Devotion
See the invisible, hear the inaudible
David Jacobs
Have you ever been to a different country and worshipped at a church? On a musical mission trip to Brazil I experienced this unique opportunity. I am unable to speak Portuguese, so it was basically impossible to understand what was being said in the service. However, I was part of my church orchestra and we got to share the ministry of our church through music with various churches in Brazil. It was an incredible experience: we were able to communicate our passion for Christ and celebrate our joyous worship to God together, thousands of miles from home, in a place where we could not speak the language. We didn't need to speak the language, because we knew that we all believed in the same things.
Paul writes these letters to churches in places that he may never get to see with his own eyes. He writes these letters to new believers in Christ, thirsting for more knowledge and guidance from Jesus. He writes these letters not knowing the people's situation entirely, but understand the same things that I understood in Brazil: devotees of Christ look at more than just what can be seen; they hear more than just what can be heard; they look at what is unseen and unheard. Christ the man could be seen and heard, but his message, God's word, is eternal. The material world will come and it will pass, tied to a specific place and time. The Lord, our God, Paul's God, the Corinthians' God, is everlasting.
Prayer
Dearest Lord, your kingdom come, your will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven. Grant me the wisdom to look beyond that which my eyes can see, beyond what my ears can hear, beyond what my hands can touch. Help me, loving Lord, to deal with loss and give up my temporary possessions. I long to join you and your only begotten son, Jesus Christ, in eternal bliss. You are my God, my strength, and my redeemer. 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.
