DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Isaiah 31:5 — Like birds
hovering overhead, so the Lord of hosts will protect Jerusalem; he will protect
and deliver it, he will spare and rescue it.
2 Timothy 4:18 — The Lord
will rescue me from every evil attack and save me for his heavenly kingdom. To
him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Our posse had a favorite
tower we climbed (the chicken coop roof) that looked down across the entire
river valley (the gully between the house and the corn crib). From there, we
could see the bad guys approaching from every direction. We saw ourselves as
the guardians of the Sydow ranch. When a notorious bank robber (a poor, hapless
salesman) climbed the fence west of the bunkhouse, we were armed and ready to
intercept him. After the initial shock, he surrendered without a fight! The
scriptures provide a similar scenario for how God protects those who love Him.
Some like to think of God as giving a guardian angel for every child of God.
(There is no reference to the term “guardian angel” in the Bible, but Jesus
quotes Psalm 91:11 in Matthew and Luke, “He shall give His angels charge
over you, to keep you,...”) We are
well covered with such heavenly help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We
don’t have to call on or accept that help, but God’s help is always available.
Isn’t it great to know that God is on your side?!
PRAYER
O God, my Immanuel, it is
good to know that you are always with me, beside me, and watching me. Stay by
my side and protect me this day from all temptations that might lead me astray
from your purpose for me. Please listen when I cry out to you. In the name of
Christ, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, May 2, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 103:11 — For as the
heavens are high above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those
who fear him.
2 Corinthians 6:1 — As we
work together with him, we urge you also not to accept the grace of God in
vain.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We learned to say “Please”
and “Thank you” as little children. It also became like a ritual we taught our
children. We often “forced” our children to create their “Thank you” cards and
write their words of appreciation. Recently, one of our elderly friends told us
how she treasured the homemade card one of the kids sent so much that she kept
it for almost twenty years! It is never too late to say thank you. (Which
reminds me, I need to send a note to a young friend!) Sadly, we too often take
people and gifts for granted. We certainly do with God’s grace - freely given,
undeserved gifts. Forgiveness, life, and salvation bought and paid for by God’s
Son on the Cross can become so familiar that we don’t think about them. Worship
can become a ritual, and the sacraments may be considered time-consuming
additions to a worship service. The Word of God may be allowed to go in one ear
and out the other. When was the last time you sincerely thanked God?
Paul often refers to his readers as “my little children.” Perhaps we all need
to remind ourselves to say “Please” and “Thank You” to God every day, lest we
“accept the grace of God in vain.”
PRAYER
O my God, giver, and
sustainer of all life, thank you for all you have done for me and given me.
Words cannot express how much I cherish your grace. Please help me never take
you or your gifts for granted but treasure them each day, sharing them freely
with others who need your love. I pray this in the name of my Lord, Jesus
Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, May 3, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Genesis 1:31 — God saw
everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good.
1 Timothy 4:4 — For
everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, provided it
is received with thanksgiving.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The mud cake my sister made
for us was “frosted” with oats chaff and topped with a toothpick princess made
out of the bell of a hollyhock blossom and a cherry. The inedible offering was
graciously presented by our lovely hostess, who went to all the trouble of
washing her hands in the cattle tank before serving. My brothers and I were
impressed and ooed and awed over the wonderful meal on the toy table. Years
later, the pie we took was a “leftover,” left behind after a church bake sale.
The women had made more pies than needed, so we received one and thanked them.
The next day, we visited friends and took the 2-day-old cherry pie along. The
age of the pie didn’t bother our friends. Together, we said grace, thanking God
for the “church ladies” who made the pie and proceeded to devour it. A month
later, one of their children asked - hopefully - if we had brought another
“church lady” pie. A little thankfulness goes a long way. Wouldn’t it be great to
remember to thank God for the little treasures, victories, and feelings of
happiness God lavishes on us? Wouldn’t it be great if we could not forget to be
thankful, even when things aren’t exactly to our liking, because we believe
that God will bring good, even out of the bad? Have a wonderful and
thank-filled day!
PRAYER
Most generous and loving
God, thank you for all the little treasures, victories, and happiness you
lavish upon me daily. I give you praise and gratitude for those people you have
sent my way to remind me of your generous love. Use me this day to lavish that
love upon someone least expecting it. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, May 4, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Isaiah 46:9 — Remember the
former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there
is no one like me.
1 Corinthians 15:10 — Paul
wrote: But by the grace of God I am what I am.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
When I was growing up, I
wanted to be like Roy Rogers. Unfortunately, I wasn’t old enough to have real
guns, my dog wasn’t as intelligent as Bullet, and the calf I tried to ride was
not as talented or cooperative as Trigger. At the time, I could sing, but I
didn’t have the Sons of the Pioneers to back me up, and I couldn’t yodel. (I
still can’t yodel, but I have been offered lessons....) I had to give up the
idea of being like Roy Rogers and settle for being me. That was and is challenging
enough! I don’t always like me. I look in the mirror and can find flaws too
numerous to mention. I’m my own worst judge. As I visit with people, I find I’m
not the only one. However, I have concluded that St. Paul did: “I am what I am.” The more I think about it,
the more acceptable that thought becomes. God made me. God loves me. God
forgives me. God calls me to be His servant “just as I am, without one
plea.” I may not be perfect in every way, but as one poster declares,
“God isn’t through with me yet!” As God is uniquely God, I am uniquely me, and
you are uniquely you. Isn’t that wonderful? It may not always seem so, but it
is! God made each of us for a unique purpose in His plan. Why not stop fighting
it and enjoy what the grace of God has made you?!!
PRAYER
Help me see the wonder of
your creation dear Lord, including my creation. Show me your plan for me, and
then use me for your purpose. Let me use the unique gifts that you have given
me for your glory. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, May 5, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Proverbs 5:21 — Human ways
are under the eyes of the Lord.
Revelation 2:23 — The Son
of God says, “I am the one who searches minds and hearts.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
One look and the vet knew
what was wrong with the cow. He did a few tests to be sure he was right, but
from the moment Doc Collins walked into the yard, he knew the problem and the
solution. As a kid, I was amazed at his ability. Over the years, I’ve been
amazed by other “experts in their field,” including my parents. I recently took
my car to a mechanic because of a noise that didn’t sound good. Within minutes,
he knew the problem and explained how he would solve it. Long years of
experience contributed to the wisdom and knowledge that helped these “experts”
make decisions. If humans, with so few years of experience, can amaze us with
what they know and do, how amazed should we be with the God of all creation?!
There is nothing new or hidden from God. We may think we can keep things from
God, but we are about as successful as a child playing “peek-a-boo.” God may be
hidden from us, but we cannot hide anything from God, no matter where or how we
try. There is both terror and joy in that knowledge. The terror comes in
knowing the One who judges, already sees, and knows every detail, right down to
the intentions of our hearts. The joy comes in knowing that God loves us
anyway! What are you trying to hide from God? Why not give it up and let God
forgive you to the core?!
PRAYER
It is a scary thought that
you know my every thought, action, and weakness, dear God. Thank you for being
willing to forgive them and make me whole. I pray that I might be open and
honest with you, hiding nothing from you. In the name of Jesus who enables my
forgiveness. Amen
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, May 6, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Genesis 12:1,3 — The Lord
said to Abram, “In you, all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”
Luke 1:54-55 — Mary sings,
“He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to
the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham, and to his descendants
forever.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
My sister received a “Most
Valued Employee” award from the store she managed. It was a well-deserved award
and spoke to her hard work and dedication. In addition to making the company
happy, the store profitable, and the community proud, she also blessed her
whole family. While struggling to bring the store up to standards acceptable to
her, she did not always experience “blessedness.” I’m sure it felt like a
constant struggle to “pull teeth.” Abram felt that tension, too. Homeless,
childless, and pushing old age, Abram must have wondered if God was missing a
few marbles in making the promises He made. Yet, holding on to that promise,
despite what his eyes and ears experienced, Abram became Abraham, the Father of
many nations. Mary must have wondered how God could use a virgin like her, but
grasping the faith of her fathers and Father Abraham, she could sing a joyful
song. Sometimes, I wish God would tell me the great things He has in mind for
me. But maybe he has...!? Is it possible that God has done that for all of us,
and we haven’t believed enough to grasp the promise? Has God given you the
thought of something that seems too incredible to be possible? Why not let God
show you what He showed Abraham and Mary?
PRAYER
I, like Mary, sing a
joyful song of your greatness, O Mighty One. I know that your promises are not
only great but true and everlasting. Lead me to trust in your promises and not
lose heart when I cannot see what you have in store for me. In the name of my
Savior, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Zechariah 4:6 — “Not by
might, nor by power, but by my spirit,” says the Lord of hosts.
1 Corinthians 2:12 — We
have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit that is from God.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
At a little league baseball
game, I witnessed an incredible miracle. It was the first game these nine and
ten-year-old boys had ever played. I witnessed a boy striking out and making a
home run on the same play! But that wasn’t as incredible as the short-stop who
stretched out his hand and caught a fly ball, even though he had trouble
catching a simple toss from his father. Without a doubt, it was a surprise to
everyone, especially him. It was not skill or knowledge. It was purely a grace
(undeserved gift) of God. Most of us have experienced similar graces but
probably attributed them to blind luck, chance, or coincidence. In truth, it
was “not by might, nor power, but by (God’s) spirit!” This same Spirit is alive
and active in our lives when we are open to acknowledging Something or Someone
greater than ourselves. Journaling is a good way of keeping track of many
things we’ve passed off as “luck,” “coincidence,” or whatever. As we begin to
see the pattern of God’s influence and blessing in our lives, we can give
credit where credit is due. Why not give God the benefit of the doubt? Jesus
promised to send the Holy Spirit. Why should we doubt that He has been active
in our lives?
PRAYER
Some things that happen to
me, Heavenly Father, seem too good to be true. Forgive me for my doubts that
they are undeserved gifts of your doing. Open my eyes today so I might see the
blessing coming my way. In Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, May 8, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Hosea 6:6 — Thus says the
Lord, “For I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God
rather than burnt offerings.”
1 Corinthians 13:13 — And
now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is
love.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Dad was out in the field. Mom
was busy with my youngest sister. That left me to complete a list of odd jobs
and chores one of them usually took care of. It wasn’t very exciting labor. In
fact, some of it was downright boring. I was past the “Roy Rogers” stage of my
life, so I didn’t have him to keep me company. I still enjoyed dangerous
safaris and bloody wars, but they had to wait until I finished. It was noon
before I finished washing out the last hog trough and looked up to see Dad
coming in from the field for food and fuel. We talked about what had been done
that morning as we ate lunch. Both parents complimented me on the list of
things I accomplished. (Lest you think I was a perfect child, that day was an
exception. I was as much of a slacker as anyone! But we all rise to the
occasion once in a while!) Their encouraging words stuck with me, helping me to
realize how important I could be in making the family farm function. God’s
family works in much the same way. Every one of us has a role to play in God’s
purpose and plan. We are the hands, the feet, the voice, and the eyes and ears
of “the body of Christ.” God doesn’t ask many of us, but God wants our “steadfast
love” to be acted out in tangible ways among the rest of God’s family. Have you
been pulling your weight in making God’s family fully functional - and
loving?
PRAYER
I pray that I might not be
a “slacker” this day, O Lord, but to serve you in all the tasks that come my
way, whether large or small. Use me for your larger purposes by choosing me to
serve my neighbor. In your Holy Name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, May 9, 2024
ASCENSION DAY
SCRIPTURE
Zechariah 3:9 — I will
remove the guilt of this land in a single day.
1 Corinthians 1:8 — He
will also strengthen you to the end so that you may be blameless on the day of
our Lord Jesus Christ.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Before moving to the
Southwest, we lived in a wonderful community called “The Gateway to the
Sandhills.” I loved the Sandhills! They have a beauty all their own in every
season of the year. The sad scars appearing on these virgin hills are
irrigation circles, set up where a small amount of topsoil will support crops,
with the help of irrigation and fertilizers, for only two or three years. Once
they stop being productive, the farmer is paid to return the land to its
prairie origins. I have yet to see a single success in that effort. These
“scars” are signs of the physical guilt of the land. They also appear in our
personal spiritual lives when we use our bodies or minds in ways for which God
never intended them. Nothing we can do will undo the damage. The “guilt of the
land” lives on in us. God promises that in a single day - the Day of the Lord -
He will remove the “scars.” God will make those who repent and call on the name
of the Lord “blameless” for that big Day. Are you ready for the healing of your
“scars”?
PRAYER
I am saddened at the
thought of how I have ignored You, O God, and how I have treated others.
Forgive me and heal the scars that I have caused with my lack of concern and
caring. I praise You for making me “blameless” through the gift of Your Son, in
whose name I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, May 10, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 90:17 — Let the
favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and prosper for us the work of our hands
- O prosper the work of our hands!
Galatians 6:9 — So let us
not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest-time, if we
do not give up.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We were often up before the
crack of dawn on the farm. It was a way of life. Up at 4 AM to milk the cows,
feed the animals, and complete other chores before heading out to the field or
off to school. (And I wondered where my habit came from?!) We had to be home by
4 PM to milk the cows and do the other chores again before supper. If other
problems had to be solved, repairs had to be made, or homework had to be done,
weary as we were, it had to be done. Like most kids, we groaned and complained
occasionally (probably more than I remember), but it didn’t do any good. The
work still had to be done, and we were there to do it. The laborers in God’s
kingdom are the same. Some shirk their duty, but the faithful “keep on keeping
on.” Some people practically live at the church and do the hundreds of tasks that
someone must do. For them, it is a way of life. They seldom receive the thanks
they deserve, and they seldom, if ever, complain. They do not “grow weary in
doing what is right.” They know they are already receiving a portion of the
great reward still to be realized at the Great Harvest. The Lord blesses the
works of their hands as they wait patiently for that Day. Have you asked God to
bless whatever you do? Remember what Jesus did with a few fish and a few loaves
of bread? Imagine what He can do with what you offer Him!!!
PRAYER
When I grow weary at the
task before me, Heavenly Father, refresh me in your word and sacrament. Bless
the things that I must do today, remembering to do first the ones most
important to building your kingdom. Thank you for all the tireless workers who
serve your church and your body. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, May 11, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Isaiah 60:17 — I will
appoint Peace as your overseer and Righteousness as your taskmaster.
1 Corinthians 13:6 — Love
does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices in the truth.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I was born at the end of WWII
and vaguely remember hearing radio celebrations of the end of the Korean War. I
grew up during the “Cold War” threat of the communist dominoes engulfing the
world and was in college and seminary through most of the war in Vietnam. Now,
I pray for an end to the wars in the Middle East, Ukraine, Israel, and numerous
other countries. I worry for the safety of our soldiers around the world. How
we long for peace! But are we ready for the Peace that God intends? God’s Peace
is more than an end to fighting. God’s Peace - God’s “Shalom” - is a peace deep
down in our hearts that brings Righteousness - a rightness with God, our friends,
and enemies alike. It is a rightness based not on human standards but on the
absolute standards of what is right in God’s eyes. There is no room in God’s
Shalom for wrongdoing or wrong thinking. There is only room for God’s “Agape” -
God’s “other-centered love” - a Love that doesn’t ask what’s in it for us but
what the other person, group, or nation needs that I can provide. Are you
really ready for God’s kind of Peace, Righteousness, Love, and Truth? I hope so
because it is on its way, whether or not we are!
PRAYER
Change my heart and thoughts,
O God, and prepare me for your “Shalom,” which is only the Peace you can give.
Use me this day to make things “right” with those that I have wronged, have
wronged me, or I have taken for granted. I pray in the name of the Way, the
Truth, and the Life. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, May 12, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 79:13 — We your
people, the flock of your pasture, will give thanks to you forever, from
generation to generation we will recount your praise.
John 21:15 — Jesus said to
Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I
love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
When I was six, my
grandmother on my father’s side and my great-grandmother on my mother’s side
died on the same night. The funerals were a day apart. I watched as each of
their caskets was lowered into their graves, not fully comprehending how much
of a loss I had experienced. The grave-side words were almost identical,
commending each wonderful woman to the ground: “Earth to earth, ashes to ashes,
in the certain hope of the resurrection....” I cannot place a value on their
influence on my earliest years. Their generations passed on to me so much of
what and who I am! I thank God for them and those who have joined them in the
Father’s House, who have passed on their faith to their children,
grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.... Jesus wondered, after being denied
three times by Peter, what Peter would pass on to future generations when He
asked if Peter loved Him. How often have we betrayed His sacred trust and, in
so doing, denied our relationship with Jesus? Jesus asks us every day, “Do you
love me?” What does your heart answer? Listen to His command: “Feed my
lambs.” How well do you feed
Jesus’ lambs? How well do you pass it on to future generations?
PRAYER
Yes, I love you, my
Christ. I pray that your love for me will be passed on to other generations
through my actions and words this day. Open the hearts of the children you
place in my life today so they might be fed with your love. In your blessed
name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, May 13, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Leviticus 22:31 — You
shall keep my commandments and observe them: I am the Lord.
Matthew 7:12 — In
everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law
and the prophets.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
“Would you want someone to do
that to you?” Those words rang in my ears as I picked up the mess I had made of
my sister’s “dining room.” I was angry with her for something (isn’t it funny
how I can’t remember what?), and I wanted to be mean, so I ransacked her play
kitchen, generally making a terrible mess. Mud pies were broken and scattered
everywhere, packages of food (empty) were strewn all over the floor, and the
table, with all its contents of precious “china,” was upset. Mom’s words sank
in as I picked up and tried to clean up my mess. “No,” I thought, “I wouldn’t
want someone to do that to me and my things.” That memory creeps back from time
to time when I witness the horrible and cruel things people do to one another
and the things they say to one another. Is it any wonder that our Heavenly
Parent weeps for wayward children the way a mother or father does? All of God’s
commands are summed up in the words of Jesus: “Love the Lord your God....” and
“Love your neighbor as yourself.” It doesn’t seem that complicated, does it? So
why is it so hard to do only to others what we want them to do to us?
PRAYER
I am so sorry, dear
Father, for how I have treated my brothers and sisters in Christ. Help me today
to apologize to those I have mistreated. Forgive me, and let me live my life
like one with your words written on my heart. In the name of your Son Jesus
Christ. Amen
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, May 14, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 118:21 — I thank you
that you have answered me and have become my salvation.
Luke 7:50 — Jesus said to
the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I appreciate my wife, Sue, as
my best friend on earth. We are very different in our skills and interests, but
we are also alike in many of our interests and thinking. We can confidently
share our hearts and minds without fear. We can depend on each other when the
need arises. That kind of friendship doesn’t just happen. It grows and develops
every day. Almost from the time we met, we felt a connection, but a
relationship of true friendship took time to grow. It is the essence of the
Greek word “agape,” which means “other-centered love,” in which we are as concerned about what the
other person needs as we are with our own needs. This is the kind of
relationship Jesus seeks with each of us. One which grows daily. One which is
active in agape love. The Psalmist knew the meaning of God’s friendship and
deep and abiding love. The woman healed of her sin discovered that this
friendship only required a heart willing to give itself to the Lord. Jesus has
begun the “courting” process with us by giving Himself entirely for us on the
cross. Now the ball is in our court. Do we want Jesus to be our Friend? Do we
want Jesus near us to heal us, to save us, to lead us?
PRAYER
It is evident to me, dear
Lord, that lasting relationships don’t just happen. They must be nurtured.
Forgive me for taking your great love for me for granted. Seek to come closer
to me and strengthen my love for you. You are my greatest Friend. In your name.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, May 15, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Ezekiel 39:29 — I will
never again hide my face from them when I pour out my spirit upon the house of
Israel,” says the Lord God.
1 John 3:2 — We are God’s
children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed. What we do know is
this: when he is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him as he is.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
It happened again the other
day. I was shopping in a store and noticed a little boy, about two or three,
walking down the aisle checking things out. He said something to me, thinking I
was his father, but a look of terror came over him when I answered. He dropped
what he was looking at, ran away as fast as his little legs would carry him,
and screamed at the top of his lungs, “DAD!!!” When “Dad” appeared, he ran into
his arms and shouted, “Don’t ever do that again!” When his father asked,
“What?” still crying, he shouted, “Don’t hide from me!” Through the centuries,
God’s people have pleaded with Him in much the same way. God’s promise, via the
prophet Ezekiel, has always been kept. He does not “hide His face” from us.
Like the small child, we are the ones who get so caught up in searching for the
treasures of this world and accomplishing our plans. WE lose sight of the
Father who “never slumbers or sleeps,” the Father who “is with us always, even
to the end of the age.” When terror strikes, when loneliness sets in, when
worry and anxiety appear to be getting the better of us, WE, not GOD, have our
faces hidden from that “love which will not let us go.” As God’s beloved
children, we long for the time when our eyes will no longer be clouded - when
we can see God’s face and live. Until that DAY, remember, God isn’t hiding.
Call on Him in the time of trouble, and He will be there!
PRAYER
It is good to know that
you never hide your face from me, heavenly Father, even when I have turned and
gone in another direction. Guide me this and each day so that my gaze will be
on you. Help me in the day of trouble and assure me of your love. I pray this
in the name of Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, May 16, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 68:3 — But let the
righteous be joyful; let them exult before God; let them be jubilant with joy.
John 16:22 — So you have
pain now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one
will take your joy from you.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The cancer had claimed both
of his legs, one at a time, and had worked its way into other parts of his
body. It was an excruciating type of cancer for which, in the early 1960’s,
there was no lasting relief. The pain came in waves, and was only calmed with
the best painkillers of the day. I was still in high school and was not fully
prepared for the wave of pain that struck him while I was visiting. When it
went down to a tolerable level, he smiled at me and said, “Someday, I won’t
have this pain anymore. Then we can sing a song together!” I thought he meant
they would surgically remove whatever was causing the pain. But the next day,
he died. I played the organ for his funeral, and his words came alive, and I
knew his “someday” had come. Before the throne of God, he was kneeling - whole
and healthy again and without pain. Before God’s throne, I could almost hear
him singing along with the soloist as I played “Jerusalem, my happy home,
...O sweet and pleasant soil! In thee, no sorrow may be found, no grief, no
care, no toil!” What a declaration of faith he had made to me between bouts
of agonizing pain! Are you ready to shout for joy before the Lord? Worship is a
great place to practice!
PRAYER
Even when life is painful,
you enable me to shout and praise your name, O Lord. Help me to endure what
befalls me this day, remembering the promises that are sure and true. Remind me
that my days on earth are short in your time and that paradise with you is in
my future. In the name of the One who has given me life. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, May 17, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Isaiah 40:27 — Why do you
say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel, “My way is hidden from the Lord, and my
right is disregarded by my God”?
Hebrews 10:35 — Do not
abandon that confidence of yours; it brings a great reward.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
It was rather stupid of me to
think I could hide the rip in my new jeans. I was supposed to change them
before running up the hill to shovel some corn over the fence to the pigs, but
it wasn’t that big a job. It would mean changing clothes, shoveling ten shovels
full of corn, and then changing again to go to town with my uncle. No big deal
- until a piece of baling wire hooked my pant leg as I passed through the gate!
When I felt the tug and heard the rip, I felt sick! They were brand new jeans -
the first time I’d worn them, and I didn’t get new jeans very often. Then I
felt panic! What would Mom say? No problem! I’d keep my hand over the tear
until I was out of sight and see if my uncle could fix them. It didn’t work.
Moms have X-ray eyes, given to them by God to remind us that God has X-ray eyes
that see EVERYTHING! I am always amazed at how we never learn - how we humans
live with the attitude that “what God can’t see, God can’t do anything about!”
We may not like to admit it, but we know it’s true if we’re honest. If that
were not the case, why would so many people think they could get away with
breaking God’s commands and covenants? Have you been living with the delusion
that you are “getting away with it”? Think again! Let go of the lie. Let God
give you a new start.
PRAYER
I try hiding my thoughts
and actions from you, O Father, who counts the hair on my head and knows each
breath I take. Forgive me for the lies that I live with each day. Break through
these so that I might have an honest relationship with you. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, May 18, 2024
SCRIPTURE
1 Kings 8:52 — Let your
eyes be open to the plea of your servant, and to the plea of your people
Israel, listening to them whenever they call to you.
Mark 10:47 — Bartimaeus
began to shout out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
It is true: “The squeaky
wheel gets the grease.” - or at least a shot of oil. At our house, it’s the
squeaky hinge. Why bother with the others!? The little children often shout,
“Watch me, Mom/Dad! Watch me!” In school, students soon learn to be a squeaky
wheel, either for good or bad. It doesn’t take long to “psych” out the new
teacher to find out what gets their attention. God’s people have always
struggled with the problem of getting God’s attention. Even the blind man had
to shout over the noisy crowd to be seen by Jesus. What is almost funny, if it
weren’t so pathetic, is that God has never taken His eyes off us. “His eye is
on the sparrow...” so the song goes. God can be depended on to be watching us
at all times. So what is the problem? The problem is that WE are not paying
attention to God! We are so busy thinking of ourselves we miss what God has
already started doing. Imagine some people with their backs to God, yelling,
“Watch us, God! Watch us!” God is standing right behind them all the time, trying
to tell them, “I’ve never taken my eyes off of you!” Have you wondered if God
cared enough to keep an eye on you? He has, and He does!
PRAYER
Focus me this day on you,
O Holy One. Let my thoughts and actions be centered on you, your love for me,
and your love for others. Thank you for watching over me and keeping me in your
sight. I pray this in the name of the Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
PENTECOST SUNDAY - May 19, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 50:16-17 — What
right have you to recite my statutes, or take my covenant on your lips? For you
hate discipline, and you cast my words behind you.
Matthew 7:21 — Not
everyone who says to me, “Lord, Lord,” will enter the kingdom of heaven, but
only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The sneak attack always
worked best. When we played “war” at school, it was often difficult to remember
who was on which side, especially when “casualties” were not “dead.” Still, it
was instantly “resurrected” as a member of the opposite team. John Peterson got
us good in one game. There were a lot of casualties on both sides, but John
wasn’t one of them. However, he pretended to be one and acted as a member of
our team until the crucial battle. Then, he let us have it in the back. He
wiped us out! Entry requirements for getting on God’s team in heaven are
tighter than Homeland Security ever dreamed. God reads more than fingerprints,
voice prints, and even DNA. God reads right into every applicant’s heart, mind,
and soul. God KNOWS who has been working on His team and who has been working
for the other team. (Not working on God’s team is the same as working on
the other team - even if [especially if] we do nothing.) It
doesn’t matter what we say with our mouths. What matters is how we’ve responded
to God in our living as His children. Whose side have you been on?
PRAYER
Thank you for making me a
part of your team through my baptism. God of mercy, I pray that my actions and
words are pleasing to you and that I am playing with you and not against you.
Help me judge what I do with your will, not my own. I lift this prayer to you
in the name of Christ, my Savior. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, May 20, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 143:2 — Lord, do not
enter into judgment with your servant, for no one living is righteous before
you.
Ephesians 2:8 — By grace,
you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the
gift of God.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
What can I say? I hadn’t
studied for the test. I wasn’t prepared when I went to class. I planned to, but
we had trouble with the bucket calves the night before, and chores took twice
as long as usual. The tractor got stuck in the barnyard while doing the morning
chores. By the time I got unstuck and the rest of my chores done, I was a muddy
mess and had to bathe before I could get ready for school. In short, I didn’t
have time to study. I sat in my assigned seat, dreading what would take place.
The result would not be pretty! I’d flunk the test for sure. The teacher called
for quiet and began to hand out the test when Cordy, one of the brighter girls
in the class, asked a question. Mr. Philips stopped handing out the test and
asked, “Didn’t we cover that last week?” Everyone said, “No.” He picked up the
test and said that since half of the test covered that subject, we’d have to
wait and take it later!!! THANK YOU GOD! I wasn’t the only one who
praised the Lord that day. There is another DAY when we will face the ultimate
Judge. There will be no delay, but by the grace of God, those who believe and
have not turned their back on Christ and His cross have been guaranteed a
passing grade. Are you ready to take the test - with His help?
PRAYER
I thank you, Lord Jesus,
that because of you, I will pass the test when I stand before the throne of God
with all the correct answers. I don’t deserve your grace, but I am thankful for
it. Strengthen my belief each day. In your Holy Name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Isaiah 26:16 — O Lord, in
distress they sought you.
2 Corinthians 1:4 — God
consoles us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to console those who
are in any affliction with the consolation with which we ourselves are consoled
by God.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The summer after my
grandmother and great-grandmother died, we had another funeral. This time, it
was for Tipper, our dog. Tipper was under the delusion that he could catch the
gravel truck that raced down the hill east of the house. It was a traumatic
death for me because I witnessed it and could do nothing to help. In his race
to catch the front tire, he slipped, and the back tire rolled over him. He
never knew what hit him. Having participated in two funerals, we conducted our
own without adult supervision. Dad had already taken care of the burial, but my
sister, brothers, and a neighbor kid sang hymns, read the story of David and
Goliath from the Bible storybook, had a “sermon,” and said prayers. Then we
hugged and asked Mom for cake and coffee (we got water in a coffee cup). We had
seen it done, and we did it. We had been consoled, and we consoled one another.
It had a healing effect. I wasn’t worried about Tipper anymore. God was going
to take care of him. (OK, theologians out there, I was seven and was not
worried in the least about the theology of having a funeral for a dog. All I
cared about was that God would take care of Tipper!) By example, we teach the
gracious art of consoling those who mourn. I am so glad my family took me to
those funerals. How else would I have known what was needed? Have you been
consoled? How are you at passing that consolation on to others?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, you have
sent people to console me when I am in the depths of despair. Thank you for the
many acts of kindness you have given me through them. Use me to console others in
pain and need your love. In the name of the Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, May 22, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Exodus 23:1 — You shall
not join hands with the wicked to act as a malicious witness.
Ephesians 4:25 — So then,
putting away falsehood, let all of us speak the truth to our neighbors, for we
are members of one another.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The world of spies, double
agents, and espionage still seems a world away. I was relatively young the
first time I heard about a spy being arrested, and such ideas seemed strange to
me. “Why would anyone join the bad guys?” I wondered. Today’s youth hear about
seemingly good guys “joining hands with the wicked” almost daily and in every
field, from politics to police, stocks, and bonds to education and commerce.
Some in the church even get caught up in falsehoods and deception. It is like a
broken record. “God can’t see what (other) fools don’t notice.” Again and
again, that song is sung, making many gullible enough to believe it. However,
God is not blind. God knows whose hand we hold, what lies we’ve told, and how
“unchristian” we act. God calls us to be better than that because we are
members of the Body of Christ - we are “members of one another,” and we are not
isolated islands. What we do to one part of the body, we do to ourselves,
bringing the appropriate judgment. We may not be wise enough to see it now, but
the Day approaches when all truth will be revealed. Whose hand do you hold? Are
you prepared to answer for your words and actions - your way of life?
PRAYER
Hold my hand, O Father,
and lead me in your ways. Please forgive me for the times when I am the “bad
guy” by not acting with love toward others. Thank you for making me a part of
your body, the church. Let me never harm you by harming it. I pray this in the
name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, May 23, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 97:10 — Let those
who love the Lord hate evil.
1 Peter 1:15 — As he who
called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
One of the chores none of us
enjoyed was separating eggs before putting them in the case for selling in
town. When the chicken coop was full, we’d have two buckets full of eggs -
several hundred - in various sizes.
Depending on the weather and the closeness of the nest to the water, the eggs
varied in the amount of manure coating them. If there wasn’t enough calcium in
the hens’ diet, the eggs would crack easily because some hens were clumsy and
would step on them. We had to wash and sort by size and condition. God calls on
us to separate ourselves like eggs. To be holy literally means “to be set aside
for a special purpose.” God wants us to be His kingdom’s perfect, grade “A”
eggs. He declares us holy and expects us to act accordingly. No more filthy,
evil practices. No more cracked and broken morals. Only the best eggs go into
God’s carton. Isn’t it amazing grace that God chooses us to be those holy eggs?
What kind of egg is the Holy Spirit calling you to be?
PRAYER
Feed me with your word and
sacrament, O God, so that I will not “crack” under the pressures of this world.
Set me aside and make me holy. Thank you for your special grace, which has
separated me for this purpose. In the name of your Holy One, Jesus Christ.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, May 24, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 9:1 — I will give
thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will tell of all your wonderful
deeds.
Mark 7:37 — They were
astounded beyond measure, saying, “He has done everything well; he even makes
the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We went with a family of five
to a circus in Germany. It was a smaller version of the great “Berliner
Circus.” The family lived in a town in the former East Germany and had only
recently gotten a TV. They were awed by the performers and the animals. They
chattered faster than my poor German could keep up all the way home, reliving
the circus, act by act, moment by moment. I could translate their joyful
enthusiasm and amazement that anyone could do what they witnessed. The next
day, I saw one of the boys walking a tightrope in their garden - a hose
stretched across the grass. Sometimes, I think we have become so used to TV and
movie special effects and stunts that we are no longer astounded. We no longer
stand in awe of beautiful sunrises and sunsets. We take for granted that the
medicine, the surgery, or time brought healing. We need a healthy dose of awe
and wonder and a reminder of WHO made it all possible. WHO made it all happen.
Do you thank the Lord with your whole heart for your computer, your eye glasses
or contacts, the food on your table, or your health? Or have you, too, fallen
into the trap of giving credit in the wrong place?
PRAYER
I am humbled and in awe,
dear Lord, of the marvelous things that you have done. I pray that I might
never take the gifts you have given me through science and medicine for granted.
I praise you for my health and abilities, but I especially stand in awe of your
grace that saves me. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, May 25, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 49:15 — God will
ransom my soul from the power of Sheol, for he will receive me.
1 Corinthians 15:35-36 —
But someone will ask, “How are the dead raised? With what kind of body do they
come?” Fool! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The cycle of life and death
was an accepted fact for me as a kid growing up on a farm. Plants and animals lived
for a season or several seasons, then died. We did not mourn the death of the
grass. We did not grieve over most of the animals that died either. We hated losing
them because they represented our profits, but we knew that chickens became
fried chicken, pigs became pork chops, and cattle had calves, gave milk, or
became steaks and hamburgers. We had no thought of their living forever.
However, people were a different matter. When grandparents or aunts or uncles
died, grown-ups wept and mourned, and so did we. Funerals were conducted. The
bodies were buried, and we were assured that “what we sowed would not come to
life unless it dies.” We planted seeds in the spring, and seed-producing plants
came from those tiny seeds. The connection was a natural one for me. I didn’t
expect Grandma to pop out of the ground like a tree with little apples or
pears. I just wondered all childhood questions about when, where, how, and
whether or not I’d know her and see her again. I was pretty happy with the
pastor’s explanation that the dead would be raised with a new and healthy body
(at least, that’s how I translated his sermon). I rejoice in the promise of
scripture for me and those I love! How about you?
PRAYER
Help me when I grieve for
the death of loved ones, O Heavenly Father, by reminding me of the promises
that you have given me through my baptism. I thank you that the death of the ones
I care about is not the final word and that when I am buried, I will also live
with them and you. In the name of the One who rose from the dead so that I too might
rise. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, May 26, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Genesis 18:3 — My lord, if
I find favor with you, do not pass by your servant.
Mark 10:49 — They called
the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart; get up, he is calling you.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We sat on the floor of the
student union, wherever we could find a place, as we waited for our names to be
called, one by one, to perform our solos before the judges. It was a
nerve-wracking time to wait. We couldn’t practice. We couldn’t prepare. We
could only sit and wonder how long it would be. Time drags on into eternity when
you’re anxiously waiting. My name was called after what seemed like hours -
mispronounced as usual, but I recognized it—time raced. My accompanist and I
had to drag my big wrap-around base horn through the union, down the crowded
hallway, into another building, then up two flights of stairs to the “throne of
judgment.” We had been warned that the score would be docked if we were even a
minute late. I didn’t think I could afford the loss of any points, so the trip
seemed to take forever. Imagine the emotions of a blind man waiting for Jesus,
hoping and praying for healing. The wait seemed eternal, and then - to his
delight, someone called his name. Jesus is near! He cannot see! Panic! Now,
time flies, and he knows the very real possibility that Jesus will pass by
before he can find his way to Jesus. But we know the rest of the story. Jesus
healed him, and he rejoiced. The good news is that Jesus “knows our every
weakness” and seeks us out when the time is right and when we call on His name.
And Jesus calls us by name to come to Him. Are you waiting? Are you prepared
and ready to go to Him?
PRAYER
It is with great joy and
amazement that I know you have called me by name, O Lord! Lead me, and let me
follow you all the days of my life. Prepare me so I will be ready on the final
day you call me home. In Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, May 27, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Ezekiel 2:2 — And when the
Lord spoke to me, a spirit entered into me and set me on my feet; and I heard
him speaking to me.
Mark 1:17-18 — And Jesus
said to Simon and Andrew, “Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.” And
immediately, they left their nets and followed him.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I was confirmed on Palm
Sunday, about a month after my thirteenth birthday. It was a big event in my
life, but not all it was cracked up to be - at least in my mind. I expected a
special tingle or wave of bliss to flow over me that night, but it didn’t. Two
months later, I attended church camp at Niobrara State Park. When I felt
especially lonely at the campfire one evening, I believed with all my heart
that Jesus came to sit with me. The fire, the music, the sermon, and the night
sky full of bright stars all came together in an inner “knowing” that I was not
alone. I didn’t see Jesus, and I didn’t hear an audible voice. I only heard the
voice of a quartet singing across the river as a raft of candles in the shape
of a cross floated our way. I heard the voice of Jesus whispering in my ear
through the pastor’s voice, saying, “Follow me....” I cannot accurately
describe in words what I felt as I sat near the fire that night with Jesus. The
best I can describe it is the way Ezekiel did: “...a spirit entered into me ...
and I heard him speaking to me.” Like Simon and Andrew, I accepted His words
for what I believe to be true. I confess that I have looked back occasionally
when the road was hard, but His Spirit has never left me and always helped me
continue on. Have you listened to the Lord speak to you? He has, you know! He
speaks to “everyone who has ears to hear.” How have you responded to the call
of Jesus to follow Him?
PRAYER
Because of the “noise”
surrounding me, hearing you calling me O God is often challenging. Help me listen
for your voice so that I might follow you on the path you have chosen for me.
Thank you for giving me your Spirit, which constantly renews and sustains me.
In the name of Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
SCRIPTURE
2 Kings 19:14 — Hezekiah
received the letter and read it; then Hezekiah went up to the house of the Lord
and spread it before the Lord.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 —
Pray without ceasing.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
An elderly couple showed me
the graduation picture of their beautiful granddaughter and told me the story
of a little girl I had read about in the papers. However, now she has become a
real person. At age four or five, she slipped and fell down a well shaft. The
Texas soil was too loose for rescuers to descend to her, and she wasn’t strong
enough to pull herself up and out of the wedge she was in. Frantically, the
family and rescuers struggled to keep their cool as they tried desperately to
find a way to save her. She was tired and cold after hours of struggle, with no
noticeable progress. Because of suspected injuries, they had to keep her
talking. What do you say when you’ve said everything there is to say? Many
hours later, she was rescued, and those who had talked without ceasing to keep
her alert were exhausted. When Paul tells his friends and us to pray without
ceasing, he is not trying to exhaust us. Paul knew the importance of always
keeping the communication line with God open. To pray without ceasing is to
make everything we say and do a form of prayer - a communication with God.
Someone wisely suggested that Paul tells us we should pray without ceasing and
use words only when necessary. How well do your words and actions resemble prayer?
PRAYER
Make my whole life a
prayer to you, O my God. Listen to my words, but also listen to my heart. Keep
me ever connected with you and your love. Let my actions help connect someone
else with your love also. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
ASCENSION DAY
SCRIPTURE
Psalm 1129:24 — Your
decrees are my delight; they are my counselors.
Luke 24:5-6 — Why do you
look for the living among the dead? He is not here but has risen. Remember how
he told you.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
A friend stopped by the
office the other day, looking for a cassette tape. Unfortunately, I wasn’t in
the office. I was working at my home computer, so he called the house. When he
called to ask if I had the tape, I knew exactly where I had put it and described
the location to him. Somehow, my description wasn’t very clear. He couldn’t
find it. Finally, I asked if he was looking in the right place - the bottom of
the armoire (that’s a nice closet for coats). He had been looking in the wrong
place! Within seconds, looking in the right place, he found what he was looking
for. I’ve done that many times in my kitchen. Sue explained where something
was. I looked. I couldn’t find it - because I was looking in the wrong
cupboard! People searching for the answer to many of life’s difficult questions
often start the search in the wrong “closet.” Some look to a cult leader. Some
seek out a “friend” on the Psychic Hotline, and some traipse off to India or
other places to find a guru. The Psalmist discovered the answer delightfully,
hiding in the plain sight of God’s decrees. Even Jesus’ closest disciples
missed the point of the resurrection and ascension. They kept looking up - like
astronauts - seeking the Lord where He could not be found, instead of in the
Word and the faithful’s faces. Where do you look for the Living Lord?
PRAYER
How foolish it is of me to
look for happiness and answers to my questions in anything but you. When I
appear lost, bring me back with your goodness and grace. Thank you for giving
me my purpose: to be your disciple. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, May 30, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Joshua 23:3 — It is the
Lord your God who has fought for you.
John 14:26 — Christ says,
“The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will
teach you everything and remind you of all that I have said to you.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
My first big solo task when I
was five was to go over the hill north of the house, across the creek, and into
the pasture to chase home the milk cows. I had done it many times with Mom or
Dad. I knew the route, and I knew the cows. When I got to where the cows were,
my big concern was that they were a lot bigger than me - and they knew it. When
I waved and said, “Shoo!” the way my parents had, the cows just looked up and
ignored me. Then Lassy, our part colly dog, took the hint and gave them a piece
of her mind! That sent them scurrying toward home and the barn. When I returned
across the creek and started to follow the cows on their path toward the barn,
I’m sure I caught a glimpse of Mom. She had been watching and standing guard
the whole time! Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit to be with us always,
even when we don’t see and feel His presence. He is the “Hound of Heaven,”
guarding and guiding us every step of the way. He is the silent Watcher who
teaches those willing to learn the lessons He has to teach. Have you been
willing to welcome Him on your journey?
PRAYER
O God, my Immanuel, thank
you for always being with me and watching over me. When I don’t feel your
presence, remind me with your words and in the love of others. Use me this day
to let others know that you are also watching over them with love. In your
name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Memorial Day - Friday, May 31, 2024
SCRIPTURE
Isaiah 50:2 — Is my hand
shortened, that it cannot redeem?
2 Corinthians 1:9-10 — We
rely on God... who rescued us from so deadly a peril, will continue to rescue
us; on him, we have set our hope that he will rescue us again.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We were fifty million feet
off the ground, looking down on the headhunters from the “tower of doom.” My
uncle and I had bazookas and machine guns. By the time the dinner bell rang, we
had finished off the last of the headhunters and were ready to abandon our
post. That’s when I saw the problem. My uncle was twelve, and I was eight. We
had gotten on the cattle shed roof with the help of a ladder, which another
uncle had used while we were at war. The thought of jumping to the ground was
terrifying to me. It might as well have been a million miles! There was no way
I could survive. But my uncle convinced me to take his hand and that he would
lower me down most of the way. I wasn’t all that confident, but it worked. Then
he jumped down without killing himself! Many things in our lives can be
downright terrifying if we try to manage everything on our own. This Memorial
Day, we remember many who experienced the terror first-hand, and not as a game.
Many of them discovered that they could rely on Jesus because, at the worst of
all times, He stretched out His arms on a cross to die for our sins and to
bridge the gap between heaven and earth for us. His resurrection proved that
not even the gates of hell can prevent His mighty hand and His outstretched
arms from rescuing us. Are you willing to place your hope and trust in Him? Are
you ready to rely on Him to save you?
PRAYER
Into your loving,
outstretched arms, I place my life today, dear Lord. Lift me and direct me onto
the path that you want me to take. Walk beside me and remind me that you are
indeed a gracious friend in whose name I pray. Amen.
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