Members phkrause Posted May 2, 2011 Author Members Posted May 2, 2011 May 2, 2011 1 Corinthians 15:35-58 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction 1 Corinthians 15:35-58: The Corinthians had sent a letter to Paul asking him a number of questions. In this passage, Paul responds to the question, “How can the dead be raised to life? What kind of body will they have?” (15:35). Today’s Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:49 Just as we wear the likeness of the man made of earth, so we will wear the likeness of the Man from heaven. Today’s Reading 35 Someone will ask, “How can the dead be raised to life? What kind of body will they have?” 36 You fool! When you plant a seed in the ground, it does not sprout to life unless it dies. 37 And what you plant is a bare seed, perhaps a grain of wheat or some other grain, not the full-bodied plant that will later grow up. 38 God provides that seed with the body he wishes; he gives each seed its own proper body. 39 And the flesh of living beings is not all the same kind of flesh; human beings have one kind of flesh, animals another, birds another, and fish another. 40 And there are heavenly bodies and earthly bodies; the beauty that belongs to heavenly bodies is different from the beauty that belongs to earthly bodies. 41 The sun has its own beauty, the moon another beauty, and the stars a different beauty; and even among stars there are different kinds of beauty. 42 This is how it will be when the dead are raised to life. When the body is buried, it is mortal; when raised, it will be immortal. 43 When buried, it is ugly and weak; when raised, it will be beautiful and strong. 44 When buried, it is a physical body; when raised, it will be a spiritual body. There is, of course, a physical body, so there has to be a spiritual body. 45 For the scripture says, “The first man, Adam, was created a living being”; but the last Adam is the life-giving Spirit. 46 It is not the spiritual that comes first, but the physical, and then the spiritual. 47 The first Adam, made of earth, came from the earth; the second Adam came from heaven. 48 Those who belong to the earth are like the one who was made of earth; those who are of heaven are like the one who came from heaven. 49 Just as we wear the likeness of the man made of earth, so we will wear the likeness of the Man from heaven. 50 What I mean, friends, is that what is made of flesh and blood cannot share in God's Kingdom, and what is mortal cannot possess immortality. 51-52 Listen to this secret truth: we shall not all die, but when the last trumpet sounds, we shall all be changed in an instant, as quickly as the blinking of an eye. For when the trumpet sounds, the dead will be raised, never to die again, and we shall all be changed. 53 For what is mortal must be changed into what is immortal; what will die must be changed into what cannot die. 54 So when this takes place, and the mortal has been changed into the immortal, then the scripture will come true: “Death is destroyed; victory is complete!” 55 “Where, Death, is your victory? Where, Death, is your power to hurt?” 56 Death gets its power to hurt from sin, and sin gets its power from the Law. 57 But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ! 58 So then, my dear friends, stand firm and steady. Keep busy always in your work for the Lord, since you know that nothing you do in the Lord's service is ever useless. Reflect Paul teaches that those who are raised to life from death will have a completely new body. How can the hope of being raised to new life with Christ and living with God forever make a difference for people living today? Pray Holy God, we yearn to experience a taste of your realm here on earth, even as we look toward eternal life with you. May my work this day help to bring a glimpse of heaven to this present world even as I wait for your future glory. Amen. Prayer Concern Those seeking 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 May 3, 2011 Author Members Posted May 3, 2011 May 3, 2011 John 8:12-30 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction John 8:12-30: Jesus argues with the Pharisees about his identity, saying that he is the light of the world. Then he alludes to his death. He says that the Pharisees will die in their sins unless they believe in him. He says that he is not of this world, and that the Father is always with him. Today’s Scripture: John 8:12 Jesus spoke to the Pharisees again. “I am the light of the world,” he said. “Whoever follows me will have the light of life and will never walk in darkness.” Today’s Reading 12 Jesus spoke to the Pharisees again. “I am the light of the world,” he said. “Whoever follows me will have the light of life and will never walk in darkness.” 13 The Pharisees said to him, “Now you are testifying on your own behalf; what you say proves nothing.” 14 “No,” Jesus answered, “even though I do testify on my own behalf, what I say is true, because I know where I came from and where I am going. You do not know where I came from or where I am going. 15 You make judgments in a purely human way; I pass judgment on no one. 16 But if I were to do so, my judgment would be true, because I am not alone in this; the Father who sent me is with me. 17 It is written in your Law that when two witnesses agree, what they say is true. 18 I testify on my own behalf, and the Father who sent me also testifies on my behalf. ” 19 “Where is your father?” they asked him. “You know neither me nor my Father,” Jesus answered. “If you knew me, you would know my Father also.” 20 Jesus said all this as he taught in the Temple, in the room where the offering boxes were placed. And no one arrested him, because his hour had not come. 21 Again Jesus said to them, “I will go away; you will look for me, but you will die in your sins. You cannot go where I am going.” 22 So the Jewish authorities said, “He says that we cannot go where he is going. Does this mean that he will kill himself” 23 Jesus answered, “You belong to this world here below, but I come from above. You are from this world, but I am not from this world. 24 That is why I told you that you will die in your sins. And you will die in your sins if you do not believe that “I Am Who I Am”. ” 25 “Who are you?” they asked him. Jesus answered, “What I have told you from the very beginning. 26 I have much to say about you, much to condemn you for. The one who sent me, however, is truthful, and I tell the world only what I have heard from him. ” 27 They did not understand that Jesus was talking to them about the Father. 28 So he said to them, “When you lift up the Son of Man, you will know that “I Am Who I Am”; then you will know that I do nothing on my own authority, but I say only what the Father has instructed me to say. 29 And he who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, because I always do what pleases him. ” 30 Many who heard Jesus say these things believed in him. Reflect Reread verse 24. Jesus says that those who don’t have faith in him as God’s Son will be cutting themselves off from the forgiveness that God offers. Why might the Pharisees have doubted Jesus’ identity? What gets in the way of people believing in Jesus today? How do you strengthen your faith in times of doubt? Pray Lord Jesus, you are the light of the world. Forgive me for times when I have failed to believe in you. Strengthen my faith in moments of doubt, that I may walk in your light and your way. Amen. Prayer Concern Those experiencing doubt about their faith 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 May 4, 2011 Author Members Posted May 4, 2011 May 4, 2011 John 8:31-59 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction John 8:31-59: Jesus tells the people that knowing the truth will set them free from slavery to sin. He condemns their claims of being God’s children, even as they question his identity. Jesus continues to claim to be God’s Son. The people attempt to stone him, but Jesus hides from them. Today’s Scripture: John 8:31, 32 So Jesus said to those who believed in him, “If you obey my teaching, you are really my disciples; you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Today’s Reading 31 So Jesus said to those who believed in him, “If you obey my teaching, you are really my disciples; 32 you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. ” 33 “We are the descendants of Abraham,” they answered, “and we have never been anybody's slaves. What do you mean, then, by saying, “You will be free”? ” 34 Jesus said to them, “I am telling you the truth: everyone who sins is a slave of sin. 35 A slave does not belong to a family permanently, but a son belongs there forever. 36 If the Son sets you free, then you will be really free. 37 I know you are Abraham's descendants. Yet you are trying to kill me, because you will not accept my teaching. 38 I talk about what my Father has shown me, but you do what your father has told you. ” 39 They answered him, “Our father is Abraham.” “If you really were Abraham's children,” Jesus replied, “you would do the same things that he did. 40 All I have ever done is to tell you the truth I heard from God, yet you are trying to kill me. Abraham did nothing like this! 41 You are doing what your father did. ” “God himself is the only Father we have,” they answered, “and we are his true children.” 42 Jesus said to them, “If God really were your Father, you would love me, because I came from God and now I am here. I did not come on my own authority, but he sent me. 43 Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot bear to listen to my message. 44 You are the children of your father, the Devil, and you want to follow your father's desires. From the very beginning he was a murderer and has never been on the side of truth, because there is no truth in him. When he tells a lie, he is only doing what is natural to him, because he is a liar and the father of all lies. 45 But I tell the truth, and that is why you do not believe me. 46 Which one of you can prove that I am guilty of sin? If I tell the truth, then why do you not believe me? 47 He who comes from God listens to God's words. You, however, are not from God, and that is why you will not listen. ” 48 They asked Jesus, “Were we not right in saying that you are a Samaritan and have a demon in you?” 49 “I have no demon,” Jesus answered. “I honor my Father, but you dishonor me. 50 I am not seeking honor for myself. But there is one who is seeking it and who judges in my favor. 51 I am telling you the truth: whoever obeys my teaching will never die. ” 52 They said to him, “Now we know for sure that you have a demon! Abraham died, and the prophets died, yet you say that whoever obeys your teaching will never die. 53 Our father Abraham died; you do not claim to be greater than Abraham, do you? And the prophets also died. Who do you think you are? ” 54 Jesus answered, “If I were to honor myself, that honor would be worth nothing. The one who honors me is my Father—the very one you say is your God. 55 You have never known him, but I know him. If I were to say that I do not know him, I would be a liar like you. But I do know him, and I obey his word. 56 Your father Abraham rejoiced that he was to see the time of my coming; he saw it and was glad. ” 57 They said to him, “You are not even fifty years old—and you have seen Abraham?” 58 “I am telling you the truth,” Jesus replied. “Before Abraham was born, “I Am”. ” 59 Then they picked up stones to throw at him, but Jesus hid himself and left the Temple. Reflect Reread verses 24 and 58. Jesus uses the same words that God uses in Exodus to tell Moses who he is: “I AM” (Exodus 3:13-15). It means that God is the source of all that is and will fulfill his purpose for the people of God and the whole creation. Jesus uses this term to connect himself to God and to describe his purpose. What do these words tell you about Jesus? What do they mean to you? Pray Loving God, thank you for sharing your son Jesus with us. Help me to know him, follow him, and love him through all the days of my life, that I may share his love with the world. Amen. Prayer Concern Church school teachers 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 May 5, 2011 Author Members Posted May 5, 2011 May 5, 2011 Psalm 85 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Psalm 85: This psalm is a prayer for reconciliation with God. The psalmist recounts God’s blessings and asks God’s forgiveness for the sins of the people. He promises to listen to God, and envisions a future in which the land will be fruitful, and goodness and peace will unite in justice. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 85:11 Human loyalty will reach up from the earth, and God’s righteousness will look down from heaven. Today’s Reading 1 LORD, you have been merciful to your land; you have made Israel prosperous again. 2 You have forgiven your people's sins and pardoned all their wrongs. 3 You stopped being angry with them and held back your furious rage. 4 Bring us back, O God our savior, and stop being displeased with us! 5 Will you be angry with us forever? Will your anger never cease? 6 Make us strong again, and we, your people, will praise you. 7 Show us your constant love, O LORD, and give us your saving help. 8 I am listening to what the LORD God is saying; he promises peace to us, his own people, if we do not go back to our foolish ways. 9 Surely he is ready to save those who honor him, and his saving presence will remain in our land. 10 Love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will embrace. 11 Human loyalty will reach up from the earth, and God's righteousness will look down from heaven. 12 The LORD will make us prosperous, and our land will produce rich harvests. 13 Righteousness will go before the LORD and prepare the path for him. Reflect Reread verses 1-5. These verses suggest that the psalm was written about the time the people of Israel returned home to Judah from exile in Babylon (after 539 BC). After they returned from exile, new problems developed, and the people once again needed to pray for deliverance. When in your life have you prayed for God’s deliverance? How did God respond to your prayers? Pray Loving God, thank you for delivering me from darkness into light. Forgive me for times I have failed to do your will. Help me live into your ways of peace, justice and mercy, and to be a faithful disciple of Christ. Amen. Prayer Concern Foster 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 May 6, 2011 Author Members Posted May 6, 2011 May 6, 2011 John 10:1-21 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction John 10:1-21: In today’s passage, Jesus uses the images of the shepherd, flock and thieves to describe the relationship between himself, his true followers, and those who want to come between God and God’s people. Today’s Scripture: John 10:14, 15 I am the good shepherd. As the Father knows me and I know the Father, in the same way I know my sheep and they know me. And I am willing to die for them. Today’s Reading 1 Jesus said, “I am telling you the truth: the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in some other way, is a thief and a robber. 2 The man who goes in through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him; the sheep hear his voice as he calls his own sheep by name, and he leads them out. 4 When he has brought them out, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him, because they know his voice. 5 They will not follow someone else; instead, they will run away from such a person, because they do not know his voice. ” 6 Jesus told them this parable, but they did not understand what he meant. 7 So Jesus said again, “I am telling you the truth: I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All others who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the gate. Those who come in by me will be saved; they will come in and go out and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only in order to steal, kill, and destroy. I have come in order that you might have life—life in all its fullness. 11 I am the good shepherd, who is willing to die for the sheep. 12 When the hired man, who is not a shepherd and does not own the sheep, sees a wolf coming, he leaves the sheep and runs away; so the wolf snatches the sheep and scatters them. 13 The hired man runs away because he is only a hired man and does not care about the sheep. 14-15 I am the good shepherd. As the Father knows me and I know the Father, in the same way I know my sheep and they know me. And I am willing to die for them. 16 There are other sheep which belong to me that are not in this sheep pen. I must bring them, too; they will listen to my voice, and they will become one flock with one shepherd. 17 The Father loves me because I am willing to give up my life, in order that I may receive it back again. 18 No one takes my life away from me. I give it up of my own free will. I have the right to give it up, and I have the right to take it back. This is what my Father has commanded me to do. ” 19 Again there was a division among the people because of these words. 20 Many of them were saying, “He has a demon! He is crazy! Why do you listen to him?” 21 But others were saying, “A man with a demon could not talk like this! How could a demon give sight to blind people?” Reflect Reread verses 7-8. As the gate for the “sheep,” Jesus stands guard and protects his followers. He also determines who will go through the gate. When the writer talks about thieves and robbers, he is speaking of those who have been teaching the people the Law of Moses in ways that lead them away from the truth about what God wants. How does Jesus protect you and help you find God’s truth? Pray Lord Jesus, like a good shepherd, you protect me from those who deal in anger and injustice rather than hope and love. Strengthen my spirit so that I may help bring glimpses of your kingdom to earth. Amen. Prayer Concern Ordained Ministers 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 May 7, 2011 Author Members Posted May 7, 2011 May 7, 2011 John 10:22-42 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction John 10:22-42: People ask Jesus to clearly explain whether or not he is the Messiah. He responds that he has been trying to tell them that he is the Son of God. The people reject his claims and they attempt to arrest him, but he escapes. Today’s Scripture: John 10:36 As for me, the Father chose me and sent me into the world. How, then, can you say that I blaspheme because I said that I am the Son of God? Today’s Reading 22 It was winter, and the Festival of the Dedication of the Temple was being celebrated in Jerusalem. 23 Jesus was walking in Solomon's Porch in the Temple, 24 when the people gathered around him and asked, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? Tell us the plain truth: are you the Messiah?” 25 Jesus answered, “I have already told you, but you would not believe me. The deeds I do by my Father's authority speak on my behalf; 26 but you will not believe, for you are not my sheep. 27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never die. No one can snatch them away from me. 29 What my Father has given me is greater than everything, and no one can snatch them away from the Father's care. 30 The Father and I are one. ” 31 Then the people again picked up stones to throw at him. 32 Jesus said to them, “I have done many good deeds in your presence which the Father gave me to do; for which one of these do you want to stone me?” 33 They answered, “We do not want to stone you because of any good deeds, but because of your blasphemy! You are only a man, but you are trying to make yourself God!” 34 Jesus answered, “It is written in your own Law that God said, “You are gods.” 35 We know that what the scripture says is true forever; and God called those people gods, the people to whom his message was given. 36 As for me, the Father chose me and sent me into the world. How, then, can you say that I blaspheme because I said that I am the Son of God? 37 Do not believe me, then, if I am not doing the things my Father wants me to do. 38 But if I do them, even though you do not believe me, you should at least believe my deeds, in order that you may know once and for all that the Father is in me and that I am in the Father. ” 39 Once more they tried to seize Jesus, but he slipped out of their hands. 40 Jesus then went back again across the Jordan River to the place where John had been baptizing, and he stayed there. 41 Many people came to him. “John performed no miracles,” they said, “but everything he said about this man was true.” 42 And many people there believed in him. Reflect Reread verse 33. The Jewish leaders accused Jesus of claiming he was God. Since they believed he was only a man, and not God, they said that Jesus was guilty of one of the most horrible offenses against God, blasphemy, which was punishable by death. Why do you think the leaders doubted Jesus’ claims? Pray Lord Jesus, forgive me for the times when I fail to recognize you for who you are. Make your wisdom and love known to me, that I may share your kindness and mercy with others. 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 May 8, 2011 Author Members Posted May 8, 2011 May 8, 2011 1 Peter 1:1-25 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction 1 Peter 1:1-25: This letter was most likely written to Christians scattered across northern Asia Minor. The writer wants readers to understand that they may have to face suffering because of their faith. He reminds them that God has chosen them and will protect them, and he exhorts them to live holy lives. Today’s Scripture: 1 Peter 1:13 So then, have your minds ready for action. Keep alert and set your hope completely on the blessing which will be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. Today’s Reading 1 From Peter, apostle of Jesus Christ— To God's chosen people who live as refugees scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia. 2 You were chosen according to the purpose of God the Father and were made a holy people by his Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be purified by his blood. May grace and peace be yours in full measure. 3 Let us give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! Because of his great mercy he gave us new life by raising Jesus Christ from death. This fills us with a living hope, 4 and so we look forward to possessing the rich blessings that God keeps for his people. He keeps them for you in heaven, where they cannot decay or spoil or fade away. 5 They are for you, who through faith are kept safe by God's power for the salvation which is ready to be revealed at the end of time. 6 Be glad about this, even though it may now be necessary for you to be sad for a while because of the many kinds of trials you suffer. 7 Their purpose is to prove that your faith is genuine. Even gold, which can be destroyed, is tested by fire; and so your faith, which is much more precious than gold, must also be tested, so that it may endure. Then you will receive praise and glory and honor on the Day when Jesus Christ is revealed. 8 You love him, although you have not seen him, and you believe in him, although you do not now see him. So you rejoice with a great and glorious joy which words cannot express, 9 because you are receiving the salvation of your souls, which is the purpose of your faith in him. 10 It was concerning this salvation that the prophets made careful search and investigation, and they prophesied about this gift which God would give you. 11 They tried to find out when the time would be and how it would come. This was the time to which Christ's Spirit in them was pointing, in predicting the sufferings that Christ would have to endure and the glory that would follow. 12 God revealed to these prophets that their work was not for their own benefit, but for yours, as they spoke about those things which you have now heard from the messengers who announced the Good News by the power of the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. These are things which even the angels would like to understand. 13 So then, have your minds ready for action. Keep alert and set your hope completely on the blessing which will be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. 14 Be obedient to God, and do not allow your lives to be shaped by those desires you had when you were still ignorant. 15 Instead, be holy in all that you do, just as God who called you is holy. 16 The scripture says, “Be holy because I am holy.” 17 You call him Father, when you pray to God, who judges all people by the same standard, according to what each one has done; so then, spend the rest of your lives here on earth in reverence for him. 18 For you know what was paid to set you free from the worthless manner of life handed down by your ancestors. It was not something that can be destroyed, such as silver or gold; 19 it was the costly sacrifice of Christ, who was like a lamb without defect or flaw. 20 He had been chosen by God before the creation of the world and was revealed in these last days for your sake. 21 Through him you believe in God, who raised him from death and gave him glory; and so your faith and hope are fixed on God. 22 Now that by your obedience to the truth you have purified yourselves and have come to have a sincere love for other believers, love one another earnestly with all your heart. 23 For through the living and eternal word of God you have been born again as the children of a parent who is immortal, not mortal. 24 As the scripture says, “All human beings are like grass, and all their glory is like wild flowers. The grass withers, and the flowers fall, 25 but the word of the Lord remains forever.” Reflect This passage offers assurance of God’s saving love and encourages believers to live as God’s holy people, even in the face of suffering. What kinds of situations make it difficult for you to live faithfully? How does suffering impact your faith? How does God provide you with hope in times of trial? Pray Spirit of the Living God, even in times of challenge and suffering, you call me to live as your faithful disciple. Strengthen my spirit, O Lord, that I may ever trust in you, my rock and my foundation. Amen. Prayer Concern Those facing religious 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 May 9, 2011 Author Members Posted May 9, 2011 May 9, 2011 1 Peter 2:1-25 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction 1 Peter 2:1-25: The new people of God are not only God’s temple, but also the priests who serve in the temple. This passage says that God’s people will not offer animal sacrifices, but will instead offer sacrifices of praise to God and love for one another. The author also calls the people to obey human authority, relying on God’s promises in times of suffering. Today’s Scripture: 1 Peter 2:5 Come as living stones, and let yourselves be used in building the spiritual temple, where you will serve as holy priests to offer spiritual and acceptable sacrifices to God through Jesus Christ. Today’s Reading 1 Rid yourselves, then, of all evil; no more lying or hypocrisy or jealousy or insulting language. 2 Be like newborn babies, always thirsty for the pure spiritual milk, so that by drinking it you may grow up and be saved. 3 As the scripture says, “You have found out for yourselves how kind the Lord is.” 4 Come to the Lord, the living stone rejected by people as worthless but chosen by God as valuable. 5 Come as living stones, and let yourselves be used in building the spiritual temple, where you will serve as holy priests to offer spiritual and acceptable sacrifices to God through Jesus Christ. 6 For the scripture says, “I chose a valuable stone, which I am placing as the cornerstone in Zion; and whoever believes in him will never be disappointed.” 7 This stone is of great value for you that believe; but for those who do not believe: “The stone which the builders rejected as worthless turned out to be the most important of all.” 8 And another scripture says, “This is the stone that will make people stumble, the rock that will make them fall.” 9 But you are the chosen race, the King's priests, the holy nation, God's own people, chosen to proclaim the wonderful acts of God, who called you out of darkness into his own marvelous light. 10 At one time you were not God's people, but now you are his people; at one time you did not know God's mercy, but now you have received his mercy. 11 I appeal to you, my friends, as strangers and refugees in this world! Do not give in to bodily passions, which are always at war against the soul. 12 Your conduct among the heathen should be so good that when they accuse you of being evildoers, they will have to recognize your good deeds and so praise God on the Day of his coming. 13 For the sake of the Lord submit yourselves to every human authority: to the Emperor, who is the supreme authority, 14 and to the governors, who have been appointed by him to punish the evildoers and to praise those who do good. 15 For God wants you to silence the ignorant talk of foolish people by the good things you do. 16 Live as free people; do not, however, use your freedom to cover up any evil, but live as God's slaves. 17 Respect everyone, love other believers, honor God, and respect the Emperor. 18 You servants must submit yourselves to your masters and show them complete respect, not only to those who are kind and considerate, but also to those who are harsh. 19 God will bless you for this, if you endure the pain of undeserved suffering because you are conscious of his will. 20 For what credit is there if you endure the beatings you deserve for having done wrong? But if you endure suffering even when you have done right, God will bless you for it. 21 It was to this that God called you, for Christ himself suffered for you and left you an example, so that you would follow in his steps. 22 He committed no sin, and no one ever heard a lie come from his lips. 23 When he was insulted, he did not answer back with an insult; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but placed his hopes in God, the righteous Judge. 24 Christ himself carried our sins in his body to the cross, so that we might die to sin and live for righteousness. It is by his wounds that you have been healed. 25 You were like sheep that had lost their way, but now you have been brought back to follow the Shepherd and Keeper of your souls. Reflect This passage was written in the context of the Roman Empire. Christians could turn suspicion and fear concerning their worship practices into respect if they obeyed the local laws and were good neighbors. When in modern times has it made sense to protest against authority? How do you deal with authority that causes injustice? Pray God of Wisdom, we are called both to obey authority and to stand against injustice. Offer your people discernment in choosing how to bring your vision of peace and justice to our world. Amen. Prayer Concern Workers receiving unjust wages 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 May 11, 2011 Author Members Posted May 11, 2011 May 10, 2011 1 Peter 3:1-22 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction 1 Peter 3:1-22: The author tells followers to observe common cultural conventions of the time regarding marriage. He encourages wives to submit to their husbands so that their conduct will bring about a conversion among husbands who are not believers. Husbands are instructed to treat their wives with respect. Today’s Scripture: 1 Peter 3:8 You must all have the same attitude and the same feelings; love one another, and be kind and humble with one another. Today’s Reading 1 In the same way you wives must submit yourselves to your husbands, so that if any of them do not believe God's word, your conduct will win them over to believe. It will not be necessary for you to say a word, 2 because they will see how pure and reverent your conduct is. 3 You should not use outward aids to make yourselves beautiful, such as the way you fix your hair, or the jewelry you put on, or the dresses you wear. 4 Instead, your beauty should consist of your true inner self, the ageless beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of the greatest value in God's sight. 5 For the devout women of the past who placed their hope in God used to make themselves beautiful by submitting themselves to their husbands. 6 Sarah was like that; she obeyed Abraham and called him her master. You are now her daughters if you do good and are not afraid of anything. 7 In the same way you husbands must live with your wives with the proper understanding that they are more delicate than you. Treat them with respect, because they also will receive, together with you, God's gift of life. Do this so that nothing will interfere with your prayers. 8 To conclude: you must all have the same attitude and the same feelings; love one another, and be kind and humble with one another. 9 Do not pay back evil with evil or cursing with cursing; instead, pay back with a blessing, because a blessing is what God promised to give you when he called you. 10 As the scripture says, “If you want to enjoy life and wish to see good times, you must keep from speaking evil and stop telling lies. 11 You must turn away from evil and do good; you must strive for peace with all your heart. 12 For the Lord watches over the righteous and listens to their prayers; but he opposes those who do evil.” 13 Who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for doing what is right, how happy you are! Do not be afraid of anyone, and do not worry. 15 But have reverence for Christ in your hearts, and honor him as Lord. Be ready at all times to answer anyone who asks you to explain the hope you have in you, 16 but do it with gentleness and respect. Keep your conscience clear, so that when you are insulted, those who speak evil of your good conduct as followers of Christ will become ashamed of what they say. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if this should be God's will, than for doing evil. 18 For Christ died for sins once and for all, a good man on behalf of sinners, in order to lead you to God. He was put to death physically, but made alive spiritually, 19 and in his spiritual existence he went and preached to the imprisoned spirits. 20 These were the spirits of those who had not obeyed God when he waited patiently during the days that Noah was building his boat. The few people in the boat—eight in all—were saved by the water, 21 which was a symbol pointing to baptism, which now saves you. It is not the washing off of bodily dirt, but the promise made to God from a good conscience. It saves you through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone to heaven and is at the right side of God, ruling over all angels and heavenly authorities and powers. Reflect In biblical times, it was assumed that men would head the household and women would submit to them because they didn’t have other models to follow. Today, many people of faith recognize that God’s vision of justice and freedom for all extends to the relationships between men and women. Have you experienced equalities and inequalities in relationships between men and women today? Pray God of Justice, in Christ we are equal, whether Jew or Gentile, slave or free, woman or man. Liberate your people from relationships of inequality and oppression, and bind all people together as one in the body of Christ. Amen. Prayer Concern Survivors of domestic 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 May 11, 2011 Author Members Posted May 11, 2011 May 11, 2011 1 Peter 4:1-19 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction 1 Peter 4:1-19: Being faithful to Christ means using God’s gifts to serve others. Each person is equipped with gifts to serve. The author tells followers to accept suffering as Christ suffered. He says that suffering may be like walking through fire, but that faith will strengthen those who suffer. Today’s Scripture: 1 Peter 4:14 Happy are you if you are insulted because you are Christ’s followers; this means that the glorious Spirit, the Spirit of God, is resting on you. Today’s Reading 1 Since Christ suffered physically, you too must strengthen yourselves with the same way of thinking that he had; because whoever suffers physically is no longer involved with sin. 2 From now on, then, you must live the rest of your earthly lives controlled by God's will and not by human desires. 3 You have spent enough time in the past doing what the heathen like to do. Your lives were spent in indecency, lust, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and the disgusting worship of idols. 4 And now the heathen are surprised when you do not join them in the same wild and reckless living, and so they insult you. 5 But they will have to give an account of themselves to God, who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 That is why the Good News was preached also to the dead, to those who had been judged in their physical existence as everyone is judged; it was preached to them so that in their spiritual existence they may live as God lives. 7 The end of all things is near. You must be self-controlled and alert, to be able to pray. 8 Above everything, love one another earnestly, because love covers over many sins. 9 Open your homes to each other without complaining. 10 Each one, as a good manager of God's different gifts, must use for the good of others the special gift he has received from God. 11 Those who preach must preach God's messages; those who serve must serve with the strength that God gives them, so that in all things praise may be given to God through Jesus Christ, to whom belong glory and power forever and ever. Amen. 12 My dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful test you are suffering, as though something unusual were happening to you. 13 Rather be glad that you are sharing Christ's sufferings, so that you may be full of joy when his glory is revealed. 14 Happy are you if you are insulted because you are Christ's followers; this means that the glorious Spirit, the Spirit of God, is resting on you. 15 If you suffer, it must not be because you are a murderer or a thief or a criminal or a meddler in other people's affairs. 16 However, if you suffer because you are a Christian, don't be ashamed of it, but thank God that you bear Christ's name. 17 The time has come for judgment to begin, and God's own people are the first to be judged. If it starts with us, how will it end with those who do not believe the Good News from God? 18 As the scripture says, “It is difficult for good people to be saved; what, then, will become of godless sinners?” 19 So then, those who suffer because it is God's will for them, should by their good actions trust themselves completely to their Creator, who always keeps his promise. Reflect In the refining process, gold is heated in order to burn away impurities. What is left is very pure. The same is true for faith. When faith is tested and survives the “fires” of struggle, it becomes stronger and purer. Have you ever experience a time when your faith was “refined”? How did your faith grow? Pray Lord God, our Great Refiner, strengthen me to walk through the testing fires of faith with confidence in your care and ultimate love. Grant me wisdom and hope in times of suffering, that I may grow in you. Amen. Prayer Concern Firefighters 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 May 12, 2011 Author Members Posted May 12, 2011 May 12, 2011 1 Peter 5:1-14 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction 1 Peter 5:1-14: The author encourages church leaders to be like shepherds watching over their sheep (the people of God) until Christ, the Chief Shepherd, returns. They should do this willingly, not out of obligation, but out of joyful service to God. Today’s Scripture: 1 Peter 5:4 When the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the glorious crown which will never lose its brightness. Today’s Reading 1 I, who am an elder myself, appeal to the church elders among you. I am a witness of Christ's sufferings, and I will share in the glory that will be revealed. I appeal to you 2 to be shepherds of the flock that God gave you and to take care of it willingly, as God wants you to, and not unwillingly. Do your work, not for mere pay, but from a real desire to serve. 3 Do not try to rule over those who have been put in your care, but be examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the glorious crown which will never lose its brightness. 5 In the same way you younger people must submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you must put on the apron of humility, to serve one another; for the scripture says, “God resists the proud, but shows favor to the humble.” 6 Humble yourselves, then, under God's mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. 7 Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you. 8 Be alert, be on watch! Your enemy, the Devil, roams around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 9 Be firm in your faith and resist him, because you know that other believers in all the world are going through the same kind of sufferings. 10 But after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who calls you to share his eternal glory in union with Christ, will himself perfect you and give you firmness, strength, and a sure foundation. 11 To him be the power forever! Amen. 12 I write you this brief letter with the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful Christian. I want to encourage you and give my testimony that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. 13 Your sister church in Babylon, also chosen by God, sends you greetings, and so does my son Mark. 14 Greet one another with the kiss of Christian love. May peace be with all of you who belong to Christ. Reflect In Jesus’ day, life was often difficult for shepherds. They spent most of their time outside watching over the herds, and often slept near their flocks to protect them from robbers and wild animals. Jesus identified with shepherds even though many looked down on them. How are church leaders like shepherds? What are the challenges of church leadership today? Pray Lord Jesus, our Great Shepherd, you call forth leaders to guide your church. Empower your leaders today, that they may be like shepherds, watching over your people and leading them home. Grant them wisdom and strength for their work, and bless their homes and families. Amen. Prayer Concern Church leaders 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 May 13, 2011 Author Members Posted May 13, 2011 May 13, 2011 2 Peter 1:1-21 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction 2 Peter 1:1-21: This letter begins with a greeting to an unknown group of Christians. The writer tells them to live in a way that pleases God, improving their faith by cultivating goodness, knowledge, self-control, endurance, and godliness. Today’s Scripture: 2 Peter 1:3 God’s divine power has given us everything we need to live a truly religious life through our knowledge of the one who called us to share in his own glory and goodness. Today’s Reading 1 From Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ— To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have been given a faith as precious as ours: 2 May grace and peace be yours in full measure through your knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 3 God's divine power has given us everything we need to live a truly religious life through our knowledge of the one who called us to share in his own glory and goodness. 4 In this way he has given us the very great and precious gifts he promised, so that by means of these gifts you may escape from the destructive lust that is in the world, and may come to share the divine nature. 5 For this very reason do your best to add goodness to your faith; to your goodness add knowledge; 6 to your knowledge add self-control; to your self-control add endurance; to your endurance add godliness; 7 to your godliness add Christian affection; and to your Christian affection add love. 8 These are the qualities you need, and if you have them in abundance, they will make you active and effective in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But if you do not have them, you are so shortsighted that you cannot see and have forgotten that you have been purified from your past sins. 10 So then, my friends, try even harder to make God's call and his choice of you a permanent experience; if you do so, you will never abandon your faith. 11 In this way you will be given the full right to enter the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 12 And so I will always remind you of these matters, even though you already know them and are firmly grounded in the truth you have received. 13 I think it only right for me to stir up your memory of these matters as long as I am still alive. 14 I know that I shall soon put off this mortal body, as our Lord Jesus Christ plainly told me. 15 I will do my best, then, to provide a way for you to remember these matters at all times after my death. 16 We have not depended on made-up stories in making known to you the mighty coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. With our own eyes we saw his greatness. 17 We were there when he was given honor and glory by God the Father, when the voice came to him from the Supreme Glory, saying, “This is my own dear Son, with whom I am pleased!” 18 We ourselves heard this voice coming from heaven, when we were with him on the holy mountain. 19 So we are even more confident of the message proclaimed by the prophets. You will do well to pay attention to it, because it is like a lamp shining in a dark place until the Day dawns and the light of the morning star shines in your hearts. 20 Above all else, however, remember that none of us can explain by ourselves a prophecy in the Scriptures. 21 For no prophetic message ever came just from the human will, but people were under the control of the Holy Spirit as they spoke the message that came from God. Reflect According to the writer, becoming one with God’s nature will help Jesus’ followers escape their old evil desires and the corrupt influences of the world. Here, acting in faith means doing things that show oneness with God. How can changing your behavior actually change the things you want? What spiritual disciplines, like prayer, study, fasting and attending retreats, might help you in experiencing oneness with God? Pray Lord God, hold me firm to the truth you have shared with me—the glory and hope of Jesus Christ. Make me one with you in faith. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. Prayer Concern Teachers 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 May 14, 2011 Author Members Posted May 14, 2011 May 14, 2011 2 Peter 2:1-22 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction 2 Peter 2:1-22: The writer warns the Christians to be on guard against false prophets and has harsh words for these false teachers. He gives examples from the past of how evil was punished and how God saved those who were faithful. Today’s Scripture: 2 Peter 2:20 If people have escaped from the corrupting forces of the world through their knowledge of their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and then are again caught and conquered by them, such people are in worse condition at the end than they were at the beginning. Today’s Reading 1 False prophets appeared in the past among the people, and in the same way false teachers will appear among you. They will bring in destructive, untrue doctrines, and will deny the Master who redeemed them, and so they will bring upon themselves sudden destruction. 2 Even so, many will follow their immoral ways; and because of what they do, others will speak evil of the Way of truth. 3 In their greed these false teachers will make a profit out of telling you made-up stories. For a long time now their Judge has been ready, and their Destroyer has been wide awake! 4 God did not spare the angels who sinned, but threw them into hell, where they are kept chained in darkness, waiting for the Day of Judgment. 5 God did not spare the ancient world, but brought the flood on the world of godless people; the only ones he saved were Noah, who preached righteousness, and seven other people. 6 God condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, destroying them with fire, and made them an example of what will happen to the godless. 7 He rescued Lot, a good man, who was distressed by the immoral conduct of lawless people. 8 That good man lived among them, and day after day he suffered agony as he saw and heard their evil actions. 9 And so the Lord knows how to rescue godly people from their trials and how to keep the wicked under punishment for the Day of Judgment, 10 especially those who follow their filthy bodily lusts and despise God's authority. These false teachers are bold and arrogant, and show no respect for the glorious beings above; instead, they insult them. 11 Even the angels, who are so much stronger and mightier than these false teachers, do not accuse them with insults in the presence of the Lord. 12 But these people act by instinct, like wild animals born to be captured and killed; they attack with insults anything they do not understand. They will be destroyed like wild animals, 13 and they will be paid with suffering for the suffering they have caused. Pleasure for them is to do anything in broad daylight that will satisfy their bodily appetites; they are a shame and a disgrace as they join you in your meals, all the while enjoying their deceitful ways! 14 They want to look for nothing but the chance to commit adultery; their appetite for sin is never satisfied. They lead weak people into a trap. Their hearts are trained to be greedy. They are under God's curse! 15 They have left the straight path and have lost their way; they have followed the path taken by Balaam son of Beor, who loved the money he would get for doing wrong 16 and was rebuked for his sin. His donkey spoke with a human voice and stopped the prophet's insane action. 17 These people are like dried-up springs, like clouds blown along by a storm; God has reserved a place for them in the deepest darkness. 18 They make proud and stupid statements, and use immoral bodily lusts to trap those who are just beginning to escape from among people who live in error. 19 They promise them freedom while they themselves are slaves of destructive habits—for we are slaves of anything that has conquered us. 20 If people have escaped from the corrupting forces of the world through their knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and then are again caught and conquered by them, such people are in worse condition at the end than they were at the beginning. 21 It would have been much better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than to know it and then turn away from the sacred command that was given them. 22 What happened to them shows that the proverbs are true: “A dog goes back to what it has vomited” and “A pig that has been washed goes back to roll in the mud.” Reflect Chapter 1 of 2 Peter ended with the writer stating that true prophetic messages that come from God are spoken by those who are under the control of the Holy Spirit. How does he describe the false prophets and teachers here in chapter 2? Reread verses 20-22. What is your reaction to what the author is saying about those who learned the “way of righteousness” but turned away from what they were taught? Pray Lord Jesus, help me to always discern and heed your voice so that I am not led astray by those who distort your teachings. Keep me strong in faith and guided by your word of truth. Amen. Prayer Concern Those whose faith is weak 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 May 16, 2011 Author Members Posted May 16, 2011 May 15, 2011 2 Peter 3:1-18 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction 2 Peter 3:1-18: The final chapter of 2 Peter focuses on the day of Christ’s return. The author says that followers of Christ should not be upset by people who make fun of them because Christ hasn’t yet returned. Rather, they should stay strong in faith, awaiting the new heaven and new earth God promises. Today’s Scripture: 2 Peter 3:13 But we will wait for what God has promised: new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness will be at home. Today’s Reading 1 My dear friends, this is now the second letter I have written you. In both letters I have tried to arouse pure thoughts in your minds by reminding you of these things. 2 I want you to remember the words that were spoken long ago by the holy prophets, and the command from the Lord and Savior which was given you by your apostles. 3 First of all, you must understand that in the last days some people will appear whose lives are controlled by their own lusts. They will make fun of you 4 and will ask, “He promised to come, didn't he? Where is he? Our ancestors have already died, but everything is still the same as it was since the creation of the world!” 5 They purposely ignore the fact that long ago God gave a command, and the heavens and earth were created. The earth was formed out of water and by water, 6 and it was also by water, the water of the flood, that the old world was destroyed. 7 But the heavens and the earth that now exist are being preserved by the same command of God, in order to be destroyed by fire. They are being kept for the day when godless people will be judged and destroyed. 8 But do not forget one thing, my dear friends! There is no difference in the Lord's sight between one day and a thousand years; to him the two are the same. 9 The Lord is not slow to do what he has promised, as some think. Instead, he is patient with you, because he does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants all to turn away from their sins. 10 But the Day of the Lord will come like a thief. On that Day the heavens will disappear with a shrill noise, the heavenly bodies will burn up and be destroyed, and the earth with everything in it will vanish. 11 Since all these things will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people should you be? Your lives should be holy and dedicated to God, 12 as you wait for the Day of God and do your best to make it come soon—the Day when the heavens will burn up and be destroyed, and the heavenly bodies will be melted by the heat. 13 But we wait for what God has promised: new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness will be at home. 14 And so, my friends, as you wait for that Day, do your best to be pure and faultless in God's sight and to be at peace with him. 15 Look on our Lord's patience as the opportunity he is giving you to be saved, just as our dear friend Paul wrote to you, using the wisdom that God gave him. 16 This is what he says in all his letters when he writes on the subject. There are some difficult things in his letters which ignorant and unstable people explain falsely, as they do with other passages of the Scriptures. So they bring on their own destruction. 17 But you, my friends, already know this. Be on your guard, then, so that you will not be led away by the errors of lawless people and fall from your safe position. 18 But continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory, now and forever! Amen. Reflect The writer emphasizes the importance of patiently waiting for the Lord’s return and not losing hope. At the time of this letter, many had thought Christ would have already returned. According to the letter, what will the day of the Lord’s return be like? How are followers of Christ to act as they wait for his return? Pray Lord God, you are the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. Though I know not when you will return, you call me and all people of faith to help people experience a glimpse of your realm by extending your love and grace throughout your whole creation. Let your Holy Spirit flow through this place, O Lord. Amen. Prayer Concern Those experiencing anxiety 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 May 16, 2011 Author Members Posted May 16, 2011 May 16, 2011 Isaiah 25:1-12 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope 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 of God bringing new life as the Lord destroys the power of death, and promises that the people will celebrate in the presence and protection of God. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 25:8 The 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. Today’s Reading 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. 2 You have turned cities into ruins and destroyed their fortifications. The palaces which our enemies built are gone forever. 3 The people of powerful nations will praise you; you will be feared in the cities of cruel nations. 4 The 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, 5 like 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. 6 Here 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. 7 Here he will suddenly remove the cloud of sorrow that has been hanging over all the nations. 8 The 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. 9 When 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. ” 10 The LORD will protect Mount Zion, but the people of Moab will be trampled down the way straw is trampled in manure. 11 They will reach out their hands as if they were trying to swim, but God will humiliate them, and their hands will sink helplessly. 12 He will destroy the fortresses of Moab with their high walls and bring them tumbling down into the dust. Reflect Reread verses 7-8. The “cloud of sorrow” in verse 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 verse 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 amazing things; you have faithfully carried out the plans you made long ago. Increase my trust in you, that I may more fully know and share your love. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are grieving the loss of a loved one 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 May 17, 2011 Author Members Posted May 17, 2011 May 17, 2011 Isaiah 26:1-21 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Isaiah 26:1-21: This passage is a song of victory for the Hebrew people. It celebrates God’s protection and affirms the faithfulness of the people. It says that God can be trusted to bring justice for all who obey, and to give new life to those experiencing death. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 26:3 You, LORD, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm and put their trust in you. Today’s Reading 1 A day is coming when the people will sing this song in the land of Judah: Our city is strong! God himself defends its walls! 2 Open the city gates and let the faithful nation enter, the nation whose people do what is right. 3 You, LORD, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm and put their trust in you. 4 Trust in the LORD forever; he will always protect us. 5 He has humbled those who were proud; he destroyed the strong city they lived in, and sent its walls crashing into the dust. 6 Those who were oppressed walk over it now and trample it under their feet. 7 LORD, you make the path smooth for good people; the road they travel is level. 8 We follow your will and put our hope in you; you are all that we desire. 9 At night I long for you with all my heart; when you judge the earth and its people, they will all learn what justice is. 10 Even though you are kind to the wicked, they never learn to do what is right. Even here in a land of righteous people they still do wrong; they refuse to recognize your greatness. 11 Your enemies do not know that you will punish them. LORD, put them to shame and let them suffer; let them suffer the punishment you have prepared. Show them how much you love your people. 12 You will give us prosperity, LORD; everything that we achieve is the result of what you do. 13 LORD our God, we have been ruled by others, but you alone are our LORD. 14 Now they are dead and will not live again; their ghosts will not rise, for you have punished them and destroyed them. No one remembers them any more. 15 LORD, you have made our nation grow, enlarging its territory on every side; and this has brought you honor. 16 You punished your people, LORD, and in anguish they prayed to you. 17 You, LORD, have made us cry out, as a woman in labor cries out in pain. 18 We were in pain and agony, but we gave birth to nothing. We have won no victory for our land; we have accomplished nothing. 19 Those of our people who have died will live again! Their bodies will come back to life. All those sleeping in their graves will wake up and sing for joy. As the sparkling dew refreshes the earth, so the LORD will revive those who have long been dead. 20 Go into your houses, my people, and shut the door behind you. Hide yourselves for a little while until God's anger is over. 21 The LORD is coming from his heavenly dwelling place to punish the people of the earth for their sins. The murders that were secretly committed on the earth will be revealed, and the ground will no longer hide those who have been killed. Reflect Reread verses 15-18. God promised to give Abraham’s descendants, the people of Israel, their own land (Genesis 15:18-21; 17:1-8). The promise of regaining their land provided great hope to the people of Israel and Judah who had been forced to leave. Who is living in exile in our world today? How might these words provide hope for them? Pray Lord of Justice, be present with refugees around the world. Be present in the political, social and environmental situations that force people to leave their land, and fill them with a sense of your presence wherever they go. Amen. Prayer Concern Refugees 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 May 19, 2011 Author Members Posted May 19, 2011 May 18, 2011 Isaiah 40:1-31 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Isaiah 40:1-31: The Babylonians were known for their parades during religious celebrations. Isaiah uses the imagery of such a parade to describe the Lord’s victory march back to Judah. God is lauded as the greatest power in the universe. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 40:8 Yes, grass withers and flowers fade, but the word of our God endures forever. Today’s Reading 1 “Comfort my people,” says our God. “Comfort them! 2 Encourage the people of Jerusalem. Tell them they have suffered long enough and their sins are now forgiven. I have punished them in full for all their sins. ” 3 A voice cries out, “Prepare in the wilderness a road for the LORD! Clear the way in the desert for our God! 4 Fill every valley; level every mountain. The hills will become a plain, and the rough country will be made smooth. 5 Then the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all people will see it. The LORD himself has promised this. ” 6 A voice cries out, “Proclaim a message!” “What message shall I proclaim?” I ask. “Proclaim that all human beings are like grass; they last no longer than wild flowers. 7 Grass withers and flowers fade when the LORD sends the wind blowing over them. People are no more enduring than grass. 8 Yes, grass withers and flowers fade, but the word of our God endures forever. ” 9 Jerusalem, go up on a high mountain and proclaim the good news! Call out with a loud voice, Zion; announce the good news! Speak out and do not be afraid. Tell the towns of Judah that their God is coming! 10 The Sovereign LORD is coming to rule with power, bringing with him the people he has rescued. 11 He will take care of his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs together and carry them in his arms; he will gently lead their mothers. 12 Can anyone measure the ocean by handfuls or measure the sky with his hands? Can anyone hold the soil of the earth in a cup or weigh the mountains and hills on scales? 13 Can anyone tell the LORD what to do? Who can teach him or give him advice? 14 With whom does God consult in order to know and understand and to learn how things should be done? 15 To the LORD the nations are nothing, no more than a drop of water; the distant islands are as light as dust. 16 All the animals in the forests of Lebanon are not enough for a sacrifice to our God, and its trees are too few to kindle the fire. 17 The nations are nothing at all to him. 18 To whom can God be compared? How can you describe what he is like? 19 He is not like an idol that workers make, that metalworkers cover with gold and set in a base of silver. 20 Anyone who cannot afford silver or gold chooses wood that will not rot. He finds a skillful worker to make an image that won't fall down. 21 Do you not know? Were you not told long ago? Have you not heard how the world began? 22 It was made by the one who sits on his throne above the earth and beyond the sky; the people below look as tiny as ants. He stretched out the sky like a curtain, like a tent in which to live. 23 He brings down powerful rulers and reduces them to nothing. 24 They are like young plants, just set out and barely rooted. When the LORD sends a wind, they dry up and blow away like straw. 25 To whom can the holy God be compared? Is there anyone else like him? 26 Look up at the sky! Who created the stars you see? The one who leads them out like an army, he knows how many there are and calls each one by name! His power is so great— not one of them is ever missing! 27 Israel, why then do you complain that the LORD doesn't know your troubles or care if you suffer injustice? 28 Don't you know? Haven't you heard? The LORD is the everlasting God; he created all the world. He never grows tired or weary. No one understands his thoughts. 29 He strengthens those who are weak and tired. 30 Even those who are young grow weak; young people can fall exhausted. 31 But those who trust in the LORD for help will find their strength renewed. They will rise on wings like eagles; they will run and not get weary; they will walk and not grow weak. Reflect This passage is filled with images from the natural world that describe the nature of God and the nature of people. What are some of the images used to describe God? What are some of the images used to describe people? Which images are most striking to you? Pray Lord, you give strength to the weary. As I trust in you, may I find new strength and become strong like a soaring eagle, walking and running without getting tired. Thank you for your eternal love and care. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are tired and need strength 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 May 19, 2011 Author Members Posted May 19, 2011 May 19, 2011 Isaiah 41:1-20 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Isaiah 41:1-20: The Lord chooses the whole people of Israel to be his “servant.” As God’s servant, they are to trust only in the Lord and live according to God’s teachings (Exodus 20:1-6; Deuteronomy 6:4-25). Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 41:10 Do not be afraid – I am with you! I am your God – let nothing terrify you! I will make you strong and help you; I will protect you and save you. Today’s Reading 1 God says, “Be silent and listen to me, you distant lands! Get ready to present your case in court; you will have your chance to speak. Let us come together to decide who is right. 2 Who was it that brought the conqueror from the east and makes him triumphant wherever he goes? Who gives him victory over kings and nations? His sword strikes them down as if they were dust. His arrows scatter them like straw before the wind. 3 He follows in pursuit and marches safely on, so fast that he hardly touches the ground! 4 Who was it that made this happen? Who has determined the course of history? I, the LORD, was there at the beginning, and I, the LORD, will be there at the end. 5 The people of distant lands have seen what I have done; they are frightened and tremble with fear. So they all assemble and come. 6 The skilled workers help and encourage each other. 7 The carpenter says to the goldsmith, “Well done!” The one who beats the idol smooth encourages the one who nails it together. They say, ‘The soldering is good'— and they fasten the idol in place with nails. 8 But you, Israel my servant, you are the people that I have chosen, the descendants of Abraham, my friend. 9 I brought you from the ends of the earth; I called you from its farthest corners and said to you, “You are my servant.” I did not reject you, but chose you. 10 Do not be afraid—I am with you! I am your God—let nothing terrify you! I will make you strong and help you; I will protect you and save you. 11 Those who are angry with you will know the shame of defeat. Those who fight against you will die 12 and will disappear from the earth. 13 I am the LORD your God; I strengthen you and tell you, “Do not be afraid; I will help you.” 14 The LORD says, Small and weak as you are, Israel, don't be afraid; I will help you. I, the holy God of Israel, am the one who saves you. 15 I will make you like a threshing board, with spikes that are new and sharp. You will thresh mountains and destroy them; hills will crumble into dust. 16 You will toss them in the air; the wind will carry them off, and they will be scattered by the storm. Then you will be happy because I am your God; you will praise me, the holy God of Israel. 17 When my people in their need look for water, when their throats are dry with thirst, then I, the LORD, will answer their prayer; I, the God of Israel, will never abandon them. 18 I will make rivers flow among barren hills and springs of water run in the valleys. I will turn the desert into pools of water and the dry land into flowing springs. 19 I will make cedars grow in the desert, and acacias and myrtles and olive trees. Forests will grow in barren land, forests of pine and juniper and cypress. 20 People will see this and know that I, the LORD, have done it. They will come to understand that Israel's holy God has made it happen.” Reflect What does God promise to do if Israel is a faithful servant? How does God provide encouragement to the Israelites? How do you understand God’s presence with faithful people today? How is God calling you and your community of faith to be like a faithful servant? Pray God of Strength, you promise to fortify your faithful people for all challenges they face. Strengthen me this day for the challenges ahead, that I may serve you in all aspects of my life. Amen. Prayer Concern Those facing difficulties at work 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 May 20, 2011 Author Members Posted May 20, 2011 May 20, 2011 Isaiah 42:1-25 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Isaiah 42:1-25: Verses 1-7 comprise the first of four “servant songs” in the book of Isaiah. In this passage, the servant is described as one whom God chose to bring justice to the nations (verse 1). Light provides an image of God’s truth, justice and saving power. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 42:6 I, the LORD, have called you and given you power to see that justice is done on earth. Through you I will make a covenant with all peoples; through you I will bring light to the nations. Today’s Reading 1 The LORD says, “Here is my servant, whom I strengthen— the one I have chosen, with whom I am pleased. I have filled him with my Spirit, and he will bring justice to every nation. 2 He will not shout or raise his voice or make loud speeches in the streets. 3 He will not break off a bent reed nor put out a flickering lamp. He will bring lasting justice to all. 4 He will not lose hope or courage; he will establish justice on the earth. Distant lands eagerly wait for his teaching.” 5 God created the heavens and stretched them out; he fashioned the earth and all that lives there; he gave life and breath to all its people. And now the LORD God says to his servant, 6 “I, the LORD, have called you and given you power to see that justice is done on earth. Through you I will make a covenant with all peoples; through you I will bring light to the nations. 7 You will open the eyes of the blind and set free those who sit in dark prisons. 8 I alone am the LORD your God. No other god may share my glory; I will not let idols share my praise. 9 The things I predicted have now come true. Now I will tell you of new things even before they begin to happen.” 10 Sing a new song to the LORD; sing his praise, all the world! Praise him, you that sail the sea; praise him, all creatures of the sea! Sing, distant lands and all who live there! 11 Let the desert and its towns praise God; let the people of Kedar praise him! Let those who live in the city of Sela shout for joy from the tops of the mountains! 12 Let those who live in distant lands give praise and glory to the LORD! 13 The LORD goes out to fight like a warrior; he is ready and eager for battle. He gives a war cry, a battle shout; he shows his power against his enemies. 14 God says, “For a long time I kept silent; I did not answer my people. But now the time to act has come; I cry out like a woman in labor. 15 I will destroy the hills and mountains and dry up the grass and trees. I will turn the river valleys into deserts and dry up the pools of water. 16 I will lead my blind people by roads they have never traveled. I will turn their darkness into light and make rough country smooth before them. These are my promises, and I will keep them without fail. 17 All who trust in idols, who call images their gods, will be humiliated and disgraced.” 18 The LORD says, “Listen, you deaf people! Look closely, you that are blind! 19 Is anyone more blind than my servant, more deaf than the messenger I send? 20 Israel, you have seen so much, but what has it meant to you? You have ears to hear with, but what have you really heard?” 21 The LORD is a God who is eager to save, so he exalted his laws and teachings, and he wanted his people to honor them. 22 But now his people have been plundered; they are locked up in dungeons and hidden away in prisons. They were robbed and plundered, with no one to come to their rescue. 23 Will any of you listen to this? From now on will you listen with care? 24 Who gave Israel up to the looters? It was the LORD himself, against whom we sinned! We would not live as he wanted us to live or obey the teachings he gave us. 25 So he made us feel the force of his anger and suffer the violence of war. Like fire his anger burned throughout Israel, but we never knew what was happening; we learned nothing at all from it. Reflect Some scholars think that the servant referenced in this passage must have been an important royal or religious figure in Israel’s history, like King Josiah, the prophet Jeremiah, or even Isaiah. Others think it could be a reference to the people of Israel. Still others understand this passage as describing the life of God’s promised messiah. What do you think? Pray Holy God, Source of All Light, light my path, that I may see the way to be a servant in your work of redemption, truth and justice. Guide me today. Amen. Prayer Concern Those working for social justice 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 May 21, 2011 Author Members Posted May 21, 2011 May 21, 2011 Isaiah 43:1-21 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Isaiah 43:1-21: God describes how the people will escape exile in Babylon and return to Judah. The most direct path back to Judah from Babylon was through the desert. Such a journey would be dangerous, but the Lord promises to provide water in the desert. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 43:2, 3a When you pass through deep waters, I will be with you; your troubles will not overwhelm you. When you pass through fire, you will not be burned; the hard trials that come will not hurt you. For I am the LORD your God, the holy God of Israel, who saves you. Today’s Reading 1 Israel, the LORD who created you says, “Do not be afraid—I will save you. I have called you by name—you are mine. 2 When you pass through deep waters, I will be with you; your troubles will not overwhelm you. When you pass through fire, you will not be burned; the hard trials that come will not hurt you. 3 For I am the LORD your God, the holy God of Israel, who saves you. I will give up Egypt to set you free; I will give up Ethiopia and Seba. 4 I will give up whole nations to save your life, because you are precious to me and because I love you and give you honor. 5 Do not be afraid—I am with you! From the distant east and the farthest west I will bring your people home. 6 I will tell the north to let them go and the south not to hold them back. Let my people return from distant lands, from every part of the world. 7 They are my own people, and I created them to bring me glory.” 8 God says, “Summon my people to court. They have eyes, but they are blind; they have ears, but they are deaf 9 Summon the nations to come to the trial. Which of their gods can predict the future? Which of them foretold what is happening now? Let these gods bring in their witnesses to prove that they are right, to testify to the truth of their words. 10 People of Israel, you are my witnesses; I chose you to be my servant, so that you would know me and believe in me and understand that I am the only God. Besides me there is no other god; there never was and never will be. 11 I alone am the LORD, the only one who can save you. 12 I predicted what would happen, and then I came to your aid. No foreign god has ever done this; you are my witnesses. 13 I am God and always will be. No one can escape from my power; no one can change what I do.” 14 Israel's holy God, the LORD who saves you, says, “To save you, I will send an army against Babylon; I will break down the city gates, and the shouts of her people will turn into crying. 15 I am the LORD, your holy God. I created you, Israel, and I am your king.” 16 Long ago the LORD made a road through the sea, a path through the swirling waters. 17 He led a mighty army to destruction, an army of chariots and horses. Down they fell, never to rise, snuffed out like the flame of a lamp! 18 But the LORD says, “Do not cling to events of the past or dwell on what happened long ago. 19 Watch for the new thing I am going to do. It is happening already—you can see it now! I will make a road through the wilderness and give you streams of water there. 20 Even the wild animals will honor me; jackals and ostriches will praise me when I make rivers flow in the desert to give water to my chosen people. 21 They are the people I made for myself, and they will sing my praises!” Reflect The people living in the deserts of the ancient Near East knew well that life could not exist without water. The life-giving power of water is a frequent theme in the Bible (Genesis 2:4-14, Exodus 15:22-27, Matthew 3:13-17, Revelation 22:1-3). How is water used in your community of faith’s religious rituals? What does water symbolize to you? Pray Lord of Life, your waters spring forth in dry places, creating fertile ground for new life. Wash my spirit today, that I may experience a renewal of spirit through your cleansing waters, and share the good news of new life with others. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who lack clean drinking water 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 May 22, 2011 Author Members Posted May 22, 2011 May 22, 2011 Isaiah 49:1-26 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Isaiah 49:1-26: The prophet Isaiah focuses on the new future that the Lord is creating for the people of Israel. Even though Jerusalem lies in ruins, it will be restored and the people will rejoice. God will bless and protect those who return from exile. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 49:13 Sing heavens! Shout for joy, earth! Let the mountains burst into song! The LORD will comfort his people; he will have pity on his suffering people. Today’s Reading 1 Listen to me, distant nations, you people who live far away! Before I was born, the LORD chose me and appointed me to be his servant. 2 He made my words as sharp as a sword. With his own hand he protected me. He made me like an arrow, sharp and ready for use. 3 He said to me, “Israel, you are my servant; because of you, people will praise me. ” 4 I said, “I have worked, but how hopeless it is! I have used up my strength, but have accomplished nothing. ” Yet I can trust the LORD to defend my cause; he will reward me for what I do. 5 Before I was born, the LORD appointed me; he made me his servant to bring back his people, to bring back the scattered people of Israel. The LORD gives me honor; he is the source of my strength. 6 The LORD said to me, “I have a greater task for you, my servant. Not only will you restore to greatness the people of Israel who have survived, but I will also make you a light to the nations— so that all the world may be saved.” 7 Israel's holy God and savior says to the one who is deeply despised, who is hated by the nations and is the servant of rulers: “Kings will see you released and will rise to show their respect; princes also will see it, and they will bow low to honor you.” This will happen because the LORD has chosen his servant; the holy God of Israel keeps his promises. 8 The LORD says to his people, “When the time comes to save you, I will show you favor and answer your cries for help. I will guard and protect you and through you make a covenant with all peoples. I will let you settle once again in your land that is now laid waste. 9 I will say to the prisoners, “Go free!” and to those who are in darkness, “Come out to the light!” They will be like sheep that graze on the hills; 10 they will never be hungry or thirsty. Sun and desert heat will not hurt them, for they will be led by one who loves them. He will lead them to springs of water. 11 I will make a highway across the mountains and prepare a road for my people to travel. 12 My people will come from far away, from the north and the west, and from Aswan in the south.” 13 Sing, heavens! Shout for joy, earth! Let the mountains burst into song! The LORD will comfort his people; he will have pity on his suffering people. 14 But the people of Jerusalem said, “The LORD has abandoned us! He has forgotten us.” 15 So the LORD answers, “Can a woman forget her own baby and not love the child she bore? Even if a mother should forget her child, I will never forget you. 16 Jerusalem, I can never forget you! I have written your name on the palms of my hands. 17 Those who will rebuild you are coming soon, and those who destroyed you will leave. 18 Look around and see what is happening! Your people are assembling—they are coming home! As surely as I am the living God, you will be proud of your people, as proud as a bride is of her jewels. 19 Your country was ruined and desolate— but now it will be too small for those who are coming to live there. And those who left you in ruins will be far removed from you. 20 Your people who were born in exile will one day say to you, ‘This land is too small— we need more room to live in!’ 21 Then you will say to yourself, ‘Who bore all these children for me? I lost my children and could have no more. I was exiled and driven away— who brought these children up? I was left all alone— where did these children come from?’” 22 The Sovereign LORD says to his people: “I will signal to the nations, and they will bring your children home. 23 Kings will be like fathers to you; queens will be like mothers. They will bow low before you and honor you; they will humbly show their respect for you. Then you will know that I am the LORD; no one who waits for my help will be disappointed.” 24 Can you take away a soldier's loot? Can you rescue the prisoners of a tyrant? 25 The LORD replies, “That is just what is going to happen. The soldier's prisoners will be taken away, and the tyrant's loot will be seized. I will fight against whoever fights you, and I will rescue your children. 26 I will make your oppressors kill each other; they will be drunk with murder and rage. Then all people will know that I am the LORD, the one who saves you and sets you free. They will know that I am Israel's powerful God.” Reflect Reread verses 14-16. While in exile, many Israelites probably felt as if the Lord had forgotten about them forever. How might these words have encouraged them? Have you ever felt as though God had forgotten you? Where did you find encouragement during that time? Pray Loving God, there are times when I feel so distant from you. Reveal your presence to me, that I may always be mindful of your saving love. Heighten my awareness of you today. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who feel distant from God 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 May 23, 2011 Author Members Posted May 23, 2011 May 23, 2011 Isaiah 51:1-16 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Isaiah 51:1-16: The prophet lifts up Abraham as an example of how to live in obedience to the Lord. He says that God’s teaching will bring justice for all people, and promises that the Lord will rescue everyone from the power of fear and death. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 51:4 “Listen to me, my people, listen to what I say: I give my teaching to the nations; my laws will bring them light.” Today’s Reading 1 The LORD says, “Listen to me, you that want to be saved, you that come to me for help. Think of the rock from which you came, the quarry from which you were cut. 2 Think of your ancestor, Abraham, and of Sarah, from whom you are descended. When I called Abraham, he was childless, but I blessed him and gave him children; I made his descendants numerous. 3 I will show compassion to Jerusalem, to all who live in her ruins. Though her land is a desert, I will make it a garden, like the garden I planted in Eden. Joy and gladness will be there, and songs of praise and thanks to me. 4 Listen to me, my people, listen to what I say: I give my teaching to the nations; my laws will bring them light. 5 I will come quickly and save them; the time of my victory is near. I myself will rule over the nations. Distant lands wait for me to come; they wait with hope for me to save them. 6 Look up at the heavens; look at the earth! The heavens will disappear like smoke; the earth will wear out like old clothing, and all its people will die like flies. But the deliverance I bring will last forever; my victory will be final. 7 Listen to me, you that know what is right, who have my teaching fixed in your hearts. Do not be afraid when people taunt and insult you; 8 they will vanish like moth-eaten clothing! But the deliverance I bring will last forever; my victory will endure for all time.” 9 Wake up, LORD, and help us! Use your power and save us; use it as you did in ancient times. It was you that cut the sea monster Rahab to pieces. 10 It was you also who dried up the sea and made a path through the water, so that those you were saving could cross. 11 Those whom you have rescued will reach Jerusalem with gladness, singing and shouting for joy. They will be happy forever, forever free from sorrow and grief. 12 The LORD says, “I am the one who strengthens you. Why should you fear mortals, who are no more enduring than grass? 13 Have you forgotten the LORD who made you, who stretched out the heavens and laid the earth's foundations? Why should you live in constant fear of the fury of those who oppress you, of those who are ready to destroy you? Their fury can no longer touch you. 14 Those who are prisoners will soon be set free; they will live a long life and have all the food they need. 15 I am the LORD your God; I stir up the sea and make its waves roar. My name is the LORD Almighty! 16 I stretched out the heavens and laid the earth's foundations; I say to Jerusalem, ‘You are my people! I have given you my teaching, and I protect you with my hand.’” Reflect Why does the prophet remind the people to remember their ancestors, Abraham and Sarah? What do you know about your ancestors? Have any of them had a significant influence on your life? What words of comfort are given in this passage? For what do the people pray, and with what does the Lord respond? Pray God of Abraham and Sarah, you are my God and I trust in your promises. You are my comfort in times of sorrow, you crown me with your love, and you are my ever-present source of strength and joy. Amen. Prayer Concern Those learning about their family histories 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 May 24, 2011 Author Members Posted May 24, 2011 May 24, 2011 Isaiah 65:17-25 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Isaiah 65:17-25: The prophet predicts that God will create new heavens and a new earth that will be marked by peace, happiness, and abundance. The 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 17 The LORD says, “I am making a new earth and new heavens. The events of the past will be completely forgotten. 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. 19 I myself will be filled with joy because of Jerusalem and her people. There will be no weeping there, no calling for help. 20 Babies 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. 21-22 People 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. 23 The 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. 24 Even before they finish praying to me, I will answer their prayers. 25 Wolves 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” (verse 17) the Lord was creating. If our world could have a fresh new start today, what would change? Pray Loving God, even as I look toward the hope of a new heaven and a new earth, ground me in this time and place, that I may bring a glimpse of your new realm to a world in need. In your name I pray, Amen. Prayer Concern Terminally ill 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 May 25, 2011 Author Members Posted May 25, 2011 May 25, 2011 Jeremiah 29:1-23 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Jeremiah 29:1-23: Jeremiah brings a message from the Lord. He reminds the Jewish exiles that they are living in Babylon because the Lord brought them there. He says that rather than pining to leave, they should settle there, build houses, and create a life for themselves. Today’s Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11 “I alone know the plans I have for you, plans to bring you prosperity and not disaster, plans to bring about the future you hope for.” Today’s Reading 1 I wrote a letter to the priests, the prophets, the leaders of the people, and to all the others whom Nebuchadnezzar had taken away as prisoners from Jerusalem to Babylonia. 2 I wrote it after King Jehoiachin, his mother, the palace officials, the leaders of Judah and of Jerusalem, the engravers, and the skilled workers had been taken into exile. 3 I gave the letter to Elasah son of Shaphan and to Gemariah son of Hilkiah, whom King Zedekiah of Judah was sending to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylonia. It said: 4 “The LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those people whom he allowed Nebuchadnezzar to take away as prisoners from Jerusalem to Babylonia: 5 ‘Build houses and settle down. Plant gardens and eat what you grow in them. 6 Marry and have children. Then let your children get married, so that they also may have children. You must increase in numbers and not decrease. 7 Work for the good of the cities where I have made you go as prisoners. Pray to me on their behalf, because if they are prosperous, you will be prosperous too. 8 I, the LORD, the God of Israel, warn you not to let yourselves be deceived by the prophets who live among you or by any others who claim they can predict the future. Do not pay any attention to their dreams. 9 They are telling you lies in my name. I did not send them. I, the LORD Almighty, have spoken.’ 10 The LORD says, ‘When Babylonia's seventy years are over, I will show my concern for you and keep my promise to bring you back home. 11 I alone know the plans I have for you, plans to bring you prosperity and not disaster, plans to bring about the future you hope for. 12 Then you will call to me. You will come and pray to me, and I will answer you. 13 You will seek me, and you will find me because you will seek me with all your heart. 14 Yes, I say, you will find me, and I will restore you to your land. I will gather you from every country and from every place to which I have scattered you, and I will bring you back to the land from which I had sent you away into exile. I, the LORD, have spoken.’ 15 You say that the LORD has given you prophets in Babylonia. 16 Listen to what the LORD says about the king who rules the kingdom that David ruled and about the people of this city, that is, your relatives who were not taken away as prisoners with you. 17 The LORD Almighty says, ‘I am bringing war, starvation, and disease on them, and I will make them like figs that are too rotten to be eaten. 18 I will pursue them with war, starvation, and disease, and all the nations of the world will be horrified at what they see. Everywhere I scatter them, people will be shocked and terrified at what has happened to them. People will make fun of them and use their name as a curse. 19 This will happen to them because they did not obey the message that I kept on sending to them through my servants the prophets. They refused to listen. 20 All of you whom I sent into exile in Babylonia, listen to what I, the LORD, say.’ 21 The LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, has spoken about Ahab son of Kolaiah and Zedekiah son of Maaseiah, who are telling you lies in his name. He has said that he will hand them over to the power of King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylonia, who will put them to death before your eyes. 22 When the people who were taken away as prisoners from Jerusalem to Babylonia want to bring a curse on someone, they will say, ‘May the LORD treat you like Zedekiah and Ahab, whom the king of Babylonia roasted alive!’ 23 This will be their fate because they are guilty of terrible sins—they have committed adultery and have told lies in the LORD's name. This was against the LORD's will; he knows what they have done, and he is a witness against them. The LORD has spoken.” Reflect Reread the promise made to the Jewish people living in exile in verses 10-14. What is important about this message, especially regarding worshiping the Lord? What made this message “good news” for the people in exile? Why do you think some considered it to be bad news? Pray Gracious God, I don’t always understand the situations in which you place me. Help me to be attentive and present to whatever circumstances are before me, and to do the work you call me to do in every time and place. Amen. Prayer Concern People in transition 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 May 27, 2011 Author Members Posted May 27, 2011 May 26, 2011 Jeremiah 30:1-24 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Jeremiah 30:1-24: The Jewish exiles in Babylon are experiencing deep suffering. Jeremiah declares that Judah’s weeping will be replaced by singing, and that joy will overtake grief. The Lord will rescue, heal and rebuild God’s people with mercy and compassion. Today’s Scripture: Jeremiah 30:18 The LORD says, “I will restore my people to their land and have mercy on every family; Jerusalem will be rebuilt, and its palace restored.” Today’s Reading 1 The LORD, the God of Israel, 2 said to me, “Write down in a book everything that I have told you, 3 because the time is coming when I will restore my people, Israel and Judah. I will bring them back to the land that I gave their ancestors, and they will take possession of it again. I, the LORD, have spoken. ” 4 The LORD says to the people of Israel and Judah, 5 “I heard a cry of terror, a cry of fear and not of peace. 6 Now stop and think! Can a man give birth to a child? Why then do I see every man with his hands on his stomach like a woman in labor? Why is everyone so pale? 7 A terrible day is coming; no other day can compare with it— a time of distress for my people, but they will survive.” 8 The LORD Almighty says, “When that day comes, I will break the yoke that is around their neck and remove their chains, and they will no longer be the slaves of foreigners. 9 Instead, they will serve me, the LORD their God, and a descendant of David, whom I will enthrone as king. 10 My people, do not be afraid; people of Israel, do not be terrified. I will rescue you from that faraway land, from the land where you are prisoners. You will come back home and live in peace; you will be secure, and no one will make you afraid. 11 I will come to you and save you. I will destroy all the nations where I have scattered you, but I will not destroy you. I will not let you go unpunished; but when I punish you, I will be fair. I, the LORD, have spoken.” 12 The LORD says to his people, “Your wounds are incurable, your injuries cannot be healed. 13 There is no one to take care of you, no remedy for your sores, no hope of healing for you. 14 All your lovers have forgotten you; they no longer care about you. I have attacked you like an enemy; your punishment has been harsh because your sins are many and your wickedness is great. 15 Complain no more about your injuries; there is no cure for you. I punished you like this because your sins are many and your wickedness is great. 16 But now, all who devour you will be devoured, and all your enemies will be taken away as prisoners. All who oppress you will be oppressed, and all who plunder you will be plundered. 17 I will make you well again; I will heal your wounds, though your enemies say, ‘Zion is an outcast; no one cares about her.’ I, the LORD, have spoken.” 18 The LORD says, “I will restore my people to their land and have mercy on every family; Jerusalem will be rebuilt, and its palace restored. 19 The people who live there will sing praise; they will shout for joy. By my blessing they will increase in numbers; my blessing will bring them honor. 20 I will restore the nation's ancient power and establish it firmly again; I will punish all who oppress them. 21-22 Their ruler will come from their own nation, their prince from their own people. He will approach me when I invite him, for who would dare come uninvited? They will be my people, and I will be their God. I, the LORD, have spoken.” 23-24 The LORD's anger is a storm, a furious wind that will rage over the heads of the wicked. It will not end until he has done all that he intends to do. In days to come his people will understand this clearly. Reflect In this passage, the Jewish people are told to expect both punishment and forgiveness. How is punishment described? How is forgiveness described? How do nations experience the consequences of their actions today? Pray Almighty and Faithful God, our nation makes mistakes and sometimes suffers consequences for those mistakes. Help us to be humble as a country, allowing us to recognize wrongdoing and transform our transgressions into opportunities to seek justice. Amen. Prayer Concern Innocent victims of warfare Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
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