Daily Meditations

Week of June 26 


Monday 

Mark 3:1-6 

Again he entered the synagogue, and a man was there who had a withered hand. 2 They were watching him to see whether he would cure him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him. 3 And he said to the man who had the withered hand, “Come forward.” 4 Then he said to them, “Is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the Sabbath, to save life or to kill?” But they were silent. 5 He looked around at them with anger; he was grieved at their hardness of heart and said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was restored. 6 The Pharisees went out and immediately conspired with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him. 


Jesus’ practice was to go to the synagogue on the Sabbath. His purpose was to do good and bring healing, which was at odds with the rules that had blinded the religious leaders to the true purposes of gathering together. This stirred emotions of anger and grief in Jesus because they were missing the invitation to encounter God and were even willing to cooperate with the Roman authorities to destroy him. 

Gracious God, we confess that in our practices of gathering together with your people, it can become routine and we miss or even stifle what you want to do among us. We surrender our hearts to you, not just in our gatherings but in our daily encounters with others. Give us eyes to see what you are doing and a desire to participate as your agents of love and healing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

Tuesday 

Mark 3:7-12 

7 Jesus departed with his disciples to the sea, and a great multitude from Galilee followed him; 8 hearing all that he was doing, they came to him in great numbers from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, beyond the Jordan, and the region around Tyre and Sidon. 9 He told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd, so that they would not crush him, 10 for he had cured many, so that all who had diseases pressed upon him to touch him. 11 Whenever the unclean spirits saw him, they fell down before him and shouted, “You are the Son of God!” 12 But he sternly ordered them not to make him known. 


Jesus and his ministry of healing attracted many, even as it disrupted their lives. People abandoned their routines so that they could find Jesus and “press into” him to be healed, so much so that Jesus made a way to both keep himself safe and continue to restore lives. 

Gracious God, in the midst of normal life and routines, you break in with your disruptive, healing and restorative power. Thank you for your infinite love that you pour out on us wherever we are at. Help us to see with your eyes the people around us in our daily walk who need the disruption of your love and then to share that love with them, simply and sincerely. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Wednesday 

Mark 3:13-19 

13 He went up the mountain and called to him those whom he wanted, and they came to him. 14 And he appointed twelve to be with him and to be sent out to preach 15 and to have authority to cast out demons. 16 So he appointed the twelve: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), 17 James son of Zebedee and John the brother of James (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder), 18 and Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Cananaean, 19 and Judas Iscariot, who handed him over. 


In the midst of his public ministry, Jesus also committed himself to a smaller group, who would follow him and in following him, learn how to relate to God, oneself, others, and the world. His words were backed up by how he lived and ministered, so that as he sent his followers out, their lives and actions would be consistent with the words of good news they were commissioned to preach. 

Gracious God, thank you for inviting us to follow you closely and in the companionship of others on the journey. Help us not to say one thing and yet live our lives in a way that contradicts what we believe and what Christ is teaching us. Help us to engage in our relationship with you in a way that always keeps us open to the new things you want to teach us. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Mark 3:20-27 

20 Then he went home, and the crowd came together again, so that they could not even eat. 21 When his family heard it, they went out to restrain him, for people were saying, “He has gone out of his mind.” 22 And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, “He has Beelzebul, and by the ruler of the demons he casts out demons.” 23 And he called them to him and spoke to them in parables, “How can Satan cast out Satan? 24 If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 25 And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. 26 And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand, but his end has come. 27 But no one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his property without first tying up the strong man; then indeed the house can be plundered. 


The ministry of Jesus was making waves everywhere it went, drawing crowds and also causing dismay with Jesus’ family and with the religious leaders. In an effort to discredit the work that they couldn’t explain, the leaders sought to demonize the work of God. Jesus poked holes in their theory and instead invited them to see what the crowds were seeing – God at work in new and powerful ways. 

Gracious God, thank you for the generous pouring out of your Spirit in new ways that draw people from all walks of life to you. Forgive us if there have been times when we have sought to discredit your work because of our own lack of comfort or understanding of what you are doing. Show us how you are working in the world in new ways and open our hearts to praise you for it. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

  

Friday 

Mark 3:28-30 

28 “Truly I tell you, people will be forgiven for their sins and whatever blasphemies they utter, 29 but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit can never have forgiveness but is guilty of an eternal sin”— 30 for they had said, “He has an unclean spirit.” 


This verse has been the source of much debate and much fear – is it possible to do something beyond forgiveness? Something that is an eternal sin? Mark clarifies that the religious leaders’ declaration of ignorance, that Jesus was filled with and motivated by an evil or unclean spirit, was the point where there was no road to forgiveness. Jesus also challenged what they said and invited them to see what he was doing with new lenses that acknowledge Jesus as God in the flesh, working against the evil in the world. That is the same invitation (and warning) that we receive from this passage. 

Gracious God, we acknowledge that we are tempted to reason you and your work in the world into a box for our own comfort and understanding. Thank you for your patience and invitation to continue to grow in our understanding and acceptance of who you really are and the mysterious ways you pour out your Spirit into the world. Help us to be participants, not antagonists, in what you are doing. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of June 19 


Monday 

Mark 2:13-14 

13 Jesus went out again beside the sea; the whole crowd gathered around him, and he taught them. 14 As he was walking along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax-collection station, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him. 


In this short passage, we see Jesus being present with the crowds who came to him, teaching them things that invited them to a new Kingdom.  And in the midst of his ministry to the crowds, he took note of Levi (Matthew), one despised by the crowd for overcharging them on their taxes, and Jesus continued to teach the crowd about this new Kingdom by inviting Levi to join him. 

Gracious God, thank you for taking the time to reveal yourself to us individually as you did Levi, and meeting us where we are at.  As we go about our day, give us eyes to see how you are at work in unexpected places, inviting unlikely people to a relationship with you.  Help us to be open to learning not just from your teaching in scripture, but from the way we see you encounter people in the world.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Mark 2:15-17 

15 And as he sat at dinner in Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were also sitting with Jesus and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. 16 When the scribes of the Pharisees saw that he was eating with sinners and tax collectors, they said to his disciples, “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 17 When Jesus heard this, he said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician but those who are sick; I have not come to call the righteous but sinners.” 


Imagine the party at Levi’s house, the conversation around the table as many of the guests were broken, and more importantly, knew they were broken.  Jesus didn’t have a “come-to-me-and-repent" service, but rather broke bread with them.  Their act of coming to the table was an acknowledgement that they needed a physician, a savior, and Jesus’ willingness to dine with them demonstrated his loving acceptance of them. 

Gracious God, thank you for inviting us to the table with our dirty hands and broken hearts, and pouring out your compassionate love and acceptance on us, letting us know that we belong to you.  May we never be outside looking in, ignoring our own brokenness and judging those whom you have accepted.  Help us to find our place at the table.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Wednesday 

 Mark 2:18-20 

18 Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting, and people came and said to him, “Why do John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” 19 Jesus said to them, “The wedding attendants cannot fast while the bridegroom is with them, can they? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. 20 The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast on that day. 


How often people ask the disciples, rather than Jesus directly, the questions they have about why Jesus does what he does!  And often Jesus overhears and answers their questions.  Regarding this question, Jesus sets the spiritual practice of fasting in the context of its purpose and how it is unnecessary and inappropriate even for this time when he is physically present with them.   

Gracious God, we are grateful for you and your desire to be in relationship with us.  Deepen our desire to be with you and to carve out time and practices that cultivate a growing love between us.  Help us not to look around, comparing ourselves to others, but looking intently to you as the one we love.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Mark 2:21-22 

21 “No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old cloak; otherwise, the patch pulls away from it, the new from the old, and a worse tear is made. 22 Similarly, no one puts new wine into old wineskins; otherwise, the wine will burst the skins, and the wine is lost, and so are the skins, but one puts new wine into fresh wineskins.” 


Jesus is inviting his followers to a new Kingdom, one that is not just a patch on an old way of seeing things.  His Spirit poured out on us cannot be contained by the old wineskins of past structures that have become rigid and unable to stretch.  Jesus invites us to continually expand our understanding and embrace of the infinite Divine. 

Gracious God, thank you that you are a dynamic God, ever pouring new wine into our lives and inviting us to be transformed that we might hold and share your presence in new ways.  Show us those places where we are trying to tame you by fitting you into old convictions, systems, and structures.  May our devotion be not to the static places that make us comfortable but to You alone.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

Mark 2:23-28 

23 One Sabbath he was going through the grain fields, and as they made their way his disciples began to pluck heads of grain. 24 The Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath?” 25 And he said to them, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need of food, 26 how he entered the house of God when Abiathar was high priest and ate the bread of the Presence, which it is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and he gave some to his companions?” 27 Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for humankind and not humankind for the Sabbath, 28 so the Son of Man is lord even of the Sabbath.” 


Spiritual practices have been a bit of a theme this week.  Today we read about the Pharisees asking Jesus why his disciples don’t follow the rules of the Sabbath.  Jesus establishes himself as the “lord of the Sabbath” and invites his followers to practice Sabbath in a way that blesses and nurtures them, rather than satisfying a list of dos and don’ts.  Jesus is the lord, not just of the Sabbath, but of all our spiritual practices, and in them, Jesus invites us to freedom. 

Gracious God, in our human desire for structure and order in our lives, we can turn our practices into acts of bondage rather than freedom.  Thank you for rhythms that cultivate the love between us and help us to be open to new wine and new perspectives on what you desire to do in and through us as we continue to fall in love with you.  May all we do be out of a heart of love and freedom.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.  

Week of June 12 

Monday 

Mark 1:21-28 

21 They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, he entered the synagogue and taught. 22 They were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority and not as the scribes. 23 Just then there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, 24 and he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.” 25 But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be quiet and come out of him!” 26 And the unclean spirit, convulsing him and crying with a loud voice, came out of him. 27 They were all amazed, and they kept on asking one another, “What is this? A new teaching—with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” 28 At once his fame began to spread throughout the surrounding region of Galilee. 


The worshipers that came to the synagogue that Sabbath were honoring the rituals of their faith as was their custom.  What they didn’t expect was for God in Christ to show up, teaching with authority and demonstrating his power over unclean spirits, to silence them and send them away.  Those who came experienced the invitation to join the kingdom of God and witnessed the power that Jesus had over the evil that would thwart the goodness of the Kingdom. 

Gracious God, we acknowledge that “bidden or unbidden, God is present,” whether it be in our worship or in our daily lives.  Give us hearts of expectancy and eyes that are open to see what you are doing in, through, and around us, that our hearts might be filled with awe and gratitude each day.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Mark 1:29-34 

29 As soon as they left the synagogue, they entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. 30 Now Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told him about her at once. 31 He came and took her by the hand and lifted her up. Then the fever left her, and she began to serve them. 

32 That evening, at sunset, they brought to him all who were sick or possessed by demons. 33 And the whole city was gathered around the door. 34 And he cured many who were sick with various diseases and cast out many demons, and he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him. 


Jesus ministered healing to whoever was in front of him, regardless of context.  He restored Peter’s mother-in-law in the privacy of their home, and then healed many publicly as they came to the door.  His ministry was like a sower sowing seed – generously and even recklessly – present with those who came to him. 

Gracious God, you showed us how to be faithful and present to the people around us, engaging with them and loving them in ways that meet their needs.  You come us in our need with your power and compassion and we are grateful.  May we share the power and compassion we experience from you with those we meet.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Wednesday 

Mark 1:35-39 

35 In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed. 36 And Simon and his companions hunted for him. 37 When they found him, they said to him, “Everyone is searching for you.” 38 He answered, “Let us go on to the neighboring towns, so that I may proclaim the message there also, for that is what I came out to do.” 39 And he went throughout all Galilee, proclaiming the message in their synagogues and casting out demons. 


In the midst of his demanding schedule and the multitude of needs before him, Jesus made it a priority to go off by himself and commune with God.  Prayer is not just asking, but is also listening and renewing our sense of identity and purpose in our Creator, so that, like Jesus in this passage, we are able to be guided by God’s voice rather than the needs that may not be ours to meet. 

Gracious God, in a world that is so loud, with so many demands and invitations that distract us, root us in your truth about who we are as your image-bearers.  Help us to hear and respond to your invitation to go out to a “deserted place,” where we can regain our sense of who we are in you and how we are designed to live most faithfully for you and with you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Thursday 

Mark 1:40-45 

40 A man with a skin disease came to him begging him, and kneeling he said to him, “If you are willing, you can make me clean.” 41 Moved with pity, Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him and said to him, “I am willing. Be made clean!” 42 Immediately the skin disease left him, and he was made clean. 43 After sternly warning him he sent him away at once, 44 saying to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest, and offer for your cleansing what Moses commanded as a testimony to them.” 45 But he went out and began to proclaim it freely and to spread the word, so that Jesus could no longer go into a town openly but stayed out in the country, and people came to him from every quarter. 


There were laws that forbade people with leprosy or other skin diseases to be touched, for fear the disease would spread.  This man, accustomed to being ostracized, takes the chance that Jesus will choose to heal him and kneels in complete vulnerability at Jesus’ feet.  Not only does Jesus heal him, but first he touches the man without fear, only love and compassion.  No wonder the healed man couldn’t help but spread the news that he had been healed and now able to be a part of community. 

Gracious God, if we are honest, we must admit that it is often fear that builds walls around our community and keeps us from touching and helping to heal those who feel isolated and need your love and compassion the most.  Help us to grow in awareness of our own feelings that we don’t belong, to find our belonging in you, and to extend our hands and hearts to the alienated.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Friday 

Mark 2:1-12 

When he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. 2 So many gathered around that there was no longer room for them, not even in front of the door, and he was speaking the word to them. 3 Then some people came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. 4 And when they could not bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him, and after having dug through it, they let down the mat on which the paralytic lay. 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Child, your sins are forgiven.” 6 Now some of the scribes were sitting there questioning in their hearts, 7 “Why does this fellow speak in this way? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 8 At once Jesus perceived in his spirit that they were discussing these questions among themselves, and he said to them, “Why do you raise such questions in your hearts? 9 Which is easier: to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and take your mat and walk’? 10 But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic— 11 “I say to you, stand up, take your mat, and go to your home.” 12 And he stood up and immediately took the mat and went out before all of them, so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this!” 


This passage is a great case study of people who came to Jesus, the crowds, the scribes, the paralyzed man, his friends.  Each is experiencing this encounter differently, and seeing what is unfolding through lenses of past experience and expectation.  As we read this and ponder our own reaction to Christ’s work in the world, we can ask ourselves which of the participants most resonate with our own presence in the world. 

Gracious God, you reveal yourself to us and what we see is influenced by our experiences, what we believe about the bible, and what we have learned in our lifetime through tradition.  Show us the filters that keeps us from seeing you clearly and help us to lay them aside, that we might be the ones who know your grace and forgiveness and are able to carry others into your presence.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of June 5 - 

Monday 

Mark 1:1-8 

The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ. 

2 As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, 

“See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,
who will prepare your way,
3 the voice of one crying out in the wilderness:
    ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight,’ ” 

4 so John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 5 And the whole Judean region and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him and were baptized by him in the River Jordan, confessing their sins. 6 Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. 7 He proclaimed, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the strap of his sandals. 8 I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” 


Like the beginning in Genesis 1 and in John 1, there is something new that was proclaimed by John the baptizer.  He proclaimed the good news in the wilderness – that place of uncertainty, inconvenience, bewilderment – familiar to the Jewish people but this new message offered hope because the invitation was not to follow a set of laws, but to repent – to change one’s mind and heart.  This same invitation of repentance is an invitation to a lifelong process of allowing our minds and hearts to be more and more changed by God. 

Gracious God, thank you for this new beginning to which we have been invited, as we release the rules to which we have clung and change our minds so that we can live fully in your kingdom of goodness.  Thank you that our repentance is not a one-time event but a journey of transformation ordained and empowered by you so that we might experience abundant life and reflect your invitation of love to others.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Tuesday 

Mark 1:9-11 

9 In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove upon him. 11 And a voice came from the heavens, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” 


By entering into the rite of baptism, Jesus – God Incarnate – demonstrated solidarity with those he came to save.  He entered into the context of the people, becoming one of them.  His identity and worth was rooted in his relationship to the Father in the context of the Trinity. 

Gracious God, you are good.  Thank you that through Jesus you came to us and participate with us in the rites and practices that we do to draw close to you.  In a world that is filled with expectations, judgments, and criteria for acceptance, help us to allow the reality of your delight and pleasure in us to sink in and take root in our lives.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Mark 1:12 – 13 

12 And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. 13 He was in the wilderness forty days, tested by Satan, and he was with the wild beasts, and the angels waited on him. 


It is interesting to note that the same Spirit that descended upon Jesus in love and delight also impelled him deeper into the wilderness, where he was tested, where he lived among the wild beasts, and where also God’s angels came and ministered to him.  We all experience wilderness at times, where we feel tested, where we feel we are in danger of unexpected threats, and also where God meets us in new ways to assure us that we are not forgotten. 

Gracious God, we see the mystery of following you and how it requires trust in you and in your gentle and wise guidance.  We confess that we do not always want to go where you are leading us, and we pray for courage to follow you and generosity of spirit to encourage those we know who are following you into the wilderness.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.      


Thursday 

Mark 1:14 - 15

14 Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the good news of God 15 and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.” 


A lot of details are left out in Mark’s account of Jesus’ ministry, but he seems to suggest that John’s imprisonment was the catalyst for Jesus stepping in to proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God.  His promise – the time is fulfilled (I.e. their waiting is over) and the kingdom of God has come near (I.e. the promised rule of God has come); for Jews this message injected hope and also an invitation to see the salvation of God in a new way.  We too are the beneficiaries of God’s promises and invitation to a change of heart and mind toward the rule of God in every part of our lives and relationships. 

Gracious God, your kingdom came in Jesus Christ and we continue to pray, your kingdom come.  Help us to be open before you, willing to hear your gently voice inviting us nearer to you each day and to relinquish anything that gets in the way of whole-hearted following after you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

Mark 1:16-20 

16 As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the sea, for they were fishers. 17 And Jesus said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of people.” 18 And immediately they left their nets and followed him. 19 As he went a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John, who were in their boat mending the nets. 20 Immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him. 


Jesus invited people to follow him and those who were willing to drop everything were the ones that he invested in and entrusted the spread of the gospel to.  The process of learning from Jesus took them from hard and productive work, to watching what Jesus was doing and spending time soaking in his presence.  Out of their time with him, which may have seemed unproductive in comparison to their previous work, they became the people they were created to be, and equipped to do what Jesus invited them to do through the Holy Spirit. 

Gracious God, we all wish that we had the heart and courage to immediately follow you when you bid us come.  We lift up our anxious and reluctant hearts and pray that each day we will faithfully say, YES!, to you and trust that you are guiding and directing our steps and transforming us in the process.  We are yours.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of May 29 -  


Monday 

Psalm 34:15-17 

15 The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and his ears are open to their cry.
16 The face of the Lord is against evildoers,
to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.
17 When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears,
and rescues them from all their troubles. 


As God’s righteous, those partnering with him in his mission to make all things right, we can trust that he is watching over us and hears our cries.  Because he faces the evil in the world, we can work for righteousness with confidence and assurance of his protection. 

Gracious God, we become so quickly distracted by what we perceive as evil danger around us that we get thrown off the course to which you have called.  Help us to live confidently in you, trusting you to guide and protect us, and engaging others is the hope that you are setting things right.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday  

Psalm 34:18-22 

18 The Lord is near to the brokenhearted,
and saves the crushed in spirit. 

19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous,
but the Lord rescues them from them all.
20 He keeps all their bones;
not one of them will be broken.
21 Evil brings death to the wicked,
and those who hate the righteous will be condemned.
22 The Lord redeems the life of his servants;
none of those who take refuge in him will be condemned. 


The psalmist assures us that the righteous are not immune from difficulties and suffering, but that God will meet us and bring relief.  These are challenging times and it is easy to sometimes wonder what we did wrong or what our neighbor did wrong to bring on their plight.  The reason for suffering is not often clear to us, but we can be confident that God is present with us, loving us and holding us in our grief. 

Gracious God, thank you that we don’t have to pretend that our lives are free from difficulty.  Help us to turn to you when we are crushed and brokenhearted and to be honest with you where we are at, that we might experience your deepest comfort in those places of grief.  And help us to extend that same mercy and comfort to those who are hurting around us, for your glory.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Philippians 1: 3-7a 

3 I thank my God every time I remember you, 4 constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, 5 because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. 6 I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ. 7 It is right for me to think this way about all of you, because you hold me in your heart.. 


Paul begins his letter to the Philippians by expressing gratitude for these people, united by the good news of Christ and participating in God’s work together.  There is a love between them that is sourced in the confidence that God continues to complete what has been started in and among them. 

Gracious God, thank you for gift of community.  Help us to be united around the good news of Christ and the confidence that as we participate in your work on earth, you will bring it to completion.  May we hold one another in our hearts, as people who know we are living between the now and the not-yet of God’s finished work in our lives.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 


Thursday 

James 1:5-8 

5 If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given you. 6 But ask in faith, never doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind; 7, 8 for the doubter, being double-minded and unstable in every way, must not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 


I wonder if when James was writing this, what he was gently suggesting is that we all are lacking in wisdom and are invited to ask God continually for it.  Wisdom from God allows us to stay rooted in Christ in the midst of uncertainty, swaying and bending, but not being overcome by our surroundings.  The wisdom that God gives us freely emanates out of our trust in Him as our Provider.   

Gracious God, we acknowledge that wisdom tied to our faith needs to grow in all of us as we navigate an ever-changing world.  We ask for wisdom and thank you for your generosity and open-heartedness with which you bestow it on us as we ask.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Friday 

James 3:17-18 

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace. 


James returns to the topic of wisdom and reminds his readers that not all wisdom is from above, and then describes the characteristics of godly wisdom.  He mentions peace 3 times in these 2 verses, to describe wisdom, and then those who are sowers and reapers of righteousness.  Peace – tranquility, harmony, security, quietness of soul in our relationship with God, ourselves, others, and creation.   

Gracious God, you are the source of true wisdom.  The words that describe wisdom describe you.  As we follow you, help us take on your character and work to be peacemakers in our contexts.  We need you and we need your peace during this time.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of May 22 - 

Monday 

Psalm 27:13-14 

13 I believe that I shall see the goodness of the Lord
in the land of the living.
14 Wait for the Lord;
be strong, and let your heart take courage;
wait for the Lord! 


What a wonderful declaration the psalmist makes.  To see the goodness of the Lord is something we can all desire and believe that we will see.  As we strain to see, we are also invited to wait, be strong, and take courage.  Our waiting isn’t passive, but it is an active, faithful response to what has called us to even as we look forward to the continued unfolding of his goodness. 

Gracious God, we affirm the words of the psalmist that your goodness will be revealed.  Give us eyes to see it and the hope, strength and courage that comes from our conviction that you will come to us.  As we believe your promise, help us to be agents of that promise by encouraging and strengthening those around us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Psalm 34:1-4 

1 I will bless the Lord at all times;
his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
2 My soul makes its boast in the Lord;
let the humble hear and be glad.
3 O magnify the Lord with me,
and let us exalt his name together. 

4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me,
and delivered me from all my fears. 


The psalmist demonstrates a life that is constantly aware of the Lord’s presence and turning to God with praise and blessing.  His worship of God is contagious as he invites others to join with him.  David worships the God who hears him when he cries out and relieves him from fear. 

Gracious God, I bless your name and praise you.  You are always with me and I pray that I will grow in my awareness of you and respond to your presence with joy and honor.  Thank you for hearing our prayers and delivering us from all fear.  Help us to seek you in our times of unease and find in you our solid rock.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Psalm 34:5-8 

5 Look to him, and be radiant;
so your faces shall never be ashamed.
6 This poor soul cried, and was heard by the Lord,
and was saved from every trouble.
7 The angel of the Lord encamps
around those who fear him, and delivers them.
8 O taste and see that the Lord is good;
happy are those who take refuge in him. 


These verses incorporate our senses into our experience of God – Look to him!  Be heard by him!  Taste and see that the Lord is good!  We are invited to engage our whole being in our relationship with Christ.  As we look to him and experience God as the one who is all in all, our lives can shine with a radiance that oozes out of us because we trust the Divine. 

Gracious God, You are the source of our lives, our deliverance, and our refuge.  Help us to loosen our grip on the things and/or people that distract us from wholeheartedly looking to you and relying on you.  May your face shine on us that we may reflect your radiance to those around us.  In Jesus name, Amen. 

 

Thursday 

Psalm 34:9-10 

9O fear the Lord, you his holy ones,
for those who fear him have no want.
10 The young lions suffer want and hunger,
but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. 


What promise we have when we fear the Lord and seek after him.  We have everything we need.  (Remember Psalm 23:1 – the Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want).  Unlike young lions that are focused on their prey, anxious to find their next meal, we are invited to seek the Lord and be satisfied in what God provides. 

Gracious God, we thank you that we stand before you as holy people in whom you delight.  You do not desire to consume us but to provide for us as we seek you.  Help us to seek you and fear you with our whole hearts, finding our satisfaction and contentment in what you provide.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday

Psalm 34:11-14  

11 Come, O children, listen to me;
I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
12 Which of you desires life, and covets many days to enjoy good?
13 Keep your tongue from evil, and your lips from speaking deceit.
14 Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. 


These verses sound like they could be a part of Proverbs as David invites us near to glean from the wisdom he has learn through his dependence on God.  As we prayerfully read this passage, it is an opportunity for us to take inventory of how we are investing our time, our voice, and our gifts. 

Gracious God, this can be a challenging passage to us in the midst of a divisive world.  Help us, we pray, to leave behind evil and deceit and to pursue goodness and peace.  May we live in a way that demonstrates to others that we are children of the God of love and goodness.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of May 15  -

Monday 

Psalm 27:1-3 

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? 

2 When evildoers assail me to devour my flesh—
my adversaries and foes— they shall stumble and fall. 

3 Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear;
though war rise up against me, yet I will be confident. 


The psalmist David had many opportunities in his life to trust God in adverse circumstances.  Sometimes his enemies attacked him from the outside.  Other times it was his internal enemies that rose up and overtook him.  We may feel like we are battling enemies – big and small, internal and external – but our God is our light in the darkness, our salvation when we are desperate to be rescued, and our stronghold when we are afraid.  We can find our confidence in him. 

Gracious God, tether to you, our light, our salvation, and our stronghold.  We entrust our lives and our day to you, in the confidence that whatever happens, you remain the same, and we do not need to fear. Renew our confidence in you that we might invite others to you by the way we live in your peace.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Psalm 27:4 

4 One thing I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after:
to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life,
to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple. 


The psalmist David’s deepest desire is to live in the presence of God every day.  It is there that he wraps himself up in our Lord’s beauty and feeds his desire to know and understand more of the Divine.  As we carry God’s presence with us, we are invited to make intimacy with God that which we seek after as well. 

Gracious God, thank you for your presence in our lives, whether we are aware of it or not.  Make it our desire to find you in all we do, to encounter and soak in your beauty and continue to seek you.  As we inquire in your presence, reveal your truth to us that we may reflect your character to the world around us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Psalm 27:5-6  

5 For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble;
he will conceal me under the cover of his tent;
he will set me high on a rock.
6 Now my head is lifted up above my enemies all around me,
and I will offer in his tent sacrifices with shouts of joy;
I will sing and make melody to the Lord. 


It is in our communion with God that we are strengthened not just for today, but for the unexpected troubles in the future.  The confidence and trust in God that we build as we behold God’s beauty and guidance becomes a protection and place of worship in the times of difficulty.   

Gracious God, thank you for the confidence that you instill in us that carries us in times of uncertainty.  May we be deeply rooted in your loving steadfastness and protection when we feel exposed and vulnerable.  Help us to be agents of your protection as we share with others the security and peace that we experience in you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Psalm 27:7-10  

7 Hear, O Lord, when I cry aloud,
be gracious to me and answer me!
8 “Come,” my heart says, “seek his face!”
Your face, Lord, do I seek.
9 Do not hide your face from me.
Do not turn your servant away in anger,
you who have been my help.
Do not cast me off, do not forsake me,
O God of my salvation!
10 If my father and mother forsake me,
the Lord will take me up. 


We can relate to the psalmist’s words as he goes back and forth between confidence in God’s protective presence while at the same time a plea for God’s continued attention.  Every day we are invited to trust God more deeply or more widely, and we prayerfully ask God again to continue to be gracious to us and answer us in the present time. 

Gracious God, we thank you that you invite us to a relationship with you that is dynamic and allows us to be vulnerable before you with our emotions and doubts without the fear that you will forsake us.  We ask that you would meet us where we are and build in us the resilience that never grows tired of seeking your face.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

Psalm 27:11-12 

11 Teach me your way, O Lord,
and lead me on a level path
because of my enemies.
12 Do not give me up to the will of my adversaries,
for false witnesses have risen against me,
and they are breathing out violence. 


The psalmist feels vulnerable among external pressures that would do him in.  We have all felt assailed on every side and are grateful that we can lean into God’s ways and level paths as we keep our eyes fixed on the Divine.  This allows us to not only withstand the conflict we feel between us and our foes, but also to extend grace to those around us who are afflicted. 

Gracious God, thank you that you do not abandon us in our places of vulnerability.  Thank you for your leading in our lives and we pray that we will fix our eyes on you and follow you.  Help us not to treat those we may count as our enemies with anger, but extend your love and grace to them.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of May 8 -

Monday 

Romans 12:1-2 

I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect. 

This appeal from Paul follows on the heels of his proclamation of the depth of God’s riches, wisdom, and knowledge that is beyond our comprehension.  We live out our faith in God not in our heads but in the daily offering of our bodies to him and his work.  As we do, God does his transforming work in us, shaping our minds to discern his ways for us. 


Gracious God, thank you for the invitation to live for you by the daily offering of our lives to you.  We live out our trust in you, an incomprehensible God, by living faithfully each day, and allowing you to transform us in the process.  Renew our minds that we may discern what is ours to do.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Romans 12: 3-8 

3 For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. 4 For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, 5 so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. 6 We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; 7 ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; 8 the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness. 

When we know ourselves and are at home with who we are in Christ, we are able to give freely  of our gifts in a way that allows and encourages others to do the same.  The body of Christ is a place where all can thrive together as we grow into all that God has created us to be, both individually and corporately, for God’s glory. 


Gracious God, we pray for unity in your body as we live into who you have created us to be and create space for others to thrive as well.  Jesus said that those around us will know we are your followers by your love and we ask that we will reflect your love in the way we use our gifts for your glory.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Romans 12:9-11 

9 Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; 10 love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. 13 Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. 

These three verses are packed with exhortations on how to live with one another in love and sacrifice.  We are invited to imagine a community that is being transformed by God and how we can be wholehearted participants in it. 


Gracious God, these verses remind us that we are continuing to be transformed by you in ways that impact how we love those around us.  Help us to be open to the work you want to do in us so that we reflect your love and character to all we interact with.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Romans 12:14-18 

14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. 18 If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 

Paul continues to draw an inspired picture of what the body of Christ looks like when they are thriving and reflecting the character of Christ.  The exhortations can be overwhelming, but we remember that in vs. 1-2, this is the fruitful behavior of a life being transformed by the Spirit as they seek to live differently than the world. 


Gracious God, we are grateful that you continue to transform us so that we might more and more reflect you.  Renew our minds that we may see ourselves and those around us as you see them and live as recipients and agents of your grace and mercy so that you might be glorified in us.  In Jesus name, Amen. 


Friday 

Romans 12:19-21 

19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 Instead, “if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink, for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. 

Paul quotes from Proverbs to make his point about how we are called to interact with those who are against us.  While the “burning coals” are a metaphor, Paul uses is as a reminder and exhortation to resist the culture of vengeance by overcoming evil with good, just as our Lord overcame death by His life, and darkness by His light.  


Gracious God, things happen to us and around us that stir up feelings of anger and hurt and a desire for revenge.  To behave in a loving and compassionate way to our enemies is something we can only do through the loving power of your presence in our lives.  Help us to lean into you for healing from our wounds and the capacity to extend your compassion to others.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of May 1 - 

Monday 

Luke 15:1-7 

Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him. 2 And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, “This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 

3 So he told them this parable: 4 “Which one of you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost until he finds it? 5 When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices. 6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ 7 Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. 


Parables are stories drawn from daily life whose purpose is to set forth a basic truth.  As we look at these 3 parables this week, it is important to remind ourselves the situation Jesus was addressing so we know the truth he was proclaiming about himself.  In each of these the story is about the one who searches, not the one who is found. 

Gracious God, thank you for coming after us when we were lost, at the risk of your life and reputation.  Give us your heart for others that rejoices when one is found and is willing to share your salvation with others, even at our own risk or reputation.  Give us eyes to see what you are doing in the world and gratitude for what you have already done for us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Luke 15:8-10 

8 “Or what woman having ten silver coins, if she loses one of them, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? 9 When she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’ 10 Just so, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” 


In his 2nd parable to describe God’s mercy that seeks out the lost, Jesus uses a woman, and a scenario that women of that time could relate to.  Like the woman who knows what she has lost and is willing to scour the house to find the missing coin, God doesn’t quit searching for his lost ones until they are found.  In his abundance, there is always room for one more. 

Gracious God, you never stop pursuing those who are lost without you.  As your hands and feet, give us renewed strength and every opportunity to seek those who need you and help us to never grow tired of making room for just one more.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Luke 15:11-16 

11 Then Jesus said, “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the property that will belong to me.’ So he divided his property between them. 13 A few days later the younger son gathered all he had and traveled to a distant country, and there he squandered his property in dissolute living. 14 When he had spent everything, a severe famine took place throughout that country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed the pigs. 16 He would gladly have filled himself with the pods that the pigs were eating; and no one gave him anything. 


We have broken this parable into 3 parts as we continue to consider the generous mercy of God.  At the younger son’s request, the father divides all he has between both children.  Some would say that was a crazy idea for the father, but Jesus was helping the crowd to see the extravagant, risky generosity with which God gives to those he loves. 

Gracious God, you continue to show us in the gospels how extravagant your love is, risking rejection and loss for us, your beloved.  We limit our generosity toward others for many reasons and acknowledge that yours is beyond our comprehension.  Instill in us your heart for humanity that compels you to risk it all for our sake.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.  


Thursday 

Luke 15:17-24 

 17 But when he came to himself he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired hands have bread enough and to spare, but here I am dying of hunger! 18 I will get up and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me like one of your hired hands.”’ 20 So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him. 21 Then the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly, bring out a robe—the best one—and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; 24 for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!’ And they began to celebrate. 


We could spend a lot of time on this, but focusing on the father, we see a parent who no doubt strained his eyes daily watching for his son to return.  The father was not about what the son had done wrong but celebrating that he had returned.  This compassion, grace, and mercy shakes us to the core as we ponder how difficult it can be to grant those who hurt us mercy. 

Gracious God, we can find it difficult to receive your compassion and mercy, because we want to think that we are less needy of you than we are.  We grieve our sin and we grieve the reality that we continue to be people who sin.  Help us to look at our lives through the truth of your unconditional love that welcomes us back and celebrates our return.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Friday 

Luke 15:25-32 

25 “Now his elder son was in the field; and when he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 He called one of the slaves and asked what was going on. 27 He replied, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has got him back safe and sound.’ 28 Then he became angry and refused to go in. His father came out and began to plead with him. 29 But he answered his father, ‘Listen! For all these years I have been working like a slave for you, and I have never disobeyed your command; yet you have never given me even a young goat so that I might celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours came back, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fatted calf for him!’ 31 Then the father said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.’” 


As the story continues, the older son emerges from his work, wondering what the celebration is about.  Unable to see the love and compassion that his father has lavished on him, he finds it impossible to celebrate and rejoice that his brother is home.  The father reaches out to him with the same compassion he bestowed upon his younger son. 

Gracious God, we are so influenced by a merit society that fools us into thinking specific actions and behaviors excuse us from rejoicing in what seems like undeserving blessings bestowed on another.  Thank you for your mercy that meets each of us where we are at and invites us to a celebration that rejoices in your great mercy and compassion which we all desperately need.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of April 24 


Monday 

Isaiah 42:1-4 

Here is my servant, whom I uphold,
my chosen, in whom my soul delights;
I have put my spirit upon him;
he will bring forth justice to the nations.
2 He will not cry or lift up his voice,
or make it heard in the street;
3 a bruised reed he will not break,
and a dimly burning wick he will not quench;
he will faithfully bring forth justice.
4 He will not grow faint or be crushed
until he has established justice in the earth;
and the coastlands wait for his teaching. 


In this passage there is the promise that Christ’s work of justice and compassion will continue to its completion.  His voice may not be the loudest but it is the strongest.  In this promise is also an invitation to us to seek justice faithfully for all and to have compassion on those who are hurting and at the end of their rope. 

Gracious God, thank you for the justice and compassion that you ushered into the world through Jesus Christ.  We need to receive your justice and compassion that you faithfully give us, and we desire to be your agents of the same in the world.  Give us eyes to see where we can be faithful to you this year.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Isaiah 42:5-7 

Thus says God, the Lord,
who created the heavens and stretched them out,
who spread out the earth and what comes from it,
who gives breath to the people upon it
and spirit to those who walk in it:
6 ‘I am the Lord, I have called you in righteousness,
I have taken you by the hand and kept you;
I have given you as a covenant to the people,
a light to the nations,
7 to open the eyes that are blind,
to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon,
from the prison those who sit in darkness.’ 


Some days we need to be reminded of who God is, to look up from the troubles and anxieties of the world and acknowledge again that God is the Creator of all, and the Source of our life and every breath we take.  To those who follow Him, he calls us to live as a reflection of him in righteousness and gentleness, and an extension of His invitation to those around us who also need his healing and restoration. 

Gracious God, help us to step back and remember today that you are the Creator and Sustainer of all, that who you are gives you the capacity to keep the universe in place, give us breath, and meet each of us with purpose and gentle guidance.  Help us to be guided by you and filled with your light that we might draw others to you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Isaiah 42:8-9 

I am the Lord, that is my name; my glory I give to no other, nor my praise to idols.
9 See, the former things have come to pass, and new things I now declare;
before they spring forth, I tell you of them. 


As we anticipate the future, we may be filled with mixed emotions, AND we can be grateful that we serve One who is God and who has no equal in love, understanding, and power.  He is declaring new things among us and invites us to listen for his voice and participate in what he is going to do. 

Gracious God, we look to you and to what new things you are doing in, through, and among us.  We declare with you that you have no equal and pray that our lives will reflect that conviction.  Turn our heart toward you that we might see and participate in what you are doing in the world.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Thursday 

Isaiah 42:10-12 

Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise from the end of the earth!
Let the sea roar and all that fills it, the coastlands and their inhabitants.
11 Let the desert and its towns lift up their voice, the villages that Kedar inhabits;
let the inhabitants of Sela sing for joy, let them shout from the tops of the mountains.
12 Let them give glory to the Lord, and declare his praise in the coastlands. 


In this song of praise, the prophet is envisioning all people, regardless of nationality or ethnicity, worshiping God as his creation.  God is praised by the natural world and in the lives of those who relinquish their lives to him.  We are invited to sing a new song, one that worships God and draws other to worship as well. 

Gracious God, you are worthy of our praise.  Your creation declares your glory and we as your creation worship you for who you are.  Help us to live lives of worship that bring you praise and and that create space for others to worship as well.  In Jesus name, Amen. 

 

Friday 

Isaiah 42:13 

The Lord goes forth like a soldier, like a warrior he stirs up his fury;
he cries out, he shouts aloud, he shows himself mighty against his foes. 


Here the prophet describes God as a warrior, shouting loudly against his foes.  While his voice to those he loves is quiet and gently (Is. 42:2), his is strong and loud against his opponents.  He protects those he loves against the evil powers of the world as a warrior. 

Gracious God, we acknowledge that you are beyond our comprehension and yet you invite us to know you.  Thank you that you fight against the evil of the world with a mighty arm and with the blood of Christ.  Help us to depend on you to defend us even as we seek ways to be advocates against your foes in this world.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of April 17 


Monday 

Psalm 1:1-3 (Part 1) 

Happy are those
who do not follow the advice of the wicked,
or take the path that sinners tread,
or sit in the seat of scoffers;
2 but their delight is in the law of the Lord,
and on his law they meditate day and night.
3 They are like trees
planted by streams of water,
which yield their fruit in its season,
and their leaves do not wither.
In all that they do, they prosper. 

God invites us to a relationship with him that sustains us during times of drought because our roots are deeply set in his presence and character.  When we look to God for our guidance and nourishment, we find deep reservoirs of strength out of which we can continue to thrive and bless others. 

Gracious God, in times of drought, thank you that you remain the same and that you invite us as always to stay deeply rooted in you.  Thank you for providing the strength and nourishment we need to thrive and to reach outside ourselves to bless others.  Give us eyes to see those who need our love and encouragement today.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Psalm 1:1-3 (Part 2) 

Happy are those
who do not follow the advice of the wicked,
or take the path that sinners tread,
or sit in the seat of scoffers;
2 but their delight is in the law of the Lord,
and on his law they meditate day and night.
3 They are like trees
planted by streams of water,
which yield their fruit in its season,
and their leaves do not wither.
In all that they do, they prosper. 

We are all being spiritually formed by the voices and influences that we tip our ears to.  The psalmist knew that and described the flourishing follower as one who delights in the invitations of God that are throughout his word.  By soaking in the riches of God’s presence and word, we remain deeply rooted against the storms of opposition and drought and are able to bear the fruit that comes from knowing God. 

Gracious God, in a world that is so filled with distraction, give us delight in you.  Turn our attention to the truth and joy that is created by you and sourced in our relationship with you so that we might bring joy to those around us and bear fruit that reflects your character.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Wednesday 

Ephesians 3:17-19 

... and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love. I pray that you may have the power to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 

What a beautiful prayer for us and a reminder of the invitation that Jesus extends to us – to be filled with him, rooted in love, having the capacity to comprehend that love that is more precious than knowledge.  Imagine being filled with the fullness of God in every nook and cranny of your body, mind, and spirit.   

Gracious God, we look to you and thank you for your love, the source of all you are and all you do.  God, keep us from distractions that take away our awareness of your love and our commitment to be rooted in that love.  May our attitudes, thoughts, and actions reflect the fullness of your love in our hearts today.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Colossians 2:6-7 

6 As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, continue to walk in him, 7 rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. 

The theme of rootedness continues in these 2 verses, as Paul writes that receiving Christ and walking in him both require faith, which roots us in him and his desires for us.  We are invited to remember what we have been taught and to remember with gratitude. 

Gracious God, there are so many things that can push against us like a gust of wind. Help us to stay rooted in the simplicity of faith by which we came to you and in which we continue to walk with you.  May we accept your invitation to continue to deepen our roots into your presence and character and may gratitude lead us to you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

Hebrews 6:19-20  

19 We have this hope, a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters the inner shrine behind the curtain, 20 where Jesus, a forerunner on our behalf, has entered, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. 

We are invited into the holy presence of God through the work of Christ on the cross.  This hope is sure, dependent on Christ’s work not ours, designed so that we can live reconciled to God.  Jesus has gone before and invites us to join the triune God behind the curtain. 

Gracious God, the gift of entering your presence is beyond comprehension in a world where access to greatness is scarce and limited to a few.  And yet the greatest invitation – to pull up a chair in your presence – is a gift, given by Christ – so that You might be reconciled to us, your Creation.  Thanks be to God in Jesus’ name, Amen.  

Week of April 10 


Monday 

Luke 24:2-5 

They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in, they did not find the body.  While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men in dazzling clothes stood beside them.  The women were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground, but they said to them, ‘Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen.’ 

Imagine the range of emotions the women experienced as they stood inside the empty tomb – grief, confusion, terror, joy.  We can experience these same emotions as we try to make sense of God’s work in our lives and world.  But as the angel says, why do you look for the living among the dead?  He is not here but has risen.  God is alive and at work throughout the world, continuing to expand his reign of hope and shalom.  

Gracious God, through the death and resurrection of Christ, you have conquered all evil and reconciled us to Yourself.  Help us to live in the light of your truth and presence even in the midst of darkness.  May we understand and embrace the resurrection life that you invite us to.  With gratitude we give you glory and honor.  Thanks be to God!  Amen.  


Tuesday 

Luke 24:6-9 

6 Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, 7 that the Son of Man must be handed over to sinners, and be crucified, and on the third day rise again.” 8 Then they remembered his words, 9 and returning from the tomb, they told all this to the eleven and to all the rest. 

Twice in this passage, the women who came to the empty tomb are invited to remember Jesus’ words.  And when they remembered, they knew what they needed to do.  When we spend time with Jesus, and listen for him, we too remember what he has said and know what is ours to do. 

Gracious Lord, thank you for the way you treat us gently and prepare us for what is next.  Help us to listen for you and remember your words and your faithfulness in the past that we might find comfort and direction today and in the future.  In your name, Amen. 


Wednesday  

Luke 24:10-12 

10 Now it was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them who told this to the apostles. 11 But these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. 12 But Peter got up and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; then he went home, amazed at what had happened. 

Imagine what it must have felt like for the women who had just seen the empty tomb to have their good news met with skepticism and dismissal by those who followed Jesus most closely.  And on the other hand, what it would feel like to be told that the one whose death you are grieving is actually alive.  It is this hope beyond hope that we are invited to live in today as followers of our risen Lord. 

Gracious Jesus, your resurrection created quite a stir.  As we remember and celebrate it each year, we pray that it will create a stir in us anew, and that we will be witnesses to your good news to those who so desperately need it.  Keep us, we pray, from losing our sense of gratitude and amazement around your redeeming and reconciling work in us and in the world.  In your name, Amen. 


Thursday  

1 Corinthians 15:54b-58 

“Death has been swallowed up in victory.”
55 “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” 

56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 

58 Therefore, my beloved, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. 

Here is our good news as believers and followers of Jesus.  We find our victory, not in the law or being good enough, but by being covered by the cleansing work of Christ on the cross.  Therefore, as we tune in to what God has called us to do, we can be faithful to Him alone, His mission in the world.   

Gracious God, thank you that you are the one who has reset the world and the value system under which we operate.  We are free from the law and death, and free to live into all you have created us to be.  Protect us from the messages that seek to restrain us from living wholeheartedly for you and for your glory.  We are yours, and yours alone.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday  

John 21:15-17 

15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 A second time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep.” 

Throughout the gospels, Peter is portrayed as one of the more outspoken disciples.  One moment he is proclaiming Jesus as Messiah and the next, correcting him.  In this intimate conversation, after Peter has denied Jesus and confronted his own weakness, Jesus still asks for Peter’s loyalty, and Peter resists until he can’t anymore.   

Lord God, we ask for your grace today to listen for your voice and respond.  Help us to listen for what you are asking us to do, and to say, Yes, wholeheartedly.  Thank you that you know all things, including our hearts, and patiently draw us into yourself and into your mission in the world.  Show us what is ours to do and give us the strength to do it.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of October 31 -  (Meditations can also be found at https://northsoundchurch.com/topics/meditations)

Monday 

Isaiah 60:19-20 

The sun shall no longer be your light by day, 

nor for brightness shall the moon give light to you by night; 

but the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory. 

20 Your sun shall no more go down, or your moon withdraw itself; 

for the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your days of mourning shall be ended. 

Here God’s invitation is to look to the Lord and the Lord only for light.  God offers light that provides direction during the day and comfort at night.  When we lean into the light that Jesus offers in himself, we can reflect his light to others as we invite them to encounter the everlasting light. 

Gracious God, thank you for the assurance of your presence that brings light into the darkness of our lives and surroundings.  We lean into your guidance and your comfort, knowing that you are eternal and your promise of light is extended to us all day and all night.  Help us to receive your light, which we so desperately need, and then to reflect it to others for your glory.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

1 John 1:1-4 

We declare to you what was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and touched with our hands, concerning the word of life— 2 this life was revealed, and we have seen it and testify to it, and declare to you the eternal life that was with the Father and was revealed to us— 3 we declare to you what we have seen and heard so that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ. 4 We are writing these things so that our joy may be complete. 

As we begin to walk our way through John’s first letter to his beloved readers, he establishes his “credentials” for declaring what he is about to say.  His letter is a testimony, based on his eyewitness accounts of Jesus’ work and words.  As Jesus’ followers, we too have stories of His faithfulness that are based on our experiences and are worth sharing. 

Gracious God, thank you for the many ways you reveal yourself to us.  Help us to enter into those moments and cultivate awareness of your presence and hear your voice.  May our stories be peppered with the stories of how you came to us and made us new and may we be filled with joy in remembering your faithfulness to us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

1 John 1:5-7 

5 This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light and in him there is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him while we are walking in darkness, we lie and do not do what is true; 7 but if we walk in the light as he himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. 

John, who spent time with Jesus, sums up the gospel message in vs. 5 – God is light and in God there is no darkness at all.  There are echoes of his words in the first chapter of his gospel, this theme of light that always overcomes.  Over the next verses, John starts to unpack the contrast between living in light versus living in darkness. 

Gracious God, thank you that you are light and invite us to live in the light with you.  We acknowledge that it requires a surrender to your loving ways, illumined by your presence, and we confess our tendency to stumble around in the darkness denial and deception.  We need you and ask that you will help us to come to the light of your presence.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

1 John 1:8-10 

8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. 

As John continues, he points out to his readers that part of living in the dark is thinking we are actually living in the light.  How easy it can be to use our own spirituality as a frame of reference for light.  But our goal is not to deem ourselves as sinless but to live in a posture of dependence on Jesus for forgiveness and transformation. 

Gracious God, you fill me with your light, not because I am perfect, but because I am honest and vulnerable with you.  Give me the humility to acknowledge my dependence on you for forgiveness and gracious transformation so that my relationships with others reflect that same character.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

1 John 2:1-2 

My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; 2 and he is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. 

John demonstrates an understanding of our nature, one that desires not to sin but at the same time can’t help it.  He talks about the “now and the not yet” in a future passage.  His words assure us of forgiveness for the past, mercy for the present and hope for the future. 

Gracious God, thank you for being present with us in the space between the “now and the not yet.”  We need your forgiveness and mercy to live for you in this world.  Help us to receive the reality of our state, and the greater reality of your reconciling work and forgiveness, and to live among others in the light of your mercy.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of October 24 -  (Meditations can also be found at https://northsoundchurch.com/topics/meditations)

Monday  

Philippians 1: 3-7a 

3 I thank my God every time I remember you, 4 constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, 5 because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. 6 I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ. 7 It is right for me to think this way about all of you, because you hold me in your heart. 


Paul begins his letter to the Philippians by expressing gratitude for these people, united by the good news of Christ and participating in God’s work together.  There is a love between them that is sourced in Christ and the confidence that God continues to complete what has been started in and among them. 


Gracious God, thank you for gift of community in our process of transformation.  Help us to be united around the good news of Christ and the confidence that as we participate in your work on earth, you will bring it to completion.  May we hold one another in our hearts, whether we are together or apart.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Philippians 2:1-4 

If then there is any encouragement in Christ, any consolation from love, any sharing in the Spirit, any compassion and sympathy, 2 make my joy complete: be of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. 3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others. 


This passage is packed full of invitations to live like Christ, to use our freedom for the well-being of others.  Unity happens when we seek to understand one another more diligently than to be understood ourselves.  What a challenge this is during this time, and what a sacred invitation! 


Gracious God, in this time of division and uncertainty, we lift up to you our lives and hearts.  We ask that you continue to form us to your image, and that we dwell on those things that will shape us into agents of encouragement, consolation, sharing, compassion, and sympathy.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.  


Wednesday 

Philippians 2:5-8 

5 Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, 

6 who, though he was in the form of God, 

did not regard equality with God 

as something to be exploited, 

7 but emptied himself, 

taking the form of a slave, 

being born in human likeness. 

And being found in human form, 

8 he humbled himself 

and became obedient to the point of death— 

even death on a cross. 


This hymn that Paul inserts into his letter to the Philippians is a great reminder to them of what he is exhorting them to do in the verses before.  As we read these words, we can be grateful for Christ’s willingness to relinquish everything in order to unite us to himself and ponder what it looks like for us to follow him in humility. 


Gracious Lord – you came as God made flesh, and yet didn’t insist on the glory that is due the King of Kings.  Even more, you relinquished everything so that you could reconcile us to God and to one another.  Help us to receive your humble gift with gratitude and be willing to lay aside ourselves for the well-being of others.  In your name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Philippians 2:9-11 

9 Therefore God also highly exalted him 

and gave him the name 

that is above every name, 

10 so that at the name of Jesus 

every knee should bend, 

in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 

11 and every tongue should confess 

that Jesus Christ is Lord, 

to the glory of God the Father. 


The glory that we seek as we follow Jesus on his road of humbleness even to death is in deep contrast to the road that many leaders take to power.  As his followers, we are invited to set aside our feelings of entitlement and desire for comfort and to even suffer if necessary in order to complete the purpose for which we were called.  He is our example and our strength to live for the glory of God. 


Gracious God, it is difficult to read these words as an example for us to follow.  Help us to see the power and influence we have as an opportunity to serve and bless others in your name and for your glory.  Form us into your image that we might live in this world for the sake of others at your agents.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

Philippians 4:8-9 

8 Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you. 


In times like these, it is easy for our minds to mill around in the anxiety of this time, where we are experiencing loss and witnessing the loss of others.  Paul encourages us to find hope in the midst of difficulty and work toward it for well-being of all.  He is a good example for us, and as we participate in God’s mission in the world, we too are agents of God’s peace. 


Gracious God, in the midst of darkness, help us to find your light today and be your agents of peace.  It begins with allowing your light to shine into every part of our being, so we lift our minds, hearts, and bodies to you.  Help us to see our world with your eyes and walk into it as a reflection of your love and character.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of October 17 -  (Meditations can also be found at https://northsoundchurch.com/topics/meditations)

Monday 

John 10:16-18 

 16 I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd. 17 For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it up again. I have received this command from my Father.” 

In this passage, Jesus speaks to the inclusiveness of the fold of God. Jesus’ imperative is not just to bring those that seem most like the listeners in that particular place in time, but others who might be less than welcome. The sacrificial love of Christ that impels Him to invite all to His fold is the same love that impelled him to death on a cross for his flock. He uses His power to welcome all and make a way for them. 

Gracious God, thank you for your wide arms that make room for those who may be outside our own arms of acceptance. Help us to look to you and your sacrificial love in spite of your power and reflect that same love for those in our lives who need to belong. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Tuesday 

John 10:19-21 

19 Again the Jews were divided because of these words. 20 Many of them were saying, “He has a demon and is out of his mind. Why listen to him?” 21 Others were saying, “These are not the words of one who has a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?” 

It is interesting to see what words of Jesus the Jews focused on. They understood that by Jesus talking so intimately about the Father, there was an other-worldly connection to God that he claimed to have. Those who didn’t want to believe claimed he came from the opposite end of the spectrum of power, but the challenge was the miraculous work of restoration he was displaying, work that would never be done by the prince of destruction. 

Gracious God, you are constantly at work through your Spirit and through your people filled with the Spirit. Help us to listen for your loving voice in our lives to guide not just into what we do but who we are in the midst of what we are doing. May our actions reflect your heart of love and desire for the restoration of all. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Wednesday 

John 10:22-26

22 At that time the Festival of the Dedication took place in Jerusalem. It was winter, 23 and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the portico of Solomon. 24 So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.” 25 Jesus answered, “I have told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father’s name testify to me, 26 but you do not believe because you do not belong to my sheep. 

As a Jew, Jesus followed the customs and traditional celebrations of the Jewish community. In this context of deep religious and cultural heritage, Jews surrounded him, demanding to know if he was the Messiah. What he said is a reminder to us as well – we come with a posture of belief before we know and belonging over knowledge nurtures our belief as we experience life with others in the presence of Christ. 

Gracious God, thank you for your goodness to us, and for inviting us to a life of faith each day. Help us to see what you are doing through the lenses of our faith, trusting that you are good and trustworthy, and then to be in community with others where we can belong and make space for others to belong. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Thursday 

John 10:27-30 

"27 My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand. 29 What my Father has given me is greater than all else, and no one can snatch it out of the Father’s hand. 30 The Father and I are one.” 

I love the back and forth of Jesus’ words about his followers – what he does for them and their response.  As followers of Christ, we are known and protected by God.  We are in the hands of God as the Father and Son together lead us to life. 

Gracious God, thank you for the invitation to encounter you, to hear your voice, and be led by you.  Thank you that you lead us into the abundance of eternal life today, as we participate in what you are doing in the world.  Show us how we can live into the promise of protection and guidance as we follow you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Friday 

Psalm 23 - 

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. 

2 He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; 

3 He restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake. 

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

your rod and your staff—they comfort me. 

5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; 

you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, 

and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord my whole life long. 

This psalm is familiar to many of us and often a source of comfort during difficult times. After meditating on Jesus as our Good Shepherd and our invitation to listen, recognize and follow his voice, this psalm is a great way to end the week, with the shepherd David reminding us of the promise of refreshment, nourishment, rest, protection, and guidance offered to us. 

Gracious God – thank you so much for your loving and protective presence in all circumstances.  We admit our need for you as we leave and return from the fold. We lean into your promises and in our sense of security ask for eyes to see others and the creativity to reach to those around us in love, filling their lives with hope.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 

Week of October 10 -  (Meditations can also be found at https://northsoundchurch.com/topics/meditations)

Monday 

John 9:35-38 

35 Jesus heard that they had driven him out, and when he found him he said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” 36 He answered, “And who is he, sir? Tell me, so that I may believe in him.” 37 Jesus said to him, “You have seen him, and the one speaking with you is he.” 38 He said, “Lord, I believe.” And he worshiped him. 

We pick up this account of Jesus’ healing of the blind man toward the end, where the religious leaders are challenging the miracle and attacking the healed man to discredit him.  But in the midst of their rejection, the man is met by Jesus who invites him to place his faith in Christ.  It is amazing that this man who had been healed by Jesus didn’t even know who He was.  Jesus gently introduced himself and the man responded in faith and worship.  

Gracious God, it is surprises us how your people are not always the kindest and often lead others away by their words.  We confess the times when we have said things out of fear and judgment that don’t reflect your heart.  Heal us and help us to see your heart for others and empower us to create space for others to experience your spacious mercy and love.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Tuesday 

John 9:39-41 

 39 Jesus said, “I came into this world for judgment, so that those who do not see may see and those who do see may become blind.” 40 Some of the Pharisees who were with him heard this and said to him, “Surely we are not blind, are we?” 41 Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would not have sin. But now that you say, ‘We see,’ your sin remains. 

Jesus’ miracles were signs of a greater truth about His character, work, and ministry.  His healing the blind man demonstrated his work on earth, “to bring everything into the clear light of day, making all the distinctions clear,” as The Message says.  His work turns things on their head and invites all to humbly acknowledge their ongoing need to see as Jesus does.   

Gracious God, thank you for your commitment to our ongoing healing and restoration so that we can grow from “seeing in a glass darkly” to seeing you face to face.  Give us the humility to admit our propensity for blindness so that we might be open to seeing your revelation to us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Wednesday 

John 10:1-6 

“Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. 2 The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. 5 They will not follow a stranger, but they will run from him because they do not know the voice of strangers.” 6 Jesus used this figure of speech with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them. 

This teaching of Jesus comes on the heels of his healing of the blind man and challenge to the Pharisees that they are blind to the ways of God.  He continues by calling his own those who hear his voice and follow him, rather than the voices of the religious leaders who are not attuned to the Shepherd’s voice, and are thus, “the blind leading the blind.”   

Gracious God, in our leading and in our following, help us to find our common voice in the voice of the gatekeeper.  Help us to not speak in ways that contradict your words to your children, and as your flock help us to distinguish your voice from the voices of others that we might flourish and draw others to your fold.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Thursday 

John 10:7-10 

7 So again Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who came before me are thieves and bandits, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved and will come in and go out and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. 

Sometimes we hear that sheep are stupid and it’s easy for us to consider ourselves as dumb as sheep.  But something about them is that they know not to listen to those that lie and try to lead them astray.  Because they spend time with the Shepherd and know his voice, they stick close to the one who gives them life. 

Gracious God, thank you for giving us discernment to recognize when the voices we hear are not of you.  You are the One who came for us, not for Yourself, to draw us to you and give us the best life possible.  Help us to keep our eyes on you, whether we are coming or going, secure in your protection.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 Friday 

John 10:11-15

11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 The hired hand, who is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. 13 The hired hand runs away because a hired hand does not care for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me, and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for the sheep. 

Sometimes we are surprised because someone we thought was a good shepherd left us vulnerable and unprotected.  It can be devastating for a person and for a congregation when there is failure or neglect among leadership.  But Jesus knows that even religious leaders are broken and while they can fail, He, the Good Shepherd, will love us even to his death.  We are known and loved by God beyond any human could. 

Gracious God, thank you that we are safe with you.  We pray for the leaders that you have entrusted your flock to and pray that they will hold closely to you so that they might reflect you and point us to you.  And we pray for our own sphere of influence, that you would empower us to use the power that we have, not for our own benefit but the benefit of others and Your glory.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of October 3 -  (Meditations can also be found at https://northsoundchurch.com/topics/meditations)

Monday 

Exodus 17:10-13 

10 So Joshua did as Moses told him and fought with Amalek, while Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill. 11 Whenever Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed, and whenever he lowered his hand, Amalek prevailed. 12 But Moses’s hands grew heavy, so they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on either side, so his hands were steady until the sun set. 13 And Joshua defeated Amalek and his people with the sword. 

 

This story of the Hebrews is one of leadership and God’s provision.  Joshua was invited by Moses to step in and lead in ways that Moses was unskilled in, while he went to the mountain and interceded to God for them.  It was as important for him to be faithful to his work as it was for Joshua to lead the army against their enemies.  And in this story we see the interdependence of leaders, regardless of established hierarchy. 

Gracious God, thank you for the gifts you have given each of us and your invitation to exercise ours while empowering others to use theirs.  Protect us from an attitude that lifts one person’s ordained work above another, but help us instead to be faithful to what is ours to do and appreciative of the works of others.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.  

Tuesday 

Exodus 17:14-15 

14 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Write this as a remembrance in a book and recite it in the hearing of Joshua: I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven.” 15 And Moses built an altar and called it, The Lord is my banner. 

 

God wanted to make sure Joshua, the one in the trenches with the army, knew that God was on his side, empowering him to win the battle.  Sometimes in the hierarchy of an organization, the word and encouragement of God doesn’t make it down to the ones who are faithfully doing the work.  God had encouragement for Joshua and asked Moses to be the mouthpiece. 

Gracious God, you bless and encourage us and we thank you.  As we hear your words that give us strength to go on, help us to recall those in our lives who need the same words of encouragement and to pass them on in your love.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Wednesday 

Luke 7:36-39 

36 One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to eat with him, and when he went into the Pharisee’s house he reclined to dine. 37 And a woman in the city who was a sinner, having learned that he was eating in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster jar of ointment. 38 She stood behind him at his feet, weeping, and began to bathe his feet with her tears and to dry them with her hair, kissing his feet and anointing them with the ointment. 39 Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw it, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what kind of woman this is who is touching him, that she is a sinner.”  

In this account, a Pharisee is practicing hospitality by inviting Jesus into his home.  However his heart of hospitality shrinks when a woman, identified as “a sinner,” finds Jesus and comes in and audaciously worships him.  Rather than creating space in his home and heart for curiosity and graciousness, he turns to judging Jesus allowing himself to be honored by one already judged as a sinner.   

Gracious God, thank you for your perfect hospitality, that you have the space for all people to come and be audacious before you, and that you receive it with gratitude and gentleness.  We confess our limits, preferring to reach out to those who are safe and make us look and feel good.  Forgive us and transform us, that we might reflect you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Thursday 

Luke 7:40-43 

40 Jesus spoke up and said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” “Teacher,” he replied, “speak.” 41 “A certain moneylender had two debtors; one owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. 42 When they could not pay, he canceled the debts for both of them. Now which of them will love him more?” 43 Simon answered, “I suppose the one for whom he canceled the greater debt.” And Jesus said to him, “You have judged rightly.” 

Jesus responded to what he knew was going on with Simon in a way that didn’t shame him but drew him into a situation that he could relate to and that also related to the situation at hand.  He brought in the power of forgiveness and its impact on the capacity to love for the one forgiven. 

Gracious God, thank you for the reminder of how each of us have experienced your forgiveness of the debt we owe.  Help us to live in the freedom of being forgiven and to allow that freedom to turn us into people of love, free from judgment.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.  

Friday 

Luke 7:44-49 

44 Then turning toward the woman, he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has bathed my feet with her tears and dried them with her hair. 45 You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not stopped kissing my feet. 46 You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. 47 Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; hence she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven loves little.” 48 Then he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49 But those who were at the table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” 50 But he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” 

One of the core desires of humans is to be seen.  Jesus “turned toward the woman” and implored Simon to see her as well.  Not as a sinner, but as one who was forgiven greatly and was able to love greatly.  She was seen, forgiven, and blessed by Jesus, while those looking on continued to miss the invitation to forgiveness and love. 

Gracious God, thank you for seeing us, forgiving us, and blessing us with your peace.  Help us to live into a life of freedom and love, to “go in peace,” rather than staying caged by the judgement of ourselves or others.  Continue to show up who you are and give us hearts to see your heart.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of September 26 (Meditations can also be found at https://northsoundchurch.com/topics/meditations)

Monday 

Hebrews 4:14-16 

14 Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. 

When we approach the throne of grace, we encounter the beloved gaze of the Trinity and are welcomed to communion.  Our confession is that the good news is true and it is for everyone.  Because God became human, there is an understanding and compassion that characterizes our relationship to God.  We are invited to approach God boldly and with open arms, knowing that we will receive mercy and grace when we most need it.   

Gracious, Compassionate God – there are times when we are not only disappointed in something we have done but we are disappointed because we continue to be the kind of people are capable of failure and sin.  Help us to overcome our propensity to cover our sin and shame, and to run into your presence to receive mercy and grace from you, our compassionate God.  And in our receiving of mercy, give us hearts that are quick to extend mercy to others.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Tuesday 

Isaiah 41:10 -  

10 do not fear, for I am with you, 

do not be afraid, for I am your God; 

I will strengthen you, I will help you, 

I will uphold you with my victorious right hand. 

11 Yes, all who are incensed against you 

shall be ashamed and disgraced; 

those who strive against you 

shall be as nothing and shall perish. 

12 You shall seek those who contend with you, 

but you shall not find them; 

those who war against you 

shall be as nothing at all. 

13 For I, the Lord your God, 

hold your right hand; 

it is I who say to you, “Do not fear, 

I will help you. 

God assures us in this passage that he will strengthen us, help us, and uphold us.  Whether there are external pressures that leave you in fear, or you look for things to contend with, God promises that they will be for naught.  Imagine God, standing in front of you, your right hand in his, promising his protection over you. 

Gracious God, you remind us so many times not to fear.  Thank you that you are present with us, even standing in front of us, assuring us of your presence.  Give us faith to not fear the things around us and to not pursue those things that lead to anxiety, but to lean into your strength and help.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 

Wednesday 

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 

16 Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and through grace gave us eternal comfort and good hope, 17 comfort your hearts and strengthen them in every good work and word. 

So many of the benedictions in Paul’s letters invoke the Trinitarian work of God.  It is only through the Spirit that we experience the grace, comfort, and hope of God and find the strength to remain faithful and fruitful in what is ours to do.  We receive and are agents of all that God is and has for us in the world. 

Gracious God, we recognize our need to be grounded in you as our source of comfort, hope and strength.  Thank you that by your Spirit, we have communion with you, moment by moment, and with that the invitation to do your good work in the world, in word and deed.  Help us be faithful to what you have called us to do.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Thursday 

2 Thessalonians 3: 3-5 

3 But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one.[a] 4 And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you are doing and will go on doing the things that we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ. 

These 3 verses are filled with encouragement and promises and blessings of commitment.  Paul, the writer, desires what is best for those in Thessalonica and these same words apply to us today.   

Gracious God, thank you for the encouragement that we find in your word, reminding us in many ways who you are and your desire to protect, love, and guide us.  Give us hearts that lean into your love and steadfastness so that whatever is happening around us, we are confident in what you are doing in, around and through us for your glory.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Friday 

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 

For everything there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven: 

2 a time to be born and a time to die; 

a time to plant and a time to pluck up what is planted; 

3 a time to kill and a time to heal; 

a time to break down and a time to build up; 

4 a time to weep and a time to laugh; 

a time to mourn and a time to dance; 

5 a time to throw away stones and a time to gather stones together; 

a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing; 

6 a time to seek and a time to lose; 

a time to keep and a time to throw away; 

7 a time to tear and a time to sew; 

a time to keep silent and a time to speak; 

8 a time to love and a time to hate; 

a time for war and a time for peace. 

In this passage, we are reminded that life is dynamic and what we may have and experience today may be gone tomorrow.  This is the theme of Ecclesiastes and it can be a message leading to hopelessness and cynicism or, in Christ, a reminder of where our confidence and allegiance lies. 

Gracious God, many of the reminders in this passage have been a part of our experience, figuratively if not literally.  This could leave us hopeless if not for your promise to never leave us or forsake us.  We lift our hearts to you and ask that we would live in the truth of your loving and merciful presence, trusting that you are never anywhere but with us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of September 19 (Meditations can also be found at https://northsoundchurch.com/topics/meditations)

Monday 

Hebrews 12:1-2 (Part 1) 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. 

The author of Hebrews has just reminded the readers of many who have gone before that lived by faith and in so doing expanded the work of God’s work in the world and set them up to continue what God is doing.  We can be en-couraged by remembering the faithfulness of those trailblazers and with that courage, step into a future by faith and anticipation that God will continue his work in and through us. 

Gracious God, it is humbling to acknowledge that you have been at work long before we showed up and you will continue long after we are gone.  Give us eyes to see your work in and through those who have gone before us and develop your enduring character in us that we might leave a legacy that blesses and encourages the generations after us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Tuesday 

Hebrews 12:1-2 (Part 2) 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. 

Sometimes our following Jesus requires us to lay aside the weight of things that are not ours to bear or the sin that drags us down.  At the moment it feels so painful, perhaps, but as we move through the feelings of grief, we come to experience a freedom and wholeness that opens up the journey of faith in new ways.   

Gracious God, you know us and you look on us with love and compassion.  We confess that we carry weight and sin that you have invited us to offload, but we somehow continue to hold onto as a part of our identity.  Give us the grace and courage to let go of the things that bog us down and move us toward the freedom and wholeness that you desire for all of us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Wednesday 

Hebrews 12:1-2 (Part 3) 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. 

 We continue to make our way through this passage – there is so much to absorb.  After laying aside the unnecessary weight we carry, we are able to run the race set before us with perseverance.  There is an invitation to let go so we can move forward.  Perseverance is mentioned by the author because the race requires it.  Like anything we do that matters, running requires us to continue even when it seems difficult.   

Gracious God,  thank you for this invitation to a life of meaning and fulfillment.  As we continue to relinquish the weight and make our way along the path you have for us, give us the perseverance to stay in the race and the discernment to follow you in the way you would have us run.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Thursday 

Hebrews 12:1-2 (Part 4) 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. 

It is because of Jesus that we can release the weight and sin that trips us up and stay in the race throughout our lives.  Like our ancestors, we may not see hope fulfilled, but we can rest knowing that the race we are on is worth it, initiated by Jesus and completed in Jesus.  Following Jesus, we may experience suffering and the shame of being misunderstood, but we know with joy that we are running the race by faith in the company of others and of Jesus. 

Gracious God, thank you for the hope that fills us and helps us to run with perseverance the race you have set before us as your followers.  Help us to remember that we do not run alone, but with you and with your people across the generations.  Give us the joy that compelled Jesus to endure suffering and shame so that he might make a way for us back to you.  In His name, Amen. 

Friday 

Hebrews 12:1-2 (Part 5) 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. 

The life of a Christ follower is a process of letting go of the things that bind us so that we might hold on to Jesus, the one that matters.  We need the mercies that are new every morning to continue the race and we are in good company – those behind us and those before us.  We are all following Jesus and empowered by the Holy Spirit to run our race faithfully and joyfully.   

Gracious God, thank you for the many ways you remind us that you are at work, in, through, and among your people, in the past, present and future.  Help us to let go of the weight and sin that keeps us from running with joy and perseverance.  Help us to lean into your presence and trust in your leading in our lives.  Help us to focus on the race set before us and not be distracted by the way you are leading others.  May you be glorified in our faith expressed in our obedience to you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of September 12 (Meditations can also be found at https://northsoundchurch.com/topics/meditations)

Monday 

Luke 5:14-16 

14 And he ordered him to tell no one. “But go, show yourself to the priest, and, as Moses commanded, make an offering for your cleansing, as a testimony to them.” 15 But now more than ever the word about Jesus spread abroad; many crowds were gathering to hear him and to be cured of their diseases. 16 Meanwhile, he would slip away to deserted places and pray. 

Last Friday, we read about Jesus touching and healing a man who was culturally untouchable because of his skin disease.  Today, we read that Jesus wanted him to go straight to the ones who could not heal but only make provisions before and after one was healed.  But when Jesus showed up, able and willing to touch and heal, neither the man nor the crowd could keep quiet.   This increased Jesus’ popularity and with that, his commitment to slip away to be alone with God. 

Gracious God, how often we keep the work that you have done for us under wraps, accustomed to your faithful and miraculous work in our lives.  Renew our vision to see your healing work in us and courage to speak out about you, bearing witness to your healing power and gentle presence.  Help us to slip away from our daily demands and distractions and spend time with you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Tuesday 

Luke 5:17-19 

17 One day while he was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem were sitting nearby, and the power of the Lord was with him to heal. 18 Just then some men came carrying a paralyzed man on a stretcher. They were trying to bring him in and lay him before Jesus, 19 but, finding no way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down on the stretcher through the tiles into the middle of the crowd in front of Jesus. 

Can you imagine this scene?  Jesus is in a house, teaching. The religious leaders are sitting in the prominent seats, waiting for Jesus to say something offensive.  Crowds are blocking the door, but that doesn’t keep the friends of a paralyzed man from bringing him before Jesus. 

Gracious God, thank you for the gift of friends who care enough to carry us to you when we don’t have faith or strength to do it ourselves.  Help us to receive the care of others in our times of vulnerability and to be strength and faith for those in our lives who need us to carry them to you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Wednesday 

Luke 5:20-26 

 20 When he saw their faith, he said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven you.” 21 Then the scribes and the Pharisees began to question, “Who is this who is speaking blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 22 When Jesus perceived their questionings, he answered them, “Why do you raise such questions in your hearts? 23 Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’? 24 But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the one who was paralyzed—“I say to you, stand up and take your stretcher and go to your home.” 25 Immediately he stood up before them, took what he had been lying on, and went to his home, glorifying God. 26 Amazement seized all of them, and they glorified God and were filled with fear, saying, “We have seen incredible things today.” 

Do you see whose faith caught Jesus’ attention?  It was the faith of the friends that touched Jesus, leading him to first forgive the man’s sin.  The man didn’t ask for that, but Jesus knew he needed spiritual, emotional and physical healing, and met him at his point of need.  Jesus’ attention was not on the religious leaders’ expectations but on the needs of this man and the faith of the friends.  And the crowds saw the healing work of God and were amazed. 

Gracious God, in a culture where there are spoken and unspoken expectations around propriety, help us to be your people who can discern what is important and who in our lives you desire to bless and heal through us.  Renew our minds that we might see the world you love as you see it. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Thursday 

Luke 5:27-32 

27 After this he went out and saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the tax-collection station, and he said to him, “Follow me.” 28 And he got up, left everything, and followed him. 

29 Then Levi gave a great banquet for him in his house, and there was a large crowd of tax collectors and others reclining at the table with them. 30 The Pharisees and their scribes were complaining to his disciples, saying, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” 31 Jesus answered them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician but those who are sick; 32 I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.” 

The gospel writer, Luke, does not cast the religious leaders in a very positive light, as over and over again, they criticize and complain about who Jesus chooses to spend time with.  This time they don’t like that he spends time with the people that society disdain because of their work and reputation for stealing from people.  We could probably find offense with Jesus’ choice of dinner-mates too, if we aren’t mindful of our own illness and need for the healer of our hearts and minds. 

Gracious God, we lift our hearts and minds up to you, confessing that we are all sick and in need of your healing.  Help us to repent of our propensity to exclude others so that we might feel included.  Thank you that in your kingdom there is room enough at your table for all of us who know that we never outgrow our need for you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Friday 

Luke 5:33-39 

33 Then they said to him, “John’s disciples, like the disciples of the Pharisees, frequently fast and pray, but your disciples eat and drink.” 34 Jesus said to them, “You cannot make wedding attendants fast while the bridegroom is with them, can you? 35 The days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days.” 36 He also told them a parable: “No one tears a piece from a new garment and sews it on an old garment; otherwise, not only will one tear the new garment, but the piece from the new will not match the old garment. 37 Similarly, no one puts new wine into old wineskins; otherwise, the new wine will burst the skins and will spill out, and the skins will be ruined. 38 But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. 39 And no one after drinking old wine desires new wine but says, ‘The old is good.’ ” 

 These parables of old and new can be confusing.  Is new or old better?  The leaders are asking why Jesus’ disciples don’t hold to the standard of the Law, which requires fasting.  They are trying to fit Jesus’ teaching, life, and ministry into the structure of what they know and are comfortable with.  Perhaps as Jesus talks about the superiority of the “old wine,” he is inviting them to go back before the law to the place where God led his people in the wilderness, and free of the relatively new structures of Jewish law, the people learned how to follow God, not the law.  In this case, “the old is good.” 

Gracious God, we thank you that you desire us to follow you, individually and in community, in a way that unites us in Christ, not particular practices and traditions.  We confess our desire to have the certainty that comes with traditions.  Help us to remember the wilderness and to find our desires met in you being our God and us, your people.  For your glory and honor alone.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of August 22 (Meditations can also be found at https://northsoundchurch.com/topics/meditations)

Monday 

Psalm 25:14-18 

14 The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him, 

and he makes his covenant known to them. 

15 My eyes are ever toward the Lord, 

for he will pluck my feet out of the net. 

16 Turn to me and be gracious to me, 

for I am lonely and afflicted. 

17 Relieve the troubles of my heart, 

and bring me out of my distress. 

18 Consider my affliction and my trouble, 

and forgive all my sins. 

There is a rich texture to our relationship with God.  As a worshiper of God, he experiences the friendship of God, one with whom he is free to be himself, open with his troubles and anxieties, his own sin, and his loneliness.  In this friendship he feels the safety of being the Lord’s beloved. 

Gracious God, you created us to be in relationship with you and that didn’t stop with the fall.  As we sit in your presence, help us to come to you with our whole hearts – the good, the bad, and the ugly – and trust in your enduring friendship and love.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Psalm 25:19-22 

19 Consider how many are my foes, 

and with what violent hatred they hate me. 

20 O guard my life, and deliver me; 

do not let me be put to shame, for I take refuge in you. 

21 May integrity and uprightness preserve me, 

for I wait for you. 

22 Redeem Israel, O God, out of all its troubles. 

As we finish up Psalm 25, the psalmist acknowledges that he faces opposition and calls out to God, knowing He is the one who delivers and protects.  David’s response to the opposition and faith in God’s deliverance is a commitment to living with integrity and uprightness, where what we are on the outside reflects who we are on the inside.  That is the process of transformation that God invites us to. 

Gracious God, it is so easy to be overwhelmed by the opposition and vehemence that we feel directly and indirectly.  Our tendency is to either fight or withdraw, but we acknowledge that you are the one who is willing and able to overcome darkness with light.  Help us to trust you with all our heart and seek to live lives that reflect the transformation you are working within us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Psalm 133:1-3 

1 How very good and pleasant it is 

when kindred live together in unity! 

2 It is like the precious oil on the head, 

running down upon the beard, 

on the beard of Aaron, 

running down over the collar of his robes. 

3 It is like the dew of Hermon, 

which falls on the mountains of Zion. 

For there the Lord ordained his blessing, 

life forevermore. 

Imagine the people of God, journeying together on the road to Jerusalem, tired and dirty, and likely grumpy.  And as they sing this song, they are reminded of the beauty of people living in harmony with one another.  It is an act of honor and worship, and a response to the blessing of eternal life, in quantity and quality, that our God has given us.   

Gracious God, we thank you for the invitation to lift our eyes up to see you and the blessing of eternal and abundant life.  Give us the capacity to receive your blessings and respond by living in unity with our brothers and sisters, relinquishing the petty things that feel magnified when we are anxious.  Turn our hearts toward one another with your love.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Psalm 134 

1 Come, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, 

who stand by night in the house of the Lord! 

2 Lift up your hands to the holy place, 

and bless the Lord. 

3 May the Lord, maker of heaven and earth, 

bless you from Zion. 

We are invited in this psalm, as God’s servants and recipients of his blessing, to bless him back, acknowledging his goodness and power as Maker and Sustainer of all we know.  Even in the dark of night, in the loneliness of feeling like we are the only ones awake, we are invited to experience the mutuality of our blessed relationship with him.   

 Gracious God, thank you for the mutual delight and blessing that you invite us to as your servants and the recipients of your goodness.  Remind us in the darkest of times that you are present with us, watching over us and granting us your peace.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

Psalm 8:1-4 

1 O Lord, our Sovereign, 

how majestic is your name in all the earth! 

You have set your glory above the heavens. 

2 Out of the mouths of babes and infants 

you have founded a bulwark because of your foes, 

to silence the enemy and the avenger. 

3 When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, 

the moon and the stars that you have established; 

4 what are humans that you are mindful of them, 

mortals that you care for them? 

The psalmist is overcome by the majesty of God, majesty that is heard through the cries and squawks of glee that babies and toddlers share with us and whose carefree babbles out-sing the naysayers of God’s creative and infinite greatness.  When we are mindful of him, we are also aware of our own identity, and grateful that in Him and by Him, we are held in high regard. 

Where do you see the majesty of God? 

Where is God inviting you to see His creative and infinite greatness in an unexpected place or through an unlikely person? 

What would it look like to go through this day looking for the majesty of God? 

Gracious God, you are above the heavens, beyond our comprehension, yet introduced to us through the simple sounds of children.  Help us to be attuned to your display of your character and power all around us and to respond with gratitude that the Creator of the world grants us belovedness and worth.  And may we respond to others, regardless of their faith convictions, that same belovedness and worth that we know.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of July 25th - (Meditations can also be found at https://northsoundchurch.com/topics/meditations)

Monday 

John 4:31-34 

31 Meanwhile the disciples were urging him, “Rabbi, eat something.” 32 But he said to them, “I have food to eat that you do not know about.” 33 So the disciples said to one another, “Surely no one has brought him something to eat?” 34 Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to complete his work. 

At the beginning of this story, Jesus asks for a drink.  Here at the end, as the disciples urge him to eat, he invites them to care about more than physical needs and to find deep fulfillment in doing the work of God.  Once again, Jesus invites his followers to something more. 

Gracious God, thank you for the gift of food.  And thank you for the invitation to find work in the world that is more compelling than eating our next meal.  Give us hearts and imaginations to see what you are calling us to and the courage to participate in your mission in the world.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

John 4:35-39 

 35 Do you not say, ‘Four months more, then comes the harvest’? But I tell you, look around you, and see how the fields are ripe for harvesting. 36 The reaper is already receiving wages and is gathering fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together. 37 For here the saying holds true, ‘One sows and another reaps.’ 38 I sent you to reap that for which you did not labor. Others have labored, and you have entered into their labor.” 

“Look around,”  Jesus says, inviting his disciples to see as he does, opportunities to partner with others in the work that is already being done and also to be willing to hand off work that you have done to others.  Caught up in work of God and acknowledging that throughout history it has been God’s work not ours, we can see where he is active and join him with gratitude and joy. 

Gracious God, we are blessed to be a part of the work that you are doing in the world.  Remind us that your work started before we showed up and will continue after we are gone.  Help us to be creative and faithful in our context that we might unite with others who love you in the work that you are doing in the world.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

John 4:39-42 

39 Many Samaritans from that city believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, “He told me everything I have ever done.” 40 So when the Samaritans came to him, they asked him to stay with them, and he stayed there two days. 41 And many more believed because of his word. 42 They said to the woman, “It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is truly the Savior of the world.” 

The woman in this story took on the work that God was doing in her village by returning to those who rejected her and being the first evangelist.  Their resistance to her turned to repentance before God because her life transformed before them and they were thirsty for the living water that never runs dry.  She introduced them, and they came to Jesus, and He met them where they were, giving them time and attention and drawing them to Himself. 

Gracious God, we each carry with us a story, characterized by ups and downs as well as your redeeming and compassionate grace and presence through it all.  Give us the courage to share our stories in those appropriate moments, and hearts to hear with compassion and a willingness to find our own need for God in the story of another.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Romans 8:25-27  

25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. 26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. 27 And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. 

Sometimes it is easy to pray because we have specific requests.  Other times we are unable to express our deepest pain and longing.  In those times, as we sit in the presence of God in silence and God hears our deepest need, we can be confident that God knows and is shaping us for a hope-filled future. 

Gracious God, thank you that you know all things.  Thank you that even when we are unable to voice our prayers, you know.  Right now we hope for what we cannot see and we wait for it patiently.  Help us to express your faithfulness in the here and now, even as we wait for you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

Matthew 22:34-40  

34 When the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together, 35 and one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question to test him. 36 “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?” 37 He said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the greatest and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. 

There’s a simplicity to what Jesus calls us to do, yet there is an open-endedness to his command that can be unnerving.  In this passage we are all called to the same work, but we all live into differently, depending on who we are, where we are, and who our neighbor is.  It seems easier to have specific rules that we can follow, but once again, Jesus is calling us to follow him, not the law. 

Gracious God, thank you for desiring to be in relationship with us in a way that is unique to who we are.  Help us to be kind to ourselves, to those we are in contact with, and to those who need our attention.  May all we do be infused with your love.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of July 4th - (Meditations can also be found at https://northsoundchurch.com/topics/meditations)

Monday 

Luke 9:12-17 

12 The day was drawing to a close, and the twelve came to him and said, “Send the crowd away, so that they may go into the surrounding villages and countryside, to lodge and get provisions; for we are here in a deserted place.” 13 But he said to them, “You give them something to eat.” They said, “We have no more than five loaves and two fish—unless we are to go and buy food for all these people.” 14 For there were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, “Make them sit down in groups of about fifty each.” 15 They did so and made them all sit down. 16 And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. 17 And all ate and were filled. What was left over was gathered up, twelve baskets of broken pieces. 

Jesus, thank you for meeting us where we are at, even if it is at the end of our rope.  Thank you that you don’t leave us there but give us the provision we need to be faithful to what you have called us to do.  Help us to receive from you what you have provided for us.  Amen. 

 

Tuesday 

Luke 9:18-20 

18 Once when Jesus was praying alone, with only the disciples near him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 They answered, “John the Baptist; but others, Elijah; and still others, that one of the ancient prophets has arisen.” 20 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered, “The Messiah of God. 

Jesus, as we walk with you, we continually learn what is means to follow the Savior of the world.  Thank you that we are the recipients of your saving grace and agents of your grace in our context.  Help us to stay connected to you and to who you are that we might continue to shine your light to our world around us.  Amen. 

 

Wednesday 

Luke 9:20-22 

20 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered, “The Messiah of God.” 21 He sternly ordered and commanded them not to tell anyone, 22 saying, “The Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised. 

One would think that this is the good news to be proclaimed to all.  But Jesus ordered them to be silent about who he was.  And then he added that this Messiah, the one they had been waiting for to overcome their oppression, was actually going to suffer, be rejected and killed, only to be raised up.   

Jesus, thank you for knowing what is best.  Help us to stay close enough to you that we hear your voice and follow you above the other voices around us.  Give us the courage to stay close to you.  Amen. 


Thursday 

Luke 9:23-27 

23 Then he said to them all, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. 24 For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will save it. 25 What does it profit them if they gain the whole world, but lose or forfeit themselves? 26 Those who are ashamed of me and of my words, of them the Son of Man will be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. 27 But truly I tell you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God. 

Jesus, thank you for your desire that we follow wholeheartedly after you.  You know how easily we become distracted by the world around us, even good things, and lose the focus of our relationship with you.  Thank you for meeting us where we are and we ask that you renew our desire to follow you each day.  Amen. 

 

Friday 

Luke 9:28-36 

28 Now about eight days after these sayings Jesus took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. 29 And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white. 30 Suddenly they saw two men, Moses and Elijah, talking to him. 31 They appeared in glory and were speaking of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. 32 Now Peter and his companions were weighed down with sleep; but since they had stayed awake, they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. 33 Just as they were leaving him, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah”—not knowing what he said. 34 While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were terrified as they entered the cloud. 35 Then from the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!” 36 When the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and in those days told no one any of the things they had seen. 

Lord Jesus, thank you for meeting us in deep and profound places.  Help us to carry your voice with us into our daily lives so that we hear your words of loving guidance over the noise of the world around us.  Amen. 

Week of June 27 (Meditations can also be found at https://northsoundchurch.com/topics/meditations)

Monday -  

Matthew 4:18-20 

18 As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” 20 At once they left their nets and followed him. 

In the midst of their work, inherited from their father, Peter and Andrew encountered Jesus, who invited them to follow him.  They had come behind their father and the tradition of family and its trade, but Jesus invited them to come behind Him, into a new uncertain future, trusting that Jesus would go before them. 

Gracious God, in this world there is much  uncertainty and with comes fear and a desire to control our environment with the status quo.  But you invite us out of the unpredictability of the status quo to follow you, trusting that you have gone before us, creating a way open and promising to never leave us.  Show us where you want to lead us and give us the courage and trust to take the first step.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

John 1:35-39 

35 The next day John again was standing with two of his disciples, 36 and as he watched Jesus walk by, he exclaimed, “Look, here is the Lamb of God!” 37 The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. 38 When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “where are you staying?” 39 He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon. 

Jesus engages these two disciples with a question, what are you looking for?  When they ask him where he is staying, rather than answering, Jesus invites them to “come and see.”  We too are invited to engage with Jesus with our questions as we follow him by faith, trusting that the answers are often found in the journey. 

Gracious God, thank you for the invitation to follow you that encompasses not just our minds, but our wills, bodies, and spirits as well.  Help us to trust you with our questions and faithfully follow you before we have the answers.  Thank you for your invitation to be in relationship with you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Wednesday 

Matthew 11:28-30   

Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. 

What a wonderful invitation from Jesus!  We all feel weary and are carrying burdens in some way. We are barraged with new information and the anxiety of the unknown and perhaps in an effort to make meaning, we take on responsibilities that are not ours to bear.  Into our weariness and heavy burdens, Jesus invites us to rest.  And to take his yoke upon us.  We still have things to do, people to keep in touch with, prayers to offer, but as we look for guidance from our gentle leader, Jesus, we find that what is ours to do fits us well.  

Gracious God – Thank you that you understand that we carry heavy burdens and that we are weary.  We see it all around us.  Give us the capacity to hear your voice and to discern what is ours to do today.  Replace the anxiety of our hearts with your rest and help us to share that rest with those we interact with today.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 

 

Thursday 

John 21:9-12 

9 When they had gone ashore, they saw a charcoal fire there, with fish on it, and bread. 10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.” 11 So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred fifty-three of them, and though there were so many, the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” because they knew it was the Lord. 

The disciples had gone fishing after Jesus’ crucifixion, doing what was familiar as they pondered the future.  Jesus met them there and gave them, experienced fishermen, advice on how to pull in more fish.  And it worked.  And when they came ashore, they saw that Jesus, their Master, already had fish ready for them to eat.  What they brought was a contribution to what was already in place. 

Gracious God, thank you for your boundless wisdom and work in the world.  Thank you that just because we don’t understand, you are engaged and already at work, and invite us into what you are already doing.  Invite us again to join you and remind us that it is your work that has gone before us and will continue after us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

Isaiah 43:1-2 

But now thus says the Lord, 

    he who created you, O Jacob, 

    he who formed you, O Israel: 

Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; 

    I have called you by name; you are mine. 

2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, 

    and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; 

when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, 

    and the flame shall not consume you. 

Have you ever been surprised that someone knows your name?  It can feel sometimes like we are anonymous, and our circumstances are unseen by others, especially when they are difficult.  But God promises His people, those He created and formed, that they are safe, known, identified as His, and accompanied by Him through “hell and high water.”  It is a comfort that invites us to let our trust in God out-sing our fear. 

Gracious God, it is difficult to comprehend that the Creator has His watchful eye and loving hand on our lives.  Thank you that you do not make false promises - like we will never pass through high water or fire - but you do promise your presence will be with us as One who knows us and identifies us as His own.  Help us to lean into that promise. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of June 20 (Meditations can also be found at https://northsoundchurch.com/topics/meditations)

Monday 

Matthew 7:6  

(NRSV) 6 “Do not give what is holy to dogs; and do not throw your pearls before swine, or they will trample them under foot and turn and maul you.”  

(The Message)6 “Don’t be flip with the sacred. Banter and silliness give no honor to God. Don’t reduce holy mysteries to slogans. In trying to be relevant, you’re only being cute and inviting sacrilege.” 

Eugene Peterson unpacks this verse in an interesting way, as he acknowledges the sacred mysteries of God that cannot be reduced to simple words.  Jesus invites us to open up our hearts before him and entrust our deepest selves to the mystery and loving understanding of the Trinity. 

Gracious God, thank you for being near and for engaging with our spirit in ways that words cannot adequately express. Expand our hearts to embrace the mystery of your presence in our lives and in the lives of our friends.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Tuesday 

Matthew 7:7-10 

7 “Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. 9 Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for bread, will give a stone? 10 Or if the child asks for a fish, will give a snake? 11 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him! 

Jesus compares our human capacity to love those closest to us and give them good things to his infinitely abundant capacity to give us what we ask for.  We are invited to boldly ask, boldly search, and boldly knock, trusting that God will give good things to those who ask. 

Gracious Lord, you invite us to come boldly before you – asking, seeking, knocking – and you promise us good things.  Help us to not hold back our requests but to ask audaciously and live in anticipation of your loving provision for us and those we love.  In Your holy name, Amen. 

Wednesday  

Matthew 7:12-14 

12 “In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets.  13 “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road is easy that leads to destruction, and there are many who take it. 14 For the gate is narrow and the road is hard that leads to life, and there are few who find it.”  

Have you ever read these verses together before?  Perhaps the challenge to find the narrow gate relates to choosing to treat others with the same dignity and compassion that you would want to be treated with.  It is more difficult to be mindful of the other, especially in today's culture we are in, but as image bearers of God we are invited to find and honor others as those who bear the image of God as well.   

 Gracious God, thank you for creating each of us in your image, a reflection of you in some mysterious way.  As we interact with others, especially those who hold different perspectives than us, remind us and empower us to treat them the way that we desire to be treated, even when it means walking the narrow way.  In Jesus’ name, Amen  

Thursday 

Matthew 7:15-20 

15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thorns, or figs from thistles? 17 In the same way, every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus you will know them by their fruits.” 

In his warning about people who aren’t what or who they say they are, Jesus tells his followers to look to their character to discern the validity of their message.  Do their lives reflect the fruit of the Spirit?  Jesus is challenging us as well to tend to the health of our inner lives so that we feed and nurture the good fruit of our lives and ministry. 

Gracious Jesus – Give us discerning hearts and minds to know who to trust and follow.  Thank you that you are good through and through and all you do reflects your goodness.  Help us to tend to our souls so that we live lives of integrity for your glory and for the sake of others.  In Your name, Amen. 

Friday 

Psalm 51:1-2 

1 Have mercy on me, O God, 

according to your steadfast love; 

according to your abundant mercy 

blot out my transgressions. 

2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, 

and cleanse me from my sin. 

Sometimes pride or shame can keep us from coming before God in confession.  We compare ourselves to others, rather than standing before the throne of God, in need of and covered by His grace.  When we can honestly acknowledge our sin and God’s abundant forgiveness, we begin to extend the same generosity to others. 

Gracious God, it is so unfathomable that we are the recipients of your generous forgiveness, especially in a world that is so quick to judge and condemn.  Help us, Lord, to come to you with uplifted hearts and hands to confess and receive your forgiveness, so that we might turn toward those around us with the same mercy and compassion.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of May 9

Monday - 

Psalm 37:1-4 

Do not fret because of the wicked; 

    do not be envious of wrongdoers, 

 for they will soon fade like the grass, 

    and wither like the green herb. 

Trust in the Lord, and do good; 

    so you will live in the land, and enjoy security. 

Take delight in the Lord, 

    and he will give you the desires of your heart. 

The encouragement from the psalmist is to turn our attention away from the wicked, which causes us to fret and to envy, and to turn our attention to God and the delight we share in living in dependence on Him and trusting that our life attuned to Him will fulfill us. 


Gracious God, in a culture where we can be bombarded by bad news that causes us fear or instills envy, tune our ears and hearts to hear your voice inviting us into a place of security.  Thank you for those in our lives who exemplify the trust you desire for us and help us to learn from them.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Psalm 37:5-9 

Commit your way to the Lord; 

    trust in him, and he will act. 

He will make your vindication shine like the light, 

    and the justice of your cause like the noonday. 

Be still before the Lord, and wait patiently for him; 

    do not fret over those who prosper in their way, 

    over those who carry out evil devices. 

Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath. 

    Do not fret—it leads only to evil. 

For the wicked shall be cut off, 

    but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land. 

There are so many practical invitations in these verses, spoken by a man who heard God inviting him to continually focus on what He was doing.   As we read these verses, it’s good to be reminded of the rest and stillness that comes when we can trust in God and his promises. 


Gracious God, thank you for your invitations to step away from those attitudes and practices that cloud our vision of you and to step toward your desires for us.  We relinquish the things that cause us to fret and ask that you will replace it with your stillness and patience in our lives.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Psalm 37:10-15 

Yet a little while, and the wicked will be no more; 

    though you look diligently for their place, they will not be there. 

But the meek shall inherit the land, 

    and delight in abundant prosperity. 

The wicked plot against the righteous, 

    and gnash their teeth at them; 

but the Lord laughs at the wicked, 

    for he sees that their day is coming. 

The wicked draw the sword and bend their bows 

    to bring down the poor and needy, 

    to kill those who walk uprightly; 

 their sword shall enter their own heart, 

    and their bows shall be broken. 

As we read these verses, there might be a nagging sense that this is not the reality that we see today in our world.  Wickedness seems so deeply rooted everywhere we look.  In the midst of our view of reality and experience, we are invited to trust that God sees something different. 


Gracious God, in these verses it is difficult to understand what you see that we cannot see.  We receive your promises that “yet a little while, and the wicked will be no more.”  Help us to be agents of your kingdom in the world that honors meekness over the ways of wickedness.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Thursday 

Psalm 37:16-19 

Better is a little that the righteous person has 

    than the abundance of many wicked. 

For the arms of the wicked shall be broken, 

    but the Lord upholds the righteous. 

The Lord knows the days of the blameless, 

    and their heritage will abide for ever; 

they are not put to shame in evil times, 

    in the days of famine they have abundance. 

The psalmist provides a description of what it means to live righteously in the midst of the world, where the righteous have enough and are upheld; where their days are noted by God and they can live without shame or fear of starvation.   


Gracious God, the new we hear can give us a sense that there is no relief, no abundance, no provision for those who are blameless.  And yet, we listen to you and attune ourselves to your voice that we may see and recognize the ways that you are caring for your children.  Help us to be your agents of provision to those you bring our way.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Friday 

Psalm 37:20-22 

But the wicked perish, 

    and the enemies of the Lord are like the glory of the pastures; 

    they vanish—like smoke they vanish away. 

The wicked borrow, and do not pay back, 

    but the righteous are generous and keep giving; 

for those blessed by the Lord shall inherit the land, 

    but those cursed by him shall be cut off. 

The psalmist returns to reminding the readers of the short lives the evil lead.  Tucked in the middle of the bad news for the wicked is the good news for the blessed of the Lord.  He promises that we are moving toward a time when those whom God has blessed will inherit that land.   


Gracious God, give us your perspective in a world that seems at times to be teeming with wickedness.  You do not wring your hands so let that not be a part of our experience.  Help us to live today as those who are your heirs.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of May 2 

Monday 

Luke 24:2-5  

They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in, they did not find the body.  While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men in dazzling clothes stood beside them.  The women were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground, but they said to them, ‘Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen.’ 

Imagine the range of emotions the women experienced as they stood inside the empty tomb – grief, confusion, terror, joy.  We can experience these same emotions as we try to make sense of God’s work in our lives and world.  But as the angel says, why do you look for the living among the dead?  He is not here but has risen.  God is alive and at work throughout the world, continuing to expand his reign of hope and shalom.  

Gracious God, through the death and resurrection of Christ, you have conquered all evil and reconciled us to Yourself.  Help us to live in the light of your truth and presence even in the midst of darkness.  May we understand and embrace the resurrection life that you invite us to.  With gratitude we give you glory and honor.  Thanks be to God!  Amen.  


Tuesday 

Luke 24:6-9 

6 Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, 7 that the Son of Man must be handed over to sinners, and be crucified, and on the third day rise again.” 8 Then they remembered his words, 9 and returning from the tomb, they told all this to the eleven and to all the rest. 

Twice in this passage, the women who came to the empty tomb are invited to remember Jesus’ words.  And when they remembered, they knew what they needed to do.  When we spend time with Jesus, and listen for him, we too remember what he has said and know what is ours to do. 

Gracious Lord, thank you for the way you treat us gently and prepare us for what is next.  Help us to listen for you and remember your words and your faithfulness in the past that we might find comfort and direction today and in the future.  In your name, Amen. 


Wednesday  

Luke 24:10-12 

10 Now it was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them who told this to the apostles. 11 But these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. 12 But Peter got up and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; then he went home, amazed at what had happened. 

Imagine what it must have felt like for the women who had just seen the empty tomb to have their good news met with skepticism and dismissal by those who followed Jesus most closely.  And on the other hand, what it would feel like to be told that the one whose death you are grieving is actually alive.  It is this hope beyond hope that we are invited to live in today as followers of our risen Lord. 

Gracious Jesus, your resurrection created quite a stir.  As we remember and celebrate it each year, we pray that it will create a stir in us anew, and that we will be witnesses to your good news to those who so desperately need it.  Keep us, we pray, from losing our sense of gratitude and amazement around your redeeming and reconciling work in us and in the world.  In your name, Amen. 


Thursday  

1 Corinthians 15:54b-58 

“Death has been swallowed up in victory.” 

55 “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” 

56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 

58 Therefore, my beloved, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. 

Here is our good news as believers and followers of Jesus.  We find our victory, not in the law or being good enough, but by being covered by the cleansing work of Christ on the cross.  Therefore, as we tune in to what God has called us to do, we can be faithful to Him alone, His mission in the world.   

Gracious God, thank you that you are the one who has reset the world and the value system under which we operate.  We are free from the law and death, and free to live into all you have created us to be.  Protect us from the messages that seek to restrain us from living wholeheartedly for you and for your glory.  We are yours, and yours alone.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday  

John 21:15-17 

15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 A second time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter felt hurt because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep.” 

Throughout the gospels, Peter is portrayed as one of the more outspoken disciples.  One moment he is proclaiming Jesus as Messiah and the next, correcting him.  In this intimate conversation, after Peter has denied Jesus and confronted his own weakness, Jesus still asks for Peter’s loyalty, and Peter resists until he can’t anymore.   

Lord God, we ask for your grace today to listen for your voice and respond.  Help us to listen for what you are asking us to do, and to say, Yes, wholeheartedly.  Thank you that you know all things, including our hearts, and patiently draw us into yourself and into your mission in the world.  Show us what is ours to do and give us the strength to do it.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of April 18 

Monday 

Luke 8:4-8 

4 When a great crowd gathered and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable: 5 “A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell on the path and was trampled on, and the birds of the air ate it up. 6 Some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered for lack of moisture. 7 Some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew with it and choked it. 8 Some fell into good soil, and when it grew, it produced a hundredfold.” As he said this, he called out, “Let anyone with ears to hear listen!” 


This is familiar parable for many of us, but sometimes we stop at imagining it is about the spreading of the gospel to those who are not believers.  However, Jesus continues to lavishly sow his seeds of truth about Himself and about who we are in Him, and our response can be very different depending on the day. 


Gracious God, thank you that you keep on sowing your love and truth in our lives, never growing weary in your faithfulness to us.  We confess that our reception to your generosity can change every day.  Please help us to find you in those places of hardness, of shallowness, of distraction and of receptiveness, and draw us close to you in your mercy.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Luke 8:9-15 

9 Then his disciples asked him what this parable meant. 10 He said, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of God; but to others I speak in parables, so that ‘looking they may not perceive, and listening they may not understand.’ 

11 “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 12 The ones on the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. 13 The ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy. But these have no root; they believe only for a while and in a time of testing fall away. 14 As for what fell among the thorns, these are the ones who hear; but as they go on their way, they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. 15 But as for that in the good soil, these are the ones who, when they hear the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patient endurance. 


Jesus is patient with his followers as they ask him for the meaning of the parable.  His desire is for them to understand the un-understandable by imagining a kingdom that can only be described by parables.  As he explains he helps the soon-to-be apostles prepare themselves for being agents of the sower, and faithful regardless of the recipients’ responses. 


Gracious God, we come and gratefully receive the word that you desire to plant in us.  Help us to practice those things that keep us sensitive to what you are saying to us so that we might bear fruit that honors you and draws others to you.  May we never grow tired of your expanding kingdom, in, through, and around us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Matthew 6:7-11 

7 Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. 9 Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for bread, will give a stone? 10 Or if the child asks for a fish, will give a snake? 11 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him! 


This invitation is part of the sermon on the mount, one of the key messages laid out for us who follow Jesus.  He invites us to ask, to seek, and to knock, and promises that it will not be for naught.  This is a time to ask boldly, to seek diligently, and to knock loudly, trusting in a Father who gives good things to those who ask. 


Gracious God, these are bold promises you make and at times like this, it is difficult to reconcile your invitation to ask with the reality of loss and grief.  We need you and ask for your comfort for those who have lost loved ones, for your strength for those who devote themselves to caring for the sick and vulnerable, and for your patience and creativity as we wait in physical isolation.  Help us to continue to reach out to one another in love.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Luke 17:11-19 

11 On the way to Jerusalem Jesus was going through the region between Samaria and Galilee. 12 As he entered a village, ten lepers approached him. Keeping their distance, 13 they called out, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” 14 When he saw them, he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were made clean. 15 Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice. 16 He prostrated himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him. And he was a Samaritan. 17 Then Jesus asked, “Were not ten made clean? But the other nine, where are they? 18 Was none of them found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” 19 Then he said to him, “Get up and go on your way; your faith has made you well.” 


What a beautiful account of Jesus’ generous healing of those who were sick and alienated from the church.  On their way, as they realized that they had been made clean, all but one continued on their way to the religious leaders, realizing they could return to worship.  But the Samaritan, filled with gratitude, returned to Jesus and worshiped him as the one in whom he would find the presence and acceptance of God.  We see in his actions echoes of the Samaritan woman’s conversation with Jesus, where he invited all who followed him to worship him in spirit and in truth. 


Gracious Jesus, thank you for swinging the gates wider than our cultural and sometimes religious restrictions.  Thank you for healing each of us in some way, whether we felt worthy or not.  We give you praise and glory for all your healing and restorative work in the world and help our gratitude be reflected in our generosity of spirit in the world.  In your Name, Amen. 


Friday  

Matthew 28:16-20 

16 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” 


Here is Jesus’ final command and invitation to his disciples before he returned to God the Father.  The disciples had been through a lot over the past few days as they watched their kingdom leader die a gruesome death, then return to life.  It led them to worship even in the midst of their doubts (vs.17).  As we worship Jesus Christ and follow him and do what he has called us to do, there is comfort knowing that doubt can sometimes be a part of the journey, but in our faithfulness, Jesus promises to be never leave us. 


Gracious God, thank you for receiving us and commissioning us to continue your work, even when we struggle with doubt.  Help us to make disciples by sharing with others the journey of faith that we are on and how your presence comforts, guides, and transforms us as we follow you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of April 11 (Holy Week) 

Monday 

Psalm 118:21-25 

21 I thank you that you have answered me 

and have become my salvation. 

22 The stone that the builders rejected 

has become the chief cornerstone. 

23 This is the Lord’s doing; 

it is marvelous in our eyes. 

24 This is the day that the Lord has made; 

let us rejoice and be glad in it. 

25 Save us, we beseech you, O Lord! 

O Lord, we beseech you, give us success! 


Jesus, our Cornerstone, the One that holds all things together, saved us through His death and resurrection.  This is the way of God, who leads us in and through all things for our joy and God’s glory.  This can be a stumbling block for many, who want to follow one who is above suffering, but the invitation that Jesus extends to us is to follow him into his suffering and death, that we may be found victorious with him in his resurrection. 


Gracious God, thank you for drawing us to yourself and being the source of all, the one that holds all things together.  This truth gives us joy in the new day.  Help us to carry this joy and your truth of salvation into all we do and say today, that we might be your followers and bring you glory.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Isaiah 40:28-31  

“Have you not known? Have you not heard? 

The Lord is the everlasting God, 

the Creator of the ends of the earth. 

He does not faint or grow weary; 

his understanding is unsearchable. 

29 He gives power to the faint, 

and strengthens the powerless. 

30 Even youths will faint and be weary, 

and the young will fall exhausted; 

31 but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, 

they shall mount up with wings like eagles, 

they shall run and not be weary, 

they shall walk and not faint.” 


Times like this can challenge the best of us.  Our work may require us to put on a strong face and push through, but God knows that under it all, we may be weary.  These circumstances weigh on all of us, regardless of age, and God meets us where we are and gives us strength from his infinite resources. 


Lord God, Creator of the ends of the earth, we are reminded of our humanness in this passage, and your invitation to lean into your infinite strength.  Fill us with your strong presence that we may be faithful to do today what is ours to do.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Isaiah 40: 3-5 

3 A voice cries out: 

“In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, 

make straight in the desert a highway for our God. 

4 Every valley shall be lifted up, 

and every mountain and hill be made low; 

the uneven ground shall become level, 

and the rough places a plain. 

5 Then the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, 

and all people shall see it together, 

for the mouth of the Lord has spoken. 


Jesus came to bring us hope in the wilderness, to lift up the valleys, to smooth our way.  This promise was not just fulfilled in his birth, but in his ministry, his invitation to follow, and in his journey to the cross.  He has come to ease our path and to give all people access to him. 


Gracious Lord, you came to level the path so that we all might come to you.  Thank you that your arms are open wide and you reveal your glory in your ministry, death and resurrection.  Help us to turn to you in this time and to turn to others, to ease their load and to encourage them.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 


Maundy Thursday 

 John 13:1-11 

Now before the festival of the Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart from this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. 2 The devil had already put it into the heart of Judas son of Simon Iscariot to betray him. And during supper 3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going to God, 4 got up from the table, took off his outer robe, and tied a towel around himself. 5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him. 6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” 7 Jesus answered, “You do not know now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” 8 Peter said to him, “You will never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no share with me.” 9 Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” 10 Jesus said to him, “One who has bathed does not need to wash, except for the feet, but is entirely clean. And you are clean, though not all of you.” 11 For he knew who was to betray him; for this reason, he said, “Not all of you are clean.” 


This is such a poignant moment for the disciples, a sort of initiation into the ministry and character of Jesus to which he invites his disciples.  The visual of Jesus dressed as a servant, the act of washing their feet, the engagement with Peter, assuring him that he was already clean but there was the daily cleansing that was needed.  And Jesus’ willingness to even wash the feet of the one who would betray him. 


Gracious Jesus, as we follow you into the next few days, we are humbled by your character and the character of your ministry to which you invited the first followers and to which you are inviting us.  Instill in us confidence that is rooted in you that allows us to go into the world as servants to one another and to those who so desperately need to be served.  Knowing that in you we are worthy, help us to treat others as worthy of your love.  In Your name, Amen. 

 

Good Friday 

John 12:24 

Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. 


Today we enter the interlude between the death of Jesus and his resurrection.  We know tomorrow is coming but today we sit in the darkness of Jesus’ sacrificial death.  We may not see it, but Christ is doing the overpowering sin and death and reconciling the world to Himself.  And so we wait, grief mingled with hope, and await the coming of the Lord. 


Gracious God, we remember that though we cannot see it, you are at work today.  Keep us from being busy today and distracting ourselves from the tenuousness of this day, where grief and hope mingle.  Work in the soil of our lives in ways we cannot see, and we trust in your comfort and power.  In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen. 

Week of April 3rd - 

Monday  

Isaiah 55:1-3   

Ho, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; 

and you that have no money, come, buy and eat! 

Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. 

2 Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, 

and your labor for that which does not satisfy? 

Listen carefully to me, and eat what is good, 

and delight yourselves in rich food. 

3 Incline your ear, and come to me; listen, so that you may live. 

I will make with you an everlasting covenant, 

my steadfast, sure love for David. 

For many of us spending more time at home than usual, it is easy to be distracted by the many sources of information and other things that grab our attention.  In this time, God invites us beyond ourselves to find our meaning and life in him. 


God, we lift our lives up to you, knowing that you are the only one who can satisfy our deepest needs.  We relinquish to you the habits and practices that distract us from finding our fulfillment in you and being a source of your love to those around us.  Help us to receive your invitation today.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Isaiah 55:8-9 

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, 

  nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord. 

9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, 

  so are my ways higher than your ways 

  and my thoughts than your thoughts. 

 During times of discomfort and difficulty, our minds want to make sense of it all, so that we can regain our equilibrium.  This can lead us to conclusions that bring comfort to us, but may not be sourced in the heart of God.  As we continue in this season that is impossible to understand, we remember that God is at work in ways that we can comprehend and we trust him in that. 

Gracious God, as we continue in this season of isolation, our restless hearts and minds want to make sense of it.  Help us to lean into you, believing that your understanding is far beyond ours.  Comfort us and lead us that we might focus on what is ours to do, knowing that your ways are far above what we see.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Wednesday 

Isaiah 55:10-11 

10 For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, 

  and do not return there until they have watered the earth, 

making it bring forth and sprout, 

  giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,  

11 so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; 

  it shall not return to me empty, 

but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, 

  and succeed in the thing for which I sent it. 

This is a continuation of the passage from yesterday, and reminds us of God’s intention in the world.  It is impossible for us to see it clearly, especially during these times of difficulty, but we are invited to join God in his work in the world, even when we do not completely understand. 

Gracious God, we thank you for the rhythm of the year that demonstrates your consistency and intentions.  Help us trust you, believing you are accomplishing what you have purpose in this time, and participate in your work in the world.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Isaiah 55:12-13 

12 For you shall go out in joy, 

  and be led back in peace; 

the mountains and the hills before you 

  shall burst into song, 

  and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. 

13 Instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress; 

  instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle; 

and it shall be to the Lord for a memorial, 

  for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off. 

What a passage of hope as God leads this people in joy, peace, and worship.  We participate with nature in praise to God as faithfully discern and do what is ours to do.  And graciously, God causes the fruit to be strong and life-giving. 

Gracious God, thank you for the joy and hope that this passage expresses.  This seems in contrast to the ways many of us are feeling.  Help us to restore our hope in you as we watch for you at work in our world and give us willing hearts to join you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

Psalm 42:4-6 

These things I remember, 

as I pour out my soul: 

how I went with the throng, 

and led them in procession to the house of God, 

with glad shouts and songs of thanksgiving, 

a multitude keeping festival. 

5 Why are you cast down, O my soul, 

and why are you disquieted within me? 

Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, 

my help 6 and my God. 

My soul is cast down within me; 

therefore I remember you 

from the land of Jordan and of Hermon, 

from Mount Mizar. 

On days like this, as Palm Sunday nears, we need reminders of God’s redeeming love and worthiness of our praise and we can do this in worship on Sunday.  Isolation can cause us to feel disquieted and lonely, but the psalmist invites us to remember God’s past faithfulness, lean into hope in God, and find strength in the community of other believers. 

Gracious God, as we prepare with your Church to celebrate your triumphal entry, we stand with our brothers and sisters across generations and across the globes. Help us to stand in solidarity with your children as we lift our hearts up to you and echo with one another, “Hosanna!  Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!”  In this very One, Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of March 28  


Monday 

John 17:15-19 

 15 I am not asking you to take them out of the world, but I ask you to protect them from the evil one. 16 They do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. 17 Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you have sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sakes I sanctify myself, so that they also may be sanctified in truth. 

We are protected from the evil one through the prayer of Jesus.  He sends us into the world as he was sent, to share the truth about his love and unity that is lost in a time of division.  The unity begins with our brothers and sisters and spills into our contexts as we set ourselves apart for God. 


Gracious Lord, thank you for setting us an example of living in the world but not being overcome by the evil one.  Help us to continue to look to you and to set ourselves apart in our hearts so that we reflect your truth to the world, beginning with those closest to us.  In Your name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

John 17:20-23 

20 “I ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. 

This prayer is for us, those who have believed in Christ through the word and work of the early church.  We have much to be thankful for as we consider those who have gone before us and faithfully lived out their faith.  And it is a reminder to us that we are all leaving a legacy for the following generations through our love and unity. 


Gracious Lord, we thank you for having us in mind as well as you sat and prayed over your first disciples.  Help us to live in gratitude for your faithfulness and to live in unity with our brothers and sisters today so that we might leave a legacy for the next generation.  In your name, Amen. 

 

Wednesday 

John 17:24-26 

 24 Father, I desire that those also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory, which you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. 25 “Righteous Father, the world does not know you, but I know you; and these know that you have sent me. 26 I made your name known to them, and I will make it known, so that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.” 

Jesus longs for us to be with him always, and to be caught up in the love, glory and delight that is a part of our Trinitarian God.  We get a taste of it through the Spirit in our lives and a deepening relationship with God. 


Gracious Lord, thank you that we belong to you and that you desire us to be with you.  Thank you that by your Spirit we are with you, united in love and growing in knowledge of you.  Keep us close to you that we might reflect you to others.  In Your name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Numbers 6:24-26 

24 The Lord bless you and keep you; 

25 the Lord make his face to shine upon you,  

and be gracious to you; 

26 the Lord lift up his countenance upon you,  

and give you peace. 

This benediction, or good word, carries deep meaning for us as we are filled with concern for others, and even our own loss during this time.  It is good to stop and let these words of blessing and promise wash over us today. 


Gracious God, each word that describes your love for us is a blessing to our tired hearts.  Thank you that you are with us and attending to us and those we love during this time.  Comfort those who are alone with your peace.  May we fill ourselves with the hope of these good words that in all we do, your love pours out on those around us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

Romans 8:25-27  

25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. 26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. 27 And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. 

Sometimes it is easy to pray because we have specific requests. Other times we are unable to express our deepest pain and longing.  In those times, as we sit in the presence of God in silence and God hears our deepest need, we can be confident that God knows and is shaping us for a hope-filled future. 


Gracious God, thank you that you know all things.  Thank you that even when we are unable to voice our prayers, you know.  Right now we hope for what we cannot see – healing, restoration, recovery.  And we wait for it patiently.  Help us to acknowledge and reflect your faithfulness in the here and now, even as we wait for you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of March 21 -  


Monday 

John 16:25-33 

25 “I have said these things to you in figures of speech. The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures but will tell you plainly of the Father. 26 On that day you will ask in my name. I do not say to you that I will ask the Father on your behalf; 27 for the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. 28 I came from the Father and have come into the world; again, I am leaving the world and am going to the Father.”  29 His disciples said, “Yes, now you are speaking plainly, not in any figure of speech! 30 Now we know that you know all things, and do not need to have anyone question you; by this we believe that you came from God.” 


Jesus’ patience with his followers as he prepared them for what would happen next finally resulted in their understanding of what he was saying.  Their declaration about Jesus was not so much that all their questions were answered, but that he knows all things and is above being challenged, and that he indeed came from God, God made flesh.  That was what they needed to know in order to be faithful followers of Christ. 


Gracious Lord, thank you for continuing to patiently reveal yourself to us in ways that we can understand.   Help us to not lose heart in listening to you and for you in our lives.  Keep us close enough to you so that we can hear you and respond.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

John 16:31-33 

 31 Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? 32 The hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each one to his home, and you will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. 33 I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!” 


Jesus demonstrates that he indeed knows all things, including the that disciples will scatter and leave his side.  But his belonging is with the Trinity and so is not alone.  He graces them with his peace and courage, based on the conviction Jesus is going ahead of them, has overcome, and will be present with them in their struggles, bestowing on them the peace and courage they need to flourish.   


Gracious Lord, you said these things as you were preparing to put yourself into the hands of your killers.  Thank you for the concern that you had for them and the concern that you have for us as we navigate our way in this world.  Give us peace that guides our steps and courage to be faithful to what you have for us to do in our context.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

John 17:1-5 

After Jesus had spoken these words, he looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son so that the Son may glorify you, 2 since you have given him authority over all people, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. 3 And this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. 4 I glorified you on earth by finishing the work that you gave me to do. 5 So now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had in your presence before the world existed. 


What a blessing it is to have someone who knows you well pray over you.  Jesus turns his attention from his followers to God as he commits them to God.  In his prayer he addresses the glory that is present in his life and ministry, and in his coming death.  And he invites us to eternal life, which is intimacy with the Trinitarian God.  There is nothing better. 


Gracious Lord, in this sacred space between your journey to the cross and your resurrection, thank you for your prayer for you followers and for us.  We indeed need to encounter your glory in the midst of chaos, destruction, and heartache, and we pray for eyes to see you.  Give us a desire to live into your promise of eternal life now by deepening our relationship with you.  In Your name, Amen. 


Thursday 

John 17:6-10 

6 “I have made your name known to those whom you gave me from the world. They were yours, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. 7 Now they know that everything you have given me is from you; 8 for the words that you gave to me I have given to them, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. 9 I am asking on their behalf; I am not asking on behalf of the world, but on behalf of those whom you gave me, because they are yours. 10 All mine are yours, and yours are mine; and I have been glorified in them. 


In his prayer, Jesus draws his followers into the fellowship of God through the words that he has given, and through the giving of his very self.  There is a belonging that we experience in the Trinity through the work of Christ, and as we live into the truth that we belong to God, God is glorified in us. 


Gracious Jesus, thank you that you continue to make yourself known to us through your word and through your Spirit.  May we share in the community of the Trinity as we remember your words and live as those who belong to you.  In Your name, Amen. 

 

Friday 

John 17:11-14 

“11 And now I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one, as we are one. 12 While I was with them, I protected them in your name that you have given me. I guarded them, and not one of them was lost except the one destined to be lost, so that the scripture might be fulfilled. 13 But now I am coming to you, and I speak these things in the world so that they may have my joy made complete in themselves. 14 I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world.” 


Jesus prays for the protection of the disciples so that they may be one.  More than anything, Jesus wants his followers to be united under the protection of God.  We belong to him and he doesn’t let us go.  In this promise we can find joy, even when we are surrounded by a world that doesn’t know him and hates us. 


Gracious Lord, thank you for your protection over us.  Give us unity as we live in the reality that we belong to you.  May we find our confidence in you so that we can walk as your beloved, even when we feel hated by the world, and share that love with those around us.  In your name, Amen. 

Week of March 14


Monday 

John 15:26-16:4  

26 “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who comes from the Father, he will testify on my behalf. 27 You also are to testify because you have been with me from the beginning.  “I have said these things to you to keep you from stumbling. 2 They will put you out of the synagogues. Indeed, an hour is coming when those who kill you will think that by doing so they are offering worship to God. 3 And they will do this because they have not known the Father or me. 4 But I have said these things to you so that when their hour comes you may remember that I told you about them. 


One of the works of the Spirit is to testify to the truth of God, carrying on the work of Jesus.  And we are invited as well to carry on the work of Jesus by testifying to this truth.  Jesus warns us that there will be resistance, misunderstanding, and rejection so that we will not lose our way when we experience difficulty. 


Gracious Jesus, you did not lead us to believe that following you as participants of your kingdom would be easy.  You laid it out for us so that we would be prepared and not stumble.  Renew our courage to testify to your truth and help us to use every opportunity to be your agents of truth and love in the world.  In Your name, Amen. 

 

Tuesday 

John 16:5-7 

“I did not say these things to you from the beginning, because I was with you. 5 But now I am going to him who sent me; yet none of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ 6 But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your hearts. 7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.” 


As Jesus prepares his disciples for their participation in His kingdom, they are overwhelmed with the prospect of Jesus no longer being with them.  But He assures them that his Spirit will be among them in ways that Jesus was unable to be, being present with them in spirit always, to the end of the age.   


Gracious Jesus, thank you for your continued work in our lives, and continued presence through your Spirit.  Give us the capacity to see with our hearts so that we might encounter you throughout our days.  Turn our attention to you and to how you see the world so that we might continue to be your agents of love and truth to those around us.  In Your name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

John 16:8-14 

 8 And when he comes, he will prove the world wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: 9 about sin, because they do not believe in me; 10 about righteousness, because I am going to the Father and you will see me no longer; 11 about judgment, because the ruler of this world has been condemned. 

12 “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14 He will glorify me, because he will take what is mine and declare it to you. 15 All that the Father has is mine. For this reason I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you. 


The Spirit comes to continue the work of Christ on earth, both in the lives of unbelievers and believers.  The Spirit is God, just as Christ is, and works to draw all to Godself.  There is more for us to learn from the Spirit and there is more for us to do and be in the world through the work of the Spirit.  Our invitation is to participate in declaring the things of God to a world that needs to hear, beginning in our own contexts.  


Gracious Lord, thank you that your ministry to believers and unbelievers continues through the Spirit of God that is ever present and ever working among us.  Give us faith to believe in your work in the world, eyes to see what you are doing, and courage to step in as participants wherever we are.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

John 16:16-19 

16 “A little while, and you will no longer see me, and again a little while, and you will see me.” 17 Then some of his disciples said to one another, “What does he mean by saying to us, ‘A little while, and you will no longer see me, and again a little while, and you will see me’; and ‘Because I am going to the Father’?” 18 They said, “What does he mean by this ‘a little while’? We do not know what he is talking about.” 19 Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him, so he said to them, “Are you discussing among yourselves what I meant when I said, ‘A little while, and you will no longer see me, and again a little while, and you will see me’? 


Jesus has told them a lot in the upper room.  What is starting to sink in for them is the reality that things are changing, and that Jesus will not be with them.  The disciples are probably experiencing feelings of disruption, panic, grief...you name it.  We all experience these emotions in the face of daunting change.  And it is then that we are invited to take our questions and emotions to Jesus, who already knows our heart and holds us with compassion. 


Gracious Jesus, thank you that we serve a God who knows us in our deepest selves and who meets us in our uncertainties.  We lay our fears and questions before you and ask that you will provide what we need to be your faithful followers in a time of uncertainty.  In Your name, Amen. 


Friday 

John 16:20-24 

 20 Very truly, I tell you, you will weep and mourn, but the world will rejoice; you will have pain, but your pain will turn into joy. 21 When a woman is in labor, she has pain, because her hour has come. But when her child is born, she no longer remembers the anguish because of the joy of having brought a human being into the world. 22 So you have pain now; but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you. 23 On that day you will ask nothing of me. Very truly, I tell you, if you ask anything of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. 24 Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete. 


Jesus continues to prepare his followers for the road ahead when he is not physically with them.  He does not tell them that the road will be easy and free of sorrow and pain, but he does promise that their work will bring joy and that God will provide for them what they ask for.  


Gracious Lord, thank you that your words prepare us for what to expect so that we are not surprised when the journey gets difficult and painful.  We pray for joy as we faithfully follow you in whatever context you have put us and ask that you give us the strength to do the work that you have called us to do today.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of March 7 -  


Monday 

Exodus 20:1-3 

Then God spoke all these words: 2 I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; 3 you shall have no other gods before me. 


Here in these first verses of the well-known ten commandments, God reminds his people who He is and what He has done for them.  What has He done?  He has rescued them from a foreign land and from their identity as slaves.  And in the following verses, he invites them to a new “land” defined by God’s character, and to a new identity as God’s beloved.  


Gracious God, we come as your people, named and loved by you.  We confess that in the day-to-day demands and distractions, we forget that all we are is sourced in you and we run off to find our sense of identity and security outside of your presence.  Draw us back in your love and mercy and show us those places where we have other allegiances before you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Exodus 20:4-6 

You shall not make for yourself an idol, whether in the form of anything that is in heaven above, or that is on the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. 5 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, punishing children for the iniquity of parents, to the third and the fourth generation of those who reject me, 6 but showing steadfast love to the thousandth generation of those who love me and keep my commandments. 


This passage can stir up a mixed bag of emotions and questions about God – what does it mean that he is jealous?  How does he punish children and why?  How does he show his love to the multiple generations of those who follow Him.  How does this reflect the character of God?  All these questions are stirred up and can cause us to miss His invitation to avoid putting anything or anyone between us and his presence in our lives.  Perhaps the consequences are descriptive rather than prescriptive, as God desires His best for us and for our families. 


Gracious God, there are so many people and things that we can place between ourselves and you, blocking our access to you as our Lord and Shepherd.  We confess our tendency to look for sad substitutes for your glory, lovingkindness, and goodness.  Forgive us and search our hearts that we might clean out our idols.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday

John 15:12-15 

12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father.” 


The commandment that Jesus gives us is simple but not easy, and it takes a lifetime to live into it.  Laying down our lives for others is a daily choice as living sacrifices.  Living that kind of life gives us insight to understand what God is doing in, through, and among us, and how we are participants in the works of love. 


Gracious Jesus, you are inviting us to the difficult simplicity of loving others.  You laid down your life out of that same love that animates our love for others.  Help us to love sacrificially and as we do, give us eyes to see the work you are doing and the willingness and desire to participate with you.  In Your name, Amen. 


Thursday 

John 15: 16-19 

 16 You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name. 17 I am giving you these commands so that you may love one another. 18 “If the world hates you, be aware that it hated me before it hated you. 19 If you belonged to the world, the world would love you as its own. Because you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world—therefore the world hates you. 


Jesus reminds his followers that he has chosen them and appointed them to bear fruit.  He warns them that it will not be easy, just as it was not easy for him but encourages them to live as those who belong, not to the world, but to God.  We are invited to keep our eyes on Jesus, rather than the resistance that we may feel around us. 


Gracious Jesus, thank you for reminding us that we belong to you and not to the world, and that the resistance we feel is a reflection of our separation from the world.  Help us to focus on following you and loving one another as we entrust our lives and hearts to you.  In Your name, Amen. 


Friday 

John 15:20-25 

 20 Remember the word that I said to you, ‘Servants are not greater than their master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you; if they kept my word, they will keep yours also. 21 But they will do all these things to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. 22 If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have sin; but now they have no excuse for their sin. 23 Whoever hates me hates my Father also. 24 If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not have sin. But now they have seen and hated both me and my Father. 25 It was to fulfill the word that is written in their law, ‘They hated me without a cause.’ 


When we are following wholeheartedly after Jesus, people will respond to us as they would to him.  No doubt the disciples remembered his words as their ministry received mixed reviews.  With them, we are invited to be faithful to Jesus, to love our enemies, and to entrust our lives and the lives of others into his hands. 


Gracious Lord, we are not greater than you, but are your servants and agents of your kingdom.  Help us to live wholeheartedly for you, knowing that you invite others through us to follow you, and their response to the invitation is directed to you, not us.  Help us to love all who come into our lives, those who accept you and those who reject you.  In Your name, Amen. 

Week of February 28 - 


Monday 

Psalm 36:5,6 

Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens, 

your faithfulness to the clouds. 

Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, 

your judgments are like the great deep; 

You save humans and animals alike, O Lord. 


The psalmist, David, declares to God that his love, faithfulness, righteousness, and judgments are beyond the power and understanding of humans.  As we see God at work in, through, and among his people, we are humbled by the way He pours Himself out without limits. 

Gracious God, help us to lift our eyes to you and to your extraordinary love for us that is beyond comprehension.  Thank you that your love, faithfulness, righteousness and judgments overcome any work done by humans.  Give us a heart to receive your character and to then reflect it to our world.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Psalm 36:7-9 

How precious is your steadfast love, O God! 

All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings. 

They feast on the abundance of your house, 

and you give them drink from the river of your delights. 

For with you is the fountain of life; 

in your light we see light. 


These verses are filled with promise and invitation, to find refuge in God and be filled with all we need from his overflowing reserves.  It is easy at times to think that God’s love and provision is scarce and in need of being hoarded or earned.  But God invites us to experience his love and provision each day, like manna, satisfied today and full of trust that what we need will be there tomorrow as well. 


Gracious God, thank you for your audacious and trustworthy promises for love and safety and provision.  Help us to live into the truth of your invitation, believing that there is more than enough of your riches to go around, and wholeheartedly sharing what you give us with others. 


(Ash) Wednesday 

Luke 9:1-6 

Then Jesus called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. 3 He said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money—not even an extra tunic. 4 Whatever house you enter, stay there, and leave from there. 5 Wherever they do not welcome you, as you are leaving that town shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” 6 They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere. 



Lord Jesus, as we follow you to the cross, give us the courage to step into the places you have called us, knowing that you are with us and will provide for us.  Thank you for bringing others into our lives to share the journey of discipleship with.  Help us to be faithful to your call on our lives.  In Your name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Luke 9:7-9 

7 Now Herod the ruler heard about all that had taken place, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, 8 by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the ancient prophets had arisen. 9 Herod said, “John I beheaded; but who is this about whom I hear such things?” And he tried to see him. 



Lord Jesus, thank you that you are continuing to work in, through, and among us in ways that cause others to be curious about you.  As you work in our lives, help us to look to you for our daily needs and direction so that you will be glorified in all we do and say.  Amen. 

 

Friday 

Luke 9:10-11 

On their return the apostles told Jesus all they had done. He took them with him and withdrew privately to a city called Bethsaida. 11 When the crowds found out about it, they followed him; and he welcomed them, and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed to be cured. 



Jesus, thank you for the opportunity we have to be your witnesses in the world, and to find rest in you as well.  Give us a sensitivity to your leading that we might know when to rest and when to step into your work as a participant in what you are doing in the world.  Amen  

Week of February 21 - 


Monday 


Exodus 33:7-8 

7 Now Moses used to take the tent and pitch it outside the camp, far off from the camp; he called it the tent of meeting. And everyone who sought the Lord would go out to the tent of meeting, which was outside the camp. 8 Whenever Moses went out to the tent, all the people would rise and stand, each of them, at the entrance of their tents and watch Moses until he had gone into the tent. 


As we read from Exodus 33 this week, we see how Moses began establishing the rituals of worship according to what God had told him earlier.  The place of worship was outside the camp, but available for “everyone who sought the Lord.”  There was a sense of awe and reverence when their leader entered, believing that God would meet them there. 

Gracious God, even as your children were wandering and even feeling lost, you established a way for them to be reminded of your presence with them and to encounter you.  We take for granted our opportunities to go “outside the camp” to a place of worship, and we ask that you would instill in us a new awe and awareness of your presence.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Exodus 33:9-11

9 When Moses entered the tent, the pillar of cloud would descend and stand at the entrance of the tent, and the Lord would speak with Moses. 10 When all the people saw the pillar of cloud standing at the entrance of the tent, all the people would rise and bow down, all of them, at the entrance of their tent. 11 Thus the Lord used to speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Then he would return to the camp; but his young assistant, Joshua son of Nun, would not leave the tent. 


In worship and awe of God, the people would acknowledge the sacred moment of Moses in the tent with their bodies, rising and bowing down, intently waiting as Moses spoke to God face-to-face.  We see also in this passage that these face-to-face encounters were not reserved for only leaders, but for anyone who took time in the presence of God. 

Gracious God, it is beautiful to realize that we are invited to encounter you face-to-face unashamed, as a friend.  Give us hearts filled with gratitude and awe that spills over into our daily lives.  Remind us that we can go “outside the camp” and meet with you even in the middle of our responsibilities, because you are always with us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday

Exodus 33:12-16

12 Moses said to the Lord, “See, you have said to me, ‘Bring up this people’; but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. Yet you have said, ‘I know you by name, and you have also found favor in my sight.’ 13 Now if I have found favor in your sight, show me your ways, so that I may know you and find favor in your sight. Consider too that this nation is your people.” 14 He said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” 15 And he said to him, “If your presence will not go, do not carry us up from here. 16 For how shall it be known that I have found favor in your sight, I and your people, unless you go with us? In this way, we shall be distinct, I and your people, from every people on the face of the earth.” 


Moses is interceding for God’s people, not because they are perfect, but because they belong to God.  Moses sits before Him, acknowledging that God’s presence and favor is crucial for him and for the people of Israel because their identity as a nation is God’s presence.  It is God, not their works or possessions or property, that set them apart as belonging to God. 

Gracious God, if you do not go with us, we do not want to go.  Help us to live and work within earshot of you, listening for your guiding voice and seeking to be known by the way that we reflect your presence.  Help us not to shroud your presence with convictions, fears, or things that do not set us apart as your beloved children.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Exodus 33:17-19

17 The Lord said to Moses, “I will do the very thing that you have asked; for you have found favor in my sight, and I know you by name.” 18 Moses said, “Show me your glory, I pray.” 19 And he said, “I will make all my goodness pass before you, and will proclaim before you the name, ‘The Lord’; and I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy. 


This conversation between Moses and God is filled with vulnerability as Moses hungers for God’s presence for his people, and then in these verses hungers for a deeper glimpse of God.  Perhaps he has realized that living into God’s call is harder than he imagined, but is reminded that it is worth it when he enters into these intimate and powerful encounters with his Lord. 

Gracious God, “The Lord,” who holds all glory and deserves all honor, we are gratefully awed that you reveal yourself to us as we ask.  Thank you for your words that remind us that in your sovereignty you hold grace and mercy and are glorified in your pouring out of it on those you desire.  Help us not to decide for you who those people are, but live as recipients of your grace and mercy, blessed to be a blessing.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

Exodus 33:20-23

20 But,” he said, “you cannot see my face; for no one shall see me and live.” 21 And the Lord continued, “See, there is a place by me where you shall stand on the rock; 22 and while my glory passes by I will put you in a cleft of the rock, and I will cover you with my hand until I have passed by; 23 then I will take away my hand, and you shall see my back; but my face shall not be seen.” 


God invited Moses to encounter him in a way that would bless him but not destroy him. Regardless of Moses’ expectations, God knew what he could endure and did not give him more.  God protected him and covered him until it was safe to behold Him.  Moses trusted God to answer his request in His way. 

Gracious God, when the world is so bewildering and loud, we want your presence in our lives to be louder and more empowering.  And yet, you remind us that your power and sovereignty is beyond our capacity to behold in all its glory.  We cannot see your face, but help us to sense your hand protecting us and help us to be content with the glimpses of you that we see.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of February 14 -


Monday 

Genesis 50:18-21 

Then his brothers also wept, fell down before him, and said, “We are here as your slaves.”  But Joseph said to them, “Do not be afraid! Am I in the place of God?  Even though you intended to do harm to me, God intended it for good, in order to preserve a numerous people, as he is doing today. So have no fear; I myself will provide for you and your little ones.” In this way he reassured them, speaking kindly to them. 


 In this passage, Joseph’s brothers fear that with their father gone, Joseph will retaliate and harm them.  But Joseph had encountered God in the midst of unwelcome circumstances, trusted in His provision, and experienced the reality of God working through him to save many people.  His awareness of God’s provision gave him the capacity to show kindness to his brothers. 


Gracious God, as humans living among one another, we are recipients and perpetrators of hurt, intentionally and unintentionally.  As those places of hurt come to mind, we lift them up to you.  Thank you for holding our hurt gently and pulling us close.  Through your grace and compassion, help us to find healing and forgiveness, and trust that whatever has happened, you will intend it for good. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Exodus 16:2-4  

The whole congregation of the Israelites complained against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness. The Israelites said to them, “If only we had died by the hand of the Lord in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the fleshpots and ate our fill of bread; for you have brought us out into this wilderness to kill this whole assembly with hunger.” Then the Lord said to Moses, “I am going to rain bread from heaven for you, and each day the people shall go out and gather enough for that day. In that way I will test them, whether they will follow my instruction or not. 


We have a compassionate God, who listens to our complaining and doesn’t wait for us to ask nicely.  The instructions of God around picking up just enough manna for each day is echoed by Jesus in his instructions on how to pray - “give us this day our daily bread.”  There is a posture of trust that God is inviting us to that acknowledges Him as Our Provider, and all we have – possessions, relationships, gifts – as His provision.  


Gracious God, you are our Provider, giving us good things while at the same time inviting us keep our eyes on you.  Give us this day our daily bread.  We depend on you for what we need each day.  Help us to live in the reality that all we have, all we are, all the relationships we enjoy – all are your provision, your gifts to us, drawing us closer to You.  Keep our focus on you as we trust you for each day.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Wednesday 

Psalm 104:1-4 

Bless the Lord, O my soul. 

    O Lord my God, you are very great. 

You are clothed with honor and majesty, 

  wrapped in light as with a garment. 

You stretch out the heavens like a tent, 

   you set the beams of your chambers on the waters, 

you make the clouds your chariot, 

    you ride on the wings of the wind, 

you make the winds your messengers, 

    fire and flame your ministers. 


There are some psalms that declare God as provider and list the many ways we live in and enjoy his provision around us.  The psalmist uses beautiful imagery in an attempt to get to the majesty and glory of our Provider God.  Worship invites us to transcend our daily tasks and activities and open wide our hearts with wonder at the infinite greatness of our God. 


Gracious and majestic God, there is no other one like You.  As we go about our day, living in the work of your hands, lift our minds and hearts to you in worship.  As we worship you, align our lives with you that all we do, say, think, and imagine is an expression of worship for who You are.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Psalm 104-5-9 

You set the earth on its foundations, 

    so that it shall never be shaken. 

You cover it with the deep as with a garment; 

    the waters stood above the mountains. 

At your rebuke they flee; 

    at the sound of your thunder they take to flight. 

They rose up to the mountains, ran down to the valleys 

    to the place that you appointed for them. 

You set a boundary that they may not pass, 

    so that they might not again cover the earth. 


We’ve learned a lot about the natural world since these words were written.  In our scientific minds, it is easy to cancel out the wonder of how creation works, seeking instead to explain it away.  As we worship God as our Provider, we bring our minds, bodies, souls and spirits to experience and express our conviction that behind all things, explainable and unexplainable, is the God who spoke all things into existence.   


Gracious God, we acknowledge that you stand above the heavens and the earth, unchanged by what we learn and discover.  In the mystery of why and how you chose to create, give us a sense of awe that allows space for what there is to learn about our creation and to worship you as the ultimate Creator and Sustainer of all we enjoy.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Friday 

Psalm 104-10-13 

You make springs gush forth in the valleys; 

    they flow between the hills, 

giving drink to every wild animal; 

    the wild asses quench their thirst. 

By the streams the birds of the air have their habitation; 

    they sing among the branches. 

From your lofty abode you water the mountains; 

    the earth is satisfied with the fruit of your work. 


God shows no partiality when it comes to providing for his creation.  Animals and birds alike share in the worship of God for his provision.  We can learn from the simpler in creation how to be satisfied with the fruit of God’s work when we stop and acknowledge Him as Creator, Sustainer, and Provider.  Each birdsong we hear is an invitation to worship. 


Gracious God, Provider of all we need, we worship you for you provision, your gifts, your creation which we inhabit and which you delight to sustain for us.  In this time when there are so many material and temporal things to grab our attention, give us the presence of mind and heart to turn to you and find our satisfaction in you, our Provider, and expression gratitude for what you have given us, our provision.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of February 7 - 


Monday 

Exodus 5:22- 6: 3 

Then Moses turned again to the Lord and said, “O Lord, why have you mistreated this people? Why did you ever send me? Since I first came to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has mistreated this people, and you have done nothing at all to deliver your people.” Then the Lord said to Moses, “Now you shall see what I will do to Pharaoh: Indeed, by a mighty hand he will let them go; by a mighty hand he will drive them out of his land.”  God also spoke to Moses and said to him: “I am the Lord. I appeared to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as God Almighty, but by my name ‘The Lord’ I did not make myself known to them. "


Moses’ obedience to God did not immediately result in redemption for the people.  In fact, it made their plight even worse.  How often we respond to God in obedience and find that it doesn’t reap the relief or reward that we desire. 


Gracious God, we commit to you our lives even as we admit that there are times when we don’t experience the reward or relief we hoped our faithfulness would produce.  Help us in those moments to take our questions to you and await your deliverance.  


Tuesday 

Exodus 15:1-3 

Then Moses and the Israelites sang this song to the Lord: 

“I will sing to the Lord, for he has triumphed gloriously; 

    horse and rider he has thrown into the sea. 

The Lord is my strength and my might, 

    and he has become my salvation; 

this is my God, and I will praise him, 

    my father’s God, and I will exalt him. 

The Lord is a warrior; 

    the Lord is his name. "


On the other side of the Red Sea, opened for God’s people to walk safely through, Moses led the people in worship.  For who God is and for what He has done.  When we come to worship, it is an opportunity for us as well to remember who God is and what he has done for us. 


Gracious God, for who you are and for what you have done and continue to do, we worship you.  We see your works all around us, and are the beneficiaries of your character.  Sensitize us to who you are what you are doing in, through and around us that our lives might be an expression of worship.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Psalm 5:1-3 

Give ear to my words, O Lord; 

give heed to my sighing. 

Listen to the sound of my cry, 

my King and my God, 

for to you I pray. 

O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice; 

in the morning I plead my case to you, and watch.


You can hear David’s discouragement in his prayer to God, as he asks for God to notice his distress.  His final words in this passage are that he will plead his case, and watch.  There is an expectancy in the word “watch,” trusting that God will hear us and deliver us from our discouragement and difficult circumstances. 


Gracious God, we echo David’s words, asking you to hear us in our places of discouragement and to respond.  Give us faith to lift our cares us to you and watch for you to meet us where we are at and provide what we need.  We thank you in anticipation for your loving deliverance.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Psalm 34:5-8 

Look to him, and be radiant; 

so your faces shall never be ashamed. 

This poor soul cried, and was heard by the Lord, 

and was saved from every trouble. 

The angel of the Lord encamps 

around those who fear him, and delivers them. 

O taste and see that the Lord is good; 

happy are those who take refuge in him. 


These verses incorporate our senses into our experience of God – Look to him!  Be heard by him!  Taste and see that the Lord is good!  We are invited to engage all of our being in our relationship with Christ.  As we look to him and experience God as the one who is all in all, our lives can shine with the radiance that comes from trusting Him. 


Gracious God, You are the source of our lives, our deliverance, and our refuge.  Help us to loosen our grip on the things and/or people that distract us from wholeheartedly looking to you.  May your face shine on us that we may reflect your radiance to those around us.  In Jesus name, Amen. 


Friday 

Psalm 40:1-3 

I waited patiently for the Lord; 

he inclined to me and heard my cry. 

He drew me up from the desolate pit, 

out of the miry bog, 

and set my feet upon a rock, 

making my steps secure. 

He put a new song in my mouth, 

a song of praise to our God. 

Many will see and fear, 

and put their trust in the Lord. 


David attests to God’s response to our need for him.  The psalmist knew that to pursue other, worldly ways of rescue would only lead to emptiness and heartache, but waiting for the Lord, he would find deliverance, relief, joy, and a story of God’s faithfulness to share with others.   


Gracious God, it is difficult to be patient at times, waiting for you to incline your ear and rescue me.  Give me the trust I need to wait for you, knowing that you will lift me up and secure my feet on solid ground.  Remind me of your past faithfulness and give me the courage to share my story with others in ways that bring you glory.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of January 31 -  


Monday 

Deuteronomy 15:15 

Remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the Lord your God redeemed you; for this reason I lay this command upon you today.

 

One of the invitations to God’s people throughout scripture and to us today is to remember.  This verse in Deuteronomy is nested in the midst of God’s instructions to his people on how to those who are indentured to them when their years of service are over.  Our treatment of those in our lives, regardless of our perceived status with them, must be marked by our own remembering that we are indebted to a faithful God by his free and unmerited favor. 


When have you experienced the unmerited favor of God? 


How does your awareness of God’s grace and mercy to you impact the way you think of and treat others? 


What do you need to remember about God’s grace and deliverance in your own life today? 


Gracious God, we confess that our memory of your faithfulness to us can be short.  Thank  you for the many ways you have redeemed us over the years of our lives.  Help us to live in the remembrance of your unmerited favor to us that we might treat those around us with that same spirit of grace and honor.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Psalm 42:1-3 

As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. 

My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. 

When shall I come and behold the face of God? 

My tears have been my food day and night, 

while people say to me continually, “Where is your God?”  


 As David pours out his soul, longing for God to come and fill him up again, he is on the cusp of remembering God’s faithfulness in the past.  We can read ahead in the psalm and know that he did indeed remember, but how often we are at a place where the difficulties around us cause us to forget that God has been faithful before and is present in our current situation. 


Where are you feeling a longing for God? 


What is grief looking like for you in this season? 


How is your current situation shrouding your memory of God’s faithfulness? 


Gracious God, in these times of loss and uncertainty from day to day, we find ourselves surrounded by our own grief from within and the doubt of others around us.  Where are you? We ask.  We long for you because we know you have met us before.  So here we are, with hands lifted up to you, asking again for your presence.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

  

Wednesday 

Psalm 42:4-6 

These things I remember, as I pour out my soul: 

how I went with the throng, and led them in procession to the house of God, 

with glad shouts and songs of thanksgiving, a multitude keeping festival. 

Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me? 

Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my help and my God. 

My soul is cast down within me; therefore I remember you 

from the land of Jordan and of Hermon, from Mount Mizar. 


The psalmist David is in the midst of pouring out his soul, and in his open-hearted searching for the comfort of God, he remembers better days, in community, worshipping together.  Sometimes we need the reminders of God’s faithfulness that we experience when we are in community.  The faith of others buoys us and can restore our hope.   


How are you experiencing hope in the community of others? 


How are you participating in the encouragement of others through your presence? 


How can you remind someone you know of God’s faithfulness through word and deed today? 


Gracious God, thank you for establishing your followers within a context of community.  Remind us of those in our lives who have encouraged us and give us grateful hearts for the gift of their presence.  And give us eyes to see those in our midst who need the reminder of your faithfulness and be a light of your hope to them.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Matthew 26:6-13 

 Now while Jesus was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper,  a woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very costly ointment, and she poured it on his head as he sat at the table.  But when the disciples saw it, they were angry and said, “Why this waste? For this ointment could have been sold for a large sum, and the money given to the poor.”  But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? She has performed a good service for me. For you always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me. By pouring this ointment on my body she has prepared me for burial.  Truly I tell you, wherever this good news is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will be told in remembrance of her.” 


In an effort to express her gratitude to Jesus for transforming her life, this woman lavishly anointed Jesus with costly perfume.  Imagine the sweet aroma of the room as it dripped over Jesus’ face.  By her lavish gift of worship, she exemplifies to us all how open-hearted and open-armed our worship of Jesus can be.  As followers of Christ we are marked by our care for the poor as it is rooted in giving Jesus the rightful place in our attention, affection, and adoration. 


What stand out to you as you remember this woman who anointed Jesus? 


Has your generous worship of Jesus ever been questioned? 


How does your generous worship of Jesus help align your care for the people and things that he cares about? 


Gracious Lord, thank you for receiving the lavish gift that this woman poured out on you in love and worship.  Help us to follow her example and honor you and her memory by pursuing ways to give ourselves in lavish, aromatic worship of you that is reflected in care for those around us.  Guard our hearts from questioning or managing the expressions of others who seek to worship you in spirit and in truth.  In Your name, Amen. 

 

Friday 

Luke 22:19-20 

 Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”  And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood. 


The art of remembering is etched in the practices of our church.  Jesus knew that even though we desire to follow him, it is so easy to wander away and set our affections on other things, things that may be good and noble, but that distract us from whole-hearted commitment to him.  He knows us and as a community invites us back to the place of remembering that he loved us first and poured out his body so that we might live and love.  This is what we are invited to remember. 


What do you take away from your experience when you participate in communion? 


What do you need to remember about Christ in order to return to your first love? 


What do you hear Him saying to you in this moment as you remember? 


Gracious Jesus, your perfect love led you to the cross, where you poured out yourself that we might be reconciled to you and to one another.  Lord God, we confess that we have held up other symbols of remembrance that get in the way of us living as your people, united in your love and reflecting your character in the world.  Warm our hearts with the remembrance of your loving faithfulness and simplify our lives that we might carry the simplicity of your invitation to those around us.  In Your name, Amen. 

Week of January 24 


Monday 

Exodus 3:1-3 

Moses was keeping the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian; he led his flock beyond the wilderness, and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. 2 There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire out of a bush; he looked, and the bush was blazing, yet it was not consumed. 3 Then Moses said, “I must turn aside and look at this great sight, and see why the bush is not burned up.” 


When God called Moses, he was in the midst of the wilderness, making a life with his family and doing to the work of a shepherd.  In this classic example of calling, Moses was faithful to the task at hand, but also open and curious to what was around him.  His awareness and response to his surroundings created the context for God to call him to his next assignment. 


Is there something you have seen recently that has stirred a curiosity in you? 


What has been your response?  As you think back on it, what is your response? 


Is there something new that God might be inviting you to in the midst of your current faithful service to him? 


Gracious God, thank you for your continual invitations to us, generously offered as seeds of hope and possibility.  Help us in the midst of our daily responsibilities to keep our heart in tune with you, so that we might see new invitations from you and respond with curiosity and obedience.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday

Exodus 3:4-6 

4 When the Lord saw that he had turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.” 5 Then he said, “Come no closer! Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.” 6 He said further, “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God. 


Moses went from tending flocks, responding out of curiosity to a bush that was burning, to standing on sacred ground before the God of his ancestors, whom he worshiped and revered.  What a shift in his day!  We can experience his same kind of shift when we step into uncertain circumstances at the prompt of God and realize that we are on holy ground. 


Can you think of a time when you were expecting a circumstance to go one way and it instead went another? 


Where was God in that circumstance? 


When have you found yourself on sacred ground? 


Gracious God, thank you that your presence is everywhere we go, making sacred the things that we sometimes consider mundane.  Give us the openness and mindfulness to recognize and embrace sacred moments and hear as you speak to us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Exodus 3:7-11 

7 Then the Lord said, “I have observed the misery of my people who are in Egypt; I have heard their cry on account of their taskmasters. Indeed, I know their sufferings, 8 and I have come down to deliver them from the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land to a good and broad land, a land flowing with milk and honey, to the country of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. 9 The cry of the Israelites has now come to me; I have also seen how the Egyptians oppress them. 10 So come, I will send you to Pharaoh to bring my people, the Israelites, out of Egypt.” 11 But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?”   


In this passage, God lays out not only what he has seen his people enduring, but also the future that he has for them.  He desires to do good and redemptive work among his people and needs a spokesperson, an agent of his mission.  Rather than focusing on the mission, Moses focuses on his limitations.  This is how we often feel when God invites us into his mission in the world. 


Is there a place where God wants to use you but you are overcome by self-doubt? 


What else might keep you from accepting his invitation? 


What is one step you can take toward responding to his invitation today? 


Gracious God, you are doing good work in the world and invite us to be a part.  Please give us the grace and courage to hear your invitation and step through our own fear, trusting that you will give us the strength and power we need to accomplish what you desire through us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Exodus 3:12 

12 He said, “I will be with you; and this shall be the sign for you that it is I who sent you: when you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall worship God on this mountain.” 


One verse today, and it is one filled with hope and power.  God is inviting Moses out of the wilderness, back to Egypt, where God’s presence will fill him with the authority to request and be granted that God’s people be released from captivity and return to where Moses has lived, to worship God. 


Where in your life right now do you need to hear God say, I am with you? 


Can you think of a time when you have experienced the presence of God in a difficult and challenging circumstance? 


How is worship a way to remind one another of God’s faithful presence? 


Gracious God, we can all think of times when your presence has been with us in dark times.  Thank you for the practice of worship that you have ordained for your people, as an opportunity to remember the many ways you have provided for us and been faithful to us.  Help us to never lose our awe of you.  In Jesus name, Amen. 


Friday 

Psalm 92:12-14 

The righteous flourish like the palm tree, 

    and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. 

They are planted in the house of the Lord; 

    they flourish in the courts of our God. 

In old age they still produce fruit; 

    they are always green and full of sap, 

showing that the Lord is upright; 

    He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him. 


The psalmist likens the righteous to trees that thrive in two very different climates.  Regardless of the context, those who follow God and dwell in his presence flourish, regardless of their age, continue to grow and develop in such a way that they produce fruit and are filled with the life of the Spirit.  That is our hope as we continue to listen for God’s voice throughout our lives and trust him to provide all we need to flourish. 


Where are you experiencing flourishing in your life right now? 


Are there ways that you have discounted yourself because of your age, young or old? 


What is God saying to you through these words? 


Gracious God, we surrender our tendencies to take our cues from a culture that focuses on the outward appearance, celebrating youth.  We lean into you and draw our life and strength from you that we might continue to flourish in you and bear fruit that brings you honor.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of January 17th 


Monday 

2 Corinthians 5:16-20 (The Message) 

Because of this decision we don’t evaluate people by what they have or how they look. We looked at the Messiah that way once and got it all wrong, as you know. We certainly don’t look at him that way anymore. Now we look inside, and what we see is that anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new. The old life is gone; a new life emerges! Look at it! All this comes from the God who settled the relationship between us and him, and then called us to settle our relationships with each other. God put the world square with himself through the Messiah, giving the world a fresh start by offering forgiveness of sins. God has given us the task of telling everyone what he is doing. We’re Christ’s representatives. God uses us to persuade men and women to drop their differences and enter into God’s work of making things right between them. We’re speaking for Christ himself now: Become friends with God; he’s already a friend with you. 


In these verses, through the words of Paul and the interpretation of Eugene Peterson, we are invited to Shalom, that is, the pursuit of right relationship with and well-being for ourselves, one another, and God.  Jesus’ purpose in coming, according to this passage was for the reconciliation of us to God and Paul invites us to respond by befriending ourselves, others, and God, through Christ.  


Where do you see reconciliation happening in your life and relationships? 


Are there people with whom you are resistant to extend Shalom?  


How does your befriending of God reflect in your befriending of others? 


Gracious God, what a huge and divine sacrifice you made so that we might be reconciled to you, new creations.  Help us to become friends with you as you have with us, and to reflect your grace-filled friendship in our relationships with others.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Exodus 13:17-18 

17 When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was nearer; for God thought, “If the people face war, they may change their minds and return to Egypt.” 18 So God led the people by the roundabout way of the wilderness toward the Red Sea. 


This passage is often overlooked but has great meaning for us as we ponder the journey that we are on.  God in his all-knowing and all-loving character, guided his people in a way that would protect them from discouragement that may have been too much to handle.  The alternate way took longer but it was an act of love. 


When has your journey felt long, winding, and indirect? 


How would you describe the journey you are now on? 


What might God be protecting you from? 


Gracious God, we confess that we are at times impatient with you and don’t understand your timing.  Please give us hearts that lean into you and trust your guidance.  In the midst of our journeys, turn our hearts toward you as you promise to be found by us when we seek you with all our hearts, regardless of our circumstances.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Exodus 29:45-56 

45 I will dwell among the Israelites, and I will be their God. 46 And they shall know that I am the Lord their God, who brought them out of the land of Egypt that I might dwell among them; I am the Lord their God. 


These words are spoken in the midst of the wilderness, as God is giving direction for how worship will be done.  It is in the wilderness – the space between Egypt, where they were slaves, and Canaan, where they were headed – that God set them apart and promised to live among them. 


Have there been times when you were in liminal space, between something that was over and what was next to be? 


How did God use that time to establish his relationship with you? 


How is God using your current situation to remind you that you belong to Him? 


Gracious God, we have experienced the reality that you meet us in the liminal space in our lives and draw us to you.  We confess that there are times where we look for a way out, rather than looking to you for hope and belonging.  Give us strength in our current wilderness places to lean into your presence, satisfied to live as people who belong to you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Exodus 2:21-25 

21 Moses agreed to stay with the man, and he gave Moses his daughter Zipporah in marriage. 22 She bore a son, and he named him Gershom; for he said, “I have been an alien residing in a foreign land.” 23 After a long time the king of Egypt died. The Israelites groaned under their slavery and cried out. Out of the slavery their cry for help rose up to God. 24 God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 25 God looked upon the Israelites, and God took notice of them. 


Moses spent time in the wilderness before leading God’s people through the wilderness.  In his experience, he learned that he was an alien, and in his acknowledgment of his own circumstances, he was being prepared by God to advocate for God’s people who were aliens in Egypt and to lead them out into their own wilderness. 


How has God equipped you through past experiences to thrive in the place he has you? 


Are there places where you are resisting his guidance? 


Who in your life can you bless by sharing with them out of your own experiences of alienation and loneliness? 


Gracious God, we confess the times that we are so caught up in our own worlds of hurt and loneliness that we are unable to see the alienation that others are experiencing, and to empathize with them.  As we come to you honestly with our feelings of alienation and desire for belonging and reprieve from suffering, give us eyes to see others in our world who also need to be seen and noticed by you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

Psalm 100:1-2 

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. 

Worship the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing. 

Know that the Lord is God. 

    It is he that made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 


David repeats in 3 different ways the truth that we belong to God – his, his people, his sheep.  His declaration of our belonging is tucked in the midst of word of thanksgiving and worship.  In a world that seeks to own us – our opinions, our earthly resources, our very beings – it is in worship that we remind ourselves and find hope in the reality that we belong – spirit, soul, mind, and body – to our loving Creator. 


What emotions are stirred in you as you are reminded that you belong to God? 


Who or what comes to mind as you ponder other influences that clamor for your allegiance and belonging? 


How are you experiencing God drawing you back into the fold of His people? 


Gracious God, in our worship, turn our hearts toward you and remind us that it is to you we belong.  We confess that at times, out of fear, pride, lack of trust, or other things, we seek to find belonging in other people or things.  In the wilderness of our context, remind us of your presence and gently lead us back into the fold of your belonging.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of January 10 -  


Monday 

Exodus 1:15-17 

15 The king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, one of whom was named Shiphrah and the other Puah, 16 “When you act as midwives to the Hebrew women, and see them on the birthstool, if it is a boy, kill him; but if it is a girl, she shall live.” 17 But the midwives feared God; they did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but they let the boys live.   


This week we will be focusing on how God uses people in humble circumstances and from humble beginnings to do his work.  In this passage we see how the midwives, rooted in their faith in God, lived it out even when it was uncomfortable.  In their humility, they were able to submit themselves to their God. 


Where are you being invited to live according to who you are in Christ? 


How is God’s invitation in contrast with what you see around you? 


Where do the motivations of your choices lie? 


Gracious God, we are a people living for you in a culture that doesn’t necessarily reflect your character and desires for people.  As we walk this earth and interact with the people and systems around us, give us the discernment we need to hear your voice and the courage to live as you are inviting us to live.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Tuesday 

Isaiah 57:15-16 

For thus says the high and lofty one 

    who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: 

I dwell in the high and holy place, 

    and also with those who are contrite and humble in spirit, 

to revive the spirit of the humble, 

    and to revive the heart of the contrite. 

16 For I will not continually accuse, 

    nor will I always be angry; 

for then the spirits would grow faint before me, 

    even the souls that I have made. 


One of the greatest truths about God is that He is unsearchable and yet near us and even within us.  He finds his home in those who are aware of their own limitations and dependence on Him and loves us in a way that strengthens and encourages us in our deepest places.  The more we acknowledge we need Him, the more He fills us. 


Are there conditions you put on your own worthiness to receive the nearness of God? 


How do the conditions you put on yourself impact the graciousness you extend to others? 


What does “humble in spirit” mean to you? 


Gracious God, Thank you for the both/and of your nature that holds all things together and holds us close as your children.  Help us to release the tendency we sometimes have to believe that you are always angry with us, and to replace it with confidence in your gentle, forgiving and forbearing presence you are extending to us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Matthew 13:54-58 

54 He came to his hometown and began to teach the people in their synagogue, so that they were astounded and said, “Where did this man get this wisdom and these deeds of power? 55 Is not this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? 56 And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all this?” 57 And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “Prophets are not without honor except in their own country and in their own house.” 58 And he did not do many deeds of power there, because of their unbelief. 


When Jesus returned to the town in which he had grown up,  all they could see was the little boy who roamed the streets and worked with his dad in the carpenter’s shop.  Because they were blinded by the humble upbringing of the Lord Jesus, the townspeople missed the opportunity to experience the power that he held.   


Are there things you believe about yourself that keep you from reaching your potential? 


Are there things you believe about people you know that keep you from embracing who they are and what God might want to say

to you through them? 


What are you going to do with what has come to the surface today? 


Gracious God, we confess our tendency to put ourselves and others in boxes that limit our vision for our lives and our capacity to see what you want to do in and through us.  Forgive us and expand our hearts to see one another the way you do and have the courage to relinquish the voices of our past to embrace your purpose for us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

John 1:43-46 

43 The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, “Follow me.” 44 Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. 45 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found him about whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus son of Joseph from Nazareth.” 46 Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.”  


As Jesus continue to invite his disciples to join him, one of them, Philip, goes and finds another to accompany him.  Nathaniel expresses resistance, based on his prejudice against Jesus’ hometown.  And rather than defending Jesus, Philip simply invites him to come and see. 


Where do you feel like Nathaniel, experiencing resistance and prejudice toward someone because of their origin?   


What would it look like for you to release those feelings of resistance and prejudice? 


Who in your life are you inviting to come and see Jesus, through your words and/or deeds? 


Gracious God, we confess our pre-conceived notions about people that have created barriers to rich and blessing-filled relationships.  Remove the resistance from us that keeps us from living open-heartedly with those around us.  Help our words and our actions to be an invitation to them to encounter you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

John 1:47-51 

47 When Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him, he said of him, “Here is truly an Israelite in whom there is no deceit!” 48 Nathanael asked him, “Where did you get to know me?” Jesus answered, “I saw you under the fig tree before Philip called you.” 49 Nathanael replied, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” 50 Jesus answered, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than these.” 51 And he said to him, “Very truly, I tell you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.” 


What a powerful encounter Nathaniel had as Jesus cut through his resistance straight to his heart.  Jesus knew what he had said and yet cast vision on what he could become.  In one moment, Nathaniel’s heart was laid bare before Christ and he was invited to follow him on a journey of transformation.   


In what area of your life do you hope to experience the transformation of Christ? 


What words of grace and potential for you do you hear Jesus saying? 


What do you think Jesus might want to do in and through you as you continue to follow him? 


Gracious Lord, there is nothing about us that you don’t know, and nothing that blocks you from loving us and inviting us to follow you.  Help us to be honest with ourselves and willing to relinquish the things that lurk in the dark corners of our lives, that we might be whole-hearted followers of you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of January 3 


Monday 

John 14:22-24

22 Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, “Lord, how is it that you will reveal yourself to us, and not to the world?” 23 Jesus answered him, “Those who love me will keep my word, and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. 24 Whoever does not love me does not keep my words; and the word that you hear is not mine, but is from the Father who sent me. 


There is mystery in God’s revelation to us through the spirit, as Jesus explains to his disciples.  As we faithfully keep his words, we will also experience the presence of God – Father, Son through the Spirit – in our lives, quickening our hearts and our minds.  We can live and move in the world knowing we are under the watchful, loving gaze of the Trinity. 


How comfortable are you with the mystery of God living with you? 


What does it mean to you to have God at home in you? 


How does God’s presence impact you in what you do each day and how you do it? 


Gracious God, it is incredible to grasp that the Creator and Sustainer of the world desires to be present within us and in relationship with us.  Help us to trust your words even when we don’t understand and to live as bearers of your presence in the world.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Jeremiah 29:4-7 

4 Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, to all the exiles whom I have sent into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: 5 Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat what they produce. 6 Take wives and have sons and daughters; take wives for your sons, and give your daughters in marriage, that they may bear sons and daughters; multiply there, and do not decrease. 7 But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.  


Jeremiah is speaking for the Lord, telling God’s people things they do not want to hear.  They are in exile and would rather sit on their hands and wait for their return to Jerusalem and “normalcy” than to engage with life in the context God has put them.  We can often feel like we are in exile and Jeremiah’s words hold an invitation that God is extending to us as well. 


Is there a place in your life where you feel like you have been in exile for a long time? 


What would you like to say to God about your feelings of exile? 


What do you hear God inviting you to in the midst of exile? 


Gracious God, we can often feel like we are in an unfamiliar place, and unable to get traction under our feet, with things changing each day.  We want to believe that this will soon be over, but we recognize that it keeps us from fully engaging in what you want to show us.  So we ask for open and humble hearts to pour out to you how we are feeling and then listening to receive your invitation in the midst of our exile.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Wednesday 

Jeremiah 29:8-10 

8 For thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Do not let the prophets and the diviners who are among you deceive you, and do not listen to the dreams that they dream, 9 for it is a lie that they are prophesying to you in my name; I did not send them, says the Lord. 10 For thus says the Lord: Only when Babylon’s seventy years are completed will I visit you, and I will fulfill to you my promise and bring you back to this place.  


There are many messages that we hear throughout our days and lives, many spins on what is happening to us, around us, or because of us.  So often we want to hear the things that provide us comfort and security, even if they are not true.  But God doesn’t lie to us, and He invites us to listen and discern for His truth in all the voices around us. 


Is there something that you are holding on to for comfort that may not be true? 


What would it feel like to let go of that? 


What might be the truth that God desires to replace the lie with? 


Gracious God, thank you that you do not change or waver, that what you say is always true.  Give us the wisdom and discernment to hear your voice above the many voices that we hear around us and within us.  May we lean into you as the God of truth and surrender our desire to be right.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Jeremiah 29:11-12 

11 For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. 12 Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. 


These words are easier to rely on when things are going well and we can see the plans.  It is much more difficult when the future looks uncertain and the next step murky.  God invites us to trust Him even when we cannot see the road ahead, and live in the confidence that He hears us when we cry out to Him, even when we don’t receive a response.  


What area of your life are you trusting God to give you a future with hope? 


How does your life feel right now in light of these verses? 


What do you want to say to God in prayer about where you are now and where you desire to be? 


Gracious God, these are difficult words to believe when we feel in the middle of exile, with unfinished business around us and no clear path forward.  We cry out to you, trusting that you hear us this day and living in the confidence that you have for us a future with hope.  We believe; help us in our unbelief.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

Jeremiah 29:13-14 

 13 When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart, 14 I will let you find me, says the Lord, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, says the Lord, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile. 


The invitation to search for God is a daily one, an invitation offered in whatever context we find ourselves on a given day.  God allowed His people into exile so that they would seek him and find Him.  He is always there, ready to let us find Him as we place our search for Him an ever-growing top priority. 


How do you search for God each day? 


Where have you found God recently? 


What would it look like to place finding God above your plans? 


Gracious God, we are so easily focused on accomplishments and activities and the distractions of a busy life.  Help us to feel at home with you wherever we go and whatever we are doing.  May we look for you in all our work and play and find you because our hearts are devoted to you.  In Jesus name, Amen. 

Week of December 27 


Monday 

Psalm 63:1-2 

O God, you are my God, I seek you, 

my soul thirsts for you; 

my flesh faints for you, 

as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. 

So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, 

beholding your power and glory.


David pours out his longing to find God, recognizing that his desires are met in God.  Post-holidays, we may be experiencing a dry and weary land and ache to find God.  Today, as we worship the King in the humble stable, may we look for God and see his power and glory. 


What are you longing for? 


Where are you finding God in your longing? 


How are you looking for God in worship? 


Gracious God, we come today with our longings, knowing and believing that you are the One who meets us and sustains us.  In the midst of our dryness and weariness, help us to look for you today and behold your power and glory and worship you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Psalm 63: 3-4 

Because your steadfast love is better than life, 

my lips will praise you. 

So I will bless you as long as I live; 

I will lift up my hands and call on your name.


God is close to us and his love is sure.  As we live in the reality of God’s steadfast love, we can’t help but respond in praise and blessing.  In this liminal time between Christmas and the new year, we can call on God, who is always there in love. 


How do you experience God’s love in your life? 


How do you respond to God’s steadfast love? 


Where do you need to be assured of God’s love today? 


Gracious God, in a time when we are experiencing change and uncertainty on many levels, help us to remember that your love is steadfast.  May we praise you and bless you in all we do and call on you with confidence and gratitude.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.  

 

Wednesday 

Psalm 63:5-6 

My soul is satisfied as with a rich feast, 

and my mouth praises you with joyful lips 

when I think of you on my bed, 

and meditate on you in the watches of the night;


This psalm is filled with images of one who is dependent on and aware of God’s presence and love in all aspects of life and responds with gratitude and engagement with him throughout the day and night.  In a time that can feel dry and anxious, we can find fulness and peace in God’s faithful presence. 


When are the times during the day that you are most likely to be aware of God’s presence? 


How is God filling up the dry and anxious places of your life? 


How can you practice a greater awareness of God throughout your day and how might that impact your contentment and peace during this time? 


Gracious God, you are the one who satisfies us.  You are the one that is present with us when we are apart from those we love and when we are awake in the middle of the night.  Thank you for the invitation to live in your presence and help us to grow in our awareness of you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Thursday  

Psalm 63:7-8 

...for you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I sing for joy. 

My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me.” 


The notes for this psalm say that David wrote this while in the wilderness of Judah.  In these two verses, the psalmist expresses how God has helped him in a place of wild loneliness.  David has looked to God for help, protection, assurance and strength.  And God has been faithful and sure. 


How has the this last year felt like a wilderness to you? 


What have you learned about yourself? 


How has God been present with you and are there ways that you have grown in awareness of that presence? 


Gracious God, as we experience the wilderness of our lives at times, we trust in the words of the psalmist that you are our help, protection, assurance and strength.  Expand our awareness of you in all we do, that we might reflect you to those around us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday - 

Luke 2:25-32 

Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him.  It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah.  Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law,  Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying, 

“Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; 

for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” 


Simeon was an old man, who had been watching for the Messiah for many years, straining to catch sight of God’s consolation for all people.  His devotion and focus had prepared him to  recognize God-in-the-flesh when his parents brought Jesus to the temple.  In the midst of the temple rituals, God revealed Himself to the one who had the eyes to see. 


What have you been looking for this past year? 


Where have you seen God revealing Himself to you? 


How are you experiencing hope because of Christ’s presence in your life? 


Gracious God, as we end this year we confess the times when our focus, concerns, and worries have distracted us from the reality of your presence in and around us.  In this new year, help us to train ourselves to be aware of your loving presence that is always with us and to find delight and comfort knowing that you are near, drawing us to yourself in every circumstance.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Advent 2021 – O Come, O Come, Emmanuel 

Advent invites us to renew our invitation to Christ to enter our hearts and our worlds.  It takes a willingness on our part to be present with him, not perfect.  We invite him into the joy and sadness, the peace and the anxiety, the unity and the disunity that we are experiencing.  And he comes with his arms full of grace and mercy, happy to enter the chaos and mess of our lives and bring his light and healing.  What a blessing for our tired hearts!  Come, O Come, Emmanuel! 

Week of December 20th 

Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus 

Come, Thou long expected Jesus, born to set Thy people free; 

From our fears and sins release us; let us find our rest in Thee. 

Israel's strength and consolation, hope of all the earth Thou art; 

Dear Desire of every nation, Joy of every longing heart. 


Monday 

Psalm 130:5-8 

I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; 

my soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning, 

    more than those who watch for the morning. 

O Israel, hope in the Lord! 

    For with the Lord there is steadfast love, and with him is great power to redeem. 

It is he who will redeem Israel from all its iniquities.

 

Have you ever experienced the darkness and loneliness of night and strained toward the first glimpse of morning light?  King David experiences this in his waiting to encounter God.  And in his waiting, he invites the community of faith to continue to put their hope in the long-expected Jesus, who is coming to bring redemption and freedom. 


Where are you sitting in darkness, longing for light? 


What do you hear God inviting you to in the darkness? 


Is there someone with whom you can share the darkness and together wait for the redemption and freedom of Christ? 


Gracious Lord, we have long awaited you and now prepare for your coming once again.  Come to us, replace our fear with your love and our anxiety with your consolation.  In the dark, be present with us and point us toward your light of hope and freedom, that we might invite others around us to experience your redemptions.  Come, Lord Jesus, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Isaiah 53:4-6 

Surely he has borne our infirmities and carried our diseases; 

yet we accounted him stricken, struck down by God, and afflicted. 

But he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; 

upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed. 

All we like sheep have gone astray; we have all turned to our own way, 

and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 


These are such poignant verses, expressing the reality that we are prone to wander and misunderstand God’s redeeming work, and God’s relentless pursuit of us.  As we read these verses, we are humbled by our fragile human state, unable to see clearly yet, but even more than that, grateful for the relentless, loving pursuit of God as he heals and forgives and invites us to rest in him. 


What emotions do you feel reading these verses?  Gratitude? Guilt? Shame? Vulnerability? 


How do these verses invite healing, forgiveness, and rest?  What other invitations do you hear? 


Where do you find yourself going astray this week?  How is God inviting you back? 


Gracious Lord, we have long awaited you and now prepare for your coming once again.  Come to us, replace our fear with your love and our anxiety with your consolation.  In the dark, be present with us and point us toward your light of hope and freedom, that we might invite others around us to experience your redemptions.  Come, Lord Jesus, Amen. 

 

Wednesday 

Isaiah 40: 3-5 

A voice cries out: 

“In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, 

    make straight in the desert a highway for our God. 

Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; 

the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. 

Then the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all people shall see it together, 

    for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.” 


Wilderness suggests a wildness, a place where finding our way can be a challenge.  For many of us this last year, or even these last couple years, we have experienced wilderness in relationships, career, relocation, our health...the list goes on.  The prophet breaks into the wilderness, inviting us all to participate in make space in our wilderness for God to dwell, to smooth out some of the rough spots we are experiencing and to reveal His glory to us, in us, and around us.   


What have you experienced this past year that has been unexpected?   


Where do you need to find God? 


Who are the people around you who need to see the glory of God, even in your place of wilderness? 


Gracious Lord, we have long awaited you and now prepare for your coming once again.  Come to us, replace our fear with your love and our anxiety with your consolation.  In the dark, be present with us and point us toward your light of hope and freedom, that we might invite others around us to experience your redemptions.  Come, Lord Jesus, Amen. 


Thursday 

Luke 1:76-79 

“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; 

    for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, 

  to give knowledge of salvation to his people by the forgiveness of their sins. 

By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, 

   to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, 

    to guide our feet into the way of peace.” 


This is such a beautiful vision for John the Baptist, spoken over him by his father.  Zechariah had experienced 9 months of silence, which had allowed him to hear from God in ways that may have been missed.  This is the vision for all of us, that we prepare the way so that others can experience the tender mercy of God, his light, his comfort, his peace.  Even as we share it with others, may we always remember that we never outgrow our desperate need for God still. 


How has God prepared you for where you are right now? 


How are you experiencing God’s tender mercy, light, comfort, and peace? 


What does it look like to share your experience of God with others in ways that draw them in? 


Gracious Lord, we have long awaited you and now prepare for your coming once again.  Come to us, replace our fear with your love and our anxiety with your consolation.  In the dark, be present with us and point us toward your light of hope and freedom, that we might invite others around us to experience your redemptions.  Come, Lord Jesus, Amen. 


Friday, Christmas Eve 

Luke 2:8-15 

In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night.  Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, 

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” 

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” 


If we have been Christians for a while, we are so familiar with the Christmas story that we don’t connect with the beauty and sacredness of these accounts.  But here, while the rest of the world was going by, caught up in the politics, social concerns, and daily activities of life, a child was born, the Savior and Restorer of individuals and communities, healer of hearts and systems.  The good news of his birth was proclaimed to simple shepherds, people who were isolated, perhaps, by much of the distracting activity and able to hear the startling news of a Savior, and respond by saying, “Let us go and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” 


On this day before Christmas, what is distracting you from hearing and responding to the good news? 


How is the Savior’s birth good news to you this year? 


What is Jesus making known to you in this season, culminating in this Christmas day? 


Gracious Lord, we have long awaited you and now prepare for your coming once again.  Come to us, replace our fear with your love and our anxiety with your consolation.  In the dark, be present with us and point us toward your light of hope and freedom, that we might invite others around us to experience your redemptions.  Come, Lord Jesus, Amen. 

Week of December 13


Monday 


Isaiah 9:6-7 

For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; 

authority rests upon his shoulders; 

    and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, 

    Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 

His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace 

for the throne of David and his kingdom. 

    He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness 

    from this time onward and forevermore. 

The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. 


These words of promise are filled with hope for a world where peace reigns.  There are times when it is difficult to see how “his authority” is continuing to grow, but there is assurance that the moves we make toward peace with others are empowered by His presence born in us anew this season. 


What words in this passage give you hope? 


Where are you honoring the Prince of Peace in your relationships? 


How do you see Christ’s authority growing in you?  How are you being changed into his likeness? 


Gracious God, desire of all who live, remind us of your invitation to love and honor you first, and to live in peace with others out of our confidence in your authority over all.  May we be grieved by the divisions in our relationships that are not of you and seek unity as your beloved and forgiven children.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday 

Isaiah 42:1-4 

Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; 

I have put my spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations. 

He will not cry or lift up his voice, or make it heard in the street; 

a bruised reed he will not break, and a dimly burning wick he will not quench; 

    he will faithfully bring forth justice. 

He will not grow faint or be crushed until he has established justice in the earth; 

    and the coastlands wait for his teaching. 


There is a gentleness to Jesus’ coming that we do not always equate with authority.  The Spirit of Christ comes in quiet strength, relentless in his work of reconciliation that brings peace and justice.  This gentleness and kindness to those who are suffering is something that he invites us to as well. 


Where do you feel like a bruised reed?  What would the gentleness of Jesus look like for you? 


How easy is it for you to equate gentleness with authority?  As you think about how you lead or influence others, what qualities do you reflect? 


How would it look for you to lead with the gentleness that Jesus modeled?  Who in your life needs to experience the gentleness of Jesus? 


Gracious God, desire of all who live, remind us of your invitation to love and honor you first, and to live in peace with others out of our confidence in your authority over all.  May we be grieved by the divisions in our relationships that are not of you and seek unity as your beloved and forgiven children.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday 

Luke 2:10-14 

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.”  And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” 


What a surprise that the good news of a Savior was to shepherds and that this Savior would be found in a stable, wrapped in cloths.  God was glorified in the humble birth of Christ and poured out His peace for those he favors to share among them. 


What do you find humble and peaceful about your understanding and experience of God? 


Where do you need to experience the humble and peaceful presence of God in your life and 

relationships? 


Do you feel God’s favor?  If so, how does that influence the way you live in the world? 


Gracious God, desire of all who live, remind us of your invitation to love and honor you first, and to live in peace with others out of our confidence in your authority over all.  May we be grieved by the divisions in our relationships that are not of you and seek unity as your beloved and forgiven children.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday 

Ephesians 2:13, 14 

But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us.   


Paul sets out a theology of inclusion, where those who were once marginalized by the Jewish church are welcomed in because of Prince of Peace.  He has not only created access but united the divisions by his blood.  This invitation to unity is extended throughout history and is there in our present situation as well. 


How does the season of Advent guide you in your relationships with those with whom you disagree? 


Where do you need to feel included? 


Where are you hoping for peace and unity this season? 


Gracious God, desire of all who live, remind us of your invitation to love and honor you first, and to live in peace with others out of our confidence in your authority over all.  May we be grieved by the divisions in our relationships that are not of you and seek unity as your beloved and forgiven children.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday 

1 Corinthians 1:10-11 

Now I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you be in agreement and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same purpose. For it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there are quarrels among you, my brothers and sisters 


This week as we have brought the reality of the Prince of Peace into our daily lives, we hear the invitation from Him to drop our perspectives that set us apart from others and unite ourselves in one mind through Christ.  Quarrels happen when we hold on too tightly to our frame of reference as the only clear view of reality and disregard the perspectives of others.  Come, Lord Jesus!  Unite us in your peace! 


Where do you need to invite the peace of Christ into your relationships? 


Are there perspectives you hold that you need to loosen your grip on in order to give others room in the community of Christ? 


How does it feel to let go of the things that produce division in your relationships? 


Gracious God, desire of all who live, remind us of your invitation to love and honor you first, and to live in peace with others out of our confidence in your authority over all.  May we be grieved by the divisions in our relationships that are not of you and seek unity as your beloved and forgiven children.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of December 6 - 


“Oh come thou day-spring come and cheer our spirits by thine advent here 

Disperse the clouds of night and death's dark shadows put to flight.” 


Dayspring is another word for dawn.  In our Advent waiting, we invite Jesus to come as we invite the dawn to burst in and send the darkness scurrying.  This is especially meaningful in the dark of December when the nighttime darkness outlasts the daytime light daily.  What does it mean for us to open our hearts to the dawn and find Christ’s comfort and cheer even in our darkest places? 


Monday -  

Hosea 6: 3 -  

Let us know, let us press on to know the Lord; 

his appearing is as sure as the dawn; 

he will come to us like the showers, 

like the spring rains that water the earth.” 


Many of us have experienced a time when we feel alone in the middle of the night and strain to see the dawn come.  The first light brings hope for a new day.  As we invite Jesus to come as our dawn, he meets us in the loneliness and desolation of our lives and fills us with the light of his presence. 


What are you straining to see in the dawn of Christ’s coming? 


Are there places of darkness that you desire Him to fill? 


How are you cultivating the soil of your heart to see Him? 


Gracious God, Light of the World, we feel darkness all around, within us and around us.  We strain for the light of your coming.  Open our hearts to receive your light in all the places of our lives and relationships.  May your promise that light will overcome darkness come to fruition in us this Advent.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Tuesday -  

Psalm 139:10-11 

If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, 

    and the light around me become night,” 

 even the darkness is not dark to you; 

    the night is as bright as the day, 

    for darkness is as light to you. 


As we live between the now and the not yet, when Christ’s promises are all fulfilled, there are times when we find ourselves surrounded by darkness and unable to find a way out.  In those moments, God finds us and sits with us, not rushing the process of grief that accompanies darkness, but bringing his comforting and transformative presence into those spaces. 


Are there things that have happened to you that you need to grieve? 


How easy is it for you to imagine God sitting next to you, being patiently present and not anxious for you to rush out of it? 


Is there someone you need to share your grief with?  What would it look like to reach out to them? 


Gracious God, Light of the World, we feel darkness all around, within us and around us.  We strain for the light of your coming.  Open our hearts to receive your light in all the places of our lives and relationships.  May your promise that light will overcome darkness come to fruition in us this Advent.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Wednesday -  

Isaiah 60:1-3 

Arise, shine; for your light has come, 

    and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you. 

 For darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; 

but the Lord will arise upon you, and his glory will appear over you. 

Nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn. 


There are many references to light in the Old Testament, suggesting that the desire for light is inherent in all of us.  Regardless of our place on the journey of faith, we are inviting to continue to turn our face toward the light of Christ and let him illumine our hearts that we might live transparently in the world as light-bearers of the Dawn. 


How are you practicing turning toward the light in your walk with God? 


Where are you experiencing darkness, in and/or around you? 


How can you be a light-bearer of Christ in a way that draws people to Him? 


Gracious God, Light of the World, we feel darkness all around, within us and around us.  We strain for the light of your coming.  Open our hearts to receive your light in all the places of our lives and relationships.  May your promise that light will overcome darkness come to fruition in us this Advent.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Thursday -  

John 1: 4-5 

4 in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. 


John starts his gospel by declaring that Jesus is the light that was promised of old.  It is good news that just as a light banishes the darkness of a room when it is turn on, so Jesus’ light entered a dark world and the darkness had to flee.  This light, again we are reminded, is placed in each of us, animating our lives in ways that carry light into dark places. 


Is there a place in your house where you are most thankful for light?  Why? 


Where are you invited to bring the light that cannot be overcome by darkness? 


Where do you see the light of Christ overcoming darkness right now? 


Gracious God, Light of the World, we feel darkness all around, within us and around us.  We strain for the light of your coming.  Open our hearts to receive your light in all the places of our lives and relationships.  May your promise that light will overcome darkness come to fruition in us this Advent.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Friday -  

Isaiah 60:19-20 

The sun shall no longer be your light by day, 

nor for brightness shall the moon give light to you by night;  

but the Lord will be your everlasting light, 

    and your God will be your glory. 

Your sun shall no more go down, or your moon withdraw itself; 

for the Lord will be your everlasting light, 

    and your days of mourning shall be ended. 


In these verses are the invitation to find our light within us, where God dwells.  It is easy, sometimes to depend on the light of those around us – leaders, friends, news sources, family – to guide and comfort us and reassure us of God’s glory and work in the world.  But in this passage we are invited to receive Christ as our everlasting light, the One who brings guidance, comfort and healing. 


Are there ways that you might be relying on others’ light to bring you guidance and comfort? 


How does that distract you from listening to God and receiving his light? 


What does carrying the light of Christ within mean to you? 


Gracious God, Light of the World, we feel darkness all around, within us and around us.  We strain for the light of your coming.  Open our hearts to receive your light in all the places of our lives and relationships.  May your promise that light will overcome darkness come to fruition in us this Advent.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of November 29 - 


“O come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel 

That mourns in lonely exile here until the Son of God appears” 


Monday -  

Isaiah 35:10 

And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with singing; 

everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; 

they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. 


Zion was known as the place where God dwells.  In the words of this verse, there is an invitation to God’s people, a promise that they will come out of the anxiety and sadness and into the loving, comforting presence of God, through Jesus Christ. 


What is giving you joy during this season? 


What is causing you to mourn? 


How are you holding both of these emotions during this season in the presence of God? 


Gracious God, we invite you to come to us anew.  We welcome you into our hearts and our worlds, the beauty and chaos, the hopes and disappointments, the peace and anxiety.  Help us to be present with you that we might receive your gifts of grace and mercy that frees us from the lonely exile we find ourselves in.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday -  

Isaiah 51: 3 

For the Lord will comfort Zion; he will comfort all her waste places, 

and will make her wilderness like Eden, her desert like the garden of the Lord; 

joy and gladness will be found in her, thanksgiving and the voice of song. 


In this season, we bring all of who we are to God, in Christ, trusting that in His love He will fill our empty places and cause us to flourish.  In the midst of our wilderness and feelings of being stuck, we can find joy and thanksgiving, not because everything is perfect, but because God has become flesh and present with us. 


Where are the places of desolation in your life and relationships that you would like to hide from others and, perhaps, God? 


What do you hear God saying to you about those places as you invite Him in? 


Is there someone in your life who needs to feel the healing presence of God today?  How can you be His presence of peace to them? 


Gracious God, we invite you to come to us anew.  We welcome you into our hearts and our worlds, the beauty and chaos, the hopes and disappointments, the peace and anxiety.  Help us to be present with you that we might receive your gifts of grace and mercy that frees us from the lonely exile we find ourselves in.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday -  

Isaiah 52:7-10 

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace,
who brings good news, who announces salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.” 

Listen! Your sentinels lift up their voices, together they sing for joy; 

for in plain sight they see the return of the Lord to Zion. 

Break forth together into singing, you ruins of Jerusalem; 

for the Lord has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem. 

The Lord has bared his holy arm before the eyes of all the nations; 

and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God. 


As we sing, O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, we are the beautiful messengers of God, inviting Him to come as author and finisher of the good news that brings salvation, comfort, and peace to all individuals and all nations.  Though we may feel like those in exile, we are actually the agents of our God, who brings strength and salvation to all, through the humble entrance of Christ. 


Where do you see the salvation of the Lord in your daily context? 


How do you participate in the beautiful message of peace entrusted to you? 


Who can you pray for as you read that God’s salvation is seen by all nations to the ends of the earth? 


Gracious God, we invite you to come to us anew.  We welcome you into our hearts and our worlds, the beauty and chaos, the hopes and disappointments, the peace and anxiety.  Help us to be present with you that we might receive your gifts of grace and mercy that frees us from the lonely exile we find ourselves in.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday -  

Mark 10:45 

For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many. 


In a group of his followers who were vying for power, and in the context of a culture that craved positional power, Jesus laid out a purpose that surprises us, but also invites us to a new way of living.  As we welcome Him into our hearts and worlds this Advent, let us remember that He came to partner with us as we serve others and to be the One who ransoms us in our captivity.  


What does power look like to you? 


How do you use your power to serve others?  What makes this easy?  Difficult? 


Where do you feel captive and in need of being ransomed by Christ? 


Gracious God, we invite you to come to us anew.  We welcome you into our hearts and our worlds, the beauty and chaos, the hopes and disappointments, the peace and anxiety.  Help us to be present with you that we might receive your gifts of grace and mercy that frees us from the lonely exile we find ourselves in.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday -  

Isaiah 40:10-11 


See, the Lord God comes with might, and his arm rules for him; 

his reward is with him, and his recompense before him. 

He will feed his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms, 

and carry them in his bosom, and gently lead the mother sheep. 


Jesus comes with strength to ransom and redeem us, but he also comes gently, nurture us like a Shepherd, to gather us to himself, and to lead us in ways that are gracious and merciful.  As we receive his gentle strength and nurture, we can grow in capacity to extend those same gifts to others. 


Where do you need to experience Emmanuel’s strength today? 


Where do you need His gentle leading? 


How can you extend God’s gentle, strong presence to someone today?  What might that look like? 


Gracious God, we invite you to come to us anew.  We welcome you into our hearts and our worlds, the beauty and chaos, the hopes and disappointments, the peace and anxiety.  Help us to be present with you that we might receive your gifts of grace and mercy that frees us from the lonely exile we find ourselves in.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of November 8 - 

Monday -  


1 John 3:4-8 

4 Everyone who commits sin is guilty of lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. 5 You know that he was revealed to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. 6 No one who abides in him sins; no one who sins has either seen him or known him. 7 Little children, let no one deceive you. Everyone who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. 8 Everyone who commits sin is a child of the devil; for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The Son of God was revealed for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil. 


These are not pleasant words to read as we ponder the security of our life with Christ while at the same time, knowing our propensity to fall short in our actions, attitudes, and thoughts.  There is a great 2-prong reminder in this passage as well, that Jesus came to take away sins and to destroy the works of the devil.  When we allow Christ to form his redeeming character in us, our bent toward evil begins to fade. 


What emotions do you experience as you read vs. 4 and vs. 8? 


What does Christ say in his words and deeds to your awareness that you have fallen short? 


Where do you need Christ to destroy the works of the devil in your life? 


Gracious God, as your children, we reflect you and your character.  When we act out of character, we stray into looking more like the world and doing the acts of the devil.  Thank you for coming in the Person of Christ for our salvation and our empowerment to overcome the works of the devil in this world and in our lives.  Help us never to forget that we need you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Tuesday - 


1 John 3:9-11 

  9 Those who have been born of God do not sin, because God’s seed abides in them; they cannot sin, because they have been born of God. 10 The children of God and the children of the devil are revealed in this way: all who do not do what is right are not from God, nor are those who do not love their brothers and sisters. 11 For this is the message you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. 


John sets the standard high for those born of God, whose spirits have been infused with the Spirit of God.  There is a righteousness to our character as God’s children, a righteousness that reflects him.  But there is also love.  Our belonging to God as his beloved children is reflected in the way we live, but also in the way we love.  That can be the more difficult way, but it is also the more excellent way. 


Where do you see the seed of God’s Spirit growing in your attitude, thoughts, and/or actions? 


Who around you are the recipients of your love?  What does that look like? 


How can your life be more infused with the love that marks the beloved children of God? 


Gracious God, thank you for entering our lives through your Spirit when we yield to you, deepening in us your character from which can flow attitudes, thoughts, and actions that reflect your love for the world.  Give us the capacity to love even as you are transforming us to your beautiful image.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday - 

 

1 John 3:12-15 

 12 We must not be like Cain who was from the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother’s righteous. 13 Do not be astonished, brothers and sisters, that the world hates you. 14 We know that we have passed from death to life because we love one another. Whoever does not love abides in death. 15 All who hate a brother or sister are murderers, and you know that murderers do not have eternal life abiding in them. 


John is inviting his readers to see the world differently, not as a place of belonging but as a context in which to love one another.  Jesus warns that the world will hate the disciples and John is living this and passing it on to the next generation.  AND he is inviting the readers to continue to follow Christ and reflect Him, rather than sliding into the way of the world. 


How is your relationship with the world? 


Do you have expectations of your relationship with the world that may be unrealistic for you as a follower of Christ? 


How are you living against the grain of the world? 


Gracious God, this world gives us much joy, and it is easy to forget that it is not our true source of affirmation, encouragement and sense of belonging.  Help us to love one another without limits as we find our place of belonging in you, the One who loves us perfectly.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday - 

  

1 John 3:16-20 

 16 We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us—and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. 17 How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help?  18 Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action. 19 And by this we will know that we are from the truth and will reassure our hearts before him 20 whenever our hearts condemn us; for God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. 

Theologian Walter Bruggemann once said, “we seem to be willing to die for the sake of others, but we are less willing to be inconvenienced by others.”  


In this passage John is bringing the call to follow Jesus to where the rubber meets the road.  We can spend a lot of time in our heads, asking questions and working out theoretical scenarios, but our love, infused by and sourced in God and acted out in meeting the needs before us – that is what assures us of our belonging to Him. 


Who is inconveniencing you right now? 


What would it look like to step in and love them freely? 


What does it mean to you that, “God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything?”  What do you need to acknowledge that he knows and lay before him? 


Gracious God, we can spend so much time hiding who we are – from you, from ourselves, from others.  And yet you invite us in love to live openly with one another, covered by your forgiveness and grace and because of that, able to extend that same grace to others.  Lord Jesus, make it so in our lives.  In your name, Amen. 

 

Friday - 


1 John 3:21-24 

 21 Beloved, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have boldness before God; 22 and we receive from him whatever we ask, because we obey his commandments and do what pleases him.  23 And this is his commandment, that we should believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us. 24 All who obey his commandments abide in him, and he abides in them. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit that he has given us.  


It is a pretty profound thought that the Spirit of God abides in us, and we abide in God.  We are invited to communion with the One who created and reconciled the world, planting his character of love in us.  There is a boldness that comes with believing that Jesus reconciled us to God, giving us the opportunity and the freedom to follow him and love one another.  We are not competing with one another, but connecting with each other in Christ. 


Where do you experience division among other followers of Christ? 


What do you hear God speaking into that division? 


What might be yours to do in bridging that gap in love? 


Gracious God, in this time of division, our hearts are broken for the ways that your children have experienced estrangement from one another.  We confess the ways that we have placed our preferences and non-essential convictions above your command to love one another and trust you for our reconciliation to you.  Forgive us, we pray, and show us new ways to love one another for your glory and the benefit of your children, and the well-being of the world.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of November 1 -

Monday - 


1 John 2:21-23

 21 I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and you know that no lie comes from the truth. 22 Who is the liar but the one who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, the one who denies the Father and the Son. 23 No one who denies the Son has the Father; everyone who confesses the Son has the Father also. 


John is aware of the struggle to remember the truth in the midst of so many other voices that want to add, change, or take away from it.  The truth his readers need to hear and remember is that Jesus is the Christ, God made flesh, the only one who can and does save.  


When we hold fast to this truth, we can develop lenses to see the world as God does – worthy of God’s sacrificial love. 


Where do you look for truth? 


How does your conviction about who Jesus is express itself in your relationship with God?  With others? 

How does your understanding of God’s love for the world impact the way you walk in the world? 


Gracious God, thank you for the reminder of the deep mystery of you becoming flesh in order to reconcile us to you.  Purify our understanding of and commitment to the truth that Jesus is the Christ, the One who saves, so that we might live as beloved children in a world that is hurting.  In Jesus’ precious name, Amen. 

 

Tuesday - 


1 John 2:24-25 

 24 Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you will abide in the Son and in the Father. 25 And this is what he has promised us, eternal life. 


John repeats the invitation to return to what they first heard.  He uses the word, abide, a reminder of Jesus’ invitation to his followers to abide.  His promise of eternal life isn’t just a future promise, but the present experience of our relationship with God as we abide in Him. 


How are you cultivating this invitation to abide? 


Are there things about your faith that you have forgotten that you are, perhaps, being invited to remember? 


How are you experiencing eternal life right now? 


Gracious God, thank you for your invitation to abide in communion with the Trinity.  Help us to return to a place where you first drew us to you, where we can rest in the reality of your love for us, and live out of that place of abiding in you, bearing fruit that reflects you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Wednesday - 


1 John 2:26-27 

26 I write these things to you concerning those who would deceive you. 27 As for you, the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and so you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, abide in him. 


John reminds the readers, the church, that they have received the anointing, or as we call it, the Holy Spirit, who continues to teach us and empower us to abide in God.  As an oracle way back wrote, Bidden or not bidden, God is present. Our invitation as the church and as individuals is to cultivate space in our lives to lean in to the Spirit and humbly receive his nurture and teaching.  


What practices do you have that cultivate an awareness of the Spirit? 


What are you learning from the Spirit right now? 


What would you like to ask of or say to the Spirit? 


Gracious Trinity, thank you that we participate in your ongoing life on this earth as your image bearers and carriers of your Spirit.  Draw us into you and teach us your way that we might discern truth and walk in a way that honors you and blesses others.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Thursday - 


1 John 2:28-29 

28 And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he is revealed we may have confidence and not be put to shame before him at his coming.  29 If you know that he is righteous, you may be sure that everyone who does right has been born of him. 

John uses the word, abide, throughout the last few verses of this.  For him, this is central to the experience of the follower of Christ.  


When we abide in God, we draw all we need to walk in confidence of his grace and to discern and affirm his righteousness in every nook and cranny of the world. 


How easy is it for you to walk in confidence and free of shame?  What voices poke holes in your sense of confidence?  


Where do you see God at work through others, making things right? 


How are you participating in God’s mission of righteousness in the world? 


Gracious God, your first invitation is to abide, before we work for you or go out and do anything for you.  Help us to set up space in our lives where we can be with you, free of distractions and experience your unconditional love as your beloved children.  May all we do flow out of our confidence in your unfailing love for us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Friday - 


1 John 3:1-3 

 1 See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 2 Beloved, we are God’s children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed. What we do know is this: when he is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him as he is. 3 And all who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure. 


John reminds us that God calls us his beloved children, even if the resemblance isn’t seen by the world.  There is a transformation that takes place in our lives as we live in the confidence that 1) nothing can shake our identity as God’s children; and 2) when we see Him face to face, we will be full transformed into his likeness.  This confidence and hope inspires us to continue to seek to be formed to the image of Christ now. 


How does it feel for you to be the beloved child of a perfect Father?   


How does your identity as a beloved child of God instill confidence and hope in your life? 


Where do you need to see God more clearly? 


Gracious God, perfect Father, we belong to you as your beloved children.  Thank you for the characteristics that are already growing in us as you work in us continues.  Help us to trust in your perfect revelation that will transform us into a perfect reflection of you.  Give us patience with ourselves as we seek to be formed into the image of Christ throughout our lives.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of October 18 - 


Monday -

  

Mark 10 46-51 (Part 2) –  


“46 They came to Jericho. As he and his disciples and a large crowd were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the roadside. 47 When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 48 Many sternly ordered him to be quiet, but he cried out even more loudly, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 49 Jesus stood still and said, “Call him here.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart; get up, he is calling you.” 50 So throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. 51 Then Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man said to him, “My teacher,[g] let me see again.” 52 Jesus said to him, “Go; your faith has made you well.” Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way.” 


Today as we look at this passage a second time, we focus on the disciples’ response to Bartimaeus.  They didn’t want to be bothered by this blind beggar and sought to silence him so they could continue on their way.  Jesus stopped and invited him to come.  We follow his example by allowing ourselves to be interrupted and extending his love to others. 


Who needs your attention today? 


What can you do to extend the love of Jesus to them? 


What might keep you from reaching out to others? 


Gracious God, we confess that at times we are focused on where we are going and not open to the disruptions that come our way.  Help us to see the people around us as you do, and take the time to share your love with them.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 

 

Tuesday -  


1 John 1:1-4

 

We declare to you what was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and touched with our hands, concerning the word of life— 2 this life was revealed, and we have seen it and testify to it, and declare to you the eternal life that was with the Father and was revealed to us— 3 we declare to you what we have seen and heard so that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ. 4 We are writing these things so that our joy may be complete. 


As we begin to walk our way through John’s first letter to his beloved readers, he establishes his “credentials” for declaring what he is about to say.  His letter is a testimony, based on his eyewitness accounts of Jesus’ work and words.  As Jesus’ followers, we too have stories of His faithfulness that are based on our experiences and are worth sharing. 


When have you experienced an encounter with Jesus? 


What was unexpected about it?  What emotions did it stir in you? 


How would it feel to share that encounter with someone else? 


Gracious God, thank you for the many ways you reveal yourself to us.  Help us to enter into those moments and cultivate awareness of your presence and hear your voice.  May our stories be peppered with the stories of how you came to us and made us new and may we be filled with joy in remembering your faithfulness to us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Wednesday -  


1 John 1:5-7 


5 This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light and in him there is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him while we are walking in darkness, we lie and do not do what is true; 7 but if we walk in the light as he himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. 


John, who spent time with Jesus, sums up the gospel message in vs. 5 – God is light and in God there is no darkness at all.  There are echoes of his words in the first chapter of his gospel, this theme of light that always overcomes.  Over the next verses, John starts to unpack the contrast between living in light versus living in darkness. 


What words or phrases does John use to describe darkness? 


What words or phrases does John use to describe light? 


How is John’s description of light also a description God? 


Gracious God, thank you that you are light and invite us to live in the light with you.  We acknowledge that it requires a surrender to your loving ways, illumined by your presence, and confess our tendency to stumble around in denial and deception.  We need you and ask that you will help us to come to the light of your presence.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday - 


1 John 1:8-10

 

8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. 


As John continues, he points out to his readers that part of living in the dark is thinking we are actually living in the light.  How easy it can be to use our own spirituality as a frame of reference for light.  But our goal is not to deem ourselves as sinless but to live in a posture of dependence on Jesus for forgiveness and transformation. 


What comes to mind as you ponder these words? 


What would it look like to maintain a posture of receiving Jesus’ forgiveness and transformation daily?   


How would a posture of dependence on God to remain in the light through confession and surrender impact your relationships with others? 


Gracious God, you fill me with your light, not because I am perfect, but because I am honest and vulnerable with you.  Give me the humility to acknowledge my dependence on you for forgiveness and gracious transformation so that my relationships with others reflect that same character.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Friday - 

 

1 John 2:1-2

 

My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; 2 and he is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. 


John demonstrates an understanding of our nature, one that desires not to sin but at the same time can’t help it.  He talks about the “now and the not yet” in a future passage.  His words give us forgiveness for the past, mercy for the present and hope for the future. 


How do you hold your desire to not sin and your tendency toward sin at the same time? 


What do you hear God saying in the midst of this reality? 


Who in your life needs to hear that in Christ we have an advocate, one who pleads our case and lays down his life for our forgiveness? 


Gracious God, thank you for being present with us in the space between the “now and the not yet.”  We need your forgiveness and mercy to live for you in this world.  Help us to receive the reality of our state, and the greater reality of your atoning work and forgiveness, and to live among others in the light of your mercy.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Week of October 11 - 

Monday - 


Mark 2:13-17 

13 Jesus went out again beside the sea; the whole crowd gathered around him, and he taught them. 14 As he was walking along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him. 

15 And as he sat at dinner in Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were also sitting with Jesus and his disciples—for there were many who followed him. 16 When the scribes of the Pharisees saw that he was eating with sinners and tax collectors, they said to his disciples, “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 17 When Jesus heard this, he said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.” 


Jesus extended the invitation to follow him to a tax collector and in so doing, had dinner with people who needed to hear the good news.  What a contrast to the religious leaders, who would never associate with those who needed salvation because their reputation was more important than reaching out to the “sick.” 

When has someone reached out to you? 


Are there ways that you disassociate yourself from a group of people for fear that your reputation will be at stake? 


What would it look like to focus some of your energy on being with those who need to hear the good news of Jesus? 


Gracious God, thank you for reaching out and inviting us to follow you.  In our gratitude, help us to invite others who need you to hear you and encounter your grace.  Keep us from the desire to protect ourselves at the cost of reaching out.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Tuesday - 

  

Mark 3:13-19 

“13 He went up the mountain and called to him those whom he wanted, and they came to him. 14 And he appointed twelve, whom he also named apostles, to be with him, and to be sent out to proclaim the message, 15 and to have authority to cast out demons. 16 So he appointed the twelve: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter); 17 James son of Zebedee and John the brother of James (to whom he gave the name Boanerges, that is, Sons of Thunder); 18 and Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Cananaean, 19 and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.” 


As followers of Christ we are wanted, appointed, in relationship with him, and sent.  As we read the list of the disciples, we may know the stories about them that unfold in the gospels, and we can find comfort in the truth that Jesus invites us to follow him because he wants us, not because we have earned it. 


Which of these words that describe a follower of Christ resonates with you? 


In this season of your life, to whom are you able to proclaim the message in word and deed? 


Knowing that all of Jesus’ followers are wanted and appointed by him, how is that reflected in your relationships with one another? 


Gracious God, the thought that you want us, and delight in us leaves us in awe.  Remind us that our belonging is not exclusive, but you also send us to invite others to come as well.  May our relationship with you be reflected in our relationship with our neighbors and our relationship with your followers.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Wednesday - 

 

Mark 4:1-9 

Again he began to teach beside the sea. Such a very large crowd gathered around him that he got into a boat on the sea and sat there, while the whole crowd was beside the sea on the land. 2 He began to teach them many things in parables, and in his teaching he said to them: 3 “Listen! A sower went out to sow. 4 And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5 Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil, and it sprang up quickly, since it had no depth of soil. 6 And when the sun rose, it was scorched; and since it had no root, it withered away. 7 Other seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no grain. 8 Other seed fell into good soil and brought forth grain, growing up and increasing and yielding thirty and sixty and a hundredfold.” 9 And he said, “Let anyone with ears to hear listen!” 


In this oft-repeated parable, Jesus describes the proclaiming of the good news as the sowing of seed.  The sower is lavish, even reckless in the way he sows, knowing that the supply of seed, or the good news, is limitless.  We are invited to prepare our hearts to receive the good news throughout our lives by continuing to allow the soil of our hearts to be transformed by the work of the Holy Spirit. 


What are you learning or experiencing about the good news of God that needs to make its way deeply into your heart? 


Are there worries, fears, convictions, or other distractions that may be keeping you from allowing God’s truth to sink in? 


How is the good news of God growing and increasing in you, so that you are producing good fruit? 


Gracious God, thank you for the way you continually and faithfully reveal yourself to us, whether we receive it or not.  Help us to participate in the life you’ve given us in a way that keeps us receptive to the work you want to do in and through us, that your name may be glorified and your good news spread to many.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Thursday -  


Mark 4:35-41 

35 On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” 36 And leaving the crowd behind, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. Other boats were with him. 37 A great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already being swamped. 38 But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke him up and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” 39 He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. 40 He said to them, “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” 41 And they were filled with great awe and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” 


Read through this passage several times.  What word or phrase stirs something in you? 


Where is Jesus in the storms of your life? 


As you read through this passage again, consider, what is God inviting you to in this moment? 


Gracious God, there are times when what we are experiencing is so overwhelming, we forget who you are and that you care deeply about what is happening in and around us.  Give us the faith to trust you in the storm and to live in awe of your power and love.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Extra:  Here is a link to a song inspired by this passage that was written and performed by The Porter’s Gate during the pandemic and the racial unrest around the death of George Floyd - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKl2D35fyw4 


Friday -  


Mark 10: 46-52 

“46 They came to Jericho. As he and his disciples and a large crowd were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the roadside. 47 When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 48 Many sternly ordered him to be quiet, but he cried out even more loudly, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 49 Jesus stood still and said, “Call him here.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart; get up, he is calling you.” 50 So throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. 51 Then Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man said to him, “My teacher, let me see again.” 52 Jesus said to him, “Go; your faith has made you well.” Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way.” 


This is part one of two days in this passage.  Bartimaeus, blind and poor, never lost hope in the healing power of Jesus nor his longing to see again.  When he heard Jesus, he yelled for mercy, despite resistance.  Imagine Jesus standing before, hands gently around your face, asking you, What do you want me to do for you?   


What are you longing for? 


What would it look like to ask Jesus for the desires of your heart? 


How has Jesus’ healing work in your life caused you to follow him? 


Gracious God, it is difficult to audaciously ask you for the desires of our heart.  Not all are of you, but acknowledging them is an opportunity for transformation. Not all are able to be granted, and this provides a place you can grieve with us and hold us close.  Give us the grace to be honest before you and open to the work you desire to do in our lives.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.   

Week of October 4th -  

Monday -

Psalm 119:145-152 

“145 With my whole heart I cry; answer me, O Lord.

I will keep your statutes.

146 I cry to you; save me,

that I may observe your decrees.

147 I rise before dawn and cry for help;

I put my hope in your words.

148 My eyes are awake before each watch of the night,

that I may meditate on your promise.

149 In your steadfast love hear my voice;

O Lord, in your justice preserve my life.

150 Those who persecute me with evil purpose draw near;

they are far from your law.

151 Yet you are near, O Lord,

and all your commandments are true.

152 Long ago I learned from your decrees

that you have established them forever.” 

David cries out to God wholeheartedly – for salvation, at all hours of the night, in the morning, when antagonists are near – all in the hope that what God says is true and everlasting.  His enemies may be near – whether physical, spiritual, or emotional – but he knows that the Lord is nearer. 

What about this passage did you need to hear today? 

How have you experienced the nearness of God? 

How can you bring the nearness of God into your day? 

Gracious God, thank you for your presence that is near in the light of day and dark of night.  We pray that in your steadfast love, you will preserve our lives despite the adversity that comes near.  Thank you that you promise to be near and help us to practice the awareness of your nearness throughout our day.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Tuesday -

Psalm 119:153-160 

“153 Look on my misery and rescue me,

for I do not forget your law.

154 Plead my cause and redeem me;

give me life according to your promise.

155 Salvation is far from the wicked,

for they do not seek your statutes.

156 Great is your mercy, O Lord;

give me life according to your justice.

157 Many are my persecutors and my adversaries,

yet I do not swerve from your decrees.

158 I look at the faithless with disgust,

because they do not keep your commands.

159 Consider how I love your precepts;

preserve my life according to your steadfast love.

160 The sum of your word is truth;

and every one of your righteous ordinances endures forever.” 

As David continues to pour out his heart to God, he acknowledges the mercy of God at the same time as presence of wicked.  We live in this place as well, where there is evil around us and there is the mercy and salvation of God.  With the confidence that God’s ways are enduring, we can live as recipients and agents of his steadfast love to all we share our communities with. 

Where in your life do you need to experience God’s salvation and truth? 

How easy is it to experience the steadfast love of God?  Where do you see it in your life and the lives of others? 

What does it look like for you to live in a world where the mercy of God co-exists with evil?  How are you participating as an agent of God’s mercy in your context? 

Gracious God, it is easy to be overwhelmed with what is happening in our world.  We may disagree on what is evil but we are united around the truth of your love and mercy that transcends all.  Give us your eyes to see the world as you do, and to participate in the good work you are doing for your glory and for the sake of others.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.  

Wednesday -   

Psalm 119:161-168 

“161 Princes persecute me without cause,

but my heart stands in awe of your words.

162 I rejoice at your word

like one who finds great spoil.

163 I hate and abhor falsehood,

but I love your law.

164 Seven times a day I praise you

for your righteous ordinances.

165 Great peace have those who love your law;

nothing can make them stumble.

166 I hope for your salvation, O Lord,

and I fulfill your commandments.

167 My soul keeps your decrees;

I love them exceedingly.

168 I keep your precepts and decrees,

for all my ways are before you.” 

In this passage, David starts by lamenting the persecution he feels from those who may have worldly power over him, but then sets that aside to declare the wonder of following God.  His words are filled with love, hope, peace, and openness to his Lord which outshines any pressure he experiences from outside authority. 

How easy is it for you to focus your attention on the goodness of God in the midst of difficulty? 

What reminders have you set during the day to stop and lift up praises to God? 

What do you need from God today - righteousness, peace, hope, love, contentment? 

Gracious God, it is so easy to focus on the turmoil around us and lose sight of you.  Help us to build reminders into our lives to return to you and find all that we need.  Give us a love for you and your ways that spills over into our love for others, that they might experience wonder and awe of encountering you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Thursday -

Psalm 119:169-176

“169 Let my cry come before you, O Lord;

give me understanding according to your word.

170 Let my supplication come before you;

deliver me according to your promise.

171 My lips will pour forth praise,

because you teach me your statutes.

172 My tongue will sing of your promise,

for all your commandments are right.

173 Let your hand be ready to help me,

for I have chosen your precepts.

174 I long for your salvation, O Lord,

and your law is my delight.

175 Let me live that I may praise you,

and let your ordinances help me.

176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek out your servant,

for I do not forget your commandments.” 

This marks the end of Psalm 119, with David committing his words to God and asking for God’s deliverance.  He ends with a request that God would seek him out, because while he remembers God’s commandments, he still is inclined to go astray.  This can be our prayer to God today. 

What do you find delightful about the law of the Lord? 

How do you use your life and words as an instrument of praise to God? 

In what area of your life do you feel yourself going astray and in need of being sought out by God? 

Gracious God, thank you for the words of David that echo our own desires for you, as well as our need for you to rescue us and keep us in your ways by your Spirit.  Help us to find our delight in you and your word so that in all we do, we are compelled by your love and truth.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 Friday -

Psalm 119

We’ve covered a lot of ground as we have prayed our way through Psalm 119 over the last few weeks.  I invite you to take a few minutes to recall what you remember, what has stirred you, and where there is a new invitation in your journey with Christ. 

Is there a word or phrase that comes to mind as you remember your time reading Psalm 119? 

Where did you hear the word differently than before?  Why was it that you heard it differently? 

What is God inviting you to out of this psalm?  What does it look like to accept his invitation? 

Gracious God – you promise in Isaiah 55 that your word will not return to you without accomplishing the purposes for which you sent it.  Thank you for revealing your heart to us in new ways through Psalm 119.  As we remember what you have shown us, help it to sink into the deep fertile soil of our souls and reap a harvest that reflects you and fills us with the joy of knowing you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of September 13th - 

Monday - 

Psalm 119:61-64 

“61 Though the cords of the wicked ensnare me, 

I do not forget your law. 

62 At midnight I rise to praise you, 

because of your righteous ordinances. 

63 I am a companion of all who fear you, 

of those who keep your precepts. 

64 The earth, O Lord, is full of your steadfast love; 

teach me your statutes.” 


David acknowledges that we live in a world where we can be tripped up by wickedness while at the same time remembering God’s hand on our lives.  He encounters God in worship (even in the middle of the night), in the companionship of friends, and in the world around him.   


Where are you encountering God in these times? 


Are there places in your life where you feel tripped up by wickedness? 


Who can you reach out to today as a companion to encourage them in the faith? 


Gracious God, thank you that your presence is all around us, day and night, in our companions and in the earth.  Give us eyes to see and transform our hearts to learn from you.  Help us to hear your voice and to encourage others as they follow you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday - 

Psalm 119:65-68 

“65 You have dealt well with your servant, 

O Lord, according to your word. 

66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge, 

for I believe in your commandments. 

67 Before I was humbled I went astray, 

but now I keep your word. 

68 You are good and do good; 

teach me your statutes.” 


David repeated this prayer throughout his life, asking God to deal well with him, to teach him, to bring him back when he goes astray.  It is a prayer that we also repeat throughout our lives, believing that God is good and does good for us and for those around us. 


Where do you need God to work in your life this week? 


When have you been drawn back to God? 


“You are good and do good.”  Where do you see this truth in and around you? 


Gracious God, you are good and you do good.  Thank you for your ongoing patient work in us.  As we look to you wherever we are in life, give us good judgment and knowledge and eyes to see the world as you do.  Give us a willingness to engage the world with your love.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday -  

Psalm 119:69-72 

“69 The arrogant smear me with lies, 

but with my whole heart I keep your precepts. 

70 Their hearts are fat and gross, 

but I delight in your law. 

71 It is good for me that I was humbled, 

so that I might learn your statutes. 

72 The law of your mouth is better to me 

than thousands of gold and silver pieces.” 


I have to laugh at David’s presumptive description of the hearts of his antagonists.  As he describes this experience, he comes to acknowledge that although it is difficult to be treated poorly by others, it was an opportunity for him to draw closer to God and his ways, and to value the voice of God above all else. 


Have you experienced unfair treatment?  Where was God in this experience? 


How have the bumps and bruises that you have experienced along the way been an opportunity for you to draw closer to 

God? 


How easy is it for you to echo David’s words, “the law of your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces.”? 


Gracious God, thank you that you are present with us in our difficult encounters with others. Thank you that we can be honest with you about how we are feeling, even as we come to understand how you use all things to draw us closer to you.  Help us to love you and your way above all else.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday -  

Psalm 119:73-77 

“Your hands have made and fashioned me; 

give me understanding that I may learn your commandments. 

74 Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice, 

because I have hoped in your word. 

75 I know, O Lord, that your judgments are right, 

and that in faithfulness you have humbled me. 

76 Let your steadfast love become my comfort 

according to your promise to your servant. 

77 Let your mercy come to me, that I may live; 

for your law is my delight.” 


As believers, we read and live these words through the lens of knowing Christ.  We can echo these words as we imagine Jesus, through the Spirit, standing before us.  And through the Spirit, we can experience the understanding, hope, faithfulness, mercy, and steadfast love of Christ and in turn, share it with others. 


How have you seen the desires of David’s heart fulfilled in your own life through relationship with Jesus? 


Where is the Spirit working in your life, forming you into the image of Christ? 


How are you living into the invitation to be a recipient as well as an agent of the understanding, hope, faithfulness, mercy, and steadfast love of Christ? 


Gracious God, you invite us as your people to be in relationship with you.  In you we trust that we are being formed to your image for the sake of others.  Thank you for your mercy that is new every morning as we seek to be faithful to you.  Help us to extend to others the invitation that you have graciously extended to us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday -  

Psalm 119:78-80 

“78 Let the arrogant be put to shame, 

because they have subverted me with guile; 

as for me, I will meditate on your precepts. 

79 Let those who fear you turn to me, 

so that they may know your decrees. 

80 May my heart be blameless in your statutes, 

so that I may not be put to shame.” 


In these verses, David cries out to God that those who attack him would experience the consequences of their actions.  Then, he releases his focus on the arrogant so that he can turn his attention to God and those who desire to follow him.  In these words we are encouraged to cry out to God in honesty about where we feel we have been treated unfairly and they let go so that we can hold on to the truthful and loving ways of God. 


Are there feelings of anger or hurt that you feel toward someone that is distracting you from fully focusing on God? 


Write a prayer to God, releasing the hold that they have on your life through the hurt and anger you feel. 


What can you do during this time to create a place of community among those who fear and love the Lord? 


Gracious God, it is so easy to either deny the hurt we feel when someone has harmed us or to place all our attention on it.  Help us to forgive and let go of the debt we may feel others owe us so that we can fully attend to the loving work you desire to do in and through us.  Help us to encourage others in the faith by reaching out in faithfulness to them.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of September 6th - 

Monday - 

Psalm 119:41-44 

“41 Let your steadfast love come to me, O Lord, 

your salvation according to your promise. 

42 Then I shall have an answer for those who taunt me, 

for I trust in your word. 

43 Do not take the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, 

for my hope is in your ordinances. 

44 I will keep your law continually, 

forever and ever.” 


In the psalmist’s words there is a receiving of God’s steadfast love and at the end of the passage, David’s own commitment to steadfastness.  He finds love, salvation, and truth in the presence of God’s word, which empowers him to interact in love to those around him remain faithful to God each day. 


How does the steadfast love of God empower you to respond to those around you? 


Are there words of truth that you are struggling to believe? 


Where might God be calling you to keep his law continually? 


Gracious God, thank you for your steadfast love and salvation.  Help us to accept these gifts from you so that we can be your agents of love to those we encounter.  Help us to believe your truth and to walk in your ways each day, all day.  We love you. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday - 

Psalm 119:45-48 

“45 I shall walk at liberty, 

for I have sought your precepts. 

46 I will also speak of your decrees before kings, 

and shall not be put to shame; 

47 I find my delight in your commandments, 

because I love them. 

48 I revere your commandments, which I love, 

and I will meditate on your statutes.” 


In this section of the psalm, David makes no requests of God; he only declares his love of and commitment to God’s word.  He proclaims that in following God’s way, he experiences liberty, freedom from shame, and delight.   


What emotions do you bring to your reading of scripture? 


How do you see following God bringing you liberty, freedom from shame, and delight in your own life?  Are there other things you experience as well? 


Gracious God, thank you for your invitation to liberty, freedom from shame, and delight that we can find in your word.  Help us to love your word because we know that you will reveal yourself to us.  Give us a heart to see you so that our lives might reflect you to those around us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday -  

Psalm 119:49-52 

“Remember your word to your servant, 

in which you have made me hope. 

50 This is my comfort in my distress, 

that your promise gives me life. 

51 The arrogant utterly deride me, 

but I do not turn away from your law. 

52 When I think of your ordinances from of old, 

I take comfort, O Lord.” 


The word hope in vs. 49 can also be translated wait, but it is a hope-filled wait.  David reminds God of his word even as he waits with expectancy for him to be present and fulfill his promises.  David finds comfort in God’s promises when he feels distress from within and when he is misunderstood and ridiculed by those around him.  He waits in expectation and finds comfort in God and his word. 


What are you in hopeful expectancy for before God? 


In what area of your life do you need God’s comfort? 


Are there places where you feel misunderstood by others?  How does God’s comfort guide you in those times? 


Gracious God, we continue to feel the isolation of quarantine.  While it has become the new normal in many ways, we have lost much in the way of connection with others.  Help us to find our comfort in you during this time, as we wait in hope-filled expectancy for you to reveal yourself to us.  Help us to comfort others with the comfort we experience in you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Thursday - 

Psalm 119:53-56 

“53 Hot indignation seizes me because of the wicked, 

those who forsake your law. 

54 Your statutes have been my songs 

wherever I make my home. 

55 I remember your name in the night, O Lord, 

and keep your law. 

56 This blessing has fallen to me, 

for I have kept your precepts.” 


“Hot indignation seizes me” is strong wording to describe David’s feelings as he observes those who forsake God’s word.  It can feel lonely and dry to live among others who do not follow Jesus.  David goes on to affirm that he finds home and belonging where he is because he remembers the music of God’s ways and enjoys the blessings of living in step with God. 


What emotions to you experience as you interact with people who don’t follow Jesus? 


How do you find belonging in the words of God? 


What does it look like to communicate the blessing and belonging of the Lord to those around you? 


Gracious God, it can be so isolating and disheartening when we have no one who seems to follow you around us.  In those times, help us to remember that we belong to you and are blessed to find home with you.  Help us to act out of the assurance that you are with us and be your agents of blessing to those around us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday - 

Psalm 119:57-64 

“57 The Lord is my portion; 

I promise to keep your words. 

58 I implore your favor with all my heart; 

be gracious to me according to your promise. 

59 When I think of your ways, 

I turn my feet to your decrees; 

60 I hurry and do not delay 

to keep your commandments.” 


David looks to the Lord for his needs, guidance, and affirmation.  His requests to God are for grace and favor as he turns in the direction of God’s words and runs after God’s ways.   


Where do you need to experience the grace and favor of God? 


How is God your portion?  Are there other things that you are tempted to rely on to meet your needs? 


Is there something that God has called you to do that you are delaying in? 


Gracious God, you are our portion – all we need for life.  We desire your grace and favor to permeate our hearts and minds so that we can faithfully practice the law of love to those around us.  Give us feet that are willing to turn to where you are leading and stamina to run in the direction of your way.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of August 30th - 


Monday -  

Psalm 119:20-24 

“20 My soul is consumed with longing 

for your ordinances at all times. 

21 You rebuke the insolent, accursed ones, 

who wander from your commandments; 

22 take away from me their scorn and contempt, 

for I have kept your decrees. 

23 Even though princes sit plotting against me, 

your servant will meditate on your statutes. 

24 Your decrees are my delight, 

they are my counselors.” 


David expresses a longing for and delight in following after God’s ways.  He also acknowledges that God desires all to follow him, and uses sharp words to describe how God seeks to draw people back to him.  We may at time feel God’s rebuke in our own life and can recognize it as an act of love. 


When have you experienced wandering away and God drawing you back to himself? 


What do you find delightful in following after God? 


Where are you right now in your journey of faith? 


Gracious God, thank you that you are love, and all your works reflect your love.  Thank you for the times that you draw us back to you when we have wandered.  Help us not to be discouraged by or angry at those who have gone astray, but to trust that you will draw them back to yourself.  Give us a longing to know you more and follow you more closely.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday -  

Psalm 119:25-28 

“My soul clings to the dust; 

revive me according to your word. 

26 When I told of my ways, you answered me; 

teach me your statutes. 

27 Make me understand the way of your precepts, 

and I will meditate on your wondrous works. 

28 My soul melts away for sorrow; 

strengthen me according to your word.” 


The psalmist describes how his grief feels deep in his soul – clinging to the dust and melting away for sorrow.  These are poignant words that touch us where we are feeling grief and invite us to find comfort in God’s word to us.   


Where are you experiencing grief in your life right now? 


Where are you experiencing God in your grief? 


Where are you finding words of comfort in God’s word? 


Gracious God, thank you that we do not need to come to you with our best foot forward, but can pour out our hearts to you.  There is much in this world and in our lives that fills us with grief.  Help us to acknowledge the grief of our losses and find deep comfort in you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday -  

Psalm 119:29-32 

“29 Put false ways far from me; 

and graciously teach me your law. 

30 I have chosen the way of faithfulness; 

I set your ordinances before me. 

31 I cling to your decrees, O Lord; 

let me not be put to shame. 

32 I run the way of your commandments, 

for you enlarge my understanding.” 


The psalmist uses the word “way” 3 times in these verses.  This word implies movement, as on a journey.  As we follow after God and the law of love, we experience his gracious teaching, and learn the way of faithfulness.  And in the process of the journey, God enlarges our understanding, that we may see things and people the way he does. 


How would you describe your journey with God?  What movement do you see in your own life? 


What does it mean that God graciously teaches us his law? 


Where do you see God enlarging your understanding? 


Gracious God, thank you that following you is a journey, that you are lovingly shaping us to the image of Christ for the sake of others.  Give us open hearts and minds to see things with your eyes and reflect your love to those around us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Thursday -  

Psalm 119:33-37 

“33 Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, 

and I will observe it to the end. 

34 Give me understanding, that I may keep your law 

and observe it with my whole heart. 

35 Lead me in the path of your commandments, 

for I delight in it. 

36 Turn my heart to your decrees, 

and not to selfish gain. 

37 Turn my eyes from looking at vanities; 

give me life in your ways.” 


The psalmist continues to ask God to instill in him a delight for God’s ways and the understanding that keeps him bound to God.  He knows too well how easy it is to be distracted by other things and acknowledges his bent.  “Prone to wander, Lord I feel it!  Prone to leave the God I love.”  The choice to follow Christ is made daily. 


Are there things that tend to distract you from following God’s ways? 


How is your heart engaged in your commitment to his law?  What does that look like? 


What about following after God brings you delight? 


Gracious God, we honestly admit to you that it is so easy for us to turn away from you by bad things at times, but also by good things that distract us.  Forgive us and renew our commitment to you that we may follow you wholeheartedly and with delight.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.  


Friday - 

Psalm 119:38-40 

“38 Confirm to your servant your promise, 

which is for those who fear you. 

39 Turn away the disgrace that I dread, 

for your ordinances are good. 

40 See, I have longed for your precepts; 

in your righteousness give me life.” 


David describes himself as a servant who is dependent on God, his Master, to confirm his promise, to turn away the disgrace he dreads and to give him life.  His words help us see the deep reliance we have on God to lead us, protect us, and empower us as we serve him as our Lord. 


As you read, “Confirm to your servant your promise,” what promise of God comes to mind? 


What does it mean for your life to be God’s servant? 


Where do you find life in following God’s ways? 


Gracious God, we are your servants.  We need you to lead us, protect us, and empower us to do the work that you have given us to do.  Thank you that you are always available to hear our cries for help and direction.  Help us to follow you and to rely on you for all we need.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Week of August 23rd - 

Monday - 

 Psalm 119:1-4 

1 Happy are those whose way is blameless, 

who walk in the law of the Lord. 

2 Happy are those who keep his decrees, 

who seek him with their whole heart, 

3 who also do no wrong, 

but walk in his ways. 

4 You have commanded your precepts 

to be kept diligently.


In these verse, the psalmist begins the longest song, declaring the happiness that accompanies obedience to God.  The external demonstration of adherence to God’s commands are visible, but in the middle of this passage is a reference to those “who seek him with their whole heart.”  We are invited to be formed to the image of Christ, so that our actions reflect the growing character of Christ in us. 


Are there times when your actions reflect the law of the Lord but your heart is not seeking after him? 


Where do you need God’s grace today? 


How can you extend God’s grace to those around you today? 


Gracious God, thank you that you invite us to be whole, loving you with our heart, soul, mind, and strength.  Help our acts of righteousness to flow from a heart that is seeking you.  Give us grace for ourselves as we encounter our places of failure and help us to extend that same grace to those around us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Tuesday -  

Psalm 119:5-8 

5 O that my ways may be steadfast 

in keeping your statutes! 

6 Then I shall not be put to shame, 

having my eyes fixed on all your commandments. 

7 I will praise you with an upright heart, 

when I learn your righteous ordinances. 

8 I will observe your statutes; 

do not utterly forsake me. 


The psalmist expresses a deep desire, even ache, to follow after God’s ways.  He also expresses a dynamism in his relationship to God, seeking acceptance and assurance even as he works to be steadfastly committed.  Gratefully, we are assured by Jesus that he will never leave us or forsake us as we seek to follow him. 


How would you describe your desire to follow after God? 


Have there been times when you have felt ashamed before God or forsaken by him?   


How does Jesus’ promise that he is with you always meet you in your times of doubt? 


Gracious God, thank you that you desire to be in relationship with us, even though in spite of our best efforts, we fall short.  Thank you for your grace that compels you to meet us in our points of weakness with your loving and transforming love.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Wednesday -  

Psalm 119:9-12 

9 How can young people keep their way pure? 

By guarding it according to your word. 

10 With my whole heart I seek you; 

do not let me stray from your commandments. 

11 I treasure your word in my heart, 

so that I may not sin against you. 

12 Blessed are you, O Lord; 

teach me your statutes.


Verse 9 seems to fit more as a proverb than a part of a song.  Perhaps David is speaking from experience or his own desire to live a life honoring to God.  In this passage there is an interplay of the psalmist’s seeking God wholeheartedly and treasuring his word.  We are invited to encounter God in scriptures and as we do, be transformed into his image. 


What pulls you away from wholehearted seeking after God? 


What else do you treasure in your heart? 


What is God inviting you to relinquish so that you might live more fully into relationship with him? 


Gracious God, we confess that there are places in our heart that we treasure that pull us away from you.  You know us and meet us in those places and patiently invite us to relinquish them to you.  We acknowledge that we belong to you and ask for the desire to seek you with our whole hearts that we might reflect your love and truth to the world.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Thursday -  

Psalm 119:13-16 

13 With my lips I declare 

all the ordinances of your mouth. 

14 I delight in the way of your decrees 

as much as in all riches. 

15 I will meditate on your precepts, 

and fix my eyes on your ways. 

16 I will delight in your statutes; 

I will not forget your word.

 

The psalmist engages body, soul and spirit as he follows after God.  He declares, delights, meditates, fixes his eyes, and remembers.  God’s presence and ways are always before David, loving him and inviting him into the richness of life bent toward following God. 


Which of the action words that the psalmist uses stirs in you today?  What does it look like to practice that? 


What do you find delightful about following God? 


What can you do today to establish a touchpoint to remember God’s presence with you throughout the day? 


Gracious God, thank you for your continuous guiding presence in our lives, inviting us to seek you throughout the day and engage our bodies, souls, and spirits as we love and serve you.  Help us to find delight in your ways and to remember what you have revealed to us about yourself.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 


Friday -  

Psalm 119:17-19 

17 Deal bountifully with your servant, 

so that I may live and observe your word. 

18 Open my eyes, so that I may behold 

wondrous things out of your law. 

19 I live as an alien in the land; 

do not hide your commandments from me.


Remember the greatest commandment?  When asked, Jesus answered in Matthew 22 - “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the greatest and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”  This is the law to which we desire to adhere as we look to God for what we need and bless the world around us, even when it feels foreign. 


How has God opened your eyes lately, revealing new truth to you? 


In what way do you feel like an alien in the land?  What emotions does that stir in you? 


How are you living into the law – love your neighbor as yourself? 


Gracious God, thank you that your law is summed up in loving you with all we are and loving our neighbor.  Out of our belonging to and security in you, help us to live in the world in a way that reflects your love to those around us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Week of August 16th - 

Monday –

 

Psalm 139: 1-6 

 

1 O Lord, you have searched me and known me. 

2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up; 

    you discern my thoughts from far away. 

3 You search out my path and my lying down, 

    and are acquainted with all my ways. 

4 Even before a word is on my tongue, 

    O Lord, you know it completely. 

5 You hem me in, behind and before, 

    and lay your hand upon me. 

6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; 

    it is so high that I cannot attain it.

 

What a comfort it is to rest in the truth that the God of all creation knows us intimately and has his hand upon us.  As we think about how we have responded to the world around us over the last few days, it may give us pause to realize that God knew it all before we did.  When we spend time with Him, we are invited to lean into his deep knowledge of us and hear from him how to live into each day. 

 

As you sit in this passage this morning, what might God be saying about you and the day before you?

 

Is there something you want to say to God this morning, understanding that he knows already? 

What emotions are stirred in you as you acknowledge that God is acquainted with all your ways?

   

Gracious God, you know us better than we know ourselves.  Free us from our attempts to hide anything from you.  Thank you that you know us and that your love does not falter.  Help us to listen to you and for you today and feel your loving hand of grace and mercy.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 

 

Tuesday – 

 

Psalm 139:7-12 

 

Where can I go from your spirit? 

    Or where can I flee from your presence? 

8 If I ascend to heaven, you are there; 

    if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there. 

9 If I take the wings of the morning 

    and settle at the farthest limits of the sea, 

10 even there your hand shall lead me, 

    and your right hand shall hold me fast. 

11 If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, 

    and the light around me become night,” 

12 even the darkness is not dark to you; 

    the night is as bright as the day, 

    for darkness is as light to you.

 

David recognized that God was close to him, no matter where he found himself.  Near or far, God was present.  Light or dark, God’s presence was sure and unwavering.  We may have experiences and emotions that cause us to feel distant or near, in the light or groping in the dark, but wherever we are, we are assured that God is with us, present and non-anxious. 

 

What 3 words describe your thoughts and feelings today?  How are these different since the same time last week? 

 

Where do you see God in your present state?  What is He bestowing on you right now? 

 

How can you be present with someone in your life who is experiencing distance or darkness? 

 

Gracious God – thank you for your nearness in all circumstances.  Even as we each respond differently to our surroundings and circumstances, you are present with us with your comfort and guidance.  Help us to look to you and lean into your presence, that we might serve others with our presence.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Wednesday – 

 

Psalm 139:13-18 

 

13 For it was you who formed my inward parts; 

    you knit me together in my mother’s womb. 

14 I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. 

    Wonderful are your works; 

that I know very well. 

15     My frame was not hidden from you, 

when I was being made in secret, 

    intricately woven in the depths of the earth. 

16 Your eyes beheld my unformed substance. 

In your book were written 

    all the days that were formed for me, 

    when none of them as yet existed. 

 

David honors his body as a reflection of God’s intimate knowledge and formation of him.  He sees the connection between what we do, what we think, and how our bodies operate – all ordained and watched over by God with equal care and attention.  Our minds, hearts, souls, and bodies are rooted in God’s story which he is playing out in, through, and around us. 

 

What emotions are stirred in you as you ponder that God formed you and ordained your days? 

 

What makes this passage life-giving for you?  What makes it difficult? 

 

How does your body act as a partner in living into God’s will for you? 

 

Gracious God, we can often give little attention to our bodies as we’ve been taught to focus on the spirit.  Thank you for engaging with our bodies as they were formed in secret.  Thank you that your love for us extends to our bodies.  In this wonder-filled moment, help us to honor our bodies as your loving handiwork and a partner in our work for you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Thursday –

  

Psalm 139:17-22

 

How weighty to me are your thoughts, O God! 

    How vast is the sum of them! 

18 I try to count them—they are more than the sand; 

    I come to the end—I am still with you. 

19 O that you would kill the wicked, O God, 

    and that the bloodthirsty would depart from me— 

20 those who speak of you maliciously, 

    and lift themselves up against you for evil! 

21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord? 

    And do I not loathe those who rise up against you? 

22 I hate them with perfect hatred; 

    I count them my enemies. 

 

Like so many of David’s psalms, his words of love and worship to God and about God are accompanied by a disdain for wickedness and its perpetrators.  While he declares his hatred with those who are against God, he leaves it up to God to deal with them.  His words reflect the desire that comes with love to protect the one he loves. 

 

When you wake up, how long does it take for you to remember that God is present with you? 

 

What grieves you about the wickedness around you? 

 

What is your request to God regarding the wickedness? 

 

Gracious God, we carry your presence with us, which is such an awesome privilege.  As a result we feel it when others renounce or work against your purposes in the world.  We ask that you would deal justly with the wicked, and that we would be agents of your peace-making presence as we carry you with us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Friday –

 

Psalm 139:23-24 

 

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; 

    test me and know my thoughts. 

24 See if there is any wicked way in me, 

    and lead me in the way everlasting. 

 

These verses are at the end of the psalm.  David already acknowledges that God knows everything about him, but still he invites God to examine his life.  God knows all about each of us, but in surrendering ourselves to him, we are inviting him to show us the ways in our lives that need God’s loving transformation.

 

As you echo these words of the psalmist, what area of your life comes to mind?   

 

Is there an attitude, recurring thought, or behavior that needs God’s transformation? 

 

What might happen this week if you make the prayer in these verses your prayer this week? 

 

Gracious God, we are aware of and grateful for your grace and mercy, and we open ourselves up to you, asking that you point out in us those areas of our lives that we need to surrender to you.  We invite you to show us the things that you already know about us, but that we may be blind to.  May we see and confess and follow you more fully this week.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 


Monday - 

Psalm 37:1-4 

Do not fret because of the wicked; 

    do not be envious of wrongdoers, 

 for they will soon fade like the grass, 

    and wither like the green herb. 

Trust in the Lord, and do good; 

    so you will live in the land, and enjoy security. 

Take delight in the Lord, 

    and he will give you the desires of your heart. 

The encouragement from the psalmist is to turn our attention away from the wicked, which causes us to fret and to envy, and to turn our attention to God and the delight we share in living in dependence on Him and trusting that our life attuned to Him will fulfill us. 

When have you experienced your focus on the wicked leading to fear or envy? 

How do you experience God’s invitation to turn your attention to Him? 

Where do you see others taking delight in the Lord and what can you learn from them? 

Gracious God, in a culture where we can be bombarded by bad news that causes us fear or instills envy, tune our ears and hearts to hear your voice inviting us into a place of security.  Thank you for those in our lives who exemplify the trust you desire for us and help us to learn from them.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Tuesday 

Psalm 37:5-9 

Commit your way to the Lord; 

    trust in him, and he will act. 

He will make your vindication shine like the light, 

    and the justice of your cause like the noonday. 

Be still before the Lord, and wait patiently for him; 

    do not fret over those who prosper in their way, 

    over those who carry out evil devices. 

Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath. 

    Do not fret—it leads only to evil. 

For the wicked shall be cut off, 

    but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land. 

There are so many practical invitations in these verses, spoken by a man who heard God inviting him to continually focus on what He was doing.   As we read these verses, it’s good to be reminded of the rest and stillness that comes when we can trust in God and his promises. 

What invitation or promise in this passage stirs your heart today and why? 

How are you reflecting stillness and patience before God? 

Who can you encourage today with the promise of God’s goodness? 

Gracious God, thank you for your invitations to step away from those attitudes and practices that cloud our vision of you and to step toward your desires for us.  We relinquish the things that cause us to fret and ask that you will replace it with your stillness and patience in our lives.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Wednesday 

Psalm 37:10-15 

Yet a little while, and the wicked will be no more; 

    though you look diligently for their place, they will not be there. 

But the meek shall inherit the land, 

    and delight in abundant prosperity. 

The wicked plot against the righteous, 

    and gnash their teeth at them; 

but the Lord laughs at the wicked, 

    for he sees that their day is coming. 

The wicked draw the sword and bend their bows 

    to bring down the poor and needy, 

    to kill those who walk uprightly; 

 their sword shall enter their own heart, 

    and their bows shall be broken. 

As we read these verses, there might be a nagging sense that this is not the reality that we see today in our world.  Wickedness seems so deeply rooted everywhere we look.  In the midst of our view of reality and experience, we are invited to trust that God sees something different. 

What do you desire for God to show you about the end of wickedness? 

What will it look like to live in a world where the meek inherit the land? 

How are you living in a way that honors the meek the way the psalmist does? 

Gracious God, in these verses it is difficult to understand what you see that we cannot see.  We receive your promises that “yet a little while, and the wicked will be no more.”  Help us to be agents of your kingdom in the world that honors meekness over the ways of wickedness.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Thursday 

Psalm 37:16-19 

Better is a little that the righteous person has 

    than the abundance of many wicked. 

For the arms of the wicked shall be broken, 

    but the Lord upholds the righteous. 

The Lord knows the days of the blameless, 

    and their heritage will abide for ever; 

they are not put to shame in evil times, 

    in the days of famine they have abundance. 

The psalmist provides a description of what it means to live righteously in the midst of the world, where the righteous have enough and are upheld; where their days are noted by God and they can live without shame or fear of starvation.   

What promises in these verses are a prayer to God for you? 

Who in your life needs the words of this psalm to be spoken over them on their behalf? 

Where are you experiencing abundance? 

Gracious God, the new we hear can give us a sense that there is no relief, no abundance, no provision for those who are blameless.  And yet, we listen to you and attune ourselves to your voice that we may see and recognize the ways that you are caring for your children.  Help us to be your agents of provision to those you bring our way.  In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

 

Friday 

Psalm 37:20-22 

But the wicked perish, 

    and the enemies of the Lord are like the glory of the pastures; 

    they vanish—like smoke they vanish away. 

The wicked borrow, and do not pay back, 

    but the righteous are generous and keep giving; 

for those blessed by the Lord shall inherit the land, 

    but those cursed by him shall be cut off. 

The psalmist returns to reminding the readers of the short lives the evil lead.  Tucked in the middle of the bad news for the wicked is the good news for the blessed of the Lord.  He promises that we are moving toward a time when those whom God has blessed will inherit that land.   

What might it look like to live today as one who will inherit the land? 

How easy is it to give the evil as little power as the psalmist seems to? 

Who needs to be reminded today of their inheritance as a child of God?  How can you do that? 

Gracious God, give us your perspective in a world that seems at times to be teeming with wickedness.  You do not wring your hands so let that not be a part of our experience.  Help us to live today as those who are your heirs.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.