John 11:30-46
Jesus Raises Lazarus From the Dead
In this passage of Scripture, Mary weeps at the feet of Jesus, saying, "If only you had been here, my brother would not have died (32)". This is often something I say too, " Why Father, did you let this happen, do you not love me?"
Jesus was moved by Mary's love for his brother and the weeping from bystanders around her. He tells her to move the heavy stone in front of the tomb and says this: 'Father, thank you for hearing me. You always hear me, but I said it out loud for the sake of all these people standing here, so they will believe you sent me.'(42) And of course, Lazarus walks out from the tomb.
There have been times and days where I have thought and wondered if the Lord had forsaken me... but in retrospect, I am more appreciative and loving as a result of these challenges God has put before me. So Father, I thank you for your grace and love for me. For there is non like you.
2 Timothy 2:15-21
An Approved Worker
I am reminded to avoid godless foolish discussions that lead to more an dmore ungodliness. This kind of talk spread like a cancer (16,17). How true is this, I think about gossip and how easy it is to get suckered into it. This is something I need help in.
'The Lord knows those who are his, and those who claim they belong to the Lord must turn away from all wickedness.' (19)
Father, I pray that you will give me strength, wisdom and encouragement to continue to help me serve you in ways that will bring glory to you. I am excited, yet scared because now I am going back to work, not only as a good worker/educator, but as a soldier of Christ.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Monday, September 5, 2011
Believe at all costs... a miracle awaits
John 11:1-29
The Death of Lazarus
In today's passage, Martha and Mary (poured expensive oil) ask Jesus to come and heal their brother Lazarus. Jesus comes 4 days after Lazarus has been buried. Even his disciples question why he is returning to Bethany, Judea for the Pharisees want to kill him. Jesus assures his disciples that they will be in safe in the "light". He is greeted by Martha and Jesus asks if she knows Lazarus will rise again. Martha replies, "Yes, when everyone else rises on resurrection day" (24).
We all, most of us anyways, have shadows of doubt. I suppose it's human nature. We don't have the innocence of children, we have the behaviours of sin. I believe in the existence of miracles, yet I am hard pressed to believe that it would happen for me. For me, it's a means of protecting myself from being heart broken and disappointed, I guess... Father, I am casting my doubts, burdens and worries to you. I don't want to think about them anymore. I just want to be grateful and satified with what you have blessed me with already.
2 Timothy 2:8-14
A Good Soldier of Jesus Christ (cont'd)
We shouldn't argue over words. Such arguements are useless and can ruin those who hear them. (14) Yes, some really are adament about language. That's why we have so many types of Christians. That's something I really couldn't figure out. Why do we profess to be different if we are all seeking the same thing... eternal life with God in heaven?
Paul shares this lovely saying (11-13):
If we die with him,
we will also live with him.
If we endure hardship,
we will reign with him.
If we deny him,
he will deny us.
If we are unfaithful,
he remains faithful,
for he cannot deny himself.
How beautiful this saying is. I pray Father for your continued strength and encouragement to walk the path you have lit for me. Help me to not get distracted by my earthly desires and things that would disappoint you.
The Death of Lazarus
In today's passage, Martha and Mary (poured expensive oil) ask Jesus to come and heal their brother Lazarus. Jesus comes 4 days after Lazarus has been buried. Even his disciples question why he is returning to Bethany, Judea for the Pharisees want to kill him. Jesus assures his disciples that they will be in safe in the "light". He is greeted by Martha and Jesus asks if she knows Lazarus will rise again. Martha replies, "Yes, when everyone else rises on resurrection day" (24).
We all, most of us anyways, have shadows of doubt. I suppose it's human nature. We don't have the innocence of children, we have the behaviours of sin. I believe in the existence of miracles, yet I am hard pressed to believe that it would happen for me. For me, it's a means of protecting myself from being heart broken and disappointed, I guess... Father, I am casting my doubts, burdens and worries to you. I don't want to think about them anymore. I just want to be grateful and satified with what you have blessed me with already.
2 Timothy 2:8-14
A Good Soldier of Jesus Christ (cont'd)
We shouldn't argue over words. Such arguements are useless and can ruin those who hear them. (14) Yes, some really are adament about language. That's why we have so many types of Christians. That's something I really couldn't figure out. Why do we profess to be different if we are all seeking the same thing... eternal life with God in heaven?
Paul shares this lovely saying (11-13):
If we die with him,
we will also live with him.
If we endure hardship,
we will reign with him.
If we deny him,
he will deny us.
If we are unfaithful,
he remains faithful,
for he cannot deny himself.
How beautiful this saying is. I pray Father for your continued strength and encouragement to walk the path you have lit for me. Help me to not get distracted by my earthly desires and things that would disappoint you.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Pass It On
John 10:22-42
Jesus Claims to be the Son of God
In this passage, Jesus admits to the Pharisees that he is the Son of God. At this, they begin to pick up stones to kill him. Jesus then says, " At my Father's direcction I have done many thinkgs to help the people. For which of one of these good deeds are you killing me?" (32) Jesus uses Scripture to tell them, "So if those people , who received God's message, were called gods, why do you call it blasphemy when the Holy One who was sent into the world by the Father says, ' I am the Son of God?'" (35,36)
I can actually imagine myself being at the temple and overhearing this conversation. At first, I would believe Jesus was crazy, but when he is able to quote Scripture and open our eyes, providing us with the proof we desire, there is no question that God sent him.
Our society is so hung up on entertainment - stories and movies... all of this has confused our minds. What is fact and fiction? All these Jesus stories are suddenly moved into the realm of childrens fiction like Care Bears and Barney... what is the fix?
2 Timothy 2:1-7
A Good Soldier of Jesus Christ
Wow! This passage seems to have addressed my negativity from the last one. We are to pass on our love and knowledge of Christ to trustworthy people who will also spread the word. We are asked to endure suffering like real soldiers. Paul then tells Timothy, " As Christ's soldier, do not let yourseld become tied up in the affairs of this life, for then you cannot satisfy the one who has enlisted you in his army. Follow the Lord's rules for doing his work, just as an athlete either follows the rule or is disqualified and wins no prize. Hardworking farmers are the first to enjoy the fruit of their labour... The Lord will give you understanding in all these things." (4-7)
So Father, I thank you for sharing this passage with me to give me encouragement and positive energy to fight your battle. I pray that you will life me up and protect me from those who try to cast shadows of doubt about your goodness and faithfulness.
Jesus Claims to be the Son of God
In this passage, Jesus admits to the Pharisees that he is the Son of God. At this, they begin to pick up stones to kill him. Jesus then says, " At my Father's direcction I have done many thinkgs to help the people. For which of one of these good deeds are you killing me?" (32) Jesus uses Scripture to tell them, "So if those people , who received God's message, were called gods, why do you call it blasphemy when the Holy One who was sent into the world by the Father says, ' I am the Son of God?'" (35,36)
I can actually imagine myself being at the temple and overhearing this conversation. At first, I would believe Jesus was crazy, but when he is able to quote Scripture and open our eyes, providing us with the proof we desire, there is no question that God sent him.
Our society is so hung up on entertainment - stories and movies... all of this has confused our minds. What is fact and fiction? All these Jesus stories are suddenly moved into the realm of childrens fiction like Care Bears and Barney... what is the fix?
2 Timothy 2:1-7
A Good Soldier of Jesus Christ
Wow! This passage seems to have addressed my negativity from the last one. We are to pass on our love and knowledge of Christ to trustworthy people who will also spread the word. We are asked to endure suffering like real soldiers. Paul then tells Timothy, " As Christ's soldier, do not let yourseld become tied up in the affairs of this life, for then you cannot satisfy the one who has enlisted you in his army. Follow the Lord's rules for doing his work, just as an athlete either follows the rule or is disqualified and wins no prize. Hardworking farmers are the first to enjoy the fruit of their labour... The Lord will give you understanding in all these things." (4-7)
So Father, I thank you for sharing this passage with me to give me encouragement and positive energy to fight your battle. I pray that you will life me up and protect me from those who try to cast shadows of doubt about your goodness and faithfulness.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
The Good Shepard
John 10: 1-21
The Good Shepard and His Sheep
This passage is about Jesus proclaiming that he is the good shepard and we are sheep. "I am the good shepard. The good shepard lays down his life for the sheep (11)". Jesus tells us that he would not run in sight of a wolf, like a hired hand, but he would gladly lay down his life to protect us. When the people heard this analogy, there was great division among them. Some proclaimed that he was possessed by a demon, speaking nonsense, others said he was crazy. Yet, some believed and said, "This doesn't sound like a man possessed by a demon! Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?" (21)
Father, you are one of miracles. You gave Christ the power to heal the sick, feed the hungry and open the eyes of the blind. I pray that you will continue to give me the eyes to see and the heart to serve you fully.
2 Timothy 1:15-18
Encouragement to be Faithful (cont'd)
This passage is a letter from Paul to Timothy from prison. In this part of the letter, Paul reminds us not be ashamed of those who fight for the Lord. Do not judge those or look down at those who are in prison for the sake of Christ. Do not forget them, seek them out and support them. Being a soldier of Christ is not easy. Talk is cheap...
The Good Shepard and His Sheep
This passage is about Jesus proclaiming that he is the good shepard and we are sheep. "I am the good shepard. The good shepard lays down his life for the sheep (11)". Jesus tells us that he would not run in sight of a wolf, like a hired hand, but he would gladly lay down his life to protect us. When the people heard this analogy, there was great division among them. Some proclaimed that he was possessed by a demon, speaking nonsense, others said he was crazy. Yet, some believed and said, "This doesn't sound like a man possessed by a demon! Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?" (21)
Father, you are one of miracles. You gave Christ the power to heal the sick, feed the hungry and open the eyes of the blind. I pray that you will continue to give me the eyes to see and the heart to serve you fully.
2 Timothy 1:15-18
Encouragement to be Faithful (cont'd)
This passage is a letter from Paul to Timothy from prison. In this part of the letter, Paul reminds us not be ashamed of those who fight for the Lord. Do not judge those or look down at those who are in prison for the sake of Christ. Do not forget them, seek them out and support them. Being a soldier of Christ is not easy. Talk is cheap...
Friday, September 2, 2011
Pain, Suffering and Ridicule is what we will face for God
John 9:13-41
The Blind Man and Spiritual Blindness
When the blind man was no longer blind, he shared this miracle with everyone. The Pharisees questioned him, asking how could a prophet or the Messiah heal someone on the Sabbath. The once blind man said," God does not listen to sinners, but he is ready to hear those who worship him and do his will. Never since hte world began has anyone been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. If thise man were not from God, he couldn't do it." (31-33)
In a conversation between the blind man, Jesus and the Pharisees, Jesus says, " I have come to judge the world. I have come to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind... for you remain guilty if you claim you can see" (39-41)
In the commentary on this passage, I am told that I don't need special training to share the gospel or my love for Christ and God. Once we accept Jesus in our hearts, the Holy Spirit will lead us. Our eyes will be open to things we did not see or feel before. This world we live in is bound by greed, power and sin - this is Satan's evil world, not God's.
So Father, I pray for your spirit of protection and I thank you for opening my eyes. My husband has left on a trip to Vietnam for 2 weeks. We both agreed that all our future vacations must be done together. It's heartbreaking to be apart even for a few days, let alone 2 weeks... and for this particular summer it will be us being apart for 4 weeks. However, I know that this opportunity arose so that we could both grow closer to you independently. I thank you wholeheartedly for always letting us seek you out. All we ever need to do is ask. Father, continue to pray for his safety abroad and for your shield of protection around him. I know the evil that lurks where he goes and I pray that you will give him wisdom and strength and will power to not give in to the temptations of gambling and overindulgence. Please give him a time a inner peace and rest through you.
2 Timothy 1: 8-14
Encouragement to be Faithful
Today's passage starts off with a bold statement: So you must never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord. (8) This is what I need to live by. The next statement in this passage that is screaming out to me is this: And that is why I am suffering here in prison. I am not ashamed of it, for I know the one in whom I trust, and I am sure that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until the day of his return. Remember to live in the faith and love that you have in Christ Jesus (12,13).
I am reminded that I am not suffering in vain and by comparison, my suffering is no where near that of Paul's. Father, I trust you know best. Whatever pain and suffering I endure here on earth, is temporary, and it is done in your name to bring you glory. There will be lessons learned, but I know you will be there to support me and guide me and use me as your living testimony. I pray that you continue to stir in my heart the courage to fight your fight and not fall into the traps of Satan's world.
The Blind Man and Spiritual Blindness
When the blind man was no longer blind, he shared this miracle with everyone. The Pharisees questioned him, asking how could a prophet or the Messiah heal someone on the Sabbath. The once blind man said," God does not listen to sinners, but he is ready to hear those who worship him and do his will. Never since hte world began has anyone been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. If thise man were not from God, he couldn't do it." (31-33)
In a conversation between the blind man, Jesus and the Pharisees, Jesus says, " I have come to judge the world. I have come to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind... for you remain guilty if you claim you can see" (39-41)
In the commentary on this passage, I am told that I don't need special training to share the gospel or my love for Christ and God. Once we accept Jesus in our hearts, the Holy Spirit will lead us. Our eyes will be open to things we did not see or feel before. This world we live in is bound by greed, power and sin - this is Satan's evil world, not God's.
So Father, I pray for your spirit of protection and I thank you for opening my eyes. My husband has left on a trip to Vietnam for 2 weeks. We both agreed that all our future vacations must be done together. It's heartbreaking to be apart even for a few days, let alone 2 weeks... and for this particular summer it will be us being apart for 4 weeks. However, I know that this opportunity arose so that we could both grow closer to you independently. I thank you wholeheartedly for always letting us seek you out. All we ever need to do is ask. Father, continue to pray for his safety abroad and for your shield of protection around him. I know the evil that lurks where he goes and I pray that you will give him wisdom and strength and will power to not give in to the temptations of gambling and overindulgence. Please give him a time a inner peace and rest through you.
2 Timothy 1: 8-14
Encouragement to be Faithful
Today's passage starts off with a bold statement: So you must never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord. (8) This is what I need to live by. The next statement in this passage that is screaming out to me is this: And that is why I am suffering here in prison. I am not ashamed of it, for I know the one in whom I trust, and I am sure that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until the day of his return. Remember to live in the faith and love that you have in Christ Jesus (12,13).
I am reminded that I am not suffering in vain and by comparison, my suffering is no where near that of Paul's. Father, I trust you know best. Whatever pain and suffering I endure here on earth, is temporary, and it is done in your name to bring you glory. There will be lessons learned, but I know you will be there to support me and guide me and use me as your living testimony. I pray that you continue to stir in my heart the courage to fight your fight and not fall into the traps of Satan's world.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Being Faithful
John 9:1-12
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
'Teacher, why was this man born blind? Was it the result of his own sins or those of his parents?
Jesus answers, 'He was born blind so the power of God could be seen in him. All of us must quickly carry out the tasks assigned to us by God...' (2-4)
Jesus made mud with his saliva, put it on a man born blind and asked him to wash it off in the pool of Siloam. The blind man returned seeing!
I recall a conversation between me and my husband where we wondering if we suffered because the sins of our earthly fathers. In this passage it mentions that some suffering we experience in this life is for us to be used as tools for God. I also remember reading a passage stating that there are consequences for our sins, when we choose to follow the evil one.
1 Timothy 6:17-19
Supplementary Commentary from yesterday's passage re: enjoying wealth
This commentary states that if God blesses us with material riches, he expects us to follow 3 rules:
Encouragement to be Faithful
"This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I (Paul to Timothy) laid my hands on you. Fo God has nstrot given us a spirit of fear and of timidity, but of power, love and self-discipline." (6,7)
Thank you Lord for this passage. Power, love and self-discipline... I pray Father that you will strengthen these gifts in me, for I do feel fear and timidity. I pray for the ones I love that they will come to know and follow you. I pray for your hand of protection on my husband as he travels on vacation. Please calm his heart and mind as I know he deserves a mental break. Father, I pray that you will continue to watch over him and mould him and heal him. I pray that you will soften his heart and that he will hear your calling, your voice and see your light in this cloud of darkness that he is in.
2 Timothy 1:1-7
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
'Teacher, why was this man born blind? Was it the result of his own sins or those of his parents?
Jesus answers, 'He was born blind so the power of God could be seen in him. All of us must quickly carry out the tasks assigned to us by God...' (2-4)
Jesus made mud with his saliva, put it on a man born blind and asked him to wash it off in the pool of Siloam. The blind man returned seeing!
I recall a conversation between me and my husband where we wondering if we suffered because the sins of our earthly fathers. In this passage it mentions that some suffering we experience in this life is for us to be used as tools for God. I also remember reading a passage stating that there are consequences for our sins, when we choose to follow the evil one.
1 Timothy 6:17-19
Supplementary Commentary from yesterday's passage re: enjoying wealth
This commentary states that if God blesses us with material riches, he expects us to follow 3 rules:
- Do not be arrogant or put your ultimate hope in wealth. A good question to ask is, "Do I possess my possessions or do my possessions possess me?"
- Enjoy what God has given you. Don't feel guilty, be thankful.
- Be generous. Do good and share your wealth with others. With wealth, comes great responsibility
Encouragement to be Faithful
"This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I (Paul to Timothy) laid my hands on you. Fo God has nstrot given us a spirit of fear and of timidity, but of power, love and self-discipline." (6,7)
Thank you Lord for this passage. Power, love and self-discipline... I pray Father that you will strengthen these gifts in me, for I do feel fear and timidity. I pray for the ones I love that they will come to know and follow you. I pray for your hand of protection on my husband as he travels on vacation. Please calm his heart and mind as I know he deserves a mental break. Father, I pray that you will continue to watch over him and mould him and heal him. I pray that you will soften his heart and that he will hear your calling, your voice and see your light in this cloud of darkness that he is in.
2 Timothy 1:1-7
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
We are actually children of the Devil...
John 8:31-59
Jesus and Abraham
In this passage, Jesus is in temple telling people that "You are truly my disciples if you keep obeying my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the the truth will set you free." (31,32) Jesus points out that we are slaves to sin. "For you are the chidren of your father the Devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning and has always hated the truth. There is no truth in him. When he lies it is consistent with his character; he is a liar and the father of all lies(44)... Anyone whose Father is God listens gladly to the words of God. (47)" As Jesus shares this message with the people, the people in their disbelief begin to pick up stones to stone him.
I am reminded that people are easily blinded. We are compelled to sin- we are drawn to all things evil. Why? It's in us. As Jesus says, we are children of the Devil. God gives us a chance to follow him - he gave us the truth, the light - his Son, Jesus. So Father, I thank you for leading us to the cross and to an eternal life with you. You will provide everything that I need. You, your love, is enough... I accept this path you are leading me down and I trust that you will provide all that I need.
1 Timothy 6:17-21
Pauls' Final Instructions
Tell those who are rich in this world, not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which will soon be gone. Their trust should be in the living God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and should give generously to those in need, always being ready to share with others whatever God has given them. (17, 18)... Avoid godless, foolish discussions with those who oppose you with their so-called knowledge. Some people have wandered from the faith by following such foolishness. (20,21).
Paul is reminding us to not be slaves to our money. Money is a material thing that we cannot take away from this world. It cannot be stored away in Heaven or Hell. Money is the root of all evil, but it can be used to do good work. Thank you Father for continuing to share with me my weakness in material things... I need your help to change this burning desire to spend, else let me spend with you in mind. How can I turn my purchase into an act of God to bless someone else... there's my prayer for today.
Jesus and Abraham
In this passage, Jesus is in temple telling people that "You are truly my disciples if you keep obeying my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the the truth will set you free." (31,32) Jesus points out that we are slaves to sin. "For you are the chidren of your father the Devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning and has always hated the truth. There is no truth in him. When he lies it is consistent with his character; he is a liar and the father of all lies(44)... Anyone whose Father is God listens gladly to the words of God. (47)" As Jesus shares this message with the people, the people in their disbelief begin to pick up stones to stone him.
I am reminded that people are easily blinded. We are compelled to sin- we are drawn to all things evil. Why? It's in us. As Jesus says, we are children of the Devil. God gives us a chance to follow him - he gave us the truth, the light - his Son, Jesus. So Father, I thank you for leading us to the cross and to an eternal life with you. You will provide everything that I need. You, your love, is enough... I accept this path you are leading me down and I trust that you will provide all that I need.
1 Timothy 6:17-21
Pauls' Final Instructions
Tell those who are rich in this world, not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which will soon be gone. Their trust should be in the living God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and should give generously to those in need, always being ready to share with others whatever God has given them. (17, 18)... Avoid godless, foolish discussions with those who oppose you with their so-called knowledge. Some people have wandered from the faith by following such foolishness. (20,21).
Paul is reminding us to not be slaves to our money. Money is a material thing that we cannot take away from this world. It cannot be stored away in Heaven or Hell. Money is the root of all evil, but it can be used to do good work. Thank you Father for continuing to share with me my weakness in material things... I need your help to change this burning desire to spend, else let me spend with you in mind. How can I turn my purchase into an act of God to bless someone else... there's my prayer for today.
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