DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, June 1, 2025
The Visitation commemorates Mary's visit to Elizabeth. The festival
remembers the occasion of the Magnificat, the Song of Mary, celebrating the
incarnation.
Justin Martyr was born to pagan parents, became a Christian,
and taught at Ephesus and Rome. He and some of his students were denounced as
Christians, were scourged and beheaded at Rome, c. 165. Justin was the first
Christian thinker to attempt to reconcile faith and reason.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 4:25-31; 2
Corinthians 1:23-2:17; Luke 15: 1-2, 11-32
SCRIPTURE
Luke 19:26 — I tell you, to all
those who have, more will be given; but from those who have nothing, even what
they have will be taken away.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We started with four milk
cows. Dad didn’t look at his small herd and wished he had more. He decided to
convert the horse barn to accommodate more cows, and each year added to it. It
seemed as if the more we had, the more we added. One obvious source was the
calves born each year. Like the steward who invested the master’s money rather
than bury it, Dad began to multiply the herd. It added expenses and labor, but
in the end, it was well worth the effort. Jesus knew that principle was true in
every area of life. Those who develop their skills and talents often discover
others they didn’t even know they had, and the opportunities increase
accordingly. However, those who don’t
make use of what they have find them diminishing and even disappearing. What
are the gifts with which God has entrusted you? Have you been sharing them,
developing them, increasing them? Or have you been sitting on them, envying
those with other or more gifts? Why not let the Lord increase your gifts even
as He increases your faith?!
PRAYER
What gifts have you given
me, O Father, that I don’t even realize I have? Help me discover them and then
use them for the sake of your kingdom and others. I ask that I may be a good
steward of all that you have given me to use. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, June 2, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 4:32-40; 2
Corinthians 3:1-18; Luke 16:1-9
SCRIPTURE
Luke 16:2 — ...What is this that I
hear about you? Give me an accounting of your management because you can no
longer be my manager.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Our neighbors had a hired man
who kept disappearing. They milked a lot of cows and depended on him to be
there at milking time. Those who milked cows appreciate the importance of
regularity and the consequences of missing the scheduled milking time. It is
painful for the cows and can even harm their future milk production. Twice, I
know of him, but he wasn’t there at milking time. Once, the neighbor called Dad
late at night to help with the milking. He had been gone when it should have
been done, and the hired hand was nowhere to be found. The next day, when he
showed up two hours late for the morning milking with a severe hangover, the
neighbor fired him on the spot. The manager in the parable was not milking
cows. By the sound of it, he was “milking” his job for everything he could get
out of it. The parable has a strange conclusion, but we are challenged to
consider the use of our time and talents as “stewards” of God’s grace. How well
do you use the gifts God has given you for the advancement of the Kingdom, not
just yourself? Do you use all with which you have been entrusted selfishly -
for your glory or the glory of God? What is one thing you could do this week to
glorify God?
PRAYER
Thank you for the talents
and gifts you have given me, O my heavenly Father. Let me use them wisely and
for your glory. Help me use them in my church, community, and worldwide. In the
name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, June 3, 2025
John XXIII, Bishop of
Rome, was responsible for the Second Vatican Council, opening the windows of
the church. Died in 1963
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 5:1-22; 2
Corinthians 4:1-12; Luke 16:10-18
SCRIPTURE
Luke 15:12 — And if you
have not been faithful with what belongs to another, who will give you what is
your own?
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We were taught to take care
of farm equipment. We learned to oil, grease, and repair what we could. Mom and
Dad liked to keep machinery in good condition so that when it was needed, it
would be useable by us or a neighbor who might need to borrow it. There were
times when we borrowed farm equipment from a neighbor or an equipment dealer.
They were not always well cared for, usually requiring a major
clean-lubricate-repair job before we could go to work in the field. When we
came in from the field, I was tempted to say, “Let’s just send it back the way
we got it.” But that was not to happen. “Follow the golden rule! Send it back
the way you would want to receive it!” No wonder neighbors were so happy to
have us borrow things! The same principle holds true for the gifts of God’s
grace we have received, and those others share with us. We need to treat them
as the treasures they are and pass them on accordingly. Can you ever imagine out-blessing God? For
that matter, can you ever imagine out-giving God? God’s mercy and grace are so
richly showered on us, all we can do is nurture them and pass them on, becoming
instruments of God’s love to a hungry and hurting world. How well have you been
nurturing God’s gifts in your life? Do they need a “clean-lubricate-repair”
job? Why not put your best into the time God has given you?
PRAYER
Thank you for your
over-abundant grace, dear God. Use me and the gifts that you have given me to
shower your love upon others and let me never neglect them. I pray these things
in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, June 4, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 5:22-33; 2
Corinthians 4:13 - 5:10; Luke 16:19-31
SCRIPTURE
Luke 16:31 — He said to him, ‘If
they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced
even if someone rises from the dead.’
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Old Doc Tennant used to give
us a sucker any time we had to get a shot. It was a sweet consolation for the
pain we had endured. They were ordinary suckers wrapped in clear cellophane so
we could tell which flavor we were choosing. I never gave it much thought until
my uncle suggested that the doctor had laced the suckers with medicine, and I
might not want to lick it but give it to him. I took another look. Then, I took
another lick for a taste test. I’m sure now it was my imagination, but it did
seem to have a kind of medical taste to it. But I devoured it anyway! (Having
uncles and aunts about the same age as some of the big kids at country school
kept me skeptical and on my toes. I never knew who to believe!) The rich man in
the parable had brothers who were just as skeptical if even the testimony of a
dead man wouldn’t convince them to change. But then, have we all become a
little immune to the words of the Bible - the Word of God spoken through the
prophets and apostles? Are we willing to take their Word for the impending
judgment in which we will be called to account for how we treat the “least of
our brothers”? Who do you believe?
PRAYER
Sometimes, my faith in you
is so small, O Father. Help my unbelief and help me grow more sure of my faith
each day. I am sorry for my lack of understanding and compassion toward others.
Forgive me. In the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, June 5, 2025
Boniface, Archbishop of
Mainz, was an apostle of Germany and the greatest missionary of the Dark Ages.
He left Mainz to return to his old mission in Frisia, where he was martyred in
754.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 11:1-12;
Revelation 10:1-11; Matthew 13:44-58
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:44 — The kingdom of
heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which someone found and hid; then,
in his joy, he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We had no idea we were acting
in the way the people of Bible times were acting when we buried our “treasures”
in the trees. Somewhere, still today, in the groves of trees where we used to
play, there are coffee cans and canning jars full of our secret messages, maps,
and “jewels” (possibly even a few coins, too). We were hiding them from
invading Indian or Gypsy bands, determined to wipe us out. You will be happy to
know none of those “treasures” was ever discovered. When my parents sold the
farm, a part of me wanted to rush home and retrieve our “treasures.” The other
part understands that the chances of finding any of them are on par with
finding a needle in a haystack. However, in Jesus’ day, many people fleeing
from invading armies buried their real treasures, hoping to return to dig them
up one day. Jesus was talking about events that took place, but He gave them
spiritual meaning. Our spiritual treasures are not gold and silver or even
secret messages. Our spiritual treasure is our relationship with Christ
Himself. How much is that worth to you? Is it worth every earthly possession
you have? Would you give up everything to save your eternal soul? Those are the
questions Jesus forces us to answer when anything becomes more important in our
lives than worship, prayer, and the study of His word.
PRAYER
I get so wrapped up in
acquiring worldly treasures that I
neglect the heavenly treasures of your kingdom, dear Lord. Help me remember
what is really important in my life the next time I am in the store or online
with my cash or card ready to buy. I pray that my relationship with you will
grow each day. In your Holy name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, June 6, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 11:13-19; 2
Corinthians 5:11 - 6:2; Luke 17:1-10
SCRIPTURE
Luke 17:5 — The apostles said to the
Lord, “Increase our faith!”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We milked cows by hand until
we got our first milking machine, when I was about twelve. Dad started me out
milking Spotty by hand. She was a very gentle and forgiving Holstein. Dad
always checked to see if I had milked her dry, before letting her go. After I
got comfortable milking Spotty, he introduced me to Blacky, another Holstein
with more black than white spots. Blacky was a kicker, so he put shackles on
her and tied one leg to a post behind her. As I got better with Blacky, he
eased up the rope and eventually didn’t put it on her at all. He also let me
put the shackles on. It took time and patience, but my ability and confidence
both grew, so that eventually I could handle even the meanest cows in the barn.
(There was one exception, but that’s another story.) Jesus taught his disciples
in much the same way Dad taught me. Their faith increased with their abilities
and their confidence. Faith doesn’t just pop out of thin air. Faith is a gift
that comes with practice - by doing. James wrote, “Faith without works is
dead.” Want your faith to increase? Then practice growing in faith day by day.
Learn to work with the “kickers” in life. Sometimes faith only grows when we
fail or feel like a failure but learn from the experience. It did for the
disciples. Why should it be any
different for us?
PRAYER
In this “instant” world, O
God, my desires are no different. I want strong faith and I want it now.
Instead of those words I pray that you might give me perseverance so that I may
grow in my faith. Thank you for not giving up on me when I have felt like a
failure. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, June 7, 2025
Seattle, chief of the
Suquamish tribe and Duwamish Confederacy, rejected war and chose the path of
peace. Became a Roman Catholic and earned the respect of both Indians and white
men. The city of Seattle was named for him against his wishes. Died in 1866.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 12:1-12; 2
Corinthians 6:13 - 7:1; Luke 17:11-19
SCRIPTURE
Luke 17:17 — Then Jesus asked,
"Were not ten made clean? But the other nine, where are they?
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Before I was born, Dad broke
and trained horses. I never saw him do it, but I’ve been told he was very good
at it. If the way he calmed other animals on the farm was any indication, he
used a lot of the same techniques. He
could get angry and firm, but his primary method of taming a wild animal was to
let them get their bucking and kicking out of their systems, and then reward
them for calming down. A handful of molasses-laced feed became a favorite treat
which had our milk cows standing at the door, waiting to come in. Animals
respond to rewards better than punishments. So do people. Sadly, some people
take their blessings for granted and forget to speak or show their
thankfulness. If you doubt that, look at all the empty pews in your church on
Sunday morning - the most important opportunity we have to return thanks to
God. On any given Sunday, in almost every church, nearly 2/3 of the members
blessed by God are among those who are forgetful. Yes, we can give thanks in
many other ways, but let’s not kid ourselves. If we can’t bother with Sunday,
it’s doubtful we’ll give much more than lip-service any other day. Jesus knows
how painful it is for the Father to give and give and give to a unthankful
people. How well have you done?
PRAYER
I can’t get over how you
have blessed me, O Holy One. You have blessed me with forgiveness, your
gracious love, the promise of eternal life and with a church family with whom I
may worship you. I pray that I will not take these things for granted but
always cherish them. I ask this in the name of Jesus my Lord. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, June 8, 2025—PENTECOST SUNDAY
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 13:1-11; 2
Corinthians 7:2-16; Luke 17:20-27
SCRIPTURE
Luke 17:20 — Once Jesus was asked by
the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was coming, and he answered, "The
kingdom of God is not coming with things that can be observed;....”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
In my early years of
gardening, I experimented with a number of plants. One of those I decided to
grow was Brussel sprouts. I planted the seed early in the spring and was happy
to see the leaves come out of the ground and the plant begin to grow. About mid-summer
the plants were five feet tall and looked extremely healthy, but I couldn’t see
any Brussel sprouts. One day friend stopped by for a visit, took a tour of my
garden and commented that I really had some beautiful Brussel sprouts. I was
shocked! I hadn’t seen any. I expected to see them forming on the top, kind of
like broccoli. We went out to the garden, and he lifted one of the big leaves
to reveal lots of little sprouts growing on the stalk! He was right. I was just
looking in the wrong place. Jesus said the kingdom of God would be a lot like
that. It would not come as they expected to see it. In fact, had they had eyes
of faith, they might have seen that it was standing right in front of them in
the person of Jesus. God’s presence is like that. It may be found in “the least
of our brothers”. It may be found in the
faith of a little child. It may be found in a friend or even a stranger who
offers a word of encouragement. “The kingdom of God is at hand!” In other
words, it is so close that with eyes of faith we could reach out and touch it.
Are you searching in the right places for the coming of the kingdom of God?
PRAYER
You have blessed me with
your presence throughout my life, dear Savior. Sometimes I just am looking in
the wrong places or not seeing you at all in the eyes, the touch or the love of
another one of your children. Open my eyes so that I don’t miss seeing you when
you are right in front of me. In your Holy name I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, June 9, 2025
Columbo, 597; Aidan, 651;
Bede, 735, were three confessors who illuminated learning and piety in the
British Isles during the Dark Ages.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 29:16-29,
17:14-20; 2 Corinthians 8:1-16; Luke 18:1-8
SCRIPTURE
Luke 18:7 — And will not God grant
justice to his chosen ones who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long in
helping them?
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Grandpa could be gruff and
seem distant. He grew up in the “old country” for his first twelve years and
had to learn a new language as he started a farm from scratch. His father was a
hard task-master who died before I was born. About all Grandpa knew was hard
work. In his later years, he lived with us, and some of the rough edges were
worn off. He could still be gruff and sharp, but his patience in teaching us to
play cards showed his kinder, gentler side. The way he verbally defended his
children and grandchildren left no doubts in my mind that he would be there for
any of us if needed. Those who only know God from a distance may only know
God’s gruff, judgmental nature. To know God’s gracious, loving, protective
nature, we must get to know God as a friend. The Bible is filled with one story
after another of God expressing His hurt and anger over the waywardness of the
children of God. However, those who read on also discover the heart of the good
news: no matter how angry God may get, He will go to the cross for anyone who
repents and believes. Our God is an awesome God - One I am glad to have
on my side! How about you?
PRAYER
Forgive me for my actions
that make you gruff, O Father. I pray that my efforts this day might instead be
pleasing to you. Let me draw closer while my relationship with you grows
stronger daily. I pray these things in the name of Jesus, my Savior. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, June 10, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 26:1-11; 2
Corinthians 8:16-24; Luke 18:9-14
SCRIPTURE
Luke 18:13 — But the tax collector,
standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast
and saying, 'God, be merciful to me, a sinner!'
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We played “King of the
Mountain” on the cob pile with my cousin when some neighbor kids showed up.
Landon jumped right into the fight to de-throne the present king. Bobby
followed him to the top. Unfortunately, the “king” took Landon down with him,
leaving five-year-old Bobby standing at the top as king. Instead of celebrating
and cheering, Bobby began to cry and rode an avalanche of cobs to the bottom.
When asked if someone hit him with a cob - a “no-no” - he said, “No! I don’t
want to be king! I want to be his helper!” So, we let Landon take the kingship,
and Bobby joined him as his helper and bodyguard, keeping the rest of us from
dethroning his brother. The Pharisee was “king of the religious mountain,” and
the tax collector was not deemed worthy of approaching the mountain. Yet, Jesus
noted that the humble tax collector’s prayer from his heart, brought the
religious “king” tumbling down the spiritual mountain. Such humility provides
all of us with a good model. After all, Jesus Himself “did not think equality
with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself and became obedient, even
unto death on a cross.” (Phil. 2:6-8) Are you striving to be king of the
mountain, or are you willing to be a servant of the Servant?
PRAYER
Empty me of my haughtiness
and replace it with genuine
humility, O King. Mold me into your servant and use me to do your will. Thank
you for your great love for me and for being willing to become a servant of
all. I pray that I may follow in your footsteps. In your name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, June 11, 2025
St. Barnabas, Apostle,
went with Paul to organize the first missionary journey. He defended the
inclusion of Gentile Christians at the Council of Jerusalem.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 29:2-15; 2
Corinthians 9:1-15; Luke 18:15-30
SCRIPTURE
Luke 18:15 — People were bringing
even infants to him that he might touch them; and when the disciples saw it,
they sternly ordered them not to do it.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
My very first day in Sunday
School was a little frightening. There were many people I didn’t know. Hattie
Fulner was my teacher. I couldn’t have asked for a kinder, gentler woman to
begin my official Christian education. We prayed and discussed God and the
Bible at home, but that was different. In Sunday School, we sang about Jesus, listened
to a story about Jesus and the little children, and colored a picture of Jesus
blessing the little children. In the years since I have read the Bible from
beginning to end at least eight times, studied theology in college and
seminary, and taught the Bible for many years. Every time I read this story, I
remember the first time I heard it. How nice it was to know that Jesus blesses
the children. I was shocked by the growing realization that we have it backward
today. Harley Swigum, author of the Bethel Bible series, has it right: Jesus
blessed children and taught adults. Today, we teach children and bless adults!
Is it time to re-capture Jesus's methods? How about re-invigorating our adult
Sunday Schools? What would happen if we required every adult member of every
church to attend at least a two-year Bible class and pass a Bible proficiency
test before they could teach Sunday School or serve on the Church Council?
Radical? Maybe. But that’s what Jesus did. Are you able to “take up your
cross”?
PRAYER
Thank you for blessing me
as a child, dear Heavenly Father, and for those who have taught me along the
way and for those willing to teach me as an adult. Renew a new Spirit of
longing to study your word. Let me not say “no” when I am given the opportunity
to participate in Bible study class. I pray this in the name of the Word made
flesh. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, June 12, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 29:16-29;
Revelation 12:1-12; Matthew 15:29-39
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15:33 — The disciples said
to him, "Where are we to get enough bread in the desert to feed so great a
crowd?"
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
This miracle never seemed
like much of a miracle to me. I can never remember when salesmen, workers, or
hordes of visiting relatives were turned away from our table hungry. There may
have barely been enough food on the table for our family, but somehow, Mom
could throw together enough to feed an army and still have leftovers. Granted, we never had 5000 or even 4000
guests, but the principle is the same. What amazes me is the short memory of
the disciples. It wasn’t long before when Jesus fed 5000 people with a few loaves
and fish. Now, there are only 4000 people, and the disciples are frantic to
find a bakery! As disciples of the Lord,
we fall into the same forgetfulness trap, don’t we? God showers us with good
things, but even more than things, God forgives our sins and, through Christ,
assures us that we have an eternal inheritance in Heaven! What more could
anyone ask for? Yet, when the least little thing doesn’t go our way, we throw
up our hands in forgetfulness and wonder how we’ll get by. Does the shoe fit?
Maybe it’s time to count our blessings, give thanks, and trust that God is up
to any challenge!
PRAYER
Forgive me when I stew and
fret over where I will get the money for this or that, and help me to focus on
your great generosity, dear Heavenly Father. I know that you have always
provided for me. Let me be the one you use to provide for those who do without
each day. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, June 13, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 30:1-10; 2
Corinthians 10:1-18; Luke 18:31-43
SCRIPTURE
Luke 18:38-39 — ...Then (the blind
man) shouted, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" Those who were in front sternly ordered him
to be quiet, but he shouted even more loudly,
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Twice in my country school
career, I had classmates. The first one was a girl who came when I was in 2nd
grade. She was only there for a year, but during that year, I came to resent
her. She was smarter than me and was always the first to raise her hand. I
hated that because it always drew attention to me for some reason, and the
teacher took great pleasure in calling on me instead. I often wished Carolyn
wouldn’t raise her hand, especially when I didn’t know the answer! I’ve enjoyed the Harry Potter books
and saw Carolyn in Hermione, the smart girl who always knew the answers.
The people in the crowd probably wanted to remain anonymous and didn’t like
having the blind man draw attention to them. But he who could not see was not
about to be “unseen” by the one person he believed could help him. Fortunately
for the blind man, Jesus did see him, had compassion on him, and healed him.
Are there those around you whose cries are falling on deaf ears because you are
embarrassed or resentful of their need? Why not make an extra effort to pay
attention to their cries this week, pray for them, and do something to help
them?
PRAYER
Help me to use my ears to
hear and my eyes to see those around me who need your attention and love, O
God. Let my heart be full of compassion rather than skepticism and distrust. I
ask these things in the name of our Savior, Jesus, the Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, June 14, 2025
Basil the Great Bishop of
Caesarea, 379; Gregory, Bishop of Nyssa, c. 385; Gregory of Nazianzus, Bishop
of Constantinople, c. 389: three Cappadocian fathers who helped define and
refine Christian theology in the fourth century.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 30:11-20; 2
Corinthians 11:1-21; Luke 19:1-10
SCRIPTURE
Luke 19:5 — When Jesus
came to the place, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, hurry and
come down, for I must stay at your house today."
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Granger Westberg, the author
of Good Grief, may not mean much to many of you, but he became bigger
than life to me. I read his book for a class at seminary. My internship
supervisor knew him personally and even showed me his cabin at the lake. A
sudden storm came up, forcing us to find shelter. Since his cabin was close, we
ran there. Seeing our dilemma, he graciously opened his door and welcomed us to
take refuge with him. The only storm with which Zacchaeus was faced was a
personal struggle with guilt. Jesus saw through the surface appearance and
offered to enter Zacchaeus’ storm-tossed boat to bring calm once again.
Evidently, it worked, for Zacchaeus repented and promised to repay several
times over those whom he had cheated. The experience of God’s grace in Jesus
did what no amount of sermons or put-downs could do - it drew Zacchaeus into a
relationship with the One who could make a difference in his life. Are you
ready to let Jesus come to your house today?
PRAYER
You are such a gracious
God, one who is willing to accept me into your family. Thank you for allowing
me to join you and all others who have realized that we must put the past into
your hands and ask for your love and forgiveness. In the name of the Holy One,
Jesus Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, June 15, 2025—TRINITY SUNDAY
Father’s Day
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Deuteronomy 31:30 - 32:14; 2
Corinthians 11:21-33; Luke 19:11-27
SCRIPTURE
Luke 15:2b — ...But while he was still far off, his father saw
him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and
kissed him.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Hide ‘n’ Seek was a great
opportunity and excuse for taking a quick nap right after lunch at our school,
especially on nice days in the fall or spring. Over the years, many of us fell
asleep while waiting to be found. All the “Ally, ally oxen frees” didn’t
disturb some students - usually the younger ones. If someone was missing after recess,
the teacher sent all of us out to search. Dennis found a neat, cozy place under
a sprawling bush. None of us could find him, and the teacher was getting
worried when he finally woke up and crawled out to see what all the commotion
was about. The degree of her worry showed as she raced to embrace him and then
wiped the tears from her eyes. Until that day, we thought she was a pretty
unemotional person. A ripple went through the rest of us, a certain “knowing”
that if she cared that much about Dennis, she would care as much for the rest
of us, too. That was really a great year at Canfield School. In the parable
Jesus told, He tells of a father - the Father - who loves even His most wayward
son so much that He runs to embrace the dirty, filthy little rascal and plants
a kiss on his smelly cheek. It doesn’t say so, but I have no doubt there were
tears in the Father’s eyes - tears of joy! What an incredible story of grace!
If anyone, for any reason, has felt guilty or afraid to return to the Father,
read that parable again and again, to remind yourself just how much God wants
you back in His loving arms!
PRAYER
O God full of grace, thank
you for loving me so much, despite my sins. Welcome me into your waiting arms,
hold me tight, and never let me go astray again. Help me to be grace-filled to
others as you have been to me. In the name of the Christ, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, June 16, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Song of Solomon 1:1-3, 9-11,
15-16, 2:1-3; 2 Corinthians 12:11-21; Luke 19:29-40
SCRIPTURE
Luke 19:39-40 — Some of the
Pharisees in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, order your disciples to
stop." He answered, "I tell
you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out."
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We waited for years for our
first child. Even after deciding to adopt, we had forms to fill out, interviews
to attend, and months and months of waiting. Then, out of the blue, our case
worker said, “You’ve been approved! Here is a picture of your new baby!” We
were in shock. Shock gave way to giddy excitement as we made phone calls and
shared the good news with everyone we could think of. We had to change plans,
shop, and prepare ourselves for parenthood quickly. We laughed and giggled
until Sue got sick. Fortunately, she felt much better the following day when we
welcomed our newest family member. Had someone tried to tell us to “Get
serious!” we’d have laughed in their face. We were too thrilled. The disciples realized
that Jesus was the Messiah, the Savior their people had waited for over 400
years. They were beyond giddy. They were so joy-filled that it spilled out of
every pore of their bodies. Jesus knew there was no way of containing that joy.
Wouldn’t it be great to recapture that joy every Sunday - even daily? If we truly appreciate the gift Jesus is to
us and what He has done for us, we could!
Why not give it some thought? Why
not practice it - right now?
PRAYER
Take away the gloom from
my face, dear Lord, because of all you have done for me! I dedicate this day to
the joy that you have given me. Let me bring laughter to those I touch, sharing
the good news of your Son. It is in his name that I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, June 17, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Song of Solomon 2:8-13,
4:1-4, 5-7, 9-11; 2 Corinthians 12:11-21; Luke 19:41-48
SCRIPTURE
Luke 19:41-42 — As he came near and
saw the city, he wept over it, saying, "If you, even you, had only
recognized on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden
from your eyes.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
As a gardener and herbalist,
I have learned that the potential of many plants is hidden from our eyes.
Weeds, for instance, are plants growing where we don’t want them. They are not
necessarily bad. Some, like thistles and stinging nettle, are incredibly rich
in nutrients. Many others have remarkable medicinal qualities for those who
know what they want. Even the pesky dandelion has a multitude of healthy uses.
I sometimes feel sad when I see people spraying them. If I feel sorry about the
spraying of dandelions, imagine how sad Jesus must have felt to look upon a
city, the Holy City, full of the children of God, who could not - or would not
- recognize the Peace-Giver Himself. Jesus could see the inevitable cross
looming high in the distance. He could see what so few could see. Their
“business-as-usual” attitude did not include returning to the God who created
them. Instead, they were determined to war against Him and eliminate the One
who could bring peace to their souls. Are your eyes searching for the peace of
God that passes all understanding? It is
right there in the Word and in the Sacraments for those with eyes to see and
ears to listen.
PRAYER
Open my eyes, O Heavenly
Father, that I may see you throughout my day. I ask that you not keep yourself
hidden from me but reveal yourself to others around me. Use me today so that
others will come to know you and rejoice in your peace. In the name of Jesus.
Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, June 18, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO
YEARS
Song of Solomon 5:1-16,
7:1-9, 8:6-7; 2 Corinthians 13:1-14; Luke 20:1-8
SCRIPTURE
Luke 20:2 — (The
chief priests, scribes, and elders asked Jesus) "Tell us, by what
authority are You doing these things? Or who is he who gave You this
authority?"
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We stood in awe of the county sheriff when he stopped
at the same gas station we did for gas and a bottle of Nehi grape pop. We had a
lot of respect for the law and lawmen. After all, we ourselves were often some
of the best lawmen in the country. “Open up, in the name of the law!” was a
favorite phrase we used in search of bank robbers and murderers. (It seldom
worked, but we liked to use it.) In the name of the law, we put together many possess
and caught a lot of train robbers, jailbreakers, and assorted other notorious
criminals. We needed our homemade sheriff’s badges to drag bad guys off to
prison. The Pharisees would have been right at home in our make-believe world -
especially one named Saul, who used similar phrases to drag Christians to
prison or the brink of a cliff to be stoned to death. There must have been some
cloud over the eyes of those who questioned Jesus. By whose authority are
people healed or demons cast out? The answer seems obvious: “In the name of
the Lord God almighty, creator of all that is!” It was not that difficult
to figure out. It was more difficult to believe when they were looking for a
different answer. By whose authority do you share God’s good news? ... Or do
you?
PRAYER
Thank you, dear Lord, for my baptism and for making me
one of your witnesses. I pray that I will take the pledges of my baptism
seriously so that you can use me to tell others of your authority in heaven and
on earth. In your Holy name, I pray, dear Jesus. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, June 19, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
Exodus 6:2-13, 7:1-6; Revelation 15:1-8; Matthew
18:1-14
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18:10 — Take heed that you do not despise one
of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see
the face of My Father who is in heaven.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We lived in the country but would occasionally go to
town to shop or go to a movie. Sometimes, we would stay for a few days with our
Grandparents or city cousins. It was an innocent age when we didn’t have to
worry about kidnappers or child molesters. Our parents didn’t seem to worry
either because everyone in a small town knew everyone else. Every adult, and
most young people older than us, acted like our parents away from home. We
could get in just as much trouble from them as our parents. Part of the reason
was that children, while they could be an annoyance, were considered special
people deserving everyone’s protection and guidance. Jesus certainly thought so,
too. He chided his disciples when they tried to shoo children away from Him. He
also made it clear that every child has its own guardian angel with direct
access to God Himself. To harm a little
child is to face the wrath of God! Every adult is responsible for teaching,
encouraging, and caring for the children in their world. It does not mean letting
them get away with murder. It may mean kind and caring discipline. It may mean
encouraging or helping their parents when they are at their wit's end.
Remember, Jesus knew what it was to grow up through childhood. He “loves the
little children of the world.” Do you?
PRAYER
Use me as a guardian angel for your little ones,
Heavenly Father. I pray that I may be an advocate for them when they are in
danger and an encourager when they need encouragement. Do not let me be shy
when I see that their behavior might endanger them or others. Thank you for
your Son, Jesus Christ, in whose name I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, June 20, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
1 Samuel 1:1-20; Acts 1:1-14; Luke 20:9-19
SCRIPTURE
Luke 20:17 — Then He looked at the (chief priests and
scribes) and said, "What then is this that is written: 'The stone
which the builders rejected has
become the chief cornerstone'?
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Dad was not a great builder, but what he did build was
solid and strong. A storm cellar was one of the projects he completed before I
was old enough to get in the way. He dug the hole deep into the side of a hill
and bricked up the walls. He created the ceiling over the cave and stairway by
arching the bricks. The arch itself, I’ve been told, is one of the strongest
construction structures. Dad explained to me (when I was old enough to
understand) the importance of both the base ends and the middle stone (the capstone),
which could support tons of dirt piled on it. If either of them became weak,
the whole structure could collapse. That
was also true of the chief cornerstone of a building. It had to be especially
strong to take the pressures of the rest of the walls. It took a keen eye for a
builder to choose just the right cornerstone. Jesus pointed out to the
religious leaders that they were in danger of rejecting the only stone that
could withstand the day's pressures. He Himself was that cornerstone. Are there
times when you reject what is spiritually sound and strong while choosing
something that is prettier, easier, and less demanding? Is it possible that you, too, may reject the
only power which can save you?
PRAYER
O Jesus, my rock and salvation, be the cornerstone of
my life so that everything I built upon it will be lasting and pleasing to you.
Make me strong in my spiritual life and to not take the easy way out. Thank you
for your strength when I am weak. In your name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, June 21, 2025
Onesimus, Nesib was captured by slave traders and
later freed by Swedish missionaries. He
became an evangelist and translated the Bible into his native language. He died
1931
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
1 Samuel 1:21 - 2:11; Acts 1:15-26; Luke 20:19-26
SCRIPTURE
Luke 20:25 — And He said to them, "Render
therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that
are God's."
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Aside from playing organ for church, my first non-farm
paying job was in a music store. I was the “gopher,” helper, janitor, and
jack-of-all. I sorted, cleaned, helped
on the sales floor, demonstrated organs and pianos, and once did a 15-minute
live radio program. One of my jobs was to go through the store each morning and
put things where they belonged - records, music, tools, chairs, equipment -
anything left where it didn’t belong. At first, it was hard to remember where
some of the tools and chairs belonged, but eventually, I got everything to its
own department. There is an orderliness to God’s creation, too. It is
noticeable in the plant world, where certain plants make great companions with
other plants, while some will kill or choke others. Animals and people both
tend to “flock together.” Jesus knew
about that orderliness in human affairs. He knew that coins made by Caesar,
with Caesar’s image on them, belonged to the government. But He also pointed
out that those things with God’s mark belong to God. How well do you remember
to give God credit for what belongs to Him? Do you pay more in taxes than you
give to your church? If so, maybe you’ve fallen into the trap of forgetting
what belongs to God. Think about it!
PRAYER
As I pray to you, my Father, let me remember the cross
that was made on my forehead at my baptism. I know that because of that cross,
I belong to you. I pray that I will always put you and your kingdom first
before anything else. Open my heart so that I will open my wallet for the work
of your kingdom. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, June 22, 2025—2nd Sunday after
Pentecost
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
1 Samuel 2:12-26; Acts 2:1-21; Luke 20:27-40
SCRIPTURE
Luke 20:38 — For God is not the God of the dead but of
the living, for all live to Him."
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Occasionally, our milk cows would wander away from the
herd to have their calves. They would find a secluded place, usually deep in a
patch of weeds, where the calf could be hidden. Once, when we brought the cows
in at milking time, one of the cows came with the herd. It didn’t take a vet to
realize she had left a calf behind somewhere. We sent two of my brothers out
searching to find it, knowing that without the mother, or someone to feed it,
the calf would die or be killed by predators. It needed a living mother to keep
it alive! Jesus declares that the same is true of humans, physically and
spiritually. Left on its own without a nurturing mother, an infant will die
physically. Left on its own without a nurturing God, a person of any age will
die spiritually. The joyful promise that
Jesus emphasizes is that, because of the resurrection, we do not die to the
Lord. We live in the company of all the saints, eternally nurtured by our
loving God. Are you staying in touch
with your source of eternal life?
PRAYER
Feed my soul, O my Lord, and nourish me with the milk
of your word. I give you thanks for those who have nurtured me through the ages
by sharing their faith with me. I ask that I be counted among the saints who
have nurtured others in their spiritual lives. In Jesus' name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, June 23, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
1 Samuel 2:27-40; Acts 2:22-36; Luke 20:41 - 21:4
SCRIPTURE
Luke 21:3 — (Jesus said), "Truly I say to you
that this poor widow has put in more than all....
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Appearances can be deceiving. We had a cow that was
really good-looking, as cows go. She was a good eater. She was cooperative and
came right in at milking time. I had to keep giving records for one of my
classes. When I compared her giving to the other cows, I discovered that she
was giving half the milk the others were. My big surprise came from one of the
smaller cows whose giving was consistently more than any other cows! People are
not cows, but at Christmas or for my birthday, I am always amazed and even
embarrassed at the generosity of some I consider to be very poor. Jesus noticed
that, too. The widow’s mite amounted to only a fraction of a penny, but it was
100% of her wealth. The big givers placed bags with lots of money in the
offering plate, but their gift amounted to a tiny fraction of their wealth - an
amount they would not even miss. Have you ever considered your percentage of
giving? Why not get out a calculator and see what it amounts to? Is it anywhere
close to a tithe - 10% - the biblical model? What does your giving say about
your values? Jesus didn’t give just 10% of Himself for you on the cross so that
you could be forgiven and have an eternal home. He gave 100%! That’s the really
good news! How do you say thanks?
PRAYER
Dear Jesus, I think you knew how hard it would be for
me to put you first and my money last. Forgive me for holding back on myself,
my time, and my treasure. Change my heart to be more like the widow’s, giving
all I have to you. In your name, who gave me everything, Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
The Nativity of St. John the Baptist commemorates the
last of the prophets, who declared of Jesus: “He must increase, but I must
decrease.”
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
1 Samuel 3:1-21; Acts 2:37-47; Luke 21:5-19
SCRIPTURE
Luke 21:8 — He said: “Take heed that you not be
deceived. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and ‘The
time has drawn near.’ Therefore, do not go after them.”
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We had numerous salesmen stop by to sell everything
from Watkins products to Bible study books. Those were the days when there was
practically a farmhouse on every corner and sometimes one in the middle of the
mile. We kids always enjoyed them, especially those with food or drink mixes to
sell, because they’d give us samples. Along with the assorted salesmen came the
Jehovah’s Witnesses and several other “end-times” groups bent on saving our
souls before the great and terrifying Day of the Lord. My father was not a
great theologian, but he always surprised me with how much of the Bible he
knew. After one of those “hellfire and brimstone” visits, he chuckled and shook
his head. We kids had tired of the discussion and slipped away to play, so we
missed the juicy, violent stuff. Dad had two passages of scripture he quoted
every time. One was Mark 13:7: “But when you hear of wars and rumors of
wars, do not be troubled; for such things must happen, but the end is not yet.” The other one was Luke 21:8, above. No doubt Jesus had encountered “Dooms Day”
salesmen in His day, too. Those who know Jesus already know and experience the
nearness of the kingdom and live each day as the Day of the Lord. How are you
spending your day today?
PRAYER
When I look at the world today, O God, I can’t help
but wonder if these are the “end times” of which you spoke. Keep me from this
kind of speculation and keep me focused on you. Help me to remember that each
day could be the end of my life on earth and to live it accordingly, inviting
others and living the kind of life you would wish for me. I pray this in the
name of Christ. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Wednesday, June 25, 2025
Presentation of the Augsburg Confession to the Emperor
Charles V in 1530: It was primarily written by Philipp Melanchthon, a friend of
Martin Luther and a renewer of the Church who died in 1560
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
1 Samuel 4:1-11; Acts 4:32 - 5:11; Luke 21:20-28
SCRIPTURE
Luke 21:28 — Now, when these things begin to happen,
look up and lift up your heads because your redemption draws near.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
In the ancient of days, even before there were such
things as satellites or TV, we were pretty good at reading the signs which God
provided through nature. We had a radio
to give us some news and weather. We didn’t trust the weatherman all that much,
especially if he said it would be dry, but the dog started eating grass or the
cows started acting a certain way. The look of the leaves, the setting of the
sun, the way our spring-fed creek ran, or even the smell of the wind could give
us fairly accurate predictions of what would come. The look on Mom’s face or
the swiftness of Dad’s walk could send us scurrying for cover or racing for a
hug. The twinkle in Grandma’s eyes could give away the fact that she had a
special treat for us. Jesus read the signs of the times and the signs in people
as well, especially since He could read the intentions of their hearts, too.
Jesus encourages his followers to pay attention to the signs and test them, so
they are not mistaken. There are signs that some will take as reasons for panic
and fear. But for those who know what to look for, there are reasons to rejoice
because the Lord is about to act! What signs are you able to identify? How well
are you interpreting the spiritual signs of the times? Why not start making a
list today?
PRAYER
Let me not be afraid when I read the signs of the
times, Heavenly Father because I know that you are with me. Help me be alert
and pay attention to what you want me to do. Open my heart so that I will see
you in my life. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Thursday, June 26, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
1 Samuel 4:12-22; James 1:1-18; Matthew 19:23-30
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 19:24 — And again, I say to you, it is easier
for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the
kingdom of God.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
We never had much money, but we were rich! We were
always in debt, but we were wealthy. We had the bare necessities of life and
never starved. It may be a tribute to resourceful parents who didn’t share
their anxiety over their financial plight with us. While those who have lots of
money and own large amounts of property might think Jesus was speaking just to
them, He was speaking also to those of us who may have thought they were poor
because they don’t have what some have. The image of a camel going through the
eye of a needle is a humorous impossibility aimed at anyone who lets anything
become more important to them than God. It all depends on how we define riches
and what they are used for. A person with few material goods can become selfish
and self-centered as quickly as a person with many. Even if we don’t classify
ourselves as rich as Bill Gates or Warren Buffet, we need to take Jesus’
warning personally. Is there anything we cling to more than Jesus? Is there
anything we refuse to share or use to the glory of God and the building of His
kingdom? Those who have learned to use all they have and consider themselves caretakers
for the Lord are already shrinking to the size of thread the Lord can use in
his “sewing projects”! Thanks be to God.
PRAYER
On this day that I rest in your Sabbath, help me unburden
myself so that I do not carry such a heavy load, O my God. Thank you for making
me rich in your love and in the love of my church. Teach to share that love
with others so that they and I may easily go through the eye of the needle. In
the name of the Christ, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Friday, June 27, 2025
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
1 Samuel 5:1-12; Acts 5:12-26; Luke 21:29-36
SCRIPTURE
Luke 21:32 — Assuredly, I say to you, this generation
will by no means pass away till all things take place.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
My Grandparents were children in Prussia during a war
before their families came to America. Grandpa remembered seeing a cannonball
land in the alley beside his house. He didn’t say much about the old country,
but he did talk about his dreams of the new country. Many of the new-fangled
gadgets and inventions baffled him. He and Grandma saw many things take place
during their lifetimes. They came to this country at the end of the Civil War,
heard about WWI, had a son wounded in WWII, knew friends and relatives who
served during the Korean War, and had a great-grandson killed in Vietnam. They
witnessed the invention of the car, electricity, television, and many other
things before they passed away. Jesus, the Word made flesh, who was in the
beginning, had witnessed many things and knew that his disciples would see
things their ancestors only hoped and dreamed about. Jesus knew that in Him,
they were witnessing the kingdom of God entering into the lives and futures of
all believers. His words were not a prediction of the future but a statement of
the facts of their present situation. The kingdom of God was so close at hand
that they could reach out and touch it when they touched Him. You and I have
that same privilege every time we receive the Word, every time we receive the
Sacraments, and every time we open our hearts to Jesus. Sound too good to be
true? Thank God it is true!
PRAYER
Dearest Jesus, the Word made flesh; you were before
time began and have seen it all. I pray that I might see you when I open your
word and participate in your holy supper. Touch me in your words and when I am
given your body and blood in the bread and the wine. Thank you. In your name, I
pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Saturday, June 28, 2025 - 5th Sunday after
Pentecost
Irenaeus, Bishop of Lyons, is considered the first
great Catholic theologian. He died c. 202.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
1 Samuel 6:1-16; Acts 5:27-42; Luke 21:37 - 22:13
SCRIPTURE
Luke 22:3 — Then Satan entered Judas, surnamed
Iscariot, who was numbered among the twelve.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
One year, my sister raised a Shetland pony. She didn’t
own it. The owner let families feed and care for the ponies during winter. It
was an opportunity for kids to take care of the ponies and ride them, giving
them some individual, tender, loving care. The pony Cindy had grew some during
the winter and became an excellent pet on which she could ride. However, just
before the pony was to be returned to the owner in the late spring, it seemed
to be getting sick. We called the veterinarian, but before he could arrive, the
pony went down and died. An autopsy proved that the pony had swallowed a particular
type of intestinal worm that had eaten through the intestines and killed it. To
our knowledge, Judas didn’t have worms, but Satan did invade his heart. Judas
was convinced Jesus was the Messiah but didn’t like the kind of Messiah Jesus
came to be. His heart began to harden, and his mind became obsessed with
forcing Jesus to be the kind of Messiah Judas wanted. His heart and his mind
were ready receptacles for Satan’s maneuvering. It didn’t take much. It never
does. Satan loves to be lazy and encourages our natural self-centered schemes.
Once we decide to do things our way instead of God’s way, Satan has his foot in
the door. To whom have you dedicated your life? Are you confident your plans
and your ways are God’s plan and God’s way?
PRAYER
O God, remove the worm of hatred and sin within me. I
pray that I will not be like Judas but one willing to accept you for the kind
of King you are. I dedicate my life and all I have to you and your kingdom. In
your Holy name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Sunday, June 29, 2025—3rd Sunday after
Pentecost
St. Peter and St. Paul, Apostles, are remembered for
their ministry embracing the Jewish and Gentile world. This is one of the
oldest of the saints’ days. Tradition says Peter was martyred in Rome, being
crucified upside down, while Paul is believed to have been beheaded in Rome.
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
1 Samuel 7:2-17; Acts 6:1-15; Luke 22:14-23
SCRIPTURE
Luke 22:19 — And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it,
and gave it to them, saying, "This is My body which is given for
you; do this in remembrance of Me.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Someone asked me how I could remember so many things
from my childhood as I write these devotions. I had to think about that for a
while before explaining that I don’t just remember them. Something - a word, a
phrase, a taste, or a smell - (I believe it is the Holy Spirit) triggers a
memory, and I find myself reliving the events. In my mind, I see and remember
them. Quite often, I smell the floor polish from our country school. My mouth
waters, remembering Grandma’s creme puffs. I am there in much the same way as
the Hebrew word zakar describes entering into and reliving the Passover
or the Lord’s Supper. When I celebrate communion, I have to concentrate
especially hard because sometimes I sense the presence of Christ so strongly
that I want to stop, embrace Him, and weep for joy. To “do this in remembrance”
of Him is not a ceremonial ritual for me. Instead, I feel His tears as He
remembers the night the angel of death passed over the homes with the blood of
the lamb on the doorposts. I can almost taste the Passover lamb, the bitter
herbs, and the unleavened bread. I feel my heart beat with anticipation of
leaving slavery and entering the promised land. And still, I am with Jesus and
His closest friends celebrating the Last Supper, remembering it’s grace-filled
meaning for me and all who receive it. That is zakar! What happens when
you remember Him?
PRAYER
As I remember you in Your Supper, let it be more than
a remembrance for me. Help me remember your deep love for me and feel you are
touching me in the bread and wine. I thank you for being truly present when I
came to your table, surrounded by a great many witnesses who are also in your
presence. In your name, I pray. Amen.
DAILY DEVOTIONS
Monday, June 30, 2025
Johan Olaf Wallin, Archbishop of Uppsala, hymn writer,
1939
THROUGH THE BIBLE IN TWO YEARS
1 Samuel 8:1-22; Acts 6:15 - 7:16; Luke 22:24-30
SCRIPTURE
Luke 22:24 — Now there was also a dispute among them,
as to which of them should be considered the greatest.
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
Being number one in a class of two did not give me a
“big head.” Even receiving the “valedictorian” award at eighth-grade graduation
didn’t mean much. If I needed humbling, the transition from country school to
the “big” high school, where I was one of forty-one students, and from high
school to college, where I was one of several hundred students, pretty well did
the job. In these transitions, I also discovered the high price a person has to
pay for success and achievement. It’s nice to have titles. Right now, I’d like
to shed a few because each one involves carrying a different “cross” and
requires time and energy. It is not all glory and roses without thorns. James
and John, the “sons of thunder,” had been competing with each other most of
their lives. When they became members of Jesus' band of twelve, their
competitive natures kicked in. They needed to feel important. They wanted to be
president and vice president of the church, with Jesus as the CEO. Jesus’ words
must have pulled the rug from under their plans for glory. To be the greatest
meant to be the servant of all, not an ivory tower office in a skyscraper. As a
member of the body of Christ, are you a willing servant of Christ, or are you
trying to be His CEO without His cross?
PRAYER
No comments:
Post a Comment