An All-the-Time Compassion

Compassion in Times of Work
Leviticus 25:1-55

"The land really belongs to me, so you can't sell it for all the time." (Leviticus 25:23)

This is a time to focus on compassion... the compassion Jesus showed to a world full of sinner who desperately needed the gift of his sacrifice as well as this similar compassion and love that we are to show to the whole world.

This passage... all the rules about Jubilee remind me of a book I started reading over break Rich Christians in a World of Hunger which presents some different ideas about a present-day jubilee... which I believe our world desperately needs. The old Jubilee rules won't apply to our un-agrarian culture, but our world desperately cries out for a time of equalizing all of the economic inequalities that seem to mount one on top of each other.

Jubilee International is a program that works for forgiveness of debt to the poorest nations of the world. Our brothers and sisters are buried in debt... trying desperately to work that off without the ability to pour money into programs that would benefit their own nations.

While I'm no economist, on a small scale I can try to instate a jubilee... giving where I see a need and constantly recognizing that all that I have is not mine... (that's why I like this verse so much). Honestly, all that I have been given, especially the best things (a promise of eternal life), have been given to me out of the compassion of my Lord. I only have to share that compassion, to share that message and all I have with everyone.

Compassion in Times of Trouble
Psalm 28:6-9

"Praise the Lord, because he heard my prayer for help. The Lord is my strength and shield." (Psalm 28:6)

What a blessing... a Lord who hears me in my times of trouble... in my requests for help. He must get so tired of it. "There's that Katie again... crying out for something else. What is it this time?" But no, every time that I need Him- when I am suffering, when I am confused, when I am saddened, when I am exhausted, when I feel lost, God is there. And God's help comes most powerfully in His forgiveness of my sins. God has taken away my shame. That sin came at a great cost... the price of death on that cross. But that is what shows Jesus' amazing compassion... that He would love us so much to face that... and to be continually compassionate... whenever I turn to Him in prayer.

Compassion in Times of Exhaustion
Mark 6:30-56

"He said to them, 'Come away by yourselves, and we will go to a lonely place to get some rest.' So they went in a boat by themselves to a lonely place. But many people saw them leave and recognized them. So from all the towns they ran to the place where Jesus was going, and they got there before him. When he arrived, he saw a great crowd waiting. He felt sorry for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things." (Mark 6:31-34)

To me, this also demonstrates Jesus' amazing compassionate character. Just imagine. He and his disciples had decided to go off on their own... to a "lonely place." They needed to get away from the crowd, but the crowd followed them. Jesus didn't storm off or turn the boat around or go run off to someplace quiet. No, "he felt sorry for them." Lord, I pray that I may have such compassion... when I am tired, I know that You will give me the strength to do Your work, to be like a shepherd to the sheep who need me in whatever capacity that may be. Show me how to be a light of Your amazing compassion in the world.

Crying Out- For Forgiveness, For Guidance, In Joy!

Cry Out for Forgiveness
Psalm 28:1-5

"Lord, my Rock, I call out to you for help. Do not be deaf to me. If you are silent, I ill be like those in the grave. hear the sound of my prayer, when I cry out to you for help. I raise my hands toward your Most Holy Place. Don't drag me away with the wicked, with those who do evil. They say 'Peace' to their neighbors, but evil is in their hearts." (Psalm 28:1-3)

In keeping with our 3rd day of lent, one thing we cry out for is forgiveness and help... recognizing that alone we are not enough... alone we have sinned and only Jesus can wash away and cleanse those sins. Like the woman with the perfume, we call out to our Rock... who hears our prayers. I have been trying to pray a little Lenten prayer somewhat hourly when possible this season. The importance is going to God in prayer... asking His forgiveness, His care, His help, His protection... and oh what praise that brings as we learn to love the Lord's abounding grace that we so desperately need.

Cry Out for Transformation
Mark 6:1-29

"So the followers went out and preached that people should change their hearts and lives." (Mark 6:12)

Now here is a part of a familiar story (Jesus returning to his hometown) that I stood out to me in a way that it never had before. After mentioning that they should go without anything (actually very representative of the Lenten tradition or paring down to bare necessities and living simply), this very shows what happened. After their hearts and lives had changed, they preached this message to all. This is the read message of Christianity... it is impossible to live as we used to. After we have repented of our sins, the Holy Spirit enters us and teaches us how to live- changing our hearts and lives in such a remarkable way that we look and act differently. Lord, fill me with Your spirit and teach me how to change my own heart and life and spread Your beautiful message that it may change others' hearts and lives as well.

Cry Out in Joy!
Leviticus 23:1-24:23

"...Tell the people of Israel: 'You will announce the Lord's appointed feasts as holy meetings. These are my special feasts. There are six days for you to work, but the seventh day will be a special day of rest. It is a day for a holy meeting; you must not do any work. It is a Sabbath to the Lord in all your homes." (Leviticus 23:1-3)

This is the part of Lent that some people forget about... the joy- again, the "bright" part of the "bright sadness." But traditionally, on Sundays (that special day of rest the Lord has given to us) during Lent people would break their fasts and partial fasts. So, at these moments during this marked time of reverence, reflection and self-examination... we may go to the Lord to celebrate the Easter that is to come... the joy of salvation and the gratitude that come from Jesus' death on the cross so many years ago. And I do have so much to praise Jesus for... this time to return to Him and devote this special season all to my Lord as well as His forgiveness and many many blessings.

And as I spend all of this time in prayer during this time, I remember to rejoice in God's blessings. He is so faithful. Just yesterday, I received an answer to prayer- a possible housing arrangement for next year... which I have been lifting up to God recently. Lord, You are so good to me... I thank You for Your countless blessings that You have poured out upon my life... especially the blessing of Your Son who You sent to save all of our sins.

3 Rs of Lent

Not a traditional Brethren observance, on a church-by-church and person to person basis some Brethren have begun practicing traditions of the Lenten season such as repentance and self-examination. Over the years, I have grown to appreciate this time more, as a time of preparation for the amazing gift of what Easter means to my faith. Easter has always been my favorite holiday and not because of chocolate bunnies and jelly beans, which aren't really my favorites anyway.

To me, Easter is really what Christianity is all about. Christmas is wonderful, but many religions have a leader who was born into the world, whom they follow. Christ was different- God's Son born into this world, yes, but also a Savior... who chose to die... for all of our sins. When my Baba (grandmother) died days before Easter, I made the connection between her death and Jesus' death... which would give her life and grant her entrance into heaven. So, I take this time in the year to prepare my heart for all that Easter means for my life... all that Christ means for my life... because Easter itself just seems to go by too fast. I take this time to devote it all to You, Lord.

The practices of Lent are very individualized and personal (at least in the COB), but I have heard their reasonings presented as: justice to God (self-examination, repentance of own sins and those of others, gratitude for God's salvation), justice to self (renewed practice of spiritual disciplines, prayer especially), justice towards others (generosity, "living simply so that others may simply live," living simply in mindfulness of brothers and sisters, giving also of spiritual gifts, time, devotion, energy and renewed commitment of all my life to God).

Reverence
Leviticus 21:1-22:33

"Remember my commands and obey then; I am the Lord. Show respect for my holy name. You Israelites must remember that I am holy. I am the Lord, who has made you holy. I brought you out of Egypt to be your God. I am the Lord." (Leviticus 22:31-33)

This Lenten season has been called a time of "bright sadness," a moment when we reflect on the sadness of our sins that caused Jesus such pain and hardship, but the 'bright' part is that we know the end of the story... that Jesus took this on so that we would have eternal life. In fact, in addition to reverence, I could add here the importance of reflection, remembrance and respect... all glory and honor and power to the Lord who loved so much... with an unbelievable love that changed the world and has changed my life. Lord, I praise You for Your unbelievable love and I praise You that You have made me holy... asking Your Holy Spirit to fill me with Your power, especially during this time of the year when I renew my commitment to giving it all to You.

Repentance
Psalm 27:7-14

"Lord, hear me when I call, have mercy and answer me. My heart said of you, 'Go, worship him.' So I come to worship you, Lord. Do not turn away from me. Do not turn your servant away in anger, you have helped me. Do not push me away or leave me alone, God, my Savior. If my father and mother leave me, the Lord will take me in. Lord, teach me your ways, and guide me to do what is right because I have enemies. Do not hand me over to my enemies, because they tell lies about me and say they will hurt me. I truly believe I will live to see the Lord's goodness . Wait for the Lord's help. Be strong and brave, and wait for the Lord's help." (Psalm 27:7-14)

Last night at La Iglesia, la Hermana Soto read Luke 7:36-50. While I had never thought of the story of the "sinner who washes Jesus feet" as an Ash Wednesday service, it seemed pretty perfect to me. At this time of the year, we repent our sins (past and present, of commission and omission) as well as those committed by others and those committed by society and the world as a whole (perhaps partially responsible for not stopping things). We cry out to the Lord, asking forgiveness for our sins, asking for guidance and teaching for correction and thanking and praising God for His love and faithfulness and beautiful forgiving grace that washes us "whiter than snow"... such a beautiful hymn.

Recognizing the fact that we are sinners is important. Our sins humble us. Our sins require salvation. Our sins move us to gratitude. As shown in the story, the woman humbled herself... physically leaning down at Jesus unwashed feet, pouring our her heart and her tears and kissing his feet. Even the fact that she (known as a sinner) entered that room... knowing she would be judged is a part of her expressed humility. The scripture also notes that the sin and need for forgiveness moves us to love more. "Her many sins are forgiven because she loved much; but whoever is forgiven little, loves little." This love is a part of the gratitude that we show. What do we give to the Lord... moved by His incredible act of love? We know that we can never give enough. So, we try to give all that we have: an expensive jar of perfume, our tears, our heart. Simon, on the other hand, failed to recognize his sins in the same way the woman did, did not even give Jesus a bowl of water for his feet or the common courtesies of the time. When we admit our sins and acknowledge that Jesus has forgiven our sins, we give it all, all that we have.

Reconciliation
Mark 5:21-43

"The woman, knowing that she was healed, came and fell at Jesus' feet. Shaking with fear, she told him the whole truth. Jesus said to her, 'Dear woman, you are made well because you believed. Go in peace; be healed of your disease.'" (Mark 5:33-34)

And finally, the "brightness"... the beautiful part of the story that leads us to the life-changing message of the cross. God's forgiveness, God's saving grace. In the Lucas text, Jesus remarks that the woman's "faith has saved her, go in peace" (Luke 7:50). An interesting parallel, because here Jesus also mentions that her belief has made her well... also bidding her peace. After the process of repenting our sins, we need to have faith and believe deeply that Jesus' love covers our sins, washes them away. And indeed... gives us a sense of peace. With this peace and the blessing of Jesus' love, we can walk in the world with the assurance that only Jesus can give us- motivated to give all that we have... because Jesus has indeed given us everything.

With My God

Where He Leads
Leviticus 19:1-20:27

"I am leading you to your own land, and if you obey my laws and rules, that land will not throw you out." (Leviticus 20:22)

Sometimes I feel like the Israelites, wandering around the desert, watching for God to lead them. It would be nice to have a cloud in front of me to remind me that God is in control, but I need to remember that I don't need such a visible sign. I know that God is guiding me, and Lord, I lift it all up to You. I will seek to obey Your laws and rules and seek to follow You to whatever "land" You are leading me to... near or far. Lead me, Lord... when You call, I will go where You lead.

Where He Lives
Psalm 27:4-6

"I ask only one thing from the Lord. This is what I want: Let me live in the Lord's house all my life." (Psalm 27:4)

Hmmm.... this verse reminds me of the many times I have been so blessed to be welcomed into people's homes to live with them. When I was in Mexico, I stayed with my Mexican family that became my family indeed. We had scary and sad and exciting experiences together. Living there in that same house, we were so physically and thereby emotionally close to one another. And so it has been each time I have had the opportunity of living in someone's home. I have learned from them and grown to know and love them. Living in the Lord's house... what a blessing... how very very much I would learn from that experience, being able to be so close to my Lord. And my God sent His Holy Spirit to live here in us. So, all my life I can live in the Lord's metaphorical house... the home and life that I dare to live with God.

Where He Goes
Mark 5:1-20

"As Jesus was getting back into the boat, the man who was freed from the demons begged to go with him. But Jesus would not let him. He said, 'God home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you and how he has had mercy on you.'" (Mark 5:18-19)

In a way, I know how this man felt. He was suddenly free of something that had taken complete control of his life. He was calm and together, all because of this Jesus. So, why wouldn't he want to follow him- to stay by the person who had completely changed his life. But, Jesus had a special task for him- to spread the news, to tell others there in his home. The passage goes on to know that the people in these towns "were amazed."

And I know that I feel that desire to follow Jesus, motivated by my great love for Him and my praise for the great change He has brought about in my life. Yet, Jesus wants me in my time here to spread the good news and tell all about the wonders He has done for me, surely too many to count. Lord, thank You for Your Holy Spirit who guides and teaches and comforts me and reminds me of Your commands. I pray that I may faithfully go with You wherever Your spirit leads me, that I may be continually open to Your leading... especially as I reflect upon this season.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Daily Lenten Reading from Global Women's Project
Email: info@globalwomensproject.org (They'll send you your own through email.)

Acts 16:11-15 (New International Version)

Lydia's Conversion in Philippi

¹¹From Troas we put out to sea and sailed straight for Samothrace, and the next day on to Neapolis. ¹²From there we traveled to Philippi, a Roman colony and the leading city of that district of Macedonia. And we stayed there several days.

¹³On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. ¹⁴One of those listening was a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul's message. ¹⁵When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. "If you consider me a believer in the Lord," she said, "come and stay at my house." And she persuaded us.

Dear Friends,

Thank you for your interest in joining Global Women’s Project on our first annual Lenten calendar journey! By using this calendar as a tool for reflection and action for your Lenten devotion, you will encounter the realities of women around the world, as well as honestly looking at the privileges your own life. Each day of this calendar presents you with a scripture reflection, an insight into the lives of our global sisters and brothers, and actions and opportunities to
give financially to the work of Global Women’s Project.

Included in this packet is a sheet with different options to collect your gifts. One option is to cut out and tape the “Lenten Calendar Journey” image on the following page to an empty can or jar to use as a visual for your collection. Or you may simply keep track of your amounts on the attached tally sheet, and use it to calculate your gifts. Please see the last page of the calendar for information on sending in your gifts.

You will notice that all the scriptures chosen are not necessarily inspirational, although certainly many will inspire. Some may confront you. Some may disturb you. Some may bring to your attention stories of biblical women that you have never heard about and situations that turn your stomach. In a way, this is all part of engaging the contemporary global community, and the faith community and stories of the past. Lent is a period of confession and repentance. We seek to confess and repent of our sins as well as the sins of those who have formed us. The Lenten
journey is a difficult journey, but can also be a beautiful journey of transformation, reconciliation, and faithful discipleship.

The monetary gifts from this calendar project will go directly the women-led partner organizations that are in relationship with GWP. As an organization, we seek to educate ourselves (as variously privileged people) about the global poverty, oppression and injustice that women suffer, and how our own overconsumption and misuse of resources directly contributes to their suffering. GWP invites all women to live in solidarity with women around the world seeking to empower women and girls in their own communities in living a life of dignity and respect.

For more information about GWP and our partner organizations, visit our website at
www.globalwomensproject.org or contact one of the steering committee members
listed below.
May you have a blessed journey.
Global Women’s Project

No Fear

No Fear of Anyone
Psalm 27:1-3

"The Lord is my light and the one who saves me. So why should I fear anyone?" (Psalm 27:1)

People... yes, all the trouble that we all cause. It is no wonder that most of us fear people to some extent- rejection, accusation, humiliation, disapproval, disappointment, anger, etc. It's true. People can hurt us, but we need to step back and remember that our value, our hope, our security is not in people who are themselves fragile and so completely fallible. Instead, our trust is in the Lord, our light. With God, I have no reason to act cautiously... timidly... with fear. God gives me the courage to live my life boldly, welcoming all into my heart and my home and my life... knowing the harm they can do cannot compare with God's greatness.

No Fear of Danger
Proverbs 10:9

"The honest person will live in safety, but the dishonest will be caught." (Proverbs 10:9)

How horrible to live your life lying through your teeth. Living a life of lies is living a life of fear- constantly afraid that someone will find you out. Unfortunately, this was once a reality for me. And, it's true. Someone will eventually figure you out, and for me that was what I desperately needed. But now, I can live my life like an open book... answering any question I am asked as honestly as possible. The truth does set you free... from a life of fear. And the great Truth given to us in Jesus gives us security in our salvation, the freedom that Jesus gives us.

No Fear of Storms
Mark 4:21-41

"Jesus said to his followers, 'Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?'" (Mark 4:40)

When things are going well, it's oh so easy to believe, to trust, to have faith. But the stormy moments are the times that allow us to see if we really have faith... or if fear will take over. Jesus, you give me every reason to rest in Your care, not to fear anything. Lord, help me in my faith, to keep from fearing, knowing that You are the Lord who has everything under Your control.

Closer to Thee- God's heart, family and home

Heart
Psalm 26:1-5

"Lord, try me and test me; look closely into my heart and mind. I see your love, and I live by your truth." (Psalm 26:2-3)

As Christians, we see to follow Jesus' teachings, to follow Jesus' heart... live according to Him. And Lord, I seek so much to follow You. I try so hard to keep my heart and my mind pure- only wanting those best things for You and all those I come into contact with. That is what makes it so hard when I feel I've done something wrong. Not only do I fear having wronged someone here but I fear failing You, oh Lord. I fear that I have lost sight of your heart... the teachings of Your love and Your truth that I so desperately seek to follow. So, Lord, I ask that You continue to test me, to try me but also to guide me in Your ways... because Lord I want to continue to walk close to Thee.

Family
Mark 3:20-35

"Jesus asked, 'Who are my mother and my brothers?' Then he looked at those sitting around him and said, 'Here are my mother and my brothers. My true brothers and sisters and mother are those who do what God wants.'" (Mark 3:33-35)

In the Hispanic congregations I've had the privilege to worship with, I've felt this so very deeply. Hbg, Maranatha, Campo Limpo Pta, Tucson, we all would greet each other with "hermano/hermana" and "irmao/irma". And literally there is a different feeling, there is a feeling of a family tie among the people in the church. On Saturday I went to a 15th birthday party as celebrated by my "little brother" from the church here in Tucson. And the family was there- with a special church service in honor of Victor. Last night I went to another beautiful church service. And the family was there- praising the Lord and praying for one another. Lord, I thank You for this family... that does what God wants and encourages me to follow Your will for my life and walk more closely to You.

Home
Psalm 26:6-12

"Lord, I love the Temple where you live, where your glory is." (Psalm 26:8)

Where my Lord lives... not a building or a specific place. My Lord lives where His children are working to do His will... wherever His children are seeking His heart. And Lord, I thank You for the many opportunities to reside in this home of yours: where I can talk of Your will, where I can pray to You, where I can experience the love and support of Your children. May I live in Your house forever, here on earth.

Lord, I do earnestly seek to do only what is right in Your eyes.

Work...

With God's Help
Psalm 25:16-22

"Turn to me and have mercy on me, because I am lonely and hurting. My troubles have grown larger, free me from my problems. Look at my suffering and troubles, and take away all my sins. Look at how many enemies I have! See how much they hate me! Protect me and save me. I trust you, so do not let me be disgraced. My hope is in you, so may goodness and honesty guard me. God, save Israel from all their troubles!" (Psalm 25:16-22)

Sometimes it seems like there are so many problems, so many troubles. What are we to do? Our hope is in the Lord. I'm so glad to have Him to turn to when things are uncertain... such as ever-changing news about funding for next year and GATships. Lord, I know that I can continue to work here as long as it be Your will. I don't need to worry about how things will turn out, because though there are problems and troubles, in the great grand scheme of things which I cannot see... You are in control... and I trust in You, that Your goodness and honesty may guard me.

And Become Rich
Proverbs 10:4

"A lazy person will end up poor, but a hard worker will become rich." (Proverbs 10:4)

Poor and rich... when I think about it these terms are so loaded with different meanings. "Rich" for example can describe an extremely sweet dessert or a person with lots of money or something that is unbelievable or something that is valuable (not necessarily money). Now, you might have picked up by now that I "buy into" the last definition. I have known such richness in my life when I haven't had the most money or the biggest salary or the finest house or the nicest clothes. And though it wasn't easy, and though it was hard work, it was such a valuable, such a rich experience. And those are the treasures that I take with me in my heart wherever I go. Lord, sometimes I feel that You're calling me somewhere again. Lead me, Lord... where You lead I will follow... and I will work hard for these riches that will further Your kingdom.

For Good... Every Day
Mark 3:1-19

"Which is lawful on the Sabbath day: to do good or to do evil, to save a life or to kill?" (Mark 3:4)

Here it is, the familiar account of the healing on the Sabbath. While I am trying to keep the Sabbath, as a day that the Lord has given us as a blessing to honor our Lord and reflect on His holiness and praise His name, I am trying not to be like those legalistic Pharisees. The Sabbath is the Lord's, and just as we should keep it holy, we should do this by doing good and not evil. Jesus constantly shows us that it is not the rules but the motives, not the actions but the heart that matter the most. If our heart is not in our work... if we are not working to try to accomplish something good, what are we doing? Last night at GCF we talked about the integration of our studies and our faith. And for me it is so evident. I am how I teach. My students pick up on it right away, and as an instructor I work hard to do the best that I can... to do good for my students as an example, a source of encouragement, a writing coach, a teacher.

Be Holy...

Why?
Leviticus 11:1-12:8

"I am the Lord your God. Keep yourselves holy for me because I am holy." (Leviticus 11:44)

Because God is holy. Do we need any other reason? Our Lord God in all His greatness displays His holiness in everything- His graciousness and mercy and forgiveness and the beauty of His creation. Loving our Lord and wanting to honor Him, it is only natural to want to imitate His holy character... to set ourselves apart as His. He is the Lord our God, after all. May I be holy and acceptable to You in all I do, Lord.

How?
Psalm 25:8-15

"The Lord is good and right; he points sinners to the right way. He shows those who are humble how to do right, and he teaches them his ways. All the Lord's ways are loving and true for those who follow the demands of his agreement." (Psalm 25:8-10)

Being holy? As sinners, how are we to accomplish such a feat? Well, our Lord will show us and teach us. Through the Bible, through prayer, through brothers and sisters in our faith, God will lead us to this holiness. We only need be humble- asking for God's guidance toward a more holy life... pure and set apart and pleasing to Him.

When?
Mark 2:1-28

"Then Jesus said to the Pharisees, 'The sabbath day was made to help people; they were not made to be ruled by the Sabbath day. So then, the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath day." (Mark 1:27-28)

As I've been trying to observe the Sabbath this year, I've been so blessed and truly experienced that it was made to help us and not that we be ruled by it. It is a great blessing from God... to rest and pray and reflect on the Lord in that day... on His great blessings and take time to feel His peace... a break from the routine. Still, it is not meant to rule us... that we can't do anything. And the Lord who calls us to be holy, calls us to follow Him on this day... helping those who need it, reaching out to others, serving others... all to the glory of the Lord, the Lord of the Sabbath.

Obey

Accepting and Obeying
Leviticus 9:1-10:20

"So fire came down from the Lord and destroyed Nadab and Abihu, and they died in front of the Lord. Then Moses said to Aaron, 'This is what the Lord was speaking about when he said, 'I must be respected as holy by those who come near me; before all the people I must be given honor.'' So Aaron did not say anything about the death of his sons." (Leviticus 10:2-3)

This is a tough story I came across this morning, and one that I like to forget. It's certainly not one that we use for children's Sunday School classes. But important it is... God-breathed and God-inspired as the Bible is. Nadab and Abihu hadn't used the special fire that they were commanded to use in God's presence... not showing respect for God's holiness. So, I once again think about how God and only God is so worthy of all our respect of all our reverence for his holiness. His greatness is too great for me to even comprehend.

But also quite shocking about this story is Aaron's obedience and faithfulness- his acceptance of God's will. He understood what had been done, why it had been done, and accepted that it was the will of the holy Lord God. To not say anything about the death of one's sons, to not cry out in frustration. Lord, I only pray that I could be so obedient- accepting the good and the bad and the ways of your world, your answers that sometimes don't agree with mine.

Trusting and Obeying
Psalm 25:1-7

"Lord, I give myself to you; my God, I trust you." (Psalm 25:1-2)

There is a song that I was very fond of in Sunday School that goes,

"When we walk with the Lord in the light of his word,
What a glory He sheds on the way.
What he says we will do, Where he sends we will go,
Never fear, only trust and obey.

Trust and obey. For there's no other way,
To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey."

The other verses are equally beautiful, but it's the same message again- "giving myself" to God... my whole life- what I do, where I go. Lord, I trust in You and in Your ways... and I give it all to You, for it is all Yours, Father and creator of all.

Fearing and Obeying
Mark 1:21-45

"The people were so amazed they asked each other, 'What is happening here? This man is teaching something new, and with authority. He even gives commands to evil spirits, and they obey him.'" (Mark 1:27)

When Jesus walked into the santuary, the evil spirit immediately recognized him and who he was, "God's Holy One!" as they exclaim. They were afraid... "What do you want with us? Why did you come here?" When I was younger, I was so confused with all the passages about "fearing" the Lord. "How could God be love and also be feared?" I would ask my Sunday School teachers, who were more accustomed to questions about the color of Jesus' clothes for activity book accuracy. But, just as referrenced in the previous two passages- God's holiness and God's power as creator of all. And here, also emphasized is Jesus' God-given authority... to strike fear into the heart of demons. To fear in this context doesn't negate our love for God but adds respect and honor, as shown by Aaron's acceptance. Lord, I love and fear You... for Your holiness, Your power and Your authority.

And with such authority, I cast everything upon You- a prayer for a job for Raad, healing for Kara, the Pastora's family, friends and family near and far, spoken and unspoken prayers... I know that You have You eye on all of us.

Come...

Come...Serve Him
Leviticus 7:1-8:36

"So Aaron and his sons did everything the Lord had commanded through Moses." (Leviticus 8:36)

I have to hand it over to Aaron & Sons this morning. I mean, here he is once again called into the Lord's service, appointed by God... and once again he obeys faithfully. He follows God's commands, God's direction, God's leading. Aaron seems to get the short end of the stick (or staff... to contextualize things a bit more). Moses is afraid to speak... well, it's ok, have your brother speak my words to the people. And that's it. There's the solution. No complaining or "but I can'ts" from Aaron. Once again, called to God's service, Aaron follows faithfully... doing everything that the Lord commands. God, I pray that I may so faithfully come to You when You call... doing what You command.

Oh, Lord, this morning I pray about Raad and Enas... who need jobs so much, God. And I don't know where or how You would have me serve them in a way that would be beneficial to them. Please show me the way, Lord. Please help to provide a job for them... and all of those that so desperately need a job.

Come... Know the Lord
Psalm 24:7-10

"Open up, you gates. Open wide, you aged doors and the glorious King will come in. Who is this glorious King? The Lord, strong and mighty. The Lord, the powerful warrior. Open up, you gates. Open wide, you aged doors and the glorious King will come in. Who is this glorious King? The Lord All-Powerful- he is the glorious King." (Psalm 24:7-10)

[Gates and doors opn. Enter The King.] is how it would read in the stage directions. And can you imagine the schene? The entrance of a strong and mighty and powerful and glorious king! I can imagine it... indeed I can feel it in my heart... every morning as I pray, every evening that I go to Bible Study or church. Last night in Bible Study, I thought once again about how amazing it is to have a God who sent his Son to "come" among us... to live with us in order that we may know the Lord. We see God through all that we know and have learned and observed and studied about the character and works of His Son.

I would like to read this Son as another reminder of how "Jesus is in the Father and the Father in him." The King comes (Jesus as King of the Jews, Prince of Peace, etc) And who is this King? The Lord... The Lord... The Lord... he is the glorious King. Lord, the innerworkings of this trinity is still a great mystery to me, but I praise You for this blessed mystery- a Father in heaven, a Savior sent to live among us, and a Holy Spirit that fills our lives.

Come...Follow Him
Mark 1:1-20

"When Jesus was walking by Lake Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew throwing a net into the lake because they were fishermen. Jesus said to them, 'Come follow me, and I will make you fish for people.' So Simon and Andrew immediately left their nets and followed him." (Mark 1:16-18)

No matter how many times I read this passage it is amazing, maybe because I try to put myself in the shoes of Simon and Andrew.

This story for a Katie: "When Jesus was walking around the U of A campus, he saw Katie preparing a lesson and reading because she was a Graduate Assistant of Teaching. Jesus said, "Come follow me, and I will make you prepare people's hearts for me." So Katie immediately left her computer and books and flashdrive and followed him.

I wonder, how does your story sound? Have you ever dropped everything to follow him? Maybe not your whole job... but perhaps a morning routine, the big game, a couple hours of tv, that special dinner date... given to help someone in need, visit someone who was sick, offer a hand of service for a meal or preparation for a church service.

This morning 2 things stood out to me especially: "because they were fishermen" and "immediately left their nets". They were fishing, of course, because they were fishermen. Nothing out of the ordinary. Simon and Andrew were called out of their normal daily lifes. I hope that I would listen so closely to God's call as to hear him in my busy daily life. I want to make room for You, to hear Your call, God. And... "immediately left their nets"- two parts to this. Immediately, right away... no hesitation or second thoughts or wonderings or let me think about its. And they left their nets. Without a net, they couldn't fish any more. They left their only way to earn their livelihood, they left everything. I wonder, what would I give up? What wouldn't I give up? Lord, I pray that if You call me, I would go immediately and drop everything that You ask me to... go to where You send me and do what You ask of me. I will come to You Lord, so thankful that you beckon me to Your side.

Try to Follow

Despite the Failures
Leviticus 5:1-6:30

"The Lord said, 'A person might sin against the Lord by doing one of these sins: He might lie about what happened to something he was taking care of for someone else, or he might lie about a promise he made. He might steal something or cheat someone. He might find something that had been lost and then lie about it. He might make a promise before the Lord about something and not mean it, or he might do some other sin. If he does any of these things, he is guilty of sin.'" (Leviticus 6:1-4)

Even those who are trying so hard to follow the Lord slip and fall sometimes. It's important to recognize and repent for our sins, because in this we can recognize the beauty of a merciful gracious forgiving God who and His perfection which so starkly contrasts against our own sinful tendencies. What stood out to me in this verse this morning was how completely undated it is. No one would read this and think, oh, this is definitely a 'blast from the past'. Not at all. It's scarily true even today- the same kinds of sins and difficulties and temptations that people face right now. And how amazing it is to think that God's love- Jesus' sacrifice- is big enough to cover all of our sins... sins from back at the time of Jesus' death and sins that we commit today. Lord, I try to follow You faithfully, but when I sometimes slip and fall I thank You for Your grace and love and forgiveness which covers my sins... and leads me to follow You even more.

Asking Help from God
Psalm 24:1-6

"Who may go up on the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy Temple? Only those with clean hands and pure hearts, who have no worshiped idols, who have not made promises in the name of a false God. They will receive a blessing from the Lord; the God who saves them will declare them right. They try to follow God; they look to the God of Jacob for help." (Psalm 24:3-6)

This verse really touched me this morning, especially "They try to follow God; they look to the God of Jacob for help." That's about right to me... I try to follow... try as hard as I can. And sometimes I don't even realize I've said something or done something to portray a completely different message to someone that I never meant to convey. But I praise God who is good and merciful and just, who can see that I am trying so hard. And my Lord cleanses my hands and purifies my heart, and I can once again walk with Him... rejoicing in my God who saves me and declares me right.

And Lord, a special prayer... I ask for help. I pray for Your comfort and Your peace and Your guidance... as my heart hurts a little today. I need You.

Obeying Jesus' Call
Matthew 28:1-20

"Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All power in heaven and earth is given to me. So go and make followers of all people in the world. Baptize them in the name of the the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach them to obey everything that I have taught you, and I will be with you always, even until the end of this age.'" (Matthew 28:18-20)

As a follower, I am not just called to follow... but to make followers of all people. And how good it is to follow the Lord. Jesus is my comfort and strength... the most important part of my life. And I only need to reflect on this to remember how much people need to come to know Christ, to accept Him into their hearts and come to know them. Lord, I give this day to You. As I try to follow, show me the moments You are creating for me to make followers as well.

God Gives

Forgiveness
Leviticus 3:1-4:35

"In this way the priest will remove the person's sins son he will belong to the Lord, and the Lord will forgive him." (Leviticus 4:35)

Just in the course of this short reading, this verse is repeated three times. The echo of "and the Lord will forgive him" touches my heart this morning. We no longer need to offer burnt sacrifices on an altar before the Lord, but when we offer our lives and accept Jesus into our heart, His voice echos, "I forgive you." Sometimes I think I fail to accept and truly understand that my Savior has forgiven me... for the very fact that it is so hard to forgive myself for my failings, my misteps, my sins. How can one so holy, so perfect, so good... love me so much as to give up his life and forgive me my sins? Yet our God's mercy is abounding, and His love is perfect... and He forgives me. If my Lord forgives me, I know that I must also forgive myself and others, 70 x 7 as the scripture goes.

Everything
Psalm 23:1-6

"The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need." (Psalm 23:1)

A familiar favorite this morning... which lists so many things that the Lord gives to us... all of the best things. Nourishment (green pastures, still waters), renewal (new strength), direction (paths that are right), peace (I will not be afraid), guidance (rod and staff comfort me), provision (prepare a meal), wealth (oil of blessing on my head), goodness, love, home (dwell in the house of the Lord). I can see all of these listed in this popular verse. Oh, God, You have given me so many gifts... and I am so very very thankful. I sing Your praise for all of these good gifts that You have given to me... everything that I need and so so much more.

Forever and Ever

A Forever Agreement
Leviticus 1:1-2:16

"Salt stands for your agreement with God that will last forever; do not leave it out of your grain offering." (Leviticus 2:13)

Salt, a favorite addition to dishes of all kinds, was a much more precious commodity back in the day when it wasn't so easy to preserve foods. Leftovers? Stick it in the fridge. The what? Salt, known for its powers of preserving food and making it last is here seen as a symbolic addition to the grain offerings given to the Lord- a reminder of the agreement with God that will last forever.

Wow... what a beautiful reminder that is. I hope to keep this in mind every time I see salt throughout this week. In a world where nothing seems to last very long, I am so thankful, God, that all of the promises, all of the agreements, all of the love that You have offered me are forever.

A Forever Lord
Psalm 22:22-31

"The people in the future will serve him; they will always be told about the Lord. They will tell that he does what is right. People who are not yet born will hear what God has done." (Psalm 22:30-31)

The Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. Our God was served and worshiped and known way back in the day... and still now we praise His holiness. And people in the future will learn to know and love the Lord God. From generation to generation, our God is not a fashionable fad but a father of all creation who was and is and is to come.

A Forever Savior
Matthew 27:32-56

"At noon the whole country became dark, and the darkness lasted for three hours." (Matthew 27:45)

A dark day indeed. It is quite fitting that the skies darkened on such a day. While the darkness lasted only three hours, the unfathomable sacrifice of our Savior lasted much longer. Praise the Lord. Jesus laid down his life for us in a way that saves all of us forever... if only we accept this gift.

Today in church, we read that familiar verse- "greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." And if we are to love as Jesus loved us, we must lay down our life for our Lord (who is our friend in a personal relationship that we seek with Him) and each other (who we are told to love... not just our friends). What a challenging scripture. Love is something that comes kind of easily to me... but laying down my life, leaving all aside. This evening the hermana spoke of the Phillipians 3 passage where he "considers everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have lost all things." (8) Lord, you laid down your life on that cross so long ago... dying to save me from my sins. I pray that You take my life... I will lose it all for You, God, because You are the most important part of my life and I want to follow where You would lead me.

Love's Labor

Labor that Built the Holy Tent
Exodus 39:1-40:38

"The Israelites had done all this work just as the Lord had commanded Moses. Moses looked closely at all the work and saw they had done it just as the Lord had commanded. So Moses blessed them." (Exodus 39:42-43)

All the altars and vests and robes and tablets and tables and curtains and poles and bowls of olive oil, all of these detailed instructions were followed "just as the Lord had commanded." Moses must've been very pleased, just as God was pleased with their work... but even moreso with the loving way that they took the care to do it "just so," exactly according to God's commands. Sometimes you can always tell when something is made for you or done for you, in such a completely loving way... a simple crayon drawing or a delicious blueberry cobbler or a comforting hug just when you need it the most. I am convinced that God, "who looks at the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7), also knows and is pleased when we give and work from our love for Him. I remember the joy I felt when I graduated from college and could give my first tithe and how easy it was for me to see Jesus as I worked with friends and students and irmaos in Campo Limpo. Lord, may all my work (my studies, my teaching, my interactions with everyone everday) reflect my love for You.

Labor that Protects Us
Psalm 22:19-21

"But, Lord, don't be far away. You are my strength; hurry to help me." (Psalm 22:19)

Any parent will know that it is hard work to take care of just a couple of children- a constant daily labor that I had only a taste of when I inherited two little boys (my Mexican brothers) for three weeks (all day, every day) a few summers ago. At playtime, at mealtime, at bedtime and every other time in between, the younger the child the more protecting and supervision they needed. You can't be far away for very long. (I'm reminded of Amy who is sick along with her two adorable children, how difficult that must be... I pray for them all to feel much better soon.)

Well, Abba, our dear Father, is always nearby... and I feel that I am always crying out for help in times of struggle, for guidance in times of confusing, for comfort in times of loss. And like the most wonderful parent that He is, my Lord is my strength... and always is faithful in responding to me in some way, showing His great unfailing love for someone so small as me.

Labor that Saved Us All
Matthew 27:1-31

"So Pilate said to Jesus, 'Don't you hear them accusing you of all these things?' But Jesus said nothing in answer to Pilate, and Pilate was very surprised at this.... All the people answered, 'We and our children will be responsible for his death.'" (Matthew 27:13-14, 25)

Such a painful scene, but so important to our faith. First, Jesus' amazing truly incomprehensible love is shown in his silence. He doesn't start to make a case for himself and point out that he's done nothing wrong. Of course he hasn't... but that's not the point. Jesus did not need to face that cross. The man that performed so many miracles certainly could've avoided the cross, but out of obedience to the Father and love for every one of us, He went willingly. And this is what makes it all the more powerful.

And this second verse also stood out to me, that the people (perhaps unknowingly) recognize that they and their children are responsible for Jesus' death. We really all are, because Jesus died to save us from our own sins. What happened was our responsibility, but Jesus forgives us- not for any ordinary death but a painful and shameful death. The king of the world took on our sins in an amazing expression of love. I still cannot quite comprehend the depths of this love, but Lord Jesus I praise You for this, and I thank You for the hope that You have given to me and the extent of that loving sacrifice.

A Lasting Love

A Lifelong Love
Psalm 22:9-18

"You had my mother give birth to me. You made me trust you while I was just a baby. I have leaned on you since the day I was born; you have been my God since my mother gave me birth. So don't be far away from me. Now trouble is near, and there is no one to help." (Psalm 22:9-11)

This seems to harken to Matthew 18:3 that we must become like little children in order to enter the Kingdom of God. Children are amazing in their complete love and trust and acceptance of God's goodness. While it is true that we need to keep spiritually maturing and putting 'childish things behind us,' it is also true that we need a childlike heart that so fully depends on God.

I personally believe that all children sense God's presence in a way, although they may not put it into words or express it that way. Perhaps I should speak from my own experience. I know that as a child I felt very close to God. There was no doubt in my mind that I needed God had always been with me and that I needed God for everything. As we grow, we fool ourselves into believing that 'we can handle it.' And it somehow seems (as the Psalmist describes) that we wait until times of trouble that we turn to God once again as a child... crying out for help to the loving God who has always been there for us.

A Rich Love
Proverbs 8:12-21

"What I give is better than the finest gold, better than the purest silver." (Proverbs 8:19)

Again, as money is such a touchy subject in recent days, it's hard to think about the reality of this verse... and how it affects so many people who are very seriously in need of 'gold' and 'silver.' But, it's interesting to reread this verse, and know that what the Psalmist gives is better than the 'finest' gold and 'purest' silver. The writer recognizes that Our Lord wants to provide for basic needs... through the church, through volunteers, through organizations, through employment services, through food banks, through the Pslamist himself. Still, these are not the greatest things. In Matthew 6:19, we are remember that these 'treasures' are the kind that moth and rust can destroy. Still better to fix our eyes upon the lasting treasures given to us through the truly rich love that God has offered us in Jesus' ultimate loving sacrifice which offers us eternal salvation from our sins.

A Forgiving Love
Matthew 26:57-75

"And Peter remembered what Jesus had told him. 'Before the rooster crows, you will say three times that you don't know me.' Then Peter went outside and cried painfully." (Matthew 26:75)

This betrayal must've been so painful for both Peter and Jesus (who knew what was about to take place). I'm quite fortunate in that I can't think of a similar example in my life. Still, I think in little things we are able to see how greatly we fear such a painful mistep by a close friend. We carefully hide ourselves before we build enough trust with someone, and then the moment that they disclose some information that we deemed private or say something hurtful, etc., we retreat and distance ourselves a bit more.

What did Jesus do? Jesus knew that Peter would betray him, but Jesus loved him. Jesus washed Peter's feet... and while I have always seen this as purely a symbol of servanthood, I have recently grown to more deeply appreciate its value as an act of cleansing and forgiveness of sins. Jesus, help me to love in this way... with such a great gorgiving love that it covers all of the pain caused by small or great sins.

To Do What is Right

~Most of us continually aim to do what is 'right,' and while this may spur on a philosophical discussion about whether this statement implies a certain overarching type of Jung's Universals, let's stick to the practicality. At least as Christians, we have a certain common guide on 'what is right'. And we can use God's gifts, teaching, and prayer to follow in the 'right' way.

Skills
Exodus 35:1-36:38

"Then Moses said to the Israelites, 'Look, the Lord has chosen Bezalel son of Uri the son of Hur, from the tribe of Judah. The Lord has filled Bezalel with the Spirit of God and has given him the skill, ability, and knowledge to do all kinds of work. He is able to design pieces to be made of gold, silver, and bronze, to cut stones and jewels and put them in metal, to carve wood, and to do all kinds of work. Also the Lord has given Bezalel and Oholiah, the son of Ahisamach from the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others. The Lord has given them the skill to do all kinds of work." (Exodus 35:30-35)

The Lord has given me so many blessings in my life, and among them is the blessing of meeting so many wonderful and faithful Christians who have put their God-given talents and skills to good use for the furthering of the kingdom. My roommate in Brazil, Marisa (tutoring director), had such an amazing ability to work with children, Dick Shreckhise (LCOB pastor) an amazing art for storytelling, my Uncle Rod (Young Adult leader, ordained minister) unbelievable patience and compassion, Christy Dowdy (pastor SCOB) a generous source of guidance, Daniel DeOleo and his family (MMF) warm and welcoming hearts that invite all into their hearts and homes, and Dave Witcovsky (Juniata chaplain) a great source of encouragement along the journey. Oh, but there are so many more... in each place where God leads me, most recently Shalom, Iglesia (here in Tucson and in Irvington).

Just like Bezalel and Oholiah before them, each one of these faithful servants and so many more are using their God-given talents, abilities, skills to 'do what is right', to further God's kingdom. Lord, I pray to follow the lead of so many examples in my life... to use the skills (dons) You have given to me and do what is right in Your eyes.

Another example, right here at the U of A... to help me teach in a way that is honoring to God... http://uanews.org/node/23789

Teaching
Proverbs 8:6-11

"People with good sense know what I say is true, and those with knowledge know my words are right. Choose my teachings instead of silver, and knowledge rather than the finest gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies. Nothing you could want is equal to it." (Proverbs 8:9-11)

Sometimes the choice between right and wrong is honestly a choice between an extra paycheck or none. The current economic climate makes these choices between what is right and what is profitable particularly difficult. Still, I am encouraged by stories of friends who have recently reported (albiet somewhat sadly) mistakes with money that involved giving back what was not theirs. After all, we have all the access to all the riches that we need- riches in the wisdom and teachings in the Bible. If we are to be generous with giving out of our material wealth, then how much more should we give out of our spiritual wealth... the beauty of the treasures held in the Bible are not for us alone. To me it would seem that 'doing what is right' is not only following these teachings (guarding these riches) but sharing these teachings (telling of these treasure). Lord, teach me to uphold Your teachings and also share these with all who need to know You.

Prayer
Matthew 26:26-56

"Then Jesus went back to his followers and found them asleep. He said to Peter, 'You men could not stay awake with me for one hour? Stay awake and pray for strength against temptation. The spirit wants to do what is right, but the body is weak.'" (Matthew 26:39-41)

I am quite encouraged this semester that the GCF (Graduate Christian Fellowship) is focusing on prayer. Prayer is a moment that we can spent in communion with God, seeking God's will for our lives, lifting up prayer concerns, praising our Creator for the wonderful gifts He has given, asking forgiveness for the moments we have fallen. And yes... we can ask for strength and guidance. Jesus here seems to point out that just trying (of our own accord) to do what is right is not enough. Our bodies (our physical selves) are not enough to guard against temptation. We are human- we are weak... and our bodies and souls need the strength that God can give us in prayer in order to continue to follow the Lord's will and way for our lives. Lord, I pray to You for strength in this day and those that follow... that You may guide me in Your ways, because Lord my spirit does want to do what is right, but my body needs the strength that You can give to follow faithfully.

God's Glory Shines

On Moses' Face
Exodus 33:1-34:35

"But he did not know that his face what shining because he had talked with the Lord. When Aaron and all the people of Israel saw that Moses' face was shining, they were afraid to go near him." (Exodus 34:29-30)

I imagine someone's face shining, full of some kind of fluorescent light, and I must admit that I'd probably be a bit afraid to go near Moses, too. Yet, while I haven't seen anyone with a brightly lit face (save the occasional Halloween costume), I have seen people whose faces "light up," in a figurative manner of speaking, when talking about their service to the Lord. They talk about their Vacation Bible School theme, their servant evangelism project, their worship with the Germantown Choir, their weekly bible study, or the Cajas de Alabastro.

There is an 'hermana' at the church whose face seems to light up to me as each week during the month of February she reminds us of the significance of the Alabaster Box that collects money to be sent for missions. She faithfully places what offering she has in the box and tells of what this will do and where it will go. From her "shining face," I know that God has given her the heart and mission to remind us of our part in this ministry. Lord, may my face shine with the words that You have given me... as I allow You to fill me with Your glory and Your mission for my life... everyday.

In His Power
Psalm 21:8-13

"Be supreme, Lord, in your power. We sing and praise your greatness." (Psalm 21:13)

God's power is so great... so much greater than I can even really imagine or comprehend. And the most amazing part is that God in His greatness will give me the power to do His will. Alone I could certainly not face the task of communicating with refugees from diverse places of the world or set off on my own to a different country or speak peace in a violent world. Andrew reminded me last night that God's power fills us with the ability to show God's shining glory to a dark world that so needs to see God's almighty presence. And for this, we praise God's greatness... with all that we do through His power. Lord, show me where You would have me use Your power this day, so that I may live and display Your glory and sing Your praise with my life.

In the Woman's Alabaster Jar
Matthew 26:1-25

"Knowing what had happened, Jesus said, 'Why are you troubling this woman? She did an excellent thing for me. You will always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me. This woman poured perfume on my body to prepare me for burial. I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached in all the world, what this woman has done will be told, and people will remember her.'" (Matthew 26:10-13)

One of the most amazing things about the Bible is the inclusion of women throughout the text. Comparable books written at that time, and in that cultural and societal setting, display little mention of women. So many stories in the Bible include women as prominent characters, as role models even. While everyone was sitting around and Jesus was having a meal, this woman enters with a jar of expensive perfume and pours it on Jesus' feet.

The humble act of service combined with the generous expensive gift must've made this scene quite shocking. In fact, it is to these reactions that Jesus replies, "She did an excellent thing for me." This woman gave all that she had (her money and her pride) in order to honor the Lord who was there before her... preparing Jesus for his burial and in a way 'washing his feet' before the next scene in which Jesus knelt to wash his disciples' feet. This woman recognized Jesus' amazing glory in a way that others in the room had learned to take for granted... to be in Jesus' presence in a very real way, she knew how sacred and holy and glorious and special an experience it was.

And for this, Jesus promises that she will be remember, what she has done will be told about... her testimony will shine in all the world. Lord, may we learn to serve You so humbly and honor You with such generosity... that it may be a light to all generations.

Guard Against

Impatience
Exodus 31:1-32:35

"The people saw that a long time had passed and Moses had not come down from the mountain. So they gathered around Aaron and said, 'Moses led us out of Egypt, but we don't know what has happened to him. Make us gods who will lead us.'" (Exodus 32:1)

We live in a culture that searches for immediate gratification... everything right now. But this problem isn't so recent. It seems that people have always had trouble waiting, practicing patience. In this verse, the Israelites "saw that a long time had passed." We don't know how long a long time is, but they were tired of waiting. They wanted an answer, a leader right now. These troubles resulted from their impatience, their lack of willingness to wait for Moses to come back down to them. Lord, sometimes I am impatient. I want to know now what You will is for my life, where You would use me. Teach me to wait patiently... knowing that You have plans for me and You will make them known in Your time.

Doubt
Psalm 21:1-7

"The king truly trusts the Lord. Because God Most High always loves him, he will not be overwhelmed." (Psalm 21:7)

Sunday in church the pastor spoke of one of those all too terrible events, the one that you hope never to touch your family, or anyone's family. A death of someone too young. And again, I was flooded with sadness and pain as I couldn't help but remember the agony of losing my cousin, over a year and a half ago now. It's so strange how all of the pain seems so close and real, despite the passage of time. And I remember those very dark days when I wondered how I could trust in a God who would let such things happen to my cousin, to the whole family. At times, it seemed so much more than I could bare. But, God forgave me my moments of doubt, and I realized that even in those darkest hours I could turn to God in prayer... for a power that I needed to get me through the pain. Lord, especially when it is hard, I need to trust in You.

Apathy
Matthew 25:31-46

"Then those people will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or alone and away from home or without clothes or sick or in prison? When did we see these things and not help you?' Then the King will answer, 'I tell you the truth, anything you refused to do for even the least of my people here, you refused to do for me.'" (Matthew 25:44-45)

Sometimes I feel so challenged by this scripture. I pass by and come into contact with so many people every day. And even those I don't meet upon the street, that doesn't excuse me, for the scripture even speaks of those 'in prison'. Just because someone is far away, in a different situation, just because we are busy... none of this is an excuse not to serve our brothers and sisters, not to care for the least of these. I know so many amazing BVSers, now and in times past, who have given up years to work where there was a need. And now I pray, Lord, that You teach me how to care for Your people here everyday- not letting my apathy or business or my own life get in the way.

Trust in the Lord's

Presence
Exodus 29:1-30:38

"I will live with the people of Israel and be their God. And they will know that I am the Lord their God who led them out of Egypt so that I could live with them. I am the Lord their God." (Exodus 29:45-46)

A god who lives among us... oh Lord, Your goodness is too much for me to understand. That You would live here with us. And I feel Your presence all around me... as I call out in prayer, as I walk on a lovely trail looking at the amazing clouds and admire a colorful sunset. Lord I trust in the presence of Your holy spirit to guide me through each day... as I attempt to live it for You, God.

Protection
Psalm 20:6-9

"Some trust in chariots, others in horses, but we trust the Lord our God." (Psalm 20:7)

Ah the old war references. Yes, I am a pacifist, and thus very very biased on this account. But I agree with this Psalm. Our trust in wars is misplaced and illogical. It's a 'solution' that isn't really a solution to anything. It has never fixed the problem and taken years and years in some cases. Instead of thinking of an alternative way, people just keep doing the same thing over and over again- the same plan of attack. Now I know there are proper precautions in certain areas, but sometimes I feel that security systems and armored cars and large armies with nuclear weapons make us feel 'safe' quite falsely. Back at the September 11th attacks, no one could believe it. Why? Because we trusted the strong, powerful, invincible US Army to protect us from these kinds of things. This trust is misplaced, because no one is invincible except God... no one is powerful except God. Lord, let me trust in You for all things, for my protection.

Purpose
Matthew 25:1-30

"He gave... to each [servant] as much as he could handle... The master answered, 'You did well. You are a good and loyal servant. Because you were loyal with small things, I will let you care for much greater things. Come and share my joy with me.'" (Matthew 25:15, 21)

Such a beautiful verse, which I actually read in church yesterday... what a coincidence. It is a very lovely story in its entirety, but these two parts especially stood out to me this morning. God gives each of us as much as we can handle- a unique purpose designed to meet our gifts and passions and the world's need, as some would put it. And God has used my gifts in so many settings where it has just worked so beautifully, where I have felt of use- Hbg 1st, Lancaster, DR, Guatemala, Brazil. When I think back on those experiences, I know that I must follow where God leads me, as his 'good and loyal servant,' because I have felt so close to God in those times. And I trust that God will reveal His purpose for my life as it unfolds... because after each short moment of service (small things) in MSS (Ministry Summer Service) or a DR Youth Conference, God has given me the opportunity to serve in greater things... a 2 year term of service. Lord, I love these moments serving You, and I pray that You show me how to trust in You and follow Your lead, because I love these moments... serving and sharing in Your joy.

Gifts

Given to God
Exodus 25:1-26:37

"The Lord said to Moses, 'Tell the Israelites to bring me gifts. Receive for me the gifts each person wants to give.'" (Exodus 25:1)

Not much of a gift-giver myself, at one point it was hard for me to receive things. But when in Brazil, I quickly learned that giving and receiving gifts was an important part of connecting with people. And gifts (physical or spiritual) are an important part of the way that we connect with God. The gift of time (in a quiet time of devotion, prayer, worship), the gift of song (in a hymn or praise music), the gift of service (to neighbors and those in need), the gift of offerings (tithes and donations), and the spiritual gifts that God has given us to use.

While home over break, my church called me to consider ministry... and since then (although really many times over before then), I've been seriously praying about how God is calling me and where God would use the gifts He has given me. These gifts that God has given me are to be used in His service, and Lord I pray that You guide me to where that may be. In the "Take My Life" Conference, as I prayed, I felt affirmed that God is calling me to ministry in some form... although I'm not sure how or where or when. Lord, I want to give You my life... every day and wherever You lead me, I will go.

Given to Us
Psalm 20:1-5

"May the Lord answer you in times of trouble. May the God of Jacob protect you. May he send you help from his Temple and support you from Mount Zion. May he remember all your offerings and accept all your sacrifices. May he give you what you want and make all your plans succeed and we will shout for joy when you succeed, and we will raise a flag in the name of our God. May the Lord give you all that you ask for." (Psalm 20:1-5)

My God has already been so faithful to me, blessing me with so much more than I could ever hope for- a loving family, wonderful opportunities to serve You, friends that I have met from so many places. So many beautiful days and people and settings and treasures. I thank You, Lord for so many uncountable gifts. I praise You for the wonderful gifts You continue to shower me with each day. Thank You, Lord... I cannot thank You enough. Oh, Lord... I know that I am encouraged to pray without ceasing and allowed to pray for all things. So, while I pray for many things, I also pray that You may grant me what I want, what I ask for. And Lord, You know the desires of my heart.

Given in Service
Matthew 24:36-51

"Who is the wise and loyal servant that the master trusts to give the other servants their food at the right time? When the master comes and finds the servant doing his work, the servant will be blessed. I tell you the truth, the master will choose that servant to take care of everything he owns." (Matthew 24:45-46)

Perhaps this verse seems quite crazy to someone who has never lived a life of service... working for others in some volunteer position or another. Yet, to others, it will make perfect sense. Just like the verse that tells us that we must lose our life in order to gain it. I have been blessed beyond belief by each of the times I have been living in "service" to others. I am convinced that others were really the ones serving me- teaching me more about how to live, how to love, how to share and what is really important. God, I want to learn more every day how to be like this wise and loyal servant.

And the Glory, the Glory of the Lord

Seeing God's Glory
Exodus 23:1-24:18

"When Moses went up on the mountain, the cloud covered it. The glory of the Lord came down on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it for six days. On the seventh day the Lord called to Moses from inside the cloud. To the Israelites the glory of the Lord looked like a fire burning on top of the mountain. Then Moses went into the cloud and went higher up the mountain. He was on the mountain for forty days and forty nights." (Exodus 24:15-18)

Moses went up to the mountain to receive the stone tablets with the ten commandments written upon them, and Moses met with God. I cannot imagine the power of that experience... standing before the Lord in all His glory- praise, honor, distinction, great beauty and splendor. It must have been so awesome to even be the Israelites as they looked at the burning "fire" and "cloud." It's hard to imagine what it must've been like. Lord, I await that day that You call to me... that I may see Your glory. May I always remember that I do not live for this life alone, but thank You for the precious gift of salvation which welcomes me into Your kingdom where I will see Your glory.

Declaring God's Glory
Psalm 19:1-6

"The heavens declare the glory of God, and the skies announce what his hands have made. Day after day they tell the story; night after night they tell it again. They have no speech or words, they have no voice to be heard. But their message goes out through all the world; their words go everywhere on earth." (Psalm 19:1-4)

While I can't see the Lord's glory in the powerful image of a "fire" or a "cloud," I certainly can see God's glory around me. Here in Tucson, the mountains seem to sing praises to God's honor who created the heaven and the earth. And I see it in the sun and the amazing moon... that always seems so breathtaking here. But also in dear friends, who share Your love with me in a prayer, a conversation, a cup of coffee and kindness. Lord, the whole world that You so lovingly created shares Your glory... and I as a part of that pray that You help me take that message throughout all the world... everywhere on earth. Lord, I certainly pray for You guidance and direction for my life. Sometimes I feel that You are leading me into missions again... and I pray that You lead me wherever You would have me go, whatever You would have me do... all in Your glorious name, my God.

Praising God's Glory
Matthew 23:23-39

"Many times I wanted to gather your people as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you did not let me. Now your house will be left completely empty. I tell you, you will not see me again until that time when you will say, 'God bless the One who comes in the name of the Lord.'" (Matthew 23:37-39)

I feel that I so needed this verse this morning. Oh Jesus, how I want to feel You gathering me in, under Your wings... I need Your protection and love and grace this morning. After receiving my student evaluation reports which were not really bad but less than I expected, I feel quite disheartened. And yet, I know that I can only turn to You and pray that You guide me and help me to really reach my students, help them, teach them. Alone I am never enough, but Your goodness, oh God, can help me to do all things. Always a bit better, always a bit improved... with Your power and strength and wisdom. I praise You for this amazing love that You offer to me and the most glorious gift of Your Son, whom You sent in Your name.

The Power of One

One Law
Exodus 21:1-22:31

"Then God said to Moses, 'These are the laws for living that you will give to the Israelites..." (Exodus 21:1)

After being given the ten commandments, God set up 'laws for living' so that the Israelites would know the expectations and the consequences. A practicality that exists in all sorts of societies and social groups today (from nations to family units). Imagine if everyone in your city set up their own laws. It would be utter chaos. We are so socialized into our 'laws' and 'morals' and 'social constructs' that sometimes we can't see another way. Yet, ask someone from another country and they will explain the many laws that could just be handled differently (driving on the opposite side of the road for instance). There would be nothing wrong with that law, as long as everyone were abiding by it. But imagine a 'To Each His Own Town' where people could decide where to drive and when and how. God's people were living together, and God gave them a just set of laws to unify their living. God, I love the laws that You have given to me in this beautiful book which guides my living... may I learn to always live according to this one law.

One Salvation
Psalm 18:46-50

"The Lord lives! May my Rock be praised. Praise the God who saves me!" (Psalm 18:46)

Our God, who sent His Son to earth, is our one salvation. It is evident to me that many people in society are searching for something... and they don't know what they are searching for. I need to tell them of the salvation that I have found in the one Lord... the living Lord who was and is and is to come. In this one verse, so many awesome aspects of our God- living (real, alive, present), protecting (caring, strong, mighty), saving (powerful, gracious, merciful). Oh Lord, my Rock who saves me... how I pray that You save all of those who are hurting. This morning I pray especially for my dear friend Kara. I know that you know her and love her, Lord. I pray that You surround her with your living, protecting and saving presence... comforting her heart, mind, body and soul... and heal her please, oh Lord. We believe in the power of the source of our salvation.

One Master
Matthew 23:1-22

"But you must not be called 'Teacher,' because you have only one Teacher, and you are all brothers and sisters together. And don't call any person on earth 'Father,' because you have one Father, who is in heaven. And you should not be called 'Master,' because you have only one Master, the Christ. Whoever is your servant is the greatest among you. Whoever makes himself great will be made humble. Whoever makes himself humble will be made great." (Matthew 23:8-12)

This reminds me of yet another Brethren-ism. My dad would always recount how his father (a Brethren pastor) would try to discourage people from calling him "Reverend." (Brethren don't use this term, so it was probably people from other backgrounds or who had used it elsewhere.) The reasoning is simple enough... reverend comes from "revered." Revered: showing honor to or worthy of honor. If only one is worthy of a title such as 'Teacher,' 'Master,' or 'Father,' a title such as 'Reverend' should also be saved for our one Master. In fact, as a child I would refer my pastors with their first name only... very common in my church. I'd be talking about Ken to my friends at school, and when they asked "Who's that?" and I responded with "my pastor," they would be shocked. But that's how I experienced it growing up: we are all brothers and sisters together... all pastors in some way shape or form... and all humbly serving our one true Lord.

Keep God's Commands

On The 7th Day
Exodus 19:1-20:26

"Remember to keep the Sabbath holy. Work and get everything done during six days each week, but the seventh day is a day of rest to honor the Lord your God." (Exodus 20:8)

This year I am really trying to keep the Sabbath holy. Out of the ten commandments, it is the one that we most easily disregard. And granted, Jesus did work on the Sabbath- performing miracles and taught those Pharisees not to be so legalistic. But, I see such a great blessing in observing this day... honoring the Lord, praying with friends, appreciating all of God's great gifts. Lord, one day is not enough to worship You, but I can at least offer that... one day each week to honor You and at the same time be blessed myself for the refreshing rest that you offer us.

It's also interesting to note that there is no record of anything on the last Sabbath of Jesus' life. While we can only speculate, it seems quite possible that at the time when so much was on the verge of happening, Jesus took a day to rest and worship.

In Mind
Proverbs 6:20-25

"My son, keep your father's commands, and don't forget your mother's teaching. Keep their words in mind forever as though you had them tied around your neck. They will guide you when you walk. They will guard you when you sleep. They will speak to you when you are awake. These commands are like a lamp; this teaching is like a light." (Proverbs 6:20-23)

This seems to allude to another commandment- honor thy mother and thy father. Honor them through keeping their commands and teachings. When I was young, I remember that my mother and father knew everything. More amazing that superheros, faster than a speeding bullet. Somehow in my adolescence, I saw that maybe my parents weren't quite the perfect superhumans I thought they were. And then, sometime during college and shortly thereafter, I came to the conclusion that somehow my parents were almost always right... they had this amazing source of knowledge and wisdom and advice that perhaps you only acquire after become parents. So, I now turn to them for advice and prayer and wisdom... just as I had in my younger years.

My parents, being human, have taught me and guided me so well. And if this is true of my parents, I know that I must turn to my heavenly Father to seek His commands and teachings... which I pray may guide my life.. walking, awake, asleep... in my mind forever.

In Order of Importance
Matthew 22:23-46

"'Teacher, which command in the law is the most important?' Jesus answered, ''Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.' This is the first and most important command. And the second is like the first: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the law and the writings of the prophets depend on these two commands.'" (Matthew 22:34-40)

Again, this verse can sometimes be too familiar to us to take it seriously... for the challenge that it really presents. Our love for the Lord must be greater than everything. It must be complete... heart, soul and mind. It reminds me of Luke 14:26, "If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters- and yes, even his own life- he cannot be my disciple." Not that we should be hating these people, but that our love for the Lord must be that great. Our love for the Lord must "trump" everything.

And the second most important- that we must love our neighbor. Again, so easy to say but so hard to do... to watch out for the good of another, pay attention to needs and wants and desires and concerns and joys... to truly love someone is not easy, but it is such a blessing... a blessing for the one who is doing the loving. Last night we talked about feet washing... a passage I've read several times a year every year, and every time I read it, it is more meaningful me. Perhaps one of the most meaningful experiences with feet washing was last year at my friend Carol's wedding when she and Jason washed each other's feet as a part of the service. So meaningful and beautiful, and I am sure that they continue to daily 'wash each other's feet' ... living out this second greatest commandment.

Lord, may I live and love this way... following all these commands that You have given to me... because they are so good. You are so good, my God.

A Better Way

To Help
Exodus 17:1-18:27

"Moses' father-in-law said to him, 'You are not doing this right. You and the people who come to you will get too tired. This is too much work for you; you can't do it by yourself. Now listen to me, and I will give you some advice. I want God to be with you." (Exodus 18:17-19)

To me, this story shows me the importance of listening to God's direction which can come from friends, spiritual leaders, brothers and sisters in Christ. It is important to get the input of other people... to listen to what they have to say, to advice they have to give. Sometimes, they see a better solution or a better way for you to take your spiritual gifts to the Lord. And it is important to note that Jethro's advice is motivated by what he feels God is saying... "I want God to be with you." When I chose to go into BVS, my service site was not an easy decision for me, but after communication with the directors of the church in Brazil, leaders of the program, parents, and close friends, I knew that was where God would "be with me." Lord, I ask that you guide me now... give me the wisdom to listen to my brothers and sisters for the direction that You would have me take in my life... which is Yours. I give it all to You.

To Live
Psalm 18:30-42

"You give me a better way to live, so I live as you want me to." (Psalm 18:36)

A better way to live. Living as the Lord would have me live- what a challenge, a challenge that I admit I fall short of. Yet God is gracious and good and understanding and patient and loving. He loves my efforts to follow faithfully in His footsteps. We tend to see all things as a dichotomy... one color or another, when really it is a spectrum of options. Help me to see "the third way" as some call it... "the better way"... "another way of living"... "another way of believing."

To Invite
Matthew 22:1-22

"But the people refused to listen to the servants and left to do other things. One went to work in his field, and another went to his business. Some of the other people grabbed the servants, beat them, and killed them. The king was furious and sent his army to kill the murderers and burn their city. After that, the king said to his servants, 'The wedding feast is ready. I invited those people, but they were not worthy to come. So go to the street corners and invite everyone you find to come to my feast." (Matthew 22:5-9)

Ah, this story is challenging as well, because of the examples that are so applicable to today's society. When invited, one had work to accomplish and another business to attend to. These are two of the most common 'excuses' given (especially in grad school). Well, God doesn't want us to neglect our responsibilities or become lazy, but I do feel that it's important that we get things in the proper order. What is of prominent importance in our lives? God needs to be our priority... we are invited to a feast, to a wedding... into times of worship, prayer and communion and fellowship with our Lord. That is no kind of invitation to ignore.

Enough Said (Feb 2)

Enough Provision
Exodus 15:1-16:36

"I will cause food to fall like rain from the sky for all of you. Every day the people must go out and gather what they need for that day." (Exodus 16:4)

As in the familiar hymn, "Pray, oh, pray that holy manna may be scattered all around." So beautiful the story of manna... daily bread that truly was a daily bread. Relying on God for provision... day to day requires faith in God's providence. God will give us enough... what we need, and it also reassures us that it is from God. Of course, it always is from God- whatever we have- yet we sometimes forget and sometimes try to take credit. Actually, God is always the only 'breadwinner' of the family. Lord, thank You... for I know that all good things come from You, dear Lord. And You are the one who gives me what I need for today... all days... every day.

Enough Goodness
Psalm 18:20-29

"Lord, you are loyal to those who are loyal, and you are good to those who are good. You are pure to those who are pure, but you are against those who are bad. You save the humble, but you bring down those who are proud." (Psalm 18:25-27)

God's loyalty, goodness, purity... in essence, God's Godness is enough for us to confront anything. We need not fear rejection or isolation or failure or any of those quite naturally instilled human fears, because God if God is with us, who can be against us? In light of God's character, we have only to be humble... recognizing that we are nothing but that God is everything. God doesn't need us at all, and yet loves us and yet seeks us. Lord, I praise You and know not how to thank You for the unbelievable blessings (too many to recount) that You have given to me. Yesterday I had only to whisper thank You with my whole heart and soul... the whole day through. It reminds me of the childhood so that I loved so much,

"God is so good,
God is so good,
God is so good,
He's so good to me.

He answers prayers.
He answers prayers.
He answers prayers.
He's so good to me.

He loves me so.
He loves me so.
He loves me so.
He's so good to me." Amen, Lord.

Enough Direction
Matthew 21:23-46

"'Tell me what you think about this: A man had two sons. He went to the first son and said, 'Son, go and work today in my vineyard.' The son answered, 'I will not go.' But later the son changed his mind and went. Then the father went to the other son and said, 'Son go and work today in my vineyard.' The son answered, 'Yes sir, I will go and work,' but he did not go. Which of the two sons obeyed his father?' The priests and leaders answered, 'The first son.' Jesus said to them, 'I tell you the truth, the tax collectors and the prostitutes will enter the kingdom of God before you do. John came to show you the right way to live. You did not believe him, but the tax collectors and prostitutes believed him. Even after seeing this, you still refused to change your ways and believe him.'" (Matthew 21:28-32)

A familiar story, and one that I would sometimes liken to my brother and myself. When Jerry and I would have a day off of school, my mother (expert list-maker) would leave a long list of chores to complete and things to do. I would groan that I had my own list, complain and state that I would "do what I could;" while my brother would quickly respond that he'd do it. At the end of the day, when my parents came home, lo and behold, I had finished my own school work as well as the long to-do list while Jerry had been busy doing other things... probably Sega or something of the sort. Now, this story deserves a disclaimer. Jerry was quite young at this point... and I always had somewhat of an 'old soul' as some people would put it. So, with the older child's sense of responsibility, I'd set to work accomplishing what needed to be done and let me little brother be my little brother.

The point here, however, is an important one in our Christian living. Jesus points out that our actions must follow our words. If not, our words are empty. In fact, Jesus seems to even point out that in some cases our actions are more important than our words. If you have been shown the right way to live, you need to live it. Believing is connected to a visible change in your ways. If you truly believe with your heart, you will be motivated to live differently. As I see it, this is the very roots of Christian pietism... a need to live out our faith. Lord, teach me to let me words and actions be of one heart... that follows Your direction for my life every day.

Powerful Presence (Feb 1)

Powerfully Present during the Journey
Exodus 13:1-14:31

"The Lord showed them the way; during the day he went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud, and during the night he was in a pillar of fire to give them light." (Exodus 13:21)

I can only imagine the trek the Israelites were making. Some must've questioned how long it would be before the king with his army came after them. Some must've wondered whether they were really meant to go in the first place. Others must've been curious what they were actually doing or where they were actually going. But... the Lord was present with them in an amazingly powerful way- a pillar of cloud that guided them along their way... not only giving them a sense of direction but also an amazing reassurance of God's presence with them.

I have often told it to people- that for me, presence is the most wonderful present to me. Today, when people have a million things to do and a million things on their mind, it is no easy task to be with someone... and really be there... not planning your next assignment or organizing ideas. Of course there are times when that needs to be done, but in giving a powerful present of presence- I believe you need to be there... in a shared prayer, a common feeling, simply focused time together... being there.

For me, this is the most powerful testimony of God in my life... I have sensed God's presence as He has led me to different opportunities, to different moments, to different aspects of ministry. Perhaps not as visible as a pillar of cloud before me, but I have felt God's directing me in the moments that I've simply needed to go somewhere or do something. I couldn't tell you why or how exactly, but to me... that's part of the magnificence of God's power... which gives me light. Lord, I pray that I continue to follow as You show me the way- to follow faithfully, wherever You lead me.

Powerfully Present in Trouble
Psalm 18:7-19

"The Lord reached down from above and took me; he pulled me from the deep water. He saved me from my powerful enemies, from those who hated me, because they were too strong for me. They attacked me at my time of trouble, but the Lord supported me. He took me to a safe place. Because he delights in me, he saved me." (Psalm 18:16-19)

How beautiful the love of my God who saves me from trouble. Yesterday in church we prayed for the missionaries, and yes, I prayed. To me, it is a matter of deep importance, because I have been there. Living in a different country with different people is no easy task. All of a sudden you are uprooted not only from everyone who is familiar but from everything that is familiar. There are times of deep loneliness... times that you can almost taste it... but those are the times that I learned to turn to the Lord in prayer and study and meditation. And Lord, how I praise you... for reaching out to me in those times of loneliness and taking me to a safe place... rejuvinating me, giving me energy and love and the power of Your spirit... to continue Your work. Lord, I do pray for all of those missionaries... all of those in all of the churches in all of the world, who are working to further Your kingdom, Lord. May they turn to You and feel the power of Your support.

Powerfully Present in Prayer
Matthew 21:1-22

"So Jesus said to the tree, 'You will never again have fruit.' The tree immediately dried up. When his followers saw this, they were amazed. They asked, 'How did the fig tree dry up so quickly?' Jesus answered, 'I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will be able to do what I did to this tree and even more. You will be able to say to this mountain, 'Go, fall into the sea.' And if you have faith, it will happen. If you believe, you will get anything you ask for in prayer.'" (Matthew 21:19-22)

This verse will always remind me of my friend Kammy... who mentioned it to me as we went up to Mt Lemon... recognizing the beautiful reminder of this verse all around us here in Tucson. And even moreso now, because we have begun the lovely tradition of getting together at certain times in the week for a prayer. My lovely sister in Christ is such a wonderful encouragement to me, as we share our concerns and joys and requests and lift it all up to the Lord... believing in His power to do all things- to move mountains, to comfort souls, to provide guidance.

Lord, I pray for Kammy this morning... that she may finish her work and devote her Saturday to You at the conference, that You care for her family back in Botswana- her brother especially, that You comfort and fill both Kammy and her husband with your peace and guidance for their life during this time when they are so far apart, that You care for her spiritual parents and sister Lala who is dealing with a tough situation, and I also praise You Lord for this wonderful friend that You have given me.