DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, April 1, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 12:1-4, 13; Acts
4:1-12; John 16:1-15
SCRIPTURE
John 16:12 — I still have
many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The first time we had to hire
a babysitter, you would have thought we were expecting half of the state of
Nebraska to fall off the face of the earth within hours. We had already
thoroughly checked out the babysitter. The FBI, the CIA, and Homeland Security
(had it existed back then) could have taken lessons from two nervous parents.
The only phone numbers not listed for emergencies were those of the governor of
the State of Nebraska and the president of the United States! We were giving
instructions even as the poor babysitter tried to back us out the door. There
were just so many things we thought we needed to tell her. Jesus understood. He
was trying to prepare his apostles for taking over the work He started, and
there were so many things to tell them. I understand it from the apostles’ side
of things, too. Some things take time to sink in for “mechanically challenged”
people like me; that is especially true. My mind can only compute so many
instructions before it goes into “sleep mode.” When that happens, even some of
the first instructions become garbled. Jesus gave His disciples only what they
could handle at the time. Any more would have caused an overload they could not
have managed. Jesus offers to do that for us, too. We don’t have to learn the
whole Bible, verse by verse, from memory. We can take one verse a day on which
to meditate. It is a good way of letting the Word sink in and saturate our
lives - one instruction at a time. Are you able to do that? Are you willing to
do that?
PRAYER
Open my mind so that I may
meditate on your Word, O God, and not be overwhelmed when I think of learning
all of scripture. Help me understand each verse as I approach it and find your
commands, grace, and will. I pray this in the name of Your Word made Flesh,
Jesus the Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, April 2, 2025
Maundy comes
from a Latin word meaning “I command.” Jesus gives a new commandment, “Serve
others as I have served you.”
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Isaiah 25:1-9; Acts 4:13-31;
John 16:16-33
SCRIPTURE
John 16:24 — Until now,
you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask, and you will receive so that
your joy may be complete.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The old Farmers Union store
in town was a general store - a Walmart before there was such a thing. It had
everything, including the ladders on rollers along the side shelves. I always
thought they were so neat and wanted to try them out. When I went to town with
my grandparents, while Grandma was selling her cream and eggs, she let me cross
the street to browse. I found some crayons I thought would be great to have. I
ran back to Grandma to see if I could have a dime. She dug in her purse and
found one to give me. I then ran back, only to discover they cost 15 cents! I
went back to Grandma and must have looked pretty disappointed when I gave her
back the dime. She asked why I looked so sad, and I told her. When she finished
her business, she took my hand and walked across the street with me to look at
the crayons. I was overjoyed when she told me she thought we could get them.
The smile on her face told me my joy made her happy, too. Over the brief years
before she died, Grandma taught me it was OK to ask, but she also taught me
that sometimes she knew what I needed more than I did. I cannot help but
believe that Jesus is much the same with us. He is saddened when we try to do
everything ourselves without asking or involving Him. He may have to say “No.”
or “Not now.” but Jesus wants to be a part of our lives and encourages us to
ask. Are there some things you need to talk over with Jesus? He may be just
waiting for you to ask.
PRAYER
How foolish, dear Father,
that I do not ask and so do not receive. Forgive me when I try to do it alone
and forget about your promises. Thank you for your great love and how much you
have given me. I pray I will not be disappointed when you tell me “no” or “not
yet,” but wait patiently for understanding. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, April 3, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Isaiah 43:8-13; 1 Peter
2:2-10; John 14:1-7
SCRIPTURE
John 14:2 — In my Father’s
house, there are many dwelling places. If it were not so, would I have told you
that I go to prepare a place for you?
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Growing up with three
brothers and two sisters, it was always necessary to share rooms. Living in a
college dormitory wasn’t all that different. Roommates, like little brothers,
could be noisy and annoying at times. In marriage, I do enjoy having my helpmate
as a roommate. However, when I attend meetings or retreats without my helpmate,
I like to have a room for myself. There is just something about having a space
to call my own, to spread out, and to let it all hang out. Someone once said,
“In my Father’s house are many rooms. I hope my room is next to yours when I
get there!” I like that! Have you ever
considered that in baptism, a nameplate was etched with your name on it and
attached to a room in heaven, made ready just for you for eternity?! That is
the Good News Jesus proclaims! It is like having a standing reservation at an
exceptional motel or hotel with free food, drinks 24-7, and every entertainment
you could dream of or imagine. That room in heaven is there, with your
nameplate and waiting. Unfortunately, sin and the world’s pleasures lead us to
detours and paths that don’t lead to that heavenly room. Our Host, Jesus, is
waiting to welcome us. Sadly, we may have to “repent” - turn around - to take
advantage of the Gift that is waiting. Jesus’ assurance is that He already has
“a mint on our pillow” waiting to welcome us! Are you on His Way?
PRAYER
It is wonderful to be on
this journey towards the room you have waiting for me, O Father. The thought
that you will be there to greet me is exciting and awesome. Help me not to be
distracted but to always focus on you and what you would have me do. In the
name of your Son Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, April 4, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 1:1-21; 1 John 1:1-10;
John 17:1-11
SCRIPTURE
John 17:3 — And this is
eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom
you have sent.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
As we grew up, getting six
kids and themselves ready for church (after milking 40-50 cows, feeding
calves, pigs, chickens, and feeder cattle, giving and taking baths, and getting
everybody dressed) was a major undertaking. I look back at those days and
marvel that they could get us there at all, much less over muddy roads over
which Dad sometimes had to pull the car with the tractor. Mom and Dad seemed to
“evolve” spiritually as we grew up. They always took faith seriously, but worship
attendance was a little lax early on. (Any wonder?) However, even then, they
did their best to ensure we knew Jesus, talked to God and were not strangers to
Him. It has taken years of growing up to see how they prepared us for eternal
life. At the time, I thought some of the sermons I had to listen to in church
lasted an eternity. If I had been asked to choose eternal life, I’d probably
have said, “No, thanks.” But Jesus knew eternity was not a long, tedious time
but an exciting relationship with our Creator, Redeemer, and Savior. Eternal
Life is being known by God and knowing God so intimately that we share in God’s
really exciting work. The truly joy-filled part is that we don’t have to wait
to die to experience it. Why not celebrate your eternal relationship every day?
PRAYER
I experience great joy
when I think of my relationship with you, dear God. Thinking that you would
love me, with all my faults, is fantastic! I pray that I will always take advantage
to grow in our relationship through worship, study, fellowship, and coming to
your table to eat your Supper. I pray this in the name of Jesus the Christ.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, April 5, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 2:1-16; 1 John 2:1-11;
John 17:12-19
SCRIPTURE
John 17:18 — As you have
sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Grandpa Sydow came from the
“old country.” As I read family history, I understand that his father ruled
with an iron fist, which put Grandpa and his brothers in a hotspot between
toeing the line and doing their own thing. When my great-grandfather died,
Grandpa took over, using some of the same hard-nosed approaches to raise his
children. Dad often fumed and fussed about Grandpa’s “bull-headedness.” When
Grandpa died, Dad may have vowed not to be that way with his kids, but there
were times.... Each generation sent the
next generation on with some of the same attitudes, but also with a difference.
Jesus came from the “Heavenly Country,” sent by His Father to pass on to “all
who have ears to hear” the Good News of God’s love. What the Father passed on
to the Son, the Son passed on to His “children” in faith, generation after
generation. Parents and every baptized child of God are responsible for passing
on the faith they have received, not just keeping it to themselves. If they
were not fortunate enough to receive spiritual training in their home, they are
challenged to ensure the next generation has what they did not get. People who
experienced the Great Depression talk about it in the worldly, physical, and
financial senses. It is even more critical in the spiritual sense for eternal
life. What are you passing on?
PRAYER
If there is one thing in
this world that I wish to pass on to future generations, it is a faith and
trust in you, O God. Let my words and actions be seen as putting you first. I
pray for my children, my nieces and nephews, and all those growing up that
their faith might increase daily. In the name of the Holy One, Jesus Christ.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, April 6, 2025
Albrecht
Durer, Painter 1528; Michelangelo Buonorroti 1564. Durer was a German painter
and engraver. His work is a close examination of the splendor of creation. He
never renounced the Catholic faith but was sympathetic to the Reformation.
Michelangelo was one of the most influential late Renaissance artists. His
writings disclose a profound piety; his art embodies a new concept of human
dignity. His contemporaries believed him to be divinely inspired.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 2:17-30; 1 John
2:12-17; John 17:20-26
SCRIPTURE
John 17:20 — I ask not
only on behalf of these but also on behalf of those who will believe in me
through their word....
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We lived in western Nebraska
when Interstate 80 was being finished. During the fall and winter, before it
was opened, the side roads and many of the intersections were a muddy mess. As
I returned from a hospital visit in a town 18 miles from home, I saw a young
man standing in the cold drizzle near the highway, hitching a ride. I seldom
pick up hitch-hikers but felt especially sorry for him that day. When he saw
that I had stopped, he came running with a big smile. He opened the car door
and asked, “You don’t mind if some friends ride along, do you?” What could I say? He whistled, and three
other young men - and a big German Shepherd - came running! They piled in, wet
and cold, before I could say anything. Fortunately, they were all good kids
heading home from a break at college - and the dog, while wet and dirty, was
well-behaved. The disciples weren’t hitch-hiking, but Jesus prayed for them as
if they were hitching a ride “Home” to the place He had prepared for all
believers. The good news is that He has room for them - and anyone else who
will listen to the Word He has passed on to them! We may be as dirty as a dog
running in the mud of sin, but He has a baptismal shower to take care of that.
In addition, Jesus has paid the price of the journey with His blood, so that
when we arrive, the “Welcome” mat will be out, and we will be in for the joy of
our lives. Are you ready to “hitchhike” with Jesus?
PRAYER
I come to you, O Lord,
muddy and dirty from my lack of caring for you and others. Wash me clean in the
\waters of my baptism, and let me “hitch” a ride into your glorious kingdom. I
thank you that the welcome mat will be waiting for me and for all others who
are your disciples. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, April 7, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 2:31-49; 1 John
2:18-29; Luke 3:1-14
SCRIPTURE
Luke 3:10 — The crowds asked him, “What then should we
do?” In reply (John the Baptist) said to them, “Whoever has two coats must
share with anyone who has none, and whoever has food must do likewise.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Some friends of ours had a
unique way of teaching their children to share a pie. Any of them could cut the
pie, but that person always received what was left after everyone else,
starting with the oldest person in the family, had chosen. I was amazed at their
skill in making every piece the same size! In our family, we grew up sharing
everything from toys to clothes. Being selfish with a toy was the first step to
losing what we didn’t want to share. We all had our own clothes, but if someone
else needed a shirt or pair of jeans because theirs was torn or in the wash, we
were expected to share them, too. Those who came to John the Baptist for advice
on how to live to get into the kingdom of God received a lesson in sharing. If
you have something someone else desperately needs, share it! He wasn’t telling
them to run around naked. They could only wear one coat at a time anyway. He
wasn’t telling them to starve themselves. He was saying; don’t be selfish about
what you have. “If you see someone with a need you can fill, share!” It’s as
simple as that. Everything we have is a gift from God in the first place. We
are caretakers of it. How many coats will you be allowed to wear into heaven?
How much extra food or money would you pack for the trip? We’ll only get to
take what we’ve given away. How much of God’s love have you shared lately?
PRAYER
I am sorry for my
selfishness and uncaring for others in the world, O my God. When I open my
closest and refrigerator doors this day and think that I have nothing to eat or
wear, let it remind me of those who genuinely don’t. Open my heart so that I
willingly give my excess to others. I ask these things in the name of the One
who gave away everything for me, including his life. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, April 8, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 3:1-18; 1 John 3:1-10;
Luke 3:15-22
SCRIPTURE
Luke 3:16 — John (the
Baptist) answered all of them, saying, “I baptize you with water, but one who
is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his
sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Over the years, I have been
privileged to sit at the head table for banquets and other public events. I’ve
rubbed elbows and shared small talk with some very important people. While I
love preaching, teaching and entertaining, there is a private side to me which
prefers to blend in with the crowd and be inconspicuous. Several times, I’ve
had people ask if I was the guest speaker. I was so happy to point to the
person who was and say, “No, they are. I’m here to pray for the food and the
speaker.” I was perfectly content to do what I was doing and sit down. John the
Baptist was like that. He knew his job and did it well, but he was pleased to
point to Jesus and declare, “There is that lamb of God who takes away the sin
of the world.” He felt no jealousy or envy as he pointed to the real “star” of
the show who would baptize “with the Holy Spirit and fire.” Isn’t it good to
know that each of us is called to do the same - to tell others of our Lord and
Savior? We only need to introduce Him, and He’ll do the rest. Do you know Jesus
well enough to introduce Him to your audience?
PRAYER
My ego loves me to be
acknowledged for my accomplishments or goodness, O God. Please forgive me, as I
know everything is your gift. I pray that I will show the world who the “real
star” is and that One is You. Move your Holy Spirit within me so that I may
tell others about your greatness. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Dietrich
Bonhoeffer was a German pastor and theologian who was arrested for his
opposition to the Nazi regime. In 1945, after conducting a worship service in
Flossenburg prison, he was taken away to be hanged. As he was taken away, he
said, “This is the end, but for me, the beginning of life.”
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 3:19-30; 1 John
3:11-18; Luke 4:1-13
SCRIPTURE
Luke 4:8 — Jesus answered
(the devil), “It is written, ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.’”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Our school had the real
old-fashioned slate blackboard. Various kinds of chalk made varying amounts of
chalk dust that had to be cleaned up daily. A bad (but fun) trick the big kids
taught me was to get the eraser full of chalk dust late in the school day and
gently touch it to some unsuspecting victim’s backside. With skill, practice,
and time, neat designs could be created. I had witnessed the consequences of
getting caught, but in first grade, the joy of doing what the big kids did
outweighed the risks. Needless to say, the first time I did it, I was caught
and had to serve time in hard labor washing up chalk dust from the blackboard
and the floor for a week! We must all learn, sooner or later, that we make
choices in many areas of life and must live or die with them. Adam and Eve
chose to listen to the devil rather than God. We are still suffering from the
consequences of that first sin. Jesus chose to be obedient to His Father and
worship God rather than short-lived self-centered pleasure. We are all beneficiaries
of the blessings which have resulted. Dietrich Bonhoeffer chose to resist the
Nazi regime and killing machine in Germany rather than quietly turn a blind eye
as many “religious” types did in his day. He almost joyfully accepted the
consequences, knowing that his reward for loving and worshiping God above all
else had already been secured for him in eternity. How well do you make your
choices? Are they always made with an eye and an ear for what God wants?
PRAYER
There are so many
temptations in this world, dear Father, and I am often weak. Forgive me and
make me strong so that I resist those things that are not yours and make wise
choices. Thank you for examples to follow, like Dietrich Bonhoeffer and others
who have made difficult decisions. I ask these things in the name of Jesus, the
Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, April 10, 2025
Mikael Agricola, Bishop of
Turku, was a Finish pastor who studied theology under Luther and Melanchthon.
Later, as bishop, he carried out an evangelical reformation and translated the
New Testament and the liturgy into Finish. He died in 1557
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 4:1-18; 1 Peter
4:7-11; John 21:15-25
SCRIPTURE
John 21:25 — There are
also many other things that Jesus did; if every one of them were written down,
I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be
written.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Many people who share these
devotional moments with me comment on how incredible it is that I remember so
much of my childhood. I must confess that I am often amazed at how vivid those
memories take shape, even while writing about them. I believe everyone has the
same capacity (and responsibility) for allowing their early memories to flow
onto the page. However, sometimes I wish I could actually hit the “replay”
button and see, hear, and sometimes smell the events of the past. I am sure my
rewrites of some of the events get “expanded” a little, but since they are my
memories, I have the privilege of writing them as I remember
them. Haven’t you ever wondered what it would be like to be able to get in a
“time machine” that could take you back to see and hear Jesus - in person?! I’d
settle for a Ken Burns documentary DVD with actual footage. John’s experience
with Jesus reminds me that even though I’ve been dredging up memories for over
fifteen years, I’ve only just begun. There were no documentary film crews following
Jesus around. After one miracle after another in one village after another,
they all started to blur in the minds of Jesus’ followers. They stopped taking
notes. They stopped counting. They accepted that wherever Jesus went, the Word
became Flesh, and He used His Word and touch to bring Light, Life, and
Wholeness to any who would receive it. Have you been keeping a record of all
the things - the miracles - Jesus has been doing in your life?
PRAYER
I can’t know everything
there is to know about you, dear Jesus, but thank you for the scriptures and
the writers who have told me so much about your love, forgiveness, and
expectations of me. Come close to me and live in my heart so I may know you
with my entire being. In your Holy name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, April 11, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 4:19-27; 1 John
3:19-4:6; Luke 4:14-30
SCRIPTURE
Luke 4:24 — And (Jesus)
said, “Truly I tell you, no prophet is accepted in the prophet’s hometown.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Living close to (or later on)
the “old home place” had some distinct advantages. All the relatives who moved
away to make their fortunes in the “big” city found their way “home” for
visits. We almost always got to see them and hear their stories. Our California
aunts, uncles, and cousins were probably the most exciting to have visit us.
California seemed like the other side of the world to us, even after our family
visited there when I was fourteen. Their stories of actually seeing this
Hollywood star or that, their descriptions of their frequent visits to the
ocean, or even their tales of their work or school were thrilling. But after
they left, we’d usually hear, “It sounds good, but it’s not all as rosy as it
sounds.” We were reminded: “They miss the simple pleasures of the slower pace.
They missed the farm.” I had my doubts. After all, who would ever miss the
farm!? But they were just “local yokels” coming home from the big city lights.
What did they know? No doubt Jesus was looked on in much the same way. The
natives of Nazareth watched Him grow up. They probably witnessed Him playing in
the streets with the other kids or watched Him helping Joseph in the carpentry
shop. To them, Jesus was just another one of the locals who went off to “make
his fortune.” What shocked them was the power and authority with which He read
scripture and the unhesitating certainty with which He proclaimed what it
meant. What disturbed them was His audacity - claiming the Messiah had been
growing up right under their noses! He had to go, lest His claims bring the
Jerusalem religious establishment down on their heads. Have you considered that
every child in your life has a critical role in God’s plan? What are you doing
to encourage them along the path of Christ?
PRAYER
Dear Creator, I thank you
for the gift of children you have entrusted me with. Use me to guide them along
their path and create opportunities to encourage them when I see gifts for your
ministry. I pray these things in the name of the Messiah, Jesus, my Lord. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, April 12, 2025 — Passover begins
Passover
commemorates the Exodus of the Jews from Egypt, the beginning of Jewish
independence. The name refers to God’s “passing over” the homes of the Jews
when He sent plagues to convince the Egyptian Pharaoh to let them go.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 4:28-37; 1 John
4:7-21; Luke 4:31-37
SCRIPTURE
Luke 4:32 — They were
astounded at his teaching because he spoke with authority.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We had several traveling
salespeople who stopped by the farm. Like the occasional hobo, we were sure
they had our farm marked on some telephone post somewhere. Some had been given
a bag of goods to take door to door to sell. Often, they didn’t even know what
some of the products did. Among the best salespeople, however, were those who knew
their products well enough to demonstrate them. They usually knew their
products so well they could tell about what they could do that were not listed
on the labels. The Watkins man sold Mom a salve, which he applied to a nasty
cut on her hand, which she said began to feel better almost immediately. Dad
would sometimes search for advice from one of the salesmen on dealing with a
problem on the farm to see if he had something that might help. The Bible
storybook salesman was truly an authority on the Bible. He knew the whole
series he was selling from beginning to end. It impressed Grandpa so much that
he bought a set himself! (If you knew my Grandpa, you would declare that an
absolute miracle!) Jesus spoke “as one with authority.” He knew His “product.”
He knew its Source personally. He knew its benefits. He didn’t have to refer to
His notes, read the labels, or quote famous Rabbis. Jesus could speak from His
heart directly to the hurting hearts of His listeners. How well do you know His
“product,” His story? His good news? His grace? Do you know the good news well
enough that you could “sell” it to an unbeliever? Why not promise yourself that
you will make that one of your goals this year?
PRAYER
I give you thanks, O God,
for the many gifts you bring to me, especially that of your Word and the grace
that it brings. Place a desire within me to read and study this word and then
to be able to share it with joy and in my own words to people around me. I ask
these things in the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, April 13, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 5:1-12; 1 John 5:1-12;
Luke 4:38-44
SCRIPTURE
Luke 4:42a — At daybreak,
he departed and went into a deserted place....
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The alarm went off at the
farm at four a.m., winter, spring, summer, and fall. The cows had to be milked,
and the other chores finished before breakfast. My youngest brother and I
shared a room right above Mom and Dad. It was a loud “Big Ben” alarm clock
which, I had no doubt, would wake the dead! I was not an early riser then. I
would lay there hoping - even praying - that my presence wouldn’t be missed. It
never worked, but even those few minutes of extra time felt so good. When I
left the farm, it was one of many things about farm life I never missed.
However, some years later, I started waking up at four a.m., or almost any
hour, with a thought, an image, a song, or an idea I knew I had to write down.
When I reverted to my childhood days of ignoring the “alarm clock,” I lost the
song or thought. I firmly believe God was trying to get through my busy mind when
it was quiet. I should say I continue to have this experience almost every day.
When I put God off, God says, “Fine, have it your way! I’ll keep my thoughts to
myself.” And God does. But I am never disappointed when I pay attention to the
familiar signs, get up, and write down what God gives me. Many of these
“Thoughts to Ponder” (this one, in fact!) come from those early morning
“wake-up” calls. I’ve come to believe Jesus got up before the others to escape
from the distractions of a comfortable bed, snoring roommates, and women busy
preparing breakfast in the kitchen. He needed time with God - time to allow God
to speak to Him, time to let His Father bless Him, refresh Him, and give Him
His marching orders for the day. When do you “depart and go to a deserted
place” to pray? If you don’t have time each day, you have cheated yourself out
of an opportunity to hear the “still small voice” of God speaking in your ear.
PRAYER
Quiet me, O Holy One, so I
take the time and opportunity to listen to your still, small voice. Give me a
time when I Will concentrate solely on you and what you would have me do, if
only for a little while each day. Thank you for talking with me and listening
to my prayers. In the name of Jesus the Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, April 14, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 5:13-30; 1 John
5:12-21; Luke 5:1-12
SCRIPTURE
Luke 5:6 — When they had
done (what Jesus told them to do), they caught so many fish that their nets
were beginning to break.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
In seventh grade, I made a
topographical map of Nebraska for the county fair. I had to study and draw all the
rivers and determine where the high and low places were. I was surprised to
find that most of the state has a gentle incline from east to west, where the
high point is a part of the foothills of the Rockies. Once I completed the map,
my teacher instructed me to make a plaster of Paris for the model. I got the
necessary supplies and started mixing the mess while the teacher was with
another class. I did not read the directions before stirring the water into the
powder. First, I had too much water. Then, I added too much powdered mix. Then
I had to add water and almost had a solid mess before the teacher came to
investigate. I had enough plaster of Paris mixed up to do the entire United
States, and it was too hard to use! We had to throw it all away and start over.
This time, the teacher made certain I followed the directions exactly. I
was happily surprised to discover that it was perfect. We poured it into the
mold I had made, and we had a solid Nebraska within a few minutes. Jesus’
disciples have often found that following His instructions would bring in loads
of fish, crowds of people, and many miracles to be celebrated. Following His
instructions, they could cast out demons in His name, preach powerful sermons,
raise the dead - basically, all the things Jesus did - and more! As tired,
lonely, depressed, hurting, or happy as you may be, have you been following
Jesus’ instructions or going it alone?
PRAYER
Boy, do I hate to read
instructions, dear Lord? How often have I tried to do things on my own and not
read the instructions you gave me? Thank you for your word and the directions
that come with it. Help me to follow them because they were written out of love
for me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, April 15, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 6:1-15; 2 John 1-13;
Luke 5:12-26
SCRIPTURE
Luke 5:12b — When (the
leper) saw Jesus, he bowed with his face to the ground and begged him, “Lord,
if you choose, you can make me clean.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
During nice warm spring days,
we let the young chickens out of their “house” and into a pen to enjoy the sun,
scratch in real dirt, and get some fresh air. Seeing them stretch their wings
and frolic in the yard was fun. Inevitably, there would be several escape
artists who were quick to discover holes in the fence. Toward evening, as the
sun was going down, we had to round the stray chickens up so they wouldn’t
freeze or get eaten by animals that had been fasting all winter. If you’ve
never chased chickens, you can’t appreciate the exquisite joy they seem to get
out of scattering and staying one step ahead of “the hook” used to grab them by
the leg. After an hour of chasing three very quick hens, I was about to give up
when two of my uncles drove out for a visit. When they saw what I was doing,
they came to “help.” They stood back and offered suggestions. I finally asked,
“Are you going to help or just stand there and watch?!” They laughed as if they
had been waiting for an invitation. They each grabbed a hook, and we quickly
had the hens back in the chicken coop. The leper’s problem was much more severe
than loose chickens. His life was slipping away, bit by bit, body part by body
part. In absolute desperation, he went to the only one who offered hope, Jesus.
His posture - groveling in the dirt - expresses it all. He was dust, and to
dust, he would return unless Jesus chose to lift him up. The rest of the story
can be our story, too, if we, like the leper, have reached a point in our lives
where we know only One can save us. Are you tired of trying to be good enough
to save yourself? Why not let Jesus take over that job? Thank the Lord! He
already has!!!
PRAYER
Sometimes, I am too proud
to ask you for help, O Father. Forgive my pride and my arrogance. Take me
gently into your arms and heal me of all my ills, physically, mentally, and
spiritually. I give this day to you to fill it with your glory. I pray this in
Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, April 16, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 6:16-28; 24 John 1-15;
Luke 5:27-39
SCRIPTURE
Luke 5:30 — The Pharisees
and their scribes were complaining to (Jesus’) disciples, saying, “Why do you
eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Our one-room country school
had just enough desks for each student. The school board stored extras in the
storm cellar. Some teachers assigned seats from day one. Others let us sit
where we wanted and only assigned seats when we were in trouble. It didn’t take
long to learn who you didn’t want to sit in front of if you valued the back of
your head. Sitting in the back, southwest corner of the room, invited trouble.
It was like a magnet for drawing the “big boys,” more intent on avoiding work
and causing chaos than studying. When Carolyn, a new girl, arrived, the teacher
told her to choose a desk. She honestly thought she would be less conspicuous
sitting in that corner. Those of us who knew better actually sucked in our
breath when she sat down with her long-flowing pigtails in front of Zeke, whose
ink bottle (we still had them) hadn’t welcomed a pigtail in a long time! I saw
him reach for them minutes after Carolyn sat down. She had eyes in the back of
her head because, in that split second, she jerked her head around, glared at
him (I couldn’t see, but I think she also showed her teeth!), and whispered
something that made him slink back in his seat with a look of genuine fear in
his eyes. She then turned around with a sweet, innocent smile on her face.
Jesus ventured into forbidden territory, eating and drinking with the unclean,
untouchable tax collectors and sinners. Some feared their sin would rub off on
Jesus, but Jesus let His goodness rub off on them instead. How well does your
love rub off on people you meet and greet?
PRAYER
Help me not be afraid when
encountering someone who is not your follower, O Christ. Let me be one who boldly
proclaims your love and be more like you, letting others see your goodness in
me. Thank you for the ministry that you have sent me into. In your holy name, I
pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Maundy Thursday, April 17, 2025
Maundy
(not Monday) means “I command,” referring to Jesus giving us a new commandment:
“That you love one another, as I have loved you.”
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Genesis 18:22-33; 1 Peter
5:1-11; Matthew 7:15-29
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 7:22-23 — Jesus
said, “On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in
your name, and cast out demons in your name and do many deeds of power in your
name?” Then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; go away from me, you
evildoers.’”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The people I believe who
deserve a double salary and angel’s wings are high school band directors and,
even more so, choir directors. These are genuinely people who are incredibly
dedicated and incredibly patient. Many of their students sign up not to make
beautiful music but to get out of study hall or with some delusion that with a
couple of practices, they’ll be good enough to become recording artists with
million-dollar contracts. At least, it seemed like that when I was in high
school in the “ancient of days.” They were in the band or choir and wore the
uniform or robe, but they couldn’t be bothered by extra practice sessions. They
usually fulfilled the minimum requirements but nothing more. When it came time
for the concert, the director patiently suggested they skip the difficult parts
or “sing quietly.” I saw one of our directors breathe a sigh of relief when one
of those students failed to attend a contest with other bands. Jesus made it
clear that not everyone who claimed to be part of His “band” of disciples was
practicing the “tune” He wanted them to play. They may wear the “uniform” and
claim membership in His “choir” or “band,” but they were only “singing their
own song” and “blowing their own horn”! Are you in tune with Jesus? Are you
marching to His drum, your own, or even someone else’s? This would be a good
time to re-examine your commitment to the Leader of your Discipleship.
PRAYER
Forgive me, O Christ, when
I call myself a Christian but neglect the poor, do not fight for justice, and
forget that I am to love all others. I pray I may be better at listening to
your tune and playing as you would have me play. In your name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
GOOD FRIDAY, April 18, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 30:1-9; Colossians
1:1-14; Luke 6:1-11
SCRIPTURE
Luke 6:9 — Then Jesus said
to them, “I ask you, is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the Sabbath, to
save life or to destroy it?”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Beyond the chaos of doing
chores, getting seven people fed, cleaned up, and prepared for worship, and
worship itself, Sundays were usually fun and relaxing days on the farm. It was
the exceptions that posed the biggest problem for enjoying the day. The week it
rained all week, with Sunday the only sunny day, Dad considered Sunday
afternoon the best time to clean the chicken coop! Whatever didn’t get done
during the week because of weather or because of the stage of growth of the
crops could become “the Lord’s work” if an explanation was needed. Grumbling or
trying to quote the third commandment didn’t carry any weight when we needed to
pick up hay bales before rain was predicted to come on Monday. On our farm,
chores, sick, lost, or hungry animals always took first place over rest or
play. One year, we joined the other neighbors to help the neighbor boys and
their mother harvest corn on Sunday when their father and her husband died.
Beyond the “exceptions,” Sunday was considered a Sabbath day of rest at our house.
Jesus looked beyond the legalism of the Pharisees to the practical needs of
people. No doubt, based on His practice of honoring the Sabbath day with
worship and rest, Jesus took the Sabbath day seriously. But Jesus also believed
that some of the “work” we needed to do could honor and glorify God. How do you
honor God and keep the Sabbath day holy? Is worship an essential part of it?
PRAYER
It is so good to worship
you, O God, in all I do and each day you have given me. Help me to keep your
Sabbath day holy by doing the work of worship in church and doing the things
that please you. I pray these things in the name of Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, April 19, 2025
Olavus (1552) was a priest
in Sweden who translated the New Testament into Swedish and prepared a
collection of hymns. His brother Laurentius (1573) became Uppsala’s Archbishop
and introduced the Reformation to Sweden. They are remembered as renews of the
Church of Sweden.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 30:10-17; Colossians
1:15-23; Luke 6:12-26
SCRIPTURE
Luke 613 — When day came, he called his disciples and
chose twelve of them, whom he also named apostles....
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
There weren’t that many
people from which to choose in country school. We barely had enough for two
teams of anything. The choices were usually made by alternating captains, who
tried to balance the teams between those who were good players and those who
were bad. There was a lot more competition in high school sports or the music
department, but even so, in a school with under 200 (way under), the coach or
music director could only be a little more selective. They often spent much
time and energy watching the players before making their choices. If we take
the multitudes literally, Jesus had many disciples - followers or “learners” -
from which to choose the 12 apostles. There didn’t seem to be any rhyme or
reason for His choices. There didn’t seem to be any well-educated men among
them. The closest thing to wealth may have been Matthew - a hated tax
collector. A study of the twelve makes them seem even “less likely” to succeed
at anything. But then, that is one significant point. It wasn’t them. They were
willing to serve Jesus and allow the Holy Spirit to work through their faults
and failures. Are you willing to be a “disciple” - a learner? Are you willing
to be an apostle - to take up your cross and follow Jesus wherever He sends
you?
PRAYER
Take me as I am, O Christ,
and use whatever gifts I possess for your purpose. I pray that I will be taught
this day to become a better disciple. Open my mind and my heart so that this
will be possible. Thank you for choosing me through my baptism. In your holy
name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
THE RESURRECTION OF OUR LORD, Sunday, April 20, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 30:18-22; Colossians
1:24 - 2:7; Luke 6:27-38
SCRIPTURE
Luke 6:27-28 — Jesus said,
“I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,
bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Revenge and retaliation were
the names of the “game” as a kid. It seemed like the right thing to do. He hit
me. I hit him back - harder! It’s one of the genetic defects of the old Adam,
which has plagued the world ever since the Garden. As kids, our worst fights
were often the result of some inner conviction that we had to get even! When my
sister got me in trouble for breaking one of Mom’s favorite glasses, I vowed to
get her back. Wouldn’t you know it?! I spent the whole day looking and couldn’t
find anything. I went to bed disappointed, convinced tomorrow was another day.
She’d be sorry! In some cultures, revenge and retaliation are seen as moral
obligations. The “eye for an eye” Old Testament concept appeared in every culture
until Jesus turned things upside down and inside out. He knew what others
declared, but He offered a radical alternative. In a world of hatred and
apathy, loving those enemies and doing good for them isn’t easy unless the
focus is on Christ and what He has done for us because He loved us. In a world
where road rage and name-calling flourish, curses roll off the tongue without
any thought of the way Jesus blessed us on the cross: “Forgive them....” Imagine
what could happen if the whole world prayed for those who abused them instead
of plotting and planning their downfall! Are you up to trying Jesus’ “new”
approach to difficult and dangerous people?
PRAYER
I hang my head in shame, O
God, that I am not nearly as loving and forgiving as you would want me. It is
easy to love those who love me back, but it is also difficult to love those who
don’t. Make me stronger so that I will love and care for those who have been my
enemy. I pray this in the name of my Savior. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, April 21, 2025
Anselm,
Archbishop of Canterbury, 1109. As a monk, Anselm was known as a teacher and
spiritual director. He was a leading theologian and philosopher.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 31:1-14; Colossians
2:8-23; Luke 6:39-49
SCRIPTURE
Luke 6:42a — Jesus said,
“How can you say to your neighbor, ‘Friend, let me take out the speck in your
eye,’ when you yourself don’t see the log in your own eye?”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I’m ashamed of it now, but
when I discovered that Landon was color-blind, I thought it was funny. I was in
the fifth grade. He was in the third. I tested him by holding up different
objects to see if he could identify the color. He could tell most of them. It
was just some colors that gave him a problem. Little did I know, I have the
same problem. I didn’t recognize it. The fact that I colored squirrels green in
kindergarten didn’t register as “color blindness.” I colored them as I saw
them. My dear wife constantly sent me back to put on a different shirt, tie, or
pants. I just thought she was being picky about what I wore. It was officially
identified when I was applying for a private pilot’s license. I had a log in my
eye. It’s still there. My problem is I can see most colors if the light is
right and the shade of the color is deep enough. Browns, greens, and some
shades of red all blend together. I have learned to live with it and willingly
accept the advice of anyone concerning colors. If I’m that way about colors,
I’m probably that way about other areas of my life, too. It helps me realize
it’s easy to overlook our faults and our sins while, at the same time, being
appalled by those of others. Jesus, the only genuinely sinless person to ever
live, saw through the eyes of perfection. How muddy and filthy with sin those
around Him must have looked. It makes His love and mercy even more astounding!
Are you ready to come “clean” with Jesus? With yourself? With others?
PRAYER
How many times have I
found the faults of others, dear God, but ignored the things that I do wrong?
Please forgive me and help me to see myself as I truly am. Thank you for cleansing
me of those sins through my baptism and helping me forgive others as you have
forgiven me. In the Holy name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, April 22, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 31:15-22; Colossians
3:1-11; Luke 7:1-17
SCRIPTURE
Luke 7:6 — (The centurion whose slave was near
death said to Jesus), “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to
have you come under my roof....”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
A friend of ours is a
computer whiz. She works with them daily. When we had trouble with our first
computer, we needed “professional” help but couldn’t afford to pay for it. Our
first thought was of our friend, but she worked long hours, had a family of her
own to care for, and was very active in the church. We hesitated to call her
but finally did. She offered to come over. At first, we said, “No, that won’t
be necessary. Just talk us through it.” After numerous failed attempts, she
declared, “I’ll be there in five minutes.”
In less time than we wasted on the phone, she found the problem and solved
it. Jesus wasn’t working with a wayward computer. He was working with real
human beings. He was meeting with wayward sinners in need of immediate repair.
The centurion knew enough Jewish law to know Jesus would be made “unclean” by
entering his home. He had enough faith to believe Jesus could do it “long
distance.” He was a Roman, a pagan by birth and by training. Yet, he came to
believe in the God of the Jews and this Rabbi, Jesus, enough to beg for His
help. Jesus didn’t say, “Sorry, you’re not a member of my denomination.” He
healed the servant. Have you ever felt unworthy of having Jesus enter your home
or life? Remember the centurion. Just ask, and He will be there for you.
PRAYER
Thank you that you are not
a “long-distance” God but one who came to live on earth and lives in me today.
Repair my heart so I may have more love for you and others. Thank you for
making me clean and washing all my sins away. In the name of Immanuel, God with
us, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Toyohiko Kagawa, renewer of society, 1960
Kagawa was disinherited by
his wealthy Japanese family when he became a Christian. He devoted himself to improving
social conditions in Japan, where he was imprisoned in 1940 as a pacifist.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 31:23-25; Colossians
3:12-17; Luke 7:18-35
SCRIPTURE
Luke 7:32 — (The people of
this generation) are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling to
one another, “We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we wailed,
and you did not weep.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Before I was old enough to do
field work, summertime on the farm could become very boring. We didn’t have TV
and wouldn’t have been allowed to watch it if we did. We were tired of our worn-out
toys. I’d already read all the books I could read. Nothing Mom suggested for me
to do was interesting. My sister wanted to play house, but we already had too
much “pie” drying in the sun, and dolls and “coffee” didn’t appeal. My twin
brothers wanted me to help them build a road in the dust and play with our
tractor with the missing wheel. I did that the day before and needed something
else. I thought about a jungle adventure, but the twins didn’t want to go
hunting for tigers. We were bored with nothing to do. Truthfully, there was
plenty to do, but we didn’t want to do it. Jesus used some kids just like us to
illustrate how the religious people of that day responded to Him and His “dance.”
No matter what He offered them, they didn’t want it. They already had their
idea of how the “Messiah game” was supposed to be played. They wanted a bloody
warrior, not a spiritual giant. They wanted Him to “play” their “game.” They
didn’t want to “play” His. Have you taken a good look at what you want out of
Jesus? Have you considered what Jesus wants you to “dance”? Want to stop being
bored and get excited again? Try playing Jesus’ tune and dancing His dance!
PRAYER
O Lord of the Dance, come
dance with me and lift me off my feet. When I am dancing your dance, there is
no boredom that I can experience. I pray that I may not be so lazy or distracted
that I miss the excitement only you can give. In your name, I pray to this dear
Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, April 24, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Isaiah 32:1-8; 2
Thessalonians 2:13-17; Matthew 7:7-14
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 7:14 — The gate is
narrow, and the road is hard that leads to life and there are few who find it.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We often borrowed our
neighbor’s “Low Boy” to pick up hay bales. It was a haystack mover. The bed of
the Low Boy could be tilted, and an entire stack of hay could be pulled onto it
and moved where it was wanted. It worked well for us because we didn’t have to
lift our bales quite so high until the load was almost full. We moved a lot of
bales with it. One of the problems we had with it was its width. It took up the
whole road, and fence gates had to be moved several times to make the turn.
Narrow gates were a major challenge. The other problem was caused by the fact
that it was so low to the ground that if the wheels went in a rut in our dirt
road, it would high center, and we’d be stuck. As a kid, I wondered if Jesus had
a “Low Boy” in mind when talking to His disciples about finding eternal life.
Probably not, but the principle is the same with the way that some people act
as if the moral gates are flung wide open and, because they are Christians,
they can take the “easy,” “fun,” or “lawless” path and still find their way to
heaven. Jesus makes it clear that it isn’t going to happen. As His followers,
we are held accountable for how we live our lives here and now, through the
gate and the road leading to Him. What road are you on? Have you been pushing
the limits of the gate? Have you gotten yourself “high-centered” or on the
wrong road? Jesus would love to welcome you back to His Way, Truth, and Life!
PRAYER
I am ashamed of myself
when I cheapen your precious gift of grace by acting like I can do anything and
it will be alright with you, O Holy One. Set me on the straight, narrow road,
helping me when tempted to stray off it or become “high centered.” Grant this
in the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, April 25, 2025
St. Mark, Evangelist
Mark became the companion
of Peter. According to tradition, Mark was martyred in Alexandria. Mark’s
symbol is a winged lion.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 32:1-15; Colossians
3:18 - 4:18; Luke 7:36-50
SCRIPTURE
Luke 7:38 — (A sinful
woman) stood behind him at his feet weeping and began to bathe his feet with
her tears and to dry them with her hair. Then she continued kissing his feet
and anointing them with the ointment.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I watched my sister and three
brothers while Mom did some chores. While she was out, I thought it would be
great if we could make a cake for Mom. I was six, my sister was five, the twins
were four, and my little brother, Mike, was two. We dragged out most of Mom’s
pots and pans in anticipation of the fabulous cake we would make. We didn’t
know the recipe yet, but I couldn’t read very well. It looked like Mom put in
two or three handfuls of flour, some milk to make it look soupy, and a couple
of eggs. We had to fish the shells out of our batter that the twins had
dropped, and Mike insisted it needed cornflakes. My sister wanted to make it
extra sweet for Mom. We guessed she used two cups of sugar, so we added another
for good measure. Aside from having ingredients all over the table, the floor,
and the counter, it looked pretty good. We also decided it needed some spices,
which we sprinkled in quite freely. We tasted the batter and thought it might
taste better when baked. Mom arrived to survey her once-clean kitchen before we
could get it in the oven. Mom was happy we tried, but not with the mess we made
or the batter. All she could do was shake her head and throw it away. That is
the world’s way of dealing with sinners who don’t follow God’s recipe, isn’t
it? The woman who washed Jesus’ feet was judged to be a useless throw-away, but
if you know the rest of the story, you know He forgave her and gave her a new
start. How do you judge the messes you or other sinners make? Are you willing
to begin again?
PRAYER
Many times, I make a mess
out of things, dear God. My life can be messy, and I can make it messy for
others. Help me follow the recipe for life in your great book. Take the mess
that I am and turn me into something good for you. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, April 26, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 32: 16-25; Romans
12:1-21; Luke 8:1-15
SCRIPTURE
Luke 8:5 — A sower went
out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell on the path and was trampled
on, and the birds of the air ate it up.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Some of my most creative
moments were spent in the back of the seeder wagon, keeping the oats and
alfalfa bins full. It was usually a cold, mindless task that my fertile
imagination put to good use. I only wish I had some kind of recorder that could
have taken down all the stories and songs I wrote as I bounced around on those
cold spring days. I usually skipped school to help Dad when that day arrived. I
was thankful to be able to skip school, but I especially was grateful to be
riding in the wagon, not walking back and forth across the field scattering the
seed by hand the way they had to do it in Bible times. There were some parts of
the field where Dad signaled me to turn off the seeder. It was usually a rugged,
washed-out area where seeds wouldn’t grow. Occasionally, Dad would stop to make
sure the seeder was functioning correctly. Other times, he would increase the
rate at which the seed came out because he wanted it to grow thicker. We had
confidence in the life within the seed, but we had to adjust to compensate for
the different soils. Some were good, and some were very poor. In my daydreaming,
I wondered if Jesus helped Joseph or a neighboring farmer sow seed. I was
pretty sure He did because He understood the task very well. No matter how good
the seed is, it doesn’t have much chance to thrive if the soil is bad. What
kind of soil are you? Is it time to let the Lord put new life into you? All you
have to do is ask.
PRAYER
Dear Lord, turn my hard
heart into soft, fertile soil, ready to receive your Word and message. Let it
grow abundantly and fruitfully so that I go out into the world, using what you
have sowed, and share it with a world in need of you. In Jesus’ name, I pray.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, April 27, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Jeremiah 32:36-44; Romans
13:1-14; Luke 8:16-25
SCRIPTURE
Luke 8:16 — No one, after
lighting a lamp, hides it under a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a
lampstand, so that those who enter may see the light.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I loved those old hurricane
lamps with the glass chimney that got smoky from the smoldering wick. Grandma
had one she only used for emergencies and for curling her hair. Just before
bedtime, she would light the lamp in the evening and then place her curling
iron over the opening to let it get hot. I was always fascinated by the process
and the skill with which Grandma could take the hot iron and so expertly turn
and twist for the right curl without burning herself. It was always a peaceful
time in the evening when we could talk about everything or nothing. I imagined
Jesus, chin resting on hands just like me, watching Mary curl her hair. He
probably asked a million questions, just like I did, and some of His questions
probably left Mary to ponder even deeper things! What Jesus came to do was to
shed light on the darkness of all our questions. Like me, He probably thought
about how funny it would be to try to hide a lamp that was lit, hot, and shiny.
Yet many people do that with the good news of God’s love for them. When was the
last time you let the gospel light shine for others to see in your life?
PRAYER
Your message of light,
love, and grace shines brightly, dear God. Thank you for taking me out of my
darkness and shining in my life. I am sorry that I have taken that light and
kept it to myself. Let it shine in me and send me into a dark world, shining
your love and grace. I pray this in Christ’s name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, April 28, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 33:1-13; Romans 14:1-12;
Luke 8:26-39
SCRIPTURE
Luke 8:31 — (The Legion of
demons that possessed the man) begged (Jesus) not to order them to go back into
the abyss.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Somewhere, I read that pigs
are very intelligent. I’m guessing it was written by a scientist in an ivory
tower who didn’t have to take care of pigs when they were a kid. I considered
our pigs to be exceedingly stupid. What creature, whose water trough was just
cleaned and filled with clean water, would tromp through it with muddy feet and
empty it, making the area around it even muddier? As stupid and dumb as I
thought our pigs were, I have always considered the legion of demons to be even
dumber for choosing a herd of pigs to enter over the abyss. However, having
come from the abyss, the demons couldn’t imagine anything worse than the abyss.
Little did they know!!! I’ll have to give the pigs in the gospel credit for the
intelligence of knowing the popular belief of Jesus’ day that water was one of
the remedies for destroying demons. In the waters of baptism, the demons of sin
are drowned with our old self so that we are reborn children of God. Martin
Luther encouraged all Christians to remember their baptism daily the first
thing in the morning by dipping their fingers in water and making the sign of
the cross on their foreheads. It is not a magical talisman but a reminder that
in Christ Jesus, we are more than conquers over sin, death, and the devil. How
do you remember your baptism?
PRAYER
In the waters of baptism,
you drowned my sinful self, O Lord. Thank you for redeeming and saving me from
the powers of sin and death and giving me new life through the resurrection. As
I make the sign of the cross, in the name of the Father, and of the Son + and
of the Holy Spirit, let it remind me today to whom I belong. In the name of
your Son, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, April 29, 2025
Catherine of Siena, teacher, 1380
Catherine had visions of
Christ at an early age and devoted her life to God. She was a woman of
boundless energy who dealt effectively with rulers, diplomats, and leaders. The
common people also loved her.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 31:30-32:14;
Romans 14:13-23; Luke 8:40-56
SCRIPTURE
Luke 8:55 — The spirit (of
the daughter of the leader of the synagogue who was dying)returned, and she got
up at once. Then (Jesus) directed them to give her something to eat.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
There was no breath of a
breeze as the temperature under the blazing Nebraska summer sun soared. We didn’t
have a thermometer, but my sister and I were sure it was close to a thousand
degrees. It had to be! We had explored the South American jungle searching for
a saber-toothed tiger and returned empty-handed to base camp. Our spirits were
sagging as we crawled under the fence and trudged up the hill toward home. The
vast desert between the river and base camp had to be crossed without the
benefit of any protection. We almost died of thirst when we crossed the
threshold, where we were given a cool drink of water. That picked up our
spirits some, but we were exhausted. However, at the mention of swimming, we
were instantly revived and ready to go. The girl, Tabitha, who Jesus commanded
to arise, received a more powerful blessing than the hope of going swimming.
Her spirit returned to her with the words and command of Jesus. We must not
underestimate the power of God’s word to revive the spirits of those around us.
A compliment can turn a grumpy spirit into a joyful one. An encouraging word
can put the spirit of challenge into a friend or an acquaintance. How do you
choose to “lift the spirits” of those with whom you will associate today? Are
you willing to speak with the confidence of Jesus?
PRAYER
When I have been down and
discouraged, I thank you, O God, for always sending someone to lift me and
restore my soul. Renew and refresh me again so I may be used to bring life to
others. In the Holy Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, April 30, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 32:34-41; Romans
15:1-13; Luke 9:1-17
SCRIPTURE
Luke 9: 5 — (As Jesus sent
the twelve out, he told them) “...Wherever they do not welcome you, as you are
leaving that town, shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We had a cholera outbreak in
our pigs and lost several of them. They had to be quarantined, and we had to
wash our boots off every time we went in and out of the pig pen so that we
didn’t spread the disease to healthy animals. The veterinarian gave the
appropriate vaccinations, but we still lost three more pigs. When the big truck
came to pick up all the dead pigs, the driver washed his hands and boots before
driving off. It is easy to see how contamination can be spread from pen to pen
and even from farm to farm. That was the principle on which the Israelites treated
the Gentiles. Any good Jew who passed through a non-Jewish territory was
required to wash the contaminating Gentile dust off their feet. It was a ritual
way of distancing themselves from anything that might pollute their pure Jewish
faith. Jesus used that thought to illustrate to His disciples how some villages
would reject them. They were not to take it personally. They were not to keep
arguing or frustrating themselves. They should wash their feet of them - much
as Pilot would one day wash his hands of Jesus. They had a mission that was too
important to get derailed just because one village or tribe refused to listen.
They were to keep on going, offering the good news to those with ears to hear.
I recently heard them called “people of peace” and was reminded that Jesus
spent His ministry seeking agreeable “people of peace.” Have you allowed a
negative comment or experience to keep you from witnessing for Christ? Maybe
it’s time to wash that dust off (remember your baptism!) and go on your way to
the next opportunity God has waiting for you - your “person of peace.”
PRAYER
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