DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, December 1, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Zephaniah 3:1-13; 1 Peter
2:11-25; Matthew 20:1-16
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 20:16b — For many
are called, but few chosen.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
After the first good frost or
in early October, we harvested potatoes. It was usually a cold, damp day when relatives
gathered to help. Grandpa Roenfeldt would ride the lister to make a furrow down
the rows of potatoes to uncover them. Then we’d all trail behind, picking potatoes
and filling our buckets before dumping them into the wagon. In a good year,
we’d have as much as 100 bushels of potatoes to haul to the storm cellar.
Grandpa and Grandma would pick through the piles of potatoes to fill a couple
of gunny sacks. One sack was for them to cook and eat; the other was saved for
next year’s seed potatoes. There were many to choose from, but only certain
sizes and shapes would do for their purposes. We might say, “Many were
harvested, but few were chosen.” It is
true that we aren’t spuds in God’s potato patch, but Jesus declares that the
same principle holds. He calls all of us to serve as ambassadors for Christ and
proclaim the good news, but only a few accept the responsibility and produce
the “fruit” God is hoping for. Considering that God has given us what it takes
to produce the fruits of the gospel, we have no excuse for failure to do so.
Today would be a cold day to re-examine how you are fulfilling God’s plan for
you and the “fruits” of the gospel you produce, which God wants to harvest.
PRAYER
Gracious God, during this
season of Advent, as we await your final harvest, use me for your good. Make me
an ambassador, representing you and your love to others. Make me fruitful and
useful to your kingdom. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, December 2, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Isaiah 24: 14-23; 1 Peter
3:13 - 4:6; Matthew 20:17-28
SCRIPTURE
Matthew
20:26b — ...Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
School was hard for my father
until he learned to speak English in the third year of his third-grade class.
He didn’t talk much about his school experiences, aside from having a
thermometer busted over his head for speaking German and a ruler broken on his
knuckles for writing with his left hand. He told us about one of his classmates
who always arrived early and was the last to leave after finishing his
assignments before helping the teacher clean up. Dad and the other boys teased
him about being sweet on the teacher. Dad said, however, that Arne got the best
grades in every subject and created the best and most beautiful things in art
class. He was slow about finishing stuff because he constantly checked his work
twice. Arne was always the last out on the playground at recess, too.
Consequently, he was often the last guy chosen for a team. But, when the
teacher handed out awards, that boy was at the top of the list in just about
everything. I’ve had a few classmates like that over the years. They were thorough
about what they did and helpful with the most tedious jobs. “It gave them time
to think,” they would tell me. One of my favorite principles in the book Peter’s
Principles is “People often rise to their level of incompetence.”
Jesus points out that it is a long climb to the cross for those who want to
“get there quick.” He encourages His disciples to follow servanthood’s path, as
He has. How is your journey to the manger, the cross, and the empty tomb going?
How might you serve others today and in the coming weeks? Your name may not be
remembered, but loving service will never be forgotten.
PRAYER
I am your servant, dear
Lord, as you were the servant of others while you lived among us. On my journey
to the manger, the cross, and the empty tomb, I ask that I not be blinded or
uncaring to the needs of those around me but see it as an opportunity to follow
you more closely. In your Holy name, dear Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Francis Xavier, missionary
to Asia, died in 1552. He is remembered for the extent of his missionary
journeys (despite his seasickness) and the large number of his converts.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Micah 7:11-20; 1 Peter
4:7-19; Matthew 20:29-34
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 20:34 — So Jesus
had compassion and touched their eyes. And immediately their eyes received
sight, and they followed Him.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
When the weather was bad, and
we couldn’t go outside for recess, we sometimes played “blind man’s bluff.” We
all formed a circle and numbered off. One person was chosen to be in the middle
and blindfolded. The person in the center called out two numbers, and those two
people replied, then immediately moved to other positions in the circle. Asking
questions of people to whom they pointed, the person who was “it” tried to find
out where the people were. At times, it went pretty quickly. At others, it
could take most of the recess. With the younger students, the teacher often had
compassion on them, took off their blindfolds, and let them see if they could
remember the people with the numbers they had chosen. The blind men in the
gospel weren’t playing a game. For them, blindness was a serious problem. When
Jesus lifted their “blindfolds” - their blindness - their response was instant.
They followed Him! Each of us has our times of blindness - times when we see
things or people through prejudiced eyes or hear things through
“all-ready-made-up minds.” If we pay attention, Jesus has compassion and
touches us with the truth. Some respond with, “Don’t confuse me with facts,
Jesus! My mind is already made up!” While others take the time to look more
carefully at their “facts,” listen to what Jesus says, then follow Him. Are you
ready to let Jesus take off your blindfold? Jesus would love nothing better
than to have you see life through His eyes. May you take time today to give Him
the opportunity!
PRAYER
Remove the blindfold or
anything else that might hinder me from seeing your truth, dear Jesus. Take
away my lack of compassion and caring so I may reach out to others, touching
them with your love. In your name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, December 4, 2025
YEAR TWO - THROUGH THE
BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Amos 1:1- 2:8; 1
Thessalonians 5:1-11; Luke 21:5-19
SCRIPTURE
Luke 21:12 — Before all
this occurs, they will arrest you and persecute you; they will hand you over to
synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors
because of my name.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
While in junior college, I
worked in a music store and enjoyed my work. As summer approached, the first
year, I saw a “help wanted” poster for an implement dealer that looked
appealing and paid a lot more. I went to talk with the owner about the job. My
parents had purchased several farm implements from him, so I figured I’d have a
step up. When I told him why I was there, he said he’d just hired someone. I
must have looked disappointed because he told me I would have hated the job
anyway. It was building large grain and silage storage units. Tony said the
crew he hired last year had one of the men get killed falling on a steel post;
another young guy lost part of his hand when a sharp piece of metal slipped out
of place and landed on him; and another had his leg, his arm and three ribs
broken when the ball on the crane hit him. “No,” Tony said very seriously,
“you’re much better off with the job you have.” I thanked him and left, feeling
shaky at thinking about what I could have gotten myself into. I’m unsure I got
the truth from Tony because I distinctly heard raucous laughter erupt as the
door closed behind me. Tony was known for his ability to “stretch the truth.”
The job description Jesus was giving the disciples was no joke. It was the real
thing. It involved a commitment to live and die for what they believed. If that
job description were given to you, would you jump at the opportunity to apply
for it? May each of us discover the depths of our commitment to Christ as the
days of December get shorter and the celebration of Christ’s birth gets nearer.
He knew the job and accepted it for us. Will you do the same for Him?
PRAYER
During these shorter days
and longer nights of Advent, dear Lord, let me use the time to discover my genuine
commitment to you. Help me go deep into my soul and make my faith genuine. Following
you can be challenging, but you will always be with me. In your name, I pray.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, December 5, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Amos 2: 6-16; 2 P3534 1:1-11;
Matthew 21:1-11
SCRIPTURE
Matthew
21:9 — The multitudes who went before and those who followed cried out, saying:
“Hosanna to the Son of David! ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the
Lord! ‘Hosanna in the highest!”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Parades have changed over the
years. I rode a school float in my very first parade. Our country school
entered a Halloween parade. From the first day of school, we started creating
the various parts of the float and our costumes. Some of us dressed as Uncle
Sam, with red, white, and blue stars, stripes on the top hats, and vests made
with lots of glue, paper mache, glitter, and tempera paints. Some of the girls
dressed as Betsy Ross or Martha Washington. We didn’t see much of the parade,
but waving to the crowds was fun. We heard the band ahead of us playing as they
marched, and we could catch glimpses of other floats as we turned corners. We
didn’t throw out candy or treats. Instead, occasionally, someone would throw us
treats or pennies or nickels. Jesus loved parades, too. Seated on His borrowed
beast, He heard the cheers, saw the joy-filled path makers, and felt the
excitement of the long-hoped-for celebration. “76 Trombones” was reserved for
mortal kings and monarchs. The Shriner’s clowns and motorcars would have been
paralyzed in the vast crowd swelling the city of Jerusalem, but Jesus didn’t
need them. The shouts of “Hosanna!” were more meaningful. Are you ready to join
the multitude in welcoming the King of kings, or are you already too busy
preparing for a Christmas parade to welcome Santa? Where will your priorities
be this Christmas? May the joy of Jesus help you genuinely enjoy the
celebration of His birth!
PRAYER
Thank you for this meditation
time, dear Lord, so that I might concentrate more on you and your kingship than
on the busyness around me. Enter into my life and heart, dear King, so that I may
sing with all my being, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes
in the name of the Lord!” Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Nicholas, Bishop of Myra,
©. 342), according to tradition, was religious from infancy, devoted his life
to good works, was generous to the poor, and died peacefully. He is regarded as
the patron of sailors, children (prototype of Santa Claus), and Russia.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Amos 3:1-11; 2 Peter 1:12-21;
Matthew 21:12-22
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:22 — And
whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
There was a box in Dad’s
small outhouse-sized tool shed into which he threw extra nuts, bolts, screws,
and cotter keys of assorted sizes. Loose nails—some straight, some bent, and
some brand new, made their way into the box too. If we needed something, we
could search through that box and usually find it. The trick was finding the
right size nut for the correct bolt. Sometimes, it took several trips to the
box to get the right fit. The answer to prayers may be like that box of
assorted nuts and bolts. Like the proper size nuts fitting the right size
bolts, our prayers need to fit God’s will and plan. Jesus Himself picked up on
that fact in the Garden of Gethsemane when He concluded His prayers,
“Nevertheless, not my will, but Yours be done.” We do not know the mind of God
well enough to know His perfect will. Jesus invites us to ask for anything in
prayer, and it will be given. However, there is an unspoken “if.” “If your
request is in keeping with the Will and Plan of God. Sometimes, our requests of
God are pretty self-centered, even at someone else’s expense. God is not Santa
Claus, giving only when you’re good. God is a good Father, answering our
prayers in a way that is in keeping with His Will and Way that is best for us.
Thank God for the love of God and wisdom, which gives us what we need, not
always what we want!
PRAYER
It is so good that you
have given me the opportunity to come to you in prayer, dear Father. Let me not
be too disappointed when you only give me those things that will be good for me
and that are your will. I know you love me deeply and will do what is best for
me. In the name of your Son, Jesus, the Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, December 7, 2025
Ambrose (Bishop of Milan,
397), one of the greatest and most beloved church leaders, became a lawyer and
governor. When the bishop of Milan died, the people demanded that Ambrose
succeed him, even though he was not yet baptized and only a catechumen. He
agreed and was baptized, ordained, and consecrated bishop on December 7. He was
noted as a famous preacher and defender of the faith.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Amos 3:12 - 4:5; 2 Peter
3:1-10; Matthew 21:23-32
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:31 — Jesus said
to the (chief priests and elders), “Assuredly, I say to you that tax collectors
and harlots will enter the kingdom of God before you.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
A friend of ours has a young
horse. It is beautiful. It could be an excellent racehorse. I say it “could.”
However, it has a bad habit of wanting to run through fences. Twice, he has cut
up his leg badly enough to require stitches. Consequently, its racing days are
over. The other, less capable and far less beautiful horse in the pen will make
it to the race track before the good-looking horse. Jesus wasn’t talking about
racehorses but about a whole category of people—the religious leaders of the
day, who were beautiful on the outside but sinful on the inside. Their “race
track” was the path to God’s presence. They were so sure they were the only
ones hoping to make it. They had set up lots of “fences” around the Law, making it difficult for anyone to enter.
Their problem was that they themselves were guilty of running through the
fences they wanted everyone else to honor. The major fence was an inability to
see the need to repent. Meanwhile, the less-than-beautiful tax collectors and
harlots left their old lives behind to follow Jesus. They even washed His feet
with the tears of repentance and dried them with their hair. No matter our
background or sin, turning (or returning) to the Lord can work wonders in
making us and keeping us fit to enter the kingdom of God. How are you preparing
your heart and mind for the coming of the Christ Child?
PRAYER
Change my heart, O God, so
that I might see myself as I truly am - in need of the grace of Christ. I thank
you that you are full of love and forgiveness for what I do or neglect to do.
Help me to share this love with others instead of the fences I sometimes put
up. In the name of the Christ Child, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, December 8, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Amos 4:6-13; 2 Peter 3:11-18;
Matthew 21:33-46
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:43 — Therefore
I say to you (religious leaders), the kingdom of God will be taken from you and
given to a nation bearing the fruits of it.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
When my mother got sick, her
doctor ran all kinds of tests and put her on all types of medication. None of
them seemed to make any difference. She got steadily worse. When the doctor
suggested putting her in a nursing home (and basically letting her die), my
sister declared, “Over my dead body!” As a nurse, my sister knew something was
wrong and that Mom’s doctor was not getting anywhere fast. She removed Mom from
his care and took her to another doctor in a larger hospital. There, they
diagnosed Mom with a form of meningitis and began aggressive therapy. The
fruits of the new doctor’s labors made a difference. Instead of planning Mom’s
funeral, we began to prepare for her future. The religious “doctors” of Jesus’
day were not bearing the fruits of righteousness. They were thinking only of
their position, without regard to helping others get closer to God. Sometimes,
the church of our day, and we, as individual Christians, can also be guilty of
doing that. We forget to reach out and “bear fruit.” When that happens, Jesus
warns that the kingdom of God will be taken away and given to those willing to
bear the fruits of the kingdom. As Advent progresses, we are blessed with time
to prepare ourselves, re-examine our lives, and discover ways to “produce the
fruits of the kingdom” to celebrate with the One who truly was, is, and who is
to come!
PRAYER
I give you thanks and
praise, dear Lord, that you have made me yours and given me the ability to bear
good fruit. Use me during this season and throughout the year to bear that
fruit to others. Help me to see the needs of those around me. In Jesus’ name, I
pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Amos 5:1-17; Jude 1-16;
Matthew 22:1-14
SCRIPTURE
Matthew
22:10 — So those servants went out into the highways and gathered together all
whom they found, both bad and good. And the wedding hall was filled with guests.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
On one of our trips, our
plane was a relatively small jet. Some people who were supposed to fly first
class didn’t show up. As a result, the plane had to be balanced. To our
surprise, they asked my wife and me to move up to first class, where we
received the whole first class service - cloth napkins, personal service, fancy
foods, and lots of leg room. As we enjoyed this rare luxury, I couldn’t help
thinking of the people who missed the flight. Would they realize what they
missed - besides the flight? In Jesus’ parable, the same may be said for those
who made excuses and missed the celebration. Did they know what they missed?
But even more exciting, did those who got to “move up to first class” know how
much they had been blessed? This parable is part of a series of parables Jesus
used to get the attention of the Jewish religious leaders of the day. The
scriptures remind us that the Jews are the chosen ones. We are the outsiders
brought in to enjoy the blessings previously reserved for the chosen. Do we
reflect the joy of being invited to each opportunity for worship, or do we take
it for granted and become one of the new “frozen chosen” who, like the original
chosen, are in danger of being “un-invited”? By God’s grace, we have the extraordinary
privilege of approaching the table of grace on our way to the Throne of grace!
How will you respond to the invitation?
PRAYER
It’s fantastic, Jesus,
that you invited me to the party and first class. Thank you for your banquet
table, a foretaste of things to come. I pray that I may never take this honor
for granted but invite others to join me in my excitement. In your holy name, I
pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Amos 5:18-27; Jude 17-25;
Matthew 22:15-22
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:21 — And He
said to them, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to
God the things that are God’s.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
House cleaning and room
cleaning times were times for sorting out what toys belonged to which kid. We
didn’t have a lot of toys, so we shared quite freely. However, we felt
ownership of those toys we received for Christmas or a birthday and those we
created ourselves - usually stick guns made out of well-worn dead branches. We
didn’t have to worry about giving to Caesar, but we did have to ensure we gave
back to the rightful “owner” on our cleaning days. If there was a dispute over
ownership, the “supreme court” of the Sydow household was consulted. We tried
to settle it before reaching that desperate stage because we knew where all the
toys came from - Mom and Dad; that meant we would all lose the use of the
disputed toy for a time. The world could learn much about ownership and
stewardship from that family tradition. Ownership of all things can be traced
back to God. Stewardship of all things is our responsibility until we fail to
treat it as if it belonged to God. This Advent season, why not list the things
that “belong” to you and those that belong to God? Are you being a good steward
(caretaker) of God’s things? The joy of Advent is the knowledge that we have a
new opportunity to begin again every day. Why not celebrate your new
beginning!?
PRAYER
When I add up the things
that belong to you, my Creator, I discover that it is everything. Thank you for
letting me use the things in my possession. Help me to use them wisely, sharing
my money and talent freely with others, as you have shared freely with me. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, December 11, 2025
Lars Olsen Skefsrud,
missionary to India, 1910 – He was sent to prison at an early age for bank
robbery. There, he devoted his life to Christ, studied with single-minded
devotion, went to an oppressed tribe in India, learned the language, wrote a
grammar and dictionary, and translated the gospels and the Small Catechism.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Amos 6:1-14; 2 Thessalonians
1:5-12; Luke 1:57-68
SCRIPTURE
Luke 1:64 — Immediately
(Zechariah’s) mouth was opened, and his tongue freed, and he began to speak,
praising God.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Until I was about ten years
old, our windmill did all the work of pumping water from the well. Since it
provided drinking water for the family and the animals and water for baths and irrigating
the garden, it kept going whenever the wind blew. When the wind didn’t blow, we
had to pump by hand and carry the water to its destination. We had to wet or
replace the washer occasionally, and occasionally, a piece of the machinery
would need fixing, but the system was relatively maintenance-free. There was
something mysteriously wonderful about hearing the windmill creak as the wind
picked up or changed directions. Shortly after the breeze picked up, water
would gush again into the trough rigged to carry water to the cattle tank. Nothing
was more refreshing than the taste of fresh, cool water from the well.
Zechariah was not a well, but the wind of the Spirit blew through him,
releasing his tongue from the silence created by his shock at hearing Elizabeth
would have a baby in her old age. The winds of the Spirit released a flood of
words praising God with the fresh, cool announcement of new life directly from
the wells of God’s grace! That same Spirit seeks to turn your wheels and
release new life in every person of faith willing to trust and believe that all
things are possible through Him. May you experience that blessed breeze today!
May your tongue be freed to speak the Good News and praise God!
PRAYER
Stir within me the
refreshing breeze of your Spirit, O God, as I turn to face you just as the
windmill faces into the wind. Let your life-giving power come from me as you
open my mouth to speak the Good News of your grace and to praise your holy
name. It is in the name of Jesus that I am so bold to pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, December 12, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Amos 7:1-9; Revelation 1:1-8;
Matthew 22:23-33
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:32b — ...God is
not the God of the dead, but of the living.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The less pleasant side of
farming was the necessity of calling the rendering truck to pick up a dead animal.
If the veterinarian’s medicines and procedures could not save them, the man
with the big truck would come. There was no concern for gentleness on his part.
He’d wrap a log chain around a hind leg, pull the lever that started the motor,
pulling the animal up into the truck. There was no more ceremony than that. The
animal was dead, period. End of the subject! The living still had to be fed, so
we did our chores as if nothing was out of place. Fortunately, we are not as
cold and callous about the death and burial of people. We see the value in
showing respect for the body, which provided the “tent” or “vessel” for the
breath of life. But in essence, life is gone from the body, and life must go on
for the living. The Sadducees believed that was all there was to the circle of
life. Jesus declared that there is far more. The human body may return to the
earth from which it was created, but life returns to live with God – at least
for those who believe in and love God. The dead rest from their labors; the
living are raised to serve and praise God, even after the body returns to dust.
During Advent, we are reminded that God thought enough of the process that He
came in person to live as one of us and die the death of a human, but He rose
to prove beyond the shadow of a doubt that He indeed is the God of the living.
May the celebration of the birth of Christ stir your relationship with your
living and loving Lord!
PRAYER
Thank you for those many
saints who rest in your loving arms, dear God. Thank you for sharing them with
me during our time together. I rejoice for having them, but more importantly, I
rejoice in my relationship with you so that we may all be one. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, December 13, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Amos 7:1-17; Revelation
1:9-16; Matthew 22:34-46
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:37-38 — Jesus
said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with
all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Our teacher played one of a
series of records after our lunch recess to calm us down each day. She played
the records on an old crank-type Victrola. Above the static, we could hear the
music and the voice of the narrator telling about Sparky, who decided he wanted
to play clarinet and then a trumpet. Sparky wanted to play a different
instrument for several records never becoming very good at them. The moral was
obvious: “Choose one thing and become good at it, whether playing an
instrument, developing another skill, or embarking on a career.” Loving God above everything else fits into
that truth in much the same way. There is only one God, yet many people find
other people and things to worship and then wonder why God seems so distant.
Like choosing one instrument to become good at or developing a single talent or
skill, loving God with all your heart, soul, and mind requires dedication and
commitment. It is the key to the success of star athletes and professional
musicians. In our spiritual life, there can be no other distractions until our
relationship with God is perfected; nothing else will matter. Have you been
practicing your relationship with God? Why not concentrate on loving God with
every fiber and cell of your being, with “all your heart, with all your soul,
and with all your mind”? Without a doubt, God will return the blessing many
times over!
PRAYER
Dear God, you are the
melody that runs through my life. Remind me that I must practice this before I
can add the other parts. Draw me ever closer in our relationship and my love
for you until it becomes perfect. I ask these things in the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, December 14, 2025
Teresa of Avila, Carmelite, 1582, was converted to a life of
perfection. She successfully combined a life of contemplation and a life of
activity. John of the Cross, Prior of Segovia, 1591, a follower of the
teachings of Teresa of Avila, expounded his mystical thought and personal
experience, nourished by Scripture and psychological insight.
(14-22) Hanukkah – Jewish celebration of light,
remembering the re-dedication of the Temple in 165 BC by the Maccabees after
the desecration by the Syrians.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Amos 8:1-14; Revelation 1:17
- 2:7; Matthew 23:1-12
SCRIPTURE
Matthew
23:9 — Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who
is in heaven.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I wear a lot of different
hats. Each describes a relationship and bears a certain amount of
responsibility. Titles like “brother,” “son,”
“husband,” and “father” describe obvious relationships and the
responsibilities that go with them. But I also wore the titles pastor, cluster
dean, president of the ministerial association, president of the herb club, synod
candidacy committee, and Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministry board member. I
took each “hat” seriously. They were not just fancy titles that made me look
good. They were sacred callings requiring sacrifices and commitments of my
God-given time, skills, and energy. Jesus was not telling parents, teachers,
pastors, and others to denounce the titles describing their genuine
relationship or work. He spoke specifically to the scribes and Pharisees,
claiming a title from the past that they did not deserve to bear. Elisha called
Elijah “father” (2 Kings 2:12), a title of great respect. To call a scribe or
Pharisee “father” was to elevate him to a position equal to that of the great
prophet Elijah. It bestowed on him a god-like quality. Jesus reminds us that no
one on earth deserves that elevated title except our heavenly Father. Earthly
fathers of children and priestly “fathers” of congregations bear those titles
as sacred responsibilities to act and speak accordingly. They are not just
honorary titles. They are descriptive titles that require corresponding
lifestyles. May you discover the joy of the responsibility of living your most
significant title of all, “child of God!”
PRAYER
Dear Father, wearing the
different titles you have called me is a humble honor. Be with me and guide me
in my various responsibilities, helping me do each one to the best of my
ability. Thank you so much for the best title of all: to be your child. I thank
you in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, December 15, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Amos 9:1-10; Revelation
2:8-17; Matthew 23:12-26
SCRIPTURE
Matthew
23:26 — Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the
outside of them may be clean also.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Before the days of television
in our house, we enjoyed several series on our radio that fueled our
imaginations. “Fibber McGee and Molly” came on just after I had to be in bed,
but I could hear it. I could especially hear Mom and Dad laughing at the
foibles of these characters each week. I especially enjoyed Fibber McGee’s
closet. Almost every week, someone would open that closet, and there would be a
loud roar of clanging and banging as the contents came crashing onto the floor.
The closet must have looked clean and neat on the outside, but on the inside,
it was stacked to the limit with everything but the kitchen sink. To Jesus, the
Pharisees were like that closet themselves. They were so meticulous about
keeping ritual rules, polishing the outside, giving the impression that they
were perfect in every way to all those around. But on the inside, they were a
mess in need of cleansing. They were like a cup that was only polished on the
outside, while gross and vulgar crud was left on the inside. Jesus’ “Woe!” to
the Pharisees is one we all need to take to heart. We need to “clean up our
act” so that our motives, morals, intentions, and inspirations keep with how we
speak and act on the outside. The good news is that Jesus can help us clean up
our “closet” if we are willing to let Him. May you discover God’s blessings
both inside and outside!
PRAYER
Dear Father, examine me
inside and out and help me see those things that need to be cleaned out of my
life. Enable me to throw out those things that should not be there and to have
the heart and mind of someone who loves you more than anything else. In his
name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Haggai 1:1-15; Revelation
2:18-29; Matthew 23:27-39
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 23:37 — “O
Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are
sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen
gathers her chicks under her
wings, but you were not willing!
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Most parents who have lived
through the raising of teenagers have experienced the pangs of longing for
their child to take the right path. Many of us have wept for our children when
we saw them taking the wrong path and felt a sense of hopelessness. Standing at
the door, like the father of the prodigal son, we want the best for them. But
knowing that the only way to love them fully is to let them go and let them
learn the hard way, we must stand, wait, and pray. That pain is real, and it
wrenches the heart. It is the pain Jesus expresses over the Holy City,
symbolizing God’s chosen children. I can feel the tears welling up in Jesus’
eyes as His heart goes out to His wayward children. Luke even tells us He wept.
We do not have an emotionless God who can casually write off His kids and go on
with His own thing. We have a God who, from our baptism, has loved us to the
very core. We have a God who cares for us, longs for us to have the best, and
hurts for us when we choose the wrong path. Have you returned to God to thank
Him for loving you so deeply? It’s never too late! May you discover the joy of
being wrapped in the swaddling clothes of God’s holy love.
PRAYER
Ah, heavenly Father, how often
have you wept at my actions or inactions toward you and others? I know I am a
wayward child sometimes, neglecting your instructions and doing my own thing.
Thank you for loving me so much and for the Christ child who has brought me
back to you. In his Holy Name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Haggai 2:1-9; Revelation
3:1-6; Matthew 24:1-14
SCRIPTURE
Matthew
24:6 — And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not
troubled, for all these things
must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Our house in Nebraska (a
parsonage) was moved across the street. It was quite an exciting event. In the
months between the decision to do so and the actual event, I was sometimes
surprised and often got a chuckle out of the rumors that came back to me about
where we would live during the move, how much damage would be done to the
trees, or where the diving board would be for the swimming pool. That last one
gave me the biggest laugh. (No, there is no swimming pool!) Jesus was familiar
with rumors and the “grapevines” that spread and altered them to fit the mood. He
had undoubtedly heard many rumors about the end of the world. Wars and rumors
of wars were common in a land that was the battleground between continents. It
was also a land where volcanoes had left vast deposits of jagged lava, where
earthquakes were common, and where sudden violent winds and storms created
chaos and even death. Is it any wonder some would declare them signs of the end
of the world? In the past few years, a tsunami, several hurricanes, wars in
many parts of the world, torrential rains, and violent earthquakes have caused
untold suffering, destruction, and death. “Surely,” some declared, “these are
signs of the end - of the Day of the Lord!” But Jesus says, “Relax! Those
things will take place in every generation. Don’t panic yet!” They may, however, be good reminders for us
that this is not our eternal home. When they happen, and the rumors fly, we
should thank God for the subtle (or not-so-subtle) reminders that He is still
in control and has given us one more opportunity to deepen our relationship
with Him. Have you given thanks today?
PRAYER
I pray that I might never
be complacent and not be alert for your second coming, my Savior. But I also
pray that I might not be worried because I know I will be in your loving arms
one day. In the meantime, use me to do your work and your will. In your name, I
pray dear Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, December 18, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Amos 9:11-15; 2 Thessalonians
2:1-3, 13-17; John 5:30-47
SCRIPTURE
John 5:38 — You do not
have (God’s) word abiding in you because you do not believe Him whom He has
sent.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I got wise to Santa Claus and
the Easter Bunny when I was nine. At that ripe old age, I began to put two and
two together and came to a conclusion. One day, I shared it with Mom when she
and I went across the creek to bring the cows in at milking time. Mom didn’t
confirm or deny my conclusion. She only reminded me that my younger sister and
brothers enjoyed looking forward to seeing what Santa would bring at Christmas.
The rest went unsaid, but I knew it was “our secret” from that day on. “Our
secret” did not diminish Christmas for me. It made it even more exciting. I
became a participant in the mystery, not just an observer. Jesus knew that the
mystery of the Messiah was wrapped up in fantasies fueled by traditions and
stories passed on for hundreds of years. But it was also wrapped up in His
birth as a baby in Bethlehem. Some were satisfied with the images of the past.
But those who knew the Truth knew “Him whom God sent.” They knew the “real
thing,” not just a fantasy. Those who knew Him became part of the Good News He
came to proclaim. It lived in them, and they lived accordingly. Are you content
to live in a fantasy world, or are you ready for the “real thing”? Jesus is
“the Way, the Truth, and the Life”. His Holy Spirit makes it possible for us to
believe in our hearts - to have God’s word abiding in us. Others see the test
of that abiding presence in how we live in the world. May the mystery of the
Messiah be born in your heart this season!
PRAYER
With all the glitter, ads,
malls, and busyness, it’s not hard to quickly get wrapped up in the trimming
and fantasy of this season, dear Father. Help me focus on the true mystery:
Jesus, the Son of God, came to live with us and is still with us. I ask that
you help me live in this world so that it shows that he is abiding with me. In
His name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, December 19, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Zechariah 1:7-17; Revelation
3:7-13; Matthew 24:15-21
SCRIPTURE
Matthew
24:21 — There will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the
beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I was born during the time of
the Holocaust when millions of Jews (and millions of Christians) died under the
orders of Adolph Hitler. I heard the announcements of the end of World War II
and the Korean War. I had nightmares from the descriptions of Asian soldiers
with sharp bayonets over-running bunkers of defending troops. It is not hard to
imagine that many people were convinced that there could never be terror and
suffering as bad as that ever again. But we have seen Viet Nam, Chornobyl,
terrorists flying into the Twin Towers, Iraq, Syria, ISIS, tsunamis,
hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes killing tens of thousands. Could there ever
be tribulation any greater?! Yet Jesus clarifies that these are just warning
signs, reminding us that we are not in control. God is! No matter how bad
things may seem, there is One who is already victorious over sin, death, and
the world. His resurrection and ascension proved it. So, don’t throw up your
hands in despair when you hear of disaster after disaster. Lift up your hands
in praise, thanking God that Jesus Christ has already won us the victory and
has prepared a time and place for us beyond all tribulation, where and when we
can lift up our heads and rejoice!
PRAYER
There are times when I am
filled with despair, O Holy One. When I think of the troubles in this world,
people trying to bring about your second coming, and when my life is not going
well, I forget you are in charge. Thank you for the final say. In the
name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, December 20, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Zechariah 2:1-13; Revelation 3:14-22;
Matthew 24:32-44
SCRIPTURE
Matthew
24:35 — Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass
away.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
December could be a fairly
bleak month when I was a kid. Gone were the beautiful multi-colored leaves from
our grove of trees. The only evidence of life among the branches were the
squirrels’ nests. The ground began freezing in irregular patterns where the
animals, the tractor, or the car cut grooves in the ground. The green grass and
weeds turned brown or were covered by skiffs of snow, their beauty hidden. But
December was not (is not) depressing! Far from it. The cold breezes
seemed to invigorate young animals who merrily frolicked in the sun, their
breath steaming from their nostrils as if they were smoking giant cigars. But
even more exciting for us was that Christmas was coming! It was hard to tell
which we liked better, preparing for the Sunday School Christmas program or
preparing for our country school Christmas program. Both had the same religious
theme, reminding us that Christmas was all about Jesus being born. Santa Claus
was included in the country school program and was good for a few presents. He
was fun for a day, but Jesus was good for eternal life and fun forever! The
cold dreariness of winter would someday give way to the gorgeous greens of
spring as a reminder that the child born in a manger would become a Man among
men, and, like us all, He would die, but the winter of His death would become
the spring of Easter. Santa Claus and colored leaves would pass away, but the
Word-made flesh would never leave us. He would live forever. Step outside
today. Take a deep breath of cold air. Be refreshed, knowing Eternal Life is in
the air!
PRAYER
In the bleakness of
winter, remind me, dear Lord, of your eternal grace and love. When I glance at
the evergreen trees and wreaths, it is a joy to know that your children will
receive Eternal Life. Fill my heart with joy and my life with telling the Good
News! In Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, December 21, 2025
St. Thomas, the Apostle, called Didymus (“the twin”), was slow to learn but made
the confession that climaxes John’s gospel. Tradition says he was a missionary
to India and martyred at Madras.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Zechariah 3:1-10; Revelation
4:1-8; Matthew 24:45-51
SCRIPTURE
Matthew
25:46 Blessed is that servant whom
his master, when he comes, will find (doing what his master hired him to do).
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
During the winter months, the
floors of the music store at which I worked while in college became a muddy
mess. We tried to dry-mop them every chance we got, but we couldn’t do a very
good job because we didn’t want to keep customers from browsing. One evening, I
finished my homework and decided to do something about those floors. I went to
the store, let myself in, locked the door, turned on all the lights, and gave
the floor a quick once-over with soapy water. I had to change the water at
least five times before I covered the whole floor. Then I got out the electric
scrubber we called “Big Bertha.” “Big Bertha was temperamental. Tipping it or
turning the wrong way would cause “Big Bertha” to take off as if she had a mind
of her own. Somehow, I managed to wrestle the scrubber over half the store
before midnight when I was startled to hear a voice behind me. “Really great
job!” “Big Bertha” almost took off, but I turned her off before she did any
damage. It was the owner of the store. He’d had a police report that someone
was in the store, and he came to check it out. He found me doing what he hired
me to do, above and beyond the call of duty. Will the Lord find us doing what
He called us to do when He comes again? Jesus encouraged his disciples to do
the work of the gospel so that when He returns, He wouldn’t find them sitting
around, wasting the time He had given them. A friend of mine has admitted to
being at death’s door at least five times. Every hour of every day is precious
to him. He considers it a gift from God. Each of us should spend some of our
valuable time this week examining our use of time. May you discover the joy of
making every day count for the Lord!
PRAYER
Oh, how I waste precious
moments, you give me, gracious Father. Instead of spending valuable time with
you and helping others, I spend it in mindless activities. Forgive and use me
so that when you come for me, you can say, “Well done, good and faithful
servant.” In Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, December 22, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Zechariah 4:1-14; Revelation
4:9 - 5:5; Matthew 25:1-13
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:13 — Watch,
therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is
coming.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
My sister and I loved staying
with our grandparents. There were always so many fun things to do and places to
investigate. The exception was when we knew that Mom and Dad were coming to
pick us up for a trip to town. On those days, we often stood at the big bay
window watching the road. When it was cold, we used our breath to create fog on
the window and drew pictures while we waited. Even when we learned to tell
time, waiting wasn’t any easier because we never knew when they’d come. Grandma
tried to keep us busy by helping her or reading to us. Sometimes, she could
distract us enough that the time literally flew. At the sound of the car horn,
we jumped. Games, books, puzzles, and even cookies were abandoned in our dash
to put on coats, hats, and mittens on our way to the car. Just imagine what it
will be like when the Lord comes again! Some may be too attached to their
“things,” their games, their sins (or the sins of others) to let go. Held back by that with which they
cannot let go, they will miss their “ride.”
Imagine what would have happened if the shepherds couldn’t have trusted
one among them to guard their sheep enough to go into Bethlehem “to see this
thing the angels told (them) about”! Suppose anyone in the Christmas story had
gotten distracted from following God’s plan. There were many other people
around, distracted by the census and family reunions, who didn’t make it into
His story. It is wise to keep our eyes on the prize – our Savior who came and
who will come again.
PRAYER
It’s almost here, dear
Lord - the time when we quietly come into church to experience once again the
time of your birth. Keep me spiritually awake as I await this most holy time,
and keep my eyes focused on the prize during the rest of the year. With great
excitement, I pray in your name, O Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Zechariah 7:8 - 8:8;
Revelation 5:6-14; Matthew 25:14-30
SCRIPTURE
Matthew
25:29 — For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have
abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I like to garden. I
especially enjoy planting and raising new things. The year our house was moved
across the street, I had to move most of my herbs and flowers. I then had two
large boxes of Iris from a small bed and countless other plants needing a home.
These beds started with a few plants, and each year they increased. The more we
had, the more they produced. I find that to be true with many of my herbs, too.
I have a hard time throwing perfectly good plants away, but the more I have to
give away, the more they seem to thrive. Have you noticed that same principle
at work in business? For example, a good restaurant with a good chef builds a
list of diners ready and willing to eat there, and the list keeps growing. I
know of one where people drove two hours to eat there. But sadly, the
restaurant that lacks customers usually loses what few customers they have.
I’ve seen a few of them too. To carry out God’s plan, we have been blessed with
the skills, abilities, and resources we need. Unfortunately, not everybody uses
those gifts for what God gave them. What we don’t use, we lose. Imagine giving
a Christmas gift to someone, and instead of using the gift, they put it in the
closet. Why would we want to give them another gift? But if we see the gift
being used and enjoyed, we look forward to finding other gifts to give. Jesus
says that is God’s attitude. Those who have (and use) their gifts will have
more. Those who don’t will lose even what they have. Why not consider making
even greater use of the gifts God has given you?!
PRAYER
Thank you for the
abundance of gifts you have given me throughout my lifetime, gracious Father.
I’m sorry when I place them in the closet of life and do not bring them out to
use and share with others. Help me do much more with them when I have to serve
you. In your Son’s name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, December 24, 2025 — Christmas Eve Day
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Zechariah 8:9-15; Revelation
6:1-17; Matthew 1:18-25
SCRIPTURE
Matthew
1:24 — When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded
him; he took her as his wife.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The day after the blizzard
that forced us to spend the night at school, the teacher and eight students
walked to my grandparent’s farm, a mile from school. After we arrived, I felt exhausted
and crawled up on Grandma’s lap. There, I’m told, I slept off a fever. Safe and
secure on Grandma’s lap, my five-year-old mind was at peace with the world. I’m
told I sipped soup when she coaxed me to take some of her all-purpose home
remedies for such ailments. An angel did not direct me in a dream or vision. I
was guided by someone I knew and trusted completely. When I think of Joseph
waking from sleep to see an angel in a vision, I think of my childhood
experience with Grandma. Joseph must have had a deep, personal relationship
with God - so intimate that he obeyed a messenger - an angel - from God, doing
what he had no intention of doing. He would marry the pregnant young woman and
raise her child as his own. Forget the wagging tongues of those who counted
days to see if her child was born within the wedding time. He trusted so much
that nothing else mattered anymore. As we celebrate the birth of God’s Son, we
are reminded of the close, intimate relationship He wants to have with each of
us. A relationship that He will initiate and nurture, even as Mary and Joseph
nurtured Him. If an angel of the Lord spoke to you tonight, would you be ready
to answer the call? May the birth of Christ take place intimately in your heart
this night, and may you feel the warm, secure arms of His love holding you
tight!
PRAYER
Thank you for your
servants, Joseph and Mary, who were willing to do as you commanded them. Use me
as you wish, always drawing me closer, creating a more intimate relationship
with you. I praise you in the Holy Name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Christmas Day — Thursday, December 25, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Micah 4:1-5, 5:2-4; 1 John
4:7-16; John 3:31-36
SCRIPTURE
John 3:36 — Whoever
believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever disobeys the Son will not see
life but must endure God’s wrath.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Merry Christmas! That
greeting sent a thrill through our systems when we heard it. It usually didn’t
start until a couple of weeks before the big day. Our trips to town were
dependent on the roads. Sometimes, Dad would have to hitch a log chain from the
tractor to the car and pull us to the highway, but it was worth the effort.
Excitement was in the air. Colored lights and decorations everywhere announced
that only so many days were left until Christmas. There were not as many Santas
back then. He was too busy making his list and checking it twice to show up at
the “5 and 10”. He did take time to hand out treats at the city hall (and
sounded an awful lot like Dr. Tenant). Santa’s message was one of law - “be
good or I’m not coming.” The real message of Christmas is one of sheer grace -
“He is the gift who is born for all people - good and bad alike. How will you
receive Him?” Those who receive Him as
their Savior will live accordingly. Every day is another gift and opportunity
to show our gratitude for what God has done for us. That means living according
to God’s will, not against it. The Christmas cheer reminds us that we cannot be
good enough to deserve such love. We can only receive it and give thanks. May
the joy of Christmas send a thrill through you throughout this season!
PRAYER
What a glorious day this
is, gracious Savior! You are the most beautiful, precious, and meaningful gift
I will ever receive. I am humbled by knowing the love and grace that abounds in
you. Let them abide in me also as I share them with others. In joyous
celebration, I pray in your name, O Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, December 26, 2025
St. Stephen, deacon and
Martyr, was one the first
deacons ordained by the apostles and the first to die for his faith, imitating
the death of Christ, praying for his executioners, and commending his soul to
the hands of God.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
2 Chronicles 24:17-22; Acts
6:1-7; Acts 7:59 - 8:8
SCRIPTURE
Act 7:59 — While they were
stoning Stephen, he prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The day after Christmas, we
usually suffered from a sugar letdown. We didn’t have a lot of candy at our
house. It didn’t last long when we did. But Christmas was the one big
exception. We had many candies - chocolate-covered cherries were my favorite.
Still, there were also chocolate peanut clusters, fudge, peanut brittle,
divinity, and an assortment of hard candies left over from Christmas programs. On
Christmas day, we were allowed to nibble at will, so the day after, it felt as
if the spirit of Christmas had deserted us. We moped around, snapped at each
other, and were generally miserable. Stephen’s problem was not coming down off
a sugar high. He had just been on a spiritual high, preaching such a rousing
sermon that those who got the point decided to stone him! They had thrown him
off a high place. When he survived the fall, they began lobbing rocks on him
with the intent of silencing him and killing him. Knowing they could kill his
body, Stephen released his spirit to the One who could save or destroy it. As
life began to leave him, he trusted the One who never would leave him. May the
spirit of Christmas never leave you, and may you discover the joy of knowing
your spirit is in the trusted Hands of the One who loves you with everlasting
love.
PRAYER
On this day after
Christmas day, please keep me from crashing on the way down from a spiritual
high, dear God. Instead, renew my spirit by placing it in your trusted hands.
Thank you for never leaving me, even if I don’t feel like being loved. I ask
this in the name of Christ Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, December 27, 2025
St. John, Apostle and
Evangelist, with his brother
James and with Peter, formed the inner circle of the apostles. From the apostle
himself or his followers, we have the Fourth Gospel, the three epistles that
bear his name, and Revelation. Tradition says that John lived at Ephesus and died
a natural death - the only one of the apostles not to die a martyr’s death.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Proverbs 8:22-30; 1 John
5:1-12; John 13: 20-35
SCRIPTURE
John 13:20 — Very truly, I
tell you, whoever receives one whom I send receives me, and whoever receives me
receives him who sent me.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
There seemed to be an
unwritten principle by which most people in our community lived, in the country
and town. We were all part of a village family without knowing what it was
called. Neighbors had varying degrees of trust, but as children, we knew we
could go to any door and get help if needed. We would be cared for and treated
as well as the people living there would take care of their children. They
“knew our family.” They knew our family would do the same for them. When we got
stuck in a blizzard halfway between high school and home, my sister, brothers,
and I were taken in, given a hot meal and warm beds for the night. They knew
our family and called to let them know we were safe. God sent His own Son into
our world. A handful of people received Him and loved Him as their own. Others
were oblivious to the plight of the holy family, and still others put a price
on His head, causing the deaths of infant boys in Bethlehem. How do you receive
Him - today? How does the world receive Him? The same description can be used
today. A handful acknowledge that He is Emmanuel - God with us - and receive
Him. Others are still oblivious to the fact that He is among us - looking for
His Second coming but missing His living presence. Still, others seek to
silence those who proclaim His name. Not much has changed spiritually in 2000
years. But you, child of God, have believed in Him and received Him and thereby
received the throne of God in your heart! Rejoice!!!
PRAYER
O Come, O Come Emmanuel.
Come into my heart and stay with me. Let me never hurt you by denying you or
not acknowledging the needs of others. Thank you for making me part of your
family, one in which I know I can come to be safe in your loving arms. In your
name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, December 28, 2025
The Holy Innocents,
Martyrs: The Innocents were
the children of Bethlehem, two years old and under, killed by King Herod in his
attempt to destroy the infant Jesus. Today, we also remember the innocents of
all ages killed in the slaughters of recent history.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Isaiah 49:13-23; Isaiah
54:1-13; Matthew 18:1-14
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18:11-12 — Take
care that you do not despise one of these little ones; for, I tell you, in
heaven their angels continually see the face of my Father in heaven.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
There were two sets of twins,
the same age, in our small church - my twin brothers and the Muhs twins. When
the Muhs twins were three, they both got very sick. I’m unsure if it was the
flu, bronchitis, or pneumonia. The road to their farm had blown shut with snow,
and their fevers climbed. Their mother was afraid they would not live through
the night. She sat on the side of their bed praying for them until she nearly
fell asleep. She left the room to get some water. As she returned to the room,
she was surprised to see a light coming from their room. She entered, and the
light was gone, but both boys were awake. Their fevers were gone, and their
faces glowed. She asked about the light. “It was God’s angel,” they both said.
“Didn’t you see her? She was sitting right there at the end of our bed!” God
has long been believed to have assigned angels to watch over every child. Jesus
seems to confirm that thought. Each and every child is special and dear to God.
They may never see an angel, but God’s love radiates from them. This is an
excellent week to consider all of the children who did not have beds to sleep
in or who were abused or neglected. Let us pray for them and ask God to show us
what we, with all our limits, can do to bless these children. Let us also thank
God for the angel He sent to guard us when we were children, and those God sent
to bless our children.
PRAYER
I pray, dear Jesus, that
you send your holy angels to watch over your children tonight. Use me as an
angel to a child who desperately needs love and compassion. Send me out in
search of such children, ministering to them in their time of need. I ask this
in your Holy Name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, December 29, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
2 Samuel 23:13-17; 2 John
1-13; John 2:1-11
SCRIPTURE
John 2:2 — Jesus and his
disciples were also invited (to the wedding in Cana of Galilee).
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I was a ring bearer for the
wedding of one of my aunts. It was a pretty dull job for a four-year-old. I had
to carry the real rings on the pillow, not some fake plastic ones. Everything
went well, I guess. If I had thought the wedding was boring, taking pictures
afterward would have been even worse. It was the reception that was great fun.
Tables were set up in a room above the fire station. (I hoped there would be a
fire so I could see the trucks go out, but it didn’t happen.) There was lots of
food and a dance. The dance didn’t thrill me. Fortunately, it was close to my
bedtime anyway, and although I objected, I was taken to my grandparents’ home
in town and put to bed. I can only imagine what it would have been like to be a
ring bearer at the wedding in Cana. The Palestinians had a whole week of food,
fun, and dancing. Jesus must have been a friend of the bride or groom because
He and His disciples were all invited.
The fact that He went shows
that Jesus enjoyed having a good time. He probably toasted the newlyweds and,
no doubt danced some of the ancient Israeli folk dances with them. Knowing “the
rest of the story” helps us appreciate His friendship with the couple even
more. He changed ordinary water into extraordinary wine! Have you invited Jesus
to party with you? He’d love to be invited, and He may even change your
ordinary life and relationships into something quite extraordinary. He did that
for us at Christmas. He did even more at Easter and more yet at Pentecost. What
a thrill it is to know He has always kept His promise to be with us!
PRAYER
Thank you, Jesus, for
inviting me to the party! Let’s have fun together, get to know one another
better, and have the time of our lives. Use me to go out and invite everybody I
see to this extraordinary event so that our ordinary lives might be changed. In
your name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, December 30, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Kings 17:17-24; 3 John
1-15; John 4:46-54
SCRIPTURE
John 4:52 — As the
official was going, his slaves met him and told him that his child was alive.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
There was a time in Nebraska
when it seemed as if there was a country school every four or five miles. Each
school submitted various projects for judging at the county fair, making a huge
display in one building. We worked hard at perfecting the projects we would
enter. The teacher usually delivered them and entered them with the fair board
after the last day of school, and we promptly forgot about them. The year Wayne
and I worked on a large poster together, we felt good about what we did, but we
were relieved to have it finished so we could get on with more important
things, like playing HORSE with the slightly deflated basketball. That was in
early May. In August, my sister and I took pigs to the fair. I was busy caring
for them and had forgotten about the poster. Wayne came through the hog barn
and asked if I had seen our poster, which I hadn’t. “We got a purple ribbon!”
he declared. The Roman official had something far more important than a purple
ribbon on his mind. Chancing rejection by this Jewish Rabbi named Jesus, he had
begged for healing for his dying child. (Begging was out of character for Roman
officials, but the man was desperate.) Jesus had told him his son would be
alright. He held out hope, but doubt probably crept in as he headed home, remembering
how sick his son was. Then the messenger arrived with the good news! His son
was well again! What a blessing for the official and his son! Isn’t it great to
know that Jesus has called you to be a messenger of good news? The Law within
the Word of God will convict, but we also have the privilege of delivering Good
News! The gifts of Christ at Christmas keep on coming!!!
PRAYER
How exciting and what a
privilege it is that you have selected me to be a messenger of good news, dear
God! Let me shout from the mountaintops that Jesus Christ is born and
that He is the greatest gift of all. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, December 31, 2025 — New Year’s Eve
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Kings 3:5-14; James
4:13-17, 5:7-11; John 5:1-15
SCRIPTURE
John 5:6 — When Jesus saw
the (paralyzed) man lying there ... he said to him, “Do you want to be made
well?”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
As a teenager, I hated
farming. There are some good and happy times from my farm days and lots of
exciting adventures. But there are also those times I’d rather forget, like New
Year’s Eve, when I was responsible for hauling silage to the milk cows. I
thought I could speed things up by not using a wagon. I used the tractor to
fill the large bucket on the front at the silage pit. Then slowly drove to the
barnyard and opened the gate. The cows smelled the silage and surrounded my
raised loader. I was inching forward toward their bunk to avoid hurting them
when, because my front end was so heavy with the silage, my front wheels got
mired down in a combination of soft manure and hard frozen cow pies. The rear
wheels just spun. I was stuck. Turning around, I discovered that the cows had found
the open gate. I had a stuck tractor and loose cows. It took over half an hour
to round up the cows and return them to the yard. Then, I had to get the
tractor unstuck. In the process, I got stuck, pulled my foot out of my boot,
and landed in the soft, cold, nearly-freezing manure. Then, my brother laughed
and asked, “Do you need help?” I could have killed him! What a stupid question!
I wonder if the paralyzed man felt that way about Jesus’ question: “Do you
want to be made well?” It is a seemingly stupid question, except that Jesus
knew some people don’t want to be made well. They’d rather have the sympathy
and good wishes of others and not have to do anything. Many people are
paralyzed by sin and unwilling to let go of it. Do you want to be made well,
physically and spiritually? A New Year dawns tomorrow. Jesus asks you if you genuinely
want to be made well. Why not say, “Yes. Thanks!” At a word from Jesus, the
paralyzed man picked up his bed and walked home. Jesus would love to do the
same for you.
PRAYER
