We are going to use this song for our Good Friday service. I asked two of our seniors if they would be willing to put a video together for me for this song. I was wanting them to be part of the service and this could be a way that they could be involved using their gifts and passions.
I just received the video about 15 minutes ago. I think that it is fantastic and it lends to the mood we want in a fantastic way. After, I saw the video, I knew that I wanted to upload it to YouTube and share it with individuals.
Please take 5 minutes and take a look at the video. I think they did a great job putting the video together. GREAT JOB GUYS !!!!
The thoughts and writings on this blog are the thoughts of Jeff and do not necessarily represent the views of Grace First Parish of Russell and/or Lutheran Campus Ministry of Southwest Minnesota State University.
Showing posts with label Lent. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lent. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Monday, March 17, 2008
It Is Holy Week !!!
This morning as I put on my shoes in the living room, I was reminded that it is Holy Week and my first thought was, "it does not seem like Holy Week".
I am not sure if it is the time of the year (early) or that the Holy Week schedule this year seems "uncrowded". But that is how I was feeling.
Some of that changed when I arrived at the church and realized that Maunday Thursday and Good Friday were close and there was still work to do regarding these events.
This year, we are the "hosts" for the Sedar Meal. This should be very interesting. I am hoping that I can pull it off and that I will not stumble over the scripture readings and the leader portions of the program.
I think that I am more concerned with making a mess with the food or doing something completely wrong as people are looking to/at me to see "how it is done". I can see it now, I will have haroseth all over me as it drips from the bitter herb.
Thus, this morning, I met with individuals from the church to make sure that I knew what I was going to be doing and for us to make sure that everything was in place or as close to in place as it can be.
I also then went over video and sound for the Good Friday Service. I am leading the service. The service is one that I have done before but it is "new" to/for this church. We are doing a Reverse Advant. It should be a good service and I think it will highlight what the disciples were feeling as Jesus was taken away from them.
It will be a little "dark and gloomy" but that Friday was not a great time of celebration. But, hey, anytime you can have a Beetles song in the service, it has to be great, right ?
More on those services and Holy Week moments that stand out to me throughout the week.
I am not sure if it is the time of the year (early) or that the Holy Week schedule this year seems "uncrowded". But that is how I was feeling.
Some of that changed when I arrived at the church and realized that Maunday Thursday and Good Friday were close and there was still work to do regarding these events.
This year, we are the "hosts" for the Sedar Meal. This should be very interesting. I am hoping that I can pull it off and that I will not stumble over the scripture readings and the leader portions of the program.
I think that I am more concerned with making a mess with the food or doing something completely wrong as people are looking to/at me to see "how it is done". I can see it now, I will have haroseth all over me as it drips from the bitter herb.
Thus, this morning, I met with individuals from the church to make sure that I knew what I was going to be doing and for us to make sure that everything was in place or as close to in place as it can be.
I also then went over video and sound for the Good Friday Service. I am leading the service. The service is one that I have done before but it is "new" to/for this church. We are doing a Reverse Advant. It should be a good service and I think it will highlight what the disciples were feeling as Jesus was taken away from them.
It will be a little "dark and gloomy" but that Friday was not a great time of celebration. But, hey, anytime you can have a Beetles song in the service, it has to be great, right ?
More on those services and Holy Week moments that stand out to me throughout the week.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Lent: Friday, Second Week
Yes or No
The devotional today was thought provoking for me today.
The devotional touched based with Abraham as he set out to follow God even though he did not know where he was going.
We are called by Jesus. He says, "follow me". We have an invitation, what will we do with that invitation? For me, it comes down to one word - trust. Trusting God is being in the right relationship for God.
In Romans 4:3, we see the following Scripture:
Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness
So, what are we to do ?
We are to trust and we are to follow Jesus throughout the day; no matter where we go or where he has called us to be.
Prayer
Help me expect great things from you, Lord, as I try to do great things for you.
The devotional today was thought provoking for me today.
The devotional touched based with Abraham as he set out to follow God even though he did not know where he was going.
We are called by Jesus. He says, "follow me". We have an invitation, what will we do with that invitation? For me, it comes down to one word - trust. Trusting God is being in the right relationship for God.
In Romans 4:3, we see the following Scripture:
Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness
So, what are we to do ?
We are to trust and we are to follow Jesus throughout the day; no matter where we go or where he has called us to be.
Prayer
Help me expect great things from you, Lord, as I try to do great things for you.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Lent: Thursday, Second Week
Promises, Promises
Abraham is used as the backdrop. He had some 'audacious' promises that were given to Him. If you follow one of the 'lectionary' readings; this may have been your reading last week. When he heard the promises, he trusted God and set out.
For those who do not know all the geneology; from Abraham's son (Issac) came the Israelites. Six hundred +/- years later, they received the promised land. Today, you and I are "blessed" by Jesus, a son of Abraham.
Prayer
Give me the assurance of all your wonderful promises.
Abraham is used as the backdrop. He had some 'audacious' promises that were given to Him. If you follow one of the 'lectionary' readings; this may have been your reading last week. When he heard the promises, he trusted God and set out.
For those who do not know all the geneology; from Abraham's son (Issac) came the Israelites. Six hundred +/- years later, they received the promised land. Today, you and I are "blessed" by Jesus, a son of Abraham.
Prayer
Give me the assurance of all your wonderful promises.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Lent: Wednesday, Second Week
Why suffering?
I am not sure if the devotion today was good timing or bad timing. It would be all in how you look at the situation. There are many individuals who throw up there hands and ask many questions and a lot of times; it boils down to this:
Why, in the world is there suffering?
When it hits close to home, it is obviously more personal. I know for myself and my family that we have grappled with this question frequently. There seems to be suffering. however, we know that the suffering by others are far worse than what we are going through.
The "answer" in the devotion is that there is no answer. Well, to be techical it says, rather than having an answer to a question, we have a God that makes us more than conquerors.
There is a sentence in the devotion that I will wrestle with and grapple and here it is:
Often in tragedy our struggle is to let go of what we no longer can have, in order to receive the new good which God has waiting for us.
What do you think of the statement ?
Do you believe that statement to be true ?
Are you currently struggling ?
So, we cling onto Jn 3:16 and go; in spite of what is happening, God loves us and will win for us.
Prayer
Be with me in my deep valleys. Carry me when I falter; they're your footsteps in the sand.
I am not sure if the devotion today was good timing or bad timing. It would be all in how you look at the situation. There are many individuals who throw up there hands and ask many questions and a lot of times; it boils down to this:
Why, in the world is there suffering?
When it hits close to home, it is obviously more personal. I know for myself and my family that we have grappled with this question frequently. There seems to be suffering. however, we know that the suffering by others are far worse than what we are going through.
The "answer" in the devotion is that there is no answer. Well, to be techical it says, rather than having an answer to a question, we have a God that makes us more than conquerors.
There is a sentence in the devotion that I will wrestle with and grapple and here it is:
Often in tragedy our struggle is to let go of what we no longer can have, in order to receive the new good which God has waiting for us.
What do you think of the statement ?
Do you believe that statement to be true ?
Are you currently struggling ?
So, we cling onto Jn 3:16 and go; in spite of what is happening, God loves us and will win for us.
Prayer
Be with me in my deep valleys. Carry me when I falter; they're your footsteps in the sand.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Lent: Tuesday: Second Week
Believe in Him
Today's Lenten devotional did not resonate with me. However, I attempt to grab a hold of something in everything that can be positive and give me the "nugget" that I need at the time and maybe this is the sentence from the devotional:
So, our worth is affirmed by nothing less than the willingness of the Son of God to lead us through death and resurrection, so that we can be the children of God.
Prayer
I believe. Help my unbelief, Lord.
Today's Lenten devotional did not resonate with me. However, I attempt to grab a hold of something in everything that can be positive and give me the "nugget" that I need at the time and maybe this is the sentence from the devotional:
So, our worth is affirmed by nothing less than the willingness of the Son of God to lead us through death and resurrection, so that we can be the children of God.
Prayer
I believe. Help my unbelief, Lord.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Lent: Monday, Second Week
I did not do a Lent post for this weekend (Saturday and Sunday). On Saturday, we were in West Virginia all day and this Sunday was a little hectic and sporadic with church events.
So, here is to me, to get back in the groove ....
The devotional reading for today was entitled: New Life The scriptural backdrop for today was the very familiar verse: John 3:16
Today's devotional was pretty straightforward with it's message. The message was the following: God's in charge, and God has wondrously provided a way to rescue us.
It really is amazing that God of the universe decided to become human and live among us. Not only that but when He came; He defeated sin, death and the devil and with those defeats; he gave us eternal life.
Prayer
In your mercy give me a new birth into this new life.
So, here is to me, to get back in the groove ....
The devotional reading for today was entitled: New Life The scriptural backdrop for today was the very familiar verse: John 3:16
Today's devotional was pretty straightforward with it's message. The message was the following: God's in charge, and God has wondrously provided a way to rescue us.
It really is amazing that God of the universe decided to become human and live among us. Not only that but when He came; He defeated sin, death and the devil and with those defeats; he gave us eternal life.
Prayer
In your mercy give me a new birth into this new life.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Lent: Friday, First Week
The Choice
This devotion was about sin and our choice to ignore it or to confess it to God. The devotion was based on Gen 3 with Adam and Eve pointing their fingers at one another and blaming each other or the serpent for their bad choice.
In life, daily, we have choices. We can make choices that are pleasing to god or displeasing to him. When we fail, sin, we have the opportunity to be close to God; by allowing Him to bind us with forgiveness.
There were two key scriptures, one from the Old Testamet and one from the New Testament. These come from the Jeff Version.
Psalms 32:5 - God, I came to you and I confessed to you all of my wrongdoings and because of your greatness; you forgave me of my sins and wiped my guilt free.
1 John 1:9 - God is a faithful and just God and He will forgive us of our sins and He will wipe out all of our unrighteousness; if we come to Him and condess our sins.
Prayer
Help me come clean, so you can make me clean
This devotion was about sin and our choice to ignore it or to confess it to God. The devotion was based on Gen 3 with Adam and Eve pointing their fingers at one another and blaming each other or the serpent for their bad choice.
In life, daily, we have choices. We can make choices that are pleasing to god or displeasing to him. When we fail, sin, we have the opportunity to be close to God; by allowing Him to bind us with forgiveness.
There were two key scriptures, one from the Old Testamet and one from the New Testament. These come from the Jeff Version.
Psalms 32:5 - God, I came to you and I confessed to you all of my wrongdoings and because of your greatness; you forgave me of my sins and wiped my guilt free.
1 John 1:9 - God is a faithful and just God and He will forgive us of our sins and He will wipe out all of our unrighteousness; if we come to Him and condess our sins.
Prayer
Help me come clean, so you can make me clean
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Lent: Thursday, First Week
Coup d'etat
This devotion was based on the last temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:8-9). The devil was going to give Jesus EVERYTHING. All He had to do was bow down and worship Satan. He could have had it all ......
One small problem, the world is not the devil's to give. However, we often have the "world" waved before our noses. We have things that are placed in front of us like a golden carrot ... it is there for the taking. But, once again, it then is about us and selfishness and that is not what we are called for.
So, how did Jesus handle the pressure and the temptation ? He looked at Satan and gave him some more scripture to chew on "worship the lord your God and serve only him".
There is a scripture that is in Romans and it says, "every mouth may be silenced, and the whole world held accountable to God".
We need to be humbled. We are not God and we need to look to him and we need to place ourselves into Him. We need to worship Him and we need to serve Him.
Prayer
Lord, against thee, thee only have I sinned
This devotion was based on the last temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:8-9). The devil was going to give Jesus EVERYTHING. All He had to do was bow down and worship Satan. He could have had it all ......
One small problem, the world is not the devil's to give. However, we often have the "world" waved before our noses. We have things that are placed in front of us like a golden carrot ... it is there for the taking. But, once again, it then is about us and selfishness and that is not what we are called for.
So, how did Jesus handle the pressure and the temptation ? He looked at Satan and gave him some more scripture to chew on "worship the lord your God and serve only him".
There is a scripture that is in Romans and it says, "every mouth may be silenced, and the whole world held accountable to God".
We need to be humbled. We are not God and we need to look to him and we need to place ourselves into Him. We need to worship Him and we need to serve Him.
Prayer
Lord, against thee, thee only have I sinned
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Lent: Wednesday, First Week
Today's devotion was called: Most Devious, Most Subtle
This devotion was based off of Matthew 4:5-7. This passage is where Satan tempted Jesus to throw himself off the temple. Satan assurred Jesus that he could call out to God and nothing at all would happen - He 9Jesus) would be saved from harm.
Jesus did not "bite" and was willing and able to see through the temptation and answer Satan with Scripture. Jesus said, "You don't put God to the test".
It can be a struggle to not put God to the test. I think that many times that we get in a trap of thinking that God "owes" us. I know that through our family struggles with premature babies, miscarriage, medical woes, financial hardship, car wreck and chuyrch caos that at times, we can look up to God and go, "why is this happening to us".
As stated in the devotion, "there are times in which our faith and obedience feed our pride and tempt us to reverse who is God and who is the servant."
Prayer
I cry with Paul, "wretched man that I am, who will rescue me?"
This devotion was based off of Matthew 4:5-7. This passage is where Satan tempted Jesus to throw himself off the temple. Satan assurred Jesus that he could call out to God and nothing at all would happen - He 9Jesus) would be saved from harm.
Jesus did not "bite" and was willing and able to see through the temptation and answer Satan with Scripture. Jesus said, "You don't put God to the test".
It can be a struggle to not put God to the test. I think that many times that we get in a trap of thinking that God "owes" us. I know that through our family struggles with premature babies, miscarriage, medical woes, financial hardship, car wreck and chuyrch caos that at times, we can look up to God and go, "why is this happening to us".
As stated in the devotion, "there are times in which our faith and obedience feed our pride and tempt us to reverse who is God and who is the servant."
Prayer
I cry with Paul, "wretched man that I am, who will rescue me?"
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Lent: Tuesday, First Week
Today's devotional was on priorities. I think that priorities are extremely important and I think tat most individuals do not have their priorities "in check".
The scripture that we looked at was the temptations of Jesus out in the wilderness. In the scripture, we see Jesus do what we are unable to do many of the times. He kept his priorities straight and did not let the good keep him from the better and best.
For you see, turning the stone to bread (Matthew 4) in itself is not "evil". Bread is good. However, it is what is behind turning the stones into bread symbolozies that does not make it the wise thing to do.
As mentioned, we need to have our priorities in order. This is not a newslfash. We can see the example very early on (the first sommandment). We need to love God and have Him first in our life.
The final sentence was very good: What happens when we face a choice? Satan's strategy is to use God's good gifts to keep us from God.
Prayer
Lord, help me remember who is really number one.
The scripture that we looked at was the temptations of Jesus out in the wilderness. In the scripture, we see Jesus do what we are unable to do many of the times. He kept his priorities straight and did not let the good keep him from the better and best.
For you see, turning the stone to bread (Matthew 4) in itself is not "evil". Bread is good. However, it is what is behind turning the stones into bread symbolozies that does not make it the wise thing to do.
As mentioned, we need to have our priorities in order. This is not a newslfash. We can see the example very early on (the first sommandment). We need to love God and have Him first in our life.
The final sentence was very good: What happens when we face a choice? Satan's strategy is to use God's good gifts to keep us from God.
Prayer
Lord, help me remember who is really number one.
Sermon Introduction
The service went very good. Here is the scripture and the introduction of the message. I will not post the whole sermon; this will just be to give you a feel of the direction that the sermon went .......
Scripture: Romans 12:9-21
This morning, I want us to take a look at the passage that we just read. The scripture that was read is from the book of Romans. Many individuals would claim that this is one of their most favorite books in the Bible.
The book of Romans is a book that is very deep in theological meaning and covers numerous aspects of the Christian faith. When you take a look at the first eleven chapters, we see many issues that are covered.
However, in chapter 12, a transition takes place. Remember the scripture that we read was from chapter 12 and we took a look at versus 9-21. In these versus we see that Paul shows us that a life sacrificed to God will lead to a life that is transformed – changed – into a life that is acceptable to God. Chapter 12 demands a changed life.
Let us briefly take a look at what Luther had to say about Romans chapter 12: St. Paul teaches the true liturgy and makes all Christians priests, so that they may offer, not money or cattle, as priests do in the Law, but their own bodies, by putting their desires to death. Next he describes the outward conduct of Christians whose lives are governed by the Spirit; he tells how they teach, preach, rule, serve, give, suffer, love, live and act toward friend, foe, and everyone. These are the works that a Christian does, for as I have said, faith is not idle.
Now, Luther mentioned that there were outward conducts that would be displayed in our lives which then would also be transparent into the lives of our churches. But, a dilemma has taken place over the years. Some of these dilemmas include the fact that we have become a very individualistic society. We in turn have lost the concept of what true Christian community and thus, the church has lost what it was designed for.
So, today, I am going to take a small look at the church and community of believers and then look at the community (town) that we live in and see how this passage can help reshape us into what God has designed us to be. We will then have a challenge for you to take that next step.
The church is not an organization, nor is it a system, nor is it a structure, nor is it in an institution. It does not begin with a methodology, or a creed, or a formula. It does not even begin with leadership. INSTEAD the church is a group of followers of Jesus Christ who God has brought together so they can walk through life with one another.
Scripture: Romans 12:9-21
This morning, I want us to take a look at the passage that we just read. The scripture that was read is from the book of Romans. Many individuals would claim that this is one of their most favorite books in the Bible.
The book of Romans is a book that is very deep in theological meaning and covers numerous aspects of the Christian faith. When you take a look at the first eleven chapters, we see many issues that are covered.
However, in chapter 12, a transition takes place. Remember the scripture that we read was from chapter 12 and we took a look at versus 9-21. In these versus we see that Paul shows us that a life sacrificed to God will lead to a life that is transformed – changed – into a life that is acceptable to God. Chapter 12 demands a changed life.
Let us briefly take a look at what Luther had to say about Romans chapter 12: St. Paul teaches the true liturgy and makes all Christians priests, so that they may offer, not money or cattle, as priests do in the Law, but their own bodies, by putting their desires to death. Next he describes the outward conduct of Christians whose lives are governed by the Spirit; he tells how they teach, preach, rule, serve, give, suffer, love, live and act toward friend, foe, and everyone. These are the works that a Christian does, for as I have said, faith is not idle.
Now, Luther mentioned that there were outward conducts that would be displayed in our lives which then would also be transparent into the lives of our churches. But, a dilemma has taken place over the years. Some of these dilemmas include the fact that we have become a very individualistic society. We in turn have lost the concept of what true Christian community and thus, the church has lost what it was designed for.
So, today, I am going to take a small look at the church and community of believers and then look at the community (town) that we live in and see how this passage can help reshape us into what God has designed us to be. We will then have a challenge for you to take that next step.
The church is not an organization, nor is it a system, nor is it a structure, nor is it in an institution. It does not begin with a methodology, or a creed, or a formula. It does not even begin with leadership. INSTEAD the church is a group of followers of Jesus Christ who God has brought together so they can walk through life with one another.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Lent: Monday, First Week
The title of today's devotion was called: Bottome Line
The theme of today's devotion can in the following statement: Temptation comes dressed as a blessing. I think that statement is very true. We always think that if "bite" into the temptation that we would be better off. The reason is because we see the "misperceived" good in the end results. However, in the end, we will not be better off and we we will not be the person that we really want to be and we definitely won't be the person that God wants us to be.
Too many times, we are striving to do our will not God's will. We must turn ourselves over to God and surrender to His will.
Prayer
God, forgive my reservations when I pray, "Thy will be done."
The theme of today's devotion can in the following statement: Temptation comes dressed as a blessing. I think that statement is very true. We always think that if "bite" into the temptation that we would be better off. The reason is because we see the "misperceived" good in the end results. However, in the end, we will not be better off and we we will not be the person that we really want to be and we definitely won't be the person that God wants us to be.
Too many times, we are striving to do our will not God's will. We must turn ourselves over to God and surrender to His will.
Prayer
God, forgive my reservations when I pray, "Thy will be done."
Sunday, February 10, 2008
First Sunday in Lent
There will be four scripture readings for the first full week of Lent. They are the following:
- Genesis 3:1-7
- Matthew 4:1-111
- Romans 5:12-19
- Psalms 32
Today's devotional was called "The Truth About the Cross"
I think the best way to sum of the short devotional for today is with this statement: Sin may not instantly shock us, like sticking a finger into a light socket, but eventually we'll reap what we sow when we misuse God's good gifts.
Prayer
Help me face the truth about myself, so I welcome gratefully your gift of Salvation.
- Genesis 3:1-7
- Matthew 4:1-111
- Romans 5:12-19
- Psalms 32
Today's devotional was called "The Truth About the Cross"
I think the best way to sum of the short devotional for today is with this statement: Sin may not instantly shock us, like sticking a finger into a light socket, but eventually we'll reap what we sow when we misuse God's good gifts.
Prayer
Help me face the truth about myself, so I welcome gratefully your gift of Salvation.
Saturday, February 09, 2008
Lent: Day 4
Today's readong dealt with a clean heart. The passage tie in for today was Psalms 51. For in that Psalms, we hear a plead that says, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me."
The readings from As Wednesday have launched us on our Lenten journey: Fast - give up whatever it takes to make room for God. Shut the door to wrestle alone with God. Now is the time; we don't know if we will have tomorrow. Because our great God is teaching out to reconcile us to himself, so that in the weeks ahead God can form you and me a clean heart - a godly heart.
The Prayer
Create in me a clean heart, O God, until I can play it by heart.
The readings from As Wednesday have launched us on our Lenten journey: Fast - give up whatever it takes to make room for God. Shut the door to wrestle alone with God. Now is the time; we don't know if we will have tomorrow. Because our great God is teaching out to reconcile us to himself, so that in the weeks ahead God can form you and me a clean heart - a godly heart.
The Prayer
Create in me a clean heart, O God, until I can play it by heart.
Friday, February 08, 2008
Lent: Day 3
Now is the acceptable time; now is the day of Salvation. This was the scriptural emphasis for the devotion today. The lesson was based upon: now is the hour.
God was rescuing the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them.
Thanksgiving to God
Thank you for today and for your grace that reaches for me.
God was rescuing the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them.
Thanksgiving to God
Thank you for today and for your grace that reaches for me.
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Lent: Day 2
Today's devotional reading touched the heart. The focus of the reading was on Matt 6:6; where we are to pray to God in the secret.
The reason that it touched by heart is that there were two words in the reading that echoed loundly in my soul: still and occupy.
For you see, to be still is a great way to connect to God. As the writer eludes to, when water is still, you can see deeply. In our stillness, we need to find the solitude to connect with the God of the Universe. He has created this world and He has created us and we need to push everything aside and spend some time with Him. We need soliture: alone time. just God and me.
However, worldly things seem to occupy my thoughts. These things are very important. For example, as I was trying to enter into "solitude", my mind was racing with what had occurred today (breakfast with Jacob), emails that needed to be answered, finally reading for my sermon prep, confirmation tests and more. These things were "banging at the door" wanting in and wanting to occupy my thought process. But, I needed to relax, push them to the side and say, "you can wait". I need these minutes with God.
The short lesson for Lent ended with this prayer thought: Lead me beside still waters that I can drink deeper of you, the water of life.
The reason that it touched by heart is that there were two words in the reading that echoed loundly in my soul: still and occupy.
For you see, to be still is a great way to connect to God. As the writer eludes to, when water is still, you can see deeply. In our stillness, we need to find the solitude to connect with the God of the Universe. He has created this world and He has created us and we need to push everything aside and spend some time with Him. We need soliture: alone time. just God and me.
However, worldly things seem to occupy my thoughts. These things are very important. For example, as I was trying to enter into "solitude", my mind was racing with what had occurred today (breakfast with Jacob), emails that needed to be answered, finally reading for my sermon prep, confirmation tests and more. These things were "banging at the door" wanting in and wanting to occupy my thought process. But, I needed to relax, push them to the side and say, "you can wait". I need these minutes with God.
The short lesson for Lent ended with this prayer thought: Lead me beside still waters that I can drink deeper of you, the water of life.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Scripture for my Message
On Sunday, I will be giving the message at the 9 am service. We are going to be doing a wonderful series (in my opinion) during Lent. I will be sharing more on that in the next few days. However, I finally decided on the passage that will be the focus. The Scripture comes from Romans. Here is the Scripture:
Romans 12:9-21
The Message (MSG)
9-10 Love from the center of who you are; don't fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.
11-13 Don't burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don't quit in hard times; pray all the harder. Help needy Christians; be inventive in hospitality.
14-16 Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Laugh with your happy friends when they're happy; share tears when they're down. Get along with each other; don't be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don't be the great somebody.
17-19 Don't hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you've got it in you, get along with everybody. Don't insist on getting even; that's not for you to do. "I'll do the judging," says God. "I'll take care of it."
20-21 Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he's thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don't let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.
- - - - - - - - -
I love those words. We are going to be looking at Loving God / Loving Others but then really "jumping off" of that and exploring, "us going out, not us coming in".
Romans 12:9-21
The Message (MSG)
9-10 Love from the center of who you are; don't fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.
11-13 Don't burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don't quit in hard times; pray all the harder. Help needy Christians; be inventive in hospitality.
14-16 Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Laugh with your happy friends when they're happy; share tears when they're down. Get along with each other; don't be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don't be the great somebody.
17-19 Don't hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you've got it in you, get along with everybody. Don't insist on getting even; that's not for you to do. "I'll do the judging," says God. "I'll take care of it."
20-21 Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he's thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don't let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.
- - - - - - - - -
I love those words. We are going to be looking at Loving God / Loving Others but then really "jumping off" of that and exploring, "us going out, not us coming in".
Lent: Day 1
On the devotions, the scriptures are for the week and then each day, they have a devotion that "backs up" the Scripture. Here are the Scriptures for Week 1:
Matthew 6:1-6
Giving to the Needy
1 "Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. 2 "So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Prayer
5 "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Matthew 6:16-21
Fasting
16 "When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Treasures in Heaven
19 "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
2 Corinthians 5:16-6:2
Amplified Bible (AMP)
16 Consequently, from now on we estimate and regard no one from a [purely] human point of view [in terms of natural standards of value]. [No] even though we once did estimate Christ from a human viewpoint and as a man, yet now [we have such knowledge of Him that] we know Him no longer [in terms of the flesh].
17 Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come!
18 But all things are from God, Who through Jesus Christ reconciled us to Himself [received us into favor, brought us into harmony with Himself] and gave to us the ministry of reconciliation [that by word and deed we might aim to bring others into harmony with Him].
19 It was God [personally present] in Christ, reconciling and restoring the world to favor with Himself, not counting up and holding against [men] their trespasses [but cancelling them], and committing to us the message of reconciliation (of the restoration to favor).
20 So we are Christ's ambassadors, God making His appeal as it were through us. We [as Christ's personal representatives] beg you for His sake to lay hold of the divine favor [now offered you] and be reconciled to God.
21 For our sake He made Christ [virtually] to be sin Who knew no sin, so that in and through Him we might become [[a]endued with, viewed as being in, and examples of] the righteousness of God [what we ought to be, approved and acceptable and in right relationship with Him, by His goodness].
2 Corinthians 6
1 LABORING TOGETHER [as God's fellow workers] with Him then, we beg of you not to receive the grace of God in vain [that [b]merciful kindness by which God exerts His holy influence on souls and turns them to Christ, keeping and strengthening them--do not receive it to no purpose].
2 For He says, In the time of favor (of an assured welcome) I have listened to and heeded your call, and I have helped you on the day of deliverance (the day of salvation). Behold, now is truly the time for a gracious welcome and acceptance [of you from God]; behold, now is the day of salvation!(A)
Psalm 51
Contemporary English Version (CEV)
Psalm 51
1 You are kind, God! Please have pity on me. You are always merciful! Please wipe away my sins. 2 Wash me clean from all of my sin and guilt. 3 I know about my sins, and I cannot forget my terrible guilt. 4 You are really the one I have sinned against; I have disobeyed you and have done wrong. So it is right and fair for you
to correct and punish me. 5 I have sinned and done wrong since the day I was born.
6 But you want complete honesty, so teach me true wisdom. 7 Wash me with hyssop [a] until I am clean ad whiter than snow. 8 Let me be happy and joyful! You crushed my bones, now let them celebrate. 9 Turn your eyes from my sin and cover my guilt.
10 Create pure thoughts in me and make me faithful again. 11 Don't chase me away from you or take your Holy Spirit away from me.
12 Make me as happy as you did when you saved me; make me want to obey! 13 I will teach sinners your Law, and they will return to you. 14 Keep me from any deadly sin. Only you can save me! Then I will shout and sing about your power to save.
15 Help me to speak, and I will praise you, Lord. 16 Offerings and sacrifices are not what you want. 17 The way to please you is to feel sorrow deep in our hearts. This is the kind of sacrifice you won't refuse. 18 Please be willing, Lord, to help the city of Zion and to rebuild its walls. 19 Then you will be pleased with the proper sacrifices, and we will offer bulls on your altar once again.
The theme and thought for Day 1 was, "when, not if". The reading was concentrated on "fasting". Here is the sentence prayer:
Spirit of God, help me give up some treasures on earth for your treasures in neaven.
Matthew 6:1-6
Giving to the Needy
1 "Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. 2 "So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Prayer
5 "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Matthew 6:16-21
Fasting
16 "When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Treasures in Heaven
19 "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
2 Corinthians 5:16-6:2
Amplified Bible (AMP)
16 Consequently, from now on we estimate and regard no one from a [purely] human point of view [in terms of natural standards of value]. [No] even though we once did estimate Christ from a human viewpoint and as a man, yet now [we have such knowledge of Him that] we know Him no longer [in terms of the flesh].
17 Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come!
18 But all things are from God, Who through Jesus Christ reconciled us to Himself [received us into favor, brought us into harmony with Himself] and gave to us the ministry of reconciliation [that by word and deed we might aim to bring others into harmony with Him].
19 It was God [personally present] in Christ, reconciling and restoring the world to favor with Himself, not counting up and holding against [men] their trespasses [but cancelling them], and committing to us the message of reconciliation (of the restoration to favor).
20 So we are Christ's ambassadors, God making His appeal as it were through us. We [as Christ's personal representatives] beg you for His sake to lay hold of the divine favor [now offered you] and be reconciled to God.
21 For our sake He made Christ [virtually] to be sin Who knew no sin, so that in and through Him we might become [[a]endued with, viewed as being in, and examples of] the righteousness of God [what we ought to be, approved and acceptable and in right relationship with Him, by His goodness].
2 Corinthians 6
1 LABORING TOGETHER [as God's fellow workers] with Him then, we beg of you not to receive the grace of God in vain [that [b]merciful kindness by which God exerts His holy influence on souls and turns them to Christ, keeping and strengthening them--do not receive it to no purpose].
2 For He says, In the time of favor (of an assured welcome) I have listened to and heeded your call, and I have helped you on the day of deliverance (the day of salvation). Behold, now is truly the time for a gracious welcome and acceptance [of you from God]; behold, now is the day of salvation!(A)
Psalm 51
Contemporary English Version (CEV)
Psalm 51
1 You are kind, God! Please have pity on me. You are always merciful! Please wipe away my sins. 2 Wash me clean from all of my sin and guilt. 3 I know about my sins, and I cannot forget my terrible guilt. 4 You are really the one I have sinned against; I have disobeyed you and have done wrong. So it is right and fair for you
to correct and punish me. 5 I have sinned and done wrong since the day I was born.
6 But you want complete honesty, so teach me true wisdom. 7 Wash me with hyssop [a] until I am clean ad whiter than snow. 8 Let me be happy and joyful! You crushed my bones, now let them celebrate. 9 Turn your eyes from my sin and cover my guilt.
10 Create pure thoughts in me and make me faithful again. 11 Don't chase me away from you or take your Holy Spirit away from me.
12 Make me as happy as you did when you saved me; make me want to obey! 13 I will teach sinners your Law, and they will return to you. 14 Keep me from any deadly sin. Only you can save me! Then I will shout and sing about your power to save.
15 Help me to speak, and I will praise you, Lord. 16 Offerings and sacrifices are not what you want. 17 The way to please you is to feel sorrow deep in our hearts. This is the kind of sacrifice you won't refuse. 18 Please be willing, Lord, to help the city of Zion and to rebuild its walls. 19 Then you will be pleased with the proper sacrifices, and we will offer bulls on your altar once again.
The theme and thought for Day 1 was, "when, not if". The reading was concentrated on "fasting". Here is the sentence prayer:
Spirit of God, help me give up some treasures on earth for your treasures in neaven.
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