Devotion
Do As I Say, Not As I Do
Frances Taylor
How often have we heard these words! We know what to do, we can even teach others what is right, but do we follow through and listen to ourselves? I believe that is why we get so upset when a teacher, minister, judge or policeman gets into trouble for doing the wrong thing. After all they are the ones who either teach or enforce the rules for others. As Christians we are expected to be examples, role models for Christian behavior. We are called to be loving and forgiving, and therefore called to a higher moral standard than non-believers I once heard an interesting question given during a sermon: "If the Christians were being persecuted today, would there be enough evidence to convict you?" Would they find kindness, would they see a life dedicated to serving others? If they followed you, or me, for a week, could they tell that you are the Christian in the group? I can only judge myself and know that there have been times when I would have been embarrassed by my behavior. I know that I was not always patient with my children, or kind to co-workers, or friends. There certainly have been times when I could have been less judgmental and more willing to go the extra mile for a friend. I only ask that God gives me the grace to be a better example going forward.
Prayer
Lord, you expect more from me than I have been willing to give. Help me to be a better teacher by my actions than I have been in the past. 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 ...
