Devotion
Do you feel special?
David Jacobs
What a tremendous gift we have all been given! God almighty, maker of Heaven and Earth, sent his only begotten son, Jesus Christ, to live amongst us, from the humblest of beginnings, so that He could understand us: to live, breathe, speak, see, touch, and die like us! How often do you consider this? In these verses, Simeon, a righteous and devout man, was worshipping in the temple. Simeon could not have been aware of the birth of Christ; Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple and the Holy Spirit had already visited it. Upon seeing the baby boy, Simeon immediately realizes what he is witnessing: humanity's salvation.
Simeon did not know about this before – how could he? In that moment, however, he knew that he was special. He knew that what he was witnessing was a miracle, one that would change the entire world. He was chosen by the Holy Spirit because he was a good man; he was chosen because God knew he would understand; he was chosen because he was special. Remember this my brothers and sisters: we are all special! We too, have been chosen! We must do as Simeon did: live devoutly, be ready to bring light to the world, and be brave enough to follow through. Simeon brought light into the world by saying that Jesus would bring light to the world. My friends, what do we bring?
Prayer
Loving God, bringer of light, I long to sing your praises! Every moment that I am alive is a blessing, a gift from you, and I pray that you will assist me to work tirelessly bringing light to the world. I thank you, my God, for the examples of our ancestors. Praise them for passing down your word. Lead us to the promised land, where every citizen shall know thy name and glory! For here as it is in Heaven, forever and ever, Amen.
Devotion
Abraham’s Sacrifice
Frances Taylor
Did you ever wonder what went through Abraham's mind when he believed that God wanted him to sacrifice his son? Of course, at that particular time in history, sacrifice of the first-born was not unusual and seen as an offering to the gods who would then allow the rest of the children to live. Did Abraham think that God was like the other gods? We will never know in this world. But God did not want sacrifice in the flesh, but sacrifice in the heart. Abraham was prevented from sacrificing Isaac and was given a ram instead, and for his willingness was promised great blessings. What are we willing to sacrifice for God?
Today, in America, we celebrate our independence. Many men and women sacrificed a great deal for this to happen and many people all over the world have sacrificed a great deal for their independence, independence from tyranny, independence to practice their religion, freedom from fear. Isaac was freed so that he could become the ...
Morning Prayer
But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
Inspiration
We can all remember the people that have taught us the most. People often exemplify the successful, rich, powerful, and beautiful, thinking that they will be happier and feel better if they were more like them. How often do we follow in the footsteps of the people that are the most holy around us? How often do we actively attempt to follow in the footsteps of Jesus? He gave his life for us to even have that chance and thankfully the Bible has written the guidelines for how we need to live our lives.
Prayer
My holy God, help me realize that I too can be holy through you. When I stray from the path of righteousness, I ask that you push me back towards the path, remembering and realizing all that you have taught me. Finally, I ask that you remind me of the sacrifices that you have made, giving your only son as a sacrifice so ...
Night Prayer
Have mercy upon me, O Lord, for I am in trouble: mine eye is consumed with grief, yea, my soul and my belly.
Inspiration
God's heart breaks with us when we experience struggles in this life. He becomes disappointed and saddened when we get ourselves into trouble. We often find ourselves struggling, resulting from our inappropriate actions and choices. We feel regret, remorse, and helplessness. We ask God for guidance during these times because He is the only one who loves us and has the power to help us overcome our struggles. He is our refuge and looks upon us with mercy and grace. His love never fails.
Prayer
Dear Lord, we have faith in Your unfailing love. Thank You for showing kindness and mercy when we struggle due to misguided choices. In Jesus' Name, Amen.