Members phkrause Posted April 9, 2014 Author Members Posted April 9, 2014 April 8, 2014 Isaiah 51:1-23 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Isaiah 51:1-23: The prophet lifts up Abraham as an example of how to live in obedience to the Lord. He says that God’s teaching will bring justice for all people and promises that the Lord will rescue everyone from the power of fear and death. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 51:4 “Listen to me, my people, listen to what I say: I give my teaching to the nations; my laws will bring them light.” Today’s Reading 1 The LORD says, “Listen to me, you that want to be saved, you that come to me for help. Think of the rock from which you came, the quarry from which you were cut. 2 Think of your ancestor, Abraham, and of Sarah, from whom you are descended. When I called Abraham, he was childless, but I blessed him and gave him children; I made his descendants numerous. 3 I will show compassion to Jerusalem, to all who live in her ruins. Though her land is a desert, I will make it a garden, like the garden I planted in Eden. Joy and gladness will be there, and songs of praise and thanks to me. 4 Listen to me, my people, listen to what I say: I give my teaching to the nations; my laws will bring them light. 5 I will come quickly and save them; the time of my victory is near. I myself will rule over the nations. Distant lands wait for me to come; they wait with hope for me to save them. 6 Look up at the heavens; look at the earth! The heavens will disappear like smoke; the earth will wear out like old clothing, and all its people will die like flies. But the deliverance I bring will last forever; my victory will be final. 7 Listen to me, you that know what is right, who have my teaching fixed in your hearts. Do not be afraid when people taunt and insult you; 8 they will vanish like moth-eaten clothing! But the deliverance I bring will last forever; my victory will endure for all time.” 9 Wake up, LORD, and help us! Use your power and save us; use it as you did in ancient times. It was you that cut the sea monster Rahab to pieces. 10 It was you also who dried up the sea and made a path through the water, so that those you were saving could cross. 11 Those whom you have rescued will reach Jerusalem with gladness, singing and shouting for joy. They will be happy forever, forever free from sorrow and grief. 12 The LORD says, “I am the one who strengthens you. Why should you fear mortals, who are no more enduring than grass? 13 Have you forgotten the LORD who made you, who stretched out the heavens and laid the earth's foundations? Why should you live in constant fear of the fury of those who oppress you, of those who are ready to destroy you? Their fury can no longer touch you. 14 Those who are prisoners will soon be set free; they will live a long life and have all the food they need. 15 I am the LORD your God; I stir up the sea and make its waves roar. My name is the LORD Almighty! 16 I stretched out the heavens and laid the earth's foundations; I say to Jerusalem, ‘You are my people! I have given you my teaching, and I protect you with my hand.’” 17 Jerusalem, wake up! Rouse yourself and get up! You have drunk the cup of punishment that the LORD in his anger gave you to drink; you drank it down, and it made you stagger. 18 There is no one to lead you, no one among your people to take you by the hand. 19 A double disaster has fallen on you: your land has been devastated by war, and your people have starved. There is no one to show you sympathy. 20 At the corner of every street your people collapse from weakness; they are like deer caught in a hunter's net. They have felt the force of God's anger. 21 You suffering people of Jerusalem, you that stagger as though you were drunk, 22 the LORD your God defends you and says, “I am taking away the cup that I gave you in my anger. You will no longer have to drink the wine that makes you stagger. 23 I will give it to those who oppressed you, to those who made you lie down in the streets and trampled on you as if you were dirt. ” Reflect Why does the prophet remind the people to remember their ancestors, Abraham and Sarah? What do you know about your ancestors? Have any of them had a significant influence on your life? What words of comfort are given in this passage? For what do the people pray, and how does the Lord respond? Pray God of Abraham and Sarah, you are my God and I trust in your promises. You are my comfort in times of sorrow, you crown me with your love, and you are my ever-present source of strength and joy. Amen. Prayer Concern Those researching their family histories Tomorrow's Reading Isaiah 52:1-12: God promises to rescue Jerusalem. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 10, 2014 April 9, 2014 Isaiah 52:1-12 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Isaiah 52:1-12: Isaiah reminds the people of the story of their Israelite ancestors. Around one thousand years earlier, the family of Jacob had gone to live in Egypt (Genesis 46:1-4). When the people became slaves, God liberated them (Exodus 1—15). In this passage, God commands the people to leave Babylonia, the land of their oppressors, just as God commanded their ancestors to leave Egypt. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 52:12b The LORD your God will lead you and protect you on every side. Today’s Reading 1 Jerusalem, be strong and great again! Holy city of God, clothe yourself with splendor! The heathen will never enter your gates again. 2 Shake yourself free, Jerusalem! Rise from the dust and sit on your throne! Undo the chains that bind you, captive people of Zion! 3 The Sovereign LORD says to his people, “When you became slaves, no money was paid for you; in the same way nothing will be paid to set you free. 4 When you went to live in Egypt as foreigners, you did so of your own free will; Assyria, however, took you away by force and paid nothing for you. 5 And now in Babylonia the same thing has happened: you are captives, and nothing was paid for you. Those who rule over you boast and brag and constantly show contempt for me. 6 In time to come you will acknowledge that I am God and that I have spoken to you. ” 7 How wonderful it is to see a messenger coming across the mountains, bringing good news, the news of peace! He announces victory and says to Zion, “Your God is king!” 8 Those who guard the city are shouting, shouting together for joy. They can see with their own eyes the return of the LORD to Zion. 9 Break into shouts of joy, you ruins of Jerusalem! The LORD will rescue his city and comfort his people. 10 The LORD will use his holy power; he will save his people, and all the world will see it. 11 Be sure to leave Babylonia, all you that carry the Temple equipment. Touch no forbidden thing; keep yourselves holy and leave. 12 This time you will not have to leave in a hurry; you will not be trying to escape. The LORD your God will lead you and protect you on every side. Reflect Verse 12 describes the new exodus from Babylonia as one that will be slow and orderly, not like the first exodus from Egypt, which was done in a hurry. How do past experiences inform your fears about and/or your confidence in the future? Pray Liberating God, you empower your people to release fears rooted in the past and encourage them with hope for a peaceful future. Help us grasp your vision for peace and justice this day and every day, that all people may be liberated from fear and oppression. Amen. Prayer Concern Those enslaved by fear Tomorrow's Reading Isaiah 52:13—53:12: The LORD’s servant will suffer and die as a sacrifice to bring forgiveness. 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 11, 2014 Author Members Posted April 11, 2014 April 10, 2014 Isaiah 52:13—53:12 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Isaiah 52:13—53:12: This passage is the fourth and last “servant song” in Isaiah. The servant could be the whole people of Israel, a specially chosen leader, or an individual, such as a prophet, who was treated badly because of what he said. Christians today interpret this passage as a description of Jesus, as did the early church (see Acts 8:32-35). Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 53:10a The LORD says, “It is my will that he should suffer; his death was a sacrifice to bring forgiveness.” Today’s Reading 13 The LORD says, “My servant will succeed in his task; he will be highly honored. 14 Many people were shocked when they saw him; he was so disfigured that he hardly looked human. 15 But now many nations will marvel at him, and kings will be speechless with amazement. They will see and understand something they had never known.” 1 The people reply, “Who would have believed what we now report? Who could have seen the LORD's hand in this? 2 It was the will of the LORD that his servant grow like a plant taking root in dry ground. He had no dignity or beauty to make us take notice of him. There was nothing attractive about him, nothing that would draw us to him. 3 We despised him and rejected him; he endured suffering and pain. No one would even look at him— we ignored him as if he were nothing. 4 But he endured the suffering that should have been ours, the pain that we should have borne. All the while we thought that his suffering was punishment sent by God. 5 But because of our sins he was wounded, beaten because of the evil we did. We are healed by the punishment he suffered, made whole by the blows he received. 6 All of us were like sheep that were lost, each of us going his own way. But the LORD made the punishment fall on him, the punishment all of us deserved. 7 He was treated harshly, but endured it humbly; he never said a word. Like a lamb about to be slaughtered, like a sheep about to be sheared, he never said a word. 8 He was arrested and sentenced and led off to die, and no one cared about his fate. He was put to death for the sins of our people. 9 He was placed in a grave with those who are evil, he was buried with the rich, even though he had never committed a crime or ever told a lie.” 10 The LORD says, “It was my will that he should suffer; his death was a sacrifice to bring forgiveness. And so he will see his descendants; he will live a long life, and through him my purpose will succeed. 11 After a life of suffering, he will again have joy; he will know that he did not suffer in vain. My devoted servant, with whom I am pleased, will bear the punishment of many and for his sake I will forgive them. 12 And so I will give him a place of honor, a place among the great and powerful. He willingly gave his life and shared the fate of evil men. He took the place of many sinners and prayed that they might be forgiven.” Reflect The servant in today’s passage is promised success in his mission and reward for his suffering. In what ways does the servant serve? What makes this servant unique? Do you believe his suffering has purpose and/or meaning? Why or why not? Pray Gracious God, it is difficult to understand why good people are allowed to suffer. May I be one who offers comfort, patience and care to those who suffer in my community, that they may know your love. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who have lost loved ones and their homes due to fire, gas explosions, and natural disasters Tomorrow's Reading Matthew 20:1-19: Jesus teaches about equality in God’s Kingdom. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 12, 2014 April 11, 2014 Matthew 20:1-19 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Matthew 20:1-19: Today’s reading includes a parable about workers in a vineyard who are hired at different times during the day but receive the same wage. Jesus uses this parable to teach about the Kingdom of heaven. Today’s reading concludes with Jesus speaking a third time about his death. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 20:16 And Jesus concluded, “So those who are last will be first, and those who are first will be last.” Today’s Reading 1 The Kingdom of heaven is like this. Once there was a man who went out early in the morning to hire some men to work in his vineyard. 2 He agreed to pay them the regular wage, a silver coin a day, and sent them to work in his vineyard. 3 He went out again to the marketplace at nine o'clock and saw some men standing there doing nothing, 4 so he told them, “You also go and work in the vineyard, and I will pay you a fair wage.” 5 So they went. Then at twelve o'clock and again at three o'clock he did the same thing. 6 It was nearly five o'clock when he went to the marketplace and saw some other men still standing there. “Why are you wasting the whole day here doing nothing?” he asked them. 7 “No one hired us,” they answered. “Well, then, you go and work in the vineyard,” he told them. 8 When evening came, the owner told his foreman, “Call the workers and pay them their wages, starting with those who were hired last and ending with those who were hired first.” 9 The men who had begun to work at five o'clock were paid a silver coin each. 10 So when the men who were the first to be hired came to be paid, they thought they would get more; but they too were given a silver coin each. 11 They took their money and started grumbling against the employer. 12 “These men who were hired last worked only one hour,” they said, “while we put up with a whole day's work in the hot sun—yet you paid them the same as you paid us!” 13 “Listen, friend,” the owner answered one of them, ‘I have not cheated you. After all, you agreed to do a day's work for one silver coin. 14 Now take your pay and go home. I want to give this man who was hired last as much as I gave you. 15 Don't I have the right to do as I wish with my own money? Or are you jealous because I am generous? ’ ” 16 And Jesus concluded, “So those who are last will be first, and those who are first will be last.” 17 As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside and spoke to them privately, as they walked along. 18 “Listen,” he told them, “we are going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the teachers of the Law. They will condemn him to death 19 and then hand him over to the Gentiles, who will make fun of him, whip him, and crucify him; but three days later he will be raised to life. ” Reflect In the parable of the workers in the vineyard, the last ones hired receive the same wage as those who were hired first. What is your reaction to this? Do you agree that the landowner was generous as he said (verse 15)? Why or why not? In what way does this parable provide insight into the Kingdom of God? Pray Almighty God, your ways are not our ways. Teach us what it means to be part of your Kingdom. Your ways are transformative and good. May my words and actions this day reflect your love and justice. Amen. Prayer Concern Day laborers Tomorrow's Reading Matthew 20:20-34: Jesus teaches about what it means to serve. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 12, 2014 April 12, 2014 Matthew 20:20-34 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Matthew 20:20-34: The mother of James and John asks a special favor of Jesus on behalf of her sons, and Jesus uses the opportunity to teach the disciples about servanthood. The chapter concludes with Jesus healing two blind men. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 20:26b, 27 If one of you wants to be great, you must be the servant of the rest; and if one of you wants to be first, you must be the slave of the others. Today’s Reading 20 Then the wife of Zebedee came to Jesus with her two sons, bowed before him, and asked him for a favor. 21 “What do you want?” Jesus asked her. She answered, “Promise me that these two sons of mine will sit at your right and your left when you are King.” 22 “You don't know what you are asking for,” Jesus answered the sons. “Can you drink the cup of suffering that I am about to drink?” “We can,” they answered. 23 “You will indeed drink from my cup,” Jesus told them, “but I do not have the right to choose who will sit at my right and my left. These places belong to those for whom my Father has prepared them.” 24 When the other ten disciples heard about this, they became angry with the two brothers. 25 So Jesus called them all together and said, “You know that the rulers of the heathen have power over them, and the leaders have complete authority. 26 This, however, is not the way it shall be among you. If one of you wants to be great, you must be the servant of the rest; 27 and if one of you wants to be first, you must be the slave of the others— 28 like the Son of Man, who did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life to redeem many people. ” 29 As Jesus and his disciples were leaving Jericho, a large crowd was following. 30 Two blind men who were sitting by the road heard that Jesus was passing by, so they began to shout, “Son of David! Have mercy on us, sir!” 31 The crowd scolded them and told them to be quiet. But they shouted even more loudly, “Son of David! Have mercy on us, sir!” 32 Jesus stopped and called them. “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked them. 33 “Sir,” they answered, “we want you to give us our sight!” 34 Jesus had pity on them and touched their eyes; at once they were able to see, and they followed him. Reflect The most powerful people in a kingdom sat directly at the right and left sides of a ruler. What do you think was the motive behind the mother’s request? How did Jesus respond? How did Jesus define his mission (verse 28)? Pray Holy Jesus, your Kingdom is marked by life-giving service and not by ambition, power, or dominance. Teach me the ways of humble service and to follow you. Amen. Prayer Concern Church custodians Tomorrow's Reading Matthew 21:1-17: Jesus enters Jerusalem. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 13, 2014 April 13, 2014 Matthew 21:1-17 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Matthew 21:1-17: Jesus enters Jerusalem, riding on a humble donkey, to the cheers of the crowd. Then he enters the Temple, drives out the moneychangers, and heals people. In so doing, he angers the religious leaders. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 21:9b “Praise to David’s Son! God bless him who comes in the name of the Lord! Praise be to God!’ Today’s Reading 1 As Jesus and his disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to Bethphage at the Mount of Olives. There Jesus sent two of the disciples on ahead 2 with these instructions: “Go to the village there ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied up with her colt beside her. Untie them and bring them to me. 3 And if anyone says anything, tell him, ‘The Master needs them ’; and then he will let them go at once. ” 4 This happened in order to make come true what the prophet had said: 5 “Tell the city of Zion, Look, your king is coming to you! He is humble and rides on a donkey and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” 6 So the disciples went and did what Jesus had told them to do: 7 they brought the donkey and the colt, threw their cloaks over them, and Jesus got on. 8 A large crowd of people spread their cloaks on the road while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 The crowds walking in front of Jesus and those walking behind began to shout, “Praise to David's Son! God bless him who comes in the name of the Lord! Praise be to God!” 10 When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was thrown into an uproar. “Who is he?” the people asked. 11 “This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth in Galilee,” the crowds answered. 12 Jesus went into the Temple and drove out all those who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the moneychangers and the stools of those who sold pigeons, 13 and said to them, “It is written in the Scriptures that God said, “My Temple will be called a house of prayer.” But you are making it a hideout for thieves! ” 14 The blind and the crippled came to him in the Temple, and he healed them. 15 The chief priests and the teachers of the Law became angry when they saw the wonderful things he was doing and the children shouting in the Temple, “Praise to David's Son!” 16 So they asked Jesus, “Do you hear what they are saying?” “Indeed I do,” answered Jesus. “Haven't you ever read this scripture? “You have trained children and babies to offer perfect praise.” ” 17 Jesus left them and went out of the city to Bethany, where he spent the night. Reflect Why do Jesus’ actions pose a threat to the status quo of the temple community? How do his actions demonstrate the coming of God’s Kingdom and restoration of true worship? Has a situation every occurred in your community of faith that threatened the status quo? What was the outcome? Pray Loving God, be present in my community of faith. Remind us constantly how best to worship you and empower us when change is needed. Amen. Prayer Concern Church leaders Tomorrow's Reading Matthew 21:18-46: Jesus tells two stories about who will enter the Kingdom of 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 15, 2014 Author Members Posted April 15, 2014 April 14, 2014 Matthew 21:18-46 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Matthew 21:18-46: A withered fig tree symbolizes judgment (Isaiah 34:4; Jeremiah 8:12-13). In today’s reading Jesus curses a fig tree to symbolize God’s wrath against those who oppose Jesus’ teachings. The religious leaders question Jesus’ authority, and Jesus tells two stories that teach who will enter the Kingdom of God. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 21:42b “The stone which the builders rejected as worthless turned out to be the most important of all.” Today’s Reading 18 On his way back to the city early next morning, Jesus was hungry. 19 He saw a fig tree by the side of the road and went to it, but found nothing on it except leaves. So he said to the tree, “You will never again bear fruit!” At once the fig tree dried up. 20 The disciples saw this and were astounded. “How did the fig tree dry up so quickly?” they asked. 21 Jesus answered, “I assure you that if you believe and do not doubt, you will be able to do what I have done to this fig tree. And not only this, but you will even be able to say to this hill, “Get up and throw yourself in the sea,” and it will. 22 If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer. ” 23 Jesus came back to the Temple; and as he taught, the chief priests and the elders came to him and asked, “What right do you have to do these things? Who gave you such right?” 24 Jesus answered them, “I will ask you just one question, and if you give me an answer, I will tell you what right I have to do these things. 25 Where did John's right to baptize come from: was it from God or from human beings? ” They started to argue among themselves, “What shall we say? If we answer, “From God,” he will say to us, “Why, then, did you not believe John?” 26 But if we say, “From human beings,” we are afraid of what the people might do, because they are all convinced that John was a prophet. ” 27 So they answered Jesus, “We don't know.” And he said to them, “Neither will I tell you, then, by what right I do these things. 28 Now, what do you think? There was once a man who had two sons. He went to the older one and said, “Son, go and work in the vineyard today.” 29 “I don't want to,” he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. 30 Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. “Yes, sir,” he answered, but he did not go. 31 Which one of the two did what his father wanted? ” “The older one,” they answered. So Jesus said to them, “I tell you: the tax collectors and the prostitutes are going into the Kingdom of God ahead of you. 32 For John the Baptist came to you showing you the right path to take, and you would not believe him; but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him. Even when you saw this, you did not later change your minds and believe him. 33 “Listen to another parable,” Jesus said. There was once a landowner who planted a vineyard, put a fence around it, dug a hole for the wine press, and built a watchtower. Then he rented the vineyard to tenants and left home on a trip. 34 When the time came to gather the grapes, he sent his slaves to the tenants to receive his share of the harvest. 35 The tenants grabbed his slaves, beat one, killed another, and stoned another. 36 Again the man sent other slaves, more than the first time, and the tenants treated them the same way. 37 Last of all he sent his son to them. “Surely they will respect my son,” he said. 38 But when the tenants saw the son, they said to themselves, “This is the owner's son. Come on, let's kill him, and we will get his property!” 39 So they grabbed him, threw him out of the vineyard, and killed him. 40 “Now, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?” Jesus asked. 41 “He will certainly kill those evil men,” they answered, “and rent the vineyard out to other tenants, who will give him his share of the harvest at the right time.” 42 Jesus said to them, Haven't you ever read what the Scriptures say? ‘The stone which the builders rejected as worthless turned out to be the most important of all. This was done by the Lord; what a wonderful sight it is!’ 43 “And so I tell you,” added Jesus, “the Kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce the proper fruits.” 45 The chief priests and the Pharisees heard Jesus' parables and knew that he was talking about them, 46 so they tried to arrest him. But they were afraid of the crowds, who considered Jesus to be a prophet. Reflect Jesus says that the Kingdom of God will be “given to a people who will produce the proper fruits” (verse 43). How do you interpret this passage? Who is the “owner’s son” (verse 38)? Pray Lord Jesus, teach me to follow your ways and to produce the proper fruits that will usher in your Kingdom. In your holy name I pray, Amen. Prayer Concern Those facing difficulties at work Tomorrow's Reading Matthew 26:1-35: Jesus eats the Passover meal with his disciples. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 15, 2014 Author Members Posted April 15, 2014 April 15, 2014 Matthew 26:1-35 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Matthew 26:1-35: Jesus speaks to his disciples about his upcoming arrest and crucifixion. While in Bethany, a woman anoints Jesus with expensive perfume. Jesus eats the Passover meal with his disciples and predicts his betrayal. Jesus also predicts that the disciples will abandon him. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 26:29 [Jesus said], “I tell you, I will never again drink this wine until the day I drink the new wine with you in my Father’s Kingdom.” Today’s Reading 1 When Jesus had finished teaching all these things, he said to his disciples, 2 “In two days, as you know, it will be the Passover Festival, and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified.” 3 Then the chief priests and the elders met together in the palace of Caiaphas, the High Priest, 4 and made plans to arrest Jesus secretly and put him to death. 5 “We must not do it during the festival,” they said, “or the people will riot.” 6 Jesus was in Bethany at the house of Simon, a man who had suffered from a dreaded skin disease. 7 While Jesus was eating, a woman came to him with an alabaster jar filled with an expensive perfume, which she poured on his head. 8 The disciples saw this and became angry. “Why all this waste?” they asked. 9 “This perfume could have been sold for a large amount and the money given to the poor!” 10 Jesus knew what they were saying, and so he said to them, “Why are you bothering this woman? It is a fine and beautiful thing that she has done for me. 11 You will always have poor people with you, but you will not always have me. 12 What she did was to pour this perfume on my body to get me ready for burial. 13 Now, I assure you that wherever this gospel is preached all over the world, what she has done will be told in memory of her. ” 14 Then one of the twelve disciples—the one named Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests 15 and asked, “What will you give me if I betray Jesus to you?” They counted out thirty silver coins and gave them to him. 16 From then on Judas was looking for a good chance to hand Jesus over to them. 17 On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus and asked him, “Where do you want us to get the Passover meal ready for you?” 18 “Go to a certain man in the city,” he said to them, “and tell him: “The Teacher says, My hour has come; my disciples and I will celebrate the Passover at your house.” ” 19 The disciples did as Jesus had told them and prepared the Passover meal. 20 When it was evening, Jesus and the twelve disciples sat down to eat. 21 During the meal Jesus said, “I tell you, one of you will betray me.” 22 The disciples were very upset and began to ask him, one after the other, “Surely, Lord, you don't mean me?” 23 Jesus answered, “One who dips his bread in the dish with me will betray me. 24 The Son of Man will die as the Scriptures say he will, but how terrible for that man who will betray the Son of Man! It would have been better for that man if he had never been born! ” 25 Judas, the traitor, spoke up. “Surely, Teacher, you don't mean me?” he asked. Jesus answered, “So you say.” 26 While they were eating, Jesus took a piece of bread, gave a prayer of thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples. “Take and eat it,” he said; “this is my body.” 27 Then he took a cup, gave thanks to God, and gave it to them. “Drink it, all of you,” he said; 28 “this is my blood, which seals God's covenant, my blood poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 I tell you, I will never again drink this wine until the day I drink the new wine with you in my Father's Kingdom. ” 30 Then they sang a hymn and went out to the Mount of Olives. 31 Then Jesus said to them, “This very night all of you will run away and leave me, for the scripture says, “God will kill the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.” 32 But after I am raised to life, I will go to Galilee ahead of you. ” 33 Peter spoke up and said to Jesus, “I will never leave you, even though all the rest do!” 34 Jesus said to Peter, “I tell you that before the rooster crows tonight, you will say three times that you do not know me.” 35 Peter answered, “I will never say that, even if I have to die with you!” And all the other disciples said the same thing. Reflect Reread verses 26-30. In sharing the Passover meal with his disciples, Jesus uses bread and wine to represent God’s covenant of forgiveness. What does participating in the Lord’s Supper mean to you? How do you understand and experience the mystery of God’s grace in your life? Pray Holy God, help me to understand the mysteries of your love and grace. Empower me to put my faith into action. Amen. Prayer Concern Church altar guilds Tomorrow's Reading Matthew 26:36-75: Jesus prays in Gethsemane. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 17, 2014 April 16, 2014 Matthew 26:36-75 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Matthew 26:36-75: Jesus grieves and prays in Gethsemane in preparation for his betrayal and arrest. His disciples fail to keep watch and fall asleep. Jesus is brought before the chief priests and the Council where he is accused of blasphemy. The chapter concludes with Peter denying that he knows Jesus. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 26:64b “From this time on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right side of the Almighty and coming on the clouds of heaven!” Today’s Reading 36 Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” 37 He took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee. Grief and anguish came over him, 38 and he said to them, “The sorrow in my heart is so great that it almost crushes me. Stay here and keep watch with me.” 39 He went a little farther on, threw himself face downward on the ground, and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, take this cup of suffering from me! Yet not what I want, but what you want.” 40 Then he returned to the three disciples and found them asleep; and he said to Peter, “How is it that you three were not able to keep watch with me for even one hour? 41 Keep watch and pray that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. ” 42 Once more Jesus went away and prayed, “My Father, if this cup of suffering cannot be taken away unless I drink it, your will be done.” 43 He returned once more and found the disciples asleep; they could not keep their eyes open. 44 Again Jesus left them, went away, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. 45 Then he returned to the disciples and said, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Look! The hour has come for the Son of Man to be handed over to the power of sinners. 46 Get up, let us go. Look, here is the man who is betraying me! ” 47 Jesus was still speaking when Judas, one of the twelve disciples, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs and sent by the chief priests and the elders. 48 The traitor had given the crowd a signal: “The man I kiss is the one you want. Arrest him!” 49 Judas went straight to Jesus and said, “Peace be with you, Teacher,” and kissed him. 50 Jesus answered, “Be quick about it, friend!” Then they came up, arrested Jesus, and held him tight. 51 One of those who were with Jesus drew his sword and struck at the High Priest's slave, cutting off his ear. 52 “Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him. “All who take the sword will die by the sword. 53 Don't you know that I could call on my Father for help, and at once he would send me more than twelve armies of angels? 54 But in that case, how could the Scriptures come true which say that this is what must happen? ” 55 Then Jesus spoke to the crowd, “Did you have to come with swords and clubs to capture me, as though I were an outlaw? Every day I sat down and taught in the Temple, and you did not arrest me. 56 But all this has happened in order to make come true what the prophets wrote in the Scriptures. ” Then all the disciples left him and ran away. 57 Those who had arrested Jesus took him to the house of Caiaphas, the High Priest, where the teachers of the Law and the elders had gathered together. 58 Peter followed from a distance, as far as the courtyard of the High Priest's house. He went into the courtyard and sat down with the guards to see how it would all come out. 59 The chief priests and the whole Council tried to find some false evidence against Jesus to put him to death; 60 but they could not find any, even though many people came forward and told lies about him. Finally two men stepped up 61 and said, “This man said, “I am able to tear down God's Temple and three days later build it back up.” ” 62 The High Priest stood up and said to Jesus, “Have you no answer to give to this accusation against you?” 63 But Jesus kept quiet. Again the High Priest spoke to him, “In the name of the living God I now put you under oath: tell us if you are the Messiah, the Son of God.” 64 Jesus answered him, “So you say. But I tell all of you: from this time on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right side of the Almighty and coming on the clouds of heaven!” 65 At this the High Priest tore his clothes and said, “Blasphemy! We don't need any more witnesses! You have just heard his blasphemy! 66 What do you think? ” They answered, “He is guilty and must die.” 67 Then they spat in his face and beat him; and those who slapped him 68 said, “Prophesy for us, Messiah! Guess who hit you!” 69 Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard when one of the High Priest's servant women came to him and said, “You, too, were with Jesus of Galilee.” 70 But he denied it in front of them all. “I don't know what you are talking about,” he answered, 71 and went on out to the entrance of the courtyard. Another servant woman saw him and said to the men there, “He was with Jesus of Nazareth.” 72 Again Peter denied it and answered, “I swear that I don't know that man!” 73 After a little while the men standing there came to Peter. “Of course you are one of them,” they said. “After all, the way you speak gives you away!” 74 Then Peter said, “I swear that I am telling the truth! May God punish me if I am not! I do not know that man!” Just then a rooster crowed, 75 and Peter remembered what Jesus had told him: “Before the rooster crows, you will say three times that you do not know me.” He went out and wept bitterly. Reflect In today’s reading, several people betray Jesus. What reasons did each one have for doing so? Have you ever betrayed Jesus? If so, how? Pray Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that at times I have betrayed you and turned away from your Word. Forgive me and make me ever aware of your grace, that I may follow your ways. Amen. Prayer Concern Victims of scams Tomorrow's Reading Matthew 27:1-26: Jesus is taken to Pilate, the Roman governor. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 17, 2014 April 17, 2014 Matthew 27:1-26 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Matthew 27:1-26: Jesus is taken to Pilate, the Roman governor, where he is questioned. Pilate brings Jesus before a crowd and offers them the choice of freeing a criminal or freeing Jesus. The crowd calls for Jesus to be crucified, and Pilate sentences Jesus to death. Meanwhile, Judas hangs himself. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 27:26b After [Pilate] had Jesus whipped, he handed him over to be crucified. Today’s Reading 1 Early in the morning all the chief priests and the elders made their plans against Jesus to put him to death. 2 They put him in chains, led him off, and handed him over to Pilate, the Roman governor. 3 When Judas, the traitor, learned that Jesus had been condemned, he repented and took back the thirty silver coins to the chief priests and the elders. 4 “I have sinned by betraying an innocent man to death!” he said. “What do we care about that?” they answered. “That is your business!” 5 Judas threw the coins down in the Temple and left; then he went off and hanged himself. 6 The chief priests picked up the coins and said, “This is blood money, and it is against our Law to put it in the Temple treasury.” 7 After reaching an agreement about it, they used the money to buy Potter's Field, as a cemetery for foreigners. 8 That is why that field is called “Field of Blood” to this very day. 9 Then what the prophet Jeremiah had said came true: “They took the thirty silver coins, the amount the people of Israel had agreed to pay for him, 10 and used the money to buy the potter's field, as the Lord had commanded me. ” 11 Jesus stood before the Roman governor, who questioned him. “Are you the king of the Jews?” he asked. “So you say,” answered Jesus. 12 But he said nothing in response to the accusations of the chief priests and elders. 13 So Pilate said to him, “Don't you hear all these things they accuse you of” 14 But Jesus refused to answer a single word, with the result that the Governor was greatly surprised. 15 At every Passover Festival the Roman governor was in the habit of setting free any one prisoner the crowd asked for. 16 At that time there was a well-known prisoner named Jesus Barabbas. 17 So when the crowd gathered, Pilate asked them, “Which one do you want me to set free for you? Jesus Barabbas or Jesus called the Messiah?” 18 He knew very well that the Jewish authorities had handed Jesus over to him because they were jealous. 19 While Pilate was sitting in the judgment hall, his wife sent him a message: “Have nothing to do with that innocent man, because in a dream last night I suffered much on account of him.” 20 The chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask Pilate to set Barabbas free and have Jesus put to death. 21 But Pilate asked the crowd, “Which one of these two do you want me to set free for you?” “Barabbas!” they answered. 22 “What, then, shall I do with Jesus called the Messiah?” Pilate asked them. “Crucify him!” they all answered. 23 But Pilate asked, “What crime has he committed?” Then they started shouting at the top of their voices: “Crucify him!” 24 When Pilate saw that it was no use to go on, but that a riot might break out, he took some water, washed his hands in front of the crowd, and said, “I am not responsible for the death of this man! This is your doing!” 25 The whole crowd answered, “Let the responsibility for his death fall on us and on our children!” 26 Then Pilate set Barabbas free for them; and after he had Jesus whipped, he handed him over to be crucified. Reflect Reread verse 24. Pilate washed his hands to claim that he was innocent of sentencing Jesus to death. He wanted to show that it was the people’s decision to put Jesus to death, not his, though the execution would not have happened without his final approval. Can you think of a time when you failed to take responsibility for something you knew was wrong but allowed to happen anyway? Pray Holy God, forgive me for the times when I have failed to take responsibility for my sins—for times when I looked to my own interests instead of what you would have me do. Embrace me with your love and grace and guide me in the way of your truth. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who suffer because of corrupt political leaders Tomorrow's Reading Matthew 27:27-56: Jesus is crucified. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 19, 2014 April 18, 2014 Matthew 27:27-56 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Matthew 27:27-56: Soldiers mock Jesus, nail him to a cross, and then gamble for his clothes. Passersby jeer and yell, and even the criminals crucified on either side of Jesus scorn him. Jesus cries out that he has been completely abandoned. At his death, the curtain in the Temple is torn in two and the earth shakes. The women who had followed Jesus look on from a distance. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 27:54b They were terrified and said, “He really was the Son of God!” Today’s Reading 27 Then Pilate's soldiers took Jesus into the governor's palace, and the whole company gathered around him. 28 They stripped off his clothes and put a scarlet robe on him. 29 Then they made a crown out of thorny branches and placed it on his head, and put a stick in his right hand; then they knelt before him and made fun of him. “Long live the King of the Jews!” they said. 30 They spat on him, and took the stick and hit him over the head. 31 When they had finished making fun of him, they took the robe off and put his own clothes back on him. Then they led him out to crucify him. 32 As they were going out, they met a man from Cyrene named Simon, and the soldiers forced him to carry Jesus' cross. 33 They came to a place called Golgotha, which means, “The Place of the Skull.” 34 There they offered Jesus wine mixed with a bitter substance; but after tasting it, he would not drink it. 35 They crucified him and then divided his clothes among them by throwing dice. 36 After that they sat there and watched him. 37 Above his head they put the written notice of the accusation against him: “This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.” 38 Then they crucified two bandits with Jesus, one on his right and the other on his left. 39 People passing by shook their heads and hurled insults at Jesus: 40 “You were going to tear down the Temple and build it back up in three days! Save yourself if you are God's Son! Come on down from the cross!” 41 In the same way the chief priests and the teachers of the Law and the elders made fun of him: 42 “He saved others, but he cannot save himself Isn't he the king of Israel? If he will come down off the cross now, we will believe in him! 43 He trusts in God and claims to be God's Son. Well, then, let us see if God wants to save him now! ” 44 Even the bandits who had been crucified with him insulted him in the same way. 45 At noon the whole country was covered with darkness, which lasted for three hours. 46 At about three o'clock Jesus cried out with a loud shout, “ Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani? ” which means, “My God, my God, why did you abandon me?” 47 Some of the people standing there heard him and said, “He is calling for Elijah!” 48 One of them ran up at once, took a sponge, soaked it in cheap wine, put it on the end of a stick, and tried to make him drink it. 49 But the others said, “Wait, let us see if Elijah is coming to save him!” 50 Jesus again gave a loud cry and breathed his last. 51 Then the curtain hanging in the Temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split apart, 52 the graves broke open, and many of God's people who had died were raised to life. 53 They left the graves, and after Jesus rose from death, they went into the Holy City, where many people saw them. 54 When the army officer and the soldiers with him who were watching Jesus saw the earthquake and everything else that happened, they were terrified and said, “He really was the Son of God!” 55 There were many women there, looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee and helped him. 56 Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the wife of Zebedee. Reflect God’s entrance into the world through Jesus was a way for God to be fully present with us and assure us that God understands human suffering, abandonment, and loneliness. Whenever you feel most alone, what do you need in order to trust that God is with you? Pray Loving God, thank you for your steadfast love and presence in my life, even in my darkest moments. Heighten my awareness of your grace in the midst of my struggles. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who feel lost or abandoned Tomorrow's Reading Matthew 27:57-66: Jesus is buried. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 19, 2014 April 19, 2014 Matthew 27:57-66 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Matthew 27:57-66: Joseph of Arimathea buries Jesus’ body, and Mary Magdalene and the other Mary keep watch at the tomb. Pilate sends soldiers to guard the tomb as well, in order to prevent Jesus’ disciples from stealing his body and claiming his resurrection. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 27:59, 60a So Joseph took it, wrapped it in a new linen sheet, and placed it in his own tomb, which he had just recently dug out of solid rock. Today’s Reading 57 When it was evening, a rich man from Arimathea arrived; his name was Joseph, and he also was a disciple of Jesus. 58 He went into the presence of Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Pilate gave orders for the body to be given to Joseph. 59 So Joseph took it, wrapped it in a new linen sheet, 60 and placed it in his own tomb, which he had just recently dug out of solid rock. Then he rolled a large stone across the entrance to the tomb and went away. 61 Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there, facing the tomb. 62 The next day, which was a Sabbath, the chief priests and the Pharisees met with Pilate 63 and said, “Sir, we remember that while that liar was still alive he said, “I will be raised to life three days later.” 64 Give orders, then, for his tomb to be carefully guarded until the third day, so that his disciples will not be able to go and steal the body, and then tell the people that he was raised from death. This last lie would be even worse than the first one. ” 65 “Take a guard,” Pilate told them; “go and make the tomb as secure as you can.” 66 So they left and made the tomb secure by putting a seal on the stone and leaving the guard on watch. Reflect Mary Magdalene and others keep the first Easter vigil at Jesus’ tomb. Our Easter vigil should be a time of mourning over the past and hoping for the future. On this day before Easter, reflect on your past year, and consider how you can better follow Christ as you prepare to celebrate his resurrection. Pray Lord Jesus, I await your coming. Renew my spirit and prepare my heart to experience the joy and grace of your resurrection. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are grieving the death of a loved one. Tomorrow's Reading Matthew 28:1-20: Jesus is raised to 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 21, 2014 Author Members Posted April 21, 2014 April 20, 2014 Matthew 28:1-20 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Matthew 28:1-20: An angel rolls the stone from the tomb, revealing that Jesus has been raised to life. The women rush to tell the disciples; and on the way, they meet the risen Christ. Later, Jesus appears to his disciples on a hill in Galilee, calling them to go forth and make disciples of all people. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 28:20b [Jesus said], “And I will be with you always, to the end of the age.” Today’s Reading 1 After the Sabbath, as Sunday morning was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. 2 Suddenly there was a violent earthquake; an angel of the Lord came down from heaven, rolled the stone away, and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid that they trembled and became like dead men. 5 The angel spoke to the women. “You must not be afraid,” he said. “I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has been raised, just as he said. Come here and see the place where he was lying. 7 Go quickly now, and tell his disciples, “He has been raised from death, and now he is going to Galilee ahead of you; there you will see him!” Remember what I have told you. ” 8 So they left the tomb in a hurry, afraid and yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them and said, “Peace be with you.” They came up to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him. 10 “Do not be afraid,” Jesus said to them. “Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.” 11 While the women went on their way, some of the soldiers guarding the tomb went back to the city and told the chief priests everything that had happened. 12 The chief priests met with the elders and made their plan; they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers 13 and said, “You are to say that his disciples came during the night and stole his body while you were asleep. 14 And if the Governor should hear of this, we will convince him that you are innocent, and you will have nothing to worry about. ” 15 The guards took the money and did what they were told to do. And so that is the report spread around by the Jews to this very day. 16 The eleven disciples went to the hill in Galilee where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him, even though some of them doubted. 18 Jesus drew near and said to them, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. 19 Go, then, to all peoples everywhere and make them my disciples: baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, 20 and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you. And I will be with you always, to the end of the age. ” Reflect The risen Christ appears first to the women. What does he say to them? Jesus commands his followers to make disciples of all people. In what ways do you carry out Jesus’ command? How can you be an extension of Jesus’ love and grace to others? Pray Alleluia! Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Thank you, God, for Jesus’ resurrection and the hope that he offers. Send me forth to make disciples, showing Christ’s love to all people. Amen. Prayer Concern Those in need of resurrection hope Tomorrow's Reading John 20:1-31: Jesus appears to Mary Magdalene. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 22, 2014 April 21, 2014 John 20:1-31 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction John 20:1-31: When Mary Magdalene goes to Jesus’ tomb, she sees that the stone has been rolled away. She runs to tell the disciples, believing that someone took Jesus’ body from the tomb. Then Jesus appears to Mary, telling her that he is going to return to God. Later that day, Jesus appears to the disciples, and they receive the Holy Spirit. He appears to them again and Thomas’ faith is tested. Today’s Scripture: John 20:29b [Jesus said], “How happy are those who believe without seeing me!” Today’s Reading 1 Early on Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been taken away from the entrance. 2 She went running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and told them, “They have taken the Lord from the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!” 3 Then Peter and the other disciple went to the tomb. 4 The two of them were running, but the other disciple ran faster than Peter and reached the tomb first. 5 He bent over and saw the linen cloths, but he did not go in. 6 Behind him came Simon Peter, and he went straight into the tomb. He saw the linen cloths lying there 7 and the cloth which had been around Jesus' head. It was not lying with the linen cloths but was rolled up by itself. 8 Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in; he saw and believed. ( 9 They still did not understand the scripture which said that he must rise from death.) 10 Then the disciples went back home. 11 Mary stood crying outside the tomb. While she was still crying, she bent over and looked in the tomb 12 and saw two angels there dressed in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had been, one at the head and the other at the feet. 13 “Woman, why are you crying?” they asked her. She answered, “They have taken my Lord away, and I do not know where they have put him!” 14 Then she turned around and saw Jesus standing there; but she did not know that it was Jesus. 15 “Woman, why are you crying?” Jesus asked her. “Who is it that you are looking for?” She thought he was the gardener, so she said to him, “If you took him away, sir, tell me where you have put him, and I will go and get him.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned toward him and said in Hebrew, “Rabboni!” (This means “Teacher.”) 17 “Do not hold on to me,” Jesus told her, “because I have not yet gone back up to the Father. But go to my brothers and tell them that I am returning to him who is my Father and their Father, my God and their God.” 18 So Mary Magdalene went and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord and related to them what he had told her. 19 It was late that Sunday evening, and the disciples were gathered together behind locked doors, because they were afraid of the Jewish authorities. Then Jesus came and stood among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. 20 After saying this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples were filled with joy at seeing the Lord. 21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father sent me, so I send you.” 22 Then he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive people's sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven. ” 24 One of the twelve disciples, Thomas (called the Twin), was not with them when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” Thomas said to them, “Unless I see the scars of the nails in his hands and put my finger on those scars and my hand in his side, I will not believe.” 26 A week later the disciples were together again indoors, and Thomas was with them. The doors were locked, but Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and look at my hands; then reach out your hand and put it in my side. Stop your doubting, and believe!” 28 Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” 29 Jesus said to him, “Do you believe because you see me? How happy are those who believe without seeing me!” 30 In his disciples' presence Jesus performed many other miracles which are not written down in this book. 31 But these have been written in order that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through your faith in him you may have life. Reflect Thomas is convinced that Jesus has been raised from the dead because he can see and touch the wounds Jesus received when he was crucified. But Jesus says that those who believe without seeing are the ones who are truly blessed. What does it mean to you to have faith without seeing? What is the role of doubt in faith? Pray Lord Jesus, sometimes I feel like Thomas, wanting proof of your love and grace. Reassure me in times of doubt, and increase my faith so that I may have confidence in you and live according to you will. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who doubt the resurrection Tomorrow's Reading John 21:1-25: Jesus appears to seven disciples. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 23, 2014 Author Members Posted April 23, 2014 April 22, 2014 John 21:1-25 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction John 21:1-25: Jesus appears to seven disciples on the shoreline and shares a meal with them. Three times he calls upon Peter to care for Jesus’ lambs and sheep (verses 15-17). Today’s Scripture: John 21:16b Jesus said to him, “Take care of my sheep.” Today’s Reading 1 After this, Jesus appeared once more to his disciples at Lake Tiberias. This is how it happened. 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael (the one from Cana in Galilee), the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples of Jesus were all together. 3 Simon Peter said to the others, “I am going fishing.” “We will come with you,” they told him. So they went out in a boat, but all that night they did not catch a thing. 4 As the sun was rising, Jesus stood at the water's edge, but the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5 Then he asked them, “Young men, haven't you caught anything?” “Not a thing,” they answered. 6 He said to them, “Throw your net out on the right side of the boat, and you will catch some.” So they threw the net out and could not pull it back in, because they had caught so many fish. 7 The disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Peter heard that it was the Lord, he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken his clothes off) and jumped into the water. 8 The other disciples came to shore in the boat, pulling the net full of fish. They were not very far from land, about a hundred yards away. 9 When they stepped ashore, they saw a charcoal fire there with fish on it and some bread. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.” 11 Simon Peter went aboard and dragged the net ashore full of big fish, a hundred and fifty-three in all; even though there were so many, still the net did not tear. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and eat.” None of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” because they knew it was the Lord. 13 So Jesus went over, took the bread, and gave it to them; he did the same with the fish. 14 This, then, was the third time Jesus appeared to the disciples after he was raised from death. 15 After they had eaten, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these others do?” “Yes, Lord,” he answered, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Take care of my lambs.” 16 A second time Jesus said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” “Yes, Lord,” he answered, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Take care of my sheep.” 17 A third time Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter became sad because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” and so he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you!” Jesus said to him, “Take care of my sheep. 18 I am telling you the truth: when you were young, you used to get ready and go anywhere you wanted to; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands and someone else will tie you up and take you where you don't want to go. ” 19 (In saying this, Jesus was indicating the way in which Peter would die and bring glory to God.) Then Jesus said to him, “Follow me!” 20 Peter turned around and saw behind him that other disciple, whom Jesus loved—the one who had leaned close to Jesus at the meal and had asked, “Lord, who is going to betray you?” 21 When Peter saw him, he asked Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?” 22 Jesus answered him, “If I want him to live until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!” 23 So a report spread among the followers of Jesus that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say he would not die; he said, “If I want him to live until I come, what is that to you?” 24 He is the disciple who spoke of these things, the one who also wrote them down; and we know that what he said is true. 25 Now, there are many other things that Jesus did. If they were all written down one by one, I suppose that the whole world could not hold the books that would be written. Reflect What command did Jesus give to Peter? What did that mean for Peter? What does it mean for Jesus’ followers today? Pray Lord Jesus, you call us to be your disciples and to care for one another. Open my eyes to the “lambs and sheep” I encounter today, and teach me to share with them your message of love and salvation. Amen. Prayer Concern Those discerning a call to ministry Tomorrow's Reading Hebrews 4:1-13: God promises a Sabbath rest to those who have faith. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 24, 2014 Author Members Posted April 24, 2014 April 23, 2014 Hebrews 4:1-13 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Hebrews 4:1-13: The Israelite people who left Egypt were headed for Canaan, where they hoped to make their home in a land of plenty and peace. But the generation of Israelites that disobeyed God in the desert were not allowed to enter this place of rest. God has provided a place of rest in heaven, but those who turn away from God may miss entering the eternal place of rest. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 4:13a There is nothing that can be hid from God; everything in all creation is exposed and lies open before his eyes. Today’s Reading 1 Now, God has offered us the promise that we may receive that rest he spoke about. Let us take care, then, that none of you will be found to have failed to receive that promised rest. 2 For we have heard the Good News, just as they did. They heard the message, but it did them no good, because when they heard it, they did not accept it with faith. 3 We who believe, then, do receive that rest which God promised. It is just as he said, “I was angry and made a solemn promise: “They will never enter the land where I would have given them rest!”” 4 For somewhere in the Scriptures this is said about the seventh day: “God rested on the seventh day from all his work.” 5 This same matter is spoken of again: “They will never enter that land where I would have given them rest.” 6 Those who first heard the Good News did not receive that rest, because they did not believe. There are, then, others who are allowed to receive it. 7 This is shown by the fact that God sets another day, which is called “Today.” Many years later he spoke of it through David in the scripture already quoted: “If you hear God's voice today, do not be stubborn.” 8 If Joshua had given the people the rest that God had promised, God would not have spoken later about another day. 9 As it is, however, there still remains for God's people a rest like God's resting on the seventh day. 10 For those who receive that rest which God promised will rest from their own work, just as God rested from his. 11 Let us, then, do our best to receive that rest, so that no one of us will fail as they did because of their lack of faith. 12 The word of God is alive and active, sharper than any double-edged sword. It cuts all the way through, to where soul and spirit meet, to where joints and marrow come together. It judges the desires and thoughts of the heart. 13 There is nothing that can be hid from God; everything in all creation is exposed and lies open before his eyes. And it is to him that we must all give an account of ourselves. Reflect The new day of rest is compared to the Jewish Sabbath (verses 9, 10). What warning is given in verse 11? How do you envision God’s promised rest? Pray Gracious and loving God, thank you for your promised rest. In faith I accept the Good News of your love and salvation. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who will enter into God’s promised rest today. Tomorrow's Reading Hebrews 4:14—5:14: Jesus is our great High Priest. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 24, 2014 April 24, 2014 Hebrews 4:14—5:14 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Hebrews 4:14—5:14: God made Jesus the High Priest who “became the source of eternal salvation for all those who obey him.” Believers are encouraged to approach God’s throne of grace and mercy with confidence. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 4:14b For we have a great High Priest who has gone into the very presence of God—Jesus, the Son of God. Today’s Reading 14 Let us, then, hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we have a great High Priest who has gone into the very presence of God—Jesus, the Son of God. 15 Our High Priest is not one who cannot feel sympathy for our weaknesses. On the contrary, we have a High Priest who was tempted in every way that we are, but did not sin. 16 Let us have confidence, then, and approach God's throne, where there is grace. There we will receive mercy and find grace to help us just when we need it. 1 Every high priest is chosen from his fellow-men and appointed to serve God on their behalf, to offer sacrifices and offerings for sins. 2 Since he himself is weak in many ways, he is able to be gentle with those who are ignorant and make mistakes. 3 And because he is himself weak, he must offer sacrifices not only for the sins of the people but also for his own sins. 4 No one chooses for himself the honor of being a high priest. It is only by God's call that a man is made a high priest—just as Aaron was. 5 In the same way, Christ did not take upon himself the honor of being a high priest. Instead, God said to him, “You are my Son; today I have become your Father.” 6 He also said in another place, “You will be a priest forever, in the priestly order of Melchizedek.” 7 In his life on earth Jesus made his prayers and requests with loud cries and tears to God, who could save him from death. Because he was humble and devoted, God heard him. 8 But even though he was God's Son, he learned through his sufferings to be obedient. 9 When he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all those who obey him, 10 and God declared him to be high priest, in the priestly order of Melchizedek. 11 There is much we have to say about this matter, but it is hard to explain to you, because you are so slow to understand. 12 There has been enough time for you to be teachers—yet you still need someone to teach you the first lessons of God's message. Instead of eating solid food, you still have to drink milk. 13 Anyone who has to drink milk is still a child, without any experience in the matter of right and wrong. 14 Solid food, on the other hand, is for adults, who through practice are able to distinguish between good and evil. Reflect How is Jesus described in verse 4:15? What does this verse teach you about Jesus? Where in your life do you encounter temptation? What does knowing that Jesus can empathize with your experience mean to you? Pray Lord Jesus, you are my great High Priest. In the face of temptation, you have taught me to remain faithful to your Word. Strengthen me against the temptations in my life so that I may live as your true disciple. Amen. Prayer Concern Those struggling with addiction Tomorrow's Reading Hebrews 6:1-20 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 26, 2014 April 25, 2014 Hebrews 6:1-20 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Hebrews 6:1-20: Christ’s followers are warned not to turn their backs on God’s message but to be mature in their faith. Those who turn away from the message Jesus brought are like those who “are again crucifying the Son of God.” Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 6:10 God is not unfair. He will not forget the work you did or the love you showed for him in the help you gave and are still giving to other Christians. Today’s Reading 1 Let us go forward, then, to mature teaching and leave behind us the first lessons of the Christian message. We should not lay again the foundation of turning away from useless works and believing in God; 2 of the teaching about baptisms and the laying on of hands; of the resurrection of the dead and the eternal judgment. 3 Let us go forward! And this is what we will do, if God allows. 4 For how can those who abandon their faith be brought back to repent again? They were once in God's light; they tasted heaven's gift and received their share of the Holy Spirit; 5 they knew from experience that God's word is good, and they had felt the powers of the coming age. 6 And then they abandoned their faith! It is impossible to bring them back to repent again, because they are again crucifying the Son of God and exposing him to public shame. 7 God blesses the soil which drinks in the rain that often falls on it and which grows plants that are useful to those for whom it is cultivated. 8 But if it grows thorns and weeds, it is worth nothing; it is in danger of being cursed by God and will be destroyed by fire. 9 But even if we speak like this, dear friends, we feel sure about you. We know that you have the better blessings that belong to your salvation. 10 God is not unfair. He will not forget the work you did or the love you showed for him in the help you gave and are still giving to other Christians. 11 Our great desire is that each of you keep up your eagerness to the end, so that the things you hope for will come true. 12 We do not want you to become lazy, but to be like those who believe and are patient, and so receive what God has promised. 13 When God made his promise to Abraham, he made a vow to do what he had promised. Since there was no one greater than himself, he used his own name when he made his vow. 14 He said, “I promise you that I will bless you and give you many descendants.” 15 Abraham was patient, and so he received what God had promised. 16 When we make a vow, we use the name of someone greater than ourselves, and the vow settles all arguments. 17 To those who were to receive what he promised, God wanted to make it very clear that he would never change his purpose; so he added his vow to the promise. 18 There are these two things, then, that cannot change and about which God cannot lie. So we who have found safety with him are greatly encouraged to hold firmly to the hope placed before us. 19 We have this hope as an anchor for our lives. It is safe and sure, and goes through the curtain of the heavenly temple into the inner sanctuary. 20 On our behalf Jesus has gone in there before us and has become a high priest forever, in the priestly order of Melchizedek. Reflect According to today’s reading, being mature in faith means more than just thinking about the basic things we were taught about Christ. One needs to live as a follower of Christ day to day. How do you connect Jesus’ teachings with the challenges of your daily life? Pray Merciful and loving God, I want to be spiritually mature. Grow my understanding of your ways so that I might live by the teachings of Jesus. Increase my wisdom as I seek to serve you faithfully. Amen. Prayer Concern Bible study leaders Tomorrow's Reading Hebrews 7:1-28: Jesus is the High Priest that meets our needs. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 27, 2014 April 26, 2014 Hebrews 7:1-28 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Hebrews 7:1-28: God sent Jesus to make a new agreement with God’s people. In it God makes a new promise that goes beyond the promises God gave to Moses and the people of Israel. The old agreement was based on the Law, but the new agreement is based on Christ’s sacrifice to take away sins. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 7:26a Jesus, then, is the High Priest that meets our needs. He is holy; he has no fault or sin in him. Today’s Reading 1 This Melchizedek was king of Salem and a priest of the Most High God. As Abraham was coming back from the battle in which he defeated the four kings, Melchizedek met him and blessed him, 2 and Abraham gave him one tenth of all he had taken. (The first meaning of Melchizedek's name is “King of Righteousness”; and because he was king of Salem, his name also means “King of Peace.”) 3 There is no record of Melchizedek's father or mother or of any of his ancestors; no record of his birth or of his death. He is like the Son of God; he remains a priest forever. 4 You see, then, how great he was. Abraham, our famous ancestor, gave him one tenth of all he got in the battle. 5 And those descendants of Levi who are priests are commanded by the Law to collect one tenth from the people of Israel, that is, from their own people, even though they are also descendants of Abraham. 6 Melchizedek was not descended from Levi, but he collected one tenth from Abraham and blessed him, the man who received God's promises. 7 There is no doubt that the one who blesses is greater than the one who is blessed. 8 In the case of the priests the tenth is collected by men who die; but as for Melchizedek the tenth was collected by one who lives, as the scripture says. 9 And, so to speak, when Abraham paid the tenth, Levi (whose descendants collect the tenth) also paid it. 10 For Levi had not yet been born, but was, so to speak, in the body of his ancestor Abraham when Melchizedek met him. 11 It was on the basis of the levitical priesthood that the Law was given to the people of Israel. Now, if the work of the levitical priests had been perfect, there would have been no need for a different kind of priest to appear, one who is in the priestly order of Melchizedek, not of Aaron. 12 For when the priesthood is changed, there also has to be a change in the law. 13 And our Lord, of whom these things are said, belonged to a different tribe, and no member of his tribe ever served as a priest. 14 It is well known that he was born a member of the tribe of Judah; and Moses did not mention this tribe when he spoke of priests. 15 The matter becomes even plainer; a different priest has appeared, who is like Melchizedek. 16 He was made a priest, not by human rules and regulations, but through the power of a life which has no end. 17 For the scripture says, “You will be a priest forever, in the priestly order of Melchizedek.” 18 The old rule, then, is set aside, because it was weak and useless. 19 For the Law of Moses could not make anything perfect. And now a better hope has been provided through which we come near to God. 20 In addition, there is also God's vow. There was no such vow when the others were made priests. 21 But Jesus became a priest by means of a vow when God said to him, “The Lord has made a solemn promise and will not take it back: “You will be a priest forever.”” 22 This difference, then, also makes Jesus the guarantee of a better covenant. 23 There is another difference: there were many of those other priests, because they died and could not continue their work. 24 But Jesus lives on forever, and his work as priest does not pass on to someone else. 25 And so he is able, now and always, to save those who come to God through him, because he lives forever to plead with God for them. 26 Jesus, then, is the High Priest that meets our needs. He is holy; he has no fault or sin in him; he has been set apart from sinners and raised above the heavens. 27 He is not like other high priests; he does not need to offer sacrifices every day for his own sins first and then for the sins of the people. He offered one sacrifice, once and for all, when he offered himself. 28 The Law of Moses appoints men who are imperfect to be high priests; but God's promise made with the vow, which came later than the Law, appoints the Son, who has been made perfect forever. Reflect In biblical times, priests made sacrifices as an act of thanksgiving and also to seek God’s forgiveness for the sins of the people. According to verses 20-28, what is the difference between the sacrifice Jesus offered and the ones offered by the priests and high priests of Israel? What does Jesus’ sacrifice mean to you? Pray Holy Jesus, thank you for the sacrifice you made so that I might receive forgiveness of my sins and eternal life with you. You save those who come to God through you because you live forever and plead with God for us. Amen. Prayer Concern Priests and parish pastors Tomorrow's Reading Hebrews 8:1-13: The covenant Jesus arranged between God and his people is better than the first covenant. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 27, 2014 Author Members Posted April 27, 2014 April 27, 2014 Hebrews 8:1-13 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Hebrews 8:1-13: God gave Moses the plans for building the first Sacred Tent (Exodus 25:40—26:37). Israel’s priests offered sacrifices at this tent and later at the Temple. Both the Sacred Tent and the Temple are imperfect when compared to the real place of worship in heaven. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 8:2 He serves as high priest in the Most Holy Place, that is, in the real tent which was put up by the Lord, not by human hands. Today’s Reading 1 The whole point of what we are saying is that we have such a High Priest, who sits at the right of the throne of the Divine Majesty in heaven. 2 He serves as high priest in the Most Holy Place, that is, in the real tent which was put up by the Lord, not by human hands. 3 Every high priest is appointed to present offerings and animal sacrifices to God, and so our High Priest must also have something to offer. 4 If he were on earth, he would not be a priest at all, since there are priests who offer the gifts required by the Jewish Law. 5 The work they do as priests is really only a copy and a shadow of what is in heaven. It is the same as it was with Moses. When he was about to build the Sacred Tent, God told him, “Be sure to make everything according to the pattern you were shown on the mountain.” 6 But now, Jesus has been given priestly work which is superior to theirs, just as the covenant which he arranged between God and his people is a better one, because it is based on promises of better things. 7 If there had been nothing wrong with the first covenant, there would have been no need for a second one. 8 But God finds fault with his people when he says, “The days are coming, says the Lord, when I will draw up a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. 9 It will not be like the covenant that I made with their ancestors on the day I took them by the hand and led them out of Egypt. They were not faithful to the covenant I made with them, and so I paid no attention to them. 10 Now, this is the covenant that I will make with the people of Israel in the days to come, says the Lord: I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. 11 None of them will have to teach their friends or tell their neighbors, “Know the Lord.” For they will all know me, from the least to the greatest. 12 I will forgive their sins and will no longer remember their wrongs.” 13 By speaking of a new covenant, God has made the first one old; and anything that becomes old and worn out will soon disappear. Reflect In biblical times, the high priest was in charge of the Holy Place in the Temple. He was the only one who could go into the inner part of the temple, the Most Holy Place, the place of God’s dwelling. God now provides access for all people to what is now the most holy place—heaven. What does God’s promise mean to you? Pray Everlasting God, through Christ our Lord you welcome everyone into your holy and sacred presence. Help me to extend your welcome to others by sharing the Good News of Christ. Amen. Prayer Concern Worship assistants Tomorrow's Reading Hebrews 9:1-22: As High Priest, Christ serves in a tent that is greater and more perfect. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 28, 2014 April 28, 2014 Hebrews 9:1-22 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Hebrews 9:1-22: Rules for correct worship and the duties of the priests, according to the first covenant, are described. This description is contrasted with Christ who, as our High Priest, offered his own blood as an offering and perfect sacrifice for our eternal salvation. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 9:15a Christ is the one who arranges a new covenant, so that those who have been called by God may receive the eternal blessings that God has promised. Today’s Reading 1 The first covenant had rules for worship and a place made for worship as well. 2 A tent was put up, the outer one, which was called the Holy Place. In it were the lampstand and the table with the bread offered to God. 3 Behind the second curtain was the tent called the Most Holy Place. 4 In it were the gold altar for the burning of incense and the Covenant Box all covered with gold and containing the gold jar with the manna in it, Aaron's stick that had sprouted leaves, and the two stone tablets with the commandments written on them. 5 Above the Box were the winged creatures representing God's presence, with their wings spread over the place where sins were forgiven. But now is not the time to explain everything in detail. 6 This is how those things have been arranged. The priests go into the outer tent every day to perform their duties, 7 but only the high priest goes into the inner tent, and he does so only once a year. He takes with him blood which he offers to God on behalf of himself and for the sins which the people have committed without knowing they were sinning. 8 The Holy Spirit clearly teaches from all these arrangements that the way into the Most Holy Place has not yet been opened as long as the outer tent still stands. 9 This is a symbol which points to the present time. It means that the offerings and animal sacrifices presented to God cannot make the worshiper's heart perfect, 10 since they have to do only with food, drink, and various purification ceremonies. These are all outward rules, which apply only until the time when God will establish the new order. 11 But Christ has already come as the High Priest of the good things that are already here. The tent in which he serves is greater and more perfect; it is not a tent made by human hands, that is, it is not a part of this created world. 12 When Christ went through the tent and entered once and for all into the Most Holy Place, he did not take the blood of goats and bulls to offer as a sacrifice; rather, he took his own blood and obtained eternal salvation for us. 13 The blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a burnt calf are sprinkled on the people who are ritually unclean, and this purifies them by taking away their ritual impurity. 14 Since this is true, how much more is accomplished by the blood of Christ! Through the eternal Spirit he offered himself as a perfect sacrifice to God. His blood will purify our consciences from useless rituals, so that we may serve the living God. 15 For this reason Christ is the one who arranges a new covenant, so that those who have been called by God may receive the eternal blessings that God has promised. This can be done because there has been a death which sets people free from the wrongs they did while the first covenant was in effect. 16 In the case of a will it is necessary to prove that the person who made it has died, 17 for a will means nothing while the person who made it is alive; it goes into effect only after his death. 18 That is why even the first covenant went into effect only with the use of blood. 19 First, Moses proclaimed to the people all the commandments as set forth in the Law. Then he took the blood of bulls and goats, mixed it with water, and sprinkled it on the book of the Law and all the people, using a sprig of hyssop and some red wool. 20 He said, “This is the blood which seals the covenant that God has commanded you to obey.” 21 In the same way Moses also sprinkled the blood on the Sacred Tent and over all the things used in worship. 22 Indeed, according to the Law almost everything is purified by blood, and sins are forgiven only if blood is poured out. Reflect How are worship rituals, according to the first covenant, contrasted with the new covenant and what Christ has done? What does Christ’s sacrifice mean to you? Pray Lord Jesus, thank you for sacrificing yourself so that I might obtain eternal salvation through you. Teach me to live according to your will and to serve you always. Amen. Prayer Concern Church administrators Tomorrow's Reading Hebrews 9:23—10:18: Christ’s sacrifice is once for all. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 29, 2014 April 29, 2014 Hebrews 9:23—10:18 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Hebrews 9:23—10:18: From today’s reading we learn that following the sacrificial rituals according to the Law cannot cleanse us from sin but only serve to remind us of our sins. Rather, we are saved because Christ offered himself once for all. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 10:12a Christ, however, offered one sacrifice for sins, an offering that is effective forever. Today’s Reading 23 Those things, which are copies of the heavenly originals, had to be purified in that way. But the heavenly things themselves require much better sacrifices. 24 For Christ did not go into a Holy Place made by human hands, which was a copy of the real one. He went into heaven itself, where he now appears on our behalf in the presence of God. 25 The Jewish high priest goes into the Most Holy Place every year with the blood of an animal. But Christ did not go in to offer himself many times, 26 for then he would have had to suffer many times ever since the creation of the world. Instead, now when all ages of time are nearing the end, he has appeared once and for all, to remove sin through the sacrifice of himself. 27 Everyone must die once, and after that be judged by God. 28 In the same manner Christ also was offered in sacrifice once to take away the sins of many. He will appear a second time, not to deal with sin, but to save those who are waiting for him. 1 The Jewish Law is not a full and faithful model of the real things; it is only a faint outline of the good things to come. The same sacrifices are offered forever, year after year. How can the Law, then, by means of these sacrifices make perfect the people who come to God? 2 If the people worshiping God had really been purified from their sins, they would not feel guilty of sin any more, and all sacrifices would stop. 3 As it is, however, the sacrifices serve year after year to remind people of their sins. 4 For the blood of bulls and goats can never take away sins. 5 For this reason, when Christ was about to come into the world, he said to God: “You do not want sacrifices and offerings, but you have prepared a body for me. 6 You are not pleased with animals burned whole on the altar or with sacrifices to take away sins. 7 Then I said, ‘Here I am, to do your will, O God, just as it is written of me in the book of the Law.’” 8 First he said, “You neither want nor are you pleased with sacrifices and offerings or with animals burned on the altar and the sacrifices to take away sins.” He said this even though all these sacrifices are offered according to the Law. 9 Then he said, “Here I am, O God, to do your will.” So God does away with all the old sacrifices and puts the sacrifice of Christ in their place. 10 Because Jesus Christ did what God wanted him to do, we are all purified from sin by the offering that he made of his own body once and for all. 11 Every Jewish priest performs his services every day and offers the same sacrifices many times; but these sacrifices can never take away sins. 12 Christ, however, offered one sacrifice for sins, an offering that is effective forever, and then he sat down at the right side of God. 13 There he now waits until God puts his enemies as a footstool under his feet. 14 With one sacrifice, then, he has made perfect forever those who are purified from sin. 15 And the Holy Spirit also gives us his witness. First he says, 16 “This is the covenant that I will make with them in the days to come, says the Lord: I will put my laws in their hearts and write them on their minds.” 17 And then he says, “I will not remember their sins and evil deeds any longer.” 18 So when these have been forgiven, an offering to take away sins is no longer needed. Reflect Reread 10:5-10. What has occurred because Jesus was obedient to God’s will? In what ways do you demonstrate your obedience to God’s will? Pray Lord God, teach me to be obedient to your will and to serve you always. Thank you for Jesus’ sacrifice which has cleansed me from sin. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who prepare sanctuaries for worship Tomorrow's Reading Hebrews 10:19-39: Jesus’ death gives us freedom to enter the Most Holy Place. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted April 30, 2014 April 30, 2014 Hebrews 10:19-39 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Giving Us Hope Introduction Hebrews 10:19-39: The Lord’s followers are encouraged to keep their hearts pure and their consciences free from evil as they help each other prepare for the day when the Lord will return. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 10:22 Let us come near to God with a sincere heart and a sure faith, with hearts that have been purified from a guilty conscience and with bodies washed with clean water. Today’s Reading 19 We have, then, my friends, complete freedom to go into the Most Holy Place by means of the death of Jesus. 20 He opened for us a new way, a living way, through the curtain—that is, through his own body. 21 We have a great priest in charge of the house of God. 22 So let us come near to God with a sincere heart and a sure faith, with hearts that have been purified from a guilty conscience and with bodies washed with clean water. 23 Let us hold on firmly to the hope we profess, because we can trust God to keep his promise. 24 Let us be concerned for one another, to help one another to show love and to do good. 25 Let us not give up the habit of meeting together, as some are doing. Instead, let us encourage one another all the more, since you see that the Day of the Lord is coming nearer. 26 For there is no longer any sacrifice that will take away sins if we purposely go on sinning after the truth has been made known to us. 27 Instead, all that is left is to wait in fear for the coming Judgment and the fierce fire which will destroy those who oppose God! 28 Anyone who disobeys the Law of Moses is put to death without any mercy when judged guilty from the evidence of two or more witnesses. 29 What, then, of those who despise the Son of God? who treat as a cheap thing the blood of God's covenant which purified them from sin? who insult the Spirit of grace? Just think how much worse is the punishment they will deserve! 30 For we know who said, “I will take revenge, I will repay”; and who also said, “The Lord will judge his people.” 31 It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God! 32 Remember how it was with you in the past. In those days, after God's light had shone on you, you suffered many things, yet were not defeated by the struggle. 33 You were at times publicly insulted and mistreated, and at other times you were ready to join those who were being treated in this way. 34 You shared the sufferings of prisoners, and when all your belongings were seized, you endured your loss gladly, because you knew that you still possessed something much better, which would last forever. 35 Do not lose your courage, then, because it brings with it a great reward. 36 You need to be patient, in order to do the will of God and receive what he promises. 37 For, as the scripture says, “Just a little while longer, and he who is coming will come; he will not delay. 38 My righteous people, however, will believe and live; but if any of them turns back, I will not be pleased with them.” 39 We are not people who turn back and are lost. Instead, we have faith and are saved. Reflect According to verse 19, we have “complete freedom to go into the Most Holy Place by means of the death of Jesus.” What does this freedom mean to you? Reread verses 24 and 25. In what ways do these verses describe a community of faith? Pray Lord God, how thankful I am that I have the freedom to come to you at any time. The perfect sacrifice of your Son, Jesus, who was obedient to your will, has opened a new and living way for me to enter into your presence and rest in your love. Amen. Prayer Concern All communities of faith Tomorrow's Reading Psalm 80: A prayer for a nation’s restoration. 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, 2014 Author Members Posted May 2, 2014 May 1, 2014 Psalm 80 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Renewing Us in Faith Introduction Psalm 80: The first Thursday in May is observed as National Day of Prayer. Today’s psalm is considered a communal lament dating quite possibly back to 722 B.C. following the fall of Samaria (in the northern kingdom of Israel) to the Assyrians (see 2 Kings 17). The psalm expresses a plea to God for the nation’s restoration. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 80:19 Bring us back, LORD God Almighty. Show us your mercy, and we will be saved. Today’s Reading 1 Listen to us, O Shepherd of Israel; hear us, leader of your flock. Seated on your throne above the winged creatures, 2 reveal yourself to the tribes of Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh. Show us your strength; come and save us! 3 Bring us back, O God! Show us your mercy, and we will be saved! 4 How much longer, LORD God Almighty, will you be angry with your people's prayers? 5 You have given us sorrow to eat, a large cup of tears to drink. 6 You let the surrounding nations fight over our land; our enemies insult us. 7 Bring us back, Almighty God! Show us your mercy, and we will be saved! 8 You brought a grapevine out of Egypt; you drove out other nations and planted it in their land. 9 You cleared a place for it to grow; its roots went deep, and it spread out over the whole land. 10 It covered the hills with its shade; its branches overshadowed the giant cedars. 11 It extended its branches to the Mediterranean Sea and as far as the Euphrates River. 12 Why did you break down the fences around it? Now anyone passing by can steal its grapes; 13 wild hogs trample it down, and wild animals feed on it. 14 Turn to us, Almighty God! Look down from heaven at us; come and save your people! 15 Come and save this grapevine that you planted, this young vine you made grow so strong! 16 Our enemies have set it on fire and cut it down; look at them in anger and destroy them! 17 Preserve and protect the people you have chosen, the nation you made so strong. 18 We will never turn away from you again; keep us alive, and we will praise you. 19 Bring us back, LORD God Almighty. Show us your mercy, and we will be saved. Reflect The psalm opens with a plea for God’s help (verses 1-3), followed by a description of the nation’s plight (verses 4-7), an allegory of Israel as a vine planted by God (verses 8-13), and concludes with a further plea for God’s help (verses 14-19). Verses 3, 7, and 19 serve as a refrain to the psalm, and the refrain concludes each of the psalm’s major sections. In what way does the refrain express the tone of the entire psalm? What promise is expressed at the conclusion of the psalm (verse 18)? Is this a promise you can claim? Pray God of mercy, hear our prayers this day for peace throughout the world. Bring healing and restoration to wounded nations, and teach everyone to put their trust in you. Make me an instrument of your peace, and keep me faithful and rooted in your love. Amen. Prayer Concern Nations throughout the world embroiled in conflict Tomorrow's Reading Hebrews 11:1-22: The great faith of God’s people is described. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 2, 2014 Author Members Posted May 2, 2014 May 2, 2014 Hebrews 11:1-22 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Renewing Us in Faith Introduction Hebrews 11:1-22: Today’s reading provides us with a list of people of great faith and the actions and risks they took in response to their faith. The account begins with Abel and continues to Joseph. We learn that faith is the way to please God. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 11:1 To have faith is to be sure of the things we hope for, to be certain of the things we cannot see. Today’s Reading 1 To have faith is to be sure of the things we hope for, to be certain of the things we cannot see. 2 It was by their faith that people of ancient times won God's approval. 3 It is by faith that we understand that the universe was created by God's word, so that what can be seen was made out of what cannot be seen. 4 It was faith that made Abel offer to God a better sacrifice than Cain's. Through his faith he won God's approval as a righteous man, because God himself approved of his gifts. By means of his faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead. 5 It was faith that kept Enoch from dying. Instead, he was taken up to God, and nobody could find him, because God had taken him up. The scripture says that before Enoch was taken up, he had pleased God. 6 No one can please God without faith, for whoever comes to God must have faith that God exists and rewards those who seek him. 7 It was faith that made Noah hear God's warnings about things in the future that he could not see. He obeyed God and built a boat in which he and his family were saved. As a result, the world was condemned, and Noah received from God the righteousness that comes by faith. 8 It was faith that made Abraham obey when God called him to go out to a country which God had promised to give him. He left his own country without knowing where he was going. 9 By faith he lived as a foreigner in the country that God had promised him. He lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who received the same promise from God. 10 For Abraham was waiting for the city which God has designed and built, the city with permanent foundations. 11 It was faith that made Abraham able to become a father, even though he was too old and Sarah herself could not have children. He trusted God to keep his promise. 12 Though Abraham was practically dead, from this one man came as many descendants as there are stars in the sky, as many as the numberless grains of sand on the seashore. 13 It was in faith that all these persons died. They did not receive the things God had promised, but from a long way off they saw them and welcomed them, and admitted openly that they were foreigners and refugees on earth. 14 Those who say such things make it clear that they are looking for a country of their own. 15 They did not keep thinking about the country they had left; if they had, they would have had the chance to return. 16 Instead, it was a better country they longed for, the heavenly country. And so God is not ashamed for them to call him their God, because he has prepared a city for them. 17 It was faith that made Abraham offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice when God put Abraham to the test. Abraham was the one to whom God had made the promise, yet he was ready to offer his only son as a sacrifice. 18 God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that you will have the descendants I promised.” 19 Abraham reckoned that God was able to raise Isaac from death—and, so to speak, Abraham did receive Isaac back from death. 20 It was faith that made Isaac promise blessings for the future to Jacob and Esau. 21 It was faith that made Jacob bless each of the sons of Joseph just before he died. He leaned on the top of his walking stick and worshiped God. 22 It was faith that made Joseph, when he was about to die, speak of the departure of the Israelites from Egypt, and leave instructions about what should be done with his body. Reflect In what ways does faith provide you with a sure hope? Among all the people mentioned in today’s reading, are there any who are unfamiliar to you? Perhaps today’s reading will encourage you to find and read their stories in the Bible. Are there any who are models of faith for you? Pray Holy God, thank you for all your faithful servants. Thank you for mentors and teachers you have placed in my life. May I continue to grow in faith, trusting in your promises. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who mentor others in faith Tomorrow's Reading Hebrews 11:23-40: The listing of people of faith continues. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
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