Luke 7:36-50

There are times in our lives when we ache to hear the words, "I forgive you."  We are capable of hurting someone deeply, especially someone we care about.  Remorse is usually great, but pride puts up a wall which hinders us from asking forgiveness.  Living in the land of, "I wish I hadn't said that," or, "If only I had done things differently," is a tough place to reside.  Regrets and if only's make for uneasy living.

Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.”

The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?”

Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

When Jesus said these words to the woman who crashed the dinner party, she must have felt a tremendous burden lifted off her heart.  She recognized Jesus as one who cared deeply and as one she needed to approach.  Her eyes were opening and she saw her sinful life for what it was and took action.  Jesus, the light, caused her to see clearly.

When we go through life with blinders on we do not see the real world.  These lessons this week remind me I need to see the world as it is, I need to rely on the one who can change my eye-sight.  God's plan for you and for me is already in front of us.  We only need eyes to see it and hearts to embrace it and we too will find peace.

Read the Luke 7:36-50 text here.  Listen to a reading of the Luke 7:36-50 text here.

Matthew 6:19-24

^{“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!}

Yesterday we talked about seeing others the way God would have us see them.  Today the topic is still our eyes, and we take it a bit further.  We are actually talking about "spiritual vision," seeing the world as God would have us see it.  The words healthy and unhealthy implies generous and stingy.

• A generous eye focuses on God and how we might serve His people. A person with healthy eyes is one who sees his brother in trouble and lends a hand.  He is one who recognizes where he might be used and steps boldly into that arena.

• A stingy eye is focused on the world, material possessions and status.  A person with unhealthy eyes views the world through darkness.  She cannot see clearly nor does she want to, her needs come first.

About 10 years ago I had laser surgery which enabled me to see without the use of glasses or contacts.  I was opened up to a brand new world, as I had been wearing glasses for 40 years.  About the same time I was introduced to the concept of pursuing a personal relationship with Jesus.  My vision got even clearer following that change in my life.  It is so much easier to go through life with good eye-sight; healthy/generous eyes make all the difference in attitude.

We are called to undivided loyalty to God; we are to be Salt and Light in a dark world.

Read the Matthew 6:19-24 text here.   Listen to a reading of the text here.

1 Samuel 16:1-13

“But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)

I wonder how many fewer divorces there would be in the world if humans were able to see people as God sees them.  Did you ever give thought to this?  When I look at someone and truly see them, flaws and all, would it change my choices, my life?  The saying, "You can't judge a book by it's cover," comes to mind.

When Samuel looked at Eliab, David's older brother, Samuel saw a good-looking, strong and vital young man.  We don't know what exactly God saw, but God had someone else in mind.  After reviewing Jesse's sons and finding none of them acceptable to the plan God had, "He asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?” (1 Samuel 16:11)

How can we hope to see others as God sees them?  It would require being very close to God, learning His heart so we can discern His will for us.  We will never be able to perfect this, but, we can save ourselves a lot of pain and hardship by praying about everything we do, every decision we make. "Pray continually." (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

Read the 1 Samuel 16:1-13 text here.    Listen to the 1 Samuel 16:1-13 reading here.

John 21:15-19

Peter denied Jesus, just as we often do.
Jesus forgave Peter, just as He does for us.
How fortunate to have a loving and forgiving God. If we did not, we would be doomed!

Some of the things we humans do, one would think might amaze God. How can he not think, "Wow, she's doing that again?" or "How many times does he have to engage in that and then beg for forgiveness before he learns?" Seven times seventy times I guess, and that's the good news for us!

As we stumble through this world aren't there times you feel like things couldn't be better, and you are able to follow God's commandments with ease, and then bam, you're off the wagon again! I guess He knew it would be like that, so He afforded us the grace of forgiveness. Have you ever been frightened though, that your sin might be too big for God to forgive? I have, and that's a scary place to be. At the beginning of the book of John, our Lord is referred to as "full of grace and truth." Jesus is not like anyone else. He will not, he cannot, let you down. If you put your trust in Him, you will not be disappointed.

John 20:19-31

Has there been a point in your life when you truly felt alive?  Was it just a one-time event or did it occur often?  For almost 20 years I worked for the same company, I did well, but I truly disliked what I was doing.  It was only a job, and once Friday arrived I would leave the workplace and barely give it another thought until Monday morning.

The last job I had was one I loved and knew God had given it to me.  I felt alive, certain I was exactly where God wanted me to be.  It was wonderfully motivating and fulfilling.  From that point on I always pursued  that feeling, not only in my work life but in life in general.

Imagine how the disciples must have felt when Jesus came back to them, taught them a bit more, preparing them for His departure. "Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit." (John 20:21-22)  Jesus has done the same for us.  He left us His Word and when we dive into it regularly we can sense His presence, we can feel Him leading and just know when we are in His will.

Where are you today?  Are you experiencing this Peace from God yet?  Is it a onetime feeling for you, or do you feel it regularly?  Personally speaking I know I will go after this PEACE daily.

Read the John 20:19-31 text here.  Listen to a reading of the John 20:19-31 text here.

John 20:1-10

Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.  So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”

 So Peter and the  other disciple started for the tomb.  Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.  He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in.  Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen.  Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed.  (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)  Then the disciples went back to where they were staying.

I can't think of anything to be more thankful for than this.  Because Jesus died for us, we will be reunited with our loved ones in the not to distant future.  This is the first Thanksgiving Holiday without my husband and I am not sad because I know this to  be true.  

Have a blessed holiday today and know that I will be thanking God for sending His Son and I will be praising Him because He has made life worth living and dying for.  

Read the John 20:1-10 text here.  Listen to a reading of the John 20:1-10 text here.

John 18:15-27

My daughter and I were talking about the day when Jesus comes back and of the time that leads up to that glorious day.  We both were saying how frightening it might be to have to endure the hardships the Bible talks about, the pain of hunger or the anguish of a plague.  I have always feared the possibility that I would not have courage to stand up for Jesus if physical pain threatened me or someone I love.  I have always wondered if I would cave like Peter.

“You aren’t one of this man’s disciples too, are you?” she asked Peter.

   He replied, “I am not. (John 18:17)

The fact is there is opportunity every day to experience and proclaim Jesus as my Lord and the one I follow through thick and thin, just as there is occasion to deny that He means anything to me.  When I ignore my conscience and toss my principles to the wind, I am rejecting Jesus just as Peter did.  When I allow my 'wants' to overrule my needs and pursue worldly passions, I reject Jesus and His love.

On the same note, when I forgive a friend for hurting me I am acknowledging Jesus' forgive me too.  When I give of myself to people who need what I have, I am showing the world that Jesus is more important.

Read the John 18:15-27 text here.  Listen to a reading of the John 18:15-27 text here.

Luke 22:24-34

"A dispute also arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest." (Luke 22:24)

The Life Application Commentary says this, "The most important event in history is about to take place and the disciples are still arguing about their prestige in the kingdom!"  First they are mumbling to themselves, wondering who was going to betray their Lord and in the next breath they are asking which of them was the greatest.  Very human conduct, don't you think?

I can't help but wonder if all this posturing for position isn't a nervous maneuver.  When I know a truth but do not want to face it, I can come up with all sorts of ideas to distract my heart from reality.  Jesus has been teaching his followers about His death for some time now, preparing them for the day He would not be with them.  Just maybe they are beginning to understand and are in a state of denial.

This type of behavior is often a coping mechanism, a way of carrying on in an effort to deny tomorrow its place in our life. Is there something we need to be preparing for; some event that will change our world?  Perhaps we need to take a strong look at our finances and lay out a better plan, curbing our spending.  There might be a relationship that needs attention and really can't wait until just the right moment to arrive.

Whatever it is, we can take comfort in the fact that Jesus is praying for us just as He prayed for his disciples, just has He prayed for Simon right before the man denied knowing His Savior.

“But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” (Luke 22:32)

Read the Luke 22:24-34 text here.  Listen to a reading of the Luke 22:24-34 text here.

The Gate and The Shepherd - John 10:7-18

The gate to the sheep's pen was the only true access.  If anyone or anything were found to be inside and they did not enter from the gate - they were predators or thieves, and had no authority to be there.  The Shepherd would be expected to eliminate the intruder.

"Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep." (John 10:7)

One of my favorite pictures of Jesus is the one that depicts Him holding a lamb very close and it almost looks like Jesus is snuggling with the little creature.  It is a picture of compassion, love and peace.  The fact that Jesus cares enough to consider us His sheep and would go after us if we turned up missing is a beautiful picture.

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." (John 10:11)

Jesus knows us inside out, just as a shepherd knows his sheep.  Sheep also recognize the voice of their guardian and no other voice will they respond to in the same way.  As Christians, we distinguish the voice of our Shepherd when we corral ourselves in His Word, hear His voice and follow it to safety and salvation.

A shepherd will go to battle for his sheep, he will doggedly go after any that are lost or in danger.  We have a Shepherd who will do the same.

Read the John 10:7-18 text here.  Listen to a reading of the John 10:7-18 text here.

Luke 9:1-6, 10-17

Trust. Have faith. Believe. Trust. Have faith. Believe. Trust. Have faith. Believe.

Sometimes I think about how we have been ripped off. It makes sense that "The Twelve" trusted, had faith, and believed.....they could see, smell, and touch Jesus. We are so far removed from that miraculous time we must search deep within ourselves and His Word to be able to comfortably settle into that type of true commitment. Seriously, He fed the multitudes, (five thousand it is written) with five loaves of bread and two fishes? Seeing that would make a believer out of nearly anyone! Not only that, there were twelve baskets of broken pieces of bread left!

Though at times we may feel more like doubting Thomas than one of the Lord's disciples because of our human nature to question, remember, it's kind of like a marriage. It's all or nothing. We can't pick out the parts of the bible that we are comfortable with, holding tightly to that which gives us promise and leave the rest. It's the whole package. Though Jesus' apostles had living proof of His love and power, they still had a very rough life and at times likely thought of heading for the hills. Our lives too can be very difficult, seemingly too much to bear at times. However if we build our lives upon that rock of faith, trust in and live out God's word, and believe he will indeed one day bring us home, we will weather the storm.

Matthew 25:31-40

“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.” (Matthew 25:34)

How do we serve others in need?  Just what does it look like to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit those in prison?  The holidays are here.  Thanksgiving is next Thursday and soon after we celebrate Christmas.  There are always opportunities to help people who need us, but during this time of year it is even easier.  Outside many grocery stores and retail shopping establishments you will see the "bell-ringers".  Dropping a few coins or more, into their buckets is a good start.

Is it not to share your food with the hungry
   and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe them,
   and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? (Isaiah 58:7)

Driving down the road it is not unusual to spot a sign in front of a church that is asking for blankets or coats to help keep people warm in the bitter winter cold.  Having Thanksgiving Dinner this year?  Why not invite someone who is alone, perhaps a military wife whose husband is away serving our county.  Perhaps you know of a recent widower who could use a reminder of the way a home-cooked meal tastes.

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ (Matthew 25:40)

Read the Matthew 25:31-40 text here.  Listen to a reading of the text here.

Matthew 21:28-32

Actions speak louder than words.  I have heard this saying since a small child and never really gave it much thought.  The words we say do have a lot of meaning, but in the end it is what we do that backs up our words.  It is easy to spout lofty principles but they mean nothing if we don't practice what we preach.

The last thing anyone in this world needs is conflicting lessons.  During Jesus' time the Scribes and Pharisees delivered this type of message regularly.  It reminds me of another saying from childhood, “Do as I say, not as I do.”

 What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’

“‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went.

 “Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go.

 “Which of the two did what his father wanted?” (Matthew 21:28-31)

We are called to repent, to believe in Jesus; to believe Jesus.  Our words matter, but our actions matter even more.  Let them know we are Christian by our love.  A bigger message here for me is, though my actions of the past were not admirable, there is grace and forgiveness.  I can turn, change, and live like John the Baptizer preached.  I can be like the son who said “no” but went anyway.  He changed his mind, he repented and he obeyed.

Read the Matthew 21:28-32 text here.  Listen to a reading of the Matthew 21:28-32 text here.

Matthew 7:7-14

If ever there was a passage calling out my name and telling me to memorize these words, Matthew 7:7-8 are those.


“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.


To think these are Jesus' words to us.  He knew the situations we would be getting ourselves into, the heart ache we would experience, the pain that would squeeze the breath from us; so He gave us this perfect command.   Ask...Seek...Knock.

Sometimes we are too proud to ask, to tired to seek, to afraid to knock.  Jesus knew we would have these feelings, these seasons on our lives when almost any effort we make would be too much; would put us over the edge.  But the promise that when we take Him up on His Words we will receive answers to our questions, we will find relief from the pain and the door to peace and joy will open wide, gives me strength to approach the door and gain access to Jesus.

Dealing with each day, one day at a time, I will approach that door knowing Jesus is on the other side and He is ready to take over.

Matthew 7:7-14 text here.  Listen to a reading of the Matthew 7:7-14 text here.

Proverbs 25:1-12

Don't jump to conclusions—there may be 
   a perfectly good explanation for what you just saw. (Proverbs 25:8)

Have you ever jumped to conclusions?  Have you ever thought you had something you witnessed, all figured out, only to find how wrong you were?  Talk about embarrassing moments that humble us!

  In the heat of an argument, 
   don't betray confidences;
Word is sure to get around, 
   and no one will trust you. (Proverbs 25:9-10)

The lessons in this Book of Proverbs are very convicting, don't you agree?  Reading the two verses above I am cringing as I recall a time when I allowed my emotions to rule my better judgment.  It takes a lot of effort to find a good and faithful friend, but it only takes one stupid moment to lose that friend.

   The right word at the right time 
   is like a custom-made piece of jewelry,
And a wise friend's timely reprimand 
   is like a gold ring slipped on your finger. (Proverbs 25:11-12 MSG)

Proverbs is about relationships, like last week’s Scripture verses.  Proverbs contains so much wisdom and it points me in the direction I need to go.  I feel like God is speaking through Solomon and telling me that humility is the only way to build relationship.  I am instructed not to let pride get in the way of my heart.  Pride is at the root of broken friendships and humility is at the center of a lasting bond. (Sounds like a Proverb, doesn't it?)

Read the Proverbs 25:1-12 text here.  Listen to a reading of the Proverbs 25:1-12 text here.

Proverbs 15:23-33

Joy is found in giving the right answer. 

      And how good is a word spoken at the right time!  (Proverbs 15:23)

Have you ever regretted saying something even before the words were out of your mouth?  My grandfather used to tell me that was called putting your mouth in motion before your mind was is gear.  I would have to admit the majority of my apologies to people were over something I said rather than something I did.

It is always fruitful for me to take a breath and compose my thoughts before responding to a difficult person.  There are situations as well, that require a deep breath before speaking.  If any of you reading this have recently suffered a loss or encountered a life threatening illness, you know how words meant to comfort can cut deeply.

A cheerful look brings joy to your heart.
      And good news gives health to your body. (Proverbs 15:30)

There are times when words need not be spoken and it is these times when a cheerful look, or a touch on the shoulder says all that need be said.  It is the compassionate gaze, the reassuring smile and the consoling hand that bring comfort.

Read the Proverbs 15:23-33 text here.  Listen to a reading of the Proverbs 15:23-33 text here.

Numbers 6:22-27

"Later, Dude," or, "Right back at you," are words we might hear when a teen or young adult bids farewell.  There are many ways to say goodbye to our friends or family.  When good friends or loving family members part company they might hug or share a kiss as they depart, often expressing their love for one another.

The reading today is filled with familiar words overflowing with peace and love.  We hear these words said over us as we complete our worship time on Sundays.  These words link us to God, and we are blessed by them.  

The LORD bless you 

and keep you; 

 the LORD make his face shine on you 

and be gracious to you; 

 the LORD turn his face toward you 

and give you peace. (Numbers 6:24-26)

What did you feel as you read the Scripture above?  I felt warm, loved and at home.  That is what God's blessing is supposed to do for us, wrap us in a blanket of security and peace; cuddling us in warmth of His wonderful name.  This is a perfect way to end a time of worship together and a beautiful way to begin the week.

Read the Numbers 6:22-27 text here.  Listen to a reading of the Numbers 6:22-27 text here.

2 Corinthians 5:14-6:2 Reconciliation

2 Corinthhians 5:14-6:2

“All for one and one for all!” Remember the The Three Musketeers chant? That is what I thought of when I read the beginning of this daily reading. It says: “For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.” I really don’t remember exactly what the Three Musketeers were up to, but I have a feeling it was not exactly what God intended. None the less, they had the right idea of sticking together for the good of the group and their cause.

Reconciliation is the theme. “And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him ho died for them and was raised again. So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation: the old has gone, the new has come!”

If we are Christians, we can live out the richness of new life. Our new identity is the real and true gift of being remade through the power of Christ. We need to be strong to make our way through this world, keeping our eyes fixed on what is eternal and not of this world. Strengthen that new self through prayer, reading God’s word, and developing relationships with other Christians so that together we can be strong and stand firm against the evils of this fallen world. Amen.

Luke 15:23-32

My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’” (Luke 15:31-32)

This story of the prodigal son has been told over and over again.  We have heard it explained from three separate and unique vantage points.  And, depending on where we are life at the time we hear it, we will be impacted accordingly; with one having more influence over us than the other.

First we see the view point of the youngest son.  He demanded his inheritance so he could go out and see the world and find himself.  This man wanted more than the life he was living, he wanted adventure and freedom.  He needed to be his own man.

If you are a parent, you probably feel for the father of the young man.  You know what is happening in your son's head and his heart.  You understand what he is doing even if you don't approve.  You are smart enough to realize that children have to find their way in the world, they have to make their own mistakes for the lessons they learn to mean anything.

The oldest son feels betrayed.  Perhaps he would have liked to leave as well, but felt a sense of duty to stay with his father, maybe even offering himself up as a martyr, sacrificing his happiness.  Then again, perhaps he already sowed his wild oats and his father was unaware.  Not everyone leaves their home to find themselves.  Some of us just leave our values and morals behind and no one is the wiser.

There are numerous scenarios we can conjure up when studying this popular story.  This week as been filled with stories of relationships; how they fall apart and how vital it is to repair them.  What is the story on your heart this week?  Who is the character you relate to and what do you need to do to repair a relationship?  Don't wait...

Read the Luke 15:23-32 text here.  Listen to a reading of the text here.

Matthew 5:21-26

“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ (Matthew 5:21)

Some reading the devotions this week may find they are uncomfortable; perhaps feeling a bit convicted by the Holy Spirit.  Writing as one who struggled with 'touchy-feely' situations, never allowing any emotional openness to pervade my being, the text for today would have made me squirm.

Relationships can be tricky and they can be sticky as well.  When we find ourselves chewing on resentment for an entire day or week - it is time to do something.  If someone's words cause us to cringe or even cry - it is time to do something.  When the actions of a stranger, who cut us off in traffic, spoil our day - it is time to do something.

My parents used to lecture me saying I was too sensitive, so I toughened up.  For years if I shed a tear I was ridiculed and labeled a cry baby.  So I toughened up; no more feelings allowed. I also did not allow myself to  laugh, for that was a feeling too.  How freeing it is to realize Jesus cried and He laughed.  Jesus was all about relationships, and He taught that we cannot have healthy, meaningful relationships without feelings.

Sometimes feelings need to be addressed and expressed.  When I have made a mistake I need to confess to the person I wronged.  Scary concept?  Sure, but once practiced it is freeing.  When my feelings have been hurt, am I too just stuff it and carry a grudge?  The simple act of letting someone know that what they said or did was hurtful, takes courage, but once again it is freeing to the soul.

The text today is not just about ending someone's life, no it is about killing someone's spirit.  It is even more about how Love conquers...Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. (1 Peter 4:8)

Read the Matthew 5:21-26 text here.  Listen to a reading of the Matthew 5:21-26 text here.

Act Now - Malachi 4:1-6

I was reading a devotional this morning and was stopped by this comment about relationships.  "In the intensive care waiting room the world changes."  Many of you reading this can understand what it means.  I know I can, but if not for the 'waiting room' experiences of almost a year ago, I probably couldn't.

"Surely the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble, and the day that is coming will set them on fire,” says the LORD Almighty. “Not a root or a branch will be left to them." (Malachi 4:1)
Do we place too much value on feelings?  Feelings aren't facts, as they say in 12-step recovery rooms.  Our painful memories aren't accurate or at the very least no longer relevant. In the waiting rooms of life we find that grudges disappear, past hurts fade and hearts are healed.  Why should it take a waiting room experience to find peace and to give love a second chance?

God is instructing us to cast aside our arrogant ways and embrace our relationships, appreciating the fact they may only be for a season.  God is preparing us for eternity with Him, but we have to learn how to love each other so we can love Him.

"If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing." (1 Corinthians 13:2)

Read the Malachi 4:1-6 text here.  Listen to a reading of the  text here.

Reconciliation - Isaiah 2:1-5

Raise your face to God – turn your

Eyes to Heaven

Consume yourself with love

Only God can heal your hearts

Never allow pettiness to reign

Consider there may be no tomorrow

Isaiah tells of a time of peace

Last days are approaching

Invite your enemy to dine with you

Allow forgiveness to rule your life

Train for war no more

Illuminate the world with Light

Outstretch your arms to embrace

Nations of peoples unite

He'll settle things fairly between nations.
He'll make things right between many peoples.
They'll turn their swords into shovels,
their spears into hoes.
No more will nation fight nation;
they won't play war anymore.
Come, family of Jacob,
let's live in the light of God. (Isaiah 2:4-5)

Read the Isaiah 2:1-5 text here.  Listen to a reading of the text here.

Genesis 33:1-10

This story makes me smile.  I hope you had a chance to read the chapters between 27 and 33 because they are filled with life and struggles.  They lead up to this climactic meeting between brothers; one feeling guilty from the deception he performed years earlier, the other full of love and forgiveness.  He is anxious to see his brother and get caught up.

What a party there must have been that evening.  How many times in our lives do we let our pride, or fear, get in the way of doing the right thing?  How many sleepless nights have we given up to tossing and turning in our guilt and shame?

"But Esau ran to meet Jacob and embraced him; he threw his arms around his neck and kissed him. And they wept." (Genesis 33:4)

If this scene were a Hollywood production, this is where the slow motion camera would zoom in on first one then the other brother as they closed in on each other.  Can you see the family of Jacob watching in fear and then smiles slowing breaking across their faces?  I love the visual the words in Genesis 33 provide the reader.  Love in action, the love of God coming out in his servant, Esau.  

Does this make you just chomp at the bit to call you brother you may be estranged from?  Don't you want to knock on your sister's door and give her a big hug?  Go ahead, it isn't too late.  Take it from one who knows, while I was not at odds with my sisters, distance kept us from having a close and meaningful relationship.  That has all changed now and I know it is part of God's big plan for us.  Years ago I claimed Jeremiah 33:3 and God is working now.


Read the Genesis 33:1-10 text here.  Listen to a reading of the text here.

Genesis 27:30-41

The story in Genesis today is a story of sibling rivalry; there are a number of them.  The first was the conflict was between Cain and Able.  This struggle ended in the death of Abel at the hand of his brother.  Another is the dynamic saga of Joseph and the tug of war with all his brothers.  The story today involves Jacob and Esau.

Do you have any experience in this area?  Many brothers and sisters vie for the attention or love of a parent or a grandparent.  This competition is generally unfounded and only in the mind of the child who feels less important or special than a brother or sister.  As a parent I was always careful to buy things of equal value for each of my kids.  I even practice this today with the grandchildren.

I wonder if God ever questions why I don't vie for His attention more.  He would certainly be justified in turning away when I run to him during times of trouble.  He would be justified in asking me, "What do you want this time?" as it is often the only time my eyes and heart are totally focused on his power and might.

When Jacob fooled his father into giving him the blessing that belonged to his brother, Esau, the rivalry turned into a vendetta which Esau swore to avenge and slay his brother.

"Esau seethed in anger against Jacob because of the blessing his father had given him; he brooded, "The time for mourning my father's death is close. And then I'll kill my brother Jacob." (Genesis 27:41)

There is a happy ending to this story, it just takes a little time and a lot of patience from a God who is Patience and Love and Grace.  Turn in Tuesday to hear the turn this story takes.

Read the Genesis 27:30-41 text here.  Listen to a reading of the text here.

Psalms 23

Life with God...... It can't get any better than that!

"The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name sake.
Even though I walk through the valley
of the shadow of death, I fear no evil,
for you are with me; your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
AMEN!
My bible states that this is the most famous Psalm it contains. As I read it, I have the vision of a kind, caring and gentle shepherd. Too many of us imagine God as demanding and powerful. Well, though he has power beyond our imagination, he posesses love and compassion we are unable to comprehend. Isn't this the God you hope to spend your eternity with?

New Jerusalem - Revelation 21:1-5

How many times in our lives have we wished for a 'do-over'?  Rebellious actions or damaging words slip out and we wish for a chance to take it all back.  As humans we are sinful and as Paul said, "I do what I don't want to do and I don't do what I want to do." (paraphrased by writer)  The Book of Revelation is filled with promise and hope for a new day and a new life.  Revelation is filled with examples of God's love and grace.

I am enthralled with the concept of God making everything new.  Adam and Eve's disobedience caused our world to be filled with sin.  God's son, Jesus, came to redeem Adam and Eve's behavior and thus our behavior as well.  Jesus has made everything new for us.  And on that great day when He returns "Every knee shall bow."  What a visual those words provide to the broken and pain riddled followers of Jesus.


He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

Read the Revelation 21:1-5 text here.  Listen to the text here.

John 14:1-7

You have probably noticed the scripture lessons for this week are preparing us for the All Saint's Day Celebration this coming Sunday.  For those of us reading this week who have recently lost someone we love, these selections are very pointed and poignant.  Many of the titles for the daily readings touch the hearts of mourners, caressing them with hope and healing.

I recall a number of conversations my husband, Dave, and I had in preparation for his move from this world to the next.  The conversations were amazing and usually happened when of the pastors were visiting and we started discussing a verse that was shared.  It may have been a sad time of my life but it was also a very meaningful and dare I say wonderful time as well.

Christians can prepare one another for meeting Jesus with confidence and compassion.  It is common for the question, "What will happen when I die?" to arise.  We all wonder that, even though we are confident of our destination.  As humans we sometimes are curious as to the details.  When Dave asked me that question I thought he meant, "Will I go to Heaven," while what he really meant to ask was, "If I have a new body and a new name how will you recognize me when you get there?"

These four verses from today's reading are like music to my ears.   “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.” (John 14:1-4)

Read the John 14:1-7 text here.  Listen to the text here.

John 10:25-30

As someone who is in charge of a project will testify, many times decisions they have made and orders given are questioned by those who have been charged with the job.  Even little children challenge authority.  Many years ago one of my girls was spending time with their grandmother.  The child was in the car and instructed to sit down.  (This was in the day before child restraint laws.)  Her response was, "You're not the boss of me."

I cannot count the number of times I defied authority and lived to regret it.  It takes wisdom to get to the place of recognizing, believing and ultimately obeying those who have earned and deserve our trust.  Experience is generally the teacher of this lesson.  The Jews in Jesus' day had experienced, but still they were stubborn, they did not believe nor trust His authority. “I did tell you, but you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify about me, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep." (John 10: 25-26)

I cannot imagine the feeling of being told by Jesus, "You are not my sheep." I know there are times I too, challenge His authority by taking my life into my own hands, by ignoring the command to, "pray continually," or to turn my back on my neighbor in their time of need.  It is time I open my eyes to the reality of Jesus' love as the Shepherd of my life.  When He leads me from danger I willingly will put my hand in His.



Read the John 10:25-30 text here.  Listen to the text reading here.

Luke 23:32-43

Even death cannot separate us from the love of Christ.  What an amazing statement and one I draw comfort from.  This week as we prepare for the celebration of All Saint's Sunday we are drawn to the cross.  If not for the cross there would be no joy in this world, no hope at the death of a loved one.  It is because of the cross I was able to praise God and sing following my husband's death.

Do you have a similar experience?  These are the stories we are called to share with the world.  People who do not know Jesus cannot have the same peace Christians hold in their hearts.  This fact does not make the life/death struggle any easier.  It simply gives us a reason to move forward, because we know we will be reunited again.  These are empty words to the world; meaningless noise that only fills the dead air.

Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

The words above are just what I need to hear.  The words above fill my heart with hope that life has a purpose and we are all part of that purpose - that amazing plan.  What will fill your heart this Sunday, as the names of the faithful are read aloud?  Tears may fill the eyes, but peace will fill the hearts of the faithful followers.

Read the Luke 23:32-43 text here.  Listen to the text here.

Isaiah 40:1-10

How often in our lives do we look for comfort, do we seek to feel better about the world, especially our little piece of the world?  Is your world falling apart today, do you feel alone or rejected?  Oh, dear friend, this too is part of life, part of growing strong in faith and part of developing a personal testimony God can use.

It is good to know that God doesn't leave us alone during these seasons.  When we look around us we can find people God has placed in our lives who will understand our problems.  We can also gain comfort by reaching out and grabbing hold of God himself.  His Word in this Isaiah text is meant to comfort us and to provide hope for tomorrow.

 A voice of one calling:
“In the wilderness prepare
the way for the LORD;
make straight in the desert
a highway for our God. 
 Every valley shall be raised up,
every mountain and hill made low;
the rough ground shall become level,
the rugged places a plain.
 And the glory of the LORD will be revealed,
and all people will see it together.
For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.”

It has been a year since my world began to fall apart, a year since life as I knew it began to change.  If I did not have The Living Hope to reach out for, everything would be much different now.  Because of God and the faith I have in His goodness I can claim the scripture above as mine.  "Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low..."

We are all invited to draw near to God and experience His comfort.

Read the Isaiah 40:1-11 text here.  Listen to the text here.