Here


[PDF]Here - Rackcdn.comb79ec1dfc45be6f556e9-7f28dfc3d743951e5e49828f179f1b3f.r43.cf2.rackcdn.com/...

4 downloads 82 Views 316KB Size

L e nt D e vo t i o n a l

2018

INTRODUCTION Join us as we enter into the season of Lent. Lent is a time of renewal and a time of reflecting. It is a time to pull away from the distractions of our daily life and draw closer to God. This is our time of giving up in order to receive. Over the next 40 days, from Ash Wednesday to Easter, we will journey through the Gospels. We will reflect on the life, ministry, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Each daily devotional, written by women of Faithbridge, is designed to prepare your heart for the good news of Easter.

Take the journey, experience His presence, and soak in His Word this Lenten season.

page 1

14

W ed n esday, F eb ru ary M AT T H E W 1-3

Matthew opens with a lineage establishing Christ’s legal right to the throne as the ‘Root of Jesse.’ Then he reveals that the very Word of God has chosen to belittle Himself and be born a man. Let us pause here. Don’t rush to the manger…because before the Holy Spirit came down to Mary and a babe was born in a cave, a decision was made in Heaven. In the beginning God declared to His enemy that the seed of the woman would crush his head, and the enemy would strike Christ’s heel. Even then Elohim had determined to be the Savior God. Perhaps we close our eyes for a minute and picture Yahweh Sabaoth—The Lord of the Armies of Heaven, Exalted over Angels and Men. He is surrounded by seraphim, enthroned on the mountain among the fiery stones, and the train of His robe fills the temple with GLORY. Day and night the seraphim cry, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty!” This is the throne room of the Most High from which proceeded the Word of God, sent to become a MAN. It is this Word, born a human, who stripped Himself of rightful dignity and privilege to be one of us. The cost to save us is staggering, and we have not even lifted our eyes to the cross yet. He surrendered the honor due Him to be not just I AM, but Emmanuel, God with us in our sorrows, with us in the presence of our enemy, with us in the shadow of the valley of death. Who lays down all power to become nothing, to cradle the orphan in His W e d n e s day, F e b r u a ry arms, to lead the captive in His freedom song? Love does. Only Love.

14

A Tchapter T H E W 1two, - 3 His star has And so, God’s love for us was born into the world and His name is Jesus, Savior.MIn risen and the Magi have long journeyed to kneel before Him in His humble home. How prophetic are the gifts they bring. Gold, a gift for a king. Frankincense, an incense burned as an offering to God. Myrrh, a fragrant perfume used in embalming bodies. These for Jesus, the rightful King—heir to the Throne of David and the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus, the High Priest—entitled to forgive sin. Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.

It is the last verses of chapter three that close my thoughts. Jesus has just come out of the waters of the Jordan, having been baptized. Here, the Father has publicly claimed Him, establishing His kingship. But God did not just say “This is my son.” He called Jesus His Beloved. His Beloved, in whom He was well pleased. How tender, the heart of the Father revealed. The impending cross and crown of thorns was not only a legal transaction to cancel our debt, it was the deeply personal giving of the Father’s own Beloved as a ransom for … His Beloved. That’s you. As an adopted heir with Christ, you also are the Beloved of the Father. To borrow Mr. Gabriel’s song lyrics, “Oh, how wonderful, oh, how marvelous!” is the Father’s love for us! For my part, today I ponder these chapters and kneel before the King who calls me His Beloved, the Priest who intercedes on my behalf and invites me into the throne room of the Father, the Lamb of God who uncrowned Himself to save me.

page 2

Dionne Delbridge Hudson

15

T h u r s day, F e b r u a ry M AT T H E W 4 - 6

“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, He was hungry.” MATTHEW 4:1-2

One of the things that makes me fall in love with Jesus all over again is His willingness to meet us right where we are. When I was an exhausted new mom struggling through tears to nurse my tiny boy, He was there whispering, “My strength is made perfect in weakness” (1 Cor 12:9). When our family relocated 8000 miles away to Taiwan and I was homesick, He was there whispering, “Even if you make your home on the far side of the sea, I am with you” (Ps 139:9). However, Jesus doesn’t only show up when we need comfort. He has no qualms about showing up when we’re vulnerable, tempted, and starting to fail, because He’s faced those same vulnerable moments Himself. Though my experience with temptation is often about curbing my own desires so they are NOT exploited by the devil or my own flesh, in Matthew 4 the Holy Spirit leads Jesus into the desert to face extreme conditions of hunger, thirst, loneliness, fatigue, and finally, temptation by the devil…on purpose. The Father ordained this time of suffering and tempting so that Jesus could undergo the human experience of becoming vulnerable. Look at what the book of Hebrews says about Jesus and temptation: For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have One who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet He did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Hebrews 4:15-16).

Prayer

Yes, the desert temptation passage teaches the value of knowing Scripture when we face temptation—Jesus combated the devil by proclaiming the truth of God’s Word. But I am also encouraged by the strength and power of Jesus Himself, my friend and Savior, who went toe-to-toe with the enemy on my behalf. This means that when I am hungry, weary, heartsick, tempted, and failing, I can draw even closer to the One who draws close to me. He will provide mercy and grace, through His Word and His Presence, in my time of need.

Lord Jesus, l confess that I sometimes pull away from You when I’m facing temptation or already failing. Help me to see that You not only know my weaknesses, but empathize with me. Help me to turn to You and Your Word to receive Your lavish, loving mercy and grace. Amen

Cassia Glass

page 3

16

Fri day, F eb ru ary M AT T H E W 7- 9

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” MATTHEW 7:7-9

As you read these verses, you will notice three different ways to make our requests known to God: ask, seek, and knock. These are all active words and represent action and persistence on our part. If we ask, is God not willing to give? If we seek Him, is He not willing to reveal Himself to us? When we knock, requesting entrance or acceptance, will He not receive us? When we do these things in faith and within His will for us, won’t He, who is a better parent than us, give us what is best and for our good? Many times, we want the Lord to just sign off on our wants. We can even treat Him like a “Big Ol’ Cosmic Sugar Daddy” whom we think should just cave in to our every whim! But thank God in His wisdom, unanswered prayers truly represent His unfailing love for us!

Prayer

For we see dimly through a dark glass and what we are asking for might be far from what’s in our best interest. I am reminded of Paul, who had a “thorn” in his flesh, and repeatedly asked God to remove it. God did not grant his requests, but told him, “My grace is sufficient for thee.” Sometimes God says “Yes,” sometimes “No,” sometimes “Slow”, and sometimes “My grace is sufficient for thee”. The last one is by far the hardest! Yet, in these circumstances the Lord is usually teaching us something significant, as hard and as challenging as it may be. He is refining us, equipping us, growing us, and strengthening us through our circumstances.

page 4

Heavenly Father, may we persist to faithfully ask, seek, and knock. May we seek Your Face and Your will for us without ceasing! We thank You for every good gift that You provide, and for the ones that You do not! Grant us Your wisdom, Your discernment, Your peace, and Your strength for those times that You say, ”My Grace is Sufficient for thee.” I am reminded that Romans 5:3-4 says, “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.” Remind us today, Lord, that Your unfailing love for us resounds loudly, even in our unanswered prayers. In Jesus’ Mighty Name we Pray!

Mary Flores-Loescher

17

S at u r day, F e b r u a ry “Now when John heard in prison about the deeds of the Christ, he sent word by his disciple and said to him, “Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?” And Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind receives their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear and the dead are raised up and the poor have the good news preached to them. And blessed is the one who is not offended by me.” MATTHEW 11:2-6

M AT T H E W 10 -1 2

It is so easy for me to imagine John locked in prison, pacing, wondering, and frowning. Had he foolishly launched his all on this man who might not be the Messiah? The Jewish people expected that the Messiah would come and overthrow the Roman empire, set up His own Kingdom, and rule here on earth. Jesus wasn’t following the script they had written. John dares to ask, straight on, “Are you the One, or should we wait for another?” Everything hinges on the response. Jesus weaves an answer built on prophecies from Isaiah. He quotes from Isaiah 61:1, the same chapter and verse with which Jesus launched his ministry. Here, Jesus just mentions the first snippet of that verse. John would have been entirely familiar with this verse and known how it finished. Isaiah 1:1 says, ”The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound...” The coming Messiah will preach to the poor, and heal the blind and the lame. “Yes,” Jesus says, “I am the Messiah!” The same Messiah who frees the captives! Who sets the prisoners free! And John is still in prison. “Blessed is the one who is not offended by me.” I have been offended with Him. And not just a few times, either. Can we believe that Jesus is the Messiah when we are not the lame man who was healed, or the blind man who could see? Can John believe that Jesus is the Messiah who will set prisoners free—when Jesus has not set him free? What could be more offensive than to know that Jesus is the son of God, all powerful, and yet… He does not change your situation? Jesus knows the human heart well enough to caution us against offense. But He does not end there. With His answer, Jesus is turning John’s focus to the things that He HAS done. He gives John the key to remaining unoffended. When we focus on what Jesus has done for us—when we chose to rip our tear-filled eyes away from our own hurts, and look instead at the goodness that has been shown to us—we remain unoffended by Him. It is as simple and as hard as that. His goodness is evident; it pulses through your life—it does. If God never did anything for me but die on the cross, all my hurts would be lost in that act of goodness. And yet, how much more has He done! Do you have questions? Disappointments? I do. We can (and should) take hope in the knowledge that no situation is immune to the abundant, transformative touch of Jesus, but we live unoffended by God by focusing—not on what He HASN’T done—but on the good and great things that He HAS done.

Hannah Connor

page 5

18

S u n day, F eb ru ary

page 6

G R AC E DAY

Take some time to reflect on this past week and write a prayer for the coming week.

Matthew 14:13-21 After hearing about what happened to John the Baptist, Jesus withdrew and went by boat to a solitary place. The crowds of people followed him by foot to the place Jesus landed. He had compassion on them and healed their sick. All was good, except now it was getting late, and since it was a remote area, it would be difficult to find food.

19

M o n day, F e b r u a ry M AT T H E W 13 -14

“Send them away so they can go and provide for themselves,” was a solution of one of the apostles. Jesus suggested they could give them something to eat so the people would not have to leave. Another apostle said, “We have here only 5 loaves of bread and two fish.” Immediately, Jesus said, “Bring them to me.” He looked up to heaven, gave thanks, and fed over 5,000 people. After everyone was fed, there were 12 baskets of food remaining. Are you facing a difficult situation or crisis right now? Does your heart tend to only see what is difficult? Are you thinking like the apostle whose focus was on the impossibility of the task? Jesus was in their very midst and they did not understand that He held the answer to their problem. We have all found ourselves facing difficult times. Unfortunately, we rarely give our problems to Jesus, choosing instead to either try and fix it ourselves or just give up hope. When the apostles gave the “little” they had, which seemed ridiculous compared to the size of the crowd, Jesus was so pleased that He “immediately” took what they offered, blessed it, and multiplied it beyond their expectation. Our Lord is asking us to invite Him into our situations and problems. Is your faith feeling small? Has your trust been challenged? Give the Lord the “little” faith you possess and ask Him to multiply it. Faith, like a seed, can grow leaps and bounds when surrendered to the Lord. If you have little trust that God is able to work out your problems, or that He even hears your prayers, then give what “little” trust you have to Him. He will be pleased to take your trust and nurture it, causing it to soar to another level. God uses circumstances in our lives to pull out and develop our faith. He is the answer to the very cry of your heart and the trial that you are facing. Today, let’s not focus on how impossible our trial is. Let’s choose to see Jesus in our midst. He is waiting for you to give Him the “little” you have so that He can breathe His Spirit upon you and perfect the very thing that concerns you.

Prayer

Did you ever wonder why there were 12 baskets of food left over? Our precious Lord wants us to know that He is more than enough!

Lord, today I choose to see You in the midst of my circumstances. I give You my fears and doubts and ask that You breathe Your Spirit upon me to strengthen me while I trust that You are working everything together for my good. Lord, I believe!

Debi Ronca

page 7

20

T uesday, F eb ru ary M AT T H E W 1 5 -16

“These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.” MATTHEW 15:8-9

Growing up as a pastor’s kid, I dominated the skill of pretending to be a “good” Christian. Like the Pharisees in this chapter, I wanted others to see all of the good, “Kosher” attributes and rules I was living under and following. More than just refraining from watching shows that were “unholy” or abstaining from all the substances “Christians” didn’t do, I actually avoided friendships with anyone not abiding by the same set of man-made rules I set for myself. I judged people who didn’t fit the very specific parameters and rules I’d set for myself, and honestly, I felt superior. Yet, this lifestyle—these sets of rules and this judgement toward others—was the furthest from obedience to God. The overflow of my heart did not represent Jesus and the commandments written in God’s Word. Coming to this realization was a slow, humbling process. Jesus directly addresses the hypocrisy of the Pharisees in Matthew 15, as the rules they’ve created for themselves have begun to dominate God’s commandments. Their legalistic mentality discounted the heart behind the mandates from God. The only measure of “good” was how well people followed their rules. Beyond the Pharisees and religious leaders, Jesus also addresses the crowd in His midst. He reiterates the importance of God’s commandments, as these commandments lead to a change in our hearts and true godly action. Unlike the rules of the religious leaders, following God’s commandments would lead to honor, respect, and love for others. Jesus scolds them for simply knowing the commandments in their heads, without their actions resembling the same understanding. Following God’s commandments should result in changes of the heart—outward expressions of Christ-like behaviors.

Prayer

How quickly we deceive ourselves toward thinking we need to obtain human “goodness” instead of obedience to God. Making up so-called rules as I had done to be a “good pastor’s kid” weakened God’s commandments. This lifestyle didn’t lead to a true outpouring of God’s from my heart to Him or to others. Here we are reminded to go back to God’s Word, pursue what He commands for His people (you and I), and avoid being deceived with man-made rules which falsify goodness.

page 8

God, I pray we would have a connection between Your Word and our heads and hearts. We want to strive toward Your goodness, the things that matter to Your heart, and away from the false notion of being “good people,” living apart from Your commandments. May the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be pleasing to You, God (Psalm 19:14). Amen

D e s i Te a g u e

21

T u e s day, F e b r u a ry M AT T H E W 17-1 8

Rejoice! Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we have direct access to the throne of God to receive grace and mercy! In Matthew 18, I am drawn to the emphasis the Lord makes on our need to forgive, and forgive, and forgive (70x7). Our forgiveness cost Jesus His life! And we are to forgive the same way we have been forgiven (Matthew 6:12). That means it is going to cost us something—our pride, maybe. Forgiveness is not an option for us, but we can sure come up with reasons why not to forgive, can’t we? There are serious consequences for unforgiveness. In Matthew 18:35 says that our Heavenly Father will turn us over to the tormentors (some versions say jailors or torturers) if we don’t forgive FROM OUR HEARTS. That means if we don’t forgive, we are going to experience mental torment by lying demons who have access to us by permission of God! Unforgiveness can also make us physically ill, angry, depressed, separate us from God, cause broken relationships, and much more. I recently went through a major betrayal from someone who was a good friend—someone I had invested in, promoted, and valued. At first, I was in shock. Then I went through the stages of grief: anger, sadness, loss, etc. I knew from this verse in God’s Word that the option to stay in bitterness and unforgiveness would be a higher price to pay than forgiveness. I did not want the torment of holding onto the pain. Once through the shock, I earnestly sought the Holy Spirit to help me forgive. I had every reason in the flesh why I shouldn’t forgive; but in the Spirit, there was no option. I trusted the Holy Spirit to be my Helper (John 14:26). I gave Him permission to take the bitterness from my HEART. I turned this person over to God for His judgment. When I was tempted to pick up the offense again, I prayed to forgive again. In a very short time, I felt great freedom and release; and, with God’s help, I have even been able to bless this person.

Prayer

If there is someone you need to forgive today, ask the Holy Spirit to help you. Give Him access to your HEART. Feel the pain, and then let Him have it. Forgiveness is for you.

Jesus, thank You for dying on the cross for my sin of unforgiveness. Thank You for Your Word that says if I confess my sin, You are faithful and just to forgive me and cleanse me of all unrighteousness. Thank You for purchasing a way for me to walk in joy despite hurtful circumstances. Thank You for the Holy Spirit who is working in me to produce good fruit today. Amen.

S h e r r y To r b e r t

page 9

22

Matthew 20:20-28

T h ursday, F eb ru ary

My boys have big dreams. Right now, those dreams consist of having tremendous strength and huge muscles. It’s not a rare occasion for me to find one or the other flexing and admiring his physique, or attempting to display great feats of strength to his friends. The other day, after one of these displays of greatness, one of my boys turned to me and said, “Mom, do you think JJ Watt looked like me when he was my age?” In his mind, it’s a forgone conclusion that someday soon he will be a legendary NFL superstar. M AT T H E W 19 -2 0

Greatness. We all want it in some form. God created us with a very real longing to have lives that count for something. We all want lives full of meaning and purpose, and there is nothing wrong with that. It is a God given desire; however… God’s picture of what is truly great might be a wee bit different than ours. Look at what Jesus says in Matthew 20:26: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave.” I can hear my boys right now saying, “Wait a minute! You mean to tell me that the greatest player on God’s team is the water-boy? The equipment manager? The dude who isn’t even on the field?” Yep. That’s what He’s saying. And that is entirely different from what our culture tells us. All around us we see people clamoring to get to the top of their game, desperately seeking their moments of fame and glory. But Jesus says if you want to be great, you must choose to be a servant. If you want to go high, you must choose to go low. If you want to be up front, you must choose to go behind the scenes and serve. God’s greatest leaders in history have had their starts behind the scenes, off the field, with no one watching them or caring about what they were doing. But there was One who saw them. One who, in fact, was watching them very closely and using their time behind the scenes very intentionally, developing them for His glory and purposes. Think of Joseph in the prison cell, Moses in the desert, David alone with his flocks of sheep. Even Jesus “learned obedience through the things that he suffered” (Hebrews 5:8).

Prayer

So, friend, does your life feel like it’s going nowhere? Do you sense deep down you were made for more? Learn to serve God faithfully today, right where you are. On or off the field, upfront or behind the scenes, learn to serve those God has placed in your life. God is using this season of your life to grow and develop you for His good purposes and glory.

page 10

Lord Jesus, You are the ultimate example of greatness. You were fully God, but You chose to put on flesh and become fully man. You served without reserve. You gave of Yourself even unto death. For us. Please, Lord, give us the strength to live in humility, and to serve those You have placed in our lives wholeheartedly. We leave the greatness part up to You. Amen.

S u z a n n e We r l e i n

23

A couple of years ago, my husband was invited to a charity benefit through work. For weeks, I asked for a copy of the invitation to see what the appropriate dress would be. He was always too busy, never could find it, and eventually said that he found out it was “business dress.” He said, “Like you were coming from work.” My first hint that something might be amiss was when we arrived at the event and the from the car in front us, stepped M AT T H E W 2 1-2 2 a woman in a gorgeous cocktail dress complete with the perfect shoes, jewelry, and clutch. Cue the beginning of an evening where I felt completely out of place. I wore the wrong clothes! The dress most definitely was cocktail, mixed with some black tie. All night, I felt like I had to explain to every person we met why I was dressed so casually.

F r i day, F e b r u a ry

In the Parable of the Wedding Feast we read today, the man in verse 11 no doubt felt the same way. In this parable, we find a king having the most interesting problem: those that he invited to the wedding feast for his son would not respond to the invitation. It was customary in that day that two invitations would go out – the first one almost like a “save-the-date,” followed by a second invitation that required a response to know how much preparation was needed. It was not at all customary for people to ignore these invitations. These royal invitations from a king should be met with much appreciation, excitement, and honor to be included in such a high-society event – but they ignored the king, mistreated his messengers, and dismissed the invitations. Because the ones who were invited refused to come, the king now turns to others. He sends his servants out into the streets to invite all others they could find, whether good or bad, high status or low. The banquet hall was soon filled with people wanting to have a share in the wedding feast. The invitation was no longer just for the chosen few, but for all who would come. Like this king in the parable, our King, through Jesus, has opened the doors and invited us to the great wedding feast of His Son. Jesus came into the world to seek and to save the lost, those far from God, from all walks of life, upbringings, and backgrounds. The table is set for all in need, at God’s invitation. The king walks through the door of his feast, now full of people who have been invited, and a man draws his attention. The king notices something amiss: the man is not dressed. (I’m glad he didn’t come to the charity benefit I attended!) The king has a strong reaction: “And he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. 13 Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot and cast him into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ 14 For many are called, but few are chosen.” You see, God’s calling or invitation is not a light matter. The call to salvation, pictured here by the glory of a marriage feast, is a beautiful, precious, and once-in-a-lifetime matter. It’s why the garment (or lack of one) was such an issue for the king. The garment is important for us to understand. The Bible gives us several scriptures examples to help us understand the “garments” we should wear when we are invited. The Bible uses clothing as an analogy to show how we “put on” behavior that is pleasing to God. In 1 Peter 5:5, the apostle Peter writes of being “clothed with humility.” apostle Paul also talks about this in Ephesians 4:20-24: “But you have not so learned Christ, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.” (NKJV) We “put on” righteousness. A humble spirit, a Christlike attitude, an obedient heart, a servant’s mindset, all with the help of the Spirit of God. Our old self, our old garments, are washed in the blood of Christ and we have a new set of garments to wear to the feast! “Many are called, but few are chosen.” Ask yourself today in self-reflection: What garments am I putting on for the feast? Have I a chosen to be clothed in humility? Does my character and my heart reflect the great love and privilege of being one of God’s chosen?

Luann Riley

page 11

24

S at urday, F eb ru ary M AT T H E W 2 3 -24

I saw a sign once that said: “Always try to be yourself, unless you can be Batman, then, by all means, be Batman.” I chuckle every time I think of it, but the idea of being someone else or at least portraying qualities not quite our own is actually a dilemma that we face every day. We want to look good to others. Just check out the pictures and posts on social media. Unfortunately, this is nothing new.

In Matthew, Jesus takes a whole chapter reprimanding the religious leaders of that time of their hypocrisy. They liked the big important titles. They taught the scripture but didn’t follow what it said themselves. Their synagogues were beautifully decorated on the outside, but full of sin on the inside. If Jesus walked the earth today, would He have anything different to say to the religious leaders of our time? I think not. The problem is still here. We still have churches and religious organizations with landing strips and gold-plated sinks while their people are struggling to pay their bills. The religious leaders are not the only ones with this issue. We all struggle with it. Our human (sin) nature causes us to strive to look good on the outside, but we fail to deal with the dirt on the inside. We want everyone to think we’ve got it all together. We are eager to point out someone else’s sin without realizing we are bound up by our own. We easily quote, “Love your neighbor,” but haven’t taken time to even know their name. Earlier in Matthew, Jesus tells us that we must first get the beam out of our own eye before we can try to get the speck out of someone else’s eye. We’ve ended up with a “form of godliness” that only looks good from the outside, but has no power on the inside. How have we allowed ourselves to end up such hypocrites? I think the answer is -- we’ve compromised. We have compromised on our integrity and our convictions. We have traded the relationship with Christ for religiosity. We’ve traded His power for a perception of godliness. We stop listening and being led by the Holy Spirit and instead we are led by our emotions. We memorize but never meditate. We read every new Christian book out, but don’t take time to sit down with God’s Word and let it speak. We have memorized countless scripture, but cannot tell you how it has changed us. We pray SOS prayers, but don’t wait to hear Him answer. How sad. God has called us to a sanctified life, which means we are to be “set apart.” He tells us not to be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of our minds. We are not to be like everyone else and we don’t have to be, because we have something they do not – we have the spirit of the living God dwelling inside us. We can hear His voice! We can be led by His spirit. In Chapter 24, it talks about the last days. I believe we are in those days. It says no one will know when Jesus is coming back, but we “can” know the season. We can know the signs and we are to be ready. One of the signs is that sin will be rampant just like in Noah’s time. Is it not that way today? The question is asked, “Will He find you faithful?” Will you be doing what He’s called you to do – sharing His love with others or will you have conformed to the world and be found chasing money and power instead? He ends by saying that if you’re not ready, He will assign you a place with the hypocrites where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Yikes! So, my prayer for me and you is that we make ourselves ready by listening to God’s voice and being obedient. Be transparent to others and let them see the Christ in us. When Christ comes, we will be made perfect, but until then, we all have our flaws. But, where we are weak – God is strong. May He find us faithful in our serving, living as though He’s coming soon. I pray He finds us loving on His people and being His hands and feet in a time when people need it most. Be ready! Jesus is coming soon!

page 12

Linda LeCroy

Take some time to reflect on this past week and write a prayer for the coming week.

25

S u n day, F e b r u a ry G R AC E DAY

page 13

26

M o n day, F eb ru ary M AT T H E W 2 5 -2 6

“But Peter declared, ‘Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.’ And all the other disciples said the same...” “Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: ‘Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.’ And he went outside and wept bitterly.” MATTHEW 25:35 & 75

Peter knew and loved Jesus. He was with Him all throughout His ministry and even up to the very end of Jesus’ life at the last supper and in Gethsemane as Jesus pleaded for a way around death on the cross. When Jesus predicts Peter’s betrayal, he commits his life to Jesus saying that he’ll choose death before ever disowning Him. He couldn’t imagine a scenario in which he’d ever turn his back on his friend, mentor and Lord. There had probably never been another moment in Peter’s life that he had been so confused, fearful, worried, panicked and lonely. The disciples had all scattered and Peter was alone. His emotions were so fragile, it only took the questioning of a servant girl for Peter to begin unraveling. Three times he claims to have no relationship with Jesus. Then, at the sound of the rooster’s crow, Peter remembers Jesus’ words and cries bitterly, hating himself for what he’s done. While prophecy was playing out in and around Peter, the fullness of God’s redemption for all mankind was happening. Literally, as denial and betrayal exit Peter’s mouth, Jesus is heading to the cross for Peter’s salvation. While Jesus’ disciples fled, while Peter denied Him, while Judas turned him over to officials...in the very midst of his deepest friends turning their backs on Him, Jesus died on the cross to pay for their sins and mine. Peter’s promise to stay committed was only a few hours out of his mouth before he was already breaking it.

Prayer

Two thousand years later, things aren’t much different. My promises and good intentions are often minutes old before I realize I can’t keep them. But God’s redemption story wasn’t dependent on Peter’s faithfulness, and it isn’t dependent on mine, either. I can live free knowing the pressure is off. The greatest failure in Peter’s life didn’t mess up God’s plan, and neither will mine.

page 14

God, thank You that I cannot contribute towards or take away from the salvation You give through Jesus’ death on the cross. Even my greatest spiritual moments and most disappointing failures can’t change or add to what You alone offer as a gift to me. As You invite me to be a part of Your story around me, help me to joyfully step in, knowing that I’m free from the pressure to perform for You. Your purposes will prevail either in and through me, or despite me. Help me to rest in You as an adopted one, remembering that You don’t need me, You want me. Don’t let me wallow in the bitterness of my disappointments and failures, but call me back to You, just like You did with Peter, so I can remember how to live in the freedom you bought for me on the cross.

Jenny Sneller

27

T u e s day, F e b r u a ry M AT T H E W 2 7-2 8

“All the people answered, ’His blood is on us and on our children!’” MATTHEW 27:25 Jesus… Plotted against. Betrayed. Rejected. Condemned. Executed. RISEN!

Bound. Falsely accused. Beaten. Mocked. Buried.

Pilate gave Jesus’ condemners an opportunity to right the wrong they were about to commit. They chose the traitor, Barabbas. Pilate wanted nothing to do with this horrible thing, condemnation of an innocent man, so he washed his hands, symbolically removing the stain of guilt from the role he himself played in Jesus’ death. He said, “This is on you,” and the people readily accepted the responsibility of Christ’s crucifixion. “His blood is on us and on our children!” they joyfully proclaimed. Jesus’ blood was on them and their children and it’s on me and mine, too. And not a day goes by that I don’t marvel at the beauty and bask in the love of Jesus who willingly offered His life so that YOU AND I may live. Not just live eternally, but to be filled with the eternal in this life, NOW, an abundant life, made possible through His death and resurrection. Jesus invites us to follow Him and to see the world as He sees it, to see ourselves as He sees us, and to see others as He sees them. Beloved, walk in this truth. As we near the celebration of what Christ has done for all of us, remember the cost and the priceless gift that is ours in Christ: forgiveness of sin, freedom from bondage, purpose for living, and settled confidence in the hope we have that all the wrongs will be made right.

Prayer

Yes, His blood is upon you and me, everyone. Thank You, Jesus.

Thank You for Your mercy and grace, thank You for living the life of perfection I could never achieve, dying the death, I deserve, and rising again so that I may be connected to my Creator, God. Thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit and thank You for a life that is full of love, joy, peace and purpose. In Your Name I pray, Amen.

April L. Lopez

page 15

28

W ed n esday, F eb ru ary

“I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way—a voice of one calling in the desert...” MARK 1:2B-3A

M A RK 1-3

John the Baptist seemed to live a very focused life. He was single-minded in his mission to point other people to Jesus, and he didn’t waste time on trivial things like a comfortable wardrobe or food taste and texture. John knew that the only way to everlasting life is through Jesus, and he was a relentless messenger with this truth. His urgent mission was to be a voice, the voice, that prepared people for the coming of Christ. “Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on” (Mark 2:4). The four friends were extremely focused and determined. These guys didn’t let a little thing like an impassable crowd of people stop them from getting Jesus to heal and save their disabled friend. They creatively climbed onto the roof, busted through and lowered their friend down to be right in front of the only One who could save him. Mission accomplished. However, I wonder about the people who didn’t figure out a way to get through to Jesus. Did they contemplate the crowd and then just turn away? Did they convince themselves that it was too much work to get to Jesus and that He’d surely be back, so maybe try again next time He’s in town? We don’t know about those people because their lack of innovation and urgency kept them from being part of the story.

Prayer

John the Baptist and the four creative friends knew all about urgency. Because we live in a world where bad things seem to happen all the time, I know a little bit about urgency, too. I know there is a need to be relentless in telling other people the Gospel because I know they need to hear it as soon as possible. God wants me to push forward without delay to share the message of Jesus. He wants me to act, even if it means getting creative or being uncomfortable. Digging through that roof must have been hard, and messy! But the truth is, I don’t really like messy. And I don’t really like things that are hard or uncomfortable. My intentions are good, but sometimes I get squeamish or lose steam. I tell other people about Jesus, but only when the timing feels exactly right, and almost always when the risk feels small. I don’t follow through when I should and I waste time—and time is limited. The same sense of urgency that moved John the Baptist and the four friends also inspired the disciples to leave everything immediately and follow Jesus. The faster we go, the more fish we’ll catch. Waiting isn’t an option.

page 16

Nothing about John the Baptist paving the way, or the determination of the four nameless friends, or Jesus’ ministry tells us to ponder and wait until doing the things you ask us to do seems easier. Help me to be consumed with the importance of telling other people the Gospel. Show me how to be relentless in the pursuit of my own relationship with Jesus and in sharing his love with others. Give me the strength and the courage and the urgency to be on the move for you, every single day of my life.

Jennifer Tish

01

T h u r s day, M a r c h MARK 4-6

“And he said, ‘He who has ears to hear, let him hear.’”

MARK 4:9

Observation: Just before this, Jesus is talking about different soil and the fact that fertile soil yields crops, while others do not. He then goes on to relate how each of us may or may not respond when given truth. We can forget it immediately, hold onto it until pressed and then lose it, or we may nurture it and allow it to grow within us and around us, much like that fertile soil. Here, I believe, Jesus offers hope. If we have ears to hear, we may listen and learn. We can choose to become nurturing, fertile soil… or not. Application:

Prayer

So many times I’ve read this passage and, of course, hoped to be the fertile soil. This time, though, this specific verse really grabbed me. It showed me the hope, the choice, we have. We CAN choose what type of soil we will be. We do not have to be doomed to being the wrong type of soil and not bear fruit. After hearing truth, it is up to each of us as to what soil we will choose to be and how we might respond. Our Father gives us that option.

Father God, How incredible are You that You love us so deeply that You do not force us into relationship with You and Your Son, but instead you offer us a choice. Do we want to be fertile soil and share Your love, or do we want to turn away from it? Love that is chosen and intended is so very deep. It is true. And that is exactly what You want for each of us. Offering that choice of love, after creating each of us, putting so much love and devotion into every single one of us, and then giving us the option to hate or love You is a bold, brave move. All we have to do is respond. And You give us the choice to respond. Thank you for this love. Thank you for showing me this today. I want to be fertile soil, nurturing Your truth. Please, Father, guide me in following You. Show me the action steps to take and the truth to share. I love You, God. In your son’s precious name I pray, Amen.

Amy Gross

page 17

02

Fri day, Marc h

Mark 7:24-29

MARK 7-9

Jesus made some harsh statements during His time in ministry, but this one might just take the cake for me. Picture the scene: this woman leaves the side of her demon-possessed daughter to seek Jesus out. This same story in Matthew says that the disciples complained to Jesus about her because she “wouldn’t stop yelling at them.” When she gets her audience with Jesus she presents her problem succinctly and makes her request. No beating around the bush—straight to the point. Jesus then answers her with a pretty darn rude metaphor. In this metaphor, she, her people—her daughter—are dogs, and the Jewish people are the children. “You. Come. Last,” He says. While I understand the theology behind this statement—the Saviour came first for the children of Israel, and gentiles’ salvation would occur secondarily—I cannot account for the harshness in His answer. This is another time when Jesus doesn’t do or say what I would want Him to. So I turn my attention to the woman in the story. She didn’t act baffled at all, let alone offended. All she seems to register is that He hasn’t said yes, but also, He hasn’t exactly said no, either—which is why this woman is one of my favorite women in the Bible. She doesn’t have time to be offended. She’s got a goal, and this is her moment; it’s now or never. Slink away and cry in the corner? Not her. Sniffle and storm out in a huff because Jesus was rude? Not even. Instead, she goes with it. The obstacle that He throws up is taken in stride. She jumps right into His metaphor and expands it to point out that, even if things are as Jesus said, there is still a way for her to get what she’s asking for.

Prayer

My deep admiration for her stems from the fact that, when Jesus responds to her in an unexpected way, she doesn’t shrink back and she isn’t shocked. She just follows His lead. By doing that, she walks the path of faith. This exchange expands my understanding of what it can look like to walk faithfully with Jesus. It looks like following His lead. It looks like pressing in. It looks like audacity, and it looks like focus; undeterred by obstacles that might easily derail you. What are the areas in my life where I exhibit such robust faith? A better question might be, ARE there any? What about you? What areas do you bring to Jesus so confidently that you would not be deterred when Jesus’ answer doesn’t fit into the box you’ve built around Him?

page 18

Lord, give us the faith and the tenacity of the Syrophoenician woman. Draw us to Yourself so that we naturally fall into step with You, following Your lead without hesitation.

Hannah Connor

Several years ago we went to a family gathering. You know how they go, right? Hugs, hellos and, “It’s been too long. I haven’t seen you in a while!” I made my way through my aunt’s living room to greet every extended family member there when I looked up to see my dad sprinting from his hello corner across the living room, kitchen and into the backyard, literally pushing family out of the way as he went, almost pushing his own sister to the ground.

03

S at u r day, M a r c h M A R K 10 -12

“What is going on?” I asked as I watched him shoot out of there like I’d never seen. Suddenly I realized something was terribly wrong as he dove into the pool that no one was swimming in to retrieve my then fouryear-old daughter from the bottom of the pool. She was gasping for life and he was the only one who saw it. If he hadn’t caught that split-second of her falling in with his eyes, I would be writing a much different story. I was grateful. I was fearful. I was shaken. I was jolted into thinking about things I never had thought about before. Several weeks went by with this event haunting me. All the “what ifs” weighed heavy on my mind. My motto has always been: when in doubt, run it out. So, I went for a run to clear my mind and open my heart and I found myself talking to Jesus. Now, I have a warning. What I’m about to share is raw, so no judgment, ok? My prayer went something like this: “Lord, I can’t bring myself to cope with all of these ‘what ifs.’ I’ve really thought about this, and I have to tell You something. If I were You, I don’t know if I could’ve done it. I don’t know that I could’ve given my child over to death for anything.” You know what He said back? “Love.” It’s the greatest commandment. “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” –Mark 12:30-31 These words. They’re heavy hitters in Scripture and I fear we sometimes just brush over them. We sum them up pretty well. Commandment one: Love God. Commandment two: love people. Sound familiar? I think I have three shirts that say that (and they’re cute too)! The first one is the hardest. Love God more than you love yourself, your life, the ones entrusted to you and anything that is valuable to you. In other words, love Him more than you love anything on this side of eternity. And, yes, that’s a very tall order. Love is the most expensive gift we could ever give or receive. Then, love others. Love them when they seem unlovable, unbearable, uninterested, and unapologetic. Love them when they’re snarky, rude, hurtful, or demanding. Love. Always choose love. Not because it changes their character, but because it changes yours.

Kristin Bonin

page 19

04

S u n day, Marc h

page 20

G R AC E DAY

Take some time to reflect on this past week and write a prayer for the coming week.

05

M o n day, M a r c h M A R K 13 -14

I’m not sure about you, but every time I turn on the news or look at a news website, I am astonished at the overwhelming number of awful stories that happen every day. Many stories highlight recent hardships and tragedies that have already taken place, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, mass shootings, etc.; other stories are filled with promises of potential tribulations yet to come, such as war, disease, etc. When I read these headlines, there is often a heaviness that fills my soul. How are we to make sense of these senseless and inexplicable events? Well, if we look to the Bible, Jesus warns His disciples several times not only to “watch out” for calamities yet to come, but He tells us that these things must take place. Please read what Jesus tells His disciples in Mark 13:7-8: “And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. This must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. These are but the beginning of the birth pains.” Jesus not only warns His disciples about the tribulations to come, but He also compares the tribulations to the pain of childbirth! Many women have personally experienced the excruciating pain that comes along with childbirth, and for those women who have not, they cringe at the thought. As comedian Carol Burnett once put it, “Having a baby is like taking your lower lip and forcing it over your head.” Ouch! But don’t despair! Our Awesome Jesus is faithful and gives His disciples hope to cling to! Please read John 16:21-22: “When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.”

Prayer

Praise Jesus that He mercifully prepares us with warning about the tribulations to come; and take hope in the joy that He promises after the birthing pains cease! Don’t be dismayed by the earthly tribulations and birthing pains we’re seeing. Be filled with hope that our God promises joy after the pain!

Heavenly Father, praise You for providing us with a warning of what we can expect during our time here on earth, and praise You for providing us a message of hope! Lord, help us learn how to “count it all joy” when we “meet trials of various kinds,” for You tell us that the testing of our faith “produces steadfastness.” Lord, “let steadfastness have its full effect,” so that we “may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:2-4). Amen!

Susannah Huggins

page 21

06

T uesday, March M A R K 15 -16

Out of all the passages in Mark, these two are perhaps the hardest to read. It’s funny how the most brutal of scenes lead to the most beautiful moment in the whole earth’s history. If Jesus taught us anything, it’s that pain is often the path to promise. I wish that weren’t the case, but I can’t think of one fulfilled promise in my life that didn’t come by way of pain. Can you?

If you’re anything like me, you’ve heard, read, or been taught the unfolding of Christ’s crucifixion as so sacred, it is not relatable. I mean, how many of us have been handed over to the government, sentenced by the people, whipped beyond recognition, mutilated and nailed to a cross to die? It’s the most horrifying and unique sacrifice I’ve ever read about. Yet, if we look closely, maybe Jesus’ journey is far more strategic than we realize: • •





The government disowns Him and fails to protect Him. The same mouths that were praising Him a few days prior are now demanding He be killed. He was crucified verbally before He was ever crucified physically. I have to wonder if the pain He felt in His heart by their requests was equal to the physical pain as He struggled to the cross. He is mocked and His identity is called into question. This is where it gets personal. I think we can all agree that it’s one thing for things we’ve done to be called into question, but it’s another thing when who we are is up for discussion. They stripped Him of His dignity, humiliated, disrespected, and abused Him.

I’m confident in this statement: we can all relate to some of these feelings, maybe even all of them. And here’s the good news; He can too. That means He gets us. What happens next is what I love about Jesus the most, His transparency. “At noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. And at three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, ‘Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?’ (which means ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’)” -Mark 15:33-34 (NIV) Do you ever feel like God has flat turned His back on you? Like you’re more untrusted than entrusted? Have you ever just wanted to scream, “Where are You in all of this?” If you have, that’s a great question to ask and Jesus modeled that we should ask it. Because if we dare to ask, He will answer. Can you just hear the voice of God? “No, child, what feels like being set aside is actually you being set apart. Your sacrifice just birthed salvation. Your pain is now a promise. Your horror has been turned to hope.” Broken. Distant. Lonely. And left. Yes, He knows how it feels. Jesus has the ability to look in the face of real hurt and real pain and say, “Me too.” His life proved that, but His resurrection proved that He didn’t rise from the grave the same way He went into it. He rose with power and so can we. “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” –1 Peter 5:10 (NIV)

page 22

Kristin Bonin

07

W e d n e s day, M a r c h LU K E 1-3

Luke 1:5-38 How often have you caught yourself saying or thinking, “I couldn’t possibly,” or “God would never ask me to do something like that”? Awareness of our shortcomings is good when it drives us to Jesus, but too often we limit our expectations of God based on how we see ourselves. We say Jesus is sufficient to save us from our sins, but deep down, we still believe we are too broken to be a part of God’s plan. This is not the case! God wants to work through us, and He is an expert at using what we see as weakness for His purpose. In Luke 1, God chooses two ladies to be the mothers of two important people in His plan: Elizabeth to be the mother of John the Baptist and Mary to be the mother of Jesus. Both of them have their weaknesses. Elizabeth is old and had never been able to get pregnant. Mary was young and unmarried, not from a royal family or engaged to a powerful man. By human standards, both women were unusual choices to be the mothers of John and Jesus, but that’s exactly how God wanted it. One important thing to notice is how Elizabeth and Mary respond to their news. Elizabeth’s response brings praises to God and shows that she is thankful. She says, “This is the Lord’s doing. He has shown His favor to me by removing my disgrace among other people.” Mary does initially ask a question in concern, but gets an answer and immediately recognizes that she is in an important place in God’s plan. She says, “I am the Lord’s servant. Let it be with me just as you have said.” Neither woman says to Gabriel, “You must be at the wrong house,” or “I don’t think that message was meant for me,” even though they could have given a long list of reasons why they weren’t good enough to be a part of God’s plan. God desires our obedience. Sometimes we get it backwards and believe that God needs our talents to accomplish His purpose. Other times, we feel like we couldn’t possibly be used because we think we have nothing to give. The truth is, although God does not need our help, He allows us to use our abilities because He is gracious. When we are faithful to what God has called us to do, we get to be part of His plan. And like Mary, we get to carry Jesus to the World.

Lane Morgan

page 23

08

T h ursday, Marc h LUKE 4-6

“But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.” LUKE 6:27-28

It can be very difficult to treat someone fairly and with respect when that person treats you with dishonor and disdain. How much more difficult is it then to actually love someone who is your outright enemy? That’s exactly what Christ calls us to do. He loved us first—before we came to know him. He continues to love us despite our failures and faults. In return, He asks that we love those who hate or abuse us. But how can we do this? First, know that Christ exemplified this love to the most dreadful of enemies. Our circumstances do not compare to the one He endured. He understands what it takes, having experienced all aspects of this world. And He is with us every step of the way. Second, remember that forgiving and loving others actually lifts the burden from us. It frees us from the past and enables us to move forward with our lives.

Prayer

Third, find strength in knowing that you will draw others to Christ. When we see love displayed in situations of hate, we cannot help but wonder what is behind that person’s gift, be attracted to their courage, and want to find out more. In demonstrating love in all circumstances, we are working toward God’s higher purpose. What can be more important than to help save a life?

page 24

Lord, give me the strength and courage to face my enemies with mercy, love and compassion as You did. Show me how to love others the way that You love me. Amen.

L i n d a Wr i g ht

Thank goodness we serve a God who brings forth life where we see only death! A God who took on human form, walked among us, and chose to move toward the sick, the demon-possessed, and the marginalized ones in society. A God who also chose to lovingly pursue each one of us when we were running hard in the other direction!

LUKE 7-9

I was drawn to this passage about the ministry of Jesus because it was my favorite as a child. I love Luke 8:2-3 where we’re told about some of the faithful followers

09

F r i day, M a r c h

who travelled with Jesus. In addition to His twelve disciples, Luke tells us here about a group of women who were with Jesus: “and certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities—Mary called Magdalene out of whom had come seven demons, and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna and many others who provided for Him from their substance.” As a young girl I always wanted to hear more Bible stories about women, and when I first heard that my name was mentioned in the Bible, I hoped my namesake would have a long and exciting story as a giant-slaying heroine or a beautiful and wise queen. Instead, Susanna is mentioned very briefly here as one of many women who used her financial resources to support Jesus’ earthly ministry. And it sounds like before she met Jesus, she may have been very ill or demon-possessed! Whatever spiritual or physical bondage Susanna was in, Jesus deliberately moved toward her and brought life-changing healing to her. These women—Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, and nameless others—received new life from their encounters with Jesus. Because these women came to Jesus in hopeless bondage, they were profoundly grateful for His healing and forgiveness. These women wanted to offer their time and money so that many others could also hear His life-changing message. Jesus shared His message of salvation with many prominent Jewish men who seemed like the ones most likely to receive Him. These were important men who knew the Old Testament prophecies pointing to the Messiah. They had read the passage from Isaiah that Jesus quotes in Luke 7:22: “The blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, [and] the poor have the gospel preached to them” (Luke 7:22). Many of these men chose not to see how Jesus fulfilled this Scripture and they chose not to hear and apply His words. However, throughout chapters 7-9 of Luke, we see the unlikely ones from society recognizing Jesus as the true Son of God and gladly hearing His words. The seeds of Jesus’ Gospel message took root and sprouted in the hearts of these outsiders. We see a Gentile Centurion with more faith than his Jewish neighbors, an immoral woman who washes Jesus’ feet with her tears when a Pharisee refused to welcome Him properly, an uneducated fisherman who recognizes Him as the Son of God, a little girl brought back to life, and a bleeding woman who has the faith to touch the garment of Jesus and receive healing.

Prayer

Nameless people and hopeless cases came to Jesus with humility and faith. He lovingly received them and offered lifechanging healing. Jesus is ready and willing to offer the same to us today! Where do you need His healing power to break the bondage in your life or in that of a “hopeless” loved one? Will you surrender the situation to Jesus today and allow Him to bring life where you see only death?

Jesus, thank You for dying on the cross in order to conquer my sin, sickness, and death. Thank You for creating my life and sustaining my life each day. Thank you for pursuing me when I was hopeless and offering Your healing power. Please bring forgiveness, healing, and freedom into my life today.

Susannah Huggins

page 25

10

Luke 11:33-36

S at urday, Marc h LU K E 10 -12

S - What spoke to me most as I have prayed over the many wonderful passages in Luke 10-12, and what the Lord might have me share, is a hope-filled passage from Luke 11:33-36.

O – The focus here is the eyes. Darkness is essentially the absence of light, and if there is even the smallest amount of light present, there can be no darkness! Praise God for that! Jesus is speaking here and refers to the health of the eyes as a sign of being full of light or darkness. We can be highly influenced by our eyes and the world around us; therefore, I believe Jesus is calling us to watch what we expose our eyes to, and protect ourselves from being influenced by the dark. He is also calling us to be full of the “light” and share it with others. A – There is so much to address here but one of the most powerful images for me with this passage is a lighthouse. In January 2016 I was in a very dark place emotionally due to our relationship with our estranged adopted daughter. What literally got me out of bed in the morning during that time was whispering to Jesus that I needed help to take a step, and another, and another. In my head I felt like a ship lost at sea and could not see where I was going. If I used my eyes to see the heartache and pain in my little world, I found despair; but if I used the “eyes” of my mind, I saw Jesus as my lighthouse calling me to safe harbor. When I kept looking for Him, I didn’t need to see where I was going or what the future held. I only needed to see that HIS light broke through the darkness enough to help guide me one step at a time. He also provided an opportunity to help me heal by sharing our adoption story and inspiring others in spite of my heartache, an opportunity to let my light shine and be a “lighthouse” that leads others to Jesus, helping them know they are not alone. We must fix our eyes on Jesus DAILY as the lighthouse. We must cling to God’s Word and His promise in several other passages as well such as John 1: 4-5, “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” I remind myself of this promise so often, especially in regard to spiritual warfare. There is an enemy that seeks to discourage us, friends, and he will influence our eyes to see the darkness of the world. Seeing the darkness around us on the news, at our workplace, with our neighbors, with our health, with the challenges we face in our marriages, and in parenting…these are ALL things that can make us feel lost at sea and afraid of the unknown when we take our eyes off of the hope that is in Jesus. HE is the light of the world that belongs to ALL of us just for the asking! It is impossible for the darkness to overcome the light, and Jesus’ promise during this season of Lent and every day is that He WILL overcome it with the light of LIFE.

Prayer

P – This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine! This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine! This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine! Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!

page 26

Thank You, Jesus, for how You love us and give us NEW life. In times of darkness, please remind us that the darkness has NOT overcome the light and we always have hope when we fix our eyes on You! Fill us with Your light and show us how we might be the light of the world to draw others into Your safe harbor.

Shelley Harrington

Take some time to reflect on this past week and write a prayer for the coming week.

11

S u n day, M a r c h G R AC E DAY

page 27

12

M o n day, Marc h

Luke 14:25

LU K E 13 -14

One winter, my husband and I spent time in Pune, India. Our team of 5 was tasked with building two small homes for women in the community who were currently living on the street. We were a rag-tag group of unskilled, fleshy Americans, but our leader was a seasoned missionary who had spent considerable time in India and knew we would encounter plenty of unexpected difficulties. She cautioned us to hold our “plans” loosely, to brace for frustrations and missed deadlines. She knew we were working with a group who was inexperienced and vastly under-resourced. Thankfully we believed her, because we arrived at the worksite on the first day to discover there was only one hammer. Two whole houses to build with one hammer. Dirt needed to be brought from a nearby hill to level the land. With no buckets or shovels around, we had to ask the neighbors for what tools they could offer. We ended up using rice bowls to carry dirt for two days. It might seem ludicrous to plan on building houses without knowing exactly what lies ahead, but many of us embark on the Christian journey similarly. We anticipate easy success. We have an agenda, a checklist, a timetable, and action steps. Jesus reminds us that the life of a disciple is actually like trying to build a tower in a sandy, remote, pre-industrial village. What happens if you embark on a such an endeavor without accurately estimating what lies ahead of you, or as Jesus says, “counting the cost”? You end up slow, frustrated, and not very effective, because the problems will crop up whether or not you’ve braced for them. In our case, 20 eager local volunteers fought over the hammer so much that it slowed progress to a standstill at some points. It was maddening, but not surprising. We were exhausted, but we weren’t discouraged because, while we had no clue exactly what we’d be in for, we had been warned that the process would defy our expectations and set a new bar for the word “challenging.”

Prayer

You see, at the end of our time in India, we had aching backs, bleeding fingers, lice, and blistered feet! But we ultimately achieved our goal. Jesus isn’t encouraging us to settle for failure or live with a morose expectation of calamity. He yearns to one day say to us, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” so He gives us the best advice He can to get us there. If you find yourself frustrated with the Christian life, perhaps sit down again and count the cost. The Christian walk resists our every attempt to manage and streamline it.

page 28

Jesus, help us to put You and Your words at the center of our life. Give us wisdom that we can navigate the challenges that wait for us, and faith to persevere. Draw near and remind us that You’re worth is when the costs seem to rise. In all the difficulties we encounter, however unprepared we are, turn our hearts towards Your face, so that we might be refreshed and ready for another day of faithful work in Your Kingdom.

Hannah Connor

I don’t know about you, but I enjoy going on runs. It is a release for me. When I have a long day and the stress levels rise, I like to run and listen to music to clear my mind. Sometimes I pray and sometimes I stop and soak up the beauty of God’s creation that surrounds me. With each breath in and out, I feel as though I’m letting go of the things that weigh me down.

13

T u e s day, M a r c h LU K E 15 -16

I have also been known to be another kind of runner. A kind that I wish I weren’t. I run from God. I run away from the good things He has for me and choose my own way. I go astray and convince myself that my plans are better than His. Other people are runners, too. Some have run from God their whole lives. Some are spending more time running away from Him during this season. And there are still others who have never heard the Good News of the Gospel. In the midst of all of the running, one thing remains true: our world needs a Savior! And that Savior is Jesus Christ. We are the ones who carry the knowledge of the key to salvation and a life of fullness in God. In the parables highlighted in Luke 15, Jesus attempts to catch the attention of His audience, namely the Pharisees, to let them understand His love for His children who are lost and need to be rescued. The chapter starts out with the Pharisees grumbling in dismay that Jesus would spend time around such lowly people. Jesus drew in all types of people to hear Him speak. He drew in the widow, the leper, the tax collectors, the outcasts of society, and the sinners. The Pharisees and the scribes were also drawn, but they didn’t listen and were often too focused on how appalling it was that Jesus would associate with those who were “less than” in society. These few verses paint a picture of how deeply God longs for His children to be with Him, how deeply he desires our repentance. But His patience is unending—He allows us to find our own way. I can’t imagine how hard it must be for Him to watch us run away from the good things He offers! We are all in need of a Savior—someone to continually run after us when we go astrays, someone to await our return. God doesn’t want heaven without each one of His children! I want to get the same thrill of running after the lost as I do running for release. I want to be a person who goes after “the one” and I hope you will too! I also need people who will go after me when I go astray, to come and point me back to the Lord. That is why my godly community is so important to me—they continually point me back to God.

Prayer

Redemption is always waiting for those who repent.

Lord Jesus, let us never grow tired of going after “the one.” Our world needs YOU. Empower us to live boldly and to love others above all else. Give us words to speak that are Yours. Convict us in our own lives as well. Let us not wander from Your goodness. It is a joy to be caught in Your unending grace!

Courtney Button

page 29

14

W ed n esday, Marc h LU K E 17-18

As a young child, I had a favorite game that I played with my father. Around age three I would stand on the arm of the couch, jump as high as I could, and fall into his safe arms while he was sitting on the ground below me. The game itself was exhilarating, but even more than that, I knew, just knew, that my father would ALWAYS be there. One day, however, dear old Dad was curled up, LYING on the couch. He was sick as a dog, and all my three-year-old brain wanted to do was play “our” game. I took my position on the arm of the couch, called out to my Daddy, and jumped! I knew in my heart-of-hearts he would come to my rescue, my very own Superman. He did not. I, however, ended up with a very nice cast on my arm. I did not believe what I saw happening in front of my eyes. I trusted in my father. I had great FAITH. The overall concept of faith can seem abstract to us, but it really is simple at its core. Faith is having trust and confidence in something. Our Christian faith, specifically, is about having confidence in one man, Jesus. Do we trust that Jesus is who He says He is? I like this quote from Joni Eareckson Tada: “Faith isn’t the ability to believe long and far into the misty future. It’s simply taking God at His word and taking the next step.”

Prayer

We see this type of faith in Luke 18:35-43. Bartimaeus, a blind man, cries out, “Son of David have mercy on me!” Jesus says, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.” In essence, know who Jesus is, proclaim who he is, cry out to him, and then healing comes by your faith. The tricky part for me is the faith part. Many, many times my head knowledge is present, but my heart is somewhere on vacation. If I’m honest with myself, I haven’t taken the time to dwell and really think about the goodness of God. During these times, I need to remind myself how truly GOOD our God really is. Jesus is not like my earthly father who could not make it in time to catch me. Let’s stop letting our lack of trust in others spill over into our relationship with God. We need to set aside purposeful moments to be in awe of God, His character, and His almighty power. Be in constant pursuit of a heart-anchored faith.

page 30

Father, thank You for being so much greater than I can even fathom. Forgive me for a hardened heart and a lack of trust in Your goodness. I lift up any distrust I have been harboring and lay it at Your throne. Help me wade in Your goodness today, whether it be the beauty of a sunset or the smile of a friend. Deepen my faith and help me pursue a love overflowing from my heart, not my head, for You.

H a l e y Wa y

15

T h u r s day, M a r c h LUKE 19-2 0

Since childhood I have heard the story of Jesus’ triumphal entry into the city of Jerusalem. He rode upon a donkey, a colt obtained by disciples. They were obedient to His leading of where to find this animal, and what to reply to those who might question them; “Tell them the Lord needs it.” No one stopped them, no one questioned them. It was to be a colt, signifying Davidic royalty, a symbol of humility and peace. This is what Jesus rode into the city that day of feasts. The crowds shouted, “Hosanna in the highest,” meaning “save now.” They cried out “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord,” an expression of joy and praise. Some of the city people asked, “Who is this?” Others had heard of Jesus’ many miracles, like the raising of Lazarus from the grave, and so they came to witness His entry into Jerusalem. Even the Pharisees watched and muttered to each other, “The whole world has gone after Him!” As I read the passage in the gospel of Luke again, I was struck by these words from verses 41-42, when Jesus came near Jerusalem. Looking at the city He began to cry for it and said, “I wish you knew today what would bring you peace, but it is hidden from you now.” Oh the burden He carried, was willing to carry for them, for us, for me! His heart was surely breaking, again, because those He came for did not and would not recognize His Sonship. Surely, some would come to know, and surely, some wanted to know Him as King and Savior…and so, so many would never know His purpose. He wept. As a modern-day believer and blessed to know the Good News, I look back at the community of believers who shouted Hosannas and praises and I recognize that I am one like them. I follow Jesus, I shout His holy Name, I speak of Him and seek Him. This Jesus is mine to savor and ponder and delight in. But do I look upon the “city” around me and see that there is a vastness of those who have yet to hear the Good News, the saving grace and amazing love that could be theirs? Do I weep for them as Jesus did? Am I complacent and comfortable? No, I often weep for the lost, all the while with hope in my heart that He will use an ordinary person like me to recognize and see the ones who still stand “beside the road” and invite them on the same journey, the same path I walk. The path of communion with our mighty and loving Father God, made possible by simply saying “yes” to His Son. Hosanna in the Highest! Will you look around your spaces of influence also? Will you see what brings tears to your eyes, and at the same time the possibilities for bringing Jesus, the Vine, to take root in another’s life? Walk your walk, take your route into the “city,” ask for wisdom, depend on Him, and make room on the road!

Beth Ellis

page 31

16

Fri day, Marc h LU K E 21-22

“As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. “Truly I tell you,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all of the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.” LUKE 21:1-4

Our God is an observant God! He knows our hearts better than we do. Our fears, our pain, and our sacrifices never go unnoticed, just as Jesus witnessed the widow quietly offering her only savings to the church. This is a beautiful testimony to her complete and utter faith in God! Although she lost her husband and most certainly what little income he earned, her childlike trust in our Heavenly Father allowed her to place all her fears, cares, and future into His hands. Not long ago, my world forever changed when my husband of almost 30 years passed away very unexpectedly. Soon after, my 18-year career with a wonderful company came to an end due to a merger. While I have not felt anger towards God, I have found myself worrying and stressing more over many aspects of my life. Not only have I been trying to manage my daily life through my grief and loneliness, but also asking myself a battery of questions. Can I trust God to provide? Will the right job come along? Should I stay in my home? What are my financial goals now that I am on my own? Can I even continue to give financially to the church? Did the poor widow worry and wring her hands? Doesn’t sound like it. I have been reminded of the richness of God’s promise of provision and care for us as long as we put our faith in Jesus Christ. Philippians 4:19 is one example of God’s faithfulness: “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” One simple truth I try to repeat during my times of worry is that God is God, and I am not! Trusting in Him allows us to put our faith into action, just as the widow in Luke’s Gospel did. Romans 8:32 states, “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” This one passage says it all! The unimaginable love our Father has for us knows no bounds! It is hard to process that Jesus Christ was sent to save someone like me, especially when my worry and doubt shamefully show themselves.

Prayer

During the last year, God has shown me in so many ways His promises fulfilled. It is a daily choice we must all make to follow his teachings and BELIEVE! Because I’m a sinner, I know there will be times I will stray from the path He has laid before me. But didn’t God create me? His grace that comes through our belief in Jesus Christ is the richest treasure all of us can ever know.

page 32

Almighty God, I humbly ask for Your renewal of my spirit and heart. Please forgive me for the times my grief and worry have drawn me into myself and away from You and all Your faithful promises. Allow me to hear Your desires for my healing and deepen my trust in Your living Word. In Your name I pray, amen

Kelly Lanphear

17

S at u r day, M a r c h LUKE 23-24

“Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, ‘Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!’ And having said this he breathed his last.” LUKE 23:46

Last year our grow group did a study on Jesus’ last days. In the midst of that study, I was surprised to learn that these last words that Jesus spoke were actually song lyrics. When Jesus said, “Into your hands I commit my spirit”, He was referencing Psalm 31:5. This Psalm (or song) was written long before Jesus’s time, and the people standing at the foot of the cross would have understood the reference. It would’ve been like a light bulb going off in their heads; they would’ve immediately realized that a prophecy written long ago was unfolding right before their eyes.

Prayer

Take note that the verse also says, “Jesus, calling out with a loud voice.” This means that Jesus wasn’t simply singing to Himself, He shouted it out like a battle cry! He was proclaiming not just what He was doing, which was saving mankind from their sins, but also who He was. He was, in fact, the Savior! The Son of God and man. This realization made Jesus more personal to me. It gave me comfort because throughout my life, when I have faced storms, I too find comfort in song. God’s Word instructs us to cry out and sing praises to Him, to meditate on His Word and to hide it in our hearts. This is the example Jesus set every day of His life and why, in His darkest moment, He poured out His heart in a battle cry song while shedding his blood for you and me. So today, I encourage you to pay attention when you are listening to music. God just might be trying to speak to your heart.

Father, thank You for Your word & thank You for music. Thank You for using music to relate to us, speak truth to us, and comfort us. Thank You for Your son, Jesus! May we follow His example and hide Your words so deeply in our hearts that in times of need, we will lean on them and find rest in You. We love You, Lord! Amen.

Ashley Stover

page 33

18

S u n day, Marc h

page 34

G R AC E DAY

Take some time to reflect on this past week and write a prayer for the coming week.

As John pens the book of the Bible named after him, he by no means wastes any time as he starts off the book. He does not warm us up with a slow intro, but instead jumps right in, in the first two chapters. John chapters 1 and 2 are FULL of profound truths that are written in as if they are statements like, “I went to the grocery store today.” They are tucked in repeatedly, and as I read these chapters, I cannot help but pause. I can’t just keep on reading when I read a statement like, “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us,” among many others.

19

M o n day, M a r c h J O H N 1-2

Today, the verses I paused in were John 1:21-23. In reading this chapter, I have never found myself as intrigued with these particular verses as I did today. These verses read: “They asked him (John the Baptist), ‘Then who are you? Are you Elijah?’ He said, ‘I am not.’ “‘Are you the Prophet?’ He answered, ‘No.’ Finally they said, ‘Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?’ John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, ‘I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, “Make straight the way for the Lord.”’” In these verses, John is being asked who he is in order for Jews to be able to explain to others who he was and why he lived, acted, and spoke the way he did. He was an interesting fella, who would cause people to double take and wonder what was behind his lifestyle. This idea is not foreign to us, as there are numerous verses in the Bible that encourage living differently than the world around us (Matthew 5:14-16, Philippians 1:27, 1 Peter 2:9). Upon reading John 1:21-23 today, the Holy Spirit asked me, “Jill, who are YOU?” In other words, who are you to the world around you? If someone asked you that question, what would be the first few qualifiers you describe yourself with? Where do you find your identity? Usually when I introduce myself, the introduction includes my name, where I work, and where I live. However, Jesus spoke to me in a real way this morning, reminding me that in reality, those are not the first things that describe me. Instead, in reality, I am a voice calling in Spring, TX, “Make straight the way for the Lord!” How quickly does THAT come out in my life? Do I ask Jesus to use interactions I have with people to proclaim His way being laid out? Do I ask Him to even get to speak of Him in consistent interactions with others? I have been humbly praying through my time this morning, that THIS would be who I am: a way-maker for Jesus to be made known each and every day. That upon first (and repeated) interactions with others, that it would be evident that who I am is someone who makes Jesus known and greater around me.

Prayer

So, today, who are YOU? If asked that question, how would YOU respond? Are you one who makes straight the way for the Lord in the midst of your life, your spheres, and your home? Join me in seeking that for ourselves, and praying that we live that out.

Jesus, we are YOURS. We were made BY You and FOR You. So when asked, “Who are you?” The answer should be simple, though we forget and can make it more complicated than it really is. Allow us to make straight the way for You to be present in our lives, and to be on the tips of our minds, hearts, and tongues as we live. We love You. Remind us that we are YOURS!

Jill Sullivan

page 35

20

T uesday, March JOHN 3-4

“Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, ‘Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?’ They came out of the town and made their way toward Him.” “They said to the woman, ‘We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.’” JOHN 4:28-30 & 42

The Samaritan woman went to the well that day to draw water. She was going about her daily routine when Jesus intersected her life. This day suddenly went from mundane to life-changing. Being a Samaritan, she was considered unclean by the Jews. Nor would Jewish men talk with random women in public like Jesus talked with her. This was not a cultural norm. Additionally, she was a woman with a past and a bad reputation, likely rejected by her community. But Jesus meets her right where she is. Jesus is so incredibly relational. He didn’t say, “You need to clean up your act, do better, and be better.” He knows her past, and He accepts her and loves her. He knows She has been looking for love, fulfillment, and meaning in all the wrong things, and He offers her living water—eternal life with Him. He is the only one who can fulfill all those longings. She can know Him and draw from His Spirit eternally. Just as Jesus offered her living water, He offers that to us. The Samaritan woman encountered Jesus in such a way that she couldn’t help but leave behind her water jar and run to tell others about her experience with Him. Her encounter with Jesus became a well of life for others to draw from. She had to tell others and let them in on the good news. This was too great a gift to keep to herself. She told them, “This Jesus, He knows everything about me,” and she invited them to know Jesus intimately for themselves.

Prayer

Have you experienced Jesus in such a way that you can’t help but tell people about Him? Are you willing to leave behind your water jars (daily agendas) so that you can bring others in to meet this One who knows you? Perhaps the excitement of our experience of Him begins with worship. Worshiping Him for what He has done for us and understanding His grace towards us.

page 36

Lord, I thank You for who You are, the Christ, the Messiah, the Savior of the World. Thank You that You know me fully and You love me. Thank You for Your grace towards me. Use me, Lord, to draw others to You. I pray that my experience with You will spill over to others and they would come to believe in You through my testimony. Help me to lay down my agendas to be a conduit of grace to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Nicole Garrett

21

W e d n e s day, M a r c h JOHN 5-6

John 5:1-9 Observation: The invalid man had lived with his condition for 38 years. That’s a long time to lay on the same old smelly mat watching people pass by. When Jesus sees the invalid man, His first words to him are, “Do you want to get well?” You can almost hear the complacency, frustration, resentment, and hopelessness in the invalid man’s voice as he responds with a laundry list of excuses as to why he hasn’t already been healed. With a resolute “Sir,” he recounts how there has been no one to help him into the water when the water is stirred, and that furthermore, while he is trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of him. Application: Whether our brokenness is physical, emotional, or spiritual, we too can become complacent, frustrated, resentful, and hopeless in our brokenness while waiting for healing to occur. And, over time, we too can look at those around us with blame, making excuses as to why we have not yet been healed. All the while, Jesus is standing before us with a simple question, knowing the answer is not within us, but in Him.

Prayer

“Do you want to get well?”

Father, thank You for Your healing power. Help me to not become complacent, frustrated, resentful or hopeless in my brokenness. Help me to not make excuses or blame those around me while I am waiting for healing to occur. Finally, help me to put my trust and hope in You and nothing else. Let me answer You with a resolute “Yes” when You ask me, “Do you want to get well?” no matter what that healing looks like for me. Amen.

Diane Whitney

page 37

22

T h ursday, Marc h JOHN 7-8

In these chapters, the identity of Jesus was questioned. He was called a Samaritan (8:48) and a deceiver (7:12). People said that He “had a demon” (7:20) and that “no prophet/Messiah comes from Galilee” (7:41, 52). The model Jesus gave us is that these demeaning words did not affect Him at all because He knew Who He Was and Whose He Was. My story is a little different. I’ve been affected by a nickname I was given as a young child. An extended family member began calling me “Little Lumpy Lori” because I was a short, chunky child. Unfortunately, the name stuck, and several members of my family have continued calling me “Lump” to this day. I am nearly 60 years old now, and through the years I have struggled with my physical appearance—never feeling like I was thin enough or that I looked good enough. As an adult, the nickname bothered me to the point of angering me. I made internet password phrases about it, which only caused me to keep it constantly on my mind. In recent years, when called “Lump,” I spoke up and expressed the fact that such a nickname didn’t exactly make a woman feel great about herself, but the nickname didn’t stop. After sharing this struggle with my grown daughters, one recently found a verse, 1 Corinthians 5:6-7: “Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a NEW LUMP, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover Lamb, has been sacrificed.”

Prayer

I realize today that my response to the name-calling is the sin I need to deal with. My anger and resentment of the name-callers has caused me bitterness, and is not what Jesus modeled. So, I am confessing this and taking steps to move away from my sinful attitude and response to the nickname. I’m changing my internet passwords to reflect my identity in Christ instead of the “lumpy” identity someone else gave me many years ago. Praise God for this revelation and that my daughter found the verse to help me to see this good news!

page 38

Gracious Lord, thank You for the forgiveness You provided through the cross and for seeing us as new creations. Regardless of what people say or think of us, we can all rejoice today in our true identity as Your daughters!

Lorel Hohl

23

F r i day, M a r c h “I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep and my sheep know me. Just as the Father knows me and I know the Father, and I lay down my life for the sheep.” JOHN 10:14-15

J O H N 9 -10

In reading this Scripture, we are reminded how deeply our Shepherd loves and cares for us. Just as He knows us, we should know and listen for Him. There is a closeness that cannot be broken between a shepherd and his sheep. Even as Christians, we may find ourselves drawing away. Then, as the storm clouds roll in and the rain begins to fall, the only thing left to do is to listen for the voice of Jesus above the thunder. As I write this, I confess that I am sitting here, still damp and trembling from the storm that Jesus pulled me out of, yet again. From the age of 8 years old, I have suffered from chronic migraines and have lived a life of endless pain, both emotionally and physically. Now, at 39 years old, I am still waiting for God to grant me the healing I have so desperately been praying for all of my life. However, with every prayer I send up, and every migraine I continue to have, I realize my prayers just aren’t getting answered the way I wish they would. It’s difficult to stay focused on God’s promises when I find myself in a painful migraine cycle. The voice of my beloved Shepherd begins to become more and more quiet as the darkness of my doubts begin to hammer away at the truth I know within my heart; but He’s still there. He never leaves me. He waits for me, and He calls my name. I may never know why I experience this, but I have learned that I would rather have this pain with Jesus by my side, have the pain and be lost in a storm with no hope.

Prayer

Do you feel yourself drawing away from God when difficulties arise? If so, please know that He’s there, searching for you, arms outstretched and welcoming your return. Seek shelter with Him and rest in His arms. Let Jesus protect you through your storms. When the weight of trying situations, failed outcomes, chronic pain, or any kind of life struggle leads you into a place you can’t find your way out of, listen for the Shepherd. Listen closely for His voice. Let Jesus guide you back into the safety of His peaceful, loving arms.

Heavenly Father, thank You so much for sharing this message with us. I pray that You will help us to apply it to our lives so that we may all learn to trust You with our whole hearts, even when it’s not always easy. Thank You so much for being our Good Shepherd. In Jesus’ precious name, amen.

Maria Solomon

page 39

24

S at urday, Marc h J O H N 11-12

“When the large crowd of the Jews learned that Jesus was there, they came, not only on account of him, but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to put Lazarus to death as well, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus.” JOHN 12:9-11

After Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead, even more people began to believe in Him. The pharisees realized this and determined to kill not only Jesus, but Lazarus as well. Lazarus, by his very existence, was a testament to the divinity of Jesus. It was no good just killing Jesus - this idea that he could bring a person from death to life needed to be deflated, or His divinity would be believed. Of course, the story of Lazarus could be considered our story also. We were once dead in our sins, and Jesus brought us back to life. Not just guaranteeing us a place in paradise with Him or imparting to us His Holy Spirit, but very literally, taking aspects of our life that were full of sin and putting them to death. Some of us were once bound to alcohol, or pornography, or anger, or pride, and Jesus has freed us from that sin like the burial shroud that fell away as Lazarus arose, and He has called us forth by name. It occurs to me that we play the part of both Lazarus, who would testify that Jesus is the Son of God, AND the pharisee, concerned with outward appearances, eager to maintain the status quo. No, we don’t need the threat of the Pharisees putting a price on our heads to keep us quiet today. Our own pride or fear have often done the trick. I shrink from the idea of sharing the ugly parts of my story with others. A few years ago, while working at Faithbridge, my husband got a phone call sent back to him at his desk. He didn’t recognize the voice on the other end of the line, but the caller identified himself as someone that Jason had gone to school with and said, “I heard you were working at a CHURCH—and I couldn’t believe it. I just had to call to find out if that was true!!” This guy that he had known in high school couldn’t believe what he was hearing—this is the effect of a person brought from death to life by Jesus. It takes courage to admit that we were once so sideways that our friends might not even recognize us. It takes humility. Lazarus’ story shows us that when word of a resurrection gets out, people believe. It makes me wonder: if our lives aren’t having that effect on the people around us, are we being honest or outspoken enough about the death that used to claim us and the Man who brought us back? If we weren’t so guarded and secretive, who might pick up the phone, inspired and awed by what they have heard, and say, “Hey. You might not remember me, but—tell me—is it true?” Oh, that you would give us the wisdom and bravery to share our stories, God, all for Your glory!

page 40

Hannah Connor

Take some time to reflect on this past week and write a prayer for the coming week.

25

S u n day, M a r c h G R AC E DAY

page 41

26

M o n day, Marc h J O H N 13 -14

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” JOHN 14:6

Which way do I go? I tend to be directionally challenged. My husband only has to go to a place once or glance at a map and he can pretty much get us from Point A to Point B without any trouble. On the other hand, when first moved to Houston, even for repeat trips to work or the grocery store, I had to ask Siri. Many of us might use Siri or Google Maps for travel, but everyone is searching for answers to life. Everyone has questions about what to do or which way to go in various situations. In John 14:6, Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This gives us some answers for today. Jesus is “The Way.” Wouldn’t it be nice if we had a “Life GPS”? Something that could help direct us the right way, or show us how to get back on track when we’ve made a wrong turn? Guess what? We do. We can use God’s Word and the teachings He has given us to guide us along the path of life. Jesus is “The Truth.” With so many conflicting messages and opinions in society today, sometimes it is tempting to get wrapped up in choosing a side for every political and social debate. Fortunately, as believers, we can be confident that Jesus is the only truth. God’s truth does not change based on current social topics or what stance would better suit me or my loved ones.

Prayer

Jesus is “The Life.” Eternal life can be found through Jesus Christ alone. It cannot be achieved by what we do, only by accepting the free gift of grace. What a perfect gift! God sacrificed His only Son for us. “As a result, he has brought you into his own presence, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before him without a single fault” (Colossians 1:22).

page 42

Lord Jesus, help us to remember that YOU are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Help us not to get caught up in our day-to-day challenges and the political/social topic of the day—help us to hold steadfast to Your Word, Your promises, and Your truth. You do not waver. We can depend on You yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Give us comfort knowing that You are the Way—you lead and direct our paths; You are the Truth—You are consistent, steadfast, and never-changing; You are the Life—You bring joy and give us purpose. Thank You for the peace that only You can provide. Amen.

Hannah Cordova

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.” –John 15:1-2 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” –John 15:5

27

T u e s day, M a r c h J O H N 15 -16

If we take a look at the word “abide” here, we see Jesus is saying that in order to be fruitful we must defer our will and allow Him to live within us. We must even submit to allowing Him to prune away something seemingly good. Many times I’ve found the urge of the Holy Spirit to go a direction I never would have anticipated. Submitting to that pruning has yielded a sweeter, more lush fruit in my life today. Like the pruning we face, Jesus is preparing the disciples for His physical departure from them. “Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you.” –John 16:7 He’s preparing them for the greatest pruning they will ever face in their lives; the removal of Himself and the introduction of the Holy Spirit from that point on. Jesus then goes on to reference the pain of childbirth to that of His own death and separation from the disciples, keeping in mind the Joy to come. “A woman, when she is in labor, has sorrow because her hour has come; but as soon as she has given birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world.” –John 16:21 Labor pains are contractions a woman has to help her baby transition into a new life. If you’re feeling the contractions and pains of life, stop and ask yourself what God may be transitioning you to. Is there something you are contending for? Is there something God is trying to birth in you? Perhaps it’s a ministry assignment or your God-given path that’s set your labor pains into motion. We can rest assured that whatever it is, we are promised His Holy Spirit to see us through. Sometimes the pruning of things and even people in our lives are needed to bring forth God’s best fruit. He makes a promise in John 16:20 that our “sorrow will be turned to joy.”

Prayer

He further goes on to say in verse 22, “Your joy no one will take from you.” What a beautiful assurance of God that what we lose He restores with everlasting joy and new life!

Jesus, thank You for dying on the cross for my sin of unforgiveness. Thank You for Your Word that says if I confess my sin, You are faithful and just to forgive me and cleanse me of all unrighteousness. Thank You for purchasing a way for me to walk in joy despite hurtful circumstances. Thank You for the Holy Spirit, who is working in me to produce good fruit today. Amen.

Kristy Salas

page 43

28

W ed n esday, Marc h J O H N 17-18

“My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.” JOHN 17:15-19

Observation: In His High Priestly Prayer, Jesus acknowledges that He is not going to be physically present with His followers anymore. He petitions His Heavenly Father to remain with and protect His followers. Jesus does not ask that His followers be lifted from this world, but aware of God’s presence in this world and protected from the evil one in this world. Interestingly, the devil works in isolation and deals in misinformation. What providence that, through God’s Name and in His Truth, we are meant to find His presence and protection! Application:

Prayer

God is with me. Often times, I need only remember His Name and call on Him in prayer to feel His presence. Often times, I will ask God to make His presence felt where I see someone in need. Other times, I forget His constant presence. The kindness of others or the prayers of a friend will remind me that God is right there. I am so grateful God’s Word is available to me. Jesus asked God to protect me from the evil one. I enjoy that protection when I am immersed in the truth of God’s Word, reading, learning, cherishing, and claiming His promises. I enjoy that protection when I am sanctified by His Truth, obeying and doing the revealed will of God I have learned. I enjoy that protection when I am following His Voice, which I can discern better as time abiding in Him goes by.

page 44

God, You are our Ever Present Protector. We praise Your strong and faithful name! We have tried to be strong for too long. We have believed lies. We have forgotten You. Forgive our wandering ways. We thank You for Your Word, and all Your promises fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Thank You for always being right with us. Thank You for the guidance and shelter of Your Truth. Thank You for the restful assurance of Your Voice. May we remember You, call on You, trust You, learn from You, obey You and always point others to You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Kelli Hall

29

T h u r s day, M a r c h JOHN 19-2 0 When I read the story of Jesus going to the cross, I am always overwhelmed with emotions. Realizing that He was beaten, His back ripped to shreds, a crown of thorns driven into his Head, nails hammered into His hands and feet—all because of His great love for me—it is almost unbearable to think about.

I also find myself wondering about Mary, His mother. As a mother of all boys, it is hard to imagine seeing my son beaten and bruised and knowing the pain and suffering Jesus was going to endure. But with all the feelings that come with that story, it would all be for nothing if we did not understand the fullness of “why” He chose to do that for us. What effect did it have on our lives or at least should have on our lives? When Jesus went to the cross, He was clothed in our sins. He carried every sin—past, present, and future to that cross and into that tomb. But the glorious reality of it all is that He rose up and left all those clothes behind —all of our sin was stripped and left in the tomb. When Jesus cried, “It is finished,” it was not a cry of defeat, but of glorious victory. Satan’s power to control us destroy us, and to keep us powerless has been defeated. It is finished. The price for the redemption of the world and for you and me personally, has been paid. Anyone who desires to know God and be restored into His image, now has the way opened to Him, and His power is available to each of us. Satan thought that by destroying Jesus, he had destroyed his one and only enemy. Little did he know that when Jesus died and then rose up from the grave, the power of Jesus Christ was then available to all of us. Jesus transferred His authority to us! Ephesians says we are joint-heirs with Christ, sharing fully. We are now clothed with the righteousness of God. Our sinful nature was left in the tomb. Our past failures no longer have to define us. We are clothed with all of who He is. In Colossians, it says that the mystery that had been hidden for all ages is now revealed, which is God in Christ in us—the hope of Glory.

Prayer

In 1 Corinthians, we learn that had Satan known this, he would not have crucified Jesus. Wow! We must have the ability to be a great threat to Satan. Are we living as a threat to him? Or is that a foreign concept?

I pray that God in Christ in you will become the norm in your life. That you will walk in His power and righteousness as a son or daughter of the King of Kings, knowing Who you belong to and the authority you have in Him.

Linda LeCroy

page 45

30

Fri day, Marc h

“Follow Me.” Mark chapter one records these words as the first Jesus ever spoke to Simon Peter, the disciple on whom Christ would build His Church. John chapter 21, the final chapter in the gospel of John, offers these same two words as the last recorded statement Jesus ever makes to the very same Simon Peter. “Follow Me,” He says to his dear disciple and friend. JOHN 21

Why do these words bookend Peter’s story? Because they are the words Peter needed to hear most. In John 21, we encounter a Peter who is lost. He is quiet. He is nothing like the bold, rash, passionate disciple we have come to know and love in the gospels. No, the Peter in John chapter 21 has gone fishing. He has gone back to an old life that no longer fits, because his new life no longer fits. What is even more alarming, our outspoken Peter has nothing to say. Enter Jesus. Jesus sees Peter, just as he saw him in Mark chapter one—a fisherman who is destined for more. Jesus sees a man who has gone back to casting nets that are empty, and Jesus knows exactly what Peter needs to fill them up. He needs Jesus. Peter needs Jesus, and Peter needs to once again leave his nets and follow his Lord. This is the moment, in John chapter 21, when the Lord remakes Peter. On the shore of the Sea of Galilee Peter’s story becomes something incredibly beautiful. His story becomes intimate and raw, and oh so relatable. In John chapter 18, Peter denies Christ on the eve of His crucifixion, not once, not twice, but three times. Every time, Peter is standing around a charcoal fire, near where Jesus has been taken. Peter is warming his hands. He is restless for news. He is heartbroken, confused, and afraid. He is afraid for his Lord’s life, and he is terrified for his own. In that place of fear, standing around a small fire, Peter denies knowing Christ three separate times to strangers who Peter believes have the power to hurt him. Peter’s fear is understandable, sympathetic even, right until the moment Peter’s Savior conquers the grave. When Jesus returns on the third day, Peter must have understood the absurdity and shortsightedness of his fear. His Jesus is King—even over death—and Peter’s life is and was in Christ’s capable hands. All power in heaven and earth belongs to Peter’s King of Kings—just as it did that night around the fire. Fast-forward to John 21, where we discover that Peter has gone fishing. He was supposed to follow his Lord, and he tried. He really tried, but in the end he failed. His faith was too small, and now his shame is too great. When you don’t know where else to turn, you turn back to what you know and what is comfortable. You go fishing.

page 46

But the rash and inspiring Peter we have come to know is not completely lost, because when he hears that his Lord is on the shore, Peter throws himself into the water. This is the same man who once walked on water because he believed that much in his Savior, but now Peter is low. He is humble. He is poor in spirit. Yet Peter knows what he still needs. Peter dives over the side of the boat because His Savior has come, and he will not waste another minute apart from Jesus. When Peter runs up soaking wet, Jesus is waiting around a charcoal fire. Peter’s shame likely confronted him anew when he saw the fire, and with Peter, his emotions come like a freight-train. But this fire is different. This fire is a place to meet with Jesus. Christ had come to share breakfast with his disciples, but do not miss that Christ had come for Peter especially. After the meal, Jesus famously asks Peter if Peter loves Him. Specifically, Jesus asks Peter this heart-wrenching question three times. Was this to compound Peter’s shame? No. It was to erase it. Jesus, in no uncertain terms, is restoring Peter’s soul around this small fire. Jesus is forgiving Peter, and He is commissioning Peter. Jesus is washing Peter’s denials away, and Jesus is doing it with an intimacy and a detail that ministers to me every time I read it. Three redemptive declarations for three denials. Jesus is wiping Peter’s slate clean, and Jesus is waking Peter up! Don’t go back to fishing! Christ is saying, “Come back to Me. You need Me even to catch fish, and you have Me. Yet I have made you for more. I have made you to be a fisher of men. It will not be easy, but I will be with you. You are a new creation, and this is your fresh start. Now, ‘follow Me’?” What do you and Jesus need to deal with this morning around a small fire over breakfast? What nets have you gone back to? What shame has sent you running back to those nets? Hear the directness of Jesus. Hear the profound love that eradicates sin and undoes the wounds in a man’s heart of shame, so that Jesus can restore this man and turn him into the apostle Peter, a mighty, empowered warrior in the Kingdom of Heaven. Do you believe you are worth this kind of grand gesture, this kind of intimate love? Do you believe Jesus sees you from the shore? I’m not talking about the boat, the sunrise, or the other people in the boat, but do you believe Jesus sees you? And what is more, do you believe He has breakfast waiting and the words you need to receive His restoration, to receive Him? Do you believe He is waiting for you, calling you, and wanting to give you Himself? Do you believe He has a purpose for your life, a commissioning for you? Do you believe you can be used in service to your King? Finally, how will you respond when you hear Him say, “Follow Me”? Come to His charcoal fire right now. Spend some time in prayer, meeting with your Savior and your Friend.

April J. Daugherty

page 47

31

Sat urday, March 1 CORINTHIANS 15

Most people do not like to be told the ending of a story or movie, but in this story called LIFE we want to know the ending! It’s what gives us hope to endure! It makes our trials worth it. It makes the crucifixion worth it. If you are a Star Trek fan, you may remember this line from one of the movies. Captain Kirk said, “How we deal with death is at least as important as how we deal with life.” Many of us have had struggles through our life that have caused us to grow weary at times. There’s no way around it—life is hard. We live in a fallen world that effects our circumstances and sometimes our decisions. Even though John 10:10 reminds us that Jesus came to give us an abundant life that is full, we also know we will have temptations and life battles to deal with along the way. But there’s a great ending to your life story. God has already written it into the storybook of your life. In 1 Corinthians 15 we are told about this great ending. Death is not the end, but we must prepare ourselves for it. It says that in a moment, in a twinkling of an eye, when the trumpet sounds, we will be changed, we will be raised to life. The end will be well worth all of life’s hardships we’ve endured along the way. Paul tells us in Romans that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that will be revealed in us. We all are looking forward to that day when we will be changed—when our bodies become incorruptible! We will live forever with our Lord Jesus Christ! The big question we must ask ourselves is, are we ready? Have you prepared for the trumpet’s sound? What do you imagine you will be in the midst of when you hear the sound? Will you be worshiping? Working? Arguing with your spouse? Comforting your kids? We need to ready ourselves for that glorious day! When my mother-in-law found out she had cancer she said to me, “I’m going to die. I’m not ready.” I told her, “The only thing you need in order to be ready is to have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.” She assured me she had and so much of hers and our anxiety was lessened because we knew when she took her last breath, her next one would be with Jesus! My 5-year-old grandson asked me about her passing, and I confirmed that yes, she had died. He put a big smile on his face and said, “Oh, so now she’s alive with Jesus!” Wow—if we could all have that settled in our hearts at such a young age! That when this life is over, our next, more glorious life with Jesus begins. What a comfort to know how that day will end. Do you wonder what that day will hold for you or are you just not quite sure? I encourage you, get it settled now. Romans 10 says if we confess Jesus as our Lord and Savior and believe in our hearts that God raised Him from the dead, we will be saved. It’s an assurance and a confidence we can count on. When the trumpets sound, we will be ready!

page 48

Linda LeCroy

01

S u n day, A p r i l E A S T E R S U N DAY

here risen He is not for He is

page 49