Theme of the Day
Wait
Readings of the Day
Galatians 4.21-31-So then, friends, we are children, not of the slave but of the free woman.
Lamentation 3-4-The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. "The LORD in my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in him." The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul that seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.
Psalm 146-I will praise the LORD as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God all my life long.
Mark 13.24-37-Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come.
God's Word
I am coming soon. I am coming to you. I bring salvation.
Story of the Day
Just wait till your Father gets home. A threat that was yelled at me by Mom. I knew that when Dad got home I would "get it." I knew that what I had done was wrong. I had angered my Mom beyond what she could handle and she went to Dad. This was a "wait" that I dreaded. But there were other "waits" that I could wait on. Like waiting for Christmas. Waiting to unwrap the presents under the tree. I couldn't wait! I could wait, but I was anxious and excited in this wait. But to wait for Dad to get home was different. Why does waiting have to be so strange. One kind of wait was a good and anxious kind of wait. The other kind of wait was a fearful dreaded kind of wait. Just wait, I was told. Wait...
Prayer of the Day
Lord, I know the wait. I know the sin I've committed. I know what I deserve. But You faithfully come to my door each and every day. You come not to punish. You come to take on the punishment I deserve. So, I wait, knowing how Your love never ceases. I wait, knowing that Your mercy never ceases. It all seems such a mystery to me. Why You do what You do? But I also know that I can't solve this "sin" thing on my own. So I wait on Your salvation. I can't save myself. As soon as I think I can, I sin. So I wait on Your arrival. I wait on salvation. I wait, and in the wait, my faith in You grows. I wait, and in the wait, I learn hope and love. I wait, yet I go to work in joy doing all You have called me to do. I wait, yet I work in joy. I wait, knowing that I can faithfully serve in Your Kingdom because of the "wait" You have provided. I wait...thanks be to God! The "wait" is so worth it!---Amen
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Saturday, November 29, 2008
November 28th & 29th - Let's Play!
Theme
Thanksgiving
Readings
Galatians 3.1-4.20-But when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, in order to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as children. And because you are children, God has sent the Spirit of his son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" so you are no longer a slave but a child, and if a child then also an heir, through God.
Jeremiah 51-52-It is he who made the earth by his power, who established the world by his wisdom, and by his understanding stretched out the heavens.
Lamentations 1-2-Pour out your heart like water before the presence of the Lord!
Psalm 144-Bow your heavens, O LORD, and come down; touch the mountains so that they smoke.
Psalm 145-The LORD is good to all, and his compassion is over all that he has made. All your works shall give thanks to you, O LORD, all all your faithful shall bless you.
God's Word
Be thankful. I have come down and touched the mountains and touched the very heart of you.
Story
It was so eerie that day. I walked outside and it was completely quiet. The usual city noises were absent. I couldn't hear any traffic from the interstate. The nearby steel mill was silent. No sirens, no airplanes, no trucks or buses, no sound of voices. It was silent. I hopped in my car and began to drive my usual route to work. No cars were on the streets. The gas station was open but no one was inside. The clerk was gone and there were no customers except me. I pumped the gas using my credit card and then went on. Still no traffic. I went by the mall and found no one. Up to the traffic light and I was the only car on the road. As I went onto the interstate there were no trucks or cars. I was the only car on the interstate. I drove to Cincinnati and there was no sign of life. So I went downtown. I parked my car and ran through the normally busy streets yelling at the top of my lungs. No answer, only the echo of my voice against the buildings. Silence and emptiness all around. I became frantic and ran wildly. Finally I saw a single man walking down the street. I run up behind him and anxiously grabbed his shoulder to get in front of him. I felt like hugging this only person I had found all morning. The man opened his arms to me and greeted me with a smile and a loving hug. I was so thankful for his presence in my life. And as I peered into his face...I saw Jesus! My Savior had come to me and touched my life! Then suddenly as I turned away, I noticed that the streets were full, traffic was hectic and the world had instantly returned to all I was accustomed to. Turning back to Jesus, he smiled, and we walked to work, side by side ready to serve another day in His Kingdom.
Prayer
Lord, reach into my heart and restore that relationship I so dearly need. For in Your coming I give You all thanks and praise. You are my King! You are my Savior! You are my life. You fill my life with all I need. You bring life to life. I will walk thankfully by Your side this day and all the days You give to me. ---Amen
Thanksgiving
Readings
Galatians 3.1-4.20-But when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, in order to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as children. And because you are children, God has sent the Spirit of his son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" so you are no longer a slave but a child, and if a child then also an heir, through God.
Jeremiah 51-52-It is he who made the earth by his power, who established the world by his wisdom, and by his understanding stretched out the heavens.
Lamentations 1-2-Pour out your heart like water before the presence of the Lord!
Psalm 144-Bow your heavens, O LORD, and come down; touch the mountains so that they smoke.
Psalm 145-The LORD is good to all, and his compassion is over all that he has made. All your works shall give thanks to you, O LORD, all all your faithful shall bless you.
God's Word
Be thankful. I have come down and touched the mountains and touched the very heart of you.
Story
It was so eerie that day. I walked outside and it was completely quiet. The usual city noises were absent. I couldn't hear any traffic from the interstate. The nearby steel mill was silent. No sirens, no airplanes, no trucks or buses, no sound of voices. It was silent. I hopped in my car and began to drive my usual route to work. No cars were on the streets. The gas station was open but no one was inside. The clerk was gone and there were no customers except me. I pumped the gas using my credit card and then went on. Still no traffic. I went by the mall and found no one. Up to the traffic light and I was the only car on the road. As I went onto the interstate there were no trucks or cars. I was the only car on the interstate. I drove to Cincinnati and there was no sign of life. So I went downtown. I parked my car and ran through the normally busy streets yelling at the top of my lungs. No answer, only the echo of my voice against the buildings. Silence and emptiness all around. I became frantic and ran wildly. Finally I saw a single man walking down the street. I run up behind him and anxiously grabbed his shoulder to get in front of him. I felt like hugging this only person I had found all morning. The man opened his arms to me and greeted me with a smile and a loving hug. I was so thankful for his presence in my life. And as I peered into his face...I saw Jesus! My Savior had come to me and touched my life! Then suddenly as I turned away, I noticed that the streets were full, traffic was hectic and the world had instantly returned to all I was accustomed to. Turning back to Jesus, he smiled, and we walked to work, side by side ready to serve another day in His Kingdom.
Prayer
Lord, reach into my heart and restore that relationship I so dearly need. For in Your coming I give You all thanks and praise. You are my King! You are my Savior! You are my life. You fill my life with all I need. You bring life to life. I will walk thankfully by Your side this day and all the days You give to me. ---Amen
Thursday, November 27, 2008
November 27th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Push it
Readings of the Day
Galatians 2-...yet we know that a person is justified not by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ. And we have come to believe in Christ Jesus, so that we might be justified by faith in Christ, and not by doing the works of the law, because no one will be justified by the works of the law.
Jeremiah 49-50-My people have been lost sheep...
Psalm 143-Let me hear of your steadfast love in the morning, for in you I put my trust. Teach me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.
Zechariah 13.1-9-They will call on my name, and I will answer them. I will say, "They are my people"; and they will say, "The LORD is our God."
God's Word of the Day
Call on My name. Only I can save you.
Story of the Day
How fast could we get this done? That was the question we had on our mind that afternoon. How fast could we get this done? So we started out. It was slow going at first. Then as we gained experience; we became a little bit better at doing this. The question was still growing though; "How fast could we get this done?" By about 4 p.m. we were beginning to come together as a team. Each one of us knew what we could do best and each one of us knew what we needed to do individually and how our individual efforts applied to the total effort. The question was still there. How fast could we get this done? Momentum really began to pick up. Finally we were finished. Now we knew how fast we could get this done. But a new question came up. What could we do better? How could we improve on our time and get this same thing done even faster the next time? It never seems as if we are satisfied. It's like we think that we can do this all on our own. But then the voice of wisdom spoke from a silent person in the team. He told us that the point of the entire exercise wasn't that we needed to get faster and faster; but that the point of the exercise was that we needed to realize that some things were beyond ourselves. We can't achieve perfection. We can't reach that ultimate. There will always be a faster. We can't get it done perfectly. We depend on each other even to get it done; let alone to reach perfection. It's about the faith we need in each other. It's about the trust we need to grant on another. It's about our vision of a perfection we could never achieve but our relationships in that stretch to the goal were what counted. If we think that we can achieve perfection on our own we would certainly be lost. We would lose the point. We would be lost in ourselves and our own selfishness and finally separate ourselves from all others. In this separation; we would lose. But in the struggle and in the dependence on faith and trust in one another we build relationship, one for another. How fast can we get this done? Not sure, but in the getting done, we will build a bond, one with another of love and caring.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, keep my focus on the vision of You. You are my vision. You are my hope. It's not about what I do or what I achieve. It's about the relationship You have with me. It's about the love You teach me. It's about Your bond and the bond You build with me and those You give to me each and every day. How fast can we get this done? Not sure, but would really like You to take Your time with me. The longer the better. How about an eternity? In this we will be together for You are my desire. ---Amen
Push it
Readings of the Day
Galatians 2-...yet we know that a person is justified not by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ. And we have come to believe in Christ Jesus, so that we might be justified by faith in Christ, and not by doing the works of the law, because no one will be justified by the works of the law.
Jeremiah 49-50-My people have been lost sheep...
Psalm 143-Let me hear of your steadfast love in the morning, for in you I put my trust. Teach me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.
Zechariah 13.1-9-They will call on my name, and I will answer them. I will say, "They are my people"; and they will say, "The LORD is our God."
God's Word of the Day
Call on My name. Only I can save you.
Story of the Day
How fast could we get this done? That was the question we had on our mind that afternoon. How fast could we get this done? So we started out. It was slow going at first. Then as we gained experience; we became a little bit better at doing this. The question was still growing though; "How fast could we get this done?" By about 4 p.m. we were beginning to come together as a team. Each one of us knew what we could do best and each one of us knew what we needed to do individually and how our individual efforts applied to the total effort. The question was still there. How fast could we get this done? Momentum really began to pick up. Finally we were finished. Now we knew how fast we could get this done. But a new question came up. What could we do better? How could we improve on our time and get this same thing done even faster the next time? It never seems as if we are satisfied. It's like we think that we can do this all on our own. But then the voice of wisdom spoke from a silent person in the team. He told us that the point of the entire exercise wasn't that we needed to get faster and faster; but that the point of the exercise was that we needed to realize that some things were beyond ourselves. We can't achieve perfection. We can't reach that ultimate. There will always be a faster. We can't get it done perfectly. We depend on each other even to get it done; let alone to reach perfection. It's about the faith we need in each other. It's about the trust we need to grant on another. It's about our vision of a perfection we could never achieve but our relationships in that stretch to the goal were what counted. If we think that we can achieve perfection on our own we would certainly be lost. We would lose the point. We would be lost in ourselves and our own selfishness and finally separate ourselves from all others. In this separation; we would lose. But in the struggle and in the dependence on faith and trust in one another we build relationship, one for another. How fast can we get this done? Not sure, but in the getting done, we will build a bond, one with another of love and caring.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, keep my focus on the vision of You. You are my vision. You are my hope. It's not about what I do or what I achieve. It's about the relationship You have with me. It's about the love You teach me. It's about Your bond and the bond You build with me and those You give to me each and every day. How fast can we get this done? Not sure, but would really like You to take Your time with me. The longer the better. How about an eternity? In this we will be together for You are my desire. ---Amen
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
November 26th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Togetherness
Readings of the Day
Galatians 1-But when God, who had set me apart before I was born and called me through his grace, was pleased to reveal his son to me, so that I might proclaim him among the Gentiles, I did not confer with any human being, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were already apostles before me, but I went away at once into Arabia, and afterwards I returned to Damascus.
Jeremiah 47-48-Surely, because you trusted in your strongholds and your treasures, you also shall be taken...
Psalm 142-You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.
John 5.19-40-Very truly, I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life, and does not come under judgment, but has passed from death to life.
God's Word of the Day
I bring you together to hear My Word and to live.
Story of the Day
We had gathered together to celebrate Thanksgiving. Young and old and all ages in-between gathered together. Family and friends gathered together for a feast. We gathered for a feast to nourish our bodies and for fellowship to unite our souls as one. We gathered together and prayed. Prayed, giving thanks for life. Prayed, giving thanks for harvest. Prayed, giving thanks that our differences were unique and special and united us in love. We gathered together to feed on the Word and to believe in faith the One whom God gave to us to save us. Bread and Wine united us in prayer. Gathered together, yet each one set apart for service in the Kingdom. We had gathered together to celebrate Thanksgiving.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, gather us together. Even when we are spread apart; gather us together. Spread apart by distance, and spread apart by death. Gather us together in life to take in Your Son. Gather us together to absorb and feed on Your Word. Gather us together in a thanksgiving feast that we may celebrate with joy and thanksgiving all You have done for us. Lord, gather us together in love. ---Amen
Togetherness
Readings of the Day
Galatians 1-But when God, who had set me apart before I was born and called me through his grace, was pleased to reveal his son to me, so that I might proclaim him among the Gentiles, I did not confer with any human being, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were already apostles before me, but I went away at once into Arabia, and afterwards I returned to Damascus.
Jeremiah 47-48-Surely, because you trusted in your strongholds and your treasures, you also shall be taken...
Psalm 142-You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.
John 5.19-40-Very truly, I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life, and does not come under judgment, but has passed from death to life.
God's Word of the Day
I bring you together to hear My Word and to live.
Story of the Day
We had gathered together to celebrate Thanksgiving. Young and old and all ages in-between gathered together. Family and friends gathered together for a feast. We gathered for a feast to nourish our bodies and for fellowship to unite our souls as one. We gathered together and prayed. Prayed, giving thanks for life. Prayed, giving thanks for harvest. Prayed, giving thanks that our differences were unique and special and united us in love. We gathered together to feed on the Word and to believe in faith the One whom God gave to us to save us. Bread and Wine united us in prayer. Gathered together, yet each one set apart for service in the Kingdom. We had gathered together to celebrate Thanksgiving.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, gather us together. Even when we are spread apart; gather us together. Spread apart by distance, and spread apart by death. Gather us together in life to take in Your Son. Gather us together to absorb and feed on Your Word. Gather us together in a thanksgiving feast that we may celebrate with joy and thanksgiving all You have done for us. Lord, gather us together in love. ---Amen
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
November 25th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Investigate
Readings of the Day
2 Peter 3-The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance. but the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a loud noise, and the elements will be dissolved with fire, and the earth and everything that is done on it will be disclosed.
Jeremiah 45-46-Harness the horses; mount the steeds! Take your stations with your helmets, whet your lances, put on your coats of mail!
Psalm 141-I call upon you, O LORD; come quickly to me; give ear to my voice when I call to you. Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as an evening sacrifice.
Esther 8.3-17-For how can I bear to see the calamity that is coming on my people?
God's Word of the Day
I am coming - I have come - I will come again
Story of the Day
The crime scene had left many clues. There was blood, hair and even prints to be found. We found finger prints and shoe prints and even tire tread marks of the escape vehicle. The crime scene had many clues. The criminal would be located that was for sure. It may take some time, but the criminal would be located. All would become obvious some day. One day we would arrive at the place of the criminal. We would arrive unexpected. We would be a surprise to him. All of the detectives on the scene were sure of this. But to our surprise the criminal came forward. Out of the blue and to our surprise the criminal came forward with a confession. Even a repentance was given. We weren't clergy. But the criminal repented. And then the victim's family and friends graciously granted forgiveness. It was beyond anything we had ever seen in the past. Criminal and victims united. We were awed by the faith of the victims. The criminal was transformed. Sure he paid for his crime, but his life was forever changed. And he changed the lives of those with him in prison. The crime scene had left many clues and the criminal was located and justice was done, but the twist of it all came in the repentance and the forgiveness. It was beyond anything we had ever seen in the past!
Prayer of the Day
Lord, I am the criminal. I come forward and seek forgiveness. Forgive my sin and renew me. And may I forgive those who sin against me. Set me on the path You have designed for me to take. Use me and send me to do Your will, today, tomorrow and forever. ---Amen
Investigate
Readings of the Day
2 Peter 3-The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance. but the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a loud noise, and the elements will be dissolved with fire, and the earth and everything that is done on it will be disclosed.
Jeremiah 45-46-Harness the horses; mount the steeds! Take your stations with your helmets, whet your lances, put on your coats of mail!
Psalm 141-I call upon you, O LORD; come quickly to me; give ear to my voice when I call to you. Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as an evening sacrifice.
Esther 8.3-17-For how can I bear to see the calamity that is coming on my people?
God's Word of the Day
I am coming - I have come - I will come again
Story of the Day
The crime scene had left many clues. There was blood, hair and even prints to be found. We found finger prints and shoe prints and even tire tread marks of the escape vehicle. The crime scene had many clues. The criminal would be located that was for sure. It may take some time, but the criminal would be located. All would become obvious some day. One day we would arrive at the place of the criminal. We would arrive unexpected. We would be a surprise to him. All of the detectives on the scene were sure of this. But to our surprise the criminal came forward. Out of the blue and to our surprise the criminal came forward with a confession. Even a repentance was given. We weren't clergy. But the criminal repented. And then the victim's family and friends graciously granted forgiveness. It was beyond anything we had ever seen in the past. Criminal and victims united. We were awed by the faith of the victims. The criminal was transformed. Sure he paid for his crime, but his life was forever changed. And he changed the lives of those with him in prison. The crime scene had left many clues and the criminal was located and justice was done, but the twist of it all came in the repentance and the forgiveness. It was beyond anything we had ever seen in the past!
Prayer of the Day
Lord, I am the criminal. I come forward and seek forgiveness. Forgive my sin and renew me. And may I forgive those who sin against me. Set me on the path You have designed for me to take. Use me and send me to do Your will, today, tomorrow and forever. ---Amen
Monday, November 24, 2008
November 24th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Work
Readings of the Day
2 Peter 2-But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive opinions.
Jeremiah 43-44-I beg you not to do this abominable thing that I hate!
Psalm 140-Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name; the upright shall live in your presence.
Esther 2.1-18-Every day Mordecai would walk around in front of the court of the harem, to learn how Esther was and how she fared.
God's Word of the Day
Listen to My Word and turn to me.
Story of the Day
We were told that a storm was coming and to take shelter. So we went to the basement and waited it out. But nothing ever happened! Was this a mistake? Did we listen to the wrong channel? It didn't even rain. And the weatherman never gave an all clear notice. It must have been a mistake. So we came back upstairs. All seemed well. Later we found out that the station that the weatherman was located at was hit by a tornado. The TV station was knocked off of the air.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, as I return to work this day, help me to hear Your voice in the wilderness. Help me to discern the truth from so many voices. Show me Your way when I need to make decisions. Teach me how to take the actions You would have me to take when action is needed. Make me a caring and loving person to those You give to me. And hear my praise of joy and thanksgiving for the opportunity to serve in Your Kingdom this day. ---Amen
Work
Readings of the Day
2 Peter 2-But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive opinions.
Jeremiah 43-44-I beg you not to do this abominable thing that I hate!
Psalm 140-Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name; the upright shall live in your presence.
Esther 2.1-18-Every day Mordecai would walk around in front of the court of the harem, to learn how Esther was and how she fared.
God's Word of the Day
Listen to My Word and turn to me.
Story of the Day
We were told that a storm was coming and to take shelter. So we went to the basement and waited it out. But nothing ever happened! Was this a mistake? Did we listen to the wrong channel? It didn't even rain. And the weatherman never gave an all clear notice. It must have been a mistake. So we came back upstairs. All seemed well. Later we found out that the station that the weatherman was located at was hit by a tornado. The TV station was knocked off of the air.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, as I return to work this day, help me to hear Your voice in the wilderness. Help me to discern the truth from so many voices. Show me Your way when I need to make decisions. Teach me how to take the actions You would have me to take when action is needed. Make me a caring and loving person to those You give to me. And hear my praise of joy and thanksgiving for the opportunity to serve in Your Kingdom this day. ---Amen
Sunday, November 23, 2008
November 22nd and 23rd - Let's Play!
Theme
Move forward
Readings
1 Peter 5-Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.
2 Peter 1-For this very reason, you must make every effort to support your faith with goodness, and goodness with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with endurance, and endurance with godliness, and godliness with mutual affection, and mutual affection with love.
Jeremiah 39-42-Pray for us to the LORD our God, and whatever the LORD our God says, tell us and we will do it.
Psalm 138-On the day I called, you answered me, you increased my strength of soul.
Psalm 139-Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
God's Word
I hear your cry and know your thoughts. I am in your heart and will drive sin out. Now go and serve in love those I give to you this day.
Story
It is cold out here. Really cold! Everything in me is beginning to freeze. My fluids are thick and cold. My structure is hard as rock. Then my owner came out. He jumped into the drivers seat and complained how hard it was. He shoved the key into my ignition switch and turned the key. My battery was so cold the water in it was beginning to freeze. My battery strained in the cold to provide enough current for the starter motor to turn and then the starter motor had such a difficult time moving the flywheel. You see the oil and all the fluids were thick. This was so hard to do. But finally the flywheel began to move. The fuel pump strained in the cold to push fuel to the engine. The spark plugs had one heck of a time giving spark to the combustion chamber. But finally it occurred. We had an explosion in the chamber and the pistons began to move. The engine had started! But the cold was all so difficult. Then my owner, in a hurry, stomps down on the gas pedal and forces huge amounts of fuel into the engine and, even as cold as all my parts were, we were thrust into action quickly. I thought for sure something was going to lock up. But as we kept working at it, we became warmer and warmer. Work became easier and easier. Sure it was cold, but now we were called into action. And we acted to the demands of our owner. We faithfully responded to his calls and his maneuvers. We faithfully served him to his calling to go in the direction he was taking us. Sure, he heard our cry of pain at first. But he loved us enough to push us into action and take us with him where he wanted to go. For this reason he had given us faith. In our faith in him came goodness and goodness gave us knowledge that we could perform for him and knowledge produced self-control as we responded to his call and self-control produced the endurance we needed in the cold and endurance brought forth a godliness out of us because of the mutual affection we had for our owner. All this because of love. Love of our owner and our love to respond to his call. Thanks be to God!
Prayer
Lord, You call me into action. Sometimes I complain and groan and mumble. Forgive my hesitation but push me to warm up and take off in the joy of Your love towards me and my love towards You. Push me into active call with Your Love to take to all You give to me this day. ---Amen
Move forward
Readings
1 Peter 5-Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.
2 Peter 1-For this very reason, you must make every effort to support your faith with goodness, and goodness with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with endurance, and endurance with godliness, and godliness with mutual affection, and mutual affection with love.
Jeremiah 39-42-Pray for us to the LORD our God, and whatever the LORD our God says, tell us and we will do it.
Psalm 138-On the day I called, you answered me, you increased my strength of soul.
Psalm 139-Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
God's Word
I hear your cry and know your thoughts. I am in your heart and will drive sin out. Now go and serve in love those I give to you this day.
Story
It is cold out here. Really cold! Everything in me is beginning to freeze. My fluids are thick and cold. My structure is hard as rock. Then my owner came out. He jumped into the drivers seat and complained how hard it was. He shoved the key into my ignition switch and turned the key. My battery was so cold the water in it was beginning to freeze. My battery strained in the cold to provide enough current for the starter motor to turn and then the starter motor had such a difficult time moving the flywheel. You see the oil and all the fluids were thick. This was so hard to do. But finally the flywheel began to move. The fuel pump strained in the cold to push fuel to the engine. The spark plugs had one heck of a time giving spark to the combustion chamber. But finally it occurred. We had an explosion in the chamber and the pistons began to move. The engine had started! But the cold was all so difficult. Then my owner, in a hurry, stomps down on the gas pedal and forces huge amounts of fuel into the engine and, even as cold as all my parts were, we were thrust into action quickly. I thought for sure something was going to lock up. But as we kept working at it, we became warmer and warmer. Work became easier and easier. Sure it was cold, but now we were called into action. And we acted to the demands of our owner. We faithfully responded to his calls and his maneuvers. We faithfully served him to his calling to go in the direction he was taking us. Sure, he heard our cry of pain at first. But he loved us enough to push us into action and take us with him where he wanted to go. For this reason he had given us faith. In our faith in him came goodness and goodness gave us knowledge that we could perform for him and knowledge produced self-control as we responded to his call and self-control produced the endurance we needed in the cold and endurance brought forth a godliness out of us because of the mutual affection we had for our owner. All this because of love. Love of our owner and our love to respond to his call. Thanks be to God!
Prayer
Lord, You call me into action. Sometimes I complain and groan and mumble. Forgive my hesitation but push me to warm up and take off in the joy of Your love towards me and my love towards You. Push me into active call with Your Love to take to all You give to me this day. ---Amen
Friday, November 21, 2008
November 21st - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Complaint
Readings of the Day
1 Peter 4-Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without complaining.
Jeremiah 37-38-Now there was no water in the cistern, but only mud, and Jeremiah sank in the mud.
Psalm 137-How could we sing the LORD's song in a foreign land?
Revelation 22.1-9-See, I am coming soon!
God's Word of the Day
Stop complaining and love one another, you don't have time for all that complaining because I am coming soon!
Story of the Day
It started to get cold. In fact there was a couple of nights I thought we weren't going to make it. But then we had a few days when it was warm. So we decided to stay. But at some point, maybe a couple of weeks later it got cold and stayed cold. We knew at the first few nights that this time was coming. But instead of complaining about it we stuck it out to the end. Now the time had finally come. Each morning we still sang praises to God. We sang praises in unison with all the variety of birds in the forest, but our time had come. No complaints about the cold. Our time had come to move on. So we flew. We were never sure which way to fly. Our temperature compass led us to warmth. We flew to the warmth and love of the sun. No complaints here, just love for one another and love for the warmth of the sun. Finally, one night, then two and three, we found a place that stayed warm. In the warmth of the sun, we knew we were now home. Home for now, in the warmth of the sun. Each morning we sang praises to God in His warmth and grace in unison with all the variety of birds in the forest.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, hear my complaints. Here my song of sorrow and pain. Yet also hear my song of joy and praise for the warmth and the love of Christ Jesus, whom You graciously send to me each and every day. As I walk in His warmth and love, let my complaint dissolve into loving action for my neighbor, each and every day. ---Amen
Complaint
Readings of the Day
1 Peter 4-Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without complaining.
Jeremiah 37-38-Now there was no water in the cistern, but only mud, and Jeremiah sank in the mud.
Psalm 137-How could we sing the LORD's song in a foreign land?
Revelation 22.1-9-See, I am coming soon!
God's Word of the Day
Stop complaining and love one another, you don't have time for all that complaining because I am coming soon!
Story of the Day
It started to get cold. In fact there was a couple of nights I thought we weren't going to make it. But then we had a few days when it was warm. So we decided to stay. But at some point, maybe a couple of weeks later it got cold and stayed cold. We knew at the first few nights that this time was coming. But instead of complaining about it we stuck it out to the end. Now the time had finally come. Each morning we still sang praises to God. We sang praises in unison with all the variety of birds in the forest, but our time had come. No complaints about the cold. Our time had come to move on. So we flew. We were never sure which way to fly. Our temperature compass led us to warmth. We flew to the warmth and love of the sun. No complaints here, just love for one another and love for the warmth of the sun. Finally, one night, then two and three, we found a place that stayed warm. In the warmth of the sun, we knew we were now home. Home for now, in the warmth of the sun. Each morning we sang praises to God in His warmth and grace in unison with all the variety of birds in the forest.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, hear my complaints. Here my song of sorrow and pain. Yet also hear my song of joy and praise for the warmth and the love of Christ Jesus, whom You graciously send to me each and every day. As I walk in His warmth and love, let my complaint dissolve into loving action for my neighbor, each and every day. ---Amen
Thursday, November 20, 2008
November 20th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Rest
Readings of the Day
1 Peter 3-Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind.
Jeremiah 35-36-Take a scroll and write on it all the words I have spoken to you...
Psalm 136-O give thanks to the God of heaven, for his steadfast love endures forever.
Revelation 14.1-11-There is no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and its image and for anyone who receives the mark of its name.
God's Word of the Day
I have come to give you rest.
Story of the Day
We had battled the entire game. Our passing game was off; way off. Our running game was the only hope we had at the moment. There was only one or two run plays that were working. For each of these plays the blocking was clicking and the exchange was difficult to pick up; so these runs worked. Finally, in a close game and in the fourth quarter, we continued pounding the ball with the run. But our halfback was tired. He needed a rest. We had to take him out of the game and rest him for a series of plays. Instead we left him in and went to the pass. We decided to use him as a decoy for the run and go to the pass. And that's when our passing game began to work. The defense was sure we would only use the run. Our back was able to rest. The passing game worked and we eeeked out a win in the fourth quarter by going to the passing game.
Prayer of the Day
The wicked don't rest. Sin continues on in this world seemingly unending. Then You came as King of life. You came and conquered sin, death and the devil. You came to grant that final rest to Your people from the sin that had enslaved them. You gave your very life and suffered that sin would be defeated. You came and brought unity to Your Church. You came in Love and showed the victory of a love that endures forever. In Your Word, You came to grant rest. Thanks be to God! ---Amen
Rest
Readings of the Day
1 Peter 3-Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind.
Jeremiah 35-36-Take a scroll and write on it all the words I have spoken to you...
Psalm 136-O give thanks to the God of heaven, for his steadfast love endures forever.
Revelation 14.1-11-There is no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and its image and for anyone who receives the mark of its name.
God's Word of the Day
I have come to give you rest.
Story of the Day
We had battled the entire game. Our passing game was off; way off. Our running game was the only hope we had at the moment. There was only one or two run plays that were working. For each of these plays the blocking was clicking and the exchange was difficult to pick up; so these runs worked. Finally, in a close game and in the fourth quarter, we continued pounding the ball with the run. But our halfback was tired. He needed a rest. We had to take him out of the game and rest him for a series of plays. Instead we left him in and went to the pass. We decided to use him as a decoy for the run and go to the pass. And that's when our passing game began to work. The defense was sure we would only use the run. Our back was able to rest. The passing game worked and we eeeked out a win in the fourth quarter by going to the passing game.
Prayer of the Day
The wicked don't rest. Sin continues on in this world seemingly unending. Then You came as King of life. You came and conquered sin, death and the devil. You came to grant that final rest to Your people from the sin that had enslaved them. You gave your very life and suffered that sin would be defeated. You came and brought unity to Your Church. You came in Love and showed the victory of a love that endures forever. In Your Word, You came to grant rest. Thanks be to God! ---Amen
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
November 19th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Healing
Readings of the Day
1 Peter 2-He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that, free from sins, we might live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. For you were going astray like sheep, but now you have returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls.
Jeremiah 33-34-Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.
Psalm 135-Praise the LORD, for the LORD is good; sing to his name, for he is gracious.
Matthew 24.45-51-Blessed is that slave whom his master will find at work when he arrives.
God's Word of the Day
I bore your sins for you. Now go and serve in My Kingdom.
Story of the Day
My vision had zoomed close in to the communion bread being offered to me that Sunday. I had zoomed in on that bread and the hands that offered that bread. I zoomed in on my open hands, anxious to receive this bread, this body of Christ. Then suddenly my vision zoomed out. My vision went above and beyond myself. I saw me, standing there with open hands. Then I saw the church in which I was standing. Then my vision zoomed further out to the city, the state, the nation, the world and even the universe that I was standing in. I was distant in this vision but God's vision had become my vision. I saw the entire universe. Then in a second my vision went back in to the bread. An awesome God, an awesome universal Savior had chosen to come to earth to die for my sins. Now He has chosen to feed me His very Self in order that He may live in me and I live in Him. He chose to fling His very being through space and time for me. In love He saved me. Now, nourished and fed by His grace; I go. I go to serve in this very same love in His Kingdom, today, tomorrow and forever. My vision had zoomed close in to the communion bread...I saw the entire universe...all in a second.
Prayer of the Day
Your eyes are awesome Lord. You see it all! You see the big and the small. You see inside and outside. Your eyes are awesome Lord! Send me with just a glimpse of Your vision into Your Kingdom this day to serve in love and active faith towards You. ---Amen
Healing
Readings of the Day
1 Peter 2-He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that, free from sins, we might live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. For you were going astray like sheep, but now you have returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls.
Jeremiah 33-34-Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.
Psalm 135-Praise the LORD, for the LORD is good; sing to his name, for he is gracious.
Matthew 24.45-51-Blessed is that slave whom his master will find at work when he arrives.
God's Word of the Day
I bore your sins for you. Now go and serve in My Kingdom.
Story of the Day
My vision had zoomed close in to the communion bread being offered to me that Sunday. I had zoomed in on that bread and the hands that offered that bread. I zoomed in on my open hands, anxious to receive this bread, this body of Christ. Then suddenly my vision zoomed out. My vision went above and beyond myself. I saw me, standing there with open hands. Then I saw the church in which I was standing. Then my vision zoomed further out to the city, the state, the nation, the world and even the universe that I was standing in. I was distant in this vision but God's vision had become my vision. I saw the entire universe. Then in a second my vision went back in to the bread. An awesome God, an awesome universal Savior had chosen to come to earth to die for my sins. Now He has chosen to feed me His very Self in order that He may live in me and I live in Him. He chose to fling His very being through space and time for me. In love He saved me. Now, nourished and fed by His grace; I go. I go to serve in this very same love in His Kingdom, today, tomorrow and forever. My vision had zoomed close in to the communion bread...I saw the entire universe...all in a second.
Prayer of the Day
Your eyes are awesome Lord. You see it all! You see the big and the small. You see inside and outside. Your eyes are awesome Lord! Send me with just a glimpse of Your vision into Your Kingdom this day to serve in love and active faith towards You. ---Amen
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
November 18th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Initiative
Readings of the Day
1 Peter 1-You know that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your ancestors, not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish.
Jeremiah 31-32-I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.
Psalm 134-May the LORD, maker of heaven and earth, bless you from Zion.
Zechariah 2:1-5; 5:1-4-For I will be a wall of fire all around it, says the LORD, I I will be the glory within it.
God's Word of the Day
I have taken the initiative to save you and protect you. Now go boldly and serve in My Kingdom.
Story of the Day
The fire had marched on now for days. The fire was spreading and approaching more houses. As it began to spread across an open space, we took initiative. We quickly started a controlled fire of our own. We burnt a ring of fire at some distance from the approach of the main fire. We hurriedly burnt off the vegetation in the path of the larger fire. Once the vegetation had been burnt away the larger fire didn't have any fuel to burn. Soon the main fire was extinguished. We able to stop the fire. Only with the fuel gone were we able to save the community in the path of the fire.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, I give You thanks that You took the initiative and sent Your Son. You sent Your Son into the midst of the fire. He burnt away the sin in our path. He came to this earth to eliminate the fuel for the fire of evil. And in His Holy Fire of love we are saved. May I boldly go forth this day to serve You in Your Kingdom. May Your initiative be mine, through Your precious blood. ---Amen
Initiative
Readings of the Day
1 Peter 1-You know that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your ancestors, not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish.
Jeremiah 31-32-I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.
Psalm 134-May the LORD, maker of heaven and earth, bless you from Zion.
Zechariah 2:1-5; 5:1-4-For I will be a wall of fire all around it, says the LORD, I I will be the glory within it.
God's Word of the Day
I have taken the initiative to save you and protect you. Now go boldly and serve in My Kingdom.
Story of the Day
The fire had marched on now for days. The fire was spreading and approaching more houses. As it began to spread across an open space, we took initiative. We quickly started a controlled fire of our own. We burnt a ring of fire at some distance from the approach of the main fire. We hurriedly burnt off the vegetation in the path of the larger fire. Once the vegetation had been burnt away the larger fire didn't have any fuel to burn. Soon the main fire was extinguished. We able to stop the fire. Only with the fuel gone were we able to save the community in the path of the fire.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, I give You thanks that You took the initiative and sent Your Son. You sent Your Son into the midst of the fire. He burnt away the sin in our path. He came to this earth to eliminate the fuel for the fire of evil. And in His Holy Fire of love we are saved. May I boldly go forth this day to serve You in Your Kingdom. May Your initiative be mine, through Your precious blood. ---Amen
Monday, November 17, 2008
November 16th-17th - Let's Play!
Theme
Moving on
Readings
James 4-5-Be patient, therefore, beloved, until the coming of the Lord.
Jeremiah 27-30-For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart, I will let you find me, says the LORD, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, says the LORD, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.
Psalm 132-There I will cause a horn to sprout up for David; I have prepared a lamp for my anointed one.
Psalm 133-For there the LORD ordained his blessing, life forevermore.
God's Word
Move with me in My will and way.
Story
As our spaceship sped along, we became impatient. We wanted so reach our destination of Mars, but it seemed to be taking so long. Being stuck inside this ship was beginning to rub the nerves of all three of us. We were not getting along all the well either. It was at this point in the trip that our training instructor told us that we would need patience more than anything else. We would need to concentrate on our work at hand. We would need to focus on the goal of our journey and see the need for the tedious tasks we were doing at this moment and how those tasks fit into the plan of the larger journey. We were told to take a break at this point of the journey and focus on the goal. We were told to stop our work and get together and talk of the future. We were instructed and taught to review the entire plan and see the accomplishments we had made up to this point. So we did. We stopped and came together. We reflected on the past and we looked to the future. We looked to the goal and saw that the work we had to do now and into the future was vitally important. We became energized once again to go back to work and to focus ahead as we realized the blessings of what was behind. It was now time to move on. Move on towards our goal and mission of Mars. It was time! And we were excited about it all.
Prayer
Lord, Your blessings are awesome. As I reflect on this past year, I see You active in my life. I see Your blessings. I see the struggle of the journey, that's for sure, but in the journey, I see Your blessings. Now, as I focus on the remainder of this year, I'm excited about the plans You have for me and all that You bring. Light my way in Your Kingdom. Walk with me in Your Kingdom, right into the future You have planned, I pray. ---Amen
Moving on
Readings
James 4-5-Be patient, therefore, beloved, until the coming of the Lord.
Jeremiah 27-30-For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart, I will let you find me, says the LORD, and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and all the places where I have driven you, says the LORD, and I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you into exile.
Psalm 132-There I will cause a horn to sprout up for David; I have prepared a lamp for my anointed one.
Psalm 133-For there the LORD ordained his blessing, life forevermore.
God's Word
Move with me in My will and way.
Story
As our spaceship sped along, we became impatient. We wanted so reach our destination of Mars, but it seemed to be taking so long. Being stuck inside this ship was beginning to rub the nerves of all three of us. We were not getting along all the well either. It was at this point in the trip that our training instructor told us that we would need patience more than anything else. We would need to concentrate on our work at hand. We would need to focus on the goal of our journey and see the need for the tedious tasks we were doing at this moment and how those tasks fit into the plan of the larger journey. We were told to take a break at this point of the journey and focus on the goal. We were told to stop our work and get together and talk of the future. We were instructed and taught to review the entire plan and see the accomplishments we had made up to this point. So we did. We stopped and came together. We reflected on the past and we looked to the future. We looked to the goal and saw that the work we had to do now and into the future was vitally important. We became energized once again to go back to work and to focus ahead as we realized the blessings of what was behind. It was now time to move on. Move on towards our goal and mission of Mars. It was time! And we were excited about it all.
Prayer
Lord, Your blessings are awesome. As I reflect on this past year, I see You active in my life. I see Your blessings. I see the struggle of the journey, that's for sure, but in the journey, I see Your blessings. Now, as I focus on the remainder of this year, I'm excited about the plans You have for me and all that You bring. Light my way in Your Kingdom. Walk with me in Your Kingdom, right into the future You have planned, I pray. ---Amen
Saturday, November 15, 2008
November 15th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Freedom
Readings of the day
James 3-But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy.
Jeremiah 25-26-The LORD will roar from on high, and from his holy habitation utter his voice; he will roar mightily against his fold, and shout, like those who tread grapes, against all the inhabitants of the earth.
Psalm 131-O LORD, my heart is not lifted up, my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me.
Psalm 90.1-12-...from everlasting to everlasting you are God.
God's Word of the Day
I am eternal. I am everlasting. Know that I am your God.
Story of the Day
I was humbled by the power and strength. As I witnessed the engine start up the noise became deafening. Then as I saw the jet in flight and the flames coming from the engine with afterburners fired; I was humbled by the power and strength. Likewise as I stood in the wind that day and the cold beat upon my face, I felt the sting and pain of coldness deep within my bones. I was humbled by the power and strength. As I peered into the microscope at something the naked eye couldn't see; I was humbled by the power and strength of the lens to reveal a whole new world. And as I stared into the night sky and saw an infinite amount of stars and their light; I was humbled by the power and strength. A Creator with such wisdom and strength that exists from everlasting to everlasting brings cause to pause and to be humble. I was humbled by the power and the strength; yet free to worship and adore a Creator, a Savior, a Spirit that exists from everlasting to everlasting.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, You blow my mind! I can't take it all in. But with what I can take in, I give You all praise and honor and glory, now and forever! ---Amen
Freedom
Readings of the day
James 3-But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy.
Jeremiah 25-26-The LORD will roar from on high, and from his holy habitation utter his voice; he will roar mightily against his fold, and shout, like those who tread grapes, against all the inhabitants of the earth.
Psalm 131-O LORD, my heart is not lifted up, my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me.
Psalm 90.1-12-...from everlasting to everlasting you are God.
God's Word of the Day
I am eternal. I am everlasting. Know that I am your God.
Story of the Day
I was humbled by the power and strength. As I witnessed the engine start up the noise became deafening. Then as I saw the jet in flight and the flames coming from the engine with afterburners fired; I was humbled by the power and strength. Likewise as I stood in the wind that day and the cold beat upon my face, I felt the sting and pain of coldness deep within my bones. I was humbled by the power and strength. As I peered into the microscope at something the naked eye couldn't see; I was humbled by the power and strength of the lens to reveal a whole new world. And as I stared into the night sky and saw an infinite amount of stars and their light; I was humbled by the power and strength. A Creator with such wisdom and strength that exists from everlasting to everlasting brings cause to pause and to be humble. I was humbled by the power and the strength; yet free to worship and adore a Creator, a Savior, a Spirit that exists from everlasting to everlasting.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, You blow my mind! I can't take it all in. But with what I can take in, I give You all praise and honor and glory, now and forever! ---Amen
Friday, November 14, 2008
November 14th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Home
Readings of the Day
James 2-So faith by itself, if it has now works, is dead.
Jeremiah 23-24-I will give them a heart to know that I am the LORD; and they shall be my people and I will be their God, for they shall return to me with their whole heart.
Psalm 130-I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning, more than those who watch for the morning.
Revelation 16.8-21-"See, I am coming like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake and is clothed, not going about naked and exposed to shame."
God's Word of the Day
You will know me from the heart and I will be at home with you.
Story of the Day
We could hear the bombs falling outside. Our country was under attack. Political forces were in opposition to one another and we were the ones in danger. So much destruction. Fires, power outages, pain and death all around us. But we stayed in our home. Moved to the heart of the home and stayed put until this bombing would cease. There would be future bombings, but for now all we could do was seek protection in our house. Seek protection in our home. Seek protection in the love we have for one another, right here in the heart of our home. We stayed awake and waited for all of this to cease. We waited in faith that one day all things would be made right again. After all of this was done we began to work for our neighbor. We worked to rebuild and restore. We worked to reconcile differences in governments. After waiting it out we all went to work in faith; awake to the realities of this world. We went to work in hopes that better things were to come. In faith we went to work.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, as we wait out the evil of this world, come into the heart of our homes. Come into the very center, the gut and the heart of our very beings as we wait. May we wait for Your presence in hope and anticipation of the glory to come. As we wait, stir us with direction to action for You in our world. Stir a passion for the right and just in this world. As we wait in faith and hope bring us to be active in the works You have planned for us to do, today, tomorrow and into eternity. ---Amen
Home
Readings of the Day
James 2-So faith by itself, if it has now works, is dead.
Jeremiah 23-24-I will give them a heart to know that I am the LORD; and they shall be my people and I will be their God, for they shall return to me with their whole heart.
Psalm 130-I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning, more than those who watch for the morning.
Revelation 16.8-21-"See, I am coming like a thief! Blessed is the one who stays awake and is clothed, not going about naked and exposed to shame."
God's Word of the Day
You will know me from the heart and I will be at home with you.
Story of the Day
We could hear the bombs falling outside. Our country was under attack. Political forces were in opposition to one another and we were the ones in danger. So much destruction. Fires, power outages, pain and death all around us. But we stayed in our home. Moved to the heart of the home and stayed put until this bombing would cease. There would be future bombings, but for now all we could do was seek protection in our house. Seek protection in our home. Seek protection in the love we have for one another, right here in the heart of our home. We stayed awake and waited for all of this to cease. We waited in faith that one day all things would be made right again. After all of this was done we began to work for our neighbor. We worked to rebuild and restore. We worked to reconcile differences in governments. After waiting it out we all went to work in faith; awake to the realities of this world. We went to work in hopes that better things were to come. In faith we went to work.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, as we wait out the evil of this world, come into the heart of our homes. Come into the very center, the gut and the heart of our very beings as we wait. May we wait for Your presence in hope and anticipation of the glory to come. As we wait, stir us with direction to action for You in our world. Stir a passion for the right and just in this world. As we wait in faith and hope bring us to be active in the works You have planned for us to do, today, tomorrow and into eternity. ---Amen
Thursday, November 13, 2008
November 13th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Disappointment
Readings of the Day
James 1-My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance; and let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing.
Jeremiah 21-22-See, I am setting before you the way of life and the way of death.
Psalm 129-We bless you in the name of the LORD!
Revelation 16.1-7-Yes, O Lord God, the Almighty, your judgments are true and just!
God's Word of the Day
People will disappoint you, but I will never fail you.
Story of the Day
Gather round while I show you something that you would never believe. We were at the county fair that day. The man was trying to get us to gather round him so that he could show us the "freaks." of the freak show. A show of the gathering of the uncommon people. People wrongly taken advantage of for monetary gain. People put on display because of their differences. The man made money off of these people. Yet the people were only given enough to survive. He justified what he was doing by believing that he was saving the lives of these people. He fed and housed the "freaks" just to make money off of them and advance his own well being. What a disappointment it was when I realized that I had fallen for his trick and his sales job. Years later this very act was shunned by enough of the visitors at the fair that this man couldn't make enough money to continue on. But what of the people? They were taken care of still. They continued to live their lives but now not as freaks, but as unique people. People with gifts of labor, people with gifts of love, people with gifts of who they are. They had endured the trial and been blessed with acceptance.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, show me the uniqueness of each person You have created. Let me rejoice in the beauty of Your people. Let me accept Your people and see Your gift of love in each one. All of us endure trial. All of us go through disappointment. You lovingly pull us through. You walk by our side and bring comfort and encouragement to go on. Go on even through the disappointment of people, and go on seeing You as our guide and strength. You are our blessing and truth. So, let me see the beauty of each of Your creations in the people I meet this day. ---Amen
Disappointment
Readings of the Day
James 1-My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance; and let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing.
Jeremiah 21-22-See, I am setting before you the way of life and the way of death.
Psalm 129-We bless you in the name of the LORD!
Revelation 16.1-7-Yes, O Lord God, the Almighty, your judgments are true and just!
God's Word of the Day
People will disappoint you, but I will never fail you.
Story of the Day
Gather round while I show you something that you would never believe. We were at the county fair that day. The man was trying to get us to gather round him so that he could show us the "freaks." of the freak show. A show of the gathering of the uncommon people. People wrongly taken advantage of for monetary gain. People put on display because of their differences. The man made money off of these people. Yet the people were only given enough to survive. He justified what he was doing by believing that he was saving the lives of these people. He fed and housed the "freaks" just to make money off of them and advance his own well being. What a disappointment it was when I realized that I had fallen for his trick and his sales job. Years later this very act was shunned by enough of the visitors at the fair that this man couldn't make enough money to continue on. But what of the people? They were taken care of still. They continued to live their lives but now not as freaks, but as unique people. People with gifts of labor, people with gifts of love, people with gifts of who they are. They had endured the trial and been blessed with acceptance.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, show me the uniqueness of each person You have created. Let me rejoice in the beauty of Your people. Let me accept Your people and see Your gift of love in each one. All of us endure trial. All of us go through disappointment. You lovingly pull us through. You walk by our side and bring comfort and encouragement to go on. Go on even through the disappointment of people, and go on seeing You as our guide and strength. You are our blessing and truth. So, let me see the beauty of each of Your creations in the people I meet this day. ---Amen
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
November 12th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Appreciation
Readings of the Day
Philemon-When I remember you in my prayers, I always thank my God because I hear of your love for all the saints and your faith toward the Lord Jesus.
Jeremiah 19-20-Sing to the LORD; praise the LORD!
Psalm 128-Happy is everyone who fears the LORD, who walk in his ways.
Matthew 24.29-35-...and they will see 'the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven' with power and great glory. And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
God's Word of the Day
Appreciate what I have done, what I am doing now, and what I am about to do.
Story of the Day
It was a wonderful morning. The dew was fresh and the sun was just breaking the horizon. I couldn't help but to chirp for joy. As I began to chirp and sing I noticed how others would respond. In my joy, came forth the joy of other friends from other trees both near and far. We began to sing in chorus with one another and the forest came alive in the song. How happy we were to sing and live this day for our Creator. In this wonderful song we had created you could see the hand of our Creator in joy, cupped to His ear, and beaming proudly for what He had created.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, hear my song of praise this day. I appreciate all there is about You. You are my Savior. You are my Joy. You are my Song. I am happy to have You walk with me this day and always. I look to the day that You fulfill Your Kingdom and come in the clouds announced with a trumpet's call to gather the elect. ---Amen
Appreciation
Readings of the Day
Philemon-When I remember you in my prayers, I always thank my God because I hear of your love for all the saints and your faith toward the Lord Jesus.
Jeremiah 19-20-Sing to the LORD; praise the LORD!
Psalm 128-Happy is everyone who fears the LORD, who walk in his ways.
Matthew 24.29-35-...and they will see 'the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven' with power and great glory. And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
God's Word of the Day
Appreciate what I have done, what I am doing now, and what I am about to do.
Story of the Day
It was a wonderful morning. The dew was fresh and the sun was just breaking the horizon. I couldn't help but to chirp for joy. As I began to chirp and sing I noticed how others would respond. In my joy, came forth the joy of other friends from other trees both near and far. We began to sing in chorus with one another and the forest came alive in the song. How happy we were to sing and live this day for our Creator. In this wonderful song we had created you could see the hand of our Creator in joy, cupped to His ear, and beaming proudly for what He had created.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, hear my song of praise this day. I appreciate all there is about You. You are my Savior. You are my Joy. You are my Song. I am happy to have You walk with me this day and always. I look to the day that You fulfill Your Kingdom and come in the clouds announced with a trumpet's call to gather the elect. ---Amen
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
November 11th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Relief
Readings of the Day
Titus 3-Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show every courtesy to everyone.
Jeremiah 17-18-Blessed are those who trust in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. They shall be like a tree planted by water, sending out its roots by the stream.
Psalm 127-Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.
Joel 1.1-14-Sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly. Gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land to the house of the LORD your God, and cry out to the LORD.
God's Word of the Day
Your relief is in Me. Come into My house and be fruitful.
Story of the Day
I thought I was to the point that I could stretch no further. I was pulled apart and then double and tripled over. I was so tight that I thought I was about to break. For a while I was doing the job I was given to do. I was holding that paper into a tight wad. Then I was thrown through the air. Thrown and then fell to the hard and cold concrete. I lay there all morning, until the sun came up. Then I was picked up and pulled into the warmth of a home. I was stretched even further, then relief came at last. My job for now was complete. The paper unrolled and I was placed aside. Whew! What a relief! The strain was off! I had served my purpose for now. I had done the job I was called to do.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, as You send me out this day, may I be ready to do the good work You call me to do. Cleanse me daily in Your baptismal waters that I may be prepared to serve You as You call me. Build my strength that I may serve dutifully. And at the end of the day, provide the relief and restoration that I need so that I may be refreshed to serve in Your Kingdom for another day. ---Amen
Relief
Readings of the Day
Titus 3-Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show every courtesy to everyone.
Jeremiah 17-18-Blessed are those who trust in the LORD, whose trust is the LORD. They shall be like a tree planted by water, sending out its roots by the stream.
Psalm 127-Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.
Joel 1.1-14-Sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly. Gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land to the house of the LORD your God, and cry out to the LORD.
God's Word of the Day
Your relief is in Me. Come into My house and be fruitful.
Story of the Day
I thought I was to the point that I could stretch no further. I was pulled apart and then double and tripled over. I was so tight that I thought I was about to break. For a while I was doing the job I was given to do. I was holding that paper into a tight wad. Then I was thrown through the air. Thrown and then fell to the hard and cold concrete. I lay there all morning, until the sun came up. Then I was picked up and pulled into the warmth of a home. I was stretched even further, then relief came at last. My job for now was complete. The paper unrolled and I was placed aside. Whew! What a relief! The strain was off! I had served my purpose for now. I had done the job I was called to do.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, as You send me out this day, may I be ready to do the good work You call me to do. Cleanse me daily in Your baptismal waters that I may be prepared to serve You as You call me. Build my strength that I may serve dutifully. And at the end of the day, provide the relief and restoration that I need so that I may be refreshed to serve in Your Kingdom for another day. ---Amen
Monday, November 10, 2008
November 10th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Travel
Readings of the Day
Titus 2-...while we wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Jeremiah 15-16-Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart; for I am called by your name, O LORD, God of hosts.
Psalm 126-The LORD has done great things for us, and we rejoiced.
Amos 8.7-14-The time is surely coming...
God's Word of the Day
The time is coming when I will set things straight, let My Word be joy in your mouth.
Story of the Day
There we were, crowded onto an airplane. Our flight was running late. The passengers around me were becoming upset. We would miss our connecting flight and have to wait for the next one. So many things were out of my control. All I could do was wait for the outcome and trust my travel plans would proceed without much further delay. I needed a change of mind and attitude. Then I saw a baby in the seat next to me. She didn't have a worry. It didn't bother her that our connecting flight would be missed. She was content with some food and some love. She had the attitude that I needed. So I took on her attitude. I became joyous in the moment. I saw this as an opportunity to make conversation. I spoke with those around me. All of this not only helped me, but it made it easier on those around me. We began to deal with the moment and appreciate the situation all of us were in. Knowing that what would take place would take place anyway, I became one with the moment and had joy in the now and hope in the future.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, teach me to cherish the "now" and find hope in the future in You. For I know that there will be a time when You will come and set things straight. But for now, You are with me, and I can find joy in You. Feed me Your Word and make it one with me. As I digest Your Word, may it nourish my soul. Show me the way to deal with each moment as the cherished gift You chose to give. May I be content with some Food and some Love now and forever. ---Amen
Travel
Readings of the Day
Titus 2-...while we wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Jeremiah 15-16-Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart; for I am called by your name, O LORD, God of hosts.
Psalm 126-The LORD has done great things for us, and we rejoiced.
Amos 8.7-14-The time is surely coming...
God's Word of the Day
The time is coming when I will set things straight, let My Word be joy in your mouth.
Story of the Day
There we were, crowded onto an airplane. Our flight was running late. The passengers around me were becoming upset. We would miss our connecting flight and have to wait for the next one. So many things were out of my control. All I could do was wait for the outcome and trust my travel plans would proceed without much further delay. I needed a change of mind and attitude. Then I saw a baby in the seat next to me. She didn't have a worry. It didn't bother her that our connecting flight would be missed. She was content with some food and some love. She had the attitude that I needed. So I took on her attitude. I became joyous in the moment. I saw this as an opportunity to make conversation. I spoke with those around me. All of this not only helped me, but it made it easier on those around me. We began to deal with the moment and appreciate the situation all of us were in. Knowing that what would take place would take place anyway, I became one with the moment and had joy in the now and hope in the future.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, teach me to cherish the "now" and find hope in the future in You. For I know that there will be a time when You will come and set things straight. But for now, You are with me, and I can find joy in You. Feed me Your Word and make it one with me. As I digest Your Word, may it nourish my soul. Show me the way to deal with each moment as the cherished gift You chose to give. May I be content with some Food and some Love now and forever. ---Amen
Sunday, November 09, 2008
November 8th & 9th - Let's Play!
Theme
Renewal
Readings
2 Timothy 4-But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion's mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and save me for his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Titus 1-Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior.
Jeremiah 11-14-Yet you, O LORD, are in the midst of us, and we are called by your name; do not forsake us!
Psalm 124-Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.
Psalm 125-Do good, O LORD, to those who are good, and to those who are upright in their hearts.
God's Word
I am with you and will renew your strength.
Story
It was a full evening. A party and so many people to meet. I was picked up and passed around. I got to crawl all over some carpet and then onto some really slick stuff that was fun yet even more difficult to move on. They fed me cake and all sorts of goodies. People would smile at me when I smiled at them. They would tease me into laughing. They thought it was so funny when I would wave "bye bye" to them. There was a lot of noise and laughter all night long. But finally it all got to me. I became tired. And when I'm tired, look out! But it didn't turn out all that bad. My Gramma and Gramps took me home a little before the party was over. They treated me real nice and Gramma put me to bed real easy like. Then in the middle of the night something woke me up and I was frightened. So I cried out. And there came Gramma to my rescue. She picked me up and took me to bed and sat me next to Gramps. But Gramps was out of it. I think he really knew I was there but was too tired. So Gramma took care of me until I settled back down and went back to sleep. Then in the morning, I heard a little bit of noise. It was Gramps. He likes the mornings and so do I. So I got up and said a few things for a while. But soon I fell back to sleep for another morning nap before getting up for the day. It felt good last night. The party was fun and the rest was such renewal. I think God must be taking care of me through these people. I think God must give me people to help me renew myself through the night. I think God wants me to be fresh and ready to go each and every morning so that I can go out into His great big playground and bring smiles to old people's faces. That must be what I'm called to do. I know that God loves me and calls me His own. I remember a time that this guy picked me up in front of a bunch of people and made my forehead oily and my head wet and told me that I was a "Child of God." I know from this that God takes care of me. I know because He always sends people to take care of me. I know because He has given me a Mommy and Daddy who really love me and a Gramma and Gramps who will never fail me. I know God loves me because of the people He gives to me each and every day. So today, I'll have a whole bunch of fun going out to play with God by my side as I bring smiles and laughter to old people all day long. ---Kaiya
Prayer
Lord, teach me the hope and faith of Kaiya. Teach me the youthful trust in You that she has. Teach me honest living each day. Renew me each day and grant me Your grace and Your peace. Teach me the simplicity of serving You in Your wonderful playground each and every day. As Kaiya brings smiles and laughter, may Your Light shine through me this day to warm the hearts of those You give to me. ---Amen
Friday, November 07, 2008
November 7th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Do it over
Readings of the Day
2 Timothy 3-All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work.
Jeremiah 9-10-I know, O LORD, that the way of human beings is not in their control, that mortals as they walk cannot direct their steps.
Psalm 123-To you I lift my eyes, O you who are enthroned in the heavens!
Revelation 9.13-21-And they did not repent of their murders or their sorceries or their fornication or their thefts.
God's Word of the Day
Learn from Me, learn from My Word, repent and turn to Me, lift your eyes My way!
Story of the Day
We tried to rob the bank. We had prepared our disguises. We had set the time, the date, the method of the break-in, the escape. It had taken a year to come up with the plan. The time was right to take action. So we conducted the planned robbery of the bank. One small detail was left out. The bank owners had newly installed cameras. The old cameras were still in place, but the new cameras were added. They weren't in the places we had expected. So we were caught on film. Enough information for the police and detectives to track our escape vehicle down. We were caught. We were brought in. We confessed. I know what I did was wrong. While in prison I turned from my sin and lifted my eyes to my only salvation. Sure I would pay for my crime and spend my time in prison. However, I knew of a freedom. I knew of a focus. I knew of my God and Savior. We tried to rob the bank and were given life salvation instead of money. Thanks be to God!
Prayer of the Day
Lord, I turn this day and lift my eyes to You. Forgive my sinfulness. Forgive my sins. My only hope is in You. Today I lift my eyes to You. Today I turn to Your Word and seek forgiveness and salvation. Your plans become my plans. I lift my eyes to You. ---Amen
Do it over
Readings of the Day
2 Timothy 3-All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work.
Jeremiah 9-10-I know, O LORD, that the way of human beings is not in their control, that mortals as they walk cannot direct their steps.
Psalm 123-To you I lift my eyes, O you who are enthroned in the heavens!
Revelation 9.13-21-And they did not repent of their murders or their sorceries or their fornication or their thefts.
God's Word of the Day
Learn from Me, learn from My Word, repent and turn to Me, lift your eyes My way!
Story of the Day
We tried to rob the bank. We had prepared our disguises. We had set the time, the date, the method of the break-in, the escape. It had taken a year to come up with the plan. The time was right to take action. So we conducted the planned robbery of the bank. One small detail was left out. The bank owners had newly installed cameras. The old cameras were still in place, but the new cameras were added. They weren't in the places we had expected. So we were caught on film. Enough information for the police and detectives to track our escape vehicle down. We were caught. We were brought in. We confessed. I know what I did was wrong. While in prison I turned from my sin and lifted my eyes to my only salvation. Sure I would pay for my crime and spend my time in prison. However, I knew of a freedom. I knew of a focus. I knew of my God and Savior. We tried to rob the bank and were given life salvation instead of money. Thanks be to God!
Prayer of the Day
Lord, I turn this day and lift my eyes to You. Forgive my sinfulness. Forgive my sins. My only hope is in You. Today I lift my eyes to You. Today I turn to Your Word and seek forgiveness and salvation. Your plans become my plans. I lift my eyes to You. ---Amen
Thursday, November 06, 2008
November 6th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Perseverance
Readings of the Day
2 Timothy 2-Share in suffering like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.
Jeremiah 7-8-Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there?
Psalm 122-I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD!"
Revelation 8.6-9.12-Now the seven angels who had the seven trumpets made ready to blow them.
God's Word of the Day
Know that you are not the only one who has suffered.
Story of the Day
She just wouldn't stop. No matter what I did the baby continued to cry. I couldn't figure out what was wrong. I had tried everything. Her suffering became my suffering. Why couldn't I get her to stop. So we became one in suffering. At this point we both calmed down. We both began to realize that suffering was what we had in common. Then it slowly began to change. In our common suffering we moved from suffering to joy. We began to talk to one another. We began to share in our suffering and also move from suffering to joy. It was a gradual change but a change for the better. In the end we both fell back to sleep. From suffering to joy to rest. We both began to realize that joy and rest was what we had in common. Thanks be to God!
Prayer of the Day
Lord, when I suffer, when I complain, when I pause; I find you are with me. With me and going through the suffering. Going through the suffering and leading me to joy and rest. Thank you! ---Amen
Perseverance
Readings of the Day
2 Timothy 2-Share in suffering like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.
Jeremiah 7-8-Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there?
Psalm 122-I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD!"
Revelation 8.6-9.12-Now the seven angels who had the seven trumpets made ready to blow them.
God's Word of the Day
Know that you are not the only one who has suffered.
Story of the Day
She just wouldn't stop. No matter what I did the baby continued to cry. I couldn't figure out what was wrong. I had tried everything. Her suffering became my suffering. Why couldn't I get her to stop. So we became one in suffering. At this point we both calmed down. We both began to realize that suffering was what we had in common. Then it slowly began to change. In our common suffering we moved from suffering to joy. We began to talk to one another. We began to share in our suffering and also move from suffering to joy. It was a gradual change but a change for the better. In the end we both fell back to sleep. From suffering to joy to rest. We both began to realize that joy and rest was what we had in common. Thanks be to God!
Prayer of the Day
Lord, when I suffer, when I complain, when I pause; I find you are with me. With me and going through the suffering. Going through the suffering and leading me to joy and rest. Thank you! ---Amen
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
November 5th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Decision
Readings of the Day
2 Timothy 1-...God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline.
Jeremiah 5-6-I have made you a tester and refiner among my people so that you may know and test their ways.
Psalm 121-The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time on and forevermore.
Matthew 15.1-9-Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders?
God's Word of the Day
I take care of you. Go in My way this day.
Story of the Day
This was such a neat house. It was easy for me to haunt this house. It was empty and creepy and old. It was fun to float through this house and make noises. But the only problem was that no one lived here. So I wasn't even scaring anyone. It's so much more fun when you have someone to scare. Then one day some people arrived. There were three of them. A couple with a realtor. They were thinking about buying the house. So now was my chance. Now I could test them. I made some noise and moved a few objects around. But they didn't even notice what I was doing. So I decided to become even more active. I caused a vase to tip and almost hit the man in the head. He simply picked up the vase and cleaned up the mess. It seemed that no matter what I did, they ignored it or explained it away. The only way I could phase this couple was to become real. Even I know that I can't become real. So I gave up. They had such a love for this house that they couldn't even see the haunting I was doing. Their eyes were so full of the spirit of love that I was invisible. So I gave up.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, fill my very being so full of Your Spirit that I never lose focus on the love and power You have. Let me go out into this sinful world so filled with You that Your Love overflows from me and into the world to those You give to me this day. Let all my decisions be made this day with the eyes of Christ and let my actions reflect Your will. ---Amen
Decision
Readings of the Day
2 Timothy 1-...God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline.
Jeremiah 5-6-I have made you a tester and refiner among my people so that you may know and test their ways.
Psalm 121-The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time on and forevermore.
Matthew 15.1-9-Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders?
God's Word of the Day
I take care of you. Go in My way this day.
Story of the Day
This was such a neat house. It was easy for me to haunt this house. It was empty and creepy and old. It was fun to float through this house and make noises. But the only problem was that no one lived here. So I wasn't even scaring anyone. It's so much more fun when you have someone to scare. Then one day some people arrived. There were three of them. A couple with a realtor. They were thinking about buying the house. So now was my chance. Now I could test them. I made some noise and moved a few objects around. But they didn't even notice what I was doing. So I decided to become even more active. I caused a vase to tip and almost hit the man in the head. He simply picked up the vase and cleaned up the mess. It seemed that no matter what I did, they ignored it or explained it away. The only way I could phase this couple was to become real. Even I know that I can't become real. So I gave up. They had such a love for this house that they couldn't even see the haunting I was doing. Their eyes were so full of the spirit of love that I was invisible. So I gave up.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, fill my very being so full of Your Spirit that I never lose focus on the love and power You have. Let me go out into this sinful world so filled with You that Your Love overflows from me and into the world to those You give to me this day. Let all my decisions be made this day with the eyes of Christ and let my actions reflect Your will. ---Amen
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
November 4th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Recover
Readings of the Day
1 Timothy 5.21-6.21-...pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life, to which you were called and for which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
Jeremiah 3-4-I will not look on you in anger, for I am merciful, says the LORD; I will not be angry forever.
Psalm 120-In my distress I cry to the LORD, that he may answer me: "Deliver me, O LORD..."
Lamentations 2.13-17-The LORD has done what he purposed...
God's Word of the Day
Sin makes Me angry...pursue what I have taught you to pursue.
Story of the Day
The bear knew where the honey was hidden. So he lumbered through the trees until he came to the tree trunk that had fallen on the ground. Inside of the hollowed out portion of the tree the bees flew in and out. Here was the source of the honey. Here was the nourishment the bear longed for at this time. So he let out a roar of excitement for this find he had recovered. A find that he had left alone for some time. A find that gave him sustenance for the day. In this honey the bear felt strength. In this find the bear lived on for another day. Day by day the bear would live. Moment by moment he would be cared for.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, care for Your people. Right us when we stray. Discipline us when we need discipline. Forgive our sinfulness. Sustain us with Your Food of life. Day by day may we exist to glorify and serve and praise You. ---Amen
Recover
Readings of the Day
1 Timothy 5.21-6.21-...pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life, to which you were called and for which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
Jeremiah 3-4-I will not look on you in anger, for I am merciful, says the LORD; I will not be angry forever.
Psalm 120-In my distress I cry to the LORD, that he may answer me: "Deliver me, O LORD..."
Lamentations 2.13-17-The LORD has done what he purposed...
God's Word of the Day
Sin makes Me angry...pursue what I have taught you to pursue.
Story of the Day
The bear knew where the honey was hidden. So he lumbered through the trees until he came to the tree trunk that had fallen on the ground. Inside of the hollowed out portion of the tree the bees flew in and out. Here was the source of the honey. Here was the nourishment the bear longed for at this time. So he let out a roar of excitement for this find he had recovered. A find that he had left alone for some time. A find that gave him sustenance for the day. In this honey the bear felt strength. In this find the bear lived on for another day. Day by day the bear would live. Moment by moment he would be cared for.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, care for Your people. Right us when we stray. Discipline us when we need discipline. Forgive our sinfulness. Sustain us with Your Food of life. Day by day may we exist to glorify and serve and praise You. ---Amen
Monday, November 03, 2008
November 3rd - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
All Saints
Readings of the Day
1 Timothy 5.1-20-Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching...
Jeremiah 1-2-Before I formed you in the womb I knew you...
Psalm 119.145-176-I put my hope in your words.
Jeremiah 5.18-31-Do you not fear me? says the LORD...
God's Word of the Day
I know you-I created you-I saved you
Story of the Day
As I worked my radio, I began to bring in a rather weak signal. Then as I fine tuned to the correct frequency, I attempted a contact. Contact made, I began to converse. There was something very familiar about this person. Questions flew back and forth. Somehow we knew each other. This person knew all about me. I began to realize that this person knew all of the same things that my deceased father knew. I began to suspect that this contact was something greater than I could ever imagine. This contact was with my father...my father who knew me...my father who was there at my birth...my father who pointed out Christ to me...my father who showed me The Father.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, may I remember those who proclaim Your story and point lives to You throughout all time. May I be one of the saints that join in with all saints to dedicate life to following You, today, tomorrow and forever. ---Amen
All Saints
Readings of the Day
1 Timothy 5.1-20-Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching...
Jeremiah 1-2-Before I formed you in the womb I knew you...
Psalm 119.145-176-I put my hope in your words.
Jeremiah 5.18-31-Do you not fear me? says the LORD...
God's Word of the Day
I know you-I created you-I saved you
Story of the Day
As I worked my radio, I began to bring in a rather weak signal. Then as I fine tuned to the correct frequency, I attempted a contact. Contact made, I began to converse. There was something very familiar about this person. Questions flew back and forth. Somehow we knew each other. This person knew all about me. I began to realize that this person knew all of the same things that my deceased father knew. I began to suspect that this contact was something greater than I could ever imagine. This contact was with my father...my father who knew me...my father who was there at my birth...my father who pointed out Christ to me...my father who showed me The Father.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, may I remember those who proclaim Your story and point lives to You throughout all time. May I be one of the saints that join in with all saints to dedicate life to following You, today, tomorrow and forever. ---Amen
Sunday, November 02, 2008
November 1st and 2nd - Let's Play!
Theme
Movement
Word
1 Timothy 3-4-He was revealed in flesh, vindicated in spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among Gentiles, believed in throughout the world, taken up in glory.
Isaiah 36-39-The LORD will save me, and we will sing to stringed instruments all the days of our lives, at the house of the LORD.
Psalm 119.97-144-Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
God's Word
I have moved to you to save you. Now follow the path that I have lit and sing praises of joy and thanksgiving.
Story
As the leaf fell it moved back and forth in the wind. The leaf approached the earth. It's approach was sweeping and full. There it was gently floating, back and forth, gently floating, approaching earth. It gave it's life in this very approach to earth. It had fed from the water of life throughout the year. But today it would gently approach the earth. A celebration of a life given. A life given and a wonderful approach that would teach wisdom and grant new life to all who would see and believe. This leaf brought life. A leaf that had absorbed light and lived off of the light now gently approached the earth to give new life and joy to all who would see. As the leaf fell it moved back and forth in the wind. Life in the Light, life in the Wind, life in the Approach. Thanks be to God!
Prayer
Lord, You approached the earth and brought the Light of Christ- you gave the Wind of the Spirit- you gave the Water of creation. A Trinity of Love and salvation. Light my path as I see and believe. Hear my celebration of joy in song and praise, today, tomorrow and forever. ---Amen
Movement
Word
1 Timothy 3-4-He was revealed in flesh, vindicated in spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among Gentiles, believed in throughout the world, taken up in glory.
Isaiah 36-39-The LORD will save me, and we will sing to stringed instruments all the days of our lives, at the house of the LORD.
Psalm 119.97-144-Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
God's Word
I have moved to you to save you. Now follow the path that I have lit and sing praises of joy and thanksgiving.
Story
As the leaf fell it moved back and forth in the wind. The leaf approached the earth. It's approach was sweeping and full. There it was gently floating, back and forth, gently floating, approaching earth. It gave it's life in this very approach to earth. It had fed from the water of life throughout the year. But today it would gently approach the earth. A celebration of a life given. A life given and a wonderful approach that would teach wisdom and grant new life to all who would see and believe. This leaf brought life. A leaf that had absorbed light and lived off of the light now gently approached the earth to give new life and joy to all who would see. As the leaf fell it moved back and forth in the wind. Life in the Light, life in the Wind, life in the Approach. Thanks be to God!
Prayer
Lord, You approached the earth and brought the Light of Christ- you gave the Wind of the Spirit- you gave the Water of creation. A Trinity of Love and salvation. Light my path as I see and believe. Hear my celebration of joy in song and praise, today, tomorrow and forever. ---Amen
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