Week 17 Memory Verse

Sunday, April 30, 2017

Abiding in Christ

 

 

Give thanks in all circumstances; 
for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:18

I find it easy to thank God for the good things in life--family, good jobs, health, etc. 

But we are supposed to be thankful in ALL circumstances. Like the death of family. Difficult job situations. Poor health

Spend the week focusing on this scripture: 

• Read the verse in your Bible. 
• Read the passage before and after it. 
• Write it in your journal. 
• Ask the Lord to show you how it applies to your life. 
• Put it on a piece of paper and post it in a prominent place in your home so that you can see it often. 
• Put the words to music. Make up a tune or use one you already know. Singing always helps in the memory process. It's a left brain / right brain thing. 
• Always memorize the scripture reference with the verse so you can remember where to find it in the Bible. 

A Candle in a Very Dark World

Saturday, April 29, 2017

Have you ever been to Mammoth Cave? We were talking about it last night. It's a pretty cool place. 

I remember one time when I was there as a kid and the guide turned out all the lights. You talk about dark! I hadn't realized that when your eyes "get used to" the dark, they first have to have a little bit of light. In the cave, however, there was absolutely no source of light. We could have stood there all day and our eyes would never have adjusted to the point that we could see anything. 

Interestingly, the park ranger then struck a match. 

 

This picture is not of Mammoth Cave. But you can see how penetrating the one candle is in this environment. Our ranger's match cut through the darkness and lit up the "room" we were in. It was remarkable. 

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
‭John‬ ‭1:5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I happen to think we live in a pretty dark world right now.  But guess what? We have light from the Son radiating from within us. And it is powerful enough to penetrate outer darkness. 

Lord, help us shine Your light on everyone around us, that they might see the Way. 

The Legend of the Bottle Tree

Friday, April 28, 2017

Springtime brings many beautiful flowering bulbs, shrubs, and trees. I love all the bright colors. One tree I had never known before we moved to Richmond is the bottle tree. Perhaps you've seen one somewhere. 

 

Bottle trees tend to "grow" close to people's homes and although they may have a variety of glass "blooms" on them, the original ones are said to have been blue -- Milk of Magnesia bottle blue. 

It is said that bottle trees came to this continent from Africa. Enslaved families placed them close to their homes to trap evil spirits in the bottles at nighttime so they could be destroyed by the sun the next day. Some say that when the wind blew at night through the trees, they could even hear the cries of the imprisoned spirits longing for their freedom. 

Over the years, the lore of the bottle tree made its way to Appalachian culture but can be found predominantly in the southeastern part of the country.

Lord, I'm so thankful that I don't have to depend on some homemade contraption to protect me from evil spirits. Thank you for defeating the evil one once and for all. And thank you for making your home in my heart -- there's no room for anything else there!

Conservation

This Is Our Father's World

Thursday, April 27, 2017

The heavens are yours, and yours also the earth; you founded the world and all that is in it.
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭89:11‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Yesterday we had a little informational fair at the UK Hospital. Various hospital departments presented what they are doing to "go green," or to recycle, or to use sustainable energy, etc.

It was actually pretty interesting -- plus I got a t-shirt out of it! 

But it made me think about the things that we are doing to try to protect our earth. She is well worth all our efforts. 

When I was in elementary school (about a hundred years ago), I wrote an essay about water conservation. I remember being very aware of the need to take care of our water supply. Over the years, manufacturers have gotten much better about not contaminating the rivers. And federal regulations are doing their part to keep things clean. But water is just the tip of the conservation iceberg. 

Tell me, though. Why do we have to have laws and regulations to make us do the right thing for our earth? Why can't we just act responsibly and take care of what the Lord gave us? It seems pretty simple. 

Lord, you made this beautiful world and we are so privileged to live here. Help us to be more responsible about taking care of it. 

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

Wednesday, April 26, 2017

Last night my sweetheart took me to see the Augusta Greenjackets (the Giants single A affiliate) play the Lexington Legends. 

 

Now some of you might be thinking, "Of course he did!"  Or, "Why am I not surprised?" Or, "Bless your heart, he drags you to all sorts of games."

We had so much fun!

First, we got on the "kiss cam!" We would have totally embarrassed the kids if they had been there. But they weren't! So they got us on camera!

Then they gave pizza away to somebody dancing to "Cotton-eyed Joe." I was doing a little routine from my Beachbody Cize and Bill was standing there with his finger in the air like Fonzy from Happy Days. Bill got the pizza!

 

Then one of the guys got mad at one of the other guys and we got to see both benches clear and an out-and-out fight ensue. That has never made a whole lot of sense to me. 

But to top it all off, the Augusta pitcher hurled a perfect game! Now we've seen a no-hitter before in the majors. But they are so strict on the minor league pitch counts that it was pretty exceptional for the manager to leave the starter in for the whole game. So not only did he hold the Legends to no hits, but they had no walks either. And the Jackets had no errors. (This was actually the first perfect game in South Atlantic League history!)

When a pitcher is getting close to a feat like this, the other players tend to step up their game a bit. Such was the case with the right fielder in the 8th and 9th innings. He dove for and caught two solidly hit fly balls that really should have gotten by him. 

And then when he recorded the last out, the Augusta bench swarmed the pitcher and they threw Gatorade on him and practically mauled the poor guy! Kids! They are all just a bunch of big kids!

And we are right there with them!

 

 

You've Gotta Think of Yourself Because Nobody Else Will

I'll Do It My Way!

Tuesday, April 25, 2017

In today's society, it's every man for himself. We get it from all sides. Take care of numero uno. 

But that's not the way it's supposed to be. We are supposed to "do to others as we would have them do to us." 

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Philippians‬ ‭2:3-4‬ ‭NIV‬‬

We are not to be putting ourself first at all costs. We are not to constantly be taking care of our own interests. We are supposed to think about others first. 

When I was a little girl, I learned an acronym. 

     Jesus

     Others

     You

The first letters spell JOY. Somehow when we put the Lord first, others second, and ourselves last, we find a very healthy balance which leads to joy. 

Take some time today to contemplate this Philippians passage. Ask the Lord to show you how to implement it in your life. 

Lord, thank you for the reminder that we shouldn't be number one in our own eyes. You should be. Help us to address our shortfalls. Thank you for your mercy. 

 

Praying Pelicans from FBC

Monday, April 24, 2017

Last night at FBC, we heard from the youth who went to Jamaica on a mission trip over spring break. They told about building chicken coops, visiting a school, and going to a long term healthcare facility. Sounds like they had a great experience. 

We saw pictures of this year's chicken coops. But the team also had the opportunity to go back and see the one they built last year. I made the comment that the chicken coops were probably more solidly constructed than many of the homes in the area. 

I'm really proud of our youth group. They experienced the determination needed to accomplish the task at hand. They witnessed God working in many lives. And they came home with a better appreciation of the comforts of our lives in the US. 

You know, it is God's desire that we take the good news of our Lord to the ends of the earth. It was so encouraging to see all the youth that have now been exposed to this process. Makes me wonder how many will make "going" a lifelong commitment. 

For more information on Praying Pelican Missions, go to the following website. 

Praying Pelicans Missions Website

Lord, help us to share your Good News with those around us wherever we go. If it is your desire that we leave our nation's borders to do this, give us the courage to go. We love you. 

 

Resurrection Sunday -- one week removed

Sunday, April 23, 2017

Andrea King wrote the following message last Sunday to my Sunday School class. With her permission I wanted to use it this week for my blog. (It is lightly edited.) I think you'll enjoy her insight. 

Sweet SISTERS, 

I hope you all have had a wonderful and blessed Easter. If you had the opportunity to attend the Easter service (at First Baptist Richmond), then I'm sure you were blessed by the Choir 's Easter Cantata followed by a wonderful sermon given by Pastor Bill. Then, as usual, we had an awesome time in Sunday school.  

For those that were not able to be with us this morning, here is a recap of our time together in Sunday school.  

We had a sweet time of fellowship and digging into God's word. We looked at the four accounts of the resurrection story told by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. 

Each of these four men had different recollections of what happened the day Jesus rose from the dead.

Does it make one of them right and the others wrong?  No, absolutely not. 

There were many things that transpired that most special day, and Matthew, Mark and John explained what stood out to them. Luke may not have been at the empty tomb, but his account of Christ's resurrection is also special. I'm sure Luke had spoken to many people and recorded the details he was told that stood out to him. 

After reviewing the resurrection accounts, I began thinking,  "Isn't this an example of how God reveals things to us and gets our attention? We can all see, hear, and participate in the same event, but all get a different message or lesson from God." I think God uses the different accounts of the resurrection story to meet us all where we are. He speaks to us all in ways we will understand. 

Another key moment that stood out to me that I had never noticed before was in Matthew' s account when Jesus tells the women at the empty tomb to "go and tell my brothers." We discussed this in class, and with Patience's guidance, we saw that this was a very special and intimate choice of words for Jesus to use. I could also see the humility that Jesus had. He put himself as one with his disciples, just as he had done before he died. 

I know I will never look at the resurrection accounts the same. I love it when God reveals new things about his love, word and life.

(Lord, thank you for this class and for these lovely ladies. Thank you for Andrea's perspective on your word. May we all be open and attentive to new things you want to show us in the Scripture.)

Memory Verse 2017 -- Week 17

Sunday, April 23, 2017

Abiding in Christ

 

And my God will meet all your needs 

according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus,

Philippians 4:19

Spend the week focusing on this scripture: 

• Read the verse in your Bible. 
• Read the passage before and after it. 
• Write it in your journal. 
• Ask the Lord to show you how it applies to your life. 
• Put it on a piece of paper and post it in a prominent place in your home so that you can see it often. 
• Put the words to music. Make up a tune or use one you already know. Singing always helps in the memory process. It's a left brain / right brain thing. 
• Always memorize the scripture reference with the verse so you can remember where to find it in the Bible. 
   

Run, Forrest, Run!

NCAA Track Meet

Saturday, April 22, 2017

Bill, Lizzie, and I drove up to Columbus, Ohio last night for an NCAA track meet. We've been to our share of high school meets over the years and it's pretty interesting to see this higher level of competition. 

There were athletes there from Ohio State, University of Ohio, Bowling Green of Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky, Murray State, Hillsdale, Central Michigan, Kent State, Indiana (PA), Ross, Buffalo, Toledo, Wright State and who knows where else. 

The races we saw were long distances and these runners were serious. They got their game faces on, set to the task at hand, pushed through the temptation to quit, and took care of business. 

Our Brennan -- well Lizzie's Brennan -- runs for UK and it was fun to see him out there competing. There were about 35 runners in his race -- the 1500 meters -- and he finished 9th or 10th, I think. I'd say that's pretty good for a Freshman.  But, of course, he wasn't quite satisfied with that. He wanted to win. 

 

Are we like these runners when it comes to our Spititual journey?

• Do we train hard every day?
• Do we nourish ourselves properly?
• Do we get our game faces on?
• Do we run with determination?
• Do we push through temptations?
• Do we take care of the race at hand?
• Are we heartset on winning?

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.  Hebrews‬ ‭12:1-2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I saw something about this verse today that I hadn't seen before. Usually I've focused on the  running-the-race-with-perseverance part and haven't really noticed the first part. Just like the race yesterday, the runner in this passage is  "surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses" hanging out in the stands watching everything unfold. It's up to us to run well. 

Lord, I'm never sure who is watching me run. It might be my family or my co-workers or your beloved who have gone before me to glory. But of this I am sure: You see it all. Help me to make you proud as I run this long-distance spiritual journey. Help me keep my focus on you. 

And a child will lead them . . . .

The Little Boy's Surprise

Thursday, April 21, 2017

Have you seen this video? It is absolutely priceless. Kolt is a nine-year-old boy from Indiana who gets good grades in school, plays on a traveling baseball team, works on the family farm, and apparently is a huge Chicago Cubs fan. 

One day recently, his older sister recorded a little conversation between Kolt and his dad. 

9-year-old Cubs fan

What a sweet video! Don't you agree?

There was one thing that really stuck out for me -- the fact that Kolt agreed to do an all-day project with his dad even when he had no idea what it was. 

I wonder why he was so agreeable?

• He is a compliant child?
• He's eager to learn?
• He loves doing anything/everything with his dad?
• He trusts his dad's judgement to include him in things?

What about us? What if our Heavenly Father asked us to do something with Him? Would we willingly, no, eagerly comply -- even when we didn't exactly know what it was that we would be doing? 

Lord, what a beautiful lesson we see in young Kolt. May we be as trusting and agreeable as he was. May we long to do things with you, our heavenly daddy. And thank you in advance for the blessings you have waiting for us!

The Dogwood

The Legend of the Dogwood 

April 20, 2017

Once upon a time, centuries ago, there was a tall, very stately tree that lived in the Holy Land. Because of its hard, straight wood, it was a favorite of the Romans who governed the land.  

One dreadful day, the tree wept because strong spikes driven into it were being used to kill the One who had created it. Ashamed and mournful, the tree begged the Lord for mercy. 

Mindful of the tree's honorable heart, He blessed it with a short, twisted body so that it would never be used in this manner ever again. And in the spring of each year from m that day forward, the tree produced beautiful flowers to commemorate the death of the Lord. 

 

(The four petals represent the cross itself. 

The indentations on the petals' edges signify the places in His hands and feet that were penetrated by the nails. 

The rusty, red color of the indentations stands for the blood that He shed. 

And the center of the flower represents the crown of thorns that He wore.)

Forevermore this magnificent tree stands proudly in our land to remind us of the sacrifice of the Creator. 

Lord, I know this is just a legend, but I love it. The dogwoods are blooming everywhere right now and I think they are lovely. Thank you for the reminder of your sacrifice and of our salvation. 

Unselfishness

Unselfishness.  Really?

Wednesday, April 19, 2017

I was thinking about this verse yesterday in light of the crucifixion. Doesn't this sound just like our Lord? Do you think the writer of Philippians was thinking about Christ when he wrote it?

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2:3-4‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Jesus did nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit -- especially giving up His life for others. 

He valued others above Himself. 

He looked to the interests of others as he went to the cross. 

And it is because of His selflessness that I have a personal relationship with the God of the Universe. 

So how can we show unselfishness in our daily lives?

• Let the other guy go first at the intersection. 
• Allow your co-worker to get the spotlight and encourage him/her in the process. 
• Be content with what you have. 
• Give an anonymous gift. 
• Help others. 

And I guarantee that people will recognize your acts of unselfishness, giving you the opportunity to share your faith. 

Lord, we are naturally self-centered. Help us to be more like you every day -- always thinking about those around us and not about ourselves. 

He Gives Good Gifts

April 18, 2017

If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, 

how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him?

Matthew 7:11

Last week we celebrated our son's 30th birthday. It was really cool. He and his son love baseball about as much as we do. So we went all-out and secured a suite for the Lexington Legends' opening night. 

His special night included so many wonderful surprises. He was all smiles. And we loved it. 

Don't you know God wants to give us special surprises, too? We are his children and he loves us immeasurably. We bring him joy. He loves to see us smile. 

But did you notice the last few words of this Scripture? ". . .to those who ask Him." Many times I just expect Him to know what I want or need. And of course he does. But for some reason, it is important for us to ask Him. 

Lord, Thank you for all the many ways you bless us. Help us to be more mindful of them. Help us to grow more familiar with your will so that we know better what to ask for. 

 

How do you KNOW it's a bullfrog?

April 17, 2017

HOW  DO  YOU  KNOW  IT'S  A  BULLFROG?

Over spring break, I took my two grandchildren to Salato Wildlife Center in Frankfort. It was a beautiful day and we walked all through the park looking for critters. As we approached a pond I could hear the characteristic sound of a bullfrog. "Listen!" I whispered with urgency. "What is that noise?"

Not ever having truly heard a bullfrog before, the children were quite puzzled. If you think about it, it's a strange noise. We stood and listened for a moment. Then as we approached the water, the singer plunged into the water and the song stopped. One of the children asked me, "How do you KNOW it's a bullfrog?" Well . . .

• I've heard them before.
• You can't forget a voice like that.
• I've seen them on youtube.  http://youtu.be/M02_dnl9zCA
• I just know. 

Yesterday we celebrated Easter -- Resurrection Sunday. This is the day we celebrate the victory of Jesus over death. But how do you KNOW He is alive?

• I've heard His voice -- and you don't forget a voice like that.
• I've seen Him work in the lives of His people.
• I've witnessed His hand on my life.
• A dead guy can't do this stuff.

According to Matthew's account of Jesus' resurrection, there were guards placed at the tomb to be sure nothing happened to Jesus' body. These guys were not "Barney Fife." They had been trained in battle and were serious about their assignments. They would NEVER have fallen asleep during their watch. But they weren't exactly sure what had happened.  All they knew was that they fainted or something and when they roused, Jesus was gone. Well, that didn't sit well with the religious leaders. Rather than punish the men for failing to do their jobs, they decided to formulate a cover-up.

When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, telling them, "You are to say, 'His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.' If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble." So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day.  Matthew 28:12-15

Interestingly, Satan tries to cover up the reality of Jesus' resurrection to THIS very day. But I have news for Satan. He IS alive. I KNOW it. He lives in my heart. He is with me always. And there's nothing Satan can do about it!

Lord, Help us to celebrate your resurrection EVERY day! Help us to hear your voice -- to see your handiwork around us -- to witness your work in our lives. Help us to celebrate the assurance that you are with us always -- even to the end of time. We praise you, Lord!

 

Memory Verse 2017 -- Week 16

Sunday, April 16 , 2017

Abiding in Christ

 

If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, 

how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him?

Matthew 7:11

Spend the week focusing on this scripture: 

• Read the verse in your Bible. 
• Read the passage before and after it. 
• Write it in your journal. 
• Ask the Lord to show you how it applies to your life. 
• Put it on a piece of paper and post it in a prominent place in your home so that you can see it often. 
• Put the words to music. Make up a tune or use one you already know. Singing always helps in the memory process. It's a left brain / right brain thing. 
• Always memorize the scripture reference with the verse so you can remember where to find it in the Bible. 
  . 

EASTER SUNDAY

I'm Not Worthy

Easter Sunday 

April 16, 2017

Have you ever been so overwhelmed by the Lord's sacrifice that you had a hard time celebrating His resurrection? Perhaps it was your own personal guilt. Or your overwhelming sense of failure. 

Consider the parable of the king's banquet. 

The king got the wedding banquet ready for his son and sent out invitations to everybody. But guess what? They all had better things to do -- like tend the farm or work at the shop. 

(Really? The king has just given you a personal invitation to come dine with the prince and you can't break away long enough to go? You must not respect the king or his son very much.)

Then he told his servants, "The banquet is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy." Matthew 28:8

So the king extended the invitation to others -- both evil and good -- who accepted his generosity and attended the banquet gladly. 

If both evil and good were allowed to go to the banquet, what was it about the first group that made them unworthy?

THEY WOULD NOT ACCEPT HIS INVITATION. 

That's it. 

They hadn't earned a place at the king's table either.  

Really all they had to do was to heed the invitation. Simple as that. 

Jesus' resurrection from the dead makes him the most powerful man ever. And He extends an invitation to us today to come celebrate with Him. 

We must forget the past. Forget the failures. 

We ARE worthy. 

Praise His Holy Name!

Lord, only you are Worthy of our praise. You are author, creator, ruler, and friend. Help us to set asside our insecurities so that we can worship you wholeheartedly on this Resurrection Sunday. 

 

And They Waited

Fortieth Day of Lent

Saturday, April 15, 2017

by Patience Fort

In the Christian faith, we find ourselves today sandwiched in between two very important days: Jesus' crucifixion and His resurrection. 

Can you imagine what His followers experienced on this day? They didn't have the benefit of knowing "the rest of the story." So I imagine they were pretty devastated. 

• sorrow
• emptiness
• questions
• "How can this be?"
• anguish
• shame
• "Now what?"
• despair
• "I should have done ______."
• "If only . . . ."

As today progresses, contemplate what was going through the disciples' minds on this day after Jesus was murdered. Ponder those sobering thoughts. Reflect on them. How would you have responded?

The reality is that we have no way of knowing what we would have done if we had been with the disciples. And that is probably a good thing. Perhaps we should consider that it was our sin that crucified Him and separated Him from His Father. And it is because of His stripes that we are healed. 

And because we do know how it turned out, let's look forward to tomorrow with excitement as we reflect on the significance of Jesus' resurrection. 

Lord, thank you for reminding us of the gruesome death our Lord suffered on our behalf. Thank you, also, that we don't have to remain stuck in the despair between the crucifixion and the resurrection. May we never forget. 

 

Thirty-Ninth Day of Lent: Good Friday

GOOD FRIDAY

Thirty-Ninth Day of Lent

Friday, April 14, 2017

I am saying nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses said would happen –
that the Christ would suffer and, as the first to rise from the dead,
would proclaim light to his own people and to the Gentiles. 

Acts 26:23-24

Paul, who had been such a persecutor of the church and believers, now stands before King Agrippa and boldly proclaims the good new of Jesus Christ. Agrippa gave him permission to speak, and Paul did not look for politically correct language in which to couch his message!

It’s pretty strong! He says that he has been appointed a servant and witness and sent to both Jews and Gentiles to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, from the power of Satan to God so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sacrificed by faith in [Jesus].

Personally I think it would be difficult to stand before a powerful king and tell him that his power comes from Satan! Can you imagine telling someone who seems to have control of his own life and yours that his eyes are closed as a man walking in darkness? That he needs forgiveness? Paul did not hesitate.

F. F. Bruce wrote a book entitled, Paul, Apostle of the Heart Set Free, an aptly named book about this great apostle, undaunted by any danger he faced, who changed the known world with his proclamation of Christ. God had set his heart free. He wanted the same for everyone. In absolute obedience to Christ’s commission to go into the whole world, Paul went.

Prayer: Father, help us speak boldly. Help us to clearly declare that the promised Christ as come; we know this to be true because he has come to us. Amen.

And He Set His Face toward Jerusalem. . . .

A Lenten Devotional Guide
prepared for Homosassa United Methodist Church, Spring 2007,
by Patience Nave, Christian Education Coordinator

 

Thirty-Eighth Day of Lent

Thirty-Eighth Day of Lent

Thursday, April 13, 2017

[Paul] came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews. And according to Paul’s custom, he went to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and giving evidence that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, “This Jesus whom I am proclaiming to you is the Christ.”

Acts 17:1b-3

Sometimes I read too quickly and miss something important in my haste! Such as here, when Paul came to Thessalonica. This was a Greek city, but there had to be at least a small Jewish community because there was a synagogue. The synagogue was his starting place in Thessalonica – to at least a small group of religious people who were accustomed to studying the Scriptures.

Sensitive to his surrounding and to the people, he took their Scripture and told them about the Messiah. He read to them about the promise of Christ – in their Old Testament documents. The New Testament didn’t exist.

It seems so simple. He immediately gave credibility to his message by using what was already familiar to support his message. I wonder if we could not learn to do that. I wonder if I could not learn to carefully listen to God’s leading, evaluate each opportunity, and simply and easily tell others the good news of Easter. No preaching. Just a simple discussion of the facts as presented in the Scriptures, beginning with what they already know.

Prayer: Father, I know that you want everyone to hear the Easter message. I know that you long for each of us to have a personal relationship with you. Help us learn to tell the Easter story with simplicity so that others may hear and believe. Amen.

And He Set His Face toward Jerusalem. . . .

A Lenten Devotional Guide
prepared for Homosassa United Methodist Church, Spring 2007,
by Patience Nave, Christian Education Coordinator

 

Thirty-Seventh Day of Lent

Thirty-Seventh Day of Lent

Wednesday, April 12, 2017

The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.
Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore,
to send out workers into his harvest field.

Matthew 9:37

There may be more than a little reticence in us to pray this prayer. If we ask God to send workers out to do the harvesting, we may be the ones he sends! If there is one thing that we don’t want Jesus to tell us to do – again – in this new kingdom of his, it is to go out and harvest the fields!

Of course, he is not talking about wheat or corn or beans! He’s talking about people! And the fields are not necessarily in Africa or China! He is telling us clearly that there are people all around us – a plentiful harvest – who have had the seeds of faith planted in them by others, and we need to go and reap that harvest for God, for the new kingdom.

The all-time best news the world has ever heard is that Jesus came, taught, lived among us, died for us, and rose for us. The incredible truth is that we were once separated from God by our own sin, and Jesus took it on himself, dying so that we could be forgiven. John says that, “to as many as received him, to them he gave the power to become the children of God.” (John 1:12)

Why am I so hesitant to say this to others? Do I or do I not believe it? We have heard it said that each of us must find his own way to God, but Jesus says, “no man comes to the father but by me.” If I believe others, I can be quiet. If I believe Jesus, I need to be about the business of harvest.

Prayer: Father, it looks like you mean all of us are to harvest, not just the pastor. Teach us to do this, to do it well, and to have the courage to tell others the Easter story. Amen.

And He Set His Face toward Jerusalem. . . .

A Lenten Devotional Guide
prepared for Homosassa United Methodist Church, Spring 2007,
by Patience Nave, Christian Education Coordinator

 

Thirty-Sixth Day of Lent

Thirty-Sixth Day of Lent

Tuesday, April 11, 2017

All authority in heaven and in earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.

Matthew 28:18

If it is true that God so loved the world, should we not tell those who have not heard it, who may not realize that they are part of the much-loved world?

If it is true that Jesus died to atone for all the sins of all the people of all the world, is it not the most reasonable of requests that he should ask us to tell everyone we can about this incredible act?

If it is true that everyone can know God personally because of what Jesus has done, should we not want to tell them that great news?

If it is true that Jesus has come that we may have life and that we may have it more abundantly, should we not long to bring others to Christ, to that abundant life?

If it is true that Jesus meant what he said when he promised, “my peace I give unto you, not as the world gives; let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid,” should we not burst with joy at the opportunity to share that peace with a world filled with anxiety?

If all that Jesus promised and all that he taught and all that he did are true, is it not reasonable that he should ask one small thing of us – that we would go and tell others about him?

Jesus did his job! And did it well! Now it’s our turn. Are we willing to be obedient, even as he was?

Prayer: Her I am, Lord. It is I, Lord. I have heard you calling in the night. I will go, Lord. Amen.

And He Set His Face toward Jerusalem. . . .

A Lenten Devotional Guide
prepared for Homosassa United Methodist Church, Spring 2007,
by Patience Nave, Christian Education Coordinator

 

Thirty-Fifth Day of Lent

Thirty-Fifth Day of Lent

Monday, April 10, 2017

You are the light of the world. 

Matthew 5:14

I am the light of the world.

John 8:12

I know better than to challenge Jesus! I learned a long time ago that when I don’t understand, it’s my lack, not his. So which is it? Is he the light of the world, or are we?

I would probably still be asking him this question had I not found this incredible passage in Colossians. Paul is explaining to the church at Colossae just who Jesus is, and he says of him, “In Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.” In other words, all that is God is in Christ. He is not just like god; he is God. Paul explains that he knows this is difficult to understand. But then he compounds that by adding, “and the mystery is this: Christ in you is the hope of glory.” (Colossians 2)

This has to be the most humbling of facts and at the same time the most empowering! All of God dwells in Christ! And Christ dwells in me! It is difficult for me to comprehend that the God of the universe will entrust himself to me. I lose my keys, my billfold, by daily planner, my grocery list! I can be a real klutz! But God is willing to entrust himself to me! Imagine! Instead of saying I can’t do something, I know I can – because he can! He in me!

And if he is there, light is there! Great! The world is so filled with darkness. Isn’t it incredible to know that Jesus is light and that he is in us; therefore, we are light for this dark and groping world?

And all because of Easter!

Prayer: Some days, Father, I don’t feel like light. Everything around me seems dark, and I feel dark, too. Remind me that I can trust your words to be true that I am the light of the world – not just at Easter but all year. Shine, Lord! Amen.

And He Set His Face toward Jerusalem. . . .

A Lenten Devotional Guide
prepared for Homosassa United Methodist Church, Spring 2007,
by Patience Nave, Christian Education Coordinator

 

Lenten Feast Day; Palm Sunday

Lenten Feast Day
Palm Sunday

Sunday, April 9, 2017

They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered,
they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus.

Luke 23:2

About fifteen, years ago, we went to Israel with a group of friends, a trip I had dreamed of for years. One of the places we knew we had to see was the tomb where Jesus was buried.

Our son-in-law has been many times, and he tried to prepare me for disappointment, telling about two possible burial sites: Gordon’s tomb, in a lovely garden, and another I hardly remember. He said that I would like Gordon’s tomb best because it fits my mental image of the biblical account, but he is quite sure that the other one is the real burial place. He was right. Gordon’s tomb is my choice.

Circumstances prevented me from going to the tomb with all our traveling companions, so our son-in-law, Michael, took Gene and Shirley Shrader and me to the garden in the late afternoon. The four of us entered the sepulcher together. The moment required quiet. Nobody spoke. I saw tears in Gene Shrader’s eyes. Quietly he asked, “Is it possible that we are standing where they laid our Lord’s body?”

We later sat in the garden, were given communion, and thanked God that the tomb is empty. We didn’t talk much because neither of us wanted to touch the time with words. It was one of those moments that you never forget.

But this event is not something to be quiet about! This is the greatest news the world has ever heard! Jesus overcame death, and because he lives, we who have trusted our lives to him shall also live! We should be shouting the news from the rooftops!

Prayer: Father, help us to boldly declare to a dying world that Jesus is rise, that once and for all he has conquered death and is alive! Amen.

And He Set His Face toward Jerusalem. . . .

A Lenten Devotional Guide
prepared for Homosassa United Methodist Church, Spring 2007,
by Patience Nave, Christian Education Coordinator

 

Thirty-Fourth Day of Lent

Thirty-Fourth Day of Lent

Saturday, April 8, 2017

Then all his disciples deserted him and fled.

Matthew 26:56b

I remember standing once in the Coliseum in Rome, holding our two young daughters by the hands, and wondering if I would have been able to lead them bravely to face the lions.

I read the Scripture above year after year, and my response is always the same. Their lack of courage and loyalty astounds me. Suddenly aware that the future was bleak, they ran. How could they leave him alone?

I envision myself standing firm in the face of danger, loving him and wanting to be there with him to the bitter end, no matter what the consequence. Deep down in my heart, however, I wonder if my thoughts are just bravado. Neither I nor anyone else really knows how she’d react in facing either lions or Pilot’s cross – no matter how much we love the Lord.

But there is another side of this picture. What about Jesus? Many had followed him in the three years of his ministry, but he had chosen twelve and poured himself into their lives. HE had tried to teach them Truth. Soon he would be gone, and they would have work to do in the Kingdom of God. They had eaten together, talked together, laughed together as they traveled about the small country. For three years they had been best friends, and now they were gone.

I don’t like to think about the expression on his face as he saw them go. He knew there was pain ahead. He was deserted by his best friends.

Prayer: Father, I am so sad to admit that I, too, might have run away. You bore so much for us, and we are afraid to just stay with you in your pain. You have made some giants of faith during history, I want to be one of them – one who will stand with you no matter what. Please. Amen.

And He Set His Face toward Jerusalem. . . .

A Lenten Devotional Guide
prepared for Homosassa United Methodist Church, Spring 2007,
by Patience Nave, Christian Education Coordinator

 

Thirty-Third Day of Lent

Thirty-Third Day of Lent

Friday, April 7, 2017

About three in the afternoon, Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabacthani?” (which means, “My God, my God why have you forsaken me?”).

Matthew 27:46

Genesis 1:26 says, “Let us make man in our own image,” and most concede that the “us” is the Triune God. This is supported by the first verse in the Gospel of John: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Always, this Mystical Union had existed, without separation of his parts. God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit – One.

In his awful agony on that ugly and cruel cross, Jesus screamed out the words above. When he needed God the Father most, he was separated from him! Why?

Habakkuk, that little minor prophet in the Old Testament tells us why. He says, “my God, my Holy one, . . . You are too pure to look on evil.” (Habakkuk 1:12a, 13a)

At the moment of this agonizing cry unto God, all the sin of the whole world was poured out on Jesus, and God turned away from him. Jesus was accepting punishment for every sin we’ll ever commit, and God was repulsed by the sight of it. This one whom God had once looked upon and declared, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased,” now was covered with the world’s ugly sin. God loved the world so much that he allowed it. And Jesus endured it because he wanted the world to know, “[he] loved the Father and that [he] did exactly what [his] Father had commanded.” (John 14:31)

Our hearts must surely break to realize what we have done, and at the same time they must burst with joy that God would go to such an extreme to buy us back from our sin!

Prayer: We can never do enough to thank you. Help us make our lives show that we remember the great price you have paid for us. Amen.

And He Set His Face toward Jerusalem. . . .

A Lenten Devotional Guide
prepared for Homosassa United Methodist Church, Spring 2007,
by Patience Nave, Christian Education Coordinator