Daily Devotion, August 31, 2020

 

Devotion: Read Psalm 44:23-26.

When I read a passage of Scripture, I like to know some things about the context -- what was happening, what prompted the writer to speak these words, and so on -- as this helps me to understand what God might be saying to us now in the passage. We do not know what series of great defeats the Israelites have suffered, but they are desperately in need of God’s help. In preceding verses, the psalmist recalls the stories of God’s leading and providing for Israel; but now, in their present situation, God seems to be asleep. Many of Israel’s problems, like ours, were brought on by their disobedience or by their turning from God. Not so this time, and the psalmist is frustrated, feeling as if things are not fair. When will God awake and come to their aid?

I long for the honest frankness in my prayers with God that the psalmist clearly demonstrates. It is the kind of honesty that is usually shared only between parties who love the other deeply and know that the other loves them the same. The psalmist ends with a plea for God to rise up and help them, not because they are deserving or faithful or even because they love God. He asks God to rescue them because of God’s unfailing love. Even in frustration, the psalmist does not forget that God’s love never fails. Personal Worship Option: Is there something that makes you angry or frustrated with God, perhaps because God does not seem to be helping you? If so, I would encourage you to make your case to God and speak honestly as you do so. God can handle our hurt and anger, and God’s love for us never fails.

Daily Devotion, August 30, 2020

 

Devotion: Read Luke 1:1-4; Acts 1:1-3.

  I have included Luke on my “Mount Rushmore of The New Testament” because he gifted the Church and the whole world with two books that tell of the life, ministry, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, along with his teachings to his apostles and other followers, but goes on to tell of the early days of those apostles and other followers after Jesus had ascended back to heaven. His contribution to the New Testament (and the Bible as a whole) is invaluable. As with the other Gospel writers, he offers many segments that are unique to the story of Jesus. He has a heart for the marginalized: for women and children of that day, for the poor, the Samaritans and any others on the edges or even outside. Without this writer, we would not know of the angel visiting Mary, of what happened on the road to a village called Emmaus the day of Easter or parables about a “Prodigal Son” and a “Good Samaritan.”

  He goes much further to give us “The Acts Of The Apostles,” letting us see how the Holy Spirit continued the work of Jesus through those same apostles and other followers of the Christ. Not only do we get to read how Peter continued to be a leader among the apostles, but we also hear of the conversion of an initial enemy named Saul, who is converted by Jesus himself, becomes known as Paul and goes on to help spread the good news of Jesus to many people and places. Without this writer, we would be unaware of any of this.

  You are also unique. God created you and there is no one else like you. Nobody has had all the same experiences you have had. Your relationship with Jesus Christ is and will be unique as well. Share your story and your experiences, especially as they relate to Jesus. You never know when something you share is just what someone else will need to hear in order to help them begin a relationship with Christ or deepen their relationship with him. Personal Worship Option: Practice telling about your relationship with Jesus with family and friends, so that you will be better prepared when you have the opportunity to share with others. 

Daily Devotion, August 29, 2020

 

Devotion: Read Acts 15:22-41.

  This writer tells us about a historic scene in the life of the early Church. In those first years, the followers of Jesus were simply seen as another sect of the Jews. Therefore, some Jewish leaders were teaching that to become a Christian, one had to first become a Jew and commit to all the rituals and laws of that religion. They believed that God’s Spirit would not connect with a person unless she or he had first committed to God’s Law. But both Peter and Paul had witnessed the Holy Spirit being active in the lives of Gentile believers in Jesus. So different understandings about this were being taught and it was causing confusion among the people.

  So that is why this meeting was called for in Jerusalem. Paul, Barnabas and some other believers met with “the apostles and elders” to debate the issue. Peter told of his experience at the home of Cornelius (Acts 10). Paul and Barnabas told of what they had witnessed God doing among the Gentiles. James gave his recommendation. Our text for today shares the decision that was made and the letter sent to the Gentiles to share that decision. It was a major breakthrough in understanding what God had done through Jesus Christ and wanted to continue to do through those who believed in him. We would not know about this decision and how it came about were it not for this writer.

  However, like much of the rest of the Bible, this writer does not just record the times of agreement and peace. He also shares the times of disagreement and separation. The last few verses tell of one such occasion: “They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company.” 

 

  In our day and time, it often seems to be the thinking that if there is disagreement among Christians, something is terribly wrong. While there are times when that is true, there are many times when a disagreement is only that and nothing more. I am so thankful for this writer reminding us that God works through those who disagree. Personal Worship Option: Is there a Christian with whom you had a disagreement in the past that caused you to separate from them? If possible, contact them to see how they are doing and offer God’s blessing.

Daily Devotion, August 28, 2020

 

Devotion: Read Acts 12:1-17.

This is one of the many stories this writer shared about what happened to the disciples of Jesus in the early years of the Church. There was a hostile political and religious environment toward the followers of Jesus but this seemed to ignite the hearts of the faithful as God’s Spirit moved in powerful and varied ways. Peter’s release from prison was miraculous, to say the least!! The power of prayer was on display for all to see. I’m sure the story of Peter’s release was told multiple times to many people. It was a great example of the power of prayer.  Not all prayers are answered in the manner that we are expecting but it doesn’t negate the working of God in the situation. That same power and Spirit are moving in our midst today. It is up to us to open our hearts and minds in expectation as we pray. Personal Worship Option: What are you talking to God about today? Do you pray with anticipation of the answer?

Daily Devotion, August 27, 2020

 

Devotion: Read Acts 2:43-47; 4:32-35.

I believe the Bible transcends time and culture so today the same applies to the original church. It is interesting to ask if Luke is describing an ideal Christian community. I imagine that the original church was on a significant emotional high. Everything was new and nothing had yet been established beyond the teachings of Jesus. There are four activities that appeared important to the church at its core. Teaching new converts, fellowship of any sort, communion, and prayer seem like good building blocks for the church from any perspective.

First, they devoted themselves to the teaching from the apostles. This instruction was for new converts who may not have heard Jesus teach. The apostles were witnesses passing along the things which they had seen and heard. Second, they devoted themselves to fellowship. Since this word has the connotation of sharing resources, this is likely an allusion to the communal life described.. At the very least this included care for the poor. Third, they devoted themselves to breaking of bread. While this phrase can be used for sharing a meal together, it is likely that Luke is describing celebrating some form of communion. Fourth, they devoted themselves to prayers. It would not be unusual for Jewish men to go to the Temple several times a day to pray, so the community continues to worship at the Temple regularly. Personal Worship Option: I feel like, along with the four basic principles, we need to make an effort to live in a closer community with fellow believers, so that we will not become complacent with just the Sunday morning stuff, but that we will push each other, keep each other more accountable in the deeper things that are happening in our everyday lives and with this community will become stronger in doing all of these things. Let’s strive to encourage one another.

Daily Devotion, August 26, 2020

 

Devotion: Read Luke 8:1-3.

Eugene Peterson writes in The Message, in his introduction to the gospel of Luke, “Luke is a most vigorous champion of the outsider. An outsider himself, the only Gentile in an all-Jewish cast of New Testament writers, he shows how Jesus includes those who typically were treated as outsiders by the religious establishment of the day: women, common laborers (sheepherders), the racially different (Samaritans), and the poor.”

Here in Luke 8, I’m so thankful Luke takes the time to include the details of the story and add the names of these three women, Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna, who are accompanying Jesus in his ministry. Luke is the only Gospel writer to note and name these women who followed Jesus. We meet two of these women again in Luke 24 as they are the first to Jesus’ tomb. In 24:5-6, the angel said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, he has risen!” When the women relayed this message to the disciples, “their words seemed to them like nonsense.”

By the gospel writer’s attention to detail, we realize the faithfulness of these women who followed Jesus throughout his ministry. It’s interesting to note that in Luke 7-8, Jesus is teaching about what faithful discipleship is. Jesus’ parable about the farmer scattering the seeds on the path, the rock, the thorns and the good soil is explained in verses 9-15. “The seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it and by persevering produce a crop.”

That the names of two of these women are listed again in Luke 24 demonstrates they truly heard Jesus’ words and persevered in faithfulness, even when other disciples had run away and hidden in fear of losing their own lives. Their witness bears much good fruit!

Eugene Peterson concludes his introduction, “All of us who have found ourselves on the outside looking in on life with no hope of gaining entrance now find the doors wide open, found and welcomed by God in Jesus.” Jesus invites us to not only “hear” his words but to follow in faithfulness. Personal Worship Option: Dear Jesus, thank you for including all of us. Help us to not only hear your words, but to seek to follow you faithfully forever. Thank you for never giving up on us. Amen.

Daily Devotion, August 25, 2020

 

Devotion: Read Luke 2:22-38.

At Jesus’ temple presentation forty days after his birth, God speaks through two faithful followers of God. Joseph and Mary were obedient Jews. The offering they made, two doves or pigeons, was typical of the poor or middle class. The prophet Simeon was righteous and devout in His relationship with God. The Holy Spirit prompted Simeon to go to the temple courts at just the right time on just the right day that Joseph and Mary were bringing their infant to the Temple. When Simeon looked at the baby Jesus, now about six weeks old, he knew that God's promise had been kept. Here was Immanuel, "God with Us," to make everything right, to provide significance by His presence, and to eliminate rejection, fear, and loneliness.

 

After her husband had died, Anna had dedicated herself to fasting and praying in the temple. In fact, the Bible says that she never left the temple but worshipped day and night. We read that she had been a widow for 84 years and was very old. In her old age she remained faithful to God. This faithful widow had a regular ministry at the temple. Her teaching would have been heard by those who frequented the temple.

At the temple the day Simeon blessed the baby Jesus, Anna was full of thanksgiving and became the first witness to tell others about the child. When Anna saw Jesus, she gave thanks to God and spoke of him to all who were waiting for redemption. She knew that the one who would save his people had arrived. Anna reminds us that no matter our age we are a witness to the work and wonder of God. Personal Worship Option: Anna was full of thanksgiving and couldn't wait to tell others about the birth of Jesus. What are you thankful for today? Think of a way to share your gratitude with others.

Daily Devotion, August 24, 2020

 

Devotion: Read Luke 1:39-45.

This week we will be exploring some of the unique learnings we receive from the writer of two volumes of the New Testament -- the Gospel of Luke and Acts. While all four of the gospels tell us about the life, actions, and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth in order to convince us that he is the Christ, they are each distinctive in many ways. After a brief introduction, the Gospel of Luke begins with the news that John the Baptist would soon be born to the priest Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth, followed by the news that Jesus would be born to Joseph and Mary. The Jewish people not only remembered the promises of the coming of the Messiah or Christ, there was a renewed sense of expectancy that it would be happening soon. Many people wondered if John the Baptist, with his rough demeanor and urgent call to repentance, might be the one. All four of the gospels go to great lengths to have John himself deny this and point instead to Jesus as the Christ.

It is only in today’s passage in Luke’s gospel that we are told about the unborn John the Baptist leaping in his mother’s womb in the presence of his Lord in Mary’s womb. John’s role was to prepare the way for Christ, and he began early! Personal Worship Option: Reflect today on the seeming contentment John felt in his own ministry -- pointing the way to Jesus and later even sending some of his own disciples to follow Jesus. Pray for a similar sense of peace with your gifts and your own role in ministry.

Daily Devotion, August 23, 2020

 

Devotion: Read Acts 9:1-18.

  It is one of the most dramatic stories in all of the Bible. This man was so convinced that these followers of Jesus were harming God’s purposes that they had to be snuffed out. And he was giving his all to accomplish that mission.

  Then, it happened. Jesus confronted him, changed him and called him to a whole new life. It is fascinating that this conversion comes about while he is blinded. In a spiritual and mental sense, he had been blind to what God was doing through Jesus and his followers. Then Paul is healed of his blindness (spiritually, mentally, physically) and spends the rest of his life trying to convince others of what God is doing.

  Jesus also dealt with many people who were committed to God and thought they fully understood what God was doing in the world and wanted them to do. Yet Jesus said they were blind. Most of them remained in their blindness; Paul did not. He was willing to change. He was willing to have his mind and his spirit changed.

  For those who seek to follow Jesus Christ, it is a good practice every so often to ask him if you are still serving his mission. Have you become blinded to the ways and thinking of Jesus by the ways and thinking of this world?  If he wanted you to change in some dramatic way, would you be willing to do so? Personal Worship Option:

Words written in 1895 by Clara Scott are most fitting for you to consider as your prayer (I have adapted a few words to flow better in how we would speak today):

Open my eyes, that I may see, glimpses of truth you have for me;

place in my hands the wonderful key that shall unclasp and set me free.

Silently now I wait for you, ready my God your will to see.

Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit divine! Amen.

Daily Devotion, August 22, 2020

 

Devotion: Read Acts 25:13 - 26:29.

  When you read about Paul in the book of Acts, one thing is apparent: he was a great speaker. He was an evangelist He loved to debate and convince others of what he believed. And he was good at it. From the time he was first converted to following Jesus Christ, he immediately began to preach and teach (Acts 9:19b-22). He spoke to groups small and large. He spoke to religious leaders and government leaders. He debated with philosophers and many others who had different beliefs than him. He could talk to anybody about Jesus and he was good at it.

  This lengthy text for today tells us of the time he was being held by Roman authorities, who were perplexed with what to do with him. He had been under “house arrest” for two years. The former ruler (Felix) had been replaced by a new one (Festus). When King Agrippa comes to pay his respects to Festus, the Roman ruler brings the case of Paul to the Jewish King, who wants to hear from this man. So Paul makes his defense before the King, who is impressed with what he is trying to accomplish: “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?”

  Being a good speaker and being able to persuade others with words is not a gift everybody has. However, it is the mission of every Christian to find their own way to help other people begin a relationship with Jesus Christ. It begins with accepting that mission and being intentional about accomplishing it. It certainly includes prayer, seeking God to guide you. Most of all, it is about loving people. If you love them, you will find a way to persuade them. Personal Worship Option: Who is that one person (maybe more) who you are praying for as you seek to build a relationship that will give you an opportunity to lead them into their own relationship with Jesus Christ? It is the mission he gave to all those devoted to him.

Daily Devotion, August 21, 2020

Devotion: Read Acts 16:16-34.

Even when we are persecuted for the sake of the gospel, God can make us a powerful testimony. Through the Holy Spirit others will experience the presence of God.

Ponder the Prayer of Saint Patrick:

I establish myself today in:

The power of God to guide me.

The might of God to uphold me.

The wisdom of God to teach me.

The eye of God to watch over me.

The ear of God to hear me.

The word of God to speak to me.

The hand of God to protect me.

The way of God to lie before me.

The shield of God to shelter me.

The hosts of God to defend me.

Christ with me, Christ before me.

Christ behind me, Christ above me.

Christ at my right, Christ at my left.

Christ in breadth, Christ in length.

Christ is height, Christ in the heart of every man who thinks of me.

Christ in the mouth of every man who speaks to me.

Christ in the ear of every man who hears me.

Confident in Christ. Personal Worship Option: Where can you witness for Christ today? Put your trust in Him. Say a word for Jesus.

Daily Devotion, August 20, 2020

Devotion: Read Acts 15:12-15a, 22-23a, 30-35.

The stories in Acts are the stories of a church dealing with persecution from the outside and threats from within. Today’s passage is about a threat from within. Believers, who also held on to the law of Moses, insisted that all converts had to be circumcised and follow the other ceremonial requirements of the Mosaic law in order to receive salvation. These additional burdens on Gentile believers led to a dispute. Paul and Barnabas entered into this conflict and returned to Jerusalem for wisdom and direction at a meeting of the church council. Peter and the other apostles and elders were there. Even James, the brother of Jesus, was there. Paul and Barnabas shared from their travels. The Spirit of God began to move hearts. A church that could have been segregated along lines of ethnicity, Jews and Gentiles, became a unified body again.

This story tells us something about the people who wanted strict requirements for everyone: they were Pharisees and legalistic people. Faced with the unknown and the uncomfortable, the Pharisee disciples wanted to control Gentile believers by making them follow the Pharisees’ laws. Acts 15 shows the radical nature of the gospel and the community that results. Gentile and Jewish believers are unified around the grace of Jesus alone. What a leader Paul was in this situation. Personal Worship Option: Dear God, forgive us when we divide the body and separate from other believers. Draw us together by the grace of Jesus and the movement of the Spirit. Amen.

Daily Devotion, August 19, 2020

Devotion: Read Acts 14:8-20.

In Acts 14:8, we find Paul and Barnabas in Lystra (which is in the middle of present day Turkey). In Lystra, Paul and Barnabas are preaching mostly to Gentile people. And it’s in Lystra that God heals a crippled man through Paul. Then the crowds want to worship him and Barnabas, saying “The gods have come down to us in human form!” In the meantime, the priest of the temple of Zeus creates a sort of festival and parade to honor them!

But Paul and Barnabas declare that they are only human with a message to bring “the good news of the living God who made heaven and earth.” But the crowds still wanted to believe that Paul and Barnabas were gods.

Again in the meantime, this passage says, “some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul….. They thought he was dead…but after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. And the next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe.” (Derbe was about 60 land miles southeast of Lystra).

The lessons we can learn from Paul are that he was faithful to the Lord’s calling to go and bring the message of good news of the Living God to the Gentiles, even though there were many cultural and religious challenges.

He and Barnabas were also honest and gave credit to God for healing the man who had never walked. They could have enjoyed a “good life” with status as “gods” and could have profited from the people’s perception that they had “healing powers.” But they gave credit to God for healing the man and then they suffered greatly for their honesty.

Paul also didn’t let his suffering keep him from continuing to proclaim the good news of God’s love for all people through Christ. With the disciples’ help, he got up and went back to Lystra and then began the 60 mile journey the next day to Derbe! Personal Worship Option: Are we faithful, are we honest and give credit where credit is due, are we willing to help one another, and are we willing to overcome adversities for continuing to proclaim God’s love to all people? God will help us each step of the way!

Daily Devotion, August 18, 2020

Devotion: Read Acts 9:19b-30.

Has your past ever come back to haunt you? Well, that’s what happened to Paul. After Paul’s dramatic conversion and baptism, he stayed on in Damascus and preached Christ in the synagogues there. A number of the Jews conspired to kill Paul, so he escaped from Damascus. When he arrived in Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples there. He apparently tried to make amends for his former hatred and persecution, but the Jerusalem believers were filled with skepticism and fear. Enter Barnabas. Barnabas whose name means “Son of Encouragement” told the apostles of Paul’s conversion and the good things he had done in Damascus. Paul was able to move about freely in the Christian circles after Barnabas testified on his behalf. God used Barnabas in a very influential way in building up the Early Church. His encouragement helped Paul to move forward in ministry. When our past comes back to haunt us, it’s good to have an encourager like Barnabas. Personal Worship Option: Thank God for the encouragers in your life who’ve helped you to move forward. Ask God to show you someone to encourage this week.

Daily Devotion, August 17, 2020

Devotion: Read Acts 7:54 - 8:3.

When Stephen preached before the Jewish Sanhedrin, he concluded by telling them they had betrayed and murdered the “Righteous One,” the Christ. In a fit of rage, the members of the Sanhedrin rushed at Stephen, dragged him out of the city, and stoned him to death. The Roman authorities had taken away the right of the Jews to execute anyone (this is why they had taken Jesus to Pontius Pilate for execution). In their anger, they forgot this and illegally and brutally executed Stephen. Laying their coats at the feet of Saul likely indicated that Saul was leading the charges against Stephen, but we know from verse 8:1 that he at least approved of their actions.

This passage introduces Saul (later to be Paul) and tells us how he proceeded to imprison believers in an attempt to destroy the church. Saul’s conversion in a later chapter will seem to be totally sudden with no forewarning. But Saul had witnessed Stephen’s incredible faith in the agonizing moments just before his death, even praying Christlike for forgiveness for those who were killing him. I wonder if Saul’s acts of violence were partially driven by his need to rid his mind of that scene. One can only imagine what impact Stephen’s witness had on preparing Saul to meet Christ. Personal Worship Option: This passage shows the dark side of Saul without Christ and helps us see the power of his conversion. Reflect on your own life before you knew Christ or what it would be like today without Christ. Pray for the opportunity to share what Christ means to you. Like Stephen’s, your witness may open the door to Christ for someone.

Daily Devotion, August 16, 2020

Devotion: Read Matthew 16:13-23.

  As Matthew tells the story of the life and ministry of Jesus, this is a climactic scene. Jesus had brought his disciples to a place where pagan deities had been worshipped for centuries. Also, King Herod had built a temple there and dedicated it to Augustus Caesar. Herod’s son Philip had later built a city around it and this became known as Caesarea Philippi. That setting and history of the place makes Jesus’ question to the disciples even more dramatic: “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” along with his follow-up question of “Who do you say I am?”

  I wonder if there were some moments of silence after that last question. I think there probably were. Maybe they all thought they knew the answer, but were not sure enough to say it. Peter broke the silence: “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus commends him for his answer, acknowledges that he was given that insight by God and declares that he will build his church on that foundational understanding.

  Then Jesus goes on to explain what is going to happen to him later in Jerusalem. Peter can’t stand the thought of that. Maybe it was a combination of his love for Jesus and being emboldened by Jesus’ earlier affirmation of him, but he apparently felt the need to challenge Jesus on this prediction: “This shall never happen to you!” From the earlier emotional high he must have felt, he had to be equally crushed when Jesus rebuked him for this challenge, calling him “Satan” and “a stumbling block to me.”

  To be sure, Peter’s journey of faith was often rocky. (Yes, since his name means “rock,” this pun was intended.) Yet, he became a foundational leader in the early Church. I hope you will be encouraged by this. Even when your journey of faith hits rocky spots, be assured that God never gives up on you. Personal Worship Option: Reflect on the rocky moments of your faith journey. How did God see you through those times? Are you going through a rocky time now? Who might God be guiding you to for support? Do you know someone who is going through a rocky time in their life? How might you support them? 

Daily Devotion, August 15, 2020

Devotion: Read Acts 15:1-11.

  Through Jesus Christ, God had done a new thing in the world. Creation was continuing. A new world was being created. A new Way of relating to God had been born through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. That “birthing” had continued with the coming of God through the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. This Spirit continued the work of Christ through his followers, the people of the Church.

  Peter was there in the midst of all of it. He was one of the inner circle of the Apostles of Jesus, a leader among all of them. The book of Acts shows him continuing that leadership role from the earliest days after Jesus ascended to heaven. The Spirit continued to teach him the ways of Christ, highlighted by his visit to the house of Cornelius in chapter ten. There he saw for himself that the Holy Spirit was also available to the Gentiles, the “outsiders” of the world.

  That same Spirit was also working through Paul and many Gentiles were being converted to Christ through him. In the midst of all this outreach to the Gentiles came questions of what was required of them in order to be part of God’s people. That’s what prompted the need for this council meeting in Jerusalem that we read about today. Peter is one of the primary speakers, telling about what he has witnessed and experienced. He sums up in one sentence the foundational belief of the Church, then and now: “We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved…” Praise God that every person is included in the offering of this amazing gift! Personal Worship Option: Find your favorite song about grace and listen to someone sing it. You might even want to sing along! Either way, give thanks to God for this amazing gift! 

Daily Devotion, August 14, 2020

Devotion: Read Acts 12:1-17.

King Herod jailed Peter and resolved to behead him on the anniversary of Jesus’ death.

What could the church do about it? They had no political power, no clout, no “ace” to cash in.

Peter obviously wasn’t worried - he was asleep!

But the church was working. They were praying. They knew something that I think we forget: when the problem is bigger than we are - we pray! Our prayers move the heart of God.

Peter is released by an angel from God. Those praying for him are reluctant to believe he had been released. Before you are too hard on those early believers - how often do we pray without the anticipation of the answer? Personal Worship Option: God answered prayer and set Peter free. How has God answered your prayers? Write down your requests so you can thank him for all the answers. Thank God today that prayer is an open channel to his heart.

Daily Devotion, August 13, 2020

Devotion: Read Acts 1:15-17, 21-26.

Peter takes charge. This episode in the life of the disciples happens just after Jesus ascended into heaven and just before the coming of the Holy Spirit. The problem is that the disciples are short-staffed. Twelve is a nice Biblical number. There were twelve tribes in Israel. Jesus called twelve disciples. Along the way they went from being called disciples to apostles. Disciple is one who is called. An apostle is one who is sent. Jesus called his disciples, he sent apostles to take his gospel message to the ends of the earth. The candidate for the twelfth apostle, Judas’ replacement, had to have been with them from the very beginning, from the baptism of John to the Ascension. They wanted someone who had walked the entire journey with Jesus.

Casting lots to pick the twelfth apostle was serious business. They wanted God’s choice to fill the position. Peter had them pray. This might have been the first congregational meeting of the Christian Church. Five minutes after Jesus left, the meetings began! This passage seems like boring church business, but the intriguing fact is that they stopped to ask what God wanted. I’m not sure we always do that. Sometimes we get caught up in business as usual and we forget to ask: What is God’s vision for God’s world and church? Personal Worship Option: What we have in our story for today is a group of people seeking to follow the founder’s vision. We have people praying that they might do God’s will and not their own will. We have people waiting for and believing in the power of the Holy Spirit to equip them to do God’s work in the world as the body of Christ. We have people who are committed and excited. What about us? What does God want for us? We can never stop asking.

Daily Devotion, August 12, 2020

Devotion: Read John 21:15-19.

The resurrected Jesus had prepared a charcoal fire breakfast of bread and fish to give to the hungry and weary disciples who had been fishing all night and caught nothing. Impetuous Peter appears to be leading the small band of disciples on the fishing journey and to the shoreline to meet Jesus. During breakfast, Jesus asked Peter the question which goes straight to Peter’s heart and soul. “Peter, do you love me more than these?” And Jesus asks this question three times. In this way, Jesus lets Peter know that he has forgiven him for his denial three times during Jesus’ crucifixion. And in forgiving Peter, Jesus restores Peter and gives him his purpose again….to feed and shepherd Jesus’ sheep, and eventually to be the servant leader of the church.

 

In this one question asked three times, “Do you love me?”, there is this sense of the compelling calling of Jesus, first to relationship----not to an organization, club, institution, business, country, or nationality, but to Jesus, the Son of God. This question reaches into the depths of one’s soul and life. This question gives our lives meaning and purpose. This question brings the depths and heights of joy on a journey with Jesus, but it will not be an easy journey. Love is like that.

There is so much redemption in this story of Jesus and Peter’s conversation over the breakfast Jesus has prepared. Peter had to be wondering, “Does Jesus know that I denied him three times?” Peter had to be wondering that when he smelled the charcoal fire burning. The last time he smelled that kind of fire was in the home and conversation with Caiphas, the same night Peter had denied Jesus three times. Peter had had to be wondering that when Jesus asked him the question three times.

The words, “Master, you know everything there is to know. You’ve got to know that I love you.” caught my attention as I read this passage in The Message. Jesus knows everything about us and still loves us, forgives us and still has a purpose for our lives---to serve others. We are not perfect, but Jesus still loves us. Personal Worship Option: Today as you are reading this during breakfast, lunch, dinner or your nighttime snack, hear Jesus’ offer of love, forgiveness and a new beginning into your life. And hear his question and purpose into your life too, “Do you love me? Feed and shepherd my sheep.”

Daily Devotion, August 11, 2020

Devotion: Read Luke 22:31-34, 50-51, 54-62.

It is at the Last Supper that Jesus predicted Peter would deny him. Proud and boastful, Peter proclaimed he would be ready to go to prison and even die with Jesus. Before the rooster crowed the next morning, Peter denied Christ three times. After the third denial, Peter came face to face with Jesus and Peter remembered those fateful words, “You will deny me.” Peter wept bitterly. We can imagine the range of emotions he must have experienced for denying his Lord and his dear friend. Later Jesus confronted Peter with his sin. Peter once again committed his love to Christ. Peter was not just forgiven, but he was also restored as a leader and apostle. Jesus wanted Peter to move beyond his sin and return to the work of the Lord. Jesus encouraged him to continue the mission. When we receive God's forgiveness from our sins, he wants us to do the same. He wants us to do his work in the world to share God's love. Personal Worship Option: Peter caved in under pressure. Pray today for courage to stand up for Christ when given the opportunity.

Daily Devotion, August 10, 2020

Devotion: Read Luke 5:1-11.

You can imagine the scene -- the people were eager to hear every word from this new and powerful teacher who shared the word of God with great authority, so they crowded in closer and closer. Jesus backed up, giving up ground until he was at the water’s edge. So he “borrowed” Simon and his boat and taught sitting in the boat. We read about the instruction to put down the net, Simon’s whine about a long night with no fish, his somewhat reluctant compliance, and the awesome catch that required another boat and partners to help haul it in.

I wonder what made Jesus select Simon’s boat. As the fishermen did the menial work of washing their nets that morning after a long and fruitless night, was Simon the one showing the most initiative? Was he being the leader, telling his brother and his partners what to do? Or was he being encouraging, telling them not to worry about last night’s lack of success and urging them to come ready for better results tonight? Perhaps Jesus saw none of this in Simon but simply saw in him the potential for faith that would make Jesus give him the new name of Peter, the Rock. Simon’s decision to leave his boat (life’s work) and go fish for people is inspiring. What are you being called to do? Personal Worship Option: Christ calls each of us to come follow him and become something different as a disciple. Pray today that you hear your call. Perhaps it is a call not to go anywhere but simply to serve Christ in a new way right where you are. Or perhaps you will simply be encouraged to continue being faithful to the call you heard long ago.

Daily Devotion, August 9, 2020

Devotion: Read Luke 1:26-38.

  It is interesting to note Mary’s initial response to the angel. The NIV says she was “greatly troubled” and the NRSV says she was “much perplexed” by his words. In both translations, the angel’s response is “Do not be afraid.” Anybody would be troubled, perplexed, afraid. But Gabriel assures her (and us) that she need not be. In fact, she can be comforted and assured in knowing that she has “found favor with God.”

  After the angel describes what is going to happen to her, Gabriel ends with a statement that is one of the highlights of all the Bible: “For nothing will be impossible with God.” (v. 37, NRSV) In all of the chaos that our world has experienced this year, remember that announcement from heaven!

  One of the primary lessons to be learned from Mary is servanthood. Though this news had to seem so daunting and overwhelming, she stated that she was willing to serve God in this way. There may very well be times when God will call you to do something that seems overwhelming. When that time comes, remember two things Gabriel said to Mary: “The Lord is with you” and “Nothing is impossible with God.” Personal Worship Option: Reflect on times when God has seen you through what looked like an impossible challenge. Offer a prayer of thanksgiving.

Daily Devotion, August 8, 2020

Devotion: Read Luke 2:1-19.

  It seems a little strange to read this in August. Usually, we only hear it in December. As Mary nears the time when she will give birth, she has to make the trip with Joseph to Bethlehem for the census. One can only imagine how difficult that trip must have been. I wonder if the thought ever crossed her mind “If this really is the Son of God I am carrying inside of me, you would think I would not be having to make a trip like this.” Maybe you have had some “What have I done to deserve this?” kind of questions and thoughts cross your mind as well.

  Maybe you and I would also be thinking “Surely God has made some special arrangements for us in Bethlehem. I’m sure the best hotel room in town will be saved for us.” Did it cause her to question what the angel had told her when she saw where she would be birthing this baby? Did she cry at not being able to provide a better setting for him to enter this world?

  On the other hand, how amazed she must have been when those shepherds came in and told her what they had seen and what they had been told about her boy. “She treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.” It had only been nine months since she was first told about what was going to happen to her and it’s already been an amazing journey. But it was just getting started.  Personal Worship Option:

What parts of Mary’s story most connect with you? Do any of the questions raised here resonate with you? Offer them to God.

Daily Devotion, August 7, 2020

Devotion: Read Matthew 2:16-18.

Mary experiences life as a refugee. One wonders how soon she heard the news of all the children being killed in Bethlehem. As tragic a loss of these children, God was still at work. There was still a reason to hope. That is how it is with God. We are never beyond the reach of God’s grace and the touch of His love. No matter how we feel. No matter how much we are struggling. God brings people into our lives in divine encounters of His grace. Just as the wise men were an encouragement and (possibly) provided provisions for a journey their family didn’t even know was about to occur. The circle of grace continues when we are able to pass the blessing on to others through tender touches, encouraging words, and expressions of value. We have the privilege of passing hope along to others. These gifts in God’s hands infuse our lives, and the lives we touch, with hope and encouragement for life’s journey. Personal Worship Option: Reflect on all the good things that God has brought into your life. Share with someone today.

Daily Devotion, August 6, 2020

Devotion: Read Luke 2:41-51.

Every year the Feast of the Passover took place in Jerusalem. The Passover was a special time of worship and celebration of God freeing the Israelites from Egyptian slavery during the days of Moses. In this passage, we find Jesus, who was twelve, walking to Jerusalem from Nazareth with his family and a crowd of people. After the Passover, returning home, Mary and Joseph assumed that Jesus was with the group. After a day’s travel, they realized that he was not with them and returned to Jerusalem to search for him. They found him in the temple among a group of Jewish teachers. Even though he was only 12 years old, Jesus amazed the teachers with his understanding of Scriptures. As Mary witnessed this, she was amazed too. But she and Joseph also asked him why he had stayed behind in Jerusalem. Jesus responded, “Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” That was Jesus’ way of saying that learning about God was of great importance to him. Even though Jesus was still young, it was noted that he knew the scriptures well. Mary pondered all of these things in her heart. As the mother of the Savior, I think she was still wondering how it was all going to play out.

If you go ahead and read verse 52 it tells us that even though he had great understanding at a young age, he continued to grow in wisdom and stature. Finally, Jesus “grew in favor with God and man.” That tells us that Jesus grew in his relationship with his Father and his relationships with all people, including his mother. Personal Worship Option:

How can we grow in wisdom, stature, and favor with God? Dear God help us grow in your word and grow in our relationships with you and humankind.

Daily Devotion, August 5, 2020

Devotion: Read Mark 3:31-35.

As parents, we often realize that our children, at all ages, teach us more than we teach them. Some commentaries discuss the discourse between Jesus and his Mother and brothers, in this passage, as being harsh. Through the years I’ve read this story as a teaching moment for all.

There is a hymn from my childhood titled, “He Included Me”. The words of this hymn are based from John 3:16 and the word, “whosoever”. So when I read this Mark 3 passage, I imagine being in the room where Jesus is and I hear Jesus “including me” in his family.

And at the same time, I hear Jesus calling us to include others. I hear Jesus calling us to also broaden our definition of family to include more than just the people who look like us. Throughout Jesus’ lifetime, Jesus included people in the room and around his table that we might not have included.

We can grow toward faithful discipleship in hearing Jesus’ words, ‘Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.’ And perhaps this was one of those moments that Jesus’ immediate family grew in their faithful discipleship, too. We all have the tendency to keep our love narrow and the way we grow in faith is to allow God to broaden our love for all people. But Mary is also our inspiration. Mary knew what it was like to be on the outside and to be the subject of ridicule and rejection, but she remained faithful to do the will of God.

Today’s passage is well-illustrated in a scene from the movie, “Remember the Titans”. The movie is based on a true story about Coach Herman Boone, and his attempt to integrate the T. C. Williams High School football team in Alexandria, Virginia, in 1971. Gerry Bertier, is one of the athletes who is white, and is in an automobile accident. He is in the hospital, paralyzed. Julius Campbell, another athlete who is black, stops by the hospital to visit Gerry. The nurse tells Julius that only family members are allowed to visit. Then immediately Gerry says, “Alice, are you blind? Don’t you see the family resemblance?” Personal Worship Option: Thank you Jesus for including us all in your family. Forgive us when we don’t see the family resemblance in others. Open our eyes and heart to see and do your will to convey your love to all people. Amen.