Devotion
Journey into the Promised Land
David Jacobs
I am an American. I am also (mostly) proud to be an American. When I think of my homeland, I mostly consider the incredible landscapes; places so beautiful it is hard to imagine that they even exist. I also consider the people; coming from all over the world yet somehow bound by an underlying culture. Lastly, I think of our beliefs; although some may disagree, it is a country that wants to be free, to be a leader, and to hold strongly onto our beliefs. I have a powerful connection to my homeland, but my true allegiance lies with another power; a power far greater, one that crosses borders, language, and even time. I am a Christian above all else, and no matter what happens to my country, I will always pledge my allegiance to God.
Abram proves his loyalty to God famously in the book of Genesis. Few characters in the Bible are as loyal and devout as Abram, and his loyalty is rewarded. It is rewarded with a covenant between God and his family, one that will last for generations. He trusted in God, venturing out into the unknown, because he knew where his allegiance laid; his allegiance was not to a place, not to a person, not to a country. His allegiance was to God. He encounters a multitude of difficulties but always perseveres because he knows, as we all should know, that God always stands by his side.
Prayer
O God, my Shepherd, keep me from doubt. I pledge my allegiance, my undying loyalty, to you, now and forever. I know that like Abram, my faith in your word, coupled with a commitment with my own words and deeds, will lead to a reward. I thank you, gracious God, for I know that this reward is one that I truly do not deserve. I pray this in the name of your son, Jesus Christ, who died so that I may live. Amen.
Devotion
Yahweh Has Triumphed
Frances Taylor
I understand that sometimes people think I'm nuts, but when I'm in a hurry and the lights turn green as I get to them, I thank God. When I find a parking spot right when I need it, I thank God. I even thank God each time I finish a reflection on his word. It's a habit I developed in my youth and continue. Gratitude is a habit. The Israelites were ecstatic after walking through the sea and also very pleased that the Egyptians were prevented from following them. And so they sang in praise of God's goodness. Now, green lights and parking places are not great triumphs, but as I said, gratitude is a habit. It's easy enough to develop; all we need is the will. It begins by realizing that all is gift, all we have is from God. Even the dark times give us reason to give thanks to God because it is through God's grace that we survive the dark times. When we begin to examine the events of the day we realize where God has been, where we've recognized him...
Morning Prayer
Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
Inspiration
We cannot be picky when it comes to who or what we love with the Lord. If it is made with his grace, if it is filled with goodness, we ought to reserve any space we can within our heart for it. For to love delights God, for these are his creations, his gifts to us. There is already so much sin and evil in the world, lets not sully it more with following after our temptations or weaknesses, but cling rather to all that is pure and good, for these are the precious and treasured things that make our spirits endure.
Prayer
God my shepherd and Father, my savior and provider, help me see the beauty and good in all you do. Help me seek out your works and all that nourishes the spirit. Let me not neglect any part of your wondrous works, but in loving them, see them all as a path which brings me closer to understanding your grace and glory. In the name of the Father I pray, Amen.
