...Thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter now into the joy of the Lord. (Matthew 25:21)

Several centuries ago, the Emperor of Japan commissioned a Japanese artist to paint a particular species of bird for him. Months passed, then years. Finally, the Emperor personally went to the artist’s studio to ask for an explanation.

The artist place a blank canvas on the easel and within fifteen minutes, had completed a painting of a bird. It was a masterpiece! The Emperor, admiring both the painting and the artists skill, asked why there had been such a long delay.

The artist then went from cabinet to cabinet in his studio. He pulled from it arm loads of drawing of feathers, tendons, wings, feet, claws, eyes, beaks-virtually every aspect of the bird, from virtually every angle. He placed these silently before the Emperor, who nodded in understanding. The magnificence of the “whole” can never be greater than the magnificence of any singular detail.

To have an excellent life, strive for an excellent year. Within that year, strive for an excellent month, and within that month, strive for an excellent day. Within that day, strive for an excellent hour. An excellent life is the sum total of many excellent moments.

Creator of all good, guide us minute by minute that our lives may reflect a sum total of excellence in Your sight!

Render therefore to all their dues. (Romans 13:7)

How many ministers do you know? We can probably identify several including the Pastor of our Church, our music minister, youth ministers, assistant ministers, etc. Some churches have visitation ministers, senior ministers and various other specialized ministries.

What about the policeman on the street? Or how about the members of the state legislature, your congressman, or the judge in his courtroom? Some of these people may not realize that they are ministers set in place by God, but they are. God has decreed that we have a government in place to keep people from robbing and killing each other, and the officials of the government are serving in ministry by what they are called to do. Of course, some of those called can misuse the authority God has given them, but who doesn’t – not even you and I.

Other calls to ministry can be subtle in nature. I personally have been ministered to in great depth by street people who choose a life devoid of technology and politics. And each of us, you and I, are ministers called upon by God to open the eyes of our brothers and sisters. Peter calls us “the Royal Priesthood.”

While you are listening to God’s ministers, put your own name on the list. Whether we realize it or not, when we accepted the call of the Spirit to believe in the word of God, we received an ordination of ministry. The word “minister” means “servant.” You and I are God’s servants. May we each be good stewards under the leadership of the One who knows the way.

God of Power and Might, may we accept the ordination of ministry in humbleness and awe. Lead us to those You would have us serve.

And the Lord turned the captivity of Job when he prayed for his friends. (Job 42: 10)

Prayer can be divided into two main categories – prayer for self and prayer for others, also known as intercessory prayer. James tells us in his epistle that the “fervent prayer of a righteous person avails much.” After all, our job as Disciples of Christ is prayer.

All too often our prayers for self are plaintive, self-centered and can be sometimes viewed as “whiny.” This is never found in the prayers of Jesus. When Christ prayed to His Parent, He was seeking only God’s will or they were prayers on behalf of those around Him.

If you feel that your prayers are not being heard or answered, perhaps it’s time to take a close look at how they are formulated. Do you want God to “fix” things for you? Do you want God to drop new high-tech toys in your lap? After all, Jesus clearly said, “Ask and you shall receive.” I think it is what we ask for that sometimes blocks our communication with God. Jesus never asked for anything personal other than God’s will. Even in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus carefully stated, “Not my will, but Your will…”

I have found that when I lift up others, whether for healing or guidance or peace in their lives, the same thing I pray for on behalf of others comes to me. When others are placed first and uplifted, God bestows showers of blessings on the intercessor.

Holy God of Blessings, may we forget self long enough to lift our brothers and sisters up to You. Heal them and bless them that we, too, might find favor in Your sight.

And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath, but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:4)

A dog once wandered to a preacher’s home, and his three sons played with it, fed it, and soon became quite fond of it. It so happened that the dog had three white hairs in its tail. One day, the preacher and his sons spotted an advertisement in the city newspaper about a lost dog. The description of the stray they had taken in matched perfectly.

The minister later said, “In the presence of my three sons, we carefully separated the three white hairs and removed them from the dog’s tail.”

The real owner of the dog eventually discovered where his stray pooch had gone and he came to claim the dog. The dog showed every sign of recognizing his owner, so the man was ready to take him away. At that point, the minister spoke up and asked, “Didn’t you say that the dog would be known by the three white hairs in its tail?” The owner, unable to find the identifying feature, was forced to admit that this dog didn’t fully fit the description of his lost dog and left.

Years passed and the minister noted with sadness, “We kept the dog, but I lost my three sons for Christ that day.” His sons no longer had confidence in what their father professed to be true.

Remember, your children watch the choices you make in all areas of your life and base their opinion of you on them. Be a person of integrity-one they will admire.

Just and loving God, guide us in the decisions we make so that no one will be stumbled by our walk and fail to see You in our being!

Be not deceived, God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. (Galatians 6:7)

The story is told of a man and woman who gave a sizable contribution to their church to honor the memory of their son who had lost his life in the war. When the announcement was made to the congregation of the generous donation, a woman whispered to her husband, “Let’s give the same amount in honor of each of our boys.”

The husband replied, “What are you talking about? Neither one of our sons was killed in the war.”

“Exactly!“ said the woman. “Let’s give it as an expression of our gratitude to God for sparing their lives!”

What we give to charitable concerns during our life produces benefits in three directions: 1) it helps those in need, 2)it inspires others to give, and, 3) it forms an inner character in the giver–one marked by less selfishness and fewer materialistic tendencies, greater generosity and a heightened awareness of and concern for other people.

Keep in mind that when you give, you are ultimately giving to people, even though your gift might be made to an institution or organization. Churches and other charities are made up of people. Your giving brings sunshine to the lives of others and will return to you.

Most generous God, grant each of us a “giving” heart that we might know the joy Your Son had when He freely gave-even when He gave His life!

And Peter…walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid.”

Peter wanted to go to where his beloved Jesus was, walking on the top of the waters of Lake Galilee, and Jesus invited him to come. As Peter stepped out of the boat onto the water, he stood, then took a step and then another. He too was walking on the top of the lake. Then he noticed the waves and immediately sank.

Our lives are much like that. We desire to walk with Christ daily and many of us do, at least for a while. Then there sets in the waves – the distractions of everyday living that create worry and stress in our routines. Perhaps it’s a notice from the bank of an overdraft or a run-in with the neighbor over his dog. Maybe our friends are not doing things the way we would like them to do things or perhaps our family is riding our case over something that we think is none of their business. Whatever it is, it is nothing more than the waves of the water we are walking on along with our Savior. The distraction and taking our eyes off Jesus is the point where we sink.

When the waves raise their boisterousness around us, perhaps we could maintain our footing if, instead of letting go of Jesus in order to deal with “earthly distractions” we invited Him to help us through the solution. This is the “casting our yoke” upon Him. Two draft animals pulling side by side in a yoke can make far more headway than one pulling alone.

God has said that we will not be given any more than we are able to handle and few of us realize that what this means is not abandoning God in the midst of waves, but clinging to God in those times. With that concept, we will not sink or be overwhelmed but rather we will experience victory every single time.

God of Peace and Serenity, may we always walk with You in the midst of the waves of our world, and through holding Your hand, may our footsteps be secure on the waters of earthly life.

The angel of God called to Hagar from heaven, and said...”Do not be afraid!” (Genesis 21:17)

Hagar’s life had fallen apart. For many years, she had been a maid-servant in Abraham and Sarah’s household. What’s more, she was chosen to be the mother of Abraham’s son, Ishmael. However, when tensions developed between Hagar and Sarah, Hagar was sent out with her young son into the wilderness. In despair, she lifted up her voice and wept. Her crying did not go unnoticed;God saw and heard and sent an angel to help.

In this imperfect world filled with sin, calamities still come. But the loving God who rescued Hagar and Ishmael is alive and well and cares about each one of us. We are “children of God” through Jesus Christ. As God’s children, we are never without hope. We can lift up our voices to God in prayer. We can ask friends and loved ones to join us. And we can trust Christ’s promise to be with us always, even to the end of the age. (Matthew 28:20)

God of mercy, when life seems to fall apart, help us to look to You and to discern where You are leading us!

If anyone says to you, “Why are you doing this?” just say this, “The Lord has need of it.” (Mark 11:3)

During his ministry, Jesus needed many things that ordinary people provided for Him. Simon Peter provided a boat for traveling and preaching. Martha and Mary provided hospitality. Mary Magdelene, Joanna, and Susanna provided financial support. A woman of Samaria gave Jesus water. A small boy gave his lunch, and Jesus used it to feed 5,000 people. Someone lent Jesus a colt to ride on Palm Sunday. A friend provided a room in which to celebrate the Passover Feast. Simon of Cyrene help Jesus carry the cross. Joseph of Arimathea provided a tomb.

What can we give that Jesus needs? Does Jesus need a home in which to offer hospitality and Christian fellowship? Perhaps a car to transport home-bound people to shops, hospitals or to church? Christian books to help spread the Good News? Money for charity to help the needy? Someone to visit the sick and lonely? A listening ear or a loving touch? A prayerful spirit or an understanding heart?

The disciples of today are no different than the disciples that walked at Jesus’ side. We are here to provide the needs of Jesus’ ministry. Let us give. If anyone asks you, “Why are you doing this?” simply reply, “The Lord has need of it!”

Holy and loving God, make us aware of what we have to give to carry on the work Your Son began!

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 oppressions, 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!

When they saw [Jesus], they worshiped Him; but some doubted. (Matthew 28: 17)

As was noted yesterday, the Easter story is one of rejoicing and makes us want to sing. Yes, and shout, too. Our souls celebrate the reality of Christ’s ultimate victory over death.

But not everyone feels this victory; not today, and not even at the first Easter. The Gospel writer, with the magnificent honesty of the Bible, tells us of Jesus’ appearance to his disciples and notes that “some doubted.”

Some of today’s followers may wonder how they could doubt when the resurrected Christ stood before them in full view. But the resurrection was contrary to all laws of nature as they knew and understood them, so that those who were especially cautious found it much easier to believe their presumptions than to believe what their eyes were seeing.

The contemporary doubter can take heart in this. Peoples faith perceptions vary as widely as do our other responses to life. Take as much of the Easter story as you can at this point in your life, but understand that when you accept it in its fullness, a wondrous miracle of assurance and gladness will take place.

God of all Power and Might, may I never doubt that Your Son broke free from the chains of death and is ready to take my hand when it is my time!

So they went with the guard and made the tomb secure by sealing the stone. (Matthew 27: 66)

You have just read an exercise in futility. The enemies of Jesus were afraid, but their fears were ill-placed. They thought perhaps Jesus’ followers would steal His body. When one sees how they forsook their Lord on the night of his arrest and the safe distance that most of them kept during the crucifixion, one can hardly imagine their being so bold as to engineer a raiding on His tomb.

As it turned out, the tomb was indeed raided–not by the disciples of Jesus, but from within by God’s invasion of resurrection life.

Over the twenty succeeding centuries, an unbelieving culture has again and again tried to make the tomb “secure.” A series of potentates and dictators from Nero to the 21^st Century have done their worst to seal out the power of Jesus Christ. But, as I said a moment ago, it is an exercise in futility. The One who was placed in the tomb is the Lord of the Tomb–and also of all who seek to hold Him there. They may not recognize it, but this doesn’t change the fact. No wonder, then, that He is called “Lord.”

As we celebrate a Saturday that so long ago was marked by silence and despair, our hearts rejoice in the final chapter of the Easter story!

By the word of God were the heavens made, the starry host by the breath of God’s mouth. (Psalm 33: 6)

Almost every ancient culture had some kind of “creation story” that described how the earth and humankind came to be. There seems to be basic human need to account for the fact that we are here and had to come from someplace. Because most creation accounts in early civilizations were basically myths, there is a tendency among some to view the creation account in the Book of Genesis as just one more myth of an ancient people attempting to explain their origins.

When the account of creation in Holy Scripture is compared to the myths of other civilizations, there is a distinct difference. For example, the creation myth of the Chinese story of P‘an Ku is typical. The universe is said to have been formed from the body of the first human. When he died, his eyes became the sun and the moon and his hair became the trees and plants.

In contrast to this, the biblical account is laced with dignity and simplicity—a God of love creating beauty and life. While it is true that the bible does not give scientific details of the creation, it does contain logical order and a God of love in control. It tells the essential—“God said” and everything was done. And it was good.

God of power and might, may we see You in the mirror of a world that came to be simply because, “You said…”

For this reason a person shall leave father and mother and be united to his partner and the two shall become one flesh. (Ephesians 5: 31)

In spiritual arithmetic, one plus one equals one. Certainly this does not mean that an individual will lose his or her identity if they were to become involved in a covenant relationship, but the two shall become one in focus, in long-range aim and in holy destiny. Long term relationships are easy to spot if they are true. The couple usually picks up identical mannerisms and facial expressions.

In the broader sense of Scriptural context, the concept of the two becoming one is not a competitive situation, but a one-ness of mind concerning the things that really matter. No one is ever expected to give up their identity or compete for control. It simply means they are working together for common goals in a cooperative spirit.

To equate a relationship as becoming “one” would infer that there are two “half” individuals coming together to create one individual. Two individuals come together in one relationship with common aims and ideals. God never stated nor intended that personal identity would be the price paid for a loving, long-term relationship.

God of wholeness, bless the relationships of those around us and guide the goals of those into a one-ness of spirit!

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world and it is certain we can carry nothing out! (1 Timothy 6:6,7)

At age 14, Andrea Jaeger won her first professional tennis tournament. At 18, she reached the finals at Wimbledon. At 19, a bad shoulder all but put an end to her career. Many a world-class athlete may have become bitter or discontented with life at that point. Jaeger, however, turned her competitive spirit to a new endeavor, a nonprofit organization called Kid’s Stuff Foundation that attempts to bring joy to children suffering from cancer and other life threatening illnesses. Her work there has also inspired her to take correspondence studies in nursing and child psychology.

Jaeger not only created the program, but runs it full time, year-round, unpaid. “I’m inspired by these brave kids, and humbled,” she has said. “They lose their health, their friends, and sometimes their lives. And yet their spirit never wavers. They look at life as a gift. The rest of us sometimes look at ourselves as a gift to life.”

“You get very spoiled on a professional tour,” she adds with a twinkle in her eye. “The courtesy cars, the five-star hotels, the thousands of people clapping for you when you hit a good shot. It’s easy to forget what’s important in life...I forget it a lot less lately.”

Merciful Creator, open our eyes to a truer meaning of the life You have given us. Let us open our hearts to those who need love around us!

With humans this is impossible, but with God, all things are possible. (Matthew 19:26)

When lives are surrendered to the care of Jesus Christ, there is no crisis or moment that cannot be faced with confidence. Material possessions and achievements are totally inadequate to face the trials of this life. The fastest sports car, the latest state of the art computer system, the highest elected office in the land—none of these will provide the answers or the strength to face terminal illness, loss of loved ones or other tragic events that life might toss our way.

An avowed Atheist, Edwin Robinson, wrote a poem (later a song by Simon and Garfunkle) entitled “Richard Cory.” It told the story of a man with great wealth and affluence and power. He appeared to have everything that life could offer. But one day, Richard Cory went home and put a bullet through his head.

“All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” Paul advises us. A life surrendered to God can still be a life of strength that can face the day-to-day challenges. A life filled with “toys” brings about a resentment of having to leave them behind when we are called home. “Things” will not see us through life nor will they provide the pathway to eternal salvation. Earthly problems will remain earthly until a heavenly remedy is applied.

God does not tell us we cannot have our toys. But the problem comes when the toys are placed on our display shelves and God is tucked away out of sight in a drawer. Put God first and the things of this world can be enjoyed in their proper perspective.

Holy God, may I always be willing to display You as a prized possession.

Therefore all things whatsoever you would have people do to you, do even so to them; for this is the law and the prophets. (Matthew 7: 12)

I want to share with you a story of Dr. Albert Schweitzer, the famous missionary doctor who had spent his life helping the poor in Africa. This is a true story of this remarkable man.

Reporters and city officials gathered at a Chicago railroad station one afternoon in 1953. They were there to greet the doctor, who had won the 1952 Nobel Peace Prize. A few minutes after the train came to a stop, a giant of a man–six foot four–with bushy hair and a large mustache stepped from the train. Cameras flashed. City officials approached him with hands outstretched. Various ones began telling him how honored they were to meet him.

The man politely thanked them and then, looking over their heads, he asked if he could be excused for a moment. He quickly walked through the crowd until he reached the side of an elderly black woman who was struggling with two large suitcases. He picked up the bags and with a smile, escorted the woman to a waiting bus. After helping her aboard the bus, he wished her a safe journey,. Returning to the greeting party he apologized by saying, “I’m sorry I kept you waiting.”

In response to his actions, one member of the welcoming committee was heard to say in amazement and great admiration, “That’s the first time I ever saw a walking sermon!”

God of infinite love, may we be willing to forgo the praises of other humans in the interest of those less fortunate! May we be more like Jesus!

So likewise shall the heavenly Creator do also unto you, if from your hearts you do not forgive everyone who trespasses against you. (Matthew 18: 35)

Today’s reading is the parable of the servant who, when called before his master to account for a debt, threw himself before the master and begged for mercy. The master chose to ignore the debt, but the servant, when he came upon a fellow servant whose debt was but a fraction of his own, refused to give mercy and had the man thrown in prison.

Humans are often like that, refusing to let go of little trespasses, yet begging God to forgive major faults within themselves. This creates a one-sided logic that is not acceptable to God. Forgiveness and mercy toward others are both attributes that serve to define a loving God of our understanding.

The animals around us operate on instinct and mercy and compassion are not a part of that particular attribute. If you don’t believe that, watch two hungry dogs faced with just one bowl of food. Chances are you will see a “me-first, mine, mine” type behavior develop as one tries to keep the food all to himself. I watched one day at the local city park when a small duck found an abandoned french fry. Immediately upon retrieving it, the poor duck was dive-bombed by several seagulls intent on taking the morsel for themselves.

When these attitudes are found within the human community, one can be assured that God is not a big part of that person’s life. The quest for personal gain and survival is strictly an animal trait. When the human creature exhibits compassion and mercy, one can be assured that the Holy Spirit of God is alive and well in that person’s soul.

God of mercy and justice, teach me to be merciful and to exhibit the traits of Godliness in my dealings with others!

The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, will deliver me out of the hand of the Philistines. (1 Samuel 17:37)

One day the Pahouins, a native tribe of Africa, brought a giant native in chains to Dr. Albert Schweitzer’s hospital. In a fit of madness, N’Tschambi had killed a woman. Reaching down to help the man to land, Dr. Schweitzer saw fear and sadness in his face. When others refused his order to remove the man’s chains, he did it himself. He then explained sedatives to N’Tschambi, and the fearful man gratefully accepted them. That night he slept for the first time without a nightmare.

N’Tschambi became a model patient and soon Schweitzer gave him periods of freedom outside his room, to which he often returned voluntarily if he became agitated. Still, any task he was given, he tackled with a fierce energy that frightened the staff. One day Schweitzer gave him an ax and asked him to help make a clearing in the trees. N’Tschambi drew back in alarm, stating that he was afraid to touch the ax for fear of what he might do with it. Schweitzer replied, “If I’m not afraid, why should you be?”

The two then disappeared into the jungle while the entire hospital staff watched. Hours later they returned, N’Tschambi’s big body dripping with sweat but a radiant smile on his face. The giant inside him had been felled by love and kindness and the faith that another human being had placed in him.

God of mystery and love, may we not be afraid of the giants that surround us, but lead us in showing love and compassion that we might overcome evil!

…Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God… (Romans 8:39)

The story is told of a farmer who had a weather vane on the top of his barn. On the weather vane were the words, “God Loves Us.” One day a minister happened to be visiting and asked, “Are you suggesting that God’s love varies like the wind? That every time the wind changes, God’s love changes?”

“Not at all,” replied the farmer. “I mean to infer that regardless of which direction the wind might be blowing, God’s love is always with us.”

In an age of constant change, of newer and better technology, in a world where change happens moment by moment, we need to be assured that the love God has for each of us is constant and never changing. Once we come to really believe that God is the same yesterday, today and forever, we find ways to cope with the threats and disappointments that come with change.

While nothing can separate us from God’s infinite love, the world of change around us can challenge that belief and trust. Only when we realize the constancy of God can we come to firmly rely on the never-changing aspect of God in our daily walks and stride through the changes that bombard us from every side daily.

God of unchanging love, may we hold tightly to Your love as the only thing in this crazy world that does not change, and may we find hope in the security of Your constant nature!

I have glorified You on earth; I have finished the work that You gave me to do. (John 17:4)

The order from the head teacher was abrupt. “The classroom needs sweeping. Take the broom and sweep it!”

Young Booker T. Washington knew that this was his chance. He swept the room three times, and then dusted the furniture four times. When the head teacher came back to evaluate his work, she inspected the floor closely and then used her handkerchief to rub the woodwork around the walls, the table, and the student’s benches. When she could find not even a speck of dust anywhere in the room, she said quietly, “I guess you will do to enter our institution.”

Cleaning a classroom was nothing less than Booker T. Washington’s entrance exam to Hampton Institute in Virginia. In later years, he would recall this as the turning point in his life. He wrote in his autobiography, Up From Slavery, “I have passed several examinations since then, but I have always felt that this was the best one I ever passed.”

Slacking off, goofing off, and dozing off rarely opens doors of opportunity. Those doors are opened best by a consistently excellent effort on our part. Give the world your best, an effort of the same caliber today!

Gracious Creator, grant us the strength and integrity to do our best in all things that we undertake!

Watch and pray, so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is indeed willing, but the body is weak (Matthew 26: 41)

A minister told of an occasion when he was preaching—a man in the congregation fell asleep and began to snore. He snored so loudly that soon he could be heard all over the sanctuary, and the other members of the congregation began to snicker and to laugh. The laughter woke the sleeping man and he sat up, embarrassed by the incident.

The preacher stood quietly for a moment, then said, “That’s the trouble with Christians today. Half of them are asleep and the other half think it’s funny!”

When Jesus returned to the apostles after His prayer vigil, he found them asleep, but He did not laugh. He knew full well that the evening of eating and the hectic schedule they had all had the previous week had left them full and sleepy. But their sleepiness at a critical moment in Jesus’ ministry creates a sobering picture for all of us.

Physical sleepiness is not the most serious problem we experience within the church. The real problem is spiritual drowsiness. We all become so absorbed in our jobs, our recreation, our relationships and our responsibilities to the outside world, that we become spiritually sluggish in our Christian walk. We need to realize that even though half of us are asleep, the other half needs to refrain from thinking it’s funny, because souls are at stake.

Holy Creator, may we take seriously the need to remain spiritually alert in the chaos of today’s world!

I will remember the works of the Lord; surely I will remember Your wonders of old. I will meditate also of all Your works, and talk of Your doings. (Psalm 77:11,12)

For many decades Grandpa had been stubborn and crabby. His wife, the children and the grandchildren seemed to be able to do nothing that would please him. As far as he was concerned, life was filled with nothing but bad times and major problems. Eventually, his family expected only a gruff growl from the aging patriarch.

Then overnight, Grandpa changed. Gentleness and optimism marked his new personality. Positive words and compliments poured from his lips. He could even be heard giving joyful praise to the Lord. One of the family members noted, “I think maybe Grandpa has found religion.” Another replied. “Maybe so, but it might be something else. I’m going to ask him what happened.” The young man went to his grandfather and asked, “Gramps, what has caused this change so suddenly?”

“Well, son,” the old man replied, “I’ve been striving in the face of incredible problems all my life–and what for? The hope of a contented mind. It’s done no good, nope, not one bit...I’ve decided to be content without it.”

Never start counting your troubles until you’ve counted at least a hundred of your blessings. By that time, you probably won’t even think you have any troubles.

God of mercy, thank You for the blessings that remind us You are always near. We pray that they overwhelm our troubles so that we might give You praise.

The Little Girl

by John Michael Montgomery

Her parents never took the young girl to church
Never spoke of His name, never read her His word
Two non-believers walking lost in this world
Took their baby with them. What a sad little girl.

Her daddy drank all day and mommy did drugs
Never wanted to play, or give kisses and hugs
She'd watch the TV and sit there on the couch
While her mom fell asleep and her daddy went out.

And the drinking and the fighting just got worse every night
Behind their couch she'd be hiding; oh what a sad little life.

And like it always does, the bad just got worse
With every slap and every curse
Until her daddy in a drunk rage one night
Used a gun on her mom and then took his life

And some people from the city took the girl far away
To a new mom and a new dad; kisses and hugs everyday.

Her first day of Sunday school the teacher walked in
And a small little girl stared at a picture of Him

She said I know that man up there on that cross
I don't know His name, but I know He got off
Cause He was there in my old house and held me close to His side
As I hid there behind our couch the night that my parents died.

Blessed Lord Jesus, help us to know that You are beside us protecting us in good time and bad times.

Confess your faults to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. (James 5: 16)

A member of our congregation wrote to me recently saying, “I was just thinking Sunday, about being alone. About how wonderful it is to have my church family. About how down I can feel, but being with you folks brings the joy back into my heart…”

We all feel alone at times. It’s part of the human condition, and loneliness is a terrible burden if we allow it to be. But this woman has learned through personal experience that her church family is there for her. Not so long ago she was hospitalized with a heart condition and members of the church prayed intensely for her recovery. Many, including the pastor, paid daily visits to the hospital while she was there.

James exhorts us to “pray for one another” and Paul tells us to “bear one another’s burdens.” This is a strong Christian principle which some churches miss because of their structure of small groups who fail to see the broader picture. Christianity has never been a theology or philosophy of individuality. Christ surrounded himself with followers who loved Him and He loved them. It is a society of believers who lift one another and pray for one another.

Even people who have never known a physical family can be caught up in the love of a church family. The church is designed to be a supportive and uplifting group. That is true throughout the scriptures. So it is no wonder that this person feels so strongly about feeling joy when experiencing the fellowship of other believers. Psychologists will confirm that more people in the world today find the support and love they need within families of choice than within birth families. God’s wisdom is evident in the families of choice who uplift and pray for one another daily.

God of love and wisdom, I thank You for the family You have given me within my church. Thank You for the support I feel in loving friends!

Now is the time of God’s favor; now is the day of salvation. (2 Corinthians 6:2)

If you found out right now that you had only sixty days left to live, what would you do? This was asked at a staff meeting of the Guidelines publishing staff. After a few minutes of thought, one enterprising person stated, “I would stop paying my bills!”

Mark Twain once stated that he wished he knew exactly where he was going to die because he would never set foot near that place. All of us would probably have similar reactions. Death is a subject we seem to avoid. We speak in terms of “passed on” or “dearly departed.” But one fact is for certain—we will not get out of this life alive.

Long ago, Moses sat around a campfire in the desert and said, “We live out our years like one long sigh. Each of us lives for 70 years, or even 80 if we are in good health. But the best of them bring trouble and misery. Indeed, they are soon gone and we all fly away.” Then he cried out, “Teach us to number each of our days so that we may grow in wisdom.”

How would you answer the question? I know that a great number of people would immediately strive to make peace with God, rectifying wrongs, returning things they had taken years before, and making amends with friends and enemies alike. But why is it that such priorities need to wait? Mark Twain also said that we should all live in such a way that the undertaker will also be sad when we die.

The wise person does not leave things like these undone until the last minute. If we each were to live with this kind of a plan day to day, there would be no worry or concern over when our time to be called home would be. We would be in a constant state of readiness.

God of wisdom and light, You know when we are coming home. Guide us to live as if it were only moments away!

If you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth, then do this, my child, to set yourself free, since you have fallen into your neighbor’s hands: Go and humble yourself; press your plea with your neighbor. (Proverbs: 6:2,3)

A woman in a fancy luxury car waited patiently in a crowded mall lot for a parking place to open up. She drove up and down between rows until finally she saw a man with a load of packages head for his car, She followed him and parked behind him, waiting while he opened his trunk and loaded it. Finally he got into his car and backed out. Just as she was preparing to pull forward into the space, a young man in a little sports car–coming from the opposite direction–turned in front of her and zipped into the space. He got out of his car and started to walk away. The woman was livid. She shouted from her big luxury car, “Hey, young man! I was waiting for that parking space.”

The teenager turned and responded, “Sorry, lady, but that’s how it is when you’re young and quick.”

She instantly put her car in gear, floor-boarded it and crashed into the side of the sports car. It was now the teenager’s turn to jump up and down and scream, “Lady, what are you doing?”

The woman in the luxury car calmly responded, “That’s how it is when you’re old and rich!”

Most of the world’s problems could probably be resolved if we would abandon the urge to retaliate and get even. By making apologies when they are needed, we build bridges of respect and trust.

God of Justice, calm our spirits in those times when we feel we have been wronged. Help us to uplift others instead of trying to get even.

Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. (Romans 11: 22)

Consider for a moment the word “discipline.” Many have an erroneous concept of this word, usually equating it with harsh, corporal punishment. The original thought of the Greek word is a matter of instruction-- a type of teaching rather than punishment. Ideally, any punishment for wrongdoing should hold true to this concept and, in the end, teach a significant lesson about the act that was wrong.

I know of a little fellow who thought that he had his third grade teacher right where he wanted her. She was a member of local church where his father was the Pastor and he felt that this gave him some type of exemption or special privilege or exemption from accountability. As a result, when the teacher’s back was turned, the young boy poked the little girl seated in front of him, who gave out a subdued yelp, but loud enough to be heard. The young man ended up spending much of the remainder of the day standing in the corner.

We, as Christians, cannot lay claim to any exemption from accountability simply because we bear the identity of “Christian.” No human is exempt in the eyes of God from discipline of a divine nature that is designed to teach us a better way.

God of Justice, may I accept Your discipline in the best way—may I learn of my mistakes and may I learn of the better way in which You are leading me!

When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speak in his own language. (Acts 2: 6)

Pentecost is a remarkable time when, as the scriptures tell us, the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples and they saw tongues of fire and spoke to the diverse crowd so that each person in the group understood what was being said in their own language. The people were amazed that these men from Galilee could speak so fluently in a language that an hour before had baffled them.

The people in the crowd were a diverse group representing cultures from all over the known world, each with a native language that differed from the others, yet God overpowered the cultural separation of languages in such a way that everyone who heard understood.

In today’s world, our “cultural languages” are just as diverse, particularly in the realm of religious denominations. Could it be that, through the new Pentecost, the Holy Spirit guides each of us in our own “language,” speaking to each heart in a Catholic tongue, or a Baptist tongue, or whichever language opens your heart to spiritual leading?

I believe that there is no given denomination or spiritual culture that is totally right or totally wrong. Just as God’s world is diverse in color and life, so the spiritual realm holds room for individual understanding and “spiritual languages.”

Holy God of diversity, may your Holy Spirit speak to me in “my tongue” that I may draw closer in understanding to You, and may I respect the understandings of “tongues” I do not comprehend.

Has not God chosen the poor in the world to be rich in faith and to be heirs of the kingdom that he has promised to those who love Him? (James 2:3)

Not long ago I solved a word puzzle in the local newspaper that turned out to read, “A weed is any plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered.” I pondered this truth as I glanced out my window at the lawns in the neighborhood. We ruthlessly yank out what we consider to be weeds from among the plants we choose to call flowers. It also occurred to me that we can do the same thing with people. It is extremely easy for us to label others around us as being “weeds” and having no particular attributes simply because we do not understand them or approve of them.

I have often walked past homeless people asking for money with thoughts in my head like, They’ll just spend it on booze, or, I work hard for my money. Why don’t they find a job?” Without knowing anything about their background, their troubles or stresses, I choose to label them as “weeds” among society, totally lacking in virtue and possible prepared to bring harm on the “useful” plants like myself.

We should all be grateful that God does not respond to us in the same manner. In God’s eyes, all the undiscovered virtues are there in each person. The Creator is constantly at work, forming and teaching to bring each “flower” into bloom, always seeing virtues that are hidden from humanity. That homeless person is most probably closer to blooming in God’s garden than I am in the midst of my judgment and blindness.

Holy Creator, help us each to see the beauty of Your garden of Life!

Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love. (John 13: 1)

Jesus, as the Son of God, was secure in the understanding of who He was and why He had come into the world. He was secure in his origin, destiny and identity. Out of that assurance, it was not a major issue in His mind to pick up a towel and a basin of water and stoop to wash to feet of His followers.

Too often, we disciples would rather be served than to serve. I have known Pastors of churches who have set aside a certain chair as “theirs,” a special place of honor in the front of the church that lends itself more to ego than service.

Jesus was clearly superior to the disciples in every way—in holiness, in power and in intellect. Yet it did not bother Him in the least to perform menial tasks which were normally the duty of lowly servants. The One who should have received the bended knee of honor and worship displayed the bended knee of servitude. The One who should have worn the royal robe wore a towel around His waist. The One who should have carried a scepter carried a basin of water.

That evening, Jesus provided His followers with a picture they would never forget. Jesus spoke of love on many occasions, but in this setting, He demonstrated the ultimate sign of His love. They never could remove that picture from their minds, and neither should we!

God of mercy, may we be of service to each other rather than look to those who might serve us!