Devotion
The Shackle of Wickedness
David Jacobs
My wife's family is not Christian. They are Buddhists, and it has been a challenge for me to accept this. Her family are nice people, good people, caring people, but have been brought up with different traditions and a different religion from my family. It is a debate that I have struggled with in my head: would Jesus not allow these good people to go to Heaven?
The lives of non-believers and other religions may seem easier and less strict than the lives of a Christian. What are the core beliefs of our religion? More than anything, we are to believe that Jesus Christ's teachings are the way, the truth, and the life. We must hold his teachings close, cling to the goodness that they exude, and push away the wickedness of non-belief. Although it may sound blasphemous, much of the principle tenets of Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, and Hinduism are similar to our own. It is wickedness and apathy that God will judge. Apathy may seem free, but it is an apparition: without any guidance, it is the equivalent of being lost at sea. I cannot answer whether or not my wife's family will be permitted to join us in Heaven. However, I think that Christ's teachings are more about attempting to create a kingdom of heaven here on earth. That is why we must follow his word. My wife's family may not be able to go to the heavenly kingdom; I am not sure. I am sure that the evil, apathetic, and lost souls will not be permitted unless they are redeemed.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you have given us all that we need to begin building a heaven on earth, as I believe you intended by sending us your son, Jesus Christ, to teach us. Help us shape the future, molding the apathetic and evil to become your children. I pray that you do not permit me, Abba Father, to stray from your path in my vigor. Please be merciful to the good people that do not know you Lord, giving them a chance to enter your heavenly kingdom, just as you have with me. Amen.
Devotion
False Teaching
Frances Taylor
Unfortunately, Christianity is fractured today. It does not have the oneness that Jesus called for at the Last Supper. However, I don't believe that the leaders who are responsible for the different branches of Christianity did it for unholy reasons. But we have all seen those who misuse Scripture and quote it to support their own agenda. There have been those who abused their influence for money or fame and who promote division instead of unity. Today, there are ecumenical groups in practically every city or town that plan combined services both religious and those that promote social justice. It is not in God's plan that we continue to fight over which is the "right" or "only" way to God. It is in God's plan that we work together to find common ground. Unity does not mean uniformity. If we look around the world, all Christian denominations celebrate their faith in different ways. I have been to Lutheran services in the U.S. and also in Tanzania and...
Morning Prayer
Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
Inspiration
In the context of this passage, the leaders under consideration may also be our ministers, pastors, priests; all those men and women who serve God at the head of our churches, chapels and charities. God wishes us not only to be obedient to him, but also to those within his fellowship who have dedicated their lives to following his words and wisdom. For in order to be truly wise, we ought to also know that knowledge does not spring from oneself alone, but in knowing when to listen, especially to leaders who know the word of Christ inside out, who have spent their lives and careers devoted to understanding his salvation.
Prayer
God on High, my Lord and my Savior. Let me serve you Lord, and all those who do your bidding in your name. Show me wisdom in ...
