Members phkrause Posted May 28, 2014 Author Members Posted May 28, 2014 May 28, 2014 Ephesians 4:1-16 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Renewing Us in Faith Introduction Ephesians 4:1-16: Paul encourages the followers of Christ to live in unity and to serve and strengthen the whole body of Christ, the Church, by using the special gifts the Holy Spirit has given them. He urges maturity among them, that they may grow strong in Christ. This strength comes through love and is made manifest through a commitment to truth. Today’s Scripture: Ephesians 4:15 By speaking the truth in a spirit of love, we must grow up in every way to Christ, who is the head. Today’s Reading 1 I urge you, then—I who am a prisoner because I serve the Lord: live a life that measures up to the standard God set when he called you. 2 Be always humble, gentle, and patient. Show your love by being tolerant with one another. 3 Do your best to preserve the unity which the Spirit gives by means of the peace that binds you together. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as there is one hope to which God has called you. 5 There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 there is one God and Father of all people, who is Lord of all, works through all, and is in all. 7 Each one of us has received a special gift in proportion to what Christ has given. 8 As the scripture says, “When he went up to the very heights, he took many captives with him; he gave gifts to people.” 9 Now, what does “he went up” mean? It means that first he came down to the lowest depths of the earth. 10 So the one who came down is the same one who went up, above and beyond the heavens, to fill the whole universe with his presence. 11 It was he who “gave gifts to people”; he appointed some to be apostles, others to be prophets, others to be evangelists, others to be pastors and teachers. 12 He did this to prepare all God's people for the work of Christian service, in order to build up the body of Christ. 13 And so we shall all come together to that oneness in our faith and in our knowledge of the Son of God; we shall become mature people, reaching to the very height of Christ's full stature. 14 Then we shall no longer be children, carried by the waves and blown about by every shifting wind of the teaching of deceitful people, who lead others into error by the tricks they invent. 15 Instead, by speaking the truth in a spirit of love, we must grow up in every way to Christ, who is the head. 16 Under his control all the different parts of the body fit together, and the whole body is held together by every joint with which it is provided. So when each separate part works as it should, the whole body grows and builds itself up through love. Reflect In today’s passage, Paul gives seven different examples of how the followers of Christ are unified (verses 4-6). What seven things do the people of God share? Choose one of these things and describe in your own words what it means. How have you seen this revealed in your faith community? Pray Holy Spirit, you equip the church to love, share, teach, and serve. May we use your gifts to strengthen your body, that we will be united by faith and be mature in our understandings of Christ. Amen. Prayer Concern Churches Tomorrow's Reading Acts 1:1-11: Jesus is taken up to heaven. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 30, 2014 Author Members Posted May 30, 2014 May 29, 2014 Acts 1:1-11 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Renewing Us in Faith Introduction Acts 1:1-11: Jesus tells his disciples to wait in Jerusalem until God gives them the Holy Spirit, empowering them to share the gospel everywhere. Then he is taken up to heaven. The apostles keep their eyes on the skies until two angels jolt them into action. Today’s Scripture: Acts 1:8 [Jesus said]: “But when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will be filled with power, and you will be witnesses for me in Jerusalem, in all of Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Today’s Reading 1 Dear Theophilus: In my first book I wrote about all the things that Jesus did and taught from the time he began his work 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven. Before he was taken up, he gave instructions by the power of the Holy Spirit to the men he had chosen as his apostles. 3 For forty days after his death he appeared to them many times in ways that proved beyond doubt that he was alive. They saw him, and he talked with them about the Kingdom of God. 4 And when they came together, he gave them this order: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift I told you about, the gift my Father promised. 5 John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit. ” 6 When the apostles met together with Jesus, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time give the Kingdom back to Israel?” 7 Jesus said to them, “The times and occasions are set by my Father's own authority, and it is not for you to know when they will be. 8 But when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will be filled with power, and you will be witnesses for me in Jerusalem, in all of Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. ” 9 After saying this, he was taken up to heaven as they watched him, and a cloud hid him from their sight. 10 They still had their eyes fixed on the sky as he went away, when two men dressed in white suddenly stood beside them 11 and said, “Galileans, why are you standing there looking up at the sky? This Jesus, who was taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way that you saw him go to heaven.” Reflect What instructions did Jesus give his disciples? Today’s reading reminds us that, even as we lift our eyes to the heavens in prayer, we are called to focus our activity here on earth in order to help bring about God’s peace and justice in our time. In what ways can you be a witness for Jesus and share the Good News of God’s love wherever you are today? Pray Dear God, keep my eyes focused on what you would have me do today. Empower me to be a witness for you and share the Good News of Jesus Christ wherever I am. Amen. Prayer Concern Airline pilots and flight attendants Tomorrow's Reading Acts 1:12-26: The apostles choose a successor to Judas. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 30, 2014 Author Members Posted May 30, 2014 May 30, 2014 Acts 1:12-26 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Renewing Us in Faith Introduction Acts 1:12-26: The apostles meet and pray with other believers. Peter acts as spokesman for the community, and the apostles proceed to choose a successor to Judas. Today’s Scripture: Acts 1:14a They gathered frequently to pray as a group. Today’s Reading 12 Then the apostles went back to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, which is about half a mile away from the city. 13 They entered the city and went up to the room where they were staying: Peter, John, James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James son of Alphaeus, Simon the Patriot, and Judas son of James. 14 They gathered frequently to pray as a group, together with the women and with Mary the mother of Jesus and with his brothers. 15 A few days later there was a meeting of the believers, about a hundred and twenty in all, and Peter stood up to speak. 16 “My friends,” he said, “the scripture had to come true in which the Holy Spirit, speaking through David, made a prediction about Judas, who was the guide for those who arrested Jesus. 17 Judas was a member of our group, for he had been chosen to have a part in our work. ” ( 18 With the money that Judas got for his evil act he bought a field, where he fell to his death; he burst open and all his insides spilled out. 19 All the people living in Jerusalem heard about it, and so in their own language they call that field Akeldama, which means “Field of Blood.”) 20 “For it is written in the book of Psalms, ‘May his house become empty; may no one live in it.’ It is also written, “May someone else take his place of service.” 21-22 So then, someone must join us as a witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. He must be one of the men who were in our group during the whole time that the Lord Jesus traveled about with us, beginning from the time John preached his message of baptism until the day Jesus was taken up from us to heaven. ” 23 So they proposed two men: Joseph, who was called Barsabbas (also known as Justus), and Matthias. 24 Then they prayed, “Lord, you know the thoughts of everyone, so show us which of these two you have chosen 25 to serve as an apostle in the place of Judas, who left to go to the place where he belongs. ” 26 Then they drew lots to choose between the two men, and the one chosen was Matthias, who was added to the group of eleven apostles. Reflect Reread verses 21-22. What were the qualifications for someone to succeed Judas as an apostle? How was the successor chosen? How does your community of faith set apart those who are called to serve in the church? Pray Almighty God, empower me to share the Good News of your love and salvation with all I meet today and to serve you always. Amen. Prayer Concern Seminarians Tomorrow's Reading Psalm 47: God is king over all the world. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 31, 2014 Author Members Posted May 31, 2014 May 31, 2014 Psalm 47 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Renewing Us in Faith Introduction Psalm 47: Today’s reading is a psalm proclaiming that God is our supreme ruler. It is a celebratory hymn in praise of God’s kingship and was probably used in some form of liturgical procession. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 47:8 God sits on his sacred throne; he rules over the nations. Today’s Reading 1 Clap your hands for joy, all peoples! Praise God with loud songs! 2 The LORD, the Most High, is to be feared; he is a great king, ruling over all the world. 3 He gave us victory over the peoples; he made us rule over the nations. 4 He chose for us the land where we live, the proud possession of his people, whom he loves. 5 God goes up to his throne. There are shouts of joy and the blast of trumpets, as the LORD goes up. 6 Sing praise to God; sing praise to our king! 7 God is king over all the world; praise him with songs! 8 God sits on his sacred throne; he rules over the nations. 9 The rulers of the nations assemble with the people of the God of Abraham. More powerful than all armies is he; he rules supreme. Reflect Psalm 47 was most likely used as a liturgical hymn in connection with a worship festival. Christians associate this psalm with Jesus’ ascension into heaven, and Jewish people associate this psalm with Rosh-ha-Shanah, the beginning of the new year. Reread verses 1-7. What are worshipers instructed to do? How are festival occasions celebrated in your community of faith? Pray Sovereign God, your reign is eternal. With my whole being I praise your holy name. With a song in my heart I joyfully proclaim your love for all people. You are king over all the world. Reign in my heart, Lord God! Amen. Prayer Concern Church musicians Tomorrow's Reading Isaiah 6:1-13: God calls Isaiah to be a prophet. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 1, 2014 Author Members Posted June 1, 2014 June 1, 2014 Isaiah 6:1-13 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction Isaiah 6:1-13: Today’s reading describes Isaiah’s inaugural call to be a prophet. He has a vision of the divine court where he sees God majestically enthroned. Flaming creatures, each with six wings, appear and proclaim the holiness of the LORD. Isaiah immediately becomes aware of his own sinfulness. Then one of the creatures uses a pair of tongs to lift a burning coal from the altar and touches Isaiah’s lips with it, telling him that his sins are forgiven. Then Isaiah is commissioned to be the Lord’s messenger. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 6:3b “Holy, holy, holy! The LORD Almighty is holy! His glory fills the world.” Today’s Reading 1 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord. He was sitting on his throne, high and exalted, and his robe filled the whole Temple. 2 Around him flaming creatures were standing, each of which had six wings. Each creature covered its face with two wings, and its body with two, and used the other two for flying. 3 They were calling out to each other: “Holy, holy, holy! The LORD Almighty is holy! His glory fills the world.” 4 The sound of their voices made the foundation of the Temple shake, and the Temple itself became filled with smoke. 5 I said, “There is no hope for me! I am doomed because every word that passes my lips is sinful, and I live among a people whose every word is sinful. And yet, with my own eyes I have seen the King, the LORD Almighty. ” 6 Then one of the creatures flew down to me, carrying a burning coal that he had taken from the altar with a pair of tongs. 7 He touched my lips with the burning coal and said, “This has touched your lips, and now your guilt is gone, and your sins are forgiven.” 8 Then I heard the Lord say, “Whom shall I send? Who will be our messenger?” I answered, “I will go! Send me!” 9 So he told me to go and give the people this message: “No matter how much you listen, you will not understand. No matter how much you look, you will not know what is happening.” 10 Then he said to me, “Make the minds of these people dull, their ears deaf, and their eyes blind, so that they cannot see or hear or understand. If they did, they might turn to me and be healed.” 11 I asked, “How long will it be like this, Lord?” He answered, “Until the cities are ruined and empty—until the houses are uninhabited—until the land itself is a desolate wasteland. 12 I will send the people far away and make the whole land desolate. 13 Even if one person out of ten remains in the land, he too will be destroyed; he will be like the stump of an oak tree that has been cut down. ” (The stump represents a new beginning for God's people.) Reflect Today’s reading contains words of judgment because the people were putting their trust in idols and relying on foreign nations instead of the LORD. As the LORD’s prophet, what message was Isaiah told to deliver? What would make a prophet’s life difficult? Pray Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty, you alone are holy and your glory fills the world. May every word that passes my lips today reflect your love. In your holy name I pray, Amen. Prayer Concern Couriers Tomorrow's Reading Isaiah 61:1-11: The good news of deliverance is proclaimed. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 3, 2014 Author Members Posted June 3, 2014 June 2, 2014 Isaiah 61:1-11 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction Isaiah 61:1-11: Today’s reading begins with a prophetic call to preach the good news, and the message includes words of comfort and consolation. A time prosperity and everlasting joy is promised. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 61:11 As surely as seeds sprout and grow, the Sovereign LORD will save his people, and all the nations will praise him. Today’s Reading 1 The Sovereign LORD has filled me with his Spirit. He has chosen me and sent me To bring good news to the poor, To heal the broken-hearted, To announce release to captives And freedom to those in prison. 2 He has sent me to proclaim That the time has come When the LORD will save his people And defeat their enemies. He has sent me to comfort all who mourn, 3 To give to those who mourn in Zion Joy and gladness instead of grief, A song of praise instead of sorrow. They will be like trees That the LORD himself has planted. They will all do what is right, And God will be praised for what he has done. 4 They will rebuild cities that have long been in ruins. 5 My people, foreigners will serve you. They will take care of your flocks And farm your land and tend your vineyards. 6 And you will be known as the priests of the LORD, The servants of our God. You will enjoy the wealth of the nations And be proud that it is yours. 7 Your shame and disgrace are ended. You will live in your own land, And your wealth will be doubled; Your joy will last forever. 8 The LORD says, “I love justice and I hate oppression and crime. I will faithfully reward my people And make an eternal covenant with them. 9 They will be famous among the nations; Everyone who sees them will know That they are a people whom I have blessed.” 10 Jerusalem rejoices because of what the LORD has done. She is like a bride dressed for her wedding. God has clothed her with salvation and victory. 11 As surely as seeds sprout and grow, The Sovereign LORD will save his people, And all the nations will praise him. Reflect Reread verses 1 and 2. Verse 1 describes the prophet as one who has been chosen and sent. Another word for “chosen” used in other translations is “anointed.” This indicates that the prophet has been chosen or anointed for a divine commission. What is the mission? What is the good news? Jesus quotes these verses in his inaugural sermon at the beginning of his public ministry (Luke 4:18, 19). What good news can you proclaim today? Pray Sovereign Lord, fill me with your Spirit and empower me to proclaim the good news of your love and salvation. Fill my heart with the joy and gladness that comes from you. Amen. Prayer Concern Those in need of healing Tomorrow's Reading Isaiah 62:1-12: The prophet speaks words of encouragement. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 4, 2014 Author Members Posted June 4, 2014 June 3, 2014 Isaiah 62:1-12 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction Isaiah 62:1-12: Today’s reading celebrates Jerusalem’s restoration. Jerusalem will be called by a new name. Today’s Scripture: Isaiah 62:12a You will be called “God’s Holy People,” “The People the LORD Has Saved.” Today’s Reading 1 I will speak out to encourage Jerusalem; I will not be silent until she is saved, And her victory shines like a torch in the night. 2 Jerusalem, the nations will see you victorious! All their kings will see your glory. You will be called by a new name, A name given by the LORD himself. 3 You will be like a beautiful crown for the LORD. 4 No longer will you be called “Forsaken,” Or your land be called “The Deserted Wife.” Your new name will be “God Is Pleased with Her.” Your land will be called “Happily Married,” Because the LORD is pleased with you And will be like a husband to your land. 5 Like a young man taking a virgin as his bride, He who formed you will marry you. As a groom is delighted with his bride, So your God will delight in you. 6 On your walls, Jerusalem, I have placed sentries; They must never be silent day or night. They must remind the LORD of his promises And never let him forget them. 7 They must give him no rest until he restores Jerusalem And makes it a city the whole world praises. 8 The LORD has made a solemn promise, And by his power he will carry it out: “Your grain will no longer be food for your enemies, And foreigners will no longer drink your wine. 9 But you that planted and harvested the grain Will eat the bread and praise the LORD. You that tended and gathered the grapes Will drink the wine in the courts of my Temple. ” 10 People of Jerusalem, go out of the city And build a road for your returning people! Prepare a highway; clear it of stones! Put up a signal so that the nations can know 11 That the LORD is announcing to all the earth: “Tell the people of Jerusalem That the LORD is coming to save you, Bringing with him the people he has rescued. ” 12 You will be called “God's Holy People,” “The People the LORD Has Saved. ” Jerusalem will be called “The City That God Loves,” “The City That God Did Not Forsake.” Reflect In yesterday’s reading, Jerusalem was described as a bride clothed with “salvation and victory” (Isaiah 61:10). In today’s reading, how is Jerusalem described (verse 5)? What does this say about God’s relationship with Jerusalem? What are the new names by which Jerusalem will be called? How do these names reflect Jerusalem’s transformed status? Pray Almighty God, you call each of us by name and invite us to be in relationship with you. You have promised never to forsake us. Renew my soul with the transforming power of your love. In your holy name I pray, Amen. Prayer Concern Those repairing roads and bridges Tomorrow's Reading Joel 1:1-20: The prophet Joel describes the devastation caused by a swarm of locusts. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 5, 2014 Author Members Posted June 5, 2014 June 4, 2014 Joel 1:1-20 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction Joel 1:1-20: In this opening chapter, the prophet Joel describes a terrible invasion of locusts accompanied by a devastating drought. In these events, he sees a sign of the coming day of the LORD. Today’s Scripture: Joel 1:14 Give orders for a fast; call an assembly! Gather the leaders and all the people of Judah into the Temple of the LORD your God and cry out to him! Today’s Reading 1 This is the LORD's message to Joel son of Pethuel. 2 Pay attention, you older people; everyone in Judah, listen. Has anything like this ever happened in your time or the time of your ancestors? 3 Tell your children about it; they will tell their children, who in turn will tell the next generation. 4 Swarm after swarm of locusts settled on the crops; what one swarm left, the next swarm devoured. 5 Wake up and weep, you drunkards; cry, you wine-drinkers; the grapes for making new wine have been destroyed. 6 An army of locusts has attacked our land; they are powerful and too many to count; their teeth are as sharp as those of a lion. 7 They have destroyed our grapevines and chewed up our fig trees. They have stripped off the bark, till the branches are white. 8 Cry, you people, like a young woman who mourns the death of the man she was going to marry. 9 There is no grain or wine to offer in the Temple; the priests mourn because they have no offerings for the LORD. 10 The fields are bare; the ground mourns because the grain is destroyed, the grapes are dried up, and the olive trees are withered. 11 Grieve, you farmers; cry, you that take care of the vineyards, because the wheat, the barley, yes all the crops are destroyed. 12 The grapevines and fig trees have withered; all the fruit trees have wilted and died. The joy of the people is gone. 13 Put on sackcloth and weep, you priests who serve at the altar! Go into the Temple and mourn all night! There is no grain or wine to offer your God. 14 Give orders for a fast; call an assembly! Gather the leaders and all the people of Judah into the Temple of the LORD your God and cry out to him! 15 The day of the LORD is near, the day when the Almighty brings destruction. What terror that day will bring! 16 We look on helpless as our crops are destroyed. There is no joy in the Temple of our God. 17 The seeds die in the dry earth. There is no grain to be stored, and so the empty granaries are in ruins. 18 The cattle are bellowing in distress because there is no pasture for them; the flocks of sheep also suffer. 19 I cry out to you, LORD, because the pastures and trees are dried up, as though a fire had burned them. 20 Even the wild animals cry out to you because the streams have become dry. Reflect Most of the ancient Near East, including Israel, was based on a farming and herding economy. An attack by locusts had very damaging effects. If locusts devoured all crops and plants, people and their animals could starve. How does Joel describe the effects of a devastating locust plague? What does he instruct the people to do (verses 13, 14)? Have you or has your community of faith ever felt called to fast and pray? If so, what were the circumstances? Pray Lord God, you are ever near and hear our cries. Draw me close to you and help me surmount any temptations or difficulties that I may face today. In your holy name I pray, Amen. Prayer Concern Drought-stricken lands throughout the world Tomorrow's Reading Joel 2:1-17: The prophet Joel calls the people to repent. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 6, 2014 Author Members Posted June 6, 2014 June 5, 2014 Joel 2:1-17 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction Joel 2:1-17: The prophet Joel likens the swarm of locusts to an invading enemy army. He conveys the LORD’s call to the people to repent. Today’s Scripture: Joel 2:13b Come back to the LORD your God. He is kind and full of mercy; he is patient and keeps his promise; he is always ready to forgive and not punish. Today’s Reading 1 Blow the trumpet; sound the alarm on Zion, God's sacred hill. Tremble, people of Judah! The day of the LORD is coming soon. 2 It will be a dark and gloomy day, a black and cloudy day. The great army of locusts advances like darkness spreading over the mountains. There has never been anything like it, and there never will be again. 3 Like fire they eat up the plants. In front of them the land is like the Garden of Eden, but behind them it is a barren desert. Nothing escapes them. 4 They look like horses; they run like war-horses. 5 As they leap on the tops of the mountains, they rattle like chariots; they crackle like dry grass on fire. They are lined up like a great army ready for battle. 6 As they approach, everyone is terrified; every face turns pale. 7 They attack like warriors; they climb the walls like soldiers. They all keep marching straight ahead and do not change direction 8 or get in each other's way. They swarm through defenses, and nothing can stop them. 9 They rush against the city; they run over the walls; they climb up the houses and go in through the windows like thieves. 10 The earth shakes as they advance; the sky trembles. The sun and the moon grow dark, and the stars no longer shine. 11 The LORD thunders commands to his army. The troops that obey him are many and mighty. How terrible is the day of the LORD! Who will survive it? 12 “But even now,” says the LORD, “repent sincerely and return to me with fasting and weeping and mourning. 13 Let your broken heart show your sorrow; tearing your clothes is not enough. ” Come back to the LORD your God. He is kind and full of mercy; he is patient and keeps his promise; he is always ready to forgive and not punish. 14 Perhaps the LORD your God will change his mind and bless you with abundant crops. Then you can offer him grain and wine. 15 Blow the trumpet on Mount Zion; give orders for a fast and call an assembly! 16 Gather the people together; prepare them for a sacred meeting; bring the old people; gather the children and the babies too. Even newly married couples must leave their homes and come. 17 The priests, serving the LORD between the altar and the entrance of the Temple, must weep and pray: “Have pity on your people, LORD. Do not let other nations despise us and mock us by saying, “Where is your God?” ” Reflect Joel continues his description of the devastating effects of the invasion of locusts. How does he describe the day of the LORD (verses 1-11)? What does the prophet ask the people to do (verses 12-17)? As stated in yesterday’s reading (Joel 1:14), the prophet once again calls upon the people to fast and gather together (verses 15, 16). What is the significance or importance of doing this? Pray Lord God, you are patient, kind, and full of mercy. Whenever I stray from your teachings, you call me to return to you. I offer you my repentant heart, trusting in your steadfast love and forgiveness. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who have strayed from the Lord. Tomorrow's Reading Joel 2:18-32: The LORD restores fertility to the land. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 7, 2014 Author Members Posted June 7, 2014 June 6, 2014 Joel 2:18-32 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction Joel 2:18-32: The prophet conveys the LORD’s promise to restore the land and bless the people. God promises to send his Spirit upon all the people. Today’s Scripture: Joel 2:32a All who ask the LORD for help will be saved. Today’s Reading 18 Then the LORD showed concern for his land; he had mercy on his people. 19 He answered them: “Now I am going to give you grain and wine and olive oil, and you will be satisfied. Other nations will no longer despise you. 20 I will remove the locust army that came from the north and will drive some of them into the desert. Their front ranks will be driven into the Dead Sea, their rear ranks into the Mediterranean. Their dead bodies will stink. I will destroy them because of all they have done to you. 21 Fields, don't be afraid, but be joyful and glad because of all the LORD has done for you. 22 Animals, don't be afraid. The pastures are green; the trees bear their fruit, and there are plenty of figs and grapes. 23 Be glad, people of Zion, rejoice at what the LORD your God has done for you. He has given you the right amount of autumn rain; he has poured down the winter rain for you and the spring rain as before. 24 The threshing places will be full of grain; the pits beside the presses will overflow with wine and olive oil. 25 I will give you back what you lost in the years when swarms of locusts ate your crops. It was I who sent this army against you. 26 Now you will have plenty to eat, and be satisfied. You will praise the LORD your God, who has done wonderful things for you. My people will never be despised again. 27 Then, Israel, you will know that I am among you and that I, the LORD, am your God and there is no other. My people will never be despised again. 28 Afterward I will pour out my Spirit on everyone: your sons and daughters will proclaim my message; your old people will have dreams, and your young people will see visions. 29 At that time I will pour out my Spirit even on servants, both men and women. 30 I will give warnings of that day in the sky and on the earth; there will be bloodshed, fire, and clouds of smoke. 31 The sun will be darkened, and the moon will turn red as blood before the great and terrible day of the LORD comes. 32 But all who ask the LORD for help will be saved. As the LORD has said, ‘Some in Jerusalem will escape; those whom I choose will survive. ’ ” Reflect What does God promise to do (verses 18-27)? In yesterday’s reading, the day of the LORD was described as “a dark and gloomy day” (2:2). In today’s reading, how is the day of the LORD described (verses 28-32)? In what ways has God’s Spirit impacted your life? What does today’s reading teach you about God? Pray Almighty God, with a joyful heart I thank you for your blessings and rejoice because of all you have done for me. Thank you for the gift of your Holy Spirit. Empower me to proclaim your message of love and mercy. Amen. Prayer Concern Those in need of encouragement Tomorrow's Reading Joel 3:1-21: God will judge the nations and bless his people. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 8, 2014 Author Members Posted June 8, 2014 June 7, 2014 Joel 3:1-21 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction Joel 3:1-21: The prophet Joel announces that the LORD will judge the nations and punish those who committed criminal acts against the LORD’s people. The restoration of the LORD’s people is promised. Today’s Scripture: Joel 3:16 The LORD roars from Mount Zion; his voice thunders from Jerusalem; earth and sky tremble. But he will defend his people. Today’s Reading 1 The LORD says, “At that time I will restore the prosperity of Judah and Jerusalem. 2 I will gather all the nations and bring them to the Valley of Judgment. There I will judge them for all they have done to my people. They have scattered the Israelites in foreign countries and divided Israel, my land. 3 They threw dice to decide who would get the captives. They sold boys and girls into slavery to pay for prostitutes and wine. 4 What are you trying to do to me, Tyre, Sidon, and all of Philistia? Are you trying to pay me back for something? If you are, I will quickly pay you back! 5 You have taken my silver and gold and carried my rich treasures into your temples. 6 You have taken the people of Judah and Jerusalem far from their own country and sold them to the Greeks. 7 Now I am going to bring them out of the places to which you have sold them. I will do to you what you have done to them. 8 I will let your sons and daughters be sold to the people of Judah; they will sell them to the far-off Sabeans. I, the LORD, have spoken. 9 Make this announcement among the nations: ‘Prepare for war; call your warriors; gather all your soldiers and march! 10 Hammer the points of your plows into swords and your pruning knives into spears. Even the weak must fight. 11 Hurry and come, all you surrounding nations, and gather in the valley.’” Send down, O LORD, your army to attack them! 12 “The nations must get ready and come to the Valley of Judgment. There I, the LORD, will sit to judge all the surrounding nations. 13 They are very wicked; cut them down like grain at harvest time; crush them as grapes are crushed in a full wine press until the wine runs over.” 14 Thousands and thousands are in the Valley of Judgment. It is there that the day of the LORD will soon come. 15 The sun and the moon grow dark, and the stars no longer shine. 16 The LORD roars from Mount Zion; his voice thunders from Jerusalem; earth and sky tremble. But he will defend his people. 17 “Then, Israel, you will know that I am the LORD your God. I live on Zion, my sacred hill. Jerusalem will be a sacred city; foreigners will never conquer it again. 18 At that time the mountains will be covered with vineyards, and cattle will be found on every hill; there will be plenty of water for all of Judah. A stream will flow from the Temple of the LORD, and it will water Acacia Valley. 19 Egypt will become a desert, and Edom a ruined waste, because they attacked the land of Judah and killed its innocent people. 20-21 I will avenge those who were killed; I will not spare the guilty. But Judah and Jerusalem will be inhabited forever, and I, the LORD, will live on Mount Zion. ” Reflect What criminal acts against God’s people are mentioned? Once again the prophet mentions the day of the LORD. How is it described (verses14, 15)? How are God’s people to be blessed? What does God promise? In what ways have you been blessed by God? Pray Holy God, you alone are God and you are righteous and loving. I trust in your promises. Draw me close to you and reign in my heart forever. Amen. Prayer Concern Victims of war Tomorrow's Reading Acts 2:1-28: God sends the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 9, 2014 Author Members Posted June 9, 2014 June 8, 2014 Acts 2:1-28 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 2:1-28: God sends the Holy Spirit to give power and courage to the apostles. They begin to tell the good news about Jesus, which people hear in many different languages. Some people are happy and excited, while others make fun of the Lord’s followers. Peter repeats the words of the prophet Joel regarding the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and speaks of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Today’s Scripture: Acts 2:4 They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to talk in other languages, as the Spirit enabled them to speak. Today’s Reading 1 When the day of Pentecost came, all the believers were gathered together in one place. 2 Suddenly there was a noise from the sky which sounded like a strong wind blowing, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 Then they saw what looked like tongues of fire which spread out and touched each person there. 4 They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to talk in other languages, as the Spirit enabled them to speak. 5 There were Jews living in Jerusalem, religious people who had come from every country in the world. 6 When they heard this noise, a large crowd gathered. They were all excited, because all of them heard the believers talking in their own languages. 7 In amazement and wonder they exclaimed, “These people who are talking like this are Galileans! 8 How is it, then, that all of us hear them speaking in our own native languages? 9 We are from Parthia, Media, and Elam; from Mesopotamia, Judea, and Cappadocia; from Pontus and Asia, 10 from Phrygia and Pamphylia, from Egypt and the regions of Libya near Cyrene. Some of us are from Rome, 11 both Jews and Gentiles converted to Judaism, and some of us are from Crete and Arabia—yet all of us hear them speaking in our own languages about the great things that God has done! ” 12 Amazed and confused, they kept asking each other, “What does this mean?” 13 But others made fun of the believers, saying, “These people are drunk!” 14 Then Peter stood up with the other eleven apostles and in a loud voice began to speak to the crowd: “Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, listen to me and let me tell you what this means. 15 These people are not drunk, as you suppose; it is only nine o'clock in the morning. 16 Instead, this is what the prophet Joel spoke about: 17 ‘This is what I will do in the last days, God says: I will pour out my Spirit on everyone. Your sons and daughters will proclaim my message; your young men will see visions, and your old men will have dreams. 18 Yes, even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will proclaim my message. 19 I will perform miracles in the sky above and wonders on the earth below. There will be blood, fire, and thick smoke; 20 the sun will be darkened, and the moon will turn red as blood, before the great and glorious Day of the Lord comes. 21 And then, whoever calls out to the Lord for help will be saved.’ 22 Listen to these words, fellow Israelites! Jesus of Nazareth was a man whose divine authority was clearly proven to you by all the miracles and wonders which God performed through him. You yourselves know this, for it happened here among you. 23 In accordance with his own plan God had already decided that Jesus would be handed over to you; and you killed him by letting sinful men crucify him. 24 But God raised him from death, setting him free from its power, because it was impossible that death should hold him prisoner. 25 For David said about him, ‘I saw the Lord before me at all times; he is near me, and I will not be troubled. 26 And so I am filled with gladness, and my words are full of joy. And I, mortal though I am, will rest assured in hope, 27 because you will not abandon me in the world of the dead; you will not allow your faithful servant to rot in the grave. 28 You have shown me the paths that lead to life, and your presence will fill me with joy.’ Reflect How is the coming of the Holy Spirit described? Reread verses 16-21. (You may wish to compare these verses with Joel 2:28-32). How does Peter describe the Day of the Lord? How do you experience the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life? Is there someone you know who needs to hear the good news of God’s salvation? Pray Sovereign God, empower me with your Holy Spirit and teach me how to share your Word. May your Word go forth across cultures and in all the languages of the world so that people everywhere may learn of and experience your love and salvation. Amen. Prayer Concern Bible translators Tomorrow's Reading Acts 2:29-47: Peter continues his message about Jesus and encourages everyone to be baptized. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 10, 2014 Author Members Posted June 10, 2014 June 9, 2014 Acts 2:29-47 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 2:29-47: Peter continues his speech and proclaims that Jesus, who was a descendant of David, is the Messiah. He invites the people to be baptized, and three thousand new believers are baptized in one day. The early church gathers each day for prayer and fellowship. Today’s Scripture: Acts 2:38 Peter said to them, “Each one of you must turn away from your sins and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, so that you sins will be forgiven; and you will receive God’s gift, the Holy Spirit.” Today’s Reading 29 My friends, I must speak to you plainly about our famous ancestor King David. He died and was buried, and his grave is here with us to this very day. 30 He was a prophet, and he knew what God had promised him: God had made a vow that he would make one of David's descendants a king, just as David was. 31 David saw what God was going to do in the future, and so he spoke about the resurrection of the Messiah when he said, ‘He was not abandoned in the world of the dead; his body did not rot in the grave.’ 32 God has raised this very Jesus from death, and we are all witnesses to this fact. 33 He has been raised to the right side of God, his Father, and has received from him the Holy Spirit, as he had promised. What you now see and hear is his gift that he has poured out on us. 34 For it was not David who went up into heaven; rather he said, ‘The Lord said to my Lord: Sit here at my right side 35 until I put your enemies as a footstool under your feet.’ 36 “All the people of Israel, then, are to know for sure that this Jesus, whom you crucified, is the one that God has made Lord and Messiah!” 37 When the people heard this, they were deeply troubled and said to Peter and the other apostles, “What shall we do, brothers?” 38 Peter said to them, Each one of you must turn away from your sins and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, so that your sins will be forgiven; and you will receive God's gift, the Holy Spirit. 39 For God's promise was made to you and your children, and to all who are far away—all whom the Lord our God calls to himself. ” 40 Peter made his appeal to them and with many other words he urged them, saying, “Save yourselves from the punishment coming on this wicked people!” 41 Many of them believed his message and were baptized, and about three thousand people were added to the group that day. 42 They spent their time in learning from the apostles, taking part in the fellowship, and sharing in the fellowship meals and the prayers. 43 Many miracles and wonders were being done through the apostles, and everyone was filled with awe. 44 All the believers continued together in close fellowship and shared their belongings with one another. 45 They would sell their property and possessions, and distribute the money among all, according to what each one needed. 46 Day after day they met as a group in the Temple, and they had their meals together in their homes, eating with glad and humble hearts, 47 praising God, and enjoying the good will of all the people. And every day the Lord added to their group those who were being saved. Reflect How did people react to Peter’s message (verse 37)? What did Peter tell them (verses 38-40)? What is the promise he speaks of? What does that promise mean to you? How is life among the believers described in verses 43-47? How would you describe life among those who are members of your community of faith? Pray I thank you, Lord God, for the gift of your Holy Spirit and for your promise of forgiveness in Jesus’ name. Bind all believers in close fellowship to worship and serve you. Amen. Prayer Concern Those preparing for baptism Tomorrow's Reading Acts 5:12-42: The apostles are arrested. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 11, 2014 Author Members Posted June 11, 2014 June 10, 2014 Acts 5:12-42 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 5:12-42: The apostles perform miracles and wonders and many who were sick are healed. The religious leaders have the apostles arrested, but an angel of the Lord releases them from prison. They are then brought before the Council and Gamaliel, one of the Council’s leaders, argues that if the work of the apostles is of human origin, it will fail; but if their work is of God, it cannot be defeated. Today’s Scripture: Acts 5:42 And every day in the Temple and in people’s homes they continued to teach and preach the Good News about Jesus the Messiah. Today’s Reading 12 Many miracles and wonders were being performed among the people by the apostles. All the believers met together in Solomon's Porch. 13 Nobody outside the group dared join them, even though the people spoke highly of them. 14 But more and more people were added to the group—a crowd of men and women who believed in the Lord. 15 As a result of what the apostles were doing, sick people were carried out into the streets and placed on beds and mats so that at least Peter's shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by. 16 And crowds of people came in from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing those who were sick or who had evil spirits in them; and they were all healed. 17 Then the High Priest and all his companions, members of the local party of the Sadducees, became extremely jealous of the apostles; so they decided to take action. 18 They arrested the apostles and put them in the public jail. 19 But that night an angel of the Lord opened the prison gates, led the apostles out, and said to them, 20 “Go and stand in the Temple, and tell the people all about this new life.” 21 The apostles obeyed, and at dawn they entered the Temple and started teaching. The High Priest and his companions called together all the Jewish elders for a full meeting of the Council; then they sent orders to the prison to have the apostles brought before them. 22 But when the officials arrived, they did not find the apostles in prison, so they returned to the Council and reported, 23 “When we arrived at the jail, we found it locked up tight and all the guards on watch at the gates; but when we opened the gates, we found no one inside!” 24 When the chief priests and the officer in charge of the Temple guards heard this, they wondered what had happened to the apostles. 25 Then a man came in and said to them, “Listen! The men you put in prison are in the Temple teaching the people!” 26 So the officer went off with his men and brought the apostles back. They did not use force, however, because they were afraid that the people might stone them. 27 They brought the apostles in, made them stand before the Council, and the High Priest questioned them. 28 “We gave you strict orders not to teach in the name of this man,” he said; “but see what you have done! You have spread your teaching all over Jerusalem, and you want to make us responsible for his death!” 29 Peter and the other apostles answered, “We must obey God, not men. 30 The God of our ancestors raised Jesus from death, after you had killed him by nailing him to a cross. 31 God raised him to his right side as Leader and Savior, to give the people of Israel the opportunity to repent and have their sins forgiven. 32 We are witnesses to these things—we and the Holy Spirit, who is God's gift to those who obey him. ” 33 When the members of the Council heard this, they were so furious that they wanted to have the apostles put to death. 34 But one of them, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, who was a teacher of the Law and was highly respected by all the people, stood up in the Council. He ordered the apostles to be taken out for a while, 35 and then he said to the Council, “Fellow Israelites, be careful what you do to these men. 36 You remember that Theudas appeared some time ago, claiming to be somebody great, and about four hundred men joined him. But he was killed, all his followers were scattered, and his movement died out. 37 After that, Judas the Galilean appeared during the time of the census; he drew a crowd after him, but he also was killed, and all his followers were scattered. 38 And so in this case, I tell you, do not take any action against these men. Leave them alone! If what they have planned and done is of human origin, it will disappear, 39 but if it comes from God, you cannot possibly defeat them. You could find yourselves fighting against God! ” The Council followed Gamaliel's advice. 40 They called the apostles in, had them whipped, and ordered them never again to speak in the name of Jesus; and then they set them free. 41 As the apostles left the Council, they were happy, because God had considered them worthy to suffer disgrace for the sake of Jesus. 42 And every day in the Temple and in people's homes they continued to teach and preach the Good News about Jesus the Messiah. Reflect Reread verses 38 and 39. Do you agree with what Gamaliel says? Why or why not? Verse 41 says that the apostles “were happy because God had considered them worthy to suffer disgrace for the sake of Jesus.” Why did they feel this way? Have you ever experienced a time when your faith was challenged? If so, what did you do? Pray Dear Jesus, may I experience the joy that comes from telling others about you and the Good News of your love and salvation. Fill me with your Holy Spirit and renew me each day with your precious Word. Amen. Prayer Concern Those suffering persecution for preaching and teaching about Jesus Tomorrow's Reading Romans 8:1-17: The apostle Paul describes life in the Spirit. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 12, 2014 Author Members Posted June 12, 2014 June 11, 2014 Romans 8:1-17 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction Romans 8:1-17: The apostle Paul says that living according to the Spirit and in union with Christ Jesus sets us free from sin and death. Being controlled by human nature is in opposition to being controlled by what the Spirit wants. Today’s Scripture: Romans 8:1 There is no condemnation now for those who live in union with Christ Jesus. Today’s Reading 1 There is no condemnation now for those who live in union with Christ Jesus. 2 For the law of the Spirit, which brings us life in union with Christ Jesus, has set me free from the law of sin and death. 3 What the Law could not do, because human nature was weak, God did. He condemned sin in human nature by sending his own Son, who came with a nature like our sinful nature, to do away with sin. 4 God did this so that the righteous demands of the Law might be fully satisfied in us who live according to the Spirit, and not according to human nature. 5 Those who live as their human nature tells them to, have their minds controlled by what human nature wants. Those who live as the Spirit tells them to, have their minds controlled by what the Spirit wants. 6 To be controlled by human nature results in death; to be controlled by the Spirit results in life and peace. 7 And so people become enemies of God when they are controlled by their human nature; for they do not obey God's law, and in fact they cannot obey it. 8 Those who obey their human nature cannot please God. 9 But you do not live as your human nature tells you to; instead, you live as the Spirit tells you to—if, in fact, God's Spirit lives in you. Whoever does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. 10 But if Christ lives in you, the Spirit is life for you because you have been put right with God, even though your bodies are going to die because of sin. 11 If the Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from death, lives in you, then he who raised Christ from death will also give life to your mortal bodies by the presence of his Spirit in you. 12 So then, my friends, we have an obligation, but it is not to live as our human nature wants us to. 13 For if you live according to your human nature, you are going to die; but if by the Spirit you put to death your sinful actions, you will live. 14 Those who are led by God's Spirit are God's children. 15 For the Spirit that God has given you does not make you slaves and cause you to be afraid; instead, the Spirit makes you God's children, and by the Spirit's power we cry out to God, “Father! my Father!” 16 God's Spirit joins himself to our spirits to declare that we are God's children. 17 Since we are his children, we will possess the blessings he keeps for his people, and we will also possess with Christ what God has kept for him; for if we share Christ's suffering, we will also share his glory. Reflect Describe the conflict Paul writes about with regard to being controlled by human nature vs. being controlled by the Spirit. How and when have you experienced this type of conflict? What words of hope does Paul offer? Pray Thank you, God, for calling me to be your child. Lead me by the power of your Spirit so that my thoughts, words, and actions are pleasing to you. Amen. Prayer Concern Those experiencing inner turmoil Tomorrow's Reading Romans 8:18-39: The apostle Paul describes the future glory for God’s people. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 20, 2014 Author Members Posted June 20, 2014 June 12, 2014 Romans 8:18-39 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction Romans 8:18-39: The apostle Paul says that all creation longs to be set free from slavery and decay and that our current suffering can’t compare to the glory that will one day be revealed. The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness, and we are assured that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Today’s Scripture: Romans 8:39b There is nothing in all creation that will ever be able to separate us from the love of God which is ours through Christ Jesus our Lord. Today’s Reading 18 I consider that what we suffer at this present time cannot be compared at all with the glory that is going to be revealed to us. 19 All of creation waits with eager longing for God to reveal his children. 20 For creation was condemned to lose its purpose, not of its own will, but because God willed it to be so. Yet there was the hope 21 that creation itself would one day be set free from its slavery to decay and would share the glorious freedom of the children of God. 22 For we know that up to the present time all of creation groans with pain, like the pain of childbirth. 23 But it is not just creation alone which groans; we who have the Spirit as the first of God's gifts also groan within ourselves as we wait for God to make us his children and set our whole being free. 24 For it was by hope that we were saved; but if we see what we hope for, then it is not really hope. For who of us hopes for something we see? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. 26 In the same way the Spirit also comes to help us, weak as we are. For we do not know how we ought to pray; the Spirit himself pleads with God for us in groans that words cannot express. 27 And God, who sees into our hearts, knows what the thought of the Spirit is; because the Spirit pleads with God on behalf of his people and in accordance with his will. 28 We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to his purpose. 29 Those whom God had already chosen he also set apart to become like his Son, so that the Son would be the first among many believers. 30 And so those whom God set apart, he called; and those he called, he put right with himself, and he shared his glory with them. 31 In view of all this, what can we say? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 Certainly not God, who did not even keep back his own Son, but offered him for us all! He gave us his Son—will he not also freely give us all things? 33 Who will accuse God's chosen people? God himself declares them not guilty! 34 Who, then, will condemn them? Not Christ Jesus, who died, or rather, who was raised to life and is at the right side of God, pleading with him for us! 35 Who, then, can separate us from the love of Christ? Can trouble do it, or hardship or persecution or hunger or poverty or danger or death? 36 As the scripture says, “For your sake we are in danger of death at all times; we are treated like sheep that are going to be slaughtered.” 37 No, in all these things we have complete victory through him who loved us! 38 For I am certain that nothing can separate us from his love: neither death nor life, neither angels nor other heavenly rulers or powers, neither the present nor the future, 39 neither the world above nor the world below—there is nothing in all creation that will ever be able to separate us from the love of God which is ours through Christ Jesus our Lord. Reflect What is the hope that Paul talks about in verses 18-25? Have you ever found it hard to pray? How does the Holy Spirit help in such times? Reread verses 31-39. What questions does Paul ask? How does he answer them? What verses do you find especially meaningful? Pray Lord God, you know my weaknesses and my inmost thoughts. Thank you for your Holy Spirit that pleads on my behalf when I find it hard to pray. With a humble heart I thank you for assuring me that, through Christ Jesus, I can never be separated from your love. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who find it hard to pray Tomorrow's Reading Romans 12:1-21: The apostle Paul describes life in God’s service. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 20, 2014 Author Members Posted June 20, 2014 June 13, 2014 Romans 12:1-21 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction Romans 12:1-21: The apostle Paul says that God’s people no longer need to offer dead animals or make any other sacrifice in order to please God. Rather they are to offer their whole selves in living service to God. Such service involves using the gifts each has received in accordance with God’s grace. Today’s Scripture: Romans 12:2 Do not conform yourselves to the standards of this world, but let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Then you will be able to know the will of God – what is good and is pleasing to him and is perfect. Today’s Reading 1 So then, my friends, because of God's great mercy to us I appeal to you: Offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to his service and pleasing to him. This is the true worship that you should offer. 2 Do not conform yourselves to the standards of this world, but let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Then you will be able to know the will of God—what is good and is pleasing to him and is perfect. 3 And because of God's gracious gift to me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you should. Instead, be modest in your thinking, and judge yourself according to the amount of faith that God has given you. 4 We have many parts in the one body, and all these parts have different functions. 5 In the same way, though we are many, we are one body in union with Christ, and we are all joined to each other as different parts of one body. 6 So we are to use our different gifts in accordance with the grace that God has given us. If our gift is to speak God's message, we should do it according to the faith that we have; 7 if it is to serve, we should serve; if it is to teach, we should teach; 8 if it is to encourage others, we should do so. Whoever shares with others should do it generously; whoever has authority should work hard; whoever shows kindness to others should do it cheerfully. 9 Love must be completely sincere. Hate what is evil, hold on to what is good. 10 Love one another warmly as Christians, and be eager to show respect for one another. 11 Work hard and do not be lazy. Serve the Lord with a heart full of devotion. 12 Let your hope keep you joyful, be patient in your troubles, and pray at all times. 13 Share your belongings with your needy fellow Christians, and open your homes to strangers. 14 Ask God to bless those who persecute you—yes, ask him to bless, not to curse. 15 Be happy with those who are happy, weep with those who weep. 16 Have the same concern for everyone. Do not be proud, but accept humble duties. Do not think of yourselves as wise. 17 If someone has done you wrong, do not repay him with a wrong. Try to do what everyone considers to be good. 18 Do everything possible on your part to live in peace with everybody. 19 Never take revenge, my friends, but instead let God's anger do it. For the scripture says, “I will take revenge, I will pay back, says the Lord.” 20 Instead, as the scripture says: “If your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them a drink; for by doing this you will make them burn with shame.” 21 Do not let evil defeat you; instead, conquer evil with good. Reflect The words in verse 1 are derived from the consecration and killing of animals in Temple sacrifice. Paul now says that we are to “offer [ourselves] as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to his service and pleasing to him.” What is your understanding of these words? In what ways can you offer yourself as a living sacrifice to God? Reread verses 9-21. How does Paul describe life in community for God’s people? Pray Lord God, I offer myself as a living sacrifice, dedicated to a life of service that is pleasing to you. Transform me inwardly so that I may know and do your will. Teach me to share the gifts you have given me for the sake of building up your Kingdom and being an instrument of your love. Amen. Prayer Concern Community organizers Tomorrow's Reading Romans 14:1-23: The apostle Paul admonishes believers not to judge one another. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 20, 2014 Author Members Posted June 20, 2014 June 14, 2014 Romans 14:1-23 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction Romans 14:1-23: Some of the followers in Rome believed that it was wrong to eat meat, and others were saying that certain foods should only be eaten on certain days. Paul says that there will be differences among God’s people, but that all of the believers need to be accepting of one another and not judge each other. Today’s Scripture: Romans 14:17 For God’s Kingdom is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of the righteousness, peace, and joy which the Holy Spirit gives. Today’s Reading 1 Welcome those who are weak in faith, but do not argue with them about their personal opinions. 2 Some people's faith allows them to eat anything, but the person who is weak in the faith eats only vegetables. 3 The person who will eat anything is not to despise the one who doesn't; while the one who eats only vegetables is not to pass judgment on the one who will eat anything; for God has accepted that person. 4 Who are you to judge the servants of someone else? It is their own Master who will decide whether they succeed or fail. And they will succeed, because the Lord is able to make them succeed. 5 Some people think that a certain day is more important than other days, while others think that all days are the same. We each should firmly make up our own minds. 6 Those who think highly of a certain day do so in honor of the Lord; those who will eat anything do so in honor of the Lord, because they give thanks to God for the food. Those who refuse to eat certain things do so in honor of the Lord, and they give thanks to God. 7 We do not live for ourselves only, and we do not die for ourselves only. 8 If we live, it is for the Lord that we live, and if we die, it is for the Lord that we die. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. 9 For Christ died and rose to life in order to be the Lord of the living and of the dead. 10 You then, who eat only vegetables—why do you pass judgment on others? And you who eat anything—why do you despise other believers? All of us will stand before God to be judged by him. 11 For the scripture says, “As surely as I am the living God, says the Lord, everyone will kneel before me, and everyone will confess that I am God.” 12 Every one of us, then, will have to give an account to God. 13 So then, let us stop judging one another. Instead, you should decide never to do anything that would make others stumble or fall into sin. 14 My union with the Lord Jesus makes me certain that no food is of itself ritually unclean; but if you believe that some food is unclean, then it becomes unclean for you. 15 If you hurt others because of something you eat, then you are no longer acting from love. Do not let the food that you eat ruin the person for whom Christ died! 16 Do not let what you regard as good get a bad name. 17 For God's Kingdom is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of the righteousness, peace, and joy which the Holy Spirit gives. 18 And when you serve Christ in this way, you please God and are approved by others. 19 So then, we must always aim at those things that bring peace and that help strengthen one another. 20 Do not, because of food, destroy what God has done. All foods may be eaten, but it is wrong to eat anything that will cause someone else to fall into sin. 21 The right thing to do is to keep from eating meat, drinking wine, or doing anything else that will make other believers fall. 22 Keep what you believe about this matter, then, between yourself and God. Happy are those who do not feel guilty when they do something they judge is right! 23 But if they have doubts about what they eat, God condemns them when they eat it, because their action is not based on faith. And anything that is not based on faith is sin. Reflect Paul seeks to make the believers respect each other’s customs and to stop disagreements about foods that seem to be causing division among them. Within your community of faith, are there times when conflicts occur over various customs and traditions that people hold dear? How are such conflicts resolved? Pray Lord God, help me not to be quick to judge others and teach me to treat with respect those whose opinions differ from mine. May the righteousness, peace, and joy which the Holy Spirit gives guide my every thought and action this day. Amen. Prayer Concern Communities of faith experiencing divisiveness Tomorrow's Reading John 14:1-14: Jesus is the way to God the Father. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 20, 2014 Author Members Posted June 20, 2014 June 15, 2014 John 14:1-14 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction John 14:1-14: Jesus tells his disciples to have faith in God and faith in him, explaining that he and God are one. It is God acting through Jesus that empowers him to preach, work miracles, and reveal God. Today’s Scripture: John 14:6 Jesus answered him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one goes to the Father except by me.” Today’s Reading 1 “Do not be worried and upset,” Jesus told them. Believe in God and believe also in me. 2 There are many rooms in my Father's house, and I am going to prepare a place for you. I would not tell you this if it were not so. 3 And after I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to myself, so that you will be where I am. 4 You know the way that leads to the place where I am going. ” 5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going; so how can we know the way to get there?” 6 Jesus answered him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one goes to the Father except by me. 7 Now that you have known me, ” he said to them, “you will know my Father also, and from now on you do know him and you have seen him. ” 8 Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father; that is all we need.” 9 Jesus answered, “For a long time I have been with you all; yet you do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. Why, then, do you say, “Show us the Father”? 10 Do you not believe, Philip, that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I have spoken to you, ” Jesus said to his disciples, “do not come from me. The Father, who remains in me, does his own work. 11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me. If not, believe because of the things I do. 12 I am telling you the truth: those who believe in me will do what I do—yes, they will do even greater things, because I am going to the Father. 13 And I will do whatever you ask for in my name, so that the Father's glory will be shown through the Son. 14 If you ask me for anything in my name, I will do it. Reflect When Jesus says, “There are many rooms in my Father’s house,” what does this mean to you? In other parts of the New Testament, when Jesus speaks of the Kingdom of heaven (Matthew 4:17; 5:3; 13:44-48), he is usually referring to a place where God’s will and purposes are done. What is heaven to you, and where does it exist? Pray Lord Jesus, because I know you, I know God. Make me ever mindful of the ways in which I can help God’s will to be done here on earth as it is in heaven. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who work for the extension of God’s Kingdom. Tomorrow's Reading John 14:15-31: Jesus promises to send the Holy Spirit. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 20, 2014 Author Members Posted June 20, 2014 June 16, 2014 John 14:15-31 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction John 14:15-31: Jesus promises to ask God to send the Holy Spirit to the disciples to live in them and show them truth. He offers the disciples an otherworldly peace, even as he promises to return to his followers. Today’s Scripture: John 14:26 “The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and make you remember all that I have told you.” Today’s Reading 15 If you love me, you will obey my commandments. 16 I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, who will stay with you forever. 17 He is the Spirit, who reveals the truth about God. The world cannot receive him, because it cannot see him or know him. But you know him, because he remains with you and is in you. 18 When I go, you will not be left all alone; I will come back to you. 19 In a little while the world will see me no more, but you will see me; and because I live, you also will live. 20 When that day comes, you will know that I am in my Father and that you are in me, just as I am in you. 21 “Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. My Father will love those who love me; I too will love them and reveal myself to them.” 22 Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, “Lord, how can it be that you will reveal yourself to us and not to the world?” 23 Jesus answered him, Those who love me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and my Father and I will come to them and live with them. 24 Those who do not love me do not obey my teaching. And the teaching you have heard is not mine, but comes from the Father, who sent me. 25 I have told you this while I am still with you. 26 The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and make you remember all that I have told you. 27 Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid. 28 You heard me say to you, “I am leaving, but I will come back to you.” If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father; for he is greater than I. 29 I have told you this now before it all happens, so that when it does happen, you will believe. 30 I cannot talk with you much longer, because the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over me, 31 but the world must know that I love the Father; that is why I do everything as he commands me. Come, let us go from this place. Reflect The Holy Spirit is God’s presence at work in the world. What did the promise of the Holy Spirit mean for the disciples? What does it mean for you? How do you experience the peace of Christ in your life? How is it different from the peace of this world? Pray Come Holy Spirit, renew the whole creation. Enliven me with the spirit of Christ, that I may share Christ’s peace, justice, mercy and compassion with everyone I meet. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who work for peace. Tomorrow's Reading John 15:1-27: Jesus is the real vine. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 20, 2014 Author Members Posted June 20, 2014 June 17, 2014 John 15:1-27 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction John 15:1-27: Jesus compares himself to a vine and God to a gardener. Only those branches that stay connected to the vine can produce “fruit.” Jesus warns his followers that those who obey his teachings will be hated and persecuted by those who do not understand that he was sent by God. Today’s Scripture: John 15:8 “My Father’s glory is shown by your bearing much fruit; and in this way you become my disciples.” Today’s Reading 1 I am the real vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He breaks off every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and he prunes every branch that does bear fruit, so that it will be clean and bear more fruit. 3 You have been made clean already by the teaching I have given you. 4 Remain united to me, and I will remain united to you. A branch cannot bear fruit by itself; it can do so only if it remains in the vine. In the same way you cannot bear fruit unless you remain in me. 5 I am the vine, and you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will bear much fruit; for you can do nothing without me. 6 Those who do not remain in me are thrown out like a branch and dry up; such branches are gathered up and thrown into the fire, where they are burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, then you will ask for anything you wish, and you shall have it. 8 My Father's glory is shown by your bearing much fruit; and in this way you become my disciples. 9 I love you just as the Father loves me; remain in my love. 10 If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love. 11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 12 My commandment is this: love one another, just as I love you. 13 The greatest love you can have for your friends is to give your life for them. 14 And you are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 I do not call you servants any longer, because servants do not know what their master is doing. Instead, I call you friends, because I have told you everything I heard from my Father. 16 You did not choose me; I chose you and appointed you to go and bear much fruit, the kind of fruit that endures. And so the Father will give you whatever you ask of him in my name. 17 This, then, is what I command you: love one another. 18 If the world hates you, just remember that it has hated me first. 19 If you belonged to the world, then the world would love you as its own. But I chose you from this world, and you do not belong to it; that is why the world hates you. 20 Remember what I told you: “Slaves are not greater than their master.” If people persecuted me, they will persecute you too; if they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours too. 21 But they will do all this to you because you are mine; for they do not know the one who sent me. 22 They would not have been guilty of sin if I had not come and spoken to them; as it is, they no longer have any excuse for their sin. 23 Whoever hates me hates my Father also. 24 They would not have been guilty of sin if I had not done among them the things that no one else ever did; as it is, they have seen what I did, and they hate both me and my Father. 25 This, however, was bound to happen so that what is written in their Law may come true: “They hated me for no reason at all.” 26 The Helper will come—the Spirit, who reveals the truth about God and who comes from the Father. I will send him to you from the Father, and he will speak about me. 27 And you, too, will speak about me, because you have been with me from the very beginning. Reflect What kind of fruit is Jesus calling his disciples to produce? What makes this fruit lasting? What would it mean for you to lead a fruitful life? What parts of your life would you need to change? What parts would you need to develop further? What would it mean to you to make sacrifices for Christ? Pray Jesus, you are the true vine. Feed me with your spirit so that I may grow and become fruitful, serving others as you have served me. Amen. Prayer Concern Farmers Tomorrow's Reading John 16:1-15: Jesus describes the work of the Holy Spirit. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 20, 2014 Author Members Posted June 20, 2014 June 18, 2014 John 16:1-15 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction John 16:1-15: Jesus continues his discourse with the disciples, warning them of persecution and encouraging them not to give up their faith. He returns to the theme of chapter 14—preparing his disciples for his departure and for the coming of the Holy Spirit who will lead them into all truth. Today’s Scripture: John 16:13a “When, however, the Spirit comes, who reveals the truth about God, he will lead you into all the truth.” Today’s Reading 1 I have told you this, so that you will not give up your faith. 2 You will be expelled from the synagogues, and the time will come when those who kill you will think that by doing this they are serving God. 3 People will do these things to you because they have not known either the Father or me. 4 But I have told you this, so that when the time comes for them to do these things, you will remember what I told you. I did not tell you these things at the beginning, for I was with you. 5 But now I am going to him who sent me, yet none of you asks me where I am going. 6 And now that I have told you, your hearts are full of sadness. 7 But I am telling you the truth: it is better for you that I go away, because if I do not go, the Helper will not come to you. But if I do go away, then I will send him to you. 8 And when he comes, he will prove to the people of the world that they are wrong about sin and about what is right and about God's judgment. 9 They are wrong about sin, because they do not believe in me; 10 they are wrong about what is right, because I am going to the Father and you will not see me any more; 11 and they are wrong about judgment, because the ruler of this world has already been judged. 12 I have much more to tell you, but now it would be too much for you to bear. 13 When, however, the Spirit comes, who reveals the truth about God, he will lead you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own authority, but he will speak of what he hears and will tell you of things to come. 14 He will give me glory, because he will take what I say and tell it to you. 15 All that my Father has is mine; that is why I said that the Spirit will take what I give him and tell it to you. Reflect Why does Jesus tell his disciples that he must go away? How does Jesus describe the work of the Holy Spirit? In what ways do you experience the work of the Holy Spirit in your life? Pray Holy Spirit, guide me in the way of truth. Empower me with your teachings so that all I do and say will give glory to Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are leading spiritual retreats Tomorrow's Reading John 16:16-33: Jesus continues to prepare his disciples for his departure. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 20, 2014 Author Members Posted June 20, 2014 June 19, 2014 John 16:16-33 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction John 16:16-33: Jesus tells his disciples that in a little while they will not see him, but assures them that he will return and that they will see him again.. He tells them that their sadness will turn into gladness. While they will experience suffering, Jesus promises ultimate victory. Today’s Scripture: John 16:33b [Jesus said]: “The world will make you suffer. But be brave! I have defeated the world!” Today’s Reading 16 “In a little while you will not see me any more, and then a little while later you will see me.” 17 Some of his disciples asked among themselves, What does this mean? He tells us that in a little while we will not see him, and then a little while later we will see him; and he also says, “It is because I am going to the Father.” 18 What does this “a little while” mean? We don't know what he is talking about! ” 19 Jesus knew that they wanted to question him, so he said to them, “I said, “In a little while you will not see me, and then a little while later you will see me.” Is this what you are asking about among yourselves? 20 I am telling you the truth: you will cry and weep, but the world will be glad; you will be sad, but your sadness will turn into gladness. 21 When a woman is about to give birth, she is sad because her hour of suffering has come; but when the baby is born, she forgets her suffering, because she is happy that a baby has been born into the world. 22 That is how it is with you: now you are sad, but I will see you again, and your hearts will be filled with gladness, the kind of gladness that no one can take away from you. 23 When that day comes, you will not ask me for anything. I am telling you the truth: the Father will give you whatever you ask of him in my name. 24 Until now you have not asked for anything in my name; ask and you will receive, so that your happiness may be complete. 25 I have used figures of speech to tell you these things. But the time will come when I will not use figures of speech, but will speak to you plainly about the Father. 26 When that day comes, you will ask him in my name; and I do not say that I will ask him on your behalf, 27 for the Father himself loves you. He loves you because you love me and have believed that I came from God. 28 I did come from the Father, and I came into the world; and now I am leaving the world and going to the Father. ” 29 Then his disciples said to him, “Now you are speaking plainly, without using figures of speech. 30 We know now that you know everything; you do not need to have someone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you came from God. ” 31 Jesus answered them, “Do you believe now? 32 The time is coming, and is already here, when all of you will be scattered, each of you to your own home, and I will be left all alone. But I am not really alone, because the Father is with me. 33 I have told you this so that you will have peace by being united to me. The world will make you suffer. But be brave! I have defeated the world! ” Reflect What questions were the disciples discussing among themselves? How did Jesus respond to their concerns? Do you ever have questions pertaining to your faith? If so, to whom or where do you turn? Why did Jesus tell his disciples that their “sadness will turn into gladness”? Pray Lord Jesus, I know that you are with me always. Fill my heart with a sense of peace that comes from trusting in you. Amen. Prayer Concern Those experiencing doubt with regard to their faith Tomorrow's Reading 1 Corinthians 12:1-11: The apostle Paul teaches about spiritual gifts. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 20, 2014 Author Members Posted June 20, 2014 June 20, 2014 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction 1 Corinthians 12:1-11: The apostle Paul writes to the Corinthians about spiritual gifts. He says that there is one Spirit that offers many gifts, including wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing powers, and more. Today’s Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:7 The Spirit’s presence is shown in some way in each person for the good of all. Today’s Reading 1 Now, concerning what you wrote about the gifts from the Holy Spirit. I want you to know the truth about them, my friends. 2 You know that while you were still heathen, you were led astray in many ways to the worship of lifeless idols. 3 I want you to know that no one who is led by God's Spirit can say “A curse on Jesus!” and no one can confess “Jesus is Lord,” without being guided by the Holy Spirit. 4 There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit gives them. 5 There are different ways of serving, but the same Lord is served. 6 There are different abilities to perform service, but the same God gives ability to all for their particular service. 7 The Spirit's presence is shown in some way in each person for the good of all. 8 The Spirit gives one person a message full of wisdom, while to another person the same Spirit gives a message full of knowledge. 9 One and the same Spirit gives faith to one person, while to another person he gives the power to heal. 10 The Spirit gives one person the power to work miracles; to another, the gift of speaking God's message; and to yet another, the ability to tell the difference between gifts that come from the Spirit and those that do not. To one person he gives the ability to speak in strange tongues, and to another he gives the ability to explain what is said. 11 But it is one and the same Spirit who does all this; as he wishes, he gives a different gift to each person. Reflect What spiritual gifts does Paul list in this passage? What is the purpose of these gifts? Which of these gifts do you have? Which of these gifts do you see in others? Which of these gifts do you wish to cultivate? Pray Holy Spirit, open my heart to your spiritual gifts, that I may carry out the work of the Church, reach out to others, and strengthen the body of Christ by providing a life filled with love, joy, and peace. Amen. Prayer Concern Those discerning their spiritual gifts Tomorrow's Reading 1 Corinthians 14:1-25: The apostle Paul writes about speaking in strange tongues. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted June 21, 2014 Author Members Posted June 21, 2014 June 21, 2014 1 Corinthians 14:1-25 (Good News Translation) God’s Word: Empowering Us With the Holy Spirit Introduction 1 Corinthians 14:1-25: In today’s reading, the apostle Paul discusses glossolalia, speaking in tongues. Paul argues in favor of prophecy (proclaiming God’s message) because prophecy edifies the community and serves the common good. Today’s Scripture: 1 Corinthians 14:3 Those who proclaim God’s message speak to people and give them help, encouragement, and comfort. Today’s Reading 1 It is love, then, that you should strive for. Set your hearts on spiritual gifts, especially the gift of proclaiming God's message. 2 Those who speak in strange tongues do not speak to others but to God, because no one understands them. They are speaking secret truths by the power of the Spirit. 3 But those who proclaim God's message speak to people and give them help, encouragement, and comfort. 4 Those who speak in strange tongues help only themselves, but those who proclaim God's message help the whole church. 5 I would like for all of you to speak in strange tongues; but I would rather that you had the gift of proclaiming God's message. For the person who proclaims God's message is of greater value than the one who speaks in strange tongues—unless there is someone present who can explain what is said, so that the whole church may be helped. 6 So when I come to you, my friends, what use will I be to you if I speak in strange tongues? Not a bit, unless I bring you some revelation from God or some knowledge or some inspired message or some teaching. 7 Take such lifeless musical instruments as the flute or the harp—how will anyone know the tune that is being played unless the notes are sounded distinctly? 8 And if the one who plays the bugle does not sound a clear call, who will prepare for battle? 9 In the same way, how will anyone understand what you are talking about if your message given in strange tongues is not clear? Your words will vanish in the air! 10 There are many different languages in the world, yet none of them is without meaning. 11 But if I do not know the language being spoken, those who use it will be foreigners to me and I will be a foreigner to them. 12 Since you are eager to have the gifts of the Spirit, you must try above everything else to make greater use of those which help to build up the church. 13 The person who speaks in strange tongues, then, must pray for the gift to explain what is said. 14 For if I pray in this way, my spirit prays indeed, but my mind has no part in it. 15 What should I do, then? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray also with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will sing also with my mind. 16 When you give thanks to God in spirit only, how can ordinary people taking part in the meeting say “Amen” to your prayer of thanksgiving? They have no way of knowing what you are saying. 17 Even if your prayer of thanks to God is quite good, other people are not helped at all. 18 I thank God that I speak in strange tongues much more than any of you. 19 But in church worship I would rather speak five words that can be understood, in order to teach others, than speak thousands of words in strange tongues. 20 Do not be like children in your thinking, my friends; be children so far as evil is concerned, but be grown up in your thinking. 21 In the Scriptures it is written, “By means of people speaking strange languages I will speak to my people, says the Lord. I will speak through lips of foreigners, but even then my people will not listen to me.” 22 So then, the gift of speaking in strange tongues is proof for unbelievers, not for believers, while the gift of proclaiming God's message is proof for believers, not for unbelievers. 23 If, then, the whole church meets together and everyone starts speaking in strange tongues—and if some ordinary people or unbelievers come in, won't they say that you are all crazy? 24 But if everyone is proclaiming God's message when some unbelievers or ordinary people come in, they will be convinced of their sin by what they hear. They will be judged by all they hear, 25 their secret thoughts will be brought into the open, and they will bow down and worship God, confessing, “Truly God is here among you!” Reflect What does Paul say about those who speak in strange tongues? Reread verse 5. Do you agree with Paul that “the person who proclaims God’s message is of greater value than the one who speaks in strange tongues”? Why or why not? Wherein is the value of speaking in tongues (see verses 5b, 13)? In what ways are your spiritual gifts used to build up the Church? Pray Lord God, I am eager to have the gifts of the Spirit. Teach me how to use those gifts to build up your holy Church. Guide my words and actions this day so that I may be a source of help, encouragement, and comfort to others. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who interpret the meaning of Scripture Tomorrow's Reading 1 Corinthians 14:26-40: The apostle Paul continues his instructions pertaining to speaking in tongues. 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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