or traps. He told his disciples, “If they persecuted me [and they did], they will persecute you also” (John 15:20). Like John, Peter had heard Jesus say this, and he wrote about suffering “grief in all kinds of trials” because of belief in Christ. Yet, despite those trials, followers of Jesus would experience victory. Because of Jesus’ resurrection, all who believe in him have “an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade.” This reality helps to form the foundation of our faith. The knowledge of our eternal inheritance with God outshines the suffering and grief caused by trials and persecutions that we might face in this life. Peter also says that the trials we can face will prove the genuineness of our faith, the effectiveness of the gospel, and the truth of the written and spoken Word. The church at Smyrna heard the word about persecution and the subsequent promised victory. Persecution would not be the end. Since Jesus is God’s promised Messiah to the world, we can boldly proclaim him to all who will listen. Lord, we worship you as the resurrected, victorious One. Your victory guarantees that all who believe in you will also be victorious. Fill us with joy in the salvation we have already received in you. Amen.

“Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.” — Revelation 2:10 To the family of God, near and far, young and old, rich and poor, Jesus speaks as “the First and the Last, who died and came to life again.” Jesus presents himself to the church in Smyrna as divine and sovereign, being over all history—past, present, and future. As the First and the Last, he covers not only the ends of the spectrum but also everything in between. Even death could not hold Jesus; he is alive! All who believe that Jesus suffered and died for them can find comfort in knowing that death will not hold them either. In Jesus, like Jesus, we will be raised to new life. In Jesus we have assurance that we will live forever with him. With this truth Jesus encouraged and strengthened our brothers and sisters in Smyrna. He went on to mention their afflictions and their poverty. He knew they were slandered by people who said they followed God but did not. Those people were agents of Satan, he said. Jesus called his true followers not to be afraid of any suffering or persecution they would face. “Be faithful, even to the point of death,” he said. He had already been there for them. The One who is First and Last would hold them through all that would come their way. This same Jesus will also be with us through the difficulties we face. Jesus is the One who gives life and victory, now and forever. Thank you, Jesus, for dying and coming to life again for us. In you we can be assured that nothing will ever separate us from your love. Amen.

“To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.” — Revelation 2:7 To live in Ephesus meant being surrounded by the worship of false gods. The temple to Artemis was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The temple of the Roman emperor Domitian dominated the central part of the city. How was a follower of Jesus to live in a culture that idolized power and false gods and encouraged sexual immorality? Jesus had told the Ephesian Christians, “Consider how far you have fallen.” In other words, remember what you once had and did and enjoyed with your Lord and Savior. Jesus called them to repent of their sin, to allow the Spirit of God to soften their hardened hearts and give them a restored heart of love. Then he urged them to “do the things [they] did at first.” In other words, persevere, hold on to the truth, and show love and compassion to one another. Otherwise, said Jesus, he would remove their lampstand. The Ephesian church would no longer exist. He would do that for the honor of his name. However, if they would repent and be restored to him, they would be victorious and be able to eat from the tree of life. This promise of Jesus looks forward to his return and the establishment of the new heavens and new earth, eternal life in the paradise of God. The tree of life awaits all who profess faith in Jesus Christ alone, live for him, and share his love with everyone. Come, Lord Jesus. Almighty God, help me to love you above all, and others as myself. For your glory, Amen.

“Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.” — Revelation 2:5 The Lord Jesus has the authority to reveal the truth and call his people to repentance. He stands among his churches (including us!) with power, authority, and love. After commending the Ephesian church on their hard work and perseverance, Jesus says, “Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first.” Paul had mentioned that love in his letter to the Ephesians: “Ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, I have not stopped giving thanks for you” (Ephesians 1:15). The Ephesians had loved one another, striving for unity in the faith. Now, however, Jesus reprimands them for forsaking that love, giving up on their commitment to show the love of Christ to everyone. Had they become selfish, proud, unwilling to do what was needed to get along with each other and with others? Had they become so absorbed with right thinking that they had allowed clouds of selfishness to come between them? Jesus graciously calls them to repent and turn back to the love they had lost. Friends, Jesus calls us to love one another and all people. Loving one another as Jesus has loved us is still the rallying cry of the church. Without sacrificial love between believers, any attempt at testifying to God’s love to others will appear shallow and be a sham. Lord, help us to show your love for your sake, that you may be known to the world. Amen.

“You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.” — Revelation 2:3 On a trip to Ephesus, I was able to walk through what had once been a neighborhood of houses and streets. Etched into a stone in front of one doorway was a symbol that looked like a fish. According to tradition, this may have identified the house as a place where Christians lived and met together for worship, prayer, and fellowship. In Revelation 2, Jesus tells John to write to the church in Ephesus, saying, “I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. . . . You have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.” Jesus’ followers in Ephesus are commended for holding up the light of Christ against the darkness of this world. The apostle Paul had earlier reminded the Ephesians, “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against . . . the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12). Still today, the devil aims to harm the church until Jesus returns. Jesus commended the church in Ephesus for standing strong in defense of the gospel. God’s Word to us today remains: Be strong, know the difference between light and darkness, be wise and ready to “live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (Ephesians 4:1). Lord Jesus, strengthen us to serve you faithfully, shining your light into this world.

When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever!” — Revelation 1:17-18 Earlier in his life, John had spent three years with Jesus as a disciple in training. We might expect that John would recognize Jesus, run up to him, and embrace him. But something is clearly different about Jesus. The glorious presentation of the Son of Man so overwhelms John that he falls at Jesus’ fiery-bronze feet as though dead. But then he hears the familiar words of his Lord and Master: “Do not be afraid.” The loving Savior speaks comfort and assurance. Jesus gives John an elaborate description of himself. What a way to build up John’s confidence and that of the churches! Jesus is the “First and the Last,” the “Living One,” who “was dead” but is “alive for ever and ever!” And there’s more: Jesus holds the keys to death and Hades, so they have no power over him or his followers. Jesus then commands John to write to the seven churches that are represented by the lampstands. (And, to us today, those churches represent the whole church of Christ.) By sharing what he has “seen, what is now and what will take place later,” John will describe how Jesus is the reigning Lord of heaven and earth. Despite the churches’ strengths and weaknesses, Jesus is God. The powers of darkness will do their worst to destroy the church, but they will fail because Jesus is the living Lord. Almighty King, you are the victor over death and the grave. Drive out our fear today. Amen.

I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. — Revelation 1:9 John explains to his first readers that he understands what it means to suffer for the cause of Christ. He is imprisoned on the island of Patmos “because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.” John confirms that anyone who follows Jesus is not excused from persecution. In fact, Jesus told his followers to expect it. As Jesus’ enemies did to him, they will do to his followers (John 15:18-20). But Jesus also rose victorious from death and ascended to the Father’s right hand. And the church will follow. “Patient endurance” is needed through trials and suffering for God’s kingdom while his people live here on earth, but full life with God forever is promised for all who keep serving him. Next John notes that Jesus announces himself with a trumpet-like voice, telling him to write to the seven churches. John turns around to see who is speaking, and a man is standing there among seven lampstands, dressed in a royal robe, with hair and eyes reflecting images of the “Ancient of Days” in Daniel 7:9, and with a voice like the sound of rushing waters (see Ezekiel 43:2). This “son of man” can be trusted despite what his enemies might do, for this is Jesus, the Lord of his church! King Jesus, you have “all authority in heaven and on earth” (Matt. 28:18). Give us courage to follow you faithfully each day, with all hope and trust in you. Amen.

“Look, he is coming with the clouds,” and “every eye will see him, even those who pierced him”; and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of him.” So shall it be! Amen. — Revelation 1:7 Did you notice the quotations in the text of Revelation 1:7? Those phrases come from Old Testament books of prophecy, and John uses them to remind his readers that Jesus’ mission was foretold long before he came. Daniel 7:13-14 gives us a prophetic look at the Son of Man (Jesus Christ) “coming with the clouds of heaven” and taking his place with the “Ancient of Days” (God the Father). The Father gives the Son all authority over a kingdom “that will never be destroyed.” And Zechariah 12:10 speaks of “the one they have pierced” (Jesus—see also Isaiah 53:5; John 19:34). The prophet says that God’s people will see what they have done to the Son of Man, and they will mourn because of it. This repentant attitude is a result of God’s grace. And God counts the shed blood of Jesus as the payment for all our sin, even the sins of those who have not yet believed in him. The God who speaks is “the Alpha and the Omega,” the one “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.” Jesus is the Savior and Lord of the church. From his position and authority he leads his church still today. In Christ, the church will stand firm and stand up against its enemies and their threats. Church of Jesus Christ, stand firm today and always. Almighty, eternal God, you led the authors of your Word to write history, prophecy, songs, and letters to reveal your love, power, and salvation. Thank you! Amen.

To him who . . . has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen. — Revelation 1:5-6 At Mount Sinai the Lord instructed Moses to tell the people of Israel that they were to obey God and keep his covenant and that they would be a “kingdom of priests and a holy nation.” Unfortunately, no one was able to keep God’s law perfectly. So eventually God sent his own Son, Jesus Christ, to be their substitute, saving them from sin and death. In fact, Jesus came to lay down his life to pay for all human sin. So he is the Savior and Lord of all who trust him in faith (John 3:16-21). In Revelation 1, John explains that in this way Jesus “made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father.” This means that, as believers in Jesus Christ, we are kingdom representatives to the world. We are called to be mediators (priests) with people by bringing the good news of Jesus and of God’s kingdom to the world, introducing people everywhere to God and his love. Through Jesus, we have unlimited access to God to know him and to be like him. Access to God is no longer limited to a formal earthly priesthood. That access is now open to all who come to faith in Jesus. “To him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.” In Jesus’ name we serve you, Almighty God. We worship you alone as Lord and serve your world as your representatives, your priests. Equip us with your Spirit for the task you have given us, we pray. Amen.

Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. — Hebrews 10:23 Hope is not wishful thinking, as we tend to imply when we say things like “I hope it doesn’t rain today,” or “I hope you get a perfect score!” Hope in Christ is founded firmly on the promises of the faithful God who has shown his love for us and calls us to trust that we will live with him forever. The church of Jesus Christ in the first century A.D. was facing difficult times, and John knew that the hope of Jesus’ followers would be shaken. The writer of Hebrews also indicated that the hope of believers in Christ would be challenged. But in Jesus we have the One on whom our hope can be fixed for all eternity. “Since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus . . . let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:19-23). Jesus, who “freed us from our sins by his blood,” calls us to be confident and to hold on with each other in the community of faith as the day of the Lord approaches—when he will come again. Why do we have such confidence? Because through Jesus’ blood, poured out as payment for our sins, we are forgiven by God, and nothing will ever be able to separate us from his love (Romans 8:39). Thank you, Jesus, for opening the way to God the Father for us, providing the peace, strength, and confidence we need for each day. Amen.

John, to the seven churches in the province of Asia: Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne, and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. — Revelation 1:4-5 John is writing a letter, so he begins here with a greeting. Though he is writing to seven churches in the Roman province of Asia (present-day Turkey), this letter is not limited to those seven churches. Written under the guidance of the Holy Spirit of God, this letter is meant for the entire church of Jesus Christ. The church is made aware of God’s grace in Christ to strengthen its faith in times of challenge and hardship, including physical persecution that will come its way. God has provided Jesus as the Savior, “the ruler of the kings of the earth.” Knowing this helps us to put all things into perspective as history unfolds. John greets his readers with grace and peace from the God who is, was, and always will be—in the name of Jesus, the Christ (Messiah). Jesus is the faithful witness to all that God provides for the church. Jesus alone is the “firstborn from the dead,” and he is the exalted King over all kings (see also Colossians 1:15-20; Psalm 89:27), whether they be emperors, monarchs, presidents, prime ministers, CEOs, or chairs of the board. To Jesus, “who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood,” belong all glory, power, and praise forever! Lord and God, thank you for helping us know you as our Savior and King. May we rest in you alone and honor you each day. Amen.

The revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, who testifies to everything he saw—that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. — Revelation 1:1-2 When a curtain is pulled back to reveal a new work of art, the assembled crowd responds with appreciation and applause. Something that was a mystery is made known. A similar thing happens in the book of Revelation. God pulls back a curtain that has been concealing the finished work of Jesus Christ. Here God reveals to believers in Christ the source of their comfort, courage, and hope. The Lord initially revealed all of this to the apostle John, one of Jesus’ closest followers, through the work of an angel. And John testifies that this aligns with what he witnessed firsthand as one of Jesus’ disciples. In chapter one of Revelation, John writes about the Lord of the church of all ages, including the seven churches addressed in Revelation 2-3. And that Lord is Jesus Christ.This testimony guides us to continue as the church of Jesus today. The church needs to know its Lord and King, who at the same time is Lord and King over this world and all creation. Rejecting all that contradicts God’s Word and God’s will, the church must stand for all that is righteous, true, and good. The seven churches in Revelation 2-3 needed that message, and so does the church of Christ in 2024. King Jesus, you are the Lord of your church and of the whole world. Equip us to follow you. Amen.

“The kingdom of God has come upon you.” — Matthew 12:28 When Christians pray the Lord’s Prayer, we say, “Your kingdom come.” In the long run, we’re asking for Jesus to come again and make everything new: heaven and earth, peoples and nations, each one of us. We’re asking God to put right everything that is wrong. The Bible paints some lovely pictures of the kingdom of God in this ultimate sense: the wolf living with the lamb, weapons of war remade into tools of peace, no more death or mourning or crying or pain, justice at last. But the kingdom of God is not just an ultimate reality in the future. The kingdom of God is also a present reality. It comes near through Jesus Christ, who announces the kingdom of God and makes it real. And it remains near through the Holy Spirit. So when Christians pray, “Your kingdom come,” we’re not just asking God to change the world for good. We’re asking God to change us too—and to change us now. Because we want to see the kingdom that’s already here through Jesus. And we want to participate in that kingdom by the Holy Spirit. Otherwise we remain captive to kingdoms of this world with their pride and their greed and their hatred and their violence. “Your kingdom come” is our plea that God will free us from all of that—so that we can begin to be new. Heavenly Father, give us a new way to see the world and a new way to be in the world. Set us free to live as citizens of your kingdom. Amen.

“I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God . . . because that is why I was sent.” — Luke 4:43 Here’s the good news as I heard it on my way to becoming a Christian: We’re all guilty sinners who deserve to be punished by God. But Jesus suffered the punishment for us when he died on the cross. So if we admit our sin and trust Jesus to deal with it, God forgives us and we are saved. That really was good news, and I was glad to embrace it. Here’s the good news as Jesus himself announced it on his way through Galilee: “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:15). Wait a minute. The good news Jesus announced doesn’t sound like the good news I heard. How can that be? It turns out that the good news I heard is just a piece of the good news Jesus announced. We get a glimpse of that in our reading today from Acts 16. An overwhelmed jailer can’t make sense of all the commotion in his jail. So Paul gives him some good news, saying, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.” But he doesn’t stop there. Because there’s more to the good news. So Paul goes on to teach the jailer and his family about Jesus and, for sure, about the kingdom of God. Because believing in Jesus is incomplete unless we believe what Jesus himself proclaimed. Jesus, help us to listen to what you say and to watch what you do. How else can we follow you into the kingdom? Amen.

“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” — Luke 22:42 While they are dying by crucifixion, one of the two criminals next to Jesus says to him, “Remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus replies, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” Have you ever wondered what that’s all about? Originally the word for “paradise” referred to an enclosed garden. Later it meant a place where the righteous dead waited for the resurrection. In the book of Revelation it seems to point to the new Jerusalem and the new creation, where God’s people will live with the Lord forever. In our reading today, what does Jesus mean by “paradise,” where the criminal will join him that very day? Does he mean a garden? A waiting room? The New Jerusalem? Here’s what I wonder: what if “paradise” is right there, right then, on those two crosses on that Friday afternoon? I know, it doesn’t sound like paradise. And no one would want to vacation there—not to mention living and dying there. But according to the Bible, when Jesus surrenders his life on the cross—right there, right then—he is in his glory. Right there, right then he is on his throne. Right there, right then he has come into his kingdom, where the Father’s will is done on earth, the same as in heaven. And the criminal on the cross nearby is there with him, the first one there with him. Jesus, I want to be with you in your kingdom. So give me enough faith to take up a cross and to carry it to paradise. Amen.

When the centurion . . . saw how [Jesus] died, he said, “Surely this man was the Son of God!” — Mark 15:39 Paul had been jailed because of false charges from the religious leaders in Jerusalem. So he used his Roman citizenship to appeal his case all the way to the judgment seat of Caesar in Rome (Acts 21-26). From Egypt to Britain, from Spain to Armenia, the Roman Empire was Caesar’s world. Citizens and slaves bowed to him. They feared his armies, which brought him victory. They used his coins, which declared him “the Son of God.” Before the appointment, Paul spent two years under house arrest in Rome. During that time, he welcomed all sorts of visitors. And he spoke boldly about the kingdom of God and the Lord Jesus. Think about that. In the capital city of Caesar’s empire, Paul proclaimed another kingdom and another Lord. Yes, that Lord had died on one of Caesar’s crosses. But to a Roman commander who witnessed that death, it was obvious that Jesus, not Caesar, was “the Son of God.” The kingdom of God, by its very existence, and the Lord Jesus, by his supreme authority, are a direct challenge to every realm and ruler on earth. The law of Christ overrules every contrary human law. And the way of the kingdom sets aside every other way. Every bit of this is good news. But it’s also dangerous news, unwelcome by the powers and authorities of this world. Nevertheless, in Christ we are citizens of his kingdom and under his authority. Even if that means suffering on a cross. Jesus, we humble ourselves before you. May every realm and every ruler do the same. Amen.

They crucified two rebels with him, one on his right and one on his left. — Mark 15:27 What picture forms in your mind when you think of a king? Maybe it’s a handsome man with a golden crown on his head and a jeweled scepter in his hand. Maybe it’s someone giving orders while others bow before him and do as he says. Most likely, when we think of a king, the last thing we picture is a cross. That’s why we have to keep reminding ourselves that Jesus is a different kind of king, and that his kingdom is a different kind of kingdom—different from anything the world has ever seen. James and John still had to learn that. They pictured King Jesus sitting eventually on a gold-plated throne, and they wanted to be sitting right next to him. They wanted the power that comes with proximity—and that showed they didn’t understand the glory of Jesus. They didn’t understand the way of his kingdom. Jesus said that the places they wanted were reserved for others. And it turned out that two rebels were crucified on the right and the left of Jesus. Here’s what it adds up to. Forget the gold. King Jesus “sits” on a throne made of two crossed pieces of wood. And his glory is to do the will of God. King Jesus suffers and dies because his kingdom is about mercy and forgiveness rather than about power and conquest. We need to keep adjusting our picture accordingly. Lord Jesus, you are such a strange king. Your kingdom is strange too. And that’s good because it’s exactly what this world needs. We need it too. Every day. Amen.

“People [won’t] say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst.” — Luke 17:21 After his baptism, Jesus went around proclaiming the good news. He said, “The kingdom of God is near! It’s here! People are entering in front of your eyes!” Jesus proclaimed the good news by his actions too. He faced down the devil and drove out demons. He healed the sick and fed the hungry. He touched the untouchable and taught the unteachable. He welcomed the weary and sent away the smug. He forgave the sinner and challenged the self-righteous. All of it was evidence that the kingdom of God had come. When Jesus sent out an advance team of seventy-two followers, they healed the sick, like Jesus did. They even drove out demons, like Jesus did (Luke 10:17). Once again, it was evidence that the kingdom of God had come near (see Luke 9:1-6). Whether people accepted the news or rejected it, the news remained the same: The kingdom of God has come near! Jesus said you can’t point to the kingdom of God and say, “There it is!” Not because there’s no evidence of the kingdom—but because he wanted us to be alert for signs of the kingdom all around us. The Michigan state motto says this: If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look around you. I wonder what signs of the kingdom are waiting for us to look and to see. I wonder how close those signs are. Open our eyes, Lord Jesus, to see your kingdom. Surprise us by the wonder of its ways, so different from the ways of this world. Amen.

“What shall we say the kingdom of God is like . . . ?” — Mark 4:30 If you’re writing about a subject for school, you often start with a definition. But in this series I have been writing about the kingdom of God for several weeks, and I haven’t given a definition. Why is that? What do we know about the kingdom of God? The kingdom of God is like yeast in a batch of dough, like a hidden treasure, like wheat and weeds growing together, and like a landowner hiring day-laborers. The kingdom of God is unexpected, like a feast with a surprising guest list. Sex workers and other “sinners” enter the kingdom ahead of deeply religious types. And it’s really hard for rich people to enter the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God belongs to little children, to peacemakers, and to the poor. The kingdom is something to wait for, something to pray for. The kingdom of God is in our midst, but it’s not from this world. The kingdom is light. That’s a lot to learn about the kingdom of God. And there’s more where that came from. But that’s not what we would call a definition. Whatever the kingdom of God is, it gives us a different way to see the world, to see people, and to see God. It also gives us a different way to be in the world. And in some ways that makes us strangers and aliens in the world we know so well. Jesus, we like to know what we’re getting into. So we want to know what your kingdom is all about. But it’s all about you, isn’t it? Let that be enough for us. Amen.

“It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.” — Matthew 19:24 The kingdom of God is eternal. It’s the ultimate reality, when everything will be good at last. Surprisingly, though, the kingdom is also right here, right now—wherever Jesus is present in the flesh or by the Spirit. We can see that in Matthew 19. A rich man who comes to talk with Jesus is very interested in having eternal life—that is, life in the kingdom of God. But does he really want that kind of life? When Jesus tells the man, “Sell everything, give to the poor, and follow me,” the man can’t do it. He can’t take those three steps. It’s really hard for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God. That’s what Jesus says. And he means more than entering the eternal kingdom in the future. He also means living the way of the kingdom right here, right now. Among other things, the way of the kingdom is selfless and generous. And the way of the kingdom includes deeply trusting in God to meet every need. Sadly, the rich man in this story wasn’t ready to live that way. Not here, not now. How about you? Are you ready to live the way of the kingdom here and now? If not, will you want to live that way in eternity? Lord Jesus, fears grip us, and things grip us—and it’s hard to break free. Help me to let go of everything but you so that I can live the way of the kingdom right here, right now. Amen.

“Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.” — Matthew 11:6 John the Baptist had come to prepare the way for Jesus, the Messiah. And John was so confident! He had a clear and sure word from God, just as you would expect from a prophet. But in our reading today from Matthew 11, John has his doubts. Prison will do that to a person, making him question everything he’s sure of. What John has heard doesn’t measure up to the big hopes he has had for Jesus. God’s people are no closer to being free. Nor is John himself. So John sends a message to Jesus: “Have I been wrong about you?” Jesus has nothing new to tell John. But he does encourage him not to lose hope: “Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.” John had his expectations of Jesus. We all do. But Jesus doesn’t act according to anyone’s expectations. He acts according to the Father’s plan. Jesus encourages John—and all of us—to trust that plan. The kingdom will come in God’s way and in God’s time. There’s an old hymn that gets it just right: “For not with swords’ loud clashing or roll of stirring drums—with deeds of love and mercy the heavenly kingdom comes.” Of course the greatest deed of love and mercy is Jesus’ self-surrender on the cross. That one deed makes the kingdom a sure thing. Generous Lord Jesus, thank you for who you are and for what you do. Help us to be grateful for your generosity to us and to show the same generosity to others. Amen.

The apostles left . . . rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. — Acts 5:41 More than once in these meditations, I have referred to the way of the kingdom. There’s no definition for it. But in our reading from Matthew 5 today—often called “The Beatitudes”—Jesus names a number of desires, attitudes, and behaviors that are part of the kingdom “way.” As you read the Beatitudes, imagine the community Jesus describes. It’s a community of people who are humble, meek, and pure-hearted; who mourn over sorrow and pain; who show mercy and make peace—all because they hunger and thirst for what is right. You would think this kind of community would be inoffensive. That neighbors would be happy to have them around. But Jesus says the community may also be persecuted: hated, insulted, excluded, falsely accused, and more. The sticking point is Jesus himself—and the community’s first loyalty to him. That’s because the world and its kingdoms would rather be first in our lives. So trouble may come to us who live by the way of the kingdom. But blessings come too. There’s comfort to ease our sorrow and pain. Mercy to overcome injustice. Satisfaction in working for changes to do what’s right. There’s also welcome in the household of God—a place to call home, a place to belong. Above all, in the kingdom itself we will see and live with God! Jesus, thank you for showing us a better “way” and for going ahead of us. What a wonderful hope we have in you: the kingdom of God! Amen.

Christ Jesus . . . has become . . . our righteousness. . . . — 1 Corinthians 1:30 Here’s the main entrance requirement for the kingdom of God: You must have a righteousness that surpasses the righteousness of the Pharisees. Well, good luck with that! The Pharisees were amazing. They kept the law of Moses better than anyone. The apostle Paul says that when he was a Pharisee, his law-based righteousness was faultless (Philippians 3:5-6). Who could possibly top that? But could there be a different way instead of trying to do the Pharisees one better? There has to be, because Paul explains that the Pharisees’ way doesn’t work. We are all sinners, and none of us can keep the law perfectly—so none of us can claim to be righteous (see Romans 3-7). But what if the purpose of the law was to point out our sin and show us that we need a Savior? And what if Jesus fulfilled the purpose of the law for us through his death on the cross? What greater righteousness could there be? And what if this righteousness could be ours through the gift of Jesus? What if Jesus himself is our righteousness? Well, he is. And he is the one who brings us into the kingdom! No one enters the kingdom of God by having the best behavior, but only by having faith in the King, Jesus. That’s how the repentant tax collectors and sex workers entered the kingdom ahead of the Pharisees. Jesus was their righteousness. Now that’s good news! Jesus, thank you for taking sin out of the way so that we can enter the kingdom of God. Help me to trust that. Amen.

“Unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 5:20 College admissions are competitive. So our daughter’s high-school guidance counselor recommended ways to sweeten her applications. I told the counselor not to worry. Our daughter would be going to our church-sponsored college. To get accepted, all she had to do was apply. The Pharisees in Jesus’ day were determined to keep the Law of Moses faithfully. They figured their righteousness would help bring the kingdom of God and would ensure their place in it. What a surprise they had when Jesus said that sex workers and turncoat tax collectors were going into the kingdom ahead of them! What!? Was the kingdom of God just free for the taking, with no special application requirements? To the Pharisees, that couldn’t be. They had staked their lives on the Law of Moses. They were not about to turn to a different way. But Jesus is the righteous one. He brings the kingdom. And those traitorous tax collectors and sex workers were trusting in him. They had repented and now believed in Jesus, the way to the kingdom of God. They certainly had no righteousness of their own. But that was okay. They had Jesus. So all they had to do was come to the kingdom, trusting in him. That’s all any of us has to do. Come. Just come to Jesus and his kingdom. Jesus, I come to you and to your kingdom. Show me the way of your kingdom every day. And help me to follow it. Amen.

“You gave me something to eat . . . [and] to drink, . . . you invited me in, . . . you clothed me, . . . you looked after me, . . . you came to visit me.” — Matthew 25:35-36 When people have a stake in something, they tend to puff it up. It’s the newest, the fastest, the brightest, the strongest. Not Jesus. He says the kingdom of God is like a mustard seed. A mustard seed is tiny. Looking at it, you wouldn’t expect it to amount to much. And like any seed, it’s dependent on outside conditions—soil, moisture, sunshine—to germinate and grow. Farmers today plant millions of soybean seeds in a single field. They make sure to plant plenty because they know they’ll have a 20 to 30 percent loss. Home gardeners plant several squash seeds in every hill because some of those seeds may fail to germinate and some of the young plants may not mature. But Jesus says the kingdom of God is like a single, small seed. Everything is staked on that one, tiny seed. If it fails to germinate, if it fails to grow, then all is lost. But when that one seed does sprout and grow, it becomes something far beyond its humble beginning: a safe and shady perch for a choir of songbirds. In the same way, the kingdom of God may not look like much. But here and there, almost invisibly, it welcomes, shelters, and supports life. Maybe you’re a part of that through a local congregation. I hope so. Lord Jesus, give us faith to see your kingdom all around us. And give us courage to make your kingdom visible, even in the smallest ways. Amen.

“Are you envious because I am generous?” — Matthew 20:15 From the time we are little children, we have a keen sense of fairness. So if my mom gave my brother a piece of cake just a little bigger than the one she gave me, I would protest: “That’s not fair!” Jesus told lots of parables—stories that use familiar scenes and images from daily life to teach about the kingdom of God. These stories are often surprising, and sometimes even shocking. For example, some of Jesus’ parables include outcomes that don’t seem fair—and that can surprise us or even make us upset. But what if fairness is not the point? In today’s story about day-laborers in a vineyard, the issue of fairness comes up in a big way. When the landowner pays all of the laborers for a full day, no matter how many hours they have worked, the laborers who worked all day protest: “We worked the whole day. The sun beat down on us for hours. Why should the people who worked only one hour get the same pay as we do?” This is certainly not fair. But fairness is not the point. The kingdom of God is not fair. It’s much more than fair. The kingdom of God is generous. Jesus is a generous King. He gives us all that he promises and more than we deserve. Generous Lord Jesus, thank you for who you are and for what you do. Help us to be grateful for your generosity to us, and help us to show the same generosity to others. Amen.

“People [won’t] say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst.” — Luke 17:21 Here’s an old Bob Dylan lyric: “I was so much older then, I’m younger than that now.” When I hear that, I first picture a foolish young man. He’s sure he knows what’s what. Then I picture a wise older man. Like a child, he embraces the mystery of what he doesn’t understand. Is that maybe how it is with the kingdom of God? People were bringing little kids—even babies—to Jesus. Parents wanted Jesus to bless their little ones. But the disciples knew better: Jesus was busy with important stuff, grown-up stuff. There was no time to waste on little kids. Well, Jesus set them straight, didn’t he? “Cut it out!” he said. “Let the kids come right here to me. Don’t you know that the kingdom of God is their kingdom? That God is their God?” The kingdom of God is kids’ stuff. And if we grown-ups don’t add a bunch of big words and picky rules, then kids will see the kingdom for what it is. And they will welcome it the way they welcome a carnival or a snow day. When something so unexpected and so wonderful comes along, of course they’ll want to be a part of it! If we grown-ups don’t feel the same way about the kingdom of God, we’ve most likely missed the point. Come on, Jesus. Bring your kingdom. We want to ride all day for free! Amen.

Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror. . . . — 1 Corinthians 13:12 (NLT) If you were a kid like I was in the 1960s, you might remember Sergeant Joe Friday from the TV show Dragnet. Friday was a no-nonsense police officer. When he questioned a witness, he didn’t want to hear stories or opinions. “Just the facts,” he would insist. And by the end of each episode, with the facts in hand, Friday would make an arrest. A focus on facts may be right for a police investigation. But things are different with the kingdom of God. When Jesus talks about the kingdom, he doesn’t rattle off a set of facts. And he never offers a definition. Because the truth of the kingdom is more than we could ever take in. Instead Jesus gives us glimpses of the kingdom through stories and pictures. He says the kingdom of God is “like a mustard seed.” Or like many other things. Yet what Jesus says about the kingdom isn’t necessarily obvious, even to the disciples. The same is true about what Jesus does. Just after the mustard seed story in Mark 4, we see Jesus calming a dangerous storm out on a lake. That certainly said something about Jesus as King. But it wasn’t altogether clear. The disciples were left asking, “Who is this?” (Mark 4:41). Let’s listen to some more of Jesus’ stories and watch some of his deeds to learn what we can about the kingdom and its King. Teach me, Lord Jesus. I want to know who you are and what your kingdom is about. How else can I serve you? Amen.

There before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language. — Revelation 7:9 In the United States today we commemorate the life and work of Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK). As we should. King dreamed about the kingdom of God—where the children of former slaves and the children of former slaveowners would see each other as family, and where everyone would share equally in freedom and justice. King also did what he could to make that kingdom dream real, even at the cost of his own life. I grew up in the world King was trying to change. And when I was about five years old, I got to live into some of that change. A new family moved in across from us. Right away, my brother, Tom, and I met Cheryl and Larry. They were black, and we were white. And in no time at all we were friends. When I was five, I had never heard of the kingdom of God. But I had seen a glimpse of it. Because in the kingdom, we all will be children of God together. I can hardly wait. How about you? Meanwhile, I keep wondering: What can I do, and what can the church do, to make the kingdom real? Do you think maybe we have to become more like children? King Jesus, you urge us not just to welcome little children but to become like little children. How else will we see the kingdom? How else will we make the kingdom real? So help us. Amen.

“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” — Mark 10:43 The Jewish leaders in Jerusalem didn’t want Jesus as their king. They brought him to the Roman governor, Pilate, and he played that up for what it was worth. Though he could not find a reason to charge Jesus, Pilate went along with the people and sentenced him to death anyway. As a final taunt, Pilate placed a sign on the cross: jesus of nazareth: the king of the jews. Pilate sparred with Jesus about it too: “You’re the king of the Jews, right?” Jesus refused the bait: “You think a king has sword-wielding soldiers at his command. But my kingdom isn’t like that.” You wouldn’t know it from looking at the church, though. The church long ago made peace with the kingdoms of this world. The church even sent its children to war in the name of the kingdoms of this world. But Jesus said his kingdom is “not from this world.” (That’s a better translation than “not of this world.”) The way of his kingdom is not borrowed from Rome or any other kingdom. The way of Jesus’ kingdom is mercy, not brutality; joy, not misery; reconciliation, not enmity. The way of his kingdom doesn’t destroy a village in order to save it. Instead the King himself endures destruction in order to save the world. The kingdom of God is not like the kingdoms of this world. God’s kingdom is not from this world but from the world to come. Forgive your church, Lord Jesus. We forsake the way of your kingdom too easily and in too many ways. Have mercy on us, we pray. Amen.

“So then, even to Gentiles God has granted repentance that leads to life.” — Acts 11:18 An old hymn reminds us that “God moves in a mysterious way.” Sometimes that’s more than God’s people can handle. Acts 11 shows how the brand-new church in Jerusalem was unsure what to do when Gentiles came to faith in Jesus. They were surprised and wondered what God was up to. In a parable in Mark 4, Jesus says the kingdom of God is like seed scattered on soil. The seed sprouts and grows, taking on a life of its own. Eventually there is a harvest. Nowadays we can explain all the processes that produce a harvest. But 2,000 years ago those processes were a mystery, something beyond explanation and yet wonderful. Similarly, the kingdom of God is wonderful and often beyond explaining. Like planted seed, the kingdom has a life of its own. The kingdom is outside our control. It grows and bears fruit however God pleases, without our intervention. It’s not that God doesn’t use us in the processes of the kingdom. But the kingdom is full of surprises—as surprising as Gentiles joining with Jews into one church. Have you seen God move in mysterious ways? Has God given you or your church unexpected opportunities to offer hospitality, to practice generosity, even to tear down boundaries that would keep people out? How wonderful is that?! Lord Jesus, you are the greatest kingdom mystery of all. You became human so that we can become more human than we have ever been. That’s beyond us! Amen.

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. — John 1:5 Here’s the gospel (the “good news”): Jesus delivers the people of God from the dominion of darkness and brings them into the kingdom of light. There is no better news! Here’s the background: Sin had plunged God’s people into darkness. They had no temple, no king, and no homeland. The problem was their own repeated sin of turning away from God and pursuing the sinful excesses of neighboring kingdoms. So God sent other nations, that were bent on conquest, to uproot his people and take them into exile. In a long era of gloom, Israel’s hope grew dim. But when the time was right, God sent his Son to bring Israel out of darkness and into light. And not just Israel—because Jesus is “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). On the cross he broke the back of darkness, because forgiveness of sins leads back to the light. Beyond our “little” sins, Jesus has secured forgiveness for our love of darkness. This frees us from the clutches of darkness and brings us into the light of the kingdom of God. We still live in a dark world. The drumbeat of tragedies and atrocities never stops. But we have the privilege and the duty to reflect the light of God’s kingdom into the world. We do it by keeping the law of Christ: loving and serving both God and neighbor with joy. Lord Jesus, whenever it’s dark, wherever it’s dark, and however it’s dark, I want to shine. Jesus, help me to shine! Amen.

“Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.” — Luke 6:20 The Bible says, “The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” We see it in Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, where the love of money has closed off Scrooge’s heart. And hasn’t money shattered countless families throughout history?! Apparently the dangers of money increase as we get more of it. Because few of us can resist the seductions of wealth. We fall into a money trap. All we want is more. No wonder Jesus says, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God” (Matthew 19:24). When we hear that, we may think Jesus is talking about salvation and warning that wealth gets in the way. Because, if nothing else, having a pile of money can make us feel immune from everything, even from the justice of God. But I think Jesus may have something more immediate in mind: living the way of God’s kingdom here and now. Wealth can put the squeeze on us and keep us from living the way of God’s kingdom. And, proportionally, people who have less tend to be more generous than people who have more. No wonder Jesus says to people who are poor, “Yours is the kingdom of God.” Their generosity already fits. Lord, “give me neither poverty nor riches” (Proverbs 30:8). Help me to trust your generosity enough to be generous like you. Amen.

The written notice of the charge against him read: the king of the jews. — Mark 15:26 Suppose you went to Jerusalem, looking for God, in the time of the kings of Israel. The locals would tell you, “You’ve come to the right place.” And they would point to Solomon’s temple, saying, “That’s where God is.” Because at the heart of the temple, behind a thick curtain and between golden cherubs, God was enthroned as King. By the time of Jesus, however, history has taken its toll. Solomon’s temple is long gone. A new temple has taken its place. Well, suppose you came to Jerusalem in those days, on a certain Friday afternoon, looking for God. Where would the locals point? The news that afternoon was stunning. The temple curtain was torn. And there was nothing behind it: no golden cherubs, no ark of the covenant, and certainly not God. Some of the locals might take you outside the city walls to a rugged hill called Golgotha. And they might point toward a dead figure on a cross and say, “There. That’s where God is.” Because the sign above the corpse is right. This is the king of the jews. The Roman commander is right too. This is the Son of God. What sort of kingdom can it be when the king is a dead guy on a cross, and when that dead guy is the Son of God? A kingdom like no other. That’s for sure. Jesus, you are a king like no other whose kingdom is like no other. Help your church to be a people like no other—in all the best ways. Amen.

Two rebels were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left. — Matthew 27:38 It’s important to note that our use of the words king and kingdom can be misleading when we talk about God and Jesus. These words that are so familiar to us may get us in the ballpark of understanding—but just barely. That’s because Jesus is not like other kings, and the kingdom of God is not like other kingdoms. The mother of James and John finds this out when she asks Jesus for a favor. She’s proud of her boys. So she asks Jesus to give them the top spots in his kingdom, to make them his right-hand and left-hand men. But Jesus says no; those places are already reserved. We gain a hint of what that means when we learn later that two rebels are crucified on either side of Jesus. So cross and kingdom are connected. Other kings would take up a sword and lead an army against the enemies of their people. But Jesus is not like other kings. He deals with great enemies by letting himself be defeated by them on the cross. Then that cross becomes the sign of the kingdom of God, which is not like other kingdoms. Because in the kingdom of God “power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). So whenever you see one of those roadside displays of three crosses, remember that Jesus and his kingdom are not like anything else in this world. Jesus, I’m usually ashamed when I’m weak. So I try to act strong. Help me to trust that your power is made perfect in weakness, even in my weakness. Amen.

“Suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple.” — Malachi 3:1 When Jesus is 40 days old, his parents bring him to the temple to present the required offering after a son is born. It’s a big day. Here’s why. When the Israelites, under Moses, set up a tabernacle (a portable temple) in the wilderness, a cloud of glory signaled the presence of God. God was there in the midst of his people. Later, when they built a temple, under Solomon, the cloud of glory filled it to overflowing. God was enthroned in the temple as Israel’s true King. Many years later, the prophet Ezekiel saw God’s throne leave the temple—and the cloud of glory with it (Ezekiel 10). Soon the temple itself lay in ruins, destroyed by Babylon. Later the people of Israel returned from exile and built another temple. But this time there was no cloud of glory, no sign that God had come to live in the new temple. Many more years later, Mary and Joseph came to the temple carrying Jesus. And the Lord, Israel’s true King, was in the midst of his people once again. What kind of king will he be? And what kind of kingdom will he bring? We are faced with those questions to this day. How will we welcome King Jesus and his kingdom? With humility? With joy? With thanksgiving? With hope? With holy obedience? The answer is in our lives and in the life of the church. Jesus, you came to live among us for a while. And you will come again. We want to welcome you wherever you appear. And wherever you are, your kingdom is. Amen.

Before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. — Revelation 7:9 It’s hard to imagine what the 40 days after Jesus’ resurrection were like for the apostles. But we know this much: Jesus came and went according to his own sense of time and purpose. And whenever he was with his followers, he taught them more about the kingdom of God. The apostles caught his drift. It was hard to miss! Then one day they asked if the time had finally come for him to restore the kingdom of Israel. That was a bit off-track. But it’s no wonder they were thinking in terms of just their own people. That was the hope they had grown up with. Yet the time for the kingdom would be more than just that moment. And the home of the kingdom would be more than just Israel. Over long ages, the Spirit of God would equip the apostles and the whole church to carry the good news to the ends of the earth. And all the earth, with all its kingdoms and dominions, with all its peoples and nations, would hear about King Jesus and his kingdom. That’s how I heard about Jesus and his kingdom. That’s how you heard the good news too. Jesus, thank you for equipping your followers and your church with good news through the power of your Spirit. May the news of your kingdom continue to ring. Amen.

The Lord Most High is . . . the great King over all the earth. — Psalm 47:2 We usually think of kings as men who have political and military power. But King Jesus has a different kind of power. He has the power to take certain things that have gone terribly wrong and put them right. So instead of launching wars, Jesus heals the sick, gives sight to the blind, and casts out demons. One day a Canaanite woman in the region of Tyre and Sidon comes to Jesus. She asks him for help because a demon has hold of her daughter. But Jesus says nothing. When his disciples urge him to send her away, he says that he was sent to tend the flock of Israel. But the woman spars with him, insisting that God’s goodness extends beyond Israel. And of course she is right. Jesus commends her for her great faith, and her daughter is healed immediately. Today is Epiphany, the celebration of Jesus’ being made known to the peoples of the world. In the story of the Canaanite woman, we can see Jesus celebrating this good news too. Though he was sent to “the lost sheep of Israel,” he would soon be sending his followers to all nations (Matthew 24:14; Acts 1:8). And he had already begun showing them that this was God’s intention (Matthew 8:5-13, 28-34). This may not be an epiphany for you, especially if you already know that God loves the whole world (John 3:16). Even so, it reminds us not to think small when it comes to God’s kingdom. Jesus, thank you for bringing the good news to all nations, and help us to follow your lead, in faith. Amen.

“Your kingdom come. . . .” — Matthew 6:10 Jesus’ followers have been saying the Lord’s Prayer since he taught it to them. Many of us know this prayer so well that we can say it without thinking. But if we look carefully at this prayer, we can see that it’s a kingdom prayer. This shows up in the first things we ask for when we say the Lord’s Prayer. We ask for God’s name to be hallowed. We ask for God’s kingdom to be established. We ask for God’s will to be accomplished. And we ask for all of this to happen on earth the same as it is done in heaven. Heaven and earth are not the same. In heaven every creature worships God. In heaven every creature welcomes God’s rule. In heaven every creature does God’s will. And all of this accomplishes God’s purposes in heaven. On earth we often fail to honor God’s holiness through worship. We tend to save our worship for heroes. On earth we fail to fully accept God’s rule. We prefer being in charge ourselves. On earth we often ignore God’s will. We have our own projects and plans. All of this thwarts God’s purposes on earth. When we say the Lord’s Prayer, we are begging for earthly reality to reflect heavenly reality. And we are committing to do our part by following the way of the kingdom as Jesus has taught us. Lord, so let it be! Our Father in heaven, may your name be hallowed, your kingdom be established, and your will be accomplished, on earth the same as in heaven. Help us to do our part. Amen.

You have . . . crowned [human beings] with glory and honor. You have made them rulers over the works of your hands. . . . — Psalm 8:5-6 A few years ago, the prison church I serve spent 16 weeks reading the Bible books of Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 and 2 Samuel, and 1 and 2 Kings. It was mostly a depressing experience as the story turned from bad to worse. That’s when it struck me that the Old Testament is a long meditation on the subject of kingship. The first Old Testament story (Genesis 1) assigns to human beings a royal responsibility over God’s created world. The next story (Genesis 2) pictures that responsibility as the careful tending of a garden. In the stories that follow, human beings quickly lose interest in serving God. Instead they want to become gods themselves. From there it’s all misery and ruin. Until God takes things in hand and begins a long, even tortured process of putting things right. God sets out to establish his kingdom among the family of Abraham. God himself will be the King. But soon enough the people of that kingdom lose confidence in their divine King. They want the kind of king everyone else has. So that’s what they get. And as we can see in the books of Samuel and Kings, it’s not a pretty picture. No wonder a hunger develops for an ideal king and an ideal kingdom. But that’s a kingdom only God can establish. Jesus, you are the ideal King. You are God’s answer to the world’s aching need. You are the one who will make everything right. All glory belongs to you! Amen.

The creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God. — Romans 8:21 First, the bad news. You and I and every last human being on this earth are damaged goods. We’re bent out of shape by sin. We’re guilty of everything from minor missteps to major crimes. We’re in desperate need of forgiveness and a fresh start. But that’s not the half of it. The bad news keeps coming. Selfishness, injustice, hatred, indifference, violence. It all cracks the foundations of our societies and sets us against each other. The earth itself suffers under the weight of our greed and pride and war. And then there are spiritual forces of evil—principalities and powers—that oppose everything good. So the problem is bigger than your sinfulness or mine. So much bigger. And if we look at it all long and hard, it can seem hopeless. That’s what makes the news of the kingdom of God so good. The kingdom is God’s salvation for a broken, twisted, suffering world. In the kingdom there will be no more war. War that ends lives and scars them; war that levels cities and poisons the ground. In the kingdom there will be justice for discarded communities and reconciliation at every level. One day the kingdom will be a new creation, aflame with the glory and goodness of God. And the news will always be good. Lord Jesus, thank you for the big hope of your kingdom and for every little sign of its coming. Amen.

“This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations.” — Matthew 24:14 I suppose we all have people we don’t trust. For one thing, it’s hard to trust somebody who doesn’t tell the truth. But sometimes untrustworthy people do manage to tell the truth. And sometimes even demons do. As Jesus cast out demons at Simon’s house, those demons said, “You are the Son of God!” It was the truth, of course. Somehow the demons knew Jesus was the Messiah. As the Son of God, Jesus was the long-promised “Anointed One” (Messiah, Christ) who would bring a new era of peace, justice, and righteousness for God’s people (Isaiah 42-43; 49-53). This was the good news (“the gospel”) that would go out to all nations. So Jesus came as the king of God’s people (Israel). No wonder he said he was sent to proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God. What else would the king do? The “good news” is “the gospel”—and that makes “the kingdom of God” the gospel chorus, the repeating theme of God’s great work through Jesus. The apostle Paul sang this chorus. He told the elders of the church at Ephesus that he was given “the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.” Then he described that task as “preaching the kingdom” (Acts 20:24-25). For Jesus and for Paul, the kingdom of God is at the center. It can’t be any other way because that’s the gospel truth. King Jesus, I welcome the good news about you and your kingdom. That news can change the way I see everything. Please make it so. Amen.

“The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign . . . forever; his kingdom will never end.” — Luke 1:32-33 As I write this, I’m visiting with my brother, his wife, and their cat, Bennie. Ever since I arrived, I catch myself singing the chorus of an old Elton John song: “B-B-B-Bennie and the Jets!” Meeting Bennie the cat and seeing him around the house has brought that chorus from the fringe of my mind to the center. Something like that has happened for me with the New Testament too. A theme that was on the fringe is now front and center. Because it is the center. That theme is the kingdom of God. When we read Luke 1, we focus on angels and announcements. We focus on the birth of John the Baptist and the impending birth of Jesus. All great stuff! But here’s what we tend to miss. Jesus comes to be a king. He comes to reign over a kingdom. It’s the kingdom of his father David (an ancestor who lived about 1,000 years earlier). But, more than that, it’s the kingdom of God. That’s where our attention will be this month. Because the kingdom of God is the chorus that repeats throughout the New Testament. And like any good chorus, it’s really the point of the song. So let’s give it a listen. It may even start us singing. I think Bennie would like that. God our Father, may your name be hallowed, may your kingdom come, and may your will be done on earth—the same as in heaven. Amen.

Moses climbed Mount Nebo from the plains of Moab to the top of Pisgah, across from Jericho. There the Lord showed him the whole land. . . . — Deuteronomy 34:1 Come with me down Michigan Avenue, past Root Brothers Hardware and the blinking neon sign at the Currency Exchange. As we leave the Roseland neighborhood, in the rearview mirror we can see the people and places we reflected on this month—Lloyd, Annette, Bob, Corey, Charlene, Kimberly, Tina, Terrell, and many more. Before Moses died, God allowed him to go up Mount Nebo for a glimpse of the promised land. But what is looking forward if there is nowhere to look forward from? What is arrival with no memory of the journey? I imagine Moses looked not just toward the promised land but also back in the direction of the wilderness, the Red Sea, and Egypt (see Exodus 12-20). What a journey. Pausing to look back gives us the gift of perspective to celebrate God’s faithfulness over time. As we said earlier, “‘If the Lord had not been on our side,’ where would we be?” (Dec. 8). As this year ends, look back on the journey that was 2023. Remember the wilderness moments, the mountaintops, the people we lost, the babies that were born, and the friendships that formed. Let’s look back on the faithfulness of God in 2023 as we then look ahead to 2024. What a journey. God is good! Lord, thank you for your faithfulness this year and for your presence with us on the journey. Thank you for the gift of looking back—and for what lies ahead. Amen.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves. . . . — Philippians 2:3-4 I heard someone say recently, “What we need nowadays is people with good character.” What is good character? Good morals? A firm handshake and a steady look in the eye? Tina has good character. She’s a little rough around the edges —smokes Newport cigarettes, has faded tattoos, and can slip into colorful combinations of language that would make a sailor blush. But she lives a life committed to using every resource and gift at her disposal for the good of others. Recently a young mom in the community died, leaving behind three young boys in the custody of their 18-year-old sister. These boys are fending for themselves in so many ways. Tina noticed them and began bringing them food and clothing. She takes the boys to a young men’s mentoring program at church, and when her immediate family has a birthday party or somewhere fun to go, she includes the boys as if they are her own. I think character begins with emptying oneself for others. David Brooks, who wrote a book on character, said in an interview: “People who really have character make deep, unshakable connections to something outside of themselves.” Character involves a commitment to service and community, outside of oneself. In Jesus’ parable of the good Samaritan, for example, that is extended to include enemies (Luke 10:29-37). How might we empty ourselves for others today? Lord, you emptied yourself for us all. Fill us with your Spirit to live in humble service of others for your sake. Amen.

He went to the Kerith Ravine. . . . The ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning and . . . in the evening, and he drank from the brook. — 1 Kings 17:5-6 Last spring Chanell sat on a bench in the vacant lot adjacent to the Roseland Christian Ministries parking lot. A few years ago, with the help of a supporting contractor, that vacant lot was excavated. Good topsoil was brought in. Grass seed was planted, and that lot has become a beautiful stretch of green between an abandoned building and our parking lot. Chanell was sitting on a bench made by the Roseland Cadets boys club. She sat in the shade, staring at the community garden boxes, in which flowers and vegetables grow in abundance. A bird feeder invites goldfinches and other birds in. One morning I walked over to her and asked, “What are you doing out here every day?” She smiled and said, “I like to see the flowers growing, watch the birds come and eat. I’ve been through so much—abuse, domestic violence, addiction. You name it, I’ve lived it. I sit here and receive my little peace from God until I’m able to face the world again.” In a time of drought and famine, when the leaders and people of Israel had rebelled against God, Elijah went to the Kerith Ravine. Chanell sits on a bench at a community garden. In places like those, God provides safety, security, and a restoring of the soul. We all need a Kerith Ravine. Where is yours? Lord, lead us to restoration and security as you care for us each day. Provide us a place where we can find peace in you. Amen.

“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” — Matthew 10:16 Officer Clayton grew up on the South Side of Chicago and was inspired to become a police officer to serve his community. He has arrested hardened criminals in life-threatening situations. He can be tough skinned and all business in situations where he needs to be. He also comes by Roseland Christian Ministries to bring bicycles for children, tickets to the circus, and school supplies for kids when the school year starts. He is both tough and tender. He is strong-willed and sensitive to the needs of others. I am inspired by people who are a synthesis of gifts that we don’t normally attribute together. Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., delivered a sermon on this topic, titled, “Tough Minds and Tender Hearts.” This sermon is a gift to anyone who may feel like a square peg in a round hole at times. Following Jesus requires that we not give into societal expectations if they diminish the fullness of who God made us to be. We have in us, as children of God, the capacity to be both as shrewd as a serpent and as innocent as a dove, tough and tender, creative and organized, thoughtful and action oriented. In what ways are you a synthesis of attributes that may seem like contradictions but come together to form you? Lord, bring together all the traits that make us who we are, even those that can seem contradictory. Make us whole by the power of your Holy Spirit. Amen.

A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. — Proverbs 17:22 Nobody has a better laugh than Rev. Rick. In addition to serving as the pastor of a nearby church for 35 years, he also served as the president of the board of Roseland Christian Ministries for more than a decade. While he has multiple talents and abilities, what I love most about Rev. Rick is his laugh. There are all kinds of laughs: guttural, throaty, staccato, sinister. There are as many laughs as there are people. Rev. Rick’s laugh is pure joy. I’ve heard him laugh across a room at the face a baby made. Sheer unadulterated joy. There is a joyful kindness to Rev. Rick’s laugh that changes the atmosphere in the room. As Proverbs says, “a cheerful heart is good medicine,” and I’m inclined to believe that there is something healing that comes from laughter. Laughter is a gift from God. There have been many times in my life when I have just needed to laugh. Or just to hear laughter. Maybe you’ve heard the phrase “I had to laugh to keep from crying.” We could all probably do a little bit more of both. But today I want to laugh. As a gift from God, can we find pleasure in the fun, funny, silly, and even ridiculous? Maybe today we can find a moment to let out a cheerful laugh. Lord, thank you for the gift of laughter. Thank you for the joy and gladness that come with shared laughter and humor in your name. Amen.

When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. — 1 Corinthians 13:11 Corey grew up a few blocks from Roseland Christian Ministries. His dad went to prison when Corey was a boy, but Corey and his father would often write letters and talk on the phone. Corey did well in grade school, avoided gangs and trouble, and his mother, aunts, and grandmother raised him. His broader community, schools, and churches all proudly claim investing in his life. When Corey was a senior in high school, he became a Gates Scholar and was awarded a full scholarship to Morehouse College. After graduating from Morehouse, he earned a master’s degree. He worked for the Chicago Public Schools, and now he works with a foundation serving at-risk youth around the world. Corey also serves on the board of directors of Roseland Christian Ministries. One of the great joys of being part of a Christian community is being able to see young people grow into their gifts. There is great joy in watching boys and girls become men and women of character and integrity. Many young people who grew up in Roseland have come back and used their gifts by working in the women and children’s shelter, youth programs, and church ministries. Who are the children you have watched growing up to serve their communities and families? Who are the young people you can encourage today and lift up by name? Lord, thank you for all who have grown up to care for your communities in faith. Amen.

Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior. . . .” — Luke 1:46-47 Lavelle tends to break into song at any given moment. Not like someone humming a favorite hymn from their childhood. Oh no. Lavelle will bellow and blast out a note of praise at the top of his lungs. He is a living testimony of God’s grace and goodness. Now, it’s true that Lavelle likes having an audience. But even more so, he needs to praise God. He needs to express what is inside of him—belting out praise for who God is in his life. Lavelle has inside of him a song to sing. In Luke 1 we read that Mary had a song to sing. And she sang, “My soul glorifies the Lord,” because God had chosen her—of all people!—to carry the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ. Other translations read, “My soul magnifies the Lord.” To magnify is to make bigger—like with a magnifying glass. For us, Mary became a model of a decreased self while Christ increased in her and in her life. As John the Baptist would later say, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30, NRSV). Do you sing a song that puts life back into perspective—where you are reminded just how big God, creation, and the love of Jesus are? What are the songs that God has put in your soul to magnify the Lord? Amazing God, you have given us a song to sing—like Mary and Lavelle—a song of victory, a song of praise. Today may we magnify you in all we do. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.

The grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God. — 2 Corinthians 4:15 Bob was from Chicago, and he ended up homeless in Seattle. With few resources, he did what he could for work. Bob met a barber who offered him a free haircut and a shave. Bob accepted, and when the barber was finished, Bob looked at himself in the mirror and couldn’t believe what he saw. It was the first time in months that he had looked at his face with more than just a passing glance. He looked handsome and dignified. He didn’t feel like a “bum.” His feeling of self-worth was overwhelming. Bob began to take more steps to take care of himself. He eventually became a licensed barber. He moved back to Chicago and reconnected with family members. He now sets up a barber chair twice a month at Roseland Christian Ministries and offers free haircuts and shaves to men in the community, many of whom are homeless. Most of the men walk a foot taller as they leave, heads held high. Something about being given the gift to be your best self is inspiring. Grace is the ignition for the motor of gratitude. Bob lives a life of gratitude, serving others in the same way he was served. When you look back over your life, think about times when you experienced God’s grace through the kindness of another person. In what ways can you share God’s grace with others? Lord, help us to remember the grace we have received, and guide us to show grace to the people around us, to your glory. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.

The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. — James 3:17 Five years ago the congregation of Roseland Christian Ministries gathered to worship with a partner church in a suburb of Chicago. A couple from Roseland arrived 45 minutes early at the partner church. The driver was nervous that if they were late, they would perpetuate a negative racial stereotype. So they arrived early, sat in their car, read the Bible, and drank coffee, with no music playing. Before long, police squad cars showed up. They had received a call reporting a disturbance in the parking lot. The police unclipped their holstered guns and told the driver of the car that he was on private property. Soon the car was searched. Members from the host church began to arrive for worship as the officers finished searching the car. The police departed since nothing illegal was happening—just a black couple going to church in a white neighborhood. I have a long way to go when it comes to issues about race; maybe you do too. What are the places in our hearts, society, and structures that need to be examined? In each of us and in the communities we serve, the wisdom from heaven is needed to form us into more “peace-loving, considerate . . . impartial,” and less fearful people. May we have the humility and strength to allow God’s wisdom to shape us and do his will on earth as it is done in heaven. Lord, may your wisdom dwell in us, take away fear, and give us fruits of mercy, peace, and goodness. In Jesus, Amen.

“I have summoned you by name. You are mine.” — Isaiah 43:1 “Alright, you can make one phone call.” Gary didn’t know any of his family members’ phone numbers, and the police officer was giving him one phone call to make. The night before, he drank too much, got into an argument with a stranger, and started yelling at the top of his lungs outside a liquor store. His phone fell and was lost in the melee. He was arrested for public disturbance, slept in a jail cell, and woke up in a daze. Again the officer said, “You can make one phone call.” He rattled off the number of Roseland Christian Ministries by heart to the officer and said, “Ask for Kisha or Pastor Joe. They know me there. Tell them Gary is in trouble and needs some help.” I am grateful to be part of a church where the community knows the phone number by heart. I am grateful to be part of a church where somebody in their lowest state, humiliated by bad decisions, disease, addiction, or trouble, can say, “Call them; they know me there.” I’m grateful for the God who calls us and knows us by name. No matter how badly you have messed up, or what you may have become—God knows you by name and claims you. You belong to God. Lord, we are grateful that you call us by name and that you claim us. We are grateful that we belong to you, body and soul. Amen.

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. — Ephesians 2:8-9 Charlene sat in a chair in the Roseland Christian Ministries shelter. She stared straight ahead, her eyes grew heavy, and her head nodded as she dozed off. Earlier she had received a methadone treatment to push back the withdrawals from her addiction to heroin. Across from Charlene was Kimberly, shuffling through a bag full of papers, envelopes, and legal pads. She suffers from paranoid schizophrenia. She talks to voices in her head, sleeps in abandoned buildings, and has trouble taking care of herself physically. Visitors to Roseland Christian Ministries often ask whether or not the people who come there for services work for a living. “When will they get jobs?” we sometimes hear. Questions like that seem to imply that a person’s worth is based mainly on the work they do. When people ask such questions, they probably don’t mean any harm, but it’s important to know that God sees the whole person, not just what they can do or whether they have a job. I am grateful to have a good work ethic. But I am certain that God’s measure for us is not limited to our work ethic. Charlene has since moved into a rehabilitation facility. She is three weeks clean and sober. We are grateful that the Spirit is raising her back to life after being nearly dead for so long. Lord, we thank you for the gift of life and all the ways you care for us. Thank you for not basing salvation on our works. In Christ, you love us freely. Amen.

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. — Psalm 46:1 For most of my life I have either run through problems with my head down, or I have retreated. I’m learning the biblical practice of seeking refuge. There is a difference between refuge and retreat. To retreat is to run from trouble with no hope or thought of returning to the crisis. Retreat is avoidance. To seek refuge in the Lord, no matter what trouble we may find ourselves in, is an act of pursuing safety with the goal of being restored so that we can enter back into relationships and community. We seek refuge in the Lord not to avoid trouble but to find strength for the journey. Retreat involves throwing in the towel and saying “I’m done.” Refuge involves going to God to catch your breath, to regain some strength and perspective, and to keep on the journey. Retreat is a result of fear without hope. Refuge is a result of recognizing that the world can be a dark and scary place but that God’s light shines brighter. I am learning to take refuge in the Lord. I find refuge in the Lord through worship, silence, community, working out, running, relationships, and the beauty of creation. In what ways do you find refuge in the Lord? Lord, you are our refuge and our strength. So often we retreat, or we try to push through. Teach us to take refuge in you so that we can continue on the journey. Amen.

God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them, male and female he created them. — Genesis 1:27 John is the chair of the art department at Trinity Christian College. Seven years ago, when he heard that a teenage member of Roseland Christian Ministries was shot and killed, John initiated the Roseland Portrait Project as a way to honor the young man and to strengthen bonds in the community. John painted the young man’s portrait on a wood panel. He then went on to paint 404 more portraits of Roseland community residents, and the project became a traveling exhibit. Here are John’s words: “500 years ago, only kings had their portraits painted as a way of asserting their significance. The time and energy it takes to paint a portrait by hand is a way of paying concentrated attention to a single person. It is a way of valuing ordinary people for who they are, not what they achieve or the money they make.” John’s description of this process has been a helpful way for me to think about being made in God’s image. Before we build a life, achieve, grow, get sick, make mistakes—before any of what becomes our life takes place—there is in us the same inherent value because all of us human beings bear the image of God. You are created in God’s image. Every person you come across today is also made in God’s image. God, we thank you for art and the beauty of your creation. Give us eyes to see your image in all people. Amen.

“Do not come any closer,” God said. “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.” — Exodus 3:5 It wasn’t fun anymore. The drinking. The late nights, late mornings, headaches, and excuses. So on December 22, 1990, Robert checked himself into the hospital to detox as he began what is now a decades-long journey of sobriety. What stands out most when he tells his story is that he distinctly remembers looking out his hospital window on Christmas 1990, watching the snow gently fall. In that moment he knew—not just in his mind but in his whole body—that God was telling him that everything was going to change. There are moments in the Bible when God shows up in a striking way and things change. God meets Moses at a burning bush. God reassures Elijah at Mount Horeb (1 Kings 19:7-18). God speaks and a dove appears at Jesus’ baptism (Mark 1:9-11). God speaks again at Jesus’ transfiguration (Mark 9:2-8). The Holy Spirit comes with the sound of wind and tongues of fire at Pentecost (Acts 2). Have you had a time when you sensed the powerful presence of God and your life changed? Let’s ask God to help us be alert, aware, and awake to the ways he is working in us and in the people around us in his world. Lord, your world is full of your glory, and sometimes you make us especially aware of your presence and what you are doing in our lives. There are times and places that can feel sanctified and especially holy. Give us eyes to see and wisdom to understand what you are doing. Amen.

I am forgotten as though I were dead; I have become like broken pottery. . . . But I trust in you, Lord; I say, “You are my God.” — Psalm 31:12, 14 There is a form of Japanese pottery repair called kintsugi. When a pot is broken, the artist will repair the broken piece with gold to seal the break. The goal of the artist is not to restore it to its original condition but to draw attention and create beauty where the pottery is broken. There is new strength and beauty at the place of the breaks. One of the great gifts I have appreciated from the Roseland Christian Ministries community is that beauty and strength are found in the places where we are weak. There’s no faking it. Our motto is “Come as You Are”—and people come broken. This doesn’t mean we wallow in the broken places. But it does mean that we can live with an openness about our wounds and hurts. There is tremendous freedom in this. This is a gift that God offers to anyone willing to accept it. The places of brokenness, vulnerability, and shortcomings are the places where the presence of Christ heals, dwells, and brings about new life. Can we come to Scripture, prayer, fellowship, worship, and relationships with a willingness for Christ and Christian community to take those broken pieces and make our lives a strong, beautiful gift to the communities we are a part of? Lord, thank you for reminding us that we aren’t perfect and that we can’t pretend to be. We come broken. Please make us a strong and beautiful instrument for your glory. Amen.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10 Wednesdays are busy at Roseland Christian Ministries. The Greater Chicago Food Depository drops off several tons of food, medical professionals come to provide medical care to the community, and lunch is served to 70-90 men and women. In a small classroom behind this hustle and bustle, a gathering of mostly older women sits in a circle. Nearly every week our meeting begins in the same way. One of us reads Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” Then we sit in stillness and silence together for a few minutes. I tend to want to fill the silence with noise. I want to break the stillness with movement. But when I surrender my desire to talk and move, and we simply sit in the still silence as brothers and sisters, I am surprised at the peace and calm that come over us. In our hearts and minds we say over and over again, “Be still, and know that I am God.” Those few minutes each week, for all of us who gather in the circle, have become a sanctuary in the midst of chaos. What about you? Do you have a place and time to sit with others in the stillness and silence of God’s presence? Lord, we can often get so busy and distracted. Help us to still our minds and bodies and to rest in the assurance that you are God and you are with us. Amen.

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” — 2 Corinthians 12:9 I came home one night after officiating at the funeral of a young man who had been shot and killed. I changed clothes and sat on the couch. My wife, Cate, asked, “How are you doing?” “I’m good. All good.” This was my response 99.9 percent of the time to that question. “Really?” she asked. “I’m good.” The room was quiet. My eyes welled up, my nose got runny—and before I knew it, I began to sob. I shook and began to say the names of all the young Black men from Roseland who have been shot and killed in the past few years: Marqwell; Andre; Darnell, Sr.; Darnell, Jr.; Larry; and others. I wept and shook for an hour. My wife wiped tears from my eyes. So much grief, violence, and injustice had to find expression. For 10 years I had kept putting one foot in front of the other and had ignored the pain. And then it all came out on that couch. This was one of the most important interactions of my life. Letting go of being strong has strengthened relationships. I found that in weakness, tears, and brokenness, the power and grace of God expressed in community show up. Healing and restoration happen in this place. God, help us to let go of whatever disconnects us from you and each other. Give us the strength to let go of being strong, being right, being correct. Teach us to let go and surrender to you. In Jesus, Amen.

Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering. — Hebrews 13:3 Each month, I try to write letters to young men who grew up in the neighborhood and are now in prison. I have seen lines of boys become young men, make mistakes, and end up in court with no advocate, sentenced to prison for decades. I am asking you to pray for African American men, particularly young ones, in prison. And I want to invite you to learn about the United States prison system, just as I am trying to learn more about it myself. Over the past three decades, the U.S. prison population has exploded from 300,000 to 2 million. Twenty-five percent of these prisoners are African American, while only 13 percent of the U.S. population is African American. The work of Bryan Stevenson at Equal Justice Initiative has spotlighted the legacy of racism from slavery to incarceration. It would be easier to judge and write off those who are in prison. But I urge you to "continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison." What might that look like to do so in your corner of the world? I know we can do better, and I believe wholeheartedly that God wants better for us. Lord, you created us full of potential, promise, and beauty. Corporate and individual sin and injustice corrupt what you have created for good. We pray for all who are in prison, and may we work to create institutions that bring justice. Amen.

The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold. — Acts 28:2 Have you ever been the recipient of unusual kindness? The apostle Paul and 275 others lay on the shore of Malta after surviving a terrible storm and shipwreck (see Acts 27). I imagine that Paul lay coughing up salt water as the islanders surrounded him. I’m sure both sides were fearful of the other’s presence. And yet the Holy Spirit was already at work ahead of them, bringing the travelers and the Maltese people together. The islanders showed Paul and the others “unusual kindness” by building a fire to provide warmth. Later they would provide the shipwrecked crew and soldiers and prisoners with the supplies they needed to continue on their journey. Think about someone who showed you unusual kindness. I’m not just talking about someone whose doctrine is correct or whose beliefs line up with yours. I’m asking you to reflect on times when you were the recipient of an unusual kindness. Could those have been situations when God’s Spirit was at work, bringing together people in a way that only God’s Spirit could? This is worth considering. When you were a stranger or an outsider, who treated you with unusual kindness (grace)? Lord may we be open to your Spirit’s work in and among people in situations that we might never expect or imagine. May we be gracious recipients and gracious givers of “unusual kindness.” Amen.

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. — Galatians 5:1 The former pastor of Roseland Christian Ministries tells a story of a man addicted to cocaine who asked his wife to lock him in the basement when she left for work. Locked in, he was often free of the hunger that drove him to sell anything in the house to feed his addiction. Some days he would still beat down a door or smash a window. But other days his wife would return and find him sleeping peacefully on the couch. I read somewhere that we tend to define freedom as an absence of restrictions. I read somewhere else that freedom is not an absence of restrictions so much as choosing the right ones. If we never belonged to Christ, we would be free of many obligations. But I know that would not be freedom. One of the privileges of serving a church is to officiate at baptisms. In baptism, three promises are made: God promises to be faithful, the family promises to disciple and raise the baptized child, and the covenant community promises encouragement and support. A friend of mine thinks of those promises as tethers that bind us to each other. And those tethers give us freedom. In Christ you are free to belong to God and his community, and to be the person God has called you to be. Lord, thank you for the freedom of belonging to you in Christ. We freely belong so that we can love you, our neighbors, and your creation. Amen.

As [Jesus] approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it. — Luke 19:41 God chooses not to turn away from human suffering. Instead, God chooses to identify with those who mourn, and, through Jesus, he has made suffering and humiliation his own—all for our sake. Christ’s coming and his crucifixion are the powerful bookends of a life filled with suffering, service, and identifying with “the least of these” (Matthew 25:40). Jesus had a humiliating birth in a barn or a stable where animals were sheltered (Luke 2:7). And he had an even more humiliating death, being publicly executed on a cross between two criminals (Luke 23:32-33). During his life among us, it wasn’t much better—he was often homeless (Luke 9:58), mocked, tested, and threatened with death. Recently a 17-year-old boy who grew up at Roseland Christian Ministries was shot and killed walking to his home. His sisters and grandmother wept for days. Jesus did too. Our shelter is filled with women and children who are displaced. Mothers have wept here over the humiliation and shame of being homeless. Jesus weeps with them. Jesus weeps and identifies with all of us in our suffering. Please know that in your tears, pain, and times of suffering, God is not far off. God in Christ Jesus weeps with you. Lord, in our suffering, we are grateful that you are not far off. We are grateful that in Christ Jesus you weep with us. Give us the peace of knowing you are with us. Amen.

Moses took the bones of Joseph with him because Joseph had made the Israelites swear an oath. — Exodus 13:19 A friend of mine loves carrying bones. Huh? In the Bible, when God calls Moses to lead the people out of Egypt, they kept a promise by taking Joseph’s bones with them to be buried in the promised land. So for over 40 years it was someone’s job to carry the bones. Their names are not mentioned with Moses, Aaron, Miriam, or Joshua, and yet they helped to fulfill an important promise. And when the people got to the promised land, Joseph’s bones were buried (Joshua 24:32). Bone carriers are the people who do the unglamorous work that helps to hold faith communities together. At Roseland Christian Ministries we found a medical supply company and purchased a human femur replica. We passed around this bone to each other at staff meetings, recognizing people who do the work that often gets overlooked. Smoky picks up trash outside our building. Bone carrier. Bruce is always fixing whatever is broken. Bone carrier. Kisha puts in extra time in many areas that go unnoticed. Bone carrier. Tamika, DeWitt, Ty, David, Mary, Kadie, Steve, Sandra, Megan, Kayla—all bone carriers. God’s kingdom takes all kinds of people with a variety of gifts. I’m grateful for the carriers of Joseph’s bones, and I’m grateful for the bone carriers here in Roseland. Who are the bone carriers in your community? Lord, thank you for all the people who do the unseen work that keep communities thriving. May we honor and serve you in all we do. Amen.

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. — Psalm 19:1 Once a week I meet with a friend early in the morning to run along the Chicago lakefront. When we begin, it is usually dark, and the city is quiet. Along the way we have seen a red fox that sleeps under bushes around Buckingham fountain, and we once came upon a handful of coyotes pacing the bike path, looking for rabbits. By the time we head back, the sun is just beginning to peek over Lake Michigan. Before long, the sun’s rays reflect off Chicago’s silvery, mirrored downtown skyline. The sky begins to take on pink and orange hues, and the water can be so blue. It’s breathtaking every single time. The sheer beauty is something to behold. It is one of the few moments that weekly puts me in a state of awe. Maybe you have a favorite walk that you take, a favorite spot to watch the sun set, or a telescope to look at stars, planets, or the moon—something that creates in you a sense of awe. Whatever does this for you, can you set aside a few moments today and take in the beauty and awe of God’s creation? Lord, there is so much beauty in your world. Open our senses to be aware of your beauty and power in your vast creation. Amen!

If the Lord had not been on our side . . . if the Lord had not been on our side. . . . — Psalm 124:1-2 “You remember me, Pastor?” He stood outside the door of the church, a smile across his face. Squinting at him for a few seconds, I finally recognized him. Five years earlier, Terrell had been 50 pounds lighter and in the grip of an unforgiving substance addiction. He stood smiling, confident, with his arm outstretched and a 50-dollar bill in his hand. “I know it’s not much, but if it had not been for God placing me in this ministry at that moment in my life, I don’t want to imagine where I would be. This place kept me going—meals, clothes, and a home for me. I thank God for you! Please use this to help somebody.” Dr. Margaret Douroux wrote a song based on Psalm 124 that I often find myself humming: “If it had not been for the Lord on my side, tell me, where would I be? Where would I be?” I thank God for Terrell. I thank God for the gifts he came with that day—his spirit, his encouragement, and his monetary contribution. Trusting and allowing others to walk with and encourage him took great humility on his part. I struggle to have that level of humility. And yet that sort of vulnerability opens a way for Christ to draw us closer as his community. If the Lord had not been on your side, where would you be? Lord, give us the humility to look back and ask, “If you had not been on our side, where would we be?” Give us gratitude for your faithfulness. Amen.

“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. . . .” — Matthew 18:10 Both Annette and her son, Lloyd, were born with disabilities and were often ignored by others. They worshiped at Roseland Christian Ministries and worked in the food pantry, drop-in center, and thrift store for 30 years. When Annette moved into a nursing home, Lloyd tried to manage without his mother. In an act of innocent hospitality, Lloyd allowed some shady men to move into their family home for shelter. Soon the men took over the house, and when Lloyd confronted them, they beat him to death. In Matthew 18, Jesus teaches about having the trusting, dependent faith of little children, and of welcoming them into God’s kingdom. He also warns against doing any harm to “these little ones.” The Greek word for this term, mikron, means “small in significance or size”—and while it could refer to children, it can also describe other people that we might consider little or insignificant. In the kingdom of God, however, everyone is significant. A group of RCM members, including the former pastor and his wife and other friends, gathered around Annette. Unable to leave the nursing home, Annette was rolled in her medical bed into a community room where we celebrated Lloyd’s life and the promises of God. A church member, Steve, sang, “Jesus loves me! This I know, for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to him belong; they are weak, but he is strong.” Father, thank you for your love and strength over all of us, for we are all mikron. Amen.

“When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?” — Matthew 25:38-39 Driving to Roseland Christian Ministries on a busy morning, I sometimes feel discouraged with the never-ending line of people at the doors needing groceries, a meal, a bus pass, a utility bill paid, a friend, or a letter to a judge on behalf of a young person in legal trouble. As I wait for the traffic light to turn green, I stare ahead, pretending to be on my phone while a man stands outside my car window asking for money. Sometimes I roll the car window down, make eye contact, and talk with the person outside. When I do, I’m reminded of my weaknesses, and I’m grateful for this community that embraces all people. In Jesus’ parable the goats are people who ignore neighbors that are imprisoned, hungry, and suffering. The sheep are people who offer a cup of cold water, shelter, and compassion to neighbors that are hurting. The big reveal of the parable is that Christ is present with “the least of these,” and we are called to serve hurting and humiliated people in Jesus’ name. We have the opportunity to serve Christ when we care for people who are hurting. If we think we are happy in our comfortable, safe lives, we are invited to let go of our illusions and enter community with others. This is the body of Christ. We need others, and others need us. We roll the window down and enter community, for Jesus’ sake. God, give us the strength to love and the will to enter community and let others in. Doing so, may we sense the very presence of Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” — Luke 11:9 I received a text message late one night from the pastor of a large African American congregation in Chicago: “Sorry to bother you so late, but something hit my spirit. Do you have a family in your congregation that could use an anonymous financial blessing? They can use it however they want, but we want to bless them unexpectedly, with financial resources that have no strings.” Tracey has lived in the Roseland community nearly all of her life. She is raising three children while working an assortment of jobs. She also volunteers at the Roseland Christian Ministries food pantry, dropping off groceries to families who are physically unable to leave their homes. Tracey was also saving money to purchase a house, and it would take a few more years before she would have enough to be able to purchase a home. The pastor and congregation anonymously gifted Tracey $15,000. When she heard about the gift, she silently mouthed, “Thank you, Lord.” I’m so glad this pastor texted me at the midnight hour with the news of this gift. And I’m glad Tracey was willing to receive it. She had been asking God to make a way where it seemed no way was possible. Two months later Tracey was able to purchase and rehabilitate a boarded-up home. Her family has a home now. She knocked—and a door opened. Teach us, Lord, to knock on your door, ask, and learn how to receive. Teach us to seek after you. Amen.

The Spirit told Phillip, “Go to that chariot and stay near it.” — Acts 8:29 Emotions ran high as we debated on social media the shooting of a teenage boy by a Chicago police officer. I took one side, and a former classmate, a Chicago police officer, took another. We both dug in deeper, and we were both convinced that our own individual viewpoint was the only way to see things. A week later, following a friend’s prompting, the officer and I sat across from each other in a Chicago diner. I stirred my coffee with a spoon. Then he finally said, “Can we pray?” We did. And then, for the next two hours, we listened to each other. We committed to meet again. The next month, in the middle of the night, I received a text from a young man—a musical artist just released from prison on parole. “Pastor, I need prayer. I look over my shoulder everywhere I go because of the life I live. Can you pray for me? I have no one to turn to. I’m despairing.” The next morning, I called, and we prayed together. We have texted and prayed together regularly since then. Where is the Holy Spirit taking us, and into whose lives? A police officer? A musical artist on parole? An old friend? An enemy? We never know. God, lead us to follow your way, no matter how far it may lead outside our own plans. Like Philip as he met with the Ethiopian official on a desert road, may we be in step with your Spirit and obedient to his call. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.

We are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.” — 2 Corinthians 6:16 Ms. Betty, 86, shuffles with her walker to the front of the sanctuary. She drops to her knees while singing the words of a spiritual: “Walk with me, Lord! Walk with me. While I’m on this tedious journey, I want Jesus to walk with me.” Thirteen years ago Ms. Betty’s granddaughter Sabrina died in a car accident, leaving three young sons behind. Ms. Betty took in all three great-grandsons. After church one Sunday, one of those grandsons, Andre Taylor, was shot and killed. Roseland Christian Ministries has been her refuge—she comes here four to five times a week. She’s at worship and Sunday school on Sunday, prayer meeting on Tuesday, hospitality committee on Wednesday, and stops in at other times too. Some days she needs prayer; some days she needs groceries. Most of all, like the rest of us, she needs assurance that God is with her—that Jesus is still walking with her. Whether we are aware of it, feel it, acknowledge it, or not—we worship the God who, in Jesus and by his Spirit, walks with us. God is with you. Christ is present with you on your journey today and every day. Walk with us, Lord. While we are on this journey, please continue to walk with us, be our guide, and hold our hand. Amen.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. — 2 Corinthians 13:14 Anthony, wearing a black bomber jacket and aviator sunglasses, paces back and forth outside my office. I’m on the phone, but he gestures repeatedly that I should “hang up the phone.” Now inside my office, he continues to pace, rips off his sunglasses, and blurts out, “I need communion. Now, Pastor. Sir. Now indeed. Indulge.” Anthony struggles with his mental health. He has no access to quality mental care, so he wanders the streets talking to voices in his head, and he self-medicates with cocaine, marijuana, and alcohol. Five years ago he tested positive for HIV. His outbursts have led to his being barred from shelters around the city. He sleeps on a mattress in his cousin’s garage. “Pastor, I need communion, sir, and I need it now.” Mental, physical, and emotional trauma have left him incapable of building trusting relationships. He needs to know he belongs—to God and neighbor. Felisha and Raphael, church council members at Roseland Christian Ministries, are both present. We scrounge up some bread and grape juice and gather in a circle, the four of us in my office. “Anthony, the body of Christ, broken for you; the blood of Christ, shed for you.” Anthony breathes deeply and says, “The body of Christ for me. Indeed. Amen.” Lord God, move us into relationship with you, community, and creation. In Jesus, Amen.

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.” — Matthew 13:44 Come to Chicago’s Roseland neighborhood with me. Drive down Michigan Avenue, past Root Brothers Hardware. “Checks Cashed” blinks in neon from the Currency Exchange, and “$2,300 – LIKE NEW!!” shines from the window of a red Chevy Cavalier. Snow falls on people outside Roseland Christian Ministries (RCM) as they wait for the food pantry to open. Just inside the front door eight men and women are busy stacking cans and boxes of food. As they finish, RCM volunteer Ms. Arlene says, in a Jamaican accent, “OK, let us gather to pray. . . . Holy Spirit, fill us with the love of Jesus. May your gifts be given to your people. Amen.” For the next two hours this group of employees and volunteers serves groceries to people coming in from the local community. The corner of East 109th and Michigan in Chicago is a part of God’s kingdom. Like a farmer who finds treasure in a field and then sells everything he has to purchase that field, I have had the privilege of seeing and working in a sliver of God’s kingdom here on Chicago’s South Side. And as you meet some of the people here, my hope is that you may discover a deeper awareness of Christ’s presence in the communities where you live. Lord, open our eyes to see you and our ears to hear you. May we be surprised by the treasure that is your kingdom in the communities we are a part of. Amen.

He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” — Revelation 21:5 Some imagery that appears in the beginning of the Bible is contrasted or expanded upon in the final chapters of God’s grand story of salvation. The unformed abyss in Genesis 1, for example, is contrasted with the stunning architecture of the heavenly city in Revelation 21. The tree of life in the garden of Eden (Genesis 2:9; 3:22-24) is multiplied in Revelation 22 and described as constantly bearing fruit and providing healing for the nations. And the image of the Spirit hovering and brooding over the waters is contrasted with the One who is now seated on the throne. Creation will be complete, fully formed and mature, and we will enjoy glorious, delightful friendship with our loving Creator, who invites us to live with him in the perfect unity of love that has always characterized God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The awe-inspiring creation that we live in today will be the foundation for the new creation, and we can look forward to rejoicing along with birds and all other creatures in the new heaven and earth. Not only is Christ seated in the heavenly realms, but we who love and trust him are also raised up with Christ and are seated with him even now (Ephesians 2:6). This means our lives are firmly grounded and maturing in Christ as we enjoy the intimacy of living in communion with God each day while awaiting his coming again. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, may all honor and glory be yours, now and forever! Amen.

I saw an angel standing in the sun, who cried in a loud voice to all the birds flying in midair, “Come, gather together for the great supper of God. . . .” — Revelation 19:17 My first sighting of the flight of tens of thousands of crows at dusk in East Vancouver was eerie and foreboding. But over the years, I’ve grown used to this cacophonous, raucous parade in the sky that takes place twice a day as these birds travel between the beaches and their rookeries. These midair birds fly higher up than songbirds but closer to the earth than soaring eagles, and they are flourishing in many cities today. They have even been dubbed the “Einstein bird” for the ways they have adjusted their behavior to human patterns. Crows have learned that threats are fewer and food is more plentiful in urban areas, so they live in abundance in protected parks, and they glean from the messes that humans leave behind. The Bible has many references to these prolific birds that God has appointed in his plan to bring justice, and in Revelation 19 they are called to devour evil rulers. Acknowledging these swarms, or murders, of crows is chilling and unpleasant, but we also have the hopeful promise that God will not allow evil to have the final word. There are things that happen in the world that break our hearts; we recognize corruption and evil. But in Christ we are assured that one day things will be made right again. God of justice and righteousness, we trust in your promise to make all things new. Let your kingdom come, and may your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” — Matthew 26:75 While it might be easy for us to overlook sparrows and other small birds in our daily meanderings, it can be hard to ignore a rooster if we see or hear one: the gurgling, jarring, sometimes ear-splitting racket is enough to wake anybody up! In our reading for today, the sound of a rooster crowing became a devastating wake-up call for Peter. He had promised to be faithful, but when it came right down to it, he chickened out, and he denied ever knowing Jesus. And, of course, Jesus knew that would happen. It isn’t easy to identify with a suffering Savior. Sometimes today too, the Holy Spirit may use ordinary things in our lives to help us see how we have let Jesus down. It could be on social media, or at work, or when we’re driving that we are suddenly pierced with an awareness of how we haven’t done the right thing, and that we too are capable of denying our relationship with Jesus Christ. Thankfully for us all, God is merciful. In John 21, after Jesus has died and risen again, he lovingly restores Peter, calling him to serve faithfully (John 21:15-19). Through his perfect love, Jesus also reverses our denials by reclaiming us as his own. Lord Jesus, we are sorry for the ways we have denied you in our lives. Forgive us, restore us, and empower us to claim you as our Lord. In your name, Amen.

“Where there is a dead body, there the vultures will gather.” — Luke 17:37 One time while we were on a hike as a family, we sat on a bluff overlooking a valley, and we took out a bundle of sandwiches made with leftover roast turkey. As soon as we started eating, a large vulture came swooping past us. And just as quickly it flew off again, seeing there was nothing dead or decaying for it to eat. Jesus’ comment about vultures in our reading for today has to do with questions about the end times. People often wonder whether disasters in their era are signs that the world is going to end. Today too, with wars, earthquakes, droughts, hurricanes, floods, and fires causing so much devastation and hardship, people question if these events might be the harbinger of Jesus’ return. But when his disciples asked him to explain about his coming again, Jesus gave a cryptic response about dead bodies and vultures! It seems he was simply saying that if you see many vultures gathering in the sky, you can be certain that something is dying. In another passage Jesus adds that only the Father knows exactly when the end will come—“not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. . . . So . . . be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him” (Matthew 24:36, 44). Knowing that Jesus will eventually come again, we can live faithfully as we continually look forward to his return. Lord, help us not to grow weary of waiting but to continually hope in you and to live for you as we long for your coming again. Amen.

“How often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing.” — Matthew 23:37 If you have ever watched a hen with her chicks, you might have noticed that the hen will cluck loudly when she senses danger nearby. The chicks hear her warning, and if they know what’s good for them, they run to her for cover. The hen will droop and spread her wings to make room for the chicks, but if they don’t respond to her invitation, they will be exposed to danger. Two things become apparent when this imagery is used to describe God and his people: God’s character is steady and protective, but human responses are sometimes unpredictable and foolish. Refuge is always available, but we need to seek and go to it as well. How many of us suffer because we haven’t run to the Father for cover? What needless pain do we bear because we don’t go to the Lord? If we are scurrying around, trying to fix things and worrying about getting attacked, why are we trying to do this on our own? Our only sure protection in life and in death is God our Savior. Jesus longed to cover God’s people with his protective love, but they wouldn’t listen to his invitation. Even so, on the cross Jesus took the full brunt of the enemy’s attack in order to save us—and through his death and resurrection we can have eternal life! Lord Jesus, thank you for saving us so that we can live with you. Teach us to seek refuge in you and to live faithfully each day. Amen.

“Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them.” — Luke 12:24 Today’s reading from Luke is similar to yesterday’s reading from Matthew. Jesus probably taught this lesson often, perhaps even pointing to birds that were nearby at the time. Jesus urges his listeners to recognize what is most important in life. Is it food? Clothing? Having lots of money and possessions? In many parts of the world, the expectation that people will enjoy a life of security, privacy, and comfort is almost assumed. Yet, after times of disaster, when possessions are destroyed, we’ll often hear, “Those were just things that can be replaced if we really need them—we’re just glad to be alive.” Jesus knows that a life attached to material things can lead to anxiety. Things are temporary, and we can’t always control when or how our possessions will be taken from us. So it’s better to attach ourselves to each other and to God. Jesus encourages us to live in such a way that people and their needs have priority over possessions and ownership. So let’s not be controlled by worries about possessions or food or money. Jesus concludes by saying, “Do not be afraid, little flock.” He knows that we’re vulnerable, and he knows what we need. In fact, he promises that God, our Father, will give us the kingdom—much more than we need. Lord Jesus, thank you for your tender care for us, and for guiding us in the way of wisdom. Help us to care more about each other than about our things. Amen.

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.” — Matthew 6:26 When Jesus said, “Look at the birds . . .” his listeners could probably watch these creatures as they flew among the plants and trees on the mountainside. If you can, take some time today to look at birds—even if just for a few minutes. Consider that much of what was written in the Bible took place outdoors, under the bright skies where we can see and make connections to the creation God has made. A problem with so many of us today is that we are often disconnected from what God has made; we read the Bible indoors with our heads down, and we try to distill the truth into statements that are general and abstract. Bit by bit, we can grow out of touch and unsure about what it all means. Our family’s children’s Bible illustrates this story with a couple of birds casually pushing a grocery cart loaded with food. Even though some birds such as nuthatches, chickadees, and woodpeckers actually keep food in little caches, the sight of these birds gathering pantry items in a cart is comical. But Jesus’ point is that birds simply do what the moment requires them to do; they don’t agonize about their lives. They simply depend on God’s care—always. Jesus points out that just as God cares for birds, he cares much more for each one of us. And, truly, we can’t add a single moment to our lives by worrying. Best of all, God has given us everything we need in order to have eternal life! Lord, thank you for your faithful love and care for us. In Jesus, Amen.

At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. — Matthew 3:16 The fact that the Spirit rested on Jesus “like a dove” at the moment of his baptism is not insignificant. To understand why, we can start by asking where else in the Bible we have come across doves, and what connections we can make between these stories. Remember how Noah sent out a dove from the ark? It first came back with nothing, and then, after going out a second time, it returned with an olive leaf in its beak (Genesis 8:11). The fresh green leaf in the dove’s mouth signified the beginning of a new era, a hopeful turning of events, the renewed presence of peace and shalom, and the imminent promise that no such dramatic devastation would have to happen again. The reference to a dove at Jesus’ baptism is a sign that another new era has begun in Jesus Christ. In Jesus, there is finally a hopeful turning of events: the arrival of a peaceful reign and the promise that Jesus’ coming will be pivotal in history. In this event we see a sign that God is recreating the world in Christ, setting things right, and rebuilding so that his purposes can finally be realized. Lord Jesus, in your baptism we see the sign of God’s new promise and the unfolding of your great plan to restore the whole world to yourself. We marvel at the beauty of how everything holds together in you, and that the Scriptures point faithfully to your perfect plan. In your name we pray. Amen.

“Because of this the land dries up, and all who live in it waste away; the beasts of the field, the birds in the sky and the fish in the sea are swept away.” — Hosea 4:3 Through Hosea, the Lord is bringing serious charges in our reading for today. Dangerous conditions brought about by people who care nothing for God and his creation have led to a loss of “the beasts of the field, the birds in the sky and the fish in the sea.” Sadly, there are chilling parallels in our pollution and degradation of the earth today. Reckless human action has negatively affected many plants and animals, birds and fish, and the environments they need to live in. Many kinds of pollution have harmed people as well. Wars, chemical spills, nuclear fallout, industrial contamination, and more have left devastating effects on the earth and its creatures, including us. While some areas are seeing remarkable restoration and many efforts today are being made to show good stewardship, there are still indications that creation is suffering immensely. Animals, birds, and fish are often pushed aside and destroyed as their habitats are altered according to human preference. While cause and effect in the environment is complex and not always easy to explain, we can still strive to do what we can to preserve and restore God’s good creation. Lord our God, help us to be aware of the consequences of our decisions, and give us the courage to protect and maintain the earth you have entrusted to our care. Amen.

Even the stork in the sky knows her appointed seasons, and the dove, the swift and the thrush observe the time of their migration. — Jeremiah 8:7 Sometimes, as much as we want to hold on to the way things are, we must face the reality that change is a part of life. Teenagers are encouraged to “leave the nest,” and “empty nesters” gradually become used to different rhythms in life as their children leave home. Still, even when it’s time for a change, we can tend to resist it. The prophet Jeremiah refers to storks, doves, swifts, and thrushes, contrasting their wise behaviors with the foolishness of people who have turned away from the Lord. Jeremiah laments the thick-skulled attitudes of the people around him, who lack wisdom because “they have rejected the word of the Lord.” The prophet is saying, in effect, “Even the birds know what needs to be done, but these people are so stubborn!” There is a season for everything, and it’s our task to recognize what season it is. The invitation here is to consider what season it is for each of us. Is it time to repent? Is it time to relinquish? Is it time to restore? The apostle Paul encourages the church to “be alert and always keep on praying” for each other as a way of being ready for whatever the Spirit will lead us to do (Ephesians 6:18). Lord, it’s easy for us to become distracted or discouraged, and we need your wisdom to know how we should live. Guide us to be alert, paying attention to the seasons in our lives, and to respond as we ought. Amen.

“Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles. . . .” — Isaiah 40:31 In many places around the world, birds are a significant part of human culture. Just look at flags, stamps, coins, and bills from a variety of nations, and you’ll see a wide array of winged creatures. Do you know which birds are celebrated where you live? Canada loves the loon because it conveys solitude and peacefulness. China highlights the stork because it symbolizes longevity and wisdom. New Zealand favors the kiwi because of its uniqueness, and India prizes the peacock as a symbol of immortality and resurrection. Ancient Egypt famously profiled the eagle as an emblem of protection and strength, and dozens of countries, including the United States, claim the eagle as their national bird. Eagles are truly majestic creatures that symbolize strength and independence. Catching sight of an eagle as it soars high above the earth can be breathtaking, and watching one swoop and maneuver its immense wings is awe-inspiring. The reference to eagles in Isaiah 40 is a comfort for God’s people in a time of weariness and struggle. Our matchless Creator and Sustainer gives us his strength and glory, filling us with the capacity to do far more than we think is possible. We may feel weak and powerless in our current circumstances, but because of who we are in Christ, we can hold on to the promise that in his strength we will “soar on wings like eagles.” Lord God, renew our strength each day so that we may reflect your glory. Amen.

“See! The winter is past. . . . Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land.” — Song of Songs 2:12 In some parts of the globe, winter brings cooler weather and lots of rain. In other parts, the sunlight hours grow much shorter, the air gets cold, rain turns to snow and ice, and birds fly away till spring comes again. It can feel like a long, dreary season. Even people who like winter weather are eventually glad to see signs of spring, when flowers appear again and lots of birds return from far-off places. Blooming flowers and singing birds can stir up visions of a place and time that is inviting and flourishing. This hopeful picture in the Song of Songs touches on a universal experience: having one’s heart light up with hope, especially in the presence of another person. Even the memory of a significant relationship, or the hope of having one, can spark the important feeling of wanting to love and be loved. And experiencing such love is like the refreshing return of spring after a long winter. We were created for intimacy and closeness with others, and although this is not perfectly realized in this lifetime, the imagery of waiting for winter to be over is a bit like longing for heaven—when we will be lovingly received by our Savior, who takes great delight in us. Meanwhile, whether or not we face a long winter ahead, we look for signs of hope. Lord, we long for the time when all our seasons of bleakness and struggle will be past. Keep hope alive in our hearts till we can rejoice in living with you forever. Amen.

A bird in the sky may carry your words, and a bird on the wing may report what you say. — Ecclesiastes 10:20 When we are surprised that someone knows a secret, we might hear them say, “A little birdie told me.” Sometimes that can be a pleasant way to share that we know something special is afoot, but that phrase can also be a way to shift responsibility for a secret that hasn’t been fairly kept. So it is good to observe the caution in this column of wisdom from Ecclesiastes: Don’t share what’s not yours to share. The wise author of this passage knew that talking about things that should be kept discreet can lead to trouble for a person who likes to gossip—and to anxiety for the person whose private information isn’t respected. It can be nerve-wracking to consider how the sharing of private details or secret thoughts might damage one’s reputation or relationships. Instead, it can be far better not to repeat a person’s secrets at all. James 3 notes that the tongue can be like a spark that sets off a forest fire. Even just a little gossip can do a lot of damage. And Jesus taught that everyone will need to give account for every careless word they have spoken (Matthew 12:36). Let’s be careful to speak wisely and faithfully, honoring God and our neighbor in all that we say. “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech” (1 Peter 3:10). Lord Jesus, by the presence of your Holy Spirit, give us wisdom and discretion. Guide us to keep our tongues from causing harm to others and ourselves. Amen.

The birds of the sky nest by the waters; they sing among the branches. — Psalm 104:12 When life feels chaotic and messy, it can be wonderfully therapeutic to look at creation and see how marvelously diverse and joyful God made it to be. There is order and purpose everywhere in God’s good design, and the more we learn about the earth and its creatures, the more we can celebrate how amazing it is. If you’re feeling out of sorts or discouraged, try watching a nature documentary about flamingos or weaver birds, cockatoos or hummingbirds. When you do, consider that Christ was there in the beginning, overseeing everything and taking great delight in the creation of this magnificent planet (Colossians 1:15-20). Spending time in wonder and awe as we consider God’s extraordinary, well-ordered creation can help us appreciate our place in the order of things too. This can also lead us to feeling grounded and secure rather than tossed about by the sometimes merciless systems created by humans. Pondering the marvelous works of God—the mountains; the water cycle; the birds, animals, insects, and sea creatures; and all the forests and plants they depend upon—can also lead us to worship. Recognizing all of this splendor with gratitude to God can deepen our connections both to God and to his world, filling us with the desire to lift up our hearts in praise and adoration. God of wonders, draw our attention to your glorious works so that we might know you better, inviting all peoples to praise and honor you. In Jesus, Amen.

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. — Psalm 91:4 Psalm 91 shows that God, “the Almighty,” is not intimidating or frightening. Instead, God is so gentle and concerned for everyone that they can find refuge in him like hatchlings under the care of a hen. As God’s people, we can trust the Lord fully because he will surround us, guard us against dangerous threats, and deliver us. Resting in the shadow of God’s protective wings means that we don’t need to be afraid of chaotic things happening around us. There is a time for us to walk courageously into situations with God’s help, and there is a time to retreat and be still in his caring presence. If you ever have the privilege of watching chicks take cover under a hen’s wings, you’ll see that they stay very still and quiet, completely out of view of danger, while the hen is alert and watchful and will do whatever she can to protect her young. Jesus uses similar imagery when he expresses his desire to gather up the people of Jerusalem and protect them (Luke 13:34). He is gentle and makes space for us near to his heart. Lord, help us constantly to stay close to you so that when danger threatens, we will be safe in your care. Gather us in and hold us close. Amen.

Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young—a place near your altar, Lord Almighty, my King and my God. — Psalm 84:3 Several years ago, a building contractor who was working on a new site next to our church asked if we were aware of the birds that were flying in and out of the attic of our church building. We had to admit that we hadn’t noticed! The songwriter of Psalm 84 saw a bird that had built her nest in the Lord’s temple, and the writer reasoned that this was the best place to make oneself at home. God’s hospitality extends to all that he has made, and for people who love the Lord there is no better place to be. This psalm is a song of deep yearning for spiritual connection with God in a place of worship. The joy of worshiping God gives strength for people who travel. Even when they are far away from God’s house, even in a dry place like the valley of Baka, God’s presence goes with them. Wherever they may go, they can find the sweetness of God’s presence in worship, so they are able to go from strength to strength. Jesus echoed this teaching when he met a woman at a well in Samaria; he taught her that the place of worship is wherever God is. And when she discovered that Jesus was the Messiah, the Son of God, she went to tell everyone in her town, and they came out to meet with him (John 4)! Better is one day with you, Lord, than a thousand elsewhere. Thank you for welcoming us into your presence wherever we go. Amen.

I said, “Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest.” — Psalm 55:6 Have you ever had the desire to fly? Do you ever wish you could just leap up and fly away for some peace and quiet? Sometimes in life, the troubles we face can cause deep inner turmoil. We may struggle with our mental health, a physical disability or disease, a relationship that feels stuck, a difficult career, a deep disappointment or loss, a cycle of poverty, or something else. Many different things can make us feel trapped. When David wrote this psalm, he was feeling disillusioned and stuck. He was distraught by the situation he was in, and he felt betrayed by a friend. He desperately wanted a way out and dreamed of being like a dove so he could fly far away from all his troubles. But as he wrestled with his discouragement, he grew to understand that although he did not have wings to fly away, he did have a voice to call upon God. The solution to being released from life’s burdens isn’t to escape but to give them up to the Lord: “Cast your cares on the Lord, and he will sustain you.” Echoing the assurance of this psalm, Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. . . . Learn from me . . . and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28-29). Lord and God, thank you that even when we are surrounded by troubles that we would rather escape, you give us the wings of prayer and you promise to sustain us. Help us to cast our burdens on you. Amen.

“I know every bird on the mountains. . . .” — Psalm 50:11 One day, as we were hiking a mountain trail, my son and I heard a bird song that was unlike anything we had heard before. We stopped and looked at each other in amazement, listening to the bird repeat its long, intricate song over and over. I know a few birds by their songs, but there are still many that I don’t know yet. Some people, though, can identify hundreds of birds by their sounds. In this psalm God says, “I know every bird on the mountains. . . .” To consider that God knows every bird isn’t just to say that God is the most advanced birder there is. It means that nothing in all of this world escapes God’s attention. There is no creature, animal or human, that is outside of his field of vision, no song he hasn’t heard, no call or cry he doesn’t recognize, no flight pattern or footprint he can’t identify. Not only does nothing escape God’s attention, but nothing can fool him either. The one who knows every bird urges us to be real, not false, in our relationship with him. God calls us to be sincere in worship—not just to pretend or go through the motions. We are to honor God in all we do, fulfilling our vows to the God who keeps his promises. And we know we can “call on [him] in the day of trouble,” for the Lord, who knows all the birds, will always hear our cry and meet our need. Father in heaven, it’s humbling to be reminded that you know us so well. Help us to trust that you always hear us and care for us. Amen.

“The wings of the ostrich flap joyfully, though they cannot compare with the wings and feathers of the stork.” — Job 39:13 Some years ago, I took a bus to a small village a few hours outside of Nairobi, Kenya. Partway through the trip, as I was looking out the window, I saw an ostrich running wildly alongside the bus. Its long neck and bulging eyes stuck out in front of its oddly large body, and it flapped its enormous, fluffy wings while its skinny legs pumped furiously, kicking up clouds of dust as it scurried across the savanna. I couldn’t keep from laughing! What a strange and hilarious creature! But as outlandish as ostriches are, they still have their place in creation. Although God didn’t endow them with wisdom or good sense, he did see fit to make it possible for them to outpace horses and riders—and even transit buses on African highways! Perhaps God created such a funny creature for times when things that happen in life are just so strange that we have to shake our heads and say, “You can’t make this stuff up!” Our lives are often so complex in ways that we can’t explain, and sometimes we are left speechless. Still, even strange and inexplicable things have their place in life. And like the wildly joyful ostrich, somehow everything fits together, in God’s wisdom. Lord, thank you for your wonderfully diverse creation. We praise you that there’s a place for everyone in this good creation and that all things hold together in Jesus Christ. In your name we pray. Amen.

“Ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you. . . .” — Job 12:7 Many children around the world have enjoyed learning from birds: Big Bird (from Sesame Street) and Mother Goose (with her nursery rhymes) are two of the most famous bird-teachers to have flapped or waddled on the face of the earth! One of my elderly professors often referred to birds as his teachers. When he started bird-watching, he said, he referred to small birds as “LBJs” (short for “Little-Brown-Jobs”) because he couldn’t tell all the sparrows and swallows apart. But the more he paid attention, the more he began to appreciate their differences. Eventually, he said, his learning to pay attention to small birds led him also to appreciate the people around him and the unique ways God was at work in their lives. Job was discouraged that his friends were making generalizations about how God works in the world—treating everything like an “LBJ.” They were spouting off ideas that had the appearance of wisdom but had no deep insight into how God could be present in times of deep suffering. Job explained that wisdom isn’t about having the right answers; it’s about being able to notice what God is doing in every circumstance, and seeing how God ultimately controls the outcome of our lives. Even the animals and birds know that much, he said! Lord Jesus, give us humility and help us to pay close attention to the people in our lives so that we can recognize your merciful presence and amazing work in and among us all. Amen.

“May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.” — Ruth 2:12 Sometimes God goes out of his way to care for us, and sometimes we need to go out of our way to be cared for. It’s not always easy to ask for what we need, especially when others might have reasons to be cautious about helping us. But Ruth is a bold person. She knows what she and her mother-in-law need, and she asks for permission to glean barley in a field that belongs to Boaz, a landowner from Bethlehem. Now, Boaz is a relative of Ruth’s mother-in-law Naomi, and he has heard about Ruth but hasn’t met her before. And rather than being dismissive or indifferent, Boaz welcomes Ruth and invites her to keep following along after the harvesters. What’s more, he blesses her for supporting her mother-in-law and indicates that Ruth is an honorable woman. “May you be richly rewarded by the Lord,” he says, “. . . under whose wings you have come to take refuge.” This statement reflects the caring, providing nature of God’s character, and it helps us to understand God’s love for us. God faithfully cares for and provides for us, and often he does this through the kindness and generosity of others. And whether we need help or we are able to help someone else, we can be assured that God empowers and celebrates both the one who asks and the one who gives. Lord God, help us to trust in you, knowing that we can seek refuge in your name and that you have blessed us to share with and help others. Amen.

“You will drink from the brook, and I have directed the ravens to supply you with food there.” — 1 Kings 17:4 There are so many radio stations where I live that the possibilities for listening to all kinds of songs can seem endless. For a time, though, one song seemed to be aired far more often than others—or at least I paid more attention to it than to others. It was meant to be a love song, not necessarily a worship song, but whenever I heard it, it felt like God’s Spirit was whispering: “Come and spend time with me. Let me shower you with love for a while.” This happened during a time when I was busy and tired, and the Spirit’s nudging in my heart to linger in his presence was a tender reminder that he wouldn’t leave me to flounder. Sometimes God meets us in ways that are unexpected—and maybe even unconventional. When Elijah was alone in the wilderness, God cared for him in a way that was considered taboo or impossible at that time. Ravens were unclean birds, so receiving food directly from their mouths would have seemed strange for Elijah. He might have wondered if it was even okay to receive help from something that was considered off limits. But God can potentially use anything to bring restoration, whether it’s ravens or songs on a radio. Lord, we are amazed that nothing is too hard for you and that you will come to reach us wherever we are. Thank you for doing what it takes to restore us to you. We live by grace in the power of your name. Amen.

He shielded him and cared for him . . . like an eagle that stirs up its nest and hovers over its young, that spreads its wings to catch them and carries them aloft. — Deuteronomy 32:10-11 Not long ago, I realized that I hadn’t been invited to something that I would have liked to have participated in. It was surprising to feel excluded and forgotten. I wondered why I had been left out, but I was too embarrassed to ask, so I assumed there must have been a reason for it. In that weak moment, it was hard not to draw the conclusion that I had been excluded on purpose. At times when we might feel insecure or unwanted, it is natural to feel hurt and alone. Feelings of isolation can create an ache in our hearts and a tiredness in our bones. We yearn for friendship and understanding. Ironically, when we feel that way, it can be hard to connect with others even if they do reach out to us—because we’ve begun to feel out of touch and unwanted. Humanly speaking, there might not be anyone who can truly care for us in the way that we need to be cared for. Our hurts can sometimes be too deep for words to express. What we need is to be held and carried up over our troubled situations. Our Lord and Savior is the only one who can truly do that. God sees us, knows what we need, and comes to save us. He scoops us up and carries us when we are not capable of flying ourselves. Lord Jesus, we can’t thank you enough for your care for us. When we feel hurt and alone, it is the greatest comfort to know that you guard us as the apple of your eye. We love you and pray in your name. Amen.

If you come across a bird’s nest beside the road, either in a tree or on the ground, and the mother is sitting on the young or on the eggs, do not take the mother with the young. — Deuteronomy 22:6 While walking near a lake one day, our family discovered a camouflaged nest of eggs that a killdeer, a small shorebird, had laid in the ground. It was breathtakingly beautiful, but it was also unprotected and exposed among the rocks. Among the many Old Testament guidelines for holy living, some instructions in Deuteronomy told God’s people what to do if they found such a nest. At that time it was considered okay to take the eggs or the young hatchlings, but it was not acceptable to harm the bird that laid them. That was a simple principle of conservation: if the eggs are taken, the bird can lay more eggs, but if the mother bird is taken or destroyed, she can’t produce any more. In times of hunger, it might have been tempting to take both the bird and the eggs, but the prevailing wisdom cautioned people to use restraint, even if they were desperate. These instructions aren’t only about conservation, though. We can trust that if God cares for birds, he cares far more about us, whom he made in his image. Jesus made this clear when he said to his followers, “Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows” (Matthew 10:31). He was explaining God’s care for them when they were threatened by enemies. Similarly, God cares for you, body and soul, when you feel exposed and in danger. Lord, thank you for protecting us when we are weak. Help us also to protect those that are vulnerable. Amen.

“These are the birds you are to regard as unclean and not eat because they are unclean. . . .” — Leviticus 11:13 Every culture has its list of food preferences. Most of us tend to elevate certain foods over others, depending on what’s familiar to us, what agrees with us, and what we like and don’t like. In Old Testament Israel, however, living according to food laws was not a matter of preference. The law stated that certain birds and other animals were unclean. So, as a way to live holy lives, the people were required to avoid those animals and not eat them. The food laws seemed to honor principles about life and death, suggesting that God was putting in place a way for his people to flourish. When Jesus Christ brought about the new covenant, the old food laws were no longer required. In Acts 10, for example, we read of Peter having a vision in which God tells him that “all kinds of four-footed animals, including reptiles and birds,” were now considered clean! In this way God urged his people to spread the good news of Jesus to all other nations. People of other nations regularly ate those kinds of animals, and God did not want his people thinking that other peoples were unclean or unworthy of being saved through Jesus. Today we are still called to be holy (set apart), living with intention as God’s people. Rather than following rules about food, we are invited to live for our faithful Savior, Jesus Christ, by loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and loving our neighbors as ourselves. Lord, please give us the wisdom to live intentionally for you. Amen.

That evening quail came and covered the camp, and in the morning. . . . thin flakes like frost on the ground appeared on the desert floor. — Exodus 16:13-14 Do you remember the shortages that people faced during the COVID-19 pandemic? In some areas, it seemed there was no yeast or bread to be found. Supply chains were interrupted, and it was difficult for many people to find some basic things that they needed. The Israelites faced a scarcity of food in the desert, and they complained bitterly to Moses and Aaron. But there was a problem with the people’s perspective. They didn’t trust God, who had shown his great power by freeing them from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 12-14). Their cravings, and their confused memories, left them short-sighted and unhappy—and they began to say they were better off in Egypt! Nevertheless, God provided for them by giving them meat every evening and “bread from heaven” every morning. That very evening, “quail came and covered the camp,” and the people ate heartily. And in the morning they found flakes on the ground that they could eat and make into bread. They called it manna. But it wasn’t long before the people were grumbling and complaining again. How humbling it can be to realize that we often do the same: we get focused on something that we think we need in order to be happy, and we overlook the goodness that God is already pouring into our lives each day. Lord, forgive us for letting our cravings get the best of us. Help us to be content, knowing that every good gift we receive is from you. Amen.

The Lord said to him, “Bring me a heifer, a goat and a ram, each three years old, along with a dove and a young pigeon.” — Genesis 15:9 Recently in one of my high-school classes, students became quite engaged in discussing what it means to submit. They argued that it wasn’t appealing and that it might cause people to agree to things that could be harmful for them. In their view, submission is potentially dangerous. In a way, they’re right. Submitting is risky. Today’s story about Abram believing God’s word and submitting to God’s promise is complex, and it has many cultural layers that can be hard for us to grasp. For example, we don’t make promises today by dividing animals and then walking through the pieces. In those days that meant, “If I break my promise, may the same be done to me.” Notice, however, that Abram doesn’t walk through the divided animals, as would have been the custom. Instead, Abram goes into a deep sleep, and God passes through the pieces. The emphasis here is on God making and keeping the promise. Abram’s task will be to believe God’s promise and to live according to it. Believing that God will keep his promises challenges us to submit and invite him to take control in our lives. And, rather than reducing our power, as some people are fearful of, this way of living brings us to live fully in the strength of God’s faithfulness and power. Promise-keeping God, your plans for us are way beyond what we can imagine for ourselves. Help us to trust in you always. Through Jesus, Amen.

When the dove returned to him in the evening, there in its beak was a freshly plucked olive leaf! Then Noah knew that the water had receded from the earth. — Genesis 8:11 Maybe you have seen a picture or a logo showing a dove with an olive branch in its beak. That image draws from our reading for today. Over time, the image of a dove bringing a part of an olive tree has become a symbol for peace. When we look a little closer at today’s passage, it becomes clear that Noah wasn’t just passively waiting for good, peaceful news. He first sent out a raven, a robust bird that flew “back and forth” but apparently did not come back into the ark—probably because it found plenty of carrion to eat. Noah then sent out a gentle dove—a more vulnerable bird—to go looking for signs of new growth. And then he waited attentively. The dove soon returned because it “could find nowhere to perch.” So Noah brought it back into the ark for seven days. Then, when he sent the dove out again, it returned in the evening with an olive leaf. This meant the flood waters had receded to a safe level where the people and animals could flourish and thrive again, enjoying shalom (peace) in God’s world. As we reflect on this, let’s consider ways in which we might participate in bringing peace in God’s world. Do we just say we want peace, or are we intentionally working toward it, even in small, possibly vulnerable ways? Are we also sharing the good news of Jesus, who brings peace and rest for people’s weary hearts? Lord, help us to be bringers of peace in this world, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

God said, “. . . Let birds fly above the earth across the vault of the sky.” — Genesis 1:20 For anyone who has grown up under the wide-open skies of a prairie, where the horizons are far and wide and the ground is soft, it can be quite a shock to move to the city. The concrete, high-rises, and constant bustle can be disorienting. That was my experience a couple of decades ago when I moved to Vancouver, British Columbia. Though Vancouver is a beautiful city, it wasn’t familiar or welcoming to me at first. I often walked with a downward gaze, wondering how to connect with a place that didn’t feel like home. Then one day the phrase “Look at the birds” entered my mind, and that was an unusual idea for me. From my perspective, birds were okay, but I didn’t know how to identify many of them. Yet I suddenly remembered that Jesus had said, “Look at the birds”—and I took it as a holy invitation to lift my eyes up. As I began paying attention, I saw that birds of all kinds were everywhere, in every season—even in the city! It shifted my perspective dramatically. Perhaps you feel far from home, or as if you don’t belong in the place where you are now. Could God be inviting you to lift up your eyes so that you can take note of his work around you and his provisions in life? Will you join me in being filled with wonder as we reflect on birds as an important part of his creation? Loving God, help us to lift up our eyes. May we notice your marvelous creation, in which you have even placed birds in the sky as a daily reminder of your care. Amen.

The Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. — Genesis 1:2 Have you ever watched a seagull or a tern that seems to just hang in the air over the waves? The wind may be blustering and the waters roaring, but the bird still soars calmly over the rough ocean. That image of hovering over turbulent waters is how the Bible first describes the Spirit of God. The word for “hovering” indicates a high degree of care, even concern, in its action, and it is unmistakably linked to the behavior of protective birds that brood over their nests, guarding and keeping their clutch warm and safe as it develops. The Holy Spirit, in his protective love, hovers over the surface of the unformed deep. The story of creation in Genesis was given to God’s people at a time when other stories about the beginning of the world were filled with themes of violence and chaos. Into that unsettled situation, the Genesis story came as a gift that revealed God’s purposeful, loving intention to make all things good and beautiful. At the time, it would have sounded far different from the other creation stories. And because love and goodness are at the center of this story, it continues to invite people to know God as the loving, protective Creator that he is. As we’ll see this month, many other passages in the Bible also teach us something about God through the imagery of birds. Let’s keep reading and pondering together. Loving God, help us to be continually aware of how you hover over us, keeping watch as you protect us and sustain your creation day by day. Amen.

There was no longer any sea. Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life. . . — Revelation 21:1; 22:1 At the end of history, after battles long and hard, Satan is defeated by Christ and his followers (Revelation 12:10-11). And Jesus completes the work he began when he first came: the restoration of true human stewards and his good world. Heaven and earth are united; God’s will is fully done on earth as it was already done in heaven (Matthew 6:10). And we are told something odd: “there was no longer any sea.” Here God is not ridding the world of its “good” natural seas (Genesis 1:10) but, rather, what the sea represents: chaos and rebellion. Anything that threatens to harm God’s good creation is done away with. Then we see “the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal,” flowing from God’s throne, delivering the leaves of the tree of life to the world for its healing after so many years of sin, death, destruction, and evil (remember also the living water of John 7:38; Ezekiel 47). And at last the earth is “filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea” (Habakkuk 2:14). This is the final reality we envision when a person is baptized in the name of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Baptism anticipates renewal in Christ and the rebirth of the whole world to new life, flooded with grace. Lord Christ, in baptism, we anticipate the day when you will return to finish all you started when you came to bring us salvation. Continue in the work of your Spirit-filled saints, and bring the restoration of all things. Amen.

The dragon stood on the shore of the sea. And I saw a beast coming out of the sea. — Revelation 13:1 In Revelation 4-5, the apostle John describes a vision of heaven. He sees God the Father on the throne, the Holy Spirit in the form of seven torches, and Christ as a Lamb, looking like it was slaughtered. In front of the throne is a peaceful “sea of glass, clear as crystal.” Around the throne, creatures representing all animal life give praise to God. Later John sees the spiritual reality behind events that take place on earth. There a dragon, Satan himself, stands on the shore of a chaotic sea, which brings forth monsters that have “power to wage war against God’s holy people and to conquer them” (Revelation 13:7). These beasts represent a world turned upside down from what God intended. God had created humans to fill the earth and steward it (including its animals) with his authority and care. But instead humans turned away from God and sinned, worshiping idols and degenerating into beastly empires, brutalizing other people and nature. As John received these visions, the Roman Empire had begun persecuting the church. But although the empire had crucified Jesus, the Lamb of God, he had come back to life and had taken his rightful place as King of heaven and earth. Further, the Spirit of God was now living in believers, united with Christ in the waters of baptism. And the dragon knew his time was short . . . (Revelation 12:12). Lord and King, you are alive, and you rule over all things. Come quickly, Lord, to bring your kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.

In [the ark] only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also. . . . — 1 Peter 3:20-21 In our reading for today, the apostle Peter mentions Noah and the ark, which we discussed on October 4 (Genesis 8). Do you remember another story this month that also pointed to the ark? In Exodus 2 (Oct. 5), as you may recall, Moses’ mother places him as a baby in a “basket,” and the Hebrew word for that can also mean “ark.” Moses’ mother did this, in faith, hoping that her little boy would escape the murderous reach of Pharaoh, the king of Egypt (see Exodus 1:22). In the New Testament, the apostle and fisherman Peter states that just as God rescued Noah and his family “through water” while other people were swept away in judgment, Christians are rescued from judgment by Christ’s death and resurrection, which is symbolized in baptism. If believers in Christ are symbolically rescued (like Noah and his family) “through water” (baptism), then what is the “ark”? What is the vessel of God’s rescue for us and indeed for the whole creation? It seems that this would be the church, the community of faith. Remember, baptism places us in the nurturing community of the people of God with its worship, prayers, sacraments, and fellowship. In this “ark” we are on the way to the resurrection and full life in God’s renewed world. Lord, we praise you for the church, which, though it can be rocked by powerful winds and waves, is nonetheless piloted by you and is the place of your grace and salvation. Amen.

We were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body. — 1 Corinthians 12:13 How often should a Christian be baptized? Only once in life. This is quite different from the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, which Jesus gave us for regular spiritual nourishment (Luke 22:19; 1 Corinthians 11:2326). That’s because, in baptism, God (not us) is making the primary statement of grace and faithfulness. However, we can continually be reminded of our baptism through the baptisms of others, through worship, and even in a church building’s physical features. In some medieval churches, for example, the baptismal pool was at the entrance to the worship area. Some pools were even made in the shape of a cross, since we are baptized into Christ’s death. Often these pools also had three steps going down into the water, signifying baptism in the name of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. As a baptized person came up out of the water, they were also given a white robe to wear, a symbol of being clothed with Christ (see Galatians 3:27; Revelation 7:14). When, as an adult, a person comes to faith in Christ, they are called to be baptized and to profess their faith publicly before entering the full life of the church—its fellowship, worship, and participation in the Lord’s Supper. In doing so, the believer commits to being one with Christ and with his people in the one body of Christ, the one family of God. Lord, thank you for receiving us into your one covenant family through baptism. In Jesus, Amen.

All of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death. — Romans 6:3 I have never been a “water person.” As a boy, I did not enjoy going under water, so water parks were not much fun for me. Even as an adult, when I am swimming in a lake, river, or ocean, I am always wondering about the creatures that are much more at home in those deeps than I am. . . . When some religious leaders taunted Jesus, saying they wanted to see a sign proving who he was, he said that the only sign he would give them was “the sign of Jonah.” Jonah, we remember, had been as good as dead, for he was thrown into the chaotic sea and was then swallowed by a sea-monster. But God had the monster spew him out on dry land after three days (Jonah 1-2). Jesus then said he would be “in the belly of the earth” three days, referring to his burial in a tomb. When Jesus explained this to his disciples, he said he would “be killed and on the third day raised to life” (Matthew 16:21). And then later Jesus died on a cross, was buried in a tomb, and on the third day rose to life again. He defeated sin and death for our sake so that we can have new life in him! When a person is baptized in a pool or a lake or river, they go under water, picturing how, in Christ, our old sinful nature has died. Then they come up out of the water, showing how we rise to new life in Christ. And the renewed person is empowered to follow Christ in his mission. Lord, thank you that in baptism we die and rise with you to live a new life. Amen.

“And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.” — Acts 22:16 Earlier we talked about priests who had to wash with water, symbolically washing their sins away before they came into God’s holy presence in the tabernacle (Oct. 8). Because the seriousness of sin resulted in death, the symbolically purified priest would sacrifice an animal in the place of the sinful people. The priest would then sprinkle the sacrificial blood on the people to show that their sins were atoned for. Yet the priest’s washing with water and the sprinkling of blood did not actually take away the people’s sin (Hebrews 10:11). By the Spirit of God, Isaiah prophesied about a dedicated, suffering Servant who came to represent God’s people and take their sins on himself, even though he was innocent of sin (Isaiah 49-50; 52:13-53:12). This Servant was Jesus, and he became the great, sinless High Priest who offered himself for the forgiveness of all of our sins, and spiritually covered us with his blood (Hebrews 8-10). Old Testament priests looked forward to the day when God would somehow deal with sin, and today we can look back to the cross of Christ Jesus. And all of this is symbolized when someone is washed, covered in the waters of baptism. The next time someone asks you, “When were you saved?” be sure to answer, “About two thousand years ago.” “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin” (Psalm 51:1-2). Amen.

[Hannah said,] “I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord.” — 1 Samuel 1:28 The story of Hannah and Samuel can help us understand the transition of identity that takes place in baptism. Hannah had not been able to bear a child, but she prayed, asking that if God would give her a child, she would give him to the Lord “for all the days of his life” (1 Samuel 1:11). God answered her prayer, and she eventually brought her little boy to Eli the priest to begin his training in the service of the Lord. And Samuel served God faithfully for many years. In a way like what Hannah did, giving up her beloved child to God’s service, in baptism we give children to be a part of Christ’s church and kingdom, in which we are called to serve the Lord. The child’s primary identity shifts to become part of the church, the family of God. In baptism, we recognize that the Lord claims and sets the child apart as his own. And the child is introduced to their new church family (which extends across history and geography). The parents or caregivers are then entrusted to raise the child in the Christian faith, with the church’s help. Bringing a child for baptism is therefore a profound act of faith, because the child may be called to serve God in radical or even dangerous ways for Christ’s kingdom. Even so, the Spirit assures us that each one’s destiny is always in God’s hand (John 10:27-30). Lord, thank you for calling us to be your own. We give our whole lives over to you, for you gave yourself completely for us. Use us for your purposes. Amen.

All of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. — Galatians 3:27 Some Christian teachers have described baptism as a kind of “seal” that the Spirit of God places upon believers. Sometimes people say this is like a wax seal on a letter, identifying the sender and showing that it was sent by them for a purpose. The fourth-century church teacher Augustine used another analogy to understand baptism as a seal. He said it was like the sealing kiss at a marriage ceremony: witnesses are present, promises are made, love is declared, and all of that is affectionately summed up in a kiss. Many Christians throughout the centuries have also then asked: Will all who are “sealed” in baptism be “saved” in the end? Not necessarily. At weddings, love is declared and promises are made, but in some cases a marriage may fall apart. A pastor friend of mine describes the seal of baptism as something like a coupon: a customer must use the coupon to claim the value that is placed on it. God’s baptismal promises and his claim on us are sure and true, but the one who is baptized is also called to live into those promises and to claim that identity. Further, though a person can walk away from a relationship with Christ, we may never underestimate the love of Christ for that person. He promises to pursue his lost sheep, and his church is called to do that too. Lord, thank you for your ever-pursuing love, your promises, and your claim on all who are baptized in the community of faith. Amen.

[Abraham] is the father of all who believe but have not been circumcised, in order that righteousness might be credited to them. — Romans 4:11 The water of baptism is a physical “sign” that points symbolically to the washing away of sin through the finished work of Jesus Christ. It is also a spiritual “sign” of the renewing work of God’s Spirit in our lives. So in the way we live, think, speak, and act it should be clear that, by the grace of God, we are different, set apart (“holy”). As a song puts it clearly, “They’ll know we are Christians by our love”—of God and all people. Water baptism, then, is really important. The sacrament of baptism is public and experiential, and it engages our imaginations. Further, when an adult or a baby is baptized, the congregation is asked to make promises to nurture that person in the faith and to help them as they follow God’s calling. Making these vows and seeing the ritual reminds us of the promises that were made over us at our own baptism, and the entire sacrament reminds us of the covenant promises of God. A road sign is something that points beyond itself to a destination, and it guides all who see it. Baptism is like that, pointing the community of faith to the reality of God’s grace found in the saving work of Christ for us. It guides us in the life of faith until the day Jesus returns to renew all things. Lord, we thank you for giving us the sacrament of baptism to remind us of the reality of your grace. Amen.

You were circumcised by Christ, having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him. . . . — Colossians 2:11-12 God called his people to be distinct (“set apart, holy”) from other nations. That way, the other nations could see this blessed nation and be drawn to meet the one, true, loving God (Genesis 12:1-3). Since the time of Abraham, God’s people were set apart by circumcision (of males, and usually as babies—Genesis 17:9-14). But that eventually led to a major question in the early church, as the Lord sent his renewed people, who were mainly Jewish, to bring the gospel to Gentiles and welcome them into his family. Did Gentiles have to be circumcised in order to be fully Christian? The early church eventually concluded, “No.” Since God was already accepting them through the Holy Spirit, they needed to be received into the church through baptism. Baptism, not circumcision, became the primary way that all of God’s people (Jews and Gentiles) were set apart as holy. So in the church today, adults and children, including infants, are set apart as “holy” in baptism just as adults and children in Israel were set apart by circumcision. Throughout the centuries, the church has practiced baptism this way as the sign of God’s lasting covenant with his people, welcoming all who are in the households of believers into the family of God. Lord, we praise you that all kinds of people, male and female, young and old, from all nations, are welcome in your family. In Jesus, Amen.

He and all his household were baptized. — Acts 16:33 Not long ago I found myself detained in a police station, in a country not my own. My offense? Taking a U-turn while driving and, as the police officer put it, “obstructing traffic” (which was not true). I prayed lots of silent (but angry) prayers that day—and eventually God sent a “good Samaritan” (a newspaper reporter) who helped me post bail so that I could go home. Paul and Silas found themselves unjustly detained. But their situation was much different. They had been sharing the message of Jesus and were falsely accused of causing an uproar, so they were beaten and thrown in jail (Acts 16:1624). In prison they prayed, and they sang hymns to God while the other prisoners listened. They had a deep confidence (faith) that God could use even their misfortunes to draw others (even criminals and jailers) into his family. When an earthquake sent by God opened the prison and unchained everyone, Paul and Silas assured the jailer that no one had escaped. And the jailer, who had been ready to kill himself, learned about salvation through belief in Jesus. Then the jailer and “all his household were baptized.” (See also Acts 16:15.) In that time a “household” often included a wife and children, aging parents, and slaves or servants. In examples like this, God makes clear that he wants whole households brought into his covenant family! Lord Jesus, Savior to all who call on you, bring us and our loved ones into the family of God, and use us to draw others to you. Amen.

“Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.” — Acts 10:47 As we can see in this story, in the new era of Jesus and the pouring out of the Holy Spirit, God was doing a new thing! Through a vision, Peter had received a new way of thinking about the people of other nations, and he was called to speak to a Roman centurion (Acts 10:9-23). Later, at the centurion’s house, Peter also met the man’s “relatives and close friends,” and he was able to share with all of them the good news about Jesus. Peter explained that Jesus came to save all who will believe in him. Jesus came to take away all our sin by dying on a cross, and then he rose from the dead and is now Lord over all. While Peter was still teaching, the Holy Spirit unexpectedly “came on all who heard the message.” This was surprising to the Jewish believers who had come with Peter that day. God was accepting even the Gentiles? Amazing! Well, “the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out” on them. So there was nothing to “stand in the way of their being baptized with water.” Peter, who, like other Jewish believers, had previously preferred to keep away from Gentiles, now embraced these people from other nations, welcoming them into Christ’s renewed family, the church. Heavenly Father, it is sometimes said that we Christians are merely beggars who show other beggars where to find bread. Help us to see all people through the eyes of your love. Amen.

Something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, and after taking some food, he regained his strength. — Acts 9:18-19 As we can imagine, Saul’s experience of meeting Jesus on the way to Damascus must have been terrifying. He said later that when Jesus appeared to him, he felt as if he were like a child taken from the womb too early (“one abnormally born”). Being stopped by a blinding light, falling to the ground, and learning that he had persecuted the church of God by chasing followers of the crucified Messiah—who was now ruling in heaven— was all too much! Saul, blinded by glory, had to be led by hand along the rest of the way to Damascus. Then, a few days later, the Lord sent Ananias to visit Saul, and he received the Holy Spirit, was healed from blindness, and was baptized. The book of Acts shows that people come to faith in Jesus in many different ways. The Spirit is free and does not follow a formula. Sometimes the Spirit uses words of Scripture to move a person’s heart. Sometimes a person hears the good news through someone else. Sometimes the Lord speaks through a dream or a vision. In some cases, as with Saul, the encounter may be dramatic and even terrifying, followed by a vision and the coming of the Spirit a few days later. In other cases, whole households are baptized, including children who will grow in faith throughout their life. But in all of these ways the Spirit is at work! Lord, to some of us you come hovering gently. Others of us need to be knocked to our knees. You know best how to fill us, Lord. Amen.

“From beyond the rivers of Cush, my worshipers, my scattered people, will bring me offerings.” — Zephaniah 3:10 The man who met Philip in our reading today was from Ethiopia, which was “beyond the rivers of Cush.” (Cush was another name for Egypt.) People from many lands knew about and worshiped the God of Israel (Acts 2:5-11), and the Ethiopian man had traveled to Jerusalem to worship God at the temple there. On his way home, the man was reading from the book of Isaiah, and he was puzzled. Isaiah had written about a man who “was led like a sheep to the slaughter” and was “deprived of justice” (see Isaiah 53:7-8). Now, Philip had been led by the Spirit to meet the Ethiopian man, and he was able to explain that Isaiah was prophesying about Jesus, the innocent one who died on behalf of all sinners and was raised to new life. Here, as the Spirit worked, Philip was able to share the good news of Jesus with a man who was ready to receive the gospel in faith. Then, when the Ethiopian man saw some water up ahead, he said, “What can stand in the way of my being baptized?” And he was right—the Spirit of God had arranged for him to hear the good news through Philip, and the man had come to faith in the Savior, Jesus Christ. So they went into the water, “and Philip baptized him.” From there, the Ethiopian man “went on his way rejoicing,” and he was likely one of the first people to share Jesus with others in East Africa. Holy Spirit, thank you for bringing the good news to us, and help us to share it with others everywhere. Amen.

A sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and...they…were filled with the Holy Spirit. Those who accepted his message were baptized. . . — Acts 2:2, 41 The Holy Spirit is the main character in the book of Acts—and in the growth of the church. And through the Spirit-powered witness of his followers, Jesus said, the gospel will spread from Jerusalem (the city), to Judea and Samaria (the region), “to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). In Acts 2 we see how that work of the Holy Spirit began. “A sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven,” and Jesus’ apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit. As we have noted earlier, the Spirit of God and his mighty acts are often associated with wind. And the “sound . . . of a violent wind” echoes the power of the “strong wind” God used to make a pathway for his people through the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21). What’s more, as John the Baptist had prophesied, the work of Jesus would result in people being baptized “with the Holy Spirit and fire” (Matthew 3:11)—and in Acts 2, as the Holy Spirit filled Jesus’ apostles, “what seemed to be tongues of fire . . . came to rest on each of them.” So on Pentecost, the people of God, followers of Jesus, were renewed through a wind (Spirit), fire, and water. The wind of the Holy Spirit rushed on the apostles, and fire alighted on them—and later that day 3,000 people came to faith in Jesus and were baptized (Acts 2:41). Lord and Savior, fill us with your Holy Spirit, and help us as we try to stay “in step” with the Spirit’s work in the world today. Amen.

“Make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” — Matthew 28:19-20 Jesus came to live among us as the promised Messiah of God’s people. Many of the people thought the Messiah would be a political king who would free them from the grip of the Roman Empire. But Jesus’ mission was not political. He came to free sinners from the tyranny of sin and to give them new life with God forever. In his teaching ministry Jesus clashed with the religious authorities. He challenged them because they were more concerned with power and position than with leading people to live God’s way—by loving God and loving their neighbor. The religious leaders felt threatened by Jesus, so they plotted to kill him. And they managed to get him executed by the Roman government. So Jesus laid down his life for us by dying on a cross, and he was buried. But then he rose to life again, victorious over sin and death for our sake! Before he ascended to heaven, Jesus told his disciples (and us!) that against all appearances, in a world of tyrants and power politics, all authority had been given to him. Then he said that as we are moving about in the world, we are to make disciples. How? By baptizing them into the family of God, and by teaching them to be obedient to his teachings. And if we ever grow afraid of this task (for we will meet opposition), he promised that he will always be with us through his Holy Spirit. Lord Jesus, you have all authority. Help us to serve you faithfully in making disciples. Amen.

They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” — Mark 4:41 Have you ever been in a boat that seemed to be at the mercy of the wind or the waves, such that you found yourself praying to God for rescue? In our reading for today, Jesus’ disciples were doing all they could to keep their boat from capsizing as they were crossing a lake in the midst of a storm. And, at the same time, Jesus was taking a nap! When the disciples woke Jesus, they were alarmed that he did not seem to care about the storm and its danger. But then Jesus simply got up and spoke to the wind and the waves, saying, “Quiet! Be still!” Jesus’ words were not a plaintive request or even a prayer, but a command. And the wind and waves obeyed! The disciples had just a moment of relief before another terrifying thought crept over them: “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” The disciples knew their Scriptures and were very much aware that, in the beginning, it was God who told the waters what their boundaries were. In the time of the great flood, it was God who commanded the waters to cover the earth. It was also God who had made a way for his people through the Red Sea. So the disciples clearly knew the answer to their question “Who is this?” And they were trying to come to grips with the reality that their friend, who had just been napping in the boat, was also the Lord of all creation! Lord Jesus, touch us with appropriate awe and peace, knowing that you, the Lord of creation, have come to live with us, even (and especially) in the midst of life’s chaos. Amen.

“Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” — John 7:38 When Jesus meets a Samaritan woman at a well, he talks with her about “living water” that he can give for eternal life (John 4:10-14; see Oct. 13). In John 7, Jesus teaches again about “living water,” and this time he speaks of “rivers of living water” flowing from people who believe in him. Some other Bible passages help us to understand more about the “living water” Jesus introduces here. This imagery draws from some Old Testament prophets and points ahead to eternal life with God in the new heaven and earth. The prophet Isaiah, for example, talks about recognizing the Lord as your salvation and says, “With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation” (Isaiah 12:1-3). Isaiah 58:11 adds that with the Lord as your guide, you will be “like a spring whose waters never fail.” In addition, the prophet Ezekiel describes a vision of a river flowing from God’s temple in Jerusalem. The water begins as a trickle, but it grows wider and deeper as it flows. And when it reaches the Dead Sea far away, it “makes the salt water fresh; so where the river flows everything will live” (Ezekiel 47:9). This vision also points to a New Testament vision of “the river of the water of life” (Revelation 22:1-2). In John 7, Jesus is saying that his followers have the water of life in them through the gift of the Holy Spirit. And they can go out into the world—even to all its dead places—to share the gift of new life with others. Spirit of God, lead us to bring new life into the dead and dying places of your world, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

“The water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” — John 4:14 In this story about a meeting at a well, we find some unusual imagery about water. Jesus reaches out to a Samaritan woman—and that is surprising because Jews did not usually associate with Samaritans. But Jesus’ purpose here, even though he was tired and thirsty, was to share the good news of eternal life so that more people could learn the truth about God, who loves them. Jesus asks the woman for a drink of water, and her first reaction is to say, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” And Jesus, the master teacher, gives a response that can sound in some ways like a riddle. He talks about “the gift of God” and something called “living water,” and he invites the woman to wonder “who it is that asks [her] for a drink.” He now certainly has her attention, and she is curious about this “living water,” where it comes from, and if it has anything to do with the water at the well. So Jesus explains that the water he is talking about is spiritual. He also says that it comes from him and that it will give people eternal life. The woman soon also learns that Jesus is the Messiah her people have been waiting for. And in amazement she rushes away to tell her townspeople, and many of them become believers (John 4:28-30, 39-41)! Have you shared Jesus’ message about living water with the people near you? Lord Jesus, thank you for coming to give us the “living water” we need for eternal life. Teach us to share it freely! Amen.

Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.” — John 3:5 What does Jesus mean when he says a person must be “born of water and the Spirit” to enter the kingdom of God? Is he saying that you have to be baptized with water to be counted among God’s people? I think the short answer has to be “Not necessarily, but usually.” God can certainly save someone apart from water baptism. But God uses baptism to engage with us and to communicate his grace, so that is the usual practice in the church today. We do well to keep in mind, though, the example of the criminal who was crucified along with Jesus. This man saw who Jesus was, and he asked to be remembered when Jesus came into his kingdom. And Jesus told him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43). In John 3, I think Jesus is echoing prophets like Ezekiel, who spoke about water as a symbol of cleansing from sin, and about the Spirit of God, who comes to fill us and renew our hearts (Ezekiel 36:24-27). That symbolism is picked up by John and Jesus in their practice of baptism. Now this leads to another question: If a person is baptized as a baby or adult, does that mean they are saved? Not necessarily. Some people who are baptized might reject God. But, as some teachers have noted, baptism places us in the community of faith, the church, where we can grow to know and live by God’s covenant love and grace. Lord, thank you for baptism and for guiding us by your Spirit to grow in grace. Amen.

As Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. . . . — Mark 1:10 John had baptized many people in the Jordan River before Jesus came to be baptized there. Jesus, who had no sin, had no need to repent. But John baptized him because Jesus said, “It is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15). Here, as Jesus set out to begin his teaching ministry and his mission to save us from sin and death, he was being anointed as the Messiah. In this role he would be the king and representative of a renewed people of God. He would be anointed by the Holy Spirit, and then, through Jesus, God’s people would receive the Spirit as well. When Jesus came up out of the water in the Jordan, he saw heaven “torn open” and the Holy Spirit coming down in the form of a dove to anoint him. This showed that God was returning to live among his people, as he had done in the tabernacle (see Oct. 8). Where else have we seen water and the Spirit of God described as a bird? We saw it in Genesis 1:2, with the Spirit hovering over the waters. And here, in Jesus the Son, who came to live among us as a human being, God was working to renew our relationship with himself. After his anointing, Jesus was sent by the Spirit into the wilderness. There, like Adam and Eve, he was tempted by Satan. But Jesus succeeded where they had not (Luke 4:1-13). Lord, fill us with your Spirit too, that we may work with you at renewing your world. Amen.

[Jonah] answered . . . “I worship the Lord, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the dry land.” — Jonah 1:9 In some ways we can think of Jonah’s experience as a kind of baptism. Jonah is a rebellious, runaway prophet who needs to repent, seek God again, and obey what he is called to do. God called Jonah to preach a message of repentance to the people of Nineveh. But Jonah didn’t want to. The people of Nineveh were enemies of Israel, and Jonah wanted them destroyed. So he boarded a ship going the other way and tried to flee from God. But God “sent a great wind on the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship threatened to break up.” Where else have we seen God’s power at work in a wind on the sea? (Genesis 1:2; 8:1; and Exodus 14:21.) But here God created a storm and a different pathway for Jonah. The sailors, who were terrified and cried out to their pagan gods for help, showed more respect for Jonah’s God than Jonah did. But at least Jonah admitted he had caused the problem, and he told the sailors to throw him overboard. When they finally did that, “the raging sea grew calm.” Though Jonah was still trying to escape, God still wanted to call Nineveh to repent, so he sent “a huge fish” to swallow Jonah. And after three days, the monster fish vomited Jonah “onto dry land.” Here again, the sea should have meant death for one of God’s people (and many others) but God rescued Jonah to share his blessing and grace. Lord, guide us not to run from you, whatever you may call us to do. Forgive us, we pray, and pull us back to follow your way for us. Amen.

The priests . . . stopped in the middle of the Jordan . . . until the whole nation had completed the crossing. — Joshua 3:17 After Israel’s long sojourn in the desert, God opened a way for them through the Jordan River into the promised land. The waters upstream “piled up in a heap,” perhaps like the “wall of water” on the right and left as Israel crossed the Red Sea (Exodus 14:22). Both stories say that the people passed through “on dry ground” (Joshua 3:17). Although God had been faithful to Israel, keeping his promises to rescue them and bring them to the land he had promised them (Genesis 12:1-8; 15:13-16; 28:10-15; 46:3-4; Exodus 3:4-10), the people turned away and rebelled. They did that again and again in a long history of unfaithfulness (Exodus 32; Numbers 14; Judges 2:10-23; 2 Kings 17:1-23; 25:1-21). Eventually they were punished and sent into exile, but God, ever faithful, brought them back again (Ezra - Nehemiah). Then, about 30 years after the birth of Jesus (Matthew 1; Luke 2), God called John to prepare the way for the Messiah, who had come to be the Savior of the world (John 1:29; 3:16). In Mark 1 we see John preaching in the wilderness, calling people to repent and baptizing them in the Jordan River. And here the people are called not to cross the Jordan but to be baptized in it. God calls them to make a new start through repentance, to seek forgiveness, and to prepare their hearts for the coming of the Savior. O God, when we rebel against you, remind us that you have called us to repent and be forgiven, in Jesus, that we may live for you. Amen.

“Whenever they enter the tent of meeting, they shall wash with water so that they will not die.” — Exodus 30:20 After Israel had spent over 400 years in Egypt, God’s biggest task was not so much to get the people out of Egypt but to get Egypt out of the people. They needed to worship God and learn a different view of the world so that they could share God’s blessings with the world. And God used water to get them started. God’s instructions for setting up the tabernacle as a place of worship are in Exodus 25-31. The three main parts of the tabernacle reminded the people of the three basic levels of the cosmos (as understood in that day). The outer courtyard represented the earth—its dry land and sea. There people would wash in the basin, or “sea” (see 1 Kings 7:23-28), and be reminded that God had rescued them through the Red Sea. The Holy Place, a room inside the tent, represented the heavens. Another room, further inside, was the Most Holy Place, representing God’s throne room in the highest heaven. In essence, heaven and earth came together in the tabernacle. And this served as a model of the renewed world where God will come to live with his people again (Revelation 21-22). God wants humans to work with him in renewing the world, so he gave priests to Israel as a sort of renewed humanity, symbolically cleansed of sin and anointed for God’s work. The role of the priest, purified by water and wearing royal robes, reminded God’s people that they were created in his image. Lord, guide us to serve you and to share your goodness and love with everyone. Amen.

Was it not you [God] who cut Rahab to pieces . . .? Was it not you who dried up the sea . . . ? — Isaiah 51:9-10 God had set his people free from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 12:31-38), and as they were traveling away, they came to a halt at the Red Sea. Then they were terrified as they saw that Pharaoh’s army was pursuing them (14:1-10). But the Lord “drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land” so that his people could cross to the other side. Where else have we heard of a wind (Spirit) interacting with water? In Genesis 1:2, God’s Spirit/wind hovers over the chaotic waters, preparing for his creation. Then, in Genesis 8:1, God sends a wind to push back the waters of the great flood. Now here God drives the sea with a strong wind to provide a way of deliverance for his people. And while Israel stands safe on the far bank of the Red Sea, the waters come crashing down on Pharaoh’s army. God’s rescue of his people is dramatic and momentous, and so is the symbolism of this event. Remember that Egypt is described as the great sea monster “Rahab” in other Old Testament passages (see Psalm 89:10; Isaiah 30:7; 51:9-10). Here in Exodus the sea is cut in two. And then at God’s command the sea drowns the mighty Egyptian army. God has delivered his people, saving them from the chaotic, destructive forces of this world. Freed from slavery, they are set apart to bring blessing to the world through God’s promises. Saving God, we praise you for bringing us out from our slavery in sin to have abundant life in Jesus. Amen.

“I will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt. I am the Lord.” — Exodus 12:12 When Moses and Pharaoh face off, the biblical text makes clear that this is not merely a battle of wills between human leaders. Rather, the God of Israel is making war against the gods of Egypt. The Nile River was the very heart of the Egyptian empire. Egypt depended on the Nile for crops, transport, and trade, making it powerful in its prosperity, politics, and religion. So when God goes to war against the Egyptian gods, a number of the plagues strike at Egypt’s very heart. For example, the first plague turns the waters of the Nile into blood. So there is no water for drinking or fishing or crops, making life very difficult for the Egyptians. Of course, this plague had deep spiritual significance too. It meant that Egypt’s gods of the Nile (Sobek, Hapi, and Knuum) and its great fertility god (Osiris) had no power over the one true God. Osiris was also the supposed divine ancestor of the pharaohs who guided them into the afterlife. The true Lord and Creator of the heavens and the earth showed that Egypt’s gods were all false. Egypt and its king were powerless to stand in the way of God rescuing his people. In what ways do we see God’s power at work against false gods in our world today? Lord and giver of life and death, we praise you that nothing in the spiritual realm or on the earth can separate us from your love, most clearly revealed in Jesus, our Savior. Amen.

She got a papyrus basket . . . and placed the child in it and put it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile. — Exodus 2:3 In our reading today, God’s people Israel (the Hebrews) were living in Egypt, and they had been slaves there for generations. Their people had flourished after coming to live there in the time of Joseph (Exodus 1), but later a new king, driven by fear that Israel would grow too big and powerful, forced them into slavery. The king, Pharaoh, even tried to kill Israel’s baby boys by having them thrown into the Nile River. Because of Egypt’s beastly brutality, some Old Testament writers called the Egyptian empire “Rahab,” the name of a mythical monster that symbolized the sea and its chaos (see Psalm 89:10; Isaiah 30:7; 51:9-10). There is great irony here that God’s rescue of his people begins with water. A Hebrew mother hides her baby boy in a basket and sets it among the reeds along the Nile River. The Hebrew word for “basket” can also mean “ark.” Does that remind us of Noah and his family being saved from the flood (Genesis 8)? Then the daughter of Pharaoh finds this baby and decides to raise him as her son. She names him Moses, saying, “I drew him out of the water.” And later Moses becomes the leader God uses to confront Pharaoh and to lead Israel out of slavery (Exodus 3-12). So God rescues his people from the monster Rahab (Egypt). And the water, which could have been deadly, turns out to be a passageway to deliverance by God’s hand. Lord, give us faith to trust in you to preserve and care for us and our loved ones in surprising ways. Amen.

God . . . sent a wind over the earth, and the waters receded. — Genesis 8:1 After human beings brought sin into the world (Genesis 3), things grew worse and worse until God decided to use the power of water in the form of a flood (Genesis 6). Many people would die, but God saved Noah and his family to become the stewards God had created them to be. In Genesis 8 we are told that Noah’s ark came to rest in some mountains, and that God “sent a wind over the earth, and the waters receded.” Where have we seen a “wind” (or Spirit?) passing over waters before? Look back to Genesis 1:2. The Spirit (wind) of God hovers over the waters as the story of creation begins. And here, in Genesis 8, God is giving humans and his creation a new start. Noah sends out a dove to fly over the receding waters and look for a place to land. But it finds nothing at first. Seven days later, though, the dove returns with a leaf from an olive tree—a clear sign that plant life was flourishing again on God’s earth. Here, then, we see God resurrecting creation after the flood and making it possible for human stewards to take care of the earth again. How are we doing as the stewards of God’s creation today? Heavenly Father, we admit that we often ignore your call to care for your world and its creatures, including other people. Forgive us. Thank you for second chances (and many more) to listen to you and to obey your invitation to love and care for all that you have made. Amen.

The creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. — Romans 8:19 The world Moses grew up in had many stories about the origin of humans and their purpose. One ancient story said that some lesser gods were tired of serving higher gods, so they went on strike. Then one of the lesser gods created humans from clay so that they could serve the higher gods. So humans existed to build and maintain houses for the gods (temples) and to feed the gods through sacrifices. To set things straight, God inspired Moses to explain who really created us and why. The one true God formed humans from dust and gave them life with his own breath (Genesis 2:7); God also created humans in his own image (Genesis 1:26). So we humans are created through love, not out of necessity or conflict, and we carry God’s authority with us into the world. In other words, we are children of the Lord of the universe, given authority to rule over and care for creation (Genesis 2:15). And if we would reflect God’s wise rule and care for creation, the world would flourish and provide abundantly for us. But our first human parents sinned (Genesis 3), so we have not reflected God’s wise rule and stewardly care. As a result, creation has not flourished but has become chaotic and has actually made life difficult and dangerous. Thankfully, Jesus came to show us the way back to God, and God’s Spirit came to teach us how to live for and serve God in the world till Jesus comes again. Lord, forgive us for bringing destruction into this world, and teach us to reflect your wisdom and care. Amen.

“I [Wisdom] was there . . . when [God] gave the sea its boundary so the waters would not overstep his command.” — Proverbs 8:27-29 Historically Moses, directed by God, is understood to be the writer of the first five books of the Bible. Growing up as part of the royal family in Egypt, Moses (a Hebrew child adopted by the king’s daughter—Exodus 2) would have been taught many myths about the origin of the world. An old Mesopotamian myth, for example, held that Marduk, a warrior god, fought against Tiamat, a monster ruling the chaotic sea. Marduk defeated Tiamat and brought order out of chaos. Now, let’s look at Genesis 1 again. We see powerful waters, but they are not described as a god or a monster; they are simply a part of the world God is creating. God tells the waters where they can go and where they cannot go. (See also Proverbs 8:12-31.) Moses shows that the true God is in control of all things. In myths about creation there is always uncertainty about whether a people’s gods can hold back the forces of chaos. The ancient Egyptians, for example, believed that their sun god Ra had to descend into the underworld every night to defeat the great serpent Apophis, or else the ordered world would be destroyed. But in the Genesis story, God creates and makes peace not through battle but with a word. No other force or would-be god is there; creation has only one true Lord. Lord and God, we praise you that no force in heaven or on earth has power over you, and that you hold all things in your hands. Amen.

The earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. — Genesis 1:2 Do you notice anything curious in the first verses of the Bible? I have read these verses many times in my life, and just recently I wondered: Where did these waters come from? Well, God must have created these waters at some point, but we are not told that part of the story. We must be reading a poetic narrative that has been in progress for some time before we join with it. The NIV translation of verse 2 says that the “Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.” The Hebrew word for “Spirit” is ruach, and that word can also be translated as “wind” or “breath.” So some translations say that the “wind of God” hovered (or moved) over the waters. Either way, we can begin to imagine God’s person and power moving over these deep waters. In another passage the Hebrew word rahap for “hover” describes the Lord as a great eagle brooding, hovering over its beloved hatchlings as they leave the nest and learn to fly (Deuteronomy 32:11). So in the first verses of Genesis we see God moving powerfully and lovingly over his yet unformed world of water. Now, here is another question, to which we will return: Do you know of any other stories in the Bible that mention water, wind (or Spirit), and perhaps a bird? Creator God, may your Spirit hover within us, over us, and throughout your world as you bring all that is dark and chaotic into your peaceful light. Amen.

“Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them.” — Revelation 21:3 It was the end of a long trip. We had moved to a new home a few months before, and we had still been settling in when we left. The time away had been good, with some exciting adventures but also with some difficulties. But as we drove back into town, we commented that we felt like we were coming home in a new way. Similarly, we go through periods of change in our walk with God. Sometimes we face changes because we are following God faithfully into new and challenging places. Other times we face changes because in our wandering and sin we have turned away or distanced ourselves from God. Either way, we recognize that we are in unfamiliar territory. But then, by God’s grace, we return—and we discover that home is a gift. The Bible clearly presents our spiritual home with God as something we cannot achieve by our own efforts. Instead, we find ourselves at home when God comes to us. This happened when Christ came into the world to bring us salvation. It happens today through the work of Christ’s Spirit in our hearts. And it will happen again at the end of history when the Lord returns to make his home with us forever. God will bring heaven to us, to wipe away all the signs of our homelessness. May we praise his name and rest in his gift to us each day. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, help us to look forward to the day when all the comforts of your home are ours by grace, and we will live with you forever. Amen.

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. — John 1:14 In the beginning, humanity had a beautiful home created by God for his creatures to flourish in. Adam and Eve were able to meet with God and walk with him “in the garden in the cool of the day” (Genesis 3:8), and they enjoyed perfect companionship with their Creator. But then they fell into sin, turning their backs on God’s way, and they were banished from their home in God’s garden. Ever since then, humanity has been seeking ways to return. For many of us, our natural default is to imagine that we can find our own way back, that we can seek God on our own terms. If we are just good enough, or smart enough, or perhaps just better than the next person, then maybe we can make it home—or so we think. The good-news message of the Bible explains, however, that even though our seeking after God is fruitless, God reaches out in grace and love to us. Though we live in the depths of darkness because of sin and death, the power of God’s light shines into our lives, giving us new hope in the coming of Christ. In Jesus, “the Word . . . made his dwelling among us.” We could not find our way home to God, but, in Jesus, God has made his home with us so that we can be saved and live fully with him. Lord Jesus, thank you for seeking us out when we could not find our way to you. In your mercy, prepare our hearts to receive you as you live among us and guide us by your Spirit. Amen.

“I will come to you and fulfill my good promise to bring you back to this place.” — Jeremiah 29:10 Jeremiah sent this message from God to the people of Jerusalem who were exiled in Babylon. The people had sinned against God for many years, so the Lord had sent the king of Babylon to conquer them and take them away. Some were optimistic that their exile would be temporary, but God said the exile would last for seventy years, which for many would be a lifetime. Sometimes a crisis in our lives can seem like a time of exile. When will things go back to normal again? When our health returns, when our relationships are mended, when our temptations have passed, when our injustices are addressed. But what if God lets this go on for a lifetime? I imagine that the recipients of Jeremiah’s letter were not excited by what it said. Seventy years meant that most of them would not be able to go back to enjoy the good things they had before. Yet God called them to live as if they were at home in the place where they were now living. God urged them to trust that he could extend his saving work and build his kingdom through them even in their current situation. As God’s people adapt and seek to live for him in the new situations where they find themselves, they grow to see more of God’s character. His plan is to give us hope and a future—and he does that through the finished work of Christ. Father, help us to live with hope and confidence as we await your coming kingdom. Thank you for your good plans for us in Christ. Amen.

We know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. — 2 Corinthians 5:1 Over the years, my family has often gone camping in tents, and we have many fun memories from those trips. We have also collected some stories about how camping in tents is very different from staying in your own home. Experiences with torrential rain and high winds leave us thankful that we can return to our solid, well-built house at the end of our trip. Our Bible reading today notes that our life on earth is like living in a tent compared with the home God has prepared for us in heaven. Though we can enjoy lots of good times on our earthly journey, we also struggle with the realities of sin and weakness. We suffer hurt and disappointment. We give in to temptation, and we hurt the people we love. Our bodies grow old, and our abilities weaken. When we struggle with such things, God’s Spirit reminds us that we are made for something more. We live our lives before the face of God, in the hope of being made new in Christ. Even in our weakest moments we can live with confidence because we are looking forward to a permanent home provided by God. Ask God’s Spirit today to open your eyes to the hope and confidence of the home you are promised in Christ. Father, you made us for your glory, and we are restless until we rest in you. When we groan in our weakness, fill us with the hope of our promised home with you, through Christ. Amen.

“My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?” — John 14:2 “Home is the place where, when you have to go there, they have to take you in.” These words from the American poet Robert Frost express something of the deep human desire for a place to belong. Whether it’s out of obligation or—even better—because of others’ love for us, we long for a place where we are welcomed, known, cared for, and embraced. Does such a place really exist? In this world, every home we make for ourselves, no matter how sweet it may feel, will always fall short. Sin and death bring an end to our earthly comfort, and even the best places in this life offer only a glimpse or a foretaste of full life with God in his presence. Jesus has promised something remarkable to all who trust in him. Even as he faced his own death for our sin, Jesus offered the hope of eternal life with God to all who will follow him. He promised to lead believers to the Father and to prepare a place for redeemed sinners longing to be at home with God. Our Savior doesn’t merely tantalize us with the offer of a perfect home; he assures us that his word is true. Believe his promise and trust in his grace to prepare you for the place where your Father will certainly take you in. Lord Jesus, help us to trust in you. We believe in God; may we also believe in you and in the power of your finished work for us. Prepare our hearts for our home with the Father and with you. Amen.

Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story—those he . . . gathered from . . . east and west, from north and south. — Psalm 107:2-3 There are many ways to leave home or to be away from home, and we can do that for lots of reasons. Sometimes we may travel by choice, and other times we may have little or no choice at all in the matter. But there is only one way to return or to find a new home— and that is by the mercy of God. Psalm 107 recalls some of the stories of God’s people whom he rescued and brought back again. Though we may lose direction in different ways— perhaps our lives seem like a trackless wilderness (v. 4), or like a literal or figurative prison sentence (v. 10)—the story of redemption is the same: God’s people cry out for help (vv. 6, 13), and God honors the cries of those who turn to him for salvation (vv. 6-7, 13-14). The story is repeated throughout this psalm: God has brought us back, and we are thankful for his deliverance (vv. 8-9, 15-16, 21, 31). Today, we who know about Christ’s finished work for us have all the more reason to celebrate God’s mighty acts for his people. No matter how we may have wandered away in our spiritual lives, we know that God has redeemed us completely through his Son, Jesus Christ. Let our story be added today to those whom God has redeemed. Father, thank you for your unfailing love and your amazing rescue. We cry out to you, Lord, and, finding our salvation in Jesus, give you thanks in his name. Amen.

Let the governor of the Jews and the Jewish elders rebuild this house of God on its site. — Ezra 6:7 For several years, the rebuilding of the temple stalled while the Jewish people faced opposition from their neighbors. These opponents threatened God’s people and called on the king of Persia (who controlled the area) to stop this work. But then something unexpected happened: instead of stopping the work, the king confirmed that a decree had been issued to rebuild the temple, and he told the enemies of the Jews to back off—and even to support the work instead! Sometimes God provides support from unexpected sources to keep his work going in this world. In our personal and spiritual lives, we may find unexpected support at times too. Teachers and coaches may show us grace even if we have let them down. Employers may support us generously through a family crisis. A spouse may show deep and forgiving commitment to their partner who has been unfaithful. Through actions like these we gain glimpses of the mercy and care of God. “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). The gracious love of the holy God is an unexpected gift. But God not only welcomes us back to himself for Jesus’ sake; his Spirit also works through people and systems— even kings and governments— to remind us how to live and to do what is right. What a cause for joy! Spirit of God, thank you for the work you do through others to build us up and draw us closer to being at home with you. Help us to share your grace too. Amen.

The peoples around them set out to discourage the people of Judah and make them afraid to go on building. — Ezra 4:4 The “enemies of Judah and Benjamin” had a long and complex history of opposition to God’s people (see 2 Kings 17). Despite what may have seemed to be friendly overtures, it was clear to the Jewish leaders that their enemies’ intention was not really to foster a good relationship with the exiles who had come back to rebuild the temple of God in Jerusalem. Instead, the enemies made every effort to frustrate the plans of rebuilding the temple and restoring community life. The church has long taught that the world, the devil, and even our own flesh will fight against us. Even good, God-honoring decisions may not be affirmed and welcomed by the people around us. So we need to resist discouragement, temptation, and fear, and we need to focus on growing our relationship with God. The Bible reminds us that we have a Savior who “endured . . . opposition from sinners” and that we should focus “our eyes on Jesus” so that we will “not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:2-3). The world may not welcome our return to Christ and our attempts to build up God’s kingdom, but our Lord and Savior will always welcome us home and strengthen us to keep working. When people around us despise and forsake us, Lord, help us to come to you in prayer. May we remember “what a friend we have in Jesus.” Guide us and help us to serve you faithfully for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

No one could distinguish the sound of the shouts of joy from the sound of weeping, because the people made so much noise. — Ezra 3:13 When the exiles returned to Jerusalem, one of their first tasks was to rebuild the temple so that the worship of God could be restored. The text emphasizes the community’s excitement about this project, and their gratitude to God for bringing them home again. The people gave sacrificially for the work. But we are also told that many of the older people wept. They had seen the glory of the former temple and did not think that this new one would be as glorious (see Haggai 2:2-9). Joy and regret sometimes go together. When we look back in life and see that we should have acted differently or made different decisions, we can see with sadness the effects of our sins on the people around us. And sometimes we only understand the full weight of our wrongdoing after God restores us and welcomes us back to himself. The tears of the older exiles did not signal a disappointment with God. Those tears reflected an awareness of how much the nation’s sins had cost. The old temple had been ruined because the people had rebelled against God. Yet the people recalled another key truth: “[The Lord] is good; his love . . . endures forever” (v. 11). In Christ, every sin is removed and every tear is wiped away so that what remains is only the joy of salvation. Lord God, give us godly sorrow for the effects of sin in and around us. But also give us joy, we pray, in the glory of your gift to us in Jesus. Amen.

These are the people of the province who came up from the captivity of the exiles . . . (they returned to Jerusalem and Judah, each to their own town . . . ). — Ezra 2:1 In between the verses of our Bible reading today there is a long list of names. Genealogies and other lists like this do not usually make for interesting reading. After all, we know very little about most of the people listed there. Their actions, hopes, and dreams—all of that is lost to history, and we have only their names. But the Bible includes this list because it would help later generations see how they were connected to the exiles and had a place among God’s people in history. Similarly today, many people have found it meaningful to trace their family tree and learn things about their ancestry that they had never known before. It can help people learn about their identity and even some of the places their ancestors come from. One of the great pictures of salvation in the Bible is that we now belong to the family of God. If you put your faith in Christ, you are adopted as a child of God (see Romans 8:14-17; Ephesians 2:19-22). This is good news for everyone! It can also give comfort to anyone who may feel that their past actions have burned bridges with the people around them, or whose families reject their faith in Christ. In Jesus, God has given us a place to belong and a people to belong to. Heavenly Father, the whole family of Christ finds its identity in you. Thank you for the assurance that you love and care for each one of us, and that we belong to you. Amen.

“Any of his people among you may go up to Jerusalem in Judah.” — Ezra 1:3 For many of us today, “home” may not be where we live but where we have roots or a family history. Perhaps it’s where you grew up, or maybe it’s the country your family emigrated from. Having been formed by that “home,” it can be exciting to have an opportunity to go back. The Jews had spent several generations in exile, far away from their ancestral home. While some had grown accustomed to their new place, memories and stories of Jerusalem continued to tug at the hearts of others. So when an opportunity came through a decree of the ruling king, they responded with enthusiasm and said to one another, “Let’s go back!” Similar things can happen at times in our spiritual lives. If we are living far away from God, we can grow comfortable with a secular lifestyle. We can get used to doing as we see fit, and we can make poor decisions that lead us into danger or even ruin. But God’s Spirit continues to nudge our hearts, reminding us that we are made for worship and relationship with the one true God. In Jesus, God has issued the decree that allows wandering and wayward souls to return to fellowship with him. He moves our hearts and provides the circumstances (vv. 5-6) to return to him. If you have become distant from God, why not turn back and be restored to him today? Holy Spirit, thank you for tugging at our hearts and urging us to return to you. Help us to turn back and be restored in Christ today. Amen.

So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. — Ruth 4:13 Ruth had returned with Naomi to make a new home in Bethlehem. At least Naomi had memories of familiar people and places there. But Ruth had no connections to Bethlehem at all. As a foreigner, she was doubly vulnerable in this place that was new to her. But God provided in remarkable ways. First, “as it turned out” (Ruth 2:3), she found herself gleaning grain in the field of a kind-hearted relative named Boaz. Second, Boaz takes an interest in Ruth’s longterm well-being by making her his wife. These may seem like coincidences, but God specializes in gracious coincidence. Sometimes our own journeys—to familiar places or to new ones—seem to present unlikely prospects. Maybe you can’t imagine going back to a church because you were too deeply hurt by its members in the past. Or maybe you feel that your sins are too weighty to be forgiven. But please know that God forgives all of our sins through Jesus Christ. God has a way of providing for people who may not seem to belong. The genealogy at the end of Ruth 4 shows that Ruth became an ancestor of Israel’s great king David—and therefore also of the Savior, Jesus (Matthew 1). God can bring you into Jesus’ family too. Trust him today to give you the home you need. Heavenly Father, you surprise us with your gracious acceptance and provision. Thank you for welcoming us into your family through Christ, and help us to rejoice in your protection and redemption. Amen.

Naomi returned from Moab accompanied by Ruth the Moabite, her daughter-in-law, arriving in Bethlehem as the barley harvest was beginning. — Ruth 1:22 It is not always easy for people to return to their hometown. Old memories, past mistakes, and expectations can make things complicated. Naomi returned from Moab full of disappointment and bitterness. For her, moving to Moab had brought death, loss, and heartache. And she reacted as many of us do: she blamed God for her troubles. Sometimes it’s hard to see God’s loving hand when we are faced with hardship. As Naomi returned, however, she was not alone. Ruth, one of her daughters-in-law, had chosen to join her, saying, “Your people will be my people and your God my God.” Ruth, an outsider, went to find a new home in Bethlehem—a place among people whose God she had known only from a distance (see v. 15). As we see later in this story, God can redeem our emptiness just as he can accept our first steps toward him in faith. Though Naomi’s outlook is bleak at this point, God’s Word offers a glimpse of hope: the harvest is coming. God will make Bethlehem a place of blessing. And the wonders God works there will bless Naomi and Ruth—and eventually the whole world. Many years later, a descendant of their family would become the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ (see Matthew 1). God promises to bring blessing to all who find their home in Jesus. Shall we take that step toward him today? Lord, help us to see beyond our bitter struggles to the promises we have in you. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.

She left the place where she had been living and set out on the road that would take them back to the land of Judah. — Ruth 1:7 What happens when you realize you’re far from home? Naomi had been away from Bethlehem in the land of Judah for a long time. She and her husband had moved to Moab because of a famine, and their sons had grown up there and married. Naomi also experienced deep grief when her husband and then later her sons died. Being a widow in those days was very difficult because a household depended on men to provide food, shelter, and support. So when Naomi heard that God had provided food in Bethlehem, she was motivated to go back there. It can be interesting to see how God works in our lives. Wherever we go, God watches over us. And sometimes, in dire situations, we may be drawn to seek him in renewed ways. In this story, as we learn later, God was drawing Naomi back to Judah because he had a special plan for her family. But Naomi didn’t know that at the time. Perhaps you’re dealing with some kind of adversity. Maybe it’s the death of a loved one, or the unexpected loss of a job. Maybe it’s some kind of trouble you brought on yourself. Whatever the case, difficult situations can lead us to focus on the goodness of God and how he provides us a spiritual home for us. Wherever we are, may God help us see that our true home can only be found in him, through the gift of Christ, his Son. Father, wherever we are, help us to hear of your grace and to know that our home is with you. In Jesus, Amen.

“I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.” — Luke 15:18 As a pastor, I often talk with parents who are disappointed that their son or daughter no longer thinks Christ is important. I always try to assure them that it is never too late for someone to return to God and his people. Jesus tells a story about a son who ran away from home. Rather than work with his father on the family estate, the son demanded his inheritance and then wasted it on wild living. It probably seemed like an attractive idea at the time, but like many of our sinful decisions, it led to personal disaster. When his money was all gone, the young man wound up working with pigs—“unclean” animals that were detestable to Jews. And as he “came to his senses,” he asked himself, in effect, “How did I get here?” We might find ourselves asking the same question, having drifted far away from our Father. Repentance is the first step we take to return. And while we do not have the power to restore our relationship with God on our own, our Father promises to receive us back when we come with a repentant heart. If you find yourself far from the Father, he invites you to come back to him today. Repent and return, and God will welcome you home. Heavenly Father, thank you for your grace and mercy in Christ. Keep us from wandering from your care. Give us the courage to return to you, knowing that you will run to welcome us home. Amen.

Like a bird that flees its nest is anyone who flees from home. — Proverbs 27:8 For several years, birds have built nests on or near our home. One year we watched robins hatch on the ledge outside our kitchen window. The mother robin could see us through the glass, and at first she was wary of every move we made. But she grew used to our presence, and we could watch how she tended her young. The nest, for them, was a safe place, warm and protected from predators until the chicks were ready to fly. In a similar way, we need churches and families to serve as spiritual homes, protecting us and providing for our needs so that we can be prepared to face the world God has given us to live and work in. Unfortunately, we sometimes try to go our own way before we are ready. We make foolish choices in friendships, and we may get into trouble with the law. We rush intimacy and find ourselves in a romantic relationship before we are ready. We imagine that we are spiritually mature, not needing Christian community, but then we find (too late) that we are unprepared for moral challenges that the world can throw at us. Home is a place to cultivate the habits that bring us close to God: Scripture reading, prayer, mutual accountability, and confession of sin. We all need the protection and provision of Christ. Let’s not take for granted the gift of a spiritual home. Savior God, you long to gather your children as a hen gathers her young under her wings (Luke 13:34). Guide us to value your care and the gift of a spiritual home. Amen.

Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. — 1 Kings 19:3 What makes us run away? By all accounts, Elijah had just finished a successful revival. The false prophets of Baal had been routed, and the people of Israel had proclaimed their allegiance to the true God. God had answered Elijah’s prayers for an end to a crippling drought (1 Kings 18). But instead of resting confidently in the Lord, who had brought about all these good things, Elijah ran away. Why? Sometimes we are just too worn out to stay where we are. Even our moments of success can be clouded by opposition and fear, and it can seem easier to run away. Maybe you’re overwhelmed by the uncertainties of life, or you feel unable to cope for another day with a difficult relationship. Or maybe you’re just plain tired and you think that being elsewhere—physically or spiritually—will fix things. But when we run from our challenges, we often miss the lessons God wants us to learn—about ourselves and his care. Thankfully for us, God is willing to meet us when we run away. He came to Elijah with a gracious question: “What are you doing here?” And God responded to Elijah’s hurt and fear with a promise of his presence and ongoing work. By coming to us in Christ, God has done even more. When you’re worn out and tempted to run away, let the presence of Christ lead you back home to rest in him. “Precious Lord, take my hand . . . I am tired, I am weak, I am worn. . . . Guide my feet, hold my hand, lead me home.” In Christ, Amen.

“What fault did your ancestors find in me, that they strayed so far from me?” — Jeremiah 2:5 One hazard of technology today is the temptation to scroll aimlessly on social media or web feeds. Maybe we begin by looking for a recipe, but our search turns up a distracting new diet program, or we see a juicy update on a friend we haven’t seen in years—and before we know it, we’ve spent an hour wandering around the internet without a clear sense of direction. Something similar can happen in our spiritual lives. Sin rarely captures us out of the blue. Instead, we begin small—with a little lie, or a grudge we can’t let go of, or a few too many drinks—and later we discover we have wandered far into places we never thought we would go. The prophets reminded God’s people Israel that they had wandered from God’s way. They had followed idols—representing the sinful desires of the human heart—rather than walking with the Lord and obeying his directions. They stopped asking, “Where is God in our lives?” They turned away from the living water and dug cisterns that only ran dry. When Jesus came, he declared that he is the “living water” who fills us with his guiding Spirit (John 7:37). Rather than scrolling aimlessly through life, let’s follow this Savior to keep close to God. Lord, sometimes we don’t realize when or how far we stray from you. Guide us by your Spirit, we pray. Lead us to worthwhile endeavors that honor you, through Christ. Amen.

They have left the straight way and wandered off. . . . — 2 Peter 2:15 For the past fifteen years I have lived in the northeastern United States, where roads often meander all over the landscape. Make a wrong turn, and you often discover that it can take a long time to find your way back to the right path. I’m thankful for the map program in my cell phone! Peter describes the false teachers of his day as people who have gone off in the wrong direction. What leads people off course? Peter mentions the attractions of pleasure, greed, pride, lust, and the promise of false freedoms. All of these things and more lead us on meandering paths that can quickly bring us away from where God would have us go. The “wages of wickedness” can also be appealing. Balaam was an example of someone who thought sin could offer a shortcut to a good life (see Numbers 22). But that wouldn’t work, and Balaam had to be rebuked by his donkey before he could see the truth! In a similar way, we might think a financial scheme will get us what we want. And when we realize we have gone wrong, we may well have caused many people lots of harm and damage. God invites us to embrace Christ as our Lord and Savior— the one who directs us and saves us from our wrong turns. Follow him, and let him keep you on the way! Lord, we have a hard time sticking with your directions for our lives. By your Spirit, keep us on the right path, and lead us home with you. Through Jesus we pray. Amen.

Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, who have departed from the truth. — 2 Timothy 2:17-18 A recent blog I read celebrated the idea of a “never-ending vacation.” Faced with the prospects of an unfulfilling job and the constant demands of everyday life, many people dream of “leaving it all behind” and heading for a place with no responsibilities. While it can be good to have a change of pace in life, the temptation to run away from all our responsibilities will lead to trouble and will damage the relationships in our lives. In 2 Timothy 2 the apostle Paul mentions two individuals who ran away from home spiritually. Apparently they got caught up in false teachings about the resurrection and undermined the hope that believers had in Christ. The false teachers painted a picture that misled people to wander from the good news of Jesus—that we are saved by grace through faith in Christ, who died for our sins and rose again so that we can live forever with him. No matter how much we might enjoy learning new things in life, we need the “solid foundation” of truth that we can depend on to provide us with our spiritual home. We need a place where we are known and accepted in grace. And that’s what God gives us in Christ. Let’s be careful about the stories we tell and the “chatter” we might engage in. In all that we say and do, we should ask ourselves, “Does it point people to Christ?” Lord, keep us on the firm foundation of the gospel so that we don’t wander from you. Amen.

Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God. . . . — Deuteronomy 8:11 It takes work to maintain a home. Whether you own your own residence or rent from others, there are always little maintenance projects that creep up: light bulbs need replacing, lawns need mowing, faucets begin to drip, doors need to be repainted. Sometimes we put the work off for another day, but if we wait too long the home will deteriorate. A home always needs regular maintenance. We can also face temptations to take our home with God for granted. When times are good, we look at our material blessings, at our relationships with family and friends, or at our moral character, and we assume we are doing fine. We forget that these are gifts from God that we receive by grace. Israel was reminded that when they arrived in the promised land, they needed to make work of remembering God. God warned that if they did not actively honor the Lord for his gifts, they would soon forget the Giver. I read once that most divorces occur not because of an affair or a spouse’s violence but because of apathy—a husband or wife simply begins to take the other for granted. Something similar can happen in our relationship with God. Our God wants us to know where our blessings come from—and especially the gift of our relationship with him in Christ. Do you remember? Gracious God, you have given us so much—and as if that were not enough, in Christ you offer forgiveness of sins and eternal life with you! Help us to remember and praise you. Amen.

Then they despised the pleasant land; they did not believe his promise. — Psalm 106:24 My computer shows me interesting pictures each time it starts up. As I prepare to log in with my password, I see images of beautiful places around the world: tropical islands, scenic mountain meadows, stunning landscapes, bustling city streets. These images, of course, are carefully selected to catch my attention. Not surprisingly, I often go searching for information about some of these places, even wondering what it would be like to live there. Have you heard the old saying “The grass is always greener on the other side . . .”? Of course, I have to remember that living in a mountainous paradise would lack many of the things I appreciate at home. My family and friends don’t live there. The community connections and conveniences I have are not there. But at times I am still tempted by the lure of a new place. Something like that can happen to us spiritually too. The psalmist recalls how God gave his people a home. God brought them out of Egypt and protected and provided for them. But Israel often longed for something different, thinking they could do better. Yet, in running from God, they ran from the One who provided their true home. Our sinful hearts easily forget the gift of the home we have with God. Can we recognize the dangers of our restlessness? “Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it; prone to leave the God I love.” God, remind us of the grace of serving you where you place us, and keep us near you in Jesus. Amen.

They did not receive the things promised . . . admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth. — Hebrews 11:13 Every summer my wife and I load up our van and spend a week camping with our kids. The children are old enough now to help with setting up the tent and the campsite and settling in to the routines of the week. We look forward to these times away together. But living in a tent is no substitute for a solid home. The writer of Hebrews, looking back at the stories of Israel’s patriarchs (which we’ve examined in the past week), makes clear that something deeper drives our search for home. In faith we are “looking for the city . . . whose architect and builder is God.” Not all of us might recognize this deeper search, of course. Often we pull up stakes in search of something that will make our lives better. We imagine we can trade the hardships and heartaches of one situation for a week at the cottage, or with a new boyfriend or girlfriend, or with a stiff drink, or a new job, or a nicer home—whatever will seem to fulfill our longing. But the best this world can offer is mere tent camping compared to the home with “many rooms” that our Savior prepares for us (John 14:2). The patriarchs, by faith, went somewhere. They followed God’s call or discovered that God was with them as they went. And they learned that just going somewhere could never satisfy the longing that only God could fulfill. Savior, lead us by your Spirit through our journey of life. Bring us safely to the home you have prepared for us by your grace. Amen.

Joseph made the Israelites swear an oath and said, “God will surely come to your aid, and then you must carry my bones up from this place.” — Genesis 50:25 “Never forget where home is.” Joseph probably didn’t say these very words, but if you stood by his deathbed that day, there was little doubt about what he meant. Joseph’s last words were all the more remarkable because he hadn’t lived at “home” for many years. He had grown successful and prosperous in Egypt. His children lived there. For all intents and purposes, Egypt was his home. But knowing where home is means you have to know first of all where you have come from and where you belong. Many people grow up somewhere and never leave, and they cannot imagine living anywhere else. But in our increasingly mobile societies today, “home” can be harder to recognize. Where am I from, if I’ve lived in a dozen places during my lifetime? Joseph reminded his brothers that their home was the place God had promised to their forefathers—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. And one day God would bring them back there. No matter how successful we may become in a particular place, the Christian’s home is defined by adoption into the family of God. Our home with God is only possible because God has come to our aid in Christ. Never forget that you belong to this faithful Savior. You have told us, Father, that there is a place where we can live with you. You have sent your Son and Spirit to lead us there. May we never forget where we belong. Amen.

“I will go down to Egypt with you, and I will surely bring you back again.” — Genesis 46:4 Jacob, who was now called Israel, had reconciled with his brother, Esau, and was living back in Canaan (Genesis 32-33). But after staying there for many years, he was on the move again. His son, Joseph, whom he had thought was dead (Genesis 37), had become a ruler in Egypt. And there was a great famine in the land (Genesis 41-45), so Jacob went to Egypt to live out the rest of his days. Sometimes God moves us in unexpected and surprising ways. A new job opportunity comes our way. Our grown children move to a different part of the country, and we follow. Moving can be difficult: we leave behind what is familiar, and the new place we go—even if it’s exciting—is unknown and unpredictable. Jacob spends time with God in worship on his way to Egypt. He needs to know that God will be with him, that God’s promises will be valid in this new place as well. He expresses his readiness to do whatever God tells him: “Here I am,” he says. And God promises to bring Jacob’s family back to their home in Canaan again. When we face unexpected opportunities in life, do we seek God’s will in worship and prayer? As followers of Christ walking in step with his Spirit, we are assured that the Lord will always be with us. So we can journey with God’s promises—no matter where we go. God of new opportunities, thank you for unexpected places and opportunities in which to serve you. Help us to discern your will and leading, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

“I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land.” — Genesis 28:15 Jacob was running away from home. He had stolen his older brother’s inheritance (see Genesis 27), and now his brother, Esau, wanted to kill him. So, to save his own life, Jacob was fleeing the place that should have been home. Sometimes we shatter our experience of home with our sinful actions. We betray our marriages. We ruin family relationships with our jealousy. We antagonize neighbors with our angry words. We find that we can no longer feel at home in the place we ought to belong. Yet even when we are running away, God can meet us in unexpected places with his promises. Jacob was not looking for God; there was nothing special about the “certain place” where he stopped for the night. But in his dream, Jacob’s eyes were opened to see that no place is outside of God’s presence (Psalm 139:7). And he heard God’s assurance that even though Jacob had done wrong, God would keep his promise to Jacob’s family and bring him back home. Jacob’s experience anticipates the way God restores sinners through the work of Jesus. Even as we are still running, God meets us with the assurance that he will watch over us and bring us back to himself. And we discover that being in God’s presence is a refuge for all who feel away from home. Almighty God, our sins cause us to run from you. Amaze us with your grace, and help us to trust in your promises to forgive us and return us home to you, through Jesus. Amen.

“To your offspring I will give this land.” — Genesis 12:7 For many people, owning their own home is a great dream and a great blessing. Home ownership allows people to build equity and gain financial security. It also gives them a place to call their own—with private living space and a yard. The Bible gives us glimpses of humanity’s search for a home. But one thing we soon discover is that our dream home cannot really be the one we build for ourselves. Abram, it seems, had a good life in Harran, where his extended family was living. He had possessions and household servants. He was prosperous and successful. But Harran could not be his home. “Go . . .” God said, “to the land I will show you.” God led Abram to the land of Canaan and said that his descendants would receive this land. So this would one day be their home. But Abram lived in tents, without a permanent dwelling. He had to learn to wait for God to build the home that he longed for. Many of us are longing for a place of our own. We learn from the Bible that what we really long for is a place with God: a place where God is present with us, a place where we can worship God and lean on his grace. We cannot build that home with our own efforts, but only by waiting on the work of God in Christ. Faithful God, we want a place to belong, a place where we can lean on your grace for all we need. Guide us to trust in Jesus, and restore us to our home with you. Amen.

The Lord God banished him from the Garden of Eden to work the ground from which he had been taken. — Genesis 3:23 As I write, the news is filled with stories of hurricanes, tornadoes, and wildfires. In addition to their destructive impacts on nature, disasters like these have long-term effects on the many people whose homes and towns they destroy. If we lose our home, we lose not only a place to live but also a sense of security and belonging. Our first human home was lost because of the fall into sin. The devil tempted Adam and Eve with the false promise that they could decide better for themselves and did not need to listen to God. But that was a lie, and our first parents’ fall into sin brought judgment and death for us all. As a result, humanity is now homeless, and we cannot make our own way back to the security of God’s presence. We still struggle under the effects of sin today. In this world we are cut off from God, and even our best human efforts fall short of repairing broken relationships or creating the paradise we long for. But God is not finished with us. God graciously provides for us so that we are able to survive away from home. And he asks still, “Where are you?” giving us an opportunity to recognize our homelessness and to follow the path to return home through his Son, Jesus Christ. Loving God, we long for a place of security and belonging with you. Provide for everyone who needs an earthly home, and restore us all to your presence in Christ, we pray. Amen.

The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. — Genesis 2:15 In the beginning, there was no reason to leave home because humanity lived in paradise. The garden God had created provided everything needed for human flourishing. Even work in the garden was fulfilling and comfortable. The Bible pictures God’s extravagant care as a free gift of grace for his creatures. From the world’s beginning, God offered us human beings a place to live in his presence with everything we needed. We could delight in God’s being with us, and we could enjoy being at home with ourselves before God. So why would we ever leave? As the Bible portrays it, one essential element of our sense of home is contentment, an ability to rest in God’s care for us. So when God sets limits, such as a tree from which we may not eat, can we trust that this is for our good? As we will see, humans find it difficult to be content. We prefer instead to make our own way, to find a place where we can follow our own desires. And we forever run away from the perfect home with God. But ever since we left the garden, we have been spiritually thirsty, longing for those rivers overflowing with God’s created goodness. Only in his Son, Jesus, does God offer a return to contentment. Will you follow him home today? Lord, we find it hard to rest in your extravagant grace and provision. Forgive us. Help us to be content. Give us rest in the finished work of Christ that brings us home with you. Amen.

Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. — Psalm 23:6 In many parts of North America, where I live, summer is a season of vacations. People leave their homes and go traveling to explore new places or to stay in familiar getaways. Being away offers opportunities to take a break from everyday tasks and routines. But a lot can happen when you’re away from home. When our family goes to a vacation home, we find that cooking plans can get complicated because the kitchen doesn’t have the pans or cooking supplies we are used to at home. The roads and stores are unfamiliar too, and we have to navigate new uncertainties. Sometimes people face medical emergencies when they are away from home, and crises like that be very difficult because there is little or no support network. “There’s no place like home,” an old saying reminds us. This is true for us spiritually as well. We are created to be at home in God’s presence. And while sin may promise adventures, the places it can bring us do not provide the security of being at home with God. Psalm 23 reminds us of the God who cares for us along the journey of life. And God offers us a home, a place of welcome through the promises and presence of his Son and Spirit. This month, let’s explore how the Bible invites us to be at home with God. Holy God, thank you that we can depend on you to guide and lead us. Assure us through your Son and Spirit that we can always be at home with you. Amen.

[Jesus] appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. . . . He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 1:3, 7-8 The book of Acts is not simply about the birth of the church or even the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, giving great power. Acts reveals the extension of Jesus’ work on earth, in which he uses not his human body but a different body made up of his followers—the church. That body, known today as the worldwide church of Christ, aims to live out and continue the ongoing work of Jesus as he grows his kingdom here on the earth. Jesus hinted at this when he taught his disciples to pray, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10). When Jesus met with his followers, gave proof of his resurrection, and spoke with them about the kingdom of God, he was helping them understand that he was creating not a new religion but a movement that would expand around the world through them. Thankfully the Holy Spirit gave them understanding, and we are here today as part of his church. Christ is our head, and we are his body, serving God in this world as the heart, hands, and feet of the Lord Jesus, who promises full life for all who believe in him. Jesus, thank you for wanting to use me as part of your work in this world. Help me to serve you as you draw others to yourself. Amen.

“‘Now get up and stand on your feet. . . . I am sending you to [the Gentiles] to open their eyes . . . so that they may receive forgiveness of sins. . . .’” — Acts 26:16-18 Consider your own story of faith. One of the ways you can know the awe of God is through your story. Maybe you came to Jesus out of a life of poverty and pain. Maybe you think your story is less than exciting because you grew up in the church and have always been a part of it. Whatever the case, you have a story to share because it’s really about God’s story happening through you. In all your struggles, celebrations, griefs, and joys, God has been telling his story of grace in and through you. When given the opportunity, Paul shared his story. One of the main reasons a personal story is so powerful is that no one can argue against the way God has chosen to work in and through you. Think of moments when you had to trust God with a loved one who was sick, or when you were not sure how to pay a debt and God provided for you. Or maybe you thought your marriage was at the point of no return, but God brought it back. People can debate theology and doctrine, but they cannot argue against the awesome work of God in and through a transformed life. May we not lose sight of the power of whom we serve and that we are called to be his people. Let’s embrace and cele­brate the awe and wonder of God’s power each day. God, undo me today! Soften my heart and bring me freedom so that I may see and know the wonder of who you are. Amen.

My only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me. . . . — Acts 20:24 Have you thought about what can hold people back from a deep sense of awe? We could answer that question in a general way by saying that sin is what keeps us from enjoying deep, full life with God. But have you also wondered about how subtle sin can be? Sometimes we don’t realize how much our sinful tendencies can deceive us. For example, I’ve noticed one thing that has a strong hold on many, many people: individualism. If you live in the West, you know that this shows up in a phrase like “Do whatever makes you happy.” I’m all for being happy, but what happens when that is taken too far? We end up putting ourselves first in everything we do. One of the hardest addictions to recover from is the selfie life. Paul taught that he counted his life as nothing in comparison to what he had gained by following Jesus. His deep sense of awe was grounded in setting aside his own plans, dreams, and desires so that he could devote himself to God’s greater purpose for his life. Paul was not consumed with comfort or convenience, and he found contentment in fo­cus­ing on the life Jesus had in store for him. The greatest battle we might face in developing faith can be in holding back from giving Jesus everything in our life. Jesus, thank you for giving your whole life for us so that we can have life to the full. Forgive us for seeking a convenient, comfortable faith. Help us to live the life you have called us to. Amen.

Many of those who believed . . . openly confessed what they had done. A number who had practiced sorcery brought their scrolls together and burned them publicly. — Acts 19:18-19 Lisa is a person I know who came to faith in Jesus Christ from a New Age background. In her early days of following Jesus, she tried to mix many layers of the New Age movement in with her faith. It didn’t work. She would constantly be confused and lacking in her understanding of following Jesus. She finally found freedom when she rid herself of those mixed-in practices. Jesus’ early followers knew that in order to fully surrender to him, they would need to get rid of everything that could distract from the work of the Spirit in their lives. In Ephesus, new believers who had practiced sorcery and witchcraft burned all of their scrolls in front of everyone. People in many cultures attempt to mix other religious ideas and thoughts with faith in Christ, saying, “Really, what harm is there in that?” It can also be tempting to mix the Christian faith with superstition or reading a daily horoscope for guidance. But if we do that, we fail to realize that we are not fully trusting in God and his Spirit to guide us and to provide us full life. When we approach faith as a mixed bag, we water down the power of the good news of life. Dear God, if anything in our lives misleads us from following you, help us to get rid of it. Guide us into real, full living each day, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

They took him . . . to a meeting of the Areopagus, where they said to him, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting?” — Acts 17:19 Something special happens when someone earns the right to share an insight or opinion. Sadly, some people don’t seem to understand that there are times when you have to earn the right before you can share your opinion. In his visit to Athens, Paul was brilliant. As a follower of Christ, he had become distressed that the city of Athens was full of idols. And the Spirit gave Paul some insight into what was going on there. The city took pride in being a hotbed of ideas, and people engaged in the worship of all kinds of gods (represented by the idols). In fact, many people “spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas.” So Paul began to reason with people in the marketplace. He had taken time to listen to them, and they were intrigued by his new message about Jesus. They said they wanted to hear more, even though they didn’t fully understand what he was saying. In this way Paul earned the right to share about the one true God, and many people believed. It can be easy to get mad at the world, to be frustrated with how things are swinging one way or the other—but getting angry and combative is not the answer. Paul walked into the midst of a confusion of ideas and earned the right to share about God by connecting with people and gaining a sense of what mattered to them. God, help us to understand the world around us and to share who you are and what you have done for us all. Amen.

“God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted [the Gentiles] by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us.” — Acts 15:8 Tension was building as God continued to expand his kingdom. Reports were coming in that Gentiles were becoming believers in Christ, and then some leaders from Judea began teaching that people could not be saved in Christ unless they were circumcised according to the law of Moses. Actually, those leaders had an “us and them” attitude about faith, and they wanted clear markers to show who was included and who was not. But God had other plans. Thankfully, cooler minds prevailed, and the church’s leaders saw the truth that all believers are saved by grace through faith in Jesus, and that circumcision is no longer required. Salvation into God’s kingdom is a matter of the heart. As the work of the Spirit (by which every believer in Christ is sealed) produces fruit in us, we gradually take on the character and behavior of Christ. The Spirit works in us and changes our hearts. Having an outward mark does not change our hearts. Only the Spirit of God can do that. The gospel cuts to the heart of who we are, and by his power at work inside of us the Lord makes something beautiful out of our lives. God, thank you for the work you are doing in our hearts. May your love and grace overflow from within us to bring your goodness and fruitfulness into the lives of others. Amen.

They reported all that God had done through them and how he had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles. — Acts 14:27 I once heard a speaker say that if your teenager is disconnected or uninterested in being part of the family, give them a better story to be a part of. If you have teenagers, that may be worth thinking about. In this section we see Paul and Barnabas sharing stories of transformation. After returning to Antioch, they gathered the community of believers and “reported all that God had done through them.” In other words, they shared with passion and excitement the things that the Spirit of God was doing. Part of having a deep sense of awe in our life with God is knowing that we are part of a better story. We might even say that continuing to tell the ­stories of God’s work will help to keep the mission going. After Jesus had sent his disciples out in pairs to spread the good news about him, he brought them together again and had them share stories of what had happened (Luke 10:1-24). Stories have the power to make our faith real, and they prompt us to live with our eyes open to see where God is working. As we grow in faith, we begin to understand that we are part of a greater story that needs to be shared with others. And when we are down and discouraged, stories can help us regain our joy. God, thank you for inviting me into your story. Help me to share with humility and boldness how you are working in my life and in the lives of others. Amen.

The Gentiles . . . were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed. — Acts 13:48 When we go to a gathering where there’s a lot of good food, we often say, “That’s a great spread.” It points out that a great feast is spread across the table, and we look forward to enjoying it. Acts records for us that Paul and Barnabas were spreading the good news of Jesus across a wide geographical area, and many people were experiencing the love and grace of Jesus. They were on a mission, from God, to spread the good news to the Gentiles, people of other nations beyond the Jewish people, and the Gentiles were receiving the good news with great joy. The power of the good news of God’s love for us, given through the life and death of Jesus and his resurrection, cannot be contained. When Jesus rose from the dead and walked out of the tomb, he proved that as much as we think we can predict how God is going to work, we can’t. We can’t even assume how God will work, because when we do that, we limit our ability to see and participate in God’s work in our lives. Paul and Barnabas understood that the good news was for all people, and many embraced the truth. Even when there was opposition, the disciples were filled with excitement as the word of God spread. Father, expand our understanding of how you want to go beyond the limits we tend to set. Fill us with your Spirit and with joy as we learn to follow you. Amen.

While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said . . . — Acts 13:2 There are subtle things written in Acts that we can easily miss while reading it quickly. I miss important details at times, and maybe that happens to you too. But then there are moments when the Spirit helps us see things that we never noticed before. Note that in the church at Antioch the believers were worshiping and fasting, and that the Spirit revealed to them that Barnabas and Saul were called. Then, after this was revealed, the believers fasted and prayed and laid hands on the two before sending them off. The word “they” is crucial in this passage. Prophets and teachers are identified, but the community of believers is mentioned too. There’s something powerful that happens when the community of faith is together. If you are part of a church, you know that churches often try to model themselves after other churches. There is nothing wrong with learning from another church model, but it can then be easy to try to go in your own strength to make it happen. This community was set on worshiping, fasting, and praying—and as they did so, the Spirit revealed an important mission. Notice too that they laid their hands on Barnabas and Saul. The Spirit-led community sent them off with a communal blessing to serve in the Lord’s unfolding plan for his kingdom. Father, as we worship, pray, and fast, show us your mission for our lives. In your strength, we want to do what you call us to do. Amen.

They shouted, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man.” Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. — Acts 12:22-23 Here Acts helps us again to stand in awe of God. King Herod had set himself up on his throne like a god. What he wore and what he said would have prompted the people to say that he was a god, not a man. And let’s not forget that they wanted something from him: peace and food. Well, the king did not give due praise to God, so he was struck down and eaten by worms. But let’s be careful not to pass judgment on King Herod so quickly. We may not have a throne to sit on or royal robes to wear. We may not even have one person following us. But sometimes we play God in our own lives. Excessive worry is one way we do that. Worry is a signal that we are taking over God’s role of being God in our lives. It’s as though we hold tight to this thing as if we have control over it—but of course we do not. As anyone who worries excessively can tell you, there is very little contentment and joy in living that way. When we try to sit on the throne of our lives, taking God’s rightful place and not opening ourselves to trust in him, we set ourselves up for trouble. Though we might not be struck down or eaten by worms, we can endanger our very souls. We need to stop playing God and let him guide us into full life. God, you are better at running my life than I am. Help me to give you my life today. Amen.

So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. — Acts 12:5 When there is a problem, I tend to go into fix-it mode. I want to find the solution and make it happen. Things were intense for the church in its early days, and we’ve been exploring some of that. We have seen today that King Herod was cruel and cunning. He had put pressure on the church and had killed the apostle James, and he liked how that made him popular with the people who had gotten Jesus crucified. So Herod arrested Peter and put him in prison too. It’s almost comical that Herod used four squads of soldiers to guard him. Did you notice the church’s response? Did they jump into a strategy meeting on how to get Peter out of prison? Nope! They did what came naturally to them—they prayed. Don’t you love that? And it’s not a prayer qualified with the word “just.” We sometimes do that when we pray, “God we just ask . . . .” But these people earnestly sought God with passion. Sometimes when I’m having a tough moment, I try to sort things out in my own understanding. Prayer gets sidelined as an afterthought. I wonder what it would be like if we grew a response muscle that moved us to turn to God first. I’m sure it would help us see things differently. Maybe we wouldn’t be so overwhelmed. Maybe anxiety and worry would have less of a pull if we stopped trying to fix it first. God, may turning to you be my first response in tough times. Forgive me when I don’t boldly make my requests to you. Amen.

Some of them . . . began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. — Acts 11:20 Sometimes, when you find yourself in a moment of oppor­tunity, you need to make a bold move. After Stephen was martyred, the believers scattered. It may seem odd, but that is one way the good news began to spread into other regions. God is so powerful that he can bring good results even out of bad things that happen. Today, many of us don’t look at persecution in a way like that. We tend to think of it as something that will ruin or destroy faith. But as we can see in this passage, the church can thrive despite persecution—and this still happens in parts of the world today. The point of this passage is that some believers, led by the Spirit, made bold moves and proclaimed the good news to people outside the faith. Their boldness was not of themselves; it was due to the presence of God in their lives. When we face tough times, we often need to step back and trust that God will create the opportunity for us to step in and be bold. Sure, it might seem like a risk at the moment, but it might otherwise be more of a risk not to take the bold step. As the Spirit of God nudges us in our Christian living, we get to know more of his work in us and through us. It takes time to discern such moments. It might also take wisdom from others to speak into our situation and ask, “What is keeping you from making a bold move?” Father, fill us with your Spirit so that we might be bold—not in our own strength or doing, but in yours. Amen.

While Peter was still speaking . . . the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. — Acts 10:44 One thing we learn from passages like this one in the book of Acts is that Peter and other believers did not create these moments. It was all the work of the Holy Spirit. Remember when we said earlier that Acts is all about the Holy Spirit? Well, we see the Spirit on full display here. Peter and the others were simply led by the Spirit into these moments of pure awe. Who could have imagined the Spirit filling Gentiles so powerfully here that they began “speaking in tongues and praising God”? We need to consider that if we try to create a certain kind of worship experience, or we aim for certain results by just following some model of doing church, we are relying on our own strength and understanding. But if we rely on the Spirit for direction, there is great power. It makes me smile that in this story Peter, who was a guy who liked to make things happen, had very little to do with the outpouring of power here. He was simply being a witness, and while he “was still speaking,” the Spirit of God came on the scene with life-changing power. Surely there are times when we need simply to trust that God has a better idea or plan, and we need to be open to the leading and the power of the Holy Spirit. This is where awe resides. God, too often I try to make things happen in my own strength and my creativity. Help me to trust that you have a better plan for your amazing work in people’s lives. Amen.

The church . . . enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers. — Acts 9:31 I remember going to visit a town near our home and being surprised to find a Corvette show going on. I was excited to check out all the beautiful cars on display. From older ’Vettes to new ones, those cars were something to behold. When I think of the church (no, not like a Corvette), I think of it as something of beauty. Sure, it has scratches and dents, and of course it has an ugly side because it’s made of people—but I think the church can be so stunning. When Saul (Paul) became a follower of Jesus, he was committed to making sure the church was something to behold. This verse for us today is worth reading a few times. The newly formed church of Jesus was a place of peace and was being built up. I think of a high-rise building being built floor by floor—and before you know it, the beauty is revealed. The people (the church) walked in the fear of God and multiplied. The building-up of the church wasn’t about slick programs or clever preaching. The hearts of the people were aligned with God, and they were encouraged by the Holy Spirit. They had a deep sense of awe as they walked in step with the Lord, and they made sure God got the glory. God, forgive us for seeing the church through the wrong lens at times. Guide us to focus on the right things that will help us grow. Amen.

“Isn’t he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on [Jesus’] name?” — Acts 9:21 Maybe you have heard of the apostle Paul, but did you know he was also named Saul and had a nasty past? He felt that he was doing God’s work by putting Christians in prison, and he even watched approvingly as Stephen was stoned to death (Acts 7:58). Saul began using his Greek name, Paul, when he became a witness for Jesus to Greek-speaking Gentiles (Acts 13:9). Despite all of Saul’s nasty intentions, Jesus stopped him in his tracks and turned his life around. That was shocking to many of the people who had known Saul before. The Lord changed his life and gave him a new purpose. God would use him powerfully to invite Gentiles (non-Jewish people) into his kingdom. We can feel spiteful sometimes about people who cause trouble in our lives, but the power of Jesus can transform them from being angry, hateful, and vengeful to sharing God’s love, kindness, and peace. Imagine how it felt for people who knew the persecutor and then saw him preaching about Jesus as the Savior (Messiah). Saul was proclaiming the grace and power of the one he had fought hardest against. This is the power of the good news! God, search me and find any areas in my life that you need to turn around. Help me to see how you want to repurpose my life for your glory. Amen.

“How can I [understand],” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” — Acts 8:31 I wonder if Philip saw that moment coming. The Spirit of God surely did. Some years ago our family lived in a community of townhouses. We knew we were there for a greater reason than simply to raise our two young sons. We were called to be an example to the people around us of what Jesus was like. We prayed for various families around us. We hoped to gain a sense of whom God was working on. One day, though, a neighbor from a ways down the row of houses stopped my wife and asked, “Can I ask you some questions about church and faith?” We didn’t see that coming! We hadn’t prayed for her. But that didn’t mean God wasn’t working on her. In fact, God is working on all kinds of people all of the time. He may even be working on a person you least expect. So don’t be surprised when that coworker who annoys you sits down at the lunch table to ask what’s different about you. Or when a classmate who acts like they have it all together asks you to pray for them. Somehow they know you have a connection with God. What would happen if we began every day knowing that God has already been at work in the people around us, some of whom we might talk with that day? How could that change the way you go about your day? God, you work in mysterious ways. Give us eyes and ears and the right words to say so that we can be your witnesses everywhere each day. Amen.

Yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. — Acts 7:57-58 Stephen had just spelled out the story of God’s promise to Abraham. He explained how God had made a covenant with his people and had fulfilled it (Acts 7:2-50). Then he charged the high priest and the rest of the ruling establishment with the murder of “the Righteous One,” Jesus Christ. And at that moment Stephen’s day got much worse. The religious rulers were enraged. They were so angry that they dragged him out of the city and stoned him. Have you ever seen someone going through a tough time and wondered, “I don’t know what I would do if that happened to me”? Here’s a wonder and awe moment in the story of Stephen. As they pressed him, Stephen understood the power of God’s presence with him. He saw heaven open, and he found comfort. When we face tough times or when it feels like the world is against us, that can actually be a moment when we can know the peace that surpasses all understanding. A time like that can be hard and trying, but it can also be an opportunity to draw close to Jesus. People have said that perhaps the best question to ask in tough times is not so much “Why?” as “What are you revealing to me, God?” O God, help me to see a bad day or a tough time as an opportunity to draw close to you. I often fall prey to focusing only on myself. Instead, help me to see you and to serve you faithfully. Amen.

So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. — Acts 6:7 Look at the last part of today’s verse again: “a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.” This had never caught my attention before. I had to do some digging to better understand the impact of this “large number of priests.” There were about 18,000 priests living among the Jews at this time. Wow! Their role was to serve in the temple, an actual physical space. Day after day they had priestly duties for taking care of the needs of the people around them. The task was enormous and exhausting. A large number of those priests were drawn to faith in Christ because they saw a group of people sharing the load of caring for the poor among them—and this was clearly not being done out of obligation. Jesus’ followers were doing this out of genuine love. That falls ­directly in line with being “devoted,” a trait we pondered a few days ago. As Jesus’ followers served diligently to meet people’s needs, many of the priests also found their way into this new community of faith. Of course, the church needs to balance its inward care with reaching out to others, but if the church becomes known as a community marked by care and love, that is something beautiful that others want too. Lord, what role do you want me to fill in your community? How can my gifts and passions help to shape the community of faith so that others may come to know Jesus? Amen.

“Choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them.” — Acts 6:3 We don’t often enjoy tension. Whether it’s in an organization, a business, a family, a friendship, or even a church, tension can really mess with things. But what if we can refocus the tension and see if it creates a new opportunity? Things were getting a bit tense in the fast-growing group of Jesus’ followers. Feelings were hurt, some people were left out, and some of them began to complain. Another word for this is “grumbling.” If you have heard the story of God’s people wandering in the desert after being freed from Egypt, you know that it did not take long for them to start grumbling (Exodus 16). What unfolds in this moment in Acts is an opportunity to decentralize the responsibilities of serving. The community has grown so large that it’s time to appoint leaders who can help take care of some needs that aren’t being met. When we take time to sit in the tension, we are able to see new opportunities. It’s easy to grumble. It’s also easy to find some people to grumble with. But if we step back and look at things from another angle, we might see an opportunity to start something beautiful. Too often in my life I have let the grumbling get in the way of what God may want to teach or reveal to me. How can we reframe what we are going through? What new thing might arise from the tension? God, please help us break free from complaining, and let us see what new things you are trying to teach us. Amen.

The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people. . . . More and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number. — Acts 5:12-14 When God begins to do a new thing, nothing can stop him. Forces of this world may try, but nothing can ultimately stop the momentum God creates. The reporting of signs and wonders can make some of us uncomfortable. I know it does that for me because I wasn’t brought up in that type of environment. However, God used signs and wonders to give evidence of his kingdom coming into reality. Though we might struggle a bit with these events, they can help us grasp the miracle of a changed life through the power of the resurrected Lord. When your life, or mine, is deeply transformed by the reality of God’s kingdom, we want others to experience it too. Read verse 14 again and reflect on it. Multitudes of people were being reached. This movement of Jesus was gaining momentum that would keep on going to the present day and beyond. In those early days, signs and wonders helped to reinforce the powerful new reality God was bringing into this world. As you take some time to reflect on all this, ask God to deepen your awareness of his power. Think about where and how you have seen God work in the past. Consider being stretched by asking God to give you his power today. Jesus, you did many miraculous things among the people you met and taught. Help me to see the miracles you are doing today. Amen.

God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them. — Acts 4:33-34 As people were gripped by the reality of new life in Jesus, something significant was happening among them: no one was left out. “There were no needy persons among them.” Can you imagine what that was like? Think about being on the receiving end. As hard as it can be to ask for help, I’m sure that people felt relief, knowing their needs would be supplied. And what about the people who were giving? The ability to help meet the needs of people without expectations must have been contagious. People literally sold their property to help meet the needs of others. Talk about being devoted to one another. In our Western culture today, we tend to struggle with this concept of social living. If we help someone out, will they take advantage and expect us to keep on giving? How will we be able to say no at some point? Or could it be that God’s kingdom doesn’t work that way? Maybe we are called to show God’s heart by caring for and meeting each other’s needs, and maybe in doing so we will reflect the light of Jesus. Imagine what would happen if we, the church, lived each day with this kind of generosity. I’m sure that people outside the church would take notice and become curious. Holy Spirit, make me sensitive to the needs of the people around me. Give me the courage not to wait until someone asks for help but to step in when you nudge me to do so. Amen.

“In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” — Acts 3:6 Sometimes when we read the Bible, we can miss little phrases that make a transition. The beginning of our reading today provides a transition that leads into a new experience of God’s kingdom. It says, “One day Peter and John . . .” This will take us into a deeper sense of awe as we see God working and moving to bring more and more people to himself. Let’s savor each moment as it brings wonder, inspiration, and joy. It was a regular day as Peter and John headed to the temple to pray, and then things became really irregular. A lame man asked for money, and Peter offered him something completely different. He ­offered him Jesus and healing all in the same moment. Wait—what happened here? The man was healed in the name of Jesus, both spiritually and physically. This might make us uncomfortable, but when God chooses to reveal who he is and what his kingdom is about, he can do power­ful things! We may not always see healings like this, but when we see families restored, freedom from an addiction, and other amazing turnarounds, we can sense the wonder of the new life Jesus offers. Moments like this show us the power of God’s kingdom. They give us a glimpse of what the Lord came to do and what he will do when he fully restores all things. God, help me to see the power of the resurrection. Open my eyes and heart to the new things you are doing in and through and around me. Amen.

They broke bread . . . and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily. . . . — Acts 2:46-47 Have you ever gone to a show or a movie and laughed so hard that your face hurt? That has happened to me. There’s this one guy in my life who can make me laugh really hard too. For whatever reason, when he’s around, there’s often great laughter and even joy. As Jesus’ early followers began to emerge, something was happening that caught the attention of others: joy rose up from among them. Their lives were marked by Jesus, clearly seen in their deep devotion and great joy. Acts makes clear that they met daily, worshiped regularly, and had glad and generous hearts. Jesus’ followers had this internal joy marked with gladness, and it was not for themselves. Their outward-facing generosity brought joy into the lives of the people around them. Maybe when Jesus had taught them about the kingdom of God, he had shared how exciting and strange it would be to have so much joy that people would wonder and want what they had. Luke reports that they grew in favor with all the people and that the Lord added many to their numbers. Ask yourself if this joy is real for you. There are times when life can be hard and we can get discouraged. But it can also help to look deeper and see that joy grows when we are glad and generous as we look forward in hope. Lord, I want to grow in my understanding of what it means to be marked by joy. Even when life is tough, mark my life with great joy in you. Amen.

They devoted themselves . . . to prayer. — Acts 2:42 I don’t know about you, but this one is really hard. They devoted themselves to prayer? I’m a pastor, and I often am expected to pray, but that can be so hard at times. I can be a few minutes into my time of prayer, and boom—I’m thinking about mowing the lawn. It’s easy to get distracted when we pray. And yet this group of early believers devoted themselves to prayer! This means they consistently and regularly were going to God. But were they doing what we often do: bringing our lists of needs and concerns? Or were they doing something else? I talk to lots of people about prayer, and I often hear this: I tried praying, and it didn’t work. I asked God to heal my aunt’s illness, and he didn’t answer. And so on. But is that what prayer is about? Well, that’s a part of it, but there is more. Jesus’ early followers recognized that their source of strength and hope was God. For them, prayer was about laying down their lives before God and being open to serve him in whatever he called them to do. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that God is like a ­genie in a bottle, as if we could just pray and be granted whatever we wished for. When it comes to prayer, what God truly wants is to hear about what is going on in our hearts—and then for us to listen. God, help me to grow in my understanding of prayer. By your Spirit, help me to connect with you, talk with you, and listen to you. Guide me to follow you faithfully. In Jesus, Amen.

They devoted themselves . . . to the breaking of bread. . . . — Acts 2:42 There’s something about sitting around a table to share a meal. When our family is all together, we often have deep, rich conversations. And we have joyful fun—I recall that when our first granddaughter was becoming expressive, we all started cheering with our hands in the air as she did the same. As Jesus’ followers devoted themselves to breaking bread together, there was a sense of understanding that they were a part of something greater than themselves. It was a reminder that they were part of the kingdom of God that Jesus had taught about. Being together to break bread is a way of revealing that we are a part of a new kind of family as well. This family has a centerpiece, and his name is Jesus. As we sit together in community, breaking bread together and remembering Jesus, whether in a large gathering or a small one, we look around that space with an understanding that Jesus calls us brothers and sisters. In this picture of the table we need to understand that none of us deserves to be at the ­table breaking bread, and yet we are all invited and welcomed because of Jesus. Jesus spoke some powerfully prophetic words when he said, “Do this in remembrance of me.” He knew that we would need to remember who and what we are a part of. Jesus, thank you for the power of the table. In your grace you have given us the greatest example of your good news by welcoming us and reminding us to remember you. Amen.

They devoted themselves . . . to fellowship. . . . — Acts 2:42 It’s important to know that we don’t just “go” to church but instead are part of the church. We might go to a hockey game or to a store, but church is different. If we follow Jesus, we are a part of his body, his people, the church. Jesus’ early followers were a diverse group. They came from many countries and from all walks of life. It was probably difficult for them to unite together and learn to be God’s newly formed people. And yet they found a way to be devoted to one another, to be together in fellowship—in Christ, through the power of his Spirit. What I love about the fellow­ship of Jesus’ followers is that they were there for one ­another. Their lives would not have been easy with all the political, cultural, and religious divisions in the Roman Empire. But they were able to find their way by being there for each other, in Christ. When someone was struggling, hurting, or even coming off the rails in their faith, there was someone to encourage them. Though we all have a tendency to try to deal with our struggles on our own, we need to learn to lean into community. Maybe we don’t want to bother others, but in our times of struggle we need to run toward instead of away from our community of faith so that they can care for us. Jesus, give me the strength and courage to live life in community. Help me to lean into your people around me and to let others do that with me. Amen.

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching. . . . — Acts 2:42 Not long ago I heard someone say that if you believe you can possess truth as your own, you will be argumentative and defensive. However, if you ­realize that truth is something you point to, you will be kind and compassionate because you know truth is for everyone. If there is one thing that has polarized our society, it is personal expressions of truth. If you are a follower of Jesus, or if you are becoming a follower, you need to know that you are called to be devoted to the truth that belongs not to you but to God. The very reason that Jesus’ early followers held on to and continued in the apostles’ teaching was that the apostles had been with Jesus and had heard the truth from his very lips. Jesus’ followers knew that these teachings brought life itself. When I look at the world around me, I see so much confusion and chaos. Maybe you see some of the same wasteland. As people who are trying to find our way through the wasteland of confusion and chaos today, we need to find our anchor in the foundational truth of Jesus so that we don’t build our lives on the ever-changing sand of society. The early believers’ devotion to the apostles’ teaching gave them a deep sense of awe for what would lead them to live with holy reverence for God and his Word. Father, knowing what is true can be hard. Please guide me to your truth so that I may stand strong in this world of confusion and chaos. Amen.

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. — Acts 2:42 If you know a die-hard soccer fan, you know that they can be rather fanatical about their club. The way they talk, dress, and cheer is like they were on the pitch for the game. Through thick and thin a true fan stays true to their club, no matter what. A true soccer fan is a picture of what it means to be deeply devoted. As the group of first-century, new believers in Jesus was being formed, they did something almost automatically. They turned their lives in a direction that would allow them to grow a resilient faith. They devoted themselves to this new way of life. The word devoted carries with it the idea of being glued to something, unable to be pulled apart. When a person is devoted, they are not looking for the path of least resistance. When times get tough, they don’t strive for a comfortable and convenient life. People who are deeply devoted don’t allow their feelings to be the main indicator of how they define their faith. The early church shows us something very important about human nature: what we are devoted to forms our lives, shapes our thinking, and develops new patterns of life and friendship. God, life can be so tough at times. There are days when we are not sure if we can even move forward, so please give us the strength and the will to be devoted to you and your plan. Amen.

“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 1:8 After capturing his followers’ imagination with the kingdom of God, Jesus tells them, in effect, “I need you to be my witnesses here on earth. And here’s the great thing—you will not be alone.” Jesus says that God’s Spirit will come upon them and give them power to be his witnesses. He explains that God by his Spirit will be the source of their strength so that they won’t have to do this work on their own. Too often we think that in ­order to be a witness, we need to learn the right steps and know the right Scriptures so that we don’t mess things up. And while all of that is a good idea, it’s a great comfort to know that we are not alone in the mission of being witnesses to the living hope, Jesus. Jesus’ close group of followers knew about how God had told his prophets what to say in past generations. They had also seen Jesus do some powerful things. And now he was telling them that the Holy Spirit of God himself would empower them! They must have felt a bit terrified but also confident, knowing they could go forward with the power and presence of God. This was the same God who had created the earth and brought Jesus back to life! And the same power is available to Jesus’ followers today. Spirit of God, thank you for living in me and giving me your power to witness for Jesus. Guide me in each moment you have given me today. Amen.

After his suffering, he . . . gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. — Acts 1:3 Jesus could have talked to his apostles about all kinds of things after he had risen from the grave. He could have talked about what it was like to have nails driven into his hands and feet, and what it was like to come back to life and breathe again. While Jesus might have mentioned those things, we know that he especially talked with his closest followers about the kingdom of God. His entire three years in the public eye were all about proclaiming and pointing to God’s kingdom and the full life it offers for everyone. The kingdom of God means full life forever for all who believe in Jesus as the Savior whose death has paid for all our sin. And with this promise Jesus captured his followers’ imagination. He wanted to help them under­stand that what they were signing up for was not a stale form of religion, directed by laws and rituals, but a new movement of God’s realm and reality that has entered human history through Jesus’ suffering and resurrection. Jesus knew that what captures our imagination will shape how we live—and, more importantly, what we are willing to die for. He talked about the kingdom of God so that his followers would be prepared to have a deep sense of awe over what was about to happen. Holy Spirit, please renew and grow my imagination of what the kingdom of God is and what it can do in and through my life. Amen.

Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. — Acts 2:43 People can argue and debate faith, and they can talk about possible contradictions in the Bible, but a life transformed by Jesus is a powerful mystery that cannot be denied. It’s a work of the Holy Spirit that can fill you with awe. With this in mind, let’s explore sections of the Bible’s book of Acts. Acts tells the story of the beginning of the church built by Jesus Christ. It also shows how God, by his Spirit, was doing something new and powerful by coming to live within people whom he called to have new life in Christ. Luke, the writer of Acts, captures moments and events in the development of the church that brought a deep sense of awe. As we look to Acts for inspiration, we do this not to try to revive the past. We look back to find a way forward as we embrace the possibility that God by his Spirit is doing something new even today. So, if you are new to the Christian faith, this can help to draw your heart and mind to the possibilities of what God can do. And if you have been a Christian for a while, this exercise may help to refresh your focus and imagination on the amazing things God can do in our lives and for his kingdom. Lord and God, I long for more of you. I desire a deep sense of awe as I see you work and move in my life. Help me to set aside my ideas of how I think you work, and please renew my eyes, ears, and heart to sense what you want to do. Amen.

He was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. — Hebrews 11:10 From the time he received God’s call, Abraham became a sojourner. He lived in tents and frequently moved around. While Abraham appreciated the blessings of God, he came to realize that everything on this earth is temporary. Everything has an expiration date. Over the years Abraham grew in perspective. He began to desire an even greater reward that comes by faith—an eternal home “whose architect and builder is God.” Abraham didn’t live long enough to see all of God’s promises fulfilled. Neither do any of us. Yet throughout his life, Abraham kept moving forward, following after God. By faith, he knew that the best was yet to come. He looked forward to enjoying life with God in a city that God would build—a reference to the New Jerusalem (see Revelation 21-22). Abraham came to believe that the promised land was more than a plot of dirt in the land of Canaan. It was not only a place where Abraham and his descendants could live but also a place where God’s Spirit dwells in all his glory. Abraham believed in having life with God in heaven, and that made all the difference while he was here on earth. We too live as sojourners on this earth. We experience partial fulfillments of God’s promises. And, like Abraham, we keep our eyes on the glorious prize that awaits us someday—when Jesus will return and make all things new. Lord Jesus, we can get so distracted in this world. Help us to look forward to life with you in your kingdom when it fully comes. Amen.

All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. . . . — Hebrews 11:13 In Abraham’s remarkable life, his faith in God is what stands out. Throughout the course of his ups and downs and his moves to various places, Abraham believed. He not only believed God existed, but he was willing to stake his future on God’s faithfulness. Abraham believed, even though there was no cloud of witnesses around to support him or spur him on (Hebrews 11:1-2). Abraham had some amazing adventures along the way. But every act of worship and following God’s call was motivated out of faith. Faith was not a one-time expression for him but a life-long experience. Although Abraham’s faith ­wavered at times, it never collapsed. Against all odds, he kept on trusting in God’s promises. God gave him the gift of faith, and Abraham believed. The Chinese bamboo plant barely grows during its first five years. For a long time, nothing seems to be happening. Then, during the fifth year, the plant can grow more than 50 feet. God’s work in our lives can be like that, taking a long time to develop and then bursting with visible growth. Yet this growth won’t happen unless we are patient and keep on believing. And with God’s leading, we can do that. Father, as you work out your good plan in our lives, help us to exercise patient, unwavering confidence in you. Amen.

Then Abraham breathed his last and died at a good old age, an old man and full of years; and he was gathered to his people. — Genesis 25:8 It’s not how fast we run the journey of life that counts, but how we run it. The object is to follow the Lord, who calls and leads us. The point is to live God’s way, trusting him with our destiny rather than charging ahead and doing life our own way. God called Abraham on a journey of faith that took him many hundreds of miles and lasted throughout his many years. Abraham died at the age of 175 and was buried with his wife Sarah. Though Abraham hadn’t always acted faithfully on this journey, God was always his faithful guide. Abraham eventually learned that he could trust God with everything in his life. In faith, he grew to trust that he could always depend on God to keep his promises. Many people come to the end of their life and look back with regret and remorse rather than fulfillment and joy. Abraham had his share of both. Ultimately, because of God, he could look back over his many years and be grateful, joyful, and satisfied. Abraham had become a believer in God. He had learned that God can be trusted fully. He had seen promises fulfilled and amazing deliverances. He had discovered that the real adventure of life is in following God’s call. May we, too, run the race of faith as God calls us and, in the end, enjoy the fulfillment of God’s promises. Lord, be our ever-true guide on this journey of faith. May we trust in you and find ways to share this faith with the people around us. Amen.

Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram. . . . He . . . took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. — Genesis 22:13 Abraham’s faith is tested with the ultimate challenge: Is he willing to give up his most precious treasure to God? And at the last possible moment, God intervenes, telling Abraham to stop. So Isaac is spared, delivered from a death sentence. And God provides a substitute, a sacrificial ram to be offered instead. The place is then called “The Lord Will Provide.” Abraham could not have known that about 2,000 years later an even greater sacrifice would be made. God would again provide a substitute, who actually became “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). That substitute was Jesus, God’s only Son, who gave up his own life to pay for all our sin so that all who believe in him may have eternal life (John 3:16). God’s judgment against sin fell on his own Son. Jesus, the sacrificial Lamb, stepped in and took our place. On that day, through Jesus’ death on a cross outside Jerusalem, a sufficient sacrifice was provided (see Mark 15:33-39). Abraham could not have known all this, but by the grace of God he had received the gift of faith and could trust that God would somehow keep his promises. Lamb of God, thank you for being our substitute and dying in our place, opening the way for us to be saved. Give us faith to believe in you and to serve you every day. Amen.

“Do not lay a hand on the boy. . . . Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.” — Genesis 22:12 Abraham’s faith is severely tested in this episode. How it must have pained him to look into the face of the son he loved so dearly, knowing that this long-promised child was to become a sacrifice. Yet Abraham trusted that God would somehow make a way when there seemed to be no way out. Abraham displayed a surprising, unshakeable faith in the almighty, good God, who keeps his promises. Here God put Abraham to the ultimate test of faith. God needed to know who really held first place in Abraham’s heart. And Abraham needed to know that God could be completely trusted. For this reason Abraham was asked to surrender his most precious treasure to God. What is your most precious treasure? What might you be holding on to because it’s more important to you than life itself? My guess is that it’s probably a very good thing. But if a good thing becomes a distraction that pulls you away from God, it can become an idol, and that is a bad thing. Sometimes God has to do the painful work of prying our fingers off that treasure so that we can give back to him what belongs to him in the first place. Nothing is truly safe or secure until it is surrendered and dedicated to God. Father, help us to release our treasures into your hands. May we hold loosely what you have given us while holding tightly to you. Guide us to find our true joy in you. Amen.

God said, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and . . . sacrifice him . . . as a burnt offering.” — Genesis 22:2 Abraham’s journey of faith involved some painful twists and turns. This episode can tend to leave a knot in nearly every parent’s stomach. Here God tests Abraham by telling him to offer up his son, Isaac, as a sacrifice—and Abraham very nearly goes through with it! The request seems unthinkable—asking Abraham to ­offer up his own son. After all, this was the son of promise—the one through whom God promised to bless the nations of the world. This command likely made no sense at all to Abraham. Isaac was God’s great gift. But now it seemed that this gift was to be given back, surrendered up to God. Could Abraham let go of his son—the one thing that meant more to him than life itself? And what about God’s promise to bless the nations through him? This surely was a challenging, excruciating test of Abraham’s faith. But somehow Abraham had learned to trust God enough to provide a solution. He even told Isaac, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And as Abraham was about to slay his son, God told him to stop. At times our faith may be tested too. Will we trust God to keep his promises, however challenging it may be to obey? Through Jesus, God’s only Son, who laid down his life for our sake, we can trust God with the outcome. Lord, give us deeply trusting faith in you. Help us to know that you will see us through every trial we encounter. Amen.

When his son Isaac was eight days old, Abraham circumcised him, as God commanded him. — Genesis 21:4 The long-awaited son finally arrived. Abraham and Sarah were overjoyed at Isaac’s birth. Yet this stunning birth came with new responsibilities, which Abraham took seriously. First, he circumcised Isaac, as God commanded. And as Isaac grew, Abraham instructed his son in the ways of the Lord (see Genesis 18:19). Later Abraham also helped to find the right woman for Isaac to marry (Genesis 24). Despite his advanced age, Abraham diligently worked to share his faith in God with the next generation. God instituted the home to be an environment where children can be raised to grow in faith: warmed by God’s love, nurtured in his Word, and protected from influences that would damage or destroy. Like tender vegetation, children are especially vulnerable and in need of constant care. This is where godly parents come in—providing an environment that instills faith and encourages spiritual growth. (See also Deuteronomy 6:1-9.) If we are parents, we can’t pass along what we don’t have. To pass faith along, we need to have a deep love for God that helps to shape the rhythms of family life. This includes intentional times of spiritual training as well as informal conversations about God and his love as we go about our lives each day. Father, may we create holy habits that bolster our love for you. Help parents and other family members to plant seeds of faith in children’s lives, that you may bring the increase. Amen.

“The day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down. . . . It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. . . . Remember Lot’s wife!” — Luke 17:29-32 “Remember Lot’s wife!” Even though this is one of the shortest statements in the Bible, it packs a wallop. It offers a ­solemn warning about choosing foolishly. Lot’s family is ­given clear instructions: Sodom is about to be destroyed, so head for the hills and don’t look back. But, tragically, Lot’s wife cannot resist looking back. She steals a peak and is turned into a pillar of salt. She is frozen in time at the moment of her disobedience, a monument to the dangers of spiritual compromise. Most societies memorialize significant achievements in some way. We build statues to honor war heroes, great leaders, and athletes. But what do we do with figures of failure and ruin? They are embarrassing rather than inspirational, so we keep them out of sight. God, however, is so concerned with our spiritual well-being that he immortalizes failure. Through the story of Lot’s wife, the Lord calls generations to remember the high cost of sin. It breaks God’s heart to see his children fall into disgrace because temptation has gotten the best of them. Although the sin may be forgiven, often the scars and collateral damage last a long time. That’s why he says, “Remember Lot’s wife”—who held on too tightly to the things of this world. Lord, forgive us for holding on to worldly desires and failing to obey you fully. Guide us to follow you. Amen.

One of them said, “Flee for your lives! Don’t look back . . . ! Flee to the mountains or you will be swept away!” — Genesis 19:17 Genesis 19 tells the tragic story of Abraham’s nephew Lot. Until the arrival of two heavenly messengers, Lot was oblivious to the danger around him. He had gotten so close to sin and evil that he had lost perspective. Lot was a God-fearing man, but he had a divided heart. He loved the Lord, but he also loved the things of the world. Lot tried to serve two masters. But in the end he lost everything that mattered to him. Failure in the Christian life is seldom the result of a sudden blowout. Most often it is the result of a slow leak. It usual­ly involves a gradual drifting away from God and into sin, as was the case with Lot. He and his family were so torn by their ­divided loyalties that the heavenly messengers had to lead them by hand out of the city before destruction rained down. God’s exhortation still stands: flee from evil! Flee, before evil gets its claws so deeply embedded into you that you are unable to break free. Running from sin is not the mark of a coward, but yielding to sin is. It takes guts to admit our vulnerability and to flee from sin’s overwhelming power. There is a high price in choosing to follow Jesus—but an even higher price in not choosing to follow him. Lord, our hearts are often divided. We have become so accustomed to sin that we no longer blush. Forgive us. Purify us. Make us wholly yours. May we run to you whenever we are overwhelmed. Amen.

In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah . . . serve as an ­example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire. — Jude 7 Every caring parent has warned their child about the dangers of playing near a busy street or in some other hazardous place. Young children are often unaware of danger, so they need to be warned. Our heavenly Father responds similarly when his children are sometimes careless. Thoughts of them perishing so stirs his heart that he sends warning signals our way. The dreadful destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah serves as one of those warning signs. The events described in Gene­sis 19 give us a small window into the godless depravity of these cities. Two heavenly messengers, sent to warn Lot about Sodom, said, “The outcry to the Lord against its people is so great that he has sent us to destroy it.” Having rejected God long ago, these cities no longer had any moral or social conscience. The tragic truth about human nature is that the worse we get, the less we realize it. We can become like a skunk that gives off a putrid smell but is not ­offended by it at all. People entrapped in sin are often oblivious to their own moral stench. May the fate of these ancient cities serve as a solemn warning of the consequences of trying to live our own way without regard for God or his way. Lord, have mercy on us. We are attracted by sin but are often blind to its many dangers. May we heed your warnings, keeping our eyes fixed on you—the author and perfecter of faith. Amen.

“Will you sweep away the righteous with the wicked? What if there are fifty righteous people in the city?” — Genesis 18:23-24 Prayer doesn’t stop with making requests for ourselves. It ­reaches out to include others. That’s why, with great intensity, Paul could say, “I urge . . . that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people. . . . This is good, and pleases God” (1 Timothy 2:1-3). God works through intercession—prayer for others—to do mighty things. We can pray powerfully to God for others—and when we need prayer, with others pleading our cause before the Almighty, that can be a powerful experience. Abraham’s visitors informed him that Sodom and Gomorrah were about to be destroyed. Knowing that his nephew Lot was in danger there, Abraham pleaded with God to spare the city if even fifty, or forty, or thirty, or twenty, or even ten righteous people lived there. And God said he would spare the city if even so few righteous people were there. This episode demonstrates the powerful impact of intercessory prayer. It’s as if the intercessor has one hand reaching out to a needy, broken world, and the other hand reaching up to the gracious God—­linking them together. Intercession gives us an opportunity to partner with God in accomplishing his work. When we intercede for others, we come close to the heart of Jesus, the great intercessor (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25). Father, thank you for the privilege of prayer. May we seek to be conduits of your grace, interceding for others so that your presence and power may fill their lives. Amen.

Abraham . . . laughed and said to himself, “Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at the age of ninety?” . . . Sarah laughed. . . . — Genesis 17:17; 18:12 Not all laughter is good medicine. There is a kind of laughter that mocks and wounds. It’s the laughter of disdain and derision. Being laughed at is no fun. However, laughing alongside good friends can bring healing. This is a kind of joyful laughter that accompanies celebrations: the laughter of wonder, amusement, and amazement. On two different occasions, we read of laughter breaking out after God’s announcement that a child would be born to aged Sarah and Abraham. In Genesis 17, we read that Abraham laughs, and in the next chapter Sarah laughs too. This was a laughter of astonishment and amazement mingled with a hint of disbelief. They weren’t necessarily laughing at God, but more at a plan that seemed so implausible. God had been faithful to them, but they weren’t quite sure they believed God would do the impossible. But then the child of promise was eventually born the next year, and they named him Isaac, meaning “laughter” (Genesis 21:1-7). Their laughter of doubt was transformed into a laughter of celebration and praise. Where do you see God at work in astonishing ways today? Consider how this can bring a sense of joy and celebration to people around you. God of amazing grace and joy, cast out our doubts and fears. Turn our mourning into dancing, our weeping into laughter. Help us to trust that you will make all things new. Amen.

In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands . . . having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him. . . . — Colossians 2:11-12 The Bible tells one consistent story of God’s gracious dealings with his people. Beginning with Abraham, God invites them into a special relationship with him. The Old Testament sign of this covenantal bond was the rite of circumcision. In the New Testament the church has received baptism in Christ as the sign of belonging in God’s covenant. Participation is no longer limited to Jewish males but is now open to all who believe in Christ as Savior. The waters of baptism mark a person’s life—letting them know who they are and to whom they belong. This God-ordained sacrament is a channel of blessing, a means of grace, a way of assuring us of God’s promises. Through baptism God makes promises to us. He signs and seals his covenant with us, his children. Our faith is confirmed and strengthened by our participation in it. Colossians 2 teaches that the rite of circumcision pointed forward to the day when Jesus’ own blood would be shed for us. Because of his once-for-all sacrifice, the shedding of blood is no longer required. Instead, water now becomes the symbol of both death and resurrection in Christ, forever binding us with the promises of God. If you have not yet done so, there is no better time than right now to believe and be baptized to new life. Lord Jesus, your amazing grace invites us into your story and your victory over sin for us. Help us to live faithfully for you. Amen.

“You are to undergo circumcision, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and you.” — Genesis 17:11 Over the years, God gave Abraham an armful of ­promises. God even invited Abraham into a special cove­nantal relationship. And now God asks Abraham to recipro­cate. Abraham is to accept this covenantal relationship by means of a ceremony called circumcision. Abraham and his descendants will receive a permanent mark on their bodies—an ongoing reminder that they belong, body and soul, to their God. The ceremony also symbolizes that they belong not only to God but also to each other. Circumcision was an initiation rite into the family of God, with participants considered part of God’s chosen people. The ceremony spoke of both ownership and identity. It also symbolized the need for cutting or casting off all forms of unrighteousness in order to be wholly devoted to God. This covenant was to be sealed by the shedding of blood. Today we still use symbols as powerful reminders of who we are and the promises we make. When two people enter the sacred covenant of marriage, they often seal their promises with a kiss and with wedding rings, declaring that they belong to each other. And in a way like circumcision for God’s Old Testament saints, the baptism of New Testament saints is a powerful reminder of our unity and identity in Christ. Father God, thank you for your gracious covenantal love. May it never cease to amaze us. May it transform us more and more into the image of your Son, our Savior. Amen.

When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am God Almighty; walk before me faithfully and . . . I will . . . greatly increase your numbers.” — Genesis 17:1-2 Often when God wants to do something big, he starts with something small. Such was the case with Abraham and Sarai. God took an elderly, childless couple and made them fruitful beyond belief. What seems impossible to human beings is very possible with God. It had been 24 years since God first promised Abraham that he would become the father of a great nation (see Genesis 12:1-4). Several times through those years God reaffirmed his promise and even ceremonially sealed it. Still, Abraham and Sarai were without children. In Genesis 17 God affirmed this promise again by revealing his special name El Shaddai, meaning “God Almighty.” Then he changed Abram’s name to Abraham, meaning “father of many,” and spelled out further details of his plan. God also changed Sarai’s name to Sarah, meaning “princess” (see v. 15). Even though the promise had yet to be fulfilled, God offered reassurance to them. Similarly, at times when it was difficult for me to believe his promises, God sent reassurances my way. Bible verses, songs, encouraging notes, and prayers helped to reassure me that God was still at work—even if circumstances hadn’t yet changed. Whatever you are trusting God for, draw strength from the encouragements he gives along the way. God Almighty, you know how we struggle to be faithful. Reassure us of your presence and power, reminding us that nothing is impossible with you. Amen.

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you. — 2 Peter 3:9 Abraham struggled to wait for his and Sarai’s promised child to be born. It seemed to him that God was too slow in keeping his promises. Eventually Abraham and Sarai lost patience with God and tried to have a child in their own unsanctified way (through Sarai’s servant). In his foolishness, Abraham ran ahead of God—leaving a path of relational carnage in his wake. Many of us can probably recall times when we have done something similar. We were unhappy with God’s timing and began doubting his reliability. Maybe we didn’t go as far as Abraham did, but we still charged ahead and tried to ­direct our own destiny. Often we find it easier to work rather than wait, to try harder rather than to trust, to play God rather than to surrender to him. But Abraham learned the hard way that there is one thing worse than waiting for God—and that is wishing you had waited. Abraham spent the rest of his life regretting his lack of faith and the rashness of his actions. God’s timing and ours are often not in sync, so we are called to wait. And yet the Lord is not slow in keeping his promises (2 Peter 3:9). From the perspective of eternity, God’s timing is perfect. Our calling is simply to trust God, giving him the time and space needed to work out his good plan. Lord, it is a privilege to be part of your great plan to restore this world. Help us to step into that plan, waiting patiently to see what you will do in us and through us. Amen.

She said to Abram, “The Lord has kept me from having children. Go, sleep with my slave; perhaps I can build a family through her.” — Genesis 16:2 It’s human nature to try to control our own destiny. We take matters into our own hands and make something happen—whether it be in business, finance, or family matters. We may even take ill-advised shortcuts to get there. Abraham is a case in point. Genesis 16 records one of the darkest blots on his spiritual rec­ord. We see this man of faith acting without faith. Frustrated with the delay in God’s plan to give them a child, Abraham and Sarai take matters into their own hands. They devise a scheme for getting what God has promised them. In effect, they try to provide their own solution rather than trusting in God’s timing. In a startling act of unfaithfulness, Abraham sleeps with his wife’s servant Hagar. This unholy shortcut brings deep and lasting trouble. Hagar becomes pregnant, and soon jealousy breaks out between Sarai and Hagar, and Hagar runs away. May this tragedy warn us against taking moral shortcuts, compromising our principles, and trying to play God. It’s good to know that when we walk with God, his delays are never dead-ends—and that because of his grace, our failures are never final. Father, forgive us when we lose confidence in you and take matters into our own hands. Help us instead to trust in you and in your plan for our lives. In Jesus, Amen.

The Lord made a covenant with Abram and said, “To your descendants I give this land, from the Wadi of Egypt to . . . the Euphrates.” — Genesis 15:18 Politicians make lots of promises, especially during campaigns. But we are not surprised when their lofty ­promises are broken. Today, in fact, it seems to be getting harder and harder to find people whose word is credible. Could that be why we might struggle also to take God at his word? Yet God reveals himself as the promise-making, promise-keeping God. Through trial and error, Abraham came to discover that God is the only One who can always be counted on. God is forever true to his word. In ancient times, kings often made covenants with their subjects. These were formal agree­ments, including oaths and solemn vows, to establish and maintain relationships. In Genesis 15 Abraham’s doubts led to a covenantal response from God, by which God sealed his promises with an oath. In those days, oaths were often sealed by means of a gory ceremony involving the slaughter of animals. This was intended to show that if the covenant were broken, the violator would suffer the same fate as the animals. Amazingly, God made this kind of oath with Abraham, promising to bless him and his descendants. And God remained true to his word, as always. What promise of God do you need to rely on today? Thank you, Lord, for always being trustworthy and true. Help us to know that when you make a promise, you will surely fulfill it. Amen.

Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness. — Genesis 15:6 Wrapped into the story of Abra­ham is this foundational truth about eternal salvation. The apostle Paul picks up this truth and unpacks it for us in Romans 4 (see also Galatians 3). This helps us to see that there is only one way to be made right with God—and that is through faith. In Romans 4, Paul speaks of two kinds of righteousness. The first kind has to do with keeping God’s law in order to be acceptable to God. In this scenario, hard work and self-sacrificing service earn the award of being righteous before God. Only Jesus could accomplish this, because he is the only human who never sinned or broke God’s law. The other kind of righteousness is applied through faith in God and in his power to save us through Jesus, his Son. When we believe and trust in God, as Abraham did, we are credited with the righteousness that Jesus earned for us. This benefit comes to all who believe—from Abraham on down through the centuries to us today. When God looks at us, he doesn’t see all the good or bad things we have done. Instead, he sees us clothed in Jesus’ righteousness. Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice is sufficient for our complete salvation. There is nothing we can add to it. The only thing left is to believe, receive eternal life, and demonstrate our gratitude through a life of humble service. Lord Jesus, thank you for all you have done to save us, so that we can be credited with your righteousness. Guide us to trust and serve you always. Amen.

Abram said, “Sovereign Lord, what can you give me since I remain childless and the one who will inherit my estate is Eliezer of Damascus?” — Genesis 15:2 Despite having great faith, Abra­ham could be unsettled by nagging fears and doubts. That is why, in the opening of Genesis 15, God says to him, “Do not be afraid. . . . I am your shield, your very great reward.” Abraham was struggling to believe. God’s promise to make him the father of a great nation was now about ten years old, and he and Sarai did not have a child. We all know the pain of promises unfulfilled; they can leave an aching void in our hearts and homes. Perhaps we follow God’s call and step out in faith. We risk something for his kingdom, but we don’t see the hoped-for results. At times like that, it can be hard to keep trusting in God. Like the psalmist we cry out, “How long, Lord, how long?” (Psalm 6:3). The good news is that God understands our doubts and fears. He graciously responds to the prayer that says, “Lord, I believe. Help me overcome my unbelief. Help me trust you more—even when I don’t see or understand your ways, even when it seems to be taking so long” (see Mark 9:24). God explains that his ways are higher than we can imagine (Isaiah 55:9). And his timing is impeccable—never early, ­never late. Trusting in these truths allows us to experience God’s peace and rest. Heavenly Father, calm our anxious minds and troubled hearts today. Help us to trust you completely with whatever is disturbing us. In the power­ful name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Melchizedek king of Salem . . . was priest of God Most High, and he blessed Abram. . . . Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything. — Genesis 14:18-20 Often in daily life, it’s not what you know but who you know that counts. The same is true in our spiritual life: what matters most for our salvation is not what we know but who we know. As believers in Christ, we know the One whose name is above every other name. Jesus, Lord of all, is seated at the right hand of the Father in heaven. Genesis 14 and Hebrews 7 tell us about Abraham’s remarkable encounter with Melchize­dek—a man who had a high position of authority in the ancient world. Although he is a mysterious figure in Scripture, Melchizedek was both a king and a priest of the highest ­order. And yet he came to bless Abraham. And Abraham responded by giving a tenth of his possessions (a symbol of gratitude) to this great king. On multiple levels, Melchize­dek is a representative of Jesus Christ, our great high priest and eternal King. Mighty in power, Jesus came in grace to bless and forgive. In response, we acknowledge his rightful rule over us. And we express our gratitude by returning a portion of our possessions to him. Having this friend in the highest place means that we can “approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace” (Hebrews 4:16). Lord Jesus, thank you for befriending us and being gracious to us even when we do not deserve it. May our lives be an expression of gratitude for all you have done for us. Amen.

The Lord said to Abram . . . “All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever.” — Genesis 13:14-15 As the elder family member, Abraham had the right to choose which land he would take for himself. But he surrendered that right and let his nephew Lot choose first. Setting his sights on greater things, Abraham trusted God to take care of him, no matter which part of the land he would receive. In faith, Abraham turned the situation over to the Lord—not allowing his possessions to possess him. This freed him to enjoy God’s blessings without clinging to them or grasping for more. Abraham was able to hold on loosely to the things of this world. And surprisingly, Abraham received more than he gave up. God promised him that one day all of the land he could see around him would belong to him and his descendants. From this we learn that God honors those who yield their rights and surrender their resources for his greater purposes. Abraham’s choice points us to Jesus, who chose to give up his rights for a more glorious purpose. Philippians 2:6-9 explains that Jesus “did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,” but instead “emptied himself” for our sake. And in doing that, he received “the name that is above every name.” Be ­assured that God blesses all who entrust their future to him. Lord Jesus, thank you for giving yourself for our sake. May our lives reflect the same attitude, pointing others to your great love for us all. Amen.

Lot looked around and saw that the whole plain of the Jordan toward Zoar was well watered . . . like the land of Egypt. — Genesis 13:10 Abraham and his nephew Lot were wealthy sheepherders. But bickering broke out between their herdsmen. To resolve this turf war, Abraham suggested they herd their livestock in separate areas. After all, there was plenty of good land to use. Lot eyed the fertile land by the Jordan River. He wanted the best for himself, so the choice became a no-brainer for him. But Lot lacked discernment and saw only the attraction of the land in front of him. He did not consider the long-term spiritual consequences of living near Sodom and Gomorrah, with their evil influences—or maybe he just didn’t care. Lot’s vision was clouded by the material prosperity he saw. He pitched his tents near Sodom—and eventually became a resident there (Genesis 14:11). Later on, Lot lost everything—even those who were close to him. Small concessions and little compromises along the way led to disaster (Genesis 19). Lot’s life serves as a warning sign. We cannot compromise with wickedness and evil and come away unscathed. We can­not dance with the devil without getting hurt. Moral compromise begins with small steps in the wrong direction. Lord, worldly pleasures and earthly gains dazzle us, and we can easily lose our way. Guide us to ask for your wisdom and to live by it. Strengthen us to be able to resist the devil and to draw near to you. In Jesus, Amen.

He went from place to place until he came . . . to the place between Bethel and Ai . . . where he had first built an altar. — Genesis 13:3-4 In the 1990s I was involved in planting a new church in a suburb of Chicago. We had no church building of our own, so we had to be portable. As a result, we ended up worshiping in six different locations within five years. In that way we were something like Abraham, who took his worship with him as he moved around. Several times in Genesis 12-13 we read that Abraham built an altar to the Lord—turning ordinary places into sacred spaces. This showed that wherever he went, Abraham could worship God. It also showed that God is totally different from the false gods of other nations, who believed their gods had power only in their area or over certain things. In fact, God is the one true God, the Lord of heaven and earth. God is every­where, and he rules over all things. Sadly, we do not read of Abraham worshiping God while he was in Egypt, but God `was there anyway, protecting him and Sarai (Genesis 12:10-20). Having come back from Egypt, Abraham made worship a priority. Through worship his faith was strengthened and his vision expanded. Worship can have the same ­effect on us. And instead of only having a brief time of worship in a church on Sunday, we can take our worship with us every day, giving God glory wherever we go and in everything we do. Lord God, may we praise you always. May your glory be reflected in all we say and do. Keep us faith­ful in worshiping you, Lord. Amen.

“What have you done to me?” [Pharaoh] said. “Why didn’t you tell me she was your wife?” — Genesis 12:18-19 When a famine came to the land of Canaan, Abraham left the land God had promised him and went to Egypt. Didn’t Abraham trust God enough to provide for him? Then, in Egypt, as we can see, Abraham depended more on his wits than on God. Fearing that his wife’s beauty would create a problem, Abraham lied, saying that Sarai was his sister. Rather than trusting in God’s protection, Abraham did what many of us do. He gave in to his fears and went into self-protection mode. The result of Abraham’s schem­ing is that Sarai is taken into Pharaoh’s harem, and then Pharaoh and his household get sick. Eventually discovering the truth, Pharaoh confronts Abraham. There is more than a bit of irony in this scene—a ruler who worships other gods ­reprimands a God-fearing believer for not doing the right thing. God’s rebuke of Abraham comes through the words of Pharaoh. We can be sure that Abraham felt the sting of humilia­tion for his faithless acts. The point is that God can use all kinds of means to get his message across to his people who stray from his calling. Have you ever been rebuked in such a way for stumbling in your walk of faith? It’s embarrassing and humiliating. But God’s grace overrides his people’s failures. In his grace, God is willing to forgive, restore, and redirect our steps back to his way of right living. Lord, when we fail, give us more grace. Though we can step out of your will, it’s good to know that we never step out of your care. Amen.

There was a famine in the land, and Abram went down to Egypt to live there for a while. . . . — Genesis 12:10 Earlier in Genesis 12 we saw how Abraham obeyed God’s call, setting out on a long journey that brought him to the land of Canaan. Then he ­traveled throughout the land, stopping here and there to build an altar to worship the Lord. Now we have learned that a famine struck the land, so Abraham went to Egypt and lived there for a while. We can experience downturns and crisis situations too. We take God at his word and step out in faith. But then our hopes and plans might be dashed by a significant loss. A job opportunity can fall through, a marriage can fail, a ministry can falter. We can face a financial or physical health crisis. Though we might be obediently following God, it can seem as if our whole world is turning upside down. The famine Abraham experienced was likely a test of his faith. But instead of trusting in God, who had brought him safely to Canaan, Abraham fled to Egypt. And that decision soon cost him dearly. Just because we follow God’s call in our lives, that doesn’t mean things will always go smoothly. God often allows trouble to come our way in order to stretch and strengthen our faith. Rather than second-guessing God or our decision to follow him, we need to hold on to the Lord in faith, believing that where God guides, he also provides. Lord God, forgive us when our faith wavers amid the trials of life. We believe you are mighty to save. Help us to hold on to you in times of doubt and trouble. Amen.

By faith [Abraham] made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country. — Hebrews 11:9 Most of us have a warm spot in our hearts for home. Even the word home can bring feelings of warmth, love, and security. Though we may grow up and eventually leave our home of origin, our home never quite leaves us. For much of his life, Abraham was a nomad, moving from one place to another. Even though he left behind places that he could have called home, the book of Hebrews tells us he was “looking forward” to finding his home with God. That’s because God called him—and by faith Abraham followed. Oftentimes Abraham lived as an outsider in a foreign land. He knew what it was like to be different from the people around him. As a sojourner, he faithfully followed the Lord as his guide and as God fulfilled promises in his life. All of us who consider ourselves spiritual children of Abra­ham have a similar mindset. We follow where the Lord leads. As followers of Jesus, we are never completely comfortable or at home with the value system and lifestyle of this world. As a result, we don’t drive our stakes too deeply into the ground. Instead we travel lightly. Even if we don’t travel to distant lands, we focus on living as citizens of God’s kingdom. We live in such a way that we long not only for our home with God but also to help bring his coming kingdom here on earth. Father, thank you for the promise of having our eternal home with you. Be our steadfast guide as we journey through this life, sharing your goodness everywhere. Amen.

“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.” — Genesis 12:2 It would be an understatement to say that Genesis 12:1-3 is a pivotal passage in Scripture. Many of the key events in God’s calling and saving his people flow from this passage. Before sending Abraham out on his world-saving mission, God loads him up with an armful of promises. God says, in effect, “I will give you my presence, my guidance, my pro­tection, and my favor.” It’s easy to focus on everything Abraham is leaving behind as he follows God’s call. But we have to remember what Abra­ham receives as he follows. God promises that Abraham will inherit a great land and become the father of a great nation, and that all peoples will be blessed through him. Later God made this even clearer by sending his Son, Jesus, born as a descendant of Abraham, to be the promised Savior of the world. Abraham didn’t fully understand all the implications of God’s promises. He didn’t have to. God just called him to walk forward with confidence, trusting in his word. In many ways, it’s no different for us today. Though we have a fuller revelation of God’s plan than Abraham did, we do not see all its glorious details. This means that faith is still required if we want to see God’s great blessings, and to be God’s great blessing to others. Lord, thank you for your promises. We don’t know all that’s ahead of us, but we do know the One who is leading us. Help us to trust in you fully. Amen.

By faith Abraham, when called to go . . . obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. — Hebrews 11:8 Abraham had lived in Ur, a big city in its day, and with his extended family he had moved to Harran (Genesis 11:31). (Ur was in modern-day Iraq, and Harran was in modern-day Turkey.) Abraham was prosperous, and even if he wasn’t looking for God to take over his life, God was looking for him with a special plan in mind. Because of this, Abraham’s life changed in a big way. (At that time his name was Abram, but God later changed his name to Abraham; see Genesis 17:5.) In effect, God said, “Leave your country, your culture, your clan, and follow me.” That’s not easy to do when you are 75 years old and successful and settled, as Abraham was. And God didn’t give Abraham a map to follow. God simply said, “Go . . . to the land I will show you.” When it comes to God’s calling in our life, we like to have both clarity and content. We want a detailed description of where to go and what to do when we get there. But God seldom works that way. God wants us to exercise faith, not simply our intellect. He wants us to learn to walk by faith in him, rather than simply by sight. Not every call of God involves relocation, but every call does involve leaving some of our past behind and venturing into the unknown with God as our guide. Lord, teach us what it means to listen for your voice and to respond in faith. Remind us that the safest, most joyful place to be is with you. Amen.

Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. — Hebrews 11:1 Maybe you’ve played the “Trust-Fall” game. To engage in this game, you stand straight and fall backward into the arms of someone who is standing there, ready to catch you. If you have played this game, you know how hard it is to fall back without bending your waist. Entrusting yourself to a support you can’t see is never easy. It requires faith. Before we join Abraham on his journey of faith, we need to understand what true faith is. Often we think of faith like a spare tire—something we might need in case of emergency to keep us moving on the road of life. As a result, we tend to replace faith with something that seems more tangible, more substantial. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Faith is a firm belief about something we cannot see or completely ­figure out. But faith is not blind, and it does not conflict with reason. It simply rises above ­reason and operates on a different level. It doesn’t say, “In human analysis I trust.” Rather, it says, “In God I trust.” Like a rope that a mountain climber uses to rappel down a cliff, faith leans back and relies wholly on Jesus. It involves choosing to act in dependence on God. And when we do, God is pleased. Lord, you know how hard it is for us to trust you with our lives. Help us in our times of unbelief. Bolster our sagging faith so that we may walk confidently with you. Amen.

By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went. . . . — Hebrews 11:8 Though some of us are more adventurous than others, we all long for at least some ­level of adventure in our lives. Spiritually speaking, adventure begins the moment we hear and heed the call of God in our lives. This month, let’s travel alongside Abraham in his adventurous journey of faith. Abraham’s journey includes incredible challenges, painful setbacks, and thrilling victories—all in the context of being called to follow God and to believe in God’s promises. Even though Abraham lived 4,000 years ago, he is still revered as a prophet of God by three major religions: Chris­tianity, Judaism, and Islam. He is considered the father of God’s Old Testament people, and his life made a huge impact on human history. But what made Abraham great? Ultimately it was God who did that. God called Abraham, and Abraham believed in God, and God credited that to him as righteousness (Genesis 15:6; Romans 4:3). Because of God, Abraham’s faith in God became the defining mark of his life. This month, as we study the life of Abraham together, we too will be challenged to trust in God, take him at his word, and step out in faith. An exciting adventure awaits all who follow God’s call. Lord and God, you have invited us into the great adventure of faith, assuring us of your presence always. Give us courage and confidence to follow as you lead the way. Amen.

The city does not need the sun or the moon . . . for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. The nations will walk by its light. . . . — Revelation 21:23-24 After returning home from my long hike on the Appalachian Trail, I still walk every day. Now my walks are on city sidewalks, where I frequently meet neighbors pushing strollers and walking dogs. The final scenes in the Bible portray life in a city where God lives with us and provides all its light. This city also includes “the river of the water of life” and the tree of life for healing the nations. Soon after God completed his masterpiece of creation, our human parents disobeyed and plunged this world into misery. From that tragic moment on, the Bible records the depressing consequences of sin. At the same time, thankfully, we see God’s salvation plan unfolding, despite the forces aligned against it. Finally, in Revelation, we see life restored and made new in a city. But this is no ordinary city. The sun is not needed—God’s glory gives it light, and the nations walk by this light. Jesus has completely conquered sin. God’s children freely live and work and play here, flourishing in full life as God intends for us. Without this city of light at the end of the tunnel of human history, we could easily be tempted to give up in despair. It takes faith to keep walking with hope toward what God has promised. Like the countless believers who have gone before us, we need to walk faithfully, trusting God as we serve him. Lord Jesus, help us to trust you as we walk in and toward your light. Amen.

Follow God’s example, therefore . . . and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. — Ephesians 5:1-2 As I neared the end of my hike on the Appalachian Trail, I reflected on the hikers I’d met along the way. I didn’t catch many given names, but I could remember some hikers’ trail names: “K-Bar,” “Poppins,” Pioneer,” “Red Dawn,” “Rhino,” “Shorts,” “Motel,” “Tank,” “Rosie Eagle,” and “Two-Step,” to name a few. These “trail aliases” don’t reveal much, but they may hint at traits or preferences. Most of my conversations with hikers centered on miles hiked, the next stream, weather, gear, or the trail itself. Some conversations took place for a few minutes while resting along the trail; others took place over a few evenings at the same campsite. Sadly, those fellow hikers and our conversations are now fast becoming wisps of fading memories. How much meaning do we give to the brief moments when we meet with fellow travelers on life’s journey? God, who created every human person who has ever lived, knows each one intimately— and that makes every person we meet precious. Though it may not be possible to share the word of Christ with every person we meet, perhaps even our most fleeting encounters can be opportunities to share something of his love. To cultivate an attitude of love surely means keeping our eyes on Jesus and letting his love for us flow out to everyone. Lord Jesus, as we walk with you each day, help us to share your love with the people that we meet. Amen.

I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers . . . in danger in the city, in danger in the country. . . . I have labored and have often gone without sleep . . . and . . . without food. . . . — 2 Corinthians 11:26-27 After stopping for supplies in Front Royal, Virginia, along the Appalachian Trail, I enjoyed a delicious breakfast of buckwheat pancakes smothered in maple syrup. And sleeping in a bed the night before had felt luxurious after many nights of sleeping on the ground. The apostle Paul had known many more hardships, however, in his travels to spread the good news of Jesus. Called to be a witness to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15-16), Paul traveled to countless destinations, often on foot. And not only were many of his journeys rough, but he also frequently suffered at the hands of hostile people. At times he was beaten, flogged, and even pelted with stones. He was shipwrecked three times, and he was thrown into prison. Several times he had to flee for his life. (For more about these struggles, see Acts 13-28 and 2 Corinthians 11-12.) Of all of Jesus’ disciples and followers, Paul may have suffered the most on his many journeys. Yet he boasted in his weakness so that the power of Jesus could be revealed. Ultimately he boasted in Christ, who suffered so much more for him and for us. Our own hardships too reveal the weakness that brings us closer to Jesus, our Savior and our strength. Lord, when we are weak, we are strong for you. Help us to let go of ourselves and to trust your working in us as we serve you and others. Amen.

“Everyone who believes in [Jesus] receives forgiveness of sins through his name.” — Acts 10:43 On my way to Big Meadows on the Appalachian Trail, I walked for some distance with Dave, an Australian “bloke.” We chatted and shared notes and complaints about the trail. Though it was pleasant to talk with a fellow hiker, it was challenging to keep an eye on the trail and to keep up with Dave. Acts 10 tells us the apostle Peter walked more than a day’s journey conversing with some Gentiles. As a devout Jew who would have shunned contact with non-Jews, this was a new experience for Peter. But God had explained to him in a vivid dream that he wanted people of all nations to be saved and to worship him. So when Peter learned that a Roman centurion, who worshiped God, needed to hear the good news about Jesus, Peter went with some Roman soldiers to Joppa to meet their commanding ­officer. That day Peter shared the good news of Jesus and baptized the centurion and many others there who believed and were welcomed into the family of God. Thank God that Jesus has destroyed the walls separating us from people of other nations and cultural backgrounds. All who believe “are one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:29). Still, we often tend to rebuild walls that keep us apart. Like Jesus’ apostles, we need to learn to embrace others who are different from us—and when we do, we experience the breadth of God’s love. Lord Jesus, you came so that we can walk together with all of your followers and share your good news of peace and hope. Amen.

The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about . . . ?” — Acts 8:34 At Cove Mountain on the Appalachian Trail I had shelter from an all-night rain. The next morning I was back on the trail. No one needed to tell me where to go. I headed north, as I did every other day of my three-week trek. Philip, however, whom the Spirit called in our story today, had instructions on where to go. An angel of the Lord told Philip to go south to the desert road leading from Jerusalem to Gaza. There Philip met an Ethiopian official who was returning home from Jerusalem. The Spirit then led Philip to stay near the man and to help him understand a passage he was reading from Isaiah. Philip explained that the passage was about Jesus, the Son of God, who came to die for our sin, and then Philip baptized the Ethiopian, just as the man asked him to do. Through his Spirit and the Word, the Lord still commands us everyday. God calls us to walk in his ways, loving the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and loving our neighbors as ourselves. Does God speak to us in other ways, such as the way he spoke to Philip? God certainly can speak to us in dramatic ways, but more often the Spirit of God speaks to us in quiet, subtle ways through his Word and with the help of other believers (like Philip). We should always be following God’s Word and listening for his voice, especially as he nudges us to share the love of Jesus. Lord Jesus, help us to listen for your voice and to share your love with the people we meet every day. Amen.

“In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” — Acts 3:6 I had to watch my steps while hiking through a stretch called Raven Rocks on the Appalachian Trail in West Virginia. Giant boulders line the trail there, and sharp rocks litter the path. I gingerly danced through them, knowing that an injured ankle could end my walking for a while. Soon after the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost (Acts 2), Peter and John met a man who had never been able to walk. He saw them entering the temple one day and asked them for money. Peter said he had no money but would gladly give what he did have: “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,” Peter said, “walk.” Peter took the man’s hand, and the man’s feet and ankles instantly became strong. So he began “walking and jumping, and praising God.” Stories like this one from the early church demonstrate the healing power of Jesus as his disciples spread the good news of salvation in Christ. Many of these stories include physical healing, and sometimes even the dead are raised to life. Today we still see Jesus’ healing power at work, but not always so dramatically. Yet even if our bodies are not healed now, our spirits are made whole with God’s peace and hope. And the good news about Jesus empowers us to praise God as we wait for the day of his coming again. Lord Jesus, give us the heart and zeal to share what we have as we spread your good news everywhere. Amen.

“You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 1:8 Climbing “The Priest” on the Appalachian Trail was quite a challenge. Though it’s not the tallest mountain I have climbed, I struggled to the top. Sections of the trail were barely visible, forcing me to scramble over rocks in some places. The splendid views from the summit, though, were worth the effort. The last scene of Jesus’ earthly ministry took place on a hill called the Mount of Olives. Jesus went there often with his disciples. After much walking over three years, they had reached a turning point in their journey together. There Jesus gave his disciples a startling command—to spread the word about him from Jerusalem to the surrounding areas of Judea and Samaria, and “to the ends of the earth.” Jesus’ disciples were completely unprepared and unequipped to accomplish this task. But he also gave them a promise. After he ascended to heaven, he would continue to be present with them through the Holy Spirit. With and through the Holy Spirit, the disciples were to begin sharing the good news about Jesus to all nations. The book of Acts and the rest of the New Testament show that Jesus’ disciples did that. And where they left off, new disciples took over, all the way down through generations of Christ-followers to us. Thankfully, we have the promised Holy Spirit to lead the way for us as well. Lord Jesus, fill us with your Spirit to share your good news and love to the ends of the earth. In your name, Amen.

They got up at once and returned to Jerusalem. — Luke 24:33 On the Appalachian Trail, I hiked more than 10 hours one day to Elk Pond Mountain. Buoyed by spectacular views of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Moun­tains, I clipped along in the morning. But by late afternoon I was dragging. That’s not how it was for two followers of Jesus, though, as they retraced the seven-mile journey back to Jerusalem from the village of Emmaus. Luke doesn’t tell us much about them, but earlier that day they were deeply engaged in discussing Jesus’ death and their surprise about his empty tomb. They didn’t even notice when Jesus himself quietly joined them on the road. Hearing their bewilderment, Jesus challenged their understanding about him, clarifying that the Messiah came to suffer and die before rising again to enter his glory. When they reached Emmaus, they invited Jesus in to eat. And in the breaking of the bread “their eyes were opened and they recognized him” as the risen Lord! Then Jesus suddenly vanished. Forgetting all fatigue, they jumped up and raced back to Jerusalem. Following his resurrection, Jesus was full of surprises, and they advanced his purposes in fulfilling God’s plan of salvation. Even today, though we know some things about the final outcome of God’s plan, we can’t be sure of all the details. So let’s be sure to keep worshiping and serving him as he leads us by his Spirit. Lord Jesus, you are risen, indeed! Help us to be on the lookout for your ongoing work in our lives and in our world. Amen.

On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. — Luke 24:1 On Easter Sunday morning I woke around 4:30 a.m. at Hightop Hut on the Appalachian Trail. Unable to sleep, I got up and hiked for an hour in the dark, carefully dodging the many rocks along the trail. Though I caught only a glimpse of the sunrise, I thought about the resurrection of Jesus as I walked. Very early “on the first day of the week,” a few women who had been following Jesus plodded to the tomb where his crucified, dead body had been laid on Friday. Though filled with grief, they brought spices to anoint his body out of love and respect. To their astonishment, however, they found that the stone sealing the tomb was rolled away and that the grave was empty! Then, even more surprising, two angels in blinding white clothes greeted the women, saying: “He is not here; he has risen!” Can you imagine the women’s surprise and confusion as they raced back to Jerusalem? Though they didn’t understand, they were bursting with joy: Jesus is alive! They couldn’t keep this news to themselves: they had to tell others. And the rest of the New Testament announces the same joy that these women discovered that morning. Filled with this same joy, we too should share the good news of Jesus with the people we meet on the paths of life. Lord Jesus, rekindle in our hearts each day the joy of your resurrection, and help us to share our joy with everyone we meet. Amen.

A certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of Rufus and Alexander, was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross. — Mark 15:21 After I stocked up on supplies, my pack felt heavier as I made the long climb to Blackrock Hut on the Appalachian Trail. It was Good Friday, and as I struggled a bit, I was reminded of the terrible weight Simon of Cyrene had to carry on the first Good Friday long ago. The Bible tells us very little about Simon. We learn that he was from Cyrene, a Greek city in North Africa, and that he had two sons. We don’t know what had brought Simon to Jerusalem, but we do know that some Roman soldiers forced him to carry Jesus’ cross. That grotesque instrument of torture could have weighed as much as 165 pounds (75 kg). Toiling through the narrow streets of Jerusalem, Simon walked along near Jesus as he staggered toward execution outside the city. We don’t know what Simon thought about him, but what a sight Jesus must have been—exhausted, bleeding, and mangled from being flogged, humiliated, and brutalized. Though he carried the heavy cross, Simon may well have felt more sorrow for Jesus than for himself. We too should feel sorrow for Jesus. Even more, we can be thankful for his costly love. And just as he gave himself for us, he calls us to choose his path of costly love and to follow him. Lord Jesus, we can’t imagine the pain and suffering you bore for our sin. Help us to love and serve you with all of our hearts. Amen.

“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” — Luke 19:38 The mountain view across a vast meadow on the Appala­chian Trail was lightly dusted with snow under a brilliant blue sky. I could see for miles across the valley. It was Palm Sunday, and I paused to reflect on the first Palm Sunday, when Jesus and the crowds descended the Mount of Olives and headed into Jerusalem. Spying him, crowds of people were filled with patriotic fervor. Hailing him as their king, they laid cloaks and palm branches on the path in front of him, shouting, “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” Somewhat mistaken, they believed he would be Israel’s national savior who could free them from the rule of the Roman Empire. But Jesus had come for a far greater purpose—and just a few days later the same crowds were shouting, “Crucify him! Crucify him!” Jesus is the Savior—not merely of Israel or any other nation, but of all people who believe in him. In his mercy, God gave the crowds not what they wanted but what they—and we—needed most. Later on Palm Sunday in Appalachia, I met a Christian brother named Dave. Standing on the trail, we prayed together, celebrating the Savior. Jesus saves us from our sinful selves and gives us the peace and assurance we need in ­order to live and walk with God. Lord, our wants are so many and are often so shallow and frivolous. Thank you for giving us what we need: new life and peace in you. Amen.

They were on their way up to Jerusalem, with Jesus leading the way, and the disciples were astonished, while those who followed were afraid. — Mark 10:32 Many hikers start the Appala­chian Trail at Springer Moun­tain in Georgia. Only a fraction, however, complete the entire trail. To make it all the way up Mount Katahdin in Maine at the end of the trail, the destination must become an unshakable goal. Though Jesus meandered through Galilee and Judea during his ministry, he had one final, unshakable destination in mind, and it was deadly. When he told his disciples he was going to Jerusalem, they were astonished. They knew only too well the ugly jealousy and hatred that the religious leaders had for Jesus. They feared for his life, not to mention their own. Though he had told them about this before, Jesus’ disciples hadn’t grasped the purpose of his mission. He was going to fulfill the Scriptures’ promise of a suffering servant, who would take the sins of fallen humanity on his shoulders (Isaiah 52:13-53:12). He went to Jerusalem to die on a cross there—in order to give us new life and eternal hope. Thank God that he didn’t quit! We all face hardships in this journey of life. When we feel like quitting, we need to remind ourselves that Jesus kept marching toward his destination. And now that we are freed from sin and death through him, we can share Jesus’ hope and peace with every­one around us. Lord Jesus, despite the hardship and suffering you endured, you never gave up on redeeming us. Help us never to give up on you. Amen.

“Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” — John 4:14 I sat on a fallen log to rest at Gravel Springs on the Appala­chian Trail. There I was able to drink from the crystal clear, icy cold spring water flowing from the mountainside. After a long, hot afternoon of hiking, the water tasted delicious. Jesus stopped for a rest and a drink of water at a town in Samaria. A Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus asked her for a drink. She was surprised that he would talk with her. In those days, Jewish people usually treated Samaritans with contempt. She was even more surprised when Jesus talked about the living water that he could give, saying it would become a spring “welling up to eternal life” to quench her thirst forever. Water is essential for life. Nothing living can survive long without it. But Jesus was not talking about physical water here. He was referring to himself. Jesus is the living water, and through the work of the Holy Spirit, eternal life will well up like springs of water in the hearts of all who love and follow him (John 7:38-39). Without water, we can’t survive. Without the living water of Jesus, we are spiritually dead. But Jesus promises to give us living water that wells up and flows from within us, refreshing us and others in our daily walk with him. Lord Jesus, fill our hearts with your Holy Spirit so that living waters of eternal life will well up and flow from within as we walk with you and serve you each day. Amen.

Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. — Matthew 14:25 At Rock Spring on the Appala­chian Trail, I woke to a cold and windy day under threatening clouds. By the time I had finished breakfast, it was sleeting. Soon I was walking in a swirling snowstorm, barely able to see the path ahead. Walking on snow is the closest I’ll ever come to walking on water. Only Jesus can do that. When Jesus walked across the stormy sea to meet his disciples, they saw that he was more than a teacher. Jesus is God, the Lord of creation. Nature is under his feet. He transcends natural law and controls the wind and the waves. Inviting Peter to step out of the boat and onto the water, Jesus called Peter to trust in him. And Peter had to trust Jesus fully, embracing his leading and guidance in the slippery, uncertain place he was walking. Jesus calls us to trust him too, and, like Peter, we often fail. When we see where we are stepping, our doubts quickly become terrorizing, and we feel ourselves sinking helplessly into the deep. Jesus calls us to look to him alone, and he reaches out his hand to us. Turning to Jesus, we are again in the care of the One who controls the wind and the waves. Jesus will never let us sink. Lord Jesus, give us the faith to trust you wherever you lead us along the paths of life. In your name we pray. Amen.

Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. — Proverbs 16:18 Though I use a walking stick for hiking, I have fallen several times. As I crossed Sloan Creek on the Appalachian Trail in northern Virginia, I fell again, and I struggled to get up because of my backpack. I wondered, “Have the many miles and crossings made me a little careless?” After all, Proverbs warns that “pride goes . . . before a fall.” Pride is a vision problem that we all struggle with. In our pride, we fail to see our true place in God’s scheme of things. The Bible condemns pride as the very cause of humanity’s rebellion and its deadly consequences. Forgetting that we are creatures, we reject God’s design for our lives. Thinking that we are superior, we nurture contempt for others. Humility is the antidote to pride. True humility means clearly seeing our place in relation to God and the world he has made; it means treating God as God, and treating ourselves and others as his loved creatures. That’s how God wants us to walk with him—treating everyone with due dignity and grace. How do we practice humility? We walk humbly with God when we walk with Jesus. By his death, Jesus has redeemed us and set us on the right path. By his example, he leads us. As we follow, filled with his Spirit, we can walk rightly in God’s world, respecting and loving everyone. Lord Jesus, by your obedient life and death, you have shown us how to walk humbly with God. Help us to follow in your steps, serving you and others. Amen.

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.” — Isaiah 43:2 I could see the next shelter as I descended the hiking trail, but a swollen creek crossed my path, and there wasn’t a bridge. Seeing no other option, I stepped into the stream and waded carefully across without slipping. It wasn’t my first water crossing along the Appalachian Trail, and it wouldn’t be my last. Wading through moving water can be dangerous. In this passage from Isaiah, God assures his people of his presence and protection. When the challenges and crises of life stand in their way like a rushing river, says the Lord, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” Using the imagery of surging waters and raging fire, God promises that his people will not be overwhelmed. Later in this chapter, God recounts how he kept Israel safe from the deep waters and the army of Pharaoh when they crossed the Red Sea (see Exodus 14). God also promises to protect his people from the surging destruction of their own sins. He promises to blot those sins out and to remember them no more. God, who created us and knows our weaknesses, promises to love us and protect us from dangers both outside and within our own hearts. We see God’s faithfulness to his people and, above all, in his Son, Jesus, who fulfills all of God’s ­promises. Lord Jesus, you protect and provide for us. Help us to trust you in all things and to serve you wherever we are. Amen.

No lion will be there, nor any ravenous beast; they will not be found there. — Isaiah 35:9 Hikers frequently ask each ­other, “Have you seen any bears?” One morning while I was out walking the Appalachian Trail, a bear suddenly crossed in front of me and scrambled down the hill. As it rooted under a log and watched me pass, I considered what I’d do if it chased me. It is a comfort to know that on the Way of Holiness described in Isaiah 35, no dangerous or hungry beasts will threaten God’s people. In many passages Isaiah warns of destruction that will come to God’s people if they don’t turn back to living God’s way. But this chapter brims with joy and confidence for all who remain faithful, seeing that God’s way is best. They are redeemed and restored by God. The desert blooms with colorful flowers. The struggling and fearful are restored with peace and hope. Like the deer, they leap for joy. The wicked will not lurk on the pathway of holi­ness. This path is reserved for God’s people. When we look back at passages like this, we see that they also speak to dangers that we can face in our own turbulent, uncertain times. Ultimately this passage calls us to live faithfully as we walk and wait for the full revelation of God’s kingdom of peace and holiness. Lord, fill us with your hope and peace as we wait for your kingdom to fully come. Amen.

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. — Psalm 119:105 My headlamp is a useful piece of gear for hiking and camping. I’ve used it for walking at night and for finding things in the dark. But during a snowstorm one day, when temperatures dropped well below freezing on the Appalachian Trail, my headlamp battery died, rendering it completely useless. Thankfully, on our path through life we have a light that won’t fail: God’s Word. Psalm 119 is one long celebration of God’s Word. The psalmist celebrates the eternal truth and reliability of God’s Word, calling it a lamp for his feet. Now, this is not like stadium lights, so bright that they seem to change darkness to day. Instead, this is more like my headlamp, for moving along step by step. This light illuminates the step I am taking right now, and then the next one. Knowing God’s Word does not make us God. It reveals the love, faithfulness, and power of the God we depend on. It teaches an obedience that gives us confidence to walk with God on dark pathways. In this digital age, instant information makes daily tasks easier. Google can show us the fastest route for a trip. YouTube can show us how to hang drywall or plant a tree. But only God’s Word can lead us in the paths that God approves and chooses for us. Lord Jesus, may your Word guide our paths and be the joy of our hearts. Amen.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. . . . — Psalm 23:4 I went hiking solo on the Appalachian Trail. Before I left for this trip, some friends asked, “Is it safe to hike alone?” Yes, thankfully, it is. You do, however, need to be careful to avoid the companionship of ticks, those tiny arachnids that can make you very sick. And even if I am the only person traveling through a wilderness area, I know I am never alone. In Psalm 23, God promises to protect his people in the many challenging, difficult circumstances of life. Chief among the promises here is the assurance of God’s presence. God promises to walk with us through green pastures and along babbling brooks when life’s pathways are clear and smooth. God also promises to be with us through thorny stretches, and even through “the darkest valley,” where we may face “the shadow of death,” as some translations put it. Those are paths that we tremble even to think about. What assurance does God give of his protection? He promises, “I am with you.” This means that wherever we walk, and in whatever circumstances we find ourselves, we are never alone. Who is our Redeemer? He is Immanuel, which means “God with us.” Psalm 23 doesn’t promise that our lives will be easy or even safe. But with the promise of God’s enduring presence in our lives, we can walk boldly with him as we seek to serve him wherever we are. Lord, you have given us your presence through your Holy Spirit. Help us to trust and serve you. Amen.

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked. . . . — Psalm 1:1 One morning on my weeks-long hike of the Appalachian Trail, I started off in the wrong direction and walked some distance before I realized my mistake. So I turned around and headed back the right way. No harm done. But walking through life in the wrong direction would be quite another matter. Psalm 1 warns about going the wrong way in life, by walking, standing, and sitting with the wicked. “But,” you might ask, “shouldn’t we befriend sinners, as Jesus did, out of God’s caring love?” Yes, of course. But if we “walk in step” with the wicked, that means going along in their direction, on their chosen way—not God’s. We are created to live in fellowship with God. When we walk with God, we flourish like trees “planted by streams of water,” strong and firmly rooted in the goodness and love of God, bearing good fruit that can help others taste and see the goodness of living for God. People who reject and turn away from God, however, are lost. They lack a firm foundation and are easily blown away as they seek fleeting pleasures and alluring deceptions in this world. How do we know we’re on the right path? We need to read, study, and reflect on God’s Word, taking it all to heart. Only in God’s Word and by his Spirit can we find the way to full life and flourishing. Lord, you have given us your Son and your Word. Help us to read your Scriptures, treasure them in our hearts, and follow the path they set for us. Amen.

Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. — 1 Kings 19:3-4 On a day’s hike to Whiskey Hollow, near Markham, Vir­ginia, I clocked about 20 miles, the equivalent of a “day’s journey” in the Bible. Though worn out when I arrived, I was pleased to have put some distance behind me. Elijah’s experience after a day’s journey was quite different. Entirely spent, he collapsed under a bush. He was physically, emotionally, and spiritually shattered. Before sinking into sleep, he pleaded with God, “I have had enough. . . . Take my life. . . .” Elijah had just come from a fierce battle with the priests of Baal on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18). Now he was fleeing for his life from the wicked King Ahab and Queen Jezebel. In response to Elijah’s utter exhaustion and desperation, God sent an angel to provide water and warm cakes. When Elijah finally revived, he walked another 40 days and nights to Mount Horeb. There God spoke to Elijah and met with him, telling him the plans he still had for Elijah and for others to do. God gave Elijah renewed hope for the future. In our own lives, we too can count on God to meet and refresh us in our times of distress and collapse. In fact, God already has done that for us through Jesus, who offers us rest for our souls and salvation to new life (Matthew 11:28-30). We can trust him with ­every step we take. Lord Jesus, in our times of desperation and need, renew and sustain us as we journey through this life. Amen.

In all of the travels of the Israelites, whenever the cloud lifted from above the tabernacle, they would set out. . . . — Exodus 40:36 I had eaten the last of my peanut butter on the Appalachian Trail and needed more food. So at Rockfish Gap, I decided I would leave the trail and go into town to replenish. That’s not how the Israelites made decisions during their wilderness journey. They waited for a signal. God had instructed his people to build a tabernacle, a large tent, to serve as a portable sanctuary for worship. At the tabernacle God would dwell in their midst, and the people could worship him there. God’s glory hovered over the tent, and whenever it lifted, they would set out and follow wherever God would lead them next. The tabernacle in the wilderness pointed forward to the temple that would be built in Jerusalem many years later (1 Kings 6). What’s more, both the tabernacle and the temple pointed forward to another mark of God’s presence among his people. John 1:14 tells us that “the Word”—that is, Jesus—“became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” The original Greek text there says, more literally, that “the Word became flesh and pitched his tent among us, and we beheld his glory.” Jesus came to bring God’s glory in human flesh among his people, and now, through the Holy Spirit, he lives in our hearts and is present with us wherever we go. He calls us to serve others, and he promises never to leave or forsake us. Jesus, you came to live among us. Help us to know your presence today and always, as you lead and guide us in our journey to serve you and others. Amen.

“Do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you.” — Genesis 45:5 After a grueling afternoon on the Appalachian Trail, I stopped to rest, exhausted, by a gurgling stream. I’d been hiking the “Roller Coaster,” a section of trail with ten steep ascents and descents in the mountains of Virginia. The steep rises and plunges of the “Roller Coaster” reminded me of the experience of Joseph. As a young man, Joseph was bright and full of life, the favorite of his father. That drove his brothers crazy with jealousy and envy, however. And one day those brothers took revenge, selling Joseph into slavery in Egypt. There we see him rise and fall, gaining honor but also getting thrown into prison for a wrong he did not commit. But God was with Joseph, and eventually God raised him to become a ruler in Egypt, second only to Pharaoh the king. Later, when his brothers came to Egypt to buy food because there was a great famine, they found themselves in the hands of Joseph and were afraid he would take revenge on them. But Joseph had learned about depending on God. He saw God’s watchful care in all the ups and downs of his life, and he saw how God had planned to save many lives through him. As we experience ups and downs in life, we can take comfort that in all circumstances God is with us, redeeming and purifying us for work that he has planned for us to do (Ephesians 2:10). Lord Jesus, help us to take comfort in your sure and steady hand and to trust in your purposes and plans for our lives. Amen.

So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide. — Genesis 22:14 Leaving Cornelius Creek on the Appalachian Trail one morning in Virginia, I began the long, steep climb to Apple Orchard Mountain. Stopping frequently, I leaned against trees to catch my breath. As I struggled up the mountain, I thought about Abraham’s hike into the mountains with Isaac. God told Abraham to take his son Isaac to the region of Moriah and to sacrifice him as a burnt offering on a mountain there. So Abraham obeyed. Reaching the mountain, they slowly climbed to “the place God had told him about.” Isaac noted that they had no lamb for the burnt offering, but Abraham said, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” Abraham then bound his son and placed him on the altar. But as Abraham took the knife to sacrifice his son, God stopped him, saying, in effect, “Now I know that you trust me above all else.” What a horrifying scene! We might ask, “What kind of father is Abraham? And what kind of God is this?” Or perhaps we should ask, “What was God actually planning and revealing here?” Looking back, we see that while Abraham was being tested, he also trusted God to provide the lamb in place of his son. And looking ahead, we see that God provided his own Son, Jesus, as the Lamb of God, who died in our place to pay for our sin and give us eternal life (John 1:29; 3:16)! Father, while we struggle to understand this test of Abraham, guide us to live by faith, knowing that your own Son gave up his life for us. Amen.

“Go, walk through the length and the breadth of the land, for I am giving it to you.” — Genesis 13:17 It was damp and cold when I woke in the morning at Matt’s Creek on the Appalachian Trail in Virginia. After crawling out of my sleeping bag, eating some cold oatmeal with nuts, and loading my pack, I was back on the trail. My destination for that day was the Punchbowl Shelter. As I walked, the clouds slowly drifted away and the sun broke through. By mid-morning it was a lovely day, and I was thinking about Abraham’s long walk through Canaan. God had brought Abram (whom he later renamed Abraham) and his household on a long journey from Harran (in present-day Turkey) to the land of Canaan (present-day Israel). God had made promises, and Abraham had trusted God, taking him at his word (Genesis 12:1-7). As we can see in today’s passage, God promised to give Abraham all of the land that he could see around him in Canaan. And God said, “Go, walk through the length and the breadth of the land, for I am giving it to you.” God promised to bless Abraham and his descendants there, and Abraham settled in that land and worshiped the Lord. As I reached Punchbowl Shelter, I gave thanks for Abraham’s example. God might not call us to journey on foot, but he does call each of us to follow him in faith and faithfulness. And through Jesus, a descendant of Abraham, God keeps his promises to us. Lord Jesus, give us the faith and faithfulness to follow where you lead, trusting in you. Amen.

Noah did everything just as God commanded him. — Genesis 6:22 About 3 million people hike along the Appalachian Trail each year. About 3,000 people try to walk the entire trail—from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. But only about 25 percent of those manage to finish. It takes grit to hike 5 million steps! Noah had grit. Noah’s story isn’t about walking a trail, but about building an ark. And if you’ve ever built anything, you know that it involves many steps in a process. Gathering materials, measuring, cutting, fitting, shaping, joining, finishing. Piece by piece, the ark took shape. God had commanded Noah to build an enormous lifeboat on dry land. It took Noah years to complete what seemed an impossible, ludicrous project. Imagine the courage, resolve, and sheer stamina it took to work on the ark day after day as his neighbors mocked him. God chose Noah not for his grit but for his faith. When he received God’s command, Noah didn’t hesitate. Though he may have had doubts, he acted in faith, step by step, until the ark was ready. Hebrews 11:7 commends Noah for his active faith. In the face of what seemed ridiculous and impossible, Noah walked with God. We may not finish every task we try to accomplish for God’s kingdom, but if we step out in faith in obedience to God, we walk with the Lord in his strength. Lord Jesus, help us to live by faith in you, with courage, confidence, and boldness in following, obeying, and serving you in the world. Amen.

Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away. — Genesis 5:24 Walking a long-distance trail can give you a feeling of timelessness. Although the landscape changes, the day-to-day rhythm remains the same: walk, eat, sleep; repeat. The life of Enoch, an early descendant of Adam and Eve, also has a sense of timelessness about it. He lived for 365 years and did not die! Yet Enoch’s lifespan was short for his family. Enoch’s father, Jared, lived to the age of 962. At age 65, Enoch had a son named Methuselah, who lived to be 969 years old! The four short verses about Enoch’s life don’t tell us much, but we do learn one crucial fact about him: “Enoch walked faithfully with God.” In his long life of stepping through each day, Enoch walked in a way that pleased God. In fact, God was so pleased with Enoch’s faithful walk that he spared Enoch from the curse of death. Certainly there is mystery in this story. Yet there is no mystery about how to please God. God calls us to walk faithfully with him, trusting him, honoring him, and serving him. God will probably not take us away as he did with Enoch, but we have the comfort of knowing that Jesus, who conquered sin and death for us, has promised never to leave or forsake us when our own lives end. Lord Jesus, help us to walk faithfully with you, looking forward to the day when we will join with you and all your faithful followers forever! Amen.

“I will be a restless wanderer on earth, and whoever finds me will kill me.” — Genesis 4:14 While hiking the Appalachian Trail, how can you know if you’re on the right track? You simply follow the white trail markers, or “blazes,” painted on trees along the way. If you see the white blazes, you know you’re still on the path. Yet stepping off the trail and getting lost in the woods is not uncommon. For a hiker, that can be a dangerous sort of “missing the mark.” In our passage today, Cain turns away from walking with God and is lost. In this appalling story showing the depths of human sin, Cain attacks and kills his brother Abel because he feels slighted and resentful. The brokenness caused by sin blooms fully in this first murder in human history. Looking back now, who can count the lives lost because of sin? When God confronts Cain with his hideous deed, Cain isn’t sorry. He is concerned only about his own fate. He is terrified that others will follow his example and kill him. Though God graciously marks Cain to protect him from violence, Cain remains lost as a wanderer and a fugitive. In the Bible the Hebrew word for “sin” (hatta’t) literally means “missing the mark.” In our alienation from God and from others, we miss the mark. We are all lost. But Jesus finds us and sets us on the right path, the way of following him and loving others. Lord Jesus, we are lost without you. Help us to walk in your ways and to love others, just as you have loved us. Amen.

The man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day. . . . — Genesis 3:8 While hiking the Appalachian Trail, I enjoyed the early April wildflowers blooming along the pathway. I particularly noticed a crocus with a beautiful white flower. Sadly, its stem had broken, and it drooped sideways. It reminded me of the first walking scene in the Bible. Adam and Eve must have enjoyed walking with God “in the cool of the day” in their garden home. But in today’s story from Genesis 3, they were deeply anxious. Earlier in the day, they had disobeyed God, doing the one thing God had told them not to do. God had created Adam and Eve to live in fellowship with himself, with each other, and in harmony with the earth and its creatures. In their disobedience, however, they tried to hide from God, and, as the story continues, we see their alienation from each other and from the rest of God’s good creation. When he comes to walk with them, God finds Adam and Eve cowering in shame. God explains the consequences of their sin. But in his judgment on the serpent, we glimpse God’s promise to redeem fallen humanity back to fellowship with himself, with each other, and with his world. As I hiked through Appalachia in April, I found it was often comfortably cool late in the day, and this drew me to look forward to walking with God and all his family in the world he has promised to redeem. Lord, you have made us for fellowship with you. Thank you for redeeming us through Jesus—to love you, others, and your world. Amen.

Observe the commands of the Lord your God, walking in obedience to him and revering him. — Deuteronomy 8:6 “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” (Chinese proverb). Early one morning in April 2022, I took the first step on a hiking trip along the Appalachian Trail, which stretches from Georgia to Maine in the eastern United States. While enjoying God’s good and beautiful creation, I also meditated on the theme of “walking” in the Bible. Since ancient times, walking has been the most common way for people to go from place to place. It’s no surprise, then, that walking is mentioned more than 200 times in the Bible. Whether people took short strolls or long journeys, they moved forward one step at a time. In the Bible, the Hebrew word for “walk” (halak) can also refer to following God and living for him in his world. In Deuteronomy 8 we find examples of both kinds of walk­ing. God’s people had been walking in the wilderness for 40 years. And now, preparing to enter the land that God had promised them, they were reminded to walk in the ways of the Lord and to honor God in all they would do. And God promised to bless them abundantly. Wherever we walk today, on short strolls or a long journey, may each step remind us to walk in God’s ways and to honor him. Lord God, help us always to walk with you in our journeys near and far, seeing your hand in our world and striving to please and serve you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. — 1 Peter 4:4 Every person’s story is different and unique. Some people were born into religious homes where strict morals and ethics were taught, and they followed these closely from their earliest days. Some people raised in such homes have a “prodigal child” story (see Luke 15:11-24). Still others were brought up apart from religion and yet followed cultural morals, while others grew up more or less wild through and through. Regardless of our backgrounds, we are called now as believers to live according to the pattern that God sets out for us in his Word. We find this pattern in many places in the Bible such as Ephesians 4-5, Colossians 3, and 1 Peter 4:1-11. A close reading of these passages shows great similarity to the Ten Commandments of Exodus 20 and Deuteronomy 5. The great news for us is that as we keep in step with the Holy Spirit, we will find that our old sinful nature slowly loses its grip on us. Our “taste” for sinful desires and behaviors gradually fades. Living God’s way takes on a sweeter and sweeter flavor as we live our lives in step with the Spirit. While most fruit is sweet, none is as sweet as the fruit of the Spirit. Heavenly Father, we thank you for weaning us from our sinful desires and old ways, showing us that living in step with the Spirit is the best way to live. In Jesus, Amen.

Speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. — Ephesians 4:15 A student who graces the college campus where I work always has a smile on his face and speaks with words that are kind and gentle. Proverbs 16:24 could have been inspired with him in mind! While a few well-chosen words are sweeter than honey, rash and poorly chosen words can damage and even destroy relationships. The Holy Spirit calls us to speak the truth in love. Not everything that is true needs to be said, and when love is not the motive for what we are prepared to say, we would do well simply to remain silent. There is a right way and a wrong way to say things, and there is a time to speak and a time to be silent. It is easy for us to make excuses for our poorly chosen words. We often think and say things like “I’m just a blunt person,” or, “That’s my nature,” or, “I just say it the way I see it.” However, there is hope for all of God’s children. In Ephesians 4, Paul gives helpful advice about putting off falsehood and speaking truthfully, avoiding unwholesome talk, and building others up. When we walk with the Holy Spirit, we are changed. With the Spirit’s help we can change the way we speak in our homes and workplaces, in our churches, and in the world. Father, help us to choose our words well, building others up in faith rather than hurting and tearing down. May our words be attractive to all who don’t yet know you as well. In Jesus, Amen.

Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire. . . . — James 3:5-6 Over the years our family has had many brushes with forest fires. At one point a forest fire came to within a kilometer of our house before being brought under control. We have had vacation plans altered because of wildfires, and on other occasions we seldom left our home because of the poor air quality. Each of these fires began with a spark and a tiny flame before becoming a raging inferno. James writes that poorly chosen words are like sparks that cause a great fire. Both bring immeasurable damage. A little gossip runs its course, and who knows how much damage it causes! A careless word is spoken, and a person is left wounded and scarred for a lifetime. Sadly, I may be the one who uttered those words. The good news is that the fruit of the Spirit is self-control. Though “no human being can tame the tongue,” the Spirit of God can. When we walk in step with the Spirit, we will notice that the Spirit helps us to control our tongues. And, says James, “with the wisdom that comes from heaven,” self-control in other areas of life follows. Godly wisdom brings peace, love, humility, mercy, and good fruit for life the way God intends it to be. Heavenly Father, help us to control our tongues. May our words bring honor and glory to you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

“‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.’” — Acts 2:17 There is an old saying that “Actions speak louder than words.” One of the students in the chaplaincy ministry at our college “oozes” the fruit of the Spirit. His kindness, gentleness, joy, and patience are clearly evident. As people see this, they are attracted to him, and opportunities to share his faith are multiplied. Another student frequently pours out her heart to the Lord in prayer as she pleads for the advancement of God’s kingdom. The Spirit of God gave Jesus’ apostles the ability to speak in many languages on that day of Pentecost written about in Acts 2, and the same Spirit enables us to speak and to act in winsome ways today. Through the power of the Spirit, God’s kingdom is advancing, and he has called and equipped each of us to be his witnesses in whatever circumstances we may find ourselves. Today we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit. But our cele­bration of Pentecost is not so much meant to be talked about as it is to be lived—in word and deed. By the power of the Spirit working through us, our words and fruit-filled actions are the tools God uses to build his kingdom. Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of the Spirit poured out on Jesus’ followers on that Pentecost day so long ago. Help us to live by the power of the Spirit today and every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“Neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.” — John 8:11 Jesus’ gentleness to the woman who was caught in adultery is heartwarming. According to the law of Moses, this woman could have been stoned to death (Leviticus 20:10). But Jesus knew the religious leaders were more interested in trapping him than in following God’s law. The fact that the woman was caught in adultery means that the man involved was also known. But where was he? He is not even mentioned in the story. The religious leaders simply assumed that if Jesus did not demand the death penalty, he would be guilty of breaking the law, and that would give them a basis for accusing him. But Jesus turned the tables on the religious leaders and put them into an impossible situation. He said, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” So throwing a stone would mean declaring yourself sinless. None of the leaders were prepared to do that. One by one, her accusers went away, and then Jesus told the woman, “Neither do I condemn you. . . . Go now and leave your life of sin.” Similarly, the Lord tells us, “I came into this world not to condemn you but to forgive you; repent and sin no more” (see John 3:17-21). “And with the gentleness that I treat you, treat everyone around you” (see Matthew 7:12). Jesus, we marvel at your gentleness with all of us sinners. Thank you for being such a gentle Savior, and help us to be gentle with others. Amen.

He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. — Isaiah 40:11 Isaiah 40 speaks of the power and might of God with amazing clarity. Estimates hold that the observable universe is 45 billion light years across, and yet, according to Isaiah, that is only like the breadth of God’s hand. Ultimately, though, comparing the infinite God to the finiteness of this universe—as expansive as it is—would be futile. Even so, when we consider that the almighty God scoops up his people in his arms and carries them like lambs, close to his heart, we are moved to marvel at his gentle love. Knowing that God has written our names on the palms of his hands (Isaiah 49:16) and that he sings over us (Zephaniah 3:17) as he carries us along is comforting beyond words. Today some of us need to experience the comfort of our gentle God. Reading of his gentle loving care is a good start. However, God’s gentleness is experienced in an incarnational way (in the flesh) when we treat others with the gentleness that God has shown us. In what ways can you show gentleness to everyone around you today? Father, you are infinite and almighty. We are small and weak. You pick us up in your arms, and you love us and bless us. May we find shelter in your love today, and may we be shelter for people who are hurting. In Jesus, Amen.

“See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” — Matthew 21:5 In Jesus’ statements of blessing (often called the Beatitudes) in Matthew 5:3-11, we read, “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” Today we equate meekness with being shy and timid. But the biblical concept of meekness is closer to gentleness. When a powerful person sets aside their power and acts humbly and gently for a better good, they are displaying meekness. Long ago Zechariah prophesied about a king who would ride into Jerusalem on a donkey. This was quite unusual because a deliverer king would normally ride a horse as a symbol of power and victory. Jesus, however, came in gentleness, freeing his people from the grip of sin and death by humbling himself and dying on a cross. And then in amazing and surprising power he rose in victory over death and the grave. He did all of this for our sake, promising new, full life forever for all who believe in him. There is a time to use power for righteous reasons, and there is a time when it’s better to serve with gentleness. Let’s ask the Spirit to guide us in showing gentleness for Jesus’ sake. Holy Spirit, teach us when to be strong and bold and when to be humble and gentle so that your kingdom and people may be built up. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality. . . . — Ephesians 5:3 Years ago I attended a conference where a well-known Christian speaker asserted that the largest problem faced by Western Christianity was the use of pornography. The statistics on pornography use within the Christian community are shocking. The harm done to individuals, families, congregations, and the wider church community is incalculable. It drives a wedge between married couples, it gives unrealistic expectations to youth, and, riddled by guilt, many users hide from God rather than approaching him for forgiveness. Throughout the Bible God teaches the importance of faithfulness and warns that sexual immorality is harmful and destructive. It ruins relationships and destroys trust. It treats people like objects when they should be valued as image­bearers of God. God uses the imagery of marriage to display the rich relationship of faithfulness that he wants with his people. God describes himself as a husband to Israel and compares idolatry to spiritual adultery. Rather than hiding and ignoring pornography and other forms of sexual immorality among us, followers of Christ will do well to name these destructive influences, bring them into the light, and encourage healing to take place. May we seek to live in faithfulness, for Jesus’ sake. Holy God, we acknowledge our sin, especially in areas of sexual immorality. We ask for forgiveness and deliverance. Guide us to be faithful. In Jesus, Amen.

Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices. . . . — Colossians 3:9 Each of the students took their turn. They raised their right hand and solemnly swore to carry out their duties with honesty and integrity. Another student association executive team was in place and set to serve the student body for another year. But the question may be asked, “Was this swearing-in ceremony wrong?” Was it, and is every other oath of office, a violation of Jesus’ teaching? No. The point Jesus makes is that we are to be people who keep our word. One of the most important examples of being a Christian witness is the matter of keeping promises. As a chaplain, I speak to ­dozens of students, faculty, and staff each day. Often I am asked or invited to do things. The easy part is to say “Yes.” Remembering what I promised and then following up on it is the hard part! Unfortunately, I still have cringeworthy moments when someone begins a sentence with “Remember when you said you would . . .” Regardless of our occupation and regardless of whom we are speaking to, being true to our word is a mark of faithfulness. Thankfully, our God is always faithful to his promises, and with the help of the Holy Spirit we too may grow in being faithful to the promises and commitments we make. Holy God, help us truly to be people of our word. Help us to do what we promise so that our “yes” is “yes” and our “no” is “no.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.

. . . if we are faithless, [Christ] remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself. — 2 Timothy 2:13 When our children were young, we visited an aquarium that had a glass tunnel through the middle. As we walked along, we saw sharks and ­other fish swimming all around us. I have often wondered if the Israelites’ experience of walking through the Red Sea was similar. Did they see fish swimming in the walls of water alongside their path? We can’t be sure. Besides, it was nighttime. Even so, the light of God was there to show the way (Exodus 14). Sadly, the Israelites soon forgot their miraculous deliverance. After a few days in the desert without finding water, they started grumbling and complaining about their situation (Exodus 15:22-16:3). God provided them with plenty of water and food, and yet soon they were grumbling again. Throughout the Old Testament we see repeated patterns of Israel’s unfaithfulness to God. And yet God remained faithful. When Jesus came, the Jews and other Israelite descendants were still God’s people—not because of their faithfulness but because of God’s—and so it remains today. The words of the Holy Spirit are true. Though we are unfaithful, our Lord is always faithful. May we marvel today that even when we are unfaithful, God forgives us and remains faithful, keeping all of his promises to us. “Great is your faithfulness, O God.” Holy Spirit, continue your good work in us and help us to be faithful to you in our thoughts, our words, and our deeds. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. — Galatians 6:9 Ephesians 2:1-9, especially verses 8-9, are among the best-known verses in the Bible, but verse 10 is often neglected. This verse teaches that we are saved by grace through faith not simply to spend eternity with God but so that we may do good works that God has planned for us to do. And yet the reality is that, at times, we tire of doing good. There are several reasons for this. Sometimes we feel that our good works aren’t making a difference. At other times we become too busy looking after our own interests, and we ­neglect to look to the interests of others (Philippians 2:4). But the good news is that if we remain open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, he will continue to produce good fruit in our lives. The Spirit will lead us to new areas of service and will open new opportunities for us to bless others. To me, one of the joys of serving as a chaplain is to watch busy students as they take time to do good to others even as they prepare for a lifetime of serving in God’s kingdom. Lord, we need you to help us do good. We can’t do this on our own. By your Spirit, guide us to bear fruit that honors you in all we think, say, and do. And lead us to serve you faithfully as you open doors and opportunities for us to share your blessings with others. In Jesus, Amen.

“In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” — Matthew 7:12 In our reading today from Micah 6 and in the quotation from Jesus in Matthew 7, we find helpful guidelines that summarize the teachings of God’s law. These help us to focus on the main things God calls us to live by. Jesus’ statement in Matthew 7 is often called the “golden rule.” It reminds us to treat others as we would like to be treated. Here, as in many of his teachings, Jesus presents a principle of what should be rather than what is. In our world, doing to others as they have done to us (in terms of favors or payback) is far more common than treating others as we would like them to treat us. The prophet Micah spoke to God’s people in a time when the wealthy and powerful were just going through the motions of religious duty while their hearts were far from the Lord. God’s desire was that they would love to extend mercy to people who were poor and weak, and to act justly toward their neighbors always. Instead, the wealthy and powerful were crushing the poor and weak. These are good reminders. If we are honest with ourselves, we have to admit that there can be times when we, too, neglect to show justice and mercy in our day-to-day living. How can we turn that around? Lord and God, help me to show justice and mercy in the things I do today. Help me to build up people who need encouragement and to bless those who are downcast and disadvantaged. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

“Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone.” — Mark 10:17-18 Jesus’ reply to the rich man here is full of surprises. First, in response to being called “Good teacher,” Jesus says, “only God is good.” Was Jesus saying that he is not God? No, Jesus answered this way because the rich man saw him as just a man—a good man, but still just a man. As the rich man stood before Jesus, he was also confronted with the fact that he himself was just a man and not as good as he had thought. Ultimately, only God is good. (And, of course, Jesus himself is good because he too is God, but he is not drawing attention to himself here.) In our everyday lives, we use the word good to describe all kinds of things. We say, “Good morning.” We appreciated a good breakfast. Seeing that the weather is good, we go out to meet with our good friends. The Bible, however, mainly uses the word good to refer to what is pure and holy. The point Jesus is making is that only the perfect and holy God is truly good. And yet, as we find forgiveness through Jesus and we are restored to a right relationship with God, we gain the ability to do good and to be good. All who are clothed in the righteousness of Christ and act for his glory will one day hear the words “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (see Matthew 25:21, 23). Father, help us to follow Jesus. Forgive our sins, we pray, and, by the power of your Spirit in us, help us to do what is good. Amen.

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. — Romans 12:6 Years ago, my mother had a large jar for storing pennies. Over the years she accumulated thousands of these little coins but didn’t do anything with them. It was a unique and fancy jar, but that never changed the fact that the pennies just lay there, never doing or accomplishing anything. The church, however, was never meant to be like that penny jar. After Jesus rose from the dead and ascended to heaven (Acts 1:4-11), he gave spiritual gifts to his people. These gifts are listed in Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, and Ephesians 4. Spiritual gifts are given to every believer in Christ so that each of us may do our part in building up the church, the body of Christ, and advancing God’s kingdom. The spiritual gifts and the fruit of the Spirit are closely related in function and purpose. As we discover which gifts we are given by the Spirit and we learn to bear the fruit of the Spirit, we may be amazed to see how God is using us to advance his kingdom and to be a blessing to others. This in turn blesses and encourages us in our Christian walk as well. Lord God, thank you for the gifts of the Spirit and the fruit of the Spirit. Thank you for equipping us to carry out your will in our lives, in our homes and churches, and in the world. Amen.

“Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? . . .” — Matthew 18:21 Whenever I read Jesus’ parable of the unforgiving servant, my blood begins to boil. I think, “How ungrateful, mean, and greedy this man is. There isn’t a kind bone in his body!” Here was a man who owed more money than he could ever repay. But after he was forgiven of his huge debt, he punished another man for owing him just a small amount. The forgiven man had received mercy, but he did not show mercy to the other man. It is not wrong to be angry about this. In fact, this is the response Jesus is looking for. But we must not stop there. Jesus designed this story to help us think and act faithfully as children of God. How should we respond to the kindness God has shown us? God has forgiven our huge debt of sin; will we do the same for others who have sinned against us? It is easy for us to ask for God’s forgiveness and yet carry grudges and ill will toward others. It is easy to remember and resent what others have said and done against us. But if we accept God’s forgiveness and yet fail to forgive others, we are no different from the ungrateful man in Jesus’ parable. Jesus teaches us to forgive and to keep forgiving so that we can’t remember how many times we have forgiven. When we walk with the Spirit, we are changed. God’s kindness begins to flow from us to others. Father, thank you for forgiving my sin. Move me to forgive others, showing them the kindness you have shown to me. In Jesus, Amen.

“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” — Luke 10:36 Jesus’ parable about the good Samaritan has inspired many people throughout the centuries to act with kindness toward others—especially those who may be different from them or who are even their enemies. (In Jesus’ day the Jews and Samaritans detested each other, and Jesus taught this parable partly as a lesson about caring for people whom we think of as enemies.) Ultimately this story teaches that everyone around us is a neighbor whom God calls us to love just as he loves them—without strings attached. We are reminded to show the kindness of God to everyone and to reach out to people who are hurting. Though we might not encounter a situation like the one Jesus describes here, we all have opportunities to be kind. We may be rushing off to class, hurrying off to work, or going about our busy day, and we can be so focused on the task at hand that we can miss seeing an opportunity to be kind and to care for someone. But when we are in step with the Spirit, who lives within us, we find that the Spirit helps us notice such things. The Spirit sees and hears the brokenness and hurts around us. The Spirit helps us to discern . . . that person needs a kind word, or that person needs a random act of kindness. The question I face today is simple. Will I listen, or will I be too busy doing my own things? Spirit of God, move us to show kindness in every situation we find ourselves in. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“I will tell of the kindnesses of the Lord, the deeds for which he is to be praised, according to all the Lord has done for us. . . .” — Isaiah 63:7 Kindness can be described as a friendly, generous, considerate disposition toward others. But, sadly, this trait can be elusive in our everyday world—especially where there is a lot of competition. When we look for kindness in our world, we can find it, but we also tend to find a lot of unkindness. Isaiah tells about the kindnesses of God and all that the Lord has done for us. Already in the garden of Eden we see the kindness of God to our first parents. God had warned Adam and Eve of the dire consequences of disobeying his command. When they disobeyed anyway, they became aware of their guilt and were afraid. But God displayed at least two great acts of kindness. First, instead of bringing about the punishment of death right away, God promised to send his Son to take on the ultimate punishment for sin. Second, God took care of Adam and Eve’s immediate needs and gave them clothes to wear. From that time forward, God’s kindness has been on display as he points to his Son, Jesus, the Savior, as the way of forgiveness, restoration, and full life forever. Kind God, move us to see your kindness today, and guide us to find ways to reflect your kindness to others as we forgive those who wrong us and seek to lead them to your wholeness. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.

You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. — James 5:8 Have you heard the story about the father who took his children on a week-long fishing trip? The first day of the trip was rainy, so they stayed in their cabin. The second day was the same as the first. Soon the children began to fight. On the third day the father said, “We are going fishing.” “But, Dad,” the children cried, “it’s still raining.” “That’s right,” the father replied, “but if we don’t go fishing, we will just spend our time fighting.” The moral of this story is that when the church is not “fishing” (Matthew 4:19), it is prone to start fighting. James calls us to wait patiently for the Lord’s return. But this patient waiting is not without a purpose. As Peter teaches, God is not slow in returning but is being patient, “not wanting anyone to perish” (2 Peter 3:9). And we are called to participate in calling people to faith. Jesus calls his followers to take the good news of salvation to all peoples and nations (Matthew 28:18-20). As Paul put it, we are like ambassadors, imploring people to be reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:20). Already in the days of James, Peter, and Paul, some believers were losing patience waiting for the return of Christ. The situation is certainly no better today. But when we are active participants in God’s mission, each day of delaying his return is another day of opportunity. Lord Jesus, we are eager for your return, but we also ask that in this time of delay many others will come to know and love you. Amen.

“I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.” — Matthew 5:39 Few teachings of Jesus are more difficult to follow than this instruction to turn the other cheek. When we are wronged, it is natural to want to get even. Yet God calls us to turn the other cheek. Is this a call for us to simply let ourselves be bullied? To never stand up for ourselves? No, it runs far deeper than that. When we are wronged, it helps to remember that no wrong will go unpunished. Every sin that is committed will be paid for. “It is mine to avenge,” says the Lord, “I will repay” (Deuteronomy 32:35; see Romans 12:17-21). This is a great comfort to believers who are being wronged! Every wrong against us will be punished. The good news of Jesus is that if the wrong that was committed is repented of, and the wrongdoer asks for forgiveness, the wrong is paid for by Christ on the cross. Jesus came into this world in order to take on the punishment for all human sin, so that all who look to him can be saved. When a wrong is committed against us, we might think, “Well, I want the one who hurt me to be punished. I want them punished, not Christ.” But we need to remember that we too have wronged many others and that Christ took on our punishment, paying for our guilt as well. Forgiving God, guide us to be patient with others, especially when we are wronged, so that Christ may be made visible in us. Help us, Holy Spirit, to show your patience in all times and circumstances. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. — 2 Peter 3:9 When it comes to frozen pizza, I am not at all patient. I don’t wait for the oven to preheat, and once the pizza is done, I don’t wait for it to cool down. My impatience leads to a poorly cooked pizza that burns my mouth! But if I changed and became more patient with frozen pizza, that would not necessarily be a sign of the Spirit working in me. When we think of patience as the fruit of the Spirit, it means more than just the opposite of hotheadedness. That is why “forbearance” or “longsuffering” is sometimes listed in place of “patience” in the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23. The Holy Spirit prompted the apostle Peter to remind his readers about the patience—longsuffering and forbearance—of God to all people. God first showed his amazing patience with humanity in the Garden of Eden when he promised a Savior rather than eternal banishment from his presence (Genesis 3:15). And ever since then, God has patiently continued to call us to repentance. Though he will sometimes send punishment, God does not destroy the people he loves and has called. God continues to wait today for people from every tribe and nation to come to him in faith and repentance. And he calls us to return to him daily and to celebrate his patience with praise and thanksgiving. Patient God, we thank you for calling us all to faith and repentance. Help us to respond to your gracious call. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. — 1 Peter 5:7 A student sat at a table in the corner of the library. The table was covered with books and papers. In just a few days, classes would be over for the semester, and deadlines for final papers and exams were looming. I asked the student how she was doing, and she told me she was “so stressed out!” I replied, “Well, I cannot write your papers for you, and I wouldn’t be much of a help in studying—but, if you like, I would be happy to pray with you.” She said she would appreciate that, so we prayed together. After a few moments, she said, “I don’t feel anxious anymore.” Her response was amazing. She simply said, “I no longer feel any stress.” Another student in a similar situation said, “I don’t have any reason to feel anxious after bringing my cares to the Lord.” The words of an old hymn come to mind: “What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! Oh, what peace we often forfeit; oh, what needless pain we bear—all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.” The good news for an increasingly anxious world is that the Spirit wants to produce peace in our minds, hearts, and lives, and often that can happen when we open ourselves to the Lord in prayer. Lord God, we live in anxious times in an anxious world. As we cast our cares upon Jesus, grant us peace. We pray in the name of the Prince of Peace, our Lord Jesus. Amen.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28 As our world entered into COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions, sharp rises in mental health issues soon followed. Everyday life at college and university campuses, among many other settings, turned upside down. Some studies reported that as many as 75 percent of students experienced elevated levels of stress and anxiety. For many, sleep became elusive, and functioning well on a daily basis became a huge challenge. Stress and anxiety can be described as a lack of inner peace. When we consider the mental health struggles of our world, there is reason for hope. Hope comes when we learn that “the fruit of the Spirit is . . . peace” (Galatians 5:22). The Spirit cares about our inner turmoil and seeks to calm it. And in many cases the Spirit works to bring peace through counseling and medication. These can be helpful means toward healing, if needed. Thankfully we can trust that whatever we need, God cares about ­every aspect of our lives, and in Christ we have the promise of increased peace. Heavenly Father, we thank you that your concern for us is all encompassing. We pray for inner peace in the midst of our anxious times, and may the Spirit in us provide a calming presence for others. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

He himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility. . . . — Ephesians 2:14 The Hebrew word for peace is shalom. This rich word means much more than the absence of conflict, war, or strife and a lack of tension or animosity. It points to full flourishing for all people and creation, in which life is exactly as it should be. Prior to their fall into sin, our first parents enjoyed shalom in the garden of Eden (Genesis 2). They fully enjoyed their walks with God in the cool of the day, they enjoyed each other’s company fully, and their work and world were beautiful. As believers who have been restored to a right relationship with God through the sacrifice of Jesus, we now have a taste—at least to some degree—of what Adam and Eve enjoyed before sin entered their lives. Likewise, in the church and outside of it, we also have a glimpse of the peace that awaits us in God’s presence. Sometimes this taste of shalom is strong, and sometimes it is weak, but it is always there. We have also been tasked with bringing others to a renewed sense of peace. One way of approaching this is to ask, “How can I make life on earth seem a little more like heaven (or God’s kingdom) for someone else?” Can you think of a way to bring peace into the lives of others today? Heavenly Father, we thank you for the peace that we have with you through Jesus, and for guiding us to grow in peace with others. Help us to be agents of peace in this broken world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. — Psalm 37:4 The desire to have joy and be happy is universal. It is one of the deepest desires of the human heart. But happiness often seems elusive. Surprisingly our Bible passage today offers the hope of happiness, joy, and peace in all times, places, and situations. The psalmist says, “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” The question, then, is “How do we ‘take delight in the Lord’?” First of all, we need a right relationship with God—and this is offered freely to us through faith in Jesus. And then we can focus on the full life we are called to in Christ (John 10:10; 15:10-17; Mark 12:30-31; Luke 6:27-36) and how we can begin living that way here and now. Thinking highly of God the Father, who loves us and sent his Son to save us while we were still his enemies is a start (Romans 5:8-11). Focusing on the Savior, who redeemed us and has prepared the way for us to spend eternity with him and each other in perfect joy, is also crucial. And walking with the Spirit, who guides and comforts us each day, will lead to lasting joy, happiness, and contentment. Some things in this world bring fleeting joy. But all those things break down, wear out, get stolen, rust, burn up, or betray us and ultimately let us down. When we “take delight in the Lord,” however, the Spirit produces the lasting fruit of joy in our lives. Giver of every good gift, we thank you for the promise of giving us the desires of our hearts when we delight in you! Amen.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds. . . . — James 1:2 Students sometimes receive lower grades on papers and exams than they have hoped for. Disappointment can lead to frustration and anger. Fear may enter the picture as well: “Because of this low mark, will I lose my place in my program or be suspended from my sports team?” Students are not the only ones who face difficult and challenging situations. The loss of a job, strained relationships at home, and pressures at work can bring a great deal of stress into our lives. We also struggle when we get sick, or when a family member or friend becomes ill. There is also the heart-wrenching pain of persecution, which remains a reality in our world. James urges us to “consider it pure joy” when we face ­trials and struggles in our lives. What? This is certainly one of the most challenging commands in the Bible. But James explains that trials and sufferings in the lives of believers produce a stronger and more robust faith. And faith, as Peter puts it when he talks about suffering, is more valuable than gold (1 Peter 1:7). When we see our struggles from this perspective, we can also begin to understand why Paul calls them light and temporary (2 Corinthians 4:17) and “not worth comparing with the glory” that awaits us (Romans 8:18). Lord, thank you that through your Spirit we may experience joy in the midst of struggles, as our challenges in life bring us into a deeper relationship with you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! . . . The Lord is near. — Philippians 4:4-5 The end of April is a happy time at the college where I serve as a chaplain. Classes are finished, and final exams are complete! Suddenly stress that has been building for weeks is released, and we see smiling faces all around. In all kinds of situations, release from stress can lead to smiles and joy and even rejoicing and celebration. Would you be surprised to know that some variation of “Be happy” is one of the most common instructions to us in God’s Word? While a search of the Bible may not always turn up the word “happy,” when we add the instructions to be glad, to rejoice, and to be joyful, we realize that this command does occur quite often in Scripture. Even the catchy title of a song from a past era, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” is a reflection of this common theme in God’s Word. What a remarkable blessing it is that God not only commands us to be joyful but also produces joy in us by his Spirit. The Spirit produces joy in the lives of his people not only when they are surrounded by “happy” circumstances. Even while chained in prison, Paul and Silas were able to sing with joy (see Acts 16:25-34). People who walk by the Spirit can find joy in all circumstances. Holy Spirit, we thank you not only for calling us to rejoice in the Lord always, but also for producing that joy in our lives through your presence, in Jesus’ name! Amen.

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. . . .” — Matthew 5:43-44 In our campus ministry at Medicine Hat (Alberta) College, we gather on campus to sing, to read and reflect on Scripture, and to pray. The students who form our little church were born in many different countries. The tone of our skin ­ranges from very pale to very dark. Though we come from diverse backgrounds, our love for God and for one another is amazing. When I read in Revelation 7:9 of the great multitude in heaven “from every nation, tribe, people and language,” our little campus church comes to mind. Our fellowship is sweet, and we eagerly invite others to join us. However, our world is very different from this fellowship. The world is deeply divided along political, economic, religious, ethnic, and racial lines. In fact, the divisions in our world are nearly endless. When Jesus calls us to love our enemies, he certainly includes those who are different from me. Our world is content to live with friend/enemy distinctions, loving friends and hating enemies, but Jesus calls us to love friend and enemy alike. We cannot do this on our own, but through the power of the Holy Spirit we can extend true love to everyone. As we love friend and enemy alike, we give this world a glimpse of what the world to come will be. Lord Jesus, thank you for dying for us even though we were your enemies. Help us to love our enemies for your sake. Amen.

Now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. — 1 Corinthians 13:13 First Corinthians 13 is often called “the love chapter.” It is commonly read at weddings. It contains a list of the many characteristics of love. Here we learn that love is patient and kind; it does not envy or boast; it is not proud, rude, self-seeking, or easily angered; nor does it keep a record of wrongs. “Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.” Further, it always protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. “Love never fails”! However, if I am honest, I have to admit that I often fail. I fail to do the things that Paul says love does—and the things that love never does, these are the things I find myself doing. Interestingly, in Romans 7:19, Paul confesses to having that same problem. It is common to make excuses for our failures. We say things like “I’m only human.” Or “If Paul fails, what can I expect of myself?” But it is far better to seek God’s forgiveness for our failures and to recognize, with thanks, that God “delivers [us] through Christ Jesus our Lord!” (Romans 7:25). With our hearts and our Bibles open, we need to ask God to change us. And as we make this our regular practice, we will be amazed to see that through his Word and Spirit, God produces ever greater quantities of his love in our lives. Lord, we thank you that you are patient and kind. Forgive us for our lack of love, and produce in us a rich harvest of true love, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. — 1 John 4:10 One of the many joys of being a pastor is to officiate at weddings. Weddings come in all sizes and shapes, but most of them have one thing in common: love. Before officiating at a wedding, I meet with the engaged couple for premarriage counseling. Part of our discussion centers on the reasons why they are getting married. Love always plays a significant role in these reasons. And yet that little word love can mean many different things. Love is a noun, and love is a verb. We fall in love, and we love being in love. We love people and animals, sports and ice cream, and certain types of weather! Love songs are one of the most popular types of music. So when we consider that love is the fruit of the Spirit, what exactly are we talking about? John writes, “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” True love is sacrificial action. It seeks to bless others. It seeks the best interests of others. The more we value God’s saving love for us, the more the Spirit moves us to share that love with others in both our words and our deeds. Father God, even as you have shown your love to us through the death of your Son, help us by your Spirit to truly love you and our neighbors. In Jesus, Amen.

In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. — James 2:17 “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” is a fairy tale about a girl who got lost in the woods. She stumbled across the house of three bears. She entered their home, ate their porridge, sat in their chairs, and fell asleep on one of their beds. Not only is this a fun story for children and families, but it can help us resolve one of the tensions in the Christian faith. For centuries Christians have been pondering the relationship between grace, faith, and works and how they relate to salvation. In Ephesians 2:8-9 Paul teaches that we are saved by grace through faith and not by works. However, James writes, “A person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone” (James 2:24). Critics of Christianity say these passages show that the Bible is full of contradictions and cannot be trusted. But the point James is making is that the Bible and Christianity can be like a story that comes alive only in the mind but not in the heart. Like the story of Goldilocks, it has good lessons but lacks the power to truly change lives. Only when God moves from being known in our minds to being embraced in our hearts as Lord does faith become true, living, and saving. When the gift of true faith is present, God’s Spirit changes us, and our lives begin to produce the good works of the fruit of the Spirit! Lord, fill our minds with your knowledge, but also fill our hearts with your presence and produce in us fruit that is pleasing to you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. — Galatians 5:22-23 Winter had not yet lost its icy grip on the Canadian prairies when our family flew to southern California for a vacation. Soon after arriving, we stumbled upon a grapefruit tree in a park. We often bought grapefruit at the grocery store, but the thought of picking a grapefruit straight from a tree and eating it right there was a temptation we could not resist! But all of the low-hanging fruit had already been picked. So one of our daughters, sitting on my shoulders, took a long stick and was able to reach high enough to knock down a juicy, ripe fruit from the tree. Never had a grapefruit tasted so good to us! Years later that same daughter, now an adult, sat on my shoulders again to reach bananas on a roadside tree in Hawaii. We had an apple tree and a pear tree in our own backyard, but this fruit was different. From our perspective it was . . . well, exotic! This month our daily devotions will focus on fruit—not fruit that grows on trees but fruit that is produced in us by the Holy Spirit. While traces of love, joy, peace, forbearance (patience), kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are present in most everyone’s lives, these traits take on a new and vibrant dimension when we walk in step with the Spirit. Lord, fill us with your Spirit so that we may produce fruit in keeping with your purpose for our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

“Take and eat; this is my body.” — Matthew 26:26 Jesus celebrated a ceremonial final meal with his disciples. We call it the Last Supper. At the table with them he took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and passed it to the disciples, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” In the church we celebrate this new-covenant meal by breaking bread and drinking wine (or juice) together in remembrance of Jesus. We call it the Lord’s Supper. This meal replaces the Jewish Passover. There is no longer any need to bring a lamb to the altar, because Christ is the Lamb of God, sacrificed once for all, who takes away the sin of the world. There is no longer any need to sprinkle the blood of a lamb on doorposts, for by faith we receive the benefits of the blood of Christ, which cleanses us from all sin. Christ is our Passover Lamb. To him the patriarchs and prophets pointed. He was the hope of our spiritual fathers and the content of the preaching of the apostles. Christ is the spotless Lamb of God, the living bread that came down from heaven. With his body and his blood, he fulfilled all the requirements of God’s law, delivering us from the slavery and tyranny of sin and death forever! Lamb of God, in you we find deliverance, salvation to new life, full and free! Be exalted in our lives each day. Amen.

Since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. — Romans 5:1 Justification is a legal act of God. It is accomplished in God’s court and applied to our lives, all because of the finished work of Jesus. Justification is complete and final. The newest believer is just as justified as the most seasoned, faithful believer. Paul teaches us four important truths about justification in Romans 5:1. First, God is the author of justification. We are justified not on the basis of our merits but because of the merits of Christ. Second, we are justified through faith. In this way faith is the instrument of our justification. Third, the fruit of justification is that we have peace with God. We are reconciled to God and reborn into the family of God. Fourth, the agent of justification is our Lord Jesus Christ. All of these spiritual blessings are granted to us through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Christ is our righteousness. He is our peace. In him we have abundant redemption. Lord and God, trusting in the righteousness of Christ for my justification brings peace and comfort to my heart. My salvation depends not on me but on you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes. . . . — Romans 1:16 Paul was preparing to visit Rome, the capital of the empire. He was on his way to Jerusalem to bring the poverty-stricken people there a generous gift. From Corinth he wrote his most robust letter, which we now call the book of Romans—and already here in the prologue, he has made a most audacious statement: “I am not ashamed of the gospel. . . .” Paul felt indebted to the gospel—the good news of Jesus. He was ready to preach the gospel, and he was not ashamed of it. Paul was not ashamed of the gospel even though he was arrested and flogged and stoned nearly to death because of it. Paul was not ashamed because the gospel is “the power of God that brings salvation to every­one who believes” in Christ as Lord and Savior. The gospel is God’s power for salvation. And this power is available for all who believe. It doesn’t matter what people or nation they come from. What matters is that they believe. The door of salvation is open in Christ. Behold the power of the gospel! Lord, thank for giving us the gospel, the good news of Jesus, with its power for all who believe. Thank you for your grace and mercy in sending Jesus so that we can be saved to new life in you. May we live by faith in you, knowing that we never need to be ashamed because of you. In Jesus, Amen.

We preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles. — 1 Corinthians 1:23 The apostle Paul was writing to his Christian friends in Corinth, a prominent Greek city. Great thinkers disputed their ideas in the public square. Their admirers applauded them. The Greeks (Gentiles) were fond of philosophy. When they heard about Jesus, who was crucified for our salvation, they thought it was madness to believe in and preach about him. Many Jews, on the other hand, thought their Messiah should be a great warrior-king who would free them from the ­tyranny of Rome. So, to them, it was scandalous to think of this person nailed to a cross. Paul was not intimidated by these prejudiced and extreme reactions. He continued to preach the message of the cross. There is no other gospel to be preached, he said, but the message of Christ, who was crucified for all who believe in him. There is no good news for the sinner apart from the message of Christ. Only by the death and resurrection of Jesus do we have life. It is by his blood that we receive forgiveness and redemption. It has pleased God to save sinners by the foolishness of this preaching. The foolishness of God is wiser than the so-called wisdom of the world. The cross of Christ may be rejected by unbelievers, but to us who believe, it is “the power of God and the wisdom of God.” Father God, the finished work of Jesus reveals your power and your wisdom. Thank you for giving us faith in Jesus, who was crucified so that we may have life. In his name, Amen.

Get rid of the old yeast, so that you may be a new unleavened batch—as you really are. — 1 Corinthians 5:7 The Jewish Passover was instituted on the night God delivered his people from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 12). For each household a lamb without defect was slain, and its blood was sprinkled on the doorframe. In a similar way, Christ, our Passover Lamb, was slain for our redemption, and in this way God delivered all who believe in him from the slavery and tyranny of sin. For the Passover feast, all yeast was to be removed from every house. This was a sign of sanctification. The yeast that leavens dough was a symbol of sin that infiltrates our lives and contaminates us through and through. It reminded people that they could not participate in the Passover with impure hearts and a defiled life. They had to throw out the old yeast, for they were being reshaped as a new unleavened batch of dough. As believers in Christ, we have received a new heart, a new mind, a new life. We are part of a new family. We are God’s people, called to be light in the world. We cannot imitate the world or be of the world. We are called to reshape it for the kingdom of God. We are a holy people, remade in Christ. We are saved from sin to live in holiness for Jesus’ sake. So we must walk in a manner worthy of the gospel, depending on the power of the Holy Spirit to live for God. Dear God, thank you that in Christ we can have a new life. Remake us to be like Jesus, and guide us to live in holiness, following him day by day. In his name, Amen.

He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross! — Philippians 2:8 The incarnation of the Son of God is one of the greatest mysteries in history. There is one God who exists in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are of the same substance, meaning that the Son is coequal, coeternal, and consubstantial with the Father and the Holy Spirit. But to accomplish our redemption, God the Son emptied himself of his glory and became human. In the fullness of time he was born of a woman, under the law, to be our surety and substitute (see Galatians 4:4-5). Being God, he became human; being rich, he became poor; being Lord, he became a servant. The Son of God entered time and put on human skin. “He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” Even in the face of the most severe afflictions, he did not waiver from his purpose to save us. Though he was persecuted, spat upon, and crushed by the fury of sinners, he loved them to the end. Though he laid down his life in obedience and gave himself up to death, he triumphed over death in his glorious resurrection. Through his extreme humiliation, Jesus was exalted to receive the name above all names, opening the way for us to eternal life with God. Father, to save us, your Son humbled himself and submitted to death on a cross. He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, to lay down his life for us, even though we were your enemies. In him we exalt you! Amen.

“This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge. . . .” — Acts 2:23 Christ’s death was the greatest crime in history. One of his closest followers, Judas, betrayed him for money. The religious leaders paid that money and handed Jesus over to be killed because they envied him. The witnesses who accused him were false. His trial was a blatant legal error. The judge, Pilate, who sentenced him to death was convinced of his innocence but did not want to displease the people. This greatest crime in history, however, was not an accident, but part of a plan. Jesus was delivered over to death by the determined design and foreknowledge of God. This fact does not excuse the accusers and perpetrators from responsibility, however. As the apostle Peter put it, “You, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross.” This was the dark side of the death of Jesus Christ. There is another, glorious side as well: Christ’s death was the greatest expression of God’s love—for us and for the whole world (see John 3:16). God sent his one and only Son to save us and give us eternal life. Jesus, the Son of God, gave up his heavenly glory and became human, just like us. And he went willingly to the cross, laying down his life as the sacrifice for our sin. Lord God, history unfolds at the command of your Word. And Christ’s death was the execution of your eternal plan of love. We thank you and praise your name! In Jesus, Amen.

It is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. — Ephesians 2:8-9 This passage helps us to under­stand some very important things about salvation. We are saved only by God’s grace to us in the finished work of Christ, not through any works of our own. And we receive this wonderful salvation through faith. Also, we are not saved because of faith, but through faith. Three truths can be highlighted about salvation: first, its cause: grace. Second, its instrument: faith. Third, its consequence: good works. We are saved by grace through faith in order to do good works. We are not saved by any work we do for God, but by the work Christ did for us on the cross and through his resurrection. And we do good works not to be accepted by God but because we are saved through grace. Good works are not the cause of salvation; they are the result of salvation. We have been saved to do good works that God has prepared for us to do. And the Spirit of God empowers us to do them. Grace, faith, and good works are like a tripod that illustrates our salvation. All three are accomplished by God himself, for grace, faith, and good works are God’s operations in us and for us. Compassionate Father, the greatness of our salvation in Christ is revealed in your grace to us, in your gift of faith to us, and in your good work through us in our everyday lives. Guide us to live faithfully for you, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Forgive as the Lord forgave you. — Colossians 3:13 In our reading for today we are reminded that because of Jesus, we are called to live into the full life he has made possible for us. And a crucial part of our daily living is this: “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Jesus told an important parable about this in Matthew 18. A king was settling accounts with his subjects, and he found that one owed him 10,000 talents. The man was unable to pay, so the king ordered that the man’s entire family be sold. But when the man asked for patience, the king forgave his huge debt. The forgiven man, however, was not so generous. He found someone who owed him 100 denarii but could not pay. The second man begged for mercy, but the forgiven man refused and threw him into a debtor’s prison. When the king heard about this, he became angry and handed the first man over to the jailers until he should paid off his debt. As we think about this parable, it can help to understand that 100 denarii was 100 days’ wages, and that one talent was about 20 years’ wages. So 10,000 talents was about 200,000 years’ wages! In this way Jesus was saying that our debt to God is unpayable for us—and yet God has forgiven it. Therefore we are called to forgive one another, just as God in Christ has forgiven us (see also Ephesians 4:17-32). Lord, you are gracious; your mercy has no end. Your forgiveness is greater than all my sins. Help us each day to share your love and grace by forgiving others. In Jesus, Amen.

All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ. . . . — 2 Corinthians 5:18 Because of sin, we human beings are in rebellion. We are at war with God, with ourselves, with our neighbors, and with God’s creation. By ourselves, we would never return to God. We cannot change our own heart. Without God, we don’t even realize that we are mired and stuck and lost in the misery of sin. Salvation is not a human initiative. God took the initiative to reconcile us to himself. God loves us so much that he sent his Son to save us. The innocent seeks the guilty. The agent of reconciliation is Jesus Christ. And now through Christ we can turn to God. Jesus is the one and only way to God. He is the door, the gateway, to salvation. He is the mediator who reconciles us to the Father. To reconcile us to himself, God did not keep our transgressions on our account. Instead, he laid them on Jesus Christ. On the cross the Son of God paid in full the debt that was against us and completely set us free. And God credited us with the perfect righteousness of Christ so that no condemnation can weigh on us any longer. What a great salvation you have accomplished for us, O God! Only the finished work of Christ could justify us. And you credited his righteousness to our account. Thank you, Father. In Jesus, Amen.

You were redeemed from the empty way of life . . . with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. — 1 Peter 1:18-19 Jesus’ death on the cross for us was the world’s greatest ransom mission. And this ransom was not paid to the devil, but to God himself. The Lord provided his own substitutionary sacrifice so that we could be delivered from our slavery to sin and its inevitable outcome: death. God redeemed us not by gold or silver (precious metals) or even by the most valuable currency. He redeemed us by the precious blood of Christ, the spotless and unblemished Lamb. The Son of God gave up every­thing to redeem us. He gave himself completely. And the gift of the Son as the spotless Lamb was not a last-minute decision. As the apostle Peter put it, “He was chosen from before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake.” Not all the gold on earth would be enough to redeem a single person. But God paid the highest price, the price of the blood of his only Son, Jesus Christ. Therefore, you are highly ­valued by God. He has invested everything to save you, that you may have full and abundant life with him forever. O God, only through the gift of Christ can I see my worth, for in his finished work your unconditional love for me is revealed. I praise you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture.” — John 10:9 Shepherds had to keep watch over their flocks constantly so that predators would not attack. At night they often rounded up their sheep and kept them in improvised sheepfolds. And if more than one shepherd was in the area, there would be more than one flock in the fold. The shepherds themselves were the gateway to the sheep. And the sheep knew their shepherd’s voice. So in the morning when they heard their shepherd call, the sheep followed. It is in this context that Jesus says he is the gate for the sheep. This metaphor suggests three truths. First, Jesus is the door to salvation: “Whoever enters through me will be saved.” There is no salvation outside of Jesus. He is the way to God, the door of salvation. No one can reach God by their works or even by their religiosity. Christ alone is the door! Second, Jesus is the door to freedom: “They will come in and go out. . . .” There are many doorways and roadways in life that lead to captivity and slavery. They are wide and spacious, but they lead to danger and misery. Jesus, however, is the door to freedom. Third, Jesus is the door to provision: “They will . . . find pasture.” Christ provides every­thing we need in order to flourish in abundance. He came so that we “may have life, and have it to the full”! Lord and Savior, thank you for the full, abundant life you give. All other pathways in life lead to slavery and death. Only you lead and guide us faithfully. We praise your name! Amen.

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” — John 10:11 Jesus is the good, the great, and the supreme shepherd of his sheep—and his sheep are all who believe in him. As the good shepherd, he gives his life for the sheep. As the great shepherd, he lives for the sheep. And as the supreme shepherd, he will return for the sheep. Jesus is unique. There is no other like him. What does his uniqueness consist of? It is that Jesus gave his life for his sheep. He died for his sheep. He shed his blood to redeem them. He poured out his soul in death so that his sheep could live forever. Jesus suffered cruel thirst so that his sheep could drink the water of life. He was made to be sin so that his sheep could be justified (made right with God). He was made to be a curse so that his sheep could be blessed. He endured God’s wrath so that his sheep could receive God’s grace. The good shepherd is also the great shepherd, who rose from the dead and lives for his sheep. He lives to intercede for them. He lives to reign over them. The good and great shepherd is also the supreme shepherd, who will come again, bringing the new heaven and earth, where there will be “no more death or mourning or crying or pain,” and he will live together with his sheep forever (Revelation 21:1-4). Lord God, you are the true and good shepherd. Nothing can snatch me out of your hand. Thank you for your faithful care. I praise you! In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” — 1 John 1:7 Sin is an undeniable reality. Its effects can be seen every day in our lives, in our families, and in society. Sin is the transgression of God’s law and the lack of conformity to that law. We sin against God in our words, thoughts, and actions—and even by not doing the good we should do. We sin because we are sinners. We were conceived and born in sin, and we live in sin. We cannot cleanse ourselves. Sin has affected our reason, emotion, and will. All areas of our lives have been tainted by sin. No religious ritual can cleanse us from sin. Sin separates us from God, setting up a barrier that we cannot cross. But Jesus Christ, the Son of God, has done for us what we cannot do. By his death we have life, and by his blood we have cleansing from all sin. No sin that we commit is too great for him to cover, or so bad that God cannot forgive it. In Jesus Christ, our Savior, we have redemption—abundant, full, and free! Lord, holy is your name. Sin does not dwell with you. Thank you for the full and free forgiveness that Jesus’ blood has purchased for me, allowing me to be close to you. In the Savior’s name, Amen.

“Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” — Revelation 21:9 In this vision that God gave to the apostle John, we are invited to take in the glory of “the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” The glorified church is the bride of Christ (see also Revelation 19:5-9; Ephesians 5:21-33). When John sees the bride, he sees in her the glory of God. All the splendors of God adorn her. She is glorious. The church is the ransomed people of God who were slaves to sin and now are set free. Christ loves the church. He gave himself for all God’s people and sanctified them through the gift of his life. Christ adorned the church to present it to himself as glorious, unblemished. His love for the church is everlasting. As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so Christ rejoices over the church, the bride of the Lamb, which is now being prepared, adorned, and sanctified to meet the bridegroom. That will be the glorious day of the Lord, when Christ will come with power and glory to live with his bride, the redeemed people of God. They will be gathered from the four corners of the earth. The church will join in the banquet of salvation. And the marriage of the Lamb will be celebrated in a feast that will never end! Father, your church is the bride of the Lamb, for whom Christ gave himself up. I need to love her more and criticize her less. Give me grace to con­tribute to the beauty of your bride. In Jesus, Amen.

“Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” — John 1:29 John the Baptist was the ­prophet whom God called to prepare the way for the Messiah. He explained that he was not the Messiah and was not even worthy to untie the straps of the Messiah’s sandals. The Messiah was greater than he, said John, because the Messiah would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire (see Luke 4:16). But of all John’s statements, this was the most direct: “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” All the Old Testament rituals pointed to the Messiah, the great deliverer who was to come—and now John identified Jesus as this promised Anointed One. Jesus was the spotless Lamb who would take away all our sin. God gave his own Son to die so that we can live, for there was no way for us to save ourselves. Jesus is the Lamb of God, provided by God, to be slain to fulfill the law of God himself for our sake. God laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was wounded and pierced for our transgressions (Isaiah 53:5-6). He bore the burden of our sins on the cross. He died for our sins. He paid the entire debt that we owed. And he reconciled us to God, giving us forgiveness and eternal life. Lord, thank you for helping us see and believe that we can be saved from sin and death—and that this is possible through Christ alone. We praise your name and give thanks in him. Amen.

“I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever!” — Revelation 1:18 The apostle John may well have been the last surviving apostle when he was exiled to the island of Patmos. He was sent there to live as a prisoner because he had been preaching “the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.” Though all the doors on earth were now closed to John, the Lord opened a door in heaven for him. John received a series of amazing visions of the glorified Christ, whose hair was “as white as snow” and whose face was “like the sun shining in all its brilliance.” Jesus’ eyes were “like blazing fire” and his feet were “like bronze glowing in a furnace.” His voice was “like the sound of rushing waters,” and out of his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword. The apostle fell at the Lord’s feet as though he was dead, but he heard, “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever!” The conquering Christ is the Lamb who was slain but rose again. He triumphed over death in his resurrection. The victorious Lamb sits on the throne of the universe and rules the heavens and the earth. God, just as your Word teaches us about Jesus’ suffering, it shows us his resounding victory that came through his resurrection. Christ is alive! Alleluia! In his name we pray. Amen.

He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth. . . . — Isaiah 53:7 The prophet Isaiah pointed to Jesus about 700 years before his birth, describing him as a suffering servant of God who was “led like a lamb to the slaughter, and . . . did not open his mouth.” The Son of God was “pierced for our transgressions” and “crushed for our iniquities.” And “by his wounds we are healed.” He was despised and mocked. He was led to crucifixion under the cursing of a bloodthirsty crowd, but he did not return cursing for cursing. Like a silent lamb, Jesus offered himself as a sacrifice for our sin. He endured the excruciating pain of being nailed to a cross and lifted up to die in view of all who passed by. Even though he suffered terrible torment, he scorned the shame of the cross for the joy that was set before him (Hebrews 12:2). Even though he was obedient to death, he endured the crushing blow of the law that we deserved. Even though he was the blessed one, he was made to be a curse for us by taking our place. He bore our sins and shed his blood to redeem us from captivity and certain death. His suffering brought us relief. His death brought us life. There, at the cross, Jesus opened for us the inexhaustible fountain of salvation! Lord God, your Son bore the sufferings that should have been mine. But at no time did he complain. He was moved by love to receive my punishment so that I might have peace. In him I give thanks. Amen.

[Christ] was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. — 1 Peter 1:20 Jesus is the holy Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. He came into the world to die for our sins. His death was not an accident; his mission was set in eternity. Although his death took place nearly 2,000 years ago on a cross outside Jerusalem, in the mind and plan of God it was set in motion from before the creation of the world. When God planned our salvation, there was no universe and no earth yet. The stars did not yet shine, nor did the sun give its light. Before creation, in the depths of eternity, God had already set his heart on you—and Jesus, the Son, was chosen to be slain in your place, on your behalf. The same is true for each one of us who believes. The cross of Christ was not a sign of defeat but of triumph. Jesus died not as a victim or martyr but as the Redeemer. And he died willingly. He gave himself for you and for me, and he was chosen for that mission from eternity. He glorified the Father in his death and won eternal redemption for us. Praise be to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Holy God, we are amazed that Jesus’ voluntary surrender was planned in eternity. You decided to love each one of us even before you created the world. We thank and bless you, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! — Romans 5:9 As we noted yesterday, when we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus at Eastertime, we may often hear about the Easter bunny and eggs and chocolate. Those old secular traditions have nothing to do with Jesus’ gift of new life for all who believe in him. But they can be distracting if we forget to focus on God’s amazing love shown to us through the death and rising of his Son, Jesus. Reflecting on the shed blood of Jesus may make us uncomfortable. Perhaps we would rather focus on nicer, sweeter things—like chocolate or some other treat—at this time of year. But the sacrifice of Christ is the only thing that could pay the debt of our sin and bring us peace with God. There is no redemption through chocolate. Our redemption from sin and death came through the shed blood of Jesus, the Lamb of God. As we saw earlier this month, when God delivered his people from slavery in Egypt, the sacrificed lamb of the Passover pointed ahead to the sacrifice of Jesus, God’s only Son. He became “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). By his death we have life. By his shed blood we are set free and cleansed from all sin! Lord God, you have freed us from sin through the blood of Christ shed on the cross for our sake. Through his death we can now enjoy full life in you. In his name we pray. Amen.

Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed. — 1 Corinthians 5:7 As we celebrated Jesus’ resur­rec­tion yesterday, we may have seen or heard references to the Easter bunny, Easter eggs, and chocolate. In ancient Europe, the Germanic goddess Eostre (Eastre in Old English) was celebrated during the spring equinox. Rabbits and eggs represented fertility and the revival of life in springtime. Since Jesus’ death and resurrection occurred at the same time of year, the church in Europe tried to replace that pagan tradition with the worship of Christ and the celebration of new life in him. They even used the name “Easter” to try to Christianize the springtime holiday. But that hasn’t worked very well, has it? The celebration of Christ’s victory over death has nothing to do with rabbits, eggs, or chocolate. Sadly, all of that can distract us from reflecting on the gift of life we have through the death and resurrection of Jesus. But in Christ we can remember another ancient tradition—Passover, with its sacrificed lamb and celebration of deliverance from slavery. That pointed to the gift of Jesus, who came to free us from the slavery of sin. So let’s focus on the Lamb of God, Jesus—our Savior and the giver of full life—which is far greater than the seasonal refreshing of life in spring. This doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate with feasting or a bit of chocolate, but let’s be sure to worship the one true God who loves us and sent his Son to save the whole world! Lord, guide us to remember and celebrate all that you have done for us in Christ. Amen.

God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. — Romans 5:8 Today we celebrate the proof of God’s love for us. Jesus has risen, victorious over death! He laid down his own life for us so that our debt of sin would be paid, and because he rose from the dead, we can have new life with him forever. Through the Spirit of God our new life begins now—and even though we may die physically before Jesus comes again, we are promised that our bodies too will rise when he comes to usher in the new heaven and earth! Alleluia! Praise the Lord God! God’s love for each one of us is eternal, unchanging, and unconditional. “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). God proves his love for us by the fact that “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us,” and “while we were God’s enemies, we were ­reconciled to him through the death of his Son.” We have salvation not because of our love for God, but because God loves us and sent his Son to pay for our sins and to give us new, eternal life. Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave to reveal God’s love for us. The finished work of Jesus is all the proof we need that God cares for us all. The God of love is determined to save us! Heavenly Father, thank you for your amazing love. Move us, who were once your enemies, to love you and serve you today and always, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. — John 19:30 Before he died on the cross, Jesus uttered a cry of triumph, saying “It is finished.” The Greek word here—tetélestai—had three meanings that point out Jesus’ finished work for us. First, it was used for the completion of a task. When a son finished his work on a project, he would say to his father, “Tetélestai,” meaning, “The work entrusted to me is finished.” Second, it was used to pay off a debt. When a person paid off a debt with the legal authorities, the document was stamped “Tetélestai,” meaning, “The debt has been paid.” Third, this word was used to declare a person’s definite possession of a deed. When someone bought a piece of property and paid for it in full, they received the deed with the inscription “Tetélestai,” meaning, “You have the right of possession.” When Jesus gave up his life for us on the cross, he completed the work the Father had entrusted to him so that we could be saved from sin and death. And on the cross he paid our debt in full, opening the way to eternal life for us. We have forgiveness and salvation. Because of Christ’s finished work, we have received the right to take possession of eternal life. Jesus’ sacrifice was fully sufficient to offer us eternal redemption and full life forever! Father, you have forgiven me a debt that I could never repay. May the certainty of your forgiving love create in me a forgiving heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, for the sun stopped shining. — Luke 23:44-45 When Jesus was born, there was a bright light at night (Luke 2:8-14). When Jesus died, there was darkness at noon. Even the sun hid its face from the terrible suffering of the Son of God. Jesus’ suffering was not only physical but, more deeply, spiritual. Even though his pain was indescribable, from the flogging and torture he endured to the excruciating agony of crucifixion, Jesus’ greatest suffering was that he was separated from the Father and subjected to the torments of hell. Jesus became a curse for us. Our transgressions lay fully on him. The ugliness of our sin covered him with shame and pain. The crushing weight of our iniquities was cast on him. Because he was made to be sin for us (2 Corinthians 5:21), the law demanded his death, for the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). In the darkness of that day, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, and Jesus opened for us “a new and living way” to God (Hebrews 10:20). Through his death we are reconnected with God. On the cross, Jesus opened for us the door to heaven! Father, the darkness that inhabited my heart has been dispelled by your light. The glory of your majesty has filled my soul with the presence of Jesus. In him I give thanks! Amen.

Being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground. — Luke 22:44 Praying in anguish, Jesus asked his Father to take away the suffering that he would soon be facing on the cross for our sake. Jesus prayed so earnestly that his sweat fell like drops of blood to the ground. And as he raised his tearful cry to heaven, Jesus’ disciples fell asleep. Yet he said to the Father, “Not my will, but yours be done.” On that dreadful night, the religious leaders were plotting against Jesus as he prayed in Gethsemane. Led by Judas Iscariot, the temple soldiers marched into the garden to ­arrest Jesus forcefully. But Jesus, now ready to lay down his life for us, proceeded ­willingly. Jesus knew that on the cross he would take our place, carry the weight of all our sins, and take on the curse that we all deserve so that he could rescue us from sin and death. Jesus went to the cross not because Judas betrayed him out of greed (Luke 22:1-6), nor because the religious rulers handed him over out of envy, nor even because the Roman governor Pilate sentenced him out of cowardice (Luke 23:1-25; John 11:45-53; 19:1-16). Jesus went to the cross out of love! Blessed Lord and Savior, we know that what moved you to face the cross for our sake was your eternal love alone. May this love fill our hearts today and move us to serve you faithfully. Amen.

“God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” — Genesis 22:8 Abraham had already passed through several tests of his faith in God. God had called Abraham to move to another land, and he did (Genesis 12:1-7). God had promised to give Abraham an heir, and he believed (15:4-6). God had said that all the males in Abraham’s household were to be circumcised to be part of God’s covenant with him and his descendants, so Abraham did that too (17:9-27). But now Abraham faced the hardest test of all. After receiving his son Isaac and seeing him grow in fulfillment of God’s promises, Abraham was told by God to offer Isaac as a sacrifice. So, trusting that God could even raise the dead and keep his promises (see Hebrews 11:19), Abraham responded in obedience. Abra­ham loved Isaac, but he loved God more. And God had kept all his promises. So Abraham trusted God. Isaac said, “The fire and wood are here, but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?” And Abraham said, “God himself will provide the lamb, my son.” Abraham then prepared the altar and got ready to offer his son there. But God did not want Isaac sacrificed; God wanted Abraham’s love. In this gripping test of faith, God was pointing ahead to show that Jesus, his only Son, would become a sacrifice for us. For Isaac there was a substitute lamb, and Jesus became the Lamb of God for us. God “did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all” (Romans 8:32). Lord God, thank you for giving up your only Son to die in my place. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“When the Lord goes through the land . . . he will see the blood . . . and will pass over that doorway, and he will not permit the destroyer to enter. . . .” — Exodus 12:23 The firstborn sons of Israel were spared from death on Passover night. But this was not because they were better than the children of the Egyptians. The Israelites were no less sinful or depraved than the Egyptians. The Israelite firstborn were spared only because of the blood of the lamb. When the Lord passed through Egypt and saw the blood on the doorframes of Israelites’ houses, he passed over those houses and did not allow the destroyer (death) to enter there. It was not enough for the lamb to die. It was also necessary that the lamb’s blood be applied to the doorframe as a sign of God’s protection. Likewise, it is not enough to know that Jesus Christ died on the cross. It is necessary to receive, by faith, the benefits of his death. Christ died for our sins and rose again for our justification. Now we must receive him as our personal Savior. He is our Passover Lamb! Lord, we are saved not because of who we are or what we have done, but because of your grace through the blood of Jesus. Guide us to receive and trust in him as the one and only Savior. Thank you for your saving grace! Amen.