Morning Prayer
Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
Inspiration
Timothy was a pastor, appointed by Paul to care for a congregation of God's people. He was an "elder, " but was not especially "elderly. " Some might be tempted not to listen to him because of his youth and presumed lack of wisdom. But Paul instructs him to preach God's Word boldy and to live out an example all of God's people could desire to emulate.
Prayer
Let us have respect to your Word, O Lord, and not so much to the men who preach or teach it. If we see a Christian living a holy example and teaching us the great truths found in your Book, let us not distrust him because of his youth but rejoice in what God is doing with him. Let us also be quick to learn from and benefit from such a minister of the Gospel. Amen.
Devotion
Christ Our King
Frances Taylor
This phrase is both a statement and a question. Is Christ my king, or your king, and what does it mean to say yes? Today's gospel is a very familiar one. How often we hear the story of the "good thief" and take comfort in it. But what about the other criminal? Both men seem to think that Jesus just might be the Christ, the Messiah, but they have very different attitudes about that. The first is thinking only of himself; and tells Jesus to save himself and them while the second is aware of his sinfulness and only asks Jesus to remember him when he comes into his kingdom. Each time I have reflected on this one of the last words of Jesus on the cross, it makes me think. Is just acknowledging Jesus as Messiah enough, or do we need to put that knowledge into action? I once heard it said that the one who knows Jesus best is Satan. So I would guess that just knowing isn't enough! If we truly accept Jesus as King, then our actions must follow. We bow to the...
Morning Prayer
Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Inspiration
Through Jesus Christ alone are we made "alive unto God. " If we are dead to sin, then it will lose its power over us. If we are alive to God, we will respond in love and obedience to his Word and his Spirit
Prayer
Help us to live this day as dead indeed to sin and alive indeed to you, O Lord. You are the source of our life and the focus of our life. All of the spiritual exercises that you animate in us are directed back to you as the object of our affection and praise. With renewed minds and wills, let us serve you out of pure heart faithfully. Amen.
