Today's Bible Reading

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November 10, 2010

Zephaniah 3:14-19 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Zephaniah 3:14-19: Today’s passage promises a new day of celebration for the Hebrew people. The nations have been punished and purified for their corruption, and some of the people scattered to other lands are returning home to Judah and Jerusalem.

Today’s Scripture: Zephaniah 3:17

The LORD your God is with you; his power gives you victory. The LORD will take delight in you, and in his love he will give you new life. He will sing and be joyful over you…

Today’s Reading

14Sing and shout for joy, people of Israel! Rejoice with all your heart, Jerusalem! 15The LORD has stopped your punishment; he has removed all your enemies. The LORD, the king of Israel, is with you; there is no reason now to be afraid. 16The time is coming when they will say to Jerusalem, “Do not be afraid, city of Zion! Do not let your hands hang limp! 17The LORD your God is with you; his power gives you victory. The LORD will take delight in you, and in his love he will give you new life. He will sing and be joyful over you, 18as joyful as people at a festival. ” The LORD says, “I have ended the threat of doom and taken away your disgrace. 19The time is coming! I will punish your oppressors; I will rescue all the lame and bring the exiles home. I will turn their shame to honor, and all the world will praise them.

Reflect

Reread verse 19. The Lord is concerned for “the lame” and “the exiles” not only in Judah but also in all of the world. One sign of God’s future rule would be that those who are in need of help will receive it. Who in your community is in need of help? How can you extend God’s grace to them?

Pray

God of life, forgive me for the times when I have failed to share your love with others. Help me share a vision of your realm in our world by caring for those who are in need. Amen.

Prayer Concern

The homeless

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November 11, 2010

Malachi 3:5-18 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Malachi 3:5-18: Malachi was written to remind the people of God’s love, and to call them back to a joyful obedience of God. In today’s passage, Malachi says that God will soon come to judge the people, but that God is being slow to act in order to give them another chance. He says that if they will keep his law and give generous offerings, they will receive God’s blessings.

Today’s Scripture: Malachi 3:10

Bring the full amount of your tithes to the Temple, so that there will be plenty of food there. Put me to the test and you will see that I will open the windows of heaven and pour out on you in abundance all kinds of good things.

Today’s Reading

5The LORD Almighty says, “I will appear among you to judge, and I will testify at once against those who practice magic, against adulterers, against those who give false testimony, those who cheat employees out of their wages, and those who take advantage of widows, orphans, and foreigners—against all who do not respect me. 6I am the LORD, and I do not change. And so you, the descendants of Jacob, are not yet completely lost. 7You, like your ancestors before you, have turned away from my laws and have not kept them. Turn back to me, and I will turn to you. But you ask, “What must we do to turn back to you?” 8I ask you, is it right for a person to cheat God? Of course not, yet you are cheating me. “How?” you ask. In the matter of tithes and offerings. 9A curse is on all of you because the whole nation is cheating me. 10Bring the full amount of your tithes to the Temple, so that there will be plenty of food there. Put me to the test and you will see that I will open the windows of heaven and pour out on you in abundance all kinds of good things. 11I will not let insects destroy your crops, and your grapevines will be loaded with grapes. 12Then the people of all nations will call you happy, because your land will be a good place to live. 13“You have said terrible things about me,” says the LORD. But you ask, “What have we said about you?” 14You have said, ‘It's useless to serve God. What's the use of doing what he says or of trying to show the LORD Almighty that we are sorry for what we have done? 15As we see it, proud people are the ones who are happy. Evil people not only prosper, but they test God's patience with their evil deeds and get away with it. ’ ” 16Then the people who feared the LORD spoke to one another, and the LORD listened and heard what they said. In his presence, there was written down in a book a record of those who feared the LORD and respected him. 17“They will be my people,” says the LORD Almighty. “On the day when I act, they will be my very own. I will be merciful to them as parents are merciful to the children who serve them. 18Once again my people will see the difference between what happens to the righteous and to the wicked, to the person who serves me and the one who does not. ”

Reflect

The people of Israel were supposed to give a tenth of everything they harvested, as well as animals, to the Lord. The ten percent belonged to God, meaning they were to be used in temple sacrifices and to support the temple priests and their families. Choosing not to give the required offerings was like robbing God and failing to support God’s servants, the priests. How do you decide how much money to give to the church?

Pray

Generous God, you have filled my life with everything I need. May I show my gratitude through my gifts to your church, that they may further your kingdom. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those discerning how much money to give to the church

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November 12, 2010

2 Corinthians 8:1-24 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

2 Corinthians 8:1-24: In today’s passage, Paul asks the Corinthian churches to collect money offerings as part of a larger offering to be given by the churches in Macedonia to the followers in Jerusalem. Paul explains that Titus is in charge of the collection, and that he and another follower of Jesus will come to encourage them to give.

Today’s Scripture: 2 Corinthians 8:7

You are so rich in all you have: in faith, speech, and knowledge, in your eagerness to help and in your love for us. And so we want you to be generous also in this service of love.

Today’s Reading

1Our friends, we want you to know what God's grace has accomplished in the churches in Macedonia. 2They have been severely tested by the troubles they went through; but their joy was so great that they were extremely generous in their giving, even though they are very poor. 3I can assure you that they gave as much as they could, and even more than they could. Of their own free will 4they begged us and pleaded for the privilege of having a part in helping God's people in Judea. 5It was more than we could have hoped for! First they gave themselves to the Lord; and then, by God's will they gave themselves to us as well. 6So we urged Titus, who began this work, to continue it and help you complete this special service of love. 7You are so rich in all you have: in faith, speech, and knowledge, in your eagerness to help and in your love for us. And so we want you to be generous also in this service of love. 8I am not laying down any rules. But by showing how eager others are to help, I am trying to find out how real your own love is. 9You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ; rich as he was, he made himself poor for your sake, in order to make you rich by means of his poverty. 10My opinion is that it is better for you to finish now what you began last year. You were the first, not only to act, but also to be willing to act. 11On with it, then, and finish the job! Be as eager to finish it as you were to plan it, and do it with what you now have. 12If you are eager to give, God will accept your gift on the basis of what you have to give, not on what you don't have. 13-14I am not trying to relieve others by putting a burden on you; but since you have plenty at this time, it is only fair that you should help those who are in need. Then, when you are in need and they have plenty, they will help you. In this way both are treated equally. 15As the scripture says, “The one who gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little.” 16How we thank God for making Titus as eager as we are to help you! 17Not only did he welcome our request; he was so eager to help that of his own free will he decided to go to you. 18With him we are sending the brother who is highly respected in all the churches for his work in preaching the gospel. 19And besides that, he has been chosen and appointed by the churches to travel with us as we carry out this service of love for the sake of the Lord's glory and in order to show that we want to help. 20We are being careful not to stir up any complaints about the way we handle this generous gift. 21Our purpose is to do what is right, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of others. 22So we are sending our brother with them; we have tested him many times and found him always very eager to help. And now that he has so much confidence in you, he is all the more eager to help. 23As for Titus, he is my partner and works with me to help you; as for the other brothers who are going with him, they represent the churches and bring glory to Christ. 24Show your love to them, so that all the churches will be sure of it and know that we are right in boasting about you.

Reflect

When Paul talks about churches, he can be referring either to all the followers of Christ wherever they are, but he might also be referring to a single congregation. Paul believes that the church has been shown God’s purpose and has been chosen to do God’s will in the world. What does “church” mean today?

Pray

Holy Spirit, breathe a spirit of deep generosity into our churches, that all followers of Jesus may be inspired to share the gifts of God with those in need. Bless all God’s people with God’s great abundance. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those facing bankruptcy

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November 13, 2010

2 Corinthians 9:1-15 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

2 Corinthians 9:1-15: This passage continues Paul’s encouragement to the Corinthians to give generously to the collection for the followers of Jesus in Jerusalem. He says that God will increase what the people have so that they can give even more away. He says that their gifts will not only help others in their need, but that it will also help others praise God.

Today’s Scripture: 2 Corinthians 9:7, 8

You should each give, then, as you have decided, not with regret or out of a sense of duty; for God loves the one who gives gladly. And God is able to give you more than you need, so that you will always have all you need for yourselves and more than enough for every good cause.

Today’s Reading

1There is really no need for me to write you about the help being sent to God's people in Judea. 2I know that you are willing to help, and I have boasted of you to the people in Macedonia. “The believers in Achaia,” I said, “have been ready to help since last year.” Your eagerness has stirred up most of them. 3Now I am sending these believers, so that our boasting about you in this matter may not turn out to be empty words. But, just as I said, you will be ready with your help. 4However, if the people from Macedonia should come with me and find out that you are not ready, how ashamed we would be—not to speak of your shame—for feeling so sure of you! 5So I thought it was necessary to urge these believers to go to you ahead of me and get ready in advance the gift you promised to make. Then it will be ready when I arrive, and it will show that you give because you want to, not because you have to. 6Remember that the person who plants few seeds will have a small crop; the one who plants many seeds will have a large crop. 7You should each give, then, as you have decided, not with regret or out of a sense of duty; for God loves the one who gives gladly. 8And God is able to give you more than you need, so that you will always have all you need for yourselves and more than enough for every good cause. 9As the scripture says, “He gives generously to the needy; his kindness lasts forever.” 10And God, who supplies seed for the sower and bread to eat, will also supply you with all the seed you need and will make it grow and produce a rich harvest from your generosity. 11He will always make you rich enough to be generous at all times, so that many will thank God for your gifts which they receive from us. 12For this service you perform not only meets the needs of God's people, but also produces an outpouring of gratitude to God. 13And because of the proof which this service of yours brings, many will give glory to God for your loyalty to the gospel of Christ, which you profess, and for your generosity in sharing with them and everyone else. 14And so with deep affection they will pray for you because of the extraordinary grace God has shown you. 15Let us thank God for his priceless gift!

Reflect

Reread verses 12-15. Paul says that these gifts have value beyond their material worth. Not only do they provide for people in need, but they also provide people with an example of God’s abundant love and blessings. Have you ever experienced a sense of God’s love through the sharing of others? What actions can you take this week to reveal God’s love?

Pray

Giver of all good things, your abundance surrounds me. Thank you for the many gifts you have given me. Make me generous with others, that I may bring honor and praise to you and they may more deeply understand your love. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Charities preparing for the holidays

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November 14, 2010

Psalm 48 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 48: Today’s psalm refers to Mount Zion as the home of God. Here, Mount Zion means Jerusalem. Jerusalem and the people withstood many attacks by enemy armies and even destruction by the Babylonians in 586 BC. Still, the people believed that the city would stand forever as the place where God rules.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 48:9, 10

Inside your Temple, O God, we think of your constant love. You are praised by people everywhere, and your fame extends over all the earth. You rule with justice…

Today’s Reading

1The LORD is great and is to be highly praised in the city of our God, on his sacred hill. 2Zion, the mountain of God, is high and beautiful; the city of the great king brings joy to all the world. 3God has shown that there is safety with him inside the fortresses of the city. 4The kings gathered together and came to attack Mount Zion. 5But when they saw it, they were amazed; they were afraid and ran away. 6There they were seized with fear and anguish, like a woman about to bear a child, 7like ships tossing in a furious storm. 8We have heard what God has done, and now we have seen it in the city of our God, the LORD Almighty; he will keep the city safe forever. 9Inside your Temple, O God, we think of your constant love. 10You are praised by people everywhere, and your fame extends over all the earth. You rule with justice; 11let the people of Zion be glad! You give right judgments; let there be joy in the cities of Judah! 12People of God, walk around Zion and count the towers; 13take notice of the walls and examine the fortresses, so that you may tell the next generation: 14“This God is our God forever and ever; he will lead us for all time to come.”

Reflect

Why was Jerusalem important for the people of God? What can it teach people about the importance of sacred places today? What places are sacred to you? What makes them sacred? How do you experience God’s presence or activity when you are there?

Pray

Lord, you are great. Thank you for the many places in which you make yourself known to me. Return me to the places where I most feel your spirit, and open my eyes and heart to your presence in new places. Help me to remember that all of creation is sacred. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Land conservation

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November 15, 2010

Psalm 65 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 65: Today, the psalmist describes the relationship between God and the people. People offer praise because God answers prayer. Despite their sins, God forgives. God uses power to control the creation and to work for justice throughout the world. All of creation responds to God’s works.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 65:8

The whole world stands in awe of the great things that you have done. Your deeds bring shouts of joy from one end of the earth to the other.

Today’s Reading

1O God, it is right for us to praise you in Zion and keep our promises to you, 2because you answer prayers. People everywhere will come to you 3on account of their sins. Our faults defeat us, but you forgive them. 4Happy are those whom you choose, whom you bring to live in your sanctuary. We shall be satisfied with the good things of your house, the blessings of your sacred Temple. 5You answer us by giving us victory, and you do wonderful things to save us. People all over the world and across the distant seas trust in you. 6You set the mountains in place by your strength, showing your mighty power. 7You calm the roar of the seas and the noise of the waves; you calm the uproar of the peoples. 8The whole world stands in awe of the great things that you have done. Your deeds bring shouts of joy from one end of the earth to the other. 9You show your care for the land by sending rain; you make it rich and fertile. You fill the streams with water; you provide the earth with crops. This is how you do it: 10you send abundant rain on the plowed fields and soak them with water; you soften the soil with showers and cause the young plants to grow. 11What a rich harvest your goodness provides! Wherever you go there is plenty. 12The pastures are filled with flocks; the hillsides are full of joy. 13The fields are covered with sheep; the valleys are full of wheat. Everything shouts and sings for joy.

Reflect

Reread verses 9-13. At the time this psalm was written, Israel’s neighbors, the Canaanites, believed that the God Baal sent the rain that made the crops grow. But this psalm says that it is God who sends the rain that brings rich harvests and fertile pastures where animals can graze. When we buy food in supermarkets, sometimes we become disconnected from the fertile fields that bring forth the fruits of the earth. How can the nourishment God gives us through the land inform our understanding of the spiritual nourishment God provides through the Holy Spirit?

Pray

Great God of abundance, you bring good food for your creation. The pastures are filled with flocks and the hillsides are full of joy. The fields are covered with sheep and the valleys are full of wheat. May the abundance you bring forth on earth make me mindful of your abundant love. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those who have lost crops or livestock due to flooding

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November 16, 2010

Psalm 66 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 66: Today’s psalm celebrates the ways in which God challenges people to grow. It commemorates the Israelites’ liberation from slavery into freedom and abundance. Then it offers a model for worship, prayer and praise.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 66:20

I praise God, because he did not reject my prayer or keep back his constant love from me.

Today’s Reading

1Praise God with shouts of joy, all people! 2Sing to the glory of his name; offer him glorious praise! 3Say to God, “How wonderful are the things you do! Your power is so great that your enemies bow down in fear before you. 4Everyone on earth worships you; they sing praises to you, they sing praises to your name.” 5Come and see what God has done, his wonderful acts among people. 6He changed the sea into dry land; our ancestors crossed the river on foot. There we rejoiced because of what he did. 7He rules forever by his might and keeps his eyes on the nations. Let no rebels rise against him. 8Praise our God, all nations; let your praise be heard. 9He has kept us alive and has not allowed us to fall. 10You have put us to the test, God; as silver is purified by fire, so you have tested us. 11You let us fall into a trap and placed heavy burdens on our backs. 12You let our enemies trample us; we went through fire and flood, but now you have brought us to a place of safety. 13I will bring burnt offerings to your house; I will offer you what I promised. 14I will give you what I said I would when I was in trouble. 15I will offer sheep to be burned on the altar; I will sacrifice bulls and goats, and the smoke will go up to the sky. 16Come and listen, all who honor God, and I will tell you what he has done for me. 17I cried to him for help; I praised him with songs. 18If I had ignored my sins, the Lord would not have listened to me. 19But God has indeed heard me; he has listened to my prayer. 20I praise God, because he did not reject my prayer or keep back his constant love from me.

Reflect

Reread verses 10-12. To “purify” silver means to refine it. Metals are refined by being melted in a hot fire, which burns off unwanted impurities such as dust. The events in the psalm recall the troubles faced by the people in the desert after leaving Egypt and before entering Canaan. The psalm says that those who survived the trials would be like the pure silver that remains after being refined. What the people experienced as testing resulted in the gift of the promised land. Have you ever felt like God was testing you? How did you experience being “refined” by God?

Pray

Praise God! How wonderful are the things you do, Holy One. You have tested me just as silver is purified by fire, and have brought me back to a place of safety. Thank you for hearing my prayers and sharing your constant love with me. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those who feel God is testing them

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November 17, 2010

Psalm 67 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 67: Today we read another psalm that affirms God’s blessings, invites everyone to praise God, and celebrates and abundant harvest. This psalm also notes God’s relationship with nations, inviting them to honor God.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 67:1, 2

God, be merciful to us and bless us; look on us with kindness, so that the whole world may know your will; so that all nations may know your salvation.

Today’s Reading

1God, be merciful to us and bless us; look on us with kindness, 2so that the whole world may know your will; so that all nations may know your salvation. 3May the peoples praise you, O God; may all the peoples praise you! 4May the nations be glad and sing for joy, because you judge the peoples with justice and guide every nation on earth. 5May the peoples praise you, O God; may all the peoples praise you! 6The land has produced its harvest; God, our God, has blessed us. 7God has blessed us; may all people everywhere honor him.

Reflect

God’s blessing means that God provides everything needed for life, including teaching, forgiveness and material blessings. When other nations see how God has blessed Israel, they will honor Israel’s God. Here the psalmist also is mindful of the promise that God made to Abraham in Genesis 12:1-3. The blessings that Abraham’s descendants receive will make them a blessing to others. How have you been a blessing to others in the past week?

Pray

God, be merciful to me and bless me. Look on me with kindness, so that the whole world may know your will, and all people may know your saving grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Prayer Concern

The church in Haiti

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November 18, 2010

Psalm 81 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 81: Today’s psalm celebrates the beginning of the festival for the new moon. This psalm celebrates God’s grace in providing fresh starts and releasing people from their burdens. It also admonishes its hearers to worship God and God alone.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 81:9, 10

You must never worship another god. I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt. Open your mouth, and I will feed you.

Today’s Reading

1Shout for joy to God our defender; sing praise to the God of Jacob! 2Start the music and beat the tambourines; play pleasant music on the harps and the lyres. 3Blow the trumpet for the festival, when the moon is new and when the moon is full. 4This is the law in Israel, an order from the God of Jacob. 5He gave it to the people of Israel when he attacked the land of Egypt. I hear an unknown voice saying, 6“I took the burdens off your backs; I let you put down your loads of bricks. 7When you were in trouble, you called to me, and I saved you. From my hiding place in the storm, I answered you. I put you to the test at the springs of Meribah. 8Listen, my people, to my warning; Israel, how I wish you would listen to me! 9You must never worship another god. 10I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt. Open your mouth, and I will feed you. 11But my people would not listen to me; Israel would not obey me. 12So I let them go their stubborn ways and do whatever they wanted. 13How I wish my people would listen to me; how I wish they would obey me! 14I would quickly defeat their enemies and conquer all their foes. 15Those who hate me would bow in fear before me; their punishment would last forever. 16But I would feed you with the finest wheat and satisfy you with wild honey.”

Reflect

Reread verses 6-7. Removing the burdens and loads of bricks probably refers to God rescuing the people from slavery in Egypt. The storm may refer to the events at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:16). What burdens has God lifted from your life? In what ways is God revealed through the storms of your life?

Pray

Lord Jesus, forgive me for the times when I have failed to live according to your will. Thank you for lifting my burdens for me. Make me strong, that I may receive your grace and share it with others. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those who are enslaved

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November 19, 2010

Psalm 82 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 82: Today’s psalm describes a trial in heaven. It describes God as a judge who wants justice for the weak and oppressed. It is a call to give power to the powerless and show mercy to all who are in need.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 82:3

Defend the rights of the poor and the orphans; be fair to the needy and the helpless.

Today’s Reading

1God presides in the heavenly council; in the assembly of the gods he gives his decision: 2“You must stop judging unjustly; you must no longer be partial to the wicked! 3Defend the rights of the poor and the orphans; be fair to the needy and the helpless. 4Rescue them from the power of evil people. 5How ignorant you are! How stupid! You are completely corrupt, and justice has disappeared from the world. 6“You are gods,” I said; “all of you are children of the Most High.” 7But you will die like mortals; your life will end like that of any prince.” 8Come, O God, and rule the world; all the nations are yours.

Reflect

The “assembly of the gods” referred to in verse 1 probably refers to the gods worshiped by the nations. But the Hebrew word translated “gods” may refer to God’s angels or even to human rulers. What does God want from these others? How do you understand this psalm in the context of today’s world?

Pray

Just and gracious God, you call all people to defend the rights of the poor and the orphans and to be fair to the needy and the helpless. Show me ways that I can help the poor and oppressed in my community this day, this week and this year. Amen.

Prayer Concern

People living in temporary housing

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November 20, 2010

Psalm 84 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 84: Today’s psalm describes the psalmist’s longing to be in the Temple worshipping God. It paints a picture of the Temple as a place that provides shelter and creates space for celebration and praise. It also describes the joy and commitment of those who travel to the Temple to worship God.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 84:10

One day spent in your Temple is better than a thousand anywhere else; I would rather stand at the gate of the house of my God than live in the homes of the wicked.

Today’s Reading

1How I love your Temple, LORD Almighty! 2How I want to be there! I long to be in the LORD's Temple. With my whole being I sing for joy to the living God. 3Even the sparrows have built a nest, and the swallows have their own home; they keep their young near your altars, 4How happy are those who live in your Temple, always singing praise to you. 5How happy are those whose strength comes from you, who are eager to make the pilgrimage to Mount Zion. 6As they pass through the dry valley of Baca, it becomes a place of springs; the autumn rain fills it with pools. 7They grow stronger as they go; they will see the God of gods on Zion. 8Hear my prayer, LORD God Almighty. Listen, O God of Jacob! 9Bless our king, O God, the king you have chosen. 10One day spent in your Temple is better than a thousand anywhere else; I would rather stand at the gate of the house of my God than live in the homes of the wicked. 11The LORD is our protector and glorious king, blessing us with kindness and honor. He does not refuse any good thing to those who do what is right. 12LORD Almighty, how happy are those who trust in you!

Reflect

In today’s psalm, the Temple is described as God’s house—a place that provides shelter and sustenance to people and animals. Are there sacred spaces where you tend to experience God’s presence—places you think of as “God’s House?” How can sacred spaces provide shelter and sustenance for your soul?

Pray

How I love to be in your house, Lord Almighty! Thank you for blessing me and sustaining me. It makes me happy to praise you. With my whole being I sing for joy to you! Amen.

Prayer Concern

Refugees

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November 21, 2010

Psalm 93 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 93: In today’s psalm, the writer describes God as a king clothed in majesty and strength. God rules over all the earth. The ocean roars in praise to God, yet God is even more powerful than the waves of the sea.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 93:1

The LORD is king. He is clothed with majesty and strength. The earth is set firmly in place and cannot be moved.

Today’s Reading

1The LORD is king. He is clothed with majesty and strength. The earth is set firmly in place and cannot be moved. 2Your throne, O LORD, has been firm from the beginning, and you existed before time began. 3The ocean depths raise their voice, O LORD; they raise their voice and roar. 4The LORD rules supreme in heaven, greater than the roar of the ocean, more powerful than the waves of the sea. 5Your laws are eternal, LORD, and your Temple is holy indeed, forever and ever.

Reflect

This psalm may have been used in the temple to celebrate God’s kingship. The “ocean” and “sea” are symbols of the power of chaos. God is described as one who has complete control over chaos. When have you called upon God in a time of chaos? How does God bring peace to the chaos of your life?

Pray

Powerful God, you existed before time began. Remind me that you are always present with me amid the chaos of my life, guiding me, supporting me and loving me. Grant me your peace today. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Children in foster care

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November 22, 2010

Psalm 95 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 95: The psalmist encourages followers of God to praise God with thanksgiving and songs. He affirms God’s ownership of creation, and calls humanity his “flock.” The psalmist encourages people to listen to God’s voice today and live in obedience and peace.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 95:7

He is our God; we are the people he cares for, the flock for which he provides. Listen today to what he says.

Today’s Reading

1Come, let us praise the LORD! Let us sing for joy to God, who protects us! 2Let us come before him with thanksgiving and sing joyful songs of praise. 3For the LORD is a mighty God, a mighty king over all the gods. 4He rules over the whole earth, from the deepest caves to the highest hills. 5He rules over the sea, which he made; the land also, which he himself formed. 6Come, let us bow down and worship him; let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker! 7He is our God; we are the people he cares for, the flock for which he provides. Listen today to what he says: 8“Don't be stubborn, as your ancestors were at Meribah, as they were that day in the desert at Massah. 9There they put me to the test and tried me, although they had seen what I did for them. 10For forty years I was disgusted with those people. I said, ‘How disloyal they are! They refuse to obey my commands.’ 11I was angry and made a solemn promise: ‘You will never enter the land where I would have given you rest.’”

Reflect

Reread 95:8-11. Sheep normally listen to their shepherd (John 10:4), but this passage tells how God’s people did not listen. The psalmist uses this memory to call people to obey God “today.” These verses may have been spoken in a worship service by a priest or prophet. How can remembering stories from your own spiritual life change the way you respond to God now?

Pray

God of grace, there are times in my life when I have failed to listen to your call. Forgive me. Make me hear your voice in all aspects of my life, that I may be your faithful servant. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those who are hearing impaired

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November 23, 2010

Psalm 96 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 96: Today’s psalm encourages hearers to praise God through joyful song, proclaiming God’s salvation and works over and over again. The psalmist lifts God above the idols of neighboring nations, proclaiming God’s absolute strength and power.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 96:4

The LORD is great and is to be highly praised; he is to be honored more than all the gods.

Today’s Reading

1Sing a new song to the LORD! Sing to the LORD, all the world! 2Sing to the LORD, and praise him! Proclaim every day the good news that he has saved us. 3Proclaim his glory to the nations, his mighty deeds to all peoples. 4The LORD is great and is to be highly praised; he is to be honored more than all the gods. 5The gods of all other nations are only idols, but the LORD created the heavens. 6Glory and majesty surround him; power and beauty fill his Temple. 7Praise the LORD, all people on earth; praise his glory and might. 8Praise the LORD's glorious name; bring an offering and come into his Temple. 9Bow down before the Holy One when he appears; tremble before him, all the earth! 10Say to all the nations, “The LORD is king! The earth is set firmly in place and cannot be moved; he will judge the peoples with justice.” 11Be glad, earth and sky! Roar, sea, and every creature in you; 12be glad, fields, and everything in you! The trees in the woods will shout for joy 13when the LORD comes to rule the earth. He will rule the peoples of the world with justice and fairness.

Reflect

Verse 1 tells hearers to “sing a new song to the Lord!” New songs celebrate new acts of deliverance by God. This “new song” could certainly have been sung in celebration of how God eventually restored the people following the crisis of 586 BC when the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem and the Temple. What “new song” might you sing today? In what ways has God shown deliverance to you?

Pray

Great and glorious God, you are great and are to be highly praised! May the earth and sky, the seas and trees, and all the creatures of the earth sing praises to you! Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those seeking God’s deliverance

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November 24, 2010

Psalm 99 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 99: Today’s psalm celebrates the kingship of God over Israel and the entire world. It recalls the ways in which the Lord answered the prayers of his faithful servants, Moses, Aaron and Samuel, guiding them and forgiving their sins. The psalm emphasizes God’s power and justice.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 99:5

Praise the LORD our God; worship before his throne! Holy is he!

Today’s Reading

1The LORD is king, and the people tremble. He sits on his throne above the winged creatures, and the earth shakes. 2The LORD is mighty in Zion; he is supreme over all the nations. 3Everyone will praise his great and majestic name. Holy is he! 4Mighty king, you love what is right; you have established justice in Israel; you have brought righteousness and fairness. 5Praise the LORD our God; worship before his throne! Holy is he! 6Moses and Aaron were his priests, and Samuel was one who prayed to him; they called to the LORD, and he answered them. 7He spoke to them from the pillar of cloud; they obeyed the laws and commands that he gave them. 8O LORD, our God, you answered your people; you showed them that you are a God who forgives, even though you punished them for their sins. 9Praise the LORD our God, and worship at his sacred hill! The LORD our God is holy.

Reflect

A number of the psalms we have read this month celebrate God’s kingship. What sort of things does a king typically do for the people he rules? What sort of things does a king expect from his people. In what ways does God rule your life? How do you honor God in return?

Pray

Lord God, you are indeed King, loving what is right, establishing justice in our world, and bringing righteousness and fairness. I rejoice in your greatness and thank you for your love. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Countries with corrupt governments

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November 25, 2010

Psalm 100 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 100: Today the psalmist invites the entire world to sing praise to God with happy songs. He calls upon people to recognize God as Creator. When they attend worship, they should do so with praise and thanksgiving because God is good and promises to be eternally faithful.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 100:4,5

Enter the Temple gates with thanksgiving; go into its courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise him. The LORD is good; his love is eternal and his faithfulness lasts forever.

Today’s Reading

1Sing to the LORD, all the world! 2Worship the LORD with joy; come before him with happy songs! 3Acknowledge that the LORD is God. He made us, and we belong to him; we are his people, we are his flock. 4Enter the Temple gates with thanksgiving; go into its courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise him. 5The LORD is good; his love is eternal and his faithfulness lasts forever.

Reflect

What are your favorite songs to sing when you are worshipping God? What do you do to acknowledge that the Lord is your God? How do you celebrate God’s works as Creator? How do you feel when you reflect on God’s eternal love and faithfulness?

Pray

Oh Lord, I love to sing songs of praise to you! May my heart, soul and mouth be filled with words of overflowing gratitude and joy. Be present in my worship, Holy One, that my songs of praise will be pleasing to you. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those in need of warm clothing

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November 26, 2010

Psalm 104 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 104: God’s wisdom, power and goodness are revealed throughout creation. From the skies to the seas, God’s majesty is everywhere. God orders all things with wisdom, creativity and justice.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 104:31

May the glory of the LORD last forever! May the LORD be happy with what he has made!

Today’s Reading

1O LORD, my God, how great you are! You are clothed with majesty and glory; 2you cover yourself with light. You have spread out the heavens like a tent 3and built your home on the waters above. You use the clouds as your chariot and ride on the wings of the wind. 4You use the winds as your messengers and flashes of lightning as your servants. 5You have set the earth firmly on its foundations, and it will never be moved. 6You placed the ocean over it like a robe, and the water covered the mountains. 7When you rebuked the waters, they fled; they rushed away when they heard your shout of command. 8They flowed over the mountains and into the valleys, to the place you had made for them. 9You set a boundary they can never pass, to keep them from covering the earth again. 10You make springs flow in the valleys, and rivers run between the hills. 11They provide water for the wild animals; there the wild donkeys quench their thirst. 12In the trees near by, the birds make their nests and sing. 13From the sky you send rain on the hills, and the earth is filled with your blessings. 14You make grass grow for the cattle and plants for us to use, so that we can grow our crops 15and produce wine to make us happy, olive oil to make us cheerful, and bread to give us strength. 16The cedars of Lebanon get plenty of rain— the LORD's own trees, which he planted. 17There the birds build their nests; the storks nest in the fir trees. 18The wild goats live in the high mountains, and the rock badgers hide in the cliffs. 19You created the moon to mark the months; the sun knows the time to set. 20You made the night, and in the darkness all the wild animals come out. 21The young lions roar while they hunt, looking for the food that God provides. 22When the sun rises, they go back and lie down in their dens. 23Then people go out to do their work and keep working until evening. 24LORD, you have made so many things! How wisely you made them all! The earth is filled with your creatures. 25There is the ocean, large and wide, where countless creatures live, large and small alike. 26The ships sail on it, and in it plays Leviathan, that sea monster which you made. 27All of them depend on you to give them food when they need it. 28You give it to them, and they eat it; you provide food, and they are satisfied. 29When you turn away, they are afraid; when you take away your breath, they die and go back to the dust from which they came. 30But when you give them breath, they are created; you give new life to the earth. 31May the glory of the LORD last forever! May the LORD be happy with what he has made! 32He looks at the earth, and it trembles; he touches the mountains, and they pour out smoke. 33I will sing to the LORD all my life; as long as I live I will sing praises to my God. 34May he be pleased with my song, for my gladness comes from him. 35May sinners be destroyed from the earth; may the wicked be no more. Praise the LORD, my soul! Praise the LORD!

Reflect

Reread verse 24. The word “wisdom” means both knowledge and creative power. In both senses of the word, God’s creation shows God’s wisdom. How have you sensed God’s presence through an experience in the natural world? How can you be a better steward of God’s creation? What does your church need to do in order to encourage stewardship of God’s creation?

Pray

Lord, I will sing to you all my life. You have made so many things, and the earth is filled with your creatures. Thank you for the many ways in which you bring life to this earth. Forgive me for the ways in which I have failed to care for your creation, and empower our society to live sustainably for generations to come. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Environmental sustainability

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November 27, 2010

Psalm 107 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 107: Today’s psalm speaks to God’s unfailing love. It describes the Israelites’ time in the wilderness, God’s liberation of the people from slavery in Egypt and from exile in Babylon, God’s healing of the sick, and God’s rescue of those in distress. It offers a warning against doing wrong, and reminds hearers that those who obey will receive God’s care.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 107:1

“Give thanks to the LORD, because he is good; his love is eternal!”

Today’s Reading

1“Give thanks to the LORD, because he is good; his love is eternal!” 2Repeat these words in praise to the LORD, all you whom he has saved. He has rescued you from your enemies 3and has brought you back from foreign countries, from east and west, from north and south. 4Some wandered in the trackless desert and could not find their way to a city to live in. 5They were hungry and thirsty and had given up all hope. 6Then in their trouble they called to the LORD, and he saved them from their distress. 7He led them by a straight road to a city where they could live. 8They must thank the LORD for his constant love, for the wonderful things he did for them. 9He satisfies those who are thirsty and fills the hungry with good things. 10Some were living in gloom and darkness, prisoners suffering in chains, 11because they had rebelled against the commands of Almighty God and had rejected his instructions. 12They were worn out from hard work; they would fall down, and no one would help. 13Then in their trouble they called to the LORD, and he saved them from their distress. 14He brought them out of their gloom and darkness and broke their chains in pieces. 15They must thank the LORD for his constant love, for the wonderful things he did for them. 16He breaks down doors of bronze and smashes iron bars. 17Some were fools, suffering because of their sins and because of their evil; 18they couldn't stand the sight of food and were close to death. 19Then in their trouble they called to the LORD, and he saved them from their distress. 20He healed them with his command and saved them from the grave. 21They must thank the LORD for his constant love, for the wonderful things he did for them. 22They must thank him with sacrifices, and with songs of joy must tell all that he has done. 23Some sailed over the ocean in ships, earning their living on the seas. 24They saw what the LORD can do, his wonderful acts on the seas. 25He commanded, and a mighty wind began to blow and stirred up the waves. 26The ships were lifted high in the air and plunged down into the depths. In such danger the sailors lost their courage; 27they stumbled and staggered like drunks— all their skill was useless. 28Then in their trouble they called to the LORD, and he saved them from their distress. 29He calmed the raging storm, and the waves became quiet. 30They were glad because of the calm, and he brought them safe to the port they wanted. 31They must thank the LORD for his constant love, for the wonderful things he did for them. 32They must proclaim his greatness in the assembly of the people and praise him before the council of the leaders. 33The LORD made rivers dry up completely and stopped springs from flowing. 34He made rich soil become a salty wasteland because of the wickedness of those who lived there. 35He changed deserts into pools of water and dry land into flowing springs. 36He let hungry people settle there, and they built a city to live in. 37They sowed the fields and planted grapevines and reaped an abundant harvest. 38He blessed his people, and they had many children; he kept their herds of cattle from decreasing. 39When God's people were defeated and humiliated by cruel oppression and suffering, 40he showed contempt for their oppressors and made them wander in trackless deserts. 41But he rescued the needy from their misery and made their families increase like flocks. 42The righteous see this and are glad, but all the wicked are put to silence. 43May those who are wise think about these things; may they consider the LORD's constant love.

Reflect

This psalm rehearses many of God’s acts of love and grace. How can telling stories about God’s love and grace enhance your praise and strengthen your faith? How can hearing other people’s stories deepen your understanding of God’s works? What is your favorite story of God’s grace?

Pray

God, I give thanks to you because your love is eternal! You care for your people in every time and place, being present with each one of us, whatever situations we face. May the stories of your love deepen my faith and the faith of others. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those who need to hear God’s Word

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November 28, 2010

Matthew 24:29-51 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Matthew 24:29-51: Today’s passage is a series of parables that Jesus uses to challenge his opponents and to tell his listeners how to be ready for God’s coming kingdom. His stories repeat the theme that God’s coming will be magnificent and unexpected.

Today’s Scripture: Matthew 24:42, 44

Watch out, then, because you do not know what day your Lord will come. So then, you also must always be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you are not expecting him.

Today’s Reading

29Soon after the trouble of those days, the sun will grow dark, the moon will no longer shine, the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers in space will be driven from their courses. 30Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky; and all the peoples of earth will weep as they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31The great trumpet will sound, and he will send out his angels to the four corners of the earth, and they will gather his chosen people from one end of the world to the other. 32Let the fig tree teach you a lesson. When its branches become green and tender and it starts putting out leaves, you know that summer is near. 33In the same way, when you see all these things, you will know that the time is near, ready to begin. 34Remember that all these things will happen before the people now living have all died. 35Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. 36No one knows, however, when that day and hour will come—neither the angels in heaven nor the Son; the Father alone knows. 37The coming of the Son of Man will be like what happened in the time of Noah. 38In the days before the flood people ate and drank, men and women married, up to the very day Noah went into the boat; 39yet they did not realize what was happening until the flood came and swept them all away. That is how it will be when the Son of Man comes. 40At that time two men will be working in a field: one will be taken away, the other will be left behind. 41Two women will be at a mill grinding meal: one will be taken away, the other will be left behind. 42Watch out, then, because you do not know what day your Lord will come. 43If the owner of a house knew the time when the thief would come, you can be sure that he would stay awake and not let the thief break into his house. 44So then, you also must always be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you are not expecting him. 45Who, then, is a faithful and wise servant? It is the one that his master has placed in charge of the other servants to give them their food at the proper time. 46How happy that servant is if his master finds him doing this when he comes home! 47Indeed, I tell you, the master will put that servant in charge of all his property. 48But if he is a bad servant, he will tell himself that his master will not come back for a long time, 49and he will begin to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards. 50Then that servant's master will come back one day when the servant does not expect him and at a time he does not know. 51The master will cut him in pieces and make him share the fate of the hypocrites. There he will cry and gnash his teeth.

Reflect

Reread verses 36-39. Jesus uses the example of Noah—a good and faithful man. God chose him and his family to build an ark that would save humanity and other living things from the flood. Why does Jesus use Noah as an example in this context? Can you think of anyone—either someone you know or someone you don’t know—that exemplifies this kind of righteousness?

Pray

Loving God, it is all too easy to put off doing the things you call me to do. Yet I know in my heart that serving you is my deepest source of joy. Help me let go of those things that keep me from answering your call in my life every day. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Missionaries

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November 29, 2010

Psalm 8 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Psalm 8: This month’s devotions have invited us to reflect on Scriptures of thanks and praise. The Psalms provide particularly rich biblical resources for thanking and praising the Lord. Today’s psalm refers to God as a ruler and describes how God rules by sharing power with human beings.

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 8:1

O LORD, our LORD, your greatness is seen in all the world! Your praise reaches up to the heavens.

Today’s Reading

1O LORD, our Lord, your greatness is seen in all the world! Your praise reaches up to the heavens; 2it is sung by children and babies. You are safe and secure from all your enemies; you stop anyone who opposes you. 3When I look at the sky, which you have made, at the moon and the stars, which you set in their places— 4what are human beings, that you think of them; mere mortals, that you care for them? 5Yet you made them inferior only to yourself; you crowned them with glory and honor. 6You appointed them rulers over everything you made; you placed them over all creation: 7sheep and cattle, and the wild animals too; 8the birds and the fish and the creatures in the seas. 9O LORD, our Lord, your greatness is seen in all the world!

Reflect

God gave humans kingly “glory and honor” and power to rule. The language of verses 5-8 recalls Genesis 1:26-28, which says that humans will rule over the rest of creation because “God created human beings, making them to be like himself” (Genesis 1:27a). Many years after Psalm 8 was written, Christians saw the full likeness of God in Jesus, and the language of 8:6 was used to describe Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:27; Ephesians 1:22; Hebrews 2:8).

Pray

Oh Lord, our Lord, your greatness is seen in all the world! When I look at the sky, which you have made, at the moon and the stars, which you set in their places, I am continually reminded of your glory. Thank you for the gifts of your creation! Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those who are losing their eyesight

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November 30, 2010

Isaiah 12:1-6 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God

Introduction

Isaiah 12:1-6: In today’s passage, Isaiah promises that God the Savior will comfort those with whom he was once angry. God’s people will be full of joy and all the nations will hear what God has done.

Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 12:4

Give thanks to the LORD! Call for him to help you! Tell all the nations what he has done! Tell them how great he is!

Today’s Reading

1A day is coming when people will sing, “I praise you, LORD! You were angry with me, but now you comfort me and are angry no longer. 2God is my savior; I will trust him and not be afraid. The LORD gives me power and strength; he is my savior. 3As fresh water brings joy to the thirsty, so God's people rejoice when he saves them.” 4A day is coming when people will sing, “Give thanks to the LORD! Call for him to help you! Tell all the nations what he has done! Tell them how great he is! 5Sing to the LORD because of the great things he has done. Let the whole world hear the news. 6Let everyone who lives in Zion shout and sing! Israel's holy God is great, and he lives among his people.”

Reflect

Take some time to reflect on the many things that God has done for you. Acknowledge the ways in which God’s goodness connects you with the whole community of faith throughout the ages. Let your heart overflow with gratitude to God, that God’s love for you may be a source of joy for you today.

Pray

Loving God, fill my thoughts with the many ways in which you have blessed my life. As I remember your blessings, make me mindful of those to whom I can be a blessing. Show me ways to serve today. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those battling cancer

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December 1, 2010

Isaiah 25:1-12 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Spreading Joy to Everyone

Introduction

Isaiah 25:1-12: Today’s passage is a prayer of thanks to God. It describes promises fulfilled, including the elimination of threats from enemies and shelter for those in need. It then offers a vision, where God brings new life by destroying the power of death, and promises that the people will celebrate the presence and protection of God.

Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 25:1

LORD, you are my God; I will honor you and praise your name. You have done amazing things; you have faithfully carried out the plans you made long ago.

Today’s Reading

1LORD, you are my God; I will honor you and praise your name. You have done amazing things; you have faithfully carried out the plans you made long ago. 2You have turned cities into ruins and destroyed their fortifications. The palaces which our enemies built are gone forever. 3The people of powerful nations will praise you; you will be feared in the cities of cruel nations. 4The poor and the helpless have fled to you and have been safe in times of trouble. You give them shelter from storms and shade from the burning heat. Cruel enemies attack like a winter storm, 5like drought in a dry land. But you, LORD, have silenced our enemies; you silence the shouts of cruel people, as a cloud cools a hot day. 6Here on Mount Zion the LORD Almighty will prepare a banquet for all the nations of the world—a banquet of the richest food and the finest wine. 7Here he will suddenly remove the cloud of sorrow that has been hanging over all the nations. 8The Sovereign LORD will destroy death forever! He will wipe away the tears from everyone's eyes and take away the disgrace his people have suffered throughout the world. The LORD himself has spoken. 9When it happens, everyone will say, “He is our God! We have put our trust in him, and he has rescued us. He is the LORD! We have put our trust in him, and now we are happy and joyful because he has saved us. ” 10The LORD will protect Mount Zion, but the people of Moab will be trampled down the way straw is trampled in manure. 11They will reach out their hands as if they were trying to swim, but God will humiliate them, and their hands will sink helplessly. 12He will destroy the fortresses of Moab with their high walls and bring them tumbling down into the dust.

Reflect

Reread 25:7-8. The “cloud of sorrow” in v. 7 is understood in some other translations as “burial clothes.” If the people are experiencing sorrow or are in burial clothes, it is because Israel has been defeated by other nations. But v. 8 says that God will destroy death and end mourning. What images in this text are most powerful to you? Why?

Pray

Lord, you are my God. I will honor you and praise your name. You have done wonders and have faithfully carried out the plans you promised long ago. Enable me to grow in faith and trust in you, that I may know you more fully and share your love. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those grieving the loss of a loved one

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December 2, 2010

Isaiah 65:17-25 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Spreading Joy to Everyone

Introduction

Isaiah 65:17-25: Today’s reading is taken from the penultimate chapter of the book of Isaiah. Isaiah prophesies that God will create a new heaven and a new earth. New Jerusalem will be a place of good health, long life, and prosperity.

Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 65:18

Be glad and rejoice forever in what I create. The new Jerusalem I make will be full of joy, and her people will be happy.

Today’s Reading

17The LORD says, “I am making a new earth and new heavens. The events of the past will be completely forgotten. 18Be glad and rejoice forever in what I create. The new Jerusalem I make will be full of joy, and her people will be happy. 19I myself will be filled with joy because of Jerusalem and her people. There will be no weeping there, no calling for help. 20Babies will no longer die in infancy, and all people will live out their life span. Those who live to be a hundred will be considered young. To die before that would be a sign that I had punished them. 21-22People will build houses and get to live in them—they will not be used by someone else. They will plant vineyards and enjoy the wine—it will not be drunk by others. Like trees, my people will live long lives. They will fully enjoy the things that they have worked for. 23The work they do will be successful, and their children will not meet with disaster. I will bless them and their descendants for all time to come. 24Even before they finish praying to me, I will answer their prayers. 25Wolves and lambs will eat together; lions will eat straw, as cattle do, and snakes will no longer be dangerous. On Zion, my sacred hill, there will be nothing harmful or evil. ”

Reflect

Heaven and earth are included in the promise of a new future for Jerusalem and its people. Describe the “new earth and new heavens” (v. 17) the Lord was creating. If our world could have a new start today, what changes would be made?

Pray

Loving God, as I wait in hope for a new heaven and a new earth, enable me to bring a glimpse of your new realm to this world in need at this time. In your holy name I pray. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those who do not have unemployment benefits

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December 3, 2010

Revelation 21:1-27 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Spreading Joy to Everyone

Introduction

Revelation 21:1-27: Today’s reading echoes the prophesy from Isaiah 65:17. John experiences a vision of a new heaven and a new earth. The coming down of a new holy city from heaven represents the renewal of the whole creation. God and the Lamb will live among the faithful people in a place where hunger, sorrow and death will be wiped out forever.

Today’s Scripture: Revelation 21:3

I heard a loud voice speaking from the throne: “Now God’s home is with people! He will live with them, and they shall be his people. God himself will be with them, and he will be their God.”

Today’s Reading

1Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. The first heaven and the first earth disappeared, and the sea vanished. 2And I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared and ready, like a bride dressed to meet her husband. 3I heard a loud voice speaking from the throne: “Now God's home is with people! He will live with them, and they shall be his people. God himself will be with them, and he will be their God. 4He will wipe away all tears from their eyes. There will be no more death, no more grief or crying or pain. The old things have disappeared. ” 5Then the one who sits on the throne said, “And now I make all things new!” He also said to me, “Write this, because these words are true and can be trusted.” 6And he said, “It is done! I am the first and the last, the beginning and the end. To anyone who is thirsty I will give the right to drink from the spring of the water of life without paying for it. 7Those who win the victory will receive this from me: I will be their God, and they will be my children. 8But cowards, traitors, perverts, murderers, the immoral, those who practice magic, those who worship idols, and all liars—the place for them is the lake burning with fire and sulfur, which is the second death. ” 9One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came to me and said, “Come, and I will show you the Bride, the wife of the Lamb.” 10The Spirit took control of me, and the angel carried me to the top of a very high mountain. He showed me Jerusalem, the Holy City, coming down out of heaven from God 11and shining with the glory of God. The city shone like a precious stone, like a jasper, clear as crystal. 12It had a great, high wall with twelve gates and with twelve angels in charge of the gates. On the gates were written the names of the twelve tribes of the people of Israel. 13There were three gates on each side: three on the east, three on the south, three on the north, and three on the west. 14The city's wall was built on twelve foundation stones, on which were written the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. 15The angel who spoke to me had a gold measuring stick to measure the city, its gates, and its wall. 16The city was perfectly square, as wide as it was long. The angel measured the city with his measuring stick: it was fifteen hundred miles long and was as wide and as high as it was long. 17The angel also measured the wall, and it was 216 feet high, according to the standard unit of measure which he was using. 18The wall was made of jasper, and the city itself was made of pure gold, as clear as glass. 19The foundation stones of the city wall were adorned with all kinds of precious stones. The first foundation stone was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, 20the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh yellow quartz, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chalcedony, the eleventh turquoise, the twelfth amethyst. 21The twelve gates were twelve pearls; each gate was made from a single pearl. The street of the city was of pure gold, transparent as glass. 22I did not see a temple in the city, because its temple is the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb. 23The city has no need of the sun or the moon to shine on it, because the glory of God shines on it, and the Lamb is its lamp. 24The peoples of the world will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their wealth into it. 25The gates of the city will stand open all day; they will never be closed, because there will be no night there. 26The greatness and the wealth of the nations will be brought into the city. 27But nothing that is impure will enter the city, nor anyone who does shameful things or tells lies. Only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of the living will enter the city.

Reflect

In John’s vision, the first earth, which was filled with evil, war, sickness, and pollution, is gone. In its place there will be a new earth. How do you reconcile the idea that this earth will pass away with Jesus’ call to attend to the hungry, impoverished, and needy here and now?

Pray

Gracious God, come and make your home among us here and now. Empower us to care for those in need and for your whole creation, that by our stewardship and love, we may come to know you and share in your grace. Amen.

Prayer Concern

The hungry

[phkrause]

December 4, 2010

Revelation 22:1-21 (Good News Translation)

Embodying Hope and Giving Spreading Joy to Everyone

Introduction

Revelation 22:1-21: John’s vision is a reminder that Jesus will come again soon and bless those who are faithful. Christians must keep their lives pure and avoid doing wrong. John also warns that anyone who adds or takes away from the message of his vision will not be allowed to enter the holy city.

Today’s Scripture: Revelation 22:12, 13

“Listen!” says Jesus. “I am coming soon! I will bring my rewards with me, to give to each one according to what he has done. I am the first and the last, the beginning and the end.”

Today’s Reading

1The angel also showed me the river of the water of life, sparkling like crystal, and coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2and flowing down the middle of the city's street. On each side of the river was the tree of life, which bears fruit twelve times a year, once each month; and its leaves are for the healing of the nations. 3Nothing that is under God's curse will be found in the city. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will worship him. 4They will see his face, and his name will be written on their foreheads. 5There shall be no more night, and they will not need lamps or sunlight, because the Lord God will be their light, and they will rule as kings forever and ever. 6Then the angel said to me, “These words are true and can be trusted. And the Lord God, who gives his Spirit to the prophets, has sent his angel to show his servants what must happen very soon.” 7“Listen!” says Jesus. “I am coming soon! Happy are those who obey the prophetic words in this book!” 8I, John, have heard and seen all these things. And when I finished hearing and seeing them, I fell down at the feet of the angel who had shown me these things, and I was about to worship him. 9But he said to me, “Don't do it! I am a servant together with you and with your brothers the prophets and of all those who obey the words in this book. Worship God!” 10And he said to me, “Do not keep the prophetic words of this book a secret, because the time is near when all this will happen. 11Whoever is evil must go on doing evil, and whoever is filthy must go on being filthy; whoever is good must go on doing good, and whoever is holy must go on being holy. ” 12“Listen!” says Jesus. “I am coming soon! I will bring my rewards with me, to give to each one according to what he has done. 13I am the first and the last, the beginning and the end. ” 14Happy are those who wash their robes clean and so have the right to eat the fruit from the tree of life and to go through the gates into the city. 15But outside the city are the perverts and those who practice magic, the immoral and the murderers, those who worship idols and those who are liars both in words and deeds. 16“I, Jesus, have sent my angel to announce these things to you in the churches. I am descended from the family of David; I am the bright morning star.” 17The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come!” Everyone who hears this must also say, “Come!” Come, whoever is thirsty; accept the water of life as a gift, whoever wants it. 18I, John, solemnly warn everyone who hears the prophetic words of this book: if any add anything to them, God will add to their punishment the plagues described in this book. 19And if any take anything away from the prophetic words of this book, God will take away from them their share of the fruit of the tree of life and of the Holy City, which are described in this book. 20He who gives his testimony to all this says, “Yes indeed! I am coming soon!” So be it. Come, Lord Jesus! 21May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with everyone.

Reflect

The final words of Jesus Christ in the book of Revelation are: “Yes indeed! I am coming soon!” (v. 20). This message is repeated throughout Revelation, a number of times in this chapter alone (v. 7, 12). As we begin the season of Advent, what does the Jesus’ coming mean for us today? What will you do today to respond to this promise?

Pray

Lord Jesus, come and renew your creation! Lead us in your ways and prepare us to receive you in love. Fill us with faith and hope that brings true joy. Come, Lord Jesus! Amen.

Prayer Concern

Community leaders