Saturday 29th April 2008 - Easter Saturday
SCRIPTURE
These went back and told the others, who did not believe them either.
Mk.16:13
OBSERVATION
Mark records in a few short verses the general disbelief that greeted the first news of Jesus' resurrection. It was too incredible to accept, even by the disciples.
APPLICATION
If I don't believe in the resurrection of Jesus, then I'm not a believer. This is fundamental to my faith in Him and all His promises. It elevates Him from "good man" status to who He says He is - The Son of God. Believing in the resurrection is not easy. No one can do it for me. It must come from me and out of my relationship with Jesus.
Yes Lord, I believe You died and rose again. I believe You paid for us all.
PRAYER
Yes Lord, I believe. Help me in my unbelief.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Friday, March 28, 2008
Be Filled with the Holy Spirit!
Friday 28th March 2008 - Easter Friday
SCRIPTURE
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, addressed them.
Act.4:8
OBSERVATION
Peter and John have been arrested after healing a cripple and proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus. At their interrogation Peter is filled with the Holy Spirit and speaks boldly, proclaiming the Good News of Jesus to the assembly.
APPLICATION
From being a weak sandpile a few days earlier, Peter is now the bold rock on which the Church can now be built. The difference? ...being filled with the Holy Spirit. In these early days the fledgling church was being founded by the Holy Spirit. The need of the Holy Spirit is just as great today for the church; just as great today for me...
PRAYER
Come Holy Spirit, fall afresh on me.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, addressed them.
Act.4:8
OBSERVATION
Peter and John have been arrested after healing a cripple and proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus. At their interrogation Peter is filled with the Holy Spirit and speaks boldly, proclaiming the Good News of Jesus to the assembly.
APPLICATION
From being a weak sandpile a few days earlier, Peter is now the bold rock on which the Church can now be built. The difference? ...being filled with the Holy Spirit. In these early days the fledgling church was being founded by the Holy Spirit. The need of the Holy Spirit is just as great today for the church; just as great today for me...
PRAYER
Come Holy Spirit, fall afresh on me.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Epilogue
This blog started over six weeks ago with the aim of being a Lenten encouragement for my brothers who practice daily Scripture Journaling. It's ended up being an encouragement for me, especially as a re-commitment to daily time with Jesus.
They say it takes three weeks to make (or break) a habit. Well, I've had double that time and it would be a shame to stop now. I will continue my Scripture Journal entries and occasionally add it to this Blog.
To those of you who are Scripture Journaling, keep it up. It's a sure fire way to keep hooked into Jesus via His inspired Word.
Shalom,
Stumbling Follower.
They say it takes three weeks to make (or break) a habit. Well, I've had double that time and it would be a shame to stop now. I will continue my Scripture Journal entries and occasionally add it to this Blog.
To those of you who are Scripture Journaling, keep it up. It's a sure fire way to keep hooked into Jesus via His inspired Word.
Shalom,
Stumbling Follower.
Peace Be With You
Thursday 27th March 2008
SCRIPTURE
Jesus Himself stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you".
LK.24:36
OBSERVATION
The two disciples have returned to Jerusalem with the startling news of having met Jesus on the road to Emmaus. Into the midst of the excited confusion comes Jesus Himself. His first words to the disciples are,"Peace be with you".
APPLICATION
My world gets excited, agitated, clouded with misunderstanding and anxiety, just like the Easter disciples. The very same Jesus, the same yesterday, today and tomorrow, walks into the midst of my hubbub and says, "Peace be with you". What a blessing ; what a relief. I can walk into today with the peace of Jesus calming the world's confusion about me. I claim it.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, Prince of Peace, walk beside me today. Let your peace be my hallmark.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
Jesus Himself stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you".
LK.24:36
OBSERVATION
The two disciples have returned to Jerusalem with the startling news of having met Jesus on the road to Emmaus. Into the midst of the excited confusion comes Jesus Himself. His first words to the disciples are,"Peace be with you".
APPLICATION
My world gets excited, agitated, clouded with misunderstanding and anxiety, just like the Easter disciples. The very same Jesus, the same yesterday, today and tomorrow, walks into the midst of my hubbub and says, "Peace be with you". What a blessing ; what a relief. I can walk into today with the peace of Jesus calming the world's confusion about me. I claim it.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, Prince of Peace, walk beside me today. Let your peace be my hallmark.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
White Hot!
Wednesday 26th March 2008
SCRIPTURE
Did not our hearts burn within us as he talked to us...
LK.24:32
OBSERVATION
Two of the disciples are dejectedly walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus, the death of Jesus over them like a cloud. But they meet Jesus on the road, the resurrected Jesus, and the truth of what has happened starts to dawn on them. They are transformed from gloomy no-hopers to zealous bearers of the Good News.
APPLICATION
Jesus talking to me has the same effect. This is why daily Scripture Journaling is so exciting. He talks, I listen and my heart burns within me. It's fuel for my furnace. I don't want to be lukewarm about Jesus. It's being white-hot that makes the difference.
PRAYER
Holy Spirit, in this Easter Season, help me become white-hot for Jesus, that others may be warmed and come to know and love Him.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
Did not our hearts burn within us as he talked to us...
LK.24:32
OBSERVATION
Two of the disciples are dejectedly walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus, the death of Jesus over them like a cloud. But they meet Jesus on the road, the resurrected Jesus, and the truth of what has happened starts to dawn on them. They are transformed from gloomy no-hopers to zealous bearers of the Good News.
APPLICATION
Jesus talking to me has the same effect. This is why daily Scripture Journaling is so exciting. He talks, I listen and my heart burns within me. It's fuel for my furnace. I don't want to be lukewarm about Jesus. It's being white-hot that makes the difference.
PRAYER
Holy Spirit, in this Easter Season, help me become white-hot for Jesus, that others may be warmed and come to know and love Him.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Friday, March 21, 2008
The "Good" of this Friday
Friday 21st March 2008 - Good Friday.
SCRIPTURE
Yet he was pierced through for our faults,
crushed for our sins.
On him lies a punishment that brings us peace,
and through his wounds we are healed.
We had all gone astray like sheep,
each taking his own way,
and the Lord burdened him
with the sins of all of us.
Isa.53:5,6
OBSERVATION
Isaiah prophesied the how and why of Jesus' death.
APPLICATION
Here lies the heart of the "Good News" of Jesus death, the reason why this Friday is "Good". I read these verses again, bow my head and give thanks. Today, at 3:00PM, I will kiss the nailed feet that have given me so much.
PRAYER
Thank you Lord Jesus. By your stripes I am healed.
SCRIPTURE
Yet he was pierced through for our faults,
crushed for our sins.
On him lies a punishment that brings us peace,
and through his wounds we are healed.
We had all gone astray like sheep,
each taking his own way,
and the Lord burdened him
with the sins of all of us.
Isa.53:5,6
OBSERVATION
Isaiah prophesied the how and why of Jesus' death.
APPLICATION
Here lies the heart of the "Good News" of Jesus death, the reason why this Friday is "Good". I read these verses again, bow my head and give thanks. Today, at 3:00PM, I will kiss the nailed feet that have given me so much.
PRAYER
Thank you Lord Jesus. By your stripes I am healed.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
The Servant King
Thursday 20th March 2008
SCRIPTURE
If I, then, the Lord and Master, have washed your feet, you should wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example so that you may copy what I have done to you.
Jn.13:14,15
OBSERVATION
The very first act of Jesus at the Last Supper is to wash the disciple's feet. Despite Peter's protests, Jesus was insistent on doing this for everyone present. Even Judas would have had his feet washed by the one he was about to betray.
APPLICATION
Washing the disciples feet was one of the last deliberate teachings of Jesus before His Passion and death. It was by this act that He wanted to be remembered in those last few hours, specifically so the disciples could emulate Him; so I could emulate Him.
If I dare any claim of leadership it is the model I must follow. Be it leadership in my household or leadership in the Church, I become the servant of all. Jesus would have it no other way.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus. You set before me the perfect example. Help me be a Servant King in my household.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
If I, then, the Lord and Master, have washed your feet, you should wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example so that you may copy what I have done to you.
Jn.13:14,15
OBSERVATION
The very first act of Jesus at the Last Supper is to wash the disciple's feet. Despite Peter's protests, Jesus was insistent on doing this for everyone present. Even Judas would have had his feet washed by the one he was about to betray.
APPLICATION
Washing the disciples feet was one of the last deliberate teachings of Jesus before His Passion and death. It was by this act that He wanted to be remembered in those last few hours, specifically so the disciples could emulate Him; so I could emulate Him.
If I dare any claim of leadership it is the model I must follow. Be it leadership in my household or leadership in the Church, I become the servant of all. Jesus would have it no other way.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus. You set before me the perfect example. Help me be a Servant King in my household.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Not I, surely?
Wednesday 19th 2008
SCRIPTURE
Not I Rabbi, surely?
Mt.26:25
OBSERVATION
Judas has already received his thirty pieces of silver from the Chief Priests, sealing his deal to betray Jesus to them. When Jesus openly reveals the treachery during the Last Supper, Judas readily joins the chorus of denials; "Not I Rabbi, surely?"
APPLICATION
My eight year old daughter said to me two days ago, "With our little sins we are spitting on Jesus, with our big sins we are banging the nails into Him". Out of the mouths of babes...
This is not time for denial. The truth is I have both spat on Jesus and and driven the nails in. My sins heaped on Him caused the Father to turn away and Jesus cry out, "My God, my God,. Why have you abandoned me?!"
My only hope is mercy, and this He has promised me.
PRAYER
My God, let your mercy triumph over judgment.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
Not I Rabbi, surely?
Mt.26:25
OBSERVATION
Judas has already received his thirty pieces of silver from the Chief Priests, sealing his deal to betray Jesus to them. When Jesus openly reveals the treachery during the Last Supper, Judas readily joins the chorus of denials; "Not I Rabbi, surely?"
APPLICATION
My eight year old daughter said to me two days ago, "With our little sins we are spitting on Jesus, with our big sins we are banging the nails into Him". Out of the mouths of babes...
This is not time for denial. The truth is I have both spat on Jesus and and driven the nails in. My sins heaped on Him caused the Father to turn away and Jesus cry out, "My God, my God,. Why have you abandoned me?!"
My only hope is mercy, and this He has promised me.
PRAYER
My God, let your mercy triumph over judgment.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Church of Stumblers.
Tuesday 18th March 2008
SCRIPTURE
‘Lay down your life for me?’ answered Jesus. ‘I tell you most solemnly, before the cock crows you will have disowned me three times.’
Jn.13:38
OBSERVATION
Judas has just left the last supper to betray Jesus. Jesus is warning the remaining apostles of His approaching Passion and death. In a burst of zeal, Peter declares his fidelity to Jesus, to which Jesus lays bare the truth. Even Peter will deny Him.
APPLICATION
There's so much of me in Peter. I squirm each time he opens his mouth as I hear myself speaking. I'm full of zeal for Jesus but when the crunch comes I still stumble, fall and deny Him.
But the story of Peter doesn't stop with his bitter tears after the cock crows. In marked contrast to Judas who couldn't move past his self incrimination and so killed himself, Peter picks himself up and stumbles on; eventually receiving the Holy Spirit who transforms him. The crucial time for Peter was between Christ's death and Pentecost. During that time he could have moved either way, back to the boats as a sad, disillusioned fisherman or stick with the others and hope and pray. Thank God he chose the latter. From that tiny embryonic group of confused stumbling followers our church was founded.
I think I'll stick with the others and hope and pray.
PRAYER
Saint Peter, please pray for me, a fellow stumbling follower.
SCRIPTURE
‘Lay down your life for me?’ answered Jesus. ‘I tell you most solemnly, before the cock crows you will have disowned me three times.’
Jn.13:38
OBSERVATION
Judas has just left the last supper to betray Jesus. Jesus is warning the remaining apostles of His approaching Passion and death. In a burst of zeal, Peter declares his fidelity to Jesus, to which Jesus lays bare the truth. Even Peter will deny Him.
APPLICATION
There's so much of me in Peter. I squirm each time he opens his mouth as I hear myself speaking. I'm full of zeal for Jesus but when the crunch comes I still stumble, fall and deny Him.
But the story of Peter doesn't stop with his bitter tears after the cock crows. In marked contrast to Judas who couldn't move past his self incrimination and so killed himself, Peter picks himself up and stumbles on; eventually receiving the Holy Spirit who transforms him. The crucial time for Peter was between Christ's death and Pentecost. During that time he could have moved either way, back to the boats as a sad, disillusioned fisherman or stick with the others and hope and pray. Thank God he chose the latter. From that tiny embryonic group of confused stumbling followers our church was founded.
I think I'll stick with the others and hope and pray.
PRAYER
Saint Peter, please pray for me, a fellow stumbling follower.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Everything Made Different.
Sunday March 16th 2008 - Palm Sunday
SCRIPTURE
If you are God's Son, come down from the cross!
Mt.27:40
OBSERVATION
Today Mass starts with us crying out "Hosanna to the King!" and ends with the mocking cries to Jesus dieing on a cross. Jesus' public ministry started with Satan mocking Him in the desert, "If you are the Son of God...", and ends with the same mocking words, If you are the Son of God...". Nothing had changed, and yet everything had changed.
APPLICATION
The holiest week of the year starts today. But the world doesn't stop; we have the same TV programmes, the same work schedule. Nothing has changed, and yet everything has changed. What am I going to do to make this week different, to make this week a holy week?
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, this week I enter into Your Passion and death, where You made everything different.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
If you are God's Son, come down from the cross!
Mt.27:40
OBSERVATION
Today Mass starts with us crying out "Hosanna to the King!" and ends with the mocking cries to Jesus dieing on a cross. Jesus' public ministry started with Satan mocking Him in the desert, "If you are the Son of God...", and ends with the same mocking words, If you are the Son of God...". Nothing had changed, and yet everything had changed.
APPLICATION
The holiest week of the year starts today. But the world doesn't stop; we have the same TV programmes, the same work schedule. Nothing has changed, and yet everything has changed. What am I going to do to make this week different, to make this week a holy week?
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, this week I enter into Your Passion and death, where You made everything different.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
A Joseph
Saturday 15th March 2008 - Feast Day of Saint Joseph.
SCRIPTURE
Her husband Joseph; being a man of honour and wanting to spare her publicity, decided to divorce her informally.
Mt.1:19
OBSERVATION
Today the Church focuses on Saint Joseph the foster father of Jesus. The first words describing Joseph call him "a man of honour".
APPLICATION
A couple of years ago I watched the movie The Nativity. The character that stood head and shoulders above the others for me was Joseph. My two unmarried adult daughters were similarly impressed, so much so that they now say that is the type of man they would marry. His character displayed not only honour but courage, protectiveness, love , patience, kindness, faithfulness - in fact all the fruits of the spirit. My daughters say they are looking for a Joseph, not a "Holy Joe". Isn't that an interesting distinction? Am I a Joseph, or just a Holy Joe?
PRAYER
Holy Spirit, empower me to be a man of courage, compassion, faith and honour.
Saint Joseph, pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
Her husband Joseph; being a man of honour and wanting to spare her publicity, decided to divorce her informally.
Mt.1:19
OBSERVATION
Today the Church focuses on Saint Joseph the foster father of Jesus. The first words describing Joseph call him "a man of honour".
APPLICATION
A couple of years ago I watched the movie The Nativity. The character that stood head and shoulders above the others for me was Joseph. My two unmarried adult daughters were similarly impressed, so much so that they now say that is the type of man they would marry. His character displayed not only honour but courage, protectiveness, love , patience, kindness, faithfulness - in fact all the fruits of the spirit. My daughters say they are looking for a Joseph, not a "Holy Joe". Isn't that an interesting distinction? Am I a Joseph, or just a Holy Joe?
PRAYER
Holy Spirit, empower me to be a man of courage, compassion, faith and honour.
Saint Joseph, pray for me.
Friday, March 14, 2008
God Bless the Irish
Friday 14th March 2008 - Saint Patrick's Day (NZ calender)
SCRIPTURE
I have made you a light to the nations, so that my salvation may reach the ends of the earth.
Acts.13:47
OBSERVATION
Paul and Barnabas quote Isaiah to the Jews who have rejected their Gospel message. The listening pagans are overjoyed to hear that his message is for them as well. No doubt this passge was in Saint Patrick's heart as he went to Ireland to spread the Good News among the pagans.
APPLICATION
My family has been blessed by Irish priests. I first heard the Good News of Jesus from one. Most of my children have been baptised and received first Holy Communion from one. Today, on saint Patrick's Day, I thank God for that faithful man whose message of Christ's Salvation has literally reached the ends of the earth here in New Zealand.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank you that your salvation is for all the world; is for me.
Saint Patrick, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
I have made you a light to the nations, so that my salvation may reach the ends of the earth.
Acts.13:47
OBSERVATION
Paul and Barnabas quote Isaiah to the Jews who have rejected their Gospel message. The listening pagans are overjoyed to hear that his message is for them as well. No doubt this passge was in Saint Patrick's heart as he went to Ireland to spread the Good News among the pagans.
APPLICATION
My family has been blessed by Irish priests. I first heard the Good News of Jesus from one. Most of my children have been baptised and received first Holy Communion from one. Today, on saint Patrick's Day, I thank God for that faithful man whose message of Christ's Salvation has literally reached the ends of the earth here in New Zealand.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank you that your salvation is for all the world; is for me.
Saint Patrick, please pray for me.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
The Great I Am
Thursday 13th March 2008
SCRIPTURE
I tell you most solemnly, before Abraham ever was, I Am.
Jn.8:58
OBSERVATION
Jesus' dialog with the Jews draws to a close. His definitive answer to their question, "who are you claiming to be?" is, "I Am". Jesus' claiming the sacred name of Yahweh has the Jews picking up stones to kill Him.
APPLICATION
When the reality of who Jesus truly is breaks through there are only two responses; accept Him or reject Him, love Him or loath Him, embrace Him or crucify Him - the choice is mine. Today I choose to accept Him, love Him, embrace Him... the Great I Am.
PRAYER
Jesus, my Lord and my God!
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
I tell you most solemnly, before Abraham ever was, I Am.
Jn.8:58
OBSERVATION
Jesus' dialog with the Jews draws to a close. His definitive answer to their question, "who are you claiming to be?" is, "I Am". Jesus' claiming the sacred name of Yahweh has the Jews picking up stones to kill Him.
APPLICATION
When the reality of who Jesus truly is breaks through there are only two responses; accept Him or reject Him, love Him or loath Him, embrace Him or crucify Him - the choice is mine. Today I choose to accept Him, love Him, embrace Him... the Great I Am.
PRAYER
Jesus, my Lord and my God!
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Free Indeed
Wednesday 11th March 2008
SCRIPTURE
So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.
Jn.8:36
OBSERVATION
Jesus is in dialog with the Jews who cannot make the connection that He is the Son of God. Without this understanding everything Jesus says doesn't make sense or can be dismissed as the rantings of a madman. Jesus states quite plainly that He can set people free from the slavery of sin.
APPLICATION
I heard just yesterday of a survey where 9,000 people were asked to identify their greatest sin. One quarter of them responded indicating they didn't believe in sin. To me this identifies the heart of the problem, If there is no such thing as sin, who needs a Saviour? Denying sin is like denying gravity. It exists whether I believe in it or not. Denying the existence of sin is Satan's greatest ploy and I buy into it each time I choose to sin.
Holy Week is approaching. I need reconciliation to regain the freedom the Son offers me.
PRAYER
Jesus my brother. As a slave to sin my place is not assured; but when you set my free I am free indeed! Thank you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.
Jn.8:36
OBSERVATION
Jesus is in dialog with the Jews who cannot make the connection that He is the Son of God. Without this understanding everything Jesus says doesn't make sense or can be dismissed as the rantings of a madman. Jesus states quite plainly that He can set people free from the slavery of sin.
APPLICATION
I heard just yesterday of a survey where 9,000 people were asked to identify their greatest sin. One quarter of them responded indicating they didn't believe in sin. To me this identifies the heart of the problem, If there is no such thing as sin, who needs a Saviour? Denying sin is like denying gravity. It exists whether I believe in it or not. Denying the existence of sin is Satan's greatest ploy and I buy into it each time I choose to sin.
Holy Week is approaching. I need reconciliation to regain the freedom the Son offers me.
PRAYER
Jesus my brother. As a slave to sin my place is not assured; but when you set my free I am free indeed! Thank you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
He Lifted Me
SCRIPTURE
When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He...
Jn.8:28
OBSERVATION
Jesus continues His dialog with the Pharisees, warning them of where their unbelief will leave them. He alludes to His approaching crucifixion where the ultimate sacrifice will fully complete His work on earth.
APPLICATION
Whether we lift Jesus up to crucify Him or lift Him up to praise Him doesn't matter. It's the lifting of Him that makes us recognise who He really is. He is either a God to persecute or a God to praise; in both instances, He is God.
I have the enormous privilege of leading praise and worship. Whenever I lift Jesus up in praise a wonderful thing happens. He reaches down and lifts me up no matter how I'm feeling. The act of lifting Him results in me being lifted... and I know that it is He.
PRAYER
Holy Spirit. Empower my praise and worship that Jesus may be lifted up so all may look at Him and live.
Little Flower please pray for me.
When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He...
Jn.8:28
OBSERVATION
Jesus continues His dialog with the Pharisees, warning them of where their unbelief will leave them. He alludes to His approaching crucifixion where the ultimate sacrifice will fully complete His work on earth.
APPLICATION
Whether we lift Jesus up to crucify Him or lift Him up to praise Him doesn't matter. It's the lifting of Him that makes us recognise who He really is. He is either a God to persecute or a God to praise; in both instances, He is God.
I have the enormous privilege of leading praise and worship. Whenever I lift Jesus up in praise a wonderful thing happens. He reaches down and lifts me up no matter how I'm feeling. The act of lifting Him results in me being lifted... and I know that it is He.
PRAYER
Holy Spirit. Empower my praise and worship that Jesus may be lifted up so all may look at Him and live.
Little Flower please pray for me.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Jesus Wept
Sunday 9th March 2008
SCRIPTURE
Jesus wept.
Jn.11:35
OBSERVATION
Jesus has met with Mary and Martha who are deep mourning over the death of their brother Lazarus. On seeing their tears Jesus is moved with compassion, giving "a sigh that came straight from the heart".
APPLICATION
This is the shortest verse in the Bible and yet says so much about who Jesus is to me. My God is no remote, stern, unfeeling deity. He is my brother who enters into my life, feels what I am feeling, weeps when I am weeping. His arm is literally around my shoulder. What a friend. What a God...
PRAYER
Jesus, my brother. I give the joy and despair, the triumph and frustrations of my day over to You.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
Jesus wept.
Jn.11:35
OBSERVATION
Jesus has met with Mary and Martha who are deep mourning over the death of their brother Lazarus. On seeing their tears Jesus is moved with compassion, giving "a sigh that came straight from the heart".
APPLICATION
This is the shortest verse in the Bible and yet says so much about who Jesus is to me. My God is no remote, stern, unfeeling deity. He is my brother who enters into my life, feels what I am feeling, weeps when I am weeping. His arm is literally around my shoulder. What a friend. What a God...
PRAYER
Jesus, my brother. I give the joy and despair, the triumph and frustrations of my day over to You.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Bad, Mad or the Son of God?
Saturday 8th March 2008
SCRIPTURE
The police replied, "There has never been anybody who has spoken like him!"
Jn. 40:46
OBSERVATION
Jesus is in Jerusalem for the Feast of Tabernacles and is openly teaching and inviting people to believe in Him. The people know the temple authorities want to kill Jesus and so don't know how to receive Him. Is he right or wrong, good or bad, or is he just another mad self-proclaimed messiah? But then there's His teaching with such authority, and the miracles...
APPLICATION
How do I receive Jesus? Is He bad, mad or He claims to be, the Son of God? The question of Jesus boils down to these three options even today. On the evidence of my life without Jesus compared to life with Him, I must conclude, as did Thomas, "My Lord and my God!"
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, today again, I confess my faith in You. There has never been anybody like You.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
The police replied, "There has never been anybody who has spoken like him!"
Jn. 40:46
OBSERVATION
Jesus is in Jerusalem for the Feast of Tabernacles and is openly teaching and inviting people to believe in Him. The people know the temple authorities want to kill Jesus and so don't know how to receive Him. Is he right or wrong, good or bad, or is he just another mad self-proclaimed messiah? But then there's His teaching with such authority, and the miracles...
APPLICATION
How do I receive Jesus? Is He bad, mad or He claims to be, the Son of God? The question of Jesus boils down to these three options even today. On the evidence of my life without Jesus compared to life with Him, I must conclude, as did Thomas, "My Lord and my God!"
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, today again, I confess my faith in You. There has never been anybody like You.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Friday, March 7, 2008
He Rescued Me
Friday 7th March 2008
SCRIPTURE
Many are the trials of the just man but from them all the Lord will rescue him.
Ps. 33:19
OBSERVATION
All of today's readings hint of the coming persecution of Jesus, the "virtuous man". They also foretell the trials that will face any who follow Him.
APPLICATION
What a great comfort it is to know that God is here battling for me, ready and able to rescue me. Trials will come, indeed have come, but I never face them alone.
I'm reminded of a small incident at work yesterday where a decision I had made was challenged. I defended my position but what really lifted me was the support I was given by my manager. When the boss steps in and places his hand on your shoulder your cause is justified. Jesus is behind me, His hand on my shoulder, today...
PRAYER
Jesus, my rock, my defender, my mighty shield, I place my trust in you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
Many are the trials of the just man but from them all the Lord will rescue him.
Ps. 33:19
OBSERVATION
All of today's readings hint of the coming persecution of Jesus, the "virtuous man". They also foretell the trials that will face any who follow Him.
APPLICATION
What a great comfort it is to know that God is here battling for me, ready and able to rescue me. Trials will come, indeed have come, but I never face them alone.
I'm reminded of a small incident at work yesterday where a decision I had made was challenged. I defended my position but what really lifted me was the support I was given by my manager. When the boss steps in and places his hand on your shoulder your cause is justified. Jesus is behind me, His hand on my shoulder, today...
PRAYER
Jesus, my rock, my defender, my mighty shield, I place my trust in you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Look to God
Thursday 6th March 2008
SCRIPTURE
How can you believe, since you look to one another for approval and are not concerned with the approval that comes from the one God?
Jn. 5:44
OBSERVATION
Jesus is replying to the Jew's complaints about His claims to be the Son of God. The Jews were so focussed on each others approval that they failed to recognise God's approval of Jesus in the very scriptures they studied. The crunch factor then, and still is now, is Jesus' divinity.
APPLICATION
I went to an Alpha course last night and two guys in our small group shared, very bravely I thought, their doubts about the reality and divinity of Jesus. I was reminded how precious my gift of faith in Jesus is, how confused my life was without Him.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank you that I can come to You for life. You are my rock and sure foundation. I place my trust in you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
How can you believe, since you look to one another for approval and are not concerned with the approval that comes from the one God?
Jn. 5:44
OBSERVATION
Jesus is replying to the Jew's complaints about His claims to be the Son of God. The Jews were so focussed on each others approval that they failed to recognise God's approval of Jesus in the very scriptures they studied. The crunch factor then, and still is now, is Jesus' divinity.
APPLICATION
I went to an Alpha course last night and two guys in our small group shared, very bravely I thought, their doubts about the reality and divinity of Jesus. I was reminded how precious my gift of faith in Jesus is, how confused my life was without Him.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank you that I can come to You for life. You are my rock and sure foundation. I place my trust in you.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
I will Never Forget You
Wednesday 5th March 2008
SCRIPTURE
Does a woman forget her baby at the breast, or fail to cherish the son of her womb? Yet even if these forget, I will never forget you.
Is. 49:15
OBSERVATION
From the "Book of Consolation to Israel" near the end of the book of Isaiah is this beautiful verse of promise and comfort. This prophesy was given to the people of Israel while they were still in exile.
APPLICATION
I remember first hearing this verse in a song at Mass before I had joined the Catholic Church, in a self-placed exile of sorts. It made me realise how alone I was in a spiritual sense, separated from my Catholic wife and children. It was a call home to the loving embrace of God the Father, a call I couldn't resist because I longed for that embrace in the depths of my heart. The call is just as strong today...
PRAYER
Thank you Father for your faithful love. I stand today secure in that love.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
Does a woman forget her baby at the breast, or fail to cherish the son of her womb? Yet even if these forget, I will never forget you.
Is. 49:15
OBSERVATION
From the "Book of Consolation to Israel" near the end of the book of Isaiah is this beautiful verse of promise and comfort. This prophesy was given to the people of Israel while they were still in exile.
APPLICATION
I remember first hearing this verse in a song at Mass before I had joined the Catholic Church, in a self-placed exile of sorts. It made me realise how alone I was in a spiritual sense, separated from my Catholic wife and children. It was a call home to the loving embrace of God the Father, a call I couldn't resist because I longed for that embrace in the depths of my heart. The call is just as strong today...
PRAYER
Thank you Father for your faithful love. I stand today secure in that love.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
River of Life
Tuesday 4th March 2008
SCRIPTURE
Wherever the river flows, all living creatures teeming in it will live. Fish will be very plentiful, for wherever the water goes it brings health, and life.
Ez. 47:8
OBSERVATION
While in captivity the prophet Ezekiel is given a vision from God. He is shown the River of Life flowing out from the Holy Temple, a river that brings with it health and life.
APPLICATION
What a great reminder of God's provision! Yesterday I didn't feel very healthy or alive, self inflicted by a previous late night. Staying focussed at work was hard. Frustrations arose that I didn't handle too well. How sweet it is to spend time this morning going back to the source of life, to drink deep from His living waters. Things are in right order again.
PRAYER
Thank you Jesus that You are the spring of living waters. I place my roots in You.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
Wherever the river flows, all living creatures teeming in it will live. Fish will be very plentiful, for wherever the water goes it brings health, and life.
Ez. 47:8
OBSERVATION
While in captivity the prophet Ezekiel is given a vision from God. He is shown the River of Life flowing out from the Holy Temple, a river that brings with it health and life.
APPLICATION
What a great reminder of God's provision! Yesterday I didn't feel very healthy or alive, self inflicted by a previous late night. Staying focussed at work was hard. Frustrations arose that I didn't handle too well. How sweet it is to spend time this morning going back to the source of life, to drink deep from His living waters. Things are in right order again.
PRAYER
Thank you Jesus that You are the spring of living waters. I place my roots in You.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Works of God Displayed
Sunday 3rd March 2008
SCRIPTURE
He was born blind that the works of God may displayed in him.
Jn. 9:3
OBSERVATION
Jesus has been asked whose sin was it that caused a man to be born blind, his or his parents? Jesus' answer relieves the man of any condemnation. He was born blind that the works of God may displayed in him.
APPLICATION
Jesus' answer relieves all afflicted of condemnation. It is no ones "karma" to be burdened with pain and suffering as a form of punishment. By inference , responsibility is placed squarely before the Church, squarely before me. Where else should "works of God" be more clearly displayed? The afflicted I meet today are opportunities for me to display the works of God, for His glory.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, let Your healing compassion be displayed, through me, ...today.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
He was born blind that the works of God may displayed in him.
Jn. 9:3
OBSERVATION
Jesus has been asked whose sin was it that caused a man to be born blind, his or his parents? Jesus' answer relieves the man of any condemnation. He was born blind that the works of God may displayed in him.
APPLICATION
Jesus' answer relieves all afflicted of condemnation. It is no ones "karma" to be burdened with pain and suffering as a form of punishment. By inference , responsibility is placed squarely before the Church, squarely before me. Where else should "works of God" be more clearly displayed? The afflicted I meet today are opportunities for me to display the works of God, for His glory.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, let Your healing compassion be displayed, through me, ...today.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
He Lifts the Lowly
Saturday 1st March 2008
SCRIPTURE
For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the man who humbles himself will be exalted.
Lk.18:14
OBSERVATION
Jesus is telling a parable to people who had pride in their perceived virtue. In the parable, the prayer of the proud Pharisee is worthless while the humble cry for mercy from the Tax Collector sets him right with God.
APPLICATION
Yesterday, I received an email of thanks from a person who heard me give a talk a few weeks ago. As I was reading the email for the third time I caught myself savoring the accolades in an unhealthy way, in a prideful way. Pride was rising up within me to steal God's glory. It's a constant battle, especially when exercising leadership. The antidote to my my pride? The servant King, who humbled himself unto death, only to be raised up and seated at the Father's right hand.
PRAYER
God, be merciful to me a sinner.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
SCRIPTURE
For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the man who humbles himself will be exalted.
Lk.18:14
OBSERVATION
Jesus is telling a parable to people who had pride in their perceived virtue. In the parable, the prayer of the proud Pharisee is worthless while the humble cry for mercy from the Tax Collector sets him right with God.
APPLICATION
Yesterday, I received an email of thanks from a person who heard me give a talk a few weeks ago. As I was reading the email for the third time I caught myself savoring the accolades in an unhealthy way, in a prideful way. Pride was rising up within me to steal God's glory. It's a constant battle, especially when exercising leadership. The antidote to my my pride? The servant King, who humbled himself unto death, only to be raised up and seated at the Father's right hand.
PRAYER
God, be merciful to me a sinner.
Little Flower, please pray for me.
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