Devotion
Is it enough to be religious?
David Jacobs
It's interesting to see in the Bible that Jesus offended the religious but did not offend sinners. As we are called to be like Christ, this means that it is not our purpose as Christians to go around calling out sinners, but it is our place to call out the religious when they are not in line with the will of God.
Religious leaders often fall into the same traps that Jesus called out the religious leaders in his time for. The leaders had become overly ritualistic, abandoning the loving ways that God had called for in favor of the rituals that comforted them. But true religion - the way of Christ that we are called to live
- is not based on rigid rituals, but on adaptable and flexible love.
We are meant to be soldiers for God, but we have to be careful who we fight as soldiers. Those who fight against sinners are not following in the way Jesus. The bold soldiers are the ones who fight against bad religion, constantly perfecting God's church in the process.
Prayer
Father in Heaven, grant us the courage to fight when your church becomes like the Pharisees were in time of your Son, and fill us with love so that we will be more like Him, Amen.
Devotion
How Do You Choose Your Friends?
Frances Taylor
How do we choose our friends? This week's gospel is about this question as much as it is about humility. I'm sure that when we make up an invitation list for a party or other special event we consider a lot of things, but Jesus is trying to tell us something important in this week's gospel that goes beyond just who we invite, he is also telling us to consider some things about ourselves. This can apply to all age groups!
Our children will learn from us and sometimes we need to learn from our children. Are there people we don't include in our circle of friends because of what other people might think? Perhaps people who are of another race, those who earn less money, people whose educational level is not the same as ours? I know that weddings can often be a bone of contention in families because someone feels the need to invite "the boss" or other people of influence even though there has never been any social interaction before. There ...
Morning Prayer
I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?
Inspiration
Remember the childhood phrase, "Sticks and stones can hurt my bones but words can never hurt me? " Now think about how often we are hurt by the words of another person. Most of us are very sensitive towards the words and actions of other people, rarely seeking refuge in the love of God. Next time someone does something that hurts you, focus on God's love instead of the evil thoughts that can easily follow these times. Gradually, God's love will set you free.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am so thankful for all that you have done for me. I thank you for loving me and helping me understand what love is. Strengthen me in times that are difficult, aiding me when I am hurt so that I can love even my enemies. I know that through you, all things are possible, and I humbly ask that you help me grow with you in life's ...
Night Prayer
But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
Inspiration
We must be sincere with our generosity and give in abundance. God blesses us beyond our means, in some form or fashion. He allows us to provide for those in need with our finances, labor, or time. Our world is broken and filled with those who desperately seek light amidst the darkness. We minister to them by providing for their needs, making our actions reflect Your love.
Prayer
Dear Lord, show us opportunities to share all Your blessings. Help us, minister, to others in a manner that reflects your love. In Jesus' name, Amen.
