Members phkrause Posted April 9, 2012 Author Members Posted April 9, 2012 April 9, 2012 Romans 5:1-21 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction Romans 5:1-21: Being put right with God opens the way for living the new life of faith. The apostle Paul teaches that God’s love for us is poured into our hearts by means of God’s gift, the Holy Spirit, and that God’s grace comes to us through Jesus Christ. Today’s Scripture: Romans 5:8 But God has shown how much he loves us – it was while we were still sinners that Christ died for us! Today’s Reading 1 Now that we have been put right with God through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 He has brought us by faith into this experience of God's grace, in which we now live. And so we boast of the hope we have of sharing God's glory! 3 We also boast of our troubles, because we know that trouble produces endurance, 4 endurance brings God's approval, and his approval creates hope. 5 This hope does not disappoint us, for God has poured out his love into our hearts by means of the Holy Spirit, who is God's gift to us. 6 For when we were still helpless, Christ died for the wicked at the time that God chose. 7 It is a difficult thing for someone to die for a righteous person. It may even be that someone might dare to die for a good person. 8 But God has shown us how much he loves us—it was while we were still sinners that Christ died for us! 9 By his blood we are now put right with God; how much more, then, will we be saved by him from God's anger! 10 We were God's enemies, but he made us his friends through the death of his Son. Now that we are God's friends, how much more will we be saved by Christ's life! 11 But that is not all; we rejoice because of what God has done through our Lord Jesus Christ, who has now made us God's friends. 12 Sin came into the world through one man, and his sin brought death with it. As a result, death has spread to the whole human race because everyone has sinned. 13 There was sin in the world before the Law was given; but where there is no law, no account is kept of sins. 14 But from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, death ruled over all human beings, even over those who did not sin in the same way that Adam did when he disobeyed God's command. Adam was a figure of the one who was to come. 15 But the two are not the same, because God's free gift is not like Adam's sin. It is true that many people died because of the sin of that one man. But God's grace is much greater, and so is his free gift to so many people through the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ. 16 And there is a difference between God's gift and the sin of one man. After the one sin, came the judgment of “Guilty”; but after so many sins, comes the undeserved gift of “Not guilty!” 17 It is true that through the sin of one man death began to rule because of that one man. But how much greater is the result of what was done by the one man, Jesus Christ! All who receive God's abundant grace and are freely put right with him will rule in life through Christ. 18 So then, as the one sin condemned all people, in the same way the one righteous act sets all people free and gives them life. 19 And just as all people were made sinners as the result of the disobedience of one man, in the same way they will all be put right with God as the result of the obedience of the one man. 20 Law was introduced in order to increase wrongdoing; but where sin increased, God's grace increased much more. 21 So then, just as sin ruled by means of death, so also God's grace rules by means of righteousness, leading us to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Reflect Reread verses 1-5. What does Paul teach about hope? In verses 7-19, what does he say about Adam and Christ? about sin and grace? According to Paul, what was the purpose of the Law (verse 20)? Pray Thank you, God, for making me your friend through the sacrificial death of your Son, Jesus. I now have peace and my heart is filled with hope because of being put right with you. Sin no longer has control of my life. Thank you, God, for your gift of grace and for loving me so. Amen. Prayer Concern Those in need of God’s love and grace Tomorrow's Reading Romans 6:1-23: The apostle Paul explains how baptism brings us new life. 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 April 10, 2012 Author Members Posted April 10, 2012 April 10, 2012 Romans 6:1-23 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction Romans 6:1-23: Paul explains being baptized as dying to sin and being raised to life, just as Jesus died and was raised to life by God. Today’s Scripture: Romans 6:8 Since we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. Today’s Reading 1 What shall we say, then? Should we continue to live in sin so that God's grace will increase? 2 Certainly not! We have died to sin—how then can we go on living in it? 3 For surely you know that when we were baptized into union with Christ Jesus, we were baptized into union with his death. 4 By our baptism, then, we were buried with him and shared his death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from death by the glorious power of the Father, so also we might live a new life. 5 For since we have become one with him in dying as he did, in the same way we shall be one with him by being raised to life as he was. 6 And we know that our old being has been put to death with Christ on his cross, in order that the power of the sinful self might be destroyed, so that we should no longer be the slaves of sin. 7 For when we die, we are set free from the power of sin. 8 Since we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. 9 For we know that Christ has been raised from death and will never die again—death will no longer rule over him. 10 And so, because he died, sin has no power over him; and now he lives his life in fellowship with God. 11 In the same way you are to think of yourselves as dead, so far as sin is concerned, but living in fellowship with God through Christ Jesus. 12 Sin must no longer rule in your mortal bodies, so that you obey the desires of your natural self. 13 Nor must you surrender any part of yourselves to sin to be used for wicked purposes. Instead, give yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life, and surrender your whole being to him to be used for righteous purposes. 14 Sin must not be your master; for you do not live under law but under God's grace. 15 What, then? Shall we sin, because we are not under law but under God's grace? By no means! 16 Surely you know that when you surrender yourselves as slaves to obey someone, you are in fact the slaves of the master you obey—either of sin, which results in death, or of obedience, which results in being put right with God. 17 But thanks be to God! For though at one time you were slaves to sin, you have obeyed with all your heart the truths found in the teaching you received. 18 You were set free from sin and became the slaves of righteousness. 19 (I use everyday language because of the weakness of your natural selves.) At one time you surrendered yourselves entirely as slaves to impurity and wickedness for wicked purposes. In the same way you must now surrender yourselves entirely as slaves of righteousness for holy purposes. 20 When you were the slaves of sin, you were free from righteousness. 21 What did you gain from doing the things that you are now ashamed of The result of those things is death! 22 But now you have been set free from sin and are the slaves of God. Your gain is a life fully dedicated to him, and the result is eternal life. 23 For sin pays its wage—death; but God's free gift is eternal life in union with Christ Jesus our Lord. Reflect The opening rhetorical question (verse 1) is in response to Romans 5:20 (see yesterday’s reading). Verse 15 is a similar rhetorical question. What does Paul say in verse 2? What does living a new life mean to you? Why does Paul exhort us to become “slaves of righteousness”? Pray Holy God, I surrender myself to your will in order that I might become a slave of righteousness for holy purposes. You have set me free from sin, and I dedicate my life to you. In your holy name I pray. Amen. Prayer Concern Those burdened by the weight of sin Tomorrow's Reading Romans 15:1-21: The apostle Paul encourages the followers to have the same point of view among themselves. 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 April 12, 2012 Author Members Posted April 12, 2012 April 11, 2012 Romans 15:1-21 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction Romans 15:1-21: Paul encourages the followers not to please themselves but to act in ways that edify the community of believers. He explains that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles. Chapter 15 begins the conclusion of Paul’s letter, and he describes his work as a missionary and tells of his plans to visit the followers in Rome. Today’s Scripture: Romans 15:13 May God, the source of hope, fill you with all joy and peace by means of your faith in him, so that your hope will continue to grow by the power of the Holy Spirit. Today’s Reading 1 We who are strong in the faith ought to help the weak to carry their burdens. We should not please ourselves. 2 Instead, we should all please other believers for their own good, in order to build them up in the faith. 3 For Christ did not please himself. Instead, as the scripture says, “The insults which are hurled at you have fallen on me.” 4 Everything written in the Scriptures was written to teach us, in order that we might have hope through the patience and encouragement which the Scriptures give us. 5 And may God, the source of patience and encouragement, enable you to have the same point of view among yourselves by following the example of Christ Jesus, 6 so that all of you together may praise with one voice the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Accept one another, then, for the glory of God, as Christ has accepted you. 8 For I tell you that Christ's life of service was on behalf of the Jews, to show that God is faithful, to make his promises to their ancestors come true, 9 and to enable even the Gentiles to praise God for his mercy. As the scripture says, “And so I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing praises to you.” 10 Again it says, “Rejoice, Gentiles, with God's people!” 11 And again, “Praise the Lord, all Gentiles; praise him, all peoples!” 12 And again, Isaiah says, “A descendant of Jesse will appear; he will come to rule the Gentiles, and they will put their hope in him.” 13 May God, the source of hope, fill you with all joy and peace by means of your faith in him, so that your hope will continue to grow by the power of the Holy Spirit. 14 My friends: I myself feel sure that you are full of goodness, that you have all knowledge, and that you are able to teach one another. 15 But in this letter I have been quite bold about certain subjects of which I have reminded you. I have been bold because of the privilege God has given me 16 of being a servant of Christ Jesus to work for the Gentiles. I serve like a priest in preaching the Good News from God, in order that the Gentiles may be an offering acceptable to God, dedicated to him by the Holy Spirit. 17 In union with Christ Jesus, then, I can be proud of my service for God. 18 I will be bold and speak only about what Christ has done through me to lead the Gentiles to obey God. He has done this by means of words and deeds, 19 by the power of miracles and wonders, and by the power of the Spirit of God. And so, in traveling all the way from Jerusalem to Illyricum, I have proclaimed fully the Good News about Christ. 20 My ambition has always been to proclaim the Good News in places where Christ has not been heard of, so as not to build on a foundation laid by someone else. 21 As the scripture says, “Those who were not told about him will see, and those who have not heard will understand.” Reflect What words of encouragement does Paul give the believers in Rome? Why is building up one another in faith important to Paul? In what ways does your community of faith build up one another? What words of encouragement and hope can you bring to someone today? Pray God of hope and love, teach me day by day what is written in the Scriptures. Grant me patience to study your word, and fill me with joy and peace so that, by the power of your Holy Spirit, I continue to grow in faith. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are without hope. Tomorrow's Reading 1 Corinthians 15:1-34: The apostle Paul discusses the meaning of Christ’s victory over death. 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 April 13, 2012 Author Members Posted April 13, 2012 April 12, 2012 1 Corinthians 15:1-34 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction 1 Corinthians 15:1-34: Today we begin reading excerpts from the apostle Paul’s first letter to the people of Corinth. In this passage, Paul gives his most detailed teaching about the Christian hope for life after death. He says that God’s people will be raised to new life, just as God raised Jesus from death, and that our earthly bodies will be changed into eternal or spiritual bodies. Today’s Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:22 For just as all people die because of their union with Adam, in the same way all will be raised to life because of their union with Christ. Today’s Reading 1 And now I want to remind you, my friends, of the Good News which I preached to you, which you received, and on which your faith stands firm. 2 That is the gospel, the message that I preached to you. You are saved by the gospel if you hold firmly to it—unless it was for nothing that you believed. 3 I passed on to you what I received, which is of the greatest importance: that Christ died for our sins, as written in the Scriptures; 4 that he was buried and that he was raised to life three days later, as written in the Scriptures; 5 that he appeared to Peter and then to all twelve apostles. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred of his followers at once, most of whom are still alive, although some have died. 7 Then he appeared to James, and afterward to all the apostles. 8 Last of all he appeared also to me—even though I am like someone whose birth was abnormal. 9 For I am the least of all the apostles—I do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted God's church. 10 But by God's grace I am what I am, and the grace that he gave me was not without effect. On the contrary, I have worked harder than any of the other apostles, although it was not really my own doing, but God's grace working with me. 11 So then, whether it came from me or from them, this is what we all preach, and this is what you believe. 12 Now, since our message is that Christ has been raised from death, how can some of you say that the dead will not be raised to life? 13 If that is true, it means that Christ was not raised; 14 and if Christ has not been raised from death, then we have nothing to preach and you have nothing to believe. 15 More than that, we are shown to be lying about God, because we said that he raised Christ from death—but if it is true that the dead are not raised to life, then he did not raise Christ. 16 For if the dead are not raised, neither has Christ been raised. 17 And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is a delusion and you are still lost in your sins. 18 It would also mean that the believers in Christ who have died are lost. 19 If our hope in Christ is good for this life only and no more, then we deserve more pity than anyone else in all the world. 20 But the truth is that Christ has been raised from death, as the guarantee that those who sleep in death will also be raised. 21 For just as death came by means of a man, in the same way the rising from death comes by means of a man. 22 For just as all people die because of their union with Adam, in the same way all will be raised to life because of their union with Christ. 23 But each one will be raised in proper order: Christ, first of all; then, at the time of his coming, those who belong to him. 24 Then the end will come; Christ will overcome all spiritual rulers, authorities, and powers, and will hand over the Kingdom to God the Father. 25 For Christ must rule until God defeats all enemies and puts them under his feet. 26 The last enemy to be defeated will be death. 27 For the scripture says, “God put all things under his feet. ” It is clear, of course, that the words “all things” do not include God himself, who puts all things under Christ. 28 But when all things have been placed under Christ's rule, then he himself, the Son, will place himself under God, who placed all things under him; and God will rule completely over all. 29 Now, what about those people who are baptized for the dead? What do they hope to accomplish? If it is true, as some claim, that the dead are not raised to life, why are those people being baptized for the dead? 30 And as for us—why would we run the risk of danger every hour? 31 My friends, I face death every day! The pride I have in you, in our life in union with Christ Jesus our Lord, makes me declare this. 32 If I have, as it were, fought “wild beasts” here in Ephesus simply from human motives, what have I gained? But if the dead are not raised to life, then, as the saying goes, “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we will die.” 33 Do not be fooled. “Bad companions ruin good character.” 34 Come back to your right senses and stop your sinful ways. I declare to your shame that some of you do not know God. Reflect What is the message that Paul says has the power by which believers are “saved” (verse 2)? What would cause this message to be “for nothing”? How does Paul contrast Christ with Adam? Pray Lord Jesus, I choose to live in union with you. Make me ever mindful of your death and resurrection, trusting in your presence through my struggles and in your promise of new life. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are terminally ill Tomorrow's Reading 1 Corinthians 15:35-58: Paul discusses the resurrected and immortal body. 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 April 13, 2012 Author Members Posted April 13, 2012 April 13, 2012 1 Corinthians 15:35-58 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction 1 Corinthians 15:35-58: The Corinthians had sent a letter to Paul asking him a number of questions. In this passage, Paul responds to the questions, “How can the dead be raised to life? What kind of body will they have?” (15:35). Today’s Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:52b For when the trumpet sounds, the dead will be raised, never to die again, and we shall all be changed. Today’s Reading 35 Someone will ask, “How can the dead be raised to life? What kind of body will they have?” 36 You fool! When you plant a seed in the ground, it does not sprout to life unless it dies. 37 And what you plant is a bare seed, perhaps a grain of wheat or some other grain, not the full-bodied plant that will later grow up. 38 God provides that seed with the body he wishes; he gives each seed its own proper body. 39 And the flesh of living beings is not all the same kind of flesh; human beings have one kind of flesh, animals another, birds another, and fish another. 40 And there are heavenly bodies and earthly bodies; the beauty that belongs to heavenly bodies is different from the beauty that belongs to earthly bodies. 41 The sun has its own beauty, the moon another beauty, and the stars a different beauty; and even among stars there are different kinds of beauty. 42 This is how it will be when the dead are raised to life. When the body is buried, it is mortal; when raised, it will be immortal. 43 When buried, it is ugly and weak; when raised, it will be beautiful and strong. 44 When buried, it is a physical body; when raised, it will be a spiritual body. There is, of course, a physical body, so there has to be a spiritual body. 45 For the scripture says, “The first man, Adam, was created a living being”; but the last Adam is the life-giving Spirit. 46 It is not the spiritual that comes first, but the physical, and then the spiritual. 47 The first Adam, made of earth, came from the earth; the second Adam came from heaven. 48 Those who belong to the earth are like the one who was made of earth; those who are of heaven are like the one who came from heaven. 49 Just as we wear the likeness of the man made of earth, so we will wear the likeness of the Man from heaven. 50 What I mean, friends, is that what is made of flesh and blood cannot share in God's Kingdom, and what is mortal cannot possess immortality. 51-52 Listen to this secret truth: we shall not all die, but when the last trumpet sounds, we shall all be changed in an instant, as quickly as the blinking of an eye. For when the trumpet sounds, the dead will be raised, never to die again, and we shall all be changed. 53 For what is mortal must be changed into what is immortal; what will die must be changed into what cannot die. 54 So when this takes place, and the mortal has been changed into the immortal, then the scripture will come true: “Death is destroyed; victory is complete!” 55 “Where, Death, is your victory? Where, Death, is your power to hurt?” 56 Death gets its power to hurt from sin, and sin gets its power from the Law. 57 But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ! 58 So then, my dear friends, stand firm and steady. Keep busy always in your work for the Lord, since you know that nothing you do in the Lord's service is ever useless. Reflect Paul teaches that those who are raised to life from death will have a completely new body. How can the hope of being raised to new life with Christ and living with God forever make a difference for people living today? What is the victory that God has given us (verse 57)? Pray Holy God, we yearn to experience a taste of your realm here on earth, even as we look toward eternal life with you. May my words and actions this day help to bring a glimpse of heaven to this present world even as I wait for your future glory. Amen. Prayer Concern Those keeping vigil over a loved one Tomorrow's Reading 1 Peter 1:1-25: Christians are encouraged to be filled with a living hope. 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 April 14, 2012 Author Members Posted April 14, 2012 April 14, 2012 1 Peter 1:1-25 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction 1 Peter 1:1-25: This letter was most likely written to Christians scattered across northern Asia Minor. They are told that they may have to face suffering because of their faith. They are reminded that God has chosen them, and they are encouraged to live holy lives and to be filled with a living hope because of Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. Today’s Scripture: 1 Peter 1:3 Let us give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! Because of his great mercy he gave us new life by raising Jesus Christ from death. This fills us with a living hope. Today’s Reading 1 From Peter, apostle of Jesus Christ— To God's chosen people who live as refugees scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia. 2 You were chosen according to the purpose of God the Father and were made a holy people by his Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be purified by his blood. May grace and peace be yours in full measure. 3 Let us give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! Because of his great mercy he gave us new life by raising Jesus Christ from death. This fills us with a living hope, 4 and so we look forward to possessing the rich blessings that God keeps for his people. He keeps them for you in heaven, where they cannot decay or spoil or fade away. 5 They are for you, who through faith are kept safe by God's power for the salvation which is ready to be revealed at the end of time. 6 Be glad about this, even though it may now be necessary for you to be sad for a while because of the many kinds of trials you suffer. 7 Their purpose is to prove that your faith is genuine. Even gold, which can be destroyed, is tested by fire; and so your faith, which is much more precious than gold, must also be tested, so that it may endure. Then you will receive praise and glory and honor on the Day when Jesus Christ is revealed. 8 You love him, although you have not seen him, and you believe in him, although you do not now see him. So you rejoice with a great and glorious joy which words cannot express, 9 because you are receiving the salvation of your souls, which is the purpose of your faith in him. 10 It was concerning this salvation that the prophets made careful search and investigation, and they prophesied about this gift which God would give you. 11 They tried to find out when the time would be and how it would come. This was the time to which Christ's Spirit in them was pointing, in predicting the sufferings that Christ would have to endure and the glory that would follow. 12 God revealed to these prophets that their work was not for their own benefit, but for yours, as they spoke about those things which you have now heard from the messengers who announced the Good News by the power of the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. These are things which even the angels would like to understand. 13 So then, have your minds ready for action. Keep alert and set your hope completely on the blessing which will be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. 14 Be obedient to God, and do not allow your lives to be shaped by those desires you had when you were still ignorant. 15 Instead, be holy in all that you do, just as God who called you is holy. 16 The scripture says, “Be holy because I am holy.” 17 You call him Father, when you pray to God, who judges all people by the same standard, according to what each one has done; so then, spend the rest of your lives here on earth in reverence for him. 18 For you know what was paid to set you free from the worthless manner of life handed down by your ancestors. It was not something that can be destroyed, such as silver or gold; 19 it was the costly sacrifice of Christ, who was like a lamb without defect or flaw. 20 He had been chosen by God before the creation of the world and was revealed in these last days for your sake. 21 Through him you believe in God, who raised him from death and gave him glory; and so your faith and hope are fixed on God. 22 Now that by your obedience to the truth you have purified yourselves and have come to have a sincere love for other believers, love one another earnestly with all your heart. 23 For through the living and eternal word of God you have been born again as the children of a parent who is immortal, not mortal. 24 As the scripture says, “All human beings are like grass, and all their glory is like wild flowers. The grass withers, and the flowers fall, 25 but the word of the Lord remains forever.” Reflect This passage offers assurance of God’s saving love and encourages believers to live as God’s holy people, even in the face of suffering. Are there situations that make it difficult for you to live faithfully? How does suffering impact your faith? How does God provide you with hope in times of trial? Pray Holy, gracious, and merciful God, even in times of challenge and suffering, you call me to live as your faithful disciple. Fill me with a living hope and strengthen my spirit, O Lord, that I may ever trust in you and proclaim the Good News of your love and salvation. Amen. Prayer Concern Those facing religious persecution Tomorrow's Reading 1 Peter 2:1-25: God’s people are called to be “living stones” and a holy nation. 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 April 15, 2012 Author Members Posted April 15, 2012 April 15, 2012 1 Peter 2:1-25 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction 1 Peter 2:1-25: As “living stones,” the new people of God are not only God’s temple, but also the priests who serve in the temple offering spiritual sacrifices to God. The people are called to obey human authority, relying on God’s promises in times of suffering. Today’s Scripture: 1 Peter 2:9 You are the chosen race, the King’s priests, the holy nation, God’s own people, chosen to proclaim the wonderful acts of God, who called you out of darkness into his own marvelous light. Today’s Reading 1 Rid yourselves, then, of all evil; no more lying or hypocrisy or jealousy or insulting language. 2 Be like newborn babies, always thirsty for the pure spiritual milk, so that by drinking it you may grow up and be saved. 3 As the scripture says, “You have found out for yourselves how kind the Lord is.” 4 Come to the Lord, the living stone rejected by people as worthless but chosen by God as valuable. 5 Come as living stones, and let yourselves be used in building the spiritual temple, where you will serve as holy priests to offer spiritual and acceptable sacrifices to God through Jesus Christ. 6 For the scripture says, “I chose a valuable stone, which I am placing as the cornerstone in Zion; and whoever believes in him will never be disappointed.” 7 This stone is of great value for you that believe; but for those who do not believe: “The stone which the builders rejected as worthless turned out to be the most important of all.” 8 And another scripture says, “This is the stone that will make people stumble, the rock that will make them fall.” 9 But you are the chosen race, the King's priests, the holy nation, God's own people, chosen to proclaim the wonderful acts of God, who called you out of darkness into his own marvelous light. 10 At one time you were not God's people, but now you are his people; at one time you did not know God's mercy, but now you have received his mercy. 11 I appeal to you, my friends, as strangers and refugees in this world! Do not give in to bodily passions, which are always at war against the soul. 12 Your conduct among the heathen should be so good that when they accuse you of being evildoers, they will have to recognize your good deeds and so praise God on the Day of his coming. 13 For the sake of the Lord submit yourselves to every human authority: to the Emperor, who is the supreme authority, 14 and to the governors, who have been appointed by him to punish the evildoers and to praise those who do good. 15 For God wants you to silence the ignorant talk of foolish people by the good things you do. 16 Live as free people; do not, however, use your freedom to cover up any evil, but live as God's slaves. 17 Respect everyone, love other believers, honor God, and respect the Emperor. 18 You servants must submit yourselves to your masters and show them complete respect, not only to those who are kind and considerate, but also to those who are harsh. 19 God will bless you for this, if you endure the pain of undeserved suffering because you are conscious of his will. 20 For what credit is there if you endure the beatings you deserve for having done wrong? But if you endure suffering even when you have done right, God will bless you for it. 21 It was to this that God called you, for Christ himself suffered for you and left you an example, so that you would follow in his steps. 22 He committed no sin, and no one ever heard a lie come from his lips. 23 When he was insulted, he did not answer back with an insult; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but placed his hopes in God, the righteous Judge. 24 Christ himself carried our sins in his body to the cross, so that we might die to sin and live for righteousness. It is by his wounds that you have been healed. 25 You were like sheep that had lost their way, but now you have been brought back to follow the Shepherd and Keeper of your souls. Reflect This passage was written in the context of the Roman Empire. In the midst of a non-Christian environment, Christians were advised to live a life of holiness, to obey the local authorities, and to be good neighbors. Are there times when a situation calls for protesting against authority? How do you deal with authority that causes injustice? What does it mean to you to be a “living stone”? Pray Lord God, Shepherd and Keeper of my soul, you have called me to become a living stone, building the spiritual temple. You have called me out of darkness into your own marvelous light. Lord Jesus, teach me to follow in your footsteps and to live for righteousness. Amen. Prayer Concern Construction workers Tomorrow's Reading 1 Peter 3:1-22: Christians are commended when called upon to suffer for doing what is right. 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 April 17, 2012 Author Members Posted April 17, 2012 April 16, 2012 1 Peter 3:1-22 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction 1 Peter 3:1-22: Followers are told to observe common cultural conventions of the time regarding marriage. Wives are to submit to their husbands so that their conduct will bring about a conversion among husbands who are not believers, and husbands are instructed to treat their wives with respect. The entire community of believers is given words of encouragement during times of suffering for doing what is right. Today’s Scripture: 1 Peter 3:15, 16a Have reverence for Christ in your hearts, and honor him as Lord. Be ready at all times to answer anyone who asks you to explain the hope you have in you, but do it with gentleness and respect. Today’s Reading 1 In the same way you wives must submit yourselves to your husbands, so that if any of them do not believe God's word, your conduct will win them over to believe. It will not be necessary for you to say a word, 2 because they will see how pure and reverent your conduct is. 3 You should not use outward aids to make yourselves beautiful, such as the way you fix your hair, or the jewelry you put on, or the dresses you wear. 4 Instead, your beauty should consist of your true inner self, the ageless beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of the greatest value in God's sight. 5 For the devout women of the past who placed their hope in God used to make themselves beautiful by submitting themselves to their husbands. 6 Sarah was like that; she obeyed Abraham and called him her master. You are now her daughters if you do good and are not afraid of anything. 7 In the same way you husbands must live with your wives with the proper understanding that they are more delicate than you. Treat them with respect, because they also will receive, together with you, God's gift of life. Do this so that nothing will interfere with your prayers. 8 To conclude: you must all have the same attitude and the same feelings; love one another, and be kind and humble with one another. 9 Do not pay back evil with evil or cursing with cursing; instead, pay back with a blessing, because a blessing is what God promised to give you when he called you. 10 As the scripture says, “If you want to enjoy life and wish to see good times, you must keep from speaking evil and stop telling lies. 11 You must turn away from evil and do good; you must strive for peace with all your heart. 12 For the Lord watches over the righteous and listens to their prayers; but he opposes those who do evil.” 13 Who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for doing what is right, how happy you are! Do not be afraid of anyone, and do not worry. 15 But have reverence for Christ in your hearts, and honor him as Lord. Be ready at all times to answer anyone who asks you to explain the hope you have in you, 16 but do it with gentleness and respect. Keep your conscience clear, so that when you are insulted, those who speak evil of your good conduct as followers of Christ will become ashamed of what they say. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if this should be God's will, than for doing evil. 18 For Christ died for sins once and for all, a good man on behalf of sinners, in order to lead you to God. He was put to death physically, but made alive spiritually, 19 and in his spiritual existence he went and preached to the imprisoned spirits. 20 These were the spirits of those who had not obeyed God when he waited patiently during the days that Noah was building his boat. The few people in the boat—eight in all—were saved by the water, 21 which was a symbol pointing to baptism, which now saves you. It is not the washing off of bodily dirt, but the promise made to God from a good conscience. It saves you through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone to heaven and is at the right side of God, ruling over all angels and heavenly authorities and powers. Reflect Most likely the suffering referred to in today’s reading pertains to some type of harassment the Christian community may have had to endure because they were looked upon with suspicion and hostility because of their faith practices. Have you ever had to bear witness to your faith in the midst of a hostile environment? In what ways can you prepare yourself to be ready “to answer anyone who asks you to explain the hope you have in you”? Pray Holy God, nurture me each day with your word so that I will always be ready to explain the hope that is in me and to proclaim the good news of your love and salvation. Teach me to do so with gentleness and respect so that my words bring glory to you. Bind all people together as one in the body of Christ. Amen. Prayer Concern Schoolchildren who are being bullied Tomorrow's Reading 1 Peter 4:1-19: Christians are called upon to be good managers of God’s 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 April 17, 2012 Author Members Posted April 17, 2012 April 17, 2012 1 Peter 4:1-19 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction 1 Peter 4:1-19: Christians are called to live their lives controlled by God’s will. Being faithful to Christ means using God’s gifts to serve others, and each person is equipped with gifts to serve. Suffering as a Christian may be a painful test, but followers are exhorted to be glad that they are sharing Christ’s sufferings. Today’s Scripture: 1 Peter 4:14 Happy are you if you are insulted because you are Christ’s followers; this means that the glorious Spirit, the Spirit of God, is resting on you. Today’s Reading 1 Since Christ suffered physically, you too must strengthen yourselves with the same way of thinking that he had; because whoever suffers physically is no longer involved with sin. 2 From now on, then, you must live the rest of your earthly lives controlled by God's will and not by human desires. 3 You have spent enough time in the past doing what the heathen like to do. Your lives were spent in indecency, lust, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and the disgusting worship of idols. 4 And now the heathen are surprised when you do not join them in the same wild and reckless living, and so they insult you. 5 But they will have to give an account of themselves to God, who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 That is why the Good News was preached also to the dead, to those who had been judged in their physical existence as everyone is judged; it was preached to them so that in their spiritual existence they may live as God lives. 7 The end of all things is near. You must be self-controlled and alert, to be able to pray. 8 Above everything, love one another earnestly, because love covers over many sins. 9 Open your homes to each other without complaining. 10 Each one, as a good manager of God's different gifts, must use for the good of others the special gift he has received from God. 11 Those who preach must preach God's messages; those who serve must serve with the strength that God gives them, so that in all things praise may be given to God through Jesus Christ, to whom belong glory and power forever and ever. Amen. 12 My dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful test you are suffering, as though something unusual were happening to you. 13 Rather be glad that you are sharing Christ's sufferings, so that you may be full of joy when his glory is revealed. 14 Happy are you if you are insulted because you are Christ's followers; this means that the glorious Spirit, the Spirit of God, is resting on you. 15 If you suffer, it must not be because you are a murderer or a thief or a criminal or a meddler in other people's affairs. 16 However, if you suffer because you are a Christian, don't be ashamed of it, but thank God that you bear Christ's name. 17 The time has come for judgment to begin, and God's own people are the first to be judged. If it starts with us, how will it end with those who do not believe the Good News from God? 18 As the scripture says, “It is difficult for good people to be saved; what, then, will become of godless sinners?” 19 So then, those who suffer because it is God's will for them, should by their good actions trust themselves completely to their Creator, who always keeps his promise. Reflect Is there a special gift you have received from God? In what ways is your gift (or gifts) used for the good of others? Reread verses 12-16. Have you ever experienced suffering because of your faith? What words of encouragement can you find in these verses? Pray Lord God, teach me to share my gifts with others in order to build up the body of Christ and glorify you. In times of testing, embolden me with confidence in your care and ultimate love. Grant me wisdom and hope in times of suffering, that I may grow strong in you. Amen. Prayer Concern Houses of worship that have become targets of vandalism Tomorrow's Reading 1 Peter 5:1-14: Church leaders are to be like shepherds and serve as examples to their flocks. 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 April 18, 2012 Author Members Posted April 18, 2012 April 18, 2012 1 Peter 5:1-14 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction 1 Peter 5:1-14: Church leaders are encouraged to be like shepherds watching over their sheep (the people of God) until Christ, the Chief Shepherd, returns. They should do this willingly, not out of obligation, but out of joyful service to God. Today’s Scripture: 1 Peter 5:4 When the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the glorious crown which will never lose its brightness. Today’s Reading 1 I, who am an elder myself, appeal to the church elders among you. I am a witness of Christ's sufferings, and I will share in the glory that will be revealed. I appeal to you 2 to be shepherds of the flock that God gave you and to take care of it willingly, as God wants you to, and not unwillingly. Do your work, not for mere pay, but from a real desire to serve. 3 Do not try to rule over those who have been put in your care, but be examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the glorious crown which will never lose its brightness. 5 In the same way you younger people must submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you must put on the apron of humility, to serve one another; for the scripture says, “God resists the proud, but shows favor to the humble.” 6 Humble yourselves, then, under God's mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. 7 Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you. 8 Be alert, be on watch! Your enemy, the Devil, roams around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 9 Be firm in your faith and resist him, because you know that other believers in all the world are going through the same kind of sufferings. 10 But after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who calls you to share his eternal glory in union with Christ, will himself perfect you and give you firmness, strength, and a sure foundation. 11 To him be the power forever! Amen. 12 I write you this brief letter with the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful Christian. I want to encourage you and give my testimony that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. 13 Your sister church in Babylon, also chosen by God, sends you greetings, and so does my son Mark. 14 Greet one another with the kiss of Christian love. May peace be with all of you who belong to Christ. Reflect In Jesus’ day, life was often difficult for shepherds. They spent most of their time outside watching over the herds, and often slept near their flocks to protect them from robbers and wild animals. Jesus identified with shepherds even though many looked down on them. How are church leaders like shepherds? What are the challenges of church leadership today? Pray Lord Jesus, our Great Shepherd, you call forth leaders to guide your church. Empower your leaders today, that they may be like shepherds, watching over your people and leading them home. Grant them wisdom and strength for their work, and bless their homes and families. Amen. Prayer Concern Church leaders Tomorrow's Reading 2 Peter 1:1-21: God’s divine power gives us everything we need. 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 April 19, 2012 Author Members Posted April 19, 2012 April 19, 2012 2 Peter 1:1-21 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction 2 Peter 1:1-21: This letter begins with a greeting to an unknown group of Christians. They are told to live in a way that pleases God, improving their faith by cultivating goodness, knowledge, self-control, endurance, and godliness. Today’s Scripture: 2 Peter 1:3 God’s divine power has given us everything we need to live a truly religious life through our knowledge of the one who called us to share in his own glory and goodness. Today’s Reading 1 From Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ— To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have been given a faith as precious as ours: 2 May grace and peace be yours in full measure through your knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 3 God's divine power has given us everything we need to live a truly religious life through our knowledge of the one who called us to share in his own glory and goodness. 4 In this way he has given us the very great and precious gifts he promised, so that by means of these gifts you may escape from the destructive lust that is in the world, and may come to share the divine nature. 5 For this very reason do your best to add goodness to your faith; to your goodness add knowledge; 6 to your knowledge add self-control; to your self-control add endurance; to your endurance add godliness; 7 to your godliness add Christian affection; and to your Christian affection add love. 8 These are the qualities you need, and if you have them in abundance, they will make you active and effective in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But if you do not have them, you are so shortsighted that you cannot see and have forgotten that you have been purified from your past sins. 10 So then, my friends, try even harder to make God's call and his choice of you a permanent experience; if you do so, you will never abandon your faith. 11 In this way you will be given the full right to enter the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 12 And so I will always remind you of these matters, even though you already know them and are firmly grounded in the truth you have received. 13 I think it only right for me to stir up your memory of these matters as long as I am still alive. 14 I know that I shall soon put off this mortal body, as our Lord Jesus Christ plainly told me. 15 I will do my best, then, to provide a way for you to remember these matters at all times after my death. 16 We have not depended on made-up stories in making known to you the mighty coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. With our own eyes we saw his greatness. 17 We were there when he was given honor and glory by God the Father, when the voice came to him from the Supreme Glory, saying, “This is my own dear Son, with whom I am pleased!” 18 We ourselves heard this voice coming from heaven, when we were with him on the holy mountain. 19 So we are even more confident of the message proclaimed by the prophets. You will do well to pay attention to it, because it is like a lamp shining in a dark place until the Day dawns and the light of the morning star shines in your hearts. 20 Above all else, however, remember that none of us can explain by ourselves a prophecy in the Scriptures. 21 For no prophetic message ever came just from the human will, but people were under the control of the Holy Spirit as they spoke the message that came from God. Reflect The Christian community is told that becoming one with God’s nature will help Jesus’ followers escape their old evil desires and the corrupt influences of the world. Here, acting in faith means doing things that show oneness with God. How can changing your behavior actually change the things you want? What spiritual disciplines, like prayer, study, fasting and attending retreats, might help you in experiencing oneness with God? Pray Lord God, in your divine power you have given me everything I need to live a life grounded in knowledge of you. Help me to grow strong in faith, and hold me firm to the truth you have shared with me—the glory and hope of Jesus Christ. Make me one with you in faith. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. Prayer Concern Spiritual retreat leaders Tomorrow's Reading 2 Peter 2:1-22: Followers are warned about false teachers. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 21, 2012 Author Members Posted April 21, 2012 April 20, 2012 2 Peter 2:1-22 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction 2 Peter 2:1-22: Christians are warned to be on guard against false teachers, against whom harsh words are directed. Today’s reading includes examples from the past of how evil was punished and how God saved those who were faithful. Today’s Scripture: 2 Peter 2:9 And so the Lord knows how to rescue godly people from their trials and how to keep the wicked under punishment for the Day of Judgment. Today’s Reading 1 False prophets appeared in the past among the people, and in the same way false teachers will appear among you. They will bring in destructive, untrue doctrines, and will deny the Master who redeemed them, and so they will bring upon themselves sudden destruction. 2 Even so, many will follow their immoral ways; and because of what they do, others will speak evil of the Way of truth. 3 In their greed these false teachers will make a profit out of telling you made-up stories. For a long time now their Judge has been ready, and their Destroyer has been wide awake! 4 God did not spare the angels who sinned, but threw them into hell, where they are kept chained in darkness, waiting for the Day of Judgment. 5 God did not spare the ancient world, but brought the flood on the world of godless people; the only ones he saved were Noah, who preached righteousness, and seven other people. 6 God condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, destroying them with fire, and made them an example of what will happen to the godless. 7 He rescued Lot, a good man, who was distressed by the immoral conduct of lawless people. 8 That good man lived among them, and day after day he suffered agony as he saw and heard their evil actions. 9 And so the Lord knows how to rescue godly people from their trials and how to keep the wicked under punishment for the Day of Judgment, 10 especially those who follow their filthy bodily lusts and despise God's authority. These false teachers are bold and arrogant, and show no respect for the glorious beings above; instead, they insult them. 11 Even the angels, who are so much stronger and mightier than these false teachers, do not accuse them with insults in the presence of the Lord. 12 But these people act by instinct, like wild animals born to be captured and killed; they attack with insults anything they do not understand. They will be destroyed like wild animals, 13 and they will be paid with suffering for the suffering they have caused. Pleasure for them is to do anything in broad daylight that will satisfy their bodily appetites; they are a shame and a disgrace as they join you in your meals, all the while enjoying their deceitful ways! 14 They want to look for nothing but the chance to commit adultery; their appetite for sin is never satisfied. They lead weak people into a trap. Their hearts are trained to be greedy. They are under God's curse! 15 They have left the straight path and have lost their way; they have followed the path taken by Balaam son of Beor, who loved the money he would get for doing wrong 16 and was rebuked for his sin. His donkey spoke with a human voice and stopped the prophet's insane action. 17 These people are like dried-up springs, like clouds blown along by a storm; God has reserved a place for them in the deepest darkness. 18 They make proud and stupid statements, and use immoral bodily lusts to trap those who are just beginning to escape from among people who live in error. 19 They promise them freedom while they themselves are slaves of destructive habits—for we are slaves of anything that has conquered us. 20 If people have escaped from the corrupting forces of the world through their knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and then are again caught and conquered by them, such people are in worse condition at the end than they were at the beginning. 21 It would have been much better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than to know it and then turn away from the sacred command that was given them. 22 What happened to them shows that the proverbs are true: “A dog goes back to what it has vomited” and “A pig that has been washed goes back to roll in the mud.” Reflect Chapter 1 of 2 Peter ended with the writer stating that true prophetic messages that come from God are spoken by those who are under the control of the Holy Spirit. How are the false prophets and teachers described here in chapter 2? Reread verses 20-22. What is your reaction to what is being said about those who learned the “way of righteousness” but turned away from what they were taught? Pray Lord Jesus, help me to always discern and heed your voice so that I am not led astray by those who distort your teachings. Keep me strong in faith and guided by your word of truth. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are misled by false teachings Tomorrow's Reading 2 Peter 3:1-18: The Lord’s return 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 April 21, 2012 Author Members Posted April 21, 2012 April 21, 2012 2 Peter 3:1-18 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction 2 Peter 3:1-18: The final chapter of 2 Peter focuses on the day of Christ’s return. Followers of Christ should not be upset by people who make fun of them because Christ hasn’t yet returned. Rather, they should stay strong in faith, awaiting the new heaven and new earth God promises. Today’s Scripture: 2 Peter 3:13 We wait for what God has promised: new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness will be at home. Today’s Reading 1 My dear friends, this is now the second letter I have written you. In both letters I have tried to arouse pure thoughts in your minds by reminding you of these things. 2 I want you to remember the words that were spoken long ago by the holy prophets, and the command from the Lord and Savior which was given you by your apostles. 3 First of all, you must understand that in the last days some people will appear whose lives are controlled by their own lusts. They will make fun of you 4 and will ask, “He promised to come, didn't he? Where is he? Our ancestors have already died, but everything is still the same as it was since the creation of the world!” 5 They purposely ignore the fact that long ago God gave a command, and the heavens and earth were created. The earth was formed out of water and by water, 6 and it was also by water, the water of the flood, that the old world was destroyed. 7 But the heavens and the earth that now exist are being preserved by the same command of God, in order to be destroyed by fire. They are being kept for the day when godless people will be judged and destroyed. 8 But do not forget one thing, my dear friends! There is no difference in the Lord's sight between one day and a thousand years; to him the two are the same. 9 The Lord is not slow to do what he has promised, as some think. Instead, he is patient with you, because he does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants all to turn away from their sins. 10 But the Day of the Lord will come like a thief. On that Day the heavens will disappear with a shrill noise, the heavenly bodies will burn up and be destroyed, and the earth with everything in it will vanish. 11 Since all these things will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people should you be? Your lives should be holy and dedicated to God, 12 as you wait for the Day of God and do your best to make it come soon—the Day when the heavens will burn up and be destroyed, and the heavenly bodies will be melted by the heat. 13 But we wait for what God has promised: new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness will be at home. 14 And so, my friends, as you wait for that Day, do your best to be pure and faultless in God's sight and to be at peace with him. 15 Look on our Lord's patience as the opportunity he is giving you to be saved, just as our dear friend Paul wrote to you, using the wisdom that God gave him. 16 This is what he says in all his letters when he writes on the subject. There are some difficult things in his letters which ignorant and unstable people explain falsely, as they do with other passages of the Scriptures. So they bring on their own destruction. 17 But you, my friends, already know this. Be on your guard, then, so that you will not be led away by the errors of lawless people and fall from your safe position. 18 But continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory, now and forever! Amen. Reflect Today’s reading emphasizes the importance of patiently waiting for the Lord’s return and not losing hope. At the time of this letter, many had thought Christ would have already returned. According to the letter, what will the day of the Lord’s return be like? How are followers of Christ to act as they wait for his return? Pray Lord God, you are the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. Though I know not when you will return, you call me and all people of faith to help people experience a glimpse of your realm by extending your love and grace throughout your whole creation. Help me to grow in the knowledge of your Son, Jesus Christ. To him be the glory now and forever! Amen. Prayer Concern Those experiencing anxiety Tomorrow's Reading Revelation 1:1-20: John of Patmos has a vision of the risen Christ. 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 April 22, 2012 Author Members Posted April 22, 2012 April 22, 2012 Revelation 1:1-20 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction Revelation 1:1-20: For the remainder of this month we will be reading from the book of Revelation, also known as the Revelation to John. It was written at a time when Christians were being persecuted because of their faith in Jesus Christ as Lord. The writer’s main concern is to give his readers hope and encouragement and to urge them to remain faithful during times of suffering and persecution. 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 the world will end. In today’s reading, the writer tells how he received a message from an angel sent by Christ, and he describes his vision of the risen Christ. Today’s Scripture: Revelation 1:8 “I am the first and the last,” says the Lord God Almighty, who is, who was, and who is to come. Today’s Reading 1 This book is the record of the events that Jesus Christ revealed. God gave him this revelation in order to show to his servants what must happen very soon. Christ made these things known to his servant John by sending his angel to him, 2 and John has told all that he has seen. This is his report concerning the message from God and the truth revealed by Jesus Christ. 3 Happy is the one who reads this book, and happy are those who listen to the words of this prophetic message and obey what is written in this book! For the time is near when all these things will happen. 4 From John to the seven churches in the province of Asia: Grace and peace be yours from God, who is, who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits in front of his throne, 5 and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the first to be raised from death and who is also the ruler of the kings of the world. He loves us, and by his sacrificial death he has freed us from our sins 6 and made us a kingdom of priests to serve his God and Father. To Jesus Christ be the glory and power forever and ever! Amen. 7 Look, he is coming on the clouds! Everyone will see him, including those who pierced him. All peoples on earth will mourn over him. So shall it be! 8 “I am the first and the last,” says the Lord God Almighty, who is, who was, and who is to come. 9 I am John, your brother, and as a follower of Jesus I am your partner in patiently enduring the suffering that comes to those who belong to his Kingdom. I was put on the island of Patmos because I had proclaimed God's word and the truth that Jesus revealed. 10 On the Lord's day the Spirit took control of me, and I heard a loud voice, that sounded like a trumpet, speaking behind me. 11 It said, “Write down what you see, and send the book to the churches in these seven cities: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.” 12 I turned around to see who was talking to me, and I saw seven gold lampstands, 13 and among them there was what looked like a human being, wearing a robe that reached to his feet, and a gold band around his chest. 14 His hair was white as wool, or as snow, and his eyes blazed like fire; 15 his feet shone like brass that has been refined and polished, and his voice sounded like a roaring waterfall. 16 He held seven stars in his right hand, and a sharp two-edged sword came out of his mouth. His face was as bright as the midday sun. 17 When I saw him, I fell down at his feet like a dead man. He placed his right hand on me and said, “Don't be afraid! I am the first and the last. 18 I am the living one! I was dead, but now I am alive forever and ever. I have authority over death and the world of the dead. 19 Write, then, the things you see, both the things that are now and the things that will happen afterward. 20 Here is the secret meaning of the seven stars that you see in my right hand, and of the seven gold lampstands: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. Reflect John, the author of Revelation, wrote from the island of Patmos which was about 60 miles southwest of the mainland of Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). He was instructed to write to the churches in seven cities. Reread verses 4-8. What does John say about Jesus? In verses 4 and 8, God is referred to as the one “who is, who was, and who is to come.” What does this tell you about God? How does John describe his vision of Christ (verses 12-16)? The number seven appears frequently throughout Revelation. It is a number that represents completeness or perfection. How many times does the number seven appear in today’s reading? Pray Lord God Almighty, you are the first and the last. You are the God who is, who was, and who is to come. Glory be to you, O Lord, forever and forever. Amen. Prayer Concern Churches experiencing persecution Tomorrow's Reading Revelation 2:1-29: John writes a message to four churches in Asia Minor. 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 April 24, 2012 Author Members Posted April 24, 2012 April 23, 2012 Revelation 2:1-29 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction Revelation 2:1-29: In this chapter we read the messages that were written to the churches in Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira. The messages include words of encouragement along with words of reproval. The reference to Satan’s throne in the city of Pergamum (verse 13) was probably a way of saying that the city was a center for emperor worship. Today’s Scripture: Revelation 2:3 You are patient, you have suffered for my sake, and you have not given up. Today’s Reading 1 To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: This is the message from the one who holds the seven stars in his right hand and who walks among the seven gold lampstands. 2 I know what you have done; I know how hard you have worked and how patient you have been. I know that you cannot tolerate evil people and that you have tested those who say they are apostles but are not, and have found out that they are liars. 3 You are patient, you have suffered for my sake, and you have not given up. 4 But this is what I have against you: you do not love me now as you did at first. 5 Think how far you have fallen! Turn from your sins and do what you did at first. If you don't turn from your sins, I will come to you and take your lampstand from its place. 6 But this is what you have in your favor: you hate what the Nicolaitans do, as much as I do. 7 If you have ears, then, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches! To those who win the victory I will give the right to eat the fruit of the tree of life that grows in the Garden of God. 8 To the angel of the church in Smyrna write: This is the message from the one who is the first and the last, who died and lived again. 9 I know your troubles; I know that you are poor—but really you are rich! I know the evil things said against you by those who claim to be Jews but are not; they are a group that belongs to Satan! 10 Don't be afraid of anything you are about to suffer. Listen! The Devil will put you to the test by having some of you thrown into prison, and your troubles will last ten days. Be faithful to me, even if it means death, and I will give you life as your prize of victory. 11 If you have ears, then, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches! Those who win the victory will not be hurt by the second death. 12 To the angel of the church in Pergamum write: This is the message from the one who has the sharp two-edged sword. 13 I know where you live, there where Satan has his throne. You are true to me, and you did not abandon your faith in me even during the time when Antipas, my faithful witness, was killed there where Satan lives. 14 But there are a few things I have against you: there are some among you who follow the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak how to lead the people of Israel into sin by persuading them to eat food that had been offered to idols and to practice sexual immorality. 15 In the same way you have people among you who follow the teaching of the Nicolaitans. 16 Now turn from your sins! If you don't, I will come to you soon and fight against those people with the sword that comes out of my mouth. 17 If you have ears, then, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches! To those who win the victory I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give each of them a white stone on which is written a new name that no one knows except the one who receives it. 18 To the angel of the church in Thyatira write: This is the message from the Son of God, whose eyes blaze like fire, whose feet shine like polished brass. 19 I know what you do. I know your love, your faithfulness, your service, and your patience. I know that you are doing more now than you did at first. 20 But this is what I have against you: you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a messenger of God. By her teaching she misleads my servants into practicing sexual immorality and eating food that has been offered to idols. 21 I have given her time to repent of her sins, but she does not want to turn from her immorality. 22 And so I will throw her on a bed where she and those who committed adultery with her will suffer terribly. I will do this now unless they repent of the wicked things they did with her. 23 I will also kill her followers, and then all the churches will know that I am the one who knows everyone's thoughts and wishes. I will repay each of you according to what you have done. 24 But the rest of you in Thyatira have not followed this evil teaching; you have not learned what the others call “the deep secrets of Satan.” I say to you that I will not put any other burden on you. 25 But until I come, you must hold firmly to what you have. 26-28 To those who win the victory, who continue to the end to do what I want, I will give the same authority that I received from my Father: I will give them authority over the nations, to rule them with an iron rod and to break them to pieces like clay pots. I will also give them the morning star. 29 If you have ears, then, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches! Reflect How is Jesus described to each of the four churches? You may recall these descriptions from yesterday’s reading in chapter 1. What words of encouragement are given to the churches? Why were words of reproof also given? In each instance, what is promised to “those who win the victory” (verses 7, 11, 17, 26)? Pray Lord Jesus, help me to listen for your voice today. Open my heart and mind to your word, and keep me faithful. In your holy name I pray. Amen. Prayer Concern Parish secretaries Tomorrow's Reading Revelation 3:1-22: John writes a message to three more churches in Asia Minor. 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 April 24, 2012 Author Members Posted April 24, 2012 April 24, 2012 Revelation 3:1-22 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction Revelation 3:1-22: In this chapter we read the messages that were written to the churches in Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. The church in Philadelphia is commended for being faithful. Today’s Scripture: Revelation 3:21 To those who win the victory I will give the right to sit beside me on my throne, just as I have been victorious and now sit by my Father on his throne. Today’s Reading 1 To the angel of the church in Sardis write: This is the message from the one who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. I know what you are doing; I know that you have the reputation of being alive, even though you are dead! 2 So wake up, and strengthen what you still have before it dies completely. For I find that what you have done is not yet perfect in the sight of my God. 3 Remember, then, what you were taught and what you heard; obey it and turn from your sins. If you do not wake up, I will come upon you like a thief, and you will not even know the time when I will come. 4 But a few of you there in Sardis have kept your clothes clean. You will walk with me, clothed in white, because you are worthy to do so. 5 Those who win the victory will be clothed like this in white, and I will not remove their names from the book of the living. In the presence of my Father and of his angels I will declare openly that they belong to me. 6 If you have ears, then, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches! 7 To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: This is the message from the one who is holy and true. He has the key that belonged to David, and when he opens a door, no one can close it, and when he closes it, no one can open it. 8 I know what you do; I know that you have a little power; you have followed my teaching and have been faithful to me. I have opened a door in front of you, which no one can close. 9 Listen! As for that group that belongs to Satan, those liars who claim that they are Jews but are not, I will make them come and bow down at your feet. They will all know that I love you. 10 Because you have kept my command to endure, I will also keep you safe from the time of trouble which is coming upon the world to test all the people on earth. 11 I am coming soon. Keep safe what you have, so that no one will rob you of your victory prize. 12 I will make those who are victorious pillars in the temple of my God, and they will never leave it. I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which will come down out of heaven from my God. I will also write on them my new name. 13 If you have ears, then, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches! 14 To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: This is the message from the Amen, the faithful and true witness, who is the origin of all that God has created. 15 I know what you have done; I know that you are neither cold nor hot. How I wish you were either one or the other! 16 But because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I am going to spit you out of my mouth! 17 You say, “I am rich and well off; I have all I need.” But you do not know how miserable and pitiful you are! You are poor, naked, and blind. 18 I advise you, then, to buy gold from me, pure gold, in order to be rich. Buy also white clothing to dress yourself and cover up your shameful nakedness. Buy also some ointment to put on your eyes, so that you may see. 19 I rebuke and punish all whom I love. Be in earnest, then, and turn from your sins. 20 Listen! I stand at the door and knock; if any hear my voice and open the door, I will come into their house and eat with them, and they will eat with me. 21 To those who win the victory I will give the right to sit beside me on my throne, just as I have been victorious and now sit by my Father on his throne. 22 “If you have ears, then, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches!” Reflect What is the message to the church in Philadelphia? How is Jesus described to each of these three churches? As was stated to the four churches in yesterday’s reading, these three churches are also told that the Lord knows what they are doing or what they have done. How might the churches have reacted upon hearing those words? Pray Lord God, your knowledge of me is beyond my understanding. Nothing about me is hidden from you. Help me to remain faithful and true to your word. Amen. Prayer Concern Church custodians Tomorrow's Reading Revelation 4:1-11: John describes a vision of worship in heaven. 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 April 25, 2012 Author Members Posted April 25, 2012 April 25, 2012 Revelation 4:1-11 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction Revelation 4:1-11: In today’s reading, John 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 How is the One sitting on the throne described? In verse 8 we find again the words for God that we read in chapter 1. What significance might these words have had for John? What significance do they have for you? 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 April 26, 2012 Author Members Posted April 26, 2012 April 26, 2012 Revelation 5:1-14 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction Revelation 5:1-14: Today’s reading introduces the Lamb of God (Jesus), who alone is worthy to break open the seven seals of a scroll. The chapter 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 Who are the ones standing around the throne? What are they doing? The number seven appears several times in today’s reading, 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 Church choirs Tomorrow's Reading Revelation 6:1-17: The Lamb opens six of the seven seals. 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 April 27, 2012 Author Members Posted April 27, 2012 April 27, 2012 Revelation 6:1-17 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction Revelation 6:1-17: The sixth chapter of Revelation describes the opening of six of the seven seals which begins God’s judgment on those who persecuted his followers. Today’s Scripture: Revelation 6:11a Each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to rest a little while longer. Today’s Reading 1 Then I saw the Lamb break open the first of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures say in a voice that sounded like thunder, “Come!” 2 I looked, and there was a white horse. Its rider held a bow, and he was given a crown. He rode out as a conqueror to conquer. 3 Then the Lamb broke open the second seal; and I heard the second living creature say, “Come!” 4 Another horse came out, a red one. Its rider was given the power to bring war on the earth, so that people should kill each other. He was given a large sword. 5 Then the Lamb broke open the third seal; and I heard the third living creature say, “Come!” I looked, and there was a black horse. Its rider held a pair of scales in his hand. 6 I heard what sounded like a voice coming from among the four living creatures, which said, “A quart of wheat for a day's wages, and three quarts of barley for a day's wages. But do not damage the olive trees and the vineyards!” 7 Then the Lamb broke open the fourth seal; and I heard the fourth living creature say, “Come!” 8 I looked, and there was a pale-colored horse. Its rider was named Death, and Hades followed close behind. They were given authority over one fourth of the earth, to kill by means of war, famine, disease, and wild animals. 9 Then the Lamb broke open the fifth seal. I saw underneath the altar the souls of those who had been killed because they had proclaimed God's word and had been faithful in their witnessing. 10 They shouted in a loud voice, “Almighty Lord, holy and true! How long will it be until you judge the people on earth and punish them for killing us?” 11 Each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to rest a little while longer, until the complete number of other servants and believers were killed, as they had been. 12 And I saw the Lamb break open the sixth seal. There was a violent earthquake, and the sun became black like coarse black cloth, and the moon turned completely red like blood. 13 The stars fell down to the earth, like unripe figs falling from the tree when a strong wind shakes it. 14 The sky disappeared like a scroll being rolled up, and every mountain and island was moved from its place. 15 Then the kings of the earth, the rulers and the military chiefs, the rich and the powerful, and all other people, slave and free, hid themselves in caves and under rocks on the mountains. 16 They called out to the mountains and to the rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the eyes of the one who sits on the throne and from the anger of the Lamb! 17 The terrible day of their anger is here, and who can stand up against it? ” Reflect What takes place after each of the six seals is broken? When the first four seals are opened, four different colored horses come out, each bringing a different punishment for God’s enemies. What punishments are unleashed? You may wish to compare verses 12-14 with Jesus’ words as recorded in Mark 13:24-25. Pray Sovereign God, you are Lord of heaven and earth. You alone are holy and true and worthy to be praised. Amen. Prayer Concern Victims of war 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 April 28, 2012 Author Members Posted April 28, 2012 April 28, 2012 Revelation 7:1-17 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope 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 Those seeking solutions to conflicts in the Mideast Tomorrow's Reading Revelation 19:1-21: The wedding feast of the Lamb is celebrated in heaven. 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 April 29, 2012 Author Members Posted April 29, 2012 April 29, 2012 Revelation 19:1-21 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction Revelation 19:1-21: Chapter 19 begins the concluding section of Revelation with a series of final visions. The wedding feast of the Lamb is celebrated. A rider astride a white horse appears, and the chapter concludes with a vision of God’s victory and the destruction of God’s enemies. Today’s Scripture: Revelation 19:6b, 7a “Praise God! For the Lord, our Almighty God, is King! Let us rejoice and be glad; let us praise his greatness!” Today’s Reading 1 After this I heard what sounded like the roar of a large crowd of people in heaven, saying, “Praise God! Salvation, glory, and power belong to our God! 2 True and just are his judgments! He has condemned the prostitute who was corrupting the earth with her immorality. God has punished her because she killed his servants. ” 3 Again they shouted, “Praise God! The smoke from the flames that consume the great city goes up forever and ever!” 4 The twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God, who was seated on the throne. They said, “Amen! Praise God!” 5 Then there came from the throne the sound of a voice, saying, “Praise our God, all his servants and all people, both great and small, who have reverence for him!” 6 Then I heard what sounded like a crowd, like the sound of a roaring waterfall, like loud peals of thunder. I heard them say, “Praise God! For the Lord, our Almighty God, is King! 7 Let us rejoice and be glad; let us praise his greatness! For the time has come for the wedding of the Lamb, and his bride has prepared herself for it. 8 She has been given clean shining linen to wear. ” (The linen is the good deeds of God's people.) 9 Then the angel said to me, “Write this: Happy are those who have been invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb.” And the angel added, “These are the true words of God.” 10 I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, “Don't do it! I am a servant together with you and with other believers, all those who hold to the truth that Jesus revealed. Worship God!” For the truth that Jesus revealed is what inspires the prophets. 11 Then I saw heaven open, and there was a white horse. Its rider is called Faithful and True; it is with justice that he judges and fights his battles. 12 His eyes were like a flame of fire, and he wore many crowns on his head. He had a name written on him, but no one except himself knows what it is. 13 The robe he wore was covered with blood. His name is “The Word of God.” 14 The armies of heaven followed him, riding on white horses and dressed in clean white linen. 15 Out of his mouth came a sharp sword, with which he will defeat the nations. He will rule over them with a rod of iron, and he will trample out the wine in the wine press of the furious anger of the Almighty God. 16 On his robe and on his thigh was written the name: “King of kings and Lord of lords.” 17 Then I saw an angel standing on the sun. He shouted in a loud voice to all the birds flying in midair: “Come and gather together for God's great feast! 18 Come and eat the flesh of kings, generals, and soldiers, the flesh of horses and their riders, the flesh of all people, slave and free, great and small! ” 19 Then I saw the beast and the kings of the earth and their armies gathered to fight against the one who was riding the horse and against his army. 20 The beast was taken prisoner, together with the false prophet who had performed miracles in his presence. (It was by those miracles that he had deceived those who had the mark of the beast and those who had worshiped the image of the beast.) The beast and the false prophet were both thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur. 21 Their armies were killed by the sword that comes out of the mouth of the one who was riding the horse; and all the birds ate all they could of their flesh. Reflect The wedding feast celebrates the uniting of Christ (the Lamb) and his people (the bride). In the Old Testament, marriage is a way of describing God’s relationship with the people of Israel (see Isaiah 54:1-8). In the New Testament, the church is depicted as the wife of Christ (Ephesians 5:25). How is the wedding feast described? In verses 11-16, Christ is depicted as a military leader. How is he described? Pray Lord God, you are King of kings and Lord of lords. Your reign is eternal and I praise your greatness. Amen. Prayer Concern Those serving in the armed forces Tomorrow's Reading Revelation 20:1-15: Satan is defeated. 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 April 30, 2012 Author Members Posted April 30, 2012 April 30, 2012 Revelation 20:1-15 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Be Filled With Hope Introduction Revelation 20:1-15: John’s vision includes the binding and defeat of Satan and the final judgment. The references to Gog and Magog, mentioned in Ezekiel 38:2-16, pertain to a wicked ruler (Gog) from the land of Magog who was supposed to attack the people of Israel. In today’s reading, Gog and Magog are countries that represent worldly powers that are opposed to God and God’s people. Today’s Scripture: Revelation 20:11 Then I saw a great white throne and the one who sits on it. Earth and heaven fled from his presence and were seen no more. Today’s Reading 1 Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding in his hand the key of the abyss and a heavy chain. 2 He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent—that is, the Devil, or Satan—and chained him up for a thousand years. 3 The angel threw him into the abyss, locked it, and sealed it, so that he could not deceive the nations any more until the thousand years were over. After that he must be set loose for a little while. 4 Then I saw thrones, and those who sat on them were given the power to judge. I also saw the souls of those who had been executed because they had proclaimed the truth that Jesus revealed and the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or its image, nor had they received the mark of the beast on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and ruled as kings with Christ for a thousand years. 5 (The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were over.) This is the first raising of the dead. 6 Happy and greatly blessed are those who are included in this first raising of the dead. The second death has no power over them; they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and they will rule with him for a thousand years. 7 After the thousand years are over, Satan will be set loose from his prison, 8 and he will go out to deceive the nations scattered over the whole world, that is, Gog and Magog. Satan will bring them all together for battle, as many as the grains of sand on the seashore. 9 They spread out over the earth and surrounded the camp of God's people and the city that he loves. But fire came down from heaven and destroyed them. 10 Then the Devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had already been thrown; and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever. 11 Then I saw a great white throne and the one who sits on it. Earth and heaven fled from his presence and were seen no more. 12 And I saw the dead, great and small alike, standing before the throne. Books were opened, and then another book was opened, the book of the living. The dead were judged according to what they had done, as recorded in the books. 13 Then the sea gave up its dead. Death and the world of the dead also gave up the dead they held. And all were judged according to what they had done. 14 Then death and the world of the dead were thrown into the lake of fire. (This lake of fire is the second death.) 15 Those who did not have their name written in the book of the living were thrown into the lake of fire. Reflect What takes place during the thousand years? According to Psalm 90:4 and 2 Peter 3:8, the thousand years are understood to be a measurement in God’s time, not human time. How do you interpret this span of time? Pray Almighty God, eternal are you and eternal is your reign. Because you have defeated the power of death, I have received from you the gift of eternal life. I thank and praise you, Lord God, forevermore. Amen. Prayer Concern Human rights organizations Tomorrow's Reading Revelation 21:1-27: John has a vision of a new heaven and a new earth. 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 1, 2012 Author Members Posted May 1, 2012 May 1, 2012 Revelation 21:1-27 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Receive New Life in the Spirit Introduction Revelation 21:1-27: God has defeated Satan. John’s vision now describes God bringing in a new heaven and earth as well as a new city, which represents a renewal of the whole creation. God will dwell among the people, and pain, sorrow, and death will be no more. Today’s Scripture: Revelation 21:7 Those who win the victory will receive this from me: I will be their God, and they will be my children. 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 Who is the “Bride, the wife of the Lamb” (verse 9)? How is the new Jerusalem described (verses 11-21)? How do you envision what is described in this chapter? Pray Loving God, you make all things new. Renew your creation and make your home among us. Teach us to care for those in need and to be faithful stewards of the world you created. Refresh me with your gracious Spirit and empower me to serve you faithfully. Amen. Prayer Concern Those recovering from tornadoes and floods Tomorrow's Reading Revelation 22:1-21: Jesus will come again. 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 2, 2012 Author Members Posted May 2, 2012 May 2, 2012 Revelation 22:1-21 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Receive New Life in the Spirit Introduction Revelation 22:1-21: John’s vision is a reminder that Jesus will come soon and bless those who are faithful. They will eat the fruit from the tree of life and enter the holy city. The faithful are to continue doing good and to go on being holy. Today’s Scripture: Revelation 22:14 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. 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 John’s vision of the new creation includes a river of life-giving water and the tree of life (verses 1, 2, 14). The tree of life first appeared at the time of creation and the beginning of human history (Genesis 3:22). What is the significance of the tree of life in the midst of the new Jerusalem? Jesus’ final words are, “Yes indeed! I am coming soon!”(verse 20). These words are also spoken in verses 7 and 12 and in Revelation 3:11. What does Jesus’ promise mean to you and how does it affect the way you live your life now? Pray Come, Lord Jesus! Lead me in your ways and prepare me to receive you in love. Lord of life, fill me with the faith and hope that brings true joy. Come, Lord Jesus! Amen. Prayer Concern Peace and harmony throughout the world Tomorrow's Reading Joel 1:1-20: The prophet Joel describes the devastation caused by a swarm of locusts. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 3, 2012 Author Members Posted May 3, 2012 May 3, 2012 Joel 1:1-20 (Good News Translation) Come Together in Faith and Receive New Life in the Spirit Introduction Joel 1:1-20: In this opening chapter, the prophet Joel describes a terrible invasion of locusts accompanied by a devastating drought. In these events, he sees a sign of the coming day of the LORD. Today’s Scripture: Joel 1:14 Give orders for a fast; call an assembly! Gather the leaders and all the people of Judah into the Temple of the LORD your God and cry out to him! Today’s Reading 1 This is the LORD's message to Joel son of Pethuel. 2 Pay attention, you older people; everyone in Judah, listen. Has anything like this ever happened in your time or the time of your ancestors? 3 Tell your children about it; they will tell their children, who in turn will tell the next generation. 4 Swarm after swarm of locusts settled on the crops; what one swarm left, the next swarm devoured. 5 Wake up and weep, you drunkards; cry, you wine-drinkers; the grapes for making new wine have been destroyed. 6 An army of locusts has attacked our land; they are powerful and too many to count; their teeth are as sharp as those of a lion. 7 They have destroyed our grapevines and chewed up our fig trees. They have stripped off the bark, till the branches are white. 8 Cry, you people, like a young woman who mourns the death of the man she was going to marry. 9 There is no grain or wine to offer in the Temple; the priests mourn because they have no offerings for the LORD. 10 The fields are bare; the ground mourns because the grain is destroyed, the grapes are dried up, and the olive trees are withered. 11 Grieve, you farmers; cry, you that take care of the vineyards, because the wheat, the barley, yes all the crops are destroyed. 12 The grapevines and fig trees have withered; all the fruit trees have wilted and died. The joy of the people is gone. 13 Put on sackcloth and weep, you priests who serve at the altar! Go into the Temple and mourn all night! There is no grain or wine to offer your God. 14 Give orders for a fast; call an assembly! Gather the leaders and all the people of Judah into the Temple of the LORD your God and cry out to him! 15 The day of the LORD is near, the day when the Almighty brings destruction. What terror that day will bring! 16 We look on helpless as our crops are destroyed. There is no joy in the Temple of our God. 17 The seeds die in the dry earth. There is no grain to be stored, and so the empty granaries are in ruins. 18 The cattle are bellowing in distress because there is no pasture for them; the flocks of sheep also suffer. 19 I cry out to you, LORD, because the pastures and trees are dried up, as though a fire had burned them. 20 Even the wild animals cry out to you because the streams have become dry. Reflect Most of the ancient Near East, including Israel, was based on a farming and herding economy. An attack by locusts had very damaging effects. If locusts devoured all crops and plants, people and their animals could starve. How does Joel describe the effects of a devastating locust plague? What does he instruct the people to do (verses 13, 14)? Have you or has your community of faith ever felt called to fast and pray? If so, what were the circumstances? Pray Lord God, you are ever near and hear our cries. Draw me close to you and help me surmount any temptations or difficulties that I may face today. In your holy name I pray, Amen. Prayer Concern Drought-stricken lands throughout the world Tomorrow's Reading Joel 2:1-32: The prophet Joel calls the people to repent. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.