The Upper Room daily devotional

To Show the World

27 May 2012

SoulFeast is The Upper Room’s spiritual formation event for children, youth, and adults who seek deepening spirituality across a spectrum of experiences that nourish the soul. Learn more.

Read John 17:20-26

Jesus said, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, . . . and to the ends of the earth.”

- Acts 1:8 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

Jesus was a traveling rabbi. When he called persons to follow him, they had to leave their life as it was and go God-only-knew-where. How hard it must have been for the disciples to leave their families, their work, the life they knew, to follow Jesus whose only road map was the voice of God! And in the end, Jesus was moving without them: “Where I am going, you cannot come,” he says (John 13:33). “I am going . . . to prepare a place for you. . . that you also may be where I am” (John 14:2-3).

What good news does John want the church to hear in Jesus’ message? First, assurance that the Holy Spirit will be with them. Jesus tells his disciples, “It is to your advantage that I go away, for if I . . . go, I will send [the Advocate] to you” (John 16:7, NRSV). On Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came so that the church could be Jesus’ presence in his absence.

Second, Jesus prays that his disciples will be unified. He prays that they will show the world what sacrificial love can do. Jesus prays that they and we will be faithful to the way, truth, and life that he has demonstrated. Jesus prays that as he and the Father are one, so we all would be bound together in Christian love, no matter where the Holy Spirit leads us.

Mike Ripski (Tennessee, USA)

Thought for the Day: When we have to move, let’s move with God.

Prayer: Dear God, give us the courage to follow you. Thank you for our companions along the way. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those whose jobs require frequent moves

The scripture quotation, unless otherwise indicated, is from the NEW REVISED STANDARD VERSION of the Bible, copyright © 1989, by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the U.S.A. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Real Giving

26 May 2012

SoulFeast is The Upper Room’s spiritual formation event for children, youth, and adults who seek deepening spirituality across a spectrum of experiences that nourish the soul. Learn more.

Read Mark 12:41-44

She gave all she had to live on.

- Mark 12:44 (TEV)

Today's Devotional

I was part of a medical team working in Haiti at the time of the earthquake in January 2010. During my time there, I learned about real giving. One day my son and I were playing soccer with Haitian children. During a break, we handed out some caramels. One of the boys bit his caramel in half and offered one half to me. I was on my way to eat more than this boy would get in several days, yet he offered me half of what he had.

Our team continued operating the medical clinic after the earthquake, but it wasn’t clear how or when we were going home. We decided that we should begin conserving our food as well as our fuel for the generators. One of our interpreters said he would bring us food from his home if we needed any. He and his five children live in a house smaller than most of our living rooms, and we had more food in our kitchen than his family would eat in two months. His ability to provide food for his own family would soon be in question. Yet he offered us a gift beyond measure. He knew about real giving.

God calls us to be generous stewards of all our gifts. How well are we doing with that?

Bruce Blumer (South Dakota, USA)

Thought for the Day: Go to umcor.org to learn about relief efforts in Haiti.

Prayer: O God, move us to give all we can — in serving you and in sharing our resources. Amen.

Prayer Focus: The people of haiti

Starting the Day

25 May 2012

SoulFeast is The Upper Room’s spiritual formation event for children, youth, and adults who seek deepening spirituality across a spectrum of experiences that nourish the soul. Learn more.

Read Psalm 150:1-6

It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night.

- Psalm 92:1-2 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Some time ago while staying in a mission guesthouse in Ethiopia, my husband and I woke one morning to the sound of five or six voices singing a hymn. What a delightful start for our day! The sound came from a large room close to ours; and not long afterwards, when I met the family at breakfast, I told them how much we had appreciated their singing.

“We always like to begin the day that way,” the mother explained.

I thought about her words as we traveled home to our own mission station; and soon afterwards, my husband and I decided to start our day with a praise song too. We used a large hymnbook that friends had given us at the start of our mission assignment. We have sung a morning hymn together ever since. Doing so lifts our thoughts to God before we go on to read the Bible and to pray.

I’m glad that, quite unintentionally, a family introduced us to this simple yet uplifting start for each day. What can you do to begin your days with a sense of God’s presence and love?

Elaine Brown (Perthshire, Scotland)

Thought for the Day: Any time of day is a good time to praise God.

Prayer: Dear Lord, when we think of all you have done and will yet do for us, we are filled with the joy of praising you. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Christian musicians

Vegetables and Fruit

24 May 2012

SoulFeast is The Upper Room’s spiritual formation event for children, youth, and adults who seek deepening spirituality across a spectrum of experiences that nourish the soul. Learn more.

Read Luke 13:6-9

“Sir,” the man replied, “leave [the tree] alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it.”

- Luke 13:8 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

I remember when I was given some exceptional homegrown vegetables. While thanking the people involved, I asked what made the vegetables so good. They told me that the growing temperature had been just right and rain had come at just the right time. Much of what led to their exceptional crop did not depend on them.

Unlike that vegetable crop, much of what influences our spiritual life does depend on us. We determine our attitude, our disciplines, and our willingness to grow. So I check myself from time to time. I look at my attitudes: Do I trust God? Am I seeking to stay in love with God? I look at my spiritual practices: praying, reading the Bible, attending worship, receiving Communion, doing all the good I can, avoiding all the evil I can. Do I seek out spiritual counsel? I look at my willingness to grow: Do I desire God above all things?

I want to bear exceptional fruit in God’s kingdom, but I know that means I cannot simply depend on what comes to me. I have my part to do.

Bradford Reeves (Texas, USA)

Thought for the Day: We are partners with God in the fruit-bearing business.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to feed our souls by taking advantage of the means of grace you provide. We want to bear good fruit. Make us like Jesus, who taught us to pray, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”* Amen. *Matthew 6:9-13 (NIV).

Prayer Focus: Those struggling to grow in God’s grace

Know Regrets

23 May 2012

SoulFeast is The Upper Room’s spiritual formation event for children, youth, and adults who seek deepening spirituality across a spectrum of experiences that nourish the soul. Learn more.

Read Philippians 3:7-15

If we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

- 1 John 1:9 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

A great man and religious leader whom I admired often said that he had lived his entire life with no regrets. However, as I reflect on my choices, I have many regrets that trouble me. I have spent countless hours reflecting on words I said, decisions I made, or actions I took that I wish I could “un-do.”

John wrote, “If we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” I realize that not all of the actions I regret are necessarily sins; rather, some are unwise choices or errors in judgment. For example, I once decided to take a job many miles from my home and family, a job that kept me from participating in the joy of birthdays and many other parts of family life. For both sins and errors, God’s message is the same: It does no good to look back and wonder "what if . . ." or "if only I . . . ."

I have learned that to lead a good life — a God-centered life — it is not important to have no regrets. When I reflect on the past but keep my eyes on the future, I can see some value even in the things I regret. Our experiences, especially the mistakes we have made, can serve to make us stronger and wiser.

Jack Cameron (North Carolina, USA)

Thought for the Day: We can leave past actions and regrets in the loving hands of God.

Prayer: Dear Lord God, help us to rest in your loving arms and know that your love for us is bigger than all our regrets. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those working far from family

The Way Out

22 May 2012

SoulFeast is The Upper Room’s spiritual formation event for children, youth, and adults who seek deepening spirituality across a spectrum of experiences that nourish the soul. Learn more.

Read Luke 24:13-32

While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him.

- Luke 24:15-16 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Our family was enjoying a vacation at a theme park. Suddenly my wife and I noticed that our small son was missing. Greatly alarmed, we began searching for him. Someone told us to check the maze created by a series of hedges. We climbed a platform that allowed us to see its entire layout. With great relief and joy, we saw our son — lost within the maze and frightened. From our vantage point we could see him, but our son’s focus was on finding the way out. He was so afraid that he couldn’t recognize us or even see us. But soon we were together again, and we could comfort him.

This experience brought to mind the Bible passage that tells how after his resurrection, Jesus walked with two of the disciples who failed to recognize him. They heard his voice and saw his face, yet their vision was clouded and they failed to discern who he was.

Sometimes we find ourselves in similar circumstances. Faced with challenges, we become disillusioned and uncertain. Then Christ appears, offering guidance and hope to us. Even in the depths of our distress, Christ continues to walk by our side, hold our hand, and guide us until we find the way out.

Luis Alberto Jones (Chubut, Argentina)

Thought for the Day: When we feel lost, God is present to guide us.

Prayer: Loving God, draw near to us when we become disoriented. Show us the path you want us to take. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Parents and families of missing children

Remembering God’s Promises

21 May 2012

SoulFeast is The Upper Room’s spiritual formation event for children, youth, and adults who seek deepening spirituality across a spectrum of experiences that nourish the soul. Learn more.

Read Psalm 145:8-19

The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.

- Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

In Bible study the leader handed me three sheets of Bible verses with instructions to memorize one verse every month. As I read them, one verse especially comforted me: Zephaniah 3:17. A few days before the class met, my doctor had informed me that I had a meningioma, a tumor in the membrane covering my brain. The doctor also told me I would need surgery. The verse from Zephaniah quoted above reminded me of God’s power and love in the midst of my anxiety.

I repeated the verse as a machine took pictures of my brain. I remembered its words when I was hospitalized and whenever I lay awake in the night. Each time, God “quieted me with his love.” During my long recovery, I remembered the words “God is with you.”

God’s word from the prophet Zephaniah encouraged me at a difficult time. I was able to think about God and God’s love and goodness instead of worrying about circumstances I could not change.

Memorizing scripture allows us to take it with us everywhere we go so that whatever circumstances arise, we can find strength and encouragement from God who delights in us.

Yvonne E. Albright (Michigan, USA)

Thought for the Day: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (Col. 3:16).

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your holy messages in scripture. Help us to remember your promises to us. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those undergoing surgery

Beyond Hope

20 May 2012

SoulFeast is The Upper Room’s spiritual formation event for children, youth, and adults who seek deepening spirituality across a spectrum of experiences that nourish the soul. Learn more.

Read Lamentations 3:19-26

The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.

- Lamentations 3:25-26 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

A hundred miles south of our home is a tiny desert town called Hope. Those who drive through Hope in winter see hundreds of recreational vehicles. For four months of the year, the town becomes home to visitors escaping the cold. Those who drive through town in summer see a main street that is mostly boarded up. But winter or summer, the last thing visitors see as they drive out of town is a sign proclaiming, “You’re now out of Hope.”

I would not like to be told on a daily basis that I am beyond hope or that all hope is behind me. On some days, I feel that my life could hardly be worse; but with God, I can always have hope.

The writer of Lamentations was in a desperate place, feeling broken, besieged, and surrounded by hardship with no way of escape. Forsaken and helpless, in the middle of the lament in chapter three the prophet does an about-face and declares a message of hope, choosing to focus on the One whose love gives us hope. Our hope today has the same basis: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning” (Lam. 3:22-23).

Joy P. Gage (Arizona, USA)

Thought for the Day: Those who lean on God’s love always have reason for hope.

Prayer: O God, even when we feel desperate, help us to find hope in your great love and never-failing compassion. Amen.

Prayer Focus: To choose hope

The Missing Piece

19 May 2012

SoulFeast is The Upper Room’s spiritual formation event for children, youth, and adults who seek deepening spirituality across a spectrum of experiences that nourish the soul. Learn more.

Read 1 Corinthians 13

Love never fails.

- 1 Corinthians 13:8 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

I enjoy assembling furniture that comes in “flat packs.” All the pieces are delivered in a flat box; and by reading the instructions carefully, I can build the furniture. On one occasion, the chairs I intended to make seemed fairly easy. I read the instructions carefully and laid out the components in the correct order. After a few false starts, I had three of the chairs assembled and ready for use. But I had a problem with the fourth chair. One of the smallest screws was missing from the pack. I searched everywhere but couldn’t find it. Without it, the chair couldn’t be completed and would not be safe to use. I phoned the help line, and soon the needed screw was dispatched to me. When it arrived, I completed the assembly and the chair was ready for use. One tiny piece made all the difference.

My experience with the chairs reminded me of our serving God. Whatever gifts we have, however strong our faith or generous our giving, none of these counts without the presence of a loving spirit. Out of love, Jesus went to the cross, and Love raised him from the grave. Love is the essential ingredient.

Carol Purves (Cumbria, England)

Thought for the Day: “Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony” (Col. 3:14, NRSV).

Prayer: O God, help us to serve our neighbors in love. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Builders

Salvation’s Way

18 May 2012

SoulFeast is The Upper Room’s spiritual formation event for children, youth, and adults who seek deepening spirituality across a spectrum of experiences that nourish the soul. Learn more.

Read John 3:16-21

Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

- John 14:6 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

My daughter was playing in a softball tournament out of town. Unsure of how to get there, I e-mailed several team parents asking for directions. Within a few hours, I received several replies. I expected all the directions to be the same, but each person had mapped out a different route to the ballpark. Each claimed to be sending advice about the best and fastest way to get there, but after reading them I was more confused than before.

In contrast to the directions I received, the way to relationship with God is not at all confusing. Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” To develop an eternal relationship with God, we follow Jesus. That seems simple.

However, our journey to a deep relationship with God is not easy. This journey calls us to focus on the path set before us and to seek direction from God through daily prayer, Bible study, worship, and Christian fellowship. Following God’s direction can be challenging. But by fixing our eyes on Jesus Christ, accepting him as our Lord and Savior, and choosing to follow his path of love and obedience, we will reach our final destination.

Denise Lewis (Florida, USA)

Thought for the Day: What helps me to find direction from God?

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for salvation and eternal relationship with you. Guide us to focus on your word and to obey your will. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Travelers

Untethered

17 May 2012

SoulFeast is The Upper Room’s spiritual formation event for children, youth, and adults who seek deepening spirituality across a spectrum of experiences that nourish the soul. Learn more.

Read 1 Corinthians 15:50-57

Peter wrote, “I know that I will soon put [this body] aside, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me.”

- 2 Peter 1:14 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

Recently my mother died in the critical care unit of our local hospital after struggling tenaciously for several weeks to hold on to life. While I prayed and read the Bible to her, she suffered what seemed a massive stroke that shook her body as a violent storm can shake a tent. A few seconds later, her body relaxed in peace. It was as if someone removed the main pole of a tent and allowed it to slowly billow to the ground.

A few minutes later the medical staff removed the tubes and wires that tethered my mother to earthly existence. Her life here on earth was over. But her soul was freed from the grip of pain and suffering.

I realized that the body is only a “tent” which will be loosed from the earth and put off as our day clothes are when night comes. Like my mother, we who know Christ have hope for eternal life where the storms of this life can no longer batter and shake our earthly tent. This is an indescribable gift.

John Warrener (Georgia, USA)

Thought for the Day: Death is our passage to eternal life and peace.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the promise of eternal life in your loving presence. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those with a seriously ill parent

Labels and Categories

16 May 2012

SoulFeast is The Upper Room’s spiritual formation event for children, youth, and adults who seek deepening spirituality across a spectrum of experiences that nourish the soul. Learn more..

Read James 1:19-27

Be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves.

- James 1:22 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

A foul mood is spreading across our society and the world these days. Dialogue seems to have been replaced by name-calling that is little related to truth. Broadcasters fill the air with divisive labels designed to wound. Sometimes we see the same malice in the arena of faith and religion. This kind of talk reduces difficult issues to slogans and stops us from seeing others as worthwhile individuals. However, each of us has the choice and ability to move beyond labels and categories.

What changed for me is meeting people who are different from me. I discovered that they have hopes and dreams like mine. My study of scripture revealed that all people are of sacred worth. I learned that labels and categories can be used to lie and hide the truth, to injure and wound, to create fear and manipulate people. Words that make us suspicious of anyone who is different can make people into adversaries and enemies.

We read in Hebrews 13:1-2, “Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.” This counsel allows no exceptions. Any label or category that diminishes the worth of another person also diminishes us. As believers in Christ, we are called to honor every individual we meet as a person of sacred worth — nothing less.

F. Richard Garland (New Hampshire, USA)

Thought for the Day: What labels limit my seeing and honoring people as God’s beloved children?

Prayer: O God, help us to love and respect one another as your children. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Political adversaries

Outstretched Hand

15 May 2012

SoulFeast is The Upper Room’s spiritual formation event for children, youth, and adults who seek deepening spirituality across a spectrum of experiences that nourish the soul. Learn more..

Read Romans 7:5-25

[The Lord] drew me up from the desolate pit, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure.

- Psalm 40:2 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

At the age of nine, I was running in my grandmother’s backyard and fell into an open garbage pit that had filled with water during a heavy rain. Somehow I managed to stretch my hand out. A person witnessing the incident grabbed my outstretched hand and rescued me. As soon as I was out of the pit, covered with putrid garbage, people washed me and then provided medical care.

This incident reminds me of our human condition. Every day people fall into the pit of sin, and every day we also know that the hand of Christ is there to rescue us. Christ is waiting for us to stretch out our hand so he can save us, so he can wash our sins away.

In the gospel story about Peter walking on the water, when Peter began to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and saved him. Once I was heading to spiritual death in the deep and dirty pit of sin. Then Christ saved me. Alone I couldn’t free myself from my dark and fatal situation, but by faith I reached out to take the hand of the Savior.

Charlotte Mande Kasongo-Lenge (South Africa) — See. p. 21.

Thought for the Day: Sin is like putrid garbage clinging to us, but God is always at hand to cleanse us and give new life.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for reaching out to us and rescuing us from sin and its consequences. Amen.

Prayer Focus: New Christians

Forgiven and Clean

14 May 2012

SoulFeast is The Upper Room’s spiritual formation event for children, youth, and adults who seek deepening spirituality across a spectrum of experiences that nourish the soul. Learn more..

Read Psalm 103:7-18

As far as the east is from the west, so far has [the Lord] removed our transgressions from us.

- Psalm 103:12 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

The sign above the 24-hour laundry/dry cleaning storefront reads, “Decent Cleaners.” This unusual name catches my attention each time I see it. Just what is the difference between decent and exceptional, decent and excellent, or decent and extraordinary? Why would I want my clothes to be laundered just “decently”? Why shouldn’t they be extraordinarily clean or exceptionally clean? Who is satisfied with merely decent? Am I asking too much if I desire excellence?

In a spiritual sense, what level of clean can God accomplish? Psalm 51:7 says, “Wash me and I will be whiter than snow.” I think of “whiter than snow” as exceptionally white, clean from top to bottom. For clothes, it means they are clean inside and out, pockets and cuffs, hidden linings and front lapels. The Bible tells us that every sin can be forgiven, that every spot on the heart can be removed, and that no guilt can leave a permanent stain on our soul.

Our own attempts to wash away our shame or cover our sin cannot succeed. But the forgiveness God offers is exceptional, excellent, extraordinary, and thorough. I need to be cleaned of the guilt and released from the power of sin, and only God can do that. Each of us can confess our failures to God in prayer and be cleansed and forgiven.

Sharon Braner (Oklahoma, USA)

Thought for the Day: Only God can wash away the stain of sin.

Prayer: Dear God, when we try and fail to live sinless lives, remind us that you can and will completely forgive all our sins. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those working with toxic chemicals

A Legacy

13 May 2012

Happy Mother's Day to all mothers everywhere. May you experience great joy and love today. It's not too late to give a gift in honor or memory of your mother and others who have nurtured you and shared their faith.

Read Proverbs 31:10-31

Paul wrote, “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.”

- 2 Timothy 1:5 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

I pulled out my sewing machine and sewing supplies, brushing off 30 years’ dust. With two granddaughters, I wanted to sew again for the first time in a long time. Pinning, cutting, and stitching, it was as if my hands remembered the long-dormant skills. But as I smoothed the fabric, I saw my grandmother’s hands. When did my hands grow to look like hers? I remember her hands sewing pearls onto my bridal veil, deftly kneading bread dough, sprinkling sugar and cinnamon on the best toast I’ve ever eaten. I remember her hands folded gracefully when I said my last good-bye to her long ago.

I also remember her hands lifted in prayer. As a four-year-old, I sat by her side in her little church and saw her hands lifted toward heaven, her eyes closed, her lips moving as she talked to God. Watching her, I had no doubt that God was real and that God listened.

What a wonderful legacy she gave me! As I sew, I am sewing love into each stitch; I pray that I may also fashion for my granddaughters memories of my hands helping, loving, and praying.

Carol A. Lowe (Texas, USA)

Thought for the Day: How can my actions today help others to see Christ?

Prayer: Dear Lord, help each of us to build a legacy of faith by the way we live every day. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Grandparents and grandchildren

Thirst Quencher

12 May 2012

The greatest gift a mother can share is her faith. We give thanks for our mother's witness, guidance, and unconditional love. Consider giving a gift in honor or memory of your mother and others who have nurtured you and shared their faith.

Read John 7:37-39

Jesus said, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me, and . . . drink.”

- John 7:37-38 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Years ago, I visited Ooty, a hill station in South India. The bus stopped for a while at a hairpin bend because the engine was overheated. The arduous journey had made us thirsty and hungry.

As I got off the bus and looked around, I saw water trickling from a crack in a big rock. It trickled into a bamboo pipe and collected in a wooden drum. I drank the cool, sweet water and quenched my thirst. The water was so satisfying that I decided not to eat anything that night but just fill my belly with the water that to me was as sweet as “honey from the rock” (Ps. 81:16, NIV, NRSV).

This incident reminded me of the living water that Jesus offers us. As we travel through life, we come across many hurdles and difficulties. We may be tempted to try to satisfy our spiritual thirst in many ways. But only a close relationship with God offers real, lasting satisfaction. Only God’s living water can quench our soul’s thirst.

B. Vincent Roop Singh (Bangalore, India)

Thought for the Day: Go to www.upperroom.org to find a link to groups working to provide clean water to families that need it.

Prayer: Dear God, the world is thirsty for you. Thank you for sending Jesus to quench our thirst. May all those who are weary come to you for living water. We pray in gratitude, saying, “Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. Give us day by day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.”* Amen. *Luke 11:2-4 (KJV).

Prayer Focus: Those without access to clean water

Come and Get It!

11 May 2012

The greatest gift a Mother can share is her faith. We give thanks for our mother's witness, guidance, and unconditional love. Consider giving a gift in honor or memory of your mother and others who have nurtured you and shared their faith.

Read 2 Corinthians 2:14-17

Thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads in every place the fragrance that comes from knowing him.

- 2 Corinthians 2:14 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

We like to grill our food outside on the barbecue. We experiment with different ways of cooking: over an open flame, sometimes basting the meat with sweet teriyaki sauce, sometimes flavoring it with a zesty herb rub, and sometimes slowly smoking the food using hickory and apple-wood chips. Regardless of the method, we soon begin to smell the smoke and aroma in our backyard and beyond. When our guests arrive, they exclaim, “What’s that wonderful smell? Is that our dinner? We could smell it as soon as we got to your house!” It’s an unmistakable fragrance. And we are thrilled when they ask us after dinner, “Can we have the recipe? We’d like to make this for ourselves.”

Like our guests being drawn by the aroma of the barbecue, people are drawn to God by the message of love. Our actions are meant to spread the good news of this love everywhere.

Louise Anderson (California, USA)

Thought for the Day: What do my neighbors know about God’s love because of knowing me?

Prayer: Loving God, give us the knowledge, wisdom, and courage to be your arms and legs here on earth as we spread the good news of your love for each of us. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Evangelists

Say Thank You

10 May 2012

Watch Robin Roberts and her mother, Lucimarian Roberts, on ABC's Good Morning America today. The Roberts will be talking about their new book, My Story, My Song: Mother/Daughter Reflections on Life and Faith, published by Upper Room Books. Read or hear an excerpt from this book that celebrates one mother's faith journey.

Read Luke 17:11-19

[One of the ten lepers} threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him.

- Luke 17:16 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

One evening recently I took my mother to the hospital emergency room because she had a severe headache and her blood pressure was extremely high. A doctor examined her, reviewed her information, and prescribed medication to lower her blood pressure. After the nurse administered the medication, my mother’s condition improved. When the doctor returned to check on her and to release her from the hospital, my mother said, “I want to thank you for helping me tonight.”

The doctor replied, “That’s a first, and I appreciate it. Most people say, ‘When can I get out of here?’”

This event reminded me of the story of the ten lepers. Jesus told them to show themselves to the priests and they would be healed. All ten were healed, but only one returned to thank Jesus and to glorify God.

Too often, we take our blessings for granted. We’re too busy or we don’t care enough to thank God or to thank others for all they do for us. Psalm 92:1 says, “It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord” (kjv). I am grateful for the example my mother set. I want to be more like her and like the leper who was genuinely thankful and took the time to thank Jesus for healing him.

Janice Weatherly Williams (Georgia, USA)

Thought for the Day: Take time daily to say thank you to God and to people who help you.

Prayer: Thank you, God, for always taking care of us and for giving us all that’s good in our lives. (See James 1:17.) Amen.

Prayer Focus: Emergency-room staff

The Whole Person

9 May 2012

Consider giving a gift in honor or memory of your mother and others who have nurtured you and shared their faith. Your donation will help others experience God's love through Upper Room publications and program ministries.

Read Psalm 8

[Mortals] look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.

- 1 Samuel 16:7 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

When I was a teenager, I started falling in love; but I worried, Would a guy accept a disabled person like me? I kept praying and hoping for someone who would love me as I am, even as I passed my 30s and my 40s with no sign of a man who would accept me. My wish for a kindhearted prince who would sweep me off my feet was just a dream.

I’m afraid of living alone for the rest of my life. I wonder, Doesn’t God want me to marry while the feelings inside me are still burning? I’ve tried to be social and to be confident, thinking that I am the same as other people. Finally, I’ve come to understand and accept that human beings see and judge others by their appearance and often do not look to see the whole person.

To human eyes I may be nothing, but God has created me valuable and unique. I am precious in God’s eyes (Isa. 43:4). By realizing this, I feel happy doing my daily activities and having faith in God’s promise that one day everything will be made beautiful (Eccl. 3:11). Now I am sure whether I get married or not that I will always serve and honor God in everything I do.

Lautan Asima Basaria Siregar (Indonesia)

Thought for the Day: Whatever our condition, God loves us.

Prayer: Though to human eyes we may be of little worth, we know, Lord, that in your eyes we are infinitely valuable. Thank you for creating us and blessing us. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those who are disabled

Perspective

8 May 2012

Read Romans 8:15-31

I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed to us.

- Romans 8:18 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

My great grandpa’s wrinkles deepen when he chuckles. His blue eyes reflect a schoolboy’s mischievous sense of humor. Nearly 100 years of living, through personal tragedies and historic disasters, has shaped my great-grandpa’s perspective.

He listens to my frustrations with an occasional nod. Great-grandpa’s response reflects gentleness that often comes with age. “Well . . .” signals his turn to talk. He pauses to complete his thought before putting it to words. My worries for the day will be fleeting thoughts, he assures me. He’s not minimizing my concerns; he just has a different perspective. His wisdom and peace of mind come from having always found God faithful.

Our Creator’s perspective goes back much farther than Great-grandpa’s. It didn’t start in 1913; God’s perspective has always existed; it’s eternal. God doesn’t minimize our struggles but sees them in light of eternity. God doesn’t minimize our pain but sees it in light of eternal glory. When we cannot understand why God isn’t working as we ask, scripture encourages us to trust.

Jodi Schumm (Ohio, USA)

Thought for the Day: When we trust God’s perspective we can experience God’s peace.

Prayer: Thank you, Father, that you are not limited to the human perspective on time. Remind us of your wisdom and love, and deepen our trust in you. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Our spiritual mentors

Deferred Hope?

7 May 2012

Read Psalm 146:5-10

Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.

- Proverbs 13:12 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

My heart should have been racing with anticipation, but instead I had been consumed by anxiety as I sat awaiting a sonogram. Fear had filled me during this second pregnancy. Just nine months earlier, a sonogram had shown that the 13-week-old fetus in my first pregnancy had no heartbeat.

My husband and I are Christians, but our earlier loss reinforced the truth that faith does not guarantee a desired outcome. We hadn’t been able to bring ourselves to buy what we’d need for the baby, discuss names, or even tell people we were expecting. When this sonogram showed the heartbeat of our second fetus to be strong, we expected to feel relief. Instead it somehow made us feel we had even more to lose. Eventually I gave birth to a healthy baby boy, but I missed out on the joy of pregnancy and on the peace that only God can provide.

The problem with deferring hope until a situation stabilizes is that many situations never will. Hope in anything except God makes our hope depend on circumstances. But basing our hope in God means we can find joy in situations where it seems joy should not exist.

Kristen Escovedo (Texas, USA)

Thought for the Day: Christian hope is based in God, not in circumstance or emotion.

Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, teach us to hope regardless of our situation. May our hope be contagious, and may we always remember that true hope is found only in you. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Families facing problem pregnancies

The Power of Humility

6 May 2012

Read John 13:1-20

Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he . . . was going to God, got up from the table, took off his outer robe, and tied a towel around himself.

- John 13:3-4 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

The description of the Last Supper can move us deeply. Yet beyond the ritual of foot washing, something tremendous is being revealed in these verses. This story of Jesus washing the disciples’ feet declares the values of God’s kingdom by placing them against the values of this world. The truth in these verses has the power to change the world.

We are assured that Jesus had received “all things into his hands” because God had placed them there. As a result of this power, Jesus, knowing that he possessed it, got up from the table and assumed the role of a servant. This is the connection the Gospel of John makes: because of Jesus’ power, he washed the disciples’ feet.

We live in a world where might is worshiped and weakness is despised. As proof of this, look at how much money many nations spend on weapons of war. To this world Jesus comes and says, “In God’s kingdom, this is what the powerful do: they serve the weak by becoming servants.” Jesus calls us to use our power in order to serve.

Katerina Katsarka Whitley (North Carolina, USA)

Thought for the Day: For a link to a list of nations in armed conflict, go to upperroom.org.

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, help us to see you in our weakness. Help us to love and serve others. In your name we pray. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Nations at war

Feed the Birds

5 May 2012

Read Matthew 6:25-34

Strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

- Matthew 6:33 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Every morning, regardless of the weather outside, a variety of birds comes and waits for us to throw bread crumbs out on the lawn. All sorts of birds come — the plain little sparrows; the arrogant grey Loerie; the colorful, crested barbet; the lumbering rain bird; and of course many doves and pigeons. These birds know that we will give them food, and as soon as we go inside they fly down and enjoy the feast.

Our Creator is abundantly more generous than we are. Jesus told us not to worry about food and clothing; God will feed us and will clothe us more beautifully than the lilies of the fields.

During a rather difficult period some time ago, I worried terribly about how we would cope financially — until I read the Matthew 6 passage more closely. Yes, I of little faith! How many times did I need God to remind me that what we need will be provided? Through faith, prayer, and growing trust, I turned to God and focused on what was important — to obey and do God’s will. My burden of fear was lifted, and God provided for us in abundance.

Renny Stoltz (Gauteng, South Africa)

Thought for the Day: To see pictures of these birds go to upperroom.org.

Prayer: God of all compassion, help us to see your hand at work in our lives. Teach us to trust your love and provision from day to day. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those who are hungry

Love Letters

4 May 2012

Read 1 John 4:7-16

God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

- John 3:16 (KJV)

Today's Devotional

My husband died nine years ago. Recently, I came across the letters he wrote to me while we were dating almost 60 years ago. When I saw the familiar, hard-to-read handwriting, I smiled, remembering the excitement I had felt when a letter from him arrived. As I read the letters, I felt again the joy of knowing that he loved me. Through the years of our marriage, he demonstrated his love in many ways. I thank God for this good man’s love.

The Bible contains love letters from God — not romantic love, of course, but love that is deep, powerful, and steady. Throughout the scriptures, we read of God’s love and mercy, first to the Hebrew people, in providing for their physical needs and spiritual development. God’s greatest love comes to us through Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ life, teachings, death, and resurrection, the love of God becomes real; we know that God loves us deeply and completely. We can be filled with joy as we praise God and give thanks for God’s unending love.

My husband’s letters went back into the box to be stored. But my Bible is close at hand so that as I read it each day, I receive assurance of God’s love.

Joan S. Hutcheson (Georgia, USA)

Thought for the Day: Look for ways God shows love for you, and find a way to show God’s love to those near you.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your love letters in the Bible, and for your gracious love shown in Jesus, our Savior. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Widows and widowers

God Is for Us!

3 May 2012

Read Philippians 4:4-9

If God is for us, who can be against us?

- Romans 8:31 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

Earthly kings and leaders come and go. Some are good. Some do much damage before being voted out or deposed. In the U.S., we have the chance to change our leader every four years. But the King of glory is one we can depend on eternally.

I remembered this recently when a distraught friend complained about events in the news. To him, the world was going to hell in a handbasket. I said to him, “If we both die tonight, what does it all matter? All God will ask us about is our actions in life, the things we had choices about.”

He gave me an astonished look. “I never thought of it like that. I guess we have to leave a lot of things to God.”

We can sicken ourselves with worry over things beyond our control. Of course we do what we can to respond to the world’s serious problems. Granted, we are concerned about politics, the weather, the economy, and a host of other things. But beneath all this, God is a good God. When we reflect on this fact, contemporary events cannot separate us from the joy that comes from having a loving God who is always at work for good — regardless of what the news is.

James E. Bell (Missouri, USA)

Thought for the Day: When we believe in God, we can see goodness in life.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to remember always that you are King of kings and that you take care of us. Amen.

Prayer Focus: People tackling the world’s big problems

Wandering Ways

2 May 2012

Read Proverbs 4:25-27

My child, give me your heart, and let your eyes observe my ways.

Proverbs 23:26 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

The bewildered child stood alone on the street in front of my house. I was alarmed, especially since none of my immediate neighbors has young children. He was not afraid as I approached him, and he willingly took hold of my hand. We chatted as we walked down the street toward a home a couple of blocks away, where I knew a family with young children lived.

He told me that his name was Heath and said, “I love ants.” Apparently, his interest in ants had lured him from the security of his own yard. He had followed the tiny insects until he ended up in a place he didn’t recognize.

We’re all a bit like that child. We may not deliberately take a wrong path, but the enticements and busyness of life can distract us and cause us to wander from close fellowship with God. Sometimes we end up in unpleasant or even dangerous circumstances we wish we had avoided.

God longs for us to return from our wandering. Just as Heath’s mother rejoiced when she saw us walking toward their home, God is delighted to send love and forgiveness to wash over us when we head toward home.

Muriel DeLong (New Brunswick, Canada)

Thought for the Day: While we wander, God waits in love.

Prayer: Dear Lord, forgive us for not giving relationship with you priority in our lives. When we wander, draw us back to you. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Missing children

Bullied

1 May 2012

Read Psalm 35:17-28

O Lord, you have seen this; be not silent. Do not be far from me, O Lord.

- Psalm 35:22 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

From sixth grade through high school, I was constantly bullied and teased. I learned to live with it, but many days I came home in tears, wondering why God was doing this to me. When my graduating class’s ten-year reunion was announced, bitterness and anger filled me as I recalled what some of these people had done to me in the past. I sought solace in the word of God. I stumbled upon Psalm 35 and was floored. God spoke directly to my heart through the psalmist’s words about not letting enemies laugh at him or hate him when they have no reason.

This psalm explained so clearly my current feelings about my past bullying experiences that my anger dissipated in seconds. I realized that God was fully aware of how I felt, had always been aware of the pain that the bullying caused, had not wanted it, and had never abandoned me during those difficult times.

Bullying is always damaging and painful for those who endure it, no matter how we try to explain it. But that doesn’t mean that the victims of bullying have to live with pain, anger, and bitterness forever. God is always with us in our times of trial, and God wants to free us from preoccupation with past hurts.

Justin Swartz (Pennsylvania, USA)

Thought for the Day: God wants to free us from our anger over past hurts.

Prayer: Dear God, our helper, remind us often that you are with us no matter what we face and that your word holds the answers to how we can respond. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those who are bullied

A Map to Christ

30 Apr 2012

Read John 14:1-7

We are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

- 2 Corinthians 5:20 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

I work for a small municipality in a rural area of Tennessee. Perhaps the most interesting of my many job responsibilities is creating maps. The maps I produce vary in simplicity from a drawing representing a single parcel of land with zoning information to more detailed maps of regions with street names, building footprints, streams, and topographical data.

However, no matter what features I include on a map, without accurate data it is, in essence, useless. Without the proper labeling, orientation, and scaling, a map of the Smoky Mountains might look just like a map of the Swiss Alps. And without the proper legend and reference markers, a map of a biking path might direct the user into the middle of a river.

Something similar is true of our lives. Many of us are like living maps that lead others to Christ. To do this our maps must include love, kindness, gentleness, and generosity. They must be oriented in such a way that the user is pointed heavenward and not in the direction of the world. And they must be scaled to encompass all of God’s children, not just some select group that we feel most comfortable with.

I want to allow God to shape my life so that it guides others toward Christ.

Brad Peters (Tennessee, USA)

Thought for the Day: We may be the only maps to Christ some people will ever see.

Prayer: Guide and Friend, thank you for your presence in our lives. May others see in us a way of living that leads them to you. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Cartographer

Faithful Witness

29 Apr 2012

Read Acts 2:43-47

Jesus said, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

- Acts 1:8 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

We are a new congregation, and we still do not have a church building. Our services are held in a borrowed space. During the week, Bible studies are offered in members’ homes.

One day we learned that a church group from overseas was coming to visit our faith community. “Why are these strangers coming to visit?” someone asked. “We don’t even have a church building to host them.” Someone else responded, “We don’t really know. We know that they started reading El Aposento Alto because they knew we use it, and they want to learn more about us. They want to participate in our activities and perform service projects.” Listening to the comments, I was surprised.

Soon our visitors arrived. They participated in our worship service and joined us in our Bible study. During our time of prayer, one of our guests said, “Friends, our group belongs to a church of substantial means. But in our short time together here, we have seen how you treat each other with love in everything you do. This experience has affected us deeply, and we will tell our sisters and brothers back home about it.”

Again, I was surprised. I thought we had nothing to share, but I saw that God placed us in this place at this time to bear faithful witness.

Mauricio Rapuano (Buenos Aires, Argentina)

Thought for the Day: To see pictures of Mauricio’s church, go to upperroom.org.

Prayer: Dear God of power and hope, thank you for the faith that unites Christians around the world. Amen.

Prayer Focus: New congregations

Resting in the Shelter

28 Apr 2012

Read Hebrews 4:1-10

[The LORD] 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 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

Entering the grocery store, I see a small child who is having a toddler meltdown. He throws his arms and legs out, flopping to the floor, crying, beside the rack of grocery carts. His mother bends down to him and, speaking softly, picks him up and calmly turns toward the exit. As they pass, I overhear her telling him, “It’s all right. You’re tired. Let’s go home now.” As the child is soothed, his wailing recedes; and by the time they reach the door, his head is nestled peacefully against her neck. I think, <emph>What an understanding mother she is!</emph> Clearly she knows that the little one will be better behaved once he’s rested.

The compassionate mother reminds me of our heavenly Father who patiently provides us with rest when we’re out of sorts. We may not even realize we’re tired; but when we feel we cannot take another step, maybe we shouldn’t. Maybe we need to turn to the shelter of God’s loving arms and there find rest and peace.

Susanna Chenoweth (Indiana, USA)

Thought for the Day: God calls us to rest when we are weary.

Prayer: Dear God, you understand when we’ve had enough. Help us to reach out to you and to accept the rest only you can provide. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Parents of young children

A Sweet Taste

27 Apr 2012

Read Colossians 1:1-14

Those whom [God] foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn within a large family.

- Romans 8:29 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Those of us who had just participated in the Shavu’ot service at a messianic synagogue had been invited to stay and eat afterwards. I listened to the friendly woman beside me explain, “We celebrate Shavu’ot seven weeks after Passover by eating milk products because it reminds us that the milk of God’s word nurtures us.” Shavu’ot is an annual celebration of firstfruits being offered to God.

As I took a bite of dessert, the creamy, sweet taste of cheesecake filled my mouth. My heart gently warmed as we spoke of Jesus as our firstfruits, the firstborn of a large family. Two millenniums ago, Jesus gave his life on a cross. Why was this sacrifice necessary? Jesus gave himself, the lamb without blemish, to die on our behalf. He paid the price we could not pay.

Again I savored the celebratory cheesecake. I thought about the sweet savor to God that Jesus must have been when he willingly became the Way for us. Jesus became our open door to God. Now we can be part of God’s family. And as we yield to the Spirit’s work of forming us into the image of Christ, we too can be a sweet taste to God.

Janna Longfellow Hughes (Texas, USA)

Thought for the Day: Allowing Christ to live in us is our daily offering to God.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, transform us day by day to make us like Christ. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those who do not follow Christ

Our Strength

26 Apr 2012

God has some questions for you! Join author Trevor Hudson for an online course and discussion of his book Questions God Asks Us, April 30 – June 1, 2012. Learn more.

Read John 14:15-27

Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. . . . Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.”

- John 14:27 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

When I was in my early teens, I had to undergo minor surgery. The night before the surgery I was afraid and could not sleep. When my dad visited me in the hospital the next morning, I broke down in tears. But he comforted me, gave me a Bible, and asked me to read the 14th chapter of John’s Gospel.

Jesus spoke these words to the disciples on their last night together. They did not understand him; but later when they faced trials and persecution, they remembered his reassuring words and became bold and strong in their faith. (See Acts 4:13-22.)

As I read Jesus’ words, peace flooded my heart; my fear left me. I realized that God was with me. I was able to entrust the surgery into God’s hands, and I went confidently into the operating room. The procedure went well, and I recovered completely. To this day that chapter in John is my favorite. In every difficult situation in life, I have found peace and strength in those words of Jesus.

James Ernest Sundara (Tennessee, USA)

Thought for the Day: The Bible offers us strength in every situation.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for promising us your peace. May it give us courage in every trial and faith to live confidently as we pray, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”* Amen. *Matthew 6:9-13 (NIV).

Prayer Focus: Those undergoing surgery

Love In, Love Out

25 Apr 2012

God has some questions for you! Join author Trevor Hudson for an online course and discussion of his book Questions God Asks Us, April 30 – June 1, 2012. Learn more.

Read Mark 12:28-34

You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

- Leviticus 19:18 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

The verse quoted above is repeated in Matthew, Mark, Luke, Romans, Galatians, and James. What an important teaching this verse must be to be included so many times in the Bible! Yet many of us have difficulty with it — partly because we do not understand that without self-love we cannot love our neighbor.

I realized this when I began to resent the time I spent doing things for an elderly relative. I felt as though I had no time for myself. I was tired, cranky and resentful. I had to discover what it meant to love myself. I found that for me it was any number of simple acts of lovingly caring for myself so that I could care for others. I had to learn to say no without guilt when my intuition so directed. When life became hectic, I reminded myself to eat balanced meals; get adequate rest and exercise; take time to laugh; make time for self-renewal in walks, meditation, prayer, reading, a luxurious soak in a warm bath, or a conversation with a close friend.

These little ways of taking care of myself become deposits into my energy bank. When I remember to do them, my life is like a full checking account; I have resources to care for others.

Jill Bakke (Colorado, USA)

Thought for the Day: The foundation of loving others is loving God and self.

Prayer: Blessed Lord, help us to lovingly care for our own bodies — your holy temples (see 1 Corinthians 6:19-20) — as well as our spirits, so that we may be able to show your loving care to those you send our way. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Weary caregivers

A Highway for God

24 Apr 2012

God has some questions for you! Join author Trevor Hudson for an online course and discussion of his book Questions God Asks Us, April 30 – June 1, 2012. Learn more.

Read Isaiah 40:1-5 and Matthew 3:1-3

A voice cries out: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD.”

- Isaiah 40:3 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

When the mountain road between our town and the city was undergoing major reconstruction, every motorist experienced inconvenience, dust, and incessant noise. Traffic flow was slow, and vehicles were often stopped for 20 minutes or more. Tempers flared and deadlines were missed. But now, a year later, we enjoy speeding across the mountain on a splendid highway.

As I drove the route after the work was completed, I became aware of the soft voice of the Lord telling me that this experience offered a valuable lesson. Yes, we had recently experienced frustration and irritation at prolonged delays. Nothing seemed to be happening except buffeting and chaos. But the highway reconstruction reminds me that God is preparing each of us to be a highway for the Lord’s coming.

The Bible gives us an example of this in John the Baptist. John’s calling was to prepare the way for the coming of the Messiah. His message was disturbing, yet full of hope. So we can take heart. Despite the disruptions and seeming chaos in our lives, the Lord is at work. Christ is reconstructing our lives so that we can be a highway for his coming into the lives of others.

Gerald McCann (Western Cape, South Africa)

Thought for the Day: God is in the reconstruction business.

Prayer: Our Creator and our Teacher, work in our lives to make us useful instruments for your Spirit to move into the lives of others. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those experiencing upheaval

Valuable Lesson

23 Apr 2012

God has some questions for you! Join author Trevor Hudson for an online course and discussion of his book Questions God Asks Us, April 30 – June 1, 2012. Learn more.

Read Luke 6:37-42

Why do you see the speck in your neighbor’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye?

- Luke 6:41 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

When I was 10 years old, I complained to my mother about my best friend, who teased her little sister and played mean tricks on her. My mother listened as I went into a lengthy, detailed story.

When I was through, Mother said quietly, “If I remember right, I heard you teasing your little sister just before dinner. Don’t you think you should remove the beam from your own eye before you criticize your friend?”

She was right. I had been teasing my sister, and I was embarrassed to have been caught. I replied rather flippantly, “A beam is too big to fit in anyone’s eye.”

Instantly I knew I was in trouble. “Young lady,” Mother replied, “you know full well what I mean. Furthermore, you will not make light of the Bible’s words. Is that understood?”

I nodded meekly; my face grew red with shame, and I wished I were somewhere else. My mother made me read and memorize the verses about the beam and told me to think about how they related to my complaining.

Now when I find myself tempted to criticize, I hear my mother’s words again and breathe a prayer of thanks for the lesson she taught me that day.

Doris Kennard (Michigan, USA)

Thought for the Day: God’s word offers practical wisdom for living.

Prayer: Long-suffering God, thank you for those who teach us to apply the truth of your word. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Super-critical people

Increase the Harvest

22 Apr 2012

God has some questions for you! Join author Trevor Hudson for an online course and discussion of his book Questions God Asks Us, April 30 – June 1, 2012. Learn more.

Read John 15:1-8

Jesus said, “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit.”

- John 15:8 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

Compared to my neighbor’s, my tomato vines were measly and struggling. Why? We planted similar seedlings in the same soil, experiencing the same rain and sun. Why was the fruit produced vastly different?

Eventually, I figured it out. After I harvested previous crops, I failed to replenish the soil with fertilizer and nutrients the way my neighbor had. As a result, my vines were barely producing while his produced enough for his family’s use and also to give away to others.

The lesson I learned can also be applied to my spiritual life. When I constantly try to produce the fruit of faith without replenishing my spirit’s soil, the result is fewer and smaller fruit.

The Lord provides nutrients for my spirit in the Bible, through prayer, and in Christian community, but I’m the one who has to work it into the sod of my soul. The results are rich spiritual soil. As the biblical writer Jude emphasizes, “Beloved, build yourselves up on your most holy faith; pray in the Holy Spirit” (v. 20, NRSV).

Raymond N. Hawkins (Tasmania, Australia)

Thought for the Day: What am I doing to make my soul more hospitable soil for God?

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to remember to read your word and to pray regularly so that we may bear much fruit for you. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Farmers

The Children

21 Apr 2012

Are you transitioning into retirement? Newly retired? Do you work with those considering retirement? If so, join us for an online course May 7-18 as we explore the issues of Shaping a Life of Significance for Retirement. Learn more.

Read Zechariah 8:3-8

The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid, the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them. . . . They will not hurt or destroy on all my holy mountain; for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.

- Isaiah 11:6, 9 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

When I open the Sunday paper, cynicism usually pervades my thinking. All the news seems bad or sad, and I usually feel discouraged or depressed about what I read. But on this Sunday morning, children are pictured on the front page of the world-news section of the paper. The picture catches my attention and then my heart. The girl, a Palestinian, is in a wheelchair; the boy is an Israeli Jew wounded by a Hamas rocket. The article says that they have developed a close friendship. It occurs to me that “of such is the kingdom of God” (Luke 18:16, KJV).

The children are enjoying and loving each other without regard to politics, injuries, scars, or disabilities. They remind us that we have the opportunity to see one another as children of God rather than as people labeled by politics or beliefs. To see beyond outward appearance is a challenge; but with prayer and faith, we can look deeper into ourselves and others to find ways to live in peace.

Lynne Carver (Florida, USA)

Thought for the Day: We are brothers and sisters in spite of the conflicts that divide us.

Prayer: Dear God, teach us to love one another as you love all your children. Amen.

Prayer Focus: For peace in the Middle East

Freedom and Joy

20 Apr 2012

Read 1 John 1:5-10

God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

- John 3:17 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

As I prepared for my first year of teaching, the principal suggested that I allow my second-grade students to help create a list of classroom rules and the consequences for keeping or breaking them. I accepted a few of their suggestions for rewards, such as being the first in line for lunch or for free time at the end of the day. But I had to throw out their ideas for punishment such as not being allowed to eat lunch or kneeling on rice for the rest of the day. The students were too harsh. Loving teachers want to correct bad behavior; they don’t want to make students hate school.

I often think of this experience when I hear people say that God sent an earthquake to punish Haiti or a hurricane to teach New Orleans a lesson. Our God is a loving God who does not act in that way. Then again, God doesn’t have to. Like my second-graders, we punish ourselves unmercifully. But God persists in offering us the freedom and joy of being forgiven.

Judy Northen (Texas, USA)

Thought for the Day: God is loving and forgiving.

Prayer: Loving God, thank you for filling us with the joy of your presence. Help us remember that you love us even when we sin. Amen.

Prayer Focus: To feel God’s presence

The True Gift

19 Apr 2012

Read Mark 12:13-17

Jesus . . . said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.

- Mark 12:17 (KJV)

Today's Devotional

Recently I received some Chinese money from a friend. Apart from being pink, it looked pretty much like the currency I’m familiar with. What struck me most about it was the picture of Chairman Mao on one side. I realized then that money has not changed much since the time of Christ. When Jesus was asked about paying taxes, he looked at a coin bearing Caesar’s likeness and said, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”

I often manage to muddle up these two ideas. Too often I am happy to give to the church when really my heart is elsewhere — thinking about work, what I’ll eat, my future plans. In effect, I have been giving my money to God when my heart is focused on worldly concerns.

Of course my giving to the church is not wrong; but if I do not give myself truly to God, my offerings of money are pointless. True generosity is about giving ourselves openly and unreservedly to God.

Christopher McKenna (South Lanarkshire, Scotland)

Thought for the Day: To see a picture of Chinese money go to upperroom.org

Prayer: Dear God, as we give our gifts to you, may we give the best that we have — our hearts and our lives — in gratitude for your great love for us. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Government leaders

Daily Courage

18 Apr 2012

God has some questions for you! Join author Trevor Hudson for an online course and discussion of his book Questions God Asks Us, April 30 – June 1, 2012. Learn more.

Read Joshua 1:1-9

Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

- Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

As I waited for my husband to complete his rigorous physical-therapy regimen, a poster in the office caught my eye. It said, “Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow. ’ ” (words of Mary Anne Radmacher)

Few of us will be called to do something as heroic as saving a child from a burning building, donating our bone marrow, or giving our life for our faith. But many of us will be called to live patiently with a handicap, to do our best at a frustrating job, or to love as Christ would even those whose apparent aim is to cause us misery. Those situations call for daily courage.

Whatever our circumstances, we can take heart from God’s words to Joshua: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Whether our daily challenge is a stressful job, a stubborn child, or the struggle to recover from an illness or addiction, God is with us. We can turn to God for the courage to try again tomorrow.

Lisa Stackpole (Wisconsin, USA)

Thought for the Day: Even for those who trust God, sometimes just showing up is a victory.

Prayer: Dear Lord, give us the courage to live as you would have us live, every day. Amen.

Prayer Focus: People living with physical disabilities

Weathering the Storms

17 Apr 2012

God has some questions for you! Join author Trevor Hudson for an online course and discussion of his book Questions God Asks Us, April 30 – June 1, 2012. Learn more.

Read 2 Corinthians 4:6-12

<emph>Jesus said,</emph> “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

- John 16:33 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

A severe rainstorm approached our town like a threatening and uninvited houseguest. The media warned us to prepare, so my husband cleaned our rain gutters and stored our lawn furniture. I gathered flashlights and bottled water. At dawn, we awoke to wind gusting through the trees as a downpour hammered the ground. But because we had prepared, we were able to face the storm with less anxiety.

Life is full of times of preparation. We prepare for school exams and job promotions. We prepare for a baby to be born, for retirement, and yes, even for harsh weather. Should we not then prepare our minds and spirits for life’s inevitable personal storms?

When we faithfully read the Bible and pray, we prepare spiritually for the storms of life. This may sound simple, but such disciplines help us to know God’s character more deeply so that when trials occur, we won’t feel overwhelmed and question God’s goodness. Instead, because of our intimacy with God, we will know that God is ever-present in any storm. And we can know God’s peace through it all.

Karen Y. Foster (California, USA)

Thought for the Day: We have no choice about when storms come, but we can choose to prepare our spirit to face them.

Prayer: Merciful Father, thank you for being with us in the midst of our storms. Help us grow closer to you by reading your word and spending time with you in prayer. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Victims of natural disasters

A Lamp and a Light

16 Apr 2012

God has some questions for you! Join author Trevor Hudson for an online course and discussion of his book Questions God Asks Us, April 30 – June 1, 2012. Learn more.

Read Psalm 119:1-11

<emph>The psalmist wrote,<emph> “Your word, [O Lord], is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

- Psalm 119:105 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

I have been reading <emph>The Upper Room</emph> for more than 50 years. When I became a teacher in a school run by missionaries, I never missed meditating on the message in The Upper Room before my first class began.

Now it has become my habit to also read the recommended Bible verses; otherwise, in my regular Bible reading I tend to read only the passages I like. Reading the Bible verses suggested each day helps broaden my perspective and gives deeper meaning to the writer’s testimony and how that portion of God’s word relates to life. Moreover, after 50 or more years, I realize that the words of scripture as well as the words of testimony from the writers have become “a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

Now I use <emph>The Upper Room</emph> as the guide for our family altar — our regular time with God. I continue my journey of getting to know God better and better as I spend time in meditation and prayer with my family.

Seung Jae Oh (Taejon, Korea)

Thought for the Day: Find out about the work of a missionary from your church or area who is in another country. Pray for his or her ministry.

Prayer: O Lord, we know your word will never pass away. May it be a light for our path, forever leading us closer to you. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Missionaries to other countries

Priority Spending

15 Apr 2012

Read Matthew 25:14-30

To one he gave five talents of money, to another two talents, and to another one talent, each according to his ability.

- Matthew 25:15 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

This past Sunday in worship, our pastor preached on the familiar story of Jesus feeding the 5,000. (See Matt. 14:13-21.) In that story, Jesus’ disciples offered two fish and five loaves of bread to him, and that meager fare became enough to feed the multitude. The disciples saw how powerful small gifts could be when they were placed in Jesus’ hands.

On Sunday, our pastor concluded his sermon in a surprising way. He had the ushers distribute envelopes containing money — five, ten or twenty dollars each — to the congregation. He then challenged us to use the money prayerfully, doing as much good as possible with it for people outside our church.

Our congregation came alive in discussion about how each of us might use our money in ways that our gifts — like those of the disciples — could be multiplied in serving God. But isn’t this what we are asked to do every day? How we use what God gives us — yes, our money, but also all of our other possessions and our talents — defines who we are as God’s people.

Gary R. Dowdy (Tennessee, USA)

Thought for the Day: How would I have spent the money in my envelope?

Prayer: Father God, may your will be done as we make decisions about how we spend our money and use our talents. We want to be faithful. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those looking for new ways to serve God

Through God’s Eyes

14 Apr 2012

Are you facing a decision? How do you know what God wants you to do? The art of spiritual discernment involves asking these questions. Join authors Val Isenhower and Judith Todd in an online course in personal discernment, April 16 – 27, 2012. Learn more.

Read 2 Corinthians 5:14-21

We are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life.

- Ephesians 2:10 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

I was visiting a friend in the hospital when a nurse came to say it was time for lunch. When I asked my friend about the hospital food, she replied, “When people complain about the food, I tell them, ‘God makes it all perfect and delicious; it’s humans who ruin it. ’ ”

Her words caused me to reflect that it’s not just food that we ruin. Every day, children are born into this world. Each begins as a little baby with promise and an open future. Knowing this and reading Ephesians 2:10, I think about those who are homeless or incarcerated. I wonder, Aren’t those who were neglected or mistreated as children, those who end up in detention centers, prisons or homeless shelters, also made in God’s image and created for life in Christ Jesus? All of us come into the world with promise, imprinted with God’s desire that we live fully.

No matter what we do that can ruin our lives or how much abuse others inflict on us, that child still lives somewhere deep inside each of us. God can re-create any of us from within, restoring us and giving us new life. And that restoration can begin on any day we offer ourselves to God.

Dan Nelson (North Carolina, USA)

Thought for the Day: No matter what life does to us, God offers us restoration and hope.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to value each person, looking at one another through your eyes of love. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Abused and exploited children

Trust Anyway

13 Apr 2012

Read Isaiah 55:6-9

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

- Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

No matter how hard I tried, I just couldn’t see the two whitetail deer. Though I searched where my husband pointed, all I saw was a thicket bordering the mountain meadow where we were walking. Staring into the tangle of branches and leaves, I strained to see them. Frustration and anxiety began to rise in me as Carl described the lovely animals. Why can’t I see them? I thought, eyes still focused on the thicket. Is Carl playing a trick on me?

I shifted my focus from the thicket to my husband. When he looked down at me, it suddenly didn’t matter that I couldn’t see the deer. I knew they were there because I know my husband. Observing his character and conduct through the years allows me to trust him, even when what he says doesn’t make sense to me. Also, I remembered that he stands head and shoulders above me so his vantage point is different than mine.

At that moment I remembered that God’s vantage point is infinitely higher than mine. God sees the total picture, not just the tangle of situational “branches and leaves” that sometimes confounds me. When I shift my focus, I know I can trust God’s love, character, conduct, and word — even when things don’t make sense from my point of view.

Deborah Slate Ginder (Virginia, USA)

Thought for the Day: Today, I will trust God even when I cannot see or understand what God is doing.

Prayer: Faithful God, help us to know you well enough to trust you even when we don’t understand. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Forest rangers

Family Resemblance

12 Apr 2012

Help us choose The Upper Room 2013 Easter meditation! Just 2 days left to cast your vote! http://www.upperroom3.org/contest/vote.html

Read Ephesians 5:1-20

Be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love, as Christ loved.

- Ephesians 5:1-2 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

When I was a child, a couple living nearby adopted a child. As the child grew, he developed an admirable character. His physical appearance, movements, mannerisms, and facial expressions — everything about the child — would cause doubt that he was adopted. The same was true as he grew up. As a child, youth, and young man, he was like his adoptive father. That loving family’s imprint on the child was made in the intimate relationships of daily living.

How is our relationship with Christ? Do we find time to be with him, to read his words and follow his teachings? More important, do we respond as he would? Do we “live in love, as Christ loved”? Do others see us as beloved children of God?

Aníbal Hernández (Tucumán, Argentina)

Thought for the Day: We can come to reflect God’s likeness through prayer and scripture reading.

Prayer: Live in our hearts, Father, that through prayer and meditation on your holy word we may reflect your spirit. Make us like Jesus, who taught us to pray, “Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.”* *Matthew 6:9-13 (KJV).

Prayer Focus: Adopted children

Below the Surface

11 Apr 2012

Help us choose The Upper Room 2013 Easter meditation! Just 3 days left to cast your vote! http://www.upperroom3.org/contest/vote.html

Read Luke 7:36-50

Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw [the woman weeping and bathing Jesus’ feet with her tears], he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what kind of woman this is who is touching him — that she is a sinner.”

- Luke 7:39 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Recently as we traveled the familiar road toward our home, I took time to look beyond the front yards of the houses we passed and to focus on what lay behind them. I was surprised to see rose gardens and gazebos that I had failed to notice before, as well as garages, shops, and even a trash pile that wasn’t readily obvious.

Reflecting on this, I realized that usually I look only at the surface of both places and people. I judge by outward appearances, often not taking time to look behind the exterior.

The Bible tells us that Jesus saw more than the obvious. He recognized “flower beds” in lives deemed ugly.

Too often we do not see what lies in the “backyards” of other people. But when we strive to look closely at the people we meet, we can grow to love them as Christ does.

Joette McDonald (Ohio, USA)

Thought for the Day: Jesus valued each person he met; so can I.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to see the hidden worth of the people we encounter each day. Lead us to love as you love. Amen.

Prayer Focus: To see the good in others

Got Wine?

10 Apr 2012

Help us choose The Upper Room 2013 Easter meditation! Just 4 days left to cast your vote! http://www.upperroom3.org/contest/vote.html

Read John 2:1-11

The first of his miraculous signs, Jesus performed at Cana in Galilee. He thus revealed his glory, and his disciples put their faith in him.

- John 2:11 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

We might expect the Son of God to begin his public ministry with a spectacular miracle: raising someone from the dead, healing a leper, multiplying loaves and fishes, casting out an evil spirit, calming a raging storm, or walking on water. But Jesus launches his ministry of miracles by saving a party.

The guests at the wedding reception have drunk all the wine. So Jesus makes more. Turning water into wine doesn’t bring anybody back from the dead or free anyone from life-threatening illness. It does, however, reveal a God who is interested not only in the spiritual dimension of our lives or the life-and-death issues.

The Lord works in the average, everyday, run-of-the-mill, mundane moments of our lives. A relationship with a God who was interested in only the big issues of life would be no more personal than our relationship with the emergency operator on the telephone. But our infinite, almighty God chooses to relate to us on an intimate level, not from Mount Sinai but in our homes.

James N. Watkins (Indiana, USA)

Thought for the Day: Our big God often works in small ways.

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, may we recognize the many small miracles in our lives today. Amen.

Prayer Focus: For a more personal relationship with Christ

Not Me

9 Apr 2012

Help us choose The Upper Room 2013 Easter meditation! Just 5 days left to cast your vote! http://www.upperroom3.org/contest/vote.html

Read Amos 7:12-15

Amos answered Amaziah, “I am no prophet, nor a prophet’s son; but I am a herdsman, and a dresser of sycamore trees.”

- Amos 7:14 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Sometimes a verse of scripture strikes me as humorous; Amos 7:14 did the first time I read it. In that passage, God asked Amos to do something new — something Amos had never done before. Amos tells Amaziah that he is neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet. He is nothing more than a herdsman and a tender of sycamore trees. I think Amos’ comment is a bit funny, perhaps because I can relate to it so well.

Though Amos is not making excuses in the context of this passage, what he says sounds a lot like what I might say when I am making excuses. How many times when I have perceived God asking me to do something, whether it was to go on a mission trip, write a devotional, or teach a Sunday school class, have I told God I didn’t think I was up to the task? How many times have I replied, “But Lord, I am not a teacher, or the daughter of a teacher . . . I am just a housewife and a tender of tomato plants!”

But we can trust that just as God equipped Amos, God will equip us to do whatever we are asked to do. The Lord asks us to risk doing more than just taking care of our herds, sycamore trees, and tomato plants.

Harriet Michael (Kentucky, USA)

Thought for the Day: With God, we are more than we think we are.

Prayer: O God, help us to accomplish what you ask of us, even though we are inexperienced and insecure. Grant us hearts and hands willing to do your work. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Sunday school teachers

Easter Sunday

8 Apr 2012

Help us choose The Upper Room 2013 Easter meditation! Just 6 days left to cast your vote! http://www.upperroom3.org/contest/vote.html

Read John 4:46-54

Jesus said, “I came that [my sheep] may have life, and have it abundantly.”

- John 10:10 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

My heart was deeply stirred. My daughter, my little girl now actually an adult, was in deep distress. A significant relationship had suddenly ended. She had been praying for something to change in this relationship, but what had happened? Death. “That’s not what I expected,” she said.

About 120 miles north of where I live is the city of Christchurch. In February 2011, a violent earthquake destroyed the central city, took many lives, and wrecked homes, schools, businesses, and the lives of thousands. Death. Not expected.

The Gospel of John tells of an official whose son was dying. Disregarding rank and his dignity, this man asks Jesus to come to his home and heal the boy. “Go; your son will live,” says Jesus. At the moment Jesus spoke, the boy’s condition changed, and he lived. Because of Jesus, not death but life.

Death is ever near in all human affairs. But today, in defiance of death, we celebrate that Christ is bigger than our deaths. He calls us to believe his words, “I came that [you] may have life!” As we face deaths of many kinds, we too have life when we believe Christ’s words. It is a mystery, but our believing cuts through death’s threats and takes the hand of God. And in the hand of God, living or dying, we too will live — for Christ is risen! Hallelujah!

John Franklin (New Zealand)

Thought for the Day: Because Christ is risen, the final word is not death but life.

Prayer: Living Christ, we celebrate your victory over death. We welcome your power that as your agents, we may bear your life into the world. All glory to you, now and forever. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those living with death

One in Christ

7 Apr 2012

Help us choose The Upper Room 2013 Easter meditation! Just 7 days left to cast your vote! http://www.upperroom3.org/contest/vote.html

Read 1 Corinthians 12:12-20

You are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

- 1 Corinthians 12:27 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

Once again our mission group arrived at Back Bay Mission in Biloxi, Mississippi. Since it was several years after Hurricane Katrina, our band was struck by how empty that area remained. In addition to many deserted lots, some small trailers still stood beside houses in disrepair. That night several of us described what we saw: the devastation of the area, its poverty, and the atmosphere of hopelessness. After years we saw much destruction and much that still needed to be rebuilt.

The next afternoon, as we had been working in teams on two different houses, we noticed something. Just four houses down from our United Methodist/United Church of Christ team, a group from a Mennonite church worked. Farther down the street was a team from a Presbyterian church, and just three houses from them, a group of Catholic mission campers.

That night as we talked again, we realized that hope sometimes comes in little bits. Later in the week local residents thanked us, saying that churches around the country were still making a difference and helping to keep hope alive for the residents of the area. The body of Christ has many different parts, but when we act in Christ’s name, serving with others, we become the living hands and feet of Christ working to rebuild homes and lives.

David Russell (Illinois, USA)

Thought for the Day: Go to: upperroom.org to see pictures of David’s group helping after Katrina.

Prayer: Dear God, bless all of us as we work together to serve you. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those rebuilding after disaster

Good Friday

6 Apr 2012

Help us choose The Upper Room 2013 Easter meditation! Just 8 days left to cast your vote! http://www.upperroom3.org/contest/vote.html

Read Psalm 100

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 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

I woke up determined to be sad. After all, Good Friday was the day Christ died. I considered fasting, a Good Friday tradition that invites Christ’s followers to consider his suffering. But then I got hungry. I looked out the window, expecting to see a dark, dreary day because of the saying that it always rains on Good Friday. But when I looked outside, I saw a beautiful spring day. I simply couldn’t get out of my good mood.

I went downstairs and read a note my daughter had written for me. She reminded me that I have often said, “God loves you, and so do I.” Her words helped me to understand.

I remembered that I had briefly awakened the previous night with the distinct and wonderful thought: "How God must love us to sacrifice Jesus! How Christ must love us to endure that agony!" How can I help but feel joy when I recognize and feel God’s love? I was joyful that morning because Good Friday is an occasion for joy.

The first Good Friday was a sad day, but every Good Friday since has been a joyful reminder that Jesus died for our sins. Even more amazing is that on Easter morning he conquered death for us all.

Bruce Bedingfield (Illinois, USA)

Thought for the Day: Good Friday is good because it shows how far God will go to save us.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for the ultimate sacrifice you made for us on that first Good Friday. Amen.

Prayer Focus: To celebrate God’s love in Jesus Christ

The Last Meal

5 Apr 2012

SOULfeast 2012 July 8-12, 2012, Lake Junaluska, NC. Are you in search of experiences and relationships that will nourish your soul? By mixing ingredients from the great traditions of the church as well as fresh new Christian expressions, SOULfeast creates an experience that adults, youth, and children will enjoy. Find out more about SOULfeast.

Read 1 Corinthians 11:23-26

Whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

- 1 Corinthians 11:26 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

In most cultures, condemned prisoners can ask for anything within reason for their last meal. Their requests are sometimes unusual: tacos, fried okra, half a cake. Sometimes they are more mundane: steak, chicken, ice cream. I’ve often wondered what it would be like to know I was consuming the last meal I’d ever eat and also what food I’d request for that meal.

Even as Jesus ate his last meal, he continued to teach the disciples, using the bread and wine to drive home a point they were unwilling to accept. He was going to die. They didn’t get the full import of the message until after his sacrificial death and glorious resurrection. But for centuries afterward Christians have celebrated what we now call the Lord’s Supper to memorialize what Jesus did for us.

The next time we sit down to a meal, what if we imagined this would be our last one? Perhaps we’d go out of our way to make the rest of the day count a bit more. We might even be encouraged to tell someone else about a Savior who, at his last meal and with his last breath, thought of us. What a wonderful gift he gave us! Why not share it?

Richard Mabry (Texas, USA)

Thought for the Day: Today may be my last day to share the news of salvation.

Prayer: Dear Father, never let us forget the sacrifice that is at the heart of Easter. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those who have never heard the gospel

Fruit of the Spirit

4 Apr 2012

Read Galatians 5:13-26

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.

- Galatians 5:22-23 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

One day on the way to the office, I saw a driver who seemed quite impatient. He drove his car recklessly from one lane to another, trying hard to get ahead of the other cars. Then I noticed a Christian symbol on his car’s rear window. It occurred to me that many people might have wondered whether such an inconsiderate driver was truly a follower of Christ.

All of us could easily be as guilty of impatient actions as that driver — especially if we are behind schedule and trying to make up time. We might behave in ways that even more blatantly contradict our Christian faith. Others — including unbelievers — always see us. That’s why Jesus commanded us to do good: in order to bring glory to God.

Galatians 5:22-23 reminds us of the fruit of the Spirit, the last of which is self-control. This is perhaps the most challenging gift of all because we are usually in the midst of hectic days. But remembering to live the fruit of the Spirit lets others see our faith in Christ in all the actions of our lives.

Marcelina Dewi Kumalasari (Jakarta, Indonesia)

Thought for the Day: When we live the fruit of the Spirit our faith becomes real.

Prayer: Dear Father, help us to have self-control in whatever we do each day so that our actions may glorify your name. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Impatient drivers

Surprised?

3 Apr 2012

Read Matthew 28:1-10

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen.”

- Matthew 28:5-6 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

The one consistent element in the gospel accounts of that first Easter morning is that everyone was surprised. No one expected an empty tomb, much less the presence of the risen Christ. The women who came to the tomb had good reason to be surprised. They had watched Jesus die. They had seen his bloody, lifeless body taken off the cross. They had followed Joseph to the tomb. They had heard the heavy thud of the stone that was rolled in front of the opening. They knew Jesus was dead.

The only way to feel the surprise of resurrection is to face the reality of death. The only way to be prepared for Easter morning is to experience the emotion and events of Holy Week.

As a pastor, I’ve discovered that I don’t need to encourage people to be in worship on Easter Sunday. But each year I find myself doing everything I can to encourage people to be here on Maundy Thursday when we join Jesus and his disciples for the Last Supper and Good Friday when we experience the darkness that fell over the earth when Jesus died. Once we have followed the way that leads to the cross, we can better experience the surprise of Easter morning.

James A. Harnish (Florida, USA)

Thought for the Day: How am I following the way that leads to the cross?

Prayer: O God, thank you for the glorious surprise of Easter. Thank you for the love we see in Jesus Christ. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Easter morning worship

From Desolation to Hope

2 Apr 2012

Read Daniel 9:20-27

Gabriel said, “At the beginning of your supplications a word went out, and I have come to declare it, for you are greatly beloved.”

- Daniel 9:23 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

During the season of Lent, we are invited to examine our lives and our faith to see where we have failed or fallen short in faith and practice. Then we enter the beauty of Palm Sunday, and later we watch as the tide of opinion turns against the Anointed One. After remembering and reenacting a meal in an upper room, we weep before a cross and a grave.

This passage from the Book of Daniel may seem a strange reading for Holy Week. But Daniel contains images that resonate with the experiences of Jesus and his world. We are reminded that in the midst of the world’s stark realities, hope exists. The messenger Gabriel comes to Daniel to offer wisdom and understanding and to assure Daniel that he is greatly loved. Gabriel is the same messenger who assured Mary that she had found favor with God and would bear the son of the Most High who would save us from our transgressions.

The good news is this: Every struggle has within it a seed of hope; every calamity carries the possibility of redemption. God speaks through dreamers and messengers to show us the way to new life. A Word goes forth, full of grace and truth, and his name is Love. The night has begun to pass away. Already the True Light that enlightens the world is shining.

F. Richard Garland (Rhode Island, USA)

Thought for the Day: In every loss God offers hope.

Prayer: Eternal God, open our hearts and minds to your loving presence, that we may be transformed in life and faith so that justice, kindness, and love may reign over all the earth. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Someone who feels hopeless

Palm Sunday

1 Apr 2012

Read Matthew 26:17-35

[Jesus] said, “Go into the city to a certain man, and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, My time is near; I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.’”

- Matthew 26:18 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Reading today’s passage may cause some to protest. The kind soul who volunteers to host the Passover is casually referred to as “a certain man.” In his defense we might say, “Doesn’t he have a name? Being overlooked never feels good. Doesn’t his hospitality warrant disclosure of his identity?” The apparent ill-treatment of this “certain man” seems out of character with Jesus’ earlier message concerning the judgment of the nations. In that message Jesus says those who show kindness toward “the least of these” will inherit the kingdom (Matt. 25:31-40). Why, then, is the host in today’s passage relegated to obscurity?

One nagging thought interrupts this protest. We may not know the identity of the “certain man,” but Jesus did and trusted him to make arrangements for the Passover meal that we remember as the Last Supper. Some Bible scholars speculate that the unidentified man was actually the writer of the Gospel of Mark.

It may seem that we are anonymous in the world’s eyes, but Jesus knows who and where we are. He may also need our willingness to serve him selflessly, without public praise or acknowledgment. Can we? Will we? Whom can God count on for certain?

Kwasi I. Kena (Tennessee, USA)

Thought for the Day: I will serve Jesus Christ without needing public praise.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, help us to be willing to serve you whether we receive thanks or not. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those who crave recognition

What to Do?

31 Mar 2012

Read Acts 22:2-11

Paul said, “I asked, ‘What am I to do, Lord?’ The Lord said to me, ‘Get up and go to Damascus; there you will be told everything that has been assigned to you to do.’”

- Acts 22:10 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

It often seems that just when I have things figured out, something new comes along to confound me. My family has faced several situations lately that just aren’t what we had expected: health problems, a daughter moving to another state, the opportunity for one of us to attend college later in life. Each of these creates questions that must be answered. To that end, I often ask, like Paul, “Lord, what do you want me to do?”

Saul’s conversion on the road to Damascus was dramatic. His life changed in an instant. Often our own lives change in an instant as well. And when dramatic changes occur, our reaction to our circumstances can be like Saul’s: “Lord, what do you want me to do?” After we ask the question, we wait for God’s answer.

This waiting is often the hardest part of the process, and we probably won’t hear the Lord’s voice as Saul did. But God speaks to us nonetheless. Often our Christian family can be God’s voice speaking to us. When we talk with someone we trust who believes in God, we may hear God speak. When we search God’s word and pray, God’s answer for us will come as surely as the answer came to Saul.

Margie J. Harding (Maryland, USA)

Thought for the Day: Changes are constant, but so are God’s guidance and love.

Prayer: Dear God, sometimes when we don’t know what to do, circumstances threaten to overwhelm us. Keep speaking to us until we hear you. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those attending college late in life

Planting Seed

30 Mar 2012

Read Mark 4:1-20

Paul wrote, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.”

- 1 Corinthians 3:6 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

I live in a rural area where many people plant vegetable gardens. One friend had a tradition of always planting potatoes on Good Friday. But one year the ground was still frozen on that day. Nevertheless, with a heavy, sharp shovel and a lot of work, he managed to plant his potatoes. Those of us who knew him laughed gently about it; we thought he had simply wasted his time.

Imagine our surprise when later in the year he harvested a nice crop of potatoes. Some of the seed potatoes had survived and grown in spite of the harsh conditions.

That memory helps me continue to read, live, and speak the word of God even when I am around people who seem to reject what they see and hear. There was a time when I was afraid of that rejection. I thought the seed of God’s word would simply perish in the harshness of their hearts anyway. But the faith of a gardener planting potatoes in harsh conditions increased my faith in the worth of planting seeds for God in all conditions. Weeks, months, or even years later, those seeds may sprout and grow into a harvest as one more person comes to belief in the Creator.

Gale A. Richards (Iowa, USA)

Thought for the Day: Plant, tend as you can, and leave the rest to God.

Prayer: Dear God, help us overcome fear or laziness so that we are always ready to speak for you. Guard and nourish every seed of faith planted by the actions of your people. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those who don’t know God yet

Recycled Love

29 Mar 2012

Did you know The Upper Room offers opportunities to learn ONLINE? Join others around the world in reading and discussing Upper Room books through Upper Room eLearning. Visit often to view a regularly updated schedule of eCourses and eRetreats.

Read Matthew 25:31-46

[The king] will reply, “I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.”

- Matthew 25:45 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

A woman often comes to our house on Sunday afternoons asking for our old newspapers and magazines. One week after I gave them to her, I asked her, “Do you sell them?”

She responded, “No, madam. I give them away. I take the newspapers to an elderly man so he can cover his walls to make his room warmer.”

I inquired further, “And what about the magazines?”

She answered, “They are for a paraplegic young woman whose days are more pleasant by having something to read.”

I stared at the face of this woman carrying the heavy bags of magazines and papers. “Is this not too much weight for you?” I asked.

But she replied, “Oh, no! I am going to get more!”

I learned a beautiful lesson from this woman. With few material possessions of her own, she was caring for people more needy than she. What an example of how Jesus taught us to live!

Anizia D. Chagas Von-Held (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)

Thought for the Day: We find life when we live for others.

Prayer: Beloved God, we want to share your gifts and your teaching with other people. So fill us with your love that we eagerly help others in your name. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those without the necessities of life

God’s Word

28 Mar 2012

Read Romans 8:31-39

Paul wrote, “I am convinced that neither death, nor life, . . . nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

- Romans 8:38-39 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Lily and her husband, Ed, were loving and devout parents. This child was their fourth; and as her physician I anticipated a quick, uncomplicated delivery. When Lily was ready to deliver, she excitedly squeezed Ed’s hand and pushed. Suddenly everything changed. The baby’s heartbeat crashed. “Push hard, now!” I urged.

Terrified and exhausted, Lily clutched Ed’s hand and pleaded, “Help me!” He looked at her and at the baby’s heart monitor. Then he grabbed her hand between both of his hands, and in a strong, reassuring voice began to speak the words of Romans 8:38-39.

While he spoke, Lily pushed with all her strength. She became stronger. I could feel the powerful calm that enveloped us all as we struggled to deliver the baby. With a surge of strength and determination, she pushed their baby boy into the world. His heart rate was slow, his breathing shallow, but he quickly responded to resuscitation and wailed with vigor.

I often think of that delivery when a husband spoke words of God’s presence and power. This couple taught me about faith by their witness to the power of scripture.

Linda Beahm (Virginia, USA)

Thought for the Day: The words of scripture can strengthen us and give us life.

Prayer: Dear God, give us the strength of your word. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Women giving birth

Pathetic or Promising?

27 Mar 2012

Read Psalm 51:6-12

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. . . . Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.

- Psalm 51:10, 12 (KJV)

Today's Devotional

Every year after Easter Sunday worship, we have all our children and grandchildren over for a big meal, and afterwards some of us play in the yard. Last year while I was retrieving a ball my grandson had thrown, I noticed one of the maple seedlings I had planted the previous fall. I remembered that when I set out the tiny seedlings in October, they had looked pretty pathetic. At the time I wondered if they would make it through the winter. As I looked closely at the little seedling, I was surprised to find a new bud giving way to tiny leaves.

I soon found myself thinking of Easter’s time of renewing and restoring life — not only in nature but also within me, as a time for me to examine myself and renew my spiritual life. I remembered the psalmist’s words, “Renew a right spirit within me. . . . Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation.”

We don’t have to look very far to see God at work in the world around us. By God’s grace and love we are fed, strengthened and renewed — not only during the Easter season but every day.

Bob Kirkwood (Ohio, USA)

Thought for the Day: God takes us from pathetic to promising.

Prayer: Dear Father, help us to recognize where the Holy Spirit is working in us, and grant us the courage and strength to cooperate in what the Spirit is doing. Amen.

Prayer Focus: For courage to examine our lives

Speak Up!

26 Mar 2012

Read Nehemiah 2:1-10

Nehemiah prayed, “O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant. . . . Give success to your servant today, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man!” At the time, I was cupbearer to the king.

- Nehemiah 1:11 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

After completing my professional education, I accepted a job in a supervisory role for a large company. I was the only Christian employee working at that level, though the company did employ a few other Christians.

During Lent, I asked the Director of Human Resources for a day off to observe Good Friday. He informed me that this day was not on the company’s list of official holidays. Then he asked me about the origin and significance of Good Friday. I tried my best to explain my faith and understanding about the death and resurrection of Jesus the Christ and its importance in the Christian life. The director listened to me with interest. After this, I returned to my office.

About 30 minutes later, I received a phone call from the director. He informed me that the managing director for the company had given approval to include Good Friday in the list of authorized holidays for Christian employees. I was overjoyed to hear this good news! In this rather unusual situation, the Lord enabled me to use my position to share the good news of Christ and to improve the work environment for the Christian minority in my workplace.

Zafar Iqbal (Punjab, Pakistan)

Thought for the Day: How can I use my influence to tell the story of Christ?

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for our faith. Help us to look for opportunities to share the good news of the gospel. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Company managers

5th Sunday in Lent

25 Mar 2012

Read John 20:1-9

The women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell [Jesus’] disciples.

- Matthew 28:8 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

When I have an empty stomach, I tend to grumble and complain about my hunger. When my car’s gas tank becomes empty, it always seems that fuel prices have just taken another jump. And like any preacher, I don’t enjoy looking out from the pulpit and seeing empty pews.

Oddly enough, however, the best news in history is, “It’s empty!” On Easter morning the tomb where Jesus was laid was found empty. The stone had been rolled away, the body of Jesus Christ was gone, and the news of his resurrection began to spread from that moment on. The women who were the first witnesses of this miracle ran to share the story.

The Church of Jesus Christ has been “running on empty” ever since. Nearly 2000 years later, we’re still celebrating the good news of the empty tomb and passing it on to those who haven’t yet heard or don’t yet believe. Because of the empty tomb our hearts can be filled with joy. Because of the empty tomb our homes can be filled with faith, hope, and love. Because of the empty tomb we know that the promise of eternal life is true.

Jonathan Truax (Ohio, USA)

Thought for the Day: Because of the empty tomb, we know the promise of eternal life is true.

Prayer: Faithful God, fill us with your joy, that others may see your life in us. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Pastors and worship leaders

Incline Your Ear

24 Mar 2012

Read Jeremiah 29:10-14

The Lord says, “Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you.”

- Isaiah 55:3 (KJV)

Today's Devotional

Whenever I think of my father, I picture him at our kitchen table. During the early hours of morning, I commonly found him sitting there with his Bible open and his head bowed. He was either reading or praying, so I moved about the kitchen in silence until he spoke first.

One particular day, I knew that something was different. My father had an appointment with his attorney. Several business partners had left my father with a debt he couldn’t pay. My father was going to lose his business and the home we loved so much.

He chose to trust God to look after us. No matter what he lost, no one could take away his faith in the God he loved. That faith might be all he had at the end of this day, but his faith was enough.

My father did lose his business and our home. The people around him could not understand his joy after losing so much. Recovering from this great loss took several years and a lot of prayer and hard work, but God restored even more than we lost.

Sheryl Buckner (Virginia, USA)

Thought for the Day: God’s commitment to us outlasts anything life can bring.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to trust you with the circumstances of our lives. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those facing foreclosure

Deep Roots

23 Mar 2012

Read Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23

When the sun rose, [the seeds] were scorched; and since they had no root, they withered away.

- Matthew 13:6 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Early one morning while watering the small garden on our balcony, I noticed that the brambles around the flowers were thick and strong. I pulled out the brambles and put them on the floor. Later I looked out on the balcony and noticed that the brambles had wilted. The reason was simple: their roots were no longer receiving nutrients from the earth.

This reminded me of the sower in today’s scripture and the seeds that were cast on rocky ground. The plants sprang up quickly but did not flourish because there was little soil and no depth for their roots to take hold.

This parable tells us why believers who stray from God wither spiritually when faced with difficulties. For us to meet life’s challenges, we need God’s word to be deeply rooted in us and our faith to be deeply rooted in Christ.

Richard E. Rodriguez (Valle del Cauca, Colombia )

Thought for the Day: How can I nurture the seeds of love and goodness that God has planted in me?

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to receive the seeds of your word so that our faith will take root, thrive, and remain strong. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those in need of spiritual renewal

Would You Pray for Me?

22 Mar 2012

Read Proverbs 3:5-6

The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up.

- James 5:15 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

I was calling Sandra Zaiter to ask her to speak at a Thanksgiving Day luncheon. For many years she worked in Puerto Rico as a director of children’s TV programs. My generation grew up watching and learning from her as she gave timely advice and taught us everything from everyday values to simple mathematics.

Her life took a 180-degree turn in 1975. One day while at the beach, she decided to dive, unaware that the tide had receded and that rocks were close beneath the surface. The impact with them left her a quadriplegic. Nevertheless, her professional life continued. Now I was calling to invite her to share her thoughts about being thankful. As our conversation drew to a close, she asked, “Pastor, in a few days I’ll be having some medical tests. Would you pray for me?” We spent a few more moments on the telephone as I prayed for this national television personality.

After the call, I opened El Aposento Alto (the Spanish edition of The Upper Room) to read the meditation for the day. The title of it was, “Pray for Me”!* Praying for others is more than an opportunity; it is a privilege God presents to us. That day I learned that when we are asked to pray for someone, we should do it. God will take care of the rest.

*November 10, 2010.

Julio R. Vargas Vidal (Puerto Rico)

Thought for the Day: For a link to information about Sandra Zaiter, go to upperroom.org.

Prayer: Loving God, grant us the sensitivity to recognize and act on opportunities to pray for others. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those in need of my prayers

What Is Grace?

21 Mar 2012

Read Ephesians 2:4-10

God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

- Romans 5:8 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

I was in third grade when I committed what I thought was a horrible sin: I tore my math book. My feelings of guilt were confirmed by my seatmate. “You’re in trouble now!” she pronounced.

I panicked. What would my punishment be? My handmade clothes and home-style haircut showed that my family could not afford to replace the textbook. I decided that confessing was easier than getting caught, so I headed for the teacher’s desk. With tears, I admitted my guilt.

To my surprise, she reached for her tape dispenser, pulled off a piece of tape the length of my six-inch ruler, smoothed it into place along the torn page, and handed back the book. “There. All fixed,” she said, bestowing on me a smile that melted my fear.

Years later I struggled with the Christian term "grace." Whenever I asked veteran Christians to define the word, I got pat answers: the acrostic “God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense” or the pithy, “God’s unmerited favor.” Not until I remembered what a third-grade teacher did for a guilt-ridden student did I understand grace. My definition of grace comes not from what she said but from what she did.

Karen Wingate (Illinois, USA)

Thought for the Day: Each of us can be to others a picture of God’s grace.

Prayer: Dear Lord, use us to help others understand your love and grace that reach past our sin. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Elementary-school teachers

Tears of Compassion

20 Mar 2012

Read John 11:32-44

Jesus wept.

- John 11:35 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

Life was going well for our family when I got a diagnosis no one wants to receive: “You have breast cancer that will require a mastectomy as soon as possible.”

We had questions. My three children were 17, 14, and seven. "Would I survive to see them grow up? Why did I need a mastectomy at 41 years old?" It felt unfair. We hurt, and we cried a lot.

On a Sunday afternoon drive, my husband and I noticed that in front of a country church a sign read, “Jesus wept.” Why did Jesus weep when he planned to raise Lazarus to life? When he saw Mary’s grief, her mourning over the loss of her brother, Jesus felt compassion for her.

When we grieve our losses, we are helped by reminders that Christ feels compassion for us. When we face unexpected disappointments — health problems, broken relationships, shattered dreams — we remember that Jesus understands. Since the Bible promises, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Heb. 13:8), we know that the same compassion Jesus felt for his friends he also feels for us.

Brenda Tucker (South Carolina, USA)

Thought for the Day: Christ feels compassion for me when I am hurting.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the compassion you feel for us. Help us to trust you, even when we do not understand why losses have to come. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those struggling with cancer

Staying in Tune

19 Mar 2012

Read Romans 7:18-25

After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you.

- 1 Peter 5:10 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

As a guitar player, I find that keeping my guitar in tune is one of my most trying tasks. The guitar is susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity that affect the strings. And often I strum with so much force that the strings lose their pitch. Keeping my guitar in tune requires frequent adjusting.

For those of us who are vulnerable to wandering away from our faith, keeping our hearts in tune with God also requires attention. As the world buffets us, daily prayer and Bible study and frequent fellowship with other believers enable us to stay in tune with God and to resist temptations that can lure us away from faithful obedience.

God, in infinite grace, is ready and willing to forgive us, restore us, and help us keep our hearts in tune with our Creator.

Jacob C. Schneider (Maryland, USA)

Thought for the Day: Link2Life: To see a picture of Jacob with his guitar, go to upperroom.org.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to resist temptation and live in harmony with you as we pray, “Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. Give us day by day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.”* Amen. *Luke 11:2-4 (KJV).

Prayer Focus: Church musicians

4th Sunday in Lent

18 Mar 2012

Read Acts 9:36-41

For God alone my soul waits in silence. . . . Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us.

- Psalm 62:5, 8 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Making quilts for friends and family became for me a spiritual discipline. I fell into a routine: work, home, dinner, tidy up, and quilt. I spent hours quilting — lost in thought about the God who created me (designing me just as I design my quilts), who knew me before I was born and “stitched me together” into being. The stillness of those moments provided the perfect setting for God to capture my attention.

I did not realize until recently that the time had become somehow sacred. Only after the projects were done and my quiet evenings were refilled with the busyness of life did I realize that I missed those moments of peace in which I could sit quietly before God and think, pray, and even at times lament. And God was there, reminding me of the great love shown to me through Jesus.

When I find my evenings starting to fill up with noisy activity, I am going to make more quilts. I pray that I will be able to recreate those quiet moments and invite the Spirit of God to dwell within me, to teach me, to correct me, and to instruct me. Then I can minister to others through the tangible warmth of a handmade quilt and through sharing the love and peace and comfort found in Christ.

Penny Rasnake (Virginia, USA)

Thought for the Day: Quiet time with God is a pause that spiritually refreshes.

Prayer: Dear God, when our lives are filled with busyness, remind us to seek quiet time to deepen our relationship with you. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Quilters

Underneath the Words

17 Mar 2012

Read Luke 8:1-15

[Jesus’] disciples asked him what this parable meant. He said, “The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to others I speak in parables, so that, ‘though seeing, they may not see; though hearing, they may not understand.’”

- Luke 8:9-10 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

All around Jesus and his disciples were scores of people, many of them religious leaders, who saw and heard but didn’t understand. They saw the healings, the miracles; they heard the words of Jesus, his teachings; but they couldn’t or wouldn’t understand. Why? Because just as soil has to be softened to receive seed, our hearts must be ready to receive the word of God.

Many times an argument between two people isn’t really about the subject they are discussing. Often it’s about an earlier circumstance, often unrelated to the current conversation. (Stop in the middle of your next disagreement with someone close to you, and see if this is true.) The key to resolving a conflict is willingness to listen until we understand the feelings underneath the words, to come to a deeper level of understanding.

Christ wants to take us to that deeper understanding. The Pharisees weren’t able or willing to go there, but we can be. We can learn to listen with our heart.

Dan G. Johnson (Florida, USA)

Thought for the Day: Today, I will listen with my heart.

Prayer: Dear Lord, we want to hear you. We want to hear and understand our children, our parents, the people closest to us, and those with whom we work. Amen.

Prayer Focus: People who are at odds

The Loving Arms of God

16 Mar 2012

Read Psalm 23

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me.

- Psalm 23:4 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

My grandson Danny is a beautiful gift from God. Danny has Down syndrome. At five years old, he cannot walk up or down stairs without assistance. He was with me at school when I met with teachers and students to work on an end-of-the-year session. Without my knowledge or permission, Danny decided to explore.

I had no idea he had left the room until I heard a heart-wrenching scream from down the hallway, near the stairwell. I knew right away what was happening. As I ran down the hallway, I saw Danny surrounded by well-meaning students who were trying their best to calm him. He reached for me when he saw me. Upon taking my hand, he immediately descended the stairs, singing calmly, without even glancing at the steps.

The words of Psalm 23:4 came to me: “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me.” With the same confidence that my grandson showed in reaching for me in his frightening moment, we can reach for God’s loving hand in difficult or challenging times.

Carmen G. Narváez (Puerto Rico)

Thought for the Day: In our dark valleys and in our daily tasks, God walks beside us.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for sheltering us. Help us remember to reach for your hand in troubling times. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Grandparents and grandchildren

Yard Work

15 Mar 2012

Digital has arrived! Enjoy interactive, multimedia versions of The Upper Room and Alive Now. Audio and video clips, photos, and links to additional content make these the perfect companions to our print editions. It’s the same great magazines you have always loved—but so much more! Click on the links above for your FREE PREVIEW issue.

Read Colossians 3:5-10

The Lord says, “Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”

- Isaiah 43:18-19 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

The yard was a mess. Winter weather and high winds had scattered tree branches, dead leaves, and hundreds of pinecones over our property. The whole place needed a thorough cleanup.

I set to work, and soon I had assembled a sizeable stack of sticks. Grabbing a rake, I mounded pinecones and needles into a thick pile. Several hours passed. I stopped to check my progress; the yard looked neat and tidy. The grass was still brown and dry, but as I knelt for a closer look, I saw tiny green shoots. Spring was coming, but these signs hadn’t been noticeable until the debris was removed.

Sometimes our spiritual lives are like my yard — brown, barren, and littered with debris. Like a thorough yard cleanup, the weeks of Lent give us a chance to examine ourselves, to focus on our spiritual life, and to remove the debris so new growth can emerge.

Valerie Battle Kienzle (Missouri, USA)

Thought for the Day: Where is my spiritual growing edge? How can I cooperate in what God is doing?

Prayer: Dear God, we open our lives to you during this Lenten season. Help us remove the debris in our lives, and fill us instead with your presence and love. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those practicing a Lenten discipline

A Neighbor’s Love

14 Mar 2012

Read John 13:31-35

The whole Law is summed up in one commandment: “Love your neighbor as you love yourself.”

- Galatians 5:14 (TEV)

Today's Devotional

The same week that my husband’s parents were killed in an auto accident, a new neighbor moved onto our block. She understood that this was a difficult time for me, so when I needed a babysitter, she helped. When I was too tired to cook, she brought a meal. When I needed spiritual guidance, she read scripture to me. I was drawn to her kindness.

Looking back, I realize that my new friend was showing me the unconditional love of God. No one had ever done that before. And because of her loving me, I began to read the Bible for myself. As I read and studied the scripture, I found Jesus as my Lord and Savior. I will be eternally grateful to this neighbor.

Jesus told his followers in John 13:34-35, “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. . . . By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (NRSV).

Do we love our neighbors in ways that cause them to see Christ in us? Showing the love of Christ to others can change their lives forever. It changed mine.

Karen Stapleton (Colorado, USA)

Thought for the Day: Love is the distinguishing mark of disciples of Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, make us aware of those who need to know your love. Then, empower us to show it. Amen.

Prayer Focus: New neighbors

Small Miracles

13 Mar 2012

Read Exodus 14:10-25

Moses stretched out his hand over the sea. The Lord drove the sea back by a strong east wind all night, and turned the sea into dry land; and the waters were divided.

- Exodus 14:21 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

I am a lawyer. When helping religious organizations, I often come across situations that, from my human perspective, seem completely irresolvable. Those who have encountered the bureaucratic machine in Russia will understand. I can give you an example.

I needed to submit some documents so that a theological seminary would receive its license as an educational institution. I stood in line. I was number 98. Everybody said that submitting those documents that day would be impossible, but doing so was essential. I took my number for the line and went about my business. At the end of the working day, I went back to the place where I needed to submit the documents; but I was prepared to come back on another day. When I got there, I saw that they were calling number 97. I was the next one called and the last person served that day.

I can offer countless examples like this one. I often find myself wondering, "Is it simply luck?" But to me it is not. I see it, rather, as the hand of God at work.

Kim Sergey (Moscow, Russia)

Thought for the Day: God acts in our lives every day; I will watch for these small miracles.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for miracles we see in everyday life. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those who deal with bureaucracies daily

Carried on the Path

12 Mar 2012

Read Proverbs 3:5-6

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.

- James 4:10 (TEV)

Today's Devotional

When my daughter Becky was about two years old, our family went canoeing in Michigan. On the return trip, my wife and son started down the trail; but when I reached down to pick up Becky, she objected. She had ridden in the canoe or been carried all day, so now she wanted to walk.

I knew that Becky couldn’t walk the quarter mile of rough trail ahead of us, but I decided to let her try. When she got tired, I’d carry her. She refused to walk ahead of me, so she tottered along behind; and the two of us slowly proceeded down the path. After about 15 minutes, I heard Becky yell. I turned quickly and found her sitting in the middle of the trail, crying. She wasn’t hurt; she was just too tired to go on. As I scooped her up in my arms I told her, “You don’t need to cry, Becky. Just ask Daddy to carry you.”

As I walked along the path with Becky in my arms, I thought about our relationship with God. Just as I knew that Becky couldn’t travel the path on her own, God knows that we cannot travel the path of life on our own. In the same way I was watching over Becky, waiting for her to ask to be carried, God watches over us, ready to carry us when we can go no further.

William Malmsten (Michigan, USA)

Thought for the Day: Link2Life: To see a picture of William and his daughter, go to upperroom.org.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to remember that you are always with us, ready to carry us when we need it. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those on family trips

3rd Sunday in Lent

11 Mar 2012

Read Romans 8:1-17

There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.

- Romans 8:1-2 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

When I first read the scripture quoted above, I had to sit with it for a while. There is no condemnation; I have been set free from sin and death. That is a lot to take in. I have been walking with God for quite some time now, and still some days I find it hard to believe that I have truly been set free. I know this in my head. I have been taught this, but there is a difference between knowing and believing. I still find myself trying to earn God’s love and forgiveness when it has been freely given to me.

God does not want me to feel as if I am constantly striving to prove myself or as if I am constantly failing at my relationship with him. God simply wants me to sit and allow grace and mercy to pour over me like a flowing fountain. When I let God into my soul, I hear a whisper: "You don’t have to prove anything to me. I came to conquer sin so that you don’t have to feel unworthy. I made you in my likeness."

I have to allow myself to feel like the beautifully and wonderfully made person whom God created, not someone who is beaten up by the world. I am grateful that we are not required to earn God’s love. I just have to allow myself to feel it, to accept my freedom through Christ. I am thankful that God loved me enough to become human and die so that I may know what this freedom is.

Allison Fasig (Tennessee, USA)

Thought for the Day: “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36).

Prayer: Dear God of salvation, in our weakness, hear our prayers. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those in prison

Trusting the Lord

10 Mar 2012

Read Psalm 118:1-9

With the Lord on my side I do not fear. What can mortals do to me?

- Psalm 118:6 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Recently I spotted an advertisement for a bookkeeping position that offered a competitive salary and generous benefits including health insurance. I applied for the position, along with 125 others. After narrowing the number of applicants down to 14, the company chose three of us for a final interview. The final interview went well, and I felt excited and confident that I had landed the position.

My excitement quickly turned to despair when the manager sent me an e-mail saying they had changed their minds and decided that outsourcing the position would be more cost- efficient for the company. My weeks of praying and preparing had been for nothing. How could God have let this happen to me?

The answer came to me from Lucille, an older woman in my church. She said, “Honey, God didn’t do this to you. The company manager made a business decision. God never left your side and is with you to walk you through the pain and disappointment.” Her words of wisdom made me realize how quick I am to blame God for all that goes wrong in my life instead of leaning on God to see me through the hard times.

Priscilla Clements (Florida, USA)

Thought for the Day: What happens to us is not a measure of God’s love for us.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to understand and accept that while bad things happen to good people, your love for us is constant. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those who are looking for work

The Rose of Lent

9 Mar 2012

Read Romans 8:18-23

The sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed to us.

- Romans 8:18 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Several years ago my wife and I were given a small, nondescript and humble-looking plant called a Lenten rose. We set it outside near our house and watered it occasionally. As winter approached, we inquired whether it should be transplanted, perhaps taken indoors. We were advised to leave it alone, that it would survive. And it did, the foliage remaining green through the winter. When the season of Lent arrived, the plant began to perk up and blossoms appeared. It then began to bloom with bright, pinkish flowers much earlier than other flowering plants. It did this consistently as Easter approached, its blossoms and foliage always full and beautiful.

We have come to see this as a reminder of the hope we have in Christ. We go through trials, temptations, sicknesses, and storms that could destroy us. But they do not. Each Lent offers us an opportunity to focus on the sacrifice of Christ for the sins of the world. This contemplation and meditation ultimately bear the “fruit” of appreciating the true meaning of what God’s love has given us — the promise of a glorious resurrection, life in Christ, and the gifts that we celebrate on Easter Sunday. Like the Lenten rose, we slowly but surely mature into fullness of life.

Jack L. Matthews (Alabama, USA)

Thought for the Day: Link2Life: Go to: upperroom.org to see a picture of Jack’s Lenten rose.

Prayer: Dear Lord, as we mature in faith and meditate on Christ’s sacrifice for us, help us to grow and blossom as a witness to our world. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Someone enduring a storm

Citizens

8 Mar 2012

An estimated three million people around the world, in 100 countries and in 40 different languages, are reading The Upper Room daily devotional guide with you today. Consider a gift to grow this ministry as we reach around the globe.

Read 1 Peter 2:4-10

There is one body and one Spirit — just as you were called to one hope when you were called — 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 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

I happened to walk past the federal courthouse at a time when many people were leaving the building. All were smiling and many were dressed in special clothes. Some paused in the windy, chilly weather to have pictures taken with their companions.

I soon discovered the source of their joy. These people had just become U.S. citizens and had received the documents that assure them the rights, security, and privileges of this citizenship. People from many different countries now share one allegiance. From many other cultures, they now share one homeland. From many other backgrounds they came — seeking a better life for themselves and their children.

The family of believers and the church offer a similar unity. We are an assembly of many but with one Lord, people who share hope for a better life now and eternal life to come.

Kenneth Athon (Indiana, USA)

Thought for the Day: For citizens of God’s kingdom, every day can be a day of joy.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for Jesus, through whom we now enjoy the many benefits of being a part of your kingdom. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Refugees and immigrants

A Long, Cool Drink

7 Mar 2012

In East Malaysia, volunteers are currently working to develop an Iban language audio format of The Upper Room in an effort to make the devotional guide available for those who do not know how to read. Consider a gift to Upper Room International Ministries.

Read John 4:5-15

[Jesus] cried out, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me, and let the one who believes in me drink. As the scripture has said, ‘Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water.’ ”

- John 7:37-38 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Each spring, I love seeing my patio planters overflowing with colorful flowers: coral petunias, blue lobelia, dusty miller. The planters never look better than when I first set the nursery-bred plants in the pots. I water them well each day for a week or two, happy for rainy days when God does the job for me. But I am soon distracted and forget to keep the flowers watered. After just a few warm, dry days, every flower stem bends and the foliage droops down the sides of the pots. I fear the worst. But I’m thankful that if the soil is not completely dried up, I can water the plants and see them revive.

This makes me realize that I need the water of God’s word as desperately as my patio flowers need water. If I forget reading the Bible and praying, I will soon droop. The stresses of life can overwhelm me, just as my flowers wither in the heat.

Yet those who believe in Christ tap into an endless supply of water. Jesus promised that if we come to him and believe in him, streams of living water will flow from within us. When I take time to read my Bible each morning, I feel stronger — more able to survive the day. When I see my patio flowers drooping for lack of water, I run for the hose. But I also stop and think, "Have I turned to Christ lately for a cool drink of the water of life?"

Sherree G. Funk (Pennsylvania, USA)

Thought for the Day: Link2Life: To see a picture of Sherree’s colorful planters, go to upperroom.org.

Prayer: Dear Lord, refresh us daily by the water of your word, that we may grow and mature in you. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Gardeners

Offer Them Life

6 Mar 2012

Last year, Upper Room Ministries received a letter from a prison inmate who eagerly receives the devotional guide from the prison chaplain. Watch a video featuring this meaningful letter, and consider a gift to support The Upper Room Chaplain’s Ministry.

Read 2 Corinthians 2:12-17

We are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life.

- 2 Corinthians 2:15-16 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

Many years ago I went to Egypt for a Christian women’s conference. One day we visited the Zabaleen area where Coptic Christians live and work sorting the garbage from the city of Cairo. The rubbish was piled high on every side: plastics in one heap, bottles in another, rubber tires in yet another location. These piles were like small mountains, and in the middle of this area stood a tiny concrete church building.

Fires were raging as unrecyclable material was burned. Pigs were running around the church, consuming anything edible. The stench outside was horrible, but I felt warm, loving fellowship inside the church. The spiritual atmosphere was like the sweetest perfume imaginable. One little girl, obviously very poor, came up to me and broke off a piece from her loaf of bread to give to me. In Arabic she said, “In the name of Christ.”

What do we bring to our encounters with the people we meet every day? Can others see that we are Christians? Do we offer them life in the name of Christ?

Pat Rantisi (Shropshire, England)

Thought for the Day: Link2Life: To see a picture of Zabaleen children, go to upperroom.org.

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, help us to carry the fragrance of life to those in need today and to everyone we meet. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Coptic Christians

A Life That Matters

5 Mar 2012

Read Romans 5:12-19

God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.

- 1 Peter 5:5 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

On the evening of June 17, 1968, I gave my life to Jesus Christ while watching a televised evangelistic crusade. Although it was certainly needed, this decision wasn’t in my plans and was certainly difficult to accept.

Life had become a monotonous grind. The freedom of being a young adult, newly married, and working a steady job as an auto mechanic were good experiences — but not good enough to remove a gnawing sense of something missing in my life. I grew up in the church and knew the stories of Jesus, but I had dismissed them. My aptitude for fixing things convinced me that if given the time, the means, and the freedom, I could eventually fix this mysterious hole in my life all by myself.

Imagine my resentment when the evangelist said that I needed Christ. But the more he preached, the more I saw the truth of what he was saying. By the end of the broadcast, I had asked Christ to “fix” me. And through the power of love, God saved me — cleansing my conscience and giving me a new reason for living. Nothing has created a greater impact on my life and the way I live it than committing myself to following Christ.

Bill Fisher (Virginia, USA)

Thought for the Day: Abundant life begins when we commit ourselves to following Christ. (See John 10:10.)

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to admit that we need you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those struggling with pride

2nd Sunday in Lent

4 Mar 2012

This Upper Room daily devotional email is available for free because of generous donors like you. Consider giving a gift that helps sustain and grow the ministries of The Upper Room.

Read James 3:1-12

Those who guard their mouths preserve their lives; those who open wide their lips come to ruin.

- Proverbs 13:3 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

One Sunday during Lent, I told my small group that I was going to try not to say any negative or unproductive words and to speak only helpful words to others. That week I was doing fine. I began each day as usual, reading my Bible and The Upper Room, and meditating on what God was saying to me.

By Friday, however, I faltered. During a conversation with a friend, I let my words get me in trouble. As the Bible tells us, the tongue is difficult to tame (see James 3:8). After seeing how my words had hurt my friend, I felt that God was displeased with me. I apologized to my friend, and then I prayed and asked God to forgive me.

My friend reached out to me in love and reconciliation, but I still felt ashamed. However, I knew God did not want me to dwell on my mistake. I got out my Bible and my copy of The Upper Room and asked God to help me. That day’s suggested Bible reading, Romans 8:31-39, reassured me that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ; and I was able to feel forgiven.

Donald Wright (Tennessee, USA)

Thought for the Day: Set a guard over my mouth, O LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips (Ps. 141:3).

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your love and forgiveness. Teach us to honor you in our relationships with others. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Small groups meeting during Lent

God’s Time

3 Mar 2012

Because of growing demand beyond the existing Japanese edition of The Upper Room, Japan has now become the 14th site outside of the United States printing an English edition of The Upper Room daily devotional guide. Thank you for making this possible! Donate to Upper Room International Ministries.

Read Isaiah 41:8-13

Jesus said . . . , “Do not fear, only believe.”

- Mark 5:36 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

The year I graduated from college, I went into a deep depression. I lost my appetite as well as much of my energy and strength. Two years passed. When I visited a psychiatrist, the doctor said it would probably take another two to three years to recover. Actually, it took about six years.

God brought me healing in spite of hard trials and challenging experiences. Medical help was necessary, but I had leaned too much on the doctor’s words, “two to three years.” As I look back, all the days of painful experiences and anxious feelings were days overflowing with God’s blessings. God had been with me, using the hard times to teach me and mold me.

Now, no longer fearing sickness, I take courage and live joyfully, entrusting everything to God. In that trust I have found true healing. No matter how weak we become, God loves us, forgives us, and heals us. Whatever the situation, if we trust in God, we can live expectantly — always in God’s time.

Hirono Shinomiya (Shizuoka, Japan)

Thought for the Day: Even as we struggle, God is healing us.

Prayer: Dear God, we thank you for the ways you heal us. Help us to trust you more and to wait patiently for your hand of love on our lives. We pray as Jesus taught us, saying, “Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation.”* Amen. *Luke 11:2-4 (NIV).

Prayer Focus: Those with mental-health problems

A Day Late and A Prayer Short

2 Mar 2012

Read Ephesians 3:14-21

Pray without ceasing.

- 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

Monday morning, I woke up eager to pray for my granddaughters. Eight and eleven years old, they were attending their first day in a new school. I had planned to pray that they would have a good experience, dedicated teachers, and kind friends. Just as I settled down to focus on my prayer, I realized I had made a mistake in timing. My granddaughters had moved with their parents to Beijing, China, for the year. Their school in China was in a time zone 14 hours ahead of mine, so their first day of school was long over. They had eaten supper and were already asleep. I had not prayed for them before their first day at the new school, and I felt terrible.

My granddaughters may have been in school, but I am the one who learned a lesson. If I had been praying for my granddaughters every day, I would have prayed for them on their first day in their new school no matter what the time zone. God is constant, and prayer is available to us at all times. I don’t want to pray just when I have a special request; I want to build a daily discipline of praying, especially for my family.

Jan Winston (Kansas, USA)

Thought for the Day: Link2Life: To see a picture of Jan with her granddaughters, go to upperroom.org.

Prayer: O God, we want to be as consistent in communicating with you as you are in communicating with us. Teach us to speak to you and listen to you throughout every day. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those with family members in another country

Wanted: Ordinary People

1 Mar 2012

Read Matthew 14:22-33

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God — what is good and acceptable and perfect.

- Romans 12:2 (NRSV)

Today's Devotional

What would you do if Jesus came to your church and said, “I’m looking for a few ordinary people”? Why would Jesus be interested in ordinary people?

Yet these are the ones Jesus called to be his friends: fishermen, a tax collector, a teacher, a homemaker. I have related to Peter more than any of Jesus’ other followers.

Peter was impulsive, like me. Seeing Jesus walking on the water, he said, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you.” Jesus did and Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water, something no one except Jesus had done. That is not ordinary. Then Peter looked around at the wind and the waves, and he fell. That is what I would do. That’s ordinary.

After Jesus’ arrest, fear overcame Peter and he denied knowing Jesus. I hate to say it, but I probably would have done the same. I am grateful that Jesus loved and forgave Peter and commanded him, “Feed my sheep” (John 21:17). Peter later became a preacher in the early church. The longer Peter walked with Jesus, the more he was changed. And the more I walk with Christ, the more I realize how much he wants to help me become the servant God wants me to be.

Sue Tornai (California, USA)

Thought for the Day: God calls ordinary people to be extraordinary servants.

Prayer: O God, help us ordinary people to be extraordinary workers for your kingdom. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Ordinary people

Time Waits for No One

29 Feb 2012

Read Ecclesiastes 3:9-15

I will extol the Lord at all times.

— Psalm 34:1 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

Today is that “convenience day” inserted into our calendar by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582 to put the world on schedule. The whole system started when Julius Caesar authorized a calendar which operated on the assumption that the true year is actually 365 ¼ days long. Pope Gregory’s action creating a “leap year” compensates for that additional time.

So we all get a little borrowed time this year. Persons born on February 29 can celebrate their quadrennial birthday today. Time is relative anyway, and the “wee hours of the morning” can be the longest hours of the day if you lie awake and cannot sleep. The Teacher in the Old Testament declared, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven (Eccl. 3:1).

Time marches on, but for the person of faith it is different. It is a march not toward the setting sun but toward the light of the morning. John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, was so concerned about the use of time that he began a tradition which continues to this day — asking candidates for ministry to avoid trifling away their time.

Every day is a special gift, not just February 29. Since we cannot know what any day may bring forth, only that the time for serving Jesus Christ is always present, this Lenten season is an opportunity to take a fresh look at the way we are spending our time.

John M. Younginer, Jr. (South Carolina, USA)

Thought for the Day: Each day is a perfect day to serve Christ.

Prayer: Most loving Father, we acknowledge that our times are in your hands. Look with mercy upon all that we do, and deliver us from faithless fears and worldly anxieties as we dedicate our days to your care and keeping. Amen.

Prayer Focus: People burdened with idle time

Muddy Shoes?

28 Feb 2012

Read Ephesians 3:14-21

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

— James 1:17 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

An old joke tells about two Israelites who were following Moses across the bed of the Red Sea just after God parted the waters. One comments to the other, “Can you imagine what this mud is doing to our sandals? They’re probably ruined.”

Many of us are like that person in the story; we’re so focused on the negatives and worries of our lives that we completely miss the miracles and blessings all around us. We fixate on the cold, rainy weather, the leaky bathroom faucet, the difficult person at work, the snarled traffic slowing our commute. At the same time, we take for granted or even ignore the many blessings we receive every day — love from family and friends, a warm and dry place to live, the security of a job, and the freedom to worship God as we wish.

God is “able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.” Faith focuses not on the problems of the moment but on the many blessings in each day.

Bob G. Wood (Tennessee, USA)

Thought for the Day: Watch a movie about the Exodus.

Prayer: Dear God, forgive us for taking our blessings for granted. Open our eyes to see and our hearts to give thanks for the many ways your goodness comes to us day by day. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Those blind to life’s “everyday miracles”