29 Apr, 2011
Sincere Love
I had gone back and forth about wanting to put one more story on the web to highlight the wedding. However last night I found myself strangely compelled to watch the "royal wedding LIVE" Maybe it was the eagar people waiting on street corners, the beauty of the abbey and the trees inside, or guest arriving 3 hours early, or just the desire to watch history unfold.
Not planned I watched with a friend the entire wedding ceremony. Captured not just by the fashion or the guest list but by the words that where spoken. Here are an excerpts from the ceremony that caught my ear:
They spoke of love, of endurance of marriage. Opening the message with,
"Be who God made you to be, and you will set the world on fire" - Catherine of Siena
The bishop said, "this is a day of hope, every wedding is a royal wedding." He spoke of the depth of the spiritual journey together, and the chance to spiritually be able to catch a glimpse of what Christ love is through marriage.
"the holy spirit can fill our hearts with life. the holy spirit roots are love, joy, and peace."
Even Kate & William wrote a prayer that was read,
"Keep our eyes fixed on what is real and important in life"
In closing, the priest said
"may they abide in His love"
Romans 12:1, 2, 9 -18
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Love must be sincere.
Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.
Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
God ordained marriage to be a beautiful thing that captures the essence of Christ's deep love and intimacy with us. Something that is always so difficult to grasp. As you hear stories, watch couples, or have the chance to be married yourself one day you cannot help but be overwhelmed by this expression of love and how it displays how God is captivated by you.
Read Romans 12 in its entirety, for it sheds great light on God's deep love. What a glorious picture for the world to hear, and see displayed on live TV, and captured to replay everywhere. We know that marriage is not perfect, we know that William and Kate are not perfect but we do know that God's overwhelming love to care for our hearts and souls, is indeed Perfect.
It seems in our world there is not a person that does not know of the royal wedding happening. What a cool place to be able to talk about what happened. Listen, to what they have to say and talk about what the priest said. The thing about weddings is you have freedom to pick at and talk about every little detail. I challenge you to ask what they think about marriage, to ask what they thought of the talk. As Kate & William said in their prayer, "Keep our eyes fixed on what is real and important in life"
I cannot help but go to the verse in Hebrews 12: 1b-2a
"And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith."
So run, talk about the wedding and how we truly can Abide in His deep deep love.
28 Apr, 2011
The Royal Wedding
27 Apr, 2011
Chosen By God
Tomorrow, at 8:00 pm, EST, football players and fans will be glued to all types of media outlets, to get the final word on who wants whom. Of course, I'm talking about the NFL draft. Men (and women) everywhere are waiting to see if their teams will get the a good pick, a star player who will bring their team success and glory, or if they'll wind up with someone they'll just end up trading at a later time. It's bound to be a weekend packed with pressure and anxiety for everyone involved. While it may not be quite so nerve-wracking for someone like Cam Newton, or Marcell Dareus, who are sure to be first picks, there are countless young men sitting in the wings, hopeful that this will be their chance . . . that someone will want, and take, them.
(Image courtesy of Google Images)
Spiritual Blessings in Christ
3 All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. 4 Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.
Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes explain it this way:
1:4 Paul says that God "chose us" to emphasize that salvation depends totally on God. We are not saved because we deserve it but because God is gracious and freely gives salvation... there is no way to take credit for our salvation or to allow room for pride. The mystery of salvation originated in the timeless mind of God long before we existed. It is hard to understand how God could accept us. But because of Christ, we are holy and blameless in his sight. God chose us, and when we belong to him through Jesus Christ, God looks at us as if we had never sinned. All we can do is express our thanks for his wonderful love.
I can't relate to the college football stars who will spend this weekend on pins and needles, waiting to see if they will be chosen in the NFL draft and by which team. When I was a kid, I was just happy if I wasn't the last one picked to be on a team when we would choose up sides during recess or a backyard game.
Paul is teaching us that God did not choose us for our goodness or abilities. We've been "picked" to know Christ, because of God's amazing grace.
Some football players will get to experience the glory and riches that go along with making it in the NFL.
None of us will make it to Heaven on our own, but because we were chosen in Christ, we will experience the glory and riches that go along with being God's children.
• Take a couple of minutes to reflect on the fact that God's love for you is so great, that He chose you to know Him through Christ. Think about His unconditional love for you. Be amazed by His grace. Look forward to seeing Him face to face some day. Now just listen to His voice. Worship Him....
• Read today's passage every day this weekend and meditate on God's amazing love for you.
• Write down a list of ways you have already experienced the "blessings" of being chosen to be on God's
team. Review this whenever you are feeling sort of left out in the world around you.
• Do you know another follower of Jesus who is feeling sort of left out? Share today's DAILYBIDE with him or her and offer your encouragement and prayer.
• Identify a friend at school or where you work or a family member who needs Jesus. If her or she is interested in God's Story, use today's story about the NFL Draft as a conversation starter about being chosen for riches and glory as a child of God.
• Use this DAILYBIDE as a study in your youth group or small group.
26 Apr, 2011
A Grand Event
We all know that the American media has gone all in on the story of the royal wedding. But a new study from Nielsen shows that the coverage of the wedding by the U.S. press has surpassed even that of the British media--and surpassed it by a rather large margin.
The study found that, "while the United Kingdom creates the greater overall level of consumer buzz about the Royal Wedding, the United States has the highest share of news coverage by traditional news sources, such as the online versions of newspapers and magazines."
Indeed, much of the American media has essentially decamped to London all this week, following every twist and turn in the run-up to, and on the day of, the wedding.
--The Huffington Post
I find it interesting that nowhere in the above article were the names of the bride and groom who will be at the center of this Royal Wedding. Of course, unless you have been hiding under a rock, we all know that William and Kate are to be wed this Friday in London, but even of the hundreds of guests who will be attending, how many of them are there to show their love and support of the couple, and how many are there simply because it is The Royal Wedding?
Photo courtesy of Google Images
17 On his arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. 18 Now Bethany was less than two miles from Jerusalem, 19 and many Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them in the loss of their brother. 20 When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home.
21 “Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.”
23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”
24 Martha answered, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”
25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
27 “Yes, Lord,” she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”
Even though the setting of this passage of scripture is at the tomb of Lazarus, whose sisters had desperately wanted to see him healed, Jesus was anticipating an even greater event, which was his own death and resurrection. But if you look more carefully at his wording, he does not say to Mary, “I am going to cause a resurrection,” or “I am about to participate in a resurrection,” but he says “I AM the resurrection.” As much as we enjoyed the event of Easter, or as much as we look forward to an exciting occasion like a wedding, how much more should we be celebrating The One who it’s all about!
How was your Easter? Was it a great day to think about what God has done for you? It should be! But even more so, moving forward, remember to celebrate the risen, living Christ, for it is in him that we live!
The media is in a frenzy over this coming Friday’s Royal Wedding. But they are more focused on celebrating the big event than the people who are the reason for that event. With all the buzz this week, ask someone if it is the event of the wedding, or the Royal couple themselves who hold their interest. Share with them how the person of Jesus is far greater than being a part of the resurrection story, he IS the resurrection and the reason we have life!
25 Apr, 2011
Saving Lives
- Start a conversation using today's story.
- Share with a friend how you were rescued and entered into God's incredible Love Story.
- Make a list today of those in your everyday life who need to be rescued from their sin.
- Pray for those on that list everyday this week, asking God how you might be able to share His Story with them in the course of your everday conversations.
22 Apr, 2011
Open the Curtains
For two years now my husband has worked nights, and thus sleeps during the day. To help him sleep we darkened the room with blackout curtains. For the last 6 months he has been back to normal schedule, even so every night I draw our curtains closed for the night and open them only after I have woken and am ready to face the day. Last week I woke up at sunrise to this Obnoxious bright light!! I believe many of you call this the sun. eek. Thoroughly upset I grumbled about why didn't I close the curtains last night. Day after day I woke to the same bright sun, getting more and more upset. Night after night never remembering to actually CLOSE my curtains before i crawled into bed. ONE WEEK 7 morning sunrises later, I woke up differently.
I woke up feeling like God was saying "look at my Sunrise differently". So I paused looked out my bright window, and I saw birds, and a sea of tall Redwood trees, Bay trees, Maple trees, and Fir trees. Yes these are all outside our window and every morning this week I chose to be upset, angry and not enjoying the beauty that God created all around us.
Luke 19:40
“I tell you,” he replied, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”
Psalm 150:6
"Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD."
What does today's Scripture story teach us about praising God?
As Jesus entered the city, the palm branches waved and the people praised Jesus the King. Oh what a beautiful moment, how I wish I could have seen it.
In the Luke scripture Jesus is talking to the pharisees, the pharisees just told Jesus to rebuke the disciples for shouting praises to God. Jesus response was saying that basically if I do, and they are quiet, even the rocks will sing Jesus' praises. What? Last I checked rock, trees, & flowers where all pretty silent. Yet how amazing would it be to hear the rocks cry out.
Psalms says, that "everything that has breath praise the Lord" WOW, as I start to think about easter I am in awe of the thought of everyone in my hippy non bible believing town praising God. chills thinking about it. God says when the time comes everything will praise the Lord!
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
Where in nature/life do you need to pull the curtains back on? Where do you need to stop getting annoyed and angry at the blinding light and change your attitude to seeing what is amazing in front of you? God calls us to love our neighbor as ourselves, God calls us to consider it joy in trials, God calls us to turn the other cheek, God calls us to love Him first and let Him lead our lives. When we stop and do what God calls us to, we embrace the beauty that is around us.
Take 20 minutes this week to sit in nature.
Turn your phone off.
Sit be still.
Think about that first question I asked; Where in nature/life do you need to pull the curtains back on? Ask God to show you where he wants you to see the light of His creation. Does God want you to see the sunrise of a broken friendship, or a friend you ignored? Or does God desire you slow down and enjoy what he has created.
How can you praise God in the midst of his creation?
How can we connect God's Story Scripture, and our story to others?
Everyone loves being in nature weather they admit it or not. There is something that captivates you, many say that how can you not see the need for a creator when you look at nature. Share with your friends about your time just sitting enjoying nature. Share about how people take for granted the simple things, speak about how strange or cool it was to spend time in nature when you would have rather been doing anything else. Share what is your most Favorite thing in nature? Ask Where in nature do you want to spend more time in? Ask them to tell you more about it. Invite your friends on a hike or adventure, and be in the midst of God's creation, and be open to where God takes your conversation.
21 Apr, 2011
Cross Eyed
Cross Eyed
One of my favorite comedians is Christian funny guy Tim Hawkins. He says that parents sometimes give great advice too late. In other words, moms and dads have very good wisdom and advice, but it may come too late to be practical. Think about it: have you ever fallen down and hurt yourself? What’s the first thing your mom will usually say? “Be careful!” See – that’s great advice…..too late!
Did you mom or dad ever tell you NOT to do something? Obviously there were some serious things like not running with scissors (we could cut ourself), or don’t touch the stove (we might get burnt) or don’t run out into the street (we could get hit by a car).
There are some other things that parents sometimes tell us not to do and they make us wonder if they’re true. I always think of my mom saying not to make a funny face or that I shouldn’t cross my eyes or they could stay that way. But did you know the Jesus was cross eyed?
Clip art courtesy of 123rf.com
Luke 22:39-46
Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. On reaching the place, he said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.” He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground. When he rose from prayer and went back to the disciples, he found them asleep, exhausted from sorrow. “Why are you sleeping?” he asked them. “Get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.
What does today’s Scripture Story teach us about being cross eyed?
We see that this was a common occurrence for Jesus to go to the Mount of Olives to pray (v. 39 says “as usual”). He tells the disciples to pray that they would not fall into temptation. It’s easy to remember that Jesus was fully God, but here we can glimpse his human side. He prays and asks God if it would be possible to avoid the cross. He knew that it would be a torturous death. However, He was willing to accept the request of the Father who was sending Him to the cross for our sins. He prayed for God’s will to be done.
Jesus’ prayer time was intense. Sweat drops like blood fell from His body. Although God’s will was for Him to be a sacrifice and die on the cross for our sins, He did provide an angel to come and strengthen Him as Jesus began to experience the cost of our sins.
How can we connect today’s God’s Story scripture to our lives?
As we look as Jesus’ life, we see that He spent time with His Heavenly Father. He didn’t look forward to going through hard times, but He was willing to do whatever God asked, no matter the cost, the pain, the suffering, or any question that He might have.
Our lives should connect to the Father in the same way. We should ‘usually’ (vs. 39) pray and not be afraid to let others know that we rely solely on the Father. Our prayers and requests should reflect the desires of our hearts, but ultimately we should submit and surrender to the will of God, no matter what that may be.
How can we connect today’s story, God’s Story scripture, and our story to others?
Take time to reflect with your friends on what Easter means. But first, for the next day or so, concentrate on the cross. Share how Jesus could see the cross clearly in His future and that in His human nature He wanted to avoid the weight of the sin of the world, but He ultimately chose to follow God’s will.
Listen to the prompting of the Spirit. Perhaps this is a weekend when your friends will be more open to making a decision to make Jesus their personal Savior. Continue to pray for your friends who don’t know Jesus.
Be cross eyed like Jesus – zoom the eyes of your heart to the cross and for what it stands. Focus on forgiveness. Freedom. The Father. And then you’ll really be able to see what Jesus went through for me and you.
20 Apr, 2011
Sleeping On The Job
Lately it seems as though every time I turn on the news, there's another story of an air traffic controller caught sleeping on the job. It always catches my attention, probably because my father was an air traffic controller. I grew up fascinated with the profession, thinking it was one of the coolest things, ever, that he got to talk to airplanes all day. Dad used to give me tours of the tower, letting me watch as he told airplanes when to land and take-off and where to taxi. I remember going into the radar room and the darkness was so overwhelming that I could hardly see my hand in front of my face. Despite his love for his job and for aviation, I'm sure there were times when Dad was tempted to snooze while working the night shift. . . when airplanes' comings and goings were few and far between, in the wee hours of morning. After all, lights are dim in the tower (they have to be for controllers to see the runways and do their job), and shifts are long.
According to an article on yahoonews.com, "It has been an open secret in the FAA dating to at least the early 1990s that controllers sometimes sleep on the job. Toughest are the midnight shifts, which usually begin about 10 p.m. and end about 6 a.m. Scientists say it would be surprising if controllers didn't doze sometimes because they are trying to stay awake during the time of day when the body naturally craves sleep. Studies show that 30 percent to 50 percent of night-shift workers report falling asleep at least once a week while on the job, according to Dr. Charles Czeisler, chief of sleep medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston." However, some close calls and collisions have proven that even a seemingly harmless nap can prove to be disastrous.
(Photo courtesy of Google Images)
Matthew 26:36-46 (NIV)
Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.”
Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”
Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter. “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.”
When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing.
Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour has come, and the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners. Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!”
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about being watchful and alert?
Jesus, feeling distraught and overwhelmed by everything that was about to happen, asked three of his closest friends to join him in the Garden of Gethsemane to help keep watch and pray for him while he spent some time with God. Jesus only asked them to do two things: stay awake and pray. But, it was late and the three men were tired. Who can blame them? After all, who hasn't fallen asleep during their night-time prayers? The problem here is that the disciples failed to understand the urgency of their situation. While they had no way of knowing that Jesus was about to be betrayed and arrested, their level of exhaustion keeps them from picking-up on how sorrowful and pained Jesus' spirit is, causing them miss out on an opportunity not only to support their friend, but also to recognize the significance of what Jesus is doing and what he is asking them to do.
How can I connect today's story and God's Story scripture to my life?
In what area of your life have you hit the snooze button? Is there a part of your life that God is trying to wake you up and make you more alert? Maybe it's in regards to your prayer life, scripture studies, or just personal habits. God is at work all around you, are you seeing and experiencing Him? Is He using you to touch hearts and show His love, or are you too distracted or exhausted to even notice? Pray and ask God to give you whatever it is you need (the things He has, specifically for you) to make you more alert and watchful for what He is doing. Ask God to open your eyes and use you for His glory.
How can I connect today's God's Story scripture and my story to others?
Re-read today's scripture passage (Mt. 26:36-46) and consider the way in which the disciples totally missed the sorrow and pain that Jesus was feeling when he asked his friends to stay up with him and pray. Don't let that be you - pray and ask God to help you be the kind of friend who is sensitive enough to pick up on such clues in your own life. Is there someone in your life who is reaching out in need of some support and encouragement? Don't leave them hanging. Reach out, pray for them, and let them know you are there to help however possible.
19 Apr, 2011
Could you walk away?
In May 2008, three students from the University of Colorado, went to Uganda, East Africa for a three month volunteer program in a small town.
A few weeks into their trip, they began to volunteer at an orphanage located in the center of town. This orphanage housed 162 children. The orphanage consisted of three small windowless rooms where the children lived, slept, and had occasional classes. The children slept on rocky dirt floors and there was no electricity. The children had to walk a kilometer to get water. They shared two overflowing latrines (holes in the ground used for toilets) and the compound was a community dump. The hygiene of the children was poor and many of them had skin rashes and untreated malaria and typhoid. Most had no shoes and only the clothing they wore. Each meal was a few spoonfuls of ground corn meal mixed with water.
Each night before going to bed, the three students would talk about the vulnerable children at the orphanage. They prayed about the situation and it became clear that they had to do something to help the children. They could not just walk away.
Two of them returned home at the end of the summer of 2008 and began to fundraise and spread the story. One remained in Uganda and teamed up with a Ugandan friend to start Musana Children's Home.
Today, there are live-in houseparents caring for the children and a nurse that sees children daily in a clinic at the home. The children of Musana have a grassy field to play on and are quickly adjusting to having beds to sleep on, new clothes to wear, medical treatment as needed, and enough food to eat. Musana is blessed to have dedicated volunteers, both foreigners and Ugandans, who come regularly to counsel, play with, and teach the children.
Excerpted from www.musana.org
Isaiah 58:6-7
“No,
this is the kind of fasting I want:
Free those who are wrongly imprisoned;
lighten the burden of those who work for
you.
Let the oppressed go free,
and remove the chains that bind people.
Share
your food with the hungry,
and give shelter to the homeless.
Give clothes to those who need them,
and do not hide from relatives who need
your help.”
What does God’s Story scripture teach us about walking away?
Read these verses again. Now, did you see anything in there that says you need to be a super-Christian to do these things? Did you see anything that says you should have your own stuff figured out first before you help someone else? Did you see anything that says to wait for a convenient time to help others? Did you see anything that says this is optional? It sounds very much to me like a command, not an option. Clearly, it pleases God when those who love Him show that love to others by seeking justice for them and meeting even their most basic needs.
How can I connect today’s God’s Story scripture to my life?
If you are like me, this verse gave me a lot to chew on as I look at my own surroundings. Who do you know that lives in need? Do you turn and look the other way when someone needy approaches you? Pray about how God might use you to remove the chains that bind people, or about who you can share your food with or give clothes to. If you are uncomfortable with the thought of interacting with needy people, whether near home or in a foreign land, pray that God will give you an opportunity in the near future to change your heart to have compassion on people in need so that you can obey His command and find the blessing in doing so.
How can I connect today’s God’s Story scripture and my story to others?
Tell someone about Musana Children’s Home in Uganda. Ask them if they would have been able to walk away. Honestly share your struggles or excitement as you put yourself in the shoes of the three college students who could not walk away. Ask a friend to pray with you that God will show you opportunities to love those in need, and have them keep you accountable to it.
18 Apr, 2011
The Festival Has Begun
"Thunder Over Louisville" was held in Louisville, Kentucky over the weekend. The day-long event kicks off two weeks of events that are part of the Kentucky Derby Festival. The event includes an air show with over 100 planes during the day, and breath-taking fireworks at night. It is said to be the largest annual event of its kind in North America.
Photos and Information courtesy of courier-journal.com and thunderoverlouisville.org.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the beginning of Easter ("Holy") Week?
Yesterday was Palm Sunday. Not every church makes as big a deal out of it as others. Some churches have children laying palm branches down in the aisle. Other churches may hardly mention it. But the significance of this entire week runs deep in our Christian faith.
On that Sunday more than 2000 years ago, the crowds went crazy as Jesus came into town. They were laying their coats on the road, as well as branches from the trees. Had they had access to fireworks and fighter planes, perhaps they would have used them and there would have been "Thunder Over Jerusalem." After all, they were celebrating the arrival of their king. Over the course of the next few days, however, they would turn on him and the same people shouting "Hosanna!" would begin shouting, "Crucify Him!" What a difference a week makes.
How can I connect today's God's Story scripture to My Life?
- Take some time this week to read Matthew's account of the last week of Jesus' life on earth (Matthew 21-28).
- Is your church holding special services this week? Do your best to attend those services to worship with other followers of Jesus.
- As you prepare for Easter celebrations this week, thank God each and every day for His perfect plan for your life. Thank Him for all that Easter means because of what Jesus has done for you.
How can I connect Today's Story, My Story, and God's Story to Others?
- Do you have a friend with whom you've been sharing God's Story? Easter is a perfect time to invite them to join you for church if you haven't already.
- As Easter approaches, this is a great time to move a little deeper in the sharing of God's Story with other friends. Ask your friends what they will be doing this week to prepare for Easter. Talk with them about your Easter traditions and the Story behind them.
14 Apr, 2011
What's Your Answer?
“Is Jesus alive? Is He coming back?”
A 57 year-old man asked my dad these
two questions the other day at his job. The questions surprised my dad a bit, however, because he’s not only vocal about his faith in every aspect of his life, including at work, but he also lives a godly life, it was understandable why someone would approach him.
I jokingly said that he should have responded with, “I’m glad you asked. Why don’t you come to church with me Sunday? I’m sure my pastor would love to talk to you.” Unfortunately, there are some who don’t take advantage of every (or any) opportunity that is presented to them to share about Jesus. Don’t we pray that we can share the Good News of Jesus to non-believers? Haven’t we asked God to bring people into our life to whom we can show the love of Jesus?
I’m so proud of my dad. He answered his co-worker’s questions. He didn’t use big words, go into a theological debate, or make him feel stupid for not knowing about Jesus. He just continued to love his peer and is praying that this will take his friend closer to making Jesus His best friend.
Photo is courtesy of googleimages.com
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect...
What does today’s Scripture Story teach us about having an answer?
We need to put Christ first in our life. We can’t honor Him on Sunday and live for the world the rest of the week. People see through us. What’s in our hearts will be transparent on the outside.
We have to be in the Word to share the Word. We need to be ready to answers when people ask us questions about the Lord. Will we have every answer for every question? Probably not, but being honest, and treating them with gentleness and respect, will be one way for them to see Jesus in you.
All around us are people that God has put into our path. Some we see daily (at school or work). Others we see occasionally (when we get our haircut, stop and get our favorite coffee, or see the neighbors outside). It’s no accident that we encounter them. These are opportunities to love, share, and sow God’s mercy into their lives. Be spiritually prepared to answer and respond to questions that they may have.
How can we connect today’s story, God’s Story scripture, and our story to others?
1. Start each day with prayer. Remind yourself that there are hurting people that you will see. Ask God to help you see them with His eyes.
2. Live a holy life. You don’t have to look differently (strange) to be a Christian. As people usually make judgments about us on what they first see, remember to smile. You have the joy of the Lord. You have the Armor of the Lord at your disposal to wear each day.
3. Be comfortable talking about Jesus. Make Him part of your conversations. Don’t preach to them, but talk about Him like you talk about your other friends. If you never mention Christ, how will they know that you are a Christ follower?
4. Stop, look and listen. Stop talking so much. Look at your friends and acquaintances when they are talking. And listen. Really listen to what they are saying.
There’s no question that God will use you. The question is....will you let Him? So...what's your answer?
13 Apr, 2011
Me, Myself, and My Mini-Me
When my son (now 3.5 years old) was not quite two, I found myself frequently using "time-outs" as a disciplinary tool. There were days when I think he spent more time in time-out than he did out, and sometimes I wondered if this controversal form of discipline even worked. Was he learning anything? I often asked myself.
One afternoon, when I was in the kitchen making lunch, I heard my toddler in the other room, talking to somebody in a rather stern voice. I thought it was a little odd, since he and I were the only ones home, and he wasn't really into imaginary play, at that point. I wiped my hands and sneaked into the room to find my son lecturing his Bob the Builder doll and placing him on the floor, propped up against the baby gate. I couldn't understand everything he was saying, but I caught just enough to understand what was going on. Poor Bob had refused to share and because of his choices, there were consequences. Bob had been put in a time-out.
The picture of this little toddler putting his doll in time-out still makes me chuckle. My poor boy had been in Bob's shoes countless times before, and he'd sat through an number of those lectures himself; nobody had to tell him how to do it, even when I thought he wasn't listening, my son had been watching closely and soaking it all in.
(Picture courtesy of google images)
1 Thessalonians 1:4-7
For we know, brothers, loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about being imitators of Christ?
In today's passage, Paul, Silas, and Timothy are writing to the church in Thessalonica, which was filled with recent converts who were left with a lot of persecution, but little support or encouragement. Paul talks about the way in which he and the others lived while they were among the church: modeling Christ and being an example to the people. As new Believers, the people of Thessalonica had a lot to learn, but only a few examples to look to. Of course, they had the scriptures to guide them, but Paul, Silas, and Timothy were living, breathing examples of Christ, and they watched and learned from their every move. Not only did those in Thessalonica learn how to act by modeling Paul, Silas, and Timothy, their actions were also put on display for others to imitate, and they became models for believers in Macedonia and Achaia.
How can I connect today's God's Story scripture to my life?
- Take a step back and look at the way you're living your life (the day-to-day). There are people watching you, whether you know it or not, the question is: If they were to imitate you, would their actions and words be reflecting Christ? What do you need to do/change to make sure that your actions, attitudes, thoughts, and words are reflecting Him?
- Do you have anyone like a Paul, Silas, or Timothy in your life, who is modeling for you what it means to follow and imitate Christ? If not, seek someone out and ask them to mentor you.
How can I connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and my story to others?
- Live in a way that honors Christ: the things that you do, the way you talk to others, your attitude toward your parents/teachers, your thoughtlife, the way you dress, and how you respond to tough situations. As your friends see you consistently acting like Jesus, they will be drawn to you and Him.
- Pray for God to use you and the activities you're involved as opportunities to model Him. Pray that your actions, words, and acts of love, would help change the overall negative stereotype of Christians. Perhaps He would use you to model Christ for those who may be calling themselves followers of Jesus, but are acting otherwise. May others be encouraged and inspired to imitate you, as you imitate Christ.
12 Apr, 2011
Priceless
This weekend we attended a live auction that was a fundraiser for a Christian organization we love. We went with the intention of making one or two small purchases of the donated items in order to show our support and contribute to their ministry, but when a big ticket item came up, my husband changed the game plan. Lot Number 171 was a backyard playground complete with trapeze, swings, slide and a bright canopy over a lofty fort. Within moments, it became ours. The next morning I learned not only what his thoughts were regarding our kids, but also the sacrifice it was for him: because of this generous acquisition, he was giving up his own ability to purchase concert tickets to his all-time favorite band. But with three young kids at home, he had in mind years of use as well as the priceless looks of amazement and pleasure on their faces when they saw it set it up in our backyard. To him, that sacrifice was completely worth it.
Image courtesy of Google.com
Matthew 13:44-46
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”
What does God’s Story scripture teach us about priceless things?
If you study this passage, you will find that there are two main interpretations of the field and the pearl, as well as two views of who the man and the merchant are. One way is to see that God’s love for us is priceless and He gave up everything in order to save us. On the other hand, we must come to recognize that there is nothing in all creation that compares to God’s love, and therefore we should hold nothing back and give Him all that we have and all that we are. No matter which way you look at it, this is a beautiful picture of how our relationship to God is priceless.
How can I connect today’s God’s Story scripture to my life?
Most of us probably don’t have to worry about selling everything we own in order to obtain the things we want. But how we spend our time and money can tell us a lot about our attitude toward what we value.
- Do you find yourself often having to choose between the things of God and your own stuff?
- Do you choose to spend time working on relationships with other people that are not glorifying to God?
- What are you willing to give up if it means having a deeper understanding of what God values?
- Is God more priceless to you than anything else in His created world?
How can I connect today’s God’s Story scripture and my story to others?
People spend their time and energy and resources on what they find valuable. When you are in conversation and discover what someone holds as valuable in their life, tell them about the merchant and the pearl. If you struggled to honestly answer the questions above, pray about being vulnerable enough with them to share those struggles. Pray together that you would both find God to be the most priceless thing in your life, and that He would help you to value Him above all of His creation.
11 Apr, 2011
Finish Strong
- Do you ever feel like you have been knocked off course or 'out of bounds' when it comes to your faith? Ask God to allow perseverance to keep working in you.
- Do you ever feel like you are doing really well, only to stumble back into a season of being discouraged? Ask God to help you keep your eyes fixed on Him.
- Do you every start comparing yourself to others and the progress they have made in their relationship with Jesus? Ask God to keep you focused on your own heart and the work that He wants to do in you and you alone.
- If you hear some friends talking about The Masters this week, start a coversation about what it means to finish strong.
- Do you know someone who is struggling in one of the area that you are as well? Find some time to talk with them this week about how you might encourage one another to finish strong.
- Ask God to give you more opportunities this week to encourage others live their entire life with Jesus with the goal of finishing strong.
8 Apr, 2011
Facing Trials
A 10-year-old boy who earned a spot in a national penmanship contest despite being born without hands and lower arms is in a league of his own.
Nicholas Maxim, a fifth-grader at Readfield Elementary School who writes by holding a pencil between his arms, impressed judges at a national penmanship contest enough that they created a new category for students with disabilities. Maxim received the first Nicholas Maxim Special Award for Excellent Penmanship this week at a school assembly.
James 1:2-3
Consider it pure joy, my brothers,
whenever you face trials of many kinds,
because you know that the testing
of your faith develops perseverance.
What does today's story and scripture teach us about trials?
In our lives we all have disabilities. Some are physical, some are emotional, some are situational. No matter what these disabilities are, in the face of trials we have the opportunity to depend on God. Often we make attempts to fix these disabilities ourselves...what a hard and overwhelming task. But all the Lord is asking us to do is surrender to Him and allow him to walk with us through it. What a joy, what freedom to know that all we have to do is ask Him to come into these holes in our lives. He will walk with us. He will carry us. He will do the hard work.
How can we connect God's Story Scripture to our lives?
No matter the path life takes there will inevitably be trials. The question is how do we face these trials? I am the first to want to run from any trial, praying that it will just go away. Yet with every passing trial God moves. He moves in my heart. He changes me. At the end of each trial i have the joy of knowing that I have grown into a more intimate relationship with God than I had known before. When we choose Joy and surrender, we are also choosing more of God. We are choosing to receive all of who He wants to be to us as He walks with us and cares for our heavy and burdened hearts.
Where are the holes in my life and or heart right now? What hurts especially bad at this moment? Is it possible that God is inviting me to lean more into His power in this pain? What might it look like to stop trying to fix myself and let Him do the hard work? In what ways do I need to lean on God more as i embrace my human weakness?
How can we connect today's Story, God's Story Scripture to others?
So many people assume that a trail means they done something wrong. We are quick to assign blame and feel shame for our short comings. What an amazing opportunity we have to show grace to our friends as they struggle through the messiness of life. We can tell them that we love them, that we do not think that their trials are something to be ashamed of. We can remind them that we accept them, regardless of the shape of their trial.
As your friends experience grace they will be given a picture of what Christ heart towards them looks like. They will begin to get a glimpse of a love that is unconditional, a love that does not waver. God is not asking us for perfect, well put together lives. He is asking for followers who recognize their need for Him.
7 Apr, 2011
Godly Guidance
Blind guide dog gets guide dog
Today’s Story: Godly Guidance
After six years of loyal service, Graham Waspe was devastated when his guide dog Edward was left blind after developing cataracts. But his devastation turned to joy when his replacement Opal turned out to be a real gem. Mr Waspe's new dog is not just aiding his owner to carry out everyday tasks, but also helping Edward to get around.
Regarding the photo: Graham Waspe, who is registered blind, with his blind guide dog Edward (left) and his new guide dog Opal (right) who now guides both of them on walks
The Waspes say the two dogs have got on fine since they came together, with Opal taking Edward to all his old haunts. Mr Waspe received his new dog last November after Edward developed the inoperable problem which resulted in him needing both eyes removed.
Graham said: 'Opal's been great for both of us. I don't know what we'd do without her.' And his wife Sandra, 58, said that despite the loss of his eyes, Edward still loved nothing more than to be around children, have his tummy tickled and receive lots of attention. The eight-year-old has been retired for four months but the loss of his eyesight has shown no sign of slowing him down.
Mr Waspe has limited vision in only one of his eyes following two separate incidents earlier in his life and coped without a guide dog until 2004.
News story courtesy of dailymail.co.uk and the photo is courtesy of albanpix.com
God’s Story
Matthew 4:18-22 (NIV)
As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him.
Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.
Jesus is the best Guide we could ever have. He calls us all to be disciples – to share His Good News with others. He wants us to be a part of ministry. He uses ordinary people. Ordinary fisherman. Ordinary you. Ordinary me.
Do you remember when you were blind to sin? Maybe you knew what you were doing was wrong but you didn’t care. Perhaps you didn’t even have a Bible or know what the Ten Commandments were. Are you still blind in some areas of your life or are you completely following Christ without reservation? Be like the disciples who immediately (or at once) left what they were doing and followed Jesus.
How can we connect today’s story, God’s Story scripture, and our story to others?
Pray for God to examine your heart. Ask for forgiveness in any area(s) that you haven’t given to Him. Tell Him know that you want to follow Him completely. Let Him be your guide, even when you can’t see where He’s leading you.
If you haven’t already, begin to talk about your relationship with Christ in a natural way to your friends. Tell them the story of how Jesus began calling fisherman to work with Him.
Listen to your friends. Continue to build relationships with them. Ask questions to get to know them better. Continue to follow Jesus and let Him guide you each step of the way.
6 Apr, 2011
In Search of the Lost
On May 31, 2009 an Airbus, bound for Paris, France, and filled with 216 passengers and 12 crew members took off from Rio de Janeiro. Sadly, the aircraft never made it to it's destination. Mysteriously, the plane was lost somewhere over the Atlantic Ocean on June 1, 2009. Just a few days after air traffic controllers' last communication with the plane, two bodies were found floating, among debris, in the Atlantic. Despite numerous search efforts, little more was discovered and the plane could not be found. According to Wikipedia, "French Navy spokesperson Hugues du Plessis d'Argentre described the task of finding the devices as 'trying to find a shoe box in an area the size of Paris, at a depth of 3,000 m (9,800 ft) and in a terrain as rugged as the Alps,' cautioning that there is no guarantee the data recorders would be recovered." Evenstill, Airbus (the manufacturer of the plane) and Air France (the airline the flew the plane) refused to give up on their search for the lost aircraft, and the individuals whose lives were lost that day. Recently, the team began a new search for the aircraft and within a few days, on April 3, 2011, they pinpointed the exact location of the wreckage. It seems as though they will stop at nothing to get answers to the cause of this tragedy. So far, the two companies have spent more than $28 million dollars in efforts to find and recover the wreckage. The current search for answers has already cost them $12.5 million.
(See: Wikipedia and www.travelagentcentral.com, photo courtesy of Wikipedia)
Luke 15:1-7
Now all the tax collectors and the sinners were coming near Him to listen to Him. Both the Pharisees and the scribes began to grumble, saying, "This man receives sinners and eats with them."
So He told them this parable, saying, "What man among you, if he has a hundred sheep and has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open pasture and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? "When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. "And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!' "I tell you that in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about God's pursuit of the lost?
Scripture is filled with stories, parables, and illustrations of the ways in which God is continually pursuing His children. In today's God Story scripture, The Parable of the Lost Sheep, Christ teaches about God's pursuit and rescuing of those who have strayed from Him. We don't know why the sheep is lost (whether he strayed away, or if he refused to follow where the shepherd led the herd), I think because it isn't really important. The point of the story is that the sheep was lost, he was missed, and the shepherd loved him enough that he was willing to risk everything to find him and bring him back.
Where do you find yourself in this story?
Are you like the Pharisees? Judging others, thinking about all the ways you're better (or more spiritual) than those around you, or grumbling because someone else is getting all of the attention you think you should be receiving? If this is you, you've replaced your love for Christ with a love for self. Repent. Be honest with God about your heart (He already knows it!) and how it's been hardened. Pray and ask God to replace your judgments and pride with love and concern for others. Pray (daily) that you would begin to see others through Christ's eyes so that you can love them as He does.
Are you the lost sheep? Have you strayed away from God and His plan for your life, thinking your way is better, only to find yourself wandering alone, in unfamiliar territory, wondering where to go next? You may not even know how you got here, but you know you're lost, and you know you're in need of rescue. If this is you, stop. Whatever direction you're heading, stop, and look for God. He's there. He's pursuing you, and He wants to rescue you. Pray for God to reveal Himself to you and make His voice clear. Repent - admit your faults and failures (He already knows!) and surrender yourself to God. Allow Him to change your heart and bring you back to Him.
Are you one of the 99? You've been following God, staying close to Him, and trying your best to listen and follow where He leads you. If this is you, thank God for His grace and the way He's protected you, your heart, and your life. Continue to seek Him and pray daily that His voice would remain clear, amidst the distractions and busyness of life, so that you will not stray or choose to go your own way.
How can I connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and my story to others?
No matter where you find yourself relating to today's story, don't be afraid to be honest with others and share how God has used these stories to touch your heart and to begin to change you. Share the story of the Air France flight that went down and the way both Air France and AirBus are doing whatever they can to find and recover the lost aircraft. Use it to start a conversation about Luke 15 and the way in which God pursues His children. Remind your friends that the reason we are lost doesn't matter, it's not the point of the story, and that even though others (like the Pharisees, in this story) may judge and condemn their actions, Jesus does not. Pray that God's Word will penetrate and change the hearts of your friends.
5 Apr, 2011
Rules to live by
For decades, Katie Couric has been a household name in America, as one of the nation’s leading news personalities. She is admired for her rise from local TV station ‘gofer’ to the first solo female anchor of a weekday evening newscast. Because of her vast audience, it is expected that her new book, due out later this month, will be a big seller. It’s about advice. Advice she has lived by throughout her life. Tidbits of her counsel include “Let ‘em know you’re there” and “Don’t let the turkeys get you down.” Other gems that are Couric’s rules to live by are “Trust your gut” and “Sometimes you’re the pigeon, sometimes you’re the statue.”
Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”
Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
It makes sense for us to take what we have learned from what life has taught us and pass along our best advice to other people. Of all the things we could offer, it’s always good to find one or two memorable pieces to share. Jesus does this when he sums up the Old Testament moral law in just a few simple sentences. By fulfilling these two commands--love God, love others--a person keeps all the others. If we truly love God and our neighbor, we will naturally keep the commandments.
Whose rules are you living by? Who do you seek for wisdom to wade through the circumstances of your life? If you compare the way you live and conduct yourself to Jesus’ summary of “love God, love others,” how do you measure up?
Do others look to you to help them navigate the ups and downs of life? What nuggets of wisdom do you have to offer? Are you giving them silly one-liners to help them for this day, or are you sharing with them Jesus’ own words that will guide them for a lifetime?
4 Apr, 2011
Storing God's Word
Green Collection boasts rare Bibles and more
Highlights of the Green Collection include:
•The Codex Climaci Rescriptus, one of the world's earliest surviving Bibles. Using a new technology developed by the Green Collection in collaboration with Oxford University, scholars have uncovered the earliest surviving New Testament written in Palestinian Aramaic — the language used in Jesus' household — found on recycled parchment.
Click Here for Full Article.
Article excerpt courtesy of usatoday.com.
Photo from images.google.com.
12 For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.
Check out what Tyndale's Life Application Study Bible has to say about Hebrews 4:12 -
The Word of God is not simply a collection of words from God, a vehicle for communicating ideas; it is living, life-changing, and dynamic as it works in us. With the incisiveness of a surgeon's knife, God's Word reveals who we are and what we are not. It penetrates the core of our moral and spiritual life. It discerns what is within us, both good and evil. The demands of God's Word require decisions. We must not only listen to the Word; we must also let it shape our life.
How can I connect today's God's Story scripture to My Life?
- Spend some time today soaking in God's Word.
- Not sure where to start today? Read the rest of Hebrews 4.
- Ask God to let His Word reveal to you who you are, and who you are not.
- Ask God to let His Word shape your life.
How can I connect Today's Story, My Story, and God's Story to Others?
- Do you have a friend who struggles to get into God's Word? Offer to read it together.
- Consider having some friends over to share parts of God's Story with one another.
- Ask your Youth Pastor or Campus Club Director for some guidance on how to get your friends reading God's Word.
1 Apr, 2011
Tweeting Compassion
Company uses Social Media to streamline Compassion.
"Beremedy is an organization that utilizes social media such as Twitter, Facebook and blogs to streamline the donation of food, clothing and furniture to people in need. The name is a short way to say "you be the remedy for someone in need."
Beremedy tweets the need
Blake Canterbury is a charming 26-year-old with a background in new media marketing. He founded Beremedy in 2009, after flooding washed over parts of Atlanta, in order to get items such as baby formula and diapers to people in need.
"Everyone I've ever met in my entire life wanted to help other people; they just didn't know where to start," Canterbury says. "We thought, 'What would this city look like with 10,000 people getting a text message at the same time of needs in their community? Surely people would want to help with that."
The process is simple: Canterbury receives needs from nonprofits, school social workers and individuals looking for help directly on beRemedy's website.
Canterbury and a team of four volunteers use Google Wave to communicate about what needs they will accept or deny. Once a need is determined, a member of the team is assigned as case manager and writes a blurb about the story. Canterbury blasts out the write-up on Twitter and Facebook with a link back to the full story on Beremedy's site.
Article & Image courtesy of CNN.
Luke 12: 34 "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also"
What Does today's story and Scripture teach us about compassion?
We lend our passion, and spare time to thoughts to a wide variety of things. Time reading or watching things on the internet like the friday song, marcel the shell, we wonder what's happening prince Williams wedding, or what city Bieber's hair is traveling to? Or maybe you don't care about the trends but prefer to post or check in on where your friends are checking in at, posting thoughts on the weather, tag a picture of silly thing adventures you are on, or maybe about people that frustrate you, or a quote that inspires you. With all the things we post online, how many of us spend ANY time looking out for others? beRemedy has taken a stand using social media that can be quite inspiring.
Our true selfs are found in the depths of our hearts. We find the depth of which we make our choices, motivations, and things we love and have compassion on. God's Story scripture is short and to the point. A point well put, its about the things in our life we place our time and efforts on are an outer displays of the inner heart. What are you placing your time in? Where is your Heart today?
How can we connect God's Story Scripture to our lives?
In our world it seems that our Social media's are ruling our life in many different areas. Honestly these days I spend most of the time that I read my bible using only my bible app instead of the paper addition (what the bible is on paper?? :) ). Our statuses and updates are filled with the latest gossip, life joy's and annoyance, How many of us have used an update for something positive like the people of beRemedy they are actively using it for the good of others. Its not just clicking to "like" a cause but its putting Love into action. Ask God to help you find ways to be compassion on your campus, once you see some needs try to post them in a public way. (Remember, not to single people out that don't want to be. beRemedy gives a great example of sharing peoples story while keeping there confidentiality)
Spend some time writing a list of where your "Treasure is". Take time to look at your twitter, facebook, and formspring to see what has been important to you in this last week or month. Ask God to reveal areas where you can invest more time serving others. Ask God to show you how to have more compassion for friends and family.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story Scripture, and Our Story to Others?
Can we spur each other on to share good deeds. Can you start something like "beRemedy" on your campus? Can you encourage people to get involved in a cause like "beRemedy"? Even a friend who is not a christian still has compassion and a desire to help meet the needs of people. Pray about who God would want you to talk about compassion with. Share about using our social networks to help people and not just about your own life events.
