Words In Red Lenten Devotional

You Are Now Entering The Mission Field

admin — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

By Connie Edmonds
March 26, 2008

Read: Matthew 28:16-20 JESUS’ WORDS TO ALL BELIEVERS

THOUGHT STARTER: What do you see as your responsibility in making ‘more and better disciples’? Make a plan and ask church friend to hold you accountable.
KEY VERSE: vs 19a: “Wherever you go, make disciples of all nations.”
CENTRAL TRUTH: God directs us to “go tell” and gives us the courage, opportunity and words to share. Jesus wants more from us than worship. He tells us to go share the Good News.

Do You Believe??????????

admin — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

By Jim Drumm
March 25, 2008

Read John 20:24-31 JESUS AND THOMAS

THOUGHT STARTER: How should we deal with our doubts about Christianity? In what ways are you like or unlike Thomas?

Do you believe that God is with you always? Do you believe that God has a plan for you? Do you ever have any doubts?

Walking With The Lord Jesus

admin — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

By Pastor Larry Kinne
March 24, 2008

Read: Luke 24:13-36 THE EMMAUS WALK

THOUGHT STARTER: When did God give you a special insight into Himself? How did it affect your belief? What can you do about developing the life Jesus desires for you?
KEY VERSE: vs:25: "How foolish you are! You're so slow to believe".

Why Are You Crying?

admin — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

By Pastor Dale Evanson
March 23, 2008

Read John 20:1-18 HE LIVES!

THOUGHT STARTER: Have you had a dark moment in your life that ended happily? When has Jesus met you at your point of need, as He did Mary in this account?
KEY VERSE: vs 13: ‘The angels asked her why she was crying.’ vs 15a: Jesus asked her, ‘Why are you crying?’

Miseries

admin — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

By Cindy Stults
March 22, 2008

Read: Luke 23:26-46 THE CRUCIFIXION

THOUGHT STARTER: He forgives us as He forgave them. Do you feel forgiven? How do you show it? Are you always willing to forgive others, even those who have disappointed or harmed you?

Are You Sleeping Christian

admin — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

By Linda Benson and Daniel Kitzman
March 21, 2008

Read Matthew 26:36-46 GETHSEMANE

THOUGHT STARTER: How do you measure your faith in Christ? Is it strong enough to stand up under intense trial?
KEY VERSE: vs 41: “Stay awake, and pray that you won’t be tempted. You want to do what’s right, but you’re weak.”
CENTRAL TRUTH: In my daily walk, I can be alert to opportunities to minister to others and pray continually for His help and guidance.

Scottsdale, Pennsylvania. I was seven and just starting to grasp the concept of Jesus Christ and what He came to do.

Surely Not I, Lord

admin — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

March 20, 2008

Read: Matthew 26:17-29 THE PASSOVER MEAL

THOUGHT STARTER: Jesus gave us several ways to connect with Him personally. What are they? How often do you take advantage of them?

Just Know Him

admin — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:04:44 -0700

By Kimberly Talley
march 19, 2008

Read: John 17:1-19 JESUS PRAYS FOR HIMSELF AND HIS DISCIPLES

THOUGHT STARTER: Find something to pray for yourself and others in your life…be specific. How does your life reveal Jesus’ character and presence?
KEY VERSE: This is eternal life: to know you, the ony true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you sent. John 17: 3
CENTRAL TRUTH: To just believe is not quite enough.

What In The World Does God Want Me To Do With The Holy Spirit?

admin — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 03:07:34 -0700

By Laura Thomas
March 18, 2008

Read: John 14:15-31 JESUS PROMISES THE HOLY SPIRIT

THOUGHT STARTER: How can we get to know the Holy Spirit better? How does He work in your life?
KEY VERSE: vs 17: “The world cannot accept Him because it doesn’t see or know Him. You know Him because He lives with you and will be in you.”

Are You Keeping It To Yourself

admin — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

By Ruth Newman
March 17, 2008

Read: John 17:20-26 JESUS PRAYS FOR ALL BELIEVERS

THOUGHT STARTER: Are you helping to unify the body of Christ…the Church? How do you think this prayer applies to you?
KEY VERSE: “...I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message..” (John 17:20)
CENTRAL TRUTH: Jesus prays for all believers, because He wants all believers to be with Him.

How Getting Washed-Up Changed my Life

admin — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

By Lorrie Wonfor
March 16, 2008

Read: John 13:1-20 JESUS WASHES THE DISCIPLES’ FEET

THOUGHT STARTER: Servants aren’t popular anymore. How can you serve others so that they do not know? Which is easier: serving family or others?

KEY VERSE: 8b – “If I don’t wash you, you don’t belong to me”
CENTRAL TRUTH: Will you be part of what Jesus is and what He can do for you?

The Right Thing

admin — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

By Ken McLean
March 15, 2008

Read: Matthew 12:9-14 JESUS HEALS ON THE DAY OF WORSHIP

THOUGHT STARTER: Jesus was criticized for healing on the Sabbath. Explain why your grateful prayers are accepted every day, every hour.
CENTRAL TRUTH: Jesus tells us the importance of doing the “right” thing, no matter what…no matter what “rule” that needs to be broken…no matter who tells us to do otherwise. Are you ready to break a few rules or social norms to do the right thing?

Your Faith Has Made You Well

admin — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

By Terri Dunlop
March 14, 2008

Read: Luke 8:40-56 A DEAD GIRL AND A SICK WOMAN

THOUGHT STARTER: If you could touch Jesus’ cloak as you prayed, would it make a difference in the strength of your faith? What do you think Jesus would say?
KEY VERSE: vs 50b: “Don’t be afraid! Just believe.”
CENTRAL TRUTH: Trust this, He conquered death. She was an outcast and unclean. No one on earth could cure her so she reached
out to heaven.

Trust In Jesus Works Miracles

admin — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

By Dan Behrendt
March 13, 2008

Read: Matthew 8:5-13 A SOLDIER’S FAITH

THOUGHT STARTER: Describe a time you asked for Jesus’ help for another person but may have felt undeserving in asking, like the Centurion. How did you resolve that inner conflict?

In this account of Jesus healing a person, a Roman centurion has a servant that is very sick. The servant is so sick that he cannot be moved from the centurion’s house. The centurion’s servant is described in great pain, “paralyzed and in dreadful pain”.

Blessed By Others To Pass It On

admin — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

By Mark Willmann
March 12, 2008

Read: John 11:15, 17-44 THE RAISING OF LAZARUS

THOUGHT STARTER: Have you ever blamed God for not being there when you needed him (like in John 11:23), but later discovered your prayers were answered, but perhaps not in the way you asked?
KEY VERSE: vs 14: “His sickness won’t result in death. Instead, this sickness will bring glory to God so that the Son of God will receive glory through it.”
Central Truth: Pray that our love and our lives will be blessed by God so that we may be a blessing to all who know and love us.

Always Enough

admin — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

By Fran Roth
March 11, 2008

Read: Matthew 15:29-38 FEEDING FOUR THOUSAND

THOUGHT STARTER: Give an example of how Jesus continues to feed His followers. How can you pass on Jesus’ miracle by helping to spiritually feed someone else?

KEY VERSE: Jesus called His disciples and said, “I feel sorry for the people. They have been with me three days now and have nothing to eat. I don’t want to send them away hungry, or they may become exhausted on their way home.” (Matthew 15:32)

Get Up and Go

admin — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0700

By Linda Willmann
March 10, 2008

Read: Matthew 9:1-8 HELPING A PARALYZED MAN

THOUGHT STARTER: Describe why ‘your sins are forgiven’ is a greater gift than ‘get up, take your mat and go home.’

KEY VERSE: vs 5: “Is it easier to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.”
CENTRAL TRUTH: Our greatest need is for spiritual healing, even more than any need for physical healing.

Treasures In Heaven

admin — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 05:29:45 -0800

By Harlan Lorenz
March 8, 2008

Read Matthew 6:19-24 TREASURES IN HEAVEN

THOUGHT STARTER: We will all serve some master. What or who is master of your life now? Have you had other masters at other times? What does Jesus say about living with compromise?

Seed Your Soul Through Sacrafice

admin — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Amy Weston
March 7, 2008

Read: John 12:24 and Matthew 13:23 SOWING AND REAPING

THOUGHT STARTER: ‘At the heart of giving is giving from the heart’, so it has been written. Is your heart ready to give? How do you decide how much and to whom?

Jesus Question To You: Who Do You Say I Am?

admin — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Ken Goldsby
March 6, 2008

Read: Matthew 16:13-19, 24-28 PETER’S CONFESSION AND THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP

THOUGHT STARTER: If Jesus asked you the question in v 15, what would you say? How is this shown? How far are you willing to go to do what He asks?

Christ questions Simon, who is about to be named Peter, "Who do people say I am?" and then, the real point, "Who do YOU say I am?" This exchange would seem to have a double purpose: First and most important—Christ is preparing His disciples for the time when He must leave and return to His Father. He is warning them they will not have His physical presence in the task He is about to give them.

And that task is the crux of Christ's entire earthly life. Throughout the Old Testament, God has focused on the Jews, His Chosen People. But now He has sent His Son to bring the Good News of Salvation to all peoples. That, we can surmise, was Christ's ultimate purpose on earth, to spread the truth of the One True God over all the earth. (NB: It's worth our noting that Christ charged His followers with the task of spreading the Gospel only by WORDS, unlike Mohammed, who sent his mounted warriors out to spread his doctrine by the edge of the sword).

So Christ, satisfied that He has chosen well, says to Simon, "You are blessed among men," and thereupon names him, 'Peter.' I am no scholar of Greek, but I have learned the name Peter comes from the Greek word for 'rock.' Our English word 'petrified' arises from this root. So Christ goes on to say, "Upon this rock I will build my church." And He symbolically hands Peter the Keys of the Kingdom. As we know from both Scripture and history, Peter, too, was later crucified by the Romans for the offense of spreading Christ's doctrine.

Christ then goes on to deliver the first of several stern warnings as to the sacrifice each must make and the troubles they will face—the resentment, abuse, and persecution that will be heaped upon them by those whose tidy world is about to be shaken loose from its foundations. Each of us who takes up his own Cross to follow Christ will also face persecution. Elsewhere in the New Testament, Christ tells them (I don't claim this quote is exact) "Men will revile you and say all manner of things against you for my sake." Here, He declares, "Those who want to save their lives will lose them, but those who lose their lives for me will find them." He is not actually threatening the former with physical death but with the loss of the Kingdom of Heaven. And those who lose—i.e., give up their comfortable present lives to follow him—will find whole new lives in His Grace and on judgment day will find themselves on the side of the angels.

To summarize this scene: Knowing He must soon depart this world, Christ is assuring Himself that He has chosen the best 'team' available and is prepping them for the great 'game' that lies ahead - the dissemination of the news of Salvation to all men.

Question: How does a Christian respond to questions about the logical basis of his faith? Today, we read and hear that atheism is on the rise. There is a semi-organized movement of atheists who consider religion an imposition, not merely on their personal, but also their political freedom. They cite the continuing advance of scientific discoveries as evidence that all the mysteries of creation will eventually be understood.

I think the Christian’s best response to an atheist is to meet and challenge him on his own ground: What is his theory of the origin of the universe? Did matter arise spontaneously—on its own? What possible series of random events could create the complexities of even the simplest life-forms, not to mention that of the human body? How could an organ as delicate and complex as the human eye possibly arise from any random mutations?

When confronted with such a question, the atheist generally responds with less than coherent anger. His real motivation in his disbelief is unwillingness to admit to any power beyond and not available to human reason. Yet both Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein believed in a Creator, and Stephen Hawking, the greatest living physicist, has declared that to attain knowledge beyond a certain level, we would have to know ‘the mind of God.’

Being The Greatest

admin — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 19:01:55 -0800

By Larry Keef
March 5, 2008

Read: Mark 9:33-41 WHO IS GREATEST?

THOUGHT STARTER: It’s better to be quiet and appear a fool than to open our mouths and remove all doubt! Greatness is measured by God’s standards, not ours or the world’s. How can you be greater? What will that take in your life?

KEY VERSE: vs 35: Whoever wants to be the most important (first, greatest), must take the last place and be a servant to everyone else.

Many years ago a young boxer yelled, “I am the greatest!” and in some ways he proved that he was. In our society we think of greatness in a person in many ways: wealth, leadership, intelligence, position, and/or strength. This is the way the world thinks of greatness and we all know people we admire, either close to us, or people we see or hear about in the news.

Each of us thinks we are better or greater in some way than others, be it our family, friends, or someone outside our circle. We all have a ‘superiority complex’. In the above passage, Jesus brings up a discussion the disciples were having that they didn’t really want Jesus to hear. We do the same thing in our daily lives, not remembering that Jesus is present every second, wherever we are.

Here Jesus tells them that to be ‘great’ is to be the least in importance. That is, to be great is to be the one who serves the rest, waits on them, and cares for them. This was probably not what the disciples wanted to hear. They were anticipating a New Kingdom in which they expected to have an important position. They did receive that, but it was not the one they had in mind during this particular discussion.

Have you ever done something for someone else, or set it up, so that he or she thought they did it, just to see the satisfaction on their face? Some of my happiest moments have been when someone accomplishes something that I participated in but didn’t receive any credit for. At that point you don’t do it for yourself but for the benefit of others.
That seems to be what Jesus is getting at here. Our job is to serve—not for our benefit but to benefit others. His whole life on earth was one of serving and setting an example for us.

Are you approaching new situations with a servant heart—asking, what can I give here—not, what can I get?

PRAYER: Help me, Loving Father, to take on the ‘greatness’ of being the servant to others and helping them to receive Your promises.

Imaginary Dialogue With Jesus

admin — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Dave Siems
March 4, 2008

Read: Matthew 10:5-20 JESUS SENDS OUT THE TWELVE DISCIPLES

THOUGHT STARTER: What is ‘ministry’? Who ministers to you? Are you caring for those who serve you or taking them for granted? Make a list of ways to follow the Spirit’s leading and speak out for your Savior?

There Are Few Workers

admin — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 02:48:40 -0800

By Nancy Hasek
March 3, 2008

Read: Matthew 9:35-38 THERE ARE FEW WORKERS

THOUGHT STARTER: “Love is faith with working clothes on.” Are you ripe for the Lord to use you to show the selfless way to others? How will you do that?

KEY VERSES: vs 37-38: Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is large, but the workers are few. So ask the Lord who gives this harvest to send workers to harvest his crops."

These verses follow a scene in which Jesus was looking over the crowds, "who were troubled and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." When Jesus saw these people, he felt sorry for them. His compassion caused Him to make a request of His disciples to "ask the Lord to send workers to harvest his crops."

We can learn, from Christ's example, just how important prayer is, in relation to accomplishing God's will. Jesus was always talking with the Father through prayer. It allowed Him to develop a deep and abiding relationship with the Father, and access to the Holy Spirit's power and counsel. For us, as well, we are also aligned with God's will and perspective in any given circumstance. That's why it is imperative that we, too, go to the Lord in prayer, before we can understand how to best intercede on behalf of another. It is when we talk, as Jesus did with the Father, that we discover compassion for those around us.

In praying for workers to harvest His crops, we are praying for each of Christ's followers to develop compassion, and to discover the method of service, that God has chosen to accomplish His will. As I pray for others on a regular basis, I find that my levels of compassion increase abundantly. I feel moved, by God's compassionate heart, to see others through the eyes of God. It puts me "in their shoes", and reminds me of how lost I once was, and how compassionate others were to me, at that time.

As a reticent person, I am always moved by the more overt acts of another’s compassion. The other day in an airport security line, I overheard the passenger behind me greet the TSA worker. Although they chatted a moment, it was evident that they did not know each other. The passenger then hugged this worker, and said that she was praying for him. He responded with wonder and gratitude that she knew that he needed prayer.

How did she know? She knew because, as a prayerful person, she was aligned with God's compassion for this "troubled and lost sheep." She was aligned with God's will to speak words of encouragement and hope. This is living and speaking the gospel. This is working as a harvester.

There are still many ready to hear and respond to the gospel. Are you ready to talk with God about what you can do to share His love and compassion for others? At the very least, like me, you can pray to be a less reticent and more overt harvester in the field.

PRAYER: Lord God, remove from me the fear and timidity that thwarts my attempts to speak up for You. Give me an overwhelming love for others who have needs that I can assist. You have the power and the purpose to use me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Zacchaeus Gives And Takes

admin — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Chuck Blake
March 2, 2008

Read: Luke 19:1-10 ZACCHAEUS MEETS JESUS

THOUGHT STARTER: Only God can see into hearts, so do we have the right to judge who is ‘lost’? Has your faith resulted in action, as it did with Zacchaeus?

The freedom that GOD provided thru JESUS CHRIST is not ours automatically. It is there for us but we must ask for it. We must ask JESUS CHRIST to come into our hearts and to cleanse us and make us a new creation. (2 Cor 5:17) Do we have enough faith to turn our lives over to CHRIST who has given us new life? Believe that the blood, death and victorious resurrection alone are sufficient to completely cleanse us of our sins.

To compliment the possession, CHRIST loves us in specific ways that are particular to us. CHRIST, heading toward Jerusalem (and the cross) had enough time (or made time) to relate to Zacchaeus in a way that was unique to him. Think about the crowds that were mobbing CHRIST. When you are in a precarious situation you are probably spending most of your time observing things around you at eye level. Looking up may leave you vulnerable, but our LORD seeks us out where ever we are, no matter what the circumstance (HIS or ours).

And not only does Zacchaeus benefit, but so does his whole family! No one who ever met JESUS stays the same. What a fantastic conclusion for a man who went out of his way, took advantage of the situation just to get a glimpse. Do you think a follower may have suggested to Zacchaeus to 'just' check HIM out? Isn't it amazing that pre-Christian sinners find GOD's forgiveness so appealing?

The saved family thing is very attractive to me. I try to take time every day to thank GOD for my family, a believing wife and the miracles of a son/daughter in law and daughter. I have been lucky, a blessed evangelical hand-down from loving parents and outstanding, passionate, exciting, encouraging, enlightening super shepherds throughout my life.

Have you prayed for GOD's guidance and protection for our trio here at St Matthew?

My Mighty Oak

admin — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Patti Decker
March 1, 2008

Read: Matthew 13:31-36 THE MUSTARD SEED AND YEAST IN THE DOUGH

THOUGHT STARTER: List some truths from both parables. How can you apply them to your life? What role does having money or doing good deeds play?

KEY VERSES: vs 31-32: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone planted in a field. It’s one of the smallest seeds. However, when it has grown, it is taller than the garden plants. It becomes a tree that is large enough of birds to nest in its branches.”

As ‘seeds’ that God has planted on earth, do you sometimes question your purpose, legacy, or value? Jesus spoke in parables and many were related to nature. I never understood why, until my gaze fell upon my tree.

My mighty oak began as a seedling in a field and was spared from the axe as a subdivision was built around it. Without hesitation, in the autumn of its life, frail branches intermixed with strong.
Today it provides needs to all who seek refuge and it rejects nothing. My oak does not question or search for identity in its surroundings. It is like the lilies of the field which do not labor or spin in the field but provide indescribable glory.

Birds, insects, animals, man, and earth rejoice in the tree’s blessings of shelter, shade, food, comfort, and beauty. As the seasons change, my oak remains steadfast through harsh winters, stormy springs, thirsty summers, and the fading beauty of fall.

What is our purpose on earth?

It is where God has placed us now. Daily tasks of feeding, cleaning, providing shelter, and other mundane activities give us meaning for those who make ‘nests’ in our lives. These tasks probably are not as glamorous as once imagined. They feel mediocre and tedious as the years roll by. Unexpected harsh seasons throw us a curve and our great expectations fade away.

In those moments when I walk outdoors and gaze upon my mighty oak, I realize that I, too, came from a seed, was planted, and have grown. The richness of my purpose comes from those who ‘nest’ in my life now. I’m relieved. I no longer question my purpose…for through the tree in my backyard, I realize My Mighty Oak is in heaven, where I will ‘nest’ eternally…and I am so generously provided for now!

What great expectations in your life have come to pass…or not?

Who is your mighty oak in life…other than your Lord and Savior?

PRAYER: Lord, forgive me for thinking that I have been ‘stuck’ with some daily jobs seem to have no meaning. Help me to see that you have given my life purpose as I serve those I meet daily. Help me to find new joy in serving others…as others in the past have served me. May Jesus’ example be my guide. Amen.

Blessing Others Today As Christ Would

admin — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Kristine Klinger
February 29, 2008

Read: Luke 12:13-21 THE RICH FOOL

THOUGHT STARTER: Our relationship with God is much more important than accumulating material possessions. What impact does that have on your life?

KEY VERSE: vs 15: “Be careful to guard yourself against every kind of greed. Life is not about having a lot of material possessions.”

Luke 12:13-21 is a powerful passage and a wonderful reminder of God’s work in our life. So often as Christians it is “a given” that we believe in God and that Jesus is our savior, but what we sometimes forget is that we need the Holy Spirit to work in us and stir our hearts to BECOME Christ centered. The Holy Spirit is what empowers us to go out and be witnesses. The Holy Spirit is what convicts us and allows us to serve our Lord the way we he desires us to do so.

As I read this passage I was reminded of a personal parable which I often recite to friends and colleagues. When I was in nursing school many years ago, I befriended a woman named Joyce. Unlike the rest of our nursing class, Joyce had not recently graduated from High School, but was returning to college after raising her family to start a new endeavor. I knew Joyce was a Christian because she often talked about how God worked in her life and the many ways she served at her church. One day, as we sat around before class sharing our college tales of woe, Joyce began to tell a story of what “worked for her” when she was struggling with life or having a bad day. The cluster of desks grew silent as she told us that regularly she enjoyed going to a restaurant or fast food place and would anonymously pay for the meal of whomever she wanted to bestow a blessing on that day. She said that it was random; sometimes a man or woman who was sitting alone, sometimes a mom with children who looked like she needed a blessing that particular day, or sometimes just a random customer. Her request to the waitress or cashier was always the same, “Please do not tell them who paid for their meal, and tell them to have a blessed day”. She went on to say that sometimes she never saw (or cared to see) the “reaction” her generosity bestowed, it was simply enough for her to know she had blessed someone or possibly “planted a seed”. Our circle was silent as Joyce completed this story…for many reasons. As college students, none of us could imagine having the money to pay for someone else’s meal, let alone understanding the concept of how that could bless US and someone else??!!!

I have thought of this story numerous times over the years and have used this to remind me that God calls us to serve one another, and love one another, but more importantly to be obedient to Him. Our obedience to Him is demonstrated in the type of steward we are to the resources God has given us. It may not be in buying a meal for someone. Perhaps it is through volunteering at Vacation Bible School? Perhaps it is singing in choir or serving on altar guild? It may even be as simple as being a fantastic witness to our neighbors and friends that need to feel the love of Jesus.

What ways can you shine and model the gifts that God has given you?

How can you let the Holy Spirit work in you to model Christian behavior?

Are there gifts you have that are sitting dormant, ready to shine? Take time to pray about God’s plan for you and how you can use the resources and gifts He has given you wisely.

PRAYER: You give us so much, Lord. Forgive us because we hold back the best portion for ourselves. Teach us to extend open, full hands and arms to strangers and not expect anything in return.

Who's In Charge?

admin — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Kris Liebold
February 28, 2008

Read: Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 THE FARMER AND THE SEED

THOUGHT STARTER: Can you identify with any of the four places where the seed was planted…path, thorn-infested, rocky places, or good soil? How can this parable be applied in our modern world?

KEY VERSE: vs 9: “Let the person who has ears listen.”
Central Truth: Do what God wants you to do with things in your life—or the devil will have his way.

Join The 'Good Sam' Club

admin — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Bridget and Erik Rambo
February 27, 2008

Read: Luke 20:25-37 THE GOOD SAMARITAN

THOUGHT STARTER: In this shrinking world, we have lots of ‘neighbors … What do you think Jesus means? How can you apply this parable to your ‘neighbors’?

Key Verse: vs 37b: Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise."

This is probably the most well-known parable of the Bible. Many people the have never read the Bible know the basic plot of the Good Samaritan. The moral of the story is to be neighborly to everyone, right? How does that look? What examples of being a Good Samaritan do you think of? Maybe you think of someone stranded next to the road or holding the door for someone. Maybe you think of donating food to the Hospitality House or purchasing a Christmas gift for a needy child. These are great examples of showing love.

Did Jesus mean for this parable to only apply to strangers? As I considered this parable in relation to my world, I thought of other groups of people. Think of ten people that you have most recently hurt. I would bet that several on your list are relatives. It is easier for most of us to be kind to strangers and save our harshest words for our kids, spouses and parents. So, who is our neighbor? I would submit that it is not only a stranger, but also a ‘loved’ one.

Another group of people who are easily left out are the most undesirable among us. They are not only prostitutes, drug dealers, homeless and runaways, but the nagging coworker and annoying in-law. Each person you come into contact with is a special treasure of God. We all have people in our lives that are hard to love (we might even be one of them), but God still wants us to show love, to be His gentle hands and His loving eyes. This world could be an amazing place if we were all ‘Good Sams’.

Think of a time when you needed a ‘good Samaritan’. Did one show up and how did you feel about the situation?

Who is hardest person for you to love? What could help you love

Think of some examples of how you can be a good neighbor this week.

PRAYER: Lord, help me to be as good as the man in this story…able to look beyond my doubts, fears, and worries…to help someone else. Give me the wisdom to not ignore the everyday hassles, thinking they are not important. May I approach them as Jesus did in His daily dealings with people. In His Strength. Amen.

Persistence Pays Dividends

admin — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Jan Irish Herrmann
February 26, 2008

Read: Luke 18:1-8 THE PERSISTENT WIDOW

KEY VERSE: vs 4, “This widow really annoys me….I’ll have to give her justice.”

I have personally experienced persistence in prayer, especially when each of my deceased husbands was ill. I prayed for healing, coping, wisdom, and discernment for the medical staff and our families—and that God’s will would be done. We prayed often and fervently through serious illnesses.

Digging Into The Scriptures

admin — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By David Bradbury
February 25, 2008

Read: Matthew 13:44-52 THE TREASURE, A MERCHANT, AND A NET

THOUGHT STARTER: Of what value is the kingdom of heaven in our lives? How is this demonstrated?

In thoughtful moments folks occasionally find themselves wondering where in Scripture Jesus would have us seek Him to strengthen our Christian life today. Every page provides wisdom for some particular aspect of life. The fact that Jesus embraced parables to present His larger, more general, over-arching truths to new followers, suggests that we, too, might do well to return to His teachings. We need to be reminded of the larger principles and standards He wants us to know.

While most of us have some basic familiarity with the more popular parables, it is refreshing and enlightening to turn to several of the less familiar ones to re-consider what insights they might provide for our understanding today. For starters, let’s begin with Matt. 13:44—"The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.”

Like many Hebrew/Biblical writings, parables generally present an obvious ‘first-story’, but also contain a deeper, more significant meaning. That becomes apparent upon thoughtful re-reading. Here, expressed in language familiar to ‘farmers’ hearing His words, Jesus’ parable briefly describes this easily understood wisdom: that when one ‘discovers’ something of great value, he is both happy and wise (self-interested) enough to immediately take steps to obtain it while it is still available—even exchanging all that he has to gain ‘ownership’ of that which he recognizes as being worth much more.

Here the secondary, slightly deeper meaning (perhaps initially unappreciated) is that the ‘treasure’ (heaven), in the ‘field’ (of humankind), is available to all those wise (humble) enough to see its value and are willing to exchange (give up) what they now possess (selfish, anguished, lost lives) to gain ownership (title to) this available ‘treasure’. The parable suggests that ownership involves time and effort. That is, one must give up one’s old willfully sinful ways as a means to ‘own’ (legally) the discovered ‘treasure’. We are also reminded of the importance of making such a decision NOW—while the opportunity still remains available. Tomorrow may be too late!

Verse 45-46: “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it.” Here the slight rephrasing suggests Jesus is addressing city-dwellers, with storekeepers amongst those hearing His words. Superficially the message is much the same. He gains their attention by reminding them of the accepted wisdom of looking for something of greater value within their means, and then when finding it, immediately selling less valuable possessions to make the item their own. This is just doing ‘good business’—something with which we all can agree.

In this parable we recognize that Jesus is the ‘Pearl of Great Price’. He is the ‘One’ Old Testament people were told to seek in their Scriptures. Upon finding this ‘treasure’ (salvation), it can be ‘owned’, as we all willingly trade ‘all that we have’ (our earth-centered lives) to obtain it. Something of far greater value (heaven, forgiveness of sins) is gained. We exchange old possessions (our self-centered lives), both in the present and in the future, for the greatest treasure, the Pearl.

This is the perfect business deal. The merchant is happy because he gained MORE than he gave up. The seller, who is the One knowingly making the ‘Pearl’ available to us, is equally pleased.

This ‘Pearl’ remains available to ALL people today as well as then. It cannot be purchased with gold, silver or other earthly means, but it is within reach of anyone who ‘recognizes it when he sees it’. That is, whoever gives up his old life (earthly-focused) to receive it (a spiritually-centered, saved life) has an unearned and undeserved gift.

Verse 47-50: “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net thrown into the sea, which collects fish of every kind. When it is full they haul it ashore and sit down to put what is good into buckets. What is bad they throw away. Thus it will be at the end of the age. The angels will go out and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.”

This reminds us of the more popular parable of the ‘Wheat and the Tares”, and the message is much the same. With a little thought it can be seen that ‘fish of every kind’ represents all humankind (both ‘good and bad’) and the ‘net thrown into the sea’ is the hand of mortal death ever sweeping through the ocean of life. Once caught up in this net (death), there will be a ‘judgment’ as the angels separate the wicked (unwise, unrepentant) from the righteous (wise, forgiven). The wise are those who accept the opportunity to exchange doubt for belief; thus being ‘saved’. The unwise are those unwilling to trade what they have or are (worldly views and possessions) to own the far more valuable ‘Pearl’ (spiritual salvation) which is within their reach. They end up with a sadly different fate of their own choosing.

Verse 51-52: "Do you understand all these things?" They answered, ‘Yes’. And He replied, "Then every scribe who has been instructed in the kingdom of heaven is like the head of a household who brings from his storeroom both the new and the old."

The opening question in this final parable, seemingly out of the blue, may be Jesus’ subtle way to challenge His disciples and teachers, (both described as ‘scribes’) to see if they really ‘understood all these things’. Perhaps they really didn’t. Today, even with full access to both the Old and New Testaments and centuries of scholarly thought to call upon, we have to admit that His greater wisdom (the Holy Scriptures) contains meaning not always immediately and completely grasped.

History and human nature support that those hearing Jesus’ Words were eager to share them with others. This was Jesus’ intent. However, in their initial enthusiasm, it somewhat appears that these ‘scribes’, in their enthusiasm, were presenting His ‘new’ teachings (wisdom) in a manner which minimized the clear promise (prediction) made by the earlier Old Testament prophets. Because they were the leaders of the growing spiritual household at that time, if they really understood what He is telling them, they should not overlook the importance of sharing these teachings with others. These seemingly exciting ‘new’ teachings were NOT really all that new. Indeed, to be most faithful to His Word, they must be identified as the fulfillment of earlier ‘promises’ clearly presented in Old Testament scripture.

There could well be a better, more God-pleasing way His people might better understand what Jesus wants us to learn from these (and all other) parables…but I know that for me, this brief study has been more rewarding than expected. It focuses more on the eternal future than the passing present—with the undeniable historical fulfillment of Old Testament predictions and equally undeniable historical record of Jesus’ arrival and influence on the earth.

I was an earlier ‘scientific skeptic’ regarding Scripture. But studies such as this have, with the Holy Spirit’s help, steadily strengthen my welcome acceptance of His truths. The deeper one looks, the clearer becomes the legitimacy of His message of Salvation through trusting acceptance of His Word.

And the parables surely provide an excellent place to go to find and better understand the important things the Lord wants us all to know!

An Invitation To Jesus' Banquet

admin — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Jan Irish Herrmann
February 24, 2008

Read: Matthew 22: 1-14 THE WEDDING BANQUET

THOUGHT STARTER: What does the wedding garment represent? What is the significance of the wedding guest who refused to wear the wedding garment?

According to the dictionary, a parable is defined as “a statement or comment that conveys a meaning indirectly—by the use of comparison, analogy, or the like.” Parables generally provide an obvious story which upon closer examination reveal deeper meanings.

In this wedding banquet parable, Jesus said (vs2-4) that the Kingdom of Heaven is like a king who plans a wedding for his son. He sends servants to those invited to the wedding, but they refuse to come. Then he sends other servants to say that the dinner is ready and that it is time to come to the wedding banquet. But they refuse his invitation for various reasons.

These verses seem to indicate that the king represents God. He is the One preparing the royal banquet (heaven/eternal life), so that we, the invitees (believers—us and others), will have eternal fellowship with Him. The servants could be pastors, missionaries, and other Christians who spread God’s Word.

In verse 5 we read that those invited reject the invitation and leave. Some go to work in their fields and businesses while the rest grab the king’s servants and mistreat or kill them. How does this relate to us?

Could this mean that God’s Spirit invites us to spend time with Him—studying His Word, praying, worshipping, and serving Him in various capacities? Think of how often we reject those opportunities. Why are we so involved with our work and put so much effort into climbing the ladder of success? This negates opportunities for spiritual growth and a closer walk with Him. The first ones invited were those to whom the message of Christ was given but did not have a relationship with Him. They let other priorities interfere, causing their spiritual lives to decline and fall by the wayside.

Verse 6 states that some of these people mistreated the king’s servants shamefully, even killing them. They actively opposed Christ and His message. This happens today in the USA in many ways. Christians are prohibited from speaking out about their faith without fear of persecution, while Muslims and other religious groups are allowed to voice their opinions quite openly. This is all done in the name of ‘we don’t want to offend them.’ In other instances around the world, missionaries are abused, rejected, and even killed when they present the Gospel or do acts of love based upon their Christian walk.

Verse 7 reads that the king becomes angry and sends out his soldiers, kills the murderers, and burns the city. How might that relate to us? When people continue to reject Christ in their lives, He lets their sinful human natures take their course and allows them to become victims of their own crimes and circumstances, which leads to eternal damnation.

Verse 8-9 states the king said to his servants ‘the wedding is ready but those who were invited do not deserve the honor. Go outside the city limits and invite everyone you find to the wedding.’ The servants went into the streets and brought in all the people they found, both bad and good. Then the wedding hall was filled with guests.

I believe this means that the guests accepted God’s message of grace at face value. They believed that God sent His only Son to save them from their sins. We, also, have that assurance of being accepted, unconditionally, through faith in Jesus Christ. The guests realized they could actually see Jesus and spend time with Him. Heaven would be the place to be with Jesus for eternity without fears, doubts, or temptations.

Among the guests is one not properly dressed in the wedding garment which the king provides for all the guests (verse 11). The king asks the guest how he arrived without the proper clothing; the man does not reply. The king commands his servants to tie the man’s hands and feet and throw him out into the darkness where people are crying and in extreme pain.

The person who comes to the wedding without the proper wedding garment is one who demonstrates ‘cheap grace’. For example, some people hang-on to their sins after being forgiven, others have the attitude that God should forgive them without being contrite, and some refuse to change their lifestyles to conform to God’s standards, even after being forgiven.

Verse 13 states: the king tells his servants to tie up the improperly dressed guest and throw him into outer darkness. I believe this refers to hell where those who reject Jesus as their Savior from sin will reside for eternity.

Verse 14 concludes ‘many are invited but few of those are invited to stay.’ Salvation is available to all! But only those who are dressed in Jesus’ robe of righteousness, who truly trust Him, will be chosen to live with Him in eternity.

As we reflect on this parable, with whom do you identify? Do you feel like a servant, or one invited but refuses Jesus, someone who mistreats others, someone who rejects wearing the proper garment, or one of the chosen few who have received Jesus according to His merits, not ours.

By faith in Jesus we wear the proper wedding garment and will spend eternity with Him. Alleluia! Praise God!

Pick another parable and see whether you can discern Jesus’ hidden meaning.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, You used the best examples for getting Your message across to us. Help us to pass them along…in love.

"It's Good For You"

admin — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Ray Riggs
February 23, 2008

Read: John 16:5-16 THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

THOUGHT STARTER: What do you know about the Holy Spirit? Do you see how the He is guiding you to bring glory to Jesus? What are some spiritual truths that you ask the Holy Spirit to teach you?

How many times have you heard “it’s good for you”? It usually refers to something you don’t want, don’t want to do, and certainly wouldn’t have chosen for yourself. When you were little, you probably heard it in regard to your food choices. “Eat your vegetables. They’re good for you.” If you were like me, you wondered how something that tasted nasty enough that even the dog wouldn’t eat it could possibly be good for you. And didn’t it irk you just a bit when someone would tell you that something that was unpleasant was “good for you”?

In our reading today, Jesus is telling his followers that he is going away. Imagine their shock. It hadn’t been that long ago that they were riding the high wave of the triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, only to come crashing down days later when Jesus was arrested, tried, convicted and crucified. Jesus had told them this would happen (it will be good for you) but they didn’t hear Him. Suddenly their despair and fear was lifted by the joyous, and to them surprising, news of the resurrection. Now they’re really riding high! But a little over a month later, Jesus is telling them He’s leaving them! And to add insult to injury, in verse 7 He says, “I am telling you the truth: It’s good for you that I’m going away.” Yeah, right. How in the world can that be good for us that are left here, now with no one to guide us?

Of course, He didn’t leave us alone with no one to guide us. That’s the whole point of what He’s saying. The Holy Spirit will come and do all kinds of things that are good for us. He will convict us (good for us because it shows us our need for our Savior). He will show us what has God’s approval (obviously good for us). He will guide us into the full truth. In other places in Scripture He is called our Counselor, our Comforter. That’s certainly good for us.

It was this same Holy Spirit that inspired Paul to tell us that all things work together for good for those that are called according to His purpose. All things? Surely God didn’t really mean ALL things. After all, Paul’s life was going pretty well when he wrote those words. He had been shipwrecked, beaten and left for dead several times, imprisoned, and would eventually be executed. What did he have to complain about? And how would Paul know what kind of trouble I’d be facing?

It was difficult for me to see the good in a tough medical diagnosis I received some 20 years ago. I had been a firefighter/paramedic for several years when something in my blood tests from my annual physical was not quite right. After years of trying to figure it out, the technology caught up enough so that the doctors were able to tell me that I had contracted hepatitis C from exposure to blood. I wondered what God had in mind and how he could have let this happen. I had a young family to take care of, and in what seemed most “unfair” to me is that I got this disease trying to help other people. As the years went by, the news continued to get worse. My liver was being slowly destroyed, and I went through two long courses of treatment that were very physically difficult and turned out to be unsuccessful. Where was the good in all of that? I eventually saw that during this time, I reevaluated my life and priorities. I grew closer to the Lord and relied more on Him, even though I have a long way to go in that regard. I grew closer to my wife and children and my time with them became more and more precious. A couple of years ago, I went through a new and improved course of treatment (new and improved translates into tougher and more severe side effects) and thanks be to God, so far I have cleared the virus. Of course, it didn’t eliminate the damage and the cirrhosis already there, and my future is still uncertain, but it looks much brighter. Through it all I grew closer to my Lord, my family, and my friends. It was good for me. It was the work of the Holy Spirit.

What are you going through? Is it physical, financial, emotional? I don’t know. What I do know is that through the power of the Holy Spirit, if you allow Him to work, it will be good for you.

PRAYER: Holy Spirit, I need another ‘boost’. Transform me into the person God has intended. Thank You for guiding and teaching me through the best and the worst of times…and keep it up. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Keep Your Focus

admin — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Laurie Schwandt
February 22, 2008

Read: Matthew 22:34-40 THE GREATEST COMMANDMENT

THOUGHT STARTER: Do we truly understand why this is the greatest commandment? How would we really treat others if we loved them as much as we love ourselves?

KEY VERSE: vs 37-40: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and most important commandment. The second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as you love yourself.’ All of Moses’ Teachings and the Prophets depend on these two commandments.”

This is the first commandment given to Moses. What an easy and basic requirement this is. I mean, when you think about it, God’s expectations of us are very simple. However, we seem to lose our focus as soon as we leave the safe haven of our church or Christian friends.

Do you ever stop and think about why we focus on the things that we do in our life? With the economic times that we are presently facing, our focus tends to be on our job---will we keep it or lose it? How about our recreation time or family scheduling issues? We get so wrapped up in finances, day to day activities, and worldly “things” that we tend to lose sight of the important matters.

I love today’s key verse. It also happens to be my oldest daughter’s confirmation verse. When we were discussing possible Bible verses that may be significant in her life, we wanted to make sure that her focus was her love of the Lord. If she remembered nothing else from her studies, but walked away with a stronger love for Jesus, we were confident that she could stay centered and grounded in her relationship with Him.

So when I look at the concerns and issues that face us today in this world, I realize that by staying focused on Him, my love for the Lord and how I can express that in my own life and to others, I am a much more spiritually-anchored person. Don’t you find in those times of real need that when you lay it at the Lord’s feet, your burden becomes less stressful? If you have not done this in your own life, try it today. In this very important season of Lent, I can’t think of a better time to start. His bloodshed was not in vain–it was for you and me, for sins past and present. He has NEVER lost His focus on us. Loving Him is one of the easiest things we can do for a Christ-centered life.

Love the Lord – keep your focus – keep the faith!

Think of a time when you were overly-stressed about a situation. Did you lay your burden at the feet of Jesus or did you struggle on your own for an answer?

How did you feel when you left it in His able hands? How did you feel when you tried conquering it on your own?

PRAYER: Lord, help me be focused on the things that are truly important for the Kingdom. Keep me from drifting after nonsense and things that look good but have little eternal value. Help me love You with all my heart…soul…strength…and mind.

Love Your Enemy... Which One?

admin — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Marianne Henn
February 21, 2008

Read: Matthew 5:38-48 LOVE YOUR ENEMIES

THOUGHT STARTER: What is the difference between being a ‘doormat’ and a loving person? What does it mean to ‘be perfect’? How do we love our enemies when we hurt so much?

In the autumn of your life, experiencing many situations leads you to realize that enemies come in several forms. Sometimes, one of the most common forms of the enemy is within your own self. You become your own enemy. When we focus on the wrong or injustice that has happened in our lives—becoming bitter, mistrusting, and spiteful, it is the easy way out. However, be cautious NOT to overlook the power of love, which can be the most effective force of all.

After World War II my family and I became first-hand witnesses to the power of love. We arrived in Germany from Eastern Europe as refugees, carrying not more than what we could hold on our backs. My parents, two younger brothers, and I, seventeen at the time, were assigned one room which became our newfound home. But we were the enemy to the German homeowner because they had to share their home with us.

While living in Germany we received a package from the USA containing a blanket made of squares of men's suit fabric that had been sewed into a quilt. It was the most beautiful possession we owned at the time. But the important message that blanket conveyed was love. Someone had taken the time and effort to sew together a quilt for a family they did not even know. It was especially meaningful, considering that it was a time we did not feel welcome there and were being treated like the enemy. In addition to feeling displaced, we had lost all our possessions in the war so this blanket of cast-off fabric pieces became the first sign of love and hope for us.

In 1956 we immigrated to the US and were assigned one room in a private home in Detroit. We had brought our American-made blanket for re-assurance that life would get better.

About 15 years ago I became involved in making quilts here at St Matthew for Lutheran World Relief and remembered our prized possession from the past. When we quilters were given many boxers of sample suit fabric, my chance had come to pass on the love someone had shown us so long ago.

By focusing on love and not the enemy who had been the cause for our hardship and misery, God helped me to be a more compassionate person. That’s not saying I have not had my share of enemies! But through my lifetime I have learned that asking the Lord for help and guidance is the best path taken.

Who is YOUR enemy? How can you grow to love your enemy?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, Don’t let me delude myself into thinking that I can “love everyone” without Your help! Give me the grace to see beyond the outward qualities of a person…or the inward quirks…which we all have. Thank You for loving my enemies enough to die for their sins, too.

Why Prayer Is A 'Heart-Condition'

admin — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Susan Palka
February 20, 2008

Read: Matthew 6:5-15 LEARN HOW TO PRAY

THOUGHT STARTER: How would you respond to this comment, ‘why pray--God already knows what He’s going to do’? What offenses do we find especially difficult to pray about?

Throughout my life, I have witnessed the power of prayer. However, there is one particular situation that the Lord used to show me how prayer draws us even closer to Him. Eleven years ago, as I was being wheeled into the delivery room, I thought for sure that we were going to be filling the vacant spot in our family with another son to create our own version of “My Three Sons”. When the doctor announced “It’s a girl!”, I startled the entire operating room with my exuberant scream of joy. In my heart, I had always wanted a little girl and I was just thrilled to be given this gift.

It was after her first night in the nursery that a team of doctors entered my room and very somberly stated, “We need to talk”. During their discussion, they did their best to explain to me all of the cardiac concerns that the nursery monitor had detected the previous night. It was apparent that there were some birth defects that were going to require surgical correction within her life time.

A few days later during a “Divinely” scheduled follow up appointment, it was detected that her condition was deteriorating and we were sent immediately to Children’s Hospital. During the entire journey to Detroit, I was praying and begging God to intervene as my husband drove at rates of incredible speed. I felt so helpless and knew that He was our only source of hope in this situation.

That night, Pastor Paul met us in the Neonatal ICU unit and he baptized our daughter with a tiny bottle of distilled water. Our hearts were breaking as we awaited the doctors’ decision regarding the details of her imminent surgery. As we prayed and waited and waited and prayed, I have never experienced God as close as He was in our tiny little hospital waiting room. During this period of time, Pastor Paul asked “So where are you at right now?” As best as I could logically articulate my thoughts, my focus seemed to be stuck on “Thy will be done”. It occurred to me that Kristine’s was truly the Lord’s. He knew what was best and if He wanted to take her back, it would break my heart but I knew that she would be with Him. All we could do was to trust that He was in control of this situation.

The doctors’ assessment determined that surgery could wait until the morning when a fresh team could be assembled. The Lord blessed us with a phenomenal cardiologist that even prayed with us before the surgery. There is nothing more touching than to hear your baby’s surgeon ask the Lord to guide his hand during the operation. This same doctor met with us after the surgery and led a closing prayer, in which he thanked God for healing Kristine. Eleven years later, if you could witness her arguing with her brothers, you would never know that she was the child who had heart surgery!

Ephesians 6:18 states “Pray in the Spirit on all occasions and with all kinds of prayers”. In all situations, God’s hand is at work. We may not see it, understand it, or agree with it, but ultimately, the Lord is in control. Sometimes, He takes us down different avenues than we expected, but He sees the big picture and knows what is best.

What situation are you currently facing? The Lord doesn’t want you to handle this alone…surrender it to Him! Keep on praying!

PRAYER: Lord, I keep trying to surrender my will to Yours…and spend more time in prayer…but I keep failing. Forgive me…and transform me by Your Spirit to pray at all times with all kinds of prayers. Amen.

The Great And Loving Hand Of God

admin — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Caroline Klausmeier
February 19, 2008

Read: Luke 17:1-10 JESUS DISCUSSES FAITH

THOUGHT STARTER: Jesus says to correct sinners. How can this be accomplished without appearing judgmental? What actions and attitudes suggest a humble spirit?

In Luke 17:6 The Lord said,”If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Pull yourself up by the roots, and plant yourself in the sea! And it would obey you.” With faith the size of a mustard seed (or smaller) I have learned how faithful God is to His promises.

God’s nearness and His love would never have been so apparent to me if I had not experienced troubles in my life. It has been in these times of trial that his loving presence has been clearly made aware to me.

One such time began in the recession of the early 70’s. My husband lost his engineering job. We had been looking forward to visiting my sister in Hawaii when Howard came home with the devastating news that he was out of work. I was determined to look on the bright side and said, “Well, God has provided.” After all, we were able to return our plane tickets, and we had the money we had been saving for the trip. That money carried us for a while, but little did I know how long this ordeal was to last.

Next, Ford Motor Co. unexpectedly called and asked Howard to write a manual for them. They bought us an electric typewriter and I did the typing. This carried us for a year, but there were still no jobs on the horizon. Finally, I had only enough money to put food on the table for one more week. So I decided that it was high time for me to get a job and be the breadwinner. I went over to Oakland Mall where the first store I walked into hired me as a salesgirl, and I was to begin the following day. That provided the food money we needed.

A short time later I became a little greedy. Hoping I could make more money at Hudson’s instead of at a small shop, I expectantly walked down the mall and inquired there about a job. The woman in personnel laughed and said, “You’ve got to be kidding. No one is hiring this Christmas.” I realized then for the first time that God in his love had graciously led me to the only available job!

As Christmas was approaching, I didn’t know what to do about buying gifts for my children.
I thought, “God says He will provide for our needs. Therefore, I will buy just what each one needs.” I put some badly needed items on a credit card so I would not have to shop at the last minute if enough money became available. Then if there was no money, I could more easily return the gifts rather than wait until the last minute to do my shopping. Well, it turned out that my children received just what was needed: boots, a coat, gloves, etc. God in His goodness did provide.

Our out-of-work saga did not end for over another year, but that’s another story with an amazing ending. (Stop me after church some Sunday and I will tell you that story and more about our Great and Loving God!)

Where can you look back in your own life and see the loving hand of God at work?

Trusting God in times of hardship is not easy, and I still have to struggle with it. If you are having difficulties right now, look up and train your eyes upon God. I have found it helps when you sing praise songs in your heart.

PRAYER: Give me a trusting Spirit, Lord, so that I may be closer to You and Your Truth at all times.

What's This!

admin — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Edie Veenstra
February 18, 2008

Read: Luke 11:5-13 JESUS TEACHES ABOUT PRAYER

THOUGHT STARTER: What do the words ‘ask, search, knock’ mean to you? Is there a ‘right way’ to pray? Dedicate a time this week to intense prayer--without asking for anything for yourself.

Did you ever open a present just knowing that there would be a wonderful surprise inside only to be horribly disappointed? To make matters worse in this awkward situation you have to look pleased, delighted, and grateful?

Well, this passage at first blush brings the same kind of response. Jesus is teaching via a parable about how to pray to get answers. He has my attention. How about you?

He begins telling a story of a man who is called upon to go on a journey and finds himself without bread. He goes to his friend's house albeit in the middle of the night asking for help. The man was not asking for jelly, but a basic staple. He knew it was an inconvenience or he would have gone to a neighbor. But he went to his friend. Anyway, the friend refuses not because he didn't have the bread but because getting up would disturb the family. Hum, wonder if the friend had a dog that would ever need letting out in the middle of the night? Some friend.

Jesus quickly compares the friend to our the Heavenly Father saying in very specific terms that each time no matter how we approach it, our Father in heaven won't turn us away. Great! Now we're cookin'. He even uses the word "everyone" in the passage so we know this truth isn't gender or age specific.

Now consider who is talking here? Someone who regularly gets answers, positive ones, to His prayers. So when Jesus says go ahead and ask, you'll get an answer and the passage includes an exclamation point, you know it's ‘a take it to the bank’ moment.

But what do you get? What's in the package?

Jesus says (Luke 11:13) "If you then being evil know how to give good gifts to your children how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!" (NIV)

"What's THIS?!" is my initial response. That's not what I wanted. I need bread!

What's THIS? Good stuff is the answer. I wanted Him to say I'd get bread. But He's giving much more here. Consider the work of the Holy Spirit in scripture. He comes upon Mary and by some incredible miracle she is pregnant. With her consent she's with child. He is the One who hovers at creation waiting on the word of God to move and create our incredible world. Remember the story of Joseph in captivity in Egypt? Despite his desperate situation, time after time the Holy Spirit "the Spirit of God" was upon him. He ultimately became Vice President of Egypt!

So, when we're looking for the answer to our prayers perhaps we should take a more heavenly perspective. We are being given much more than bread. We are given the ability and strength and creative forces of God's very Spirit to help us in our need or on behalf of others. Look with the ‘Eyes of Faith’ for your answer: bet you'll be surprised at that wonderful package from Jesus!

PRAYER: Help me, Heavenly Father, to come to Your Throne when I have needs. And help me see the blessings I already have!

Don't Be A Worry-Wart

admin — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Louisa Spencer
February 17, 2008

Read: Matthew 6:25-34 DO NOT WORRY

THOUGHT STARTER: How do you respond to this statement: worrying is a sin’? Do you struggle to keep worry under control?

KEY VERSE: vs 31-32: “Don’t ever worry and say, ‘what are we going to eat?’ or ‘what are we going to drink?’ or ‘what are we going to wear?’….your Heavenly Father certainly knows you need all of them. But first be concerned about His kingdom and what has His approval, then all these things will be provided for you.”

In John 6:26 Jesus gets to the very heart of this lesson when He speaks to the crowd after feeding five thousand people with two fishes and three loaves of bread. He said, “I tell you the truth; you are not looking for Me because of the miracles you saw. You are looking for Me because you did eat of the loaves and were filled. Labor not for the meat which perishes, but for that meat which endures unto everlasting life which the Son of Man shall give unto you, for in Him hath God the Father sealed.’ Then they said unto Him, “What shall we do that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered ‘This is the work of God that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent.”’ (KJV)

Corrie ten Boom, a devout Christian woman who lived in the Netherlands during WWII, was imprisoned by the Nazis. She wrote in one of her books about her ordeal in a concentration camp. She states in, Reflections of God’s Glory, ‘If you are worrying, you are being disobedient to God.’

I had to understand this statement first before I could stop worrying. I tried to stop by my own strength with positive thinking, not fretting anymore, and other ‘self-help’ theories. But those approaches were about as successful as attacking a lion with a toy pistol! Only the Lord can set us free from worry. We need to ask His forgiveness and be cleansed by the blood of Jesus and ask for another filling of His Holy Spirit.

There is also the chiding of Martha by Jesus in Luke 10. Jesus is visiting at the home of Lazarus, Martha, and Mary. Martha is busy with duties necessary for the comfort of her guests while Mary is at Jesus’ feet…just listening. Martha is upset because Mary is not helping with the work. She complains to Jesus about Mary’s insensitiveness. Jesus replies, ‘Martha, Martha, you are careful and troubled about many things, but one thing is needful and Mary has chosen the good part which shall not be taken away from her.’ (KJV)

Many times I have deceived myself into believing that I have more important things to do and will tend to do the listening to Jesus later. At those times I little realized that by not allowing God to be in touch with me, I was missing out on the help, comfort, and protection He afforded as our Almighty, Loving, Heavenly Father.

Several years ago our son and daughter-in-law-to-be asked me to find a special song for their wedding. I felt it had to be a song of joy and praise to God and finally found a lovely tune in the church hymnal. All that remained was to write some extra words into it to make it appropriate for their marriage ceremony.

Oh, yes, I prayed and prayed and worried and worried and …indeed…I did make some progress. Then toward the end of the song, I was stumped. Try as I might I could not find the right words. It was at this point that my mind filled with this message, ‘Here, give it to Me; I will finish it.’ I knew right then that all along I had no part in writing ANY part of that song.

This was another time when I could plainly see that my hand had been led by the ‘hand of God!’

PRAYER: Lord, when I worry, turn me toward Your Word which gives me hope and assurance that You are guiding my life. Thank You for giving so much…and asking for so little in return.

Truth Is Right In Front Of Us

admin — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Laura Doran
February 16, 2008

Read: Mark 10:13-16 LITTLE CHILDREN AND JESUS

THOUGHT STARTER: What does it mean to accept the kingdom of God as little children? How can you deal with those who hinder others from coming to Jesus?

Truth is right in front of us. So often today, in order to believe something, there must be overwhelming evidence. It must make sense, be believable. Many people believe if you can’t see it, touch it or understand it, it can’t be truth.

In March of 2006 I lost my Grandpa Jonasen. He lived an amazing life, 91 years. I knew he was in the most wonderful place of all, and yet I was sad. I was sad because I couldn’t see him anymore. I couldn’t get advice from one of the wisest people I have ever met and I knew my children’s memories of him would soon begin to fade.

I remember telling my 2-year-old son, Jonasen, that Grandpa was in heaven. My son looked at me so plainly and said, “No mommy. Grandpa’s home.” I felt sad that I would have to tell him, no that he wasn’t home. He was in heaven and we wouldn’t see him again. And then it occurred to me “home” is not a word that my son ever used. In fact we laughed how he talked about everyone’s “house” and although we had been in our house for 8 months he still called it, “Joey’s ‘new’ house” and as we would drive past the street where we used to live, “There’s Joey’s ‘old’ house.”

I suddenly realized that he was just speaking truth. His three-year-old mind had been taking in the world around him at amazing speed. He was so observant and he knew truth. Grandpa was home. He was home with our Father and Lord Jesus Christ and someday we will join him and others whom we miss so.

As an elementary teacher, I am often telling children to “Stop, Look & Listen.” I think that this is something that adults need to do more. Children speak truth. It comes out of them so quickly and without over-thinking. They are curious, soaking in the world around them like a sponge. Things are black and white to them. Truth is truth. I think that we need to “Stop, Look & Listen” to the children in our lives. They can be the very best of teachers.

Where in your life can you be more like a child?
How could being more like a child better your relationship with God and help you to see truth as truth?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, help me to ‘stop—look—and listen’ to You before I make important decisions. Help me to see the Truth in this very grey world.

Rest For The Weary

admin — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By John Adams
February 15, 2008

Read: Matthew 11:25-30 REST FOR THE WEARY

THOUGHT STARTER: How does our knowledge and intelligence sometimes get in the way of deepening our relationship with Jesus? How do we become ‘as little children’ in this relationship?

We will not work our way into Heaven wearing a manmade yoke. Although we are accepted whether we wear it or not, God does not burden us. We burden ourselves. He does not treat us as slaves. We enslave ourselves. We put on the manmade yoke instead of the one God allows us to wear which is light. We pray for God to rid ourselves of what we repeatedly choose to wear. Our trust in God is often so weak that we pray in silence, but go out and live for mankind. God shows us how to rest and we do not accept his teaching. When the father opens the door for us, we often close it upon ourselves God is all around us but we build walls around ourselves and all too often choose not to accept him. God is always revealing himself, but with our false wisdom and false intelligence, we choose our own paths, paths of false wisdom, paths of sin. These paths are where the devil is awaiting us and has set traps for us. If he who walks in the way of the Lord is blessed, then what is he who walks down the path of false wisdom? When God reveals himself to those who are open to receive it, they do not occupy false wisdom, but true wisdom occupies them.

God does not allow our contradictions. We can not arrogantly accept God. God will not reveal himself to the arrogant. Acceptance and arrogance can not co-exist. If God is wisdom, and we are not God, then we are not wise. If we are not wise, and do not occupy wisdom, then we can only occupy false wisdom. This wisdom is not the wisdom God, and why God will not reveal himself to those who believe they obtain it.

God reveals himself to those who are open and humble. We cannot be open and humble while we are greedy and selfish. This is a contradiction. We cannot be blessed while we are in contradiction with Our Lord.

No-one knows the father except the son, and those to whom the Son is willing to reveal him. The Son is willing to reveal to the childlike. What is it to be childlike? When we are childlike, we are teachable. When we choose not to be childlike, we choose to be unteachable. There is only one teacher who does not need to be taught and that is God. So if we claim to be so wise that we do not need to be taught, then we are in contradiction with God. Like our children trust us as parents, we are to trust in him. We must remain teachable so that God will bless us with his teachings.

When we choose to be teachable, we will not purposefully wear a manmade yoke. If we find we have done so because we are weak, we will ask The Lord to remove it and replace it with his own. God will always fulfill this request because he is a God of grace. He will allow us to repent and become teachable again. To be children of God, we must be teachable, and to be teachable there is no age requirement.

ACTION FOR TODAY: I will go about my business with the mind set that God is using me for his purpose. I will pray to God that I receive his instructions and not interfere with his plan.

PRAYER: Dear Father, I have no knowledge except for that which you allow me to have. The knowledge you bless me with is for your purpose and not my own. Remove the man-made yoke from my shoulders. I pray you’ll do this not for me, but for you to use me in the way you want in your plan. I pray you’ll replace it with yours, he one that you’ll use to guide me, lead me, and teach me to be the servant you want me to be to you.

Why Do We Serve?

admin — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Matt Gilchrist
February 14, 2008

Read: Luke 14:1-14 AT A PHARISEE’S HOUSE

THOUGHT STARTER: In this passage what attitude does God value?
Does society value the same? How is a humble attitude and a heart for service cultivated?

KEY VERSE: Those who honor themselves will be humbled, but people who humble themselves will be honored. (Luke 14:11)

CENTRAL TRUTH: The Lord commands us to serve Him with a humble heart. It is His approval we should be seeking, not worldly recognition.

Have you ever done something because you thought it would make you look good? Back in high school I became involved in student government, but not because I was civic-minded or had an interest in improving student life. No, my motives centered around having another extracurricular activity to list on my college admission. Unfortunately my heart was elsewhere, so my responsibilities in student government predictably took a back seat resulting in a short-lived and unproductive tenure. I was left with a hollow “achievement” I was too embarrassed to include on my admission forms.

The humbling lesson I learned was that the motivation behind what we do, not just outward appearances, truly matters. I was focused on trying to make myself look good to someone else rather than simply using my talents to glorify God. This can be an easy trap to fall into. After all, the immediate and tangible feedback we receive for our works generally comes from others around us. Where we get into trouble is by seeking or sometimes even soliciting this worldly recognition instead of humbly serving the Lord. Have you ever seen a football player gyrating in the end zone while pointing up to the heavens following a touchdown? Like me, do you sometimes wonder: Is he trying to glorify God or himself?

I have a friend who once worked in charity fundraising and commented that contributions have more to do with the tax code than philanthropy. She quickly added, however, that money spends the same regardless of the reasons for the donation. While this may be true, God clearly does care about our motives. Later in Luke 14, Jesus goes on to tell us that when hosting a banquet, we should invite those who are poor, infirm, or cannot return the favor to us. Isn’t it easier to invite friends, relatives, or neighbors with the expectation that the invitation will be reciprocated? Elsewhere in II Corinthians we are reminded not to give grudgingly or out of necessity for God loves a cheerful giver.

In God’s eyes, how we give is equally important as what we give. The truth is we’re only fooling ourselves if we think God cannot see into our hearts and easily know our true motivation. We must strive to follow Christ’s example and be humble servants of the Lord, never forgetting that we are merely instruments of His good works. As Christians, we have the great privilege of glorifying God through our service to Him. What greater incentive is there?

What attitude does God value? Does society value the same?
Is service alone acceptable to God without a humble attitude How might a humble attitude and heart for service be cultivated?
When I volunteer, am I seeking to honor God or seeking credit for myself?

PRAYER: Help me, Father to be a loving, cheerful, compassionate person. Give me more of the qualities of Jesus.
Let Jesus be your Valentine today!

How Are We Greater Than John The Baptist?

admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Marc Wiliford
February 13, 2008

Read: Luke 7:20-35 SPEAKING ABOUT JOHN THE BAPTIZER

THOUGHT STARTER: What are some of the assurances in these passages that Jesus is who He said He is--the Messiah, our Savior?

When I read Luke 7:20-35, one verse really jumps out at me. In verse 28, Jesus says, “Yet the least important person in the kingdom of God is greater than John.” Considering my life and believing that I am part of the kingdom of God, I wonder how this can be true.

Looking at my life, it doesn’t seem to me that I can compare with John. By nature, I tend to be a quiet person who is non-confrontational. My service to God seems slight in comparison to how John gave his life speaking the truth about God. John didn’t care what people thought of what he had to say, even if he was talking to Herod who had already had him imprisoned. I care too much about what people think of me. So how could I possibly be greater than John?

I believe that the reason that we Christians are greater than John is because we live this side of what Jesus did on the cross. The message of salvation is far greater than the message of repentance that John shared. Paul’s letters make it quite clear that repentance alone will not bring us into the kingdom of heaven. It takes faith in what Christ did for us on the cross. Because we know this truth while John couldn’t have, God can use our words and our actions in a far greater way than He could use John the Baptist’s. While my witness seems small in comparison with John’s, it can have a far greater impact. When we tell people of their need to repent, we can also tell them of the One who gives them the ability to repent. As Paul said in Philippians 2:13, “For it is God who is producing in you both the desire and the ability to do what please him” (ISV). It is worth thinking about and praying about what an awesome responsibility and privilege has been given to us by the Lord.

In what way are you greater than John the Baptist?

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I do not presume to be able to do anything good without Your constant presence in my thoughts and actions. I plead for Your continual voice speaking into my ear for guidance.

United We Stand, Divided Promotes A Fall!

admin — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Jim Hutson
February 12, 2008

Read: Matthew 12:25-37 ACCUSED OF WORKING WITH DEMONS

THOUGHT STARTER: Do you believe you will be judged by Jesus when he comes again? Does trusting and believing Jesus give you assurance of being with Him for all eternity?

KEY VERSE: vs 25: “Every kingdom divided against itself is ruined. And every city or household divided against itself will not last.”

“A house divided upon itself cannot stand. I believe this government cannot endure permanently half slave and half free. I do not expect the Union to be dissolved – I do not expect the house to fall – but I do expect it will cease to be divided. It will become all one thing or all the other.” Abraham Lincoln delivered this impassioned speech in 1858.

As a member of a “blended” and “multicultural” family, I can relate to division and the effects upon the whole. As most ‘blended’ families will attest to, this brought clashes in discipline, nurturing, parenting styles, personalities, and the involvement of the other outside influences of the “non-custodial” parents. Two distinct and separate families have been brought together, and common ground is the priority for advancement and survival. The needs of the one outweigh the needs of the few or the many, and it is that focus on the One that makes my family such an effective force for Christ.

Christ gave each of us, regardless of our personality, talent, skill, or passion, the same commission: To proclaim the Good News. Regardless of our denominational titles, we are all a blended family in the body of Christ united by the common truth of Jesus Christ.

“Our cause, then, must be entrusted to, and conducted by, its own undoubted friends – those whose hands are free, whose hearts are in the work, who do care for the result… We gathered from the four winds and formed and fought the battle through, under constant hot fire of a disciplined, proud, and pampered enemy…..We shall not fail--if we stand firm, we shall not fail. Wise counsels may accelerate or mistakes delay it, but, sooner or later, the victory is sure to come.” Wise words from a preacher? No, these are additional thoughts from Abraham Lincoln that we can add to the call for the harvest in the Kingdom work.

What differences in the body of Christ do you come across and how do they keep you from fulfilling the Great Commission?

What are key beliefs that you find are common to true believers regardless of the denominational beliefs that are part of the body of Christ?

Lord Jesus, Heavenly Father, and Holy Spirit, we praise You and give You thanks that You are the common thread of our lives. Dear Father, In all things, we can agree upon who is the Truth, the Light, and the Way: Your son, Jesus Christ. Help each of us to discover the true meaning of “loving our neighbor” seeking to offer the truth and live in loving tolerance with brethren regardless of what denomination they claim, for they are part of Your family. United we stand, divided we fall is the call of our nation. Let us realize the truth in this for ourselves, for the Kingdom. AMEN

Does Your Worship Pass The 'Smell' Test?

admin — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Fifi DePue
February 11, 2008

Read: Matthew 26:6-13 ANOINTED WITH PERFUME

THOUGHT STARTER: Could we eliminate complaining in our homes and the church if our focus were on serving Jesus? How would you like to be remembered for your service for the Lord?

KEY VERSE: vs 7: “While Jesus was sitting there, a woman went to Him with a bottle of very expensive perfume and poured it on his head.”

Let’s take a test. When I mention certain words, what smell comes to your mind? --turkey—violets—skunk. My guess your olfactory sense works about like mine. I ‘smell’ turkey roasting in the oven on Thanksgiving Day. I ‘smell’ the sweetness of violets while walking through the woods in springtime. I ‘smell’ the dead skunk in the middle of the road.

Let’s go back in time to the story in the passage above. What do you suppose the disciples ‘smelled’ when they stepped into the room where a woman was anointing Jesus’ head with sweet oil? My guess is that it was more like dead skunk than sweet violets.

And then note their hypocritical response: ‘we could have sold this perfume for a high price and given the money to the poor.’ Come on, guys, who is going to buy that idea!

I once was on a church altar guild where the chairperson was very picky about how the altar was dressed each week. Every piece of brass had to be handled with care, wearing white gloves and polishing it with the softest of cloths. The linens had to be laundered by hand with gentle soap and gentler rubbing to get out the wine stains. I was young, too smart for my britches, and totally too uncaring to go to all that trouble. I remember pointing out to her that bleach could take out those stains and that surely the acid on my hands couldn’t hurt that tough brass. She firmly brought me to the incident in this Scripture reading.

She reminded me that our purpose was not to get the work done hastily but to treat the altar and its brassware and paraments with the same honor we bring to God at worship. She would often end a cleaning session by kneeling before the shiny brass and crisp linen to pray that God found our work worthy—that it would glorify Him alone.

Today, I envy that woman who anointed Jesus. She had a lot of spunk to walk into that house where hostility reigned against Jesus and against her presence. She humbly gave all she had to show her love for Jesus. It truly was a beautiful thing and she deserves to be remembered. She is an example to me, now, of how we are to approach worship: with sincere humility and immense adoration. I is now our time to kneel before the Throne of Grace, holding in our hearts and minds the sweet perfume of true devotion and love for Jesus, the Christ, our only source for hope in this world and the next.

At your next worship time, enter the sanctuary with the same awe and expectation that you would have if a world leader stood before you. For you are about to worship the Sovereign God, who gives world leaders their prominence and power and who can give you full pardon and loving assurance of His presence, as well.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, forgive me for the many times I have knowingly offended You. Help me to really worship and give You all praise and thanksgiving for Your gift of salvation.

Why Do I Go Into My Father's House?

admin — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Ron Whitaker
February 10, 2008

Read: Luke 2:41-52 JESUS SPEAKS WITH RELIGIOUS TEACHERS

THOUGHT STARTER: How comforting would it be to know your children could be found in the Father’s house (seeking and doing God’s will)? Can security be found in the Father’s house?

When I am in my Father’s house two questions keep coming to mind: does the Father, Son and Holy Spirit have something more for me to do outside of His house, and, what did Jesus do after He went to His Father’s house?
What do I get when I go into my Father’s house? I get to know Him better. I am reassured of His great love for all of His children.

I am reassured that each and every one of my transgressions against Him has been paid for in full by Jesus. I get the strength and power and wisdom to go forth from His house to tell others about Jesus.

I can build relationships with unchurched people I know, so that I earn the right talk about Jesus. If I can’t be a great evangelist I can at least invite them to come to His house with me. Then they can also find that perfect peace that comes from knowing Him. Then they can spend eternity in heaven with us.

Jesus had more to say about what we do with what we learn in His house.

“And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring,…”

"Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men."
Jesus, our model and teacher not only went to His Father’s house; He shared the love of God and His total love for all people with everyone whom He met.

We can follow in those footsteps. We can build relationships with people that allow us to share what Jesus means to us. Here’s a tough question: How many people will be with you in heaven because you told them about Jesus?

You do not have to be a gifted evangelist. Just tell them what Jesus means to you. If you can’t answer a lot of questions, you can still invite them to the Father’s house. God will bless your telling.

Look for opportunities and then say something about how you are blessed: that “Jesus loves me this I know because the Bible tells me so.”

PRAYER: Gracious Father, please give me even more of your Grace so that I can tell others of your marvelous love for them. Give us Your strength and wisdom so we will share You with others. Father we love to come into Your house.

Getting Closer

admin — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Al and Patti Owski
February 9, 2008

Read: John 14:1-14 THE WAY, THE TRUTH & THE LIFE

THOUGHT STARTER: What do Jesus’ words mean: “I am the way, the truth, and the life”? What have all these “I AMs” meant to you this week?

KEY VERSE: vs 9: “I have been with you a very long time. Don’t you know me yet Phillip?”

CENTRAL TRUTH: Do we really know Jesus?

After 25 years of marriage, we realize that we know each other so well that we can complete each others’ sentences. When we run a grocery errand apart from each other, we find ourselves picking up an item for our spouse because we know that is exactly what (s)he would like. Because of the intimate friendship of marriage, we don’t have to guess what the other would want in a grocery aisle, we already know. Because of our closeness, we have enough knowledge to act on our beloved’s behalf.

In this passage, Jesus expresses His frustration to Phillip. It is almost as if Phillip were asking Jesus, “Now how are you and God related again?” Jesus was God himself! He who wraps himself in light, is now wrapped in human flesh and is standing right next to Phillip.

Is it possible to know about someone and yet not know their heart? Phillip knew about God, but apparently did not know God well enough to recognize Him in Jesus. Not enough to be transformed in his thinking and in his heart.

The obstacle to knowing Jesus is “hardness of heart.” After thousands were fed and the sea was calmed, the disciples were amazed by the miracles but could not comprehend Jesus’ identity. They asked, “Who is this who commands the waves that they obey?” Mark’s gospel explains that the disciples’ understanding was blocked by their “hardness of heart.”

Just as our pride, self-reliance, and self-righteousness would keep us from a close relationship in our marriage, these characteristics of a hard heart will also keep us from closeness with God and His Son. In Psalm 51 we read “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” When our spirit (our ego) is broken, the Spirit of God flows into the cracks and ‘renew[s]’ a steadfast spirit within.’ (Ps 51:10b)

In what ways do friends or a married couple get to know each other? How might these ways apply to our relationship to Jesus?
What are some barriers to our relationships with others? How can these barriers be a hindrance to our relationship with God?
What is a broken spirit? A contrite heart? If God wants us close to Him and know Him, what steps might we take?

PRAYER: I need courage to ask this Lord, but: Break my human spirit in such a way that I respond to Your every whisper. Thank You for making Yourself known to me in intimate ways.

Being A True Disciple Of Jesus

admin — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Sheila Gerber
February 8, 2008

Read: John 8:12-32 THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD

THOUGHT STARTER: How is Jesus a light in your life? What are some dark areas you walk through? How does knowing he is with you change your situation?

KEY VERSE: vs 31: “So Jesus said to those Jews who believed in him, ‘If you live by what I say, you are truly my disciples.’”

CENTRAL TRUTH: We can not claim to be disciples of Jesus if we do not live according to His Word and example.

If you are reading this devotional then you probably consider yourself a disciple of Jesus. If I polled individuals who attend church, do devotions, or read the bible they would most likely state that they believe in God and are disciples of Jesus. It is assumed that these are the actions of Godly people. Taking Jesus’ words from John 8:12-32 I challenge you that there is much more to being a follower of Jesus then doing devotions and attending church. Although these activities are worthwhile and important they prepare us for the job as disciples instead of defining our lives as disciples.

Jesus stated in John 8:12 “…whoever follows me will have a life filled with light and will never live in the dark.” And in John 8:24 He teaches...“If you don’t believe that I am the one, you’ll die because of your sins.” These verses reinforce how important it is to believe in Jesus and live a Godly life. However, I believe that in John 8:31-32 Jesus sets out the real challenge to His followers. In these verses He states: ‘so Jesus said to those Jews who believed in Him, “If you live by what I say, you are truly my disciples. You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”’ Jesus says if you live by what I say, He does not say if you go to church every Sunday or if you do a devotional every now and then. Attending church and reading the Bible don’t mean you ‘know the truth’ and ‘live by what Jesus says’.

The real challenge in being a Christian comes when you live by what Jesus says. You must take what you learn from Sunday sermons, daily devotions and weekly Bible studies and apply them to your life. It does us no good to leave the message in the pew Sunday morning or the verse underlined in our Bibles. We must carry these truths in our hearts and put them to work in our every day lives. When you smile at the grumpy check-out clerk…when you help the elderly women put her groceries in her car…when you walk away when people start to gossip…when you say “oh gosh” instead of “oh god”…when you pray for your sick friend…when you take God’s word out into the world and live by example, then you are truly a disciple of Jesus and you know and share the truth.

Putting Jesus’ words to work in my everyday life has always been a challenge for me. I try to make the question, “What would Jesus do?” a spiritual compass to carry in my heart so that I can immediately assess my actions and decisions. It is not just a cliché on a bracelet. Those simple words can become words to live by, if I let them. The best part is that if I fail to do “what Jesus would”, Jesus is the path to repentance and God’s forgiveness. And Jesus’ words are there to help me try again and again.

Make a list of ways you can live your life in a Godly way, following Jesus’ words and examples. Put a check by those that you are currently doing on a regular basis. Say a prayer of thanksgiving to God for helping you to have the strength to live a Godly life.
Identify one thing you did this week that goes against Jesus’ teachings. What can you do differently next time so that you follow Jesus’ example. Pray to God to ask for help in this area of your life.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I want to do what You would do…but I am weak…and often too weary. Help me to be a true disciple by allowing Your Spirit to move me, according to Your will.

You Got Bread?

admin — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Mickey McCanham
February 7, 2008

Read: John 6:35-59 THE BREAD OF LIFE

THOUGHT STARTER: What did Jesus say would be the result of receiving him? In what ways does Jesus feed us?

KEY VERSE: vs 35: “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never become hungry, and whoever believes in me will never become thirsty…”
One of our favorite, humorous family stories took place in a restaurant when our son, Mike was just a toddler.

As any one who’s been there knows, there’s not much worse than a 3-year-old who’s hungry and unsettled. After a war of wills with Mike over whether or not he would sit in a booster seat, our next goal was to get him some food.

Being what Dr. James Dobson calls “a strong-willed child,” Mike had no qualms about making sure someone, anyone knew he was hungry and needed something to eat. Eyeing a waitress approaching the table, our dear little boy, who we had always promised ourselves would be the perfect little gentleman, made the first move. “Hey lady, you got any bread?”

Red-faced and chagrined, Barbara and I wasted no time in apologizing for Mike’s seemingly rude behavior. After all, he didn’t say the magic word “please,” did he?

Thankfully our gracious waitress responded with a smile and a giggle and immediately set off to take care of the situation. Soon a basket of warm, soft bread arrived, and a look of contentment spread across Mike’s face.

For the rest of our time at the dinner table, a sense of calm remained as Mike took comfort in the warm, buttery texture of the heavenly scented loaf.

“Eat some vegetables!” “No, I want more bread!”

Just as the basket of bread had Mike feeling better quickly and contributed to his sense of well being, so does “the bread of life” Jesus talked about.

It was the day after the multitude had been fed, and Jesus was still surrounded by thousands who sought to make Him king.

Jesus responded to the crowd, saying that they followed Him not because they believed in Him as the messiah, but because He fed them. They suggest to Jesus that He should provide them with a sign, a sort of “bread from heaven” as they heard was supplied to the Israelites by God through Moses.

Jesus goes on to teach them that He’s been sent by his heavenly Father not, “to do what I want to do, I’ve come to do what the one who sent Me wants Me to do. My Father wants all those who see the Son and believe in Him to have eternal life.”

“I am the bread of life. Your ancestors ate the manna in the desert and died. This is the bread that comes from heaven so that whoever eats it won’t die. I am the living bread that came from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.”

Through this metaphor, Jesus wasn’t talking about bread that would fill their stomachs and take away their physical hunger. What Jesus was talking about there was their souls.

He is telling us that He has come to us to be a part of us. The result of this is that we are able to live life more fully and with much greater strength than would otherwise be possible. He has become part of us so that we can deal with whatever it is we have to deal with in life. He has become part of us so that we can really live!

Just like that basket of warm, buttery bread, Jesus living in us fills our life with comfort, contentment and satisfaction. That’s a pretty wonderful thing!

What’s the hunger and thirst in my life that Jesus can fill? How does Jesus care for me?

PRAYER: While I eat my ‘bread’ today, help me remember You, dear Lord. May I find comfort and peace in Your Presence.

No Mistaken Identity

admin — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Correne Paver
February 6, 2008

Read: John 10:11-18 THE GOOD SHEPHERD

THOUGHT STARTER: Compare shepherding with Jesus as the Good Shepherd. How are they similar and different? How can you have a more intimate relationship with Jesus?

KEY VERSES: vs 14-15: “I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep as the Father knows me. My sheep know me as I know the Father. So I give my life for my sheep.”
CENTRAL TRUTH: Jesus knows us completely.... and chose to die for us anyway.

When my husband and I moved to our current home we found ourselves surrounded by neighbors with animals. While several neighbors had horses and dogs, the neighbors behind us raised sheep. The sheep were fun to watch especially when there were new lambs tumbling about. During the daylight hours I watched them, listening to their tiny bleating and thinking them adorable.

A few years in this new home, and we added a second child to our family. Seth was such a contrast to our firstborn. Where Arianna had clearly made her needs known, Seth was such a quiet baby that I often worried that I might not hear him in the night should he need me. I had on my "mother's ears", the ones that can sleep through anything except the cry of their own infant, and grew in my assurance that even his soft, infrequent fussing would be picked up on mommy radar.

As summer approached and the weather warmed, we began to sleep with our windows open, and my mommy radar began to receive static. The little lamb bleating that I'd thought was so adorable during the day was confusing my nighttime sensors. Many a night I would sit up, alerted by what my mind thought was Seth's crying, only to discover that it was not the little lamb in the crib, but the one in our neighbor's pen! Despite the deep familiarity I had come to know and love with my very own son, my "mother's ears" had still been deceived by an unhappy little lamb.

In John 10 we read that Jesus, our good shepherd, says, " I know my sheep." I say, "I know my son." Yet I mistook the cry of a lamb for his. Jesus knows us fully. He knows our cries, the number of hairs on our heads, our likes and dislikes, our every little fear, our hidden aspirations, simply every detail of who we are. We cannot be lost to Him, ever. This is both comforting and disturbing. If Jesus knows me intimately, then He knows my sinfulness as well. He knows the sins that those around me see, and He knows the sins that I have concealed in my thoughts and innermost places. How despairing it would be if Jesus' words only confirmed His intense, exhaustive knowledge of our very being. But Jesus didn't stop with "I know my sheep," He also says, "I give my life for my sheep." Jesus knows us more intimately than we know ourselves, and yet even with all the ugliness and unrighteousness that he sees in us, he still chose to give his life for us, his sheep. No mistaken identity involved. He knew who we were and chose to give his life just the same. How awesome is that!

When do you sometimes feel that you are not one of Jesus' "sheep?"
Which aspect of Jesus shepherding are you most experiencing right now? His guidance, protection, ownership/belonging?
How might remembering that Jesus really knows you, change you?

PRAYER: Jesus, help me to respond to Your voice only.

Did You Know About The Easter Egg?

admin — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Leah Laho
February 5, 2008

Read: John 11:23-27 THE RESURRECTION & LIFE

THOUGHT STARTER: What is it about human nature that prompts us to call upon Jesus for help only when we can’t take care of the work ourselves? How can we overcome this lack of trust?

KEY VERSE : vs 25-26: Jesus said to Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies…Do you believe this?”
CENTRAL TRUTH: If you believe in Jesus, you will live forever.

I love Asia…and Asian people. They are intelligent, calm, kind and so loyal. I have taught English classes in our International Friends ministry. I’ll never forget my first year when I became extremely close to the Japanese ladies in my class. One of them was Miki. She is one of the best friends I’ve ever had.

Early on in our friendship it was fun to try to communicate; neither of us knew exactly what the other was saying. This just made us laugh and develop a closer bond. The first time we talked on the phone was funny. I wish I had that conversation on tape!

Over the last seven years Miki and I have taken walks together, watched movies, played tennis, swam, hiked, slurped drinks at 7-11 and Starbucks, attended church, cooked and baked for each other, and drunk LOTS of tea together (I love it!); but most of all we sat together and talked for hour upon hour.

There were many times when Miki asked me something about being a Christian. One instance in particular was while we were walking at a park. She had prepared rice bowls and tea to share with me. It was a sunshiny day in March and full of birds singing. The lake beside us had the perfect sound of soft waves. It was still a little chilly, so the hot tea hit the spot! This particular day she didn’t ask me questions. This day she said, “Leah, I am very interested in Christian.” My heart was filled with joy! I said, “OK, I will teach you; you can ask me anything.”

Since Easter was upon us, I gave her a basket-full of colored plastic eggs. She looked at me puzzled. I explained that we do this for Easter. I asked her if she knew the meaning of Easter. She said, “maybe no.” I said, “OK, in each egg there is a saying. Open only one egg each day. The messages in these eggs will help you learn about God, just as they did for me.”

Miki asked me, “Why do you give eggs?” I smiled and said, “Ancient cultures used the egg in spring-time celebrations. The egg symbolizes ‘new life’. As Christians, on Easter, we give out colored eggs to remind us of the tomb and Jesus’ victory over death. Now that I am a Christian, I am made ‘new’ through Jesus’ death for my sins and His miraculous raising from the grave. I have confidence that I will never die because I believe in Jesus. That is what makes my heart so happy. Remember open only ONE egg a day, OK?”

Last year Miki had to move back to Japan. (She has already come back to visit twice!) But it makes me sad because we can’t call each other and just spend time together like before. The thing that makes me the happiest, though, is that the same question that Jesus asks Martha in the text above came up between Miki and me. And Miki’s answer was the same as Martha’s: ‘Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Messiah, the Son of God…’ Thanks be to God!

It is 40 days until Easter. Whose life can you touch by sharing this question: what is it to be a Christian?
Which of your friends would you like to be your special guest in our Easter celebration next month? Make a plan now of how you will invite them.
Is your statement of faith as strong as Martha’s?
If you are reading this and interested in finding out more about Jesus, like my friend Miki Ogura, please ask anyone at St. Matthew. Jesus is our main subject here. We would love to have you as part of our family!

Prayer: Jesus, my Messiah, show me today how I can give the wonderful message of your salvation to someone I love today.

Cling To The Vine But Branch Out

admin — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Pat Siems
February 4, 2008

Read: John 15:1-9 THE TRUE VINE

THOUGHT STARTER: We usually think that we have control over our lives. How does believing Jesus is ‘the True Vine’ different?

Key Verse: John 15:5 Jesus said, I AM the vine. You are the branches. Those who live in Me while I live in them will produce a lot of fruit. But you can’t produce anything without Me.”

This was my confirmation verse many years ago. I have spent considerable time trying to figure out how Jesus’ vine-branch picture relates to me. In recent years He has shown me through a real-life challenge.

We live with tall trees all around us, and we enjoy their whispering talk’ in all seasons. Several years ago we noticed a lovely vine growing up the tree trunks. In the fall it produced an abundance of orange berries which we identified as bittersweet. I thought it was wonderful that we could raise our very own crop of this fall beauty since it is a protected native species which cannot be harvested in the open fields and roadsides of Michigan.

So we let it grow…and grow…and grow...until it started to pull down trees forty-feet high! From a local naturalist we discovered that this is NOT what we thought it was. It is an insidious, parasitic, tree-destroying monster: an Oriental variety of bittersweet which has no natural enemies in the USA. (I think of this as the boa constrictor of the botantist’s world.)

Last summer as we battled our way through the jungle-like vines, Jesus came to mind. Think about it…for over two thousand years mankind has tried to uproot, chop, whack, and bash Jesus Christ out of existence. Religions, monarchies, governments, and ideologies expend great energy and promote war as ways of ridding the earth of His teachings. Jesus continues to be slandered, maligned, and expunged from books, media, and entire countries. But His Truth only grows stronger! He is tougher than the vines in our woods, but in a gentler, selfless way.

We continue to wrestle the menacing vines in our woods. We have fought them by pruning, pulling it up by its roots, sawing off wrist-sized trunks, burning it, and applying herbicide. We want to stop this trespasser, this false vine, whose tendrils strangle and kill wherever it grows. We want the gentler, native bittersweet which does not intrude upon the habitat.

The lesson for me is that while Jesus is our True Vine, we are unruly branches! Have you ever, like me, tried to whack His Words from your mind or simply ignored His teachings? Jesus doesn’t move in where He isn’t wanted. He patiently waits as we pursue our pet interests and selfish loves. I wonder how many times I have hacked away at His truths because they made me uncomfortable. And how have I poisoned His name and character with my tongue? Whatever led me to stomp on His Resurrection Victory? Yes, continual pruning is necessary! (Ouch!) Forgive me, Lord.

We need to stay connected to Jesus and be vital branches, reaching out to others with His amazing love. When He prunes our character and makes us a little more like Himself, it might mean that some seeker will receive His saving grace along with us because they see Jesus in us. Going through fires of affliction might show some how to face their own trials, thereby receiving a new measure of peace through Him. Setting aside our egos could allow Jesus’ image to cover our own.

Thankfully we are attached to Jesus, the True Vine, as we commune with Him in sacrament and Word. Only He is able to provide all the courage and determination we need for the tasks delegated to us as branches. Using His strength, we can produce a crop that will glorify Him at harvest time. And the promised Holy Spirit is only a prayer away to sustain us and keep us clinging…and flourishing…as we receive our strength from the True Vine. Then we have opportunities to branch out into our various activities and life challenges.

Let’s face it: we cannot think, speak, or perform any good deed in our own power. Good comes only through Jesus and His life-changing Word. He is the True Vine. We can trust Him with every part of our lives. Thanks be to God!

Spend some time alone today. Think about your relationship to the Vine. How can it be improved so that you know you are clinging to Jesus even as you branch out to reach people around you?
Where can you branch out into an area you have never been in the past…and make a difference to someone who is seeking the Truth?

PRAYER: Lord, help me to be a branch that clings to You, the True Vine.

On Being A Model Of The ‘TRUE GATE’

Bob — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0800

By Dan Kleinedler
February 3, 2008

Read: John 10:7-10 THE GATE

Thought Starter: Compare the attributes of Jesus to a gate or door. What qualities of Jesus draw you into the ‘fold’?

Am I doing all I can to help my loved ones and those God places in my life to know of the salvation through Jesus Christ and the gift of eternal life? I find the gate (Jesus) in today’s devotional to be my responsibility to tell others about. In John 10:9 Jesus states ‘I am the gate. Those who enter the sheep pen through me will be saved. They will go in and out of the sheep pen and find food’.

My wife, Shar, while in Hospice care, wrote a letter to each of our daughters. In the letters she expressed her hopes and dreams for them, passing on her hopes for them to embrace Jesus and to pass that gift onto their children. These letters were written with instructions for them to be delivered after her death.

My task is to now carry that work on without her. I find it easy in life to slack off and not talk about things of faith with those I am closest to. I tend to worry about the world and what people might think of me for being an ambassador of Christ. It was always easier to let Shar be the information gatherer in the family and for me to just pray for needs. I see now though that I must step up and be bolder about my beliefs and hopes for those God places in my life. We have the knowledge of the spiritual food found in knowing our salvation, going in and out of the sheep pen in safety against the evil one and his worldly temptations. We are secure in our salvation and it is too good not to share with those we love.

As I ask God for guidance, I pray for you as you go through life that all of your loved ones will accept Jesus as the gate. I ask for your prayers also. The four letters Shar wrote have not been found. She told both her brother and sister in her last weeks that she had given the letters to me to put away a few month before. I have no idea where the letters are and never remember her giving them to me. My prayer is that they will surface in God’s perfect timing.

Question: Can you identify someone in your life that does not seem to have fully accepted Jesus as the gate? If so are you presenting them to God in prayer as you reach out to them?