Members phkrause Posted April 23, 2010 Author Members Posted April 23, 2010 2 Corinthians 5:11-6:13 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Celebrating New Life in Christ Jesus Introduction 2 Corinthians 5:11-6:13: Some people in Corinth bragged about their own abilities and criticized Paul by telling people that he was out of his mind. In today's passage, Paul responds to these criticisms and goes on to claim God's righteousness at work in his life and in the lives of all believers in Christ. Today’s Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17 Anyone who is joined to Christ is a new being; the old is gone, the new has come. Today’s Reading 11We know what it means to fear the Lord, and so we try to persuade others. God knows us completely, and I hope that in your hearts you know me as well. 12We are not trying again to recommend ourselves to you; rather, we are trying to give you a good reason to be proud of us, so that you will be able to answer those who boast about people's appearance and not about their character. 13Are we really insane? It is for God's sake. Or are we sane? Then it is for your sake. 14We are ruled by the love of Christ, now that we recognize that one man died for everyone, which means that they all share in his death. 15He died for all, so that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but only for him who died and was raised to life for their sake. 16No longer, then, do we judge anyone by human standards. Even if at one time we judged Christ according to human standards, we no longer do so. 17Anyone who is joined to Christ is a new being; the old is gone, the new has come. 18All this is done by God, who through Christ changed us from enemies into his friends and gave us the task of making others his friends also. 19Our message is that God was making all human beings his friends through Christ. God did not keep an account of their sins, and he has given us the message which tells how he makes them his friends. 20Here we are, then, speaking for Christ, as though God himself were making his appeal through us. We plead on Christ's behalf: let God change you from enemies into his friends! 21Christ was without sin, but for our sake God made him share our sin in order that in union with him we might share the righteousness of God. 1In our work together with God, then, we beg you who have received God's grace not to let it be wasted. 2Hear what God says: “When the time came for me to show you favor, I heard you; when the day arrived for me to save you, I helped you.” 3We do not want anyone to find fault with our work, so we try not to put obstacles in anyone's way. 4Instead, in everything we do we show that we are God's servants by patiently enduring troubles, hardships, and difficulties. 5We have been beaten, jailed, and mobbed; we have been overworked and have gone without sleep or food. 6By our purity, knowledge, patience, and kindness we have shown ourselves to be God's servants—by the Holy Spirit, by our true love, 7by our message of truth, and by the power of God. We have righteousness as our weapon, both to attack and to defend ourselves. 8We are honored and disgraced; we are insulted and praised. We are treated as liars, yet we speak the truth; 9as unknown, yet we are known by all; as though we were dead, but, as you see, we live on. Although punished, we are not killed; 10although saddened, we are always glad; we seem poor, but we make many people rich; we seem to have nothing, yet we really possess everything. 11Dear friends in Corinth! We have spoken frankly to you; we have opened our hearts wide. 12It is not we who have closed our hearts to you; it is you who have closed your hearts to us. 13I speak now as though you were my children: show us the same feelings that we have for you. Open your hearts wide! Reflect Reread verses 8-10 of chapter 6, in which Paul describes his suffering. How is it possible for a follower of Christ to be happy in times of suffering? How does Paul's view of life differ from how many people today think about happiness and wealth? Pray Powerful and merciful God, we are honored and disgraced; we are insulted and praised. We all struggle to journey with you in the life of faith. Clothe me with righteousness today, that I may be empowered by your Holy Spirit to do your work. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are homeless pk Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 23, 2010 Author Members Posted April 23, 2010 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:16 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Celebrating New Life in Christ Jesus Introduction 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:16: Because 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1 breaks the thought between 6:13 and 7:2, some scholars believe this section may be part of another letter. Its discussion of idols and the importance of being spiritually clean are similar to what Paul has to say in 1 Corinthians 8:1-13. Today’s Scripture: 2 Corinthians 6:16b "I will make my home with my people and live among them; I will be their God, and they shall be my people." Today’s Reading 14Do not try to work together as equals with unbelievers, for it cannot be done. How can right and wrong be partners? How can light and darkness live together? 15How can Christ and the Devil agree? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? 16How can God's temple come to terms with pagan idols? For we are the temple of the living God! As God himself has said, “I will make my home with my people and live among them; I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” 17And so the Lord says, “You must leave them and separate yourselves from them. Have nothing to do with what is unclean, and I will accept you. 18I will be your father, and you shall be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” 1All these promises are made to us, my dear friends. So then, let us purify ourselves from everything that makes body or soul unclean, and let us be completely holy by living in awe of God. 2Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one; we have ruined no one, nor tried to take advantage of anyone. 3I do not say this to condemn you; for, as I have said before, you are so dear to us that we are always together, whether we live or die. 4I am so sure of you; I take such pride in you! In all our troubles I am still full of courage; I am running over with joy. 5Even after we arrived in Macedonia, we did not have any rest. There were troubles everywhere, quarrels with others, fears in our hearts. 6But God, who encourages the downhearted, encouraged us with the coming of Titus. 7It was not only his coming that cheered us, but also his report of how you encouraged him. He told us how much you want to see me, how sorry you are, how ready you are to defend me; and so I am even happier now. 8For even if that letter of mine made you sad, I am not sorry I wrote it. I could have been sorry when I saw that it made you sad for a while. 9But now I am happy—not because I made you sad, but because your sadness made you change your ways. That sadness was used by God, and so we caused you no harm. 10For the sadness that is used by God brings a change of heart that leads to salvation—and there is no regret in that! But sadness that is merely human causes death. 11See what God did with this sadness of yours: how earnest it has made you, how eager to prove your innocence! Such indignation, such alarm, such feelings, such devotion, such readiness to punish wrongdoing! You have shown yourselves to be without fault in the whole matter. 12So, even though I wrote that letter, it was not because of the one who did wrong or the one who was wronged. Instead, I wrote it to make plain to you, in God's sight, how deep your devotion to us really is. 13That is why we were encouraged. Not only were we encouraged; how happy Titus made us with his happiness over the way in which all of you helped to cheer him up! 14I did boast of you to him, and you have not disappointed me. We have always spoken the truth to you, and in the same way the boast we made to Titus has proved true. 15And so his love for you grows stronger, as he remembers how all of you were ready to obey his instructions, how you welcomed him with fear and trembling. 16How happy I am that I can depend on you completely! Reflect Reread 2 Corinthians 6:14. Some Corinthian Christians were probably invited to celebrations in local temples built to honor idols. Food and drink that had been offered to these gods may have been eaten at these celebrations. Those who took part in these feasts dishonored the Lord and opened themselves to temptation. By eating and drinking, they appeared to worship the idols that had been given these offerings. Can you think of a modern situation similar to the one described here? What would you do in such a situation? Pray Loving God, may the company I keep and the activities in which I engage reflect my love and respect for your will and your way. Keep me from temptation, that I may keep my heart and mind on you. Amen. Prayer Concern Those facing temptation in their social lives pk Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 23, 2010 Author Members Posted April 23, 2010 Ephesians 1:1-23 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Celebrating New Life in Christ Jesus Introduction Ephesians 1:1-23: Today we begin studying Paul's letter to the Ephesians. The biggest difficulty among the Ephesian followers was that some members were trying to split them up into different groups. Paul addresses the issue of unity within the church as one of his main concerns in this letter. In today's passage, Paul prays that the Holy Spirit will help the followers in Ephesus be wise and understand what it means to know God. Today’s Scripture: Ephesians 1:23 The church is Christ's body, the completion of him who himself completes all things everywhere. Today’s Reading 1From Paul, who by God's will is an apostle of Christ Jesus— To God's people in Ephesus, who are faithful in their life in union with Christ Jesus: 2May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. 3Let us give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! For in our union with Christ he has blessed us by giving us every spiritual blessing in the heavenly world. 4Even before the world was made, God had already chosen us to be his through our union with Christ, so that we would be holy and without fault before him. Because of his love 5God had already decided that through Jesus Christ he would make us his children—this was his pleasure and purpose. 6Let us praise God for his glorious grace, for the free gift he gave us in his dear Son! 7For by the blood of Christ we are set free, that is, our sins are forgiven. How great is the grace of God, 8which he gave to us in such large measure! In all his wisdom and insight 9God did what he had purposed, and made known to us the secret plan he had already decided to complete by means of Christ. 10This plan, which God will complete when the time is right, is to bring all creation together, everything in heaven and on earth, with Christ as head. 11All things are done according to God's plan and decision; and God chose us to be his own people in union with Christ because of his own purpose, based on what he had decided from the very beginning. 12Let us, then, who were the first to hope in Christ, praise God's glory! 13And you also became God's people when you heard the true message, the Good News that brought you salvation. You believed in Christ, and God put his stamp of ownership on you by giving you the Holy Spirit he had promised. 14The Spirit is the guarantee that we shall receive what God has promised his people, and this assures us that God will give complete freedom to those who are his. Let us praise his glory! 15For this reason, ever since I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all of God's people, 16I have not stopped giving thanks to God for you. I remember you in my prayers 17and ask the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, to give you the Spirit, who will make you wise and reveal God to you, so that you will know him. 18I ask that your minds may be opened to see his light, so that you will know what is the hope to which he has called you, how rich are the wonderful blessings he promises his people, 19and how very great is his power at work in us who believe. This power working in us is the same as the mighty strength 20which he used when he raised Christ from death and seated him at his right side in the heavenly world. 21Christ rules there above all heavenly rulers, authorities, powers, and lords; he has a title superior to all titles of authority in this world and in the next. 22God put all things under Christ's feet and gave him to the church as supreme Lord over all things. 23The church is Christ's body, the completion of him who himself completes all things everywhere. Reflect In Ephesians 1:4, Paul states, "Even before the world was made, God had already chosen us to be his through our union with Christ, so that we would be holy and without fault before him." What does this mean, and how is this possible? Pray Loving God, thank you for creating me, choosing me, and loving me. Be present in the world today, that your people may see your love and live in your way. Praise be to God! Amen. Prayer Concern Christian unity pk Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 24, 2010 Author Members Posted April 24, 2010 Ephesians 2:1-22 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Celebrating New Life in Christ Jesus Introduction Ephesians 2:1-22: Paul describes his mission to bring the good news to the Gentiles, and he prays that the power of Christ will be at work in the church to help its members do amazing things. He says that Christ breaks down the walls that separate Jews and Gentiles, and that all who believe in Jesus are united in one body. Today’s Scripture: Ephesians 2:13 But now, in union with Christ Jesus you, who used to be far away, have been brought near by the blood of Christ. Today’s Reading 1In the past you were spiritually dead because of your disobedience and sins. 2At that time you followed the world's evil way; you obeyed the ruler of the spiritual powers in space, the spirit who now controls the people who disobey God. 3Actually all of us were like them and lived according to our natural desires, doing whatever suited the wishes of our own bodies and minds. In our natural condition we, like everyone else, were destined to suffer God's anger. 4But God's mercy is so abundant, and his love for us is so great, 5that while we were spiritually dead in our disobedience he brought us to life with Christ. It is by God's grace that you have been saved. 6In our union with Christ Jesus he raised us up with him to rule with him in the heavenly world. 7He did this to demonstrate for all time to come the extraordinary greatness of his grace in the love he showed us in Christ Jesus. 8-9For it is by God's grace that you have been saved through faith. It is not the result of your own efforts, but God's gift, so that no one can boast about it. 10God has made us what we are, and in our union with Christ Jesus he has created us for a life of good deeds, which he has already prepared for us to do. 11You Gentiles by birth—called “the uncircumcised” by the Jews, who call themselves the circumcised (which refers to what men do to their bodies)—remember what you were in the past. 12At that time you were apart from Christ. You were foreigners and did not belong to God's chosen people. You had no part in the covenants, which were based on God's promises to his people, and you lived in this world without hope and without God. 13But now, in union with Christ Jesus you, who used to be far away, have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14For Christ himself has brought us peace by making Jews and Gentiles one people. With his own body he broke down the wall that separated them and kept them enemies. 15He abolished the Jewish Law with its commandments and rules, in order to create out of the two races one new people in union with himself, in this way making peace. 16By his death on the cross Christ destroyed their enmity; by means of the cross he united both races into one body and brought them back to God. 17So Christ came and preached the Good News of peace to all—to you Gentiles, who were far away from God, and to the Jews, who were near to him. 18It is through Christ that all of us, Jews and Gentiles, are able to come in the one Spirit into the presence of the Father. 19So then, you Gentiles are not foreigners or strangers any longer; you are now citizens together with God's people and members of the family of God. 20You, too, are built upon the foundation laid by the apostles and prophets, the cornerstone being Christ Jesus himself. 21He is the one who holds the whole building together and makes it grow into a sacred temple dedicated to the Lord. 22In union with him you too are being built together with all the others into a place where God lives through his Spirit. Reflect Reread verses 14-19. Some Jews interpreted the Law of Moses to mean that they should have no contact with Gentiles. How does Paul's message contradict that belief? Who belongs to God's family, according to Paul? How does someone become a part of God's family? Pray God of all, thank you for the ways in which you transcend our differences. Be present amid communities in conflict, that peace and reconciliation may replace turmoil and strife. Amen. Prayer Concern Communities searching for reconciliation pk Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 26, 2010 Author Members Posted April 26, 2010 Ephesians 3:1-21 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Celebrating New Life in Christ Jesus Introduction Ephesians 3:1-21: Paul says that Jesus called him specifically for the purpose of ministering to the Gentiles-people who are not Jewish. He says that the Holy Spirit reveals that all people can share in the promise that God first gave to the ancient Israelites because Christ's peace extends beyond human boundaries. Today’s Scripture: Ephesians 3:12 In union with Christ and through our faith in him we have the boldness to go into God's presence with all confidence. Today’s Reading 1For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles, pray to God. 2Surely you have heard that God in his grace has given me this work to do for your good. 3God revealed his secret plan and made it known to me. (I have written briefly about this, 4and if you will read what I have written, you can learn about my understanding of the secret of Christ.) 5In past times human beings were not told this secret, but God has revealed it now by the Spirit to his holy apostles and prophets. 6The secret is that by means of the gospel the Gentiles have a part with the Jews in God's blessings; they are members of the same body and share in the promise that God made through Christ Jesus. 7I was made a servant of the gospel by God's special gift, which he gave me through the working of his power. 8I am less than the least of all God's people; yet God gave me this privilege of taking to the Gentiles the Good News about the infinite riches of Christ, 9and of making all people see how God's secret plan is to be put into effect. God, who is the Creator of all things, kept his secret hidden through all the past ages, 10in order that at the present time, by means of the church, the angelic rulers and powers in the heavenly world might learn of his wisdom in all its different forms. 11God did this according to his eternal purpose, which he achieved through Christ Jesus our Lord. 12In union with Christ and through our faith in him we have the boldness to go into God's presence with all confidence. 13I beg you, then, not to be discouraged because I am suffering for you; it is all for your benefit. 14For this reason I fall on my knees before the Father, 15from whom every family in heaven and on earth receives its true name. 16I ask God from the wealth of his glory to give you power through his Spirit to be strong in your inner selves, 17and I pray that Christ will make his home in your hearts through faith. I pray that you may have your roots and foundation in love, 18so that you, together with all God's people, may have the power to understand how broad and long, how high and deep, is Christ's love. 19Yes, may you come to know his love—although it can never be fully known—and so be completely filled with the very nature of God. 20To him who by means of his power working in us is able to do so much more than we can ever ask for, or even think of: 21to God be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus for all time, forever and ever! Amen. Reflect Jesus regularly ministered to and healed people who were not Jewish. In the book of Acts, the apostles decide that anyone from any nation who worships God and does right is acceptable to God (Acts 10:35). Why might this have been a disturbing message for some? What is the "secret" that Paul talks about? Pray God of all people, you extend your grace beyond human understanding. Root me in your Spirit, that I may have the power to understand how broad and long, how high and deep, is the love of Christ. Amen. Prayer Concern Nurses and home health aides pk Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 26, 2010 Author Members Posted April 26, 2010 Ephesians 4:1-16 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Celebrating New Life in Christ Jesus Introduction Ephesians 4:1-16: Paul encourages the followers of Christ in Ephesus 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 4:3 Do your best to preserve the unity which the Spirit gives by means of the peace that binds you together. Today’s Reading 1I 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. 2Be always humble, gentle, and patient. Show your love by being tolerant with one another. 3Do your best to preserve the unity which the Spirit gives by means of the peace that binds you together. 4There is one body and one Spirit, just as there is one hope to which God has called you. 5There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6there is one God and Father of all people, who is Lord of all, works through all, and is in all. 7Each one of us has received a special gift in proportion to what Christ has given. 8As the scripture says, “When he went up to the very heights, he took many captives with him; he gave gifts to people.” 9Now, what does “he went up” mean? It means that first he came down to the lowest depths of the earth. 10So 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. 11It 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. 12He did this to prepare all God's people for the work of Christian service, in order to build up the body of Christ. 13And 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. 14Then 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. 15Instead, by speaking the truth in a spirit of love, we must grow up in every way to Christ, who is the head. 16Under 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 (see 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, so that we will be united by faith and mature in our understandings of Christ. Amen. Prayer Concern Churches engaged in ecumenical dialogue pk Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 27, 2010 Author Members Posted April 27, 2010 Ephesians 4:17-32 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Celebrating New Life in Christ Jesus Introduction Ephesians 4:17-32: In today's passage, Paul draws a distinction between the ways in which Christ's followers lived before they knew him and after they experienced God's grace. He says that they must give up their foolish ways and bad habits so that the Spirit may help them become like God. Today’s Scripture: Ephesians 4:23, 24 Your hearts and minds must be made completely new, and you must put on the new self, which is created in God's likeness and reveals itself in the true life that is upright and holy. Today’s Reading 17In the Lord's name, then, I warn you: do not continue to live like the heathen, whose thoughts are worthless 18and whose minds are in the dark. They have no part in the life that God gives, for they are completely ignorant and stubborn. 19They have lost all feeling of shame; they give themselves over to vice and do all sorts of indecent things without restraint. 20That was not what you learned about Christ! 21You certainly heard about him, and as his followers you were taught the truth that is in Jesus. 22So get rid of your old self, which made you live as you used to—the old self that was being destroyed by its deceitful desires. 23Your hearts and minds must be made completely new, 24and you must put on the new self, which is created in God's likeness and reveals itself in the true life that is upright and holy. 25No more lying, then! Each of you must tell the truth to the other believer, because we are all members together in the body of Christ. 26If you become angry, do not let your anger lead you into sin, and do not stay angry all day. 27Don't give the Devil a chance. 28If you used to rob, you must stop robbing and start working, in order to earn an honest living for yourself and to be able to help the poor. 29Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you. 30And do not make God's Holy Spirit sad; for the Spirit is God's mark of ownership on you, a guarantee that the Day will come when God will set you free. 31Get rid of all bitterness, passion, and anger. No more shouting or insults, no more hateful feelings of any sort. 32Instead, be kind and tender-hearted to one another, and forgive one another, as God has forgiven you through Christ. Reflect Paul says that life without Christ is like living in the dark-a place of pain or confusion. What does "darkness" mean to you? List the things that are part of a Christian's "old life" according to Paul, and list his "rules" for the "new life." What is the hardest thing about trying to live this new life? Pray Lord God, help me get rid of all my bitterness, passion, and anger. Release me from shouting, insults, and hateful feelings. Fill me with kindness and tender-heartedness so that I may forgive others as you have forgiven me. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who struggle with depression pk Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 28, 2010 Author Members Posted April 28, 2010 Ephesians 5:1-20 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Celebrating New Life in Christ Jesus Introduction Ephesians 5:1-20: Paul offers advice for relationships and for living as children of the light. He wants people to live by the Spirit and avoid being overcome by anger, unclean language, drunkenness, immorality and greed. Instead, they should live like they belong to the Lord. Today’s Scripture: Ephesians 5:2 Your life must be controlled by love, just as Christ loved us and gave his life for us as a sweet-smelling offering and sacrifice that pleases God. Today’s Reading 1Since you are God's dear children, you must try to be like him. 2Your life must be controlled by love, just as Christ loved us and gave his life for us as a sweet-smelling offering and sacrifice that pleases God. 3Since you are God's people, it is not right that any matters of sexual immorality or indecency or greed should even be mentioned among you. 4Nor is it fitting for you to use language which is obscene, profane, or vulgar. Rather you should give thanks to God. 5You may be sure that no one who is immoral, indecent, or greedy (for greed is a form of idolatry) will ever receive a share in the Kingdom of Christ and of God. 6Do not let anyone deceive you with foolish words; it is because of these very things that God's anger will come upon those who do not obey him. 7So have nothing at all to do with such people. 8You yourselves used to be in the darkness, but since you have become the Lord's people, you are in the light. So you must live like people who belong to the light, 9for it is the light that brings a rich harvest of every kind of goodness, righteousness, and truth. 10Try to learn what pleases the Lord. 11Have nothing to do with the worthless things that people do, things that belong to the darkness. Instead, bring them out to the light. ( 12It is really too shameful even to talk about the things they do in secret.) 13And when all things are brought out to the light, then their true nature is clearly revealed; 14for anything that is clearly revealed becomes light. That is why it is said, “Wake up, sleeper, and rise from death, and Christ will shine on you.” 15So be careful how you live. Don't live like ignorant people, but like wise people. 16Make good use of every opportunity you have, because these are evil days. 17Don't be fools, then, but try to find out what the Lord wants you to do. 18Do not get drunk with wine, which will only ruin you; instead, be filled with the Spirit. 19Speak to one another with the words of psalms, hymns, and sacred songs; sing hymns and psalms to the Lord with praise in your hearts. 20In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, always give thanks for everything to God the Father. Reflect Reread verse 14. This phrase, "Wake up, sleeper, and rise from death, and Christ will shine on you," bears some resemblance to Isaiah 26:19 and 60:1. Some form of this quotation may have been used as an early Christian hymn or in a baptism ceremony. What does this phrase mean to you? Pray Lord Jesus, too often I live in darkness and death. Wake me up, bring me to life, and shine your light on me. Infuse me with your Spirit, that I may praise you with all my heart. Amen. Prayer Concern Those struggling with alcoholism pk Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted April 29, 2010 Author Members Posted April 29, 2010 Ephesians 5:21-6:4 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Celebrating New Life in Christ Jesus Introduction Ephesians 5:21-6:4: Paul describes his understanding of marriage and family, suggesting that wives put their husbands first, and that husbands love their wives as Christ loved the church. Marriage relationships should be marked by respect and love for one another. So too should children respect their parents and parents respect their children. Today’s Scripture: Ephesians 5:21 Submit yourselves to one another because of your reverence for Christ. Today’s Reading 21Submit yourselves to one another because of your reverence for Christ. 22Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands as to the Lord. 23For a husband has authority over his wife just as Christ has authority over the church; and Christ is himself the Savior of the church, his body. 24And so wives must submit themselves completely to their husbands just as the church submits itself to Christ. 25Husbands, love your wives just as Christ loved the church and gave his life for it. 26He did this to dedicate the church to God by his word, after making it clean by washing it in water, 27in order to present the church to himself in all its beauty—pure and faultless, without spot or wrinkle or any other imperfection. 28Men ought to love their wives just as they love their own bodies. A man who loves his wife loves himself. ( 29None of us ever hate our own bodies. Instead, we feed them, and take care of them, just as Christ does the church; 30for we are members of his body.) 31As the scripture says, “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and unite with his wife, and the two will become one.” 32There is a deep secret truth revealed in this scripture, which I understand as applying to Christ and the church. 33But it also applies to you: every husband must love his wife as himself, and every wife must respect her husband. 1Children, it is your Christian duty to obey your parents, for this is the right thing to do. 2“Respect your father and mother” is the first commandment that has a promise added: 3“so that all may go well with you, and you may live a long time in the land.” 4Parents, do not treat your children in such a way as to make them angry. Instead, raise them with Christian discipline and instruction. Reflect In Paul's day, people accepted certain hierarchies in households and differences in authority between men and women. The writer of Ephesians seems to add the idea of equality by telling Jesus' followers to "submit yourselves to one another" (5:21). What do you think about the letter's description of how husbands and wives should relate to one another? What about parents and children? Why? Pray God of family, thank you for the gifts of marriage and children. May all families learn to respect and care for one another, that they may know your love better through their love for one another. Amen. Prayer Concern Couples who are engaged to be married pk Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 1, 2010 Author Members Posted May 1, 2010 Ephesians 6:10-24 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Celebrating New Life in Christ Jesus Introduction Ephesians 6:10-24: Paul offers encouragement to help the Ephesians strong against what he calls "wicked spiritual forces in the heavenly world" (6:12). He describes the armor of God that will help them guard against evil. Then he exhorts them to pray continually for one another. Today’s Scripture: Ephesians 6:11 Put on all the armor that God gives you, so that you will be able to stand up against the Devil's evil tricks. Today’s Reading 10Finally, build up your strength in union with the Lord and by means of his mighty power. 11Put on all the armor that God gives you, so that you will be able to stand up against the Devil's evil tricks. 12For we are not fighting against human beings but against the wicked spiritual forces in the heavenly world, the rulers, authorities, and cosmic powers of this dark age. 13So put on God's armor now! Then when the evil day comes, you will be able to resist the enemy's attacks; and after fighting to the end, you will still hold your ground. 14So stand ready, with truth as a belt tight around your waist, with righteousness as your breastplate, 15and as your shoes the readiness to announce the Good News of peace. 16At all times carry faith as a shield; for with it you will be able to put out all the burning arrows shot by the Evil One. 17And accept salvation as a helmet, and the word of God as the sword which the Spirit gives you. 18Do all this in prayer, asking for God's help. Pray on every occasion, as the Spirit leads. For this reason keep alert and never give up; pray always for all God's people. 19And pray also for me, that God will give me a message when I am ready to speak, so that I may speak boldly and make known the gospel's secret. 20For the sake of this gospel I am an ambassador, though now I am in prison. Pray that I may be bold in speaking about the gospel as I should. 21Tychicus, our dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord's work, will give you all the news about me, so that you may know how I am getting along. 22That is why I am sending him to you—to tell you how all of us are getting along and to encourage you. 23May God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give to all Christians peace and love with faith. 24May God's grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with undying love. Reflect Reread verses 10-17. Paul describes a spiritual armor that comes from God. Which pieces of your spiritual armor need shining, reinforcing or sharpening? How can you get your armor in better condition? Pray God of Justice, strengthen my spiritual armor that I may be equipped to stay strong in faith, whatever challenges I face. Give me the resources I need to fight the injustices of the world with your truth, mercy and love. Amen. Prayer Concern Members of the armed forces pk Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 1, 2010 Author Members Posted May 1, 2010 Romans 8:1-17 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Romans 8:1-17: Paul encourages the believers in Rome to be ruled by spiritual things-things that are from God and are pleasing to God. It is not enough simply to follow the Law of Moses or be born into a family that is descended from Abraham. People must be led by God's Spirit in order to become God's children. Today’s Scripture: Romans 8:6b ... to be controlled by the Spirit results in life and peace. Today’s Reading 1There is no condemnation now for those who live in union with Christ Jesus. 2For 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. 3What 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. 4God 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. 5Those 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. 6To be controlled by human nature results in death; to be controlled by the Spirit results in life and peace. 7And 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. 8Those who obey their human nature cannot please God. 9But 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. 10But 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. 11If 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. 12So then, my friends, we have an obligation, but it is not to live as our human nature wants us to. 13For 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. 14Those who are led by God's Spirit are God's children. 15For 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!” 16God's Spirit joins himself to our spirits to declare that we are God's children. 17Since 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 Reread verse 5. By spiritual things, Paul means the things that are from God and that are pleasing to God. People who are ruled or led by the Holy Spirit want to keep their minds and actions focused on these spiritual things. Paul says that those who have the Spirit of God are no longer ruled by their desires. What does this mean? Pray Holy Spirit, fill my mind with things that are pleasing to you. Release me from desires that don't belong to you. Raise me to life in Christ that I may live as a child of God. Amen. Prayer Concern Families in crisis pk Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted May 3, 2010 Author Members Posted May 3, 2010 Romans 8:18-39 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Romans 8:18-39: Paul says that life on earth causes suffering, but that God will give a future that will be free from pain to those who trust in Jesus. Paul offers hope for the day when all God's children and all of creation will live under God's care and love forever. 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 18I 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. 19All of creation waits with eager longing for God to reveal his children. 20For 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 21that creation itself would one day be set free from its slavery to decay and would share the glorious freedom of the children of God. 22For we know that up to the present time all of creation groans with pain, like the pain of childbirth. 23But 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. 24For 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? 25But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. 26In 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. 27And 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. 28We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to his purpose. 29Those 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. 30And so those whom God set apart, he called; and those he called, he put right with himself, and he shared his glory with them. 31In view of all this, what can we say? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32Certainly 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? 33Who will accuse God's chosen people? God himself declares them not guilty! 34Who, 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! 35Who, 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? 36As 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.” 37No, in all these things we have complete victory through him who loved us! 38For 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, 39neither 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 Reread verses 18-22. What does Paul mean when he says that "all of creation is waiting with eager longing for God to reveal his children"? How do you see God's creation suffering today? What can you do to be a good steward of God's creation? Pray Creator God, your whole creation yearns for freedom from destruction and decay. Forgive me for the ways in which I contribute to the destruction of your creation. Make me a wise steward that I may help your creation flourish. Amen. Prayer Concern Polluted waterways pk 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 4, 2010 Author Members Posted May 4, 2010 Romans 12:1-21 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Romans 12:1-21: Paul calls the followers of Christ in Rome to offer their bodies as a "living sacrifice," transforming the way they think so that they may know the will of God. They also need to acknowledge the special gifts God has given each of them. Through all that they do, Paul underscores the importance of sharing love and kindness with all people. Today’s Scripture: Romans 12:10 Love one another warmly as Christians, and be eager to show respect for one another. Today’s Reading 1So 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. 2Do 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. 3And 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. 4We have many parts in the one body, and all these parts have different functions. 5In 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. 6So 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; 7if it is to serve, we should serve; if it is to teach, we should teach; 8if 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. 9Love must be completely sincere. Hate what is evil, hold on to what is good. 10Love one another warmly as Christians, and be eager to show respect for one another. 11Work hard and do not be lazy. Serve the Lord with a heart full of devotion. 12Let your hope keep you joyful, be patient in your troubles, and pray at all times. 13Share your belongings with your needy fellow Christians, and open your homes to strangers. 14Ask God to bless those who persecute you—yes, ask him to bless, not to curse. 15Be happy with those who are happy, weep with those who weep. 16Have the same concern for everyone. Do not be proud, but accept humble duties. Do not think of yourselves as wise. 17If someone has done you wrong, do not repay him with a wrong. Try to do what everyone considers to be good. 18Do everything possible on your part to live in peace with everybody. 19Never 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.” 20Instead, 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.” 21Do not let evil defeat you; instead, conquer evil with good. Reflect Offering sacrifices was an important part of the Jewish religion in Paul's day. But Paul says that God's new followers don't need to make temple sacrifices in order to please God. Rather, they need to change the way they think about pleasing God, offering their whole selves in living service to God. What does the idea of offering oneself as a living sacrifice mean to you? Pray Lord, I give my whole self to you. Transform my mind, that I may know your will and choose to live in your way. Amen. Prayer Concern Community centers pk 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 6, 2010 Author Members Posted May 6, 2010 Romans 14:1-23 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Romans 14:1-23: Paul says the followers of Christ in Rome should welcome all believers, even those whose faith and practices are different than their own. Some of the Roman followers may have been observing certain days required by the Law of Moses. Others may have been following particular eating customs required by the Law. Today’s Scripture: Romans 14:19 So then, we must always aim at those things that bring peace and that help strengthen one another. Today’s Reading 1Welcome those who are weak in faith, but do not argue with them about their personal opinions. 2Some people's faith allows them to eat anything, but the person who is weak in the faith eats only vegetables. 3The 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. 4Who 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. 5Some 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. 6Those 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. 7We do not live for ourselves only, and we do not die for ourselves only. 8If 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. 9For Christ died and rose to life in order to be the Lord of the living and of the dead. 10You 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. 11For 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. 12Every one of us, then, will have to give an account to God. 13So then, let us stop judging one another. Instead, you should decide never to do anything that would make others stumble or fall into sin. 14My 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. 15If 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! 16Do not let what you regard as good get a bad name. 17For God's Kingdom is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of the righteousness, peace, and joy which the Holy Spirit gives. 18And when you serve Christ in this way, you please God and are approved by others. 19So then, we must always aim at those things that bring peace and that help strengthen one another. 20Do 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. 21The right thing to do is to keep from eating meat, drinking wine, or doing anything else that will make other believers fall. 22Keep 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! 23But 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 says that there will be differences among God's people, but that all of Jesus' followers need to accept each other and not try to force their own rules on others. Do you find it difficult to accept others' faith practices when they are different from your own? Why or why not? Pray God of Community, open my heart and mind to my brothers and sisters in Christ, even when there are matters upon which we disagree. Help me create respectful relationships, that by more deeply knowing others, we all may more deeply know you. Amen. Prayer Concern Ecumenical relationships pk 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 6, 2010 Author Members Posted May 6, 2010 Psalm 80 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Psalm 80: This psalm uses images of grapevines and vineyards to describe the vulnerability and strength of the Israelites amid the destruction of the Northern Kingdom and possibly the later destruction of the Southern Kingdom as well. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 80:14 Turn to us, Almighty God! Look down from heaven at us; come and save your people! Today’s Reading 1Listen to us, O Shepherd of Israel; hear us, leader of your flock. Seated on your throne above the winged creatures, 2reveal yourself to the tribes of Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh. Show us your strength; come and save us! 3Bring us back, O God! Show us your mercy, and we will be saved! 4How much longer, LORD God Almighty, will you be angry with your people's prayers? 5You have given us sorrow to eat, a large cup of tears to drink. 6You let the surrounding nations fight over our land; our enemies insult us. 7Bring us back, Almighty God! Show us your mercy, and we will be saved! 8You brought a grapevine out of Egypt; you drove out other nations and planted it in their land. 9You cleared a place for it to grow; its roots went deep, and it spread out over the whole land. 10It covered the hills with its shade; its branches overshadowed the giant cedars. 11It extended its branches to the Mediterranean Sea and as far as the Euphrates River. 12Why did you break down the fences around it? Now anyone passing by can steal its grapes; 13wild hogs trample it down, and wild animals feed on it. 14Turn to us, Almighty God! Look down from heaven at us; come and save your people! 15Come and save this grapevine that you planted, this young vine you made grow so strong! 16Our enemies have set it on fire and cut it down; look at them in anger and destroy them! 17Preserve and protect the people you have chosen, the nation you made so strong. 18We will never turn away from you again; keep us alive, and we will praise you. 19Bring us back, LORD God Almighty. Show us your mercy, and we will be saved. Reflect Grapevines and vineyards are used to describe God's people Israel in this psalm. These were evocative images for the hearers of this psalm because in their time, walls were sometimes built around vineyards to keep robbers and wild animals from trampling or stealing the grapes. How does this psalm express their vulnerability? How does it express their strength and tenacity? Pray Protector God, there are times when I feel vulnerable to threats all around me. Root me in your strength, courage, and love that I may live in the full confidence of your grace. Amen. Prayer Concern Those living without shelter pk 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 8, 2010 Author Members Posted May 8, 2010 Romans 15:1-13 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Romans 15:1-13: Paul describes how the followers of Christ (the body of Christ) should live, and he gives encouragement to the Roman Christians. He notes that each person's experience of faith is different. We are not called to judge others, but rather to graciously accept all people as God accepts us. Today’s Scripture: Romans 15:13 May God, the source of hope, fill you with all joy and peace by means of your faith in him, so that your hope will continue to grow by the power of the Holy Spirit. Today’s Reading 1We who are strong in the faith ought to help the weak to carry their burdens. We should not please ourselves. 2Instead, we should all please other believers for their own good, in order to build them up in the faith. 3For Christ did not please himself. Instead, as the scripture says, “The insults which are hurled at you have fallen on me.” 4Everything written in the Scriptures was written to teach us, in order that we might have hope through the patience and encouragement which the Scriptures give us. 5And may God, the source of patience and encouragement, enable you to have the same point of view among yourselves by following the example of Christ Jesus, 6so that all of you together may praise with one voice the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7Accept one another, then, for the glory of God, as Christ has accepted you. 8For I tell you that Christ's life of service was on behalf of the Jews, to show that God is faithful, to make his promises to their ancestors come true, 9and to enable even the Gentiles to praise God for his mercy. As the scripture says, And so I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing praises to you. 10Again it says, “Rejoice, Gentiles, with God's people!” 11And again, Praise the Lord, all Gentiles; praise him, all peoples! 12And again, Isaiah says, A descendant of Jesse will appear; he will come to rule the Gentiles, and they will put their hope in him. 13May God, the source of hope, fill you with all joy and peace by means of your faith in him, so that your hope will continue to grow by the power of the Holy Spirit. Reflect Paul tells the followers of Christ to honor God by accepting each other (15:7). How does Christ's grace offer a model for you in accepting others? What makes it difficult to accept others? Why do we sometimes judge other people's experiences of faith? What helps you when you find it hard to accept others? Pray Holy Spirit, fill me with grace, that I may honor God by accepting others as Christ has accepted me. Bless all who follow Jesus with complete happiness, faith, and hope. Amen. Prayer Concern Earthquake victims pk 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 8, 2010 Author Members Posted May 8, 2010 John 14:1-14 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by 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. God acts through Jesus to preach, work miracles, and reveal God. In doing these things, and through his salvation, Jesus brings us back to 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. 2There 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. 3And 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. 4You know the way that leads to the place where I am going. 5Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going; so how can we know the way to get there?” 6Jesus answered him, I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one goes to the Father except by me. 7Now 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. 8Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father; that is all we need.” 9Jesus 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”? 10Do 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. 11Believe 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. 12I 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. 13And I will do whatever you ask for in my name, so that the Father's glory will be shown through the Son. 14If you ask me for anything in my name, I will do it. Reflect Reread verses 1-2. When Jesus says, "There are many rooms in my Father's house," what does he mean? In other parts of the New Testament, when Jesus speaks of the kingdom of heaven (Matt 4:17; 5:3; 13:44-47) he usually is talking about a place where God's will and purposes are done. In your mind, where is heaven? Pray Lord Jesus, thank you for showing me the way to know God. Make me ever mindful of the ways in which I can help bring about God's will on earth as it is in heaven. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who seek to know Jesus pk 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 10, 2010 Author Members Posted May 10, 2010 John 14:15-31 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by 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 14:27 "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." Today’s Reading 15If you love me, you will obey my commandments. 16I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, who will stay with you forever. 17He 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. 18When I go, you will not be left all alone; I will come back to you. 19In a little while the world will see me no more, but you will see me; and because I live, you also will live. 20When 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.” 22Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, “Lord, how can it be that you will reveal yourself to us and not to the world?” 23Jesus 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. 24Those 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. 25I have told you this while I am still with you. 26The 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. 27Peace 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. 28You 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. 29I have told you this now before it all happens, so that when it does happen, you will believe. 30I cannot talk with you much longer, because the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over me, 31but 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 us? 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. Thank you for your grace. Amen. Prayer Concern Those living amid violence pk 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 10, 2010 Author Members Posted May 10, 2010 John 15:1-17 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction John 15:1-17: Jesus compares himself to a vine and God to a gardener. Only those branches that stay connected to the vine can produce "fruit." This fruit can be made manifest by sharing self-sacrificing love with one another. Today’s Scripture: John 15:16 "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." Today’s Reading 1I am the real vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2He 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. 3You have been made clean already by the teaching I have given you. 4Remain 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. 5I 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. 6Those 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. 7If you remain in me and my words remain in you, then you will ask for anything you wish, and you shall have it. 8My Father's glory is shown by your bearing much fruit; and in this way you become my disciples. 9I love you just as the Father loves me; remain in my love. 10If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love. 11I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. 12My commandment is this: love one another, just as I love you. 13The greatest love you can have for your friends is to give your life for them. 14And you are my friends if you do what I command you. 15I 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. 16You 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. 17This, then, is what I command you: love one another. Reflect What kind of fruit is Jesus calling his disciples to produce? What makes this fruit lasting? What would it mean for you to lead a fruitful life? What parts of your life would you need to change? What parts would you need to develop further? What would it mean to you to make sacrifices for Christ? Pray Jesus, you are the real vine. Feed me with your spirit, that I may bear fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Amen. Prayer Concern Farmers pk 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 12, 2010 Author Members Posted May 12, 2010 John 16:1-15 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction John 15:18-16:15: Jesus says that many people will hate those who prioritize God's realm over worldly things. Because they don't understand what they do, they will reject followers of Jesus in the name of God. Jesus shares this not to frighten his followers, but to encourage them to stay strong in faith. Today’s Scripture: John 15:18-16:15 "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." Today’s Reading 18If the world hates you, just remember that it has hated me first. 19If 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. 20Remember 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. 21But they will do all this to you because you are mine; for they do not know the one who sent me. 22They 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. 23Whoever hates me hates my Father also. 24They 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. 25This, however, was bound to happen so that what is written in their Law may come true: “They hated me for no reason at all.” 26The 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. 27And you, too, will speak about me, because you have been with me from the very beginning. 1I have told you this, so that you will not give up your faith. 2You 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. 3People will do these things to you because they have not known either the Father or me. 4But 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. 5But now I am going to him who sent me, yet none of you asks me where I am going. 6And now that I have told you, your hearts are full of sadness. 7But 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. 8And 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. 9They are wrong about sin, because they do not believe in me; 10they are wrong about what is right, because I am going to the Father and you will not see me any more; 11and they are wrong about judgment, because the ruler of this world has already been judged. 12I have much more to tell you, but now it would be too much for you to bear. 13When, 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. 14He will give me glory, because he will take what I say and tell it to you. 15All 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 Jesus enters into solidarity with those who suffer on behalf of God, saying that the Spirit will help them by showing them truth. How does the Spirit reveal truth in today's world? Might God's realm be revealed through the Holy Spirit here on earth? Pray God, reveal your vision for love, peace and justice on this earth through the power of the Holy Spirit. Empower me to share the joy of hope in Christ through solidarity with others. Amen. Prayer Concern Disaster relief missionaries pk 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 12, 2010 Author Members Posted May 12, 2010 John 16:16-33 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction John 16:16-33: Jesus foretells his death and resurrection in language that leaves his disciples with questions. He says that they will be sad when he leaves them for a time, but that their sadness will turn to joy because of God's love. Today’s Scripture: John 16:33 "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!" 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.” 17Some 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.” 18What does this “a little while” mean? We don't know what he is talking about! 19Jesus 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? 20I 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. 21When 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. 22That 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. 23When 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. 24Until now you have not asked for anything in my name; ask and you will receive, so that your happiness may be complete. 25I 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. 26When that day comes, you will ask him in my name; and I do not say that I will ask him on your behalf, 27for the Father himself loves you. He loves you because you love me and have believed that I came from God. 28I did come from the Father, and I came into the world; and now I am leaving the world and going to the Father. 29Then his disciples said to him, Now you are speaking plainly, without using figures of speech. 30We 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. 31Jesus answered them, Do you believe now? 32The 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. 33I have told you this so that you will have peace by being united to me. The world will make you suffer. But be brave! I have defeated the world! Reflect Even though the disciples said they understood who Jesus was, his trial and death would test their courage and faith. When has your faith in Christ been tested? How can working to bring God's justice to the world renew your faith? Pray Jesus, there are times when my courage and faith are tested. Yet as I serve you, my faith and trust are strengthened. Fill my heart with a sense of peace that I may know you are with me always. Amen. Prayer Concern Those struggling with faith pk 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 13, 2010 Author Members Posted May 13, 2010 Acts 1:1-11 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit 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 into a cloud. The apostles keep their eyes on the skies until two angels jolt them into action. Today’s Scripture: Acts 1:8 "But when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will be filled with power, and you will be witnesses for me in Jerusalem, in all of Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Today’s Reading 1Dear Theophilus: In my first book I wrote about all the things that Jesus did and taught from the time he began his work 2until 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. 3For 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. 4And 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. 5John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit. 6When the apostles met together with Jesus, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time give the Kingdom back to Israel?” 7Jesus 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. 8But 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. 9After saying this, he was taken up to heaven as they watched him, and a cloud hid him from their sight. 10They still had their eyes fixed on the sky as he went away, when two men dressed in white suddenly stood beside them 11and 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 Sometimes it seems easier to pray to God for change than to take action for change. This story reminds us that even as we pray to the heavens, we must work here on earth to facilitate the emergence of God's peace and justice in our time. What can you do to reveal God's activity in our world? Pray God, keep my eyes not in the heavens but rather squarely focused on your creation, that I might share the good news of Jesus Christ throughout this world in word and deed. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who work in homeless shelters pk 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 15, 2010 Author Members Posted May 15, 2010 Acts 1:12-26 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 1:12-26: The apostles begin meeting and praying with the women and men who will become the church. They decide that Matthias should replace Judas as the twelfth apostle. Twelve was considered a holy number, and represents not only the number of apostles, but also the number of tribes in ancient Israel. Today’s Scripture: Acts 1:24-25a Then they prayed, "Lord, you know the thoughts of everyone, so show us which of these two you have chosen to serve as an apostle in the place of Judas..." Today’s Reading 12Then the apostles went back to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, which is about half a mile away from the city. 13They 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. 14They gathered frequently to pray as a group, together with the women and with Mary the mother of Jesus and with his brothers. 15A 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. 17Judas was a member of our group, for he had been chosen to have a part in our work. ( 18With 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. 19All the people living in Jerusalem heard about it, and so in their own language they call that field Akeldama, which means “Field of Blood.”) 20For 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.” 21-22So 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. 23So they proposed two men: Joseph, who was called Barsabbas (also known as Justus), and Matthias. 24Then they prayed, Lord, you know the thoughts of everyone, so show us which of these two you have chosen 25to serve as an apostle in the place of Judas, who left to go to the place where he belongs. 26Then 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 The apostles need a twelfth apostle in order to feel complete after Judas' betrayal. They pray and reflect in community to find the right person. How does your church handle changes in leadership? How could this story inform its actions? Pray God of wisdom and change, guide my church to seek your guidance in times of transition. May we begin to plant and cultivate now those persons who will be church leaders in the future. Amen. Prayer Concern Seminary students pk 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 15, 2010 Author Members Posted May 15, 2010 Ezekiel 1:1-28 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Ezekiel 1:1-28: Today we begin reading from Ezekiel who was a prophet and a priest. He was probably serving in Jerusalem's temple when the Babylonian army first invaded the city in 597 BC. In 593 BC, while living in exile in Babylonia, Ezekiel receives a vision of the Lord's glory. Today’s Scripture: Ezekiel 1:13 Among the creatures there was something that looked like a blazing torch, constantly moving. The fire would blaze up and shoot out flashes of lightning. Today’s Reading 1On the fifth day of the fourth month of the thirtieth year, I, Ezekiel the priest, son of Buzi, was living with the Jewish exiles by the Chebar River in Babylonia. The sky opened, and I saw a vision of God. ( 2It was the fifth year since King Jehoiachin had been taken into exile.) 3There in Babylonia beside the Chebar River, I heard the LORD speak to me, and I felt his power. 4I looked up and saw a windstorm coming from the north. Lightning was flashing from a huge cloud, and the sky around it was glowing. Where the lightning was flashing, something shone like bronze. 5At the center of the storm I saw what looked like four living creatures in human form, 6but each of them had four faces and four wings. 7Their legs were straight, and they had hoofs like those of a bull. They shone like polished bronze. 8In addition to their four faces and four wings, they each had four human hands, one under each wing. 9Two wings of each creature were spread out so that the creatures formed a square, with their wing tips touching. When they moved, they moved as a group without turning their bodies. 10Each living creature had four different faces: a human face in front, a lion's face at the right, a bull's face at the left, and an eagle's face at the back. 11Two wings of each creature were raised so that they touched the tips of the wings of the creatures next to it, and their other two wings were folded against their bodies. 12Each creature faced all four directions, and so the group could go wherever they wished, without having to turn. 13Among the creatures there was something that looked like a blazing torch, constantly moving. The fire would blaze up and shoot out flashes of lightning. 14The creatures themselves darted back and forth with the speed of lightning. 15As I was looking at the four creatures I saw four wheels touching the ground, one beside each of them. 16All four wheels were alike; each one shone like a precious stone, and each had another wheel intersecting it at right angles, 17so that the wheels could move in any of the four directions. 18The rims of the wheels were covered with eyes. 19Whenever the creatures moved, the wheels moved with them, and if the creatures rose up from the earth, so did the wheels. 20The creatures went wherever they wished, and the wheels did exactly what the creatures did, because the creatures controlled them. 21So every time the creatures moved or stopped or rose in the air, the wheels did exactly the same. 22Above the heads of the creatures there was something that looked like a dome made of dazzling crystal. 23There under the dome stood the creatures, each stretching out two wings toward the ones next to it and covering its body with the other two wings. 24I heard the noise their wings made in flight; it sounded like the roar of the sea, like the noise of a huge army, like the voice of Almighty God. When they stopped flying, they folded their wings, 25but there was still a sound coming from above the dome over their heads. 26Above the dome there was something that looked like a throne made of sapphire, and sitting on the throne was a figure that looked like a human being. 27The figure seemed to be shining like bronze in the middle of a fire. It shone all over with a bright light 28that had in it all the colors of the rainbow. This was the dazzling light which shows the presence of the LORD. When I saw this, I fell face downward on the ground. Then I heard a voice Reflect Reread verses 13-14. When the prophet Isaiah was chosen, he also had a vision, in which flying creatures touched his lips with burning coals (Isaiah 6:1-7). How do you experience a sense of God's calling in your life? Pray Holy One, open my spirit to your call in my life, that I may see your glory and know your plans for me. I want to serve you all of my days. Amen. Prayer Concern Those in discernment pk 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 16, 2010 Author Members Posted May 16, 2010 Ezekiel 2:1-10 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Ezekiel 2:1-10: Ezekiel is chosen to be God's prophet. He is charged with the difficult task of telling and showing how Jerusalem and Judah will experience consequences for the ways in which they have turned away from God's law. Today’s Scripture: Ezekiel 2:8 "Mortal man, listen to what I tell you. Don't be rebellious like them. Open your mouth and eat what I am going to give you." Today’s Reading 1saying, “Mortal man, stand up. I want to talk to you.” 2While the voice was speaking, God's spirit entered me and raised me to my feet, and I heard the voice continue, 3Mortal man, I am sending you to the people of Israel. They have rebelled and turned against me and are still rebels, just as their ancestors were. 4They are stubborn and do not respect me, so I am sending you to tell them what I, the Sovereign LORD, am saying to them. 5Whether those rebels listen to you or not, they will know that a prophet has been among them. 6But you, mortal man, must not be afraid of them or of anything they say. They will defy and despise you; it will be like living among scorpions. Still, don't be afraid of those rebels or of anything they say. 7You will tell them whatever I tell you to say, whether they listen or not. Remember what rebels they are. 8“Mortal man, listen to what I tell you. Don't be rebellious like them. Open your mouth and eat what I am going to give you.” 9I saw a hand reaching out toward me, and it was holding a scroll. 10The hand unrolled the scroll, and I saw that there was writing on both sides—cries of grief were written there, and wails and groans. Reflect What was difficult about the tasks God placed before Ezekiel? Recall a difficult task you have had to complete or decision you have had to make. What made it difficult? Recall a time when you felt the need to speak out against injustice. What did you do? Pray Lord, there are times when you call your people to difficult tasks. Ready my heart, mind and spirit to answer your call that I may serve you in trust and obedience. In Jesus' name, Amen. Prayer Concern Those who fight injustice pk 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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