Morning Prayer
We know that all things work together for good for those who love God…
Inspiration
When our employment is suddenly terminated, the most natural human reaction is panic, and that is understandable. We might further question how a loving God could let such a thing happen. "I mean, doesn't God know I need….?", etc. The fact is, God does know. So, we find ourselves with the opportunity to have instead a super-natural reaction: Trust. Trust doesn't mean that we're not confused, or sad, or even mad, but it does mean that we understand in our heart of hearts that God sees the big picture, God's got this, and will cause all things to work together for our good, even the loss of a job. Truth.
Prayer
Lord, I know sometimes stuff just happens, whether it seems right to me or not. Sometimes I honestly don’t know how to deal with that fact. I am asking You here in this moment to help me trust in Your perspective of my situation, as well as in Your capacity to cause everything to work together for good in my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Devotion
The Lost Coin
Frances Taylor
We all know the story of the lost sheep and the prodigal or lost, son, but do we remember the story of the lost coin which is sandwiched between the two in Luke's Gospel? The ten drachma were most likely the woman's dowry and very important to her. She rejoices with her friends just as Jesus tells us the angels in heaven rejoice over one sinner repenting. I hope the angels rejoice several times a day! These three parables tell us how important it is to repent, to turn our lives around and get back on the right track. I once taught in a juvenile facility where a young man told me he was bad and could never be better than he already was. He was sixteen years old! He had already given up hope. He couldn't see any way out of the life he had been leading. I tried to tell him he wasn't a bad person but had made bad choices. He couldn't believe me. I wondered how many times in his young life he had been called "bad?" I still am bothered when I hear a parent,...
Morning Prayer
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Inspiration
Though the shepherds were startled and afraid by the angel, they could hardly be blamed perhaps for not recognizing the absolute significance of the events that were coming to faithfully unfold in front of their eyes that very night. Little did it perhaps yet dawn on them what miraculous event was coming to pass. However, can we even now dare to fully comprehend the magnitude of Christ's teaching and salvation? Have you truly considered its implications for your life? Be not like the shepherds, for one has already heard their ...
