June 30th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 30th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 10.32-52-Jesus stopped in his tracks.
1 Samuel 24-God was moved by the prayers and that was the end of the disaster.
Hosea 4.1-11a-You can?t tell the people from the priests.
Lamentations 3.22-33-It?s a good thing to quietly hope?.
1 Romans 3.21-26-God does not respond to what we do; we respond to what God does.
Psalm 51.1-7-What you?re after is truth from the inside out.

A tollbooth and a line of cars waiting to pay the toll. Jesus paid my toll. Stopped in his tracks and paid the price for my sins. Jesus was and is always stopping for us to take care of us. God comes to me and rescues me from so many disasters. I think maybe we are all in the same boat here. God rescues all of us the regular people and the p-priests. In Jesus eyes you can?t tell the difference. He came to save every one of us. And in this I have hope. All the hope I ever need. I will quietly wait in hope. It?s the price Jesus paid at my tollbooth. It?s not what I do but what God does. And how I will respond to God with joy and thanksgiving. Fill me with your truth Lord, form the inside out.

Thank you Jesus for paying the toll for my sin. -- Amen

June 29th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 29th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 10.1-31-The people brought children to Jesus, hoping he might touch them.
2 Samuel 23-GOD's Spirit spoke through me, his words took shape on my tongue.
Hosea 3-But in time they'll come back...
Tobit 7.1-8a-At that Raguel jumped up and kissed him and wept.
1 Corinthians 3.16-23-Everything belongs to you, and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God.
John 14.1-4-I am going there to prepare a place for you. After I have done this, I will come back and take you with me.
Psalm 84-Our LORD and our God, you are like the sun and also like a shield.

The setting sun reflecting off evening clouds. The day almost over. The sun still shining. Rain on the way. People brought children to Jesus. Looking for Jesus healing and comforting touch of peace and life. Looking for God's Spirit alive in his Words. Looking for a greeting. Looking for a kiss. We want to belong to Christ. We yearn for his return. We look to the clouds in anticipation. We trust in his preparation of a place for each one of us. We look for his return. But for now we trust in God to shield us and protect us and care for us. Those clouds will be the backdrop someday for a glorious return. But for now; I rest in the assurance of hope and love and salvation of my Savior Jesus.

Lord, come quickly- come -- Amen

June 28th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 28th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 9.2-50-His appearance changed from the inside out, right before their eyes.
2 Samuel 22-I stood there saved-surprised to be loved!
Hosea 2.2-23-You'll know me, GOD, for who I really am.
Psalm 30-You have turned my sorrow into joyful dancing.
Ephesians 1.4-8-Before the world was created, God had Christ choose us to live with him and to be his holy and innocent and loving people. God was kind and decided that Christ would choose us to be God's own adopted children.
Psalm 29-The voice of the LORD echoes over the oceans.

Communication and listening equipment. Listen to the world. Talk to the world. People are behind this technology. It may seem exciting to work the electronics. This is an astonishing miracle in itself. But behind the electronics is another person. Another child of God. Another Child that God was concerned about before the world was created. A person that God chose as his own and adopted. A person set in place to praise God for his creation and all his works. A person changed from the inside out. Jesus changed from the inside out right before the disciples on the mountain. Jesus, transfiguration. I think Jesus changes all of us from the inside out. Chooses us and changes us and makes this pile of dirt into something wonderful. Adopts each one of us and makes Nobody into Somebody. How awesome to think that the God of the voice that echoes over the oceans has chosen you. And chosen the other person behind all those electronics. I'm surprised to be saved and will dance in the morning. God chooses you and me!

Lord, pick me! pick me! -- I know you have- help me to love all you have chosen this day. -- Amen

June 27th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 27th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 8.22-9.1-Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to saving yourself, your true self.
2 Samuel 20-21-That cleared things up: from then on God responded to Israel's prayers for the land.
Hosea 1.1-2.1-In the very place where they were once named Nobody, they will be named God's Somebody.
Tobit 6.9-17-So now listen to me....
Psalm 87-All who sing or dance will say, "I too am from Zion."
1 Samuel 1.1-20-I've been praying all this time, telling the LORD about my problems.
Psalm 34-I was a nobody, but I prayed, and the LORD saved me from all my troubles.

A restricted entrance. I guess you need to be special to enter here. I guess you need to have some sort of clout-be above others. But God isn't this way. He welcomes prayer. He welcomes us to tell our problems to him. Even when we are named Nobody. God listens to our prayer and changes us. Changes us into Somebody. Now we listen to him. Hear his call. Sing and Dance and stay with him in his city. Self-sacrifice out of love for God and all he has done for us. Give ourselves in love to each other. Willingly sacrificing ourselves out of love while being saved by Jesus. That clears it up. No restrictions!

Lord, I come to you in prayer.... Amen

June 26th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 26th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 8.1-21-He asked, "How much bread do you have?"
2 Samuel 19-All I care about is that my master the king is home safe and sound!
Daniel 12-"And you? Go about your business without fretting or worrying. Relax. When it's all over, you will be on your feet to receive your reward."
Tobit 6.1-8-"Catch hold of the fish and hang on to it!"
Ezekiel 34.11-16-They will be safe as they feed on grassy meadows and green hills.
2 Corinthians 12.7-10-"My kindness is all you need. My power is strongest when you are weak."
Psalm 94-When I felt my feet slipping, you came with your love and kept me steady.

A peaceful country scene of corn and farm land. Soon to be food for the body. Jesus fed thousands with just a small amount of food. But was it really small? In the end the amount was plenteous. I suspect the amount of food really doesn't matter. The food Jesus feeds us is always more than we can handle. Enough food to make me ever thankful for all God has done. Enough food to make me want to live with my King forever. Enough food to take away all worry and fret. Enough food to bring relaxation. Way more food than I deserve in reward for anything I could ever do. Food that leaps up out of nowhere. Like the fish in Tobit, God provides food for body and soul. Food that keeps me safe in his pasture of grassy meadows and green hills. Food of God's kindness and love. Food that gives me strength when I am at my weakest. Food the keeps me steady when my foot begins to slip. Yea, with the food that Jesus feeds all there is Life. Thanks be to God.

Lord, feed me your food this day. Thanks be to God! -- Amen

June 25th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 25th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 7.14-37-Are you being willfully stupid?

2 Samuel 18-And so he stood beside the city gate as the whole army marched out by hundreds and by thousands.

Daniel 11.21-45-...he'll meet his end.

Mark 4.35-41-Why were you afraid? Don't you have any faith?

1 Peter 1.18-25-You were rescued by the precious blood of Christ, that spotless and innocent lamb.

Psalm 119.81-88-I long for you to rescue me! Your word is my only hope.

Railroad tracks that seem to go to eternity. Go towards a beautiful sky of blue and puffy clouds. A peaceful scene to eternity. But there is also danger here. What is behind? Could there be an approaching train the other way? Are you being willfully stupid? I must look forward to eternity but also be aware of what is behind. Learn from what is behind and watch out for it. Watch out that what is behind doesn't become NOW! But all at the same time my focus must be on eternity. On Jesus way and will and grace and life for me. Focus forward on that host of God's soldiers that have marched before me towards eternity with God. Have faith and caution but no fear in what may approach from behind. Look to eternity and know that I have been rescued by the precious blood of Christ. Christ is my only hope and he will always cover my "behind."

Lord thank you for the past - teach me from it but focus me on the future you wish me to live. -- Amen

June 24th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 24th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 7.1-13-These people make a big show of saying the right thing, but their heart isn't in it.

2 Samuel 17-Then everyone will be together in peace!

Daniel 11.2-20-But by then he'll be washed up and soon will be heard of no more.

Tobit 5.17-22-For a good angel will accompany him...

Luke 1.57-80-On us who live in the dark shadow of death this light will shine to guide us into a life of peace.

2 Corinthians 4.3-6-God commanded light to shine in the dark. Now God is shining in our hearts to let you know that his glory is seen in Jesus Christ.

Psalm 13-Make my eyes sparkle again...

A summer basket of flowers. They won't last all year. But right now they look pretty. They glow with life. It's said that we see color because of light. I think maybe we see joy because of light too. Our hearts are warmed by the light of hanging baskets of flowers in the summer. Our hearts are warmed by these visions of light. It brings peace to the soul. Jesus is my light. He also brings peace to my soul. Brings happiness and joy. Provides angels to lead me to the light. Provides light in the shadows. When I feel all washed up--Jesus cleanses me and gives me the warmth of his Light. Jesus brings the sparkle to my eyes and the joy to my face. Jesus' Light --lighting these flowers in beauty and lighting my heart in joy. Thanks be to God!

Lord, light my heart this day-let the color shine brightly in your summer Kingdom. -- Amen

June 23rd Daily Word and Visions from God

June 23rd Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 6.30-56-None of this had penetrated their hearts.
2 Samuel 16-There they rested and were revived.
Daniel 10.1-11.1-Daniel, he said, man of quality, listen carefully to my message.
Tobit 5.16b-I will go with him...
2 Corinthians 6.1-13-Please make room in your hearts for us.
Jonah 3.3-10-Then everyone in the city, no matter who they were, dressed in sackcloth.
Psalm 96-Then every tree in the forest will sing joyful songs to the LORD.

The underside of an evergreen tree. It's not evergreen here on the ground beneath. It's brown, and looks dead. Is dead. But this death feeds the tree and makes it evergreen on the outside. Death on the inside--Ever Life on the outside. Sometimes I feel this way. Dead inside. Alive outside. But God changes me from the inside out. His Word penetrates my heart and brings life from the inside out. Dead on the inside to Life on the outside. Sometimes in my death I need to rest and be revived and heal from the inside out. Death on the inside changing to Life on the outside. As I heal from the inside out, I hear the message and slowly let it grow in me--from the inside out. Like communion-I take in Jesus body and blood and Jesus transforms me with this gift of life from the inside out. Jesus goes with me wherever I go and I make room for him in my heart. Change from death on the inside to Life on the outside. On the inside I'm dressed in sackcloth-repentant of my sin. But God changes me to Life on the outside. That Joy in Life on the outside the lets this changing tree of the forest sing in joyful praise to God my Savior. Changing all along from death on the inside to Life and Love and Joy on the outside.

Jesus, change me today- from the inside out. -- Amen

June 22nd Daily Word and Visions from God

June 22nd Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 6.1-29-He made a real hit, impressing everyone. "we had no idea he was this good!"...
2 Samuel 15-The whole country has taken up with Absalom!
Daniel 9-Act out of who you are, not out of what we are.
Tobit 5.9-16a-Take courage; the time is near for God to heal you; take courage.
Job 38.1-11-Now get ready to face me!
2 Corinthians 1.3-11-Please help us by praying for us.
Psalm 81-Be happy and shout to God who makes us strong!

A softball team warming up before the game. Practicing fielding ground balls. Lined up and taking turns with the coaches direction. I wonder if Jesus had to practice. I wonder what training he had before he started his ministry. I think that he practiced some helping his father and being a carpenter. I wonder if the work on wood helped Jesus practice. I wonder if Jesus thought about the wood he was working with and realized what the importance of wood would be to the salvation of the world. In Jesus' hometown he became a hit. Impressing everyone. But they couldn't figure it out. They knew Jesus as a carpenters son. So they didn't all believe. They didn't see Jesus as the Messiah. They didn't see the significance of Jesus early training in the working of wood. How could they? So, I wonder who they substituted as the Messiah for Jesus. In Jerusalem, Absalom swayed the people to support him and abandon David as their king. So David had to flee from his own city. Jesus had to flee from his home city because of the home town people. I wonder if I send Jesus away from me? I know I must now and then. But I can turn to God because- God remains the same- God acts out of who he is not out of who I am. God loves me anyway and I must turn around and face him. Repent and see him as my Messiah- my Savior- my God. As I face God-he heals- even in my hometown- even outside the city. Jesus heals and gives life. Pray for me. Pray for that healing. Then we can all shout and be happy because of God --I think Jesus practiced with that wood as a young boy and man to show me his saving ways. Jesus practiced on that wood even before I had any idea what role that wood of the cross would play in my life.

Lord, what will I practice on today? Make it something that you will fulfill in me to your glory. -- Amen

June 21st Daily Word and Visions from God

June 21st Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 5.21-43-At the same moment, Jesus felt energy discharging from him.
2 Samuel 14-he came and bowed deeply in reverence before him.
Daniel 8-I couldn't make sense of it.
Tobit 5.4-8-for I need you to travel with me...
Psalm 107.1-3,23-32-You should praise the LORD for his love and for the wonderful things he does for all of us.
Philippians 2.1-11-Live in harmony by showing love for each other.
Psalm 59-...I will celebrate because of your love.

A lamp post in the park. At night a light to light a parking lot. Is Jesus my lamp post in life? A light to light my way? When I'm in the dark of life, I need Jesus' life to light the way. Even if I'm not on a path, I need his light to see where I am at that moment. I need his light to offer some protection from danger. I need his light. Why would God provide light? Why does God even care? I can't make sense of it. Does God need the light? I don't think so. The only thing I can think of is that God has a love for his people that far outreaches my comprehension. So, I cling to the Light. I cling to the Love. I celebrate the Love. And I see my need for God to travel with me through life. As I travel I will show this Love to others and celebrate with others his Love.

Lord, send your Light into my spirit this day and travel with me while I show your Love to those I meet. -- Amen

June 20th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 20th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 5.1-20-They arrived on the other side of the sea...
2 Samuel 13-Just then the sentry on duty looked up and saw a cloud of dust...
Daniel 7-In my dream that night I saw the four winds of heaven whipping up a great storm on the sea...I saw a human form, a son of man, arriving in a whirl of clouds.
Psalm 141-Please listen when I pray and hurry to help me.
John 14.1-6-I am the way, the truth, and the life!
Psalm 20-You will answer my prayers from your holy place in heaven, and you will save me with your mighty arm.

A storm brewing in the distance at sunset. Notice all the colors in the sky. Notice the cell phone tower in the distance. Reminds me of how I picture Jesus coming in the clouds. A beautiful sight. And the cell phone tower blinking announcement to the coming of my Savior. Jesus and his disciples arrived in a small village from the other side of the sea. Jesus coming to meet me every day. People come and go in clouds of dust; but I sense my Savior always coming to me, arriving in a whirl of clouds. Jesus listening to me when I pray and in a hurry to help. Jesus the way, the truth, and the life. Jesus answers my prayers from heaven and comes to comfort and guide me, right out of those clouds. May I be a beacon of light and communication to the world. Jesus is coming today!

Come quickly Lord Jesus! -- Amen

June 19th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 19th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 4.21-41-We're not keeping secrets, we're telling them; we're not hiding things, we're bringing them out into the open.

2 Samuel 11-12-You're the man!

Daniel 6-We're never going to find anything against this Daniel unless we can cook up something religious.

Tobit 4.20-5.3-What evidence am I to give him so that he will recognize me and trust me...?

Acts 13.13-26-Listen to this message about how to be saved, because it is for everyone.

Romans 10.1-11-So they refuse God, and they try to be acceptable by obeying the Law. but Christ makes the Law no longer necessary for those who become acceptable to God by faith.

Psalm 31.15-24-All who belong to the LORD, show how you love him.

A system that detects people who run a red light. Takes their picture and they are fined. It must be hard to dispute your error with picture evidence. No secrets here. The camera is telling and everyone will know. Nathan told a story to David about a man and his sheep. A story about a poor man and a rich man. A story to point out David's guilt in adultery. No secrets. Tobit's son wanted to claim a trust set up...but why would the man holding the trust fund find him believable? God calls for me to trust him. To trust in what Jesus did on the cross for my sins. To believe. It's not about obeying the Law-it's about trusting in God's salvation. I can't trust in my own efforts to obey all the Law. I will and have failed. I must trust in the saving grace of Jesus. I can only become acceptable to God through faith in Jesus. That's it...no matter what the picture says.

Lord, I believe and put all my trust and hope in your saving grace-send me out this day to show the world my love for you. -- Amen

June 18th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 18th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 4.1-20-"Are you listening to this? Really listening?"

2 Samuel 9-10-Don't be frightened.

Daniel 5-There is a man in your kingdom who is full of the divine Holy Spirit.

Tobit 4.3-19-At all times bless the LORD God, and ask him that your ways may be made straight and that all your paths and plans may prosper.

Mark 4.26-34-But when he was alone with his disciples, he explained everything to them.

John 11.1-46-But your heavenly Father is even more ready to give the Holy Spirit to anyone who asks.

Psalm 6-Show your wonderful love and save me, LORD.

A young bunny rabbit in my front yard. He comes and goes. Mostly he goes. Seems to be frightened all the time. But with some ears like that, I'm sure he knows how to listen. Listen for anything and everything. But it seems to me, he mostly listens for things that scare him. I think sometimes I'm like that too. Only listening for those things that scare me. Instead I need to listen for the voice of God. Listen for his direction and be bold, not afraid. Listen and act. Listen to Jesus explain his Word so that I know how it fits in my life. So that I know how to act in ways that Jesus wants me to act. Do the things that Jesus wants me to do. Receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit and act them out in love towards God and others. And that's what I think those rabbit ears seem to be speaking to me. Listen!

Lord as I worship you help me to listen and hear your Word-follow your call-and not be afraid to act in your love. -- Amen

Father's Day

Father's Day

So I got this idea yesterday, Dad. I thought I would try to talk to you once again. So I figured if I could hook my ham radio up to this antenna and crank up the power, maybe I could make contact with you. Maybe we could talk about things. I could see how things were going with you. But then I thought about it some more and figured this gift would be more of a gift for me than for you. But maybe not. I know how you liked to know how things were going with me. How my life was progressing. How the kids and family were. How it was at work. So then it seemed like a great idea again. I thought yea, we could talk like we used to at the bowling alley, at the kitchen table over coffee, or even talk like we used to on a walk. I could tell you about my life. Ask you all kinds of questions that I've gotten so far behind on. Talk about God, talk about Jesus and faith and all that stuff especially. Talk about Bible stories we recently lived out. Tell you all of my troubles. Listen to your wisdom. Hear your life stories. Hear how to be humble yet honorable. Just talk.

But it didn't work that way. I couldn't get the connection through this antenna. So then I got this bright idea that at least if I hooked up to this antenna, I could tell the world what a great Dad I have. How he is always there for me. But that wouldn't make much sense either. Everyone already knows that. Everytime I mention your name people say what a good guy you were. And I think "was?" --He still is a good guy. But they don't get that part usually. They think of you in the past.

So last night I cried. Wanting to wish you a Happy Father's Day but not knowing how. I got up real early because of this. Or was it real late? I got up and sat and thought. Then like always, I heard your voice. I heard you talk about how you missed your Dad, Gramps. I heard you say how you really wished you could talk to Gramps from time to time. Then I heard you tell me how sometimes you felt Gramps was with you. And.....there you were!

We talked last night. I realized I didn't need some big antenna or radio to talk to you. All I had to do was look inside. Look in my heart. And there you were. With all the advice and wisdom and knowledge and comfort you always have to give. Right there with me all the time. Then you pointed out to me that anytime I need you, you are there, in my heart.

That's when we had one of our old time talks. And I pointed out a scripture that enlightened both of us. We looked up John 14 together---We talked about how Jesus is with us all the time too. --

"I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you know me, you will know my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him." Philip siad to him, "Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied." Jesus said to him, "Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and you still do not know me: Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, 'Show us the Father?' Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you do not speak on my own; but the Father who dwells in me does his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; but if you do not, then believe me because of the works themselves.

And that was it! Now I know that you are in me too, we are family together in and through the love of Jesus. Both you and I are family with Jesus too! But more and most importantly I can be with God because the Father, the real Father, is in Jesus. And if we know Jesus we will know and see God. And I can't make all this happen with a big radio and a huge antenna. All I need to do is believe what Jesus said. And if that's hard then look and believe in what he does. There Jesus finds us and we see him.

Now that's a gift, Dad, that we can both celebrate Father's Day with.

I love you Dad! - I'm going back to bed now.

Talk to you later. The easy way!

Your Buddy,

WT

June 17th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 17th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 3.20-35-But if you persist in your slanders against God's Holy Spirit, you are repudiating the very One who forgives, sawing off the branch on which you're sitting, severing by your own perversity all connection with the One who forgives.

2 Samuel 7-8-You know me, Master GOD, just as I am. You've done all this not because of who I am but because of who you are-out of your very heart! -but you've let me in on it.

Daniel 4-Make a clean break with your sins and start living for others. Quit your wicked life and look after the needs of the down-and-out. Then you will continue to have a good life.

Tobit 4.1-2-Now I have asked for death.

2 Corinthians 5.6-10, 14-17-We are ruled by Christ's love for us. We are certain that if one person died for everyone else, then all of us have died. And Christ did die for all of us. He died so we would no longer live for ourselves, but for the one who died and was raised to life for us.

Luke 11.1-13-Forgive our sins, as we forgive everyone who has done wrong to us.

Psalm 145-When someone stumbles or falls, you give a helping hand.

Weeds? Flowers? Vegetative growth? Not sure. But I personally think this is how God intended my yard to look. I don't think God intended for me to fuss around with cutting grass and killing weeds. I don?t know that for sure, but I think it may be true. But then again maybe God did want me to work. To work on his creation...Naw! Maybe someone else. Just like some fishermen-Jesus reprioritized their lives from fish to people. I think maybe God wouldn't want me to spend too much time on the grass but more time on his people. God didn't want David to build the temple. God had been living in a tent for some time. A tent! Well not really?but we can relate to a tent as a place better than thinking of God as everywhere-beyond space and time. God cares for me even when I with the weeds-not because of who I am- but because of who He is. God loves me out of his very heart and has included me in his plan. How special for this weed to be included in his plan. This weed that deserves death. But I must be ruled by Christ's love for me. Certain that in Jesus' death, I no longer need to live for myself-but can now live for the one who died and was raised. When this weed stumbles and falls I have a Savior to give a helping hand. A Savior to forgive my sins. A Savior that frees me to forgive those who sin against me. All those other weeds living side by side with me. We tend to choke each other out and need to forgive each other. So here I am in God's kingdom. With all others. Let's make a break from our sins and live and serve each other out of the love of Christ. Then no matter how we look?this field will be beautiful in God's eyes.

Jesus, feed me this day and send me to live with the other weeds I meet to love and serve you and them. -- Amen

June 16th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 16th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 3.1-19-He climbed a mountain and invited those he wanted with him.

2 Samuel 6-In GOD?s presence I?ll dance all I want!?Oh yes, I?ll dance to GOD?s glory?more recklessly even than this. And as far as I?m concerned?I?ll gladly look like a fool?

Daniel 3-Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego walked out of the fire.

Ezekiel 17.22-24-I, the LORD, have spoken, and I will keep my word.

John 5.19-27-I tell you for certain that the Son cannot do anything on his own. He can do only what he sees the Father doing, and he does exactly what he sees the Father do.

Psalm 79-We are like sheep with you as our shepherd?

The moon next to a tree, pre-dawn. In the quiet of the night. The moon and a tree. A light by night. I tell you for certain that his light cannot do anything on it?s own. It can only do what the sun does. Sounds like Jesus. Can only do what he sees the Father doing. A light that illumines a tree at night. God sent this light into the world. A light that illumines the tree of life. Jesus? light shown light on that tree the cross years ago. Exposed sin and brought light to it. But not only exposed sin---he defeated sin. Shown a light so bright on that cross of glory that he changed it into the glory of God?s love and grace. A love so deep that he would hang from this illumined tree for you and for me. And in this light of God?s presence; I want to dance. I want to keep the Word. I want to be the sheep of that shepherd. I want to dare to walk in and out of the fire of life with Jesus my Savior. I want to climb that mountain and be with Jesus. The moon next to a tree, pre-dawn. That?s where I wanna be.

Lord, lead me this day and let your light shine brightly through and in me. -- Amen

June 15th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 15th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 2-What kind of example is this, acting cozy with the riff-raff?

2 Samuel 4-5-David did exactly what GOD told him.

Daniel 2.24-49-But there is a God in heaven who solves mysteries, and he has solved this one.

Psalm 92.1-4,12-15-It is wonderful each morning to tell about your love?

1 Corinthians 13.4-7-Love is always supportive, loyal, helpful, and trusting.

Psalm 33.4-5-The LORD is truthful; he can be trusted.

Power lines running directly in front of an office building. Doesn?t look like a good location for an office building to me. The power lines were in place first. Why would you locate a building that close? These are high voltage lines??? But God brings his power close to me. He runs real close?dangerously close. Why? Why would God run his power so close to me? If you ponder Jesus, he took his power to the riff-raff. And today God runs the Power of Jesus close to the riff-raff too. Close to me, Jesus runs his power. And when I?m at my best, like David, I do exactly what God tells me to do. I have to pick up on God?s power and rely on it to provide all the energy needed to do what God wants. I can?t work on my own power but must work on God?s power. I guess that?s part of the mystery of why God would run his power lines so close to any of us. God wants me to use his power and not my own. God?s power isn?t filled with electrons moving, but it is filled with love and truth. Moving from God through me to the world I travel and move in day to day. Love that is wonderful to move each morning. Love that is supportive, loyal, helpful, trusting and truthful. Now maybe that?s the mystery. God runs those power lines of love so close so that I will receive some of the magnetic fields of flux and take them out to the world.

Lord, let your love rub off on me and move through me to the world. -- Amen

June 14th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 14th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 1.21-45-No sooner had the fever left than she was up fixing dinner for them.

2 Samuel 3.2-39-During the Hebron years, sons were born to David

Daniel 2.1-23-He changes the seasons and guides history.

Tobit 3.16-17-At that very moment, the prayers of both of them were heard in the glorious presence of God.

Psalm 112-they will always be remembered and greatly praised?

1 Peter 2.9-17-Respect every one and show special love for God?s people.

Psalm 67-Make everyone praise you and shout your praises.

A refrigerator says so much about a home. It announces future events. It displays accomplishments and awards. It shows off creativity. It testifies to the family. It communicates daily messages. It feeds. It sometimes is the center of activity that everyone in the family has in common. God is our real center though. When Jesus arrives and heals I am given the ability to serve. To fix dinner. And I?m happy to do this for all of his friends and family. God gives the gift of children. God gives the gift of church, family and friends. God gives the gift of prayers of many people for well-being. God requires that I love my Christian friends and pray for them also. God compels me through his love to praise him and shout praises to him. Does my refrigerator shout praises too? I think so. It shouts praises to a life led by God. A family centered in faith to God. It shouts praises to the gifts God has given my family. And it shows some seasons and history. More than the refrigerator is God at the center of life in this house.

Jesus, I center in you as you center in me. Let?s serve someone today. -- Amen

June 13th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 13th Daily Word and Visions from God

Mark 1.1-20-His baptism?a holy baptism by the Holy Spirit?will change you from the inside out.

2 Samuel 2.1-3.1-After all this, David prayed.

Daniel 1-God gave these four young men knowledge and skill in both books and life.

Tobit 3.10-15-let all your works praise you forever.

Matthew 10.7-16-As you go, announce that the kingdom of heaven will soon be here.

Colossians 2.6-15-But God let Christ make you alive, when he forgave all our sins.

Psalm 119.1-8-I don?t ever want to stray from your laws.

Incense burning. Giving itself up for the pleasure of smell. Sacrifice for someone else. Burning and giving. Smoke rising in praise to God. Life is like incense sometimes. I must give myself to God and to others. Let the gifts of God burn in praise to him. As I burn I announce the kingdom of heaven to the world. As I burn I pray to God for direction. As I burn God changed me from the inside out. The change is peculiar. I change to ashes. It looks like waste. But God isn?t all that concerned with my physical but with my spiritual. My physical self has no life without my spiritual self. God provides the Holy Spirit to change my spiritual self from the inside out while at the same time, like the burning incense, my physical being is being changed from the inside out. And in this glorious change I will praise God forever. I don?t ever want to stray from his laws because in the burning of my life I realize the giving of the life of Jesus to save me from sin, death and the devil. Thanks be to God!

Jesus, let the smoke of my life raise in praise and glory to all you have done. -- Amen

June 12th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 12th Daily Word and Visions from God

Romans 16-Be sure to welcome our friend Phoebe in the way of the Master, with all the generous hospitality we Christians are famous for.

2 Samuel 1-So what happened? What?s the news?

Psalm 72-Be rainfall on cut grass, earth-refreshing rain showers.

Tobit 3.7-9-?reproached by one of her father?s maids.

Acts 11.19-30; 13.1-3-So they had Barnabus and Saul take their gifts to the church leaders in Jerusalem.

John 18.28-38-My kingdom doesn?t belong to this world.

Psalm 140-You, LORD, are my God! Please listen to my prayer.

A drainage pipe. A way to get water from one side of the road to the other side. Sometimes the path gets rough. Sometimes the path goes underground for a while. Sometimes it gets dark under the road. But on the other side of the road. After traveling through the dark is a stream filled with life. Filled with vegetation. Filled with hope. On the other side of the dark underground of the road are greetings of life in friends. Hospitality of life. Fresh rain on new cut grass. On the other side of the pipe under the road are gifts from friends. God?s kingdom doesn?t belong to the darkness of this world. God?s Kingdom is in the truth and light of his Son Jesus Christ. Pray for me as I travel in the darkness of the underground of the road that I may emerge in the light of full truth and love of Christ.

Jesus, when I?m under the road in the dark and reproached and blamed for fault, forgive me and lead me to the light of life at the end of that tunnel. -- Amen

June 11th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 11th Daily Word and Visions from God

Romans 15.14-33-Then, God willing, I?ll be on my way to you with a light and eager heart, looking forward to being refreshed by your company.

1 Samuel 29-31-David strengthened himself with trust in his GOD.

Psalm 71-Now I?m telling the world your wonders?

John 3.1-17-God loved the people of this world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never really die.

Colossians 3.18-25-A wife must put her husband first?A husband must love his wife?

Psalm 104.1-24-?by your wisdom you made so many things?

A drop of blood on a finger. Checking the status of the blood. A sample taken. A sample given. Just a drop. Jesus gives his blood to me. In the blood is life. Just as in the Old Testament it wasn?t permitted to eat meat with the blood still in it because the blood contained the life?so in Jesus blood is there life. But Jesus new command is for me to take and drink his blood. There is life in Jesus? blood. There is life in his suffering, death and resurrection. God reverses it all. In Jesus there is life, death then life. And in this blood of Jesus, I put my trust. In this trust David strengthened himself. There is life and trust in the Blood. Now I?m telling the world the wonders of Jesus? grace. The wonders of Jesus Blood. God loved the people of this world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never really die. The Wisdom of God made the Blood of Christ right from the start. I was saved by the Blood before I existed. And in this Blood I?ll be on my way with a light and eager heart, looking forward to being refreshed by your company. Looking forward to telling of the Blood of Life.

Jesus, Blood of Life?Thanks be to God! Send me today with your message of Grace, Love and Hope. -- Amen

June 10th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 10th Daily Word and Visions from God

Romans 15.1-13-Those of us who are strong and able in the faith need to step in and lend a hand to those who falter, and not just do what is most convenient to us.

1 Samuel 27-28-Why have you disturbed me by calling me up?

Psalm 70-God! Please hurry to my rescue!

Tobit 3.1-6-for it is better for me to die than to see so much distress in my life and to listen to insults.

Romans 8.12-17-My dear friends, we must not live to satisfy our desires.

Luke 24.13-27-Didn't you know that the Messiah would have to suffer before he was given his glory?

Psalm 40-I have more troubles than I can count.

A branch broken from the main limb on a tree. Will it live? Will it die? Sometimes I feel like this broken branch. Not knowing if I will live or die. Broken from God. Separated from him and about to die. Starving from his saving food of life. Broken because of my sin. Feeling like it would be better for me to die than to live. Broken with more troubles than I can count. Broken and sinful and falling to the ground. And this is when I need someone to step in and lend a hand. A friend to help. A friend to talk to. Someone what is willing to be there with me and for me. Someone to help. In my sin I live for my desires and separate myself from God. Then I confess. Then I tell the story. Like those disciples on the road to Emmaus I tell the story. And not until I feed with Jesus do I begin to realize the Life he gives to me. Not until I see his suffering do I feel his presence and grace in my suffering. Then I realize how completely I depend and trust and hope in Jesus grace and love. There is life. There is reconnection. There is the one who will be there for me.

Jesus, I know you will be there for me when I need it most. In my brokenness you still love me and save me. Thank you! -- Amen

June 9th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 9th Daily Word and Visions from God

Romans 14-So let's agree to use all our energy in getting along with each other.

1 Samuel 26-GOD put your life in my hands today...

Psalm 69-Rescue me from this deathtrap.

Tobit 2.11-14-Where are your acts of charity?

Isaiah 6.1-8-Is there anyone I can send?

Hebrews 7.23-28-But Jesus will never die...

Psalm 110-My Lord is at your right side...

An old engine with 160,000 miles on it. Tired-repaired-abused but still giving. Giving life. Still working. Tired and old but still working. Sometimes I feel like this old engine. But God still uses me. Tired and worn out even-God uses me. My prayer is that some of that energy that God provides for my engine to run would be used to get along with each other. As we get along together we have relationship with one another. As we have relationship with one another may we see our dependence on God. May we center all relationships in God. That's when we get along with each other. When I put my life in the hands of God, relationships of trust and love will build. Relationships of love and charity will flourish. Not because of my actions but because of God inside of my actions. Jesus can remain in relationship and at our side because he never dies. Jesus lived, died, and lives again- eternal relationship with God. Always at my side. Eternal relationship with Jesus. And Jesus must be the power for all of my relationships with anyone else. An old engine with many miles is no big deal at all with Jesus driving. Just ask Abraham and Sarah what God can do at an old age.

Jesus, walk with me this day and renew that Spirit of play in your Kingdom. -- Amen

June 8th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 8th Daily Word and Visions from God

Romans 13-But make sure that you don't get so absorbed and exhausted in taking care of all your day-by-day obligations that you lose track of the time and doze off, oblivious to God.

1 Samuel 25-Abigail flew into action. She took two hundred loaves of bread, two skins of wine, five sheep dressed out and ready for cooking, a bushel of roasted grain, a hundred raisin cakes, and two hundred fig cakes, and she had it all loaded on some donkeys.

Psalm 68-Listen--he's calling in thunder, rumbling, rolling thunder.

Psalm 29-The voice of the LORD makes lightening flash and the desert tremble.

John 10.22-30-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.

Psalm 23-you fill my cup until it overflows

A woman putting groceries away in her car. There was an approaching storm. This storm contained thunder and lightening. Maybe there was a sense of urgency to her task. A woman taking care of her day to day obligations. Out of love for her family or possibly just out of survival or maybe even out of some abundance of blessing from God. Day to day tasks and chores can sometimes overwhelm me and I lose focus on God. I must be careful of this. Intentionally stop from time to time and listen for the voice of God. Could I hear his voice in the thunder? This woman may have. Not sure. Listen for the voice of God, look at the lightening and see his presence day by day. Day by day in the ordinary and extraordinary there is God. Listen for his voice and follow. Listen and see God coming to me, protecting me, and leading and guiding me. Filling my cup of blessing till it overflows. Then I can handle those day to day obligations in the joy of God's presence. Even when a storm is approaching and I need to hurry!

Lord, let me hear your voice this day. Let me see your glory. Let me feel your presence. Take care of me and let me serve you and others in love this day. -- Amen

June 7th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 7th Daily Word and Visions from God

Romans 12-So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life--your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life--and place it before God as an offering...You'll be changed from the inside out.

1 Samuel 23-24-When a man meets his enemy, does he send him down the road with a blessing?

Psalm 67-God, mark us with grace and blessing! Smile!

Psalm 33.12-22-Be kind and bless us! We depend on you.

Judges 13.1-14-I told her exactly what to do.

Psalm 119.25-32-Let your teachings breath new life into me.

Push the button then wait for the signal to walk. Instructions to keep me as safe as possible while crossing a street. Part of everyday life. Instructions, rules, signs, actions to take. Waiting. God is part of my everyday life. He is with me day by day. And he wants my everyday life as an offering to him. And it's true. In giving my life to God, my everyday life, he changes me from the inside out. Day by day God changes me. God displays the signs I need to get through life. Day by day God feeds me his Word. Shows me his way. Tells me exactly what to do. Day by day God breaths new life in me. Each morning is a new breath from God. Each morning is a new greeting and smile and blessing from God. I depend on God day by day. And in all this care and blessing, God shows me love. God sends me out seeing the signs of his love in my life to love and bless those I meet along my way and in my day...Even the enemy I meet down the road.

Jesus-walk with me down the road this day--show me the signs I need to see and direct my actions along the way. -- Amen

June 6th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 6th Daily Word and Visions from God

Romans 11.25-36-Have you ever come on anything quite like this extravagant generosity of God, this deep, deep wisdom?

1 Samuel 21-22-So the priest gave them the holy bread. It was the only bread he had, Bread of the Presence that had been removed from GOD's presence...

Psalm 66-Take a good look at God's wonders--they'll take your breath away.

Tobit 2.1-10-I went to physicians to be healed, but the more they treated me with ointments the more my vision was obscured...

John 7.37-39a-Have faith in me, and you will have life-giving water flowing from deep inside you...

John 8.31-37-If the Son gives you freedom, you are free!

Proverbs 3.1-18-Wisdom is a life-giving tree, the source of happiness for all who hold on to her.

A rose in all it's glory. How did God make it so beautiful? How did it get this way? I look at the colors. The contrast of the red and green. The petals of the flower and their beauty. How they open their beauty for all to see. Show their glory to the world. Then I think of the branch. That branch of thorns that feeds life and nourishment to the rose. David ate the Bread of the Presence when in need. I think that Jesus is my Bread of Presence. He is the source of life for me. He feeds me from the thorns of his pain and suffering and salvation. Jesus is that source of deep deep wisdom that wells up inside of me. I am fed through the branch of life in Jesus my Savior. Fed with an extravagant generosity. Fed not because I deserve to be fed, but fed because God's love is that far, that deep, that generous. The response of the rose to the feeding from the branch? The rose blooms and shows the glory of the creator. God sent his Spirit deep within me and through the Spirit I can bloom. I can show forth God's glory to the world. The Spirit freely gives the power to change. The power to work boldly in God's world. The power to bloom to God's glory. Through the Spirit those thorny branches produce God's wonders. Wonders that can take your breath away. Fed with that life-giving wisdom and water flowing deep inside of me, I am free. Free to serve in happiness and glory in God's Kingdom. Free to be healed with clear vision. Free to love those God places before me day to day. Free to live in God's love and life. Thanks be to God!

Lord, feed me and send me this day to bloom to your glory in your Kingdom. -- Amen

June 5th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 5th Daily Word and Visions from God

Romans 11.1-24-God has been too long involved with Israel, has too much invested, to simply wash his hands of them.

1 Samuel 20-...Remember that GOD's in on this with us to the very end!

Psalm 65-We all arrive at your doorstep sooner or later, loaded with guilt, Our sins too much for us--but you get rid of them once and for all.

Tobit 1.16-22-...if I saw the dead body of any of my people thrown out behind the wall of Nineveh, I would bury it.

Exodus 19.1-9-You saw what I did in Egypt, and you know how I brought you here to me, just as a mighty eagle carries its young.

John 5.16-30-I tell you for certain that the time will come, and it is already here, when all the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God.

Psalm 72-Let your glory be seen everywhere on earth. Amen and amen.

Trash nestled in some trees. Hidden trash, ready to go to the curb for disposal. Useless trash. Sometimes I think that I'm like that trash. I deserve to be thrown out. I stink of sin. I have wronged God. But God doesn't treat me like trash. Instead he doesn't just pitch me. I think maybe he has invested too much in all of us to just throw us out. I think God's love is so great that he loves each one of us so much that instead of trash, he reforms the clay in his hands and begins anew. God rebuilds my life when I try to replace him with myself and sticks with me to the very end. And at some point I can choose. Will I accept God? When I arrive at his doorstep at the end of my days... will I accept him? I arrive with all of my sin and guilt. The question really is then...will God accept me? But his Word tells me that he gets rid of that sin once and for all. Day after day God renews and strengthens and forgives me, sending me and choosing me to do his will in his kingdom. Sending me out to clean up the trash in other's lives. To forgive and renew in his name because he forgives and renews me through the grace and life of Jesus. Day after day God frees me to tell of the wonderful things he does for all of us. To tell of his grace and glory and salvation. To tell of his Spirit of life. To tell...to tell...to tell. To tell so that all the dead can hear his voice alive and active. God! Let your glory be seen everywhere on earth. Amen and amen!

Jesus, this redeemed trash of yours has been forgiven and saved. I'm ready to tell of your glory this day. -- Amen

June 4th Daily Word and Visions from God

June 4th Daily Word and Visions from God

Romans 9.30-10.21-They were absorbed in what they themselves were doing.

1 Samuel 19-People are still talking about it...

Psalm 64-God's work is the talk of the town.

Tobit 1.10-15-I was mindful of God with all my heart...

John 15.26-27; 16.4b-15-the Spirit takes my message and tells it to you.

Revelation 21.10-27-Then with the help of the Spirit, he took me to the top of a very high mountain.

Psalm 36-Your love is faithful, LORD, and even the clouds in the sky can depend on you.

A softball tournament. An early morning game. Everyone seems to be focusing on something different. Many concentrate on the field of play. Many others concentrate on some distraction from the field of play. Many bring other entertainment and toys with them. The sky is clear and the morning is crisp. They are absorbed in what they are doing. Am I as absorbed in God as I should be? I want to be absorbed in God and have God absorbed in me. That's where the real action is. That's where the real life is. It's when God is the talk of the town. That's the place I want to be. I want to be part of that holy city seen from the top of the high mountain in Revelation. I want the view God has to give me. I want the clear direction and comfort God brings in life. I want the faithful love of God that even the clouds in the sky can depend on. I want to be mindful of God with all my heart. I must keep my focus on God and play the position he calls me to play. Play it with all I've got. Get dirty doing it. Loving every moment of the game and giving all the glory to God. That's the focus for all the people.

Lord, let me play the position you wish for me to play. I'll give it all I've got. I'll be absorbed in you. -- Amen

June 3 Daily Word and Visions from God

Romans 9.1-29-Who in the world do you think you are to second-guess God?

1 Samuel 15.55-18.30-David's name was on everyone's lips.

Psalm 63-I'm free to run and play.

Acts 2.1-21-Then the Lord will save everyone who asks for his help.

John 6.35-40-I am the bread that gives life!

Psalm 46-Our God says, "Calm down, and learn that I am God! All nations on earth will honor me."

A robin in an early afternoon shower. Hunting food. A robin getting wet. But the food comes easy in the moist grass and dirt. Sometimes when the rains come and I think it's all bad, I find out that it's really a gift. The rain in life sometimes makes living easier. The worms come out and I feed on them. Jesus comes to me as the Bread of life. He comes to me. He visits me at my door and all I need to do is go. Nothing to that. And the adventure is outstanding. In the rain, in the sun, no matter what I know I have his protection. I can be calm and I am free to run and play. I think that's what God wants. When released from the bondage of my sin, I am free to run and play. I don't have to have all the answers. I don't need to be concerned about my reputation. I am free to run and play in the park.

Jesus, thanks for a wonderful trip to the park. Even if it did rain. I have your love and presence with me. -- Amen

June 2nd Daily Word and Visions from God

Romans 8-Those who trust God's action in them find that God's Spirit is in them--living and breathing God!

1 Samuel 17.1-54-The whole earth will know that there's an extraordinary God in Israel.

Psalm 62-Strength comes Straight from God.

Tobit 1.3-9-I, Tobit, walked in the ways of truth and righteousness all the days of my life.

Ezekiel 37.1-14-I, the LORD God, will put breath in you, and once again you will live.

Ruth 1.1-7; 4.13-22-Here is a list of the ancestors of David...

Psalm 119.41-48-Show me your love and save me, LORD, as you have promised.

Hydrogen - Several months ago just after the hurricanes hit New Orleans there was damage to a plant that produced this hydrogen in the form needed to put in this tank. It caused a shortage of hydrogen across the nation. We had to really watch our usage very closely. A tank filled with liquid that changes to gas as it is consumed. Reminds me of God's Spirit. God places his Spirit in each of us in concentrated form to be released as needed throughout the day. When I trust in God I can find his Spirit within me. God's Spirit living and breathing. And I can see his Spirit within others I meet. I can see his Spirit in the Word I read. I can see his Spirit moving throughout the day and it is extraordinary. Concentrated and powerful is God's Spirit. God's Spirit taking control of David as he defeats the giant. Strength beyond belief. Strength in his Spirit that comes straight from God. God's Spirit breathing life into death. Reclaiming life from my deadness and sin and breathing the Spirit of Life into my dry bones. And as God's Spirit is released through time it points to Jesus. In the past. In the present. In the future. God's Spirit throughout time with Jesus eternally. Throughout the list of ancestors and God's people. God's Spirit alive in concentrated form. God's Spirit showing love and salvation eternally. No shortage here. Let's release God's Spirit within us in concentration this day to reveal the glory and grace of salvation this day.

Lord, thank you for your Spirit. Thank you for breathing your breath of life into my dead soul. Thank you for Jesus. Send me this day to play in your Kingdom to your glory. -- Amen

June 1st Daily Word and Visions From God

Romans 7-Is there no one who can do anything for me? Isn?t that the real question? The answer, thank God, is that Jesus Christ can and does.
1 Samuel 16-Fill your flask with anointing oil and get going?.Samuel took his flask of oil and anointed him, with his brothers standing around watching. The Spirit of God entered David like a rush of wind, God vitally empowering him for the rest of his life.
Psalm 61-You?ve always given me breathing room, a place to get away from it all, A lifetime pass to your safe-house, an open invitation as your guest. You?ve always taken me seriously, God, made me welcome among those who know and love you.
Psalm 104.24-34, 35b-Our LORD, by your wisdom you made so many things; the whole earth is covered with your living creatures.
Hebrews 11.1-6-Because of our faith, we know that the world was made at God?s command.
Psalm 121-The LORD will protect you now and always wherever you go.
An early childhood dream of mine was that I had heard a knock on the door. When I opened the door, standing there were Jesus, Moses and another person that I can only describe as some friend of mine. Jesus wanted to know if I would come out and play. And I did. I think my life has been an invitation to play in Jesus Kingdom with him. Playing the games of life. It?s Jesus that does everything for me in my life. Brings me all the joy and happiness any child can expect. It?s Jesus that anoints me with the oil of my baptism and fills me with the rush of wind that empowers me for life. It?s through Jesus that I get all the breathing room of a vast wide world to play in. A life-time of play in his Kingdom. A life-time of love in play and joy. A because of Jesus I have faith and see the world he has created in all it?s glory. It?s Jesus with me when I fall down and bruise myself. Twist my ankle in pain. It?s Jesus that is there with me. And it?s also a friend playing along side. Day after day. Fellowship with my Lord and his servants and friends. It?s Jesus that protects me wherever we go. So this year I invite you to be that special friend. Let?s take the invitation from Jesus. Billy is ready to go out and play. How about you my friend?
Jesus, I?m ready to open the door of life and play in your Kingdom. Thanks for coming to my house. -- Amen