Members phkrause Posted May 18, 2010 Author Members Posted May 18, 2010 Ezekiel 3:1-15 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Ezekiel 3:1-15: The Lord tells Ezekiel to eat a scroll containing the Lord's message. Touching the mouth was an important symbolic part of being chosen as a prophet of the Lord, but only Ezekiel actually eats God's words. Then he is carried away by the Holy Spirit. Today’s Scripture: Ezekiel 3:12 Then God's spirit lifted me up, and I heard behind me the loud roar of a voice that said, "Praise the glory of the Lord in heaven above!" Today’s Reading 1God said, “Mortal man, eat this scroll; then go and speak to the people of Israel.” 2So I opened my mouth, and he gave me the scroll to eat. 3He said, “Mortal man, eat this scroll that I give you; fill your stomach with it.” I ate it, and it tasted as sweet as honey. 4Then God said, Mortal man, go to the people of Israel and say to them whatever I tell you to say. 5I am not sending you to a nation that speaks a difficult foreign language, but to the Israelites. 6If I sent you to great nations that spoke difficult languages you didn't understand, they would listen to you. 7But none of the people of Israel will be willing to listen; they will not even listen to me. All of them are stubborn and defiant. 8Now I will make you as stubborn and as tough as they are. 9I will make you as firm as a rock, as hard as a diamond; don't be afraid of those rebels. 10God continued, Mortal man, pay close attention and remember everything I tell you. 11Then go to the people of your nation who are in exile and tell them what I, the Sovereign LORD, am saying to them, whether they pay attention to you or not. 12Then God's spirit lifted me up, and I heard behind me the loud roar of a voice that said, Praise the glory of the LORD in heaven above! 13I heard the wings of the creatures beating together in the air, and the noise of the wheels, as loud as an earthquake. 14The power of the LORD came on me with great force, and as his spirit carried me off, I felt bitter and angry. 15So I came to Tel Abib beside the Chebar River, where the exiles were living, and for seven days I stayed there, overcome by what I had seen and heard. Reflect Reread verses 2-3. Even though God's words were filled with bad news, they tasted sweet to Ezekiel. Why do you think the words tasted sweet? How did God empower Ezekiel to do his work? How does God empower you? Pray Great and gracious Lord, your Word is as sweet as honey. Help me to speak your Word in faith and love. Make it a part of my being, that I may completely give my life to you. Amen. Prayer Concern Soup kitchens 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 19, 2010 Author Members Posted May 19, 2010 Ezekiel 3:16-27 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Ezekiel 3:16-27: God appoints Ezekiel to be a "lookout" or watchman for the people of Israel. This includes warning the people to turn away from their sins. If Ezekiel doesn't warn the people, God says he will be responsible for their deaths. Today’s Scripture: Ezekiel 3:24a But God's spirit entered me and raised me to my feet. Today’s Reading 16After the seven days had passed, the LORD spoke to me. 17“Mortal man,” he said, I am making you a lookout for the nation of Israel. You will pass on to them the warnings I give you. 18If I announce that someone evil is going to die but you do not warn him to change his ways so that he can save his life, he will die, still a sinner, but I will hold you responsible for his death. 19If you do warn an evil man and he doesn't stop sinning, he will die, still a sinner, but your life will be spared. 20If someone truly good starts doing evil and I put him in a dangerous situation, he will die if you do not warn him. He will die because of his sins—I will not remember the good he did—and I will hold you responsible for his death. 21If you do warn a good man not to sin and he listens to you and doesn't sin, he will stay alive, and your life will also be spared. 22I felt the powerful presence of the LORD and heard him say to me, “Get up and go out into the valley. I will talk to you there.” 23So I went out into the valley, and there I saw the glory of the LORD, just as I had seen it beside the Chebar River. I fell face downward on the ground, 24but God's spirit entered me and raised me to my feet. The LORD said to me, Go home and shut yourself up in the house. 25You will be tied with ropes, mortal man, and you will not be able to go out in public. 26I will paralyze your tongue so that you won't be able to warn these rebellious people. 27Then, when I speak to you again and give you back the power of speech, you will tell them what I, the Sovereign LORD, am saying. Some of them will listen, but some will ignore you, for they are a nation of rebels. Reflect Reread verses 24-27. Why is Ezekiel to be locked in his house and made not to speak? Some have suggested that Ezekiel wrote down his messages or acted them out, rather than speaking them aloud. Others believe his inability to speak was only temporary or symbolic. Still others say that his silence meant that during this time, he was not supposed to pray for his people, but could only deliver messages of doom. What do you think? Pray Holy God, help me know when to speak and when to be quiet. Fill my mouth with your words, that I may share your love and grace with others. Amen. Prayer Concern Journalists 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 19, 2010 Author Members Posted May 19, 2010 Ezekiel 36:1-15 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Ezekiel 36:1-15: Ezekiel tells the mountains of Israel to rejoice. Though the Lord's people have sinned, the Lord will bring them home in order to honor his name. The land will become fertile, the towns will be rebuilt, and there will be new life again. Today’s Scripture: Ezekiel 36:9 "I am on your side, and I will make sure that your land is plowed again and crops are planted on it." Today’s Reading 1The LORD said, Mortal man, speak to the mountains of Israel and tell them to listen to the message which I, 2the Sovereign LORD, have for them: Israel's enemies gloated and said, “Now those ancient hills are ours!” 3Prophesy, then, and announce what I, the Sovereign LORD, am saying. When the neighboring nations captured and plundered the mountains of Israel, everyone made fun of Israel. 4So now listen to what I, the Sovereign LORD, say to you mountains and hills, to you brooks and valleys, to you places that were left in ruins, and to you deserted cities which were plundered and mocked by all the surrounding nations. 5I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken out in the heat of my anger against the surrounding nations, and especially against Edom. With glee and contempt they captured my land and took possession of its pastures. 6So prophesy to the land of Israel; tell the mountains, hills, brooks, and valleys what I, the Sovereign LORD, am saying in jealous anger because of the way the nations have insulted and humiliated them. 7I, the Sovereign LORD, solemnly promise that the surrounding nations will be humiliated. 8But on the mountains of Israel the trees will again grow leaves and bear fruit for you, my people Israel. You are going to come home soon. 9I am on your side, and I will make sure that your land is plowed again and crops are planted on it. 10I will make your population grow. You will live in the cities and rebuild everything that was left in ruins. 11I will make people and cattle increase in number. There will be more of you than ever before, and you will have many children. I will let you live there as you used to live, and I will make you more prosperous than ever. Then you will know that I am the LORD. 12I will bring you, my people Israel, back to live again in the land. It will be your own land, and it will never again let your children starve. 13I, the Sovereign LORD, say: It is true that people say that the land eats people and that it robs the nation of its children. 14But from now on it will no longer eat people and rob you of your children. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken. 15The land will no longer have to listen to the nations making fun of it or see the peoples sneer at it. The land will no longer rob the nation of its children. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken. Reflect Reread verses 8-15. This passage says that the land of Israel, ruined by Israel's enemies, will once again bear fruit and provide a home for God's people when they return from exile. Israel's population had been reduced by war, famine, and forced exile, but Ezekiel said it would increase when the people returned. What verses do you find to be particularly hopeful in this passage? Pray God of Abundance, you have brought forth water from dry land and brought forth produce from barren fields. Be in those places that are experiencing drought and famine, and empower your people to protect your planet. Amen. Prayer Concern Areas experiencing drought or famine 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 21, 2010 Author Members Posted May 21, 2010 Ezekiel 36:16-38 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Ezekiel 36:16-38: In the Law of Moses, crimes against one another and God caused harm to the land as well. God promises to cleanse the land and its people through the power of the Holy Spirit, returning them to right relationship with each other and God. Today’s Scripture: Ezekiel 36:26 "I will give you a new heart and a new mind. I will take away your stubborn heart of stone and give you an obedient heart." Today’s Reading 16The LORD spoke to me. 17“Mortal man,” he said, when the Israelites were living in their land, they defiled it by the way they lived and acted. I regarded their behavior as being as ritually unclean as a woman is during her monthly period. 18I let them feel the force of my anger because of the murders they had committed in the land and because of the idols by which they had defiled it. 19I condemned them for the way they lived and acted, and I scattered them through foreign countries. 20Wherever they went, they brought disgrace on my holy name, because people would say, These are the people of the LORD, but they had to leave his land. 21That made me concerned for my holy name, since the Israelites brought disgrace on it everywhere they went. 22Now then, give the Israelites the message that I, the Sovereign LORD, have for them: What I am going to do is not for the sake of you Israelites, but for the sake of my holy name, which you have disgraced in every country where you have gone. 23When I demonstrate to the nations the holiness of my great name—the name you disgraced among them—then they will know that I am the LORD. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken. I will use you to show the nations that I am holy. 24I will take you from every nation and country and bring you back to your own land. 25I will sprinkle clean water on you and make you clean from all your idols and everything else that has defiled you. 26I will give you a new heart and a new mind. I will take away your stubborn heart of stone and give you an obedient heart. 27I will put my spirit in you and will see to it that you follow my laws and keep all the commands I have given you. 28Then you will live in the land I gave your ancestors. You will be my people, and I will be your God. 29I will save you from everything that defiles you. I will command the grain to be plentiful, so that you will not have any more famines. 30I will increase the yield of your fruit trees and your fields, so that there will be no more famines to disgrace you among the nations. 31You will remember your evil conduct and the wrongs that you committed, and you will be disgusted with yourselves because of your sins and your iniquities. 32Israel, I want you to know that I am not doing all this for your sake. I want you to feel the shame and disgrace of what you are doing. I, the Sovereign LORD, have spoken. 33The Sovereign LORD says, When I make you clean from all your sins, I will let you live in your cities again and let you rebuild the ruins. 34Everyone who used to walk by your fields saw how overgrown and wild they were, but I will let you farm them again. 35Everyone will talk about how this land, which was once a wilderness, has become like the Garden of Eden, and how the cities which were torn down, looted, and left in ruins, are now inhabited and fortified. 36Then the neighboring nations that have survived will know that I, the LORD, rebuild ruined cities and replant waste fields. I, the LORD, have promised that I would do this—and I will. 37The Sovereign LORD says, I will once again let the Israelites ask me for help, and I will let them increase in numbers like a flock of sheep. 38The cities that are now in ruins will then be as full of people as Jerusalem was once full of the sheep which were offered as sacrifices at a festival. Then they will know that I am the LORD. Reflect God extends unconditional love to all people, and constantly seeks to restore their relationships. How have you experienced God's presence in times of conflict? Are there strategies you can use to open yourself to the workings of the Holy Spirit during times of trial? Pray Holy Spirit, you come when we least expect you and most need you. Restore relationships in my community, country and the world, that we may live into our identities as children of God. Amen. Prayer Concern The people of Darfur 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 22, 2010 Author Members Posted May 22, 2010 Ezekiel 37:1-14 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Ezekiel 37:1-14: The people of Israel living in exile are feeling as if their hopes have dried up. Yet the Lord offers hopeful news: like the army of dry bones that rose from death, the people of Israel will stand up and return home. Today’s Scripture: Ezekiel 37:6b "I will put breath into you and bring you back to life. Then you will know that I am the Lord." Today’s Reading 1I felt the powerful presence of the LORD, and his spirit took me and set me down in a valley where the ground was covered with bones. 2He led me all around the valley, and I could see that there were very many bones and that they were very dry. 3He said to me, “Mortal man, can these bones come back to life?” I replied, Sovereign LORD, only you can answer that! 4He said, Prophesy to the bones. Tell these dry bones to listen to the word of the LORD. 5Tell them that I, the Sovereign LORD, am saying to them: I am going to put breath into you and bring you back to life. 6I will give you sinews and muscles, and cover you with skin. I will put breath into you and bring you back to life. Then you will know that I am the LORD. 7So I prophesied as I had been told. While I was speaking, I heard a rattling noise, and the bones began to join together. 8While I watched, the bones were covered with sinews and muscles, and then with skin. But there was no breath in the bodies. 9God said to me, Mortal man, prophesy to the wind. Tell the wind that the Sovereign LORD commands it to come from every direction, to breathe into these dead bodies, and to bring them back to life. 10So I prophesied as I had been told. Breath entered the bodies, and they came to life and stood up. There were enough of them to form an army. 11God said to me, Mortal man, the people of Israel are like these bones. They say that they are dried up, without any hope and with no future. 12So prophesy to my people Israel and tell them that I, the Sovereign LORD, am going to open their graves. I am going to take them out and bring them back to the land of Israel. 13When I open the graves where my people are buried and bring them out, they will know that I am the LORD. 14I will put my breath in them, bring them back to life, and let them live in their own land. Then they will know that I am the LORD. I have promised that I would do this—and I will. I, the LORD, have spoken. Reflect In this passage, God promises the breath of new life to the Israelites. When have you felt the breath of God sweep through your community? How did you feel before? How did you feel after? What happened, and how were you and your community changed? Pray God of life and breath, just as you swept through the Valley of Dry Bones, now breathe your precious spirit into my community. Blow through the darkest corners of our neighborhoods and into the lives of those who need you most. Amen. Prayer Concern Civic leaders 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 22, 2010 Author Members Posted May 22, 2010 Joel 2:28-3:8 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Joel 2:28-3:8: The Lord pledges to give his Spirit to work wonders among the Israelites. God promises to save those who remain faithful, and pledges to bring justice to those who have betrayed the Lord. This passage provides both images of hope and of consequences. Today’s Scripture: Joel 2:28 "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." Today’s Reading 28Afterward 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. 29At that time I will pour out my Spirit even on servants, both men and women. 30I will give warnings of that day in the sky and on the earth; there will be bloodshed, fire, and clouds of smoke. 31The sun will be darkened, and the moon will turn red as blood before the great and terrible day of the LORD comes. 32But 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. 1The LORD says, At that time I will restore the prosperity of Judah and Jerusalem. 2I 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. 3They threw dice to decide who would get the captives. They sold boys and girls into slavery to pay for prostitutes and wine. 4What 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! 5You have taken my silver and gold and carried my rich treasures into your temples. 6You have taken the people of Judah and Jerusalem far from their own country and sold them to the Greeks. 7Now 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. 8I 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. Reflect Joel may have lived and preached in Judah sometime after the people returned from exile and rebuilt the temple in 515 BC. He spoke to people devastated by a locust plague, reminding them to return to God's ways. Reread verses 28-30 of chapter 2. What does the Lord promise? What gifts will he give to people young and old? How might these words have provided hope? Pray Lord of vision and hope, forgive me for the ways in which I have failed to follow your will. Grant me insight and wisdom, that I may better serve you and love you. 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 24, 2010 Author Members Posted May 24, 2010 Acts 2:1-13 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 2:1-13: 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. 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 1When the day of Pentecost came, all the believers were gathered together in one place. 2Suddenly there was a noise from the sky which sounded like a strong wind blowing, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3Then they saw what looked like tongues of fire which spread out and touched each person there. 4They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to talk in other languages, as the Spirit enabled them to speak. 5There were Jews living in Jerusalem, religious people who had come from every country in the world. 6When they heard this noise, a large crowd gathered. They were all excited, because all of them heard the believers talking in their own languages. 7In amazement and wonder they exclaimed, These people who are talking like this are Galileans! 8How is it, then, that all of us hear them speaking in our own native languages? 9We are from Parthia, Media, and Elam; from Mesopotamia, Judea, and Cappadocia; from Pontus and Asia, 10from Phrygia and Pamphylia, from Egypt and the regions of Libya near Cyrene. Some of us are from Rome, 11both 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! 12Amazed and confused, they kept asking each other, “What does this mean?” 13But others made fun of the believers, saying, “These people are drunk!” Reflect Have you ever traveled to a place where you didn't know the language? We experience language differences not only between countries, but also between cultures within our own country. How can we use different cultural languages to share the gospel? Pray God of many languages, teach me how to share your Word across cultures and countries, that people may recognize the presence of the Holy Spirit through familiar words. Amen. Prayer Concern Bible translation efforts 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 25, 2010 Author Members Posted May 25, 2010 Acts 2:14-28 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 2:14-28: Peter repeats the words of the prophet Joel, saying that God's chosen people will receive the Holy Spirit through visions and prophecy. Then he repeats David's words celebrating God's eternal presence, and he says that David's words are really Jesus' words. Today’s Scripture: Acts 2:28 "You have shown me the paths that lead to life, and your presence will fill me with joy." Today’s Reading 14Then 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. 15These people are not drunk, as you suppose; it is only nine o'clock in the morning. 16Instead, this is what the prophet Joel spoke about: 17This 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. 18Yes, even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will proclaim my message. 19I will perform miracles in the sky above and wonders on the earth below. There will be blood, fire, and thick smoke; 20the sun will be darkened, and the moon will turn red as blood, before the great and glorious Day of the Lord comes. 21And then, whoever calls out to the Lord for help will be saved. 22Listen 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. 23In 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. 24But God raised him from death, setting him free from its power, because it was impossible that death should hold him prisoner. 25For David said about him, I saw the Lord before me at all times; he is near me, and I will not be troubled. 26And so I am filled with gladness, and my words are full of joy. And I, mortal though I am, will rest assured in hope, 27because you will not abandon me in the world of the dead; you will not allow your faithful servant to rot in the grave. 28You have shown me the paths that lead to life, and your presence will fill me with joy. Reflect David was considered Israel's greatest ruler. When Peter says David was a prophet, he means that David spoke God's message in the Psalms, and that Jesus being raised to life illustrates what David had spoken about many centuries earlier. What do you think about Peter's message? Pray Lord, I see you before me at all times. You are near me, and I will not be troubled. And so I am filled with gladness, and my words are filled with joy. You have shown me the paths that lead to life, and your presence will fill me with joy. Amen. Prayer Concern People experiencing a call to ministry 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 25, 2010 Author Members Posted May 25, 2010 Acts 2:29-47 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 2:29-47: Peter recounts the story of Jesus' death and resurrection, placing Jesus in the line of David as the Messiah. Peter invites the people to be baptized, and the young church solidifies into a community as they break bread together. Today’s Scripture: Acts 2:38 "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." Today’s Reading 29My 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. 30He 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. 31David 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. 32God has raised this very Jesus from death, and we are all witnesses to this fact. 33He 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. 34For it was not David who went up into heaven; rather he said, The Lord said to my Lord: Sit here at my right side 35until 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!” 37When the people heard this, they were deeply troubled and said to Peter and the other apostles, “What shall we do, brothers?” 38Peter 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. 39For 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. 40Peter made his appeal to them and with many other words he urged them, saying, “Save yourselves from the punishment coming on this wicked people!” 41Many of them believed his message and were baptized, and about three thousand people were added to the group that day. 42They spent their time in learning from the apostles, taking part in the fellowship, and sharing in the fellowship meals and the prayers. 43Many miracles and wonders were being done through the apostles, and everyone was filled with awe. 44All the believers continued together in close fellowship and shared their belongings with one another. 45They would sell their property and possessions, and distribute the money among all, according to what each one needed. 46Day 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, 47praising 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 Those who heard Peter preach were invited to publicly profess their new-found faith and be baptized. Through baptism, followers of Jesus showed that they wanted to stop sinning, turn from their old way of life, and enter into a new life of obedience to God. Are you baptized? What does baptism mean to you? What might it have meant for the early church community? Pray Lord Jesus, when you entered the waters of baptism on our behalf, you showed us once again that you are ever present with us in the struggles of our lives. Thank you for your care and grace. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who lack clean drinking water 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 26, 2010 Author Members Posted May 26, 2010 Acts 3:1-10 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 3:1-10: As we continue reading in the book of Acts, we will learn how the apostles first spread the good news in Jerusalem, the center of the Jewish religion. In today's reading, Peter and John, two of Jesus' first apostles, heal a man sitting outside the temple at the Beautiful Gate. Today’s Scripture: Acts 3: 6 "I have no money at all, but I give you what I have: in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth I order you to get up and walk!" Today’s Reading 1One day Peter and John went to the Temple at three o'clock in the afternoon, the hour for prayer. 2There at the Beautiful Gate, as it was called, was a man who had been lame all his life. Every day he was carried to the gate to beg for money from the people who were going into the Temple. 3When he saw Peter and John going in, he begged them to give him something. 4They looked straight at him, and Peter said, “Look at us!” 5So he looked at them, expecting to get something from them. 6But Peter said to him, “I have no money at all, but I give you what I have: in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth I order you to get up and walk!” 7Then he took him by his right hand and helped him up. At once the man's feet and ankles became strong; 8he jumped up, stood on his feet, and started walking around. Then he went into the Temple with them, walking and jumping and praising God. 9The people there saw him walking and praising God, 10and when they recognized him as the beggar who had sat at the Beautiful Gate, they were all surprised and amazed at what had happened to him. Reflect In biblical times, people with physical problems were considered unclean and were not allowed to enter the temple. Peter's healing of the man at the Beautiful Gate demonstrated not only the power of faith in Jesus, but also the boundary-breaking love that Christians are called to share with all people. What social, cultural or political boundaries might God call you to cross in order to share love with others? Pray Boundary-breaking God, embolden me to share your kindness, compassion, hope and love with all people, through my words and my actions. Amen. Prayer Concern Social workers 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 29, 2010 Author Members Posted May 29, 2010 Acts 4:1-22 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 4:1-22: The temple guard arrests Peter and John for their teachings about resurrection. They speak out and defend their Gospel message before the council. The council tells them to stop preaching about Jesus, but ultimately lets them go. Today’s Scripture: Acts 4:11 "Jesus is the one of whom the scripture says, 'The stone that you the builders despised turned out to be the most important of all.'" Today’s Reading 1Peter and John were still speaking to the people when some priests, the officer in charge of the Temple guards, and some Sadducees arrived. 2They were annoyed because the two apostles were teaching the people that Jesus had risen from death, which proved that the dead will rise to life. 3So they arrested them and put them in jail until the next day, since it was already late. 4But many who heard the message believed; and the number grew to about five thousand. 5The next day the Jewish leaders, the elders, and the teachers of the Law gathered in Jerusalem. 6They met with the High Priest Annas and with Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and the others who belonged to the High Priest's family. 7They made the apostles stand before them and asked them, “How did you do this? What power do you have or whose name did you use?” 8Peter, full of the Holy Spirit, answered them, Leaders of the people and elders: 9if we are being questioned today about the good deed done to the lame man and how he was healed, 10then you should all know, and all the people of Israel should know, that this man stands here before you completely well through the power of the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth—whom you crucified and whom God raised from death. 11Jesus is the one of whom the scripture says, The stone that you the builders despised turned out to be the most important of all. 12Salvation is to be found through him alone; in all the world there is no one else whom God has given who can save us. 13The members of the Council were amazed to see how bold Peter and John were and to learn that they were ordinary men of no education. They realized then that they had been companions of Jesus. 14But there was nothing that they could say, because they saw the man who had been healed standing there with Peter and John. 15So they told them to leave the Council room, and then they started discussing among themselves. 16“What shall we do with these men?” they asked. Everyone in Jerusalem knows that this extraordinary miracle has been performed by them, and we cannot deny it. 17But to keep this matter from spreading any further among the people, let us warn these men never again to speak to anyone in the name of Jesus. 18So they called them back in and told them that under no condition were they to speak or to teach in the name of Jesus. 19But Peter and John answered them, You yourselves judge which is right in God's sight—to obey you or to obey God. 20For we cannot stop speaking of what we ourselves have seen and heard. 21So the Council warned them even more strongly and then set them free. They saw that it was impossible to punish them, because the people were all praising God for what had happened. 22The man on whom this miracle of healing had been performed was over forty years old. Reflect Peter and John spoke the truth, even in the face of real danger. Do you find it difficult to maintain your integrity and share your beliefs honestly in the face of those who disagree with you? How can you call upon God to empower you when facing such challenges? Pray God of every time and place, give me the voice to speak the truth, especially when I am challenged. Remind me to trust in your ultimate truth and safety. Amen. Prayer Concern Those facing trial 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 29, 2010 Author Members Posted May 29, 2010 Acts 4:23-37 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 4:23-37: From the very beginning, the followers of Jesus meet together often to pray and to break bread. They also share all their possessions, so that no one will be in need of anything. Today’s Scripture: Acts 4:33 With great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God poured rich blessings on them all. Today’s Reading 23As soon as Peter and John were set free, they returned to their group and told them what the chief priests and the elders had said. 24When the believers heard it, they all joined together in prayer to God: Master and Creator of heaven, earth, and sea, and all that is in them! 25By means of the Holy Spirit you spoke through our ancestor David, your servant, when he said, Why were the Gentiles furious; why did people make their useless plots? 26The kings of the earth prepared themselves, and the rulers met together against the Lord and his Messiah. 27For indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together in this city with the Gentiles and the people of Israel against Jesus, your holy Servant, whom you made Messiah. 28They gathered to do everything that you by your power and will had already decided would happen. 29And now, Lord, take notice of the threats they have made, and allow us, your servants, to speak your message with all boldness. 30Reach out your hand to heal, and grant that wonders and miracles may be performed through the name of your holy Servant Jesus. 31When they finished praying, the place where they were meeting was shaken. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to proclaim God's message with boldness. 32The group of believers was one in mind and heart. None of them said that any of their belongings were their own, but they all shared with one another everything they had. 33With great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God poured rich blessings on them all. 34There was no one in the group who was in need. Those who owned fields or houses would sell them, bring the money received from the sale, 35and turn it over to the apostles; and the money was distributed according to the needs of the people. 36And so it was that Joseph, a Levite born in Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “One who Encourages”), 37sold a field he owned, brought the money, and turned it over to the apostles. Reflect Can you imagine a church in which everyone shared all of his or her belongings? How does the act of tithing reflect this spirit of sharing? Have you ever made a financial commitment to your church? Why or why not? If you did, how did it feel? Pray Giver of Life, everything that I have is yours. When my resources seem limited, make me mindful of your abundance. Constantly remind me of all that I have, and guide me in ways that I may share your gifts with others. Amen. Prayer Concern Churches in financial distress 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 31, 2010 Author Members Posted May 31, 2010 Acts 5:1-16 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 5:1-16: Ananias and his wife Sapphira received some money from the sale of property and led the Church to believe they were giving all the money to the apostles, when in fact they kept some for themselves. Peter confronts them, calling them liars. They are each struck dead. Today’s Scripture: Acts 5:3 "Ananias, why did you let Satan take control of you and make you lie to the Holy Spirit by keeping part of the money you received for the property?" Today’s Reading 1But there was a man named Ananias, who with his wife Sapphira sold some property that belonged to them. 2But with his wife's agreement he kept part of the money for himself and turned the rest over to the apostles. 3Peter said to him, Ananias, why did you let Satan take control of you and make you lie to the Holy Spirit by keeping part of the money you received for the property? 4Before you sold the property, it belonged to you; and after you sold it, the money was yours. Why, then, did you decide to do such a thing? You have not lied to people—you have lied to God! 5As soon as Ananias heard this, he fell down dead; and all who heard about it were terrified. 6The young men came in, wrapped up his body, carried him out, and buried him. 7About three hours later his wife, not knowing what had happened, came in. 8Peter asked her, “Tell me, was this the full amount you and your husband received for your property?” “Yes,” she answered, “the full amount.” 9So Peter said to her, “Why did you and your husband decide to put the Lord's Spirit to the test? The men who buried your husband are at the door right now, and they will carry you out too!” 10At once she fell down at his feet and died. The young men came in and saw that she was dead, so they carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11The whole church and all the others who heard of this were terrified. 12Many miracles and wonders were being performed among the people by the apostles. All the believers met together in Solomon's Porch. 13Nobody outside the group dared join them, even though the people spoke highly of them. 14But more and more people were added to the group—a crowd of men and women who believed in the Lord. 15As 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. 16And 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. Reflect It was important that the believers could trust each other. If Ananias and Sapphira had gotten away with their deception, it might have tempted others to do the same. What do you think about what Peter said to them? Were you surprised by what happened next? Pray Gracious God, forgive me for times when I am tempted to be deceptive. Release me from my desire to have more than I need, and inspire me to share with those in my community. Amen. Prayer Concern Church-based 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 31, 2010 Author Members Posted May 31, 2010 Acts 5:17-42 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Being Renewed by the Holy Spirit Introduction Acts 5:17-42: The apostles face another hearing before the council. They are released after a wise teacher argues that if their work is of their own doing, they will fail, but if it is of God, it can't be stopped. 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 17Then 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. 18They arrested the apostles and put them in the public jail. 19But 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.” 21The 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. 22But 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!” 24When the chief priests and the officer in charge of the Temple guards heard this, they wondered what had happened to the apostles. 25Then a man came in and said to them, “Listen! The men you put in prison are in the Temple teaching the people!” 26So 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. 27They 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!” 29Peter and the other apostles answered, We must obey God, not men. 30The God of our ancestors raised Jesus from death, after you had killed him by nailing him to a cross. 31God 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. 32We are witnesses to these things—we and the Holy Spirit, who is God's gift to those who obey him. 33When the members of the Council heard this, they were so furious that they wanted to have the apostles put to death. 34But 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, 35and then he said to the Council, Fellow Israelites, be careful what you do to these men. 36You 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. 37After 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. 38And 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, 39but if it comes from God, you cannot possibly defeat them. You could find yourselves fighting against God! The Council followed Gamaliel's advice. 40They 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. 41As the apostles left the Council, they were happy, because God had considered them worthy to suffer disgrace for the sake of Jesus. 42And every day in the Temple and in people's homes they continued to teach and preach the Good News about Jesus the Messiah. Reflect What do you think of the idea that if something is of God's will, it cannot be stopped by humans? Are there human things that cannot be stopped which are not of God's will? How do you understand God's will in relationship to the experience and consequences of human brokenness and sin? Pray Holy Spirit, infuse my work with the knowledge of God's will, that I may participate in revealing glimpses of God's realm in this world. Amen. Prayer Concern Judges 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 June 2, 2010 Author Members Posted June 2, 2010 Hebrews 3:1-19 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Trusting in God's Promises Introduction Hebrews 3:1-19: Today we begin a series of readings from the letter to the Hebrews. The writer explains that Moses was a faithful servant of God, but that Jesus is the Son of God and the leader of God's people. God's people must encourage one another in faith, rather than test God. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 3:15 This is what the scripture says: "If you hear God's voice today, do not be stubborn, as your ancestors were when they rebelled against God." Today’s Reading 1My Christian friends, who also have been called by God! Think of Jesus, whom God sent to be the High Priest of the faith we profess. 2He was faithful to God, who chose him to do this work, just as Moses was faithful in his work in God's house. 3A man who builds a house receives more honor than the house itself. In the same way Jesus is worthy of much greater honor than Moses. 4Every house, of course, is built by someone—and God is the one who has built all things. 5Moses was faithful in God's house as a servant, and he spoke of the things that God would say in the future. 6But Christ is faithful as the Son in charge of God's house. We are his house if we keep up our courage and our confidence in what we hope for. 7So then, as the Holy Spirit says, If you hear God's voice today, 8do not be stubborn, as your ancestors were when they rebelled against God, as they were that day in the desert when they put him to the test. 9There they put me to the test and tried me, says God, although they had seen what I did for forty years. 10And so I was angry with those people and said, They are always disloyal and refuse to obey my commands. 11I was angry and made a solemn promise: “They will never enter the land where I would have given them rest!” 12My friends, be careful that none of you have a heart so evil and unbelieving that you will turn away from the living God. 13Instead, in order that none of you be deceived by sin and become stubborn, you must help one another every day, as long as the word “Today” in the scripture applies to us. 14For we are all partners with Christ if we hold firmly to the end the confidence we had at the beginning. 15This is what the scripture says: If you hear God's voice today, do not be stubborn, as your ancestors were when they rebelled against God. 16Who were the people who heard God's voice and rebelled against him? All those who were led out of Egypt by Moses. 17With whom was God angry for forty years? With the people who sinned, who fell down dead in the desert. 18When God made his solemn promise, “They will never enter the land where I would have given them rest”—of whom was he speaking? Of those who rebelled. 19We see, then, that they were not able to enter the land, because they did not believe. Reflect This passage reminds us that the Israelites tested God while they were in the desert (Exodus 32:1-35). As they waited and wandered, they complained and disobeyed God's commands. What happened? Have you ever become impatient and tried to test God? What was the outcome? Pray Lord Jesus, forgive me for the times when I have tried to test your love. Deepen my patience and courage that I may trust your faithfulness. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who feel abandoned by God 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 June 2, 2010 Author Members Posted June 2, 2010 Hebrews 4:1-13 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Trusting in God's Promises Introduction Hebrews 4:1-13: The writer says that God has provided a place of rest in heaven where those who have faith in Christ will live forever-an eternal Sabbath. Just as God rested when God finished the work of creation, so will all people of faith rest when their work on earth is done. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 4:12 The word of God is alive and active, sharper than any double-edged sword. It cuts all the way through, to where soul and spirit meet, to where joints and marrow come together. It judges the desires and thoughts of the heart. Today’s Reading 1Now, God has offered us the promise that we may receive that rest he spoke about. Let us take care, then, that none of you will be found to have failed to receive that promised rest. 2For we have heard the Good News, just as they did. They heard the message, but it did them no good, because when they heard it, they did not accept it with faith. 3We who believe, then, do receive that rest which God promised. It is just as he said, I was angry and made a solemn promise: “They will never enter the land where I would have given them rest!” 4For somewhere in the Scriptures this is said about the seventh day: “God rested on the seventh day from all his work.” 5This same matter is spoken of again: “They will never enter that land where I would have given them rest.” 6Those who first heard the Good News did not receive that rest, because they did not believe. There are, then, others who are allowed to receive it. 7This is shown by the fact that God sets another day, which is called “Today.” Many years later he spoke of it through David in the scripture already quoted: If you hear God's voice today, do not be stubborn. 8If Joshua had given the people the rest that God had promised, God would not have spoken later about another day. 9As it is, however, there still remains for God's people a rest like God's resting on the seventh day. 10For those who receive that rest which God promised will rest from their own work, just as God rested from his. 11Let us, then, do our best to receive that rest, so that no one of us will fail as they did because of their lack of faith. 12The word of God is alive and active, sharper than any double-edged sword. It cuts all the way through, to where soul and spirit meet, to where joints and marrow come together. It judges the desires and thoughts of the heart. 13There is nothing that can be hid from God; everything in all creation is exposed and lies open before his eyes. And it is to him that we must all give an account of ourselves. Reflect The weekly Sabbath reminds us of God's rest after creation, and of his promise to provide for our eternal rest. How do you observe the Sabbath in your weekly life? What does it mean to you to rest in God? Pray God of Rest, sometimes I feel so very busy, and the tasks before me seem so important. Calm my mind and make me ever aware of the importance of observing the Sabbath with worship and rest. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who feel overwhelmed 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 June 4, 2010 Author Members Posted June 4, 2010 Hebrews 4:14-5:10 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Trusting in God's Promises Introduction Hebrews 4:14-5:10: In today's passage, the writer says that God made Jesus the great High Priest, who learned through his sufferings to be obedient, and who has the power to save people from the consequences of sin. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 4:14 Let us, then, hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we have a great High Priest who has gone into the very presence of God - Jesus, the Son of God. Today’s Reading 14Let us, then, hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we have a great High Priest who has gone into the very presence of God—Jesus, the Son of God. 15Our High Priest is not one who cannot feel sympathy for our weaknesses. On the contrary, we have a High Priest who was tempted in every way that we are, but did not sin. 16Let us have confidence, then, and approach God's throne, where there is grace. There we will receive mercy and find grace to help us just when we need it. 1Every high priest is chosen from his fellow-men and appointed to serve God on their behalf, to offer sacrifices and offerings for sins. 2Since he himself is weak in many ways, he is able to be gentle with those who are ignorant and make mistakes. 3And because he is himself weak, he must offer sacrifices not only for the sins of the people but also for his own sins. 4No one chooses for himself the honor of being a high priest. It is only by God's call that a man is made a high priest—just as Aaron was. 5In the same way, Christ did not take upon himself the honor of being a high priest. Instead, God said to him, “You are my Son; today I have become your Father.” 6He also said in another place, “You will be a priest forever, in the priestly order of Melchizedek.” 7In his life on earth Jesus made his prayers and requests with loud cries and tears to God, who could save him from death. Because he was humble and devoted, God heard him. 8But even though he was God's Son, he learned through his sufferings to be obedient. 9When he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all those who obey him, 10and God declared him to be high priest, in the priestly order of Melchizedek. Reflect Today's passage says that Jesus understands our weaknesses because he was tempted just as we are. Where in your life do you encounter temptation? How does it feel to know that Jesus experienced your experiences of temptation? How can you find strength in Jesus' strength? Pray Lord Jesus, even in the face of great temptation, you taught us great strength. Forgive me for the times when I have given in to temptation. Strengthen me against the temptations in my life that I may live as a true disciple. Amen. Prayer Concern Those struggling with addiction 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 June 5, 2010 Author Members Posted June 5, 2010 Hebrews 6:1-12 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Trusting in God's Promises Introduction Hebrews 5:11-6:12: Christ's followers are warned not to turn their backs on God's message but to be mature in their faith and do the things that people do when they are being saved. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 6:12 We do not want you to become lazy, but to be like those who believe and are patient, and so receive what God has promised. Today’s Reading 11There is much we have to say about this matter, but it is hard to explain to you, because you are so slow to understand. 12There has been enough time for you to be teachers—yet you still need someone to teach you the first lessons of God's message. Instead of eating solid food, you still have to drink milk. 13Anyone who has to drink milk is still a child, without any experience in the matter of right and wrong. 14Solid food, on the other hand, is for adults, who through practice are able to distinguish between good and evil. 1Let us go forward, then, to mature teaching and leave behind us the first lessons of the Christian message. We should not lay again the foundation of turning away from useless works and believing in God; 2of the teaching about baptisms and the laying on of hands; of the resurrection of the dead and the eternal judgment. 3Let us go forward! And this is what we will do, if God allows. 4For how can those who abandon their faith be brought back to repent again? They were once in God's light; they tasted heaven's gift and received their share of the Holy Spirit; 5they knew from experience that God's word is good, and they had felt the powers of the coming age. 6And then they abandoned their faith! It is impossible to bring them back to repent again, because they are again crucifying the Son of God and exposing him to public shame. 7God blesses the soil which drinks in the rain that often falls on it and which grows plants that are useful to those for whom it is cultivated. 8But if it grows thorns and weeds, it is worth nothing; it is in danger of being cursed by God and will be destroyed by fire. 9But even if we speak like this, dear friends, we feel sure about you. We know that you have the better blessings that belong to your salvation. 10God is not unfair. He will not forget the work you did or the love you showed for him in the help you gave and are still giving to other Christians. 11Our great desire is that each of you keep up your eagerness to the end, so that the things you hope for will come true. 12We do not want you to become lazy, but to be like those who believe and are patient, and so receive what God has promised. Reflect According to today's passage, maturity in faith means thinking about more than just the basic things you were taught about Christ, and focusing your thoughts on the ways in which you can live as a follower of Christ everyday. How do you connect teachings about Christ with the challenges of your daily life? Pray God, I want to be spiritually mature. Enlighten me to understand your ways, that I may live the teachings of Christ even in challenging times. Increase my wisdom as I serve in faith in the world. Amen. Prayer Concern Children who lack access to education 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 June 5, 2010 Author Members Posted June 5, 2010 Hebrews 6:13-7:10 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Trusting in God's Promises Introduction Hebrews 6:13-7:10: Today's passage begins a discussion of how God makes a new promise that goes beyond the promises he gave to Moses and to the people of Israel. It goes on to describe Melchizedek, a priest characterized by justice and peace. Melchizedek blessed Abraham. The author says that Jesus is a high priest like Melchizedek. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 6:20 On our behalf Jesus has gone in there before us and has become a high priest forever, in the priestly order of Melchizedek. Today’s Reading 13When God made his promise to Abraham, he made a vow to do what he had promised. Since there was no one greater than himself, he used his own name when he made his vow. 14He said, “I promise you that I will bless you and give you many descendants.” 15Abraham was patient, and so he received what God had promised. 16When we make a vow, we use the name of someone greater than ourselves, and the vow settles all arguments. 17To those who were to receive what he promised, God wanted to make it very clear that he would never change his purpose; so he added his vow to the promise. 18There are these two things, then, that cannot change and about which God cannot lie. So we who have found safety with him are greatly encouraged to hold firmly to the hope placed before us. 19We have this hope as an anchor for our lives. It is safe and sure, and goes through the curtain of the heavenly temple into the inner sanctuary. 20On our behalf Jesus has gone in there before us and has become a high priest forever, in the priestly order of Melchizedek. 1This Melchizedek was king of Salem and a priest of the Most High God. As Abraham was coming back from the battle in which he defeated the four kings, Melchizedek met him and blessed him, 2and Abraham gave him one tenth of all he had taken. (The first meaning of Melchizedek's name is “King of Righteousness”; and because he was king of Salem, his name also means “King of Peace.”) 3There is no record of Melchizedek's father or mother or of any of his ancestors; no record of his birth or of his death. He is like the Son of God; he remains a priest forever. 4You see, then, how great he was. Abraham, our famous ancestor, gave him one tenth of all he got in the battle. 5And those descendants of Levi who are priests are commanded by the Law to collect one tenth from the people of Israel, that is, from their own people, even though they are also descendants of Abraham. 6Melchizedek was not descended from Levi, but he collected one tenth from Abraham and blessed him, the man who received God's promises. 7There is no doubt that the one who blesses is greater than the one who is blessed. 8In the case of the priests the tenth is collected by men who die; but as for Melchizedek the tenth was collected by one who lives, as the scripture says. 9And, so to speak, when Abraham paid the tenth, Levi (whose descendants collect the tenth) also paid it. 10For Levi had not yet been born, but was, so to speak, in the body of his ancestor Abraham when Melchizedek met him. Reflect According to the Law of Moses, someone who made a vow in God's name was responsible to carry out that vow. In the same way, God could not take back the promises made to Abraham. What makes you feel confident in God's promises? What Bible verses provide you with such reassurance? Pray God of many promises, hope in your Word provides a firm and steady anchor for our souls. Undergird my faith this day, that confidence in you may provide courage and strength. Amen. Prayer Concern Those getting 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 June 6, 2010 Author Members Posted June 6, 2010 Hebrews 7:11-28 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Trusting in God's Promises Introduction Hebrews 7:11-28: The author says that Jesus' sacrifice creates a new agreement with God's people. The old agreement was based on the Law of Moses, but the new agreement is based on Christ's gift of grace through his death and resurrection. Therefore, Jesus has become the perfect High Priest. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 7:26 Jesus, then, is the High Priest that meets our needs. He is holy; he has no fault or sin in him; he has been set apart from sinners and raised above the heavens. Today’s Reading 11It was on the basis of the levitical priesthood that the Law was given to the people of Israel. Now, if the work of the levitical priests had been perfect, there would have been no need for a different kind of priest to appear, one who is in the priestly order of Melchizedek, not of Aaron. 12For when the priesthood is changed, there also has to be a change in the law. 13And our Lord, of whom these things are said, belonged to a different tribe, and no member of his tribe ever served as a priest. 14It is well known that he was born a member of the tribe of Judah; and Moses did not mention this tribe when he spoke of priests. 15The matter becomes even plainer; a different priest has appeared, who is like Melchizedek. 16He was made a priest, not by human rules and regulations, but through the power of a life which has no end. 17For the scripture says, “You will be a priest forever, in the priestly order of Melchizedek.” 18The old rule, then, is set aside, because it was weak and useless. 19For the Law of Moses could not make anything perfect. And now a better hope has been provided through which we come near to God. 20In addition, there is also God's vow. There was no such vow when the others were made priests. 21But Jesus became a priest by means of a vow when God said to him, “The Lord has made a solemn promise and will not take it back: “You will be a priest forever.”” 22This difference, then, also makes Jesus the guarantee of a better covenant. 23There is another difference: there were many of those other priests, because they died and could not continue their work. 24But Jesus lives on forever, and his work as priest does not pass on to someone else. 25And so he is able, now and always, to save those who come to God through him, because he lives forever to plead with God for them. 26Jesus, then, is the High Priest that meets our needs. He is holy; he has no fault or sin in him; he has been set apart from sinners and raised above the heavens. 27He is not like other high priests; he does not need to offer sacrifices every day for his own sins first and then for the sins of the people. He offered one sacrifice, once and for all, when he offered himself. 28The Law of Moses appoints men who are imperfect to be high priests; but God's promise made with the vow, which came later than the Law, appoints the Son, who has been made perfect forever. Reflect In biblical times, priests offered sacrifices to thank God and to gain God's forgiveness for the sins of the people. The author says that Jesus is the great High Priest. His death on the cross eliminated the need for ritual sacrifice and promises the reassurance of forgiveness to all. Do you think it might have been difficult for people to trust in this new promise enough to change their religious practices? Why or why not? How does your church respond in the face of change? Pray God of new beginnings, change can be challenging. Open my heart and mind to new possibilities, that I may help others find glimpses of your Kingdom here on earth. Prayer Concern Churches experiencing change 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 June 8, 2010 Author Members Posted June 8, 2010 Hebrews 8:1-13 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Trusting in God's Promises Introduction Hebrews 8:1-13: God gave Moses the plans for building the first sacred tent (Exodus 25:40). Israel's priests offered sacrifices at this tent and later at the temple. But God created a new model for worship through Jesus Christ. The author says that the ultimate place for worship is now in heaven with Christ. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 8:10b "I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people." Today’s Reading 1The whole point of what we are saying is that we have such a High Priest, who sits at the right of the throne of the Divine Majesty in heaven. 2He serves as high priest in the Most Holy Place, that is, in the real tent which was put up by the Lord, not by human hands. 3Every high priest is appointed to present offerings and animal sacrifices to God, and so our High Priest must also have something to offer. 4If he were on earth, he would not be a priest at all, since there are priests who offer the gifts required by the Jewish Law. 5The work they do as priests is really only a copy and a shadow of what is in heaven. It is the same as it was with Moses. When he was about to build the Sacred Tent, God told him, “Be sure to make everything according to the pattern you were shown on the mountain.” 6But now, Jesus has been given priestly work which is superior to theirs, just as the covenant which he arranged between God and his people is a better one, because it is based on promises of better things. 7If there had been nothing wrong with the first covenant, there would have been no need for a second one. 8But God finds fault with his people when he says, “The days are coming, says the Lord, when I will draw up a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. 9It will not be like the covenant that I made with their ancestors on the day I took them by the hand and led them out of Egypt. They were not faithful to the covenant I made with them, and so I paid no attention to them. 10Now, this is the covenant that I will make with the people of Israel in the days to come, says the Lord: I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. 11None of them will have to teach their friends or tell their neighbors, “Know the Lord.” For they will all know me, from the least to the greatest. 12I will forgive their sins and will no longer remember their wrongs.” 13By speaking of a new covenant, God has made the first one old; and anything that becomes old and worn out will soon disappear. Reflect In Biblical times, the high priest was in charge of the holy place in the temple. He was the only one who could go into the most holy place of the temple, where God was believed to be present. This passage says that through Jesus, God welcomes all people to what is now the most holy place-heaven. What does God's welcome mean to you? Pray Holy God, thank you for the ways in which you welcome people into communion with yourself through Christ. Help me extend your welcome to others by sharing the good news of your love. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who need to experience God's welcome 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 June 9, 2010 Author Members Posted June 9, 2010 Hebrews 9:1-22 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Trusting in God's Promises Introduction Hebrews 9:1-22: Today's passage outlines rules for worship that were first given to the Israelites on Mount Sinai. It describes rituals to be performed in the sacred tent. But the author says that Christ invites us to worship in the most sacred place-heaven. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 9:14b Through the eternal Spirit he [Christ] offered himself as a perfect sacrifice to God. His blood will purify our consciences from useless rituals, so that we may serve the living God. Today’s Reading 1The first covenant had rules for worship and a place made for worship as well. 2A tent was put up, the outer one, which was called the Holy Place. In it were the lampstand and the table with the bread offered to God. 3Behind the second curtain was the tent called the Most Holy Place. 4In it were the gold altar for the burning of incense and the Covenant Box all covered with gold and containing the gold jar with the manna in it, Aaron's stick that had sprouted leaves, and the two stone tablets with the commandments written on them. 5Above the Box were the winged creatures representing God's presence, with their wings spread over the place where sins were forgiven. But now is not the time to explain everything in detail. 6This is how those things have been arranged. The priests go into the outer tent every day to perform their duties, 7but only the high priest goes into the inner tent, and he does so only once a year. He takes with him blood which he offers to God on behalf of himself and for the sins which the people have committed without knowing they were sinning. 8The Holy Spirit clearly teaches from all these arrangements that the way into the Most Holy Place has not yet been opened as long as the outer tent still stands. 9This is a symbol which points to the present time. It means that the offerings and animal sacrifices presented to God cannot make the worshiper's heart perfect, 10since they have to do only with food, drink, and various purification ceremonies. These are all outward rules, which apply only until the time when God will establish the new order. 11But Christ has already come as the High Priest of the good things that are already here. The tent in which he serves is greater and more perfect; it is not a tent made by human hands, that is, it is not a part of this created world. 12When Christ went through the tent and entered once and for all into the Most Holy Place, he did not take the blood of goats and bulls to offer as a sacrifice; rather, he took his own blood and obtained eternal salvation for us. 13The blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a burnt calf are sprinkled on the people who are ritually unclean, and this purifies them by taking away their ritual impurity. 14Since this is true, how much more is accomplished by the blood of Christ! Through the eternal Spirit he offered himself as a perfect sacrifice to God. His blood will purify our consciences from useless rituals, so that we may serve the living God. 15For this reason Christ is the one who arranges a new covenant, so that those who have been called by God may receive the eternal blessings that God has promised. This can be done because there has been a death which sets people free from the wrongs they did while the first covenant was in effect. 16In the case of a will it is necessary to prove that the person who made it has died, 17for a will means nothing while the person who made it is alive; it goes into effect only after his death. 18That is why even the first covenant went into effect only with the use of blood. 19First, Moses proclaimed to the people all the commandments as set forth in the Law. Then he took the blood of bulls and goats, mixed it with water, and sprinkled it on the book of the Law and all the people, using a sprig of hyssop and some red wool. 20He said, “This is the blood which seals the covenant that God has commanded you to obey.” 21In the same way Moses also sprinkled the blood on the Sacred Tent and over all the things used in worship. 22Indeed, according to the Law almost everything is purified by blood, and sins are forgiven only if blood is poured out. Reflect In today's passage, the author says sacrifices made by priests in the temple were outward acts that had only a temporary effect. By contrast, Jesus went directly into the presence of God in order to redeem the sins of humanity. His "perfect sacrifice" (9:14) changes people inside and lasts forever. Has Christ's sacrifice changed you? How? Pray God of grace, thank you for the gift of new life through Christ. Fortify me with the hope of your promise, that I may continue to be transformed through your love. Amen. Prayer Concern Those struggling with mental illness 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, 2010 Author Members Posted June 9, 2010 Hebrews 9:23-10:18 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Trusting in God's Promises Introduction Hebrews 9:23-10:18: Today's passage explains that the Law of Moses cannot wash away sins; rather, it reminds people of their transgressions and offers a means to repent. It says that Christ replaces the sacrifices, creating the ability for people to receive God's grace and forgiveness. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 9:28 In the same manner Christ also was offered in sacrifice once to take away the sins of many. He will appear a second time, not to deal with sin, but to save those who are waiting for him. Today’s Reading 23Those things, which are copies of the heavenly originals, had to be purified in that way. But the heavenly things themselves require much better sacrifices. 24For Christ did not go into a Holy Place made by human hands, which was a copy of the real one. He went into heaven itself, where he now appears on our behalf in the presence of God. 25The Jewish high priest goes into the Most Holy Place every year with the blood of an animal. But Christ did not go in to offer himself many times, 26for then he would have had to suffer many times ever since the creation of the world. Instead, now when all ages of time are nearing the end, he has appeared once and for all, to remove sin through the sacrifice of himself. 27Everyone must die once, and after that be judged by God. 28In the same manner Christ also was offered in sacrifice once to take away the sins of many. He will appear a second time, not to deal with sin, but to save those who are waiting for him. 1The Jewish Law is not a full and faithful model of the real things; it is only a faint outline of the good things to come. The same sacrifices are offered forever, year after year. How can the Law, then, by means of these sacrifices make perfect the people who come to God? 2If the people worshiping God had really been purified from their sins, they would not feel guilty of sin any more, and all sacrifices would stop. 3As it is, however, the sacrifices serve year after year to remind people of their sins. 4For the blood of bulls and goats can never take away sins. 5For this reason, when Christ was about to come into the world, he said to God: “You do not want sacrifices and offerings, but you have prepared a body for me. 6You are not pleased with animals burned whole on the altar or with sacrifices to take away sins. 7Then I said, ‘Here I am, to do your will, O God, just as it is written of me in the book of the Law.’” 8First he said, “You neither want nor are you pleased with sacrifices and offerings or with animals burned on the altar and the sacrifices to take away sins.” He said this even though all these sacrifices are offered according to the Law. 9Then he said, “Here I am, O God, to do your will.” So God does away with all the old sacrifices and puts the sacrifice of Christ in their place. 10Because Jesus Christ did what God wanted him to do, we are all purified from sin by the offering that he made of his own body once and for all. 11Every Jewish priest performs his services every day and offers the same sacrifices many times; but these sacrifices can never take away sins. 12Christ, however, offered one sacrifice for sins, an offering that is effective forever, and then he sat down at the right side of God. 13There he now waits until God puts his enemies as a footstool under his feet. 14With one sacrifice, then, he has made perfect forever those who are purified from sin. 15And the Holy Spirit also gives us his witness. First he says, 16“This is the covenant that I will make with them in the days to come, says the Lord: I will put my laws in their hearts and write them on their minds.” 17And then he says, “I will not remember their sins and evil deeds any longer.” 18So when these have been forgiven, an offering to take away sins is no longer needed. Reflect The Law of Moses was the first formal agreement made between God and God's people. It was like a treaty between a ruler and his subjects. Why does the writer call the Law of Moses "a shadow of the good things to come"? Why do you think God first offered the Law of Moses? Why is it important as a part of the Christian tradition? Pray Lord of love, the Scriptures reveal the ways in which your relationship with all people has changed over time. Renew my relationship with you today, that I may deepen my faith and love for you. Amen. Prayer Concern Government leaders 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, 2010 Author Members Posted June 10, 2010 Hebrews 10:19-39 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Trusting in God's Promises Introduction Hebrews 10:19-39: In today's passage, the Lord's followers are encouraged to keep their hearts pure and their consciences free from evil as they help each other prepare for the day when the Lord will return. They are reminded to be brave and patient as they await the fulfillment of God's promises in their lives. Today’s Scripture: Hebrews 10:22 So let us come near to God with a sincere heart and a sure faith, with hearts that have been purified from a guilty conscience and with bodies washed with clean water. Today’s Reading 19We have, then, my friends, complete freedom to go into the Most Holy Place by means of the death of Jesus. 20He opened for us a new way, a living way, through the curtain—that is, through his own body. 21We have a great priest in charge of the house of God. 22So let us come near to God with a sincere heart and a sure faith, with hearts that have been purified from a guilty conscience and with bodies washed with clean water. 23Let us hold on firmly to the hope we profess, because we can trust God to keep his promise. 24Let us be concerned for one another, to help one another to show love and to do good. 25Let us not give up the habit of meeting together, as some are doing. Instead, let us encourage one another all the more, since you see that the Day of the Lord is coming nearer. 26For there is no longer any sacrifice that will take away sins if we purposely go on sinning after the truth has been made known to us. 27Instead, all that is left is to wait in fear for the coming Judgment and the fierce fire which will destroy those who oppose God! 28Anyone who disobeys the Law of Moses is put to death without any mercy when judged guilty from the evidence of two or more witnesses. 29What, then, of those who despise the Son of God? who treat as a cheap thing the blood of God's covenant which purified them from sin? who insult the Spirit of grace? Just think how much worse is the punishment they will deserve! 30For we know who said, “I will take revenge, I will repay”; and who also said, “The Lord will judge his people.” 31It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God! 32Remember how it was with you in the past. In those days, after God's light had shone on you, you suffered many things, yet were not defeated by the struggle. 33You were at times publicly insulted and mistreated, and at other times you were ready to join those who were being treated in this way. 34You shared the sufferings of prisoners, and when all your belongings were seized, you endured your loss gladly, because you knew that you still possessed something much better, which would last forever. 35Do not lose your courage, then, because it brings with it a great reward. 36You need to be patient, in order to do the will of God and receive what he promises. 37For, as the scripture says, “Just a little while longer, and he who is coming will come; he will not delay. 38My righteous people, however, will believe and live; but if any of them turns back, I will not be pleased with them.” 39We are not people who turn back and are lost. Instead, we have faith and are saved. Reflect At the time Hebrews was written, some Christians were being viewed by their neighbors and by local governing officials with suspicion. Because of this, they were sometimes singled out for various kinds of abuse and mistreatment. Some even had their possessions taken away. Others faced persecution from the Roman government when they chose not to pledge their loyalty to the emperor or to worship him as if he were a god. How might this mistreatment have impacted their faith? Pray Gracious God, from whom every good gift comes, strengthen my spirit amid the struggles of everyday life. Protect all people who face persecution, that they may know your promises of hope. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are persecuted by their governments 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, 2010 Author Members Posted June 12, 2010 Genesis 9:1-17 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Trusting in God's Promises Introduction Genesis 9:1-17: Today we read God's promise to Noah after the great flood. God tells Noah to have many children and gives instructions for how to live. Then God promises that the world will never again be destroyed by a flood, and places a rainbow in the sky as a symbol of their covenant. Today’s Scripture: Genesis 9:12,13 As a sign of this everlasting covenant which I am making with you and with all living beings, I am putting my bow in the clouds. It will be the sign of my covenant with the world. Today’s Reading 1God blessed Noah and his sons and said, “Have many children, so that your descendants will live all over the earth. 2All the animals, birds, and fish will live in fear of you. They are all placed under your power. 3Now you can eat them, as well as green plants; I give them all to you for food. 4The one thing you must not eat is meat with blood still in it; I forbid this because the life is in the blood. 5If anyone takes human life, he will be punished. I will punish with death any animal that takes a human life. 6Human beings were made like God, so whoever murders one of them will be killed by someone else. 7“You must have many children, so that your descendants will live all over the earth.” 8God said to Noah and his sons, 9I am now making my covenant with you and with your descendants, 10and with all living beings—all birds and all animals—everything that came out of the boat with you. 11With these words I make my covenant with you: I promise that never again will all living beings be destroyed by a flood; never again will a flood destroy the earth. 12As a sign of this everlasting covenant which I am making with you and with all living beings, 13I am putting my bow in the clouds. It will be the sign of my covenant with the world. 14Whenever I cover the sky with clouds and the rainbow appears, 15I will remember my promise to you and to all the animals that a flood will never again destroy all living beings. 16When the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between me and all living beings on earth. 17That is the sign of the promise which I am making to all living beings. ” Reflect God's promise is called a covenant-an agreement between two or more persons or groups. Most ancient covenants stated what both parties would do to keep the terms of the agreement. But here, God alone is making an unconditional promise not to destroy the earth (9:11, 15). If God has made a promise not to destroy the earth, does that mean that we should work to preserve and protect creation? Why? Pray Creator God, you have blessed your creation with diversity and abundance. Teach me to be a wise steward of your earth that my stewardship may reflect your care for creation. Amen. Prayer Concern Endangered species 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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