DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, February 1, 2025
Thoughts to Ponder by Pastor Larry Sydow, Prayers by
Pastor Bruce Freeman
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Isaiah 52:1-12; Galatians
4:12-20; Mark 8:1-10
SCRIPTURE
Mark 8:8 — (The four
thousand) ate and were filled; and they took up the broken pieces left over,
seven baskets full.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We had some pretty lean years
on the farm when I was growing up. Perhaps it was good that I was too young to
be informed about the details. All I saw was the worried look on my parents’
faces when the man who delivered gas came to collect or when Dad prepared to go
to the bank to “work things out.” We wore hand-me-down clothes from my aunts or
uncles or clothes Mom made instead of the neat “store-bought” clothes some
other kids wore. But the one thing I never remember is going without food. There
are some advantages to a large garden and raising animals! However, I have seen
pots and pans on the stove with only enough food for our family become enough
to feed us and a car-load of surprise visitors - with plenty of leftovers! No,
there weren’t 4,000 surprise visitors, but many cooks will tell you it could
just as well have been. Jesus didn’t have to raid the freezer or the storm
cellar for surplus supplies. They were on the hillside between cities, with no
supermarket in sight! If we only have our “faith eyes” open, we probably
witness mini-episodes of this miracle every day. God does provide! God produced
water from a rock and “bread” from heaven daily in the wilderness. God also
provides for our needs. We may have to do our share of the work to make it
happen, but God does provide. Have you expressed your thankfulness for even the
tiniest blessing?
PRAYER
Thank you, O my Lord, for
providing many blessings and miracles you shower upon my life. Open my eyes to
see them, and then open my hands so I may shower blessings upon others. I pray
this in the name of Jesus, the Christ, the greatest blessing of all. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, February 2, 2025-— 4th Sunday
After Epiphany
The Presentation of Our Lord
The presentation of Jesus
in the Temple by his parents was also the occasion of the purification of the
Virgin Mary in accordance with the Law. Traditionally, it was called Candlemas,
the day when the candles for the year were blessed – (“a light to the
Gentiles....”)
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Isaiah 52:13 - 53:12;
Galatians 4:21-31; Mark 8:11-26
SCRIPTURE
Mark 8:12 — (Jesus) sighed
deeply in his spirit and said, “Why does this generation ask for a sign? Truly,
I tell you, no sign will be given to this generation.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Strange tracks appeared in
the snow along the creek. My sister and I were sure they were some breed of
man-eating, saber-toothed tiger. For the sake of the Sydow ranch and the whole
state of Nebraska, we knew we had to track it down and kill it. At every bend
of the raging river (our trickling creek), we found fresh signs that this
terrifying creature was tracking some helpless victim. We had to hurry, but we
also had to be cautious! Then, the tracks disappeared into the river. We only
saw a raccoon, which wasn’t nearly ferocious enough to be our terrible tiger.
We looked around the area for more signs of the “beast” or its prey. The cold
and wetness of the snow drove us back to our camp, hoping to return another day
to end the evil threat. The religious leaders of the Jews had a history of
tracking the coming Messiah for centuries. They found clues at every bend of
history, and every clue led them closer to the One who was to come. But when He
came, the reality of His presence didn’t fit their pre-conceived image of Him.
They “couldn’t see the forest because of the trees.” Jesus was right there before
them, but their eyes kept searching. Jesus is right there “where two or more
are gathered in His name,” but do we “see” Him, or are we guilty of following
the wrong clues, too? In the words of a beautiful contemporary song: “Have you
seen Jesus, my Lord?”
PRAYER
Instead of looking for the
one to save me in people, governments, and heroes, open my eyes, dear Father,
so that I see your Son, my true Savior. Help me to see him in the faces and
voices of those I will encounter today. I pray that they will see you also in
me. In the Savior’s name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, February 3, 2025
Ansgar, born in 801 in
France, was the first missionary to northwestern Europe, first going to Denmark
in 826. Ansgar is respected by Scandinavian Lutherans today, especially the
Danes.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Isaiah 54:1-17; Galatians
5:1-15; Mark 8:27 - 9:1
SCRIPTURE
Mark 8:29a — (Jesus) asked
(the disciples), “But who do you say that I am?”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
A women’s group once asked me
to speak about my faith journey. My wife and I joined the group on the first
day, worshiped with them as participants, and enjoyed meals with them. We
didn’t tell them I was one of the guest speakers. When it came time for my
presentation, I saw many eyes pop open with surprise. They thought, correctly,
that I was just one of the event participants. The disciples knew there was
something different about the “Rabbi” they were following, but many were slow
at putting the clues together into a solid picture. There was no doubt that
something in their minds kept trying to surface, but it didn't fall into place
until Jesus forced the question. They heard His sermons, in which He “spoke as
one with authority.” They witnessed incredible miracles that seemed far greater
than anything being performed by other miracle workers of the day. Still, He
was their friend. He was their teacher. He was their leader. And He was as
“human” as they were. The expectations of the Messiah had grown into images of
legendary proportions! This Jesus they knew didn’t fit all of those ideals. But
in Caesarea Philippi, among all the statues and altars of all the pagan gods,
Jesus pops the question of all questions: “Who do you say that I am?”
We have the benefit of knowing “the rest of the story,” but every day, we are
confronted with that same question! “Who do you say that I am?”
Can you answer as powerfully and confidently as Peter -“You are the Christ, the
Son of the Living God!” You are my Lord and Savior!? If so, what does that mean
in your daily living?
PRAYER
You are the Christ,
the Son of the Living God, O Jesus! Help my faith that I may never doubt your
greatness and love for me. Thank you for being my friend and, most importantly,
for being my King. In your Holy Name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, February 4, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Isaiah 55:1-13; Galatians
5:16-24; Mark 9:2-13
SCRIPTURE
Mark 9:7 — Then a cloud
overshadowed them, and from the cloud there came a voice, “This is my Son, the
Beloved; listen to him!”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I never really understood
parental pride until I had children of my own. Mom or Dad could always
embarrass me by pointing me out to people I didn’t know: “That’s our son. He
plays the organ!” or “That’s our son,
the pastor!” Even on my last visit before she died, my mother got great joy out
of introducing me as “my son, the pastor.” However, with my children to
embarrass, I accepted my mother’s introductions for what they were – parental
pride. I don’t have as much opportunity to embarrass my kids in person because
they live so far away, but when they come home for a visit, I can’t help
myself. I’m proud of both of them and their accomplishments. I take comfort in
the fact that I’m following in the “Footsteps” of our Father in Heaven. I see
God patting His Son on the back, declaring, “I’m proud of you!” and making the
same declaration to “those who have ears to hear.” In baptism, we teach and
believe that we are “reborn children of God.” God adopts us as His dearly
beloved children. With Jesus, our Step-Brother, we are the Family of God. God
looks on us and says, “This is my child, my beloved!” We cannot live up to the
standards set for us by our Big Brother, Jesus, but He stands by us and stands
up for us. He loved us so much that He suffered and died for our eternal life.
He promised to be with us always, and He’s not about to let us go easily. Jesus
has defeated sin, death, and the devil on our behalf so that only we can get in
the way of full and perfect entrance into the place He has prepared for us - by
turning our backs on Him. Have you heard the Father’s pride in you as His son
or daughter, too?
PRAYER
Sometimes, I am ashamed of
my actions, O Father, and it’s hard to believe you are proud of me as your
child. Thank you for washing me clean in my baptism and seeing me through the eyes
of love. I pray that my actions will make you proud today. I ask this in the
name of Jesus, your only begotten Son. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, February 5, 2025
The Martyrs of Japan - In 1587, twenty-six Christians were killed by
crucifixion at Nagasaki. The Catholic Church of Japan adopted this
commemoration in 1959 as a festival of all those who have given their lives for
the Christian faith in Japan.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Isaiah 56:1-8; Galatians 5:25
- 6:10; Mark 9:14-29
SCRIPTURE
Mark 9:24 — Immediately,
the child's father cried out, “I believe; help my unbelief!”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I entered kindergarten as a
pretty naive and gullible child, believing that older people didn’t lie. The
occasional aunt or uncle who fibbed about little things was to be expected, but
for the most part, other people were honest. It didn’t take long to discover
that the “big kids” were not always trustworthy. I never stuck my tongue to the
pump handle. I knew from experience what happens to a wet finger and had no
desire to let it happen to my tender tongue. I never reached into the hole in
the outhouse for a “bag of candy.” I knew it wouldn’t be any good, even if it were
there! There were times when I wanted what was said to be true. I wanted Santa
Claus, the Tooth Fairy, and Jesus to be real. I wanted there to be buried
treasure in the hole we dug in our grove of trees. I wanted Grandma to feel
better when she had her heart attack. Toys under the tree, money under my
pillow, and Jesus in the lives and stories of people I trusted helped my
“unbelief.” As I grew older, I learned that the heart of Jesus lived in all
three of us. And the buried treasure - well, we never found it in the grove of
trees. I found it in the heart of a five-year-old in the middle of the night as
he struggled for air during an asthma attack. “Why don’t we pray, Dad?” I
believed, but it took a five-year-old to help my unbelief. Within minutes, his
breathing became regular and we both fell sound asleep! What do you need to
help your unbelief?
PRAYER
I believe in you, dear
God, but help me when doubts surround me, and my faith is not as strong. Grow
my faith in you, and let me see that every moment of doubt makes me, in the
end, declare you to be real in my life. Thank you for those “little ones” who
have strengthened my faith. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, February 6, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14; 2
Corinthians 3:1-9; John 12:27-36a
SCRIPTURE
John 12:36a — While you
have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light....
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I grew up as the son and
grandson of farmers. I grew up thinking that I, too, would one day be a farmer.
Considering that I didn’t like farming as a kid, that was not a pleasant
thought. I was blessed with parents who loved farming but did not insist that
any of their children take over the family farm. Instead, they encouraged us to
grow up and become good at whatever we had an interest in and an aptitude for.
More and more, my interests were in music and ministry. My sister, now a nurse,
was the “rescuer”. My twin brothers and younger brother were excellent
mechanics. My youngest sister was an organizer and has received awards for the
way she managed a fast-food restaurant. God has undoubtedly gifted us with
talents and abilities that make us good at something. Until we discover and use
those gifts, we may wander around or flit from job to job, never finding joy in
what we do. Whatever our gifts, God has also planted within each son or
daughter adopted into His Family, God’s light. We can believe in that Light or
deny it. We can live in that Light or hide it. The fact is, what we practice
and live daily is what we become. We can live in the darkness of sin and death
or as children of Life and Light. Wouldn’t you rather be a son or daughter of
God’s Light?
PRAYER
Whatever gifts you have
given me, help me to use them to the best of my abilities and your glory, dear
God. Help me discover gifts that have remained hidden; bring them to fruition
so that others will come to know of you. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, February 7, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 6:1-15; Hebrews
1:1-14; John 1:1-18
SCRIPTURE
John 1:17 — For the law
was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Every country school teacher
we had came with their own set of rules and methods of punishment. From day
one, they became the “law of the school,” from which there was no appeal. Some
teachers were “tough as nails” and enforced them without considering special
circumstances. If the rule was broken, no matter why, there was a punishment to
match the crime. Even though someone put a tack on my seat, I had to wash the
blackboard after school because I jumped up and spoke without permission! God’s
Law also demands a just punishment. There are no exceptions! There are no
excuses! Based on that Law, Moses could not enter the promised land. Based on
that Law, David could not build the Temple. Based on that Law, we cannot enter
the Promised Land - the Presence of God. Based on that Law, we cannot approach
the Temple of God’s Holy Presence! Woe are we if that were the last Word! But
thanks be to God, it is not! Grace and Truth came through Jesus Christ! It does
not seem possible, but Jesus did on the Cross what we cannot do ourselves. His
free gift has made the impossible possible for those who believe in His power,
not their own. The Law is still in effect, but so is Grace. May we live by
Grace through faith in Jesus Christ, and may our lives reflect our appreciation
of the price He paid on our behalf!
PRAYER
Grace, what a wonderful
word. It is full of your unconditional love and forgiveness for me, dear
Father. Thank you for your grace. I pray that I will also be filled with grace
for others, forgiving them because you first forgave me. In the name of Jesus,
who fulfilled your law. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, February 8, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 6:16-25; Hebrews
2:1-10; John 1:19-28
SCRIPTURE
John 1:23 — (John) said:
“I am ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Make straight the way of the
Lord,” as the prophet Isaiah said.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The farm I grew up on in my
younger years had a long lane. Our house was protected from the north wind by
being built halfway up the south side of a large hill. From there, the lane
went almost down to the bottom, then turned and went up a smaller hill to the
un-graveled road. To get to the highway, we had to drive up several other steep,
un-graveled hills. Rains usually carved deep ruts in the lane and the road,
especially where our car spun its wheels to get close to the house. I drove by
that old farm recently and was happy to see that the new owners had created a
new lane to their new house from the other side of the hill, which didn’t
require a steep, winding path. When John the Baptist quoted Isaiah, he looked
at a path leading to our heavenly home. It was a path made steep and dangerous
by the ruts created by the reign of sin. Instead of taking the straight way to
the Lord, too many were creating their own crooked and meandering ways. Like
innocent detours leading to corruption, they led away from God. Isaiah’s
message - John’s message - is the same message we all need to hear: Check
the path you are on! Is it leading straight to the Lord, or is it being
bent and twisted by sin? The “straight” way led Israel back to their
homeland from Babylonian captivity. Our “straight” way leads us to our Homeland
in the presence of God. May you allow the Lord to straighten your “lane”!
PRAYER
Watch my path, dear Lord,
that it leads straight to you. Keep my mind on you and your ways so I do not
fall into the rut of sin. Lead me home into your loving arms. In your holy
name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, February 9, 2025— The 5th Sunday
of Epiphany
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jonah 3:1-4:11; Hebrews
12:1-14; Luke 18:9-14
SCRIPTURE
Luke 18:10 — Two men went
up to the Temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
All too often, I find myself
in this parable. Unfortunately, not in the most favorable light. My first
impulse is to think of myself as the lowly, hated tax collector who grovels in
the Temple, acknowledging his sinful past. Then, it dawned on me that, in
reality, my mind and heart convict me of being the proud Pharisee. I must
confess that I’ve been very subtle and quiet about it, but it has been a part
of me for years. I’ve always been active in church. I had eight perfect attendance
bars on my Sunday School pin. I played the organ for the church. I taught
Sunday School. I didn’t get in trouble with the authorities. I became a pastor.
But my classmates? Most of them couldn’t boast of such achievements! Some of
them were church and Sunday School drop-outs. Some were in trouble with the
law. One got a girl pregnant! Compared with some of them, I came out smelling
like a rose. However, did you know that a rose only gives off its beautiful fragrance
when it begins to die? I am dead to sin like everyone else when compared to
Christ! Like St. Paul, I have nothing to brag about except Christ and His
cross. “Two men went up to the temple to pray....” Which one are you? As Lent approaches, may we
all re-examine our lives, not in comparison with other sinners, but in the
shadow of the cross on which Christ died for our sins!
PRAYER
I am humbled, Heavenly
Father, when I think of how disingenuous I am and how proud I am of what a fantastic
Christian I am. Forgive me when I look at others and think I am better than
they are. I come to you as a sinner, along with my brothers and sisters. Thank
you for your love. I pray this in the name of Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, February 10, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 7:6-11; Titus
1:1-16; John 1:29-34
SCRIPTURE
John 1:34 — (John
declared:) “And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Sometimes, it helps to know
someone who knows someone. When I was in kindergarten, our school went to the
big city of Norfolk, Nebraska, for a field trip. We went to the hatchery to
watch baby chicks being born. We went to WJAG, the radio station, and talked on
the radio. We went to the fire station where my cousin’s husband was the fire
chief. That got me the first seat on the fire engine! We went to the packing
plant to have them explain how slaughtering took place. My classmates were
impressed when one of the workers called me by name and asked about my parents.
He was my sister’s baptismal sponsor. It felt good to be recognized. Knowing
someone who knew someone over the years has gotten me free tickets to shows in
Branson and introductions to authors, musicians, stars, and their families. It has brought me
past security checkpoints and to the front of long waiting lines. John the
Baptist was a somebody who pointed to the real somebody - the Son of
God! In God’s eyes, because of what Jesus has done for us, all who repent and
believe in Jesus are somebodies. So, who do you and your life point to? Who do you
say Jesus is?
PRAYER
It is great that I can be
a name-dropper and say I know you, O Son of
God. It is wonderful that I can say you are my Lord and Savior. Let all
that I do point to you and who you are so that others will proclaim you as
their King. In your Holy Name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, February 11, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 7:12-16; Titus
2:1-15; John 1:35-42
SCRIPTURE
John 1:40 — One of the two
who heard John speak and followed (Jesus) was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Pastor Wolfe, now deceased,
confirmed my mother. From what she told me, he probably didn’t think much of
it, nor did he expect anything to result from her confirmation. But, Mom passed
on some of what she learned to me, hoping for the best - that something would
sink in. She also made sure I went to Sunday School and later confirmation
classes. It took two pastors to get me through confirmation. (Pastor Hulse
moved after my first year, and Pastor Jobman took over and confirmed me in my
faith.) They undoubtedly wondered if “anything good could come out of St.
Luke’s!” The seed of faith that the
Spirit planted at my baptism was nurtured by my parents, pastors, and teachers.
They all were like “John the Baptist” to me, leading, guiding, and encouraging
me to follow Jesus the way Andrew did. Andrew, of course, brought the good news
to Peter, who became one of the most important of the Apostles. I may never
know the importance of my words, actions, and ministry to others who are led to
serve Christ. I give thanks that I was led, and so I lead. Have you been
leading others to Christ? Have you been playing a role in nurturing the faith
of others and thus encouraging others to serve their Lord and Savior? May you
discover the joy of your ministry!
PRAYER
I am so thankful to those
who have nurtured my faith by sharing their faith with me: parents, ministers,
friends, and family. Use me to share my faith with younger people, leading them
to your grace and love. I pray these things in the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, February 12, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 7:17-26; Titus
3:1-15; John 1:43-51
SCRIPTURE
John 1:45 — Philip found
Nathaniel and said to him, “We have found Him of whom Moses and the law, and
also the prophets, wrote - Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The search for buried
treasure was always an ongoing adventure for my siblings and me. We had plenty
of places to search. The deepest canyon in the world, the darkest, most dangerous
jungles in Nebraska, the forbidden forest, several “castles,” a haunted house,
a graveyard, and three wilderness wastelands were ripe for the picking. The
treasures we found were enough to purchase all of Africa, Canada, and South
America! Unfortunately, it was all imaginary. What Philip found was not
imaginary. When Philip found the real treasure - Jesus - he couldn’t wait to
tell Nathaniel. He had no thought of keeping it to himself. Jesus was the
“treasure” for whom Philip’s ancestors had searched for centuries. All of their
hopes and dreams were centered on the Messiah. All of their suffering and all
of their struggle came into perspective in this one Man among men. Others had
come and gone, claiming to be “the one.”
But Philip announces that Jesus doesn’t just “claim” to be the one; He
fits the description handed down to them from Moses, the law, and the prophets!
Philip is without a doubt! This Jesus is the One! Have you studied Moses, the
law, and the prophets for yourself? Can you explain to your friends and
neighbors why Jesus is your Lord and Savior and why they should come to Him and
believe in Him?
PRAYER
Dear Jesus, you are the
most important treasure in my life! Open your book to me and show me how you
are the fulfillment of all that was written. Open my mind so that I may
understand and open my mouth to share and explain to others. In your name, I
pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, February 13, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 9:23-24; 1
Corinthians 1:18-31; Mark 2:18-22
SCRIPTURE
Mark 2:22 — (Jesus said:)
“No one puts new wine into old wineskins; or else the new wine bursts the
wineskins, the wine is spilled, and the wineskins are ruined. But new wine must
be put into new wineskins.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I didn’t know much about
wineskins as a kid, but I did know about lunch bags. Paper bags could be reused
several times, but eventually, they would become worn so much that dropping an
apple or an orange into them would cause them to burst, spilling the entire
contents. The lesson of experience taught me that in first grade. I had my old
lunch bag filled with a sandwich, a piece of cake wrapped in waxed paper, and
an apple. That may have been fine, but we were having “school soup.” Each of us
was to bring an ingredient for the soup. Mine was a jar of canned tomatoes. I
carried it to school by the bottom, but the bottom burst when I lifted it off
the shelf to get the jar—all of the contents scattered on the floor.
Fortunately, the jar didn’t break, and we had soup that day. Wine has more than
weight to cause its container to burst. It ferments, causing it to expand its
container. It is easy to understand why an old wineskin would burst. Jesus used
the illustration to explain why it is so important for us to be willing to
change our thinking and practices. Some of the old “ways we always did it” – lifestyles,
customs, and traditions – may need to be readjusted to carry the gospel to
others in a different time. Are you willing to change so that the truth of the
gospel can be carried safely to the whole world?
PRAYER
Forgive me, Lord Jesus,
when I think I need not change for the sake of your gospel. Give me a new
attitude and love for others so that I may be willing to change. Pour the new
life of your Word into me and make me flexible enough to hold it. Then, use me
to carry into the world. In your Holy Name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, February 14, 2025
Happy Valentine’s Day
Cyril and Methodius - Two brothers, the apostles to the southern Slavs in
869, became priests and were sent to preach the gospel in Moravia. Their memory
is revered by the Czechs, Slovaks, Croats, Serbs, and Bulgars as founders of
their alphabet, translators of the liturgy in Slavonic, and builders of the
foundation of Slavonic literature.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 8:1-20; Hebrews
2:11-18; John 2:1-12
SCRIPTURE
John 2:10 — (The master of
the wedding feast said to the bridegroom) “Every man at the beginning sets out
the good wine, and when the guests have well drunk, then the inferior. You have
kept the good wine until now!”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
There were some things worth
waiting for when I was growing up. We had several varieties of mulberry trees,
each with its unique taste. They were sour or bland if eaten too soon. Our
apples were the same way. It was always better to wait until they were fully
ripe. Chili soup was always better if we left it in the cold parlor overnight.
Other things taste better fresh from the oven or skillet. When guests came for
a meal, Mom usually served the best she had. That usually meant fresh and hot.
Most hosts and hostesses do. Then, if she saw that there wouldn’t be enough,
she got out the leftovers. She always served the best and freshest first. That
seems to be a universal principle. No wonder the master of the feast was
surprised by the thought that the best wine was saved until the end! But that
is the point: With Jesus, “the first shall be last.” No matter when we come to
Him, Jesus saves the very best for us. At the Feast, which Jesus prepares for
us, there will be no “leftovers.” There will only be the very best. He has been
saving it just for you! How will you respond?
PRAYER
You astound me, O Christ,
how you turn the world’s thinking upside down. Thank you for saving the best
for last. Forgive me when I begrudge those who come to you later in life and
receive the same goodness you give me. I pray this in your name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, February 15, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 9:1-12; Hebrews
3:1-11; John 2:13-22
SCRIPTURE
John 2:16 — And (Jesus)
said to those who sold doves, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father’s
house a house of merchandise!”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I was shocked the first time
I remember hearing about Jesus’ rampage in the Temple. My six-year-old mind
vividly saw Jesus entering our church with whips flying, even if we didn’t have
the birds in cages and the bleating of sheep and goats to add to the chaos and
excitement. The chaos and excitement sounded like fun, but I was a little
disturbed by the image of an angry Jesus. The picture I colored in Sunday
School was of a nice, gentle Jesus (blond-haired and blue-eyed) who was
welcoming and playing with children, not a whip-wielding, anger-driven man
chasing people away. I wasn’t sure I liked that Jesus as much. To add to my
inner turmoil, the church went through a period of outlawing all money-making
projects. It seemed to me they were afraid Jesus would bring His whips to
Stanton, Nebraska! What was Jesus really upset about? It took me a while to see
that Jesus wasn’t against fund-raisers. He was opposed to abuses of the system,
which placed unfair burdens on people who wanted to worship their God. Jesus
was reacting to how true worship of God was replaced by business and
merchandising. Jesus reminds us that nothing, absolutely nothing, should be
more important or get between us and our worship of God. Are there things that
provide “excuses” for not worshiping in your life? What could you do about it?
PRAYER
Because of your great love
for us, it is easy to think of you as a harmless teacher. I am so sorry, dear
Lord when I let things get in the way of worshiping you. I am sorry when I put
obstacles in the way of others worshiping you. I ask this in your name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, February 16, 2025—6th Sunday after
Epiphany
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 9:13-21; Hebrews
3:12-19; John 2:23-3:15
SCRIPTURE
John 3:12 — (Jesus said to
Nicodemus:) “If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will
you believe if I tell you heavenly things?”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I was the only third grader
at District # 35. That meant I could go as fast as I wanted through most
subjects. I really enjoyed reading, so I finished the third grade reading book
shortly after Christmas. The teacher wouldn’t let me start on the fourth-grade
book, insisting I find other books to read. Our small library had very few
books to choose from. Rural schools had a borrowing agreement that allowed us
to request books from a file system. My problem was that most books I wanted to
read were listed at a higher grade level, and my teacher wouldn’t let me order
them. There were some other things I needed to learn before I was considered
smart enough to handle those words and subjects. As I teach children and adults
in confirmation classes, I see the wisdom of learning the basics more clearly.
How can a student who doesn’t know Abraham from Adam understand concepts like
original sin or covenants? St. Paul wrote to his friends in Corinth: I fed
you with milk and not with solid food; for until now you were not able to
receive it, and even now you are still not able; 1 Cor. 3:2 Nicodemus was an infant in faith attempting to
understand heavenly things. As He knew Nicodemus, Jesus knows our level of
faith and understanding. He is willing to increase both in us, if we are open
and willing to learn. Doubts are not sinful. Doubts are God’s way of
challenging our thinking and deepening our faith. Are you satisfied with the milk
of your faith, or are you ready for some real solid food?
PRAYER
I am hungry for the real
food of your Word, O God. Help me delve into it, relishing every bite and
seeking answers to things I do not understand. Build up my spiritual life with
the nourishment that only You can give. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, February 17, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 9:23-10:5;
Hebrews 4:1-10; John 3:16-21
SCRIPTURE
John 3:17 — (Jesus said:)
“For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the
world through Him might be saved.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
One of my college professors
surprised us on the first day of class by telling us that everyone in his
classes started out with an ‘A.’ We didn’t have to work our way up to an “A”;
it was ours the minute we walked in the door and sat down. “Now,” he declared,
“what you do with your ‘A’ is up to you. You can work hard to keep it or be
lazy and lose it. I’ll do all I can to help you keep it, but the rest is up to
you.” That is the nature of God’s grace. It is God’s declaration at creation:
“It is good!” It is an undeserved ‘A’ we can live up to or squander and lose.
God’s hope for us is that we hold on to it by sharing it. God’s intent in
sending His Son into the world was to help us keep His ‘A’ and grow in it. How
strange that was to Nicodemus and others steeped in Greek culture and religion
in which the gods only came to earth to punish and make life difficult for
people. Their gods didn’t like to “dirty” themselves by entering this evil
material world, so they only came to condemn. Our God, on the other hand,
continues to consider His creation good - good enough to come in Person. In the
Person of Jesus, God announces the forgiveness of sins. In the cross of Jesus,
God declares the condemnation, the ‘F,’ paid for in full for all who believe.
Jesus confirms the ‘A,’ which is ours because God loves us so much. What will
you do with your ‘A’?
PRAYER
Through your grace, you
have given me an ‘A’ in my life, O Father. I will do everything I can with that
excellent grade by sharing your love with others and giving of myself and all I
am. In the name of the Son, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS — Tuesday, February 18, 2025
Martin Luther was born
in Eisleben in 1483, was ordained a priest in 1507, and taught the Bible at Wittenberg. He posted his theses concerning
indulgences in 1517 and married Katherine von Bora in 1525. He wrote two
Catechisms, translated the Bible into German, wrote numerous hymns, and played
a major role in developing “high German” and social welfare programs for the
poor.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 10:12-22; Hebrews
4:11-16; John 3:22-36
SCRIPTURE
John 3:30 — (John the
baptizer declared:) “He (Jesus) must increase, but I must decrease.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Several years ago, our
organist and I, without knowing it, both had an idea about starting a singing
group. We were both happily surprised when we discovered our mutual interest
and even more surprised when a handful of young people showed up. As the group
grew and improved, we worked well together. The group called themselves “Blest
2 Bless” based on Genesis 12:1-3, where God told Abraham He would bless him so
that he, in turn, would be a blessing to others. I increasingly came to
appreciate Keri’s skills, love of the Lord, and love for these kids. The group
grew to more than twenty in the first year. I began to feel like John the Baptist
must have felt. I needed to decrease, and Keri needed to increase. I continued
to support the group in every way possible, but Keri did wonders with them.
They grew to over forty and produced a couple of CDs. They truly used the
blessings they received and were a blessing to many. John recognized in Jesus
One who was far greater, and rather than continue to hold on to his disciples,
he pointed to the One who was worth following. John shows us how to point to
the One who can lead us to the glory of the Father. Are we so wrapped up in our
importance that we want all the credit, or are we willing to point others to
the One who must increase?
PRAYER
It is so easy, dear Lord,
to pat myself on the back when I have done something you expect of me. I pray
that I will put you first and that you are the reason for everything I do.
Thank you for those other servants who are so dedicated to your mission. In the
name of the Christ, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, February 19, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 11:18-28; Hebrews
5:1-10; John 4:1-26
SCRIPTURE
John 4:23 — (Jesus said to
the Samaritan woman at the well:) “But the hour is coming, and now is, when the
true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is
seeking such to worship Him.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Occasionally, we played
church in the old grain bin down by the pigpen when it was empty. It was a
round cathedral with incredible acoustics! Our organ music consisted of various-sized
sticks, beaten on the “cathedral” walls while we sang hymns at the top of our
lungs. Every stray cat and we had lots of them, screamed and clawed their way
through baptisms. Communion always involved grape Kool-Aid and oatmeal cookies
with raisins. Weddings were happy celebrations. Funerals were sad events,
although they usually cheered up when burials became a search for buried
treasure. Our worship was often noisy, but it usually ended with the doxology.
Looking back, I can’t help but picture God watching our childish worship with a
smile on His lips and maybe even a chuckle now and then. One of the major
struggles between the Jews and the Samaritans was over where they worshiped
God. The Jews declared that true worship could only occur in Jerusalem at the
Temple. Their reasoning was sound: it kept the worship of God pure and
undefiled by any pagan practices. However, it also severely limited who could
worship. Jesus seems to see beyond the limits imposed by either group,
declaring that true worship comes from the heart, not from the location, the
surroundings, the rituals, or the priests. Later, we will hear Jesus express
the importance of worshiping with a community of believers, Where two or
more are gathered in my name ... How
important is worship to you? What could you do to make it more meaningful to
you and others who gathered in Christ’s name?
PRAYER
Let my whole being be that
of worship of you, my Lord and Savior! Thank you for letting me worship you
anywhere and at any time. Thank you also for the gift of the community of faith
into which you have placed me. I pray this in your Holy Name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, February 20, 2025
Rasmus Jensen - The first Lutheran pastor to North America, came in
1619 from Denmark. Reorus Torkillus - The first Lutheran pastor to
organize a congregation in North America in 1639. Justus Falckner - The
first Lutheran pastor ordained in America. John Campanius - Built the
first Lutheran church building in America in 1646. He did missionary work among
the Delaware Indians, translating the Small Catechism into their language.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 1:1-10; 1
Corinthians 3:11-23; Mark 3:31- 4:9
SCRIPTURE
Mark 4:2a — Then (Jesus)
taught them many things by parables....
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I love stories. I loved
having Mom read Bible stories to us at nap time. I loved the “after dinner”
stories the teacher read us in country school. They always left us begging for
more and looking forward to the next chapter. I loved the stories older people
told of their “younger years.” I also loved reading stories when I was old
enough. “The Little Engine That Could,” “Chicken Little,” and “Lassie” were
some of my favorites. Later, I enjoyed reading some Bible stories and the
stories of “The Hardy Boys.” Some of the stories had lessons to be learned.
Others were just interesting stories. It is obvious to me that Jesus loved
stories, too. He must have been thrilled at the stories of His ancestors whose
memories for stories were much more practiced. Not only did Jesus love to hear
stories, but He was also a master at telling stories. Using everyday activities
like farming, cleaning, shepherding, or making wine, Jesus let the stories give
meat and meaning to lessons. Using plants and animals and daily work, He
fashioned powerful parables that gave His hearers something worth “chewing on,”
worth remembering. Like children’s sermons with props or objects that children
can take home, Jesus’ parables teach lessons that come alive whenever the
listeners encounter anything similar. Jesus wants us to pass on the stories of
salvation, too. How well do you know the stories? When did you last study one
of Jesus' parables and learn it well enough to tell without reading? Not a bad
Lenten discipline! Why not give it a try?
PRAYER
How wonderful it is to
hear your stories, O Jesus, and to understand them in ways that relate to me.
Help me to listen to these stories and then share them with others. Let me
truly sing the hymn “I love to tell the story” with gusto throughout my life.
In your name, O Lord. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, February 21, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 1:11-19; 1
Corinthians 3:11-23; John 4:27-42
SCRIPTURE
John 4:37 — (Jesus said:)
“In this the saying is true: ‘One sows and another reaps.’”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
One year, Dad planted
watermelons between corn rows on our farm's only relatively flat land. Every
week, he went out to check on them. He had his eye on one particular melon, growing
big and promising to be sweet and delicious. Toward the end, he counted the
days until he could harvest it. There were many smaller melons, but this was
his pride and joy. One morning, he checked and found his prize melon gone! He
was obviously disappointed. He was also angry that someone had stolen his
melon. A few weeks later, he found out who took it, which made him even
angrier. It was my uncle! It did not console Dad when my uncle said it tasted delicious!
Jesus knew what He was saying. Dad did the sowing. My uncle did the reaping.
Jesus was talking about more than melons, though. He was talking about sowing
the seed of the Good News. In the early years of my ministry, I wondered if I
would have any effect on people through my preaching and teaching. Years later,
I read newsletters and heard firsthand reports that some of my preaching and
teaching were not in vain. Someone else was able to watch the results ripen and
produce. When it finally dawned on me that all I could do was sow seed, my
ministry took on a different attitude. I’m much more concerned about what I say
or do, which might sow good or bad “seeds” in the hearts and minds of people I
contact. What kind of seed are you planting for the next generation to harvest?
PRAYER
Sometimes, I get so
discouraged, O God, when I cannot see the efforts of my sowing. Let me not give
up hope, but remember that what I am doing in your name is worthwhile, and
anticipate with joy that someone else will see the benefits of what I have
planted. In the name of your Son, my Lord. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, February 22, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 2:1-13, 29-32;
Romans 1:16-25; John 4:43-54
SCRIPTURE
John 4:45 — So when He
came to Galilee, the Galileans received Him, having seen all the things He did
in Jerusalem at the feast....
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I was born in Norfolk,
Nebraska, grew up on a farm in Stanton, Nebraska, and went to college in
Fremont, Nebraska. I went away to seminary in Minnesota and returned to spend ten
years in ministry in Nebraska. Then, I spent ten years in western Iowa and ten
years in Missouri before returning to Nebraska for my last ten years before
retiring. When I was asked to preach at the church where I grew up, I was
considered “a home-town boy made good.” Jesus was born in Bethlehem, grew up in
Nazareth in Galilee, took yearly trips to Jerusalem to the Temple, and lived as
an adult, primarily in Capernaum in Galilee. Like me in Stanton, Nebraska,
Jesus was a “home-town boy made good” in Galilee. The Galileans considered Him
one of them. They watched His career and His ministry with great interest. When
they saw what He did in Jerusalem - and probably all the places he stopped on
His way to and from Jerusalem - they became even more impressed by “one of
their own.” Has Jesus become so much a part of your life that you identify Him
as “One with you?” or “One of your own”? He doesn’t want to be considered a
stranger from a strange land who “once upon a time” did marvelous things. Jesus
wants to be known as your Friend who continues to do wonderful things for you daily!
What do you need to do to become a better friend to Jesus?
PRAYER
It gives me much joy, O
Jesus, that I am yours and you are mine. Thank you for being my friend and always
staying with me in my joys and despair. I pray that I will never be ashamed to
introduce someone else to you so they, too, may know this joy. I pray this in
your Holy Name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, February 23, 2025—7th Sunday after
Epiphany
Polycarp – Was born c. 69, arrested during a public pagan
festival, refused to recant his faith, and was burned to death.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 3:6-18; Romans
1:26-2:11; John 5:1-18
SCRIPTURE
John 5:6 — When Jesus saw
him lying (by the pool of Bethesda) and knew that he already had been in that
condition for a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to be made well?”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Growing up in a family of
Germans who liked their beer, I didn’t think that much of the drinkers in my
family. Dad would sometimes spend a whole day drinking but always came home
quietly. He was never mean or violent, as some people are when they are drunk.
Then, long periods would go by when he wouldn’t drink any beer. I had uncles
and cousins who seemed to live with a bottle in their hands. They were always
broke, living paycheck to paycheck. If someone had come to the bar where they
seemed to take up residence and asked them if they wanted to be made well, I
don’t think they would have said “Yes.” They didn’t know that they weren’t well
already. There were many beggars in Israel. Some had physical or mental
problems. Some even had deformities that they or their families purposely
imposed on them to create sympathy for their career as beggars. Some may have
gone from doctor to doctor, hoping for a cure, but finally gave up and resigned
themselves to their fate. Some, like the lame man by the pool of Bethesda, may
have drug themselves to the location in which superstitious legends of healing
had no doubt hatched and been expanded. The question Jesus asked might seem
strange to most of us. “Of course, I want to be made well!” we’d exclaim. “What
do you think!? I like living like this?” But Jesus knows that some people do or
have accepted their condition as just “the way things are.” So ... do you want
to be made well? The Great Physician wants to know.
PRAYER
It is so easy for me not
to look at myself carefully, dear Savior, and see where I truly have problems.
Open my eyes so that I may know how you see me. Heal me and change me into the
person you have intended me to be. I ask this in your Name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, February 24, 2025
St. Matthias, Apostle – Was chosen by lot to fill the vacancy in the Twelve
left by the death of Judas Iscariot. Tradition says his missionary labor was in
Ethiopia.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 4:9-10, 19-28;
Romans 2:12-24; John 5:19-29
SCRIPTURE
John 5:24 — Most
assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me
has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from
death into life.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Hide-n-Seek was a favorite
game at our school. We had neat places to hide. There was a partially fallen
old horse barn, two outhouses, numerous bushes, the storm cellar, and road
ditches on two sides of the school. There seemed to be fierce competition among
the big kids not to get caught when we younger ones were “it.” On the day of
Rosemary’s birthday, the game was cut short for cake and ice cream. The problem
was we hadn’t found Marlin, and he wasn’t answering the “Ally ally oxen free.”
(Later, we discovered he fell asleep in his nice, warm hiding place.) So we had
cake and ice cream without him. Everyone who came in had a treat. Marlin missed
the party and only got the crumbs. Jesus is calling, “Ally, ally oxen free! All
who come to me and believe in me are forgiven and welcomed to the Party! The
game is over! Judgment is over! Death is ended! All that’s left is LIFE!” Are
you ready to party with Jesus? Or are you still content with hiding in the
secret places of your sin? Come to His cross, be “Home - free,” and PARTY!
PRAYER
Thank you for inviting me
to the party, O God! Knowing that you have finished the game and declared me
the winner is exciting. Use me to invite others to your party, so they too may
come to the cross and be “Home-free.” In the name of the Christ, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, February 25, 2025
Elizabeth Fedde - was born on Christmas Day 1850 in Feda, Norway. She
was trained as a deaconess, came to New York to minister to the poor and
Norwegian seamen, established the Norwegian Relief Society, and opened the
Deaconess House in Brooklyn.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 5:1-9; Romans 2:25 -
3:18; John 5:30-47
SCRIPTURE
John 5:40 — (Jesus said to
the religious leaders who accused Him of breaking the Sabbath:) “But you are
not willing to come to Me that you may have life.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I had a toothache, but the
last time I went to the dentist, it felt like he had drilled into my tooth with
a foot-long bit and used a sledgehammer to chip away at the cavity - without
deadening it! I was eight years old, and I was convinced that I could tough it
out! Over the next couple of weeks, the pain didn’t let up. It seemed to get
worse and kept me up all night. Finally, after letting out a yelp after biting
into something at the supper table, Mom pronounced judgment: “We’re going to
the dentist!” No amount of protests or attempts to pretend it didn’t hurt had
any effect. Dr. Amick had his office on the second floor of the bank building.
The climb up those steps always made them seem like they were at least a mile
long. Knowing what was coming made it feel as if I were climbing the steps to
the gallows. When the dentist looked into my mouth, he shook his head and asked
why I hadn’t come in sooner. I didn’t say it, but I thought, “I prefer my pain
to yours!” That day, he gave me a shot to deaden the pain, and then I did wish
I had gone to him sooner. Jesus wasn’t a dentist. He offered forgiveness, life,
and salvation to anyone who came to His “office.” The religious leaders wanted
what Jesus offered but didn’t want to climb the stairs to reach His “office.”
They preferred their own pain to His free gift. Have you been avoiding Jesus
the way I avoided the dentist? I have a great dentist and don’t mind going to
him. But I have an even greater Lord who offers abundant, grace-filled Life,
now and for eternity! What are you waiting for? He is in His office just beyond
the cross right now. He is available 24 - 7. Call on Him, and He will answer.
PRAYER
Why, O, why do I stay away
from your healing touch, dear Lord, preferring to live with my pain? I know you
offer me a life filled with grace and forgiveness. Please come to me in my hour
of need. I ask this in the name of Jesus, my Savior. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, February 26, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 5:20-31; Romans
3:19-31; John 7:1-13
SCRIPTURE
John 7:6 — Then Jesus said
to (the disciples), “My time has not yet come, but your time is always ready.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
My senior year in college, we
had to take “Comprehensive Exams.” They came at the end of the senior year and
consisted of a three-hour written exam, followed a few days later by an oral
exam by three faculty members. One question covered our minor field, and the
others covered our major field. As we waited for the oral exams, some of us
gathered in the student union to study together, congregating in groups around
our major fields. We asked each other all the questions we could think of the
examining committee might ask. It was a stressful time as one of our group went
to meet their fate, and the rest of us waited for our scheduled interviews.
Jesus seemed to know what was coming for Him, but He also knew He wasn’t
“scheduled” for His confrontation yet. On the other hand, his disciples were
already in place in the world, facing the challenges of ministry to which Jesus
had called them. The writer of Ecclesiastes proclaims, “To everything, there
is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.” Some people like
to “put off what they could do today until tomorrow,” but Jesus urges us, His
21st Century disciples, to consider that NOW is the time to make
things right with God and our neighbor. If I had put off studying for my
Comprehensive Exams until the day I was to take them, I certainly would have
failed. How long will you put off preparing your heart, your mind, and your
soul for THE Comprehensive? Jesus declares, “...Your time is always ready.” So,
why not get started today?!
PRAYER
Be with me, Lord Jesus,
and help me prepare my heart and mind for your Kingdom. Give me the courage and
fortitude to ask forgiveness of others I have wronged. I pray that I may make
things right before it is too late. I ask this in your name, O Savior. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, February 27, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 6:9-15; 1
Corinthians 6:12-20; Mark 5:1-20
SCRIPTURE
Mark 5:9 — Then (Jesus)
asked him, “What is your name?” And he answered, saying, “My name is Legion,
for we are many.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
One year, Dad had a problem
with the alfalfa. It wasn’t growing as quickly as it should. I walked out into
the field with him as he ran his hand through the remaining green stems. “There
it is!” he told me. In answer to my puzzled look, he told me to look very
closely as he ran his hand through the plants again. “What do you see?” It took a few seconds to see them—lots of
little bugs flitting around. “Aphids!” he announced. Knowing the problem, he
knew how to get rid of them. They took my grandfather to the hospital. He
hadn’t been feeling well. No one seemed to know what was wrong. Tests were run,
and finally, they concluded it was his heart. Putting a name on the problem,
they were able to give him some medicine and send him home. Jesus demanded the
name of the demons possessing a man who they had tormented. Knowing the
problem, Jesus was able to cast the problem out to bring about healing. Have
you named your ailments – your “demons”? Some people avoid going to the doctor or
dentist because of fears that they might have “something,” thinking that “what
they don’t know won’t hurt them.” Sadly, many people fail to “name their
demons” until it’s too late to do anything about them. What are you waiting
for? God has gifted many healers with wonderful tools to help them “name” the
illness or “demon” causing problems. Jesus Himself offers to “lay His hands
gently upon you.” What more do you need?
PRAYER
Find the demons that lurk
within me, dear Lord. Let me not be afraid to call them by name, and let you
heal me. Place your gentle hands upon me and give me a new life in you. In the
name of the healer, Christ the Lord, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, February 28, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Jeremiah 7:1-15; Romans
4:1-12; John 7:14-36
SCRIPTURE
John 7:24 — (Jesus said:)
“Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Mrs. Weddingfeld, my organ
teacher, gave me a piece of music that looked well-worn on the outside and had
a lot of black notes and pencil marks on the inside. I must confess I was not
impressed. As I began to work on it, I thought it was terrible. I didn’t think
I could ever play all those notes. Then, one day, it began to “feel” right and
sound right. Eventually, it became one of my favorite songs. I went out and
bought a new copy of it just for myself. I came across it recently, and it
looks worse than Mrs. Weddingfeld’s copy. We tend to judge people and
situations in much the same way. What appears on the outside, or at first
sight, is not always an accurate picture of what is on the inside. Jesus
searches the heart and people's inner intentions and challenges us to do the
same before we rush to judge them. In my years of experience, I have discovered
some of the most “beautiful” people after giving them a second “look”. Have you
been judging “books” by their covers? Maybe it’s time to take a second look and
consider their hearts.
PRAYER
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