Members phkrause Posted December 31, 2010 Author Members Posted December 31, 2010 December 31, 2010 Hebrews 2:1-18 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Spreading Joy to Everyone Introduction Hebrews 2:1-18: Today we read from the book of Hebrews. In this reading, the author advises followers to pay full attention to God’s message. He says that Jesus Christ came to serve God as a faithful and merciful high priest and offer himself as a sacrifice, so that the people’s sins would be forgiven. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 2:10 It was only right that God, who creates and preserves all things, should make Jesus perfect through suffering, in order to bring many children to share his glory. For Jesus is the one who leads them to salvation. Today’s Reading 1 That is why we must hold on all the more firmly to the truths we have heard, so that we will not be carried away. 2 The message given to our ancestors by the angels was shown to be true, and those who did not follow it or obey it received the punishment they deserved. 3 How, then, shall we escape if we pay no attention to such a great salvation? The Lord himself first announced this salvation, and those who heard him proved to us that it is true. 4 At the same time God added his witness to theirs by performing all kinds of miracles and wonders and by distributing the gifts of the Holy Spirit according to his will. 5 God has not placed the angels as rulers over the new world to come—the world of which we speak. 6 Instead, as it is said somewhere in the Scriptures: “What are human beings, O God, that you should think of them; mere human beings, that you should care for them? 7 You made them for a little while lower than the angels; you crowned them with glory and honor, 8 and made them rulers over all things.” 9 But we do see Jesus, who for a little while was made lower than the angels, so that through God's grace he should die for everyone. We see him now crowned with glory and honor because of the death he suffered. 10 It was only right that God, who creates and preserves all things, should make Jesus perfect through suffering, in order to bring many children to share his glory. For Jesus is the one who leads them to salvation. 11 He purifies people from their sins, and both he and those who are made pure all have the same Father. That is why Jesus is not ashamed to call them his family. 12 He says to God, “I will tell my people what you have done; I will praise you in their meeting.” 13 He also says, “I will put my trust in God.” And he also says, “Here I am with the children that God has given me.” 14 Since the children, as he calls them, are people of flesh and blood, Jesus himself became like them and shared their human nature. He did this so that through his death he might destroy the Devil, who has the power over death, 15 and in this way set free those who were slaves all their lives because of their fear of death. 16 For it is clear that it is not the angels that he helps. Instead, he helps the descendants of Abraham. 17 This means that he had to become like his people in every way, in order to be their faithful and merciful High Priest in his service to God, so that the people's sins would be forgiven. 18 And now he can help those who are tempted, because he himself was tempted and suffered. Reflect Reread 2:5-9. The word “angel” in English comes from the Greek word angelos, - “messenger.” In the Bible, angels are beings who have a special relationship with God and they relay God’s message. They also offer help until God’s rule becomes complete and everlasting in this world. The author of the book of Hebrews states that God’s Son is also a messenger, but because of his special relationship to God, he is much greater than any angel. What do you think of when you hear the word angel? Pray Lord, thank you for the messengers who illuminate your Word for our time. Open my heart and mind to those who wish to share your Good News with me in new ways, that I may experience your love anew. On the eve of a new year, I thank you for all your love and grace. Enable me to hear your voice and strengthen me to always walk in your path this coming year. Amen Prayer Concern Biblical scholars Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 1, 2011 Author Members Posted January 1, 2011 January 1, 2011 Romans 1:1-17 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Romans 1:1-17: We begin the New Year reading from Paul’s letter to the Romans. Paul introduces himself to the followers of Christ in Rome as an apostle called to preach the Good News. After offering a prayer of thanks for the Roman followers, Paul proclaims the Good News as “God’s power to save all who believe” (1:16). Today’s Scripture: Romans 1:17 For the gospel reveals how God puts people right with himself: it is through faith from beginning to end. As the scripture says, “The person who is put right with God through faith shall live.” Today’s Reading 1 From Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus and an apostle chosen and called by God to preach his Good News. 2 The Good News was promised long ago by God through his prophets, as written in the Holy Scriptures. 3 It is about his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ: as to his humanity, he was born a descendant of David; 4 as to his divine holiness, he was shown with great power to be the Son of God by being raised from death. 5 Through him God gave me the privilege of being an apostle for the sake of Christ, in order to lead people of all nations to believe and obey. 6 This also includes you who are in Rome, whom God has called to belong to Jesus Christ. 7 And so I write to all of you in Rome whom God loves and has called to be his own people: May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. 8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because the whole world is hearing about your faith. 9 God is my witness that what I say is true—the God whom I serve with all my heart by preaching the Good News about his Son. God knows that I remember you 10 every time I pray. I ask that God in his good will may at last make it possible for me to visit you now. 11 For I want very much to see you, in order to share a spiritual blessing with you to make you strong. 12 What I mean is that both you and I will be helped at the same time, you by my faith and I by yours. 13 You must remember, my friends, that many times I have planned to visit you, but something has always kept me from doing so. I want to win converts among you also, as I have among other Gentiles. 14 For I have an obligation to all peoples, to the civilized and to the savage, to the educated and to the ignorant. 15 So then, I am eager to preach the Good News to you also who live in Rome. 16 I have complete confidence in the gospel; it is God's power to save all who believe, first the Jews and also the Gentiles. 17 For the gospel reveals how God puts people right with himself: it is through faith from beginning to end. As the scripture says, “The person who is put right with God through faith shall live.” Reflect How does Paul describe himself at the beginning of his letter to the Romans? What is his task or special work? Reread verses 16-17. How does Paul describe the “Good News”? Have you heard this Good News before? If so where have you heard it? What difference does it make to you? Pray Loving God, help me share the blessings that the Holy Spirit has given to me. Empower me to encourage others in faith, that my brothers and sisters in Christ may grow stronger in you. Amen. Prayer Concern Newly established churches Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 2, 2011 Author Members Posted January 2, 2011 January 2, 2011 Romans 5:1-21 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Romans 5:1-21: In this passage Paul discusses the blessings of being put right with God through faith. This blessing is made possible when we are reconciled to God through the death of his Son. To explain the way in which salvation is made possible, Paul compares Christ to Adam. Paul mentions that with the introduction of law, wrongdoing increased. But the increase of sin has been adequately answered by the grace and faith offered in Jesus Christ by which we share in God’s glory. Today’s Scripture: Romans 5:2 He has brought us by faith into this experience of God’s grace, in which we now live. And so we boast of the hope we have of sharing God’s glory! Today’s Reading 1 Now that we have been put right with God through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 He has brought us by faith into this experience of God's grace, in which we now live. And so we boast of the hope we have of sharing God's glory! 3 We also boast of our troubles, because we know that trouble produces endurance, 4 endurance brings God's approval, and his approval creates hope. 5 This hope does not disappoint us, for God has poured out his love into our hearts by means of the Holy Spirit, who is God's gift to us. 6 For when we were still helpless, Christ died for the wicked at the time that God chose. 7 It is a difficult thing for someone to die for a righteous person. It may even be that someone might dare to die for a good person. 8 But God has shown us how much he loves us—it was while we were still sinners that Christ died for us! 9 By his blood we are now put right with God; how much more, then, will we be saved by him from God's anger! 10 We were God's enemies, but he made us his friends through the death of his Son. Now that we are God's friends, how much more will we be saved by Christ's life! 11 But that is not all; we rejoice because of what God has done through our Lord Jesus Christ, who has now made us God's friends. 12 Sin came into the world through one man, and his sin brought death with it. As a result, death has spread to the whole human race because everyone has sinned. 13 There was sin in the world before the Law was given; but where there is no law, no account is kept of sins. 14 But from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, death ruled over all human beings, even over those who did not sin in the same way that Adam did when he disobeyed God's command. Adam was a figure of the one who was to come. 15 But the two are not the same, because God's free gift is not like Adam's sin. It is true that many people died because of the sin of that one man. But God's grace is much greater, and so is his free gift to so many people through the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ. 16 And there is a difference between God's gift and the sin of one man. After the one sin, came the judgment of “Guilty”; but after so many sins, comes the undeserved gift of “Not guilty!” 17 It is true that through the sin of one man death began to rule because of that one man. But how much greater is the result of what was done by the one man, Jesus Christ! All who receive God's abundant grace and are freely put right with him will rule in life through Christ. 18 So then, as the one sin condemned all people, in the same way the one righteous act sets all people free and gives them life. 19 And just as all people were made sinners as the result of the disobedience of one man, in the same way they will all be put right with God as the result of the obedience of the one man. 20 Law was introduced in order to increase wrongdoing; but where sin increased, God's grace increased much more. 21 So then, just as sin ruled by means of death, so also God's grace rules by means of righteousness, leading us to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Reflect Verse 2 reflects on “God’s undeserved kindness.” This phrase is translated from the Greek word charis. Charis is traditionally translated “grace.” What does the word “grace” mean to you? How does the idea of “God’s undeserved kindness” inform your understanding of God’s grace? Pray God of grace, you share your unconditional love with all people. Make me a channel of your grace and hope, that everyone I encounter may experience a glimpse of the good news of the risen Christ. Amen. Prayer Concern Those in need of God’s grace Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 3, 2011 Author Members Posted January 3, 2011 January 3, 2011 Romans 6:1-23 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Romans 6:1-23: Paul points out that grace is no excuse to sin since through grace we have died to sin. To emphasize this, he reminds us of our baptism into Christ, in which we experienced a burial into the death of Christ and rose to walk in newness of life, having died to sin. Dead to sin, we are now free to live as instruments of righteousness for God. Serving sin earns death, but in serving God we receive the gift of eternal life in Christ Jesus. Today’s Scripture: Romans 6:22 But now you have been set free from sin and are the slaves of God. Your gain is a life fully dedicated to him, and the result is eternal life. Today’s Reading 1 What shall we say, then? Should we continue to live in sin so that God's grace will increase? 2 Certainly not! We have died to sin—how then can we go on living in it? 3 For surely you know that when we were baptized into union with Christ Jesus, we were baptized into union with his death. 4 By our baptism, then, we were buried with him and shared his death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from death by the glorious power of the Father, so also we might live a new life. 5 For since we have become one with him in dying as he did, in the same way we shall be one with him by being raised to life as he was. 6 And we know that our old being has been put to death with Christ on his cross, in order that the power of the sinful self might be destroyed, so that we should no longer be the slaves of sin. 7 For when we die, we are set free from the power of sin. 8 Since we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. 9 For we know that Christ has been raised from death and will never die again—death will no longer rule over him. 10 And so, because he died, sin has no power over him; and now he lives his life in fellowship with God. 11 In the same way you are to think of yourselves as dead, so far as sin is concerned, but living in fellowship with God through Christ Jesus. 12 Sin must no longer rule in your mortal bodies, so that you obey the desires of your natural self. 13 Nor must you surrender any part of yourselves to sin to be used for wicked purposes. Instead, give yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life, and surrender your whole being to him to be used for righteous purposes. 14 Sin must not be your master; for you do not live under law but under God's grace. 15 What, then? Shall we sin, because we are not under law but under God's grace? By no means! 16 Surely you know that when you surrender yourselves as slaves to obey someone, you are in fact the slaves of the master you obey—either of sin, which results in death, or of obedience, which results in being put right with God. 17 But thanks be to God! For though at one time you were slaves to sin, you have obeyed with all your heart the truths found in the teaching you received. 18 You were set free from sin and became the slaves of righteousness. 19 (I use everyday language because of the weakness of your natural selves.) At one time you surrendered yourselves entirely as slaves to impurity and wickedness for wicked purposes. In the same way you must now surrender yourselves entirely as slaves of righteousness for holy purposes. 20 When you were the slaves of sin, you were free from righteousness. 21 What did you gain from doing the things that you are now ashamed of The result of those things is death! 22 But now you have been set free from sin and are the slaves of God. Your gain is a life fully dedicated to him, and the result is eternal life. 23 For sin pays its wage—death; but God's free gift is eternal life in union with Christ Jesus our Lord. Reflect Sin is defined in a number of ways in the Bible – from disobeying God’s commandment to defying or rebelling against God. Sin is anything that interrupts the right relationship with God, one another, and the whole creation. What does sin mean to you? Can individuals sin? Can governments sin? Can organizations sin? How can the church bring reconciliation to the world? Pray Lord, release me from the sins that I am enslaved to in my life. Forgive me of my sins, and help me to serve you in bringing reconciliation in the world. Amen. Prayer Concern Victims of violence Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 5, 2011 Author Members Posted January 5, 2011 January 4, 2011 Romans 10:5-17 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Romans 10:5-17: Paul explains that the righteousness God offers is based upon faith in Christ, not keeping the Law. It does not involve the accomplishment of some great feat, but a confession that Jesus is Lord and believing that God raised him from the dead. As foretold by Scripture, it is offered to all, both Jews and Gentiles. Those who have faith in Christ realize that people cannot achieve God’s grace simply through their actions—it is God alone who blesses and gives grace to all who call on him. Today’s Scripture: Romans 10:9, 10 If you confess that Jesus is Lord and believe that God raised him from death, you will be saved. For it is by our faith that we are put right with God; it is by our confession that we are saved. Today’s Reading 5 Moses wrote this about being put right with God by obeying the Law: “Whoever obeys the commands of the Law will live.” 6 But what the scripture says about being put right with God through faith is this: “You are not to ask yourself, Who will go up into heaven?” (that is, to bring Christ down). 7 “Nor are you to ask, Who will go down into the world below?” (that is, to bring Christ up from death). 8 What it says is this: “God's message is near you, on your lips and in your heart”—that is, the message of faith that we preach. 9 If you confess that Jesus is Lord and believe that God raised him from death, you will be saved. 10 For it is by our faith that we are put right with God; it is by our confession that we are saved. 11 The scripture says, “Whoever believes in him will not be disappointed.” 12 This includes everyone, because there is no difference between Jews and Gentiles; God is the same Lord of all and richly blesses all who call to him. 13 As the scripture says, “Everyone who calls out to the Lord for help will be saved.” 14 But how can they call to him for help if they have not believed? And how can they believe if they have not heard the message? And how can they hear if the message is not proclaimed? 15 And how can the message be proclaimed if the messengers are not sent out? As the scripture says, “How wonderful is the coming of messengers who bring good news!” 16 But not all have accepted the Good News. Isaiah himself said, “Lord, who believed our message?” 17 So then, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message comes through preaching Christ. Reflect Reread verses 6-8. Paul means that those who have faith in Christ know that being “put right with God” (verse 6) is something that God does, not something that people can achieve on their own. How does it feel to know that God freely blesses you and gives you grace? Pray Gracious Lord, you call each person to receive your grace and bless them to share the gifts with others. Help me discover the special gifts you have given me, that my life may reveal the goodness of your love. In your holy name. Amen. Prayer Concern All who share Christ’s love Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 5, 2011 Author Members Posted January 5, 2011 January 5, 2011 Matthew 1:1-25 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 1:1-25: Today we begin reading from Matthew. The book of Matthew begins with a presentation of the ancestry of Jesus Christ to make it clear that Jesus is from the family of King David and Abraham. He has the judicial and prophetic right to the throne. This is followed by the story of Jesus’ birth. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 1:20b, 21 “Joseph, descendant of David, do not be afraid to take Mary to be your wife. For it is by the Holy Spirit that she has conceived. She will have a son, and you will name him Jesus—because he will save his people from their sins.” Today’s Reading 1 This is the list of the ancestors of Jesus Christ, a descendant of David, who was a descendant of Abraham. 2-6 From Abraham to King David, the following ancestors are listed: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Judah and his brothers; then Perez and Zerah (their mother was Tamar), Hezron, Ram, Amminadab, Nahshon, Salmon, Boaz (his mother was Rahab), Obed (his mother was Ruth), Jesse, and King David. 6-11 From David to the time when the people of Israel were taken into exile in Babylon, the following ancestors are listed: David, Solomon (his mother was the woman who had been Uriah's wife), Rehoboam, Abijah, Asa, Jehoshaphat, Jehoram, Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, Hezekiah, Manasseh, Amon, Josiah, and Jehoiachin and his brothers. 12-16 From the time after the exile in Babylon to the birth of Jesus, the following ancestors are listed: Jehoiachin, Shealtiel, Zerubbabel, Abiud, Eliakim, Azor, Zadok, Achim, Eliud, Eleazar, Matthan, Jacob, and Joseph, who married Mary, the mother of Jesus, who was called the Messiah. 17 So then, there were fourteen generations from Abraham to David, and fourteen from David to the exile in Babylon, and fourteen from then to the birth of the Messiah. The Birth of Jesus Christ ( Luke 2.1-7) 18 This was how the birth of Jesus Christ took place. His mother Mary was engaged to Joseph, but before they were married, she found out that she was going to have a baby by the Holy Spirit. 19 Joseph was a man who always did what was right, but he did not want to disgrace Mary publicly; so he made plans to break the engagement privately. 20 While he was thinking about this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, descendant of David, do not be afraid to take Mary to be your wife. For it is by the Holy Spirit that she has conceived. 21 She will have a son, and you will name him Jesus—because he will save his people from their sins. ” 22 Now all this happened in order to make come true what the Lord had said through the prophet, 23 “A virgin will become pregnant and have a son, and he will be called Immanuel” (which means, “God is with us”). 24 So when Joseph woke up, he married Mary, as the angel of the Lord had told him to. 25 But he had no sexual relations with her before she gave birth to her son. And Joseph named him Jesus. Reflect The word Messiah comes from the Hebrew word that means “the chosen one,” or “anointed one.” Anointing was done by pouring oil on the head to show that the person was chosen for a special duty, like a high office (1 Samuel 10:1). Anointing was also considered to be a sign that God’s power had come upon the person. In Greek, the word for “anointed one” is Christos (Christ). What special mission was Jesus called to do? Pray Almighty God, thank you for sending your Son Jesus to the world. Anoint us with the power of the Holy Spirit today, that we may fulfill your calling in our lives. Amen. Prayer Concern Volunteers Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 6, 2011 Author Members Posted January 6, 2011 January 6, 2011 Matthew 2:1-15 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 2:1-15: Today is Epiphany, the celebration of the arrival of visitors from the East to meet the baby Jesus. When the visitors arrive and mention the star, Herod is upset and enquires about where Jesus is to be born. He tells the men to search for the child and come back and tell him about Jesus’ whereabouts. The men from the East meet the baby, worship him, and give him gifts. Then they return home another way, as God warns them not to return to Herod. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 2:6 “Bethlehem in the land of Judah, you are by no means the least of the leading cities of Judah; for from you will come a leader who will guide my people Israel.” Today’s Reading 1 Jesus was born in the town of Bethlehem in Judea, during the time when Herod was king. Soon afterward, some men who studied the stars came from the East to Jerusalem 2 and asked, “Where is the baby born to be the king of the Jews? We saw his star when it came up in the east, and we have come to worship him.” 3 When King Herod heard about this, he was very upset, and so was everyone else in Jerusalem. 4 He called together all the chief priests and the teachers of the Law and asked them, “Where will the Messiah be born?” 5 “In the town of Bethlehem in Judea,” they answered. “For this is what the prophet wrote: 6 ‘Bethlehem in the land of Judah, you are by no means the least of the leading cities of Judah; for from you will come a leader who will guide my people Israel.’” 7 So Herod called the visitors from the East to a secret meeting and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. 8 Then he sent them to Bethlehem with these instructions: “Go and make a careful search for the child; and when you find him, let me know, so that I too may go and worship him.” 9-10 And so they left, and on their way they saw the same star they had seen in the East. When they saw it, how happy they were, what joy was theirs! It went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 11 They went into the house, and when they saw the child with his mother Mary, they knelt down and worshiped him. They brought out their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, and presented them to him. 12 Then they returned to their country by another road, since God had warned them in a dream not to go back to Herod. 13 After they had left, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph and said, “Herod will be looking for the child in order to kill him. So get up, take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you to leave.” 14 Joseph got up, took the child and his mother, and left during the night for Egypt, 15 where he stayed until Herod died. This was done to make come true what the Lord had said through the prophet, “I called my Son out of Egypt.” Reflect These visitors, (Matthew calls them magoi in Greek, the Latin magi) may have been astrologers who came from a land to the East. Like others who studied the stars, they believed that when a great leader was about to be born, a new star would appear in the sky. How did these visitors react to the birth of Jesus? How have you reacted to the birth of Jesus this Christmas season? Pray Jesus, you came to us as a child, innocent, and in need of care, and also as a king for all people. Help all who care for children to see you in them, that they may treat them with patience, kindness and love. Prayer Concern Those who care for children Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 8, 2011 Author Members Posted January 8, 2011 January 7, 2011 Matthew 2:16-23 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 2:16-23: An angel appears to Joseph in a dream telling him to take Jesus and Mary to Egypt. Joseph follows the angel’s commands just in time. Herod orders that all boys under two years of age living in Bethlehem and its neighborhood must be killed. Mothers around the region mourn. After Herod dies, an angel tells Joseph that the family can return, this time to Nazareth in Galilee. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 2:14, 15 Joseph got up, took the child and his mother, and left during the night for Egypt, where he stayed until Herod died. This was done to make come true what the Lord had said through the prophet, “I called my Son out of Egypt.” Today’s Reading 15 where he stayed until Herod died. This was done to make come true what the Lord had said through the prophet, “I called my Son out of Egypt.” 16 When Herod realized that the visitors from the East had tricked him, he was furious. He gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its neighborhood who were two years old and younger—this was done in accordance with what he had learned from the visitors about the time when the star had appeared. 17 In this way what the prophet Jeremiah had said came true: 18 “A sound is heard in Ramah, the sound of bitter weeping. Rachel is crying for her children; she refuses to be comforted, for they are dead.” 19 After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt 20 and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and go back to the land of Israel, because those who tried to kill the child are dead.” 21 So Joseph got up, took the child and his mother, and went back to Israel. 22 But when Joseph heard that Archelaus had succeeded his father Herod as king of Judea, he was afraid to go there. He was given more instructions in a dream, so he went to the province of Galilee 23 and made his home in a town named Nazareth. And so what the prophets had said came true: “He will be called a Nazarene.” Reflect Think of ways in which people mistreat others because they want to hold on to power. Have there been times when you have misused power? Have you ever been mistreated by someone who wanted to hold onto power? If so, describe the situation. Pray Great God, too many of your people suffer at the hands of those who are desperate for power. Bring justice to all people and may peace be established among the nations on the foundation of justice, righteousness and truth. Amen. Prayer Concern Those suffering oppression and persecution Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 8, 2011 Author Members Posted January 8, 2011 January 8, 2011 Matthew 3:1-17 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 3:1-17: John the Baptist is introduced preaching in the desert of Judea. Many people confess their sins and are baptized. He proclaims that the time for the coming of the Messiah is near. The one who is to come after him will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. Jesus comes to be baptized and John tries to change his mind, but finally agrees to baptize Jesus. The heavens open and a dove descends with the voice of God declaring, “This is my own dear Son, with whom I am pleased.” Today’s Scripture: Matthew 3:11 “I baptize you with water to show that you have repented, but the one who will come after me will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. He is much greater than I am; and I am not good enough even to carry his sandals.” Today’s Reading 1 At that time John the Baptist came to the desert of Judea and started preaching. 2 “Turn away from your sins,” he said, “because the Kingdom of heaven is near!” 3 John was the man the prophet Isaiah was talking about when he said, “Someone is shouting in the desert, ‘Prepare a road for the Lord; make a straight path for him to travel!’” 4 John's clothes were made of camel's hair; he wore a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 People came to him from Jerusalem, from the whole province of Judea, and from all over the country near the Jordan River. 6 They confessed their sins, and he baptized them in the Jordan. 7 When John saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming to him to be baptized, he said to them, “You snakes—who told you that you could escape from the punishment God is about to send? 8 Do those things that will show that you have turned from your sins. 9 And don't think you can escape punishment by saying that Abraham is your ancestor. I tell you that God can take these rocks and make descendants for Abraham! 10 The ax is ready to cut down the trees at the roots; every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown in the fire. 11 I baptize you with water to show that you have repented, but the one who will come after me will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. He is much greater than I am; and I am not good enough even to carry his sandals. 12 He has his winnowing shovel with him to thresh out all the grain. He will gather his wheat into his barn, but he will burn the chaff in a fire that never goes out. ” 13 At that time Jesus arrived from Galilee and came to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. 14 But John tried to make him change his mind. “I ought to be baptized by you,” John said, “and yet you have come to me!” 15 But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so for now. For in this way we shall do all that God requires.” So John agreed. 16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he came up out of the water. Then heaven was opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God coming down like a dove and lighting on him. 17 Then a voice said from heaven, “This is my own dear Son, with whom I am pleased.” Reflect Reread verses 13-17. When Jesus comes to the Jordan, John tries to change Jesus’ mind and says that it is he who ought to be baptized by Jesus and not the other way round. Despite John’s protests, Jesus insists on being baptized. In doing so, Jesus is doing all that God requires. Why do you think Jesus insists on being baptized? Pray Spirit of God, cleanse my heart and renew my soul that I may be filled with your grace, love, and truth. Amen. Prayer Concern Those seeking baptism Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 9, 2011 Author Members Posted January 9, 2011 January 9, 2011 Matthew 4:12-25 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 4:12-25: In today’s reading, Matthew tells us the start of Jesus’ ministry in Capernaum. He calls his first disciples: Simon (Peter), Andrew, James, and John who were fishermen. Jesus travels throughout all of Galilee preaching the Good News about the Kingdom and healing people of all different diseases and sickness. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 4:19 Jesus said to them, “Come with me, and I will teach you to catch people.” Today’s Reading 12 When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he went away to Galilee. 13 He did not stay in Nazareth, but went to live in Capernaum, a town by Lake Galilee, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali. 14 This was done to make come true what the prophet Isaiah had said, 15 “Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, on the road to the sea, on the other side of the Jordan, Galilee, land of the Gentiles! 16 The people who live in darkness will see a great light. On those who live in the dark land of death the light will shine.” 17 From that time Jesus began to preach his message: “Turn away from your sins, because the Kingdom of heaven is near!” 18 As Jesus walked along the shore of Lake Galilee, he saw two brothers who were fishermen, Simon (called Peter) and his brother Andrew, catching fish in the lake with a net. 19 Jesus said to them, “Come with me, and I will teach you to catch people.” 20 At once they left their nets and went with him. 21 He went on and saw two other brothers, James and John, the sons of Zebedee. They were in their boat with their father Zebedee, getting their nets ready. Jesus called them, 22 and at once they left the boat and their father, and went with him. 23 Jesus went all over Galilee, teaching in the synagogues, preaching the Good News about the Kingdom, and healing people who had all kinds of disease and sickness. 24 The news about him spread through the whole country of Syria, so that people brought to him all those who were sick, suffering from all kinds of diseases and disorders: people with demons, and epileptics, and paralytics—and Jesus healed them all. 25 Large crowds followed him from Galilee and the Ten Towns, from Jerusalem, Judea, and the land on the other side of the Jordan. Reflect In Jesus’ time, Jewish people mostly fished on lake Galilee because unfriendly neighbors controlled many of the harbors along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Fishing was prominent and an important source of income in Galilee. What do you think Peter, Andrew, James and John thought when Jesus told them that he would teach them to catch people (verse 19)? Pray Lord Jesus, make me obedient to your call in my life. Help me know when you are leading me, so that like your first disciples, I will have the courage to drop what I am doing and follow you. Amen. Prayer Concern Those discerning God’s call in their lives Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 12, 2011 Author Members Posted January 12, 2011 January 10, 2011 Matthew 8:1-17 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 8:1-17: Chapter 8 recounts many of Jesus’ miracles. Jesus heals a man with a dreaded skin disease, tells him not to tell anyone about it. Jesus heals a Roman officer’s servant. The officer comes to Jesus for help. Jesus offers to go to the man’s house, but the officer feels unworthy and believes that if Jesus gives the order, his servant will get well. Jesus is amazed by the man’s faith and heals his servant without going to his house. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 8:17 He did this to make come true what the prophet Isaiah had said, “He himself took our sickness and carried away our diseases.” Today’s Reading 1 When Jesus came down from the hill, large crowds followed him. 2 Then a man suffering from a dreaded skin disease came to him, knelt down before him, and said, “Sir, if you want to, you can make me clean.” 3 Jesus reached out and touched him. “I do want to,” he answered. “Be clean!” At once the man was healed of his disease. 4 Then Jesus said to him, “Listen! Don't tell anyone, but go straight to the priest and let him examine you; then in order to prove to everyone that you are cured, offer the sacrifice that Moses ordered.” 5 When Jesus entered Capernaum, a Roman officer met him and begged for help: 6 “Sir, my servant is sick in bed at home, unable to move and suffering terribly.” 7 “I will go and make him well,” Jesus said. 8 “Oh no, sir,” answered the officer. “I do not deserve to have you come into my house. Just give the order, and my servant will get well. 9 I, too, am a man under the authority of superior officers, and I have soldiers under me. I order this one, “Go!” and he goes; and I order that one, “Come!” and he comes; and I order my slave, “Do this!” and he does it. ” 10 When Jesus heard this, he was surprised and said to the people following him, “I tell you, I have never found anyone in Israel with faith like this. 11 I assure you that many will come from the east and the west and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the feast in the Kingdom of heaven. 12 But those who should be in the Kingdom will be thrown out into the darkness, where they will cry and gnash their teeth. ” 13 Then Jesus said to the officer, “Go home, and what you believe will be done for you.” And the officer's servant was healed that very moment. 14 Jesus went to Peter's home, and there he saw Peter's mother-in-law sick in bed with a fever. 15 He touched her hand; the fever left her, and she got up and began to wait on him. 16 When evening came, people brought to Jesus many who had demons in them. Jesus drove out the evil spirits with a word and healed all who were sick. 17 He did this to make come true what the prophet Isaiah had said, “He himself took our sickness and carried away our diseases.” Reflect This officer was probably a Roman centurion who commanded and trained 100 men who were ready to fight and die at his command. Centurions were expected to serve in the army for 25 years. How did the officer compare his work to the work of Jesus? How does Jesus respond? Pray Gracious God, be with all people who are in need of healing today. Give them faith that you will be with them in their pain and suffering. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are sick Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 12, 2011 Author Members Posted January 12, 2011 January 11, 2011 Matthew 8:18-34 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 8:18-34: Several would-be-followers approach Jesus. Jesus retreats from the crowd and takes a boat across the lake with his disciples. He falls asleep in the boat, but when a storm brews, the disciples wake him in fear. Jesus asks his disciples why they are of little faith. Then he calms the storm. Later, he drives demons out of men and into a herd of pigs. Upon seeing and hearing this, the local people came to Jesus and plead with him to leave their region. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 8:26 “Why are you so frightened?” Jesus answered. “What little faith you have!” Then he got up and ordered the winds and the waves to stop, and there was a great calm. Today’s Reading 18 When Jesus noticed the crowd around him, he ordered his disciples to go to the other side of the lake. 19 A teacher of the Law came to him. “Teacher,” he said, “I am ready to go with you wherever you go.” 20 Jesus answered him, “Foxes have holes, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lie down and rest.” 21 Another man, who was a disciple, said, “Sir, first let me go back and bury my father.” 22 “Follow me,” Jesus answered, “and let the dead bury their own dead.” 23 Jesus got into a boat, and his disciples went with him. 24 Suddenly a fierce storm hit the lake, and the boat was in danger of sinking. But Jesus was asleep. 25 The disciples went to him and woke him up. “Save us, Lord!” they said. “We are about to die!” 26 “Why are you so frightened?” Jesus answered. “What little faith you have!” Then he got up and ordered the winds and the waves to stop, and there was a great calm. 27 Everyone was amazed. “What kind of man is this?” they said. “Even the winds and the waves obey him!” 28 When Jesus came to the territory of Gadara on the other side of the lake, he was met by two men who came out of the burial caves there. These men had demons in them and were so fierce that no one dared travel on that road. 29 At once they screamed, “What do you want with us, you Son of God? Have you come to punish us before the right time?” 30 Not far away there was a large herd of pigs feeding. 31 So the demons begged Jesus, “If you are going to drive us out, send us into that herd of pigs.” 32 “Go,” Jesus told them; so they left and went off into the pigs. The whole herd rushed down the side of the cliff into the lake and was drowned. 33 The men who had been taking care of the pigs ran away and went into the town, where they told the whole story and what had happened to the men with the demons. 34 So everyone from the town went out to meet Jesus; and when they saw him, they begged him to leave their territory. Reflect Reread verses 23-27. Why were the disciples afraid? Why do you think Jesus responded the way that he did? How might you have felt if you had been in the boat with them? How does Jesus calm the storms in your life? Pray Lord Jesus, too often, the storms of life rock my faith and trust in you. Strengthen my faith in your power to calm the storms of my life, that I may remain firmly anchored in you. Amen. Prayer Concern Sailors Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 13, 2011 Author Members Posted January 13, 2011 January 12, 2011 Matthew 9:1-17 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 9:1-17: Jesus’ miracles were a testimony not only to the fact that he was sent by God, but that he was the anticipated Messiah. In today’s reading, Jesus heals the paralytic by forgiving his sins, but the Pharisees accuse Jesus of blasphemy. Jesus calls Matthew, a tax collector, to be one of his disciples. Matthew leaves his office and follows Jesus. The followers of John come to Jesus and question him about fasting. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 9:12 “People who are well do not need a doctor, but only those who are sick.” Today’s Reading 1 Jesus got into the boat and went back across the lake to his own town, 2 where some people brought to him a paralyzed man, lying on a bed. When Jesus saw how much faith they had, he said to the paralyzed man, “Courage, my son! Your sins are forgiven.” 3 Then some teachers of the Law said to themselves, “This man is speaking blasphemy!” 4 Jesus perceived what they were thinking, and so he said, “Why are you thinking such evil things? 5 Is it easier to say, “Your sins are forgiven,” or to say, “Get up and walk”? 6 I will prove to you, then, that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins. ” So he said to the paralyzed man, “Get up, pick up your bed, and go home!” 7 The man got up and went home. 8 When the people saw it, they were afraid, and praised God for giving such authority to people. 9 Jesus left that place, and as he walked along, he saw a tax collector, named Matthew, sitting in his office. He said to him, “Follow me.” Matthew got up and followed him. 10 While Jesus was having a meal in Matthew's house, many tax collectors and other outcasts came and joined Jesus and his disciples at the table. 11 Some Pharisees saw this and asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with such people?” 12 Jesus heard them and answered, “People who are well do not need a doctor, but only those who are sick. 13 Go and find out what is meant by the scripture that says: “It is kindness that I want, not animal sacrifices.” I have not come to call respectable people, but outcasts. ” 14 Then the followers of John the Baptist came to Jesus, asking, “Why is it that we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples don't fast at all?” 15 Jesus answered, “Do you expect the guests at a wedding party to be sad as long as the bridegroom is with them? Of course not! But the day will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast. 16 No one patches up an old coat with a piece of new cloth, for the new patch will shrink and make an even bigger hole in the coat. 17 Nor does anyone pour new wine into used wineskins, for the skins will burst, the wine will pour out, and the skins will be ruined. Instead, new wine is poured into fresh wineskins, and both will keep in good condition. ” Reflect Reread verse 17. The juice from grapes turns to wine during a process called fermentation. During fermentation, a gas is produced that swells and stretches the fresh skins where the wine is stored. If new wine was put into old skins that had become stiff, the skins could burst when the new wine began to ferment. Why did Jesus use this as an example? Pray Lord Jesus, as I seek your will for my life, may I continue to change and grow in you. Strengthen my spirit and fill my life with your everlasting love. Amen. Prayer Concern Students Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 13, 2011 Author Members Posted January 13, 2011 January 13, 2011 Matthew 9:18-38 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 9:18-38: Matthew continues with more of Jesus’ miracles. In today’s reading, Jesus brings a Jewish official’s dying daughter back to life and heals a woman who was suffering from bleeding for twelve years. He also restores sight to two blind men and drives out a demon from a man who could not talk. Jesus goes around visiting towns and villages teaching and preaching the Good News and healing people of all their sickness. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 9:37, 38 “The harvest is large, but there are few workers to gather it in. Pray to the owner of the harvest that he will send out workers to gather in his harvest.” Today’s Reading 18 While Jesus was saying this, a Jewish official came to him, knelt down before him, and said, “My daughter has just died; but come and place your hands on her, and she will live.” 19 So Jesus got up and followed him, and his disciples went along with him. 20 A woman who had suffered from severe bleeding for twelve years came up behind Jesus and touched the edge of his cloak. 21 She said to herself, “If only I touch his cloak, I will get well.” 22 Jesus turned around and saw her, and said, “Courage, my daughter! Your faith has made you well.” At that very moment the woman became well. 23 Then Jesus went into the official's house. When he saw the musicians for the funeral and the people all stirred up, 24 he said, “Get out, everybody! The little girl is not dead—she is only sleeping!” Then they all started making fun of him. 25 But as soon as the people had been put out, Jesus went into the girl's room and took hold of her hand, and she got up. 26 The news about this spread all over that part of the country. 27 Jesus left that place, and as he walked along, two blind men started following him. “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” they shouted. 28 When Jesus had gone indoors, the two blind men came to him, and he asked them, “Do you believe that I can heal you?” “Yes, sir!” they answered. 29 Then Jesus touched their eyes and said, “Let it happen, then, just as you believe!”— 30 and their sight was restored. Jesus spoke sternly to them, “Don't tell this to anyone!” 31 But they left and spread the news about Jesus all over that part of the country. 32 As the men were leaving, some people brought to Jesus a man who could not talk because he had a demon. 33 But as soon as the demon was driven out, the man started talking, and everyone was amazed. “We have never seen anything like this in Israel!” they exclaimed. 34 But the Pharisees said, “It is the chief of the demons who gives Jesus the power to drive out demons.” 35 Jesus went around visiting all the towns and villages. He taught in the synagogues, preached the Good News about the Kingdom, and healed people with every kind of disease and sickness. 36 As he saw the crowds, his heart was filled with pity for them, because they were worried and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 So he said to his disciples, “The harvest is large, but there are few workers to gather it in. 38 Pray to the owner of the harvest that he will send out workers to gather in his harvest. ” Reflect In chapters 8 and 9, Matthew gives several accounts of Jesus healing people. Which one of these stories moved you most? Why? What did these stories teach you about Jesus? Have you experienced God’s healing in your life? How? Pray Lord God, healer of us all. Mend the brokenness in my life, and heal my wounds, both physical and spiritual. Be present with all who are in need of your healing today. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Prayer Concern Doctors and nurses Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 14, 2011 Author Members Posted January 14, 2011 January 14, 2011 Matthew 10:1-25 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 10:1-25: In today’s reading Jesus calls, commissions, and names his twelve disciples. He gives them power to heal people and cast out evil spirits. He sends them out with instructions about where to go and what to do. He also foretells the afflictions and persecutions they would have to endure and warns them to be wary of people who might betray them, and to stay strong even in times of trial. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 10:16 “Listen! I am sending you out just like sheep to a pack of wolves. You must be as cautious as snakes and as gentle as doves.” Today’s Reading 1 Jesus called his twelve disciples together and gave them authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and every sickness. 2 These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (called Peter) and his brother Andrew; James and his brother John, the sons of Zebedee; 3 Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew, the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; 4 Simon the Patriot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus. 5 These twelve men were sent out by Jesus with the following instructions: “Do not go to any Gentile territory or any Samaritan towns. 6 Instead, you are to go to the lost sheep of the people of Israel. 7 Go and preach, “The Kingdom of heaven is near!” 8 Heal the sick, bring the dead back to life, heal those who suffer from dreaded skin diseases, and drive out demons. You have received without paying, so give without being paid. 9 Do not carry any gold, silver, or copper money in your pockets; 10 do not carry a beggar's bag for the trip or an extra shirt or shoes or a walking stick. Workers should be given what they need. 11 When you come to a town or village, go in and look for someone who is willing to welcome you, and stay with him until you leave that place. 12 When you go into a house, say, “Peace be with you.” 13 If the people in that house welcome you, let your greeting of peace remain; but if they do not welcome you, then take back your greeting. 14 And if some home or town will not welcome you or listen to you, then leave that place and shake the dust off your feet. 15 I assure you that on the Judgment Day God will show more mercy to the people of Sodom and Gomorrah than to the people of that town! 16 Listen! I am sending you out just like sheep to a pack of wolves. You must be as cautious as snakes and as gentle as doves. 17 Watch out, for there will be those who will arrest you and take you to court, and they will whip you in the synagogues. 18 For my sake you will be brought to trial before rulers and kings, to tell the Good News to them and to the Gentiles. 19 When they bring you to trial, do not worry about what you are going to say or how you will say it; when the time comes, you will be given what you will say. 20 For the words you will speak will not be yours; they will come from the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. 21 People will hand over their own brothers to be put to death, and fathers will do the same to their children; children will turn against their parents and have them put to death. 22 Everyone will hate you because of me. But whoever holds out to the end will be saved. 23 When they persecute you in one town, run away to another one. I assure you that you will not finish your work in all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes. 24 No pupil is greater than his teacher; no slave is greater than his master. 25 So a pupil should be satisfied to become like his teacher, and a slave like his master. If the head of the family is called Beelzebul, the members of the family will be called even worse names! Reflect What are some of the instructions and warnings Jesus gave his twelve disciples? What qualities does Jesus seem to require of his followers? What do you think it would have been like for the disciples to hear those instructions? How might you have responded to Jesus’ call? Pray Everlasting God, just as Jesus challenged his disciples to share the Gospel, challenge us to carry your Gospel in the world today. Open the hearts and minds of all who need to hear your message, and empower me to share the Good News. Amen. Prayer Concern Missionaries Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 16, 2011 Author Members Posted January 16, 2011 January 15, 2011 Matthew 10:26-42 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 10:26-42: In today’s passage, Jesus continues his instructions to the disciples. He encourages them to be brave, trusting that God will protect them and care for them. He cautions them against betraying his cause, in order to procure their personal safety. Then he tells them that his message is complicated and will cause conflict. He warns them that they must be willing to give up everything and everyone for him. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 10:39 “Those who try to gain their own life will lose it; but those who lose their life for my sake will gain it.” Today’s Reading 26 So do not be afraid of people. Whatever is now covered up will be uncovered, and every secret will be made known. 27 What I am telling you in the dark you must repeat in broad daylight, and what you have heard in private you must announce from the housetops. 28 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather be afraid of God, who can destroy both body and soul in hell. 29 For only a penny you can buy two sparrows, yet not one sparrow falls to the ground without your Father's consent. 30 As for you, even the hairs of your head have all been counted. 31 So do not be afraid; you are worth much more than many sparrows! 32 Those who declare publicly that they belong to me, I will do the same for them before my Father in heaven. 33 But those who reject me publicly, I will reject before my Father in heaven. 34 Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the world. No, I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. 35 I came to set sons against their fathers, daughters against their mothers, daughters-in-law against their mothers-in-law; 36 your worst enemies will be the members of your own family. 37 Those who love their father or mother more than me are not fit to be my disciples; those who love their son or daughter more than me are not fit to be my disciples. 38 Those who do not take up their cross and follow in my steps are not fit to be my disciples. 39 Those who try to gain their own life will lose it; but those who lose their life for my sake will gain it. 40 Whoever welcomes you welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. 41 Whoever welcomes God's messenger because he is God's messenger, will share in his reward. And whoever welcomes a good man because he is good, will share in his reward. 42 You can be sure that whoever gives even a drink of cold water to one of the least of these my followers because he is my follower, will certainly receive a reward. ” Reflect Reread verse 38. In today’s world, what does it mean to “take up your cross” and follow Jesus? What are the burdens and what are the rewards? Have you ever made sacrifices as a response to God’s call in your life? What happened? Pray Great redeemer, it can be challenging to make sacrifices in order to serve you. Make me mindful of those first disciples who gave their lives to follow you. Grant me the strength to serve you faithfully and loyally all the days of my life. Amen. Prayer Concern Deacons Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 16, 2011 Author Members Posted January 16, 2011 January 16, 2011 Matthew 11:1-19 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 11:1-19: Jesus’ teaching and work begin to attract lots of attention. Christ, having finished his instructions to his disciples, departs to preach in different towns. John sends two of his disciples to Jesus to inquire whether he was the Christ. Jesus sends a reply, and then speaks to the crowd about John. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 11:5 “The blind can see, the lame can walk, those who suffer from dreaded skin diseases are made clean, the deaf hear, the dead are brought back to life, and the Good News is preached to the poor.” Today’s Reading 1 When Jesus finished giving these instructions to his twelve disciples, he left that place and went off to teach and preach in the towns near there. 2 When John the Baptist heard in prison about the things that Christ was doing, he sent some of his disciples to him. 3 “Tell us,” they asked Jesus, “are you the one John said was going to come, or should we expect someone else?” 4 Jesus answered, “Go back and tell John what you are hearing and seeing: 5 the blind can see, the lame can walk, those who suffer from dreaded skin diseases are made clean, the deaf hear, the dead are brought back to life, and the Good News is preached to the poor. 6 How happy are those who have no doubts about me! ” 7 While John's disciples were leaving, Jesus spoke about him to the crowds: “When you went out to John in the desert, what did you expect to see? A blade of grass bending in the wind? 8 What did you go out to see? A man dressed up in fancy clothes? People who dress like that live in palaces! 9 Tell me, what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes indeed, but you saw much more than a prophet. 10 For John is the one of whom the scripture says: “God said, I will send my messenger ahead of you to open the way for you.” 11 I assure you that John the Baptist is greater than anyone who has ever lived. But the one who is least in the Kingdom of heaven is greater than John. 12 From the time John preached his message until this very day the Kingdom of heaven has suffered violent attacks, and violent men try to seize it. 13 Until the time of John all the prophets and the Law of Moses spoke about the Kingdom; 14 and if you are willing to believe their message, John is Elijah, whose coming was predicted. 15 Listen, then, if you have ears! 16 Now, to what can I compare the people of this day? They are like children sitting in the marketplace. One group shouts to the other, 17 “We played wedding music for you, but you wouldn't dance! We sang funeral songs, but you wouldn't cry!” 18 When John came, he fasted and drank no wine, and everyone said, “He has a demon in him!” 19 When the Son of Man came, he ate and drank, and everyone said, “Look at this man! He is a glutton and wine drinker, a friend of tax collectors and other outcasts!” God's wisdom, however, is shown to be true by its results. ” Reflect Reread verse 2. The Jewish people believed that God would choose and give power to a leader who would renew the faith of the people and fulfill God’s purposes for them. Why did John ask if Jesus was this leader? Why do you think Jesus replied the way he did? Pray Lord Jesus, you bring healing, hope, and abundance to all who are in need. Empower your people to work for you in the world, serving the sick, the poor, and all who are in despair. Amen. Prayer Concern Chaplains Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 17, 2011 Author Members Posted January 17, 2011 January 17, 2011 Matthew 11:20-30 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 11:20-30: In today’s reading, Jesus speaks to those who refuse to turn to God, warning them of God’s judgment. We read of the condemnation of Chorazin, and Bethsaida, and Capernaum, for their unbelief and impenitence. Jesus reaffirms his identity as God’s Son and shows that no one can know the Father except the Son and those whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Then he invites the burdened to come to him and he promises them rest. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest.” Today’s Reading 20 The people in the towns where Jesus had performed most of his miracles did not turn from their sins, so he reproached those towns. 21 “How terrible it will be for you, Chorazin! How terrible for you too, Bethsaida! If the miracles which were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, the people there would have long ago put on sackcloth and sprinkled ashes on themselves, to show that they had turned from their sins! 22 I assure you that on the Judgment Day God will show more mercy to the people of Tyre and Sidon than to you! 23 And as for you, Capernaum! Did you want to lift yourself up to heaven? You will be thrown down to hell! If the miracles which were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would still be in existence today! 24 You can be sure that on the Judgment Day God will show more mercy to Sodom than to you! ” 25 At that time Jesus said, “Father, Lord of heaven and earth! I thank you because you have shown to the unlearned what you have hidden from the wise and learned. 26 Yes, Father, this was how you were pleased to have it happen. 27 My Father has given me all things. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. 28 Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke and put it on you, and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in spirit; and you will find rest. 30 For the yoke I will give you is easy, and the load I will put on you is light. ” Reflect Reread verses 28-30. Yokes are wooden bars or frames put on the necks of animals like cattle or oxen, so that they could pull a plow or wagon. A yoke was a symbol of obedience and hard work. What does this passage mean to you? How do you feel when you read it? Pray Lord Jesus, I am indeed tired from carrying the heavy loads in my life. Thank you for the rest you have promised to all who come to you. May I take up your yoke in obedience and discipleship, and find strength and renewal in you. Amen. Prayer Concern Laborers Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 18, 2011 Author Members Posted January 18, 2011 January 18, 2011 Matthew 16:1-28 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 16:1-28: The Pharisees insidiously require Jesus to give them a sign. They are severely rebuked for their hypocrisy and wickedness. The disciples are cautioned to beware of them and their teachings. People have different opinions on who Christ really is, but Peter confesses that Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of the living God. Jesus foretells his sufferings and death. He also teaches the necessity of self-denial. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 16:24, 25 “If any of you want to come with me, you must forget yourself, carry your cross, and follow me. For if you want to save your own life, you will lose it; but if you lose your life for my sake, you will find it.” Today’s Reading 1 Some Pharisees and Sadducees who came to Jesus wanted to trap him, so they asked him to perform a miracle for them, to show that God approved of him. 2 But Jesus answered, “When the sun is setting, you say, “We are going to have fine weather, because the sky is red.” 3 And early in the morning you say, “It is going to rain, because the sky is red and dark.” You can predict the weather by looking at the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs concerning these times! 4 How evil and godless are the people of this day! You ask me for a miracle? No! The only miracle you will be given is the miracle of Jonah. ” So he left them and went away. 5 When the disciples crossed over to the other side of the lake, they forgot to take any bread. 6 Jesus said to them, “Take care; be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” 7 They started discussing among themselves, “He says this because we didn't bring any bread.” 8 Jesus knew what they were saying, so he asked them, “Why are you discussing among yourselves about not having any bread? What little faith you have! 9 Don't you understand yet? Don't you remember when I broke the five loaves for the five thousand men? How many baskets did you fill? 10 And what about the seven loaves for the four thousand men? How many baskets did you fill? 11 How is it that you don't understand that I was not talking to you about bread? Guard yourselves from the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees! ” 12 Then the disciples understood that he was not warning them to guard themselves from the yeast used in bread but from the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees. 13 Jesus went to the territory near the town of Caesarea Philippi, where he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” 14 “Some say John the Baptist,” they answered. “Others say Elijah, while others say Jeremiah or some other prophet.” 15 “What about you?” he asked them. “Who do you say I am?” 16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” 17 “Good for you, Simon son of John!” answered Jesus. “For this truth did not come to you from any human being, but it was given to you directly by my Father in heaven. 18 And so I tell you, Peter: you are a rock, and on this rock foundation I will build my church, and not even death will ever be able to overcome it. 19 I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of heaven; what you prohibit on earth will be prohibited in heaven, and what you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven. ” 20 Then Jesus ordered his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah. 21 From that time on Jesus began to say plainly to his disciples, “I must go to Jerusalem and suffer much from the elders, the chief priests, and the teachers of the Law. I will be put to death, but three days later I will be raised to life.” 22 Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. “God forbid it, Lord!” he said. “That must never happen to you!” 23 Jesus turned around and said to Peter, “Get away from me, Satan! You are an obstacle in my way, because these thoughts of yours don't come from God, but from human nature.” 24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you want to come with me, you must forget yourself, carry your cross, and follow me. 25 For if you want to save your own life, you will lose it; but if you lose your life for my sake, you will find it. 26 Will you gain anything if you win the whole world but lose your life? Of course not! There is nothing you can give to regain your life. 27 For the Son of Man is about to come in the glory of his Father with his angels, and then he will reward each one according to his deeds. 28 I assure you that there are some here who will not die until they have seen the Son of Man come as King. ” Reflect Reread verses 6-12. When yeast is put in a batch of dough, it makes the whole batch rise. Jesus was saying that the dishonest teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees affected the whole people of Israel just as a little yeast makes a whole batch of dough rise. Are there people who have a similar effect today? How? Pray Lord God, it is all too easy to lose faith in the face of discouragement and skepticism. Strengthen my faith in you, that I may be a powerful witness to your glory and love. Amen. Prayer Concern Those in need of spiritual encouragement Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 20, 2011 Author Members Posted January 20, 2011 January 19, 2011 Matthew 17:1-23 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 17:1-23: Jesus takes Peter, James and John up a high mountain, and there he is transfigured before them. The disciples witness Jesus’ manifested in glory, as he speaks with Moses and Elijah. They hear a voice from the cloud saying: “this is my own dear Son, with whom I am pleased” (17:5). A father brings his demon-possessed son to Jesus and Jesus casts out the demon. Jesus reminds his disciples about his future sufferings. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 17:5b “This is my own dear Son, with whom I am pleased - listen to him!” Today’s Reading 1 Six days later Jesus took with him Peter and the brothers James and John and led them up a high mountain where they were alone. 2 As they looked on, a change came over Jesus: his face was shining like the sun, and his clothes were dazzling white. 3 Then the three disciples saw Moses and Elijah talking with Jesus. 4 So Peter spoke up and said to Jesus, “Lord, how good it is that we are here! If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 5 While he was talking, a shining cloud came over them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my own dear Son, with whom I am pleased—listen to him!” 6 When the disciples heard the voice, they were so terrified that they threw themselves face downward on the ground. 7 Jesus came to them and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “Don't be afraid!” 8 So they looked up and saw no one there but Jesus. 9 As they came down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, “Don't tell anyone about this vision you have seen until the Son of Man has been raised from death.” 10 Then the disciples asked Jesus, “Why do the teachers of the Law say that Elijah has to come first?” 11 “Elijah is indeed coming first,” answered Jesus, “and he will get everything ready. 12 But I tell you that Elijah has already come and people did not recognize him, but treated him just as they pleased. In the same way they will also mistreat the Son of Man. ” 13 Then the disciples understood that he was talking to them about John the Baptist. Jesus Heals a Boy with a Demon ( Mark 9.14-29; Luke 9.37-43a) 14 When they returned to the crowd, a man came to Jesus, knelt before him, 15 and said, “Sir, have mercy on my son! He is an epileptic and has such terrible attacks that he often falls in the fire or into water. 16 I brought him to your disciples, but they could not heal him. ” 17 Jesus answered, “How unbelieving and wrong you people are! How long must I stay with you? How long do I have to put up with you? Bring the boy here to me!” 18 Jesus gave a command to the demon, and it went out of the boy, and at that very moment he was healed. 19 Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked him, “Why couldn't we drive the demon out?” 20 “It was because you do not have enough faith,” answered Jesus. “I assure you that if you have faith as big as a mustard seed, you can say to this hill, “Go from here to there!” and it will go. You could do anything! ” Jesus Speaks Again about His Death ( Mark 9.30-32; Luke 9.43b-45) 22 When the disciples all came together in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is about to be handed over to those 23 who will kill him; but three days later he will be raised to life. ” The disciples became very sad. Reflect The event on the mountaintop in today’s passage is the Transfiguration. Jesus’ divine nature was “veiled” in human form and the transfiguration was a glimpse of that glory. Therefore, the transfiguration of Jesus Christ displayed the glory of God incarnate in the Son. Why was this so important? What do you think was the significance of the appearance of Moses and Elijah? Pray Lord Jesus Christ, as you manifested your glory to your disciples on the mountaintop, grant me a glimpse of your glory in my life on this earth. May I recognize you guidance in everything I do. Amen. Prayer Concern Rescue workers Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 20, 2011 Author Members Posted January 20, 2011 January 20, 2011 Matthew 17:24-18:5 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 17:24-18:5: Today’s reading begins with the collectors of the Temple tax asking Peter if his teacher paid this tax. So that nobody is offended, Jesus asks Peter to settle the Temple tax for both of them. Then Jesus called a little child to stand in front of his disciples, and said that unless they become like little children, they will never enter the Kingdom of heaven. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 18:3, 4 “I assure you that unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the Kingdom of heaven. The greatest in the Kingdom of heaven is the one who humbles himself and becomes like this child.” Today’s Reading 24 When Jesus and his disciples came to Capernaum, the collectors of the Temple tax came to Peter and asked, “Does your teacher pay the Temple tax?” 25 “Of course,” Peter answered. When Peter went into the house, Jesus spoke up first, “Simon, what is your opinion? Who pays duties or taxes to the kings of this world? The citizens of the country or the foreigners?” 26 “The foreigners,” answered Peter. “Well, then,” replied Jesus, “that means that the citizens don't have to pay. 1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus, asking, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?” 2 So Jesus called a child to come and stand in front of them, 3 and said, “I assure you that unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the Kingdom of heaven. 4 The greatest in the Kingdom of heaven is the one who humbles himself and becomes like this child. 5 And whoever welcomes in my name one such child as this, welcomes me. Reflect Reread 18:1-5. Children are considered a gift from God. However, they have little power and are expected to obey their parents completely and do as they are told. Jesus used children as examples to show that being powerful is not the way to get into God’s Kingdom. What God requires is obedience. What does this scripture passage mean to you? Pray Heavenly Father, you ask us to be like children so that we might enter your Kingdom. Make me your child today, that my innocence and obedience may serve you. Amen. Prayer Concern Children Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
doug yowell Posted January 20, 2011 Posted January 20, 2011 PK, I know this is a little off subject but when the Jews account time do they count the literal hours or do they just consider the daylight hours (excluding the hours of darkness)as a day? "The evening and the morning was the first day".Jesus said,"Are there not 12 hours in a day?" ect... Got any idea why they use that verbage?? Do you think it has any meaning? Quote
Members phkrause Posted January 21, 2011 Author Members Posted January 21, 2011 PK, I know this is a little off subject but when the Jews account time do they count the literal hours or do they just consider the daylight hours (excluding the hours of darkness)as a day? "The evening and the morning was the first day".Jesus said,"Are there not 12 hours in a day?" ect... Got any idea why they use that verbage?? Do you think it has any meaning? I have no idea Doug. But I would have to say no. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 21, 2011 Author Members Posted January 21, 2011 January 21, 2011 Matthew 18:6-20 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Matthew 18:6-20: Jesus tells his disciples and followers that there will always be temptations in life, they are inevitable, but it is not right for a person to be a temptation or cause failed faith or sin in another believer, and especially in young children. He talks about conquering the temptation to sin, compares his followers to sheep and the heavenly Father to a shepherd who searches for the stray and returns them to the fold. He also discusses how to respond to another follower who sins. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 18:19, 20 “And I tell you more: whenever two of you on earth agree about anything you pray for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, I am there with them.” Today’s Reading 6 If anyone should cause one of these little ones to lose his faith in me, it would be better for that person to have a large millstone tied around his neck and be drowned in the deep sea. 7 How terrible for the world that there are things that make people lose their faith! Such things will always happen—but how terrible for the one who causes them! 8 If your hand or your foot makes you lose your faith, cut it off and throw it away! It is better for you to enter life without a hand or a foot than to keep both hands and both feet and be thrown into the eternal fire. 9 And if your eye makes you lose your faith, take it out and throw it away! It is better for you to enter life with only one eye than to keep both eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell. 10 See that you don't despise any of these little ones. Their angels in heaven, I tell you, are always in the presence of my Father in heaven. 12 What do you think a man does who has one hundred sheep and one of them gets lost? He will leave the other ninety-nine grazing on the hillside and go and look for the lost sheep. 13 When he finds it, I tell you, he feels far happier over this one sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not get lost. 14 In just the same way your Father in heaven does not want any of these little ones to be lost. 15 If your brother sins against you, go to him and show him his fault. But do it privately, just between yourselves. If he listens to you, you have won your brother back. 16 But if he will not listen to you, take one or two other persons with you, so that “every accusation may be upheld by the testimony of two or more witnesses,” as the scripture says. 17 And if he will not listen to them, then tell the whole thing to the church. Finally, if he will not listen to the church, treat him as though he were a pagan or a tax collector. 18 And so I tell all of you: what you prohibit on earth will be prohibited in heaven, and what you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven. 19 And I tell you more: whenever two of you on earth agree about anything you pray for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three come together in my name, I am there with them. ” Reflect Today’s reading contain some of Jesus’ “hard sayings.” Which of these teachings do you find difficult to follow? Why? Which ones do you find most comforting? How would following these teachings build up the church and strengthen people’s faith? Pray Loving God, thank you for the ways in which you welcome all people into your fold. Bless all who are outcast and afraid. Help them to know how much you love them, that they may open themselves to your grace. Amen. Prayer Concern Those struggling with addiction Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted January 24, 2011 Author Members Posted January 24, 2011 January 22, 2011 Acts 8:4-25 (Good News Translation) Confess Jesus as Lord Introduction Acts 8:4-25: When the believers scattered because of persecution, they carried the Gospel with them. Philip goes to Samaria, preaches, works many miracles, converts many people, and baptizes Simon the magician. The apostles send Peter and John to Samaria and by prayer and placing of hands they confer the Holy Spirit. Simon, seeing this, offers them money to enable him to confer the Holy Spirit. He is sharply reproved by Peter, and exhorted to repent. Today’s Scripture: Acts 8:6-8 The crowds paid close attention to what Philip said, as they listened to him and saw the miracles that he performed. Evil spirits came out from many people with a loud cry, and many paralyzed and lame people were healed. So there was great joy in that city. Today’s Reading 4 The believers who were scattered went everywhere, preaching the message. 5 Philip went to the principal city in Samaria and preached the Messiah to the people there. 6 The crowds paid close attention to what Philip said, as they listened to him and saw the miracles that he performed. 7 Evil spirits came out from many people with a loud cry, and many paralyzed and lame people were healed. 8 So there was great joy in that city. 9 A man named Simon lived there, who for some time had astounded the Samaritans with his magic. He claimed that he was someone great, 10 and everyone in the city, from all classes of society, paid close attention to him. “He is that power of God known as “The Great Power,” ” they said. 11 They paid this attention to him because for such a long time he had astonished them with his magic. 12 But when they believed Philip's message about the good news of the Kingdom of God and about Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Simon himself also believed; and after being baptized, he stayed close to Philip and was astounded when he saw the great wonders and miracles that were being performed. 14 The apostles in Jerusalem heard that the people of Samaria had received the word of God, so they sent Peter and John to them. 15 When they arrived, they prayed for the believers that they might receive the Holy Spirit. 16 For the Holy Spirit had not yet come down on any of them; they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. 18 Simon saw that the Spirit had been given to the believers when the apostles placed their hands on them. So he offered money to Peter and John, 19 and said, “Give this power to me too, so that anyone I place my hands on will receive the Holy Spirit.” 20 But Peter answered him, “May you and your money go to hell, for thinking that you can buy God's gift with money! 21 You have no part or share in our work, because your heart is not right in God's sight. 22 Repent, then, of this evil plan of yours, and pray to the Lord that he will forgive you for thinking such a thing as this. 23 For I see that you are full of bitter envy and are a prisoner of sin. ” 24 Simon said to Peter and John, “Please pray to the Lord for me, so that none of these things you spoke of will happen to me.” 25 After they had given their testimony and proclaimed the Lord's message, Peter and John went back to Jerusalem. On their way they preached the Good News in many villages of Samaria. Reflect Peter and John placed their hands on believers in Samaria, and they received the Holy Spirit. Placing hands on another person was traditionally used in healing or giving a blessing, or choosing someone for a special task. How can touch express these different things? How do you experience another person’s touch? Pray Loving God, touch my life with your healing Spirit. Help me recognize the power of touch, and to know when to share it with others. Amen. Prayer Concern Doctors Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.