September 30th People Reflection

Friday 9/30/2005

Jude-keep building on the foundation of your most holy faith, as the Holy Spirit helps you pray

Ezra 9-10-but you have never turned your back on us. You love us…It’s as though you have given us new life

Psalm 95-Listen to God’s voice today!

Isaiah 5.1-7-Let me sing for my beloved my love-song concerning his vineyard

Hebrews 1.5-14-you (God) will remain

Psalm 110-From the womb of the morning, like dew, your youth will come to you

"Look how much she has grown!"—Phoebe the puppy taken to the vet for a check up and comments about growth- I think that’s how I am too- A puppy in God’s eyes- and he is building on my foundation – daily giving me new life – daily renewing my baptism- daily forgiving my failings and stumbling behavior – God never turns his back on me- even when I turn my back on him- he calls to me- and I need to listen to his voice- just like Phoebe needs to listen to my voice and return for safety – I need to listen to God and return for safety- he sings to me and I sing to God- Phoebe hears that "dog talk/singing" – and she will sing back in her own howling ways- I know that God is always there- just as Phoebe rests assured that her master will always return home when she is left- yea- "Look how much she has grown!"- Growth- it’s a daily thing- and every morning – like dew—like a miracle- God give me new life and growth – "Look how much she has grown!"—It’s time to grow a little more today.

Prayer- Lord- daily give me your growth and love and send me out to run and play in your Kingdom—for you are always my constant source of life. -- Amen

September 29th People Reflection

Thursday 9/29/2005

3 John-Please give a personal greeting to each of our friends.

Ezra 7-8-Ezra has spent his entire life studying and obeying the Law of the LORD and teaching it to others.

Psalm 94-LORD God, you punish the guilty

Luke 10.17-20-rejoice that your names are written in heaven

Revelation 12.7-12-But they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony

Psalm 28-The LORD is the strength of his people

"I wasn’t in the rotation this time." – A friend’s observation on a service job – Makes me wonder how the early missionaries felt- did they feel they were left out of the rotation- out of contact with the usual people they knew- on their own- always meeting new people- delivering a new message of hope- delivering a message to some who will accept it and many who will reject it – even reject the message in a cruel manner- Not in the rotation of the norm- but in a different rotation- those who purposefully walk from God- with full knowledge of what they are doing- God will punish- some people purposefully work against God and his people- trying to stifle work in the kingdom- but God has overcome all this- already supplied the answer and solution- and it’s not about something we do to correct it- God has corrected and saved this world – conquered by the blood of the Lamb—and by the word of their testimony—"I wasn’t in the rotation this time."- Well the word of my testimony puts me right back in that rotation- so those early missionaries? – well – they were in the rotation- even if they felt they weren’t- because they had the salvation of the blood of the Lamb on their side- and they had their own personal testimony to tell- you see- God is our strength- not inclusion in some rotation – because our testimony isn’t something in rotation- it’s a full time thing- "I wasn’t in the rotation this time."—Well???—Rest assured that God has taken care of your rotation for you- serve him in his kingdom just as you have been called to do- by the blood of the Lamb and the word of your testimony.

Prayer- Lord – include me this day – include me with my story of how you are active in my life- let me sing it to all I meet- it’s a unique story about a unique love- put me in that rotation this day- and give me all the chances you wish for me to have to tell the word of testimony. --- Amen

September 28th People Reflection

Wednesday 9/28/2005

2 John- I want to talk to you in person, because that will make us really happy.

Ezra 5-6-And stop slowing them down! (Rebuilding the temple)

Psalm 93-your temple will always be beautiful and holy

Psalm 80.7-15-have regard for this vine

1 Timothy 1.12-17-Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners- of whom I am the foremost.

Psalm 121-My help comes from the LORD who made heaven and earth.

"Use the large tile."- A choice in renovating a restroom- We all have choices to make- at some point in time things also need to be rebuilt- in rebuilding – there are choices- sometimes we are slow to rebuild- but many times I think god wants me to hurry up on my rebuilding- after all – he has given me all I need to rebuild- he sent his Son to free me from distractions and sent his Spirit to provide all the gifts I need to get on with the ministry he has called me to do- Jesus came into the world- had regard for me this broken vine- the foremost of sinners and helped me start the rebuilding process- It’s time to get on with it- it’s time to rebuild- "Use the large tile."- Go ahead- make a choice and move on with it- it’s time to rebuild.

Prayer- Lord, guide me in all the choices I have to make today- show me how to rebuild- show me what to rebuild- show me your way. -- Amen

September 27th People Reflection

Tuesday 9/27/2005

1 John 5-We are certain that God will hear out prayers when we ask for what pleases him.

Exra 3-4-Everyone started shouting and praising the LORD because work on the foundation of the temple had begun.

Psalm 92-It is wonderful each morning to tell about your love and at night to announce how faithful you are.

Revelation 12.7-12-But they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they did not cling to life even in the face of death.

Acts 17.10-15-for they welcomed the message very eagerly

Psalm 118.1-9-His steadfast love endures forever

"I was on the field when you called."—A telephone call I had made a week earlier—A coach on a field with some children- I like to think about this as being on the field of life too- unexpected things happen- it all happens as it happens- yea- we coach – we teach- we also learn and experience the spontaneity of life- we reach out to God while were out on that field – we pray – and sometimes we get that prayer right and pray for what pleases God—I usually pray for what pleases me- but I must think to pray for what pleases God- I know god is faithful to me- he is there coaching me along the way on that field- he is giving me instruction- sometimes I get it- sometimes I don’t get it right- but he keeps working with me- trying to increase my skill level in what he has called me to do- what position he has called me to play- and at half time and the end of the game – I have a story to tell- the really cool part is that he already took care of the winning and losing and sent someone to win the game in the end—so I’m free to play the game and not worry about the score- free to listen to the message- to go with what he has called me to do and play like I have never played before- cause I can’t lose- You see- God is faithful- he coaches me from the field- he sends Jesus to call the plays right there with me and we play and have a blast- he builds the foundation of love and understanding for all who choose to play—what a great coach I have with me on that field—wanna play too? – all can play this game—"I was on the field when you called."—Thanks be to God that you sent your Son to be on the field with me when I call.

Prayer- Jesus- I call out to you this day to help me while I play on your filed and in your Kingdom- show me the plays- teach me the skills and pat my ass and send me to the line. -- Amen

September 26th People Reflection

Monday 9/26/2005

1 John 4-The commandment that God has given us is: "Love God and love each other!"

Ezra 1-2-Now they were on their way back to Jerusalem and to their own towns everywhere in Judah.

Psalm 91-When you are in trouble, call out to me. I will answer and be there to protect and honor you.

Daniel 10.10-14; 12.1-3-Do not fear

John 5.1-15-Stand up, take your mat and walk.

Psalm 97-Light dawns for the righteous, and joy for the upright in heart.

"I gave her a box of my God books."—A box of books given to a friend searching and yearning for some understanding of God. – It was a reflection – it was a gauge of loving others- and the commandment God has given us it to Love God and each other- now that’s when we are returning from our exile- seems like there are many times in life when I am in exile- I turn from God and am far away- but then God tells me exactly where he is-but now I have a journey to take- a journey to return to God- he shows the way- he heals me and gives me sight- he gives the light of dawn to guide me to him- but I still must move- I still must pick up my mat and walk- yea- God is there- sometimes distant- sometimes close- and sometimes a friend leads me and points out the direction to take- but I have to walk and act out my faith and tell others where I’m going—"I gave her a box of my God books." – A box of books with understanding, light and direction—well it’s time now that I pick up my mat and start my journey towards that light—wanna come along?

Prayer- Lord, you are a journey- you call me to action- you call me to come to you- you show yourself to me in so many ways- in the wood along my path- in the wood of that tree of life that you hung and died upon just for me- in this wood you show me your light- in this wood that many times I see as a barrier- you show your light right through the heart and soul of that wood- you show your light of love and life- I’m on my journey to you- following that beam of light at the center of that wood- it won’t be easy – but I’m willing to pick up my mat- and walk to you and with you -- Amen

September 25th People Reflection

Sunday 9/25/2005

1 John 3-God wants us to have faith in his Son Jesus Christ and to love each other.

2 Chronicles 36-These things happened just as Jeremiah the LORD’s prophet had said.

Psalm 90-When morning comes, let your love satisfy all our needs.

Matthew 21.23-32-and even after you saw it, you did not change your minds and believe him.

John 3.16-21-God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

Psalm 57-Let your glory be over all the earth.

"Do you want to use masking tape?"- Painting- a barrier to possible mistakes- The Israelites lost the temple- were sent to Babylon- a few were left – but it all happened just as God had spoken through Jeremiah- where was the masking tape- where was that barrier to sin- the people had botched it- they kept turning from God until God had to take some more drastic action to correct them in their ways- but even without the masking tape to cover their sin- God in the end sends Jesus – we botched it- didn’t use the masking tape- I sin- and with or without masking tape- Jesus came to save me and show me how to love others- I have to change- change my mind about my own selfish needs – my own sense of saving myself- and give myself to God- believe- believe that Jesus didn’t come to condemn me for my failure to mask over my sins- but he came to save me from my sins- you see – I can’t mask over my sins anyway- some of it will leak right through the tape- God can see through my efforts of masking my sin- but he knows that too- and gives me life anyway through Jesus – and through Jesus his glory shines all over the earth- Do you want to use masking tape? – well, for painting maybe- but for my sin- I think I’ll just believe in Jesus and skip the tape part.

Prayer- Lord- I love you – thanks for sending Jesus into my world and my life. -- Amen

September 24th People Reflection

Saturday 9/24/2005

1 John 2-You can see the darkness fading away and the true light already shining.

2 Chronicles 35-they handed some of the blood to the priests, who splattered it on the altar

Psalm 89.38-52-Our LORD, we praise you forever

Philippians 2.1-13-in humility regard others as better than yourselves

Galatians 6.11-18-but a new creation is everything!

Psalm 87-All my springs are in you.—or All my sources of welfare are in God

"If we could just figure out what we all had in common…"—A conversation with a friend about religions of the world- his desire to find God- to find the source of life in the "in common" things of world religion- it is a struggle for all—but with Jesus – day by day the darkness fades and his light gets brighter- focus on that light- his blood- just like in the OT – the blood was scattered on the altar- today I must realize that Jesus was that sacrifice- not my work- but the work that Jesus did in obedience to God- he gave his life for the lives of all of us- to forgive everyone- it’s a done deal- I must see it- feel it- accept the gift of life God has freely given through Jesus- see that bright light in this dark world- be humble just as Jesus was humble and give my old life up to God- all life is in God – not me- then I am a new creation- a new creation created in life by God through Jesus act – not my act – in common?- life through Jesus- not something I’m going to figure out- but something God figured out for me and freely gave to me- will I have the faith to accept the gift?- respond to the call?- and let my life be changed from one doomed to death to one released to the joy of life? – Yes!

Prayer-Jesus- you are my source of welfare- your are my spring of life- that everflowing water of baptism – continually cleansing me day after day- always moving me from death to life- the source of life- I thank you and praise you forever. -- Amen

September 23rd People Reflections

Friday 9/23/2005

1 John 1- If we say that we have not sinned, we are fooling ourselves, and the truth isn’t in our hearts.

2 Chronicles 34-Finally, when everybody was there, we read aloud "The Book of God’s Law" that had been found in the temple.

Psalm 89.19-37-One of David’s descendants will always be king, and his family will rule until the sky disappears.

Ezekiel 18.1-4, 25-32-Know that all lives are mine….turn, then, and live

Lamentations 3.22-33-The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases, his mercies never come to and end; they are new every morning

Psalm 103-Bless the LORD, O my soul

"I just have a couple more questions."- Working with someone at work- questions- answers maybe- I always have questions too- why do things happen the way they do? – what direction am I to take? – why do I sin? – Why does God forgive?- I search his Word- I listen for his voice- Sometimes I hear an answer – sometimes I’m left to struggle with the issue—but always I know that God is with me- even when I’m confused- I know that all life belongs to God- even my own- and I feel the steadfast love of God that never ceases- I don’t understand it at all – but every new morning I know his love and mercy is with me – that love and mercy that never comes to an end- even when I’m tested- even when I’m stressed – even when I’m lost – God is there – "I just have a couple more question." – Well maybe that’s part of the point- as long as there are questions – God is there to be asked- and he will answer in his time not mine- so God is there- ask a couple more questions and keep talking- Bless the LORD, O my soul.

Prayer- Lord- thank you for being here with me now- when I need you – I always need you – thank you for listening to a couple more questions. --Amen

September 22nd People Reflection

Thursday 9/22/2005

John 21-he did the same with the fish.

2 Chronicles 33-Kings turn to God- Kings turn away from God- back and forth

Psalm 89.1-18-You are strong and mighty!

Psalm 25.1-9-for you are the God of my salvation

1 Corinthians 10.11-13-So if you think you are standing, watch out that you do not fall.

Psalm 73-But for me it is good to be near God

"A pulse of air backfeeds each tube."—air that blows backwords through a filter in a dust collector – cleaning the dirt off the outside of the tube shaped filter- Jesus broke some fish and gave it to the disciples- after his resurrection- then he spoke to Peter- three times – do you love me- feed my sheep- Peter had denied Jesus three times- Jesus give Peter a puff of air – backwards- cleansing the dirt of sin from Peter- Kings in the old testament- turn away from God – repent and turn back to God- God forgives – with a puff of air of the life of the Holy Spirit- backwards – against the flow of sin – against the flow of false god worship- cleansing the kings- that breath of God- his Holy Spirit – the resurrection of Jesus – that backward pulse of air – cleansing the dirt of my sin – and saving me- for you are the God of my salvation- if I think I can stand on my own- all I have to do is realize the dirt of sin on me- then I know I need the pulse of air- that Holy Spirit of God’s forgiveness and that backwards pulse of air through my sin- that’s when God is near me- that’s when I know that I will fall- if I think I can stand on my own- "A pulse of air backfeeds each tube."—I need your Holy pulse of air in my life now and always.

Prayer-Lord forgive me- breath you Spirit –your breath of life into my life- Jesus- feed me the fish I need to live a life of service and dedication to you and your ways. – Send me out today in your name. --- Amen

Septmeber 21st People Reflection

Wednesday 9/21/2005

John 20.19-31-then he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit."

2 Chronicles 32-Hezekiah and the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz asked the LORD for help…

Psalm 88-Each morning I pray to you, LORD

Matthew 9.9-13-As Jesus was walking along…

Luke 5.27-32-And he got up, left everything and followed him

Psalm 119.33-40-give me life in your ways

"The dogs are nipping at my heels."—Words from someone with finger pointing people and complaints about silly things. – The dogs were nipping at Jesus’ heels too- especially when he called and ate with sinners like Matthew—as Jesus walked along – with the people- not just with the big shots of his day – but with the people- and Matthew saw this and knew Jesus was special- he got up – left everything and followed- and Jesus gave him life – in this case Matthew didn’t have to ask for help from God- God came to him- and he comes to me each day- in an endless variety of ways- yea- I come too- and ask for his help – especially in the morning- and I receive the breath of the Spirit- in the quiet of the morning – and then when "the dogs are nipping at my heels" – I can recall that God is right there with me- feeling the same pain but guiding me through all the silliness of life back to him. I think that may be life in the way God intends it for me.

Prayer- I come to you today- with the dogs nipping at my heels- asking for your help – for your guidance- for your forgiveness- be with me this day in all ways. -- Amen

September 20th People Reflection

Tuesday 9/20/2005

John 20.1-18-the disciple who got there first then went into the tomb, and when he saw it, he believed.

2 Chronicles 31-Everyone had a job to do it seems either in the temple or destroying false gods

Psalm 87-All who sing or dance will say, "I too am from Zion."

Ephesians 2.4-10-and raised us up with him

Romans 8.12-17-all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God

Psalm 113-From the rising of the sun to its setting the name of the LORD is to be praised.

"The power is out."- Something happened to a utility pole- it snapped at the top and power lines fell and were draped across the hood of a truck. The power went out. I think maybe that nameless disciple running to the tomb with Peter felt the power was out too. Jesus was dead and someone moved him from the tomb. The tomb was empty - -but I get some sense of hope here- this nameless disciple looks in at the cloths bundled to the side and believes- sounds vaguely familiar to some shepherds thirty years or so earlier- they looked at some cloths in a manager- they believed- one set of cloths there was a baby – another set of cloths was empty – but both times they believed- this wasn’t a false god as the Israelites struggled with earlier- this was the real deal- you couldn’t destroy this God- this God was present in the flesh and in the Spirit- this God was Jesus- a God who we will be raised with – not by our own deeds of good but by the sacrifice and forgiveness he has given to us- this God once in the flesh – not in the empty cloth- will send his Spirit and call us his children- and we will sing and dance on his holy hill from the rising of the sun to its setting – "The power is out." – Is it really – no – I think the power is on now- in my life and yours.

Prayer- Jesus, you send your Spirit as the source of my power- give me understanding and strength this day to receive your power and serve you in your kingdom. -- Amen

September 19th People Reflection

Monday 9/19/2005

John 19.16b-42-they were in a hurry to put Jesus’ body there.

2 Chronicles 30-Passover is once again celebrated

Psalm 86-Your love for me is so great that you protected me from death and the grave.

Ezekiel 2.8-3.11-Then I ate it; and in my mouth it was as sweet as honey.

Matthew 24.42-47-Keep awake

Psalm 26-in the great congregation I will bless the LORD

"I can sing to the cows ok."- A comment from and older man at a rural church about leading the hymns in worship- He felt comfortable singing to the cows but not so leading worship hymns. He could be close to God any time but in his personal time at work he was especially close- I think Jesus was this way at times too- he would escape to pray to God and be very close- and my time with God is important- time to read and reflect on scripture- the Words are like honey in my mouth- the food needed for the day – the manna of my day- my daily bread – all I need- but when this time is up- I must be careful that I’m not in a hurry to put Jesus’ body away- I must realize that Jesus is there with me through out the day- not put away in some tomb by me to bring him back when I need him- he keeps me awake to his presence- always there- that special alone time is celebrated over and over all day long so that at the beginning of the new week I can bless God in the congregation- yea – "I can sing to the cows ok."- But I also know that Jesus is with me all the rest of the times helping me to "sing to" anyone and everyone ok too.

Prayer- Lord, send me this day to sing your praises and blessings and saving grace to all I contact this day and this week- then every day renew and refresh me through your Word. --- Amen

September 17th and 18th People Reflections

Saturday 9/17/2005

John 18.19-38a-No, my kingdom doesn’t belong to this world.

2 Chronicles 27-28-Ahaz was nothing like his ancestor David.

Psalm 84-Deep in my heart I long for your temple, and with all that I am I sing joyful songs to you.

Philippians 1.21-30-For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain.

Matthew 9.1-8-When the crowds saw it, they were filled with awe, and they glorified God

Psalm 93-holiness befits your house, O LORD, forevermore

"First down Aaaaaaaaaaaaves"- A fan at the football game getting really irritated at the announcer as the Middies were getting beat bad! – Well this guy wasn’t filled with awe for the Middies- but when we realize the activity in Christ in our lives- the miracles he performs right before our eyes each and every day- we are filled with awe- we do long to be in his presence and dwell in God’s temple and sing joyful songs to God- we want so bad to yell in joy "First down!" – But the kingdom of Jesus – it isn’t here- it isn’t with those petty little first downs- his is a kingdom to beat all kingdoms – to beat all earthly kingdom- but a heavenly kingdom- the "touchdown" of kingdoms—so I want to be part of his kingdom – I want to hear "Touchdown Middies!!!" – forget that earthly "first down" stuff- I want to be part of the kingdom of God!

Prayer- Lord send me to work in your kingdom this day- let me dwell with you and work with the people you send me to – for it’s you house and your kingdom that you have called me to work in- right here on this earth but in a heavenly way. --- Amen

Sunday 9/18/2005

John 18.38b-19.16a-Pilate gave orders for Jesus to be beaten with a whip.

2 Chronicles 29-Hezekiah obeyed the LORD by doing right, just as his ancestor David had done.

Psalm 85-You have forgiven the sin and taken away the guilt of your people.

Matthew 20.1-16-are you envious because I am generous?

Revelation 7.9-12-After his I looked, an there was a great multitude that no one could count, form every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb…

Psalm 146-I will praise the LORD as long as I live

"I like my coffee strong."- A church friend and relative talking about coffee- and Jesus love was strong too- he endured beating and death with a deep love for the people and creation he loved- the early kings would come and go – most would turn from God- but sometimes like Hezekiah they would turn the community back to God- focus on God instead of themselves and be generous- God is generous he takes care of all our needs- he is strong and generous- yea – I want to praise God- he gives to me all I need- he is strong and loving and willing to give his life for me- I look forward to approaching that throne with the multitudes and praising God – I will praise my "strong" God as long as I live.

Prayer- Lord in you is all the strength I need- Thank You -- Amen

September 16th People Reflection

Friday 9/16/2005

John 18.1-18-I must drink from the cup that the Father has given me.

2 Chronicles 26-He obeyed the LORD by doing right

Psalm 83-Make them realize that you are the LORD Most High, the only ruler of earth!

Jonah 3.10-4.11-When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil ways, God changed his mind about the calamity that he had said he would bring upon then; and he did not do it.

Romans 8.28-39-Nothing will separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Psalm 55-But I call upon God, and the LORD will save me.

"That’s my favorite pizza."- A birthday gift to Mom- she loves conversation and Capozzi’s Pizza- I have things that are favorites too- but sometimes it’s not my favorite thing that God calls me to do- sometimes I have to do the thing that is not favorite—Jesus had to do some hard things- he had to drink from the cup God gave him to drink- and it included his death on a cross- but he obeyed- he gave his life for the benefit of the entire world- now it’s easy to realize that God is God- he is willing to give himself for me and you- people that don’t deserve any of his gifts- people who instead deserve the punishment of death- but God gives life instead- through Jesus death – God gives life- and that’s the only way to salvation- not through anything I can do for or by myself- but through the life, suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus for me and for you—and with this comes the example set before us- for since Jesus gave the ultimate- nothing can separate me or you from the love of God in Jesus- yea—"That’s my favorite pizza." – And I’m will call to God knowing that he will save me.

Prayer- Lord, save me this day- then send me boldly into the day knowing that through all struggle, pain or even death – your love will never be separated from me- cause you sent Jesus in love to save me. Thanks be to God! -- Amen

September 15th People Reflection

Thursday 9/15/2005

John 17-I told my followers what you told me, and they accepted it.

2 Chronicles 25-He took with him the idols of the Edomite gods and set them up.

Psalm 82-Rescue the weak and homeless form the powerful hands of heartless people.

Psalm 145.1-8-The LORD is gracious and merciful

Luke 23.44-49-and the curtain of the temple was torn in two

Psalm 31-You are indeed my rock and my fortress

"They moved me into the bridal suite." – A comment of a friend in the hospital—his move was an upgrade- one step closer to going home—although the room was rather flowery and feminine. Jesus moved on too. And in a prayer he gave the rest of us a chance to read- he asks God to take care of his followers- how much we accept him and what Jesus has told us- as Jesus moves back to his Father- he desires that we are cared for in this world- that the false gods of others not overwhelm us and take us away from our source of life- that source of life from creation and salvation through Jesus our Savior- our rock and fortress against all those false gods we tend to create and worship- and the curtain was torn in two- right at the moment of Jesus life being given for our sin- God opens up the holy of holies to you and me—to let us into the presence of God- to let us be one with Jesus and one with God through Jesus our Savior- oh how gracious and merciful our God is—how he rescues us- the weak and homeless and gives us a mansion in which to dwell in his kingdom- a room has been prepared for us—a room has been prepared for Jesus church—and somehow I expect that room just may be "the bridal suite" – "They moved me into the bridal suite." – Hey that’s a great room to be in –especially when you think of the church as Jesus bride—I wouldn’t mind dwelling in that "bridal suite" all my life.

Prayer-Lord, thank you for your Church- your bride- help me to focus not on my selfish desires in the church – how we should worship- how others act – but help me to worship you- in your bridal suite- cause it’s not about how I or others decorate your church – but it’s about the beauty you possess- may I see your beauty this day in the love, life and compassion of Jesus- and help me to dwell in your bridal suite all day long. -- Amen

September 14th People Reflection

Wednesday 9/14/2005

John 16.4b-33-But I tell you that I am going to do what is best for you. That is why I am going away.

2 Chronicles 24-Those workers went right to repairing the temple, and when they finished, it looked as good as new.

Psalm 81-be happy and shout to God who makes us strong!

John 3.13-17-whoever believes in him may have eternal life

Mark 8.31-38-If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.

Psalm 98-All the ends of the earth have seen the victory of our God.

"So tell me how your day has been." – A friend asking for me to talk- to reflect on the day – to open up a little- to tell the moments when I witnessed God – well not always—but that’s the way it should be—how was your day? – Did Jesus go away for a while and then return to you? – Did you have to work all day in the kingdom on repairs and rebuilding? – did you have to repair relationships? – when you were all done with that – did you feel God’s presence? – did it make you happy?- do you still believe after the days events?- did you have to deny yourself and pick up your cross and follow?- did you see the victory of God this day?- was God the center of your day?- so many questions- so much to think about- but Jesus did tell us that he sent the Spirit to teach us- to guide us and to lead us to God—"So tell me how your day has been."—Where has the Spirit led you this day? – It’s a good thing to think about – It’s a good check on direction- It’s a good thing to hear what each other has to say and to learn from one another—so go ahead – Tell me how your day has been.

Prayer- Lord, thank you for each day that you give me- thank you for letting me experience life in so many ways- the good – the bad- the joys- the struggles- all of it you are there with me- let me tell how my day has been with you there with me- always with me—and let me listen intently to the stories of friends on how there day has been and see you right at their side- all day long. --- Amen

September 13th People Reflection

Tuesday 9/13/2005

John 15.1-16.4a-The greatest way to show love for friends is to die for them.

2 Chronicles 23-Joash is made king- the line of descendants from David continues

Psalm 80-But if you smile on us, we will be saved.

Psalm 98.1-4-for he has done marvelous things

Matthew 9.27-31-But they went out and spread the news about him throughout the district.

Psalm 102-For my days pass away like smoke

"Don’t worry; we will be able to take care of this."—A mechanic here to hook up hydrogen tube trailers. I wasn’t worried to begin with- I had complete confidence that they would do a good job and complete it on time. And that’s what God sent Jesus to do- a job- on time- with complete confidence in what he set out to do- to lay down his life for some friends- to lay down his life for creation- to lay down his life for me- surely that would bring a huge smile from God- I pray God can smile on me and save me- see how I need his salvation- see how I need his life- cause I can’t save myself- I depend completely on God’s saving act of grace- those marvelous things that only God can do—cause my life just passes by like smoke- compared to God and his eternity – my life is like a small puff of smoke- here and gone- just like that- but God has plans for my time – for this small interval of time in eternity and I must respond- how can I help but to go out and tell the news of a love so deep that even in the small puff of time –God’s love becomes an eternity – "Don’t worry; we will be able to take care of this."- Yea- I know and have complete confidence in Jesus my Savior.

Prayer- Lord, I love you and depend solely on your gracious action in my life—lead and guide me all my days. -- Amen

September 11th and 12th People Reflections

Sunday 9/11/2005

John 14.1-14- Without me, no one can go to the Father.

2 Chronicles 20.1-21.1-God will fight on your side!

Psalm 78,56-72-God demanded their love…

Matthew 18.21-35-forgive from your heart

Proverbs 23.22-25-Listen to your father who begot you…

Psalm 91-Those who love me, I will deliver.

"We knew we had gotten all the life we could out of Pepper." – The Campus Pastor- Pastor Weisner telling a story about the death of a beloved dog of his. You could tell the importance of the gift of life. You could hear the struggle that both dog and owner endured. But also you could feel the presence of the blessed gift of life. That gift Jesus gave to all of us that tells us that life comes from him – life proceed through him- and life is fulfilled in him and that without Jesus, no one can go to the Father. Yea- struggle with death – but God will fight on your side – yea – God demands my love- God demands my life to be given to him- and in giving he freely gives- but there’s a difference here- I don’t give to get- God already gave- so now I respond to his gift of life as a happy child in love with his Father- willing to do what the Father asks- and my Father asks me to forgive others as he forgave me- to love others as he has loved me- I must listen to my father- for he has promised to take care of me- even in the struggles with sin and death – "We knew we had gotten all the life we could out of Pepper." – And God will get all the life he can out of me. Thanks be to God!

Prayer- Father, I give you my life- I give you my love- Get all you can out of me – For I know of your life and love through your Son Jesus- Send me out this week to give and forgive those you place before me in your kingdom. And let me love them with all the love you have given me. -- Amen

Monday 9/12/2005

John 14.15-31-The Spirit will teach you everything and will remind you of what I said while I was with you.

2 Chronicles 21.2-22-12-Joash hid in the temple with them six years while Athaliah ruled as queen of Judah.

Psalm 79-Have pity and come quickly!

Numbers 21.4b-9-Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness?

John 11.17-37-Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life.

Psalm 70-O LORD, make haste to help me!

"This is St. Betty."—An introduction and a story as to how this name came to be for this person. A humble lady who God used in the life of a young man in kindergarten – a man now in seminary- It sure sounded to me like God used her in his life- turned him around even at a young age- she is a Saint – In life the Spirit teaches and teaches through some special people- carefully placed at just the right times- just as Joash was hid in the temple- rescued and hid – the only heir to David- without Joash being hid in the temple the string of relatives to David would have been broken- and Jesus descended from this string- the Spirit active in a woman at just the right time- when I need help – God does send his Spirit at just the right time – he comes quickly – when I feel like I’m going to die in the wilderness- God rescues me and feeds me his bread of life- through the Spirit- I learn that Jesus is the resurrection and the life- people teach this to me- they care for me- and they also let the Spirit work and speak through them- God does help me- through the many many St. Betty’s of my life.

Prayer- Lord, send me this day and let your Spirit work in and through me to touch the lives of those in your world. -- Amen

September 11th People Reflection

Sunday 9/11/2005
John 14.1-14- Without me, no one can go to the Father.
2 Chronicles 20.1-21.1-God will fight on your side!
Psalm 78,56-72-God demanded their love?
Matthew 18.21-35-forgive from your heart
Proverbs 23.22-25-Listen to your father who begot you?
Psalm 91-Those who love me, I will deliver.
"We knew we had gotten all the life we could out of Pepper." ? The Campus Pastor- Pastor Weisner telling a story about the death of a beloved dog of his. You could tell the importance of the gift of life. You could hear the struggle that both dog and owner endured. But also you could feel the presence of the blessed gift of life. That gift Jesus gave to all of us that tells us that life comes from him ? life proceed through him- and life is fulfilled in him and that without Jesus, no one can go to the Father. Yea- struggle with death ? but God will fight on your side ? yea ? God demands my love- God demands my life to be given to him- and in giving he freely gives- but there?s a difference here- I don?t give to get- God already gave- so now I respond to his gift of life as a happy child in love with his Father- willing to do what the Father asks- and my Father asks me to forgive others as he forgave me- to love others as he has loved me- I must listen to my father- for he has promised to take care of me- even in the struggles with sin and death ? "We knew we had gotten all the life we could out of Pepper." ? And God will get all the life he can out of me. Thanks be to God!
Prayer- Father, I give you my life- I give you my love- Get all you can out of me ? For I know of your life and love through your Son Jesus- Send me out this week to give and forgive those you place before me in your kingdom. And let me love them with all the love you have given me. -- Amen

September 10 People Reflection

Saturday 9/10/2005
> John 13.21-38- But I am giving you a new command. You must love each
> other, just as I have loved you.
> 2 Chronicles 19- Faithfully serve the LORD!
> Psalm 78.38-55- God demanded all their love.
> Romans 14.1-12- If we live we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to
> the Lord; so then, whether we live, or whether we die, we are the Lord's.
> Jahn 14.23-27-But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send
> in my name, will teach you everything, and reming you of all that I have
> said to you.
> Psalm 86- For you are great and do wondrous things.
>
> "I may be off for a little while. My wife has cancer." -- A guy at work.
> Worreied about his wife- not knowing where the future was about to take
> him. Jesus gave a ndw command. A command to love each other. An action we
> can take with positive results. Jesus gave a "Do" command- not a "Don't" -
> It's one of those command that energizes - gives us a postivie- makes us
> excited to serve the Lord. Has endless possibilities and situations that
> it can be applied to. Makes me want to "Faithfully serve the LORD!" -
> That's what God wants for and from us. Love- If we love God we will live
> and die for God. We are his children and he is our Father taking complete
> care of us. Sending Jesus to redeem us and the Spriti to teach us. Love
> overflows from God! God is great and wondrous -- "I may be off a little
> while. My wife has cancer." Love - Love for a wife- Love for a friend-
> Love for God while he takes us through some tough times. God is here with
> all the love needed. Enough to overflow.
>
> Prayer- Lord, use me this day to let your love spill over in me to those I
> meet this day. Show me that wondrous servant actions to take today in your
> Love. --Amen
>

September 9th People Reflection

Friday 9/9/2005

John 13.1-20-He had always loved his followers in this world, and he loved them to the very end.

2 Chronicles 18-"I’ve been hit! Get me out of here!"

Psalm 78.21-37-They had refused to trust him, and they doubted his saving power.

Genesis 50.15-21-God intended it for good

2 Timothy 3.10-17-What persecutions I endured! Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them.

Psalm 125-As the mountains surround Jerusalem, to the LORD surrounds his people, from this time on and forevermore.

"There must be marks on the pavement for him to paint those lines that fast."- An observation of a worker painting parking lines on fresh blacktop—there were guidelines. Jesus gave us some guidelines to follow too—maybe to the outside world they don’t see the little marks of love that Jesus placed in our hearts to follow- Jesus washed the feet of his disciples- he loved them to the very end- he laid a little guideline in the hearts of all believers- we are to love one another- to follow his lead- In the Chronicles reading Ahab didn’t pay attention to God’s lead- he tried to disguise himself in battle – and he was hit by an errant arrow – I must be aware of those little guidelines God places in my life and follow them- let them guide me- trust in their significance and never doubt the saving power they give- God intends those guidelines for good- so that even in times of trouble I will have a way – a path to follow and will keep my focus on God not my own sillly selfish ways- God rescues me even in persecutions- he surrounds me with his love- just as he surrounds me in the mountains- wraps me with his overpowering presence and stays right there in my face – up close and personal.—"There must be marks on the pavement for him to paint those lines that fast." – yea- Jesus set some marks in the pavement of my life years ago- I must use them!

Prayer- Jesus, thank you for the marks of love you set down in the pavement of all lives years ago- thank you for the love you demonstrated for all to see- send me this day to follow your guideline and love those in your kingdom. --- Amen

September 8th People Reflection

Thursday 9/8/2005

John 12.27-50-Walk in the light while you can. Then you won’t be caught walking blindly in the dark.

2 Chronicles 16-17-…and refused to ask the LORD for help

Psalm 78.1-20-can he give his people bread and meat?

Psalm 103.1-13-Bless the LORD and do not forget all his benefits

John 3.1-12-no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above

Psalm 111-give thanks the LORD with my whole heart

"We’ll have the tube trailers there on Monday."—A hydrogen shortage due to Katrina—I had to scramble at work to get a supply set up because the main hydrogen source for the US was under water in New Orleans. Sometimes my relationship with Jesus is like this- I take it for granted- I walk in the light – but take it lightly until some darkness comes along and I see how much I depend on God- God provides for all my needs – both physical and spiritual- I must not forget his benefits- the blessings he has given- how much I depend on God to live- I must be thankful for all the blessings given – and know for sure that once I’m in the dark- I’M LOST! – "We’ll have the tube trailers there on Monday."—I think this Sunday I better really make it a point to walk in the light and know that God will fulfill all my needs on Monday- I depend completely on him!

Prayer- Lord, you are my source of life- you are the only one who can provide for my needs- when I think I can do it on my own- spin me around and point me back to the light- forgive me when I get this way- let me hear your voice and follow you giving thanks and praise with my whole heart. --- Amen

September 7th People Reflection

Wednesday 9/7/2005

John 12.1-26-If you love your life, you will lose it. If you give it up in this world, you will be given eternal life.

2 Chronicles 14-15-LORD God, only you can help a powerless army defeat a stronger one.

Psalm 77-In days filled with trouble, I search for you.

James 3.1-12-For all of us make many mistakes.

2 Corinthians 4.7-18-For while we live, we are always being given up to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus may be made visible in our mortal flesh.

Psalm 90-Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, so that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.

"See the green stain on the pipe? That’s where the leak is."—A repair that needs to be made. But to make it – the line has to be shut off- the source of water removed. That line is a dead line- the only thing happening with it right now is that it has a small leak. But to save that line for any future possible use – it’s source and purpose in life must be removed- it must die- then a repair can be made- and the source and purpose of that line will be opened up once again- the line will provide water once again- reminds me of the passage from John- lose your life- give it up in this world and you will be given eternal life- Jesus came to make a repair on me- I’m stained by sin – if I see my sin and give it up to Jesus – he can shut off that source for a small while but will forgive my sin and restore my life- I will once again serve and love him in now and in eternity- the way I am I am powerless- like Asa and his troops- but with the help of God they defeated all their enemies- sin is overcome by God- trust in God- give up my life in this flesh – it is doomed to death- and through this life of death let Jesus be visible in my flesh- let the life of Jesus shine through my death to life- yes- I will sin – but through the sin Jesus forgives me and leads me to life- "See the green stain on the pipe?" – see the stain of sin on my life- but thanks be to God- Jesus died for my stain- died for the leak of sin in my life and has repaired me so that on that in the morning I am satisfied with his steadfast love and glad all day long to serve him in his kingdom and let his life be made visible through the copper pipe of my life. – "See the green stain on the pipe? That’s where the leak is."—and thanks be to God for sending his Son to graciously save me from my stain and give me life eternal.

Prayer- Lord, repair me this day- I have sinned and stained my life- forgive me- renew me and send me out into your kingdom to live the life you would have me live- I love the joy you bring to me day after day – I love the life you give me and I love the love you have shown me through your Son Jesus Christ – Thank you! --- Amen

September 6th People Reflection

Tuesday 9/6/2005

John 11.28-57-Come out!- Untie him and let him go.

2 Chronicles 12-13-Judah’s army won because they had trusted the LORD God of their ancestors.

Psalm 76-You are more glorious than the eternal mountains.

James 2.14-26-So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead.

Proverbs 1.1-7-The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge

Psalm 148-Praise the LORD!

"Back then next to your ring finger."- Directions being given to me about an area I couldn’t see- I don’t think the people knew what Jesus was up to with Lazarus- he couldn’t see – and only heard his voice- Come out! – I think Jesus calls all of us to Come out! – he calls us from death to life- to be untied – to be let go to – Come out! – and serve him in his kingdom- maybe we can’t see at first- but at first we can hear his voice- he calls us from death to life- the beginning of a new kind of knowledge we don’t understand- an new life- a new exploration of the unknown- we begin to see his glory – more glorious than the eternal mountains- Come out! – new – like babies born again- we come out in faith to do works now- no longer dead- but alive in our works of faith- Praising God for the life he has given us—blind yet willing to go – untied—"Back then next to your ring finger."—I hear the voice but don’t quite get the direction—but Jesus is there to let some friends untie me and let me go into a new life of love and praise and service to my King.

Prayer- Lord thank you for letting me go – thank you for bringing life to me- thank you for friends that untie me – that release me from my death cloths and send me out alive with joy and praise for you. -- Amen

September 5th People Reflection

Monday 9/5/2005

John 11.1-27-"Come on, Let’s go, so we can die with him."

2 Chronicles 10-11-The LORD is the one who made these things happen.

Psalm 75-Our God, we thank you for being so near to us!

James 2.1-13-fulfill the royal law according to scripture, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself."

Genesis 2.15-20-The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it.

Psalm 104.1, 10-24-and wine to gladden the human heart, … and bread to strengthen the human heart

"Is this gas already mixed?" – Bryan was borrowing the weed eater that used mixed gas – I imagine the disciples were pretty mixed up with Jesus in his day too- the people had just attempted to stone him to death – Jesus left that area- then found out that Lazarus had died and was ready to go back to these same people that just tried to kill him – this same area- so reluctantly the disciples agreed to go- figuring that they would die with Jesus- gas and oil mixed together – a fuel to power a motor to do work- oil to protect the motor from harm – I think God is like that- he is my fuel and he is also my protection from harm- and for his power to work – I must take him in- let him be a part of me- take him in internally and let him fuel my actions- let God be the one who makes things happen in my life- let God be so near to me that I take him into my life and make him a part of him- let him work in me- let his love work in me so close that I can’t help but to love my neighbor as God loves me- that’s a huge statement- a hard one to do- but I think that’s what God’s fuel within me calls me to do- love my neighbor- even in the tough times- then I read the Psalm- wine to gladden the human heart- bread to strengthen the human heart—fuel inside of me- at my core- in the depths of my soul- my hear- oil and gas mixed together to bring fuel to the engine – bread and wind mixed together to bring life to my soul- the body and blood of Jesus at my core and in the center of my being—all giving me all I need to till the garden God has set me in – to do the work he has given me to do – to fulfill the calling he has called me to- "Is this gas already mixed?" – you betcha—and God mixed it – prepared it just for me and gives it to me to give me life – to sustain life- and to give me that joyous, glad, strong heart to love others in his world.

Prayer- Lord –thank you so much for the life you have given me- for your Son Jesus- for his saving act of grace- for his forgiveness of sin- for his life he gave to me in the bread and wind – the body and blood- send me out today to love those I meet – to show your love to them and offer a fuel so precious. I love you! -- Amen

September 4th People Reflections

Sunday 9/4/2005

John 10.22-42-My sheep know my voice, and I know them. They follow me, and I give them eternal life, so that they will never be lost.

2 Chronicles 9-Solomon was wise and rich and blessed by God in many ways

Psalm 74-By your power you made a path through the sea

Matthew 18.15-20-For where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there among them.

John 16.22-24-Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete

Psalm 65-by awesome deeds your answer us with deliverance, O God of your salvation

"Well it didn’t pass…just teasing!"—Awww!—words about e-check on Sarah’s car- it did pass- at first a tease then the good news—Well I didn’t recognize Jesus voice at first in this one- I believed the tease- then the good news- I like to think of following Jesus voice- that I will know him- recognize his voice- receive eternal life- never be lost- how will we know Jesus when he returns? – there is the answer- it’s a story of some sheep following their shepherd- they will know his voice- they will know it is Jesus- have faith in that knowing- it turns out good- Solomon led a blessed life and so do I- but sometimes I listen to the negative stuff- "it didn’t pass"--- sometimes I dwell on all the wrong things- I must look at all the ways God has blessed me- all the good things I have been given- yea – I will struggle through some hard times- I will struggle through some confusing situations – situations that don’t make a bit of sense- but in that struggle – God has loaded me down with blessings- abundant blessings to make it through anything- blessings and guidance- God led the Israelites through the sea- it looked completely hopeless to them- the enemy was on their heels- death was sure- but God blessed them and led them down the correct path- he kept them together- he was right there with them- when we gather together in his name God will be there with us- he will bless us with all we need to make our joy complete- God will save us—"Well it didn’t pass….just teasing!" – yea – God spoke through that- even in this minor struggle- God’s blessing came through loud and clear.

Prayer- Lord, I thank you for all you have given me- and for all you have forgiven me- I thank you for all the blessings you have showered upon me- let me see you in the struggle of this day and realize how many blessings you give- and see through those blessings your saving power- for you are God – and you have always taken care of me and loved me and provided for all my needs. Thanks be to God!!! -- Amen

September 3rd People Reflectons

Saturday 9/3/2005

John 10.1-21-The sheep will not follow strangers. They don’t recognize a stranger’s voice, and they run away.

2 Chronicles 8-Solomon offered sacrifices to the LORD…

Psalm 73-Powerful LORD God, all who stray far from you will be lost…It is good for me to be near you.

Romans 13.8-14-for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law-Love your neighbor as yourself-Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law.

John 15.9-17-As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love…"This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love that his, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends…I am giving you these commands so that you may love one another.

Psalm 101-I will sing of loyalty and of justice; to you , O LORD, I will sing.

"He pulled the pole over and stretched the line."—An observation of a mistake made by a dump truck driver who tangled with a telephone line- pulled the telephone pole to the side and stretched the usually slightly looped telephone line taut. It was a mistake- it was a simple oversight- it could have been worse- but really not all that bad- yea- it’s going to take repairs- but really all was ok. As the driver of the truck works he takes hand directions from one person behind him – at the back of the truck- he doesn’t take directions from just anyone- and he must take directions – because the driver cannot see all that needs to be seen- and if he fails to follow the hand signals then accidents occur- just like I must follow the voice of Jesus my Shepherd- if I don’t mistakes will occur- I must sacrifice my own sense of importance – I must sacrifice my own feelings of knowing everything and follow Jesus- and the path he gives is amazing- even when I know of the laws and things I must do or must not do- Jesus shows me a different way- he fulfills all the laws with love and compassion- he shows me an example of love for me and all people that goes beyond the law- that is above and way beyond the law- that fulfills the law in the love of God- that love that was willing to give life itself for me- to save me from my sin- to rescue me from myself- to re-direct my life away from following my own selfish desires to giving my life first to God then to my friends and neighbors- that giving of self in love- above and beyond any law that could be made- then I can abide in his love- I can lay down my life for a friend- I can hear Jesus command to love one another- and I can sing that joyful song of loyalty and justice to a God with a love so deep he was willing to give it all up for me- he was willing to fulfill the law- he was willing to stretch that line of the law so tight that it displayed the fulfillment of life in his love – "He pulled the pole over and stretched the line."- Yea- that’s just what God has done for me through his gracious salvation in Jesus. – I think I hear someone calling me to do the same for a friend or neighbor in my world.

Prayer- Lord – teach me to stretch that line – to hear your voice and follow your lead- to lay down my life for a friend- to give it all to them and all to you- teach me to love as you love- forgive me when I fail to recognize your voice – forgive my selfishness- and keep me in direct contact with your voice of love and direction. --- Amen

September 2nd People Reflections

Friday 9/2/2005

John 9.24-41-I am here to give sight to the blind and to make blind everyone who can see.

2 Chronicles 7-The LORD is good and his love never ends.

Malachi 4-But for you that honor my name, victory will shine like the sun with healing in its rays, and you will jump around like calves at play.

Ezekiel 33.7-11-turn back, turn back from your evil ways

2 Corinthinas 12.7-10-My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness….for whenever I am weak, them I am strong.

Psalm 119.49-56-This is my comfort in distress, that your promise gives me life.

"Did you see that sunset?"- The sun behind the clouds- rays of light beaming out into eternity – from behind the clouds- I was blind to the sun- couldn’t see it- but still had sight – Sight was given even though I was blind and couldn’t directly see the sun – but that man in Jesus day – he could see the Son – but until he was confronted with a question from Jesus about faith- he still couldn’t see- but then he did- the blind man placed his faith in Jesus- the Leaders however were blinded by the Law- blinded by some petty rules and couldn’t see the love and compassion of a healing Savior- a Savior – a God active in the world bringing healing and life- beyond the Law- fulfilling the Law- showing the whole reason for the Law- the Law not to bind us with rules and regulations – but the Law in Jesus that is fulfilled with love and compassion and freedom to serve God and each other- The LORD is good and his love never ends- this freedom in love that allows God’s rays of light to shine through us- that victory that will shine like the sun with healing in it’s rays, that will free us to jump and play like children- that Law that let’s me see God’s love through Jesus Christ in a different way- that turns my life around- that turns me around – not so much with the Law – but with the presence of the Law and my Savior Jesus- and his compassion and love for me when I struggle with sin and this world- when I am weak- that love is there- Jesus is there in my pain and suffering- in my doubt and dejection- not bugging me with rules- but letting those rules –that Law guide me to see his love and compassion- yea I need to hear the Law- I need to wrestle – I need to turn from sin- but I need most of all to see that in the struggle God keeps me humble and keeps me facing him- face to face- up close- and in this I can look into his eyes and see that compassion and love only God can have- and then I will be strong- and I will have life- "Did you see the sunset?" – Yea- and I saw rays of love and compassion beaming out to eternity-maybe clouded by my sin- but beaming out none the less- beams of love to eternity.

Prayer- Lord, show me your love and compassion- let your face shine on me- but shield me- keep me turned toward you- and let your love and compassion radiate through me to this world- to those I meet this day- keep me facing you- let me know your presence when I’m weak and free me to jump and play in your kingdom this day. -- Amen

September 1st People Reflection

Thursday 9/1/2005

John 9.1-23-How could someone who is a sinner work such a miracle?

2 Chronicles 6-The LORD has done what he has promised.

Malachi 2.17-3.18-You people are precious to me

Psalm 119.33-40-Turn my heart to your decrees, and not to selfish gain

Hebrews 13.5-8-Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.

Psalm 50-Call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.

"If I’m not dead; I’m still alive…"- It was something like that- I heard it from an interview of a survivor of Katrina- but Jesus seems to work in a different way- it’s when we die that we live- the people of his day thought Jesus was a sinner because he did so much good on the Sabbath- but the good he did – they saw as "work" which made it a sin- but Jesus came to show a different way- it wasn’t "work" to heal someone- it was love and caring- God loves his people- he says his people are precious to him- he loves us beyond and through our sin and delivers us from sin and trouble- God didn’t change- we changed- Jesus has been the same God throughout all time- but sinful as I am – I tend to turn from God and focus on my selfish gains- it seems natural in some ways- but what is really natural is to listen to God’s call- follow his lead and emulate Jesus love and compassion for people- above and beyond the incorrect human interpretation of God’s law – "If I’m not dead; I’m still alive…"- Well-maybe if I’m dead but have faith I’m that much more alive- not because of my efforts at survival- but because of Jesus gracious act of salvation in my stead.

Prayer- Lord- let me love with compassion those in this world you have set before me this day- those hospitalized-those suffering- those just trying to survive- those close to me- those distant yet in need- let me look beyond the condemnation of sin to your love and compassion for your people. – Lead and guide me this day. --- Amen