Members phkrause Posted November 18, 2011 Author Members Posted November 18, 2011 November 17, 2011 Psalm 65 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Offer Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 65: This psalm is a communal hymn of praise and offers thanks and praise to God for an abundant harvest and for God’s blessings. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 65:1 O God, it is right for us to praise you in Zion and keep our promises to you. Today’s Reading 1 O God, it is right for us to praise you in Zion and keep our promises to you, 2 because you answer prayers. People everywhere will come to you 3 on account of their sins. Our faults defeat us, but you forgive them. 4 Happy are those whom you choose, whom you bring to live in your sanctuary. We shall be satisfied with the good things of your house, the blessings of your sacred Temple. 5 You answer us by giving us victory, and you do wonderful things to save us. People all over the world and across the distant seas trust in you. 6 You set the mountains in place by your strength, showing your mighty power. 7 You calm the roar of the seas and the noise of the waves; you calm the uproar of the peoples. 8 The whole world stands in awe of the great things that you have done. Your deeds bring shouts of joy from one end of the earth to the other. 9 You show your care for the land by sending rain; you make it rich and fertile. You fill the streams with water; you provide the earth with crops. This is how you do it: 10 you send abundant rain on the plowed fields and soak them with water; you soften the soil with showers and cause the young plants to grow. 11 What a rich harvest your goodness provides! Wherever you go there is plenty. 12 The pastures are filled with flocks; the hillsides are full of joy. 13 The fields are covered with sheep; the valleys are full of wheat. Everything shouts and sings for joy. Reflect How does the psalmist describe God’s care for the land and for people? Zion is the name of the mountain in Jerusalem where the Temple was built. The people kept their promises with correct worship, including offering prayers of thanks and bringing gifts and sacrifices. Describe the worship life in your community of faith. In what ways does it reflect promises to God? Pray O God, I thank and praise you for your abundant love and blessings. You show your love and care for me and for all your creation. On this day I promise _____________________. In your holy name I pray, Amen. Prayer Concern Those preparing to harvest crops Tomorrow's Reading Psalm 66: A psalm in praise of God’s deeds. 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 November 19, 2011 Author Members Posted November 19, 2011 November 18, 2011 Psalm 66 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Offer Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 66: This psalm is a song of praise for God’s deliverance that recounts God’s wonderful acts and affirms God’s listening to prayer. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 66:3a Say to God, “How wonderful are the things you do!” Today’s Reading 1 Praise God with shouts of joy, all people! 2 Sing to the glory of his name; offer him glorious praise! 3 Say to God, “How wonderful are the things you do! Your power is so great that your enemies bow down in fear before you. 4 Everyone on earth worships you; they sing praises to you, they sing praises to your name.” 5 Come and see what God has done, his wonderful acts among people. 6 He changed the sea into dry land; our ancestors crossed the river on foot. There we rejoiced because of what he did. 7 He rules forever by his might and keeps his eyes on the nations. Let no rebels rise against him. 8 Praise our God, all nations; let your praise be heard. 9 He has kept us alive and has not allowed us to fall. 10 You have put us to the test, God; as silver is purified by fire, so you have tested us. 11 You let us fall into a trap and placed heavy burdens on our backs. 12 You let our enemies trample us; we went through fire and flood, but now you have brought us to a place of safety. 13 I will bring burnt offerings to your house; I will offer you what I promised. 14 I will give you what I said I would when I was in trouble. 15 I will offer sheep to be burned on the altar; I will sacrifice bulls and goats, and the smoke will go up to the sky. 16 Come and listen, all who honor God, and I will tell you what he has done for me. 17 I cried to him for help; I praised him with songs. 18 If I had ignored my sins, the Lord would not have listened to me. 19 But God has indeed heard me; he has listened to my prayer. 20 I praise God, because he did not reject my prayer or keep back his constant love from me. Reflect The first twelve verses in this psalm praise God and recount God’s past deeds. The remaining verses switch to first person and provide a personal testimony to God’s love and forgiveness. Reread verses 13-20. What does the psalm writer promise? For what does the writer praise God? What are you praying for today? Pray Lord God, I know that you hear and answer prayer. When I call out to you for help, you are there, listening to my cries. You are awesome, Lord, and I praise you for all your wonderful acts and I thank you for your constant love. Amen. Prayer Concern Those in need of God’s help Tomorrow's Reading Psalm 92: A song for the Sabbath. 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 November 19, 2011 Author Members Posted November 19, 2011 November 19, 2011 Psalm 92 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Offer Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 92: This psalm is a song written for use on the Sabbath, the day for rest and worship (Exodus 20:8-11; Deuteronomy 5:12-15). It celebrates God’s goodness and righteousness. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 92:1 How good it is to give thanks to you, O LORD, to sing in your honor, O Most High God. Today’s Reading 1 How good it is to give thanks to you, O LORD, to sing in your honor, O Most High God, 2 to proclaim your constant love every morning and your faithfulness every night, 3 with the music of stringed instruments and with melody on the harp. 4 Your mighty deeds, O LORD, make me glad; because of what you have done, I sing for joy. 5 How great are your actions, LORD! How deep are your thoughts! 6 This is something a fool cannot know; someone who is stupid cannot understand: 7 the wicked may grow like weeds, those who do wrong may prosper; yet they will be totally destroyed, 8 because you, LORD, are supreme forever. 9 We know that your enemies will die, and all the wicked will be defeated. 10 You have made me as strong as a wild ox; you have blessed me with happiness. 11 I have seen the defeat of my enemies and heard the cries of the wicked. 12 The righteous will flourish like palm trees; they will grow like the cedars of Lebanon. 13 They are like trees planted in the house of the LORD, that flourish in the Temple of our God, 14 that still bear fruit in old age and are always green and strong. 15 This shows that the LORD is just, that there is no wrong in my protector. Reflect This psalm, in addition to being a song of praise, is also written in the wisdom tradition. Reread verses 5-8 and 12-15. How are the wicked described? What is their fate? How are the righteous described? What does it mean to “flourish”? What does verse 15 affirm? You may wish to compare these verses with Psalm 1 and note the similarities. Many of the psalms were intended to be sung as part of the worship in the Temple in Jerusalem. How are psalms used in your community of faith? Pray Most High God, I proclaim your constant love every morning and your faithfulness every night. With you, O God, I flourish like a palm tree, rooted in you and growing strong in faith. I sing your praises and declare your goodness to me. Amen. Prayer Concern Choir directors and cantors Tomorrow's Reading Psalm 96: A psalm that praises God as king. 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 November 20, 2011 Author Members Posted November 20, 2011 November 20, 2011 Psalm 96 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Offer Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 96: This psalm is a song that celebrates God as the supreme king over all the earth who rules with justice and fairness. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 96:10 Say to all the nations, “The LORD is king! The earth is set firmly in place and cannot be moved; he will judge the peoples with justice.” Today’s Reading 1 Sing a new song to the LORD! Sing to the LORD, all the world! 2 Sing to the LORD, and praise him! Proclaim every day the good news that he has saved us. 3 Proclaim his glory to the nations, his mighty deeds to all peoples. 4 The LORD is great and is to be highly praised; he is to be honored more than all the gods. 5 The gods of all other nations are only idols, but the LORD created the heavens. 6 Glory and majesty surround him; power and beauty fill his Temple. 7 Praise the LORD, all people on earth; praise his glory and might. 8 Praise the LORD's glorious name; bring an offering and come into his Temple. 9 Bow down before the Holy One when he appears; tremble before him, all the earth! 10 Say to all the nations, “The LORD is king! The earth is set firmly in place and cannot be moved; he will judge the peoples with justice.” 11 Be glad, earth and sky! Roar, sea, and every creature in you; 12 be glad, fields, and everything in you! The trees in the woods will shout for joy 13 when the LORD comes to rule the earth. He will rule the peoples of the world with justice and fairness. Reflect How does the psalm writer describe the LORD? Identify all the verses that speak of joy and praise. The psalm writer encourages the singing of a “new song to the LORD” (verse 1). What “new song” will you sing to God today? Pray Sovereign God, with joy I sing praises to you and proclaim the good news of your salvation. Glorious and mighty are you! I sing anew to you each day and declare your everlasting love. Amen. Prayer Concern Hymn writers Tomorrow's Reading Psalm 97: A psalm that celebrates God as king of the universe. 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 November 21, 2011 Author Members Posted November 21, 2011 November 21, 2011 Psalm 97 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Offer Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 97: As king, God rules the whole universe which he created. On earth, God rules the nations. In this psalm, God is celebrated as one who rules with righteousness and justice. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 97:12b Remember what the holy God has done, and give thanks to him. Today’s Reading 1 The LORD is king! Earth, be glad! Rejoice, you islands of the seas! 2 Clouds and darkness surround him; he rules with righteousness and justice. 3 Fire goes in front of him and burns up his enemies around him. 4 His lightning lights up the world; the earth sees it and trembles. 5 The hills melt like wax before the LORD, before the Lord of all the earth. 6 The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all the nations see his glory. 7 Everyone who worships idols is put to shame; all the gods bow down before the LORD. 8 The people of Zion are glad, and the cities of Judah rejoice because of your judgments, O LORD. 9 LORD Almighty, you are ruler of all the earth; you are much greater than all the gods. 10 The LORD loves those who hate evil; he protects the lives of his people; he rescues them from the power of the wicked. 11 Light shines on the righteous, and gladness on the good. 12 All you that are righteous be glad because of what the LORD has done! Remember what the holy God has done, and give thanks to him. Reflect In this psalm, the writer encourages us to “remember what the holy God has done” and to give God thanks. What memories do you have of what God has done for you? For what will you thank God today? Pray Lord God Almighty, you are my king. Reign in my heart forever. May the light of your love shine on me. I praise your glorious name and thank you for _____________________ Amen. Prayer Concern Administrators of justice Tomorrow's Reading Psalm 98: A psalm that celebrates God as a righteous judge and ruler of 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 November 22, 2011 Author Members Posted November 22, 2011 November 22, 2011 Psalm 98 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Offer Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 98: This psalm is another song of praise that celebrates God’s faithfulness, justice and fairness. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 98:8, 9a Clap your hands, you rivers; you hills, sing together with joy before the LORD, because he comes to rule the earth. Today’s Reading 1 Sing a new song to the LORD; he has done wonderful things! By his own power and holy strength he has won the victory. 2 The LORD announced his victory; he made his saving power known to the nations. 3 He kept his promise to the people of Israel with loyalty and constant love for them. All people everywhere have seen the victory of our God. 4 Sing for joy to the LORD, all the earth; praise him with songs and shouts of joy! 5 Sing praises to the LORD! Play music on the harps! 6 Blow trumpets and horns, and shout for joy to the LORD, our king. 7 Roar, sea, and every creature in you; sing, earth, and all who live on you! 8 Clap your hands, you rivers; you hills, sing together with joy before the LORD, 9 because he comes to rule the earth. He will rule the peoples of the world with justice and fairness. Reflect This psalm is similar to Psalm 96 and calls upon creation to join in praising God (verses 7, 8). Verse 9 declares that God rules with justice and fairness, the same words used at the end of Psalm 96. If you are familiar with the words to the Christmas carol, “Joy to the World,” you may wish to compare the words of that carol with Psalm 98 and note the similarities. Reread verses 4-6. What instructions are given for worshiping and praising the LORD? How is joy and praise expressed in your community of faith? Pray I sing for joy, O Lord, because of your steadfast love and faithfulness. My heart is in tune with the music of your teachings. I trust in your promises and praise your holy name. Amen. Prayer Concern World leaders Tomorrow's Reading Psalm 99: A psalm that celebrates God as supreme king. 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 November 23, 2011 Author Members Posted November 23, 2011 November 23, 2011 Psalm 99 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Offer Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 99: This psalm affirms that God is the supreme king and that God alone is holy. It concludes the collection of psalms we have been reading the past several days (96 – 99) that praise God as king and righteous judge. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 99:5 Praise the LORD our God; worship before his throne! Holy is he! Today’s Reading 1 The LORD is king, and the people tremble. He sits on his throne above the winged creatures, and the earth shakes. 2 The LORD is mighty in Zion; he is supreme over all the nations. 3 Everyone will praise his great and majestic name. Holy is he! 4 Mighty king, you love what is right; you have established justice in Israel; you have brought righteousness and fairness. 5 Praise the LORD our God; worship before his throne! Holy is he! 6 Moses and Aaron were his priests, and Samuel was one who prayed to him; they called to the LORD, and he answered them. 7 He spoke to them from the pillar of cloud; they obeyed the laws and commands that he gave them. 8 O LORD, our God, you answered your people; you showed them that you are a God who forgives, even though you punished them for their sins. 9 Praise the LORD our God, and worship at his sacred hill! The LORD our God is holy. Reflect Verses 3 and 5 end with the words “Holy is he!” and verse 9 concludes with similar words. What has the psalmist said about God? Verses 6 and 7 include references to leaders in Israel’s past – Moses, Aaron, and Samuel – and how God spoke to them. Moses led the people out of Egypt (Exodus 12:37—14:31); Aaron was Moses’ brother and he and his sons became Israel’s first priests (Exodus 28:1); Samuel led the people after the time of the judges until Israel got its first king (1 Samuel 12:1-25). Before the Temple was built, God appeared in the form of a cloud (Exodus 19:9; 33:9). In what ways does God speak to you? Pray Holy are you, Lord God, king of all creation. I worship and adore you and praise you for your deeds of righteousness and justice. As I listen for your voice, teach me your ways and order my steps this day. In your holy name, I pray. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who mentor us in faith Tomorrow's Reading Psalm 100: A psalm of thanksgiving. 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 November 25, 2011 Author Members Posted November 25, 2011 November 24, 2011 Psalm 100 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Offer Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 100: This psalm is a hymn of praise that acknowledges God as our Creator and us as God’s people. It affirms our reasons for thanking and praising God. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 100:5 The LORD is good; his love is eternal and his faithfulness lasts forever. Today’s Reading 1 Sing to the LORD, all the world! 2 Worship the LORD with joy; come before him with happy songs! 3 Acknowledge that the LORD is God. He made us, and we belong to him; we are his people, we are his flock. 4 Enter the Temple gates with thanksgiving; go into its courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise him. 5 The LORD is good; his love is eternal and his faithfulness lasts forever. Reflect This psalm affirms that we belong to God and compares God’s people to a flock of sheep. What are your thoughts about this image? Verse 5 concludes the psalm with the reason for praising God. Do you agree with this conclusion? Why or why not? How will you praise God today? Pray Lord, you indeed are good and your faithfulness lasts forever. Gather us all into your flock and renew and refresh us with your life-giving Word. I thank and praise you for your mercy, love, and care. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who need to hear God’s message of love and salvation Tomorrow's Reading Psalm 113: A psalm in praise of the LORD’s goodness. 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 November 25, 2011 Author Members Posted November 25, 2011 November 25, 2011 Psalm 113 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Offer Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 113: The psalm opens with an affirmation of God’s sovereignty over all the earth and concludes with acknowledging God’s regard for the poor and needy. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 113:5 There is no one like the LORD our God. Today’s Reading 1 Praise the LORD! You servants of the LORD, praise his name! 2 May his name be praised, now and forever. 3 From the east to the west praise the name of the LORD! 4 The LORD rules over all nations; his glory is above the heavens. 5 There is no one like the LORD our God. He lives in the heights above, 6 but he bends down to see the heavens and the earth. 7 He raises the poor from the dust; he lifts the needy from their misery 8 and makes them companions of princes, the princes of his people. 9 He honors the childless wife in her home; he makes her happy by giving her children. Praise the LORD! Reflect According to verses 5 and 6, where does God dwell and what does God see? What are your thoughts about this image? Verses 7-9 emphasize God’s care for the poor and needy. How are the poor and needy cared for in your community? Pray I praise you, Lord God! There is no one like you. From your heavenly throne you reach down and show your love and care for your people on earth. Teach me to be your hands here on earth and to reach out to those in need. Amen. Prayer Concern Couples awaiting the birth of a child Tomorrow's Reading Psalm 118: A prayer of thanksgiving 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 November 27, 2011 Author Members Posted November 27, 2011 November 26, 2011 Psalm 118 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Offer Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 118: It is thought that this psalm was adapted from a prayer of thanksgiving by an individual, perhaps a king, who was delivered by God from danger. Therefore, this psalm is sometimes entitled “A Song of Victory.” The psalm concludes with a description of a liturgical procession. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 118:28 You are my God, and I give you thanks; I will proclaim your greatness. Today’s Reading 1 Give thanks to the LORD, because he is good, and his love is eternal. 2 Let the people of Israel say, “His love is eternal.” 3 Let the priests of God say, “His love is eternal.” 4 Let all who worship him say, “His love is eternal.” 5 In my distress I called to the LORD; he answered me and set me free. 6 The LORD is with me, I will not be afraid; what can anyone do to me? 7 It is the LORD who helps me, and I will see my enemies defeated. 8 It is better to trust in the LORD than to depend on people. 9 It is better to trust in the LORD than to depend on human leaders. 10 Many enemies were around me; but I destroyed them by the power of the LORD! 11 They were around me on every side; but I destroyed them by the power of the LORD! 12 They swarmed around me like bees, but they burned out as quickly as a brush fire; by the power of the LORD I destroyed them. 13 I was fiercely attacked and was being defeated, but the LORD helped me. 14 The LORD makes me powerful and strong; he has saved me. 15 Listen to the glad shouts of victory in the tents of God's people: “The LORD's mighty power has done it! 16 His power has brought us victory— his mighty power in battle!” 17 I will not die; instead, I will live and proclaim what the LORD has done. 18 He has punished me severely, but he has not let me die. 19 Open to me the gates of the Temple; I will go in and give thanks to the LORD! 20 This is the gate of the LORD; only the righteous can come in. 21 I praise you, LORD, because you heard me, because you have given me victory. 22 The stone which the builders rejected as worthless turned out to be the most important of all. 23 This was done by the LORD; what a wonderful sight it is! 24 This is the day of the LORD's victory; let us be happy, let us celebrate! 25 Save us, LORD, save us! Give us success, O LORD! 26 May God bless the one who comes in the name of the LORD! From the Temple of the LORD we bless you. 27 The LORD is God; he has been good to us. With branches in your hands, start the festival and march around the altar. 28 You are my God, and I give you thanks; I will proclaim your greatness. 29 Give thanks to the LORD, because he is good, and his love is eternal. Reflect The opening and closing verses of this psalm are identical and affirm God’s goodness and enduring love. For what is the psalm writer thankful? What verses speak of God’s deliverance? The psalm also includes a reference to a procession (verses 19-27). Have you ever participated in any type of religious procession? If so, what was the occasion and where did it take place? Pray Praise to you, Lord God! You are always with me and I need not fear. You are mighty and victorious. I give thanks to you because you are good and your love is eternal. Amen. Prayer Concern Worship committees Tomorrow's Reading Mark 13:1-37: Jesus speaks about future events. 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 November 27, 2011 Author Members Posted November 27, 2011 November 27, 2011 Mark 13:1-37 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Offer Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Mark 13:1-37: Jesus explains to the disciples what will happen to the Temple and to his followers in the future. He foretells the destruction of the Temple, persecutions his followers will suffer, and the coming of the Son of Man, which Christians interpret as Christ’s Second Coming. Today’s Scripture: Mark 13:26 Then the Son of Man will appear, coming in the clouds with great power and glory. Today’s Reading 1 As Jesus was leaving the Temple, one of his disciples said, “Look, Teacher! What wonderful stones and buildings!” 2 Jesus answered, “You see these great buildings? Not a single stone here will be left in its place; every one of them will be thrown down.” 3 Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, across from the Temple, when Peter, James, John, and Andrew came to him in private. 4 “Tell us when this will be,” they said, “and tell us what will happen to show that the time has come for all these things to take place.” 5 Jesus said to them, “Watch out, and don't let anyone fool you. 6 Many men, claiming to speak for me, will come and say, “I am he!” and they will fool many people. 7 And don't be troubled when you hear the noise of battles close by and news of battles far away. Such things must happen, but they do not mean that the end has come. 8 Countries will fight each other; kingdoms will attack one another. There will be earthquakes everywhere, and there will be famines. These things are like the first pains of childbirth. 9 You yourselves must watch out. You will be arrested and taken to court. You will be beaten in the synagogues; you will stand before rulers and kings for my sake to tell them the Good News. 10 But before the end comes, the gospel must be preached to all peoples. 11 And when you are arrested and taken to court, do not worry ahead of time about what you are going to say; when the time comes, say whatever is then given to you. For the words you speak will not be yours; they will come from the Holy Spirit. 12 Men will hand over their own brothers to be put to death, and fathers will do the same to their children. Children will turn against their parents and have them put to death. 13 Everyone will hate you because of me. But whoever holds out to the end will be saved. 14 “You will see “The Awful Horror” standing in the place where he should not be. ” (Note to the reader: understand what this means!) Then those who are in Judea must run away to the hills. 15 Someone who is on the roof of a house must not lose time by going down into the house to get anything to take along. 16 Someone who is in the field must not go back to the house for a cloak. 17 How terrible it will be in those days for women who are pregnant and for mothers with little babies! 18 Pray to God that these things will not happen in the winter! 19 For the trouble of those days will be far worse than any the world has ever known from the very beginning when God created the world until the present time. Nor will there ever be anything like it again. 20 But the Lord has reduced the number of those days; if he had not, nobody would survive. For the sake of his chosen people, however, he has reduced those days. 21 Then, if anyone says to you, “Look, here is the Messiah!” or, “Look, there he is!”—do not believe it. 22 For false Messiahs and false prophets will appear. They will perform miracles and wonders in order to deceive even God's chosen people, if possible. 23 Be on your guard! I have told you everything ahead of time. 24 In the days after that time of trouble the sun will grow dark, the moon will no longer shine, 25 the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers in space will be driven from their courses. 26 Then the Son of Man will appear, coming in the clouds with great power and glory. 27 He will send the angels out to the four corners of the earth to gather God's chosen people from one end of the world to the other. 28 Let the fig tree teach you a lesson. When its branches become green and tender and it starts putting out leaves, you know that summer is near. 29 In the same way, when you see these things happening, you will know that the time is near, ready to begin. 30 Remember that all these things will happen before the people now living have all died. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. 32 No one knows, however, when that day or hour will come—neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son; only the Father knows. 33 Be on watch, be alert, for you do not know when the time will come. 34 It will be like a man who goes away from home on a trip and leaves his servants in charge, after giving to each one his own work to do and after telling the doorkeeper to keep watch. 35 Watch, then, because you do not know when the master of the house is coming—it might be in the evening or at midnight or before dawn or at sunrise. 36 If he comes suddenly, he must not find you asleep. 37 What I say to you, then, I say to all: Watch! ” Reflect The word “apocalypse” comes from the Greek word apokalypsis which means a revealing or unveiling. Mark 13 is sometimes referred to as the “Little Apocalypse” because Jesus foretells of future events. What are your thoughts when reading this chapter? When Jesus speaks of the coming of the Son of Man, he reminds his followers that “no one knows, however, when the day or hour will come … only the Father knows” (verse 32), and he warns his followers to “be on watch” and to “be alert” (verse 33). In what ways can you “be on watch”? Pray Lord Jesus, as I await your coming in power and glory, I see you revealed each day in every act of kindness and in every kind word that is spoken. Through my words and actions, may I serve as an instrument of your love and mercy this day. Amen. Prayer Concern Those experiencing anxiety about the future Tomorrow's Reading Revelation 4:1-11: A vision of worship in heaven is described. 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 November 28, 2011 Author Members Posted November 28, 2011 November 28, 2011 Revelation 4:1-11 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Offer Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Revelation 4:1-11: The book of Revelation belongs to a kind of writing called apocalyptic literature. Apocalyptic writings try to reveal the secrets of heaven and often try to describe how human history will end. Today’s reading describes the One who is seated on a heavenly throne, surrounded by those singing praises to God who created all things. Today’s Scripture: Revelation 4:8b “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was, who is, and who is to come.” Today’s Reading 1 At this point I had another vision and saw an open door in heaven. And the voice that sounded like a trumpet, which I had heard speaking to me before, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must happen after this.” 2 At once the Spirit took control of me. There in heaven was a throne with someone sitting on it. 3 His face gleamed like such precious stones as jasper and carnelian, and all around the throne there was a rainbow the color of an emerald. 4 In a circle around the throne were twenty-four other thrones, on which were seated twenty-four elders dressed in white and wearing crowns of gold. 5 From the throne came flashes of lightning, rumblings, and peals of thunder. In front of the throne seven lighted torches were burning, which are the seven spirits of God. 6 Also in front of the throne there was what looked like a sea of glass, clear as crystal. Surrounding the throne on each of its sides, were four living creatures covered with eyes in front and behind. 7 The first one looked like a lion; the second looked like a bull; the third had a face like a human face; and the fourth looked like an eagle in flight. 8 Each one of the four living creatures had six wings, and they were covered with eyes, inside and out. Day and night they never stop singing: Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was, who is, and who is to come.” 9 The four living creatures sing songs of glory and honor and thanks to the one who sits on the throne, who lives forever and ever. When they do so, 10 the twenty-four elders fall down before the one who sits on the throne, and worship him who lives forever and ever. They throw their crowns down in front of the throne and say, 11 “Our Lord and God! You are worthy to receive glory, honor, and power. For you created all things, and by your will they were given existence and life.” Reflect What is happening around the throne? What are your thoughts when reading this passage? When do you experience God’s presence and what do you do? Pray Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, you alone are worthy to receive glory and honor. With all creation I praise your name forever and ever. Amen. Prayer Concern Worship assistants Tomorrow's Reading Revelation 5:1-14: The Lamb of God is praised. 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 November 29, 2011 Author Members Posted November 29, 2011 November 29, 2011 Revelation 5:1-14 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Offer Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Revelation 5:1-14: Today’s reading introduces the Lamb of God, who alone is worthy to break open the seven seals of a scroll. (The sixth chapter of Revelation describes the opening of the seven seals which contain God’s plan for defeating the powers of evil.) Chapter 5 concludes with a hymn of praise to the Lamb, similar to the conclusion of chapter 4 and the hymn of praise to God. Today’s Scripture: Revelation 5:12 “The Lamb who was killed is worthy to receive power, wealth, wisdom, and strength, honor, glory, and praise!” Today’s Reading 1 I saw a scroll in the right hand of the one who sits on the throne; it was covered with writing on both sides and was sealed with seven seals. 2 And I saw a mighty angel, who announced in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?” 3 But there was no one in heaven or on earth or in the world below who could open the scroll and look inside it. 4 I cried bitterly because no one could be found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside it. 5 Then one of the elders said to me, “Don't cry. Look! The Lion from Judah's tribe, the great descendant of David, has won the victory, and he can break the seven seals and open the scroll.” 6 Then I saw a Lamb standing in the center of the throne, surrounded by the four living creatures and the elders. The Lamb appeared to have been killed. It had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God that have been sent through the whole earth. 7 The Lamb went and took the scroll from the right hand of the one who sits on the throne. 8 As he did so, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each had a harp and gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of God's people. 9 They sang a new song: “You are worthy to take the scroll and to break open its seals. For you were killed, and by your sacrificial death you bought for God people from every tribe, language, nation, and race. 10 You have made them a kingdom of priests to serve our God, and they shall rule on earth.” 11 Again I looked, and I heard angels, thousands and millions of them! They stood around the throne, the four living creatures, and the elders, 12 and sang in a loud voice: “The Lamb who was killed is worthy to receive power, wealth, wisdom, and strength, honor, glory, and praise!” 13 And I heard every creature in heaven, on earth, in the world below, and in the sea—all living beings in the universe—and they were singing: “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb, be praise and honor, glory and might, forever and ever!” 14 The four living creatures answered, “Amen!” And the elders fell down and worshiped. Reflect What is happening around the throne? The number 7 appears several times in today’s reading. It is a number that signifies completeness and perfection. In what verses does the number appear? In each instance, what does the number refer to? Pray Worthy is the Lamb! To him be praise and honor, glory and might, forever and ever! Amen! Prayer Concern College and university choirs Tomorrow's Reading Revelation 7:1-17: A large crowd of people from every nation praise God. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted December 1, 2011 Author Members Posted December 1, 2011 November 30, 2011 Revelation 7:1-17 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Offer Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Revelation 7:1-17: Today’s reading offers a vision of 144,000 people from the twelve tribes of Israel, along with an enormous crowd of people from every race, tribe, nation, and language, all standing before the throne and praising God. Today’s Scripture: Revelation 7:10 They called out in a loud voice, “Salvation comes from our God, who sits on the throne, and from the Lamb!” Today’s Reading 1 After this I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding back the four winds so that no wind should blow on the earth or the sea or against any tree. 2 And I saw another angel coming up from the east with the seal of the living God. He called out in a loud voice to the four angels to whom God had given the power to damage the earth and the sea. 3 The angel said, “Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees, until we mark the servants of our God with a seal on their foreheads.” 4 And I was told that the number of those who were marked with God's seal on their foreheads was 144,000. They were from the twelve tribes of Israel, 5-8 twelve thousand from each tribe: Judah, Reuben, Gad, Asher, Naphtali, Manasseh, Simeon, Levi, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph, and Benjamin. 9 After this I looked, and there was an enormous crowd—no one could count all the people! They were from every race, tribe, nation, and language, and they stood in front of the throne and of the Lamb, dressed in white robes and holding palm branches in their hands. 10 They called out in a loud voice: “Salvation comes from our God, who sits on the throne, and from the Lamb!” 11 All the angels stood around the throne, the elders, and the four living creatures. Then they threw themselves face downward in front of the throne and worshiped God, 12 saying, “Amen! Praise, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving, honor, power, and might belong to our God forever and ever! Amen!” 13 One of the elders asked me, “Who are these people dressed in white robes, and where do they come from?” 14 “I don't know, sir. You do,” I answered. He said to me, “These are the people who have come safely through the terrible persecution. They have washed their robes and made them white with the blood of the Lamb. 15 That is why they stand before God's throne and serve him day and night in his temple. He who sits on the throne will protect them with his presence. 16 Never again will they hunger or thirst; neither sun nor any scorching heat will burn them, 17 because the Lamb, who is in the center of the throne, will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of life-giving water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. ” Reflect In this vision, what is happening before the throne? How do you envision what is described here? What does today’s reading teach you about God? Pray Lord God, with your heavenly chorus, I join in singing “Praise, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving, honor, power, and might belong to our God forever and ever! Amen!” Prayer Concern Christians experiencing persecution because of their faith Tomorrow's Reading Isaiah 11:1-16: A vision of a peaceful kingdom and ideal kingship is described. 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 December 2, 2011 Author Members Posted December 2, 2011 December 1, 2011 Isaiah 11:1-16 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Spread Tidings of Joy to Everyone Introduction Isaiah 11:1-16: This passage is in the form of an oracle about a new king who will arise, who will be a descendant of David. This king’s reign will usher in a time of peace and the restoration of Israel and Judah. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 11:2, 3a The spirit of the LORD will give him wisdom and the knowledge and skill to rule his people. He will know the LORD’s will and honor him, and find pleasure in obeying him. Today’s Reading 1 The royal line of David is like a tree that has been cut down; but just as new branches sprout from a stump, so a new king will arise from among David's descendants. 2 The spirit of the LORD will give him wisdom and the knowledge and skill to rule his people. He will know the LORD's will and honor him, 3 and find pleasure in obeying him. He will not judge by appearance or hearsay; 4 he will judge the poor fairly and defend the rights of the helpless. At his command the people will be punished, and evil persons will die. 5 He will rule his people with justice and integrity. 6 Wolves and sheep will live together in peace, and leopards will lie down with young goats. Calves and lion cubs will feed together, and little children will take care of them. 7 Cows and bears will eat together, and their calves and cubs will lie down in peace. Lions will eat straw as cattle do. 8 Even a baby will not be harmed if it plays near a poisonous snake. 9 On Zion, God's sacred hill, there will be nothing harmful or evil. The land will be as full of knowledge of the LORD as the seas are full of water. 10 A day is coming when the new king from the royal line of David will be a symbol to the nations. They will gather in his royal city and give him honor. 11 When that day comes, the Lord will once again use his power and bring back home those of his people who are left in Assyria and Egypt, in the lands of Pathros, Ethiopia, Elam, Babylonia, and Hamath, and in the coastlands and on the islands of the sea. 12 The Lord will raise a signal flag to show the nations that he is gathering together again the scattered people of Israel and Judah and bringing them back from the four corners of the earth. 13 The kingdom of Israel will not be jealous of Judah any more, and Judah will not be the enemy of Israel. 14 Together they will attack the Philistines on the west and plunder the people who live to the east. They will conquer the people of Edom and Moab, and the people of Ammon will obey them. 15 The LORD will dry up the Gulf of Suez, and he will bring a hot wind to dry up the Euphrates, leaving only seven tiny streams, so that anyone can walk across. 16 There will be a highway out of Assyria for those of his people Israel who have survived there, just as there was for their ancestors when they left Egypt. Reflect The chapter opens with an oracle concerning a new king who will be a descendant of David. Christians interpret this passage as referring to Jesus, the Messiah (see Luke 1:32). How is this king described (verses 2-5)? How is his kingdom described (verses 6-9)? How do you envision a world in which peace reigns? Pray God of love and peace, teach me to know your will. My desire is to honor and obey you. May your justice reign throughout the earth. Your kingdom come, O Lord! Amen. Prayer Concern Nations involved in peace negotiations Tomorrow's Reading Isaiah 12:1-6: A time of singing and praise is envisioned. 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 December 2, 2011 Author Members Posted December 2, 2011 December 2, 2011 Isaiah 12:1-6 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Spread Tidings of Joy to Everyone Introduction Isaiah 12:1-6: This passage is in the form of a psalm of thanksgiving, praising God our Savior. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 12:5 Sing to the LORD because of the great things he has done. Let the whole world hear the news. Today’s Reading 1 A day is coming when people will sing, “I praise you, LORD! You were angry with me, but now you comfort me and are angry no longer. 2 God is my savior; I will trust him and not be afraid. The LORD gives me power and strength; he is my savior. 3 As fresh water brings joy to the thirsty, so God's people rejoice when he saves them.” 4 A day is coming when people will sing, “Give thanks to the LORD! Call for him to help you! Tell all the nations what he has done! Tell them how great he is! 5 Sing to the LORD because of the great things he has done. Let the whole world hear the news. 6 Let everyone who lives in Zion shout and sing! Israel's holy God is great, and he lives among his people.” Reflect Today’s reading is considered to be an appended section to Isaiah 11:1-16 (yesterday’s reading) since it envisions a time of praise following the restoration of Israel and Judah and the reign of a righteous king. Reread verses 1-3. For what is God being praised? Reread verses 4-6. What great things has God done in your life? What will you proclaim about God today? Pray Holy God, I sing your praises, proclaiming the great things you have done. May the good news of your salvation be spread throughout the world. Amen. Prayer Concern Those rehearsing for Christmas concerts Tomorrow's Reading Isaiah 52:1-12: Jerusalem’s restoration is announced. 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 December 3, 2011 Author Members Posted December 3, 2011 December 3, 2011 Isaiah 52:1-12 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Spread Tidings of Joy to Everyone Introduction Isaiah 52:1-12: Today’s reading is an oracle about the restoration of Jerusalem, the holy city of God. Jerusalem, the capital of Judah, the southern kingdom, had been destroyed by the Babylonians and the people of Judah forced into exile (586 B.C.). Now a messenger comes to announce the good news that the people can return home because God will rescue the city. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 52:10 The LORD will use his holy power; he will save his people, and all the world will see it. Today’s Reading 1 Jerusalem, be strong and great again! Holy city of God, clothe yourself with splendor! The heathen will never enter your gates again. 2 Shake yourself free, Jerusalem! Rise from the dust and sit on your throne! Undo the chains that bind you, captive people of Zion! 3 The Sovereign LORD says to his people, “When you became slaves, no money was paid for you; in the same way nothing will be paid to set you free. 4 When you went to live in Egypt as foreigners, you did so of your own free will; Assyria, however, took you away by force and paid nothing for you. 5 And now in Babylonia the same thing has happened: you are captives, and nothing was paid for you. Those who rule over you boast and brag and constantly show contempt for me. 6 In time to come you will acknowledge that I am God and that I have spoken to you. ” 7 How wonderful it is to see a messenger coming across the mountains, bringing good news, the news of peace! He announces victory and says to Zion, “Your God is king!” 8 Those who guard the city are shouting, shouting together for joy. They can see with their own eyes the return of the LORD to Zion. 9 Break into shouts of joy, you ruins of Jerusalem! The LORD will rescue his city and comfort his people. 10 The LORD will use his holy power; he will save his people, and all the world will see it. 11 Be sure to leave Babylonia, all you that carry the Temple equipment. Touch no forbidden thing; keep yourselves holy and leave. 12 This time you will not have to leave in a hurry; you will not be trying to escape. The LORD your God will lead you and protect you on every side. Reflect In verses 1 and 2, Jerusalem is described as a bride to be clothed “with splendor” and as a city rising “from the dust.” Babylon, however, must now “sit in the dust” and be stripped of her fine clothes (see Isaiah 47:1, 2). In contrast to Babylon’s degradation, Jerusalem is to be restored. How is the exodus from Babylonia back to Jerusalem described (verses 7-12)? How are God’s judgment and justice revealed in today’s reading? Pray God of comfort and joy, I sing your praises and rejoice in the good news of your salvation. I acknowledge that you alone are God and the source of true peace and restoration. Thank you for your steadfast love. Amen. Prayer Concern News reporters and journalists Tomorrow's Reading Jeremiah 33:1-26: God promises to restore the fortunes of Judah and Israel. 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 December 4, 2011 Author Members Posted December 4, 2011 December 4, 2011 Jeremiah 33:1-26 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Spread Tidings of Joy to Everyone Introduction Jeremiah 33:1-26: While Jerusalem is under siege by the Babylonian army and Jeremiah is imprisoned in King Zedekiah’s palace in Jerusalem, the LORD delivers a message of hope, promising to rebuild Judah and Israel and make them prosperous again. The LORD will also fulfill the promise concerning the Davidic dynasty by choosing a righteous king who will rule with justice. Today’s Scripture: Jeremiah 33:15 At that time I will choose as king a righteous descendant of David. That king will do what is right and just throughout the land. Today’s Reading 1 While I was still in prison in the courtyard, the LORD's message came to me again. 2 The LORD, who made the earth, who formed it and set it in place, spoke to me. He whose name is the LORD said, 3 “Call to me, and I will answer you; I will tell you wonderful and marvelous things that you know nothing about. 4 I, the LORD, the God of Israel, say that the houses of Jerusalem and the royal palace of Judah will be torn down as a result of the siege and the attack. 5 Some will fight against the Babylonians, who will fill the houses with the corpses of those whom I am going to strike down in my anger and fury. I have turned away from this city because of the evil things that its people have done. 6 But I will heal this city and its people and restore them to health. I will show them abundant peace and security. 7 I will make Judah and Israel prosperous, and I will rebuild them as they were before. 8 I will purify them from the sins that they have committed against me, and I will forgive their sins and their rebellion. 9 Jerusalem will be a source of joy, honor, and pride to me; and every nation in the world will fear and tremble when they hear about the good things that I do for the people of Jerusalem and about the prosperity that I bring to the city. ” 10 The LORD said, “People are saying that this place is like a desert, that it has no people or animals living in it. And they are right; the towns of Judah and the streets of Jerusalem are empty; no people or animals live there. But in these places you will hear again 11 the shouts of gladness and joy and the happy sounds of wedding feasts. You will hear people sing as they bring thank offerings to my Temple; they will say, ‘Give thanks to the LORD Almighty, because he is good and his love is eternal.’ 12 The LORD Almighty said, “In this land that is like a desert and where no people or animals live, there will once again be pastures where shepherds can take their sheep. 13 In the towns in the hill country, in the foothills, and in southern Judah, in the territory of Benjamin, in the villages around Jerusalem, and in the towns of Judah, shepherds will once again count their sheep. I, the LORD, have spoken. ” 14 The LORD said, “The time is coming when I will fulfill the promise that I made to the people of Israel and Judah. 15 At that time I will choose as king a righteous descendant of David. That king will do what is right and just throughout the land. 16 The people of Judah and of Jerusalem will be rescued and will live in safety. The city will be called ‘The LORD Our Salvation. ’ 17 I, the LORD, promise that there will always be a descendant of David to be king of Israel 18 and that there will always be priests from the tribe of Levi to serve me and to offer burnt offerings, grain offerings, and sacrifices. ” 19 The LORD said to me, 20 “I have made a covenant with the day and with the night, so that they always come at their proper times; and that covenant can never be broken. 21 In the same way I have made a covenant with my servant David that he would always have a descendant to be king, and I have made a covenant with the priests from the tribe of Levi that they would always serve me; and those covenants can never be broken. 22 I will increase the number of descendants of my servant David and the number of priests from the tribe of Levi, so that it will be as impossible to count them as it is to count the stars in the sky or the grains of sand on the seashore. ” 23 The LORD said to me, 24 “Have you noticed how people are saying that I have rejected Israel and Judah, the two families that I chose? And so they look with contempt on my people and no longer consider them a nation. 25 But I, the LORD, have a covenant with day and night, and I have made the laws that control earth and sky. 26 And just as surely as I have done this, so I will maintain my covenant with Jacob's descendants and with my servant David. I will choose one of David's descendants to rule over the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I will be merciful to my people and make them prosperous again. ” Reflect When Jeremiah receives the LORD’s message (c. 588 B.C.), the destruction of Jerusalem is not far off. What aroused God’s anger against the city (verse 5)? What does God promise afterwards (verses 6-13)? What covenant does God promise to maintain? Do any of the verses in today’s reading offer you hope and comfort? Why or why not? Pray God of love and mercy, my hope is in you. Trusting in your promises, I proclaim your everlasting love. You are the God of my salvation. Amen. Prayer Concern Those working to rebuild and restore cities ravaged by war Tomorrow's Reading Malachi 3:1-18: The LORD’s messenger will be sent to proclaim the LORD’s covenant. 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 December 5, 2011 Author Members Posted December 5, 2011 December 5, 2011 Malachi 3:1-18 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Spread Tidings of Joy to Everyone Introduction Malachi 3:1-18: The people had been questioning God’s justice (Malachi 2:17; 3:13-15), and God announces that a messenger will come to purify the Temple and the priests. Evildoers will be judged, and the faithful will be declared the LORD’s own. Today’s Scripture: Malachi 3:17 “They will be my people,” says the LORD Almighty. “On the day when I act, they will be my very own. I will be merciful to them as parents are merciful to the children who serve them.” Today’s Reading 1 The LORD Almighty answers, “I will send my messenger to prepare the way for me. Then the Lord you are looking for will suddenly come to his Temple. The messenger you long to see will come and proclaim my covenant.” 2 But who will be able to endure the day when he comes? Who will be able to survive when he appears? He will be like strong soap, like a fire that refines metal. 3 He will come to judge like one who refines and purifies silver. As a metalworker refines silver and gold, so the LORD's messenger will purify the priests, so that they will bring to the LORD the right kind of offerings. 4 Then the offerings which the people of Judah and Jerusalem bring to the LORD will be pleasing to him, as they used to be in the past. 5 The LORD Almighty says, “I will appear among you to judge, and I will testify at once against those who practice magic, against adulterers, against those who give false testimony, those who cheat employees out of their wages, and those who take advantage of widows, orphans, and foreigners—against all who do not respect me. 6 I am the LORD, and I do not change. And so you, the descendants of Jacob, are not yet completely lost. 7 You, like your ancestors before you, have turned away from my laws and have not kept them. Turn back to me, and I will turn to you. But you ask, “What must we do to turn back to you?” 8 I ask you, is it right for a person to cheat God? Of course not, yet you are cheating me. “How?” you ask. In the matter of tithes and offerings. 9 A curse is on all of you because the whole nation is cheating me. 10 Bring the full amount of your tithes to the Temple, so that there will be plenty of food there. Put me to the test and you will see that I will open the windows of heaven and pour out on you in abundance all kinds of good things. 11 I will not let insects destroy your crops, and your grapevines will be loaded with grapes. 12 Then the people of all nations will call you happy, because your land will be a good place to live. 13 “You have said terrible things about me,” says the LORD. But you ask, “What have we said about you?” 14 You have said, ‘It's useless to serve God. What's the use of doing what he says or of trying to show the LORD Almighty that we are sorry for what we have done? 15 As we see it, proud people are the ones who are happy. Evil people not only prosper, but they test God's patience with their evil deeds and get away with it. ’ ” 16 Then the people who feared the LORD spoke to one another, and the LORD listened and heard what they said. In his presence, there was written down in a book a record of those who feared the LORD and respected him. 17 “They will be my people,” says the LORD Almighty. “On the day when I act, they will be my very own. I will be merciful to them as parents are merciful to the children who serve them. 18 Once again my people will see the difference between what happens to the righteous and to the wicked, to the person who serves me and the one who does not. ” Reflect For Malachi, the “messenger” is someone who will come to prepare for the Lord’s coming. In Christian tradition, this passage about the LORD’s messenger is interpreted as referring to John the Baptist (see Mark 1:2). What will the messenger do (verses 2-4)? Who will be judged (verse 5)? Reread verses 16-18. What do they say about God’s mercy? Pray Almighty God, you know my inmost thoughts. Trusting in your love and mercy, I humbly turn to you and ask that you purify and cleanse my heart. In your holy name I pray, Amen. Prayer Concern Couriers Tomorrow's Reading Malachi 4:1-6: The Day of the LORD is announced. 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 December 6, 2011 Author Members Posted December 6, 2011 December 6, 2011 Malachi 4:1-6 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Spread Tidings of Joy to Everyone Introduction Malachi 4:1-6: The Day of the LORD is described; evildoers will be punished and those who obey the LORD will be saved. Before that day, the prophet Elijah will appear. According to 2 Kings 2:11, Elijah did not die but was taken up to heaven by a whirlwind. Centuries later it was believed that Elijah would return to prepare for the Day of Judgment or for the coming of the Messiah. In Christian tradition, John the Baptist is compared to Elijah (see Luke 1:17). Today’s Scripture: Malachi 4:2a For you who obey me, my saving power will rise on you like the sun and bring healing like the sun’s rays. Today’s Reading 1 The LORD Almighty says, “The day is coming when all proud and evil people will burn like straw. On that day they will burn up, and there will be nothing left of them. 2 But for you who obey me, my saving power will rise on you like the sun and bring healing like the sun's rays. You will be as free and happy as calves let out of a stall. 3 On the day when I act, you will overcome the wicked, and they will be like dust under your feet. 4 Remember the teachings of my servant Moses, the laws and commands which I gave him at Mount Sinai for all the people of Israel to obey. 5 But before the great and terrible day of the LORD comes, I will send you the prophet Elijah. 6 He will bring fathers and children together again; otherwise I would have to come and destroy your country. ” Reflect The Day of the LORD or Day of Judgment is often described as a time when the LORD will punish evildoers with fire (see Joel 2:1-3). How does Malachi describe that day? What does verse 2 say about those who obey the LORD? Why is it important to remember the teachings of Moses (verse 4)? This final chapter in Malachi concludes the Old Testament. Does this passage of Scripture offer hope? Why or why not? Pray Lord God, I thank and praise you for your saving power. Fill my mind with your teachings; restore me, heal me, and draw me close to you. Amen. Prayer Concern Parents of home-schooled children Tomorrow's Reading Mark 1:1-13: Mark’s Gospel opens with the preaching of John the Baptist. 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 December 7, 2011 Author Members Posted December 7, 2011 December 7, 2011 Mark 1:1-13 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Spread Tidings of Joy to Everyone Introduction Mark 1:1-13: The opening of Mark’s Gospel is a prologue that sets the stage for Jesus’ public ministry. John the Baptist appears in the desert, calling the people to turn from their sins and be baptized. John baptized people with water to symbolize their old way of life being washed away. Jesus is baptized by John; and following his baptism, he is sent by the Spirit into the desert where he is tempted by Satan. Today’s Scripture: Mark 1:4 So John appeared in the desert, baptizing and preaching. “Turn away from your sins and be baptized,” he told the people, “and God will forgive your sins.” Today’s Reading 1 This is the Good News about Jesus Christ, the Son of God. 2 It began as the prophet Isaiah had written: “God said, ‘I will send my messenger ahead of you to open the way for you.’ 3 Someone is shouting in the desert, ‘Get the road ready for the Lord; make a straight path for him to travel!’” 4 So John appeared in the desert, baptizing and preaching. “Turn away from your sins and be baptized,” he told the people, “and God will forgive your sins.” 5 Many people from the province of Judea and the city of Jerusalem went out to hear John. They confessed their sins, and he baptized them in the Jordan River. 6 John wore clothes made of camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. 7 He announced to the people, “The man who will come after me is much greater than I am. I am not good enough even to bend down and untie his sandals. 8 I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit. ” 9 Not long afterward Jesus came from Nazareth in the province of Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 As soon as Jesus came up out of the water, he saw heaven opening and the Spirit coming down on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven, “You are my own dear Son. I am pleased with you.” 12 At once the Spirit made him go into the desert, 13 where he stayed forty days, being tempted by Satan. Wild animals were there also, but angels came and helped him. Reflect Imagine you are someone living in the first century, hearing Mark’s Gospel for the first time. Upon hearing the first verse, what might your expectations be? What would be “Good News?” What “good news” can you offer someone today? Verses 2 and 3 are a conflation of Malachi 3:1 and Isaiah 40:3. How does John the Baptist fulfill what was spoken by the prophets? Describe what happens at Jesus’ baptism. What does the voice from heaven say? Pray Lord God, create in me a clean heart and help me to turn away from sin. Open my ears to hear the “Good News,” and prepare my heart to welcome and receive your beloved Son. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen. Prayer Concern Those in need of encouragement Tomorrow's Reading John 1:19-34: The religious leaders inquire about John the Baptist’s identity. 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 December 8, 2011 Author Members Posted December 8, 2011 December 8, 2011 John 1:19-34 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Spread Tidings of Joy to Everyone Introduction John 1:19-34: The religious leaders want to know who John the Baptist is. John shifts the focus to Jesus and away from himself. He describes what took place when Jesus was baptized, and he testifies that Jesus is the Son of God. Today’s Scripture: John 1:29 The next day John saw Jesus coming to him and said, “There is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” Today’s Reading 19 The Jewish authorities in Jerusalem sent some priests and Levites to John to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 John did not refuse to answer, but spoke out openly and clearly, saying: “I am not the Messiah.” 21 “Who are you, then?” they asked. “Are you Elijah?” “No, I am not,” John answered. “Are you the Prophet?” they asked. “No,” he replied. 22 “Then tell us who you are,” they said. “We have to take an answer back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself” 23 John answered by quoting the prophet Isaiah: “I am ‘the voice of someone shouting in the desert: Make a straight path for the Lord to travel!’” 24 The messengers, who had been sent by the Pharisees, 25 then asked John, “If you are not the Messiah nor Elijah nor the Prophet, why do you baptize?” 26 John answered, “I baptize with water, but among you stands the one you do not know. 27 He is coming after me, but I am not good enough even to untie his sandals. ” 28 All this happened in Bethany on the east side of the Jordan River, where John was baptizing. 29 The next day John saw Jesus coming to him, and said, “There is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is the one I was talking about when I said, “A man is coming after me, but he is greater than I am, because he existed before I was born.” 31 I did not know who he would be, but I came baptizing with water in order to make him known to the people of Israel. ” 32 And John gave this testimony: “I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from heaven and stay on him. 33 I still did not know that he was the one, but God, who sent me to baptize with water, had said to me, “You will see the Spirit come down and stay on a man; he is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.” 34 I have seen it, ” said John, “and I tell you that he is the Son of God.” Reflect Who does John say he is not? What does he say about Jesus? What did he see when Jesus was baptized? Have you ever offered a public testimony about your faith in Jesus? Is there someone you know who needs to hear a testimony from you about Jesus? Pray Dear Jesus, Lamb of God, thank you for taking away my sin. I know you are the Son of God, sent into the world to save sinners. For my sake, you became the Paschal Lamb and sacrificed yourself on the cross. Thank you for loving me so. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who testify about Jesus Tomorrow's Reading John 1:35-51: Jesus calls his first disciples. 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 December 9, 2011 Author Members Posted December 9, 2011 December 9, 2011 John 1:35-51 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Spread Tidings of Joy to Everyone Introduction John 1:35-51: John the Baptist’s testimony leads his own disciples to follow Jesus. These first disciples also testify as to Jesus’ identity. Andrew tells his brother Simon that they “have found the Messiah.” Today’s Scripture: John 1:49 “Teacher,” answered Nathanael, “you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Today’s Reading 35 The next day John was standing there again with two of his disciples, 36 when he saw Jesus walking by. “There is the Lamb of God!” he said. 37 The two disciples heard him say this and went with Jesus. 38 Jesus turned, saw them following him, and asked, “What are you looking for?” They answered, “Where do you live, Rabbi?” (This word means “Teacher.”) 39 “Come and see,” he answered. (It was then about four o'clock in the afternoon.) So they went with him and saw where he lived, and spent the rest of that day with him. 40 One of them was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. 41 At once he found his brother Simon and told him, “We have found the Messiah.” (This word means “Christ.”) 42 Then he took Simon to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “Your name is Simon son of John, but you will be called Cephas.” (This is the same as Peter and means “a rock.”) 43 The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, “Come with me!” ( 44 Philip was from Bethsaida, the town where Andrew and Peter lived.) 45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one whom Moses wrote about in the book of the Law and whom the prophets also wrote about. He is Jesus son of Joseph, from Nazareth. ” 46 “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” Nathanael asked. “Come and see,” answered Philip. 47 When Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, he said about him, “Here is a real Israelite; there is nothing false in him!” 48 Nathanael asked him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered, “I saw you when you were under the fig tree before Philip called you.” 49 “Teacher,” answered Nathanael, “you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” 50 Jesus said, “Do you believe just because I told you I saw you when you were under the fig tree? You will see much greater things than this!” 51 And he said to them, “I am telling you the truth: you will see heaven open and God's angels going up and coming down on the Son of Man.” Reflect Today’s reading introduces us to the first followers of Jesus and includes several confessions of faith. What do these first followers say about him? How did Jesus initiate the conversation with them? Which of these first disciples brought others to Jesus? How did Nathanael respond at first, and what do you make of his remark? Is there someone you know who needs to be brought to Jesus? Pray Lord Jesus, you are the Son of God and King of Israel! Just as you called your first disciples, you now beckon me to follow you. Thank you for inviting me to “come and see” and for reaching out to me in love. Amen. Prayer Concern New converts Tomorrow's Reading John 2:1-12: Jesus performs his first miracle. 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 December 11, 2011 Author Members Posted December 11, 2011 December 10, 2011 John 2:1-12 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Spread Tidings of Joy to Everyone Introduction John 2:1-12: According to John’s Gospel, the miracle Jesus performs at a wedding in Cana is the first act in his ministry. In biblical times, wedding feasts often lasted several days. At a wedding feast where Jesus is present, the wine runs out. Jesus instructs the servants to fill stone jars (holding 20 to 30 gallons) with water which turns into wine. Today’s Scripture: John 2:11 Jesus performed this first miracle in Cana in Galilee; there he revealed his glory, and his disciples believed in him. Today’s Reading 1 Two days later there was a wedding in the town of Cana in Galilee. Jesus' mother was there, 2 and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. 3 When the wine had given out, Jesus' mother said to him, “They are out of wine.” 4 “You must not tell me what to do,” Jesus replied. “My time has not yet come.” 5 Jesus' mother then told the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” 6 The Jews have rules about ritual washing, and for this purpose six stone water jars were there, each one large enough to hold between twenty and thirty gallons. 7 Jesus said to the servants, “Fill these jars with water.” They filled them to the brim, 8 and then he told them, “Now draw some water out and take it to the man in charge of the feast.” They took him the water, 9 which now had turned into wine, and he tasted it. He did not know where this wine had come from (but, of course, the servants who had drawn out the water knew); so he called the bridegroom 10 and said to him, “Everyone else serves the best wine first, and after the guests have drunk a lot, he serves the ordinary wine. But you have kept the best wine until now!” 11 Jesus performed this first miracle in Cana in Galilee; there he revealed his glory, and his disciples believed in him. 12 After this, Jesus and his mother, brothers, and disciples went to Capernaum and stayed there a few days. Reflect What was the situation at the wedding? What does Jesus’ mother ask of him? How does Jesus respond? What happens next? According to John’s Gospel, this is the first time the mother of Jesus is mentioned. Note that she is not named; she will not appear again in John’s Gospel until she is stationed at the foot of the cross (see John 19:25; here again she is not named); hence, she is a witness at both the beginning and the end of Jesus’ earthly ministry. What is her role in this story? In what ways can you be a witness for Jesus today? Pray Lord Jesus, your glory is revealed in the many signs and miracles you performed. You are the Lord of my life, and I glorify your name. Help me to be a witness for you and to reflect your love by all I do and say. In your holy name, I pray. Amen. Prayer Concern Those being married today Tomorrow's Reading Isaiah 60:1-22: The redemption of Jerusalem is promised. 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 December 11, 2011 Author Members Posted December 11, 2011 December 11, 2011 Isaiah 60:1-22 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Spread Tidings of Joy to Everyone Introduction Isaiah 60:1-22: Today we begin reading the first of three oracles pertaining to the restoration and transformation of Jerusalem. The city had been destroyed by foreigners in 586 B.C. because of God’s anger, but foreigners will now help rebuild the city because of God’s favor and mercy. Those who had been living in exile will return home. The city will reflect the glory of God. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 60:19b “I, the LORD, will be your eternal light; The light of my glory will shine on you.” Today’s Reading 1 Arise, Jerusalem, and shine like the sun; The glory of the LORD is shining on you! 2 Other nations will be covered by darkness, But on you the light of the LORD will shine; The brightness of his presence will be with you. 3 Nations will be drawn to your light, And kings to the dawning of your new day. 4 Look around you and see what is happening: Your people are gathering to come home! Your sons will come from far away; Your daughters will be carried like children. 5 You will see this and be filled with joy; You will tremble with excitement. The wealth of the nations will be brought to you; From across the sea their riches will come. 6 Great caravans of camels will come, from Midian and Ephah. They will come from Sheba, bringing gold and incense. People will tell the good news of what the LORD has done! 7 All the sheep of Kedar and Nebaioth Will be brought to you as sacrifices And offered on the altar to please the LORD. The LORD will make his Temple more glorious than ever. 8 What are these ships that skim along like clouds, Like doves returning home? 9 They are ships coming from distant lands, Bringing God's people home. They bring with them silver and gold To honor the name of the LORD, The holy God of Israel, Who has made all nations honor his people. 10 The LORD says to Jerusalem, “Foreigners will rebuild your walls, And their kings will serve you. In my anger I punished you, But now I will show you my favor and mercy. 11 Day and night your gates will be open, So that the kings of the nations May bring you their wealth. 12 But nations that do not serve you Will be completely destroyed. 13 The wood of the pine, the juniper, and the cypress, The finest wood from the forests of Lebanon, Will be brought to rebuild you, Jerusalem, To make my Temple beautiful, To make my city glorious. 14 The descendants of those who oppressed you will come And bow low to show their respect. All who once despised you will worship at your feet. They will call you ‘The City of the LORD,’ “Zion, the City of Israel's Holy God.” 15 You will no longer be forsaken and hated, A city deserted and desolate. I will make you great and beautiful, A place of joy forever and ever. 16 Nations and kings will care for you As a mother nurses her child. You will know that I, the LORD, have saved you, That the mighty God of Israel sets you free. 17 I will bring you gold instead of bronze, Silver and bronze instead of iron and wood, And iron instead of stone. Your rulers will no longer oppress you; I will make them rule with justice and peace. 18 The sounds of violence will be heard no more; Destruction will not shatter your country again. I will protect and defend you like a wall; You will praise me because I have saved you. 19 No longer will the sun be your light by day Or the moon be your light by night; I, the LORD, will be your eternal light; The light of my glory will shine on you. 20 Your days of grief will come to an end. I, the LORD, will be your eternal light, More lasting than the sun and moon. 21 Your people will all do what is right, And will possess the land forever. I planted them, I made them, To reveal my greatness to all. 22 Even your smallest and humblest family Will become as great as a powerful nation. When the right time comes, I will make this happen quickly. I am the LORD!” Reflect Based on this reading, how do you envision the restored Jerusalem? What images do you find particularly compelling? Why? Verse 19 calls to mind the new Jerusalem described in Revelation 21:23 and 22:5. What is to be the city’s source of light? Reread verses 10-22. What promises are given? Pray God of grace and transformation, the light of your glory dispels clouds of darkness and gloom. May my words and actions this day reflect the light of you love. Shine in my heart, Lord God. Amen. Prayer Concern Those preparing for homecomings Tomorrow's Reading Isaiah 61:1-11: The good news of deliverance is proclaimed. 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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