This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me. (I Corinthians 11:24)

Simply by my own human nature, there is no way I could be found worthy to be present at the communion table of Christ. Often, when we are reading the Bible with someone and we get a few verses past the ones for today’s reading, we will hear something like, “Boy, that’s a tough requirement.” And certainly we can understand. Not one of us has ever gone through what Jesus went through to gain some concept of worthiness.

But what makes us worthy to be in God’s presence? It is the adoption into the reality of being children of God. It’s almost like God being approached by Jesus, who asks the Parent, “Look what I found. Can I keep them?” And God, in infinite wisdom answers, “If you clean them up, you can keep them.”

The cleaning up process happened on Calvary. Jesus paid a price to bring each person into the “Family of God.” We are adopted daughters and sons, heirs to the kingdom, simply because of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. We were brought into worthiness through Jesus’ death. That is the sole purpose of Christ becoming human. As Mozart said in his musical piece, “Remember, Jesus, I am the reason for your journey.”

God of love and forgiveness, thank You for adopting me into Your family. I pray that Your leading will keep me worthy of that position!

Maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8)

When we forget something, it’s just a little slip of the mind; but when someone else forgets, it is quite often viewed as gross negligence. When we snap at someone because we are irritable, it’s because we are having a bad day; but if someone else snaps at us, we see them as mean-spirited. And of course, if we are late for an appointment, it is because we are having a hectic day; but if the other person is late, we easily accuse them of irresponsibility.

We may chuckle at this, but isn’t this the way we tend to behave? It’s easy to condemn and criticize others for their shortcomings while excusing our own.

We all have faults. And while someone’s fault may strike a sour note in us, be assured that our own faults are striking a similar sour note in others around us. Jesus did not tell us to judge others, but to have love for others. The Body of Christ is made stronger by our willingness to use our voices to uplift and affirm rather than to use them to criticize the actions and shortcomings of those around us.

God of Love and Justice, may we always affirm those around us and grant us the wisdom to accept each one without judgment!

If you do these things, you shall never fail. (2 Peter 1:10)

I have to admit that I enjoy cooking. I enjoy having guests over to partake of my efforts in the kitchen. And I understand how recipes work. There are a combination of ingredients and usually one key ingredient that defines the overall dish. For example, fudge includes sugar, butter and walnuts, but the key ingredient is the chocolate. Or a tuna fish casserole includes noodles, a cream type base, salt or other seasoning, but the key ingredient is the tuna fish.

Life can be defined as a recipe. Peter lists some of the ingredients that mix into a successful life on the spiritual plane. Faith is believing in Jesus, trusting God, depending on God and doing what is right through the leading of the Holy Spirit. Virtue is strength, courage and persistence. Knowledge is knowing, learning, through the reading of the Holy Scriptures. Temperance is often translated as self-control and good judgment. Godliness is having respect for God and what God has done and is doing. Brotherly kindness is the attitude of siblings who really love each other deeply. Charity, also translated as Love, is the desire to do good for others without cause or expectation.

In all of this, the key ingredient is God. Mix well and walk it out daily and you have the complete recipe for a happy, successful life.

Holy God, be a part of my recipe that my life will turn out the way it is supposed to—like the picture on the menu!

But seek God’s kingdom, and these things will be added unto you. (Luke 12: 31)

“Don’t worry, be happy,” says a song from several years back. “Not to worry,” is another common phrase heard in our society. They both want you to understand that a given situation is not all that important. A person who is constantly concerned and anxious about things is called a worrywart. Very few people live lives that are totally worry-free. Nonetheless, Jesus emphatically tells us not to worry. This is not a suggestion, but rather a command.

When we expend the energy to constantly worry over matters that are best left in the hands of God, we drain our energies that could be used for more constructive things. Worrying does not offer any positive change to anything we do and actually compromises our quality of life. Jesus provides all that we need.

Jesus hints at the cause of worry in human beings—a lack of faith in what God can do and also a fear of the unknown. One needs only to look around at God’s creation. The birds and animals are taken care of, the flowers bloom without punching a time clock, and we, too, are a part of that creation.

Jesus certainly understood humanity well. “Oh, you of little faith!” The disciples in the boat feared the great storm around them and woke Jesus. “Oh, you of little faith!” Peter took his eyes off Jesus and began to sink. “Oh, you of little faith!” Place your faith in something tried and true, something that has withstood the test of 2000 plus years. Jesus is in control!

God of ever-faithfulness, grant us the courage to believe that we are safe under Your care and our worries are worthless!

These things I command you, that you have love for one another. (John 15: 17)

On the street I saw a small girl, cold and shivering in a thin dress, with little hope of a decent meal.

I became angry and said to God, “Why did you permit this? Why don't you do something about it?”

For awhile God said nothing. That night as I lay asleep, God replied. “I certainly did do something about it. I created you!”

God of wisdom and mercy, help us to see our place in Your world and that we were created for each other that we might share the love You have for us with others.

As an eagle stirs up its nest, and hovers over its young; as it spreads its wings, takes them up, and bears them aloft on its pinions, the Lord alone guides God’s people. (Deuteronomy 32: 11-12)

Deuteronomy’s author uses this image of an eagle teaching its young to fly as an image of God. The adult eagle nudges the youngster out of the nest, and the eaglet falls like a rock. The older bird catches the eaglet and carries the young one on its wings, back to the nest. Time after time this occurs until the eaglet learns to spread its wings and fly on its own.

Like the young eagles, others in the Bible are pushed out of their familiar and safe nests to learn new ways. Peter, with his established fishing business, wife and home, was nudged in a new direction when his brother Andrew introduced him to Jesus. Saul, later known as Paul, was pushed out of his self-righteousness and religious exclusivity into a whole new life as he was confronted by the risen Christ on the road to Damascus.

Through Bible study, prayer and worship, God challenges us to move out of our nests of complacency. We learn then to truly love and serve others and freely extend God’s grace to the world.

Blessed Creator, nudge us this day out of our comfort zones. Give us wings that enable us to soar as You would have us do!

I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my daily bread. (Job 23: 12)

It was painful for a six-year old to watch, but there she lay—tiny, silver-haired and prim, all four feet eleven inches of her—drawing each breath with difficulty and her voice barely audible. “Be a good boy!” she whispered. Those were the last words I heard from the lips of “Grandma!” The were spoken to me as a gift, I felt. This was the one who read bible stories to me and introduced me to Jesus Christ when I was barely walking, a blond, scruffy little scrapper.

“Grandma” had been a real pal to me—I never would forget the shopping trips and the ten-block walk to church from her house on Sunday mornings. At the store she would give me a dime and say, “Buy whatever you want!” That felt like heaven to a tyke who rarely saw coins or even understood what money was. I would walk around and around the candy section evaluating the possibilities.

“Grandma” was the widow of a railroad worker who had been spared much of the disaster of the great depression because the trains still ran. She would compliment me on my choice of a purchase as if to express a genuine appreciation for the time I took to make the best choice.

“Be a good boy!” Who could possible fail after being given a challenge like that from someone they admired so much. The very memories of our times together in the scriptures and the tales she would tell about bible characters continue to bring a challenge to my heart and tears to my eyes.

God of mercy and love, may we each find a special someone who will share the beauty of You with us in our daily walks!

Scripture: John 13

Today’s Verse: By this shall all men know that you are my disciples; if you have love one for another. (John 13:35

In his novel, Les Miserables, Victor Hugo tells of Jean Valjean whose only crime was the theft of a loaf of bread to feed his sister’s starving children. Valjean served nineteen years for this crime before being turned out penniless on the streets. Hardened and unable to find work as a former convict, Valjean finally makes his way to the home of a good old bishop, who gives him supper and a bed for the night. He serves Valjean using his best silver platters and candlesticks, which Valjean recognizes as being highly valuable.

Yielding to temptation, Valjean steals the bishop’s silver platters and slips away from the bishop’s home, but is soon caught and returned by watchful police. When shown the silver platters, the bishop says to the apprehending policemen, “Why, I gave them to him.” And turning to the thief, Valjean, the bishop added, “And Jean, you forgot to take the candlesticks.” A shocked and eternally grateful Valjean accepts the candlesticks as more than valuable silver pieces, but as expressions of love beyond measure. The bishop’s act brought about a true repentance and change in his life.

Who knows which person might be impacted by your act of kindness today? What seems little to you may be great in the eyes of a person in need of love.

God of eternal love, may we always be willing to express Your love to all those around us, not just a chosen few that we feel are deserving!

Finally brothers, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and there be any praise, think on these things. (Philippians 4: 8)

The pessimist will see a glass filled to the half-way mark with water as being half empty, while the optimist see it as being half full. And the optimistically creative person will see it as a vase for a rosebud, the optimistic pragmatist as a means of quenching thirst, and the optimistic priest as water to bless for a baptism!

Consider for a moment, the benefits of choosing the optimistic route as described in this short poem:

Two frogs fell into a deep cream bowl,

One was an optimistic soul;

But the other took the gloomy view,

“I shall drown,” he cried, “and so will you”

So with a last despairing cry,

He closed his eyes and said “Good-bye.”

But the other frog, with a merry grin

Said, “I can’t get out, but I won’t give in!

I’ll swim around ‘til my strength is spent.

For having tried, I’ll die content.”

Bravely he swam until it would seem

His struggles began to churn the cream.

On top of the butter at last he stopped

And out of the bowl he happily hopped.

What is the moral? It’s easily found.

If you can’t get out–keep swimming around.

Precious Creator, give us the strength not to give up in the face of adversity, for You are always with us!

For it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God (1 Peter 2:19)

I recall when I was a little tyke trying on my father’s shoes and attempting to walk around the house. It was nearly impossible. I thought I would look grown up and sophisticated, but actually I looked very comical.

It must be something like that when our egos prompt us to “play God” in the lives of people around us. Our wisdom is limited and our judgment impaired by personal prejudices. When we are trying to imitate or speak for God, we don’t realize all that it involves. Among the things we tend to miss is the fact that it involves a strange and different attitude toward suffering.

Most people accept suffering either with resignation or resentment. The animals around us live, they suffer and they die. None of them whine about it or spends hundreds of dollars on therapists. Peter tells us that we are called to suffering for the cause of Christ and that it is commendable. The way some people view their Christian walk, one would think that the scriptures promised us heaven on earth and they do not. Not only does the Bible never make such a promise, it explicitly tells us that we will suffer.

Yet our suffering is redemptive in nature, because in it we continue the legacy of Jesus Christ and in some mysterious way make a personal connection with Him. If Jesus, the only perfect person ever to walk this earth, suffered, why should we think we will be immune? Isn’t it amazing how often Jesus turned His own suffering into something good and beneficial for humankind? We can do that, too. We have His promise on it.

Holy Creator, strengthen us to face the world around us with the strength and trust that Your Son showed us!

Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up. (Ephesians 4: 29)

The house next door had stood there as long as I could remember. It must have cost a bundle to build that grand old house, standing proud and tall against the sky. Now it was to be demolished.

In hours, the roof was stripped of its clay tiles; in days, doors and windows were removed. Before the month ended, only a skeleton of the house remained.

How long it must have taken to build that house. In comparison, how quickly it was demolished. How much less it cost in terms of money and materials, time and effort to tear it down than it did to build it.

So, too, it can be with relationships. It takes time to trust, to be able to risk sharing our deepest selves with another. Only with time and effort are we able to strip off our masks and be real with one another.

Harsh words, a little lie, one small betrayal of a confidence, one little bit of gossip–these can begin to destroy a relationship built over many years. But the words from Ephesians give us a guide to keep all our relationships strong.

Holy Creator, keep reminding us to speak only words that build up and not words that destroy!

A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. (Isaiah 42:3)

In the ancient world of the Israelites, there was great anticipation over the coming of the promised Messiah. Most were looking for a militant Messiah and such an expectation can be readily understood, because they were, for the most part, a separate, vulnerable and mistreated people. When Jesus finally did appear as promised, He did not fit the preconceived mold of what a Messiah should be like. He was, in fact, a gentle and compassionate Messiah. He was, as Isaiah had predicted, a suffering servant.

Unfortunately, the people around Him, especially those in authority, interpreted this as weakness. They were wrong! As Jesus proved in the long run, there is nothing stronger than the strength of a gentle hand. Isaiah could see that even with these soft and gentle compassionate qualities, the Messiah could bring justice to the human race. In fact, he could see clearly that only a Messiah of this type could bring about the desired results. Strength without compassion most often translates into oppression.

We need to recognize that strength and force will not relieve us of our oppression, but if we were to follow Jesus’ examples of compassion and gentleness, we have the power to bring about change. The hand that could easily have called upon the legions of angels to smite the enemy did not. Justice and salvation was brought about through gentleness. Perhaps we can bring about change through our approach to the world and teach the masses a better way to win hearts.

Holy God of Justice, may the gentleness and compassion of Jesus be our beacon as we try to change an intolerant world!

Rejoice evermore. In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (1 Thessalonians 5: 16, 18)

An old legend tells how a man once stumbled on a great red barn after wandering for days in a dark, overgrown forest. Seeking refuge from the howling winds of a storm that seemed to rage perpetually in the forest, he let his eyes grow accustomed to the dark and then, to his astonishment, he discovered that this was the barn where Satan kept his storehouse of seeds to be sown into the human hearts. More curious than fearful, he lit a match and began to explore the piles and bins of seeds around him. He couldn’t help but notice that the containers labeled “seeds of discouragement” far outnumbered any other type of seeds.

Just as the man had drawn this conclusion, one of Satan’s foremost demons arrived to pick up a fresh supply of seed. The man asked him why the great abundance of discouragement seeds. The demon laughed, “Because they are so effective and they take root so easily!” The man asked, “Do they grow everywhere?” At this the demon became sullen. He glared at the man and admitted in disgust, “No. They never seem to thrive in the heart of a grateful person.”

Be thankful for what you have today, and trust the Lord to take care of what you do not have!

Most Holy God, we are thankful to You for all that we have, even when we don’t realize we have it; may our gratitude keep us safe from the discouragements of the world around us!

A good person leaves an inheritance to their children’s children; and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just. (Proverbs 13: 22)

If I can throw a single ray of light across the darkened pathway of another; if I can aid some soul to a clearer sight of life and duty, and thus bless my brother; if I can wipe from any human cheek a tear, I shall not have lived my life in vain while here.

If I can guide some erring one to truth, inspire within his heart a sense of duty; if I can plant within my soul of rosy youth a sense of right; a love of truth and beauty, if I can teach one man that God and heaven are near, I shall not then have lived in vain while here.

If from my mind I banish doubt and fear, and keep my life attuned to love and kindness; if I can scatter light and hope and cheer, and help remove the curse of mental blindness; if I can make more joy, more hope, less pain, I shall not have lived and loved in vain.

If by life’s roadside I can plant a tree, beneath whose shade some wearied head may rest, though I may never share it’s beauty, I shall yet be truly blessed – though no one knows my name nor drops a flower upon my grave, I shall not have lived in vain while here. ~Anonymous

God of all hope and joy, may our travels through Your world be laced with kindness and love, even though no one may realize that we are even here!

A new commandment I give to you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. (John 13: 34)

Jesus describes His command that we love one another as being new. How can this be since the old law reminds us to love God with all our heart, mind and strength and to love our neighbor as ourselves? It is not a new commandment, but an old one. What is new about it is the urgency of the love Jesus commands us to give one another. The old law also drew people toward a hatred of their enemies, yet Jesus taught us to love our enemies and pray for them.

While love has always been a priority quality of God, Jesus’ ministry places a new and determined emphasis on it. It is also new because, through Christ, we have a new and greater example to follow. No one taught or exemplified it the way Jesus did. Jesus made it clear that love was the one quality that would define a Christian follower more than any other sign.

In today’s world, we see thousands who claim to be followers of Christ and they use bumper stickers, jewelry, knickknacks in their homes or they listen to Christian music, yet many of us watch their self-centered and reckless behavior. Jesus stated clearly that we would be known by our fruits and the greatest of those is love the way He defined it.

God of love, may the world know we are Your followers by the way we show our love to others!

...If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all. (Isaiah 7:9)

A legend has it that a just and good man went to Sodom one day, hoping to save the city from God’s impending judgment. He tried talking to first one individual and then another and another, but nobody would engage in conversation with him.

Next, he tried carrying a picket sign that had “Repent” written on it in large letters. Nobody paid the least attention to him except for a casual glance here and there at the sign he carried.

Finally he began going from street to street and from marketplace to marketplace, shouting loudly, “Men and women, repent! What you are doing is wrong. It will kill you! It will destroy you!”

The people laughed at him, but still he went about shouting. One day, a person stopped him and said, “Stranger, can’t you see that your shouting is useless?” The man replied, “Yes, I see that!” The person then asked, “Well, then why do you continue?”

The man answered, “When I arrived in this city, I was convinced I could change them. Now I continue shouting because I don’t want them to change me!”

Speak out for those things you believe to be true and good. If you remain silent, others may take your silence as agreement with their position–which may not be at all what you believe.

Holy Creator, may our voices be heard above the noise of today’s world. May our message be heard in our own hearts!

So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in the sinful nature, a slave to the law of sin. (Romans 7:25)

Several years ago, a Union Pacific Railroad train barreled across the tracks somewhere in western Nebraska. The train had two engines, one in the front and one in the rear, operated by a remote control from the lead engine. Apparently a motorist became irate because the train was blocking traffic so he uncoupled the long string of cars near the middle. When it moved out, the engineer was unaware of what had happened. As the train rolled along, it separated until there was nearly twelve miles between the front section and the rear section. For nearly fifty miles the train moved along crossing roads and passing other trains until the conductor noticed what was going on. It is fortunate that no one was hurt or killed by the rear section which was moving forward without lights, whistles or an engineer to control its movements.

Our lives are much like that when we separate ourselves from God, our personal “engineer.” We feel like the last half of the train. We find ourselves doing things we know we should not do and failing to do things we know we should.

Paul was keenly aware of this conflict in our nature. He states in his letter to the Romans that he wanted to do good, but sin seemed to wage war against what he knew to be right. Almost in desperation he cried, “Who will rescue me from this body of death?” He knew, of course, that there is only one answer to the divided self – Jesus Christ.

God of the lost, help me to remain whole in Your sight. Help me to refrain from dividing myself between Your love and goodness and the snares of this world.

I am your passing guest, an alien, like all my fore-bearers. (Psalm 39: 12)

The psalmist writes that we are God’s “passing guests.” What a revelation that image is to us! What a new and wonderful way to look at life! We are guests on this earth and God is a good and perfect Host! We are totally dependent on God’s hospitality. Food, shelter, companionship, security, even our ultimate salvation–all that we have is ultimately provided by God. As grateful guests, we seek to honor and glorify our Host by living in a way that displays our gratitude and love.

The image also carries the idea that we are passing through, here only temporarily. Our situation is not permanent. As my health has begun to change with age, that truth becomes more and more evident. One day I will go from being a passing guest in this world to a permanent home with my Host. I pray that I will live my remaining days here in a way that pleases God, a way that shows appreciation for the accommodations that have been provided me as a guest. I pray also that when it is time to leave, I may leave gracefully and joyously.

Thank You, Holy Creator, for being such a good and generous Host during my visit here on earth. And thank You for the eternal home You have prepared for me when I am finished with my visit!

And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offense toward God, and toward humanity. (Acts 24: 16)

These lines from the writings of Dr. Arnot give an interesting description of a person’s conscience. “A person may be saved from death by seeing the reflection of danger in a mirror, when the danger itself could not be directly seen. The executioner with his weapon is stealthily approaching through a corridor of the castle to the spot where the devoted invalid reclines. In his musings, the captive has turned his vacant eye toward a mirror on the wall; and the faithful witness reveals the impending stroke in time to secure the escape of the captive victim. It is thus that the mirror in the human breast has become in a sense the person’s savior, by revealing the wrath to come before its coming. Happy are they who take the warning-happy are they who turn and live.”

It has been said that human’s conscience was given after the Fall in the Garden. The creature’s desire to know good and evil had been granted. But God, in Divine Mercy, gave also a means of telling good from evil. That mechanism, which God placed in the human heart, was the conscience. Don’t ignore the prompting of your conscience or let your conscience become calloused. It’s more than a sixth sense–it’s a beacon whose homing signal is heaven.

Holy God of Love, thank You for the beacon within our hearts. My we never lose the signal or ignore the messages You send through Your Holy Spirit!

And God saw everything that had been made, and behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day. (Genesis 1:31)

When a painter completes a painting, the colors, subject matter and style define characteristics of the artist. The emotions, feelings, turmoil, peace – whatever the artist has drawn on from deep within his own soul are a part of what he has created on the canvas.

The same can be said of God. What God created, God deemed as good, and the intricacies of creation are a reflection of the mind of God and how things are intended to function and work together.

Geese are a marvelous example of working together in one-ness. They fly in a V-shaped formation that creates an aerodynamic flow making it easier for the geese behind the leader. They take turns being the leader so one does not tire too much and drop out of the formation. If one goose is sick, two fly low with it until it is ready to return to a flock and if two V-formations meet, they merge into one rather than compete.

In the middle ages, the pelican was used by the church as a symbol for Christ. The mother pelican, if faced with drought and a lack of food for her young, will tear open her breast and sacrifice her life so the young can survive.

We know that the seed of wheat and other grains must die and fall into the earth before new birth happens. It is through death that the new life is formed.

God’s creation reveals the mind of God. We can learn so much about how life has been defined by God simply by watching the world around us.

Creator of everything that is, may we see You in Your world as well as in Your Word!

We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. (2 Corinthians 5: 20)

In every major capital throughout the world you will find an embassy for the United States. An embassy is a representative of our national interests abroad. It flies the American flag, is protected by US Marines as well as local guards, and is considered as American soil. It oversees the needs of American travelers, expresses American views to the local government, and is an ear on local political matters for the American government. An ambassador is a highly respected representative of our government and its interests.

Paul wrote that Christians are ambassadors of Christ. As ambassadors, we proclaim a message of peace and reconciliation; that God was reconciling the world to God’s self through Jesus Christ. Christians are, through Christ’s death, a new creation. Through Jesus’ unselfish sacrifice, we are brought into a new state of being that did not exist prior to that time, we are united with Christ and clothed in a newness and goodness, the goodness of God.

We have a marvelous message to share with others, a message too good to keep to ourselves. As ambassadors, we are sent to proclaim what has happened and to make God’s appeal known to others.

God of love and delight, may our tongues be blessed that we might open the sight of those around us to Your goodness and blessings.

So, my brothers and sisters, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit to God. (Romans 7:4)

A professor once commented that sidewalks for a university should never be planned by an architect. He believed that only grass should planted around new buildings. Then later, sidewalks could be poured along the paths that had been defined by students as they walked to their classes.

It seems to make sense. On any college campus one can see the clearly defined trails created by students. People have placed signs there saying “Keep off the Grass” but it almost always seems to make matters worse. There is something about a prohibition that translates into an open invitation to defy it.

In Romans 7 Paul pondered the relationship between the Old Testament laws, obedience and sin. The law was placed by God as a tool in understanding what sin was, but by its very nature, it made sin more evident and visible.

Jesus’ wisdom when questioned about which is the greatest commandment was to put in place two commandments that carry a “do” to them, rather than a long list of “do nots.” The carrying out of the “do” laws then become acts of loyalty and love. Goodness becomes more cherished and is much easier when we concentrate on what we should do rather than struggle with what we should not do.

God of wisdom and justice, give us the strength to “do,” so we won’t have to struggle with the “do nots.”

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. (1 John 4: 18)

A man had just buried his wife. His little daughter had lost her mother. Their hearts seemed to be breaking, and loneliness engulfed them as they came home to an empty house. At bedtime the father placed the little girl’s bed near his own. Then he turned out the light and lay down. After a while, through the darkness, came the little girl’s voice, “Daddy, are you there?”

And he answered, “Yes, Dear, I’m here. Now you go to sleep.”

After a period of silence, the little voice came again, “Daddy, are you still there?”

Once again he answered patiently, “Yes, Dear, I’m still here. Now go to sleep.”

After a long period of silence her voice came again, this time more confident, “Daddy, I can’t see you, but I know you’re there.”

Social pressures, abandonment of friends or family, misunderstanding and irrational fears - we live in a world where many strange gods compete for our loyalty. But even when we are trapped by our own fears or the fears of others, let us never forget the abiding love and security we can find in our Creator, even when we can’t see God.

Holy Parent, you are always there, even though we cannot see you. Hold our hand in the midst of our dark moments.

If it be possible, as much as lies in you, live peaceably with all persons. (Romans 12: 18)

When Abraham Lincoln was campaigning for the presidency, one of his archenemies was Edwin McMasters Stanton. Stanton hated Lincoln and used every ounce of his energy to degrade Lincoln in the eyes of the public, often using the bitterest diatribes in an attempt to embarrass him.

In the process of choosing his cabinet after his election, Lincoln selected various members and then faced a decision about the important post of Secretary of War. He chose Stanton! The president’s inner circle erupted in an uproar when they heard his choice. Numerous advisers came to Lincoln saying, “Mr. President, you are making a terrible mistake. Are you familiar with all the ugly things he has said about you? He is your enemy. He will sabotage your programs!”

Lincoln replied, “Yes, I know Mr. Stanton well, but I find he is the best man for the job.”

As Secretary of War Stanton gave invaluable service to his nation and his president. After Lincoln was assassinated, many laudable statements were made about Abraham Lincoln, but the words of Stanton remain among the greatest. Standing next to Lincoln’s coffin, Stanton called Lincoln one the greatest men who had ever lived, and said, “He now belongs to the ages.”

Gracious Creator, remind us that we have no enemies unless we choose to regard our brothers and sisters as such. Remind us that our kindness and love can win over even the bitterest of enemies!

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven. (Matthew 5: 3)

One of the main things that seems to frighten some people as they approach acceptance of Jesus Christ and the gift of salvation is the notion that they might have to give up all their possessions and become destitute. After all, Jesus told the rich young ruler that he needed to sell all he had and give it to the poor and come follow Him. And in today’s reading it would appear that Jesus is again asking the believer to become totally devoid of earthly possessions in order to gain the kingdom of Heaven.

But we need to notice the wording, “poor in spirit.” Poor in spirit is an attitude of realization that we are brought into this world with nothing, not even clothing on our back and that all things which we attain throughout our lives are gifts from God. We are given stewardship over the possessions God grants to us. Our problem comes when we begin to worship our possessions and they become our “god.”

To be poor in spirit is to acknowledge our possessions as gifts and to use them responsibly. The richest man on earth can easily enter heaven and accept the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ so long as his wealth and property are held loosely and with full acknowledgment that they are gifts from God. To be poor in spirit is to accept the humbleness of our beginnings and to know that what we attain throughout our life is simply on loan and we are charged with responsibilities in accepting the gifts that God gives us.

God of love and giving, thank You for the gifts You have given me in my lifetime. May I always remember that they really belong to You.

And the voice spoke unto him again the second time, “What God has cleansed, do not call unclean.”

James I of England once said, “He was a bold man who first swallowed an oyster.” Who would have ever thought to eat an oyster? Thanks to the person that did, this “repulsive” shellfish is now an epicurean delicacy and a “cash cow” in many American coastal cities.

In today’s lesson, Peter finds himself in the same predicament. While he is meditating, a blanket of unclean animals is lowered before him. God commands him to “kill and eat,” knowing full well that Peter is forbidden by Levitical law to do so.

God is not concerned with Peter’s dietary habits. Rather, God is challenging Peter to confront his cultural prejudices. God needed a missionary to the Gentiles, and this task required an open-minded servant. God was asking Peter to “swallow the first oyster.”

In today’s world, we are confronted with innumerable prejudices and fears and God is calling forth missionaries to challenge the attitudes of churches today in regard to cultural boundaries of ethnicity, social standing and color and status, or LGBT issues. God’s message to Peter was simply this: Salvation and the Word of God is for ALL people!

Forgive us our prejudices, God of Equality. Help us to see past our personal biases so we can better serve You and preach Your salvation to ALL of Your precious children!

That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises (Hebrews 6: 12)

The story is told of a lazy boy who went with his mother and aunt on a blueberry picking hike into the woods. He carried the smallest pail possible. While the others worked hard at picking berries, he lolled about, chasing a butterfly and playing hide and seek with a squirrel. Soon it was approaching time to leave. In a panic, the young lad filled his pail mostly with moss and then topped it off with a thin layer of berries, so that the pail looked full. His mother and aunt commended him highly for his effort.

The next morning his mother baked pies, and she made a special “saucer-sized” pie just for the boy. He could hardly wait for it to cool. Blueberry pie was his favorite! He could see the plum berries oozing through a slit in the crust, and his mouth watered in anticipation. However, as he sank his fork into the flaky crust, he found...mostly moss!

Many people want to experience the fullness of God’s promises in their lives, but they are unwilling to do the work that goes along with most of the Bible’s promises. Most of God’s promises are if-then statements...if we do one thing, God will do another. Our part nearly always comes first!

Holy Creator, give us the spiritual incentive to do the work You ask of us. May we not fall pray to spiritual laziness and miss out on Your promises!

A new heart I will give you, and a new spirit I will put within you. (Ezekiel 36: 26)

Underneath the snow outside my window, the soil is frozen and hard. Daffodil bulbs planted in autumn lie deep below the surface near the dormant rhizomes of what one day will be irises in glowing colors. But they remain only potential blooms as long as the ground is cold and hard.

How often our hearts are like the hard ground! The potential for great love, beauty, and wisdom is within us, but it fails to flower as long as our hearts remain hardened. We cut ourselves off from the sunshine of God’s power and never realize all that we could be in our communities, our relationships, and even in our personal lives–if only our hearts would thaw.

No matter what time of year it is, we can turn toward the light and warmth of God’s springtime in our lives. No matter what our age or how long our gifts have lain dormant within our hardened hearts, with the Creator’s help we can begin the struggle to break through the thawing ground and blossom as we were intended.

Holy God, soften our hearts with the warmth of Your love. May we feel Your presence with us as we begin the difficult process of growth!

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil. (Psalm 23: 4)

A woman from Illinois writes the following:

I had been alone for several years and had come to depend on my brother. Whenever I had a problem, he was there to help me out. Not only did I love my brother, but he was the source of security for me. Then, after a routine doctor’s visit, my brother announced that he was terminally ill. I was shattered.

As the months went by, I marveled at how well my brother coped with his situation. I knew he was in pain, but he never complained. Instead of being depressed, he prayed. He was secure in his faith and in his walk with Christ. He looked at death as the beginning of a new life with Christ and another exciting journey in his Christian walk.

Watching God prepare my brother for his new life inspired and comforted me. God used my brother and his illness to strengthen me, to draw me close, and to enrich my relationship with Jesus Christ.

Most Holy Creator, thank You for the strength to endure our daily trials and thank You for the loved ones around us that teach us of You!

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:18)

A small crippled boy was hurrying to catch a commuter train. Carrying some packages under his arm, he was experiencing some difficulty maneuvering his crutches at the same time. As the busy people rushed by him, someone accidentally bumped him causing the brightly colored packages to scatter in all directions. The man who had caused the accident stopped only long enough to scold the youth for being so clumsy and getting in his way.

Another gentleman, seeing the boy’s distress, went to his aid. He quickly gathered the packages and then slipped a dollar bill into the boy’s pocket. “I’m sorry, son,” he said. “I hope this makes up for all your trouble.” Then he turned and continued on his way.

With tears in his eyes and a broad smile, the boy called after him. “Sir,” he shouted. “Sir, please, sir - are you Jesus?”

The man stopped and turned. “No,” he said smiling, “but I’m one of His followers.”

We need to humble ourselves at times and remind ourselves that there are “Jesus people” all around us, those who encourage and uplift us. And we need to remember that Jesus left us an example of how we need to reach out to others.

God of Love, thank You for the “Jesus people” who cross my path each day, especially those who accept me just as You made me. Oh, and God, may I learn to be a “Jesus person” too!

Then Jesus declared, “I who speak to you am He.” (John 4:26)

One of the greatest blessings in life is finding a mate or companion with whom we can have intimate rapport. Finding someone who we can trust totally with all our baggage and secrets and who will not judge or condemn us for past failures or current troubles. Someone who knows and understands our faults and loves us anyway. Someone who supports and encourages us to reach a potential within self that others do not see.

When Jesus began to converse with the woman at the well in Samaria, there was an immediate rapport between them. Then suddenly she was jolted by the fact that this stranger knew all about her lurid past. As many of us often do when we are confronted with uncomfortable conversation, she attempted to change the subject. Jesus used the new conversation to make a pronouncement—the fact that He was the Messiah. As the Messiah, Jesus not only loved this woman, but saw in her the potential to evangelize her community, a community that looked upon her as an outcast.

Earthly companions and friendships are very precious things, but none can compare with the intimacy of the Messiah. Just like the woman at the well, our “lurid” pasts are well known to Christ. And Jesus also knows our potential to evangelize our community, neighborhood or immediate family. All we need to do is say to Jesus, “Give me this water that I might not thirst!” just as the woman at the well did.

God of all wisdom, You know our potential, our past and our future. Show us our abilities that we might serve You well.