Members phkrause Posted May 27, 2011 Author Members Posted May 27, 2011 May 27, 2011 Jeremiah 31:1-22 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Jeremiah 31:1-22: Israel was made up of twelve tribes named for the sons of Jacob. After King Solomon died, the ten northern tribes formed their own kingdom (Israel), while the two southernmost tribes formed the kingdom of Judah. Jeremiah envisions a time when the Lord will rebuild Israel, Israel will return to its own land, and the tribes will be restored as one nation. Today’s Scripture: Jeremiah 31:10 The LORD says, “Nations, listen to me and proclaim my words on the far-off shores. I scattered my people, but I will gather them and guard them as a shepherd guards his flock.” Today’s Reading 1 The LORD says, “The time is coming when I will be the God of all the tribes of Israel, and they will be my people. 2 In the desert I showed mercy to those people who had escaped death. When the people of Israel longed for rest, 3 I appeared to them from far away. People of Israel, I have always loved you, so I continue to show you my constant love. 4 Once again I will rebuild you. Once again you will take up your tambourines and dance joyfully. 5 Once again you will plant vineyards on the hills of Samaria, and those who plant them will eat what the vineyards produce. 6 Yes, the time is coming when sentries will call out on the hills of Ephraim, ‘Let's go up to Zion, to the LORD our God. ’ ” 7 The LORD says, “Sing with joy for Israel, the greatest of the nations. Sing your song of praise, ‘The LORD has saved his people; he has rescued all who are left.’ 8 I will bring them from the north and gather them from the ends of the earth. The blind and the lame will come with them, pregnant women and those about to give birth. They will come back a great nation. 9 My people will return weeping, praying as I lead them back. I will guide them to streams of water, on a smooth road where they will not stumble. I am like a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my oldest son.” 10 The LORD says, “Nations, listen to me and proclaim my words on the far-off shores. I scattered my people, but I will gather them and guard them as a shepherd guards his flock. 11 I have set Israel's people free and have saved them from a mighty nation. 12 They will come and sing for joy on Mount Zion and be delighted with my gifts— gifts of grain and wine and olive oil, gifts of sheep and cattle. They will be like a well-watered garden; they will have everything they need. 13 Then the young women will dance and be happy, and men, young and old, will rejoice. I will comfort them and turn their mourning into joy, their sorrow into gladness. 14 I will fill the priests with the richest food and satisfy all the needs of my people. I, the LORD, have spoken.” 15 The LORD says, “A sound is heard in Ramah, the sound of bitter weeping. Rachel is crying for her children; they are gone, and she refuses to be comforted. 16 Stop your crying and wipe away your tears. All that you have done for your children will not go unrewarded; they will return from the enemy's land. 17 There is hope for your future; your children will come back home. I, the LORD, have spoken. 18 I hear the people of Israel say in grief, ‘ LORD, we were like an untamed animal, but you taught us to obey. Bring us back; we are ready to return to you, the LORD our God. 19 We turned away from you, but soon we wanted to return. After you had punished us, we hung our heads in grief. We were ashamed and disgraced because we sinned when we were young.’ 20 Israel, you are my dearest child, the one I love best. Whenever I mention your name, I think of you with love. My heart goes out to you; I will be merciful. 21 Set up signs and mark the road; find again the way by which you left. Come back, people of Israel, come home to the towns you left. 22 How long will you hesitate, faithless people? I have created something new and different, as different as a woman protecting a man.” Reflect Jeremiah envisions a time when all the tribes will be restored as one nation of God’s people, and the kingdom of Israel will be rebuilt. What brokenness do you see in our world today? How can healing among nations begin? What can communities of faith do to help? Pray God of Unity, your world suffers from brokenness, war and conflict. Forgive all the nations for the ways in which they fail to live in community, and reveal opportunities for reconciliation and new life. Amen. Prayer Concern The U.S. military presence in other nations 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 28, 2011 Author Members Posted May 28, 2011 May 28, 2011 Jeremiah 31:23-40 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Jeremiah 31:23-40: Jeremiah says that God will free the people of the southern tribes of Judah and bring them home. God promises to make a new agreement with Israel and Judah, writing the law on their hearts and minds. Today’s Scripture: Jeremiah 31:33 The new covenant that I will make with the people of Israel will be this: I will put my law within them and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. Today’s Reading 23 The LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says, “When I restore the people to their land, they will once again say in the land of Judah and in its towns, ‘May the LORD bless the sacred hill of Jerusalem, the holy place where he lives.’ 24 People will live in Judah and in all its towns, and there will be farmers, and shepherds with their flocks. 25 I will refresh those who are weary and will satisfy with food everyone who is weak from hunger. 26 So then, people will say, “I went to sleep and woke up refreshed.” 27 I, the LORD, say that the time is coming when I will fill the land of Israel and Judah with people and animals. 28 And just as I took care to uproot, to pull down, to overthrow, to destroy, and to demolish them, so I will take care to plant them and to build them up. 29 When that time comes, people will no longer say, ‘The parents ate the sour grapes, But the children got the sour taste.’ 30 Instead, those who eat sour grapes will have their own teeth set on edge; and everyone will die because of their own sin. ” 31 The LORD says, “The time is coming when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. 32 It will not be like the old covenant that I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand and led them out of Egypt. Although I was like a husband to them, they did not keep that covenant. 33 The new covenant that I will make with the people of Israel will be this: I will put my law within them and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. 34 None of them will have to teach a neighbor to know the LORD, because all will know me, from the least to the greatest. I will forgive their sins and I will no longer remember their wrongs. I, the LORD, have spoken. ” 35 The LORD provides the sun for light by day, the moon and the stars to shine at night. He stirs up the sea and makes it roar; his name is the LORD Almighty. 36 He promises that as long as the natural order lasts, so long will Israel be a nation. 37 If one day the sky could be measured and the foundations of the earth explored, only then would he reject the people of Israel because of all they have done. The LORD has spoken. 38 “The time is coming,” says the LORD, “when all of Jerusalem will be rebuilt as my city, from Hananel Tower west to the Corner Gate. 39 And the boundary line will continue from there on the west to the hill of Gareb and then around to Goah. 40 The entire valley, where the dead are buried and garbage is dumped, and all the fields above Kidron Brook as far as the Horse Gate to the east, will be sacred to me. The city will never again be torn down or destroyed. ” Reflect Reread verses 31-34. This is the high point of Jeremiah’s message. God’s new agreement with the people of Israel and Judah will not replace the earlier agreement with Moses. But in the new agreement, God will write the laws directly on the hearts and minds of the people, and God will forgive and forget sins. How might the hearers of Jeremiah’s message have responded to it? How do you respond to this message? Pray Loving God, thank you for extending your grace throughout generations. Open my heart and mind to your Word, that I may teach others your way. Amen. Prayer Concern Children Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 30, 2011 Author Members Posted May 30, 2011 May 29, 2011 Ezekiel 43:1-27 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Ezekiel 43:1-27: Ezekiel’s final vision features the new temple. Ezekiel sees the Lord’s glory return to the temple. The Lord says he will live there forever and calls for obedience among the people. Then the Lord provides instructions for dedicating the altar and securing the outer courtyard. Today’s Scripture: Ezekiel 43:5 The LORD’s spirit lifted me up and took me into the inner courtyard, where I saw that the Temple was filled with the glory of the LORD. Today’s Reading 1 The man took me to the gate that faces east, 2 and there I saw coming from the east the dazzling light of the presence of the God of Israel. God's voice sounded like the roar of the sea, and the earth shone with the dazzling light. 3 This vision was like the one I had seen when God came to destroy Jerusalem, and the one I saw by the Chebar River. Then I threw myself face downward on the ground. 4 The dazzling light passed through the east gate and went into the Temple. 5 The LORD's spirit lifted me up and took me into the inner courtyard, where I saw that the Temple was filled with the glory of the LORD. 6 The man stood beside me there, and I heard the LORD speak to me out of the Temple: 7 “Mortal man, here is my throne. I will live here among the people of Israel and rule them forever. Neither the people of Israel nor their kings will ever again disgrace my holy name by worshiping other gods or by burying the corpses of their dead kings. 8 The kings built the doorsills and doorposts of their palace right against the doorsills and doorposts of my Temple, so that there was only a wall between us. They disgraced my holy name by all the disgusting things they did, and so in my anger I destroyed them. 9 Now they must stop worshiping other gods and remove the corpses of their kings. If they do, I will live among them forever. ” 10 And the LORD continued, “Mortal man, tell the people of Israel about the Temple, and let them study its plan. Make them ashamed of their sinful actions. 11 Then if they are ashamed of what they have done, explain the plan of the Temple to them: its design, its entrances and exits, its shape, the arrangement of everything, and all its rules and regulations. Write all this down for them so that they can see how everything is arranged and can carry out all the rules. 12 This is the law of the Temple: All the area surrounding it on the top of the mountain is sacred and holy. ” 13 These are the measurements of the altar, using the same unit of measure as in measuring the Temple. All around the base of the altar there was a gutter 20 inches deep and 20 inches wide, with a rim at the outside edge 10 inches high. 14 The lowest section of the altar, from the top of the base, was 4 feet high. The next section was set back from the edge 20 inches all around, and was 7 feet high. The section after that was also set back from the edge 20 inches all around. 15 This top section, on which the sacrifices were burned, was also 7 feet high. The projections on the four corners were higher than the rest of the top. 16 The top of the altar was a square, 20 feet on each side. 17 The middle section was also a square, 24 feet on each side, with a rim at the outside edge 10 inches high. (The gutter was 20 inches wide.) The steps going up the altar were on the east side. 18 The Sovereign LORD said to me, “Mortal man, listen to what I tell you. When the altar is built, you are to dedicate it by burning sacrifices on it and by sprinkling on it the blood of the animals that were sacrificed. 19 Those priests belonging to the tribe of Levi who are descended from Zadok are the only ones who are to come into my presence to serve me. I, the Sovereign LORD, command this. You will give them a young bull to offer as a sacrifice for sin. 20 You are to take some of its blood and put it on the projections on the top corners of the altar, on the corners of the middle section of the altar, and all around its edges. In this way you will purify the altar and consecrate it. 21 You are to take the bull that is offered as a sacrifice for sin and burn it at the specified place outside the Temple area. 22 The next day you are to take a male goat without any defects and offer it as a sacrifice for sin. Purify the altar with its blood the same way you did with the bull. 23 When you have finished doing that, take a young bull and a young ram, both of them without any defects, 24 and bring them to me. The priests will sprinkle salt on them and burn them as an offering to me. 25 Each day for seven days you are to offer a goat, a bull, and a ram as sacrifices for sin. All of them must be without any defects. 26 For seven days the priests are to consecrate the altar and make it ready for use. 27 When the week is over, the priests are to begin offering on the altar the burnt offerings and the fellowship offerings of the people. Then I will be pleased with all of you. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken. ” Reflect Reread verses 18-27. Blood spattered or smeared on the altar or on the people had cleansing power and showed that something or someone was dedicated to God. What kinds of sacrifices were Israel’s priests to offer on the altar near the entrance of the temple? Does anything in worship today compare to the sacrifices offered by Israel’s priests? Pray Holy God, just as Ezekiel witnessed your glory return to the temple, I yearn to see your glory in our world. Make me mindful of the many ways you are made known to me, that I may share your grace with others. Amen. Prayer Concern Those rebuilding after the earthquake in Japan 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 31, 2011 Author Members Posted May 31, 2011 May 30, 2011 Revelation 21:1-27 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Revelation 21:1-27: Today’s reading echoes the prophesy of a new creation as recorded in Isaiah 65:17. John experiences a vision of a new heaven and a new earth. A new holy city comes down from heaven representing a renewal of the whole creation. God and the Lamb will live among the faithful people in a place where hunger, sorrow and death will be wiped out forever. Today’s Scripture: Revelation 21:3 I heard a loud voice speaking from the throne: “Now God’s home is with people! He will live with them, and they shall be his people. God himself will be with them, and he will be their God.” Today’s Reading 1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. The first heaven and the first earth disappeared, and the sea vanished. 2 And I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared and ready, like a bride dressed to meet her husband. 3 I heard a loud voice speaking from the throne: “Now God's home is with people! He will live with them, and they shall be his people. God himself will be with them, and he will be their God. 4 He will wipe away all tears from their eyes. There will be no more death, no more grief or crying or pain. The old things have disappeared. ” 5 Then the one who sits on the throne said, “And now I make all things new!” He also said to me, “Write this, because these words are true and can be trusted.” 6 And he said, “It is done! I am the first and the last, the beginning and the end. To anyone who is thirsty I will give the right to drink from the spring of the water of life without paying for it. 7 Those who win the victory will receive this from me: I will be their God, and they will be my children. 8 But cowards, traitors, perverts, murderers, the immoral, those who practice magic, those who worship idols, and all liars—the place for them is the lake burning with fire and sulfur, which is the second death. ” 9 One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came to me and said, “Come, and I will show you the Bride, the wife of the Lamb.” 10 The Spirit took control of me, and the angel carried me to the top of a very high mountain. He showed me Jerusalem, the Holy City, coming down out of heaven from God 11 and shining with the glory of God. The city shone like a precious stone, like a jasper, clear as crystal. 12 It had a great, high wall with twelve gates and with twelve angels in charge of the gates. On the gates were written the names of the twelve tribes of the people of Israel. 13 There were three gates on each side: three on the east, three on the south, three on the north, and three on the west. 14 The city's wall was built on twelve foundation stones, on which were written the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. 15 The angel who spoke to me had a gold measuring stick to measure the city, its gates, and its wall. 16 The city was perfectly square, as wide as it was long. The angel measured the city with his measuring stick: it was fifteen hundred miles long and was as wide and as high as it was long. 17 The angel also measured the wall, and it was 216 feet high, according to the standard unit of measure which he was using. 18 The wall was made of jasper, and the city itself was made of pure gold, as clear as glass. 19 The foundation stones of the city wall were adorned with all kinds of precious stones. The first foundation stone was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, 20 the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh yellow quartz, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chalcedony, the eleventh turquoise, the twelfth amethyst. 21 The twelve gates were twelve pearls; each gate was made from a single pearl. The street of the city was of pure gold, transparent as glass. 22 I did not see a temple in the city, because its temple is the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb. 23 The city has no need of the sun or the moon to shine on it, because the glory of God shines on it, and the Lamb is its lamp. 24 The peoples of the world will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their wealth into it. 25 The gates of the city will stand open all day; they will never be closed, because there will be no night there. 26 The greatness and the wealth of the nations will be brought into the city. 27 But nothing that is impure will enter the city, nor anyone who does shameful things or tells lies. Only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of the living will enter the city. Reflect In John’s vision, the first earth, which had become filled with evil, war, sickness, and pollution, is gone. In its place will be a new earth. How do you reconcile the idea that this earth will pass away with Jesus’ call to attend to the hungry, impoverished, and needy here and now? Pray Gracious God, make your home among us here and now. Empower us to care for those in need and for your whole creation, trusting that by our stewardship and love, we may come to know you as we share your grace. Amen. Prayer Concern Polluted land 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 31, 2011 Author Members Posted May 31, 2011 May 31, 2011 Revelation 22:1-21 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Rejoice in Hope Introduction Revelation 22:1-21: John’s vision is a reminder that Jesus will come soon and bless those who are faithful. Christians must live righteously and avoid doing wrong. John also warns that anyone who adds or takes away from the message of his vision will not be allowed to enter the holy city. Today’s Scripture: Revelation 22:20, 21 He who gives his testimony to all this says, “Yes indeed! I am coming soon!” So be it. Come, Lord Jesus! May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with everyone. Today’s Reading 1 The angel also showed me the river of the water of life, sparkling like crystal, and coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2 and flowing down the middle of the city's street. On each side of the river was the tree of life, which bears fruit twelve times a year, once each month; and its leaves are for the healing of the nations. 3 Nothing that is under God's curse will be found in the city. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will worship him. 4 They will see his face, and his name will be written on their foreheads. 5 There shall be no more night, and they will not need lamps or sunlight, because the Lord God will be their light, and they will rule as kings forever and ever. 6 Then the angel said to me, “These words are true and can be trusted. And the Lord God, who gives his Spirit to the prophets, has sent his angel to show his servants what must happen very soon.” 7 “Listen!” says Jesus. “I am coming soon! Happy are those who obey the prophetic words in this book!” 8 I, John, have heard and seen all these things. And when I finished hearing and seeing them, I fell down at the feet of the angel who had shown me these things, and I was about to worship him. 9 But he said to me, “Don't do it! I am a servant together with you and with your brothers the prophets and of all those who obey the words in this book. Worship God!” 10 And he said to me, “Do not keep the prophetic words of this book a secret, because the time is near when all this will happen. 11 Whoever is evil must go on doing evil, and whoever is filthy must go on being filthy; whoever is good must go on doing good, and whoever is holy must go on being holy. ” 12 “Listen!” says Jesus. “I am coming soon! I will bring my rewards with me, to give to each one according to what he has done. 13 I am the first and the last, the beginning and the end. ” 14 Happy are those who wash their robes clean and so have the right to eat the fruit from the tree of life and to go through the gates into the city. 15 But outside the city are the perverts and those who practice magic, the immoral and the murderers, those who worship idols and those who are liars both in words and deeds. 16 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to announce these things to you in the churches. I am descended from the family of David; I am the bright morning star.” 17 The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come!” Everyone who hears this must also say, “Come!” Come, whoever is thirsty; accept the water of life as a gift, whoever wants it. 18 I, John, solemnly warn everyone who hears the prophetic words of this book: if any add anything to them, God will add to their punishment the plagues described in this book. 19 And if any take anything away from the prophetic words of this book, God will take away from them their share of the fruit of the tree of life and of the Holy City, which are described in this book. 20 He who gives his testimony to all this says, “Yes indeed! I am coming soon!” So be it. Come, Lord Jesus! 21 May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with everyone. Reflect The final words of Jesus in this book, and in the Bible, are these: “Yes indeed! I am coming soon!” (verse 20). This message is repeated throughout Revelation, and a number of times in this chapter alone (verses 7, 12). What does the nearness of Jesus mean for us today? What might you do today to respond to this promise? Pray Come, Lord Jesus, renew the whole creation! Lead me in your ways and prepare your people to receive you in love, filling us with the faith and hope that bring true joy. Come, Lord Jesus! Amen. Prayer Concern The unity of Christians around the world 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 June 1, 2011 Author Members Posted June 1, 2011 June 1, 2011 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction 1 Corinthians 12:1-11: Paul writes to the Corinthians about spiritual gifts. He says that there is one Spirit that offers many gifts, including wisdom, faith, healing powers, and more. These gifts are meant to be used to serve the Lord. The Holy Spirit decides who will receive each gift. Today’s Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:7 The Spirit’s presence is shown in some way in each person for the good of all. Today’s Reading 1 Now, concerning what you wrote about the gifts from the Holy Spirit. I want you to know the truth about them, my friends. 2 You know that while you were still heathen, you were led astray in many ways to the worship of lifeless idols. 3 I want you to know that no one who is led by God's Spirit can say “A curse on Jesus!” and no one can confess “Jesus is Lord,” without being guided by the Holy Spirit. 4 There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit gives them. 5 There are different ways of serving, but the same Lord is served. 6 There are different abilities to perform service, but the same God gives ability to all for their particular service. 7 The Spirit's presence is shown in some way in each person for the good of all. 8 The Spirit gives one person a message full of wisdom, while to another person the same Spirit gives a message full of knowledge. 9 One and the same Spirit gives faith to one person, while to another person he gives the power to heal. 10 The Spirit gives one person the power to work miracles; to another, the gift of speaking God's message; and to yet another, the ability to tell the difference between gifts that come from the Spirit and those that do not. To one person he gives the ability to speak in strange tongues, and to another he gives the ability to explain what is said. 11 But it is one and the same Spirit who does all this; as he wishes, he gives a different gift to each person. Reflect What spiritual gifts does Paul list in this passage? What is the purpose of these gifts? Which of these gifts do you have? Which of these gifts do you see in others? Which of these gifts do you wish to cultivate? Pray Holy Spirit, open my heart to your spiritual gifts, that I may carry out the work of the Church, reach out to others, and strengthen the body of Christ by providing life that is filled with joy, peace, and worship. Amen. Prayer Concern Those discerning their spiritual gifts 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 June 3, 2011 Author Members Posted June 3, 2011 June 2, 2011 Acts 1:1-26 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 1:1-26: Jesus tells his disciples to wait in Jerusalem until God gives them the Holy Spirit, empowering them to share the gospel everywhere. Then he is taken up to heaven. The apostles keep their eyes on the skies until two angels jolt them into action. The apostles choose a successor to Judas and meet and pray with other believers. Today’s Scripture: Acts 1:8 “But when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will be filled with power, and you will be witnesses for me in Jerusalem, in all of Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Today’s Reading 1 Dear Theophilus: In my first book I wrote about all the things that Jesus did and taught from the time he began his work 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven. Before he was taken up, he gave instructions by the power of the Holy Spirit to the men he had chosen as his apostles. 3 For forty days after his death he appeared to them many times in ways that proved beyond doubt that he was alive. They saw him, and he talked with them about the Kingdom of God. 4 And when they came together, he gave them this order: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift I told you about, the gift my Father promised. 5 John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit. ” 6 When the apostles met together with Jesus, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time give the Kingdom back to Israel?” 7 Jesus said to them, “The times and occasions are set by my Father's own authority, and it is not for you to know when they will be. 8 But when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will be filled with power, and you will be witnesses for me in Jerusalem, in all of Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. ” 9 After saying this, he was taken up to heaven as they watched him, and a cloud hid him from their sight. 10 They still had their eyes fixed on the sky as he went away, when two men dressed in white suddenly stood beside them 11 and said, “Galileans, why are you standing there looking up at the sky? This Jesus, who was taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way that you saw him go to heaven.” 12 Then the apostles went back to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, which is about half a mile away from the city. 13 They entered the city and went up to the room where they were staying: Peter, John, James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James son of Alphaeus, Simon the Patriot, and Judas son of James. 14 They gathered frequently to pray as a group, together with the women and with Mary the mother of Jesus and with his brothers. 15 A few days later there was a meeting of the believers, about a hundred and twenty in all, and Peter stood up to speak. 16 “My friends,” he said, “the scripture had to come true in which the Holy Spirit, speaking through David, made a prediction about Judas, who was the guide for those who arrested Jesus. 17 Judas was a member of our group, for he had been chosen to have a part in our work. ” ( 18 With the money that Judas got for his evil act he bought a field, where he fell to his death; he burst open and all his insides spilled out. 19 All the people living in Jerusalem heard about it, and so in their own language they call that field Akeldama, which means “Field of Blood.”) 20 “For it is written in the book of Psalms, ‘May his house become empty; may no one live in it.’ It is also written, “May someone else take his place of service.” 21-22 So then, someone must join us as a witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. He must be one of the men who were in our group during the whole time that the Lord Jesus traveled about with us, beginning from the time John preached his message of baptism until the day Jesus was taken up from us to heaven. ” 23 So they proposed two men: Joseph, who was called Barsabbas (also known as Justus), and Matthias. 24 Then they prayed, “Lord, you know the thoughts of everyone, so show us which of these two you have chosen 25 to serve as an apostle in the place of Judas, who left to go to the place where he belongs. ” 26 Then they drew lots to choose between the two men, and the one chosen was Matthias, who was added to the group of eleven apostles. Reflect Sometimes it seems easier to pray to God for change than to take action for change. This story is a reminder that even as we lift our eyes to the heavens in prayer, we are to focus our activity here on earth in order to help bring about of God’s peace and justice in our time. What leaders can you think of who have helped reveal God’s activity in our world? Pray God, keep my eyes not in the skies but rather squarely focused on your creation here on earth, that I might share the good news of Jesus Christ throughout this world in word and deed. Amen. Prayer Concern Airline pilots 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 June 3, 2011 Author Members Posted June 3, 2011 June 3, 2011 Romans 8:1-17 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction Romans 8:1-17: Paul says that people who are ruled by the Holy Spirit think about “spiritual things,” meaning that they focus their minds and actions on things that are pleasing to God. Focusing one’s mind and orienting one’s life toward these things brings freedom through Christ. Today’s Scripture: Romans 8:14 Those who are led by God’s Spirit are God’s children. Today’s Reading 1 There is no condemnation now for those who live in union with Christ Jesus. 2 For the law of the Spirit, which brings us life in union with Christ Jesus, has set me free from the law of sin and death. 3 What the Law could not do, because human nature was weak, God did. He condemned sin in human nature by sending his own Son, who came with a nature like our sinful nature, to do away with sin. 4 God did this so that the righteous demands of the Law might be fully satisfied in us who live according to the Spirit, and not according to human nature. 5 Those who live as their human nature tells them to, have their minds controlled by what human nature wants. Those who live as the Spirit tells them to, have their minds controlled by what the Spirit wants. 6 To be controlled by human nature results in death; to be controlled by the Spirit results in life and peace. 7 And so people become enemies of God when they are controlled by their human nature; for they do not obey God's law, and in fact they cannot obey it. 8 Those who obey their human nature cannot please God. 9 But you do not live as your human nature tells you to; instead, you live as the Spirit tells you to—if, in fact, God's Spirit lives in you. Whoever does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. 10 But if Christ lives in you, the Spirit is life for you because you have been put right with God, even though your bodies are going to die because of sin. 11 If the Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from death, lives in you, then he who raised Christ from death will also give life to your mortal bodies by the presence of his Spirit in you. 12 So then, my friends, we have an obligation, but it is not to live as our human nature wants us to. 13 For if you live according to your human nature, you are going to die; but if by the Spirit you put to death your sinful actions, you will live. 14 Those who are led by God's Spirit are God's children. 15 For the Spirit that God has given you does not make you slaves and cause you to be afraid; instead, the Spirit makes you God's children, and by the Spirit's power we cry out to God, “Father! my Father!” 16 God's Spirit joins himself to our spirits to declare that we are God's children. 17 Since we are his children, we will possess the blessings he keeps for his people, and we will also possess with Christ what God has kept for him; for if we share Christ's suffering, we will also share his glory. Reflect Take a mental inventory for a few days, being aware of the thoughts that pass through your mind. Are you currently focusing your mind on things that are pleasing to God? How can you replace selfish thoughts with spiritual thoughts? Pray Holy Spirit, fill my mind with thoughts of “spiritual things”: wisdom, justice, mercy, charity, and love. Remind me throughout the day to constantly reorient my mind toward these things, that I may embrace not only spiritual thoughts, but also godly actions. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. Prayer Concern The people of Darfur 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 June 4, 2011 Author Members Posted June 4, 2011 June 4, 2011 Romans 8:18-39 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction Romans 8:18-39: The entire creation, both the earth and its creatures, yearns for release from its current decay. This passage reminds us that Christ promises redemption for God’s whole creation (see also Mark 16:15). In the meantime, the Holy Spirit works within the Christian community to bring glimpses of God’s salvation here on earth. Today’s Scripture: Romans 8:28 We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to his purpose. Today’s Reading 18 I consider that what we suffer at this present time cannot be compared at all with the glory that is going to be revealed to us. 19 All of creation waits with eager longing for God to reveal his children. 20 For creation was condemned to lose its purpose, not of its own will, but because God willed it to be so. Yet there was the hope 21 that creation itself would one day be set free from its slavery to decay and would share the glorious freedom of the children of God. 22 For we know that up to the present time all of creation groans with pain, like the pain of childbirth. 23 But it is not just creation alone which groans; we who have the Spirit as the first of God's gifts also groan within ourselves as we wait for God to make us his children and set our whole being free. 24 For it was by hope that we were saved; but if we see what we hope for, then it is not really hope. For who of us hopes for something we see? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. 26 In the same way the Spirit also comes to help us, weak as we are. For we do not know how we ought to pray; the Spirit himself pleads with God for us in groans that words cannot express. 27 And God, who sees into our hearts, knows what the thought of the Spirit is; because the Spirit pleads with God on behalf of his people and in accordance with his will. 28 We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to his purpose. 29 Those whom God had already chosen he also set apart to become like his Son, so that the Son would be the first among many believers. 30 And so those whom God set apart, he called; and those he called, he put right with himself, and he shared his glory with them. 31 In view of all this, what can we say? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 Certainly not God, who did not even keep back his own Son, but offered him for us all! He gave us his Son—will he not also freely give us all things? 33 Who will accuse God's chosen people? God himself declares them not guilty! 34 Who, then, will condemn them? Not Christ Jesus, who died, or rather, who was raised to life and is at the right side of God, pleading with him for us! 35 Who, then, can separate us from the love of Christ? Can trouble do it, or hardship or persecution or hunger or poverty or danger or death? 36 As the scripture says, “For your sake we are in danger of death at all times; we are treated like sheep that are going to be slaughtered.” 37 No, in all these things we have complete victory through him who loved us! 38 For I am certain that nothing can separate us from his love: neither death nor life, neither angels nor other heavenly rulers or powers, neither the present nor the future, 39 neither the world above nor the world below—there is nothing in all creation that will ever be able to separate us from the love of God which is ours through Christ Jesus our Lord. Reflect This passage suggests that the whole creation is worthy of redemption. How then should we care for the creation while we are here on earth? How can we engage in God’s holy work of releasing the creation from its decay and suffering? Pray God of creatures great and small, I am sorry for the damage I cause to your wondrous creation every day. I promise to be mindful of my actions, looking for ways to shrink the impact of my footprints on this earth. Amen. Prayer Concern Children suffering from pollution-induced asthma 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 June 6, 2011 Author Members Posted June 6, 2011 June 5, 2011 John 14:1-14 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction John 14:1-14: Jesus tells his disciples to have faith in God and faith in him, explaining that he and God are one. It is God acting through Jesus that empowers him to preach, work miracles, and reveal God. Today’s Scripture: John 14:6 …”I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one goes to the Father except by me.” Today’s Reading 1 “Do not be worried and upset,” Jesus told them. Believe in God and believe also in me. 2 There are many rooms in my Father's house, and I am going to prepare a place for you. I would not tell you this if it were not so. 3 And after I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to myself, so that you will be where I am. 4 You know the way that leads to the place where I am going. ” 5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going; so how can we know the way to get there?” 6 Jesus answered him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one goes to the Father except by me. 7 Now that you have known me, ” he said to them, “you will know my Father also, and from now on you do know him and you have seen him. ” 8 Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father; that is all we need.” 9 Jesus answered, “For a long time I have been with you all; yet you do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. Why, then, do you say, “Show us the Father”? 10 Do you not believe, Philip, that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I have spoken to you, ” Jesus said to his disciples, “do not come from me. The Father, who remains in me, does his own work. 11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me. If not, believe because of the things I do. 12 I am telling you the truth: those who believe in me will do what I do—yes, they will do even greater things, because I am going to the Father. 13 And I will do whatever you ask for in my name, so that the Father's glory will be shown through the Son. 14 If you ask me for anything in my name, I will do it. Reflect When Jesus says, “There are many rooms in my Father’s house,” what does he mean? In other parts of the New Testament, when Jesus speaks of the Kingdom of heaven (Matthew 4:17; 5:3; 13:44-48), he is usually referring to a place where God’s will and purposes are done. What is heaven to you, and where does it exist? Pray Lord Jesus, because I know you, I know God. Make me ever mindful of the ways in which I can help God’s will to be done on here earth as it is in heaven. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who work for peace 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 June 7, 2011 Author Members Posted June 7, 2011 June 6, 2011 John 14:15-31 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction John 14:15-31: Jesus promises to ask God to send the Holy Spirit to the disciples to live in them and show them truth. He offers the disciples an otherworldly peace, even as he promises to return to his followers. Today’s Scripture: John 14:26 “The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and make you remember all that I have told you.” Today’s Reading 15 If you love me, you will obey my commandments. 16 I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, who will stay with you forever. 17 He is the Spirit, who reveals the truth about God. The world cannot receive him, because it cannot see him or know him. But you know him, because he remains with you and is in you. 18 When I go, you will not be left all alone; I will come back to you. 19 In a little while the world will see me no more, but you will see me; and because I live, you also will live. 20 When that day comes, you will know that I am in my Father and that you are in me, just as I am in you. 21 “Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. My Father will love those who love me; I too will love them and reveal myself to them.” 22 Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, “Lord, how can it be that you will reveal yourself to us and not to the world?” 23 Jesus answered him, Those who love me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and my Father and I will come to them and live with them. 24 Those who do not love me do not obey my teaching. And the teaching you have heard is not mine, but comes from the Father, who sent me. 25 I have told you this while I am still with you. 26 The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and make you remember all that I have told you. 27 Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid. 28 You heard me say to you, “I am leaving, but I will come back to you.” If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father; for he is greater than I. 29 I have told you this now before it all happens, so that when it does happen, you will believe. 30 I cannot talk with you much longer, because the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over me, 31 but the world must know that I love the Father; that is why I do everything as he commands me. Come, let us go from this place. Reflect The Holy Spirit is God’s presence at work in the world. What did the promise of the Holy Spirit mean for the disciples? What does it mean for you? How do you experience the peace of Christ in your life? How is it different from the peace of this world? Pray Come Holy Spirit, renew the whole creation. Enliven me with the spirit of Christ, that I may share Christ’s peace, justice, mercy and compassion with everyone I meet. Be with me. Amen. Prayer Concern Widows and widowers 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 June 7, 2011 Author Members Posted June 7, 2011 June 7, 2011 John 15:1-17 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction John 15:1-17: Jesus compares himself to a vine and God to a gardener. Only those branches that stay connected to the vine can produce “fruit.” This fruit can be made manifest by sharing self-sacrificing love with one another. Today’s Scripture: John 15:8 “My Father’s glory is shown by your bearing much fruit; and in this way you become my disciples.” Today’s Reading 1 I am the real vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He breaks off every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and he prunes every branch that does bear fruit, so that it will be clean and bear more fruit. 3 You have been made clean already by the teaching I have given you. 4 Remain united to me, and I will remain united to you. A branch cannot bear fruit by itself; it can do so only if it remains in the vine. In the same way you cannot bear fruit unless you remain in me. 5 I am the vine, and you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will bear much fruit; for you can do nothing without me. 6 Those who do not remain in me are thrown out like a branch and dry up; such branches are gathered up and thrown into the fire, where they are burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, then you will ask for anything you wish, and you shall have it. 8 My Father's glory is shown by your bearing much fruit; and in this way you become my disciples. 9 I love you just as the Father loves me; remain in my love. 10 If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love. 11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 12 My commandment is this: love one another, just as I love you. 13 The greatest love you can have for your friends is to give your life for them. 14 And you are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 I do not call you servants any longer, because servants do not know what their master is doing. Instead, I call you friends, because I have told you everything I heard from my Father. 16 You did not choose me; I chose you and appointed you to go and bear much fruit, the kind of fruit that endures. And so the Father will give you whatever you ask of him in my name. 17 This, then, is what I command you: love one another. Reflect What kind of fruit is Jesus calling his disciples to produce? What makes this fruit lasting? What would it mean for you to lead a fruitful life? What parts of your life would you need to change? What parts would you need to develop further? What would it mean to you to make sacrifices for Christ? Pray Jesus, you are the true vine. Feed me with your spirit so that I may grow and become fruitful, serving others as you have served me. Amen. Prayer Concern Farmers 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 June 10, 2011 Author Members Posted June 10, 2011 June 8, 2011 John 15:18—16:4a (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction John 15:18—16:4a: Jesus says that many people will hate those who prioritize God’s realm over worldly things. Because some people are angry and don’t understand what followers of Jesus do, they will kill followers in the name of God. Today’s Scripture: John 15:26 “The Helper will come—the Spirit, who reveals the truth about God and who comes from the Father. I will send him to you from the Father, and he will speak about me.” Today’s Reading 18 If the world hates you, just remember that it has hated me first. 19 If you belonged to the world, then the world would love you as its own. But I chose you from this world, and you do not belong to it; that is why the world hates you. 20 Remember what I told you: “Slaves are not greater than their master.” If people persecuted me, they will persecute you too; if they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours too. 21 But they will do all this to you because you are mine; for they do not know the one who sent me. 22 They would not have been guilty of sin if I had not come and spoken to them; as it is, they no longer have any excuse for their sin. 23 Whoever hates me hates my Father also. 24 They would not have been guilty of sin if I had not done among them the things that no one else ever did; as it is, they have seen what I did, and they hate both me and my Father. 25 This, however, was bound to happen so that what is written in their Law may come true: “They hated me for no reason at all.” 26 The Helper will come—the Spirit, who reveals the truth about God and who comes from the Father. I will send him to you from the Father, and he will speak about me. 27 And you, too, will speak about me, because you have been with me from the very beginning. 1 I have told you this, so that you will not give up your faith. 2 You will be expelled from the synagogues, and the time will come when those who kill you will think that by doing this they are serving God. 3 People will do these things to you because they have not known either the Father or me. 4 But I have told you this, so that when the time comes for them to do these things, you will remember what I told you. I did not tell you these things at the beginning, for I was with you. Reflect Jesus enters into solidarity with those who suffer on behalf of God, saying that the Spirit will help them by showing them truth. How does the Spirit reveal truth in today’s world? How can God’s realm be revealed through the Holy Spirit here on earth? Pray God, reveal your vision for love, peace, and justice on this earth through the power of the Holy Spirit. Empower me to engage your vision of truth through solidarity with others. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are persecuted because of 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 June 10, 2011 Author Members Posted June 10, 2011 June 9, 2011 John 16:4b-33 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction John 16:4b-33: Jesus’ continues his discourse with his disciples and returns to the theme of chapter 14—preparing his disciples for his departure. He explains why it is necessary for him to go away and that, when the Holy Spirit comes, the Spirit will guide them “into all the truth.” In Jesus’ time, many believed that the laws and rules based on the Law of Moses comprised all of what God expected of God’s people, but Jesus teaches that the Holy Spirit will “prove to the people of the world” the truth about God’s judgment. Today’s Scripture: John 16:13 “When, however, the Spirit comes, who reveals the truth about God, he will lead you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own authority, but he will speak of what he hears and will tell you of things to come.” Today’s Reading 4 But I have told you this, so that when the time comes for them to do these things, you will remember what I told you. I did not tell you these things at the beginning, for I was with you. 5 But now I am going to him who sent me, yet none of you asks me where I am going. 6 And now that I have told you, your hearts are full of sadness. 7 But I am telling you the truth: it is better for you that I go away, because if I do not go, the Helper will not come to you. But if I do go away, then I will send him to you. 8 And when he comes, he will prove to the people of the world that they are wrong about sin and about what is right and about God's judgment. 9 They are wrong about sin, because they do not believe in me; 10 they are wrong about what is right, because I am going to the Father and you will not see me any more; 11 and they are wrong about judgment, because the ruler of this world has already been judged. 12 I have much more to tell you, but now it would be too much for you to bear. 13 When, however, the Spirit comes, who reveals the truth about God, he will lead you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own authority, but he will speak of what he hears and will tell you of things to come. 14 He will give me glory, because he will take what I say and tell it to you. 15 All that my Father has is mine; that is why I said that the Spirit will take what I give him and tell it to you. 16 “In a little while you will not see me any more, and then a little while later you will see me.” 17 Some of his disciples asked among themselves, What does this mean? He tells us that in a little while we will not see him, and then a little while later we will see him; and he also says, “It is because I am going to the Father.” 18 What does this “a little while” mean? We don't know what he is talking about! ” 19 Jesus knew that they wanted to question him, so he said to them, “I said, “In a little while you will not see me, and then a little while later you will see me.” Is this what you are asking about among yourselves? 20 I am telling you the truth: you will cry and weep, but the world will be glad; you will be sad, but your sadness will turn into gladness. 21 When a woman is about to give birth, she is sad because her hour of suffering has come; but when the baby is born, she forgets her suffering, because she is happy that a baby has been born into the world. 22 That is how it is with you: now you are sad, but I will see you again, and your hearts will be filled with gladness, the kind of gladness that no one can take away from you. 23 When that day comes, you will not ask me for anything. I am telling you the truth: the Father will give you whatever you ask of him in my name. 24 Until now you have not asked for anything in my name; ask and you will receive, so that your happiness may be complete. 25 I have used figures of speech to tell you these things. But the time will come when I will not use figures of speech, but will speak to you plainly about the Father. 26 When that day comes, you will ask him in my name; and I do not say that I will ask him on your behalf, 27 for the Father himself loves you. He loves you because you love me and have believed that I came from God. 28 I did come from the Father, and I came into the world; and now I am leaving the world and going to the Father. ” 29 Then his disciples said to him, “Now you are speaking plainly, without using figures of speech. 30 We know now that you know everything; you do not need to have someone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you came from God. ” 31 Jesus answered them, “Do you believe now? 32 The time is coming, and is already here, when all of you will be scattered, each of you to your own home, and I will be left all alone. But I am not really alone, because the Father is with me. 33 I have told you this so that you will have peace by being united to me. The world will make you suffer. But be brave! I have defeated the world! ” Reflect Even though the disciples said they understood who Jesus was, his trial and death would test their courage and faith. When has your faith in Christ been tested? How can working to bring God’s justice to the world renew your faith? Pray Jesus, there are times when my courage and faith are tested. Yet as I serve you, my faith and trust are strengthened. Fill my heart with a sense of peace, that I may know you are with me always. Amen. Prayer Concern Staff and volunteers serving in homeless shelters 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 June 10, 2011 Author Members Posted June 10, 2011 June 10, 2011 1 Corinthians 14:1-25 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction 1 Corinthians 14:1-25: Paul encourages the Corinthians to welcome the gifts of the Holy Spirit. He says not to be afraid if they find themselves speaking a new language, and to trust that God will understand them even if no one else does. But he encourages them to find ways to interpret their gifts so that others can appreciate them as well. Today’s Scripture: 1 Corinthians 14:15b I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray also with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will sing also with my mind. Today’s Reading 1 It is love, then, that you should strive for. Set your hearts on spiritual gifts, especially the gift of proclaiming God's message. 2 Those who speak in strange tongues do not speak to others but to God, because no one understands them. They are speaking secret truths by the power of the Spirit. 3 But those who proclaim God's message speak to people and give them help, encouragement, and comfort. 4 Those who speak in strange tongues help only themselves, but those who proclaim God's message help the whole church. 5 I would like for all of you to speak in strange tongues; but I would rather that you had the gift of proclaiming God's message. For the person who proclaims God's message is of greater value than the one who speaks in strange tongues—unless there is someone present who can explain what is said, so that the whole church may be helped. 6 So when I come to you, my friends, what use will I be to you if I speak in strange tongues? Not a bit, unless I bring you some revelation from God or some knowledge or some inspired message or some teaching. 7 Take such lifeless musical instruments as the flute or the harp—how will anyone know the tune that is being played unless the notes are sounded distinctly? 8 And if the one who plays the bugle does not sound a clear call, who will prepare for battle? 9 In the same way, how will anyone understand what you are talking about if your message given in strange tongues is not clear? Your words will vanish in the air! 10 There are many different languages in the world, yet none of them is without meaning. 11 But if I do not know the language being spoken, those who use it will be foreigners to me and I will be a foreigner to them. 12 Since you are eager to have the gifts of the Spirit, you must try above everything else to make greater use of those which help to build up the church. 13 The person who speaks in strange tongues, then, must pray for the gift to explain what is said. 14 For if I pray in this way, my spirit prays indeed, but my mind has no part in it. 15 What should I do, then? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray also with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will sing also with my mind. 16 When you give thanks to God in spirit only, how can ordinary people taking part in the meeting say “Amen” to your prayer of thanksgiving? They have no way of knowing what you are saying. 17 Even if your prayer of thanks to God is quite good, other people are not helped at all. 18 I thank God that I speak in strange tongues much more than any of you. 19 But in church worship I would rather speak five words that can be understood, in order to teach others, than speak thousands of words in strange tongues. 20 Do not be like children in your thinking, my friends; be children so far as evil is concerned, but be grown up in your thinking. 21 In the Scriptures it is written, “By means of people speaking strange languages I will speak to my people, says the Lord. I will speak through lips of foreigners, but even then my people will not listen to me.” 22 So then, the gift of speaking in strange tongues is proof for unbelievers, not for believers, while the gift of proclaiming God's message is proof for believers, not for unbelievers. 23 If, then, the whole church meets together and everyone starts speaking in strange tongues—and if some ordinary people or unbelievers come in, won't they say that you are all crazy? 24 But if everyone is proclaiming God's message when some unbelievers or ordinary people come in, they will be convinced of their sin by what they hear. They will be judged by all they hear, 25 their secret thoughts will be brought into the open, and they will bow down and worship God, confessing, “Truly God is here among you!” Reflect What is your experience of prayer like? Do you have a conversation with God? Do your prayers transcend language? Do you speak aloud or pray in your head? Every person prays in his or her own way, and God hears and understands each of us. What do you need in order to trust that God hears your prayers? Pray Loving God, you know my thoughts, desires, struggles and hopes. Thank you for hearing and receiving my prayers. Deepen my faith so that, through prayer, our relationship will strengthen and grow. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who struggle with how to pray 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 June 11, 2011 Author Members Posted June 11, 2011 June 11, 2011 Joel 2:28-3:8 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction Joel 2:28-3:8: Joel is a prophet who warns the people of Israel that the day of the Lord is near. In this passage, he tells how the Holy Spirit will empower the people, saving the faithful. Joel and other later prophets predicted that God would come to judge the world one day. Today’s Scripture: Joel 2:28 Afterward I will pour out my Spirit on everyone: your sons and daughters will proclaim my message; your old people will have dreams, and your young people will see visions. Today’s Reading 28 Afterward I will pour out my Spirit on everyone: your sons and daughters will proclaim my message; your old people will have dreams, and your young people will see visions. 29 At that time I will pour out my Spirit even on servants, both men and women. 30 I will give warnings of that day in the sky and on the earth; there will be bloodshed, fire, and clouds of smoke. 31 The sun will be darkened, and the moon will turn red as blood before the great and terrible day of the LORD comes. 32 But all who ask the LORD for help will be saved. As the LORD has said, ‘Some in Jerusalem will escape; those whom I choose will survive. ’ ” 1 The LORD says, “At that time I will restore the prosperity of Judah and Jerusalem. 2 I will gather all the nations and bring them to the Valley of Judgment. There I will judge them for all they have done to my people. They have scattered the Israelites in foreign countries and divided Israel, my land. 3 They threw dice to decide who would get the captives. They sold boys and girls into slavery to pay for prostitutes and wine. 4 What are you trying to do to me, Tyre, Sidon, and all of Philistia? Are you trying to pay me back for something? If you are, I will quickly pay you back! 5 You have taken my silver and gold and carried my rich treasures into your temples. 6 You have taken the people of Judah and Jerusalem far from their own country and sold them to the Greeks. 7 Now I am going to bring them out of the places to which you have sold them. I will do to you what you have done to them. 8 I will let your sons and daughters be sold to the people of Judah; they will sell them to the far-off Sabeans. I, the LORD, have spoken. Reflect How does the Holy Spirit work in the lives of the faithful, according to Joel? How can the gifts of the Spirit serve believers during scary times? Have you ever felt a sense of the Holy Spirit in times of spiritual darkness? What was that like? Pray God of justice and mercy, pour out your Holy Spirit throughout the earth, that all may become your faithful followers and prophets of justice. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. Prayer Concern The United Nations 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 June 14, 2011 Author Members Posted June 14, 2011 June 12, 2011 Acts 2:1-21 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 2:1-21: God sends the Holy Spirit to give power and courage to the apostles. They begin to tell the good news about Jesus, which people hear in many different languages. Some people are happy and excited, while others make fun of the Lord’s followers. Peter repeats the words of the prophet Joel regarding the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Today’s Scripture: Acts 2:4 They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to talk in other languages, as the Spirit enabled them to speak. Today’s Reading 1 When the day of Pentecost came, all the believers were gathered together in one place. 2 Suddenly there was a noise from the sky which sounded like a strong wind blowing, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 Then they saw what looked like tongues of fire which spread out and touched each person there. 4 They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to talk in other languages, as the Spirit enabled them to speak. 5 There were Jews living in Jerusalem, religious people who had come from every country in the world. 6 When they heard this noise, a large crowd gathered. They were all excited, because all of them heard the believers talking in their own languages. 7 In amazement and wonder they exclaimed, “These people who are talking like this are Galileans! 8 How is it, then, that all of us hear them speaking in our own native languages? 9 We are from Parthia, Media, and Elam; from Mesopotamia, Judea, and Cappadocia; from Pontus and Asia, 10 from Phrygia and Pamphylia, from Egypt and the regions of Libya near Cyrene. Some of us are from Rome, 11 both Jews and Gentiles converted to Judaism, and some of us are from Crete and Arabia—yet all of us hear them speaking in our own languages about the great things that God has done! ” 12 Amazed and confused, they kept asking each other, “What does this mean?” 13 But others made fun of the believers, saying, “These people are drunk!” 14 Then Peter stood up with the other eleven apostles and in a loud voice began to speak to the crowd: “Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, listen to me and let me tell you what this means. 15 These people are not drunk, as you suppose; it is only nine o'clock in the morning. 16 Instead, this is what the prophet Joel spoke about: 17 ‘This is what I will do in the last days, God says: I will pour out my Spirit on everyone. Your sons and daughters will proclaim my message; your young men will see visions, and your old men will have dreams. 18 Yes, even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will proclaim my message. 19 I will perform miracles in the sky above and wonders on the earth below. There will be blood, fire, and thick smoke; 20 the sun will be darkened, and the moon will turn red as blood, before the great and glorious Day of the Lord comes. 21 And then, whoever calls out to the Lord for help will be saved.’ Reflect Have you ever traveled to a place where you didn’t know the language? We experience language differences not only between countries, but also between cultures within our own country. How can we use different cultural languages to share the gospel? Pray God of many languages, teach me how to share your word across cultures and countries, that people may recognize the presence of the Holy Spirit through familiar words. Amen. Prayer Concern People who don’t know the languages of their neighbors 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 June 14, 2011 Author Members Posted June 14, 2011 June 13, 2011 Acts 2:22-47 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 2:22-47: Peter recounts the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection, placing Jesus in the line of David as the Messiah. He invites the people to be baptized, and the young church solidifies into a community as believers break bread together. Today’s Scripture: Acts 2:38 Peter said to them, “Each one of you must turn away from your sins and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, so that your sins will be forgiven, and you will receive God’s gift, the Holy Spirit.” Today’s Reading 22 Listen to these words, fellow Israelites! Jesus of Nazareth was a man whose divine authority was clearly proven to you by all the miracles and wonders which God performed through him. You yourselves know this, for it happened here among you. 23 In accordance with his own plan God had already decided that Jesus would be handed over to you; and you killed him by letting sinful men crucify him. 24 But God raised him from death, setting him free from its power, because it was impossible that death should hold him prisoner. 25 For David said about him, ‘I saw the Lord before me at all times; he is near me, and I will not be troubled. 26 And so I am filled with gladness, and my words are full of joy. And I, mortal though I am, will rest assured in hope, 27 because you will not abandon me in the world of the dead; you will not allow your faithful servant to rot in the grave. 28 You have shown me the paths that lead to life, and your presence will fill me with joy.’ 29 My friends, I must speak to you plainly about our famous ancestor King David. He died and was buried, and his grave is here with us to this very day. 30 He was a prophet, and he knew what God had promised him: God had made a vow that he would make one of David's descendants a king, just as David was. 31 David saw what God was going to do in the future, and so he spoke about the resurrection of the Messiah when he said, ‘He was not abandoned in the world of the dead; his body did not rot in the grave.’ 32 God has raised this very Jesus from death, and we are all witnesses to this fact. 33 He has been raised to the right side of God, his Father, and has received from him the Holy Spirit, as he had promised. What you now see and hear is his gift that he has poured out on us. 34 For it was not David who went up into heaven; rather he said, ‘The Lord said to my Lord: Sit here at my right side 35 until I put your enemies as a footstool under your feet.’ 36 “All the people of Israel, then, are to know for sure that this Jesus, whom you crucified, is the one that God has made Lord and Messiah!” 37 When the people heard this, they were deeply troubled and said to Peter and the other apostles, “What shall we do, brothers?” 38 Peter said to them, Each one of you must turn away from your sins and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, so that your sins will be forgiven; and you will receive God's gift, the Holy Spirit. 39 For God's promise was made to you and your children, and to all who are far away—all whom the Lord our God calls to himself. ” 40 Peter made his appeal to them and with many other words he urged them, saying, “Save yourselves from the punishment coming on this wicked people!” 41 Many of them believed his message and were baptized, and about three thousand people were added to the group that day. 42 They spent their time in learning from the apostles, taking part in the fellowship, and sharing in the fellowship meals and the prayers. 43 Many miracles and wonders were being done through the apostles, and everyone was filled with awe. 44 All the believers continued together in close fellowship and shared their belongings with one another. 45 They would sell their property and possessions, and distribute the money among all, according to what each one needed. 46 Day after day they met as a group in the Temple, and they had their meals together in their homes, eating with glad and humble hearts, 47 praising God, and enjoying the good will of all the people. And every day the Lord added to their group those who were being saved. Reflect How is the rite of baptism practiced in your faith community? What does baptism mean to you? What might it have meant for the early church community? Pray God of love, when you immersed yourself into the waters of baptism, you taught us that you are ever present with us in the struggles of our lives. Thank you for your care and grace. Amen. Prayer Concern Those preparing for baptism Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 14, 2011 Author Members Posted June 14, 2011 June 14, 2011 Acts 3:1-26 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 3:1-26: In biblical times, people with physical problems were considered unclean and were not allowed to enter the temple. Peter’s healing of the man at the Beautiful Gate demonstrated not only the power of faith in Jesus, but also the boundary-breaking love that Christians are called to share with all people. Today’s Scripture: Acts 3:16 “It was the power of his name that gave strength to this lame man. What you see and know was done by faith in his name; it was faith in Jesus that has made him well, as you can all see.” Today’s Reading 1 One day Peter and John went to the Temple at three o'clock in the afternoon, the hour for prayer. 2 There at the Beautiful Gate, as it was called, was a man who had been lame all his life. Every day he was carried to the gate to beg for money from the people who were going into the Temple. 3 When he saw Peter and John going in, he begged them to give him something. 4 They looked straight at him, and Peter said, “Look at us!” 5 So he looked at them, expecting to get something from them. 6 But Peter said to him, “I have no money at all, but I give you what I have: in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth I order you to get up and walk!” 7 Then he took him by his right hand and helped him up. At once the man's feet and ankles became strong; 8 he jumped up, stood on his feet, and started walking around. Then he went into the Temple with them, walking and jumping and praising God. 9 The people there saw him walking and praising God, 10 and when they recognized him as the beggar who had sat at the Beautiful Gate, they were all surprised and amazed at what had happened to him. 11 As the man held on to Peter and John in Solomon's Porch, as it was called, the people were amazed and ran to them. 12 When Peter saw the people, he said to them, “Fellow Israelites, why are you surprised at this, and why do you stare at us? Do you think that it was by means of our own power or godliness that we made this man walk? 13 The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our ancestors, has given divine glory to his Servant Jesus. But you handed him over to the authorities, and you rejected him in Pilate's presence, even after Pilate had decided to set him free. 14 He was holy and good, but you rejected him, and instead you asked Pilate to do you the favor of turning loose a murderer. 15 You killed the one who leads to life, but God raised him from death—and we are witnesses to this. 16 It was the power of his name that gave strength to this lame man. What you see and know was done by faith in his name; it was faith in Jesus that has made him well, as you can all see. 17 And now, my friends, I know that what you and your leaders did to Jesus was due to your ignorance. 18 God announced long ago through all the prophets that his Messiah had to suffer; and he made it come true in this way. 19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that he will forgive your sins. If you do, 20 times of spiritual strength will come from the Lord, and he will send Jesus, who is the Messiah he has already chosen for you. 21 He must remain in heaven until the time comes for all things to be made new, as God announced through his holy prophets of long ago. 22 For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will send you a prophet, just as he sent me, and he will be one of your own people. You are to obey everything that he tells you to do. 23 Anyone who does not obey that prophet shall be separated from God's people and destroyed. ’ 24 And all the prophets who had a message, including Samuel and those who came after him, also announced what has been happening these days. 25 The promises of God through his prophets are for you, and you share in the covenant which God made with your ancestors. As he said to Abraham, “Through your descendants I will bless all the people on earth.” 26 And so God chose his Servant and sent him to you first, to bless you by making every one of you turn away from your wicked ways. ” Reflect There are many stories in the Bible where people crossed boundaries to share love with others (examples include Ruth 4:1-13; Matthew 15:21-28; Luke 5:27-31; Luke 10:25-37). What social, cultural, or political boundaries might God be calling you to cross in order to share God’s love with others? Pray Boundary-breaking God, embolden me to share your kindness, compassion, hope and love with all people, through my words and my actions. There are people whom I have a hard time loving. Give me the grace to love them anyway. Amen. Prayer Concern Social workers Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 16, 2011 Author Members Posted June 16, 2011 June 15, 2011 Acts 4:1-22 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 4:1-22: Peter and John are arrested for their teachings about resurrection. They speak out and defend their gospel message before the Council. The Council warns them to stop preaching about Jesus, but ultimately sets them free. Today’s Scripture: Acts 4:11, 12 “Jesus is the one of whom the scripture says, ‘The stone that you the builders despised turned out to be the most important of all.’ Salvation is to be found through him alone; in all the world there is no one else whom God has given who can save us.” Today’s Reading 1 Peter and John were still speaking to the people when some priests, the officer in charge of the Temple guards, and some Sadducees arrived. 2 They were annoyed because the two apostles were teaching the people that Jesus had risen from death, which proved that the dead will rise to life. 3 So they arrested them and put them in jail until the next day, since it was already late. 4 But many who heard the message believed; and the number grew to about five thousand. 5 The next day the Jewish leaders, the elders, and the teachers of the Law gathered in Jerusalem. 6 They met with the High Priest Annas and with Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and the others who belonged to the High Priest's family. 7 They made the apostles stand before them and asked them, “How did you do this? What power do you have or whose name did you use?” 8 Peter, full of the Holy Spirit, answered them, “Leaders of the people and elders: 9 if we are being questioned today about the good deed done to the lame man and how he was healed, 10 then you should all know, and all the people of Israel should know, that this man stands here before you completely well through the power of the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth—whom you crucified and whom God raised from death. 11 Jesus is the one of whom the scripture says, ‘The stone that you the builders despised turned out to be the most important of all.’ 12 Salvation is to be found through him alone; in all the world there is no one else whom God has given who can save us. ” 13 The members of the Council were amazed to see how bold Peter and John were and to learn that they were ordinary men of no education. They realized then that they had been companions of Jesus. 14 But there was nothing that they could say, because they saw the man who had been healed standing there with Peter and John. 15 So they told them to leave the Council room, and then they started discussing among themselves. 16 “What shall we do with these men?” they asked. “Everyone in Jerusalem knows that this extraordinary miracle has been performed by them, and we cannot deny it. 17 But to keep this matter from spreading any further among the people, let us warn these men never again to speak to anyone in the name of Jesus. ” 18 So they called them back in and told them that under no condition were they to speak or to teach in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered them, “You yourselves judge which is right in God's sight—to obey you or to obey God. 20 For we cannot stop speaking of what we ourselves have seen and heard. ” 21 So the Council warned them even more strongly and then set them free. They saw that it was impossible to punish them, because the people were all praising God for what had happened. 22 The man on whom this miracle of healing had been performed was over forty years old. Reflect Peter and John spoke their truth, even in the face of real danger. Do you find it difficult to maintain your integrity and share your beliefs honestly in the face of those who disagree with you? How can you call upon God to empower you when facing such challenges? Pray God of every time and place, give me the voice to speak your truth, especially when I am challenged. Remind me to trust in your ultimate wisdom and safety. Amen. Prayer Concern Those falsely accused and facing trial 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 June 17, 2011 Author Members Posted June 17, 2011 June 16, 2011 Acts 4:23-37 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 4:23-37: From the very beginning, the followers of Jesus meet together often to pray and to break bread. They also share all their possessions, so that no one will be in need of anything. Today’s Scripture: Acts 4:31 When they finished praying, the place where they were meeting was shaken. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to proclaim God’s message with boldness. Today’s Reading 23 As soon as Peter and John were set free, they returned to their group and told them what the chief priests and the elders had said. 24 When the believers heard it, they all joined together in prayer to God: “Master and Creator of heaven, earth, and sea, and all that is in them! 25 By means of the Holy Spirit you spoke through our ancestor David, your servant, when he said, ‘Why were the Gentiles furious; why did people make their useless plots? 26 The kings of the earth prepared themselves, and the rulers met together against the Lord and his Messiah.’ 27 For indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together in this city with the Gentiles and the people of Israel against Jesus, your holy Servant, whom you made Messiah. 28 They gathered to do everything that you by your power and will had already decided would happen. 29 And now, Lord, take notice of the threats they have made, and allow us, your servants, to speak your message with all boldness. 30 Reach out your hand to heal, and grant that wonders and miracles may be performed through the name of your holy Servant Jesus. ” 31 When they finished praying, the place where they were meeting was shaken. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to proclaim God's message with boldness. 32 The group of believers was one in mind and heart. None of them said that any of their belongings were their own, but they all shared with one another everything they had. 33 With great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God poured rich blessings on them all. 34 There was no one in the group who was in need. Those who owned fields or houses would sell them, bring the money received from the sale, 35 and turn it over to the apostles; and the money was distributed according to the needs of the people. 36 And so it was that Joseph, a Levite born in Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “One who Encourages”), 37 sold a field he owned, brought the money, and turned it over to the apostles. Reflect Can you imagine a community of faith in which everyone shared all of his or her belongings? How does the act of tithing reflect this spirit of sharing? Pray Lord God, giver of life, everything that I have is yours. When my resources seem limited, make me mindful of your abundance. Constantly remind me of all that I have, and guide me toward ways that I may share your gifts with others. Amen. Prayer Concern Churches in financial distress 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 June 17, 2011 Author Members Posted June 17, 2011 June 17, 2011 Acts 5:1-16 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 5:1-16: Ananias and his wife Sapphira earn some money, but keep some of it for themselves rather than giving it all to the community. Peter confronts and condemns them, calling them liars. They each drop dead. Meanwhile, many people in the region grow in faith and come to Peter for healing. Today’s Scripture: Act 5:14 But more and more people were added to the group—a crowd of men and women who believed in the Lord. Today’s Reading 1 But there was a man named Ananias, who with his wife Sapphira sold some property that belonged to them. 2 But with his wife's agreement he kept part of the money for himself and turned the rest over to the apostles. 3 Peter said to him, “Ananias, why did you let Satan take control of you and make you lie to the Holy Spirit by keeping part of the money you received for the property? 4 Before you sold the property, it belonged to you; and after you sold it, the money was yours. Why, then, did you decide to do such a thing? You have not lied to people—you have lied to God! ” 5 As soon as Ananias heard this, he fell down dead; and all who heard about it were terrified. 6 The young men came in, wrapped up his body, carried him out, and buried him. 7 About three hours later his wife, not knowing what had happened, came in. 8 Peter asked her, “Tell me, was this the full amount you and your husband received for your property?” “Yes,” she answered, “the full amount.” 9 So Peter said to her, “Why did you and your husband decide to put the Lord's Spirit to the test? The men who buried your husband are at the door right now, and they will carry you out too!” 10 At once she fell down at his feet and died. The young men came in and saw that she was dead, so they carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11 The whole church and all the others who heard of this were terrified. 12 Many miracles and wonders were being performed among the people by the apostles. All the believers met together in Solomon's Porch. 13 Nobody outside the group dared join them, even though the people spoke highly of them. 14 But more and more people were added to the group—a crowd of men and women who believed in the Lord. 15 As a result of what the apostles were doing, sick people were carried out into the streets and placed on beds and mats so that at least Peter's shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by. 16 And crowds of people came in from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing those who were sick or who had evil spirits in them; and they were all healed. Reflect It was important that the believers trusted each other. If Ananias and Sapphira had gotten away with their deception, it might have tempted others to do the same. What do you think about what Peter said to them? Were you surprised by what happened next? Pray Gracious God, forgive me for times when I am tempted to be deceptive. Release me from my desire to have more than I need, and inspire me to share with those in my community. Amen. Prayer Concern Church-based shelters 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 June 18, 2011 Author Members Posted June 18, 2011 June 18, 2011 Acts 5:17-42 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 5:17-42: The apostles face another hearing before the Council. They are released after a wise teacher, Gamaliel, argues that if their work is of their own doing, they will fail, but if it is of God, it can’t be stopped. Today’s Scripture: Acts 5:41 As the apostles left the Council, they were happy, because God had considered them worthy to suffer disgrace for the sake of Jesus. Today’s Reading 17 Then the High Priest and all his companions, members of the local party of the Sadducees, became extremely jealous of the apostles; so they decided to take action. 18 They arrested the apostles and put them in the public jail. 19 But that night an angel of the Lord opened the prison gates, led the apostles out, and said to them, 20 “Go and stand in the Temple, and tell the people all about this new life.” 21 The apostles obeyed, and at dawn they entered the Temple and started teaching. The High Priest and his companions called together all the Jewish elders for a full meeting of the Council; then they sent orders to the prison to have the apostles brought before them. 22 But when the officials arrived, they did not find the apostles in prison, so they returned to the Council and reported, 23 “When we arrived at the jail, we found it locked up tight and all the guards on watch at the gates; but when we opened the gates, we found no one inside!” 24 When the chief priests and the officer in charge of the Temple guards heard this, they wondered what had happened to the apostles. 25 Then a man came in and said to them, “Listen! The men you put in prison are in the Temple teaching the people!” 26 So the officer went off with his men and brought the apostles back. They did not use force, however, because they were afraid that the people might stone them. 27 They brought the apostles in, made them stand before the Council, and the High Priest questioned them. 28 “We gave you strict orders not to teach in the name of this man,” he said; “but see what you have done! You have spread your teaching all over Jerusalem, and you want to make us responsible for his death!” 29 Peter and the other apostles answered, “We must obey God, not men. 30 The God of our ancestors raised Jesus from death, after you had killed him by nailing him to a cross. 31 God raised him to his right side as Leader and Savior, to give the people of Israel the opportunity to repent and have their sins forgiven. 32 We are witnesses to these things—we and the Holy Spirit, who is God's gift to those who obey him. ” 33 When the members of the Council heard this, they were so furious that they wanted to have the apostles put to death. 34 But one of them, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, who was a teacher of the Law and was highly respected by all the people, stood up in the Council. He ordered the apostles to be taken out for a while, 35 and then he said to the Council, “Fellow Israelites, be careful what you do to these men. 36 You remember that Theudas appeared some time ago, claiming to be somebody great, and about four hundred men joined him. But he was killed, all his followers were scattered, and his movement died out. 37 After that, Judas the Galilean appeared during the time of the census; he drew a crowd after him, but he also was killed, and all his followers were scattered. 38 And so in this case, I tell you, do not take any action against these men. Leave them alone! If what they have planned and done is of human origin, it will disappear, 39 but if it comes from God, you cannot possibly defeat them. You could find yourselves fighting against God! ” The Council followed Gamaliel's advice. 40 They called the apostles in, had them whipped, and ordered them never again to speak in the name of Jesus; and then they set them free. 41 As the apostles left the Council, they were happy, because God had considered them worthy to suffer disgrace for the sake of Jesus. 42 And every day in the Temple and in people's homes they continued to teach and preach the Good News about Jesus the Messiah. Reflect What do you think of the idea that if something is of God’s will, it can’t be stopped by humans? Are there human things that can’t be stopped which are not of God’s will? How do you understand God’s will in relationship to the experience and consequences of human brokenness and sin? Pray Holy Spirit, infuse my work with the knowledge of God’s will, that I may participate in revealing glimpses of God’s realm in this world. Open my heart to the joy that comes through living according to your word. Amen. Prayer Concern Judges 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 June 20, 2011 Author Members Posted June 20, 2011 June 19, 2011 Acts 6:1-15 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 6:1-15: As the early church grows, the apostles become stretched thin, and it has implications for the community. They recognize that they need help, so they enlist seven followers to become deacons, managing the community’s resources of food and money. Stephen, one of the seven, is falsely accused by those who opposed him and arrested. Today’s Scripture: Acts 6:7 And so the word of God continued to spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem grew larger and larger, and a great number of priests accepted the faith. Today’s Reading 1 Some time later, as the number of disciples kept growing, there was a quarrel between the Greek-speaking Jews and the native Jews. The Greek-speaking Jews claimed that their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of funds. 2 So the twelve apostles called the whole group of believers together and said, “It is not right for us to neglect the preaching of God's word in order to handle finances. 3 So then, friends, choose seven men among you who are known to be full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, and we will put them in charge of this matter. 4 We ourselves, then, will give our full time to prayer and the work of preaching. ” 5 The whole group was pleased with the apostles' proposal, so they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a Gentile from Antioch who had earlier been converted to Judaism. 6 The group presented them to the apostles, who prayed and placed their hands on them. 7 And so the word of God continued to spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem grew larger and larger, and a great number of priests accepted the faith. 8 Stephen, a man richly blessed by God and full of power, performed great miracles and wonders among the people. 9 But he was opposed by some men who were members of the synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called), which had Jews from Cyrene and Alexandria. They and other Jews from the provinces of Cilicia and Asia started arguing with Stephen. 10 But the Spirit gave Stephen such wisdom that when he spoke, they could not refute him. 11 So they bribed some men to say, “We heard him speaking against Moses and against God!” 12 In this way they stirred up the people, the elders, and the teachers of the Law. They seized Stephen and took him before the Council. 13 Then they brought in some men to tell lies about him. “This man,” they said, “is always talking against our sacred Temple and the Law of Moses. 14 We heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will tear down the Temple and change all the customs which have come down to us from Moses! ” 15 All those sitting in the Council fixed their eyes on Stephen and saw that his face looked like the face of an angel. Reflect Do you ever feel like you’re trying to “do it all”? Juggling the worlds of work, home, church and community can be tough. How do you know when you need to ask for help? What does it mean for you to need help sometimes? Pray God, there are many days when I try to do too much. Grant me the humility to ask for help and the wisdom to know my limits. Still my anxiety, and fill me with your calming peace. Amen. Prayer Concern Parents of small 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 June 20, 2011 Author Members Posted June 20, 2011 June 20, 2011 Galatians 3:1-20 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Be Filled with the Holy Spirit Introduction Galatians 3:1-20: The apostle Paul knows the Law of Moses, and he uses this understanding to argue that following the Law of Moses doesn’t bring a person closer to God. Faith in Jesus Christ is what makes a person a child of God. All who have this faith are children of Abraham. Today’s Scripture: Galatians 3:11 Now, it is clear that no one is put right with God by means of the Law, because the scripture says, “Only the person who is put right with God through faith shall live.” Today’s Reading 1 You foolish Galatians! Who put a spell on you? Before your very eyes you had a clear description of the death of Jesus Christ on the cross! 2 Tell me this one thing: did you receive God's Spirit by doing what the Law requires or by hearing the gospel and believing it? 3 How can you be so foolish! You began by God's Spirit; do you now want to finish by your own power? 4 Did all your experience mean nothing at all? Surely it meant something! 5 Does God give you the Spirit and work miracles among you because you do what the Law requires or because you hear the gospel and believe it? 6 Consider the experience of Abraham; as the scripture says, “He believed God, and because of his faith God accepted him as righteous.” 7 You should realize, then, that the real descendants of Abraham are the people who have faith. 8 The scripture predicted that God would put the Gentiles right with himself through faith. And so the scripture announced the Good News to Abraham: “Through you God will bless all people.” 9 Abraham believed and was blessed; so all who believe are blessed as he was. 10 Those who depend on obeying the Law live under a curse. For the scripture says, “Whoever does not always obey everything that is written in the book of the Law is under God's curse! ” 11 Now, it is clear that no one is put right with God by means of the Law, because the scripture says, “Only the person who is put right with God through faith shall live.” 12 But the Law has nothing to do with faith. Instead, as the scripture says, “Whoever does everything the Law requires will live. ” 13 But by becoming a curse for us Christ has redeemed us from the curse that the Law brings; for the scripture says, “Anyone who is hanged on a tree is under God's curse.” 14 Christ did this in order that the blessing which God promised to Abraham might be given to the Gentiles by means of Christ Jesus, so that through faith we might receive the Spirit promised by God. 15 My friends, I am going to use an everyday example: when two people agree on a matter and sign an agreement, no one can break it or add anything to it. 16 Now, God made his promises to Abraham and to his descendant. The scripture does not use the plural “descendants,” meaning many people, but the singular “descendant,” meaning one person only, namely, Christ. 17 What I mean is that God made a covenant with Abraham and promised to keep it. The Law, which was given four hundred and thirty years later, cannot break that covenant and cancel God's promise. 18 For if God's gift depends on the Law, then it no longer depends on his promise. However, it was because of his promise that God gave that gift to Abraham. 19 What, then, was the purpose of the Law? It was added in order to show what wrongdoing is, and it was meant to last until the coming of Abraham's descendant, to whom the promise was made. The Law was handed down by angels, with a man acting as a go-between. 20 But a go-between is not needed when only one person is involved; and God is one. Reflect What makes a person a child of God according to Paul? How can God’s work be completed in a person? What is the difference between the promises of the Law of Moses and the promises of Jesus? What is the purpose of the Law according to Paul? Pray God, thank you for welcoming me as your child. I praise you and thank you for your gracious, forgiving, and everlasting love. May your love transcend the divisions among your people. Amen. Prayer Concern The conflict between Israel and Palestine 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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