Night Prayer
Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Inspiration
We lose sight of the fact that it is still dangerous to follow Jesus today. Many countries around the world actively persecute Christians. Authority figures with power do not like the idea of an omnipotent God with more authority than them, and communities feel Christianity is a direct threat or disrespect to their ancient culture. Christians are harmed for their beliefs and their drive to spread the Word. We will keep one another close to the heart in prayer as our brothers and sisters in Christ face persecution. The Lord sees their struggle and acknowledges their blessed inheritance in the kingdom of God.
Prayer
Dear Father, please keep our Christian family across the world safe. As they face persecution, we ask that You grant them peace and strengthen their faith as they face obstacles in their walk. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Night Prayer
The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.
Inspiration
When a king rules with fairness and justice, his kingdom will flourish. If the same king accepts gifts or bribes, his kingdom will fall. We've all observed a person in a leadership position who acted wrongfully. Perhaps a boss did not discipline employees fairly, or a political leader accepted kickbacks for legislation decisions. These corrupt actions lead to their demise. Scripture advises leaders to maintain justice with fair decision-making. As leaders, we must reflect on the mercy and grace God shows to us and lead others in the same fashion.
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for coaching us in our leadership endeavors. We have faith in Your Words and will lead Your people accordingly. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Devotion
The Widow of Naim
Frances Taylor
This story of Jesus' raising the son of the widow of Naim gives us some information that lets us know just how important it was for this widow. At that time, women had no way to earn a living. They were property of their parents until they became property of their husbands, and actually moved into the home of the husband. Now that this widow's son had died, she had no one to take care of her. The compassion that Jesus showed meant life to that widow. I'm sure the leaders weren't too happy that the power of God to raise someone from the dead rested in Jesus. There must also have been those who were saying, "Why her and not me?" We all will die and we will all lose someone we love including those of us who have and will lose children. We can easily read this passage and question. It can be difficult to understand God's plan for us, even though we keep trying. It is better to concentrate on the positive than the negative. A priest I once knew lost ...
