DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, August 1, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Isaiah
43:1 — Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are
mine.
SCRIPTURE
Job
28:29 — The fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is
understanding.
James
1:5 — If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously
and ungrudgingly, and it will be given to you.
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
Remember
the “moron” jokes? One of my favorites was: “Why did the little moron keep
hitting himself over the head with a hammer?” Answer: “Because it felt so good
when he quit!” While most of us will say we would never fall into that category
or do anything that stupid regarding our spiritual lives, we do fall into the
category and keep doing them. Sin and evil have a way of infecting us and
addicting us like drugs. Falling away from God, failing to worship regularly,
allowing the Bible to gather dust, talking to God only when we have “orders” to
give Him, and a multitude of other things become so much a part of our lives
that we allow them to be the “hammer.” And then we wonder why things aren’t
going as we think they should!? And it feels so good when we return to the
Lord, who is gracious and merciful. So why not give up the “hammer” and embrace
the Way of the Lord?!
PRAYER
Good
and gracious Lord, we thank You for Your patience with us and Your loving
embrace of us when we give up our “hammers” and return to You. Plan within us a
burning desire to be one with You and a joyous expectation of experiencing Your
healing in our lives, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, August 2, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Isaiah
43:1 — Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are
mine.
SCRIPTURE
Genesis
28:15 — Know that I am with you and will keep you wherever you go.
Acts
1:8 — You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you
will be my witnesses.
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
I
was drained. In less than a week, I had dealt with one crisis after another,
one meeting after another. I was attempting to complete a Bible study, a
confirmation lesson, a wedding sermon, a Sunday sermon, a newsletter, and a
skit I had promised to have written before the weekend. There was no way it was
humanly possible. When I finally admitted the facts, I took a deep breath and
said out loud, “OK, Lord. Where do we start? Only You can accomplish what I’ve
got on my plate!” I spent some time resting in the Lord, and then, energized
again, one by one, God made my mountains into molehills. Crises were averted,
writing was completed, and I sat in my office happily amazed. God was with me,
directing my thoughts, prayers, and words. The Holy Spirit put words at my
fingertips, and everything that needed to be done was finished. It wasn’t the
first time and won’t be the last. Why is it so hard for us to rely on the
source of real power in our lives? Why do we think we have to do it all
alone? Thanks be to God; we have the promise and the assurance of victory by
the breath of His Spirit within us!!!
PRAYER
Spirit
of the Living Lord, fall afresh on us. Bless us. Enrich us. Renew us. Guide us
into the ways that lead to success and progress as You define them. Give us
insight into those paths You lay before us, which will draw us closer to You
and lead others to follow, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, August 3, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Isaiah
43:1 — Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are
mine.
SCRIPTURE
Psalm
68:19 — Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears us up; God is our salvation.
Matthew
11:30 — My yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
We
drilled a water well near the old home place where we had built a cabin for a retreat
center several years before. It required that we keep a steady supply of water
flowing to flush out the castings. Since all the water had to be hauled to the
sight, we were at the mercy of all the help we could get to keep the “water
pit” full so that the drill could use it. To our aid came my twin brothers, who
tirelessly filled 55-gallon drums at the dam a quarter of a mile away and
hauled them to us as fast as we needed them until we struck a water vein. They
made the job of drilling relatively easy. In God’s great love, the blessings of
the Lord flow to those who call on His name, making our yoke easy and our
burden light. Even when we are weary, God continues to work the works of
salvation on our behalf. From the waters of our baptism to the feast of victory
we share, He is there “bearing us up.” Thanks be to God!!!
PRAYER
Never-ending
source of grace and mercy, how good it is to be able to call upon You to
refresh us with the Water of Life. Remind us of our baptism and the promises
that come to us through this gift You give us. Give us the courage to live
within that grace and share it often, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, August 4, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Isaiah
43:1 — Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are
mine.
SCRIPTURE
Isaiah
29:13 — These people draw near with their mouths and honor me with their lips,
while their hearts are far from me.
James
3:10 — From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers and sisters,
this ought not to be so.
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
When
we played “cowboys and Indians,” we had to have “peace talks” from time to
time. We discovered, from my uncle, that “white man speaks with forked tongue!”
White men made treaties but broke them and made promises they had no intention
of keeping. The sadness of our times is that too many people speak “with forked
tongues”—even with the Lord God. We may all be guilty when we say one word but
mean another when we apologize or claim to repent, but we don’t mean it or act
one way to a person’s face and another way behind their back. It was also a
problem in ancient times when people praised God with words but not with their
hearts. Jesus said, “Where your heart is, there will your treasure be.” Where
is your heart? Where is your treasure? Is it in loving God with your whole
heart, mind, and soul? If it is, there is no place in your life for a
“forked tongue. Speaking the truth in love, and speaking it from our hearts,
may all that we say and do glorify the Lord our God.
PRAYER
Forgive
us, Lord, when we speak “with forked tongues.” Plant in our hearts and minds a
driving desire to speak only those words which are true, honorable, and in
keeping with Your love and grace so that You can speak through us, in Jesus’
name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, August 5, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Isaiah
43:1 — Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are
mine.
SCRIPTURE
Isaiah
58:7 — Share your food with the hungry.
Matthew
14:16 — Jesus said to (the disciples), “They need not go away; you give them
something to eat.”
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
I
love to eat. I always have. Most people I talk to like to eat also, but some
are in areas or cities where there is nothing to eat. I remember some pretty
lean times when I was growing up, but we always had food on the table. (An
advantage of living on a farm.) I also cleaned up my plate for the sake of
those starving in China. (I never did figure out how my clean plate would help
feed children in China!) I have felt hunger, but I have always had access to
food at the end of a fast or when the next paycheck came. I don’t think most of
us will fully understand what real hunger without hope is until we place
ourselves in the desperation of others. Each time we fill our bellies, we
should also fill a container with a thank offering for the hungry—thanking God
that we have food and asking God to encourage others to give food to the
hungry. However, our physical hunger is only a “foretaste” of the spiritual
hunger we may also be experiencing. Jesus fed the people with physical food for
their physical bodies. He also gave us the Bread of Life for our spiritual
bodies. May you always be hungry for the food that truly
satisfies the body and the soul!
PRAYER
O
heavenly Bread eternal Vine, keep us aware of the needs of those less fortunate
than us. Let that awareness remind us of our need for spiritual food. Bless the
food we eat that may nourish our bodies and souls so that we may give Your
living bread to others, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, August 6, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Ephesians
2:19 — So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens
with the saints and also members of the household of God.
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 66:20 — Blessed be God because he has
not rejected my prayer or removed his steadfast love from me.
Hebrews
5:7 — In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications,
with loud cries and tears, to the one able to save him from death. And he was
heard because of his reverent submission.
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
The
hay field in August was usually the hottest place on the face of the earth, as
far as we were concerned. Dry summers were the worst. We’d get up extra early
to get the chores done so we could get into the field before the sun got a head
start on roasting everything in sight. We didn’t need to travel to Death Valley
or the Dead Sea! In our minds, we were living in them. The 80-pound alfalfa
bales seemed like a ton under the blazing sun. One morning we left the water
jug behind. There was nothing to do but load up bales and tough it out. Our one
big hope was that Mom would see the jug and bring it out to us. With parched
throats, we longed for a taste of the “elixir of life.” About 9 o’clock, we saw
dust and prayed it would be Mom with her precious cargo. Our prayers were
answered! Covered from head to toe with dust and alfalfa chaff, we cheered as
she pulled out the gallon jug wrapped in a wet gunny sack. God hears our prayers
always. I’ve come to believe that God tests the sincerity of our prayers and
real need and that when they make us hungry and thirsty enough, our prayers
become more fervent and more sincere. Whether we are picking up hay bales in
the hot August sun or struggling to make ends meet and pay the bills, God is
listening. May we keep on seeking God’s guidance and help.
PRAYER
Living
Water of all life, turn our thirst for “things” into a thirst for You. Let the
hot August sun remind us that Your light shines into our hearts to burn out all
darkness but also lights our lives with the joys of Your presence. Quench our
thirst in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, August 7, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Ephesians
2:19 — So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens
with the saints and also members of the household of God.
SCRIPTURE
Psalm
125:2 — As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people
from this time on and forevermore.
John
10:29 — What my Father has given me is greater than all else, and no one can
snatch it out of the Father’s hand.
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
When
I was in the first grade, one of the “big kids” grabbed my cap and played “keep
away” with some of the other “big kids.” I was afraid they would never return
it, which wasn’t funny. But when I gave up and stopped chasing them, they threw
it back to me. In high school, one of my classmates grabbed my pencil and
played keep away with his friend. From my earlier experiences, I learned that
chasing after things like that is a wasted effort and that the thing grabbed
would usually be returned anyway. However, I never saw that pencil again! The
earth and all of creation belong to the Lord. Unfortunately, we sometimes act
as if it all belongs to us. Basically, we are playing “keep away” from God when
we forget Who owns it. We may be able to play games with one another, but the
Father will not allow anything or anyone to be snatched from His
hand. That is eternal Good News! May we remember who we belong to and
stop playing “keep away” from the One to whom it all belongs.
PRAYER
Creator
and owner of all that exists, thank You for every breath we breathe, every atom
of our being, every blessing bestowed on us; and thank You for sharing Your
creation with us. Give us the willingness to share Your amazing gifts with
others as we remember they all belong to you. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, August 8, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Ephesians
2:19 — So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens
with the saints and also members of the household of God.
SCRIPTURE
Isaiah
53:1 — Who has believed what we have heard? And to whom has the arm of the Lord
been revealed?
Matthew
13:17 — (Jesus said:) “Many prophets and righteous people longed to see what
you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it.”
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
I
have been in the enviable position of knowing some very famous people—as
friends. One, in particular, was a friend who welcomed us into her home and her
family, making us feel like we belonged. Almost a year after the friendship
began, I realized just how worldwide her fame and popularity were. We had
become close enough to share meals, laughs, tears, and prayers. When I
represented her at an international gathering, it finally sank in. One of the
younger participants expressed his admiration and envy in broken English, with
a look of longing to know her in such a personal way. He had read books she and
her husband had written and attributed his Christian faith to the books he
received from them as gifts. Similarly, we may look longingly and envy those
who walked and talked with Jesus. We might also hope that we would not have
taken His friendship for granted had we been there. We may also pray that we
would not do so now when He comes disguised as “one of the least of these.”
Have you given thanks to God for those who have helped you meet and “hear” the
One who loves you with an everlasting love?
PRAYER
Most
holy and gracious Lord, we stand in awe of You this day. Enable us to reflect
on the days gone by and consider the many times You have come to us in disguise
to bless us with opportunities for loving and serving You. Thank You for loving
us enough to be patient with us. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, August 9, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Ephesians
2:19 — So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens
with the saints and also members of the household of God.
SCRIPTURE
Deuteronomy
26:15 — Look down from your holy habitation, from heaven, and bless your people
Israel.
Matthew
3:16-17 — And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water,
suddenly the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God
descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said,
“This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
“Look
at me, Mom. Dad! Look!” With those exclamations, many a child has begged for
parental recognition. I know how important it was when I was in country school.
Each year the school board set up a stage for the school play. We memorized and
practiced for weeks before the big performance. Then, when the curtains were
opened, I scanned the audience to make certain Mom and Dad were watching. I
know I wasn’t alone. As the years go by, the feeling hasn’t changed much. There
is something special about having our parents in the audience. And when they
are gone, it is good to remember that our Father in heaven has never taken His
eye off us. As with His own Son, Jesus, He longs to declare to us: “You are my
beloved child! I’m really pleased with you and proud of you!” Does your every
word and every deed give God cause to make that declaration? Thank God for His
mercy and grace!
PRAYER
Loving
Father, may all that I say and all that I do be pleasing to You this and every
day. Give me the courage to do Your will when the world draws me away from it.
Help me “learn my lines” so that I may share them with those who need to hear
them. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, August 10, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Ephesians
2:19 — So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens
with the saints and also members of the household of God.
SCRIPTURE
Amos
7:14-15 — I am a herdsman, and a dresser of sycamore trees, and the Lord took
me from following the flock, and the Lord said to me, “Go, prophesy to my
people Israel.”
2
Peter 1:21 — No prophecy ever came by human will, but men and women moved by
the Holy Spirit spoke from God.
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
I
was nothing but a farm boy, trudging through manure, pulling weeds, fixing
fences, and gathering eggs; all the things farmers do. When we went to town, I
felt like, dressed like, acted like a country hick. I was not “sophisticated”
like my city cousins. I said things and did things they made fun of. But there
came the time when I began to believe that God was calling me to the ministry.
It was not a big booming voice out of the thunder cloud nor a quiet whisper
from behind the altar. It came from a pastor’s comment, a Sunday School
teacher’s suggestion, and my parents’ encouragement to let God lead me. It came
from a campfire worship at church camp and a feeling which burned in my soul
with a hunger for more than confirmation classes could teach. They lost their
appeal when I looked at other possibilities (music or medicine). When I took
different roads, they left me stranded. When I tried my hand at other jobs,
they left me hungry and thirsty for something I could not put my finger on.
Only when I surrendered to God’s call did I discover where I needed to be and
what I needed to do. Like St. Paul, I
cannot brag about anything because everything comes from the guidance and
direction of the One whose Spirit has been calling me from the beginning. How
about you? What has God called you to do?
PRAYER
Gentle
Jesus, thank You for calling me through doors that closed and doors that
opened; through those who saw through my dusty shell and awkward ways; and
those quiet longings that drew me to Your will. Continue to open my will and
heart to Your paths, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, August 11, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Ephesians
2:19 — So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens
with the saints and also members of the household of God.
SCRIPTURE
Psalm
40:6 — You have multiplied, O Lord my God, your wondrous deeds and your
thoughts toward us; none can compare with you.
Matthew
11:4-5 — Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see; the
blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf
hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news brought to them.”
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
I
used to brag about my uncle. I was four years younger than he was.
Consequently, there were many things he could do that I could almost do
but not quite. I have scars above both eyebrows from a strand of barbed wire he
jumped over that I thought I could jump over too. He could play baseball
and hit home runs. He could climb tall buildings without fear (although Grandma
would have killed him had she known!). When I was five or six, I thought he
could do anything! He reminded me and proved to me that he couldn’t, but in my
young eyes, he was a hero! When God sent His Son into the world, Jesus began
doing the things the Messiah would do. He did not have to prove Himself. He
simply and humbly did the work of the Messiah so that those who were watching
would get the point. He did not seek hero worship. He sought only to lead
people to the Father. What “wondrous” deeds has God been able to do through
you? What kind of an example have you been of a disciple and follower of the
One who “did all things well”?
PRAYER
Holy
and gracious Lord, it is tempting to let things go and to fail to do the very
best we can. We get tired and impatient with putting our best foot forward.
Instill in us a burning desire to be living examples of Your perfect love, in
Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, August 12, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Ephesians
2:19 — So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens
with the saints and also members of the household of God.
SCRIPTURE
Deuteronomy
16:17 — All shall give as they are able, according to the blessing of the Lord
your God that he has given you.
Luke
12:48 — From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and
from the one to whom much has been entrusted, even more, will be demanded.
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
I
began to tithe, to give 10% of my income when I had my first actual paying job,
$5 per week as organist for our church. Fifty cents per week was not a tremendous
sacrifice since my twelve-year-old needs were minimal. When I started getting
better-paying jobs and my expenses grew, I felt a little more reluctant to let
go of a tithe but kept it up. Over the years, I have never quit and never once
had any regrets. The more I was blessed, the more I could give. The more I
could provide, the more I was blessed. Somewhere I read about a man whose
income soared when he got a new job and told his pastor he couldn’t afford to
keep tithing because a tithe of his new salary was so much money. The pastor
said, “Fine. Why don’t we just pray that God takes away your good job with its
big salary and give you back your old income again so that you don’t have to
stop tithing!” With that, the man came to his senses and realized that 10% of
his enormous salary still left him with far more than his old salary. Do you
appreciate the blessings God has bestowed on you? Have you been growing in your
returning thanks proportionately? The more God blesses us, and the more God
expects us to return thanks. How well are you doing?
PRAYER
Generous
God, thank You for the multitude of blessings You give to me. Help me stay
aware that everything I have and everything I am belongs to You, and that my
giving truly reflects my gratitude or lack thereof. Give me an awareness of
Your sacrifice on my behalf, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, August 13, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Ephesians
5:8b-9 — Live as children of light - for the fruit of the light is found in all
that is good and right and true.
SCRIPTURE
Psalm
105:40-42 — (The Lord) gave them food from heaven in abundance. He opened the
rock, and water gushed out; it flowed through the desert like a river. For he
remembered his holy promise.
John
6:51 — (Jesus said:) “I am the living bread which came down from heaven.
Whoever eats from this bread will live forever.”
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
I
have never known real hunger. There was always some food to eat. It
wasn’t always what I wanted, but it was good and healthy. Mom had ways of
stretching the ingredients available and making good use of the things we grew
and raised on the farm. It was easy to take it for granted. When I went to
college, my parents always ensured I took plenty of home-grown produce with me.
My advantaged life didn’t sink in until I went to seminary, where I roomed with
a fellow seminarian who grew up in the city. When I unloaded the box of frozen
steaks, pork chops, and roasts Mom had packed for me, my roommate’s mouth
dropped open, and he began to drool. To me, it was nothing special. We had meat
all the time at home, on the farm. He didn’t. This box of meat to him was
fantastic! We may take the abundance the Lord sends to us for granted. The
bread for the life of our bodies and the Bread of Life for our whole life is
freely given gifts God sends daily. Do you take His blessings for granted too?
They are but a foretaste of the “feast to come.” May this day be one of keeping
God’s gifts in proper perspective!
PRAYER
Incredibly
generous and giving, God, we thank You for the abundance of food available to
us, the opportunities we have to obtain them, and the hands of those who make
the food nourishing and available to us. Give us hearts to share with those who
have so little. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, August 14, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Ephesians
5:8b-9 — Live as children of light - for the fruit of the light is found in all
that is good and right and true.
SCRIPTURE
Psalm
90:10 — The days of our life are seventy years, or perhaps eighty, if we are
strong; even then, their span is only toil and trouble.
1
Corinthians 15:19-20 — If for this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are of
all people most to be pitied. But in fact, Christ has been raised from the
dead, the first fruits of those who have died.
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
My
first real experience with death came when I was six. Grandma Sydow was very
special to me because I spent a lot of time at her house, which was two miles
from ours. It was very confusing for me to think she was not there and would
not be there ever again. My glimmer of hope came in Sunday School a week or two
after her funeral when Hattie Fulner talked about the rising of Jesus. She had
given each of us a picture to color of Jesus with His hands out, blessing
children. It wasn’t a resurrection picture, but I captured that image in my
mind. Jesus rose to bless children—me. “Because He rose, those who die will
rise to be with Him,” Hattie told me. It felt like a heavy load was lifted, and
I knew Grandma was just fine. For many weeks after that, I imagined Jesus with
His hands out blessing Grandma—Grandma making Jesus coffee (milk and sugar with
a splash of coffee) and freshly baked bread still steaming hot from the oven,
slathered with fresh cream and a generous supply of sugar! I thought of them
laughing and praying together. Once I even thought of Grandma sitting in her
rocking chair, rocking Jesus in her lap the way she used to rock me. My
childish fantasies may seem strange to some, but my hopes and dreams are not
just about this life. Thanks to Jesus, I can hope and dream of one day joining
Jesus—and Grandma—in heaven!
PRAYER
Risen
and living Lord, thank You for the assurance You have given us through the
death and resurrection of Your own dear Son that those we love and pray for are
loved and cared for by You in this life and the next. Bless us with the joy of
living our days in You, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, August 15, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Ephesians
5:8b-9 — Live as children of light - for the fruit of the light is found in all
that is good and right and true.
SCRIPTURE
Psalm
89:9 — You rule the raging of the sea; when its waves rise, you still them.
Luke
8:24 — (Jesus) woke up and rebuked the wind and the raging waves; they ceased,
and there was a calm.
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
A
couple of friends took me fishing several years ago. It was the first time I’d
been fishing for many years, so they had to teach me many basics. While we were
out in the boat, a breeze began to blow. It was amazing how a slight breeze
could create waves that rocked the boat. As the breeze steadily increased, so
did the waves. I was reminded of the visit we made to Tiberius on the shores of
the Sea of Galilee. Late in the afternoon, the winds increased as they blew
across the lake to a howling gale. We were safe in our hotel, but I could
imagine what it must have been like on the Sea, which we could see from the
hotel. It is times like those when I am reminded of the power at God’s command,
to rule the raging seas, to calm the wind and the waves. In our lives, the
winds, the waves, the raging seas of illness, job stress, wars, and violence
seem to overpower us sometimes. We may even be tempted to give into them and
give up. But Jesus reminds us that He is our pilot, our Commander-in-Chief,
whose Word reigns supreme over all the elements in nature and our world. So may
we invite Jesus to ride in our boat, to take command of those rough times, and
to bring calm to our world.
PRAYER
God
of power and might, as You breathed over the face of chaos to create our world,
breathe into us the breath of Your Spirit to bring true peace and calm when it
feels as if our boat may sink. Assure us that You are always with us,
especially when the winds blow against us. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, August 16, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Ephesians
5:8b-9 — Live as children of light - for the fruit of the light is found in all
that is good and right and true.
SCRIPTURE
Isaiah
33:24 — And no inhabitant will say, I am sick; the people who live there will
be forgiven their iniquity.
1
Corinthians 1:27 — But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the
wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
Skipper
was one of our farm dogs. She was a rat terrier—small, loveable, and fast. We
took her with us on most of our adventures. No doubt she thought we were a
little crazy because of all the noise our “guns” and “bombs” made, but she was
faithful and protective. She never bit anybody, but she had a fierce snarl that
stopped many bad guys from attacking. Skipper’s real nature came clear in the
pasture when we took her with us to bring in the “buffalo” (milk cows). She may
have been tiny compared to the cows, but even the big old bull greatly
respected her! It was comical the day he tried to face her down. She was
barking at him, telling him to “move it!” He put his nose down to the ground,
ready to charge, and she nipped him right on his tender nose. He jumped back
and bellowed as if bitten by an alligator. From that day on, he knew who the
boss was and never forgot it. God can take the weakest among us and turn us
into His powerhouses. St. Paul tells us God often finds it easier to mold the
weak and foolish than the strong and wise. So why not hand your weaknesses,
hurts, pains, illnesses, and foolishnesses over to God? He knows how to do what
we cannot!
PRAYER
God
of all, especially the weak and hopeless, the powerless, and the homeless,
guide us into the way You want us to go so that we hear Your encouragement and
follow the path You have laid before us that will lead to true success as You
measure success. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, August 17, 2023
WATCHWORD FOR THE WEEK
Ephesians 5:8b-9 — Live as
children of light - for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and
right and true.
SCRIPTURE
Leviticus 26:13 — I am the
Lord your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt, to be their slaves no
more; I have broken the bars of your yoke and made you walk erect.
Galatians 5:1 — It is for
freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let
yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We lived along some mud
roads. They are called “un-maintained” today. The county road grader seldom
came over them to make them smooth until the next rain. We had one neighbor who
was notorious for getting his car and even his tractor stuck in the mud during
the rainy seasons. It was almost a joke. Almost, because someone would have to
pull him out, Dad was usually the one who would get called on to do the
pulling. The worst low spot in the road was also the hardest to get “unstuck”
from. At least once, Dad had to wait a day for the mud to dry a little before
he could pull the neighbor free. The neighbor knew about that bad spot, but
every heavy rain brought the same knock on the door. He thought he “could
barrel (his) way through it this time,” but....
The rest was predictable history. In Christ, God has set us free from
being stuck in sin. So why would we keep taking the same muddy road? Why would
we want to wear the same slave collar? May we stand firm against sin to put on
the true freedom in Christ!
PRAYER
Amazingly forgiving Lord,
You give us every opportunity to change our ways and live beyond the “muddy
potholes” through which our sins drag us. Forgive and guide us into the solid
dry roads which lead to true peace with You and those around us, in Jesus’
name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, August 18, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Ephesians
5:8b-9 — Live as children of light - for the fruit of the light is found in all
that is good and right and true.
SCRIPTURE
Lamentations
3:23 — Great is your faithfulness.
1
Thessalonians 5:24 — The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this.
THOUGHTS
TO PONDER
I
was in the middle of wiping out the world’s greatest alien enemy that had
infiltrated our farm and threatened to take over the universe with deadly force
when Dad called to tell me I could ride along to town with him. I had been shot
and stabbed at least a dozen times but was valiantly fighting with my corn knife
and defeating this deadly menace (a patch of weeds in the abandoned chicken
pen). It was hard to leave the battle, so close to victory, but I knew a ride
to town also meant a stop at Spurville and a root beer. You can truly depend on
some things and people in life. At age nine, I knew the “enemy” would not move
until I got back—once I hit it with the “Buck Roger’s paralyzing ray.” The
other was that Dad always stopped at Spurville before going home. God is
even more faithful and dependable. He doesn’t need a “paralyzing ray gun,” and
He certainly doesn’t need to stop at a country gas station for a drink, but
God’s promises are sure. If God has called you, He will make your way straight
in the wilderness, in your community, or your life. Great is His
faithfulness!
PRAYER
Great is Thy faithfulness, Great is Thy faithfulness,
morning by morning new mercies I see; all I have needed Thy hand hath provided.
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me! Thank You, Lord, for proving that
faithfulness in Jesus beyond a shadow of a doubt. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, August 19, 2023
WATCHWORD
FOR THE WEEK
Ephesians
5:8b-9 — Live as children of light - for the fruit of the light is found in all
that is good and right and true.
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 40:1 — I
waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry.
Acts 7:59 — While they were stoning Stephen, he
prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
On the farm, waiting patiently, while not easy, became
a way of life. We waited patiently for Dad to come in from the field so we
could have supper. We waited patiently for Mom to finish baking so she could
take us swimming. We waited patiently for the crops to mature for harvest. We
waited patiently for the rain to heal the parched and dying crop. It was an
anxious waiting when my brother-in-law and twin brothers were in Viet Nam. Even
when my children were small, I had to wait patiently in the doctor’s office
(when it was not unusual to wait for two or more hours in a room full of sick
kids!). Waiting for God to fulfill His promises was not easy for the Jews,
whose wait had lasted for centuries. Waiting for death was not easy for Stephen
when he was being stoned; no easier than waiting for our pain to end, our time,
or our “Day of the Lord.” As we wait, may we constantly keep Stephen’s prayer
on our lips: “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
PRAYER
We wait, O Lord, for so many things in this world,
knowing that all of time is in Your hands. Give us the patience to wait for
that time which You know is best for answering our cries and prayers. In all
things, Lord Jesus, hear our prayers and receive our spirits. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, August 20, 2023
WATCHWORD FOR THE WEEK
Luke 12:48 — From everyone to whom much has been
given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted,
even more, will be demanded.
SCRIPTURE
Proverbs 3:11 — Do not despise the Lord’s discipline
or be weary of his reproof.
Romans 5:3-4 — We also boast in our sufferings,
knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character,
and character produces hope.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
When was the last time you rejoiced in your suffering?
I did not rejoice when I caught my finger in the lawn mower. I did not rejoice
when I had my first fender-bender, got my first speeding ticket, lost my cousin
in Viet Nam, had to have surgery on my nose, or mourned the loss of a child
during pregnancy.... Like yours, my list could get extensive, including my
extreme pain from a pinched nerve. At the time, I had a terrible time
rejoicing. Yet looking back, I thank God and rejoice for the healing balm, the
lessons, and the blessings which resulted. When things don’t go well or the way
I want them to go, I often pray: “Lord, I don’t know what lessons I’m to learn
or what You are going to do, but I place this in Your hands, and I give You
thanks already, because I know You!” May that become your prayer too.
PRAYER
To know You, Lord, is to understand at the deepest
level of my being that “suffering produces endurance, endurance produces
character, and character produces hope.” My hope in all things is in You,
believing that all things are possible through You, my Rock and my Redeemer.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, August 21, 2023
WATCHWORD FOR THE WEEK
Luke 12:48 — From everyone to whom much has been
given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted,
even more, will be demanded.
SCRIPTURE
Isaiah 61:8 — For I the Lord love justice, I hate
robbery and wrongdoing.
1 Timothy 6:7-8 — We brought nothing into the world so
that we can take nothing out of it; but if we have food and clothing, we will
be content with these.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We raised calves and pigs for 4-H projects. We usually
started raising them from the day they were born, and we groomed them and
prepared them for the judging time and the sale. We had no illusions that we
would raise them to old age. They were for show, sale, and slaughter. That was
their purpose in life. We, humans, are a little more complex in our purpose and
passion. God gave us life with a goal in mind. Most of us are given the time
and the opportunity to love and serve God and our neighbors between our
beginning and our end. It is a time to get to know the One from whom we came
and to whom we will return. It’s a sobering thought to think we came into this
world with nothing, which is exactly what we will take with us when we leave!
There are some genetic characteristics and spontaneous activities of our bodies
that function from the moment of birth, but even they will cease when death
comes. So, why the mad scramble to become wealthy or famous, even at the
expense of others? To treat people with disrespect, contempt, or injustice is
to distort and pervert God’s plan and will for them and ourselves. God calls us
back to Himself so that we might be with Him when we leave this world. What
will you take with you? May it be the love of God!
PRAYER
Giver of every good and perfect gift, I thank You for
all I am and all that You have given me. Guide me in using all those gifts in
ways that will glorify You and draw others to Your compassionate love and
grace, even as Jesus did. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, August 22, 2023
WATCHWORD FOR THE WEEK
Luke 12:48 — From everyone to whom much has been
given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted,
even more, will be demanded.
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 69:5 — O God, you know my folly; the wrongs I
have done are not hidden from you.
Romans 4:25 — (Jesus Christ) was handed over to death
for our trespasses and was raised for our justification.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I liked watching the old Perry Mason TV show when I
was a kid. Since I was never very good at lying (I don’t think I could ever
keep a straight face), I was always amazed at how witnesses could lie when they
were interviewed and on the stand. Sometimes we couldn’t tell until the end of
the program when Perry Mason revealed the truth—and it was always
revealed. Too often, the programs I watch today leave things hanging or give
the impression that lying is either OK or acceptable if you can get away with
it. In real life, not the life we are living now, but real
life in the Kingdom of God, there are no secrets. No one can keep any truth
from God. “God is Truth!” Before God’s Throne, we stand naked with the naked
truth revealed in all its ugliness. Knowing that fact helps us appreciate the
One who knew the absolute truth and still loved us enough to “die for our
trespasses.” Thanks be to God, Jesus rose to show us that Way also!
PRAYER
Spirit of Truth and real Life, take from us the desire
to be less than honest but give us the ability to speak the truth in love. Give
us words that are honest yet not destructive for those to whom we speak. Help
us speak the Truth as Jesus did. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
WATCHWORD FOR THE WEEK
Luke 12:48 — From everyone to whom much has been
given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted,
even more, will be demanded.
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 100:3 — It is (the Lord) that made us, and we
are his; we are his people and the sheep of his pasture.
John 15:16 — (Jesus said:) “You did not choose me, but
I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Choosing teams in school was mainly based on whose
hand was on the bat last. Choosing a school “president” was basically a
popularity contest. Choosing which box lunch to buy at the box lunch social was
a matter of who could afford to keep bidding. To be chosen to receive a
scholarship was an honor based on grades, skill, and or knowledge. However, to
be chosen was and is always an honor. When God chooses us, it is not by chance,
not because of our skills, knowledge, or popularity, but because He loves us. God’s
choice of us brings us into His inner circle, bestowing His blessings, grace,
and protection on us. We are no longer lost sheep without a shepherd. We are
claimed and named as God’s sheep and blessed so that we might be blessings to
others as we “bear much fruit” in His name. How well do you reflect your
“chosen-ness”?
PRAYER
Thank You, Lord, for choosing me to be Your child.
Thank You, especially for helping me see and acknowledge that You have chosen
me. Give me the wisdom to be and do all You called me to be and do in Your holy
name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, August 24, 2023
WATCHWORD FOR THE WEEK
Luke 12:48 — From everyone to whom much has been
given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted,
even more, will be demanded.
SCRIPTURE
Jeremiah 15:20 — “I am with you, to save you and
deliver you,” says the Lord.
Romans 11:2 — God has not rejected his people whom he
foreknew.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Everyone needs to have practical experience behind the
wheel of a car before they get their driver’s license. The student permit makes
that possible. When I got my permit, I was already driving tractors around the
farm, so keeping a car between the lines and on the highway was no big deal. I
got a school permit and drove to school without an adult when I was 14.
However, I had to have an adult ride along whenever I wanted to go anywhere
else. That was the law, but it was also very practical. My parents corrected
numerous bad habits before the habits became embedded in my brain. Some people
don’t have the advantage of farm driving or a mentor and really need
someone riding with them. Our daily living is a lot like that. We all benefit
from mentors, teachers, and other mature Christians who can “keep us on the
right road.” Fortunately, we also have a God who has not left us alone. God is
with us in Christ at all times. All we need to do is pay attention to His
presence and His guidance. Our “student permit” is good until the Day of the
Lord. Have you been practicing?
PRAYER
Loving Father, it is good to know that You are present
with us and within us at all times; and that You provide mentors to guide us
when we fail to listen to You. Open our eyes and ears of faith so that we
follow the path, as Jesus did, all of our days in this life. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, August 25, 2023
WATCHWORD FOR THE WEEK
Luke 12:48 — From everyone to whom much has been
given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted,
even more, will be demanded
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 24:1 — The earth is the Lord’s and all that is
in it, the world, and those who live in it.
Colossians 1:16 — For in (Christ) all things in heaven
and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or
dominions or rulers or powers - all things have been created through him and
for him.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
One hot August night, I lay on top of the sheets on my
bed by the screened window, hoping for a breeze and counting the stars. I fell
asleep counting but was determined someday to finish the job, which I confess,
I never did. Astronomers estimate that there are over 100 billion galaxies in
the universe. The earth is a relatively small planet in a relatively small
galaxy—the Milky Way—with only about 100 billion stars. On this tiny planet, about
1.4 million species of plants have been identified, and 10’s of millions are still
not named. Those numbers boggle the mind! God has created all of these things,
all of us, and more. Lest we become too proud, it is good for us to step back
and remember that we did not do it. In the beginning, was (not me and
you!) the Word (Christ). We were given the privilege of being stewards—caretakers—of
this small part of God’s vast creation. How well are you caring for God’s
plants? God’s creation?
PRAYER
Creator of all that exists in our galaxy and the
billions of others so distant we can’t even imagine them. Your creation is
awesome. But even more incredible is the fact that You chose us to be Your
special creation, serving You as friends of Your Son, Jesus. Thank You! Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, August 26, 2023
WATCHWORD FOR THE WEEK
Luke 12:48 — From everyone to whom much has been
given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted,
even more, will be demanded
SCRIPTURE
Exodus 23:6 — You shall not pervert the justice due to
your poor in their lawsuits.
Matthew 7:3 — Why do you see the speck in your
neighbor’s eye but do not notice the log in your own eye?
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
A kid who was a grade or two ahead of me in school
challenged me to a wrestling match. I had seen him beat a couple of others, so
I knew I was in trouble. His mean streak always flared up in the heat of
battle. Our match was no different. The recess bell was the only thing that
saved me a big-time and painful defeat. When it rang, he released me from his
“death grip,” and we dusted ourselves off. I saw a dirty smudge under his left
eye and pointed it out to him. He chuckled and said, “Don’t look behind, but
your underwear is showing. Your overalls split!” Needless to say, I spent the
rest of the day being very careful how I walked—and where I sat! When it comes
to personal failures, we naturally overlook our own “rips and smudges” but see
our neighbors’ too clearly. The “log in our own eye” may have been there so
long we don’t even notice, but the slightest flaw in our neighbor makes us
shudder, laugh, or lift our noses in disgust. Before our Creator and Redeemer,
the playing field is leveled, and His justice prevails. We do well to be more
concerned about our own “logs” than someone else’s “speck.” Christ died for
both!
PRAYER
God of Justice and Mercy, keep us from the arrogance
of comparing ourselves with others. Instead, help us measure ourselves by Your
gracious love. Take away our love of judging others, and help us forgive as we
have been forgiven by Christ our Lord. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, August 27, 2023
WATCHWORD FOR THE WEEK
Psalm 33:12 — Happy is the nation whose God is the
Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage.
SCRIPTURE
Deuteronomy 4:9 — Take care and watch yourselves
closely, so as neither to forget the things that your eyes have seen nor to let
them slip from your mind.
Matthew 16:26 — For what will it profit them if they
gain the whole world but forfeit their life?
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Several years ago, a friend of mine took me flying. He
knew I had a pilot’s license but hadn’t flown in many years, so he turned the
controls over to me when we were airborne. I enjoyed myself immensely, making
turns, attaining a specific altitude, and lining up our direction. However,
when it came to landing, I breathed a sigh of relief when he took over. I knew
I had forgotten the hard lessons learned twenty years or more before. I had not
“kept current.” Moses warned his fellow Israelites of the same thing on their
long “flight” from Egypt. It can happen to the best-intentioned
Christian who allows worship, Bible study, or prayer to be “forgotten” on our
“flight” from this world to the Kingdom. There are so many distractions that
seem so important. But what will we gain if we lose the one eternal
thing? Have you been staying “current” with your “flight
manuals”?
PRAYER
Jesus, Savior, pilot me through the storms and
troubles of this world. Help me remember and keep current on the teachings of
Your Word so that I will not place my body, mind, and soul, or those you put in
my care, in jeopardy on our journey to You.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, August 28, 2023
WATCHWORD FOR THE WEEK
Psalm 33:12 — Happy is the nation whose God is the
Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage.
SCRIPTURE
Genesis 26:24 — (The Lord said:) “Do not be afraid,
for I am with you and will bless you.”
John 20:22 — (Jesus) said to them, “Receive the Holy
Spirit.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
In third grade, we had a teacher who grilled us on
grammar. She had a daily contest to encourage us to use our verbs and tenses
properly. The winner each day wore a badge the next day, giving them first pick
for teams and first place in any activity. It took several weeks to get the
hang of it, but the day she announced that I would wear the badge the next day
was exciting. The next day I wore the teacher’s badge and discovered the benefits
of having her authority behind everything I did and the responsibility to do so
correctly. I still had to keep the rules, but twice she let me make decisions
concerning games we would play at recess. It may have been a minor thing, but
to me, it was great! God puts the fullness of
His presence among those who trust Him and call on His name. When Jesus
breathed on His disciples after the resurrection, they received that presence,
sending them forth with a permanent badge. They were “sealed by the Holy Spirit
and marked with the cross of Christ forever. All baptized Christians who seek
to live as faithful disciples wear that same badge. How well is your “badge”
showing?
PRAYER
How awesome it is, Lord, to have the authority to
speak Your Word, confident that Your power stands behind that Word. Give us a
sense of Your presence when we speak any word, and help us to carry that
awesome responsibility faithful to Your Son, our Savior. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, August 29, 2023
WATCHWORD FOR THE WEEK
Psalm 33:12 — Happy is the nation whose God is the
Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage.
SCRIPTURE
Exodus 32:11, 12 — But Moses sought the favor of the
Lord his God. “O Lord, why should your anger burn against your people?
...Relent and do not bring disaster on your people.”
Romans 5:9 — Much more surely then, now that we have
been justified by his blood, will we be saved through him from the wrath of
God.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Our neighbors had a mean dog. It was not a big dog,
but it was ferocious. More than once, the hair standing straight up, his fierce
growl, and his bark had me pick up a club and walk backward almost a quarter of
a mile to the gravel road! He actually bit one of my brothers. The only way
past his teeth was to have one of the kids living there come out and hold his
collar so we could pass. God is not a ferocious dog, but God’s temper does
flare—justifiably—at His unrepentant children. Thank God He has raised those
who, like Moses and some prophets, are willing and able to step in to mediate
for us. The supreme mediator was Jesus, who shed His own blood so we could be
saved. We need to have no fear of approaching the throne of grace with Christ
in us. Has Christ become alive in you so you can feel confident and comfortable
approaching the Home of your Father?
PRAYER
God of Love and infinite patience, we are sorry for
those times when we have tried Your patience beyond measure. Thank You for the
forgiving sacrifice of Jesus, who brings us back Home to Your presence as His
friends. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, August 30, 2023
WATCHWORD FOR THE WEEK
Psalm 33:12 — Happy is the nation whose God is the
Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage.
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 91:1-2 — You who live in the shelter of the Most
High, who abide in the shadow of the Almighty, will say to the Lord, “My refuge
and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust.”
Matthew 10:30 — And even the hairs of your head are
all counted.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Salzburg, Austria, sits at the base of a mountain with
a sheer cliff. On top of that mountain stands a castle that seems perfectly
protected on all sides. Sue and I attended a concert in the castle and noticed
scars on the ceiling and rock walls. Our host told us that cannon balls made
the scars when shot at the castle by an army bent on capturing it. Looking
through the window to the base of the cliff from which it was shot, we were
amazed that a canon from the 16th century could be powerful enough
to shoot that far. In Iraq, Saddam Hussein’s impregnable bunkers were
penetrated by special bombs. In truth, nothing in this world is a perfect
fortress. However, those who know the Lord have a Friend who is not fazed by
cannon balls or guided missiles. God truly is our refuge and fortress from
anything and everything the Devil can throw at us. But the best part is that
our God also loves and cares about us so much that He even counts the hairs of
our heads to make sure no part of us is left behind. So what are your fears and
worries? Why not give them to the Lord, who conquered sin, death, and the Devil
for us? So we have the security and safety the world cannot provide in Him!
PRAYER
Our Mighty Fortress and our Sure Defense, thank You
for being our Friend in times when it seems like the “cannon balls” of this
world are aimed at destroying us. Give us the assurance that nothing in all
creation can come between Your Son and us. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, August 31, 2023
WATCHWORD FOR THE WEEK
Psalm 33:12 — Happy is the nation whose God is the
Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage.
SCRIPTURE
Jeremiah 33:9 — For they shall fear and tremble
because of all the good and all the prosperity I provide for (Jerusalem).
Acts 2:22, 24 — Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to
you by God with deeds of power, wonders, and signs that God did through him
among you, as you yourselves know, ...God raised him up having freed him from
death.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We bought tickets to a new stage show that was heavily
publicized. It was advertised in every paper, on every radio and TV station,
and displayed on posters all over town. The theater was beautifully decorated,
and the cast mingled among the audience before the show, dressed in period
costumes. We were ready to rise and leave five minutes after the curtain rose.
By the end of the show, we were asking, “Is that all there is?!” Needless to
say, the show closed its doors in record time. On the other hand, God has a
“show” that will dazzle the senses with what is real and make people so shocked
by its reality that they will tremble. We were given a preview or a “foretaste”
of the joy and thrill of that event when Jesus came with “deeds of power,
wonders, and signs” and then climaxed His appearance by dying and rising from
the dead to give us a glimpse of what we could look forward to. Are you
ready?!!!
PRAYER
Wonderful and amazing God, the stages of this world
may disappoint us with expectations that prove false, but You have given us a
glimpse of the glories still to be fully revealed. Let the truth of Jesus’
life, death, and resurrection fill us with overwhelming joy. Amen.
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