DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, July 1, 2025
Catherine Winkworth's
translations made the riches of German hymnody available to English
speakers. John Mason Neale
was involved in the church renewal movement and is commemorated for his
translations of hymns from Greek and Latin hymnody.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 9:1-14; Acts 6:15
- 7:16; Luke 22:31-38
SCRIPTURE
Luke 22:31-32 — And the Lord said,
"Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you
as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when
you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren."
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
When I grew up on the farm,
we had to put our oats through a kind of sifter to get rid of chaff, dirt,
small stones, and weed seeds. I had to invent a similar sifter for my compost.
Compost can make a difference in mid-summer gardens. I was able to get loads of
it free from a city leaf dump. The first year, I spread it in my garden but
discovered that it was full of plastics, twigs, and other refuse. In order to
make it usable, I had to sift it through a screen. It took a lot more time and
energy, but it was worth it in the end. Even Satan knows the value of sifting.
The ancient method of sifting involved throwing the wheat seed in the air to
let the wind blow away the chaff and waste. Jesus warned Peter that the winds
of adversity would be blowing at him from every direction. They would even be
strong enough to blow him off course, but all was not lost. Jesus’ prayer was
that Peter’s faith would be strong enough to bring him back to give strength to
the others who would be similarly “sifted.”
We all face times of “sifting”. The good news is that Jesus does not
just “write us off”! Instead, Jesus prays for our return and usefulness in
strengthening others. Have you identified the “sifting” in your life? Is your
faith helping you return (repent) so that you may be of use to the Lord?
PRAYER
Help me be strong enough
in my faith that when I am “sifted,” I will remain close to you, dear God. I
pray that I might cast off all those things that I do contrary to your will.
Thank you for the gift of Jesus Christ and for not “writing me off” when I have
gone astray. In His name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, July 2, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 9:15-10:1; Acts
7:30-43; Luke 22:39-51
SCRIPTURE
Luke 22:43 — Then an angel appeared
to Him from heaven, strengthening Him.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Most of our fields were
hilly. We had one field near the creek that was very flat and surrounded by
trees or hills. It was mid-summer, and the corn needed to be cultivated. Dad
sent me to that flat field to do the job. I enjoyed cultivating, and doing it
on a flat field seemed like a treat. However, I forgot my water jug. The
temperature approached 5,000 degrees, there was no trace of a breeze, and the
bindweed kept clogging up the shovels. In no time, I was drenched with sweat,
parched for thirst, and totally frustrated! To top it off, as I slid under the
shovels to clean out the bindweed, one of the shovels ripped my jeans and
sliced into my leg, making me think I’d probably bleed to death. Fortunately,
it was only a flesh wound, and I didn’t die. I had to take a breathing break
because the tractor fumes in the still-hot air were getting to me. That was
when Mom drove up - my angel of mercy - with a nice cool jug of water, a snack,
and encouragement. That kept me going.
Jesus saw the pain, the suffering, and the cross about to overtake Him.
Drenched in huge drops of sweat, He continued to pray for God’s will to be
done. The messenger from His Father appeared, not with a cool jug of water, but
the strengthening encouragement He needed to face whatever cup He would have to
drink. Have you considered asking for God’s strength when you are at the edge
of your limits? The Psalmist said it best: You prepare a table before, in
the presence of my enemies, you anoint my head with oil and my cup
overflows. Ps 23:5
PRAYER
Dear Lord, I often thirst
for your cool water during these hot summer months. Let me also thirst for your
word and appreciate the refreshment that it gives. Thank you for
strengthening and refreshing me by encouraging me. I pray this in the name of
the water of life, Jesus my Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, July 3, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 10:1-16; Romans
4:13-25; Matthew 21:23-32
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:31b — Jesus said to the
(chief priests and elders), "Assuredly, I say to you that tax collectors
and harlots enter the kingdom of God before you.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The “big kids” usually had
the advantage over some of us younger ones. They were faster and more
experienced in getting the best seats, the first treats, and the most
capable players. As we were preparing for a field trip to the big city
of Norfolk, Nebraska, they were the first in the cars with their friends,
making us squeeze in wherever there was room. If I’d had a choice, I certainly
wouldn’t have ridden between Blue and Schwendt! Both had left me with painful
bruises from time to time. When we stopped for a snack at the bakery, the “big
kids” were first in line for the treats. To their surprise and dismay, the
baker declared, “Youngest ones first!” As a result, we received the most oversized
cookies on the rack, while some of the “big kids” ended up with smaller, broken
cookies. The chief priests and elders
(“big kids”) in the religious establishment considered their favored position
secure, even in heaven. Jesus informed them that such was not necessarily the
case. Some of the despised of the world who turned their lives over to God would
be better off when the Day of Judgment came. In other words, entrance into the
kingdom of God is not based on position or rank but on the state of the heart
in a person’s relationship with God. Have you been counting on the fact that
your name is on the church books or the fact that you serve on the church
council to get you into heaven? The question is, “Where is your heart in your
relationship to Christ?” Or, have you
been feeling “less than holy and not good enough to enter God’s presence?
Rejoice! Jesus judges hearts, not rank or worldly wealth. He loves you “just as
you are!”
PRAYER
I am ashamed, dear Lord,
that sometimes I think that I deserve the best because I am doing what you have
called me to do. Thank you for blessing me so abundantly. I pray that I will
use my blessings to bless others who suffer and lack the basic needs in life.
In the Holy Name of Jesus I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, July 4, 2025
Independence Day
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 10:17-27; Acts
7:44 - 8:1; Luke 22:52-62
SCRIPTURE
Luke 22:54 — Having arrested Him,
they led Him and brought Him into the high priest's house.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
In the “old west,” the posse
was the ultimate authority. When we caught the bank robbers, the horse thieves,
or the cattle rustlers, we didn’t have to haul them before a judge somewhere. We
changed hats, found a box, and used the rusted hammer with the broken handle
for a gavel. There were only occasional appeals to the higher authority of Mom,
but sentencing was usually swift and severe. We never hanged anyone, but a few
were sentenced to be hanged, and lots of dangerous criminals got hundreds of
years in jail. (That usually translated to about ten to fifteen minutes.) Not
so with Jesus. He was arrested and dragged from one authority to the next. The
high priest’s house was only the first stop. While only the Romans had the
authority to execute, the Jewish authorities felt no restraint from beatings
and humiliation along the way. The high priest’s house was excavated in
Jerusalem several years ago. It includes a circular prison in the floor in
which Jesus was most likely thrown while waiting to be “tried” by the high
priest. Many of Jesus' trials were little more than “kangaroo courts.” We may sometimes be frustrated with the
slowness of justice and the endless appeals of our courts, but how well would
Jesus fare in our court system? How does Jesus fare in them? “What
you do to the least....” We may thank the Lord for taking upon Himself the
punishment of us all so that we might be judged with loving mercy.
PRAYER
Sometimes, dear God, I am
so judgmental, being judge and jury and making up my mind too quickly. Forgive
me for my lack of judgment and my lack of caring for those who are not
receiving fair verdicts throughout the world. Use me to bring justice. In the
name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, July 5, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 11:1-15; Acts
8:1-13; Luke 22:63-71
SCRIPTURE
Luke 22:63 — Now the men who held
Jesus mocked Him and beat Him.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
A valuable lesson for a
kindergartner in country school was saying, “Uncle!” It’s not that hard, but it was an important
survival tool I learned after my “newness” at country school wore off, and I
became one of those with whom the “big kids” could “have fun.” Saying “Uncle!” too soon wasn’t smart. You
had to wait until they had you down or trapped, but before they started causing
real pain. Humiliation seemed to be frosting on the cake for the real bullies.
Somehow, we survived with no lasting scars and, in the end, became friends with
most of those who made us say “Uncle!” Those who held Jesus enjoyed beating and
humiliating Him. They weren’t just trying to get Him to say, “Uncle!” Their
superiors wanted Jesus to deny His relationship with His Father. They wanted
Him to stop preaching, stop using the Sabbath for healing, and stop
raising the dead. They wanted Him to stop acting and talking the part of the
Messiah He was and admit it was all just an act. I’ve often wondered if we are
any better. When Jesus is among us as “the least of these my brothers,” do our
words and our actions mock Him and beat Him also? Today, pay attention to those
you may have looked down on for any reason. How would you treat them if you
knew they were Jesus in disguise? Then, thank God, among Jesus’ last words were
words of forgiveness.
PRAYER
O my Christ and Heavenly
King, forgive me for those times when I have not seen you in the “least of
these.” Help me treat others as if I were treating you, for I know you are with
and in each of us. I pray this in your holy name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, July 6, 2025
Jan Hus was ordained as a priest in 1401. The writings of
Wycliffe deeply influenced him. Because of his stand on matters of church
discipline, Hus was excommunicated and later burned at the stake. He is honored
by Lutherans, Moravians, and Presbyterians.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 12:1-25; Acts
8:14-25; Luke 23:1-12
SCRIPTURE
Luke 23:3 — Then Pilate asked him,
"Are you the king of the Jews?" He answered, "You say so."
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
My primary hobby is herbs. I
love to grow them and work with them. But I enjoy talking about them. I’ve
researched their stories and even written over a dozen songs about herbs. I
probably speak and sing about herbs to at least six or seven groups every year.
I went to a nearby community to give a presentation on herbs last fall. One of
the group members came up to greet me, thinking I was a visitor. When she heard
my name, she declared, “Oh, you’re the expert on herbs!” As flattered as I was,
I know that the more I study herbs, the less of an expert I feel myself to be.
All I could do was smile, accept her compliment, and admit, “I know a few
things about them.” Pilate had spies all over the country, keeping track of
potential problems. He no doubt had enough reports on Jesus from friends and
enemies to “choke a horse.” The reports were sufficient to give Jesus an
audience - a trial. His question of Jesus is a summary of what he had heard.
Jesus does not deny the reports. He acknowledges what Pilate has heard. The
question of who Jesus is seems to be the central question in the gospels
answered by Peter (“You are the Christ!”), by the Father (“This
is my beloved son....”), by Pilate, and later by Thomas (“My Lord and my
God!”). So, who is Jesus to you? Does He make a difference in the way you
talk, the way you work, the way you play, the way you live?
PRAYER
My Lord and my God, you
are the world to me, more important than anything. Give me the ability to make
my words and actions reflect that fact. Let others see you as their King
because of what I say and do. I am bold to pray these things only through your
holy name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, July 7, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 13:5-18; Acts
8:26-40; Luke 23:13-25
SCRIPTURE
Luke 23:20-21 — Pilate, wanting to
release Jesus, addressed them again, but they kept shouting, "Crucify,
crucify him!"
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
There is something almost
magnetic about water and kids. At least, it was for us when we were kids. We
were scouting for dinosaur tracks down by the creek with one of the neighbors. When
my brother grabbed his hand, Bobby slipped off the bank and held on to a
quickly loosening weed. A twinkle came to Mike’s eyes when someone said, “Let
him fall!” Others joined the chorus. My sister said, “No! Don’t you dare!” and
Mike let go. Bobby howled as he hit the water and got drenched. It was only a
short fall, and the creek was about six inches deep, so there wasn’t any real
danger of his drowning. Human nature, “mob” encouragement, and water mixed that
day to give everyone a good laugh except Bobby and my sister. For Jesus,
it was more than a short fall into a shallow creek that the crowd was
demanding. It was a painful fall onto a tall cross, on which only suffering and
death awaited. Are there times when we become part of the howling crowd
encouraging the downfall of those clinging to their dignity or even their eternal
life? It is not always easy to go against the overwhelming majority. How can
you make your voice heard in favor of Christ today? Whatever we do for the
least we do for Him, and any friend of Jesus is a friend of His Father!
PRAYER
How many times have I
remained silent, dear Lord, when I knew the rest of the crowd was wrong? I am
sorry for those times and ask that you forgive my cowardice. I ask that I might
defend the defenseless and speak for those without a voice. It is in your
name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, July 8, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 13:19-14:15; Acts
9:1-9; Luke 23:26-31
SCRIPTURE
Luke 23:26 — Now as they led Him
away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from
the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it
after Jesus.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The harvesting of oats was
usually a very hot and dirty job. Before modern air-conditioned combines and
harvesters, the oats were “shocked” or tied in bundles by a machine that cut
them and moved them by canvas to one or two people who tied the bundles as they
rode along. The bundles were stacked like little tepees all over the field so
they would dry properly. When dried, they were picked up, loaded on a wagon,
and taken to a threshing machine, separating the grain from the straw. The oats
were then hauled to a storage area and shoveled into the bin. The straw was then
taken to a barn, where it was stored for bedding to be used during the winter
months. This was usually a cooperative
effort by all the neighbors and resembled a slow, tedious relay race, with
one farmer passing his work on to another until the job was done. Jesus wasn’t
carrying light bundles of grain. Weakened by numerous beatings, torture, and
bloodshed, He was forced to carry the cross beam to his execution. When he
could no longer do so, His tormentors passed it on to Simon, an unsuspecting
bystander, and “volunteered” him for this ominous task. At the earliest
opportunity, Simon passed it on to the executioners so they could “hang Jesus
up to dry,” so to speak. How would you feel if you were forced to carry a
condemned man’s cross? How do you feel when you must carry your
own cross and “bear one another’s burdens”? Give thanks that Jesus has promised
never to leave you alone to “do it yourself!”
PRAYER
Thank you for those who
have come to my rescue when I thought I couldn’t take one more step. When I see
someone burdened by their cares and the crosses of their day, I pray that
you will open my eyes and my heart to help them, O Holy One. Thank you for
being willing to go all the way with the cross you were given so that I might
be reconciled with your Father. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, July 9, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 14:16-30; Acts
9:1-9; Luke 23:32-43
SCRIPTURE
Luke 23:43 — He replied, "Truly
I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise."
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
When I was thirteen, our
family took the one and only family vacation of my growing-up years to visit
relatives in California. We left a few days before Christmas when the Nebraska
temperature had dropped below 0. California, for us, seemed like a taste of
heaven. But the real treat came a few days after Christmas when Uncle Tony
announced he was taking us to Disneyland! We could hardly sleep the night
before we went. It was wonderful! Above
and beyond his excruciating pain and struggle to keep from suffocating, I’m not
sure what the thief on the cross beside Jesus felt when Jesus promised to be
with him in Paradise. Undoubtedly, he had already resigned himself to spending
eternity in the fires of hell or the terrors of Sheol. He knew he didn’t
deserve any more after his life of crime. But there, in the helplessness of his
own execution, he hears a promise beyond His wildest dreams, possibly the only
really good thing that ever happened to him in his entire life! “Paradise” - to
walk in the King’s garden - was far better than Disneyland and all of its
“make-believe” worlds. How freely Jesus makes the promise, even in His agony. Too
many people fail to appreciate how much Jesus longs for us to have more
than the fading pleasures of this world. Which would you rather have - a day
for two at Disneyland or an eternity in Paradise with Christ? Like the thieves
on either side of Jesus, we make our choices every day. What will you choose
today?
PRAYER
It is wonderful to hear your
words to me, O Christ, that “I will be with you in paradise.” I am like the
thief on the cross with nothing that I have that will let me enter on my own. I
am so grateful that I have your words of promise. Thank you for your great
love. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, July 10, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 14:36-45; Romans
5:1-11; Matthew 22:1-14
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:8-9 — Then he said to his
slaves, 'The wedding is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore
into the main streets and invite everyone you find to the wedding banquet.'
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
In late fall, we moved the
feeder cattle to the “home” place two miles east of their quickly diminishing
pastures. We didn’t have horses and had to do it on foot. (Had we had horses,
it would have been like an old west cattle drive!) With the onset of winter,
what little grass they could find would be covered with snow. On the “home” place, we could fatten them in
the feedlot and ensure they had water and protection from the bitter winter
ahead. Two of the first bunch we were moving absolutely would not cooperate.
They were flighty and refused to stay with the other cattle when we tried to
herd them toward the gate. After several tries, Dad declared that they would
have to wait until we rounded up the last part of the herd on another day -
using the neighbor’s horse. Between times, we had heavy rain and some snow,
making the last cattle drive impossible until the ground froze solid. By the
time we moved them to the feedlot, they were almost starved. Cattle aren’t the
only “dumb animals” who turn their backs on their masters “feast”! Look around
you on Sunday at the empty pews. How happy we will be to feast on the Word in
worship! How sad we should feel for those whose appetite for the “empty
calories” of the world leads them to abandon the Master’s table in favor of
other distractions. The Good Shepherd - the Good Cowboy - invites you to His
“Feedlot” of Joy. Which direction will/did you go today?
PRAYER
When I miss the
opportunity to feed on your word, O God, I feel empty and hungry inside. Thank
you for leading me so that I may worship you with others from my “herd.” I pray
that you also use me to show others how to receive your nourishment by inviting
them into your pastures. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, July 11, 2025
Benedict of Nursia was the patriarch of Western monasticism who promoted
a reform movement through his famous Rule.
Antony ©. 2251-356) was a classic representative of the “Desert Fathers”
and is regarded as the founder of monasticism because he gathered hermits into
communities.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 15:1-23; Acts
9:19-31; Luke 23:44-56
SCRIPTURE
Luke 23:53 — Then (Joseph of
Arimathea) took (the body of Jesus) down, wrapped it in a linen cloth, and laid
it in a rock-hewn tomb where no one had ever been laid.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
At the grave-side service for
Grandma, which followed the long boring church service, I was fascinated by the
device on which they placed her casket. As a six-year-old, I wasn’t all that
interested in the long readings and prayers, but I was curious about how they
were going to get her casket into that deep hole. When the pastor finally ran
out of things to read or say, I was rewarded with the lowering of the casket. I
was with my other grandfather who was trying to herd me away and back to the
car. I was disappointed to leave before the casket was all the way down. The
following Easter, when I heard about a tomb “where no one had ever been laid,”
I wondered who else was buried in Grandma’s grave! (I was assured there was no
one else buried there.) In many parts of the world, especially Europe, grave
space is “leased.” When the lease is up, the family pays for another time, or
the bones are removed, and the grave is resold. In Jesus’ day, unused graves
could only be afforded by the rich. Joseph provided the best thing he could for
the One who had provided forgiveness, life, and salvation for Joseph and us
through His death on the cross. What are you willing and able to offer your
Savior in appreciation for what He has already done for you? He doesn’t need a
grave. Thank God He isn’t there anymore!
But He does need a thankful heart through which He can continue to live
and love!
PRAYER
It is with great joy that
I know that the tomb in which you were laid is empty. Come live in my heart,
dear Jesus, and make it into the type of home you would like it to be. Open it
up, so I willingly give to others as you have blessed me. I ask these things in
your Holy name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, July 12, 2025
Nathan Soderblom was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1930 for his
work as archbishop, which involved achieving evangelical catholicity among
Christian communions.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 15:24-35; Acts
9:32-43; Luke 23:56-24:12
SCRIPTURE
Luke 25:5b — (The angels) said to (the women), “Why do
you seek the living among the dead?”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Hamburg, Germany is a large
city. After taking a city tour by bus, we were given the afternoon to shop.
After about an hour of walking in and out of shops, one member of our tour
group wasn’t feeling up to so much walking, so I volunteered to search for a
shop with a specific German audio tape. My mistake was not writing down the shop
address where I had left the group of people who had decided to wait with
her. After an hour of combing the shops unsuccessfully, I decided I had better
find our group again so that we could make it back to our bus. I almost
panicked when they were not on the street I thought they were on. I had to
retrace my steps and carefully examine where I was. I hurriedly peeked in
several shops, no doubt leaving customers and shopkeepers alike wondering who I
was or what I was searching for. The night Jesus died, it had been dark, and
the women had been overwhelmed with grief when they helped lay the body of
Jesus in the tomb. They didn’t think it would be that difficult to find the
tomb again, especially since Pilate had posted guards there. However, that
morning, still bleary-eyed from tears and lack of sleep, they were shocked to
find the guards gone and the tomb empty. They were sure they were in the right
place. No doubt, they searched every possible tomb in the area before the
angels told them the good news, news that hadn’t yet sunk in. Where do you
search for that which will truly satisfy and lead to eternal life? May you
discover the joy of searching in the right places rather than the
disappointment of searching for the Living among the dead!
PRAYER
I have tried to find
satisfaction in many places and ways, dear Lord. I have tried to find it in
stores where there are things which I want to purchase. I have tried to find it
at work or home and in the busyness of life. I know now that true happiness can
only come from you, and when I put you first in my life, you graciously satisfy
my longing heart. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, July 13, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 16:1-13; Acts
10:1-16; Luke 24:13-35
SCRIPTURE
Luke 24:30-31a — When (Jesus) was at the table with
them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes
were opened, and they recognized him;....
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
A young friend of mine
returned from a mission trip to Peru. She had read about the country. She had
read about poverty and poor living conditions. She went with expectations of
primitive living. However, when she walked with the people of that remote Peruvian
village and worked side-by-side with the people, she discovered the real people
of Peru for the first time. Her image of what she thought was “primitive” was
multiplied by the real thing many times. But it was in sitting down to eat with
the children and the adults that her eyes were opened. These were not just
primitive savages! These were children of God for whom Jesus died also! The
disciples who walked with Jesus thought he was a strange stranger who knew
nothing “of the events that had taken place in Jerusalem,” but they discovered,
in the breaking of bread, that He was the One who had died and was risen. “Their
eyes were opened in the breaking of bread.” Those words should haunt us and
remind us how powerful the presence of Christ is when we share Holy Communion.
Indeed, our eyes of faith are opened when we invite Him into our hearts. It may
be just a ritual and a meaningless piece of bread and sip of wine for some, but
for those who believe, He is there for us to celebrate! What do you think about
when you receive Holy Communion? Do you, like me, long to break bread with
Christ as often as possible?
PRAYER
Thank you for the
opportunity to sit down with you and other believers at your table, dear Lord.
Open my eyes like you opened the eyes of the disciples that first Easter
so that I may see you in our midst. Help me celebrate each time I have the
opportunity to participate in your supper. It is in your Holy Name that I pray.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, July 14, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 16:14 - 17:11;
Acts 10:17:33; Luke 24:36-53
SCRIPTURE
Luke 24:41-42 — While in
their joy they were disbelieving and still wondering, he said to them,
"Have you anything here to eat?" They gave him a piece of broiled
fish, and he took it and ate in their presence.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Friends of ours had promised
to visit us. They had repeatedly promised, “This year, we’ll be coming!” After
several such promises, we took their promise with a grain of salt. We didn’t
bother with making any special plans because, in the past, we “got all dressed
up with nowhere to go!” And we figured
that was all we could ever look forward to. I even made appointments to visit
the day they said they’d come. Wouldn’t you know it? They actually came! We were thrilled! I gladly canceled my
appointments, and we enjoyed our time with them. Sue’s first whispered words
when we saw them were, “What am I going to feed them? I don’t even have any
decent leftovers!” Fortunately, they insisted on taking us out to eat, and we
truly enjoyed their visit. Jesus wasn’t just coming for a visit. He had died.
He had risen! And He came for supper! Had He not eaten with the disciples, no
doubt they would have dismissed His appearance as a figment of their collective
imaginations or thought of Him as a ghost. However, He ate the fish and enjoyed
His visit with them. Only the night before, Jesus had revealed Himself in the
breaking of bread in Emmaus. Now, He makes it clear that He is not a ghost or a
hallucination. He is real! He has risen! Do you invite Jesus to share meals
with you? Do your conversations reflect the joy of His presence? He has kept
His promise! Where we gather in His name - even at meal-time - He is there!
Before leaving the table, why not take a minute to thank Him for joining you?
PRAYER
Thank you, Jesus, for
being with me at the table, whether I am dining alone or with others. Your
presence makes my meal complete, and so does your presence in my life. Come,
Lord Jesus, be my guest at my table and every moment. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Olga, Princess of Kiev, was praised for her courage and
ability as ruler in Russia. Her grandson Vladimir, who effected the
Christianization of his people in 988, was respected for his kindness toward
criminals, his generosity toward the poor, and his support of Greek
missionaries.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 17:17-30; Acts
10:34-48; Mark 1:1-13
SCRIPTURE
Mark 1:6 — Now John was clothed with
camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild
honey.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I’m sure our California
cousins thought we dressed strangely, but they were the ones who ate strange
food. We usually dressed in overalls, t-shirts, and “cow boots” (high-topped
work shoes that are more comfortable and functional than the boots cowboys
wore). While they thought we were strange when we chewed on a strand of alfalfa
hay, they ate weird stuff like avocados, and olives, and vegetables out of a
can! John the Baptist wore desert clothes, which were more functional than
fancy robes. What he wore and ate may have seemed “odd” to the “refined city
people.” However, he ate the food that could be found in a wilderness if
you knew where to look: food that was “clean,” according to the scriptures.
What he ate and wore did not keep him from doing the work he was called to do -
calling people to repentance in preparation for the coming of the Messiah. Some
probably looked down their noses at this unconventional man with a
message. In concentrating on the externals, they missed the importance of what
needed to occur internally. Do we, too, miss the message because we don’t look,
act, dress, or eat the way the messenger does? It’s time to stop and take a
second look in the mirror to discover our need for repentance and give thanks
that God looks beyond the “odd” externals to our heart’s relationship with Him!
PRAYER
I am sorry that I judge
your messengers by their clothes, their social status, the color of their skin,
or anything else that makes them different from me, O God. Forgive me for my
shortsightedness, and help me hear your message that they proclaim. In the name
of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 17:31-49; Acts
11:1-18; Mark 1:14-28
SCRIPTURE
Mark 1:15 — “The time is fulfilled,
and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Mid-July, the Sydow clan was
preparing to chop cockleburs when most sane people were taking fabulous
vacations. That was a generic phrase for “chop anything that isn’t corn,
growing in the corn rows that we didn’t kill with the cultivator.” The time
always came when my parents gave the impression that God would be ashamed of us
if He came and found weeds growing in our corn. “The time” I refer to was
always the hottest, muggiest part of the summer, about a week after the
grasshoppers had chewed on the corn leaves enough to sharpen them to resemble
the biblical two-edged sword. Of course, it was too hot to wear long-sleeved
shirts, so a blood sacrifice was part of the ritual, which reminded us to make
those weeds repent so the corn could have good news! For John the Baptist, the weeds were the sins
invading the hearts of God’s people. Jesus, and thus the kingdom of God, was
near. Repentance was needed, but the
good news of God’s grace was at hand also. There was no time to waste.
Truthfully, there IS no time to waste! John’s message is for each of us. What
are the weeds - the sins - that separate you from God? What repentance is
needed on your part to bring you into harmony with God’s will? We know the good
news that God loves us so intensely that God will permit no repented sin to
tarnish our relationship with Him. The time is fulfilled...!
PRAYER
I am sorry that I have not
always treated others as you want me to treat them or have ignored their
suffering. In this month's heat, refresh me and them with the good news of your
salvation, dear God. Let it wash over us like an incredible waterfall of love.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, July 17, 2025
Bartolome de Las Casas was an apostle to the Indies who accompanied the
Spanish governor to Hispaniola. He was probably the first person ordained in
the New World.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 17:50-18:4;
Romans 10:4-17; Matthew 23:29-39
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 23:29-30 —
"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you build the tombs of
the prophets and decorate the graves of the righteous, and say, ‘If we had
lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in
the blood of the prophets.’
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
As a little kid in country school, I vowed that when I
grew up and became a “big kid” I would never treat the younger kids the way the
“big kids” treated me. I must make it clear that the “big kids” were not a
bunch of sadistic bullies. Mostly, they were really good, helpful, and
considerate. It was only at certain unpredictable times when I would sit on a
tack, run into an outstretched foot, and get teased about one stupid thing
or another. They could be kind one minute but use the back of my head for pea shooting
practice the next. However, I must also confess that as a “big kid” myself, I did
some of the same things. I want to say I wasn’t as mean, but you’d have to talk
to one of the younger kids. Jesus ran into people like that all the time. The
Pharisees, in particular, were a very devout and committed religious group. For
all the bad “press” they have received, they tried desperately to keep the Law
of the Lord perfectly. Yet, they also made the Law so challenging to follow that ordinary
people on the streets often gave up trying. They also used their additions to
the Law to break the Law handed down by Moses. They were what the word hypocrite
means literally. They were actors. While bemoaning the way their forefathers
treated the prophets, they were acting in the same way with the Messiah.
Is it possible that we ourselves become the hypocrites on whom we look down? Do
we consider our church friendly but ignore visitors or those who are
“different” while being friendly with only those we know? What could we do to
change our failures and hypocrisies? We can thank God that Jesus has given us
the perfect example of how to love without limits and without acting.
PRAYER
It is easy to be friendly and warm to a new person who
comes into my church if they are like me, dear Savior. I’m afraid I am a
hypocrite when it comes to welcoming those who might not be as well dressed,
without a home, or in need of a shower. I’m sorry, and I ask you to change me
so that I am more like you in welcoming everyone in need of your (and my) love.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, July 18, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 18:5-30; Acts
11:130; Mark 1:29-45
SCRIPTURE
Mark 1:35 — In the morning, while it
was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he
prayed.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
It is 3:45 a.m. as I begin
writing this morning. Not exceptionally early. It’s about average. There seems
to be some internal clock that wakes me to say, “It’s time to spend time with
the Lord.” I’ve been doing it for years. For a long time, I thought it was an
old habit from years of getting up at 4 a.m. to milk cows and finish the other
chores before going to school or doing fieldwork. However, no matter how tired
I am, nor how late I was up the night before (I didn’t get to sleep until after
11:30 last night), I’m usually awakened by a word, a phrase, the melody of a
song, or an idea which I know from experience I must get up and write down or
lose. This morning was no exception. Over the years, I’ve tried to fight it.
I’ve even resented it. But more and more, I treasure this time as I feel the
Spirit flowing through my heart and mind to my fingers on the keyboard.
Sometimes, I sit and meditate on the thought or idea that woke me up, asking
God to enlarge my vision so that He can help me understand the meaning of
whatever He wants me to know. This, for me, is a time of “communion” with my
Lord, far deeper and more personal than I would have thought possible. I am unsurprised
that Jesus did the same thing most mornings with His Father. For me, as I’m
sure it was for Jesus, it doesn’t always “produce” anything visible or tangible
to share. But it is almost always an uninterrupted time of quiet basking in the
Father’s presence. Like Jesus, I always feel synchronized with my Creator. Do
you gift yourself with a time and a place each day for prayer, meditation, and
reconnecting with your Lord?
PRAYER
I get so caught up in the
“rat race” of life, dear Father, that sometimes I neglect to seek a quiet time
that I might be alone with you. I am sorry for putting you among the last
things to do this day instead of the first. I pray that I will put everything
else aside and spend a little quality time with you, the one who loves me the
most. I pray this in the name of your Son Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, July 19, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 19:1-24; Acts
12:1-17; Mark 2:1-12
SCRIPTURE
Mark 2:4 — And when they could not
bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and
after having dug through it, they let down the mat on which the paralytic lay.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
“There is more than one way
to skin a cat,” the saying goes. I’ve never tried any of them, although my twin
brothers, in their younger years, attempted to use a fence staple to nail a
cat’s tail to the porch floor - an act for which they were severely chastised
(and scratched) by the cat, and scolded by their mother! There were several
ways to find and bring the cows in for milking. There were several ways to
build a fort, catch bank robbers, and explore Africa's darkest reaches. There
are several ways to plant seeds, pick mulberries, and cure colds. There are
also several ways to bring a friend to Christ. A friend doesn’t give up when
one method doesn’t work. Obviously, the friends of the paralytic were
determined to get him to the feet of Jesus “by hook or by crook.” How determined are you to bring a friend to
Christ? It took the friends of the paralytic a lot of time and effort to lug
him to the top of the porch, tear off the roof, attach ropes, and lower
him. It took Monica almost 30 years to
bring her son, Augustine, to a heartfelt relationship with the Lord. It takes
some people nothing more than a ride in a car to church or a warm greeting when
they get there. Others may require attending a Bible class with them.
Some may come with a single invitation, while others may take a lifetime of
persistence. There are many ways to bring a friend to Christ! Have you tried
them all?
PRAYER
Why do I give up on the
people I know so quickly, dear Lord? Is it because I don’t want to make them
angry with me, or is it because I’m afraid? I pray that you will show me
different ways to invite them. Thank you for never giving up on me. I pray this
in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, July 20, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 19:1-24; Acts
12:18-25; Mark 2:13-22
SCRIPTURE
Mark 2:16 — When the scribes of the
Pharisees saw that he was eating with sinners and tax collectors, they said to
his disciples, "Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?"
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Some of the plants in my
garden enjoy one another’s company. They even help each other grow and thrive.
Other plants, especially some we call weeds, sap the soil of nutrients and
hinder the growth of their neighbors. Some inhibit the growth of other plants.
None of those plants cross-pollinate. However, mint is another story. One year,
I decided to plant a mint garden. I had peppermint, spearmint, catmint, orange
mint, lemon mint, chocolate mint, pineapple mint, and one called holy mint.
They grew well and thrived, but they cross-pollinated. I planted them too close
to each other, and by the following season, they all smelled the same! The
scribes and Pharisees looked at sinners, tax collectors, and Gentiles similarly.
They were afraid that touching them or even eating with them would contaminate
(cross-pollinate) good Jews. Living with sinners of any culture and eating with
them can make people susceptible to falling into sin themselves if they imitate
their sin, but sin is not a virus we can catch. Sin is anything we do that
separates us from God and other people. Fear of guilt by association may
prevent us from witnessing to those in need of the saving power of the cross.
By His actions, Jesus showed us the importance of loving even “the worst of
sinners,” as Paul called himself. Do you avoid certain people for fear of being
labeled with them? Is your faith and commitment to Jesus Christ strong enough
to keep you from joining them in their sin?
Are you willing to witness to them as our Savior did?
PRAYER
Forgive me when I isolate
myself from people who might look and act as sinners, dear God, for fear of
contaminating myself. Instead, use me to
reach out to all people so that they may truly come to know you and your ways.
Cross-pollinate me with your love so that people won’t be able to tell where
your love ends. In the name of Jesus, who was not afraid to associate with
everybody. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, July 21, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 20:24-42; Acts
13:1-12; Mark 2:23-3:6
SCRIPTURE
Mark 2:24 — The Pharisees said to
him, "Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath?"
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I wish I could say Sunday -
our Sabbath - was always a day of rest on the farm, but that wasn’t real. It
was no mystery to me that the shepherds were considered unclean and unholy.
Aside from having no place to take a bath, they couldn’t leave the sheep to go
to the Temple, even if they would have been permitted in. The cows didn’t take
a Sabbath. They had to be milked twice a day. The chickens didn’t take a
Sabbath. We had to gather their eggs. Like us, the animals all needed to eat
and drink. When the weather permitted us to get into town on Sunday, we went to
church and Sunday school - after chores, baths, and breakfast. When conditions
were right - weather, soil, seeds, or weeds - we took care of what needed to be
done. As a pastor, I also understand the dilemma of the disciples. They were on
a journey with the Lord. There were some basic needs that had to be met -
Sabbath - or not. There is a need to take time for worship and serving the
Lord. But quite often, following Jesus’ example, the needs of people come
before man-made rules and traditions concerning the Sabbath. The question for
all of us is, how do we “remember the Sabbath and keep it holy”? Does what we
do glorify God?
PRAYER
Make each of my days a
Sabbath, dear Father, that I may worship you in everything that I do. I lift up
my voice and sing my praises to you. I pray that I will listen and study your
word today, put you first, and then do the work you have called me to do. In
the name of your Son, Jesus, the Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
St. Mary Magdalene was cured by Jesus of her possession by seven demons.
She was present at the crucifixion and burial and was a principal witness to
the resurrection.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 21:1-15; Acts
13:13-25; Mark 3:7-19
SCRIPTURE
Mark 3:11 — Whenever the unclean
spirits saw him, they fell down before him and shouted, "You are the Son
of God!"
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
A friend invited my wife and
me to participate in a conference in Lublin, Poland, several years ago, about
the same time we were scheduled to speak at a meeting in Augsburg, Germany. The
travel, the conference, and the meetings were all exciting opportunities. Our
friend has written a number of books, but we had no idea how much impact she
had had on people in other parts of the world until we arrived in Lublin.
People from Africa, Europe, South America, and Asia greeted her with warm
embraces and often with tears of joy in their eyes. A man from Ethiopia told us
she and her deceased husband were the reason they were Christians. Some came
running and praising God the minute they saw her. It was like traveling with a
rock star! The unclean spirits who saw Jesus were so shocked by the presence of
the real Star, Jesus, that they forgot themselves and could not help but
fall down to worship Him. In His presence, they were powerless to act in any
other way. It should be a thrilling reminder that when we invite Christ to live
in us, no evil can ever have power over us. In fact, evil itself must bow down
to the Christ in us. I love the little card I received, which declares, “The
Jesus in me loves you!” Is the Rock Star (the Rock of our Salvation) shining in
you? If not, why not invite Him in and show Him off to everyone who meets you?!
PRAYER
As thrilling as it is to
be in the presence of someone famous, I can’t think of anyone I would rather be
with than with you, my Jesus. Shine in me so that all might see you and that I
might show you off as the most wonderful thing that ever happened to me. I pray
this in your name of the Rock Star of my salvation. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Brigitta of Sweden founded the Order of the Holy Savior, which consisted
of monks and nuns. The cloister was one of Sweden's most important cultural and
religious centers during the Middle Ages.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 22:1-23; Acts
13:226-43; Mark 3:19-35
SCRIPTURE
Mark 3:35 — Whoever does the will of
God is my brother and sister and mother.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I grew up with a large
extended family. Besides the six in my immediate family, I had nine living
aunts and uncles on my father’s side and fourteen living aunts and uncles on my
mother’s side of the family. Most of them lived within a twenty or thirty-mile
radius of our farm. That meant lots of cousins to play with when we had family
gatherings for major holidays. I missed those family gatherings and the
closeness of my family when I went away to school and later when I moved
to other parts of the country. However, it has seemed as if one or two families
in every community have “adopted” us, inviting us to all their gatherings,
making us feel like part of their families. Jesus was living far from His Home
in heaven, yet knew home on earth was with His family. For Jesus, blood lines
weren’t as important as relationships and obedience to the will of the Father.
He claimed any and all who believe and do God’s will as part of His intimate
family. There are no other qualifications. Have you been acting the part of a
brother or sister of Christ? What do you think our Father’s will is for us to
do today? How great it is to know that you are a child of God and a member of
Jesus’ family!
PRAYER
It’s wonderful to be a
part of a large family, filled with brothers and sisters who are all related to
you, Heavenly Father. Give me the opportunity to embrace and invite these
brothers and sisters, some of whom I have never met, to come celebrate with me.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, July 24, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 23:7-18; Romans
11:33-12:2; Matthew 25:14-30
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:16 — The one who had
received the five talents went off at once and traded with them and made five
more talents.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I learned capitalism's merits
and dangers at the age of nine when I stayed with one of my city cousins.
He was a collector of baseball cards and marbles. I didn’t know much about
baseball, except that the one we used in country school got pretty soft by the
end of the year, so the cards didn’t impress me. But my cousin taught me to play “marbles,”
and I was hooked on getting some of my own. But Jim wasn’t just interested in
playing with them. He was into trading them with other kids in town. I was
impressed when he traded one of his cat’s eyes for three ordinary marbles: red,
black, and dirty yellow. I started dropping hints that I wanted marbles
for Christmas. When I got underwear and an erector set, I began working on my
birthday in March. I received a book and some money instead. The money,
however, was just enough to buy my first bag of marbles. That’s when I
discovered the dangers of gambling. A bet lost my best marble and convinced me
never to make a bet again. I began to pay closer attention to the way others
played the game, and especially how my cousin traded with friends. Jesus was
talking about more than marbles. He was talking about talents - money,
possessions, abilities. That which was buried or hidden did nothing. That which
was used and invested saw an increase. How well do you use the “marbles” God
has given you? Are you using them to improve your skills, talents, and gifts,
or are you keeping them to yourself and letting them waste away? Why not try to
share at least one of your “talents” with someone today?
PRAYER
Sometimes, my Heavenly
Father, I keep the many talents you have given me well hidden. Forgive me
that I sometimes don’t try to improve them and then eagerly give them away to
others so that they may be used for your glory. I pray this in the name of my
most valuable possession, Jesus Christ, my Lord. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, July 25, 2025
St. James the Elder,
apostle, was a fisherman, son
of Zebedee, and brother of John. His is the only martyrdom of an apostle
recorded in Scripture (Acts 12:2). Herod Agrippa beheaded him.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 24:1-22; Acts
13:33-52; Mark 4:1-20
SCRIPTURE
Mark 4:14 — The sower sows the word.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I’ve always enjoyed sowing seeds. I rode in
the back of the seeder wagon as we broadcast oats and alfalfa seeds. Dad did
all of the corn planting, usually while I was in school. We all got to help
plant potatoes on Good Friday, and garden seeds when it got a little warmer.
With my interest in herbs, I planted several hundred annual herbs as early as
February to have some seedlings to grow after the danger of frost had passed. I
have occasionally found a package of seeds that were mislabeled. What a surprise
I had when another herb came up! My biggest problem, however, was providing suitable
soils for the seeds. Some would grow in just about anything. Others required
perfect temperature, soil pH, moisture, and often a perfect amount of darkness
and light to thrive. Jesus proclaimed the pure Word of God. He taught it to His
disciples and sent them out to sow the seeds of the good news of God’s love and
grace to all who “had ears to hear.”
Therein was the problem then, and therein is the issue now. Our
ears are the various soils that are either willing to receive the seed or
deafly reject it or strangle it. How well does the seed germinate in your
heart, your mind, and your soul? Are you at worship to hear it? Are you opening
your Bible to read it? Do you tune it in or tune it out? The Sower continues to
sow the Word. How will you receive the Living Word? The promise of Jesus is
that He will also make it prosper!
PRAYER
I pray that I will be good
soil, O God, ready and willing to accept your word and have it grow within me.
Let me never take the Bible for granted so that I continually study and receive
the good seed that is there within it. Thank you for giving me opportunities to
study and learn with others. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, July 26, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 25:1-22; Acts
14:1-18; Mark 4:21-34
SCRIPTURE
Mark 4:24 — And he said to them,
"Pay attention to what you hear; the measure you give will be the measure
you get, and still more will be given you.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I studied German at
Heidelberg University many years ago. It was probably the hardest I’ve had to
study since seminary days. There were twenty students from thirteen different
countries. Among them were two young women from China who had been over
their heads from day one. Their major problem was that they did not pay
attention. Add that to the fact that their German vocabulary was on par with
their English, which was very poor, and you can imagine the problems they had.
They loved to party, and when the instructors announced that we would have a
party on the Heilige Berg, “party” was all they heard. The “party” was
preceded by a long and challenging two-hour hike up the mountain. When we were
to begin the hike, it was rainy and windy. They showed up in beautiful silk
dresses, no jackets, and no umbrellas. It was apparent there was no way they
could make the trip. Jesus tried to get
people to listen to Him often, with mixed results. At least twelve paid
reasonably good attention, but even they came to faulty conclusions repeatedly.
The religious leaders paid attention, but only to trap Jesus and get rid of
Him. Those who did pay attention discovered that the more of themselves they
invested in Him, the more they were blessed. How well do you pay attention to your
Lord's teachings, the prophets and preachers who speak in His name, and the
meditations of your heart in which He gives you dreams, revelations, and
direction?
PRAYER
Still me, O Lord, that I
may sit and truly listen to what you have to tell me. So many times, I am so
wrapped up in what is going on around me that I come ill-prepared to follow
your instructions. Forgive me and open my ears so that I will hear. I pray this
in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, July 27, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 25:23-44; Acts
14:19-28; Mark 4:35-41
SCRIPTURE
Mark 4:38 — But he was in the stern,
asleep on the cushion; and they woke him up and said to him, "Teacher, do
you not care that we are perishing?"
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
A terrible storm system moved
through our area when I was about ten. It spawned a tornado which hit a farm
only a few miles from ours. No one was hurt, but buildings were destroyed,
animals were killed or had to be put down, and there was debris everywhere. Mom
and Dad were awake most of the night as the storm passed, but we kids slept
through it all. I was told the lightning seemed to light up everything, and the
thunder shook the house, rattling the windows and making a picture fall
off the wall. Like Jesus in the boat, we slept through it all, feeling safe and
secure, protected by our parents. I still follow Jesus’ example of rising early
to pray and meditate before the busy day begins, so I usually fall fast asleep
without much effort the minute my head hits the pillow. No doubt Jesus was tired,
and the rocking of the boat was like the rocking of a cradle. He cast all His
worries and problems on His Father’s shoulders, trusting God to protect Him
through the storms that raged about Him. The disciples, on the other hand,
trusting only in their abilities, were near panic when they woke Jesus. What
storms toss and shake your boat? Have you spent enough time with your heavenly
Father to build trust in His ability to calm them and carry you safely through?
With a Word, the winds ceased, the sea became calm, and the worried disciples
learned that even the wind and the seas obey Him! Has that lesson sunk into
your faith yet?
PRAYER
Cradle me in your loving
arms, dear Father, and make me feel secure. I trust that you will protect me through all the trials and storms
of this life. I am confident in your promises and know that you will bring me
safely home at the end of my life. I pray this in the name of your Son, Jesus
Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, July 28, 2025
Johann Sebastian Bach,
Heinrich Schuetz, and George Frederick Handel were great German composers and makers of music.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 28:3-20; Acts
15:1-11; Mark 5:1-20
SCRIPTURE
Mark 5:18-19 — As he was getting
into the boat, the man who had been possessed by demons begged him that he
might be with him. But Jesus refused and said to him, "Go home to
your friends, and tell them how much the Lord has done for you and what mercy
he has shown you."
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
One of the “big kids” who
went to high school when I was in country school went on to college and became
a vocational agriculture teacher. John got a teaching position in a nearby high
school and helped with some district and state events in which our high school
class participated. We had numerous speakers at some of those gatherings, but
John was one of us. We knew him and paid the most attention to him.
The other speakers were strangers who, we reasoned, could be feeding us a line,
but we knew John and his family and were impressed with what he had
to say. The man out of whom Jesus had cast many demons wanted to join the
band of itinerant disciples and preachers, but Jesus knew he would have more
impact right in his own hometown. Others might come to preach and teach about
the power of God over demons and how Jesus could cast them out. This man was
living proof that it was not just a tall tale! They knew him. They probably
grew up with him. They most likely had seen him possessed, and he may have even
beaten some. Jesus knew he would be more effective in his territory, so He
encouraged him to tell all his friends and neighbors his firsthand account.
Hopefully, you have not been possessed but have a story to tell. How
has God’s grace been active in your life? How good at sharing that story have
you been?
PRAYER
What fantastic news I have
to share with others, gracious Lord! You have given me life, sustained me, and
continually forgiven me of all my wrongs. Thank you for restoring my soul and
making it whole again. Be with me as I tell others of the marvelous things that
you have done. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
After converting to
Christianity, Olaf Haraldsson sailed for Norway and became king. From this time on, Christianity was
the dominant religion of the realm. Soon after his death, Olaf was recognized
as a patron and “eternal king of Norway.” Mary, Martha, and Lazarus of
Bethany were friends of Jesus.
Martha typifies the active life. Mary typifies the contemplative
life. Lazarus, who was raised to life by Jesus, is a sign of the eternal
life of believers.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 31:1-13; Acts
15:12-21; Mark 5:21-43
SCRIPTURE
Mark 5:30 — Immediately aware that
power had gone forth from him, Jesus turned about in the crowd and said,
"Who touched my clothes?"
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
The classic method of teasing
when we were young was to touch the person who was angry with us, especially
when they said, “Don’t touch me!” When five children rode in the back seat of a
car, we couldn’t help but touch. However, one or more brothers or my sister
often separated us. That meant more of a challenge to touch the angry person.
It took constant vigil to watch for opportunities to reach across one or two
other people to touch the one we wanted to irritate. In the end, it usually
became a game to see how skilled the other person was at feeling the touch or
to see how close we could come without actually touching. A bouncing car made
that a particular challenge. The woman who had been bleeding for all those
years wasn’t playing a game. She was desperate for healing for a multitude of
reasons, not the least of which was that the Law forbade her to be out in
public or to touch a Jewish man. She risked severe punishment for daring such a
daylight raid. But that one touch brought the instant healing she so
desperately needed. Jesus, when he felt the touch, didn’t yell, “Don’t touch
me!” Instead, He sought her out to bless her even more. Is there something in
your life that needs healing? Don’t hide from the body of Christ. Come to
worship with your brothers and sisters in Christ, where the Word of God can
touch your heart and where you may touch the hem of His robe!
PRAYER
Let me feel your touch,
dear Jesus, when I receive you in the Eucharist and the loving embrace of my
fellow believers. Let me feel your power and love at such times. Use me to
touch the lives of others in need of healing. I pray this in your Holy Name.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
1 Samuel 1:1-16; Acts
15:22-35; Mark 6:1-13
SCRIPTURE
Mark 6:7 — He called the twelve and
began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over the unclean
spirits.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
I am a year older than my
sister. While we occasionally fought like cats and dogs, we often played and
went on adventures together. We had to stick together sometimes because my twin
brothers, a year younger than my sister, invented the “divide and conquer
philosophy.” It was far less scary to enter the storm cellar with my sister
than to go to the earth's center alone. The monsters knew the two of us were
more than they could handle. Bringing in the cows from North Africa was far
less dangerous for the two of us. We could watch each other’s back. We
each shot down numerous lions, tigers, and headhunters trying to sneak up
behind us. Living in the real world, my wife has replaced my sister and
provided me with wonderful companionship and the encouragement I need
when stressed out. Jesus provided a model of ministry for his disciples,
sending them out two by two. They were there for one another, drawing on each
other’s strengths and filling in the gaps where needed. It is a good model for
ministry. Over the years, the teams of two we sent out have been far more
successful in evangelism and every other endeavor than those who go out alone.
Do you have someone with whom you can team up so that together, you can
proclaim the good news and cast out unclean spirits?
PRAYER
Thank you, my Savior, for
not wanting me to do this discipleship thing by myself. It is good that you
have given me others with whom I can share the good news. Thank you also for
placing me in a church home so that I never need be alone. In your name, I
pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, July 31, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
2 Samuel 1:17-27; Romans
12:9-21; Matthew 25:31-46
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:32 — All the nations will
be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another as a
shepherd separates the sheep from the goats,...”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Getting our cattle or pigs
ready for market was an exciting time when I was young, and all I had to do was
observe. I loved to see the big semi-truck pull into the place. I marveled at
how well the drivers could back the big rig right up to the chute. By age
twelve, I was expected to be in the thick of things, separating animals by size
for loading on the truck. It took a little of the glow out of market day
because it was usually very dirty and, in the case of pigs, very noisy. It was
sometimes painful, too, as attempted escapees didn’t care who or what they
stepped on. An escape meant additional running to round them up again. Our
consolation was that we could look forward to market day in the big city once
they were on the truck! That is the image I have of the Day of separating the
sheep from the goats - the people of God from those who are not people of God.
As Jesus tells this parable, I hear a note of sadness in His words. He repeatedly
says that he desires all to be saved. He will do everything necessary to make
it happen. He Himself will bend over backward to judge with grace and mercy.
But there will still be those who just will not be able to enter, more because
of their own choices than of Jesus’ desire to punish. Where will you be “when
the roll is called up yonder.”
PRAYER
I give you thanks and
praise, dear Shepherd, for calling me and making me one of your sheep. I know
for certain that on the final day, I will be let into your kingdom, not because
of what I have done but because of what you have accomplished on the cross. I
pray that I will never be satisfied with my fate and will help bring
others to you. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
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