Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life. (Revelations 2:10)

When I was in church camp, one of the favorite bible stories for Bible drama night was the story of the beheading of John the Baptist. Perhaps it was the loyalty and commitment to God that the story demonstrated, but far more likely, it was the opportunity to do a story with a gruesome ending.

John’s life did have a gruesome, sad ending. After years of faithfulness and righteousness, acknowledged even by Herod, his murderer, John was actually beheaded at the whim of a child based on the urging of an evil mother—a woman who wanted to keep John from continually harassing Herod by pointing out his sins. She thought that she could silence him forever. But it didn’t work. True, Herodias was able to have John killed, but Herod obviously still heard his voice. It haunted him day in and day out, and when the king heard of Jesus and His teachings, he feared that John had returned from the dead.

John’s teachings and presence are still very much felt in today’s world. The calling on humanity to “prepare…the way for the Messiah” is still an important message that we, as regenerated Christians, are called on to share with our brothers and sisters. It is highly unlikely that any of us will suffer being beheaded for our message as John was, but one thing is for certain. The message we share with others will live on long after we have gone home, just as John’s message is alive and vibrant today.

So how is your world stacking up? Are you committed to sharing that message of good news, or have the concerns and cares of the world clouded your vision? Are the earthly, temporal things of life keeping you from being totally committed to a message of hope that will live long after you are gone?

God of righteousness, give us the strength and commitment that John had in bringing Your message to those we love!

Withdraw thy foot from thy neighbor’s house, lest he be weary of thee, and so hate thee. (Proverbs 25:17)

A man and his wife once met a young couple about their own age during a get-acquainted meeting after church. The next Sunday when they spotted the newcomers again, they invited them to their home for coffee after the Sunday evening service. The newcomers happily accepted their invitation.

Both the conversation and the coffee and treats were warm and cozy, but the evening began to grow long. Still, the young couple-perhaps overly eager to make friends-talked on and on about their move to the city, the learning curve they were experiencing in their new jobs, the difficulty they had settling their children into new schools, their long search for a church home, the trials of finding a dentist, doctor, shoe repairman, and dry cleaning establishment.

No matter how many times the host and hostess yawned or failed to reply, the couple had more to say. Finally, even the visiting couple began to yawn. Still, they made no motion toward leaving.

At long last, the host stood to his feet and with a wide stretch of his arms, he looked at his wife and said, “Well, darlin’, let’s go to bed so these nice folks can go home.”

Your chances of being invited for a return visit are better when you don’t wear out your welcome.

God of Love, make me sensitive to others so that I might not become over-bearing. Let us build our friendships and love on respect for each other and each other’s time.

John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord.’”(John 1:23)

A recent television series revolved around a man whose identity had been electronically erased by his enemies. He spent the entire show trying to reestablish who he was, with very little success.

John the Baptist’s identity was questioned critically by many of those who heard him preach and saw the influence that he had over others. However, the questions of those who questioned him did not intimidate John. He had a very clear sense of who he was and who he was not. Most importantly, he knew the purpose for which he had been placed on earth—to proclaim the message of repentance in preparation for the coming of Jesus Christ. Nothing could distract him from that purpose.

As Christians, we also may face times when people question us about who we are and what right we have to speak on certain issues, especially if those issues are controversial ones. In those times, it is important for us to draw on our sense of who we are and who we are not. We need to prayerfully examine and accept what God has called us to do and avoid that which God has called someone else to do. We have God’s authority to speak the Word and make God’s will and love known to a troubled world. Without that acceptance of our calling, we have no identity in God.

Just who are you and what is God calling you to do?

God of guidance, show us the way You would have us walk and guide us on the path that You place before us!

Jesus said, “Whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in my name, truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward.

For several weeks, Mrs. Sherman’s first-grade class had waited for the field trip to the observatory. Notices had been sent home with instructions about the bus, lunch, and times of departure and return. For us students, waiting for the field trip was like waiting for Christmas.

Finally, the day arrived. We grabbed our lunches and coats and lined up for the bus. In the back of the room, one boy began to cry because he had forgotten to bring his lunch and that meant that he would have to stay behind with another teacher. In a few minutes, the other children had contributed extra sandwiches, fruit, desserts and drinks until the boy had a feast for his lunch. With new tears, this time tears of gratitude, he grabbed his coat, lined up, and climbed on board the bus with the rest of his class.

We had given him a “cup of cold water.” Acts of service are not always dramatic or earth-shattering. Simple caring is all that is needed. Discipleship means being alert for opportunities to care, to demonstrate God’s loving-kindness, and to teach others to do the same.

Loving God, show us ways to care, to provide for the needs of others, and to demonstrate Your love in real ways!

For God chose us before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in God’s sight. In love the Creator predestined us to be adopted sons and daughters through Jesus Christ, in accordance with God’s pleasure and will. (Ephesians 1:4,5)

Dear (Insert your name here):

Did you know that you were in my mind even before the creation of the world? Did you know that I knew you would be born on (Insert your birthday here), and that you would desperately need a Savior?

Think for a moment, my child, that My Son put on flesh and came to your world, not just for a global mass of humanity in a general way, but especially for you—personally.

Because He did what I asked of him, I now can be your parent—I can call you my own. If you will allow Me, I will give you blessing, I will teach you and I will share with you My wisdom. Experience My power and gifts through My Holy Spirit. Ask Me, just ask Me, and I will use you to lead and nurture in fellowship your fellow humans.

I’m preparing a very special place for you where you can enjoy life fully as it is meant to be. You see, I want to meet with you—face to face. I want you to see Me, face to face!

My joy is to be your joy. My hope is to be your hope. With my wisdom and love flowing through you, put your hand in Mine and enjoy life beyond compare.

Love, God

Holy God, I know that nothing can compare with what You have prepared for me. I pray that even now I can glimpse bits and pieces of it while You hold my hand.

The just person walks in integrity; their children are blessed after them. (Proverbs 20:7)

A man was asked to give a commencement address several years ago and as he sat on the platform after the speech watching the graduates receive their college diplomas, the entire audience began applauding for a student who had earned a perfect 4.0 grade point average. During the applause, the faculty member seated next to him leaned over and said, “She may be Miss Genius, but her attitude stinks.” The speaker later said, Without even thinking, my hands stopped clapping for her in mid-air. I couldn’t help but think, How sad!”

No matter how beautiful, intelligent, talented or athletic a child may be...there’s no substitute for a child, or any human being, having a loving attitude toward others. The foremost architect of that attitude is not going to be teachers or pastors, but rather parents.

We must be careful in the attitudes we feed our children or those who look to us as role models. They become the diet of the minds for those watching us. Don’t feed others junk ideas, sour opinions, rotten theology, poison feelings or wilted enthusiasm. Instead, feed them with the best and most positive ideas, expressions of feelings and opinions that you have to offer.

Blessed Creator, fill our hearts and minds with positive things so that we may share with those who watch us and learn.

A merry heart does good like a medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones. (Proverbs 17:22)

Standup comedian and author, David Brenner, was signing books in a San Francisco bookstore when a young man handed him a newly purchased copy to be autographed and said softly, “I want to thank you for saving my life.” Brenner flippantly replied, “That’s OK.” The young man stood his ground and said, “No, I really mean it.”

Brenner stopped signing and looked at him. The young man continued, “My father died. He was my best friend. I loved him and I couldn’t stop crying for weeks. I decided to take my own life. The night I was going to do it, I happened to have the TV on and you were hosting the Tonight Show. Next thing I knew, I was watching you and laughing. Then I started laughing hysterically. I realized that if I could laugh, then I could live. So I want to thank you for saving my life.” Humbled and grateful, Brenner shook the young man’s hand and said, “No-thank you!”

Laughter does more than help us escape our problems. It sometimes gives us the courage to face them. As humorous author Barbara Johnson has said: “Laughter is like changing a baby’s diaper. It doesn’t permanently solve the problem, but it makes things more acceptable for awhile.”

Creator of Joy, may we laugh at the world around us and at ourselves that we might find joy in the everyday things of our lives!

We have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace. (Ephesians 1:7)

A few years ago, a friend sent a telegram to ten trusted individuals with the message: “All is discovered. Flee at once!” All ten left the country immediately. That practical joke may not have been funny for the victims, but I’ve often wondered what was in their minds that made them depart so hastily.

Technology being what it is today, there are few secrets. Perhaps you have an unlisted phone number to protect your privacy, but if you give your phone number when you purchase an airline ticket or fill out a credit application, your phone number is no longer private. It goes into data banks that can be accessed on the Internet in about three keystrokes. Furthermore, if you have ever been involved in a lawsuit, that information is readily accessible to the general public. Technology is not always your friend.

Of course, God has always had instant access. The writer of Hebrews says, “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of the One to Whom we must give account.” (Hebrews 4:13). Someday, even the secrets of the heart will be revealed by God, who will then judge us according to our works. That thought would send shivers down my spine apart from the understanding that God forgives, clears the slate, and even removes the offense from the Divine memory.

Is there anything in the data bank of your memory that God hasn’t dealt with because you have never sought forgiveness? If the answer is yes, you need to ask God to deal with that, to forgive you, to blot it out of memory. Does God do that? Isaiah 43:25 says, “I, even I, am the One who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more.”

The grace of God embraces forgiveness, which allows me to be completely whole and forgiven. The nagging worry of “What if this were found out?” vanishes when you realize what the Scriptures say about God’s forgiveness.

Search our hearts, most loving Creator, that we might realize our sins and come to You, Who is waiting and willing to forget our transgressions!

Jesus said, “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.” (John 13:14)

At the Passover Feast, Jesus the master became a servant and washed the feet of his followers. Jesus encouraged His disciples to adopt an attitude of service; He instructed them to follow His example and to wash one another’s feet.

We may not literally wash feet, but we serve one another in every act of caring. Some of us help young children with baths, dressing and meals. Some of us help older adults with shopping, bathing or housecleaning. Others help those who are physically ill or challenged and need assistance with daily routines.

When we care for one another, we become the arms and hands of God. God’s Holy Spirit moves through us to touch the lives of others with love. God recognizes the sacrifices we make to meet the needs of others.

Who’s feet have you washed today?

Blessed Creator, may we be Your hand and Your arms in the lifting up of all who need our help!

I will make the creature a help-mate, suitable for his needs. (Genesis 2:18)

A young couple was on the verge of ending their relationship when they went to their Pastor for counseling. The Pastor gave each one a pencil and paper. “Make a list of the things you want more than you want peace and happiness,” the Pastor told the couple.

Both individuals looked at each other, then at the blank paper. Neither was willing to list anything under that criteria.

So the Pastor asked, “What did you quarrel about yesterday?”

One said, “I want us to have a new dishwasher.”

The other said, “And I want to save some money in the bank for emergencies.”

“OK,” the Pastor responded. “Then you both have something in mind that you want more than you want peace and happiness. Write those down on the paper.”

The couple looked at each other. “We can get the dishwasher,” one conceded. “No,” the other replied, “we really do need to save money. We’ll put it in the bank.”

When two become one, sometimes it is difficult to determine, “which one.” People sometimes tend to approach relationships with the intent on changing the other person into what he or she would like them to be. The answer to “which one” really is “neither one.” Each person gives up something, almost as if it were a gift, so that they can come to oneness of understanding and the quest for common goals. When the top priority is given to harmony and peace, a lot of selfish and personal wishes get forgotten along the way.

God of peace, we pray that we will be willing to set aside our personal wishes for small things to achieve the bigger gift of peace and harmony!

Can a woman forget nursing her child, or show no compassion for the child in her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you. See, I have inscribed you on the palms of my hands. (Isaiah 49:15-16)

“Remember me,” someone asks. I struggle in vain to connect a name with the smiling face before me. The face is familiar, perhaps something from the past, but trying to remember the name is difficult and embarrassing. The question often puts me on the spot.

Finally, in the midst of my embarrassment, I stammer, “No, I don’t. Refresh my memory.” This predicament can be frustrating, especially when it occurs with the same person more than once.

We function in many roles, and our lives propel us in various directions. During our lifetime we will meet countless people, many of whom we will never see only once. But God knows each of us individually and calls each of us by name. In fact, God knows that even the hairs on our head are numbered. Because of God’s immense love, our images are inscribed on the Divine Hands.

Many of the people we encounter today will forget us–and we will forget them. But we can approach God any time, day or night, and ask, “Remember me?” And without the slightest hesitation, God will reply, “Yes, of course I do!” Our Creator will never forget us or forsake us.

Holy and loving God, thank You for always remembering us and for being there when we need You!

O give thanks to the Lord, for the Lord is good. (Psalm 136: 1)

In a small Georgia town, a young couple was walking home from their work at a cotton mill. The foreman from their job walked with them until he reached his home. In the front yard of his home was a peach tree with three large peaches hanging on it. When the couple remarked how wonderful the peaches looked, the foreman picked two of the peaches and gave one to each of them. Not satisfied with just one peach each, the couple crept back after dark and picked the one remaining peach, leaving the tree bare of any fruit.

In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve were given total control over all the created things, the animals, the plants, the fruit trees, etc., but human nature set in and that which was off-limits became attractive to a point of over-stepping one simple boundary that God had put in place.

Are there things of this world that you know in your heart are off-limits or not good for you and your spiritual life and growth? Satan has a way of making those things in particular look very attractive.

There exists all around us the need to reach out. Homeless people have little or no food or places to rest their head. Children of poverty have no new clothes or toys. But far too many of us have our eyes on the televisions where we are bombarded with great offers of gadgets and toys that will most likely be abandoned within a very short time.

At this time of year, wouldn’t it be better to help water and prune the peach tree rather than steal the last remaining bit of fruit on it’s branches?

God of love and compassion, may we find the compassion and spirit to reach out and help, rather than reach out and grab!

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith...(Hebrews 12:2)

During a weekend revival meeting, a twelve year old boy had accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior and Lord. The following week, his school friends questioned him about the experience.

“Did you hear God talk?” asked one friend.

“No,” the boy answered.

Another queried, “Did you have a vision?”

“No,” the boy replied.

“Well,” a third friend asked, “then how do you know it was God?”

The young boy thought for a moment and then said, “It’s like when you go fishing. You can’t see the fish or hear the fish; you just feel him tugging on your line. I felt God tugging on my heart.”

So often we try to figure out life by what we can see, hear, or experience with our natural senses. We make calculated estimates and judgments based on empirical evidence. There’s a level of truth, however, that cannot be perceived by the senses or measured objectively. It’s at that level where faith abounds. It is our faith that compels us to believe, even when we cannot explain to others why or how or to what specific earthly ends. By our faith we only know in Whom we trust. And that is sufficient.

God of mercy and love, may we know Your presence simply because we believe!

Then the eyes of both of them were opened and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves. (Genesis 3: 7)

It all started with an apple. God had told Adam and Eve that they could pick and eat any of the fruit in the garden, but this one lone tree was to be left alone. They were not to touch the fruit of that particular tree. It was, as scripture tells us, the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Without the discernment of good or evil, they did not understand their nakedness and there was nothing to be ashamed of.

The knowledge of good and evil, the differences in each human being, the variances in instilled value systems, all these combined serve to create judgmental-ism within each of us, and this judgmental-ism and comparisons between ourselves and those around us creates the “I want – me first” attitude that seems to rule the world today.

Each time we cry out, “I want, I want,” or “what about me? – what’s in it for me?”, we are plucking another apple from the same tree that Adam and Eve were told not to touch. The world is so busy picking the apples from that tree that most people cannot see the truths Jesus came to teach us. The tree of knowledge of good and evil did not disappear from the garden when Adam and Eve were driven out. It still exists today and is constantly being harvested by those who seek personal recognition, honor and a distinguished place above others. It is the self-seeking human beings on their own pedestals that are picking the fruit of that very same tree.

John spoke of the lamb “who takes away the sin of the world.” Note that he speaks of a single “sin,” not a multitude of sins. That sin is “self”! Jesus taught us to serve others, to wash feet and to be compassionate toward all. It’s time to get outside of ourselves and stop picking the apple. Leave the apple alone!

God of all creation, may we see through Your Son the opportunities that will lead us away from the apple tree and into the service of others!

Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your sibling; then come and offer your gift. (Matthew 5: 23, 24)

In the congregation of Corinth there were some tense times at the fellowship meals. The church was made up of people who were very diverse in nature. Some were rich and some were poor. Part of the church celebration in this community was a combination potluck and communion service. When the rich folks came to the service, they ate heartily of what they and their friends had brought. When the workers showed up later, with less food, they felt left out and rightly so. Paul wrote his letter to them in part to point out that what was intended and “communing,” or coming together, was not really what was happening. Paul pointed out that if they were unable to show Christian fellowship in a “communion” service, they should forget the potluck and eat at home.

Communion means together whether it is in the solemn, reflective observance of the Lord’s supper or in the bubbly atmosphere of a church gathering. It is still communion.

We need to remember that Christ knew no class structures. We need to be able to leave our degrees, our company positions, our IQ’s and overall agendas at the door and meet everyone in “communion” on a level plane, a plane of mutual respect and dignity as equals in the eyes of the heavenly Parent.

Father-Mother-Parent God, look down with mercy upon Your children and the sibling rivalry that the world engages in. Help us to love and respect one another as equals in Your unerring sight!

And be kind one to another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake has forgiven you. (Ephesians 4:32)

An old legend tells of a covey of quail that lived in a forest. They would have been happy except for their enemy, the quail catcher. He would imitate their call, and then when they gathered together, he would throw a net over them, stuff them into his hunting basket, and carry them off to market.

One wise quail said, “Brothers and sisters, I have a plan. When the fouler puts his net over us, we each should put our heads through a section of the net and flap our wings in unison. We can lift the net and fly away with it.” All were in agreement. The next day, they did just that, making a successful escape. After several days, the fowler’s wife asked him, “Where are the quail to take to market?” He replied, “The trouble is that all the birds work together and help one another escape.”

Awhile later, one quail began to fight with another. “I lifted all the weight on the net. You didn’t help at all!” he complained. The other quail became angry and before long, the entire covey was quarreling. The fouler saw his chance. He imitated the cry of the quail and cast his net over them. Preoccupied with the quarreling, they didn’t help one another and lift the net in flight.

If we concentrate on the faults of others, we lose sight of our togetherness and helpfulness, and that can be the undoing of all concerned.

Holy God of Justice and Love, guide us in our interactions with one another that we might uplift and help and keep us from the snare of the evil one that can happen when our focus is on the negative things!

Martha said to Jesus, “I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God.” (John 11:27)

I watched one afternoon as a squirrel scampered down the tree outside my house. It saw me and, for a moment, stopped and hung upside down, studying me carefully. Its bright eyes darted from side to side. I sighed. I felt that life had just turned upside down for me and I was envious of the little creature who could cling so effortlessly upside down and wished I could manage the same thing.

I’m not alone when it comes to feeling the upheaval of the world. Events had turned Martha’s life upside down. Her beloved brother, Lazarus, had died. And the one person who could have made a difference had, inexplicably, shown up four days too late. Martha could have asked “Why?” but chose instead to say, “I believe.”

When we do not understand the turmoil around us, our natural inclination is to panic rather than trust. But Martha’s example teaches us that Christ always knows timing. Our trust in God can keep us stable in the most tumultuous of times.

Most Holy God, Your timing is always right. Help us to hold on when our world is topsy-turvy, knowing that You will be there!

The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers. (1 Peter 3:12)

Many years ago, prior to the building of the Interstate Highways, many northern motorists learned of a speed trap on the road to Florida. The sign was plain: 35 mph. But the road was clear and local motorists were zipping along at 50. However, if a Michigan license plate just moved with the flow of traffic, the driver went to court and paid a heavy fine.

Christians are out-of-state drivers on this earth. Peter calls us “strangers and sojourners.” It is no surprise that people of the earth, the worldly majority, are setting up “speed traps” for the believers in hopes of catching us doing or saying something wrong as we pass through on our way to heaven.

Around us non-Christians are “speeding” and driving recklessly with obscene language, lying, pushing selfish agendas and indulging in all sorts of behavior that they would immediately confront in another if they saw it. A double standard exists if one is known to be a Christian.

So what should we do? Peter suggests that we follow the “Speed limit.” In other words, if Christian behavior is defined a certain way, we need to live that way and give no cause or credence to those who watch for some spiritual infraction.

Anyone out there got a better idea than that?

Holy God of Justice, may we walk in Your light and walk a right path as the world waits to ensnare us in its own behavior!

Be strong and of good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God doth go with thee, Who will not fail thee nor forsake thee. (Deuteronomy 31:6)

On a summer morning as he was fixing his breakfast, Ray Blankenship looked out his window to see a young girl being swept along in the rain-flooded drainage beside his Ohio home. Blankenship knew that farther downstream, the ditch disappeared with a roar underneath the road and emptied into a main culvert.

Ray dashed from his home and raced along the ditch, trying to get ahead of the flailing child. Finally, he hurled himself into the deep, churning water. When he surfaced, he was able to grab the girl’s arm. The two tumbled end over end and then, within about three feet of the yawning culvert, Ray’s free hand felt something protrude from the bank. He clung to it desperately, the tremendous force of the water trying to tear him and the child away.

By the time fire department rescuers arrived, Blankenship amazingly had pulled the girl to safety. Both were treated for shock. In that heroic moment, Ray Blankenship was at even greater risk than most people realized–he could not swim.

Today, let your response to the needs of others be made out of courage and trust in God, not out of personal fear.

Holy Creator, in our dealings with one another, may Your Holy Spirit fill us with courage that we do not have. May You guide us and strengthen us to do things that we cannot or will not do on our own!

This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise of Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 3:6)

Some great gifts come into our lives quietly, even without awareness. They may not come because of our effort or planning; they simply happen and show up. Consider the gift of God’s love. This great gift may come to us in unexpected places or times, by surprising means.

I think of my neighbor, who enjoys gardening and grows lovely flowers in his backyard. Though a tall fence separates our yards, through a small hole a vine of dark green leaves has now overflowed into my side, bringing unexpected beauty to my own yard.

This vine has caused me to consider the sometimes subtle ways God comes into our lives. Though we may attempt to fence God out, the Spirit of God in Jesus Christ comes in through even the tiniest openings. Small tendrils of love come into our minds and souls, sharing God’s greatness and grace until we recognize God’s presence. Whether this love comes quietly or openly, it brings beauty and healing to make us whole on the inside, as much as we will allow.

Loving God, may the vines of Your love invade my space through every tiny opening that I am unaware of until I can stand in Your presence and know with all certainty that You are walking with me!

He is the image of the invisible God, the first-born over all creation. (Colossians 1: 15)

We often find ourselves compared to one or both parents. Many times I have been told that I look like my father, or that I have my mother’s smile or distinct way of laughing. Family traits can also go beyond looks or sounds and can be noticeable in attitudes and other actions.

This portion of Scripture emphasizes that God revealed Himself to us through His Son, Jesus Christ. What we see in Christ and what we hear through Christ’s teachings are the very mind of God. The family resemblance of attitude and action is unmistakable. Our understanding of the world and its meaning is found in terms of the spiritual ends confirmed in Christ. The created universe with all its physical aspects is an unfolding of the mind of God through Christ. In a lesser fashion, we see this revealed in our physical universe in the beauty of spring and fall.

We know God fully through the animated Spirit of Christ who brings the church to life. We each, in our daily walks, also bear a familiar family resemblance to the God and the Christ in whom we believe and follow.

God of love, may our resemblance to You and Your Son continue to grow and lead others in our daily walks!

Scripture: John 12: 44-50

Verse for Today: I have come as a light into the world, that whosoever believes in me may not remain in darkness. (John 12:46)

Jesus Christ came into a dark and depressed world to bring light and encouragement. Many heard His message, believed, and accepted the promise it offered. Others heard, wanted to believe, but were too afraid of their religious leaders and their religious heritage to speak openly about their belief. There were also those who heard the message and chose to openly reject it.

The same scenario exists today. There are those who choose to believe and are sure that Jesus is the Christ and have made Him their personal Savior. There are those who mentally accept the belief that He is Christ but are afraid of the ridicule of peers or that they might have to loosen their hold on worldly possessions. And there are those who have heard the gospel message and choose to reject it without giving it much thought at all.

Sometimes it is difficult to believe in things we cannot see, yet the Book of Hebrews gives ample proof of such beliefs in both the old and new testaments. Our personal lives, when we reflect back on times of need and our prayers addressing those needs, will carry their own proof in answered prayers and salvation from various situations that probably frightened or confused us.

When we stand firm in our trust and belief, God will bless us and lift us up. We need only to examine our relationship with the Divine through our own experiences, pray for guidance as we study God’s word, and the assurance we seek in the face of the unseen and unknown will make itself clear. We will find that we are part of a vast community of believers and we shall be filled with “joy unspeakable.”

God of love and revelation, open our eyes to the unseen that we might believe even more certainly that You are by our side!

For they loved the praise of others rather than the praise of God. (John 12: 43)

We live in a society today where we find it more and more difficult to trust or believe the words of the people around us. It was not so long ago that I recall my father conducting business based on a handshake. It was a time when honor among people could be assured through that ancient gesture. People would often exchange great plots of land with little more than a verbal agreement and a handshake to seal the exchange.

In today’s world we find ourselves bombarded with insincerity, promises on the news and from politicians, offers in the mail that are too good to be true, and we are faced with a society that is skeptical about everything that is placed in front of it. This is totally in contrast to what we know of the Word of God. It is the same yesterday, today and will be tomorrow. It is truth! The Word of God is something we can depend on and something we know that will not change. We know that the promise of salvation and an eternity with God are promised and are awaiting all who accept Jesus Christ.

As we reflect on the transient gods of the material world that far too many of us worship, many of us wonder how we could be so blind. We each need to ask, “What idols am I worshiping today? Money? Computers? Other People? Drugs or alcohol?” These false idols come and go. They are elusive and unfulfilling. It is comforting to know that the God of Truth will remain the same today, tomorrow and forever.

God of unchanging steadfastness, may You be the only “Idol” that we turn to each day!

“Put your trust in the light while you have it, so that you may become children of the light.” (John 12:36)

Cats are noted for seeing things in the darkness that the human eye cannot see. But a cat cannot see in total darkness. The eyes of the cat do not require much light for the animal to see plainly. Its eyes are adaptable to admit all the light that there is. Similarly a young person’s eyes admit more light than an elderly person’s eyes. Therefore, younger people can see to read or drive in light that is hazardous to an older person.

Wickedness thrives in the dark. Note that most burglaries, muggings and other wicked behavior happen more often in darkened surroundings. The perpetrators seem to think that in the darkness no one will see them—but God sees perfectly in darkness. Good lighting in the streets can reduce crime and make roadways safer, but it will have no bearing on judgment day. God sees in perfect darkness.

Spiritually, God has provided the world with a light that can shine in the darkest of corners and recesses. God’s Holy word and the witness of Jesus Christ light up a pathway for every life. We have no excuse for stumbling in the dark and making wrong turns or steps. And it is shear foolishness to try to hide our stumblings.

Our spiritual eyesight can be adjusted by focusing on the light that God has revealed through Jesus Christ, by opening our minds to the teachings of the Holy Scriptures and through that process our spiritual eyesight can improve with age even though our eyes may dim in the light of the material world.

God of light and love, open our eyes to the light You have given the world that we may see clearly the truths and ways we are to follow!

I am the light of the world: whoever follows me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have everlasting light. (John 8: 12)

The last thing I want to do is to try driving in a blizzard on unfamiliar roads, but that is where I found myself one February night headed north from Salt Lake City. If there had been a place to stop and stay the night, we would have taken advantage of it, but with conventions and other activities, the only choice seemed to be to continue driving.

We crept along slowly straining to see the guardrails and signs of where the road might be. After some time, the yellow fog lights of an eighteen-wheeler appeared in the distance before us. His rig was well-lighted front and rear and I approached him from the rear and settle in behind him.

What a relief it was to find a “leader” on a dark and stormy night. Before too long I noticed that if we began to lag behind a bit, he would slow down for us. That kind of courtesy really helped in a sticky situation.

The same is true of our “dark nights” and trying times in our earthly walk. Jesus is the light of the world and if we just keep our eyes on Him, we will not wander off the “safe road.” Jesus knows the way and shows us the way, but especially with His “bright” example, we can safely maneuver the roads of this life until we come into the safety and comfort of the home we were prepared for.

God of wisdom, guide our walk through life by shedding the Light of the World on the paths we need to walk!

Therefore God again set a certain day, calling it Today, when a long time later he spoke through David, as was said before, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” (Hebrews 4:7)

“The fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much,” wrote the apostle James in his epistle. And history has proved him to be right. Prayer is such a powerful force in the world and far too many people fail to resort to it or rely on it.

Many people monitor their prayer life through the use of a prayer diary or some similar physical measuring device. Compiling a list of answered prayers will remind us of God’s mighty works on a personal level. Keeping a list of things we desire and people we seek help for is a definite means of covering all the things we feel the need to speak to God about.

I have a friend who keeps a “prayer jar.” She is always more than willing to add items to her daily prayer list on behalf of friends and acquaintances and is quite determined and thorough in her dedication to praying for people and situations that she has promised she would. She said that after praying a month for certain things, she writes the request on a piece of paper and places it in the prayer jar, almost as if she were retiring that need. It is, she says, a letting go so that God can work on it. At the end of the year, it is amazing to open the jar and to realize how many prayers were answered and to examine exactly how the answers came about.

Acknowledging the answers to our prayers is a means of instilling within ourselves a sense of gratitude for a God Who cares so much for us and also serves to bolster our trust and faith in an unfailing God.

God of faithfulness and compassion, may our eyes be opened to the multitude of answered prayers, those actually prayed and those we haven't even spoken yet!

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves (Philippians 2:3)

For those who gain their wealth unjustly, through scams or deceit, and ultimately deny others of the things that are rightfully theirs, God stand in judgment against them. James’ description in the reading for today is a lifestyle of self-indulgence, luxury and extravagance gained at the cost of others.

The greedy people can also be guilty of this through taking the opposite extreme, that of miserly living. For many years, Hetty Green was called America’s greatest miser. When she died in 1916, she left an estate valued at $100 million, a vast fortune for that day. But she was so miserly that she ate cold oatmeal in order to save the expense of heating water.

When her son had a severe leg injury, she took so long trying to find a free clinic to treat him that he had to have his leg amputated because of severe infection. People say that she hastened her own death because she refused to eat properly.

Either extreme in our dealings with worldly possessions place us in danger of judgment. We need to seek a balance in our lives of respecting the earthly possessions that God so freely will give us and remember to honor the gifts with appropriate sharing and tithing.

Holy God, we honor You today for the gifts You so graciously give. May we never forget to honor the gifts through sharing with others.

Scripture: Matthew 18: 1-4

Verse For Today: Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19: 14)

There are times when we simply do not know what to do, no matter how old we are of how mature we might be. In those moments, we want to trust in God, but it’s often difficult to actually step out in faith.

During World War II, the King of England ordered an evacuation of children from the bomb-torn areas of London. Since many of the youngsters had never been away from home before, they were upset. A mother and father put their young son and daughter aboard a crowded train and said good-bye.

The little girl began to cry. She told her brother she was scared because she didn’t know where they were going. Brushing his tears away, he put his arm around her to comfort her. “I don’t know where we’re going either,” he said. “But the King knows.”

Many of us feel uprooted, unwanted and alone. But though we may not always understand the feelings of our family, our peers or society in general, we can trust in the fact that God understands and knows where we are and where we are going. After all, if we trust, God is doing the leading. By trusting and loving God, we can be assured that someone knows where we are at all times and is watching over us.

Holy Parent, take my hand in the confusion of being lost, rejected, or just feeling like I’m floating alone. I’m confident that You know where I am!

Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread. (Luke 24:35)

A volunteer missionary was returning from Africa to her home in Ohio. Her brother was doing a mission internship in Austria, but time and money did not permit her to arrange to visit him. However, she and a traveling companion had some free time to do some sightseeing in Venice. While standing beside one of the canals, she was suddenly interrupted when a young man called her name. It was her brother who had heard her laugh and said to himself, “That is my sister’s laugh.” He immediately identified her presence by the familiar sound of her laughter.

Jesus came to the disciples and through the familiar scene of breaking bread, His presence became openly known to them. Was it His gentleness, His prayerfulness, or perhaps the memory of another time when He had broken bread for them in a similar manner. Whatever it was, truth came in the person of Jesus Christ. Their hearts “burned” when He opened their eyes to scripture, and truth was confirmed by His very presence.

The early church, while persecuted in the open, held various signs by which others would identify them. The most prominent was a simple drawing of a fish. Today, we have the same opportunities for identification with Christ. We can demonstrate it by our faith and trust, or compassion for others or our willingness to do what is right when all those around us might laugh and say “Everybody does it!” Being identified with Jesus Christ is made known by imitating His life and doing things the Jesus would do them.

God of love, walk with me when my walk is going against the tide, but still going in Your direction!

But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God (Hebrews 10: 12)

We communicate with other people not only through speech, but in ways that are very diverse. Body language is a big thing when we are cruising for a date, a one-night stand or just companionship.

Years ago, the comedy team of Laurel and Hardy were great personal friends. The wife of Mr. Hardy tells of a tender moment when the quality of their friendship was expressed. Hardy had suffered a stroke and could no longer speak, but Laurel, when he came to visit, used body language and signs to communicate with his friend, something they had done for years in the making of comedy movies. Their acquired skills of pantomime served them well in sealing their bond of friendship.

Is there such a thing as “Spiritual sign language?” I believe that God spoke to us in this way through the words and actions of Jesus Christ. The Savior not only spoke of new ministry and love through parables, but taught us through his walk and actions. His supreme communication of love was expressed as He took the sins of humanity to a wooden cross and dispensed with them forever. Through His death, the signal was sent that our sins disappear into a sea of forgetfulness.

God of Love and Mercy, may the language of our bodies send a message of love and compassion to those around us.