Theme of the Day
Build rooms
Readings of the Day
Joshua 22:21-23:16-Be very careful, therefore, to love the LORD your God.
Luke 20:27-47-Now he is God not of the dead, but of the living; for to him all of them are alive.
Psalm 89:14-37-His love shall continue forever, and his throne endure before me like the sun.
Proverbs 13:17-19-A bad messenger brings trouble, but a faithful envoy, healing.
Daniel 6:1-28-For he is the living God, enduring forever. His kingdom shall never be destroyed, and his dominion has no end.
God's Word of the Day
Now go and make rooms for others as I show you.
Story of the Day
Out the door I went that day. Out the door, with a clean room in my heart filled with my friend and Savior. Jesus had prepared a room for me. He prepared a room in my heart and a room in heaven. Now we were off for the day in His Kingdom.
As I followed His lead, the Great Carpenter was about to give me lessons in building rooms. These were rooms that would bring healing. These were rooms that would endure throughout time.
With each person we met, Jesus would show and make examples of the rooms He was speaking of. With each person, He took the time to listen, care with compassion and respond in action towards that person. Each person He met was treated as a wonderfully unique and beautiful creation, deserving all honor and respect. He would walk with the person through the pain they felt. He would feel the pain and take some of it on. He would assure them that they were loved by God and that God had room for them in His heart. In each and every person that Jesus met, he would sweep clean room in their heart to be one with them and show them a greater love. Even in and through the pain of sin and disease and suffering and death there now was a hope and a knowledge of an enduring Kingdom that would make all things good.
Jesus taught me that day to make rooms for others. As I followed Him that day He graciously guided me along the way through rooms in a mansion.
Prayer of the Day
Everlasting, enduring, loving King of all, I give You all the glory and praise and honor. For You have made a room for me and I am delighted to have You in the room of my heart. Be with me this day as I learn from You. Teach me the skills that I need to construct those rooms of love and compassion that are everlasting. Teach me the skills, that I may use the saw and hammer, and joyously go out in action this day to do Your will. ---Amen
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Monday, April 20, 2009
April 18th - 20th - Let's Play!
Theme
Room
Readings
Joshua 16:1-22:20-So they finished dividing the land.
Luke 19:1-20:26-What shall I do? I will send my beloved son; perhaps they will respect him.
Psalm 87:1-89:13-The north and the south--- you created them...
Proverbs 13:7-16-Some pretend to be rich, yet have nothing; others pretend to be poor, yet have great wealth.
God's Word
Let's meet in the upper-room.
Story
He was busy preparing a room for his guest. This was an important room, so he swept it clean and put everything in place. The room was now clean and comfortable and waiting for his guest. But until such time that the guest would need the room, he went to visit his friend. He knocked at the door.
He knew that his friend and future guest was in the meantime preparing room for him in his heart. This earthly friend was waiting and preparing to meet his honored friend and was in great anticipation of his arrival. This earthly friend was in such great need of this special friendship. This earthly friend had failed this friendship in the past and was greatly distressed and sorrowed, wanting forgiveness and a happy reconciliation.
So a place was prepared in his heart, a clean and open place, just waiting for a new beginning. The earthly friend opened the door. And was surprised to see a face in the same form of his own, with a wonderful smile of forgiveness and love. But a challenge.
I'll occupy that space in your heart if only you follow me and go through this life I have given to you. Then together when this journey is complete, and all of your world has seen my light of love shine through you, will we go to occupy the upper room I have prepared for you. Together we will unite once again as we have united here in a bond of blood, body, sweat and the sweet taste of bread, wine and love. Together now we will walk as you follow me in this bond of love and devotion.
And I responded gladly. So glad that he would come into my heart. So glad to follow him to that upper room. So glad to go through the sweat, the pain, the laughter, the passion of life to meet with him in that specially prepared upper-room.
Prayer
Lord, we both have prepared a place. Come into my heart as I follow You to that place You have prepared. ---Amen
Room
Readings
Joshua 16:1-22:20-So they finished dividing the land.
Luke 19:1-20:26-What shall I do? I will send my beloved son; perhaps they will respect him.
Psalm 87:1-89:13-The north and the south--- you created them...
Proverbs 13:7-16-Some pretend to be rich, yet have nothing; others pretend to be poor, yet have great wealth.
God's Word
Let's meet in the upper-room.
Story
He was busy preparing a room for his guest. This was an important room, so he swept it clean and put everything in place. The room was now clean and comfortable and waiting for his guest. But until such time that the guest would need the room, he went to visit his friend. He knocked at the door.
He knew that his friend and future guest was in the meantime preparing room for him in his heart. This earthly friend was waiting and preparing to meet his honored friend and was in great anticipation of his arrival. This earthly friend was in such great need of this special friendship. This earthly friend had failed this friendship in the past and was greatly distressed and sorrowed, wanting forgiveness and a happy reconciliation.
So a place was prepared in his heart, a clean and open place, just waiting for a new beginning. The earthly friend opened the door. And was surprised to see a face in the same form of his own, with a wonderful smile of forgiveness and love. But a challenge.
I'll occupy that space in your heart if only you follow me and go through this life I have given to you. Then together when this journey is complete, and all of your world has seen my light of love shine through you, will we go to occupy the upper room I have prepared for you. Together we will unite once again as we have united here in a bond of blood, body, sweat and the sweet taste of bread, wine and love. Together now we will walk as you follow me in this bond of love and devotion.
And I responded gladly. So glad that he would come into my heart. So glad to follow him to that upper room. So glad to go through the sweat, the pain, the laughter, the passion of life to meet with him in that specially prepared upper-room.
Prayer
Lord, we both have prepared a place. Come into my heart as I follow You to that place You have prepared. ---Amen
Friday, April 17, 2009
April 17th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Change
Readings of the Day
Joshua 15:1-63-The lot for the tribe of the people of Judah according to their families reached southward to the boundary of Edom...
Luke 18:18-43-Lord, let me see again.
Psalm 86:1-17-...you give me an undivided heart to revere your name.
Proverbs 13:9-10-...wisdom is with those who take advice.
Acts 4:23-31-When they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken; and they were filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God with boldness.
God's Word of the Day
I will change you. I need not change, but I will change you.
Story of the Day
At first it was a slow change. It took place in the spring of the year. At first you could see just a peek of green leaf coming through the ground. Then as if over night a stalk and leaves appeared. Then the best change of all. The tulip opened up and a display of beauty and color was reflected to the whole world, right where this tulip rose out of the earth. Out of a dead bulb below the surface of the earth rose new life. At first it was a slow change. But what a dramatic effect!
Prayer of the Day
Lord, I thank You for Your constant love and care. As I change into what You desire, may I look to You and give You all praise and glory, now and forever. ---Amen
Change
Readings of the Day
Joshua 15:1-63-The lot for the tribe of the people of Judah according to their families reached southward to the boundary of Edom...
Luke 18:18-43-Lord, let me see again.
Psalm 86:1-17-...you give me an undivided heart to revere your name.
Proverbs 13:9-10-...wisdom is with those who take advice.
Acts 4:23-31-When they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken; and they were filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God with boldness.
God's Word of the Day
I will change you. I need not change, but I will change you.
Story of the Day
At first it was a slow change. It took place in the spring of the year. At first you could see just a peek of green leaf coming through the ground. Then as if over night a stalk and leaves appeared. Then the best change of all. The tulip opened up and a display of beauty and color was reflected to the whole world, right where this tulip rose out of the earth. Out of a dead bulb below the surface of the earth rose new life. At first it was a slow change. But what a dramatic effect!
Prayer of the Day
Lord, I thank You for Your constant love and care. As I change into what You desire, may I look to You and give You all praise and glory, now and forever. ---Amen
Thursday, April 16, 2009
April 16th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Lasting
Readings of the Day
Joshua 13:1-14:15-So Hebron became the inheritance of Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite to this day, because he wholeheartedly followed the LORD, the God if Israel.
Luke 18:1-17-...for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.
Psalm 85:1-13-Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will kiss each other.
Proverbs 13:7-8-Some pretend to be rich, yet have nothing...
Acts 2:42-47-All who believed were together and had all things in common...
God's Word of the Day
Be real, be honest, be up-front, be faithful, be humble, and wholeheartedly follow Me.
Story of the Day
When I walked into the room, I knew that I wasn't fitting in. I tried to strike up a conversation and it seemed everyone was talking above me or beyond be but not to me. The longer I hung around and tried to pretend to fit in, the more uncomfortable I became. Finally, I had had enough. I was tired of trying to fit in and act like something I wasn't. It wasn't working out at all anyway as far as I could tell. So the next conversation, that's what I talked about. I talked about how we all seemed to be talking around one another rather than to one another. And then I became myself. I had fun talking about a few things that I knew about and quit pretending to know about some of the things "they" were talking about. And it broke the ice. People, for the most part, started becoming themselves. People started talking about their likes and pleasures and quit trying to impress one another with "stuff" about themselves that wasn't concrete. The gathering got louder and louder, more people mixed with one another and we had fun. Just being ourselves we had fun. We were now honest, upfront, and humble with one another. A fresh air of change.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, I come to you myself, humble and honest. I know you know and understand all my gifts and all my faults. I seek forgiveness for my errors and sins and give thanks for all You have graciously blessed me with this day. Send me out by Your side, and at Your feet that I may deal with those you give to me with respect, honor and glory as a magnificent creation of You, My God, Savior and King. ---Amen
Lasting
Readings of the Day
Joshua 13:1-14:15-So Hebron became the inheritance of Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite to this day, because he wholeheartedly followed the LORD, the God if Israel.
Luke 18:1-17-...for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.
Psalm 85:1-13-Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will kiss each other.
Proverbs 13:7-8-Some pretend to be rich, yet have nothing...
Acts 2:42-47-All who believed were together and had all things in common...
God's Word of the Day
Be real, be honest, be up-front, be faithful, be humble, and wholeheartedly follow Me.
Story of the Day
When I walked into the room, I knew that I wasn't fitting in. I tried to strike up a conversation and it seemed everyone was talking above me or beyond be but not to me. The longer I hung around and tried to pretend to fit in, the more uncomfortable I became. Finally, I had had enough. I was tired of trying to fit in and act like something I wasn't. It wasn't working out at all anyway as far as I could tell. So the next conversation, that's what I talked about. I talked about how we all seemed to be talking around one another rather than to one another. And then I became myself. I had fun talking about a few things that I knew about and quit pretending to know about some of the things "they" were talking about. And it broke the ice. People, for the most part, started becoming themselves. People started talking about their likes and pleasures and quit trying to impress one another with "stuff" about themselves that wasn't concrete. The gathering got louder and louder, more people mixed with one another and we had fun. Just being ourselves we had fun. We were now honest, upfront, and humble with one another. A fresh air of change.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, I come to you myself, humble and honest. I know you know and understand all my gifts and all my faults. I seek forgiveness for my errors and sins and give thanks for all You have graciously blessed me with this day. Send me out by Your side, and at Your feet that I may deal with those you give to me with respect, honor and glory as a magnificent creation of You, My God, Savior and King. ---Amen
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
April 15th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Cheerful servants
Readings of the Day
Joshua 11:1-12:24-And the LORD said to Joshua, "Do not be afraid of them..."
Luke 17:11-37-For, in fact, the kingdom of God is among you.
Psalm 84:1-12-For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere.
Proverbs 13:5-6-The righteous hate falsehood...
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24-This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
God's Word of the Day
You will be happy when you glorify Me.
Story of the Day
Youth coming together to serve. Coming together to commune in their own love for one another. Coming together to commune in their love towards God. Coming together to commune in their own love of a common bond with humanity. Caring for the needs of each other and of others. The spirit of youth coming together is poetic and energetic and a demonstration of the joy of life. Like breaking from an eggshell...like new birth...like freedom from the bondage of grave clothes...like freedom from sin and death...like the movement of a stone...Youth coming together to serve.
Prayer of the Day
Easter Lord and Savior, in new life I come to You today with the joy and excitement of new youth. Coming together happy to serve and glorify You this day. ---Amen
Cheerful servants
Readings of the Day
Joshua 11:1-12:24-And the LORD said to Joshua, "Do not be afraid of them..."
Luke 17:11-37-For, in fact, the kingdom of God is among you.
Psalm 84:1-12-For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere.
Proverbs 13:5-6-The righteous hate falsehood...
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24-This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
God's Word of the Day
You will be happy when you glorify Me.
Story of the Day
Youth coming together to serve. Coming together to commune in their own love for one another. Coming together to commune in their love towards God. Coming together to commune in their own love of a common bond with humanity. Caring for the needs of each other and of others. The spirit of youth coming together is poetic and energetic and a demonstration of the joy of life. Like breaking from an eggshell...like new birth...like freedom from the bondage of grave clothes...like freedom from sin and death...like the movement of a stone...Youth coming together to serve.
Prayer of the Day
Easter Lord and Savior, in new life I come to You today with the joy and excitement of new youth. Coming together happy to serve and glorify You this day. ---Amen
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
April 14th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Lead through action
Readings of the Day
Joshua 9:3-10:43-Joshua took all these kings and their land at one time, because the LORD God of Israel fought for Israel.
Luke 16:19-17:10-...we have done only what we ought to have done.
Psalm 83:1-18-Let them know that you alone, whose name is the LORD, are the Most High over all the earth.
Proverbs 13:4-The appetite of the lazy craves, and gets nothing, while the appetite of the diligent is richly supplied.
Genesis 1:20-2:4a-So God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; make and female he created them.
God's Word of the Day
I created you as an example. Now go and lead others to follow Me.
Story of the Day
As he grew older, the boy looked up to his Dad. How could he help to look up as he was growing. Then one day the boy realized that he no longer looked up to his Dad. In fact he looked down a little to his Dad. So the boy thought that he needed to show his power. But Dad was smarter than all of this. Dad had physical and mature strength. Later the boy began to develop physical strength. During this time Dad was becoming older and weaker. So the boy tried once again to dominate his Dad with physical strength. But the Dad was smarter than all of this. Dad had wisdom and experience. So the boy continued to watch his Dad. Watched his actions. Watched and observed his Dad's priorities in life. The boy was beginning to learn wisdom from his Dad. That's when the battle stopped. The boy realized the love of his Dad for him. The boy saw that his Dad never wanted domination, his Dad never wanted control, all his Dad desired was the love of his Son.
As he grew older, the boy looked up to his Dad.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, I see Your example of love through Jesus. As I look up to You and grow older, may I learn to apply that Love to those around me and grow in Your Love, towards You, and towards others. ---Amen
Lead through action
Readings of the Day
Joshua 9:3-10:43-Joshua took all these kings and their land at one time, because the LORD God of Israel fought for Israel.
Luke 16:19-17:10-...we have done only what we ought to have done.
Psalm 83:1-18-Let them know that you alone, whose name is the LORD, are the Most High over all the earth.
Proverbs 13:4-The appetite of the lazy craves, and gets nothing, while the appetite of the diligent is richly supplied.
Genesis 1:20-2:4a-So God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; make and female he created them.
God's Word of the Day
I created you as an example. Now go and lead others to follow Me.
Story of the Day
As he grew older, the boy looked up to his Dad. How could he help to look up as he was growing. Then one day the boy realized that he no longer looked up to his Dad. In fact he looked down a little to his Dad. So the boy thought that he needed to show his power. But Dad was smarter than all of this. Dad had physical and mature strength. Later the boy began to develop physical strength. During this time Dad was becoming older and weaker. So the boy tried once again to dominate his Dad with physical strength. But the Dad was smarter than all of this. Dad had wisdom and experience. So the boy continued to watch his Dad. Watched his actions. Watched and observed his Dad's priorities in life. The boy was beginning to learn wisdom from his Dad. That's when the battle stopped. The boy realized the love of his Dad for him. The boy saw that his Dad never wanted domination, his Dad never wanted control, all his Dad desired was the love of his Son.
As he grew older, the boy looked up to his Dad.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, I see Your example of love through Jesus. As I look up to You and grow older, may I learn to apply that Love to those around me and grow in Your Love, towards You, and towards others. ---Amen
Monday, April 13, 2009
April 13th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Love in action
Readings of the Day
Joshua 7:16-9:2-"Do not fear or be dismayed..."
Luke 16:1-18-"Whoever is faithful in very little is also in much..."
Psalm 82:1-8-Rise up, O God, judge the earth; for all the nations belong to you!
Proverbs 13:2-3-Those who guard their mouths preserve their lives...
Genesis 1:1-19-And there was evening and there was morning...
God's Word of the Day
Evening and morning...rest and action...You have rested...now act.
Story of the Day
Christ has risen! He has risen indeed! Alleluia. Evening and morning...death and life...forgiveness and love. Let the faithful who arrived to see, be faithful in much. Rise up and act for God has judged sin and death. Open your mouths and run and shout the good news. Evening and morning...night after day after night. Proclaim the Good News!
Prayer of the Day
Lord, day after day, You greet me in the morning. You greet me with a new surprise to action. As I go this day, surrounded in your Love, may the world see my excitement and joy for all You have done. ===Amen
Love in action
Readings of the Day
Joshua 7:16-9:2-"Do not fear or be dismayed..."
Luke 16:1-18-"Whoever is faithful in very little is also in much..."
Psalm 82:1-8-Rise up, O God, judge the earth; for all the nations belong to you!
Proverbs 13:2-3-Those who guard their mouths preserve their lives...
Genesis 1:1-19-And there was evening and there was morning...
God's Word of the Day
Evening and morning...rest and action...You have rested...now act.
Story of the Day
Christ has risen! He has risen indeed! Alleluia. Evening and morning...death and life...forgiveness and love. Let the faithful who arrived to see, be faithful in much. Rise up and act for God has judged sin and death. Open your mouths and run and shout the good news. Evening and morning...night after day after night. Proclaim the Good News!
Prayer of the Day
Lord, day after day, You greet me in the morning. You greet me with a new surprise to action. As I go this day, surrounded in your Love, may the world see my excitement and joy for all You have done. ===Amen
Sunday, April 12, 2009
April 12th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
New morning
Readings of the Day
Joshua 5:1-7:15-Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place where you stand is holy.
Luke 15:1-32-But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.
Psalm 81:1-16-Sing aloud to God our strength; shout for joy to the God of Jacob.
Proverbs 13:1-A wise child loves discipline...
John 20:1-18-I have seen the Lord
God's Word of the Day
Wake up! Look around! I have risen from the dead!
Story of the Day
It was a fresh new morning. This morning was altogether different. When I awoke, everything was different. Instead of the usual pains and aches, there were none. Instead of the slow movement down the stairs, I was able to leap from the bed and run. This morning was altogether different. The usual signs of disease and death were altogether gone! I felt better than a new born. This morning was different! What had happened the night before? It was a fresh new morning. It was a fresh new life. It was a new beginning. It was recreation. It was love. It was a new morning. This morning was different, and not because of anything I did. It was different and new. This morning the Savior was alive from the dead. The stone was rolled away. This was a new beginning! Thanks be to God!
Prayer of the Day
Thanks be to God! Alleluia! He has risen indeed! Alleluia! ---Amen
New morning
Readings of the Day
Joshua 5:1-7:15-Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place where you stand is holy.
Luke 15:1-32-But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.
Psalm 81:1-16-Sing aloud to God our strength; shout for joy to the God of Jacob.
Proverbs 13:1-A wise child loves discipline...
John 20:1-18-I have seen the Lord
God's Word of the Day
Wake up! Look around! I have risen from the dead!
Story of the Day
It was a fresh new morning. This morning was altogether different. When I awoke, everything was different. Instead of the usual pains and aches, there were none. Instead of the slow movement down the stairs, I was able to leap from the bed and run. This morning was altogether different. The usual signs of disease and death were altogether gone! I felt better than a new born. This morning was different! What had happened the night before? It was a fresh new morning. It was a fresh new life. It was a new beginning. It was recreation. It was love. It was a new morning. This morning was different, and not because of anything I did. It was different and new. This morning the Savior was alive from the dead. The stone was rolled away. This was a new beginning! Thanks be to God!
Prayer of the Day
Thanks be to God! Alleluia! He has risen indeed! Alleluia! ---Amen
Saturday, April 11, 2009
April 11th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Food
Readings of the Day
Joshua 3:1-4:24-Joshua then said to the Israelites, "Draw near and hear the words of the LORD your God.
Luke 14:7-35-So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions.
Psalm 80:1-19-Restore us, O God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved.
Proverbs 12:27-28-In the path of righteousness there is life...
1 Peter 4:1-8-Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins.
God's Word of the Day
Hear the words of Love from the cross.
Story of the Day
It was a curious site, the three of them. This was supposed to be a time for holiday and happiness and remembrance of a God that brought His people out of bondage and freed them. Instead, the city was in an uproar. Everyone was intent on taking care of some dirty business quickly before the holiday began. So this guy, in the center, the one named Jesus, who had made a name for himself, was being crucified that day. The people, that had just before, hailed his name, had begun to realize that the He wouldn't come to rescue the common folks from the power of the government. They were hoping that Jesus would overthrow this government and rise to power just as King David did many years ago. But once again, Jesus turned out to be an impostor. He turned out to be a disappointment. And this angered the crowd. Do away with him if he can't do any more than this. A fake, and an impostor! Crucify him!
It was a curious site, the three of them. As we came closer, we could hear his words. It reminded me of a passage that I had heard Joshua speak out of the readings. "Draw near and hear the words of the LORD your God." This Jesus, had claimed to speak that word of God. I heard him say, "Father forgive them." It seemed as if his face had a slight glow to it. His face that was covered in blood and sweat seem to have a sheen to it. They said Moses' face had a glow to it after he would meet with God. Surely this wasn't the same glow! But those words of forgiveness seemed so curious to me. Why? Why would anyone say this of others as they were being crucified on a cross?
It was a curious site, the three of them. As I drew closer to the scene of the cross, this scene of suffering and death, I felt the strangeness of that forgiveness that Jesus had spoken of. I felt an ironic combination of life through death. I saw the horror of sin on that cross. But again I saw the love of forgiveness and life, all strangely at the same time. I saw a man, in Jesus, giving away all possession and very life in order to grant some word of forgiveness.
It was a curious site, the three of them. As I walked even closer and looked at the one hanging to the left and then again to the one hanging to the right, I saw my face present in theirs. It seemed as if the pathway to Jesus hanging in the center was through my own cross. It seemed as if in that reflection of my face in those criminals that I surely must be a criminal myself. It seemed as if I needed to pay the price for my sins, but instead, my sin lay on the shoulders of Jesus in the center. In the reflection of my face in those criminals, I could see that, sure I would see death, but the punishment for the sin lay on the shoulders of Jesus in the center. This love, this forgiveness, this life was in the center in Jesus! I saw my face in death to the left and to the right, then I saw the glow of love coming from the face of Jesus, all in the center.
It was a curious site, the three of them. As I looked upon my face to the left and to the right and then the face of Jesus in the center; it was as if the entire universe had come to a stop in that moment in time. Jesus had become the center of the universe. All around were peripheral. All focus was on this death to sin and this life to everlasting love.
It was a curious site, the three of them. This center of the universe seemed to speak, "Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins." I saw Love, not death on that center cross, that center of it all that day.
It was a curious site, the three of them...
Prayer of the Day
Lord, of all love, it truly was a Good Friday, a Holy Saturday, and a Blessed Easter. All at the center of the universe. All at the center of life. What a wonderfully, curious, blessed site it is. Thanks be to God! ---Amen
Food
Readings of the Day
Joshua 3:1-4:24-Joshua then said to the Israelites, "Draw near and hear the words of the LORD your God.
Luke 14:7-35-So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions.
Psalm 80:1-19-Restore us, O God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved.
Proverbs 12:27-28-In the path of righteousness there is life...
1 Peter 4:1-8-Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins.
God's Word of the Day
Hear the words of Love from the cross.
Story of the Day
It was a curious site, the three of them. This was supposed to be a time for holiday and happiness and remembrance of a God that brought His people out of bondage and freed them. Instead, the city was in an uproar. Everyone was intent on taking care of some dirty business quickly before the holiday began. So this guy, in the center, the one named Jesus, who had made a name for himself, was being crucified that day. The people, that had just before, hailed his name, had begun to realize that the He wouldn't come to rescue the common folks from the power of the government. They were hoping that Jesus would overthrow this government and rise to power just as King David did many years ago. But once again, Jesus turned out to be an impostor. He turned out to be a disappointment. And this angered the crowd. Do away with him if he can't do any more than this. A fake, and an impostor! Crucify him!
It was a curious site, the three of them. As we came closer, we could hear his words. It reminded me of a passage that I had heard Joshua speak out of the readings. "Draw near and hear the words of the LORD your God." This Jesus, had claimed to speak that word of God. I heard him say, "Father forgive them." It seemed as if his face had a slight glow to it. His face that was covered in blood and sweat seem to have a sheen to it. They said Moses' face had a glow to it after he would meet with God. Surely this wasn't the same glow! But those words of forgiveness seemed so curious to me. Why? Why would anyone say this of others as they were being crucified on a cross?
It was a curious site, the three of them. As I drew closer to the scene of the cross, this scene of suffering and death, I felt the strangeness of that forgiveness that Jesus had spoken of. I felt an ironic combination of life through death. I saw the horror of sin on that cross. But again I saw the love of forgiveness and life, all strangely at the same time. I saw a man, in Jesus, giving away all possession and very life in order to grant some word of forgiveness.
It was a curious site, the three of them. As I walked even closer and looked at the one hanging to the left and then again to the one hanging to the right, I saw my face present in theirs. It seemed as if the pathway to Jesus hanging in the center was through my own cross. It seemed as if in that reflection of my face in those criminals that I surely must be a criminal myself. It seemed as if I needed to pay the price for my sins, but instead, my sin lay on the shoulders of Jesus in the center. In the reflection of my face in those criminals, I could see that, sure I would see death, but the punishment for the sin lay on the shoulders of Jesus in the center. This love, this forgiveness, this life was in the center in Jesus! I saw my face in death to the left and to the right, then I saw the glow of love coming from the face of Jesus, all in the center.
It was a curious site, the three of them. As I looked upon my face to the left and to the right and then the face of Jesus in the center; it was as if the entire universe had come to a stop in that moment in time. Jesus had become the center of the universe. All around were peripheral. All focus was on this death to sin and this life to everlasting love.
It was a curious site, the three of them. This center of the universe seemed to speak, "Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins." I saw Love, not death on that center cross, that center of it all that day.
It was a curious site, the three of them...
Prayer of the Day
Lord, of all love, it truly was a Good Friday, a Holy Saturday, and a Blessed Easter. All at the center of the universe. All at the center of life. What a wonderfully, curious, blessed site it is. Thanks be to God! ---Amen
Friday, April 10, 2009
April 10th - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Remembrance
Readings of the Day
Deuteronomy 34:1-Joshua 2:24-I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
Luke 13:22-14:6-And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, "Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord."
Psalm 79:1-13-Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of your name; deliver us, and forgive our sins, for your name's sake.
Proverbs 12:26-The righteous gives good advice to friends...
John 18:1-19:42-Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my followers would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. but as it is, my kingdom is not from here."
God's Word of the Day
Focus on the cross and see death, see sin, see life, see love.
Story of the Day
I was asked to step up and lead after a great leader had been in place for over a generation of people. How could I ever begin to measure up. I was asked to take the final steps that the great leader wanted so desperately to take. I was asked to take these people into battle. I was asked to lead these people into a place that a past generation had refused to go. I need something outside of myself to permit me to lead. And that I was given.
So we looked at the place were were to go. And we did it. We started straight into the face of the enemy and marched forward with the help of the power outside of ourselves. Led by this power and love we won the battle.
Years later one of my descendants would look upon that power on a cross. They would see their own sin on that cross. They would see all sin on that cross. They would see that sin die. They would see all fear of death die. They would see the Son of God and the Son of Man die that day on that cross. They would focus on that cross and see sin, death, and also, life and love. All at one time on that cross.
Years pass and one of my descendants would remember that night, that day and focus on that cross. They would see the sin of all the world on that cross. They would see God abandon that sin on the cross and leave it there to die. What pain...what shame...what honor...what glory...what a Savior. Thanks be to God!
Led by this love and power we have won the battle...descendants passed, present and future.
Prayer of the Day
As I focus on that cross, I see my sin and the sin of all the world. I also see my Savior. I see that One who comes to my door day after day to invite me out into His Kingdom. As I see sin die, I give You eternal thanks, my Lord, my Savior, my King. I look forward to following You in that Kingdom walk, today, tomorrow and forever. ---Amen
Remembrance
Readings of the Day
Deuteronomy 34:1-Joshua 2:24-I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
Luke 13:22-14:6-And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, "Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord."
Psalm 79:1-13-Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of your name; deliver us, and forgive our sins, for your name's sake.
Proverbs 12:26-The righteous gives good advice to friends...
John 18:1-19:42-Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my followers would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. but as it is, my kingdom is not from here."
God's Word of the Day
Focus on the cross and see death, see sin, see life, see love.
Story of the Day
I was asked to step up and lead after a great leader had been in place for over a generation of people. How could I ever begin to measure up. I was asked to take the final steps that the great leader wanted so desperately to take. I was asked to take these people into battle. I was asked to lead these people into a place that a past generation had refused to go. I need something outside of myself to permit me to lead. And that I was given.
So we looked at the place were were to go. And we did it. We started straight into the face of the enemy and marched forward with the help of the power outside of ourselves. Led by this power and love we won the battle.
Years later one of my descendants would look upon that power on a cross. They would see their own sin on that cross. They would see all sin on that cross. They would see that sin die. They would see all fear of death die. They would see the Son of God and the Son of Man die that day on that cross. They would focus on that cross and see sin, death, and also, life and love. All at one time on that cross.
Years pass and one of my descendants would remember that night, that day and focus on that cross. They would see the sin of all the world on that cross. They would see God abandon that sin on the cross and leave it there to die. What pain...what shame...what honor...what glory...what a Savior. Thanks be to God!
Led by this love and power we have won the battle...descendants passed, present and future.
Prayer of the Day
As I focus on that cross, I see my sin and the sin of all the world. I also see my Savior. I see that One who comes to my door day after day to invite me out into His Kingdom. As I see sin die, I give You eternal thanks, my Lord, my Savior, my King. I look forward to following You in that Kingdom walk, today, tomorrow and forever. ---Amen
Thursday, April 09, 2009
April 4th - 9th --- Let's Play
Theme
Wandering
Readings
Deuteronomy 26:1-33:29-No, the word is very near to you; it is in your mouth and in your heart for you to observe. See, I have set before you today life and prosperity, death and adversity.
Luke 10:38-13:21-Be dressed for action and have your lamps lit; be like those who are waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet, so that they may open the door for him as soon as he comes and knocks.
Psalm 76:1-78:72-Your way was through the sea, your path, through the mighty waters; yet your footprints were unseen.
Proverbs 12:15-25-Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to advice.
God's Word
Answer when I call. Be ready for action and to listen and follow.
Story
I just didn't feel like answering the door that day. I heard the knock, then I heard the door bell ring. I heard the dogs all barking. But I just didn't feel like answering the door that day. So the person left. The person left and I didn't care if they ever returned again. Boy, did I have an attitude. But that day, I just didn't care. So I went about my business. I did just what I wanted to do that day. I lay around for most of the day. I read, I watched TV...I did a bunch of nothing. I was letting my life turn into a bunch of nothing.
Finally, I decided to go to the door and take a peek outside. As soon as I opened the door; there he was. He was still standing at the door waiting on me to answer the door. Hours had gone by since the knock and the ring of the door bell...Hours!
He said, OK, now, come on! We've got things to do. We've got places to go and people to see! Get ready and let's go! He told me sometimes fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to advice; so come on, get ready and let's go! So, out the door I went, following him through the sea, following through the mighty waters, with footprints unseen.
Thanks be to God!
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for those days that I just sit and waste. Forgive my sin. Now let's go! ---Amen
Wandering
Readings
Deuteronomy 26:1-33:29-No, the word is very near to you; it is in your mouth and in your heart for you to observe. See, I have set before you today life and prosperity, death and adversity.
Luke 10:38-13:21-Be dressed for action and have your lamps lit; be like those who are waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet, so that they may open the door for him as soon as he comes and knocks.
Psalm 76:1-78:72-Your way was through the sea, your path, through the mighty waters; yet your footprints were unseen.
Proverbs 12:15-25-Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to advice.
God's Word
Answer when I call. Be ready for action and to listen and follow.
Story
I just didn't feel like answering the door that day. I heard the knock, then I heard the door bell ring. I heard the dogs all barking. But I just didn't feel like answering the door that day. So the person left. The person left and I didn't care if they ever returned again. Boy, did I have an attitude. But that day, I just didn't care. So I went about my business. I did just what I wanted to do that day. I lay around for most of the day. I read, I watched TV...I did a bunch of nothing. I was letting my life turn into a bunch of nothing.
Finally, I decided to go to the door and take a peek outside. As soon as I opened the door; there he was. He was still standing at the door waiting on me to answer the door. Hours had gone by since the knock and the ring of the door bell...Hours!
He said, OK, now, come on! We've got things to do. We've got places to go and people to see! Get ready and let's go! He told me sometimes fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to advice; so come on, get ready and let's go! So, out the door I went, following him through the sea, following through the mighty waters, with footprints unseen.
Thanks be to God!
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for those days that I just sit and waste. Forgive my sin. Now let's go! ---Amen
Friday, April 03, 2009
April 3rd - Let's Play!
Theme of the Day
Care
Readings of the Day
Deuteronomy 23:1-25:19-If you make a vow to the LORD your God, do not postpone fulfilling it...
Luke 10:13-37-Blessed are the eyes that see what you see!
Psalm 75:1-10-We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, your name is near. People tell of your wondrous deeds.
Proverbs 12:12-14-From the fruit of the mouth one is filled with good things, and manual labor has its reward.
Philippians 2:12-18-...shine like stars in the world.
God's Word of the Day
See the Light I have sent to you and shine like stars.
Story of the Day
It's all about energy. So many others around. Millions and billions around. All about this energy we received. One day we were nothing. One day we were dead matter. Then we were infused with this energy. Once we saw the Energy, our eyes were blessed with what we got to see. The Energy was so exciting to see, that you couldn't help but to sing praises to the Energy. All the words that came from our mouth in the presence of the Energy were praises sung. You couldn't help but to give thanks for the Energy that came to us. You couldn't help but to tell people of the wondrous deeds of the Energy.
Then it happened. We became filled with the Energy. Filled with the Energy we began to shine. We were stars now. Not because of something we had done; but all because of the Energy that came to us and filled our lives. We were proud to shine the light of the Energy that was now with us and in us and working through us. All because of the Energy! Millions and billions around, shining the light of the Energy for all to see the grace of God.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, fill me and use me this day to shine Your Light into the world, that all may glorify You. ---Amen
Care
Readings of the Day
Deuteronomy 23:1-25:19-If you make a vow to the LORD your God, do not postpone fulfilling it...
Luke 10:13-37-Blessed are the eyes that see what you see!
Psalm 75:1-10-We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, your name is near. People tell of your wondrous deeds.
Proverbs 12:12-14-From the fruit of the mouth one is filled with good things, and manual labor has its reward.
Philippians 2:12-18-...shine like stars in the world.
God's Word of the Day
See the Light I have sent to you and shine like stars.
Story of the Day
It's all about energy. So many others around. Millions and billions around. All about this energy we received. One day we were nothing. One day we were dead matter. Then we were infused with this energy. Once we saw the Energy, our eyes were blessed with what we got to see. The Energy was so exciting to see, that you couldn't help but to sing praises to the Energy. All the words that came from our mouth in the presence of the Energy were praises sung. You couldn't help but to give thanks for the Energy that came to us. You couldn't help but to tell people of the wondrous deeds of the Energy.
Then it happened. We became filled with the Energy. Filled with the Energy we began to shine. We were stars now. Not because of something we had done; but all because of the Energy that came to us and filled our lives. We were proud to shine the light of the Energy that was now with us and in us and working through us. All because of the Energy! Millions and billions around, shining the light of the Energy for all to see the grace of God.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, fill me and use me this day to shine Your Light into the world, that all may glorify You. ---Amen
Thursday, April 02, 2009
April 1st-2nd - Let's Play!
Theme
Viewpoint
Readings
Deuteronomy 18:1-22:30-...for it is the LORD your God who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to give you victory.
Luke 9:28-10:12-This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!
Psalm 73:1-74:23-Yet God my King is from of old, working salvation in the earth.
Proverbs 12:10-11-...but those who follow worthless pursuits have no sense.
God's Word
Listen to My Son. He goes with you to fight for salvation.
Story
Whispers were as loud as shouts that day on the mountain. I saw a great light. I saw three great men standing together. I saw one of them shining so bright that all the world was lit up brighter than ever before. Then a whisper that sounded like a shout that came from all around. A grand surround sound. "Listen to Him!" ... Listen to Him! ... It was a whisper of wind and voice and light and air and fire all around. It was the voice of God! Listen to Him! This God, my King of old, working salvation in the earth, right now and in this place. Listen to Him! Don't follow worthless pursuits that have no sense. Listen to Him! ... Listen to Him! He goes with you to fight FOR you against your enemies to give you victory. A whisper surrounding all that Light. A whisper that sounded like a shout that came from all around... "Listen to Him!" He is here and now and in this place... Listen!
Prayer
Lord, You are here. I see Your Light. I listen....... Amen
Viewpoint
Readings
Deuteronomy 18:1-22:30-...for it is the LORD your God who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to give you victory.
Luke 9:28-10:12-This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!
Psalm 73:1-74:23-Yet God my King is from of old, working salvation in the earth.
Proverbs 12:10-11-...but those who follow worthless pursuits have no sense.
God's Word
Listen to My Son. He goes with you to fight for salvation.
Story
Whispers were as loud as shouts that day on the mountain. I saw a great light. I saw three great men standing together. I saw one of them shining so bright that all the world was lit up brighter than ever before. Then a whisper that sounded like a shout that came from all around. A grand surround sound. "Listen to Him!" ... Listen to Him! ... It was a whisper of wind and voice and light and air and fire all around. It was the voice of God! Listen to Him! This God, my King of old, working salvation in the earth, right now and in this place. Listen to Him! Don't follow worthless pursuits that have no sense. Listen to Him! ... Listen to Him! He goes with you to fight FOR you against your enemies to give you victory. A whisper surrounding all that Light. A whisper that sounded like a shout that came from all around... "Listen to Him!" He is here and now and in this place... Listen!
Prayer
Lord, You are here. I see Your Light. I listen....... Amen
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