Devotion
A Tree is Known by its Fruit
Frances Taylor
We have often heard the phrase, "By their fruits you shall know them." Perhaps you weren't aware that it comes from Luke's gospel. But this phrase refers to much more than trees, as you can see. The truly gentle person does not make fun of people even in jest. He or she knows that put downs aren't funny, they are cruel. We have all been exposed to people who think that sexually charged jokes, racial and ethnic slurs are acceptable, but they also are not. I once took a trip to Tanzania and was told by my sister who had been there many times, not to make any negative comments about anything because the people of Tanzania do not and wouldn't understand why anyone else would. I found this to be true and it was a privilege to walk among such kind people.
We also need to be reminded that, as Christians, we are held accountable for what we say and do. As Christians, we represent Jesus walking today among the people of the world. A good question to ask ourselves is, "Would I follow and listen to someone who acts and speaks as I do?" If Jesus expects us to lead others to him, we need to take responsibility for how we act. Would others describe us as good, kind, forgiving, compassionate, and loving? I'm hoping no one would ever describe me as evil, but I know that I am not always the person God wants me to be. How about you?
Prayer
Gracious God, help me to be a better example of your son Jesus so as to lead others toward him and not be an obstacle to anyone's ability to come to you. Amen.
Devotion
The Barrier is Removed
Frances Taylor
Moses had brought the Israelites out of Egypt and now they were wondering if they were any better off! They had reached the Red Sea, and couldn't see any way around this barrier that had been placed before them. But God knew what he was doing and Moses followed his instructions and the sea parted so that the Israelites could pass through on dry ground. A question sometimes asked at a job interview is, "What do you do when you face an obstacle?" How would you answer? Would you try to go around it, through it, or perhaps over it? Moses could not go around his obstacle and knew that without help, he could never bring all the people, animals and supplies through it. So, he asked God for help. Was that the first thing you thought of? There is a saying, "If God brings you to it, he will bring you through it." The key here is to ask God to bring us through it.
We often face challenges in our lives, especially when we are trying to live as Jesus wants...
Morning Prayer
Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.
Inspiration
What is grace? It is the free and unmerited favor of God, his gifts to us. One such example was the salvation brought to us by Christ. It is state of being favored and of being the chosen people. One such further example would be the Israelites, who God led to their promised land. We today, have inherited this grace. We today, are simultaneously unworthy of him, yet we are his chosen. Rejoice, rejoice in his grace.
Prayer
To my Lord God almighty, who art in Heaven, I thank you for your divine light and grace, given to me every day. I may not be worthy, I may not be pure and perfect, but I beg you to be merciful. For in your grace, in your faith, I may go on to improve each day. In your grace, I will strive to be a better servant, here as in Heaven. Amen.
