Dead to Sin / Alive in Christ

PRAYER PRACTICE

DAILY READING

 Romans 5:1-14

DEVOTION / REFLECTION

Our Hope is the Difference

by Nancy Gleeson

Most everyone agrees that Jesus was a man who walked this earth. Believing only this, everyone is at the same starting point, separated from God by sin. But there can be boasting in the hope of the glory of God for those of us who understand that it was, “when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly”!

This hope makes all the difference. It’s safe to say most every person wants to end up in Heaven, but can just anyone expect to go to Heaven? As Christians, we are certain of Heaven because of our faith in Jesus Christ, who reconciled us to God, the Father. You see, hope is simply desire and expectation. But our hope is based on something real.

Hope = DESIRE + EXPECTATION =

The blood of the Lamb

bringing eternal glory to the full salvation of God!

Glory is now part of our suffering because suffering has something to do with hope.  Suffering produces perseverance; from perseverance we build character, (character being that stuff that shows when we are tested, like when we're suffering. So round and round we go...) From these three things, our suffering, perseverance, and character THERE IS HOPE. And it is a hope that is poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, given to us because of Jesus.

But that’s not all! It was God who solved that problem of sin for us. It was God's wrath we deserved because we were God’s enemies, but He reconciled us to Him through the death of His Son. "How much more shall we be saved from his wrath through him!"

Just as sin and death came to all of us because of one man, God sent the only One, Christ Jesus, to wash away our sin. The grace of Christ is extensive and we are set free! Having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Heavenly Father,

You are a God of mercy and grace. I am forever amazed that you cared enough to save my soul from the sin and destruction in my life. With Jesus, I am made new and seek to do your will. I find comfort and safety under your wings and love to sing your praises. Please use me to bring others to you and to show them your endless blessings. Amen.

Peter and John before the Sanhedrin

PRAYER PRACTICE

Breath Prayer – Take 2-3 minutes today to pray a simple breath prayer. Get somewhere quiet and relaxing. Breathe in deeply, and then breathe out fully. As you breathe in, ask God to fill you with His presence, grace, love, peace, etc. Consider using the list of spiritual fruit in Galatians 5:22-23. As you breathe out, offer to God the things you need Him to take from you – sin, doubt, shame, anxiety, fear, etc. Pray this way for just a few minutes, trusting God to work, and then begin reading today’s Scripture.

DAILY READING

ACTS 4:1-12

DEVOTION / REFLECTION

Hindsight

by Nancy Gleeson

I’ve been watching a reality TV show that was filmed during the onset of the pandemic in 2020. I am reliving the confusion that existed when it all began and wishing the cast didn’t have to struggle to make sense of what was happening. With my 20/20 hindsight, I already know the significance of its affect on our lives.

With a similar vantage point, I think about the world just after Jesus was crucified, I realize that the Sadducees, leaders, and teachers of the law were facing something they didn’t understand that would greatly affect their future! Here they were thinking the crucifixion was the end of their troubles with Jesus, never expecting that Jesus’ death on the cross was actually a POWERFUL new beginning!

In these times, had anyone accepted that having been born in Adam, in sin, meant they would all die separated from God? They still needed to comprehend that our sinful nature is inherited, and we sin because of our sinfulness.  They needed to seek salvation which cleanses us but only with the ultimate sacrifice. 

Jesus had been appointed by God for this great purpose. Still, the people needed to understand that salvation cannot originate by any power among man. No one can be saved apart from God’s help. God made a way for the penalty of sin to be paid.  Only the Son of God, the only one born sinless, can save us.

It is Christ Jesus who promises the free gift of new life to all those who believe in His name. Salvation is a total gift from our Father in Heaven. It is undeserved and a complete work of grace and mercy. To this day, it is such an amazing thing to fathom, and forever, the gospel needs to be shared.

Like Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, spread the good news!

Heavenly Father,
You are a merciful and loving God. I praise and worship only You. It is from You that I receive new life. Help me to rid myself of efforts to earn your favor. Allow me to rest in your grace. Help me to share the gospel with all those who are lost reminding them of your free gift of salvation. It is in Jesus’ name I pray.

Luke 18:31-43

PRAYER PRACTICE

Spoken Prayer – Out loud, pray for God to speak to you through your reading. Praise God for giving us His word. Ask the Spirit to help you read with faith, and to live out what you hear from God through the passage.

DAILY READING

 Luke 18:31-43

DEVOTION / REFLECTION

by Nancy Gleeson

What I like most about this passage is the reminder that God chooses whose eyes will be opened, who will understand, and who is granted faith in Him. I am reassured that those people I love but who are non believers may one day hear Jesus’ calling and invite Him into their heart. For it is not through intellect or explanation that one is able to accept the Word of God. It is an act of God that opens their mind to Him.

The apostles were not meant to understand what Jesus was telling them. It was vital for them to hear these words but it would be for the glory of God that they would, on a later date, understand these words. The resurrection is when these men would be convinced that Jesus was the Messiah and their faith was made stronger. Up until then, the apostles remained blinded by their own expectations and their own agenda. They hoped for a new king to bring them power and good things. Their eyes were not set on a man who would suffer to serve them. They could not discern God’s plan for salvation.

God’s sovereignty and power work at the level of the mind. He allows us to understand things when the time is right and withholds other things when it is not. One must know that God uses suffering to fulfill His purposes. Expecting a life without suffering prevents us from seeing God at work, not only in our lives but in the world around us.  Eyes that see Jesus view the world in a different way. 

Only the suffering blind man in this story has spiritual sight. He recognizes Jesus as the Son of David and uses his voice to shout in order to be heard. For he wants physical healing and receives it based on his faith that is evident to Jesus. It is through faith, and faith alone, that we see Jesus and through God’s grace, we receive our faith.

How good are your spiritual eyes?

Heavenly Father,

You are my Faithful and Loving Father who is sovereign over all the world. I ask that you open my mind to understand your word and to discern your will so that I can apply it in my life. I know that I have been blinded by my own expectations and desires for my life. Rid me of my sense of entitlement and help me to welcome the suffering in my life knowing that you will use it for my good. In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.

Disciples sent out to preach and to heal

PRAYER PRACTICE

Prayer Journal – To begin your daily worship today, grab a pen and paper and write out a prayer to God. Not sure what to write? Try using ACTS to frame your prayer. Begin with adoration for who God is. Then move on to confession – being real about where you have fallen short in the last day or two. Give thanks to God for all that He gives (including forgiveness for the sin you just confessed!). And then finish with supplication – with your prayer requests to God. When you are done, tuck this away somewhere (so you can read it later and see how God has answered your prayers) and then move into hearing from God through His Word.

DAILY READING

Luke 9:1-62

DEVOTION / REFLECTION

Faith Based Journey

by Nancy Gleeson

Have you heard of those romantic getaways when a husband surprises his wife by picking her up at the office to take her straight to the airport? He’s packed her suitcase with everything she will need at this secret destination. I’m sorry but who could honestly trust their husband to know what they would need on a mystery vacation?

Jesus wanted to do just that! He knew his disciples would realize they could trust in him to provide for their needs if they were sent empty handed to travel from village to village relying only on the hospitality of people they hadn’t even met. He instructed these men to go out to spread the gospel and commissioned them with the power to heal the sick and to cast out demons.

The disciples were to enter each village, knock on a door, and announce their message to the resident. If they were welcomed in, the home would become the hub of their ministry and the homeowner would provide their room and board. If they were turned away, they were to travel onto the next destination and the entire village would be abandoned. This was an opportunity for them to trust in Jesus’ power and faithfulness, especially when He was absent. Jesus oversaw every detail and upon the disciples’ return, His divine provision was demonstrated once again.

Having just found a secluded place where the disciples could tell Jesus of their travels, they were interrupted by people who had heard of Jesus' location.  These people had not planned what they would eat or drink because they wanted nothing more than to find their Savior. The disciples (who had just been the recipients of other peoples’ compassion, BTW) wanted to rest privately with Jesus, and so they suggested these people be sent home to get something to eat.  They saw this problem as belonging to the people, but Jesus made the needs of the people a problem for the disciples!

Again the disciples were instructed to take action before they knew how Jesus would provide. They weren’t very optimistic when they learned there were only five loaves and two fish, but they obeyed Jesus and gathered the people into groups of fifty. Not only did the disciples witness Jesus feeding more than 5000 people, but there were exactly 12 full baskets of food remaining, enough for each of the disciples to eat, too! What a beautiful illustration of our Lord’s promise of provision. He worked through the disciples because they obeyed Him based only on faith.  

Let us trust not only in Jesus’ power but in his faithfulness remembering that Jesus does for us what we need most. Dying on the cross, he takes away our sins. I know that when I am afraid to let go and let God, I find the assurance I need by looking back at what Jesus has already done for me.

Father,

You are the Almighty God who takes care of your children. Thank you for never giving up on me. I know I should not worry or try to take control. Please help me to see where I am getting in your way. Never stop pursuing me because I need you more than I may show. I want to rely on you and to rest in your power, completely.  Amen.

John the Baptist Prepares the Way

PRAYER PRACTICE

Prayer Journal – To begin your daily worship today, grab a pen and paper and write out a prayer to God. Not sure what to write? Try using ACTS to frame your prayer. Begin with adoration for who God is. Then move on to confession – being real about where you have fallen short in the last day or two. Give thanks to God for all that He gives (including forgiveness for the sin you just confessed!). And then finish with supplication – with your prayer requests to God. When you are done, tuck this away somewhere (so you can read it later and see how God has answered your prayers) and then move into hearing from God through His Word.

DAILY READING

 Luke 3:1-20

 

DEVOTION / REFLECTION

An Equal Playing Field

By Nancy Gleeson

I don’t know about you, but I would rather not admit that I have a problem if it is too big for me to solve on my own. Denial is perfect for keeping me from telling myself the truth about my sin and imperfection. But if there were outstretched arms wanting to hold me and offer me not only grace but also a solution, I just might be willing to face my stuff head on.

John the Baptist wanted to reach the people unwilling to see themselves as sinners, to prepare them for the Savior who was to come. You see, the Jews thought their hope rested in their lineage. They held the belief that God would judge other nations by a certain standard but the Jew with another. John told them that racial privilege meant nothing.

Those who were enjoying power and privilege did not realize God’s judgment was good news, but it showed that God cares about justice. God intends to right the wrongs of this world! John’s message was good news because he prepared the way for Jesus, announcing the coming of Christ's salvation. Even the tax collectors and sinners, even those with hearts of stone will raise up children of Abraham!

John said to keep the Law of God but told of salvation apart from keeping the Law. John made it simple by stressing integrity in the ordinary things as the best mark of genuine repentance. It was John’s conviction that nowhere can a man serve God better than in his day’s work.

How would the message,

“You can turn from the wrong you’re doing!” touch your life?  

Heavenly Father,

I want to serve you better. Show me where I can produce fruit in keeping with repentance. Help me to open my eyes to see my sin, no matter how big or small, because I know it separates me from your will. I want to lessen my pride to reveal for all to see that it is YOU who gives me strength and shows me the way. In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.

Luke 19:28-48

PRAYER PRACTICE

Spoken Prayer – Out loud, pray for God to speak to you through your reading. Praise God for giving us His word. Ask the Spirit to help you read with faith, and to live out what you hear from God through the passage.

DAILY READING

 Luke 19:28-48

by Nancy Gleeson

As Jesus entered the city, his followers cried out,

“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!

Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”  Luke 19:38

Yet, not everyone saw Jesus as King and the many who did, had the wrong idea about what kind of king He was. Because of this, Jesus wept. You see, His mission would have nothing to do with politics or power. He knew that the people would soon cry out, “Crucify him!”. Jesus wept for a city that could not recognize that it is humility and sacrifice that define the true Christ of God.

Jesus saw the city was obsessed with power and at the center was the temple. Their religious system was being used to distance people from God and it was keeping what would bring them peace hidden from their eyes. The people needed to know that God didn’t require something from them. This House of Prayer needed to be restored so they could receive nourishment for their souls.

The same is true for us. What Jesus brings as king must sit on the throne of our heart. Whatever we put of ultimate importance speaks into our heart and guides us. It is that very thing that determines the course that we walk. When we praise Jesus, we celebrate Him with our life. God is seeking to draw people to Himself while so many in our world wonder and search for meaning. Let others see Jesus in us. Turn our love into action so that the rocks will not be left to cry out.

Prayer:

Holy God,

Help me to be passionate about restoring people to you. Give me eyes to see places in my life that can be a house of prayer rather than a den of robbers. Remove barriers I may have and help me to be a bridge for others to find you. Make me a messenger of your word to awaken people to the life you have for them. Amen

Jesus Teaches on Prayer and More

PRAYER PRACTICE

Lectio – Read today’s passage through once. Then spend some time praying and asking God to show you what you need to pay attention to in the text. Read it again. Now ask God to help you see what this text, and the part that has stood out, may mean for you. Don’t expect to get a clear word every time but always be ready to really hear from God through His Word.

DAILY READING

 Luke 11:1-36

DEVOTIONAL REFLECTION

by Nancy Gleeson

Prayer and Our Faith Life

When I was a new believer, I would take my questions about scripture to some of my Sisters in Christ. As I matured in faith, I took pride in being the one to dispel my well thought out insights to enlighten others. Now I am sophisticated enough to contribute to this church blog for the membership to study as daily meditation. My, but haven’t I come a long way?!

Actually, I am really no further along than when I started this walk except that I may have developed a sense of pride and self-sufficiency; both very bad things to possess. It is because of these characteristics that I may not ask others for help. I may not ask Jesus to teach me to pray. I might just keep saying my blessing before dinner and repeating the Lord’s Prayer during church service without truly meaning the words that I pray.

Jesus teaches us to pray for our daily bread, not because any one of us really has trouble getting enough to eat, but because we are to ask God for our most basic needs. It is good to remain aware of how God cares for us. We aren’t to call upon God only when we have a big ASK. Instead, we can focus on the incremental changes we need to make to be more useful to Him (or in service to those we love). Ask Him to increase our desire for such things. Ask Him to equip us to grow in ways that don’t simply protect and promote ourselves first.

Consider: Prayer isn’t a tool to get what we want from God. It is a way to get God’s will accomplished in us and all around us. It requires faith because we must see God as Our Father. It requires hope in His love for His Kingdom Come.

 “When you pray, say:

“‘Father, hallowed be your name,

your kingdom come.

Give us each day our daily bread.

Forgive us our sins,

    for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.

And lead us not into temptation.’”  Luke 11:2-4

Temptation of Jesus

PRAYER PRACTICE

Spoken Prayer – Out loud, pray for God to speak to you through your reading. Praise God for giving us His word. Ask the Spirit to help you read with faith, and to live out what you hear from God through the passage.

Daily Reading  

 Luke 4:1-13

Devotional

Truth- God's Word Sets us Free

by Nancy Gleeson

Imagine Jesus being tempted all forty days in the desert, never giving in to Satan. The pressure of temptation only relents when we give in and Jesus never did! It’s similar to what we may be feeling after spending most of 2020 in a pandemic denying ourselves what we really want.  

The mind desperately wants to end suffering and finds it hard to resist illegitimate ways to fulfill real desires. Satan takes advantage of such circumstances! If Jesus is hungry, Satan says He should turn a stone into bread. Jesus responds with scripture that conveys the truth that every word of God is more important than the bread we eat.  (Notice that Jesus did not draw on divine resources that are unavailable to us.)  

The question put to Jesus was, “If you are the Messiah, why are You so deprived?” Likewise, we may be asked, “if you are a child of God, why are things so tough?” Why not go ahead and do a little something for yourself? Satan, being a Bible expert, can twist Bible passages out of context to lure us out of suffering and into sin. We must know what the truth of God’s word is.

God never allows us to be tempted beyond our ability to resist. Jesus was hungry but full of the Spirit. We are sometimes the opposite, full stomachs but empty in Spirit. Like Jesus, we need to walk in the Word and in the Spirit. Therein lies our power over sin!

Consider: There, in the power of the Holy Spirit, armed with knowledge of scripture, we can withstand temptation and conquer the evil one. Give it a try this week and see if God's Word doesn't help us overcome temptations.

Prediction of Jesus' Birth

PRAYER PRACTICE

Lectio – Read today’s passage through once. Then spend some time praying and asking God to show you what you need to pay attention to in the text. Read it again. Now ask God to help you see what this text, and the part that has stood out, may mean for you. Don’t expect to get a clear word every time but always be ready to really hear from God through His Word.

DAILY READING

Isaiah 9:6-7

REFLECTION

Unwrap the Gift

by Nancy Gleeson

We can rest confident that God manages the world well. In this prophecy about a future child who will bear the government on his shoulders, God predicts the coming of Christ. He will be sovereign over the affairs of man, possessing attributes appropriate for the power and work needed to uphold justice and righteousness.

He will be called Wonderful Counselor, transcending human understanding, adored with wonder, and possessing the wisdom of God. He will have the qualifications to guide and direct the human race from God’s perspective.

He will be called Mighty God for in Him will dwell all the fullness of the Deity in bodily form.

He will be called Everlasting Father, not to be confused with the Father, although the Father and He are One. He will be the man abiding forever, never leaving his people, but ruling over them and blessing them forever.

He will be called Prince of Peace because peace will characterize his reign upon earth.

This scripture is the very message that brings such a heartfelt response to the meaning of Christmas. What a gift we have been given when God gave His only Son to be the sacrifice for the sins of the world.

The Lord Jesus Christ is that Child that was Born and He is that Son that was Given. His name shall be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father - Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 59:19-21

STUDY THE SCRIPTURE

Click here to access the reading from Isaiah 59:19-21

REFLECTION

Everlasting Covenant

by Nancy Gleeson

There will come a time when the whole world shall fear and worship God, making his name renowned and laying aside idolatries. God tells of His plan for His people who place hope in this promise.

His promise is given as a covenant, between God and those who repent of their sins. A Redeemer who is perfect in humanity and in deity will buy us out of slavery avenging wrongs done by us. Jesus Christ will protect our inheritance.

This Messiah works for only those who ask for His services, knowing they need Him. God promises an abiding Spirit and enduring word through which He will accomplish His purpose throughout all creation.

He is Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, always with us. Ancient of Days whose word never changes is sovereign over all the earth. His covenant for all Believers is celebrated with joy and hope.

For unto us, the Christ Child is born.

UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER - MONDAY 

HUMILITY: Soften our hearts to one another. Give us eyes to see our common humanity, each of us and all of us created in your image, and give us the gift of empathy, to care deeply about one another.

God's Righteousness

The first of two parts to this psalm (versesn1-4) is about human wickedness. Sin is self-absorbed and suffocating(verse 2).That is in contrast(verses 5-9) to the towering goodness and righteousness of God which is incredibly expansive–as high as the heavens (verse 5), majestic as the mountains (verse 6), and limitless as the oceans (verse 6). It is precious and an endless delight; to take refuge in, feast on, drink from and worship (verses 7-8). The writer closes with a prayer (verses 10-11).

 

STUDY THE SCRIPTURE

 

Click here to access the reading from Psalm 36:1-12

For more help use this Bible Study method

 

REFLECTION

 

Refuge in His Faithfulness

by Nancy Gleeson

Undoubtedly, some among us are not happy about the election results.  We fear our country is headed in the wrong direction. We wonder about our financial future and question what social issues can truly be resolved. In the aftermath, is the division and hatred just going to continue? The reality is that evil is corrupting our nation and it is not driven by members of a certain political party. And unfortunately, no government can eliminate it.

What has to be fixed is the sinful nature in each of us. Our only hope is that God will intervene! Mankind needs more reverence for God and hearts need to be changed. We need not be concerned that our President is unable to do what needs done. Our destiny is in the hands of the Almighty God and those who put all faith in Him do not need to be disappointed or afraid.  For His love reaches to the heavens and His faithfulness to the skies. Take refuge in the shadow of His wings.

Psalm 36:1-12

I have a message from God in my heart concerning the sinfulness of the wicked:

There is no fear of God before their eyes.

In their own eyes they flatter themselves too much to detect or hate their sin.

The words of their mouths are wicked and deceitful; they fail to act wisely or do good.

Even on their beds they plot evil they commit themselves to a sinful course and do not reject what is wrong.

Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies.

Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, your justice like the great deep.

You, Lord, preserve both people and animals. How priceless is your unfailing love, O God!

People take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights.

For with you is the fountain of life, in your light we see light.

Continue your love to those who know you, your righteousness to the upright in heart. 

May the foot of the proud not come against me, nor the hand of the wicked drive me away.

See how the evildoers lie fallen - thrown down, not able to rise!

UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER - MONDAY 

HUMILITY: “Soften our hearts to one another. Give us eyes to see our common humanity, each of us and all of us created in your image, and give us the gift of empathy, to care deeply about one another.”

 

David Makes Solomon King

Near the end of David’s life, it comes time for a new king to take the throne. His son Adonijah lays claim to the throne, only for David to take action and install Solomon instead. Solomon is David’s son with Bathsheba. Famously, David’s greatest failure had been taking advantage of Bathsheba and to kill her husband. Rather than hiding from his sin, David repented and made commitments to Bathsheba and her son. The royal line of David would be carried on by Bathsheba’s son, Solomon, which is why you find Bathsheba remembered in the genealogy of Jesus. As you read, consider how God works, even through the worst of circumstances.

STUDY THE SCRIPTURE

Click here to access the reading from 1 Kings 1:28-53

For more help use this Bible Study method

REFLECTION

by Nancy Gleeson

David chose Solomon, not just for a leadership role but for a spiritual role in God’s plan. Solomon’s faithfulness to God revealed the mercy of the Lord. He gave Adonijah an opportunity to repent instead of the punishment he deserved. We see the grace of God when Adonijah asked for forgiveness and it was granted. Solomon reflected God’s heart and right now, we need people who can have spiritual eyes to see the times with the discernment that comes from God. We need people to sense the movement of the spirit of God and act decisively.

With the upcoming election of new leaders, let us pray that God raises up servants with a spirit of discernment.  We need people with the ability to see what God is doing and stand up, in faith, and act by faith. During times of trouble and suffering when Satan seems to have won the battle, we know God is the victor and His plans prevail! The spread of the Gospel around the world is happening and nothing can stop it. God’s plan is coming to fruition! 

We need prayer to help us discern the times and to have faith to act decisively. God will raise up Christians who can have the faith and love to reflect Christ in the world. His promise of a resurrection is something that will happen and by the grace of God, we will be a part of it.

 

UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER FOR MONDAY 

HUMILITY - Soften our hearts to one another. Give us eyes to see our common humanity, each of us and all of us created in your image, and give us the gift of empathy, to care deeply about one another.

The Ten Commandments

In today’s very famous reading, God reveals to His people the distinctive way He wants them to live. He gives them 10 commandments to guide their relationships – with one another and with Him. This law will set them apart as a peculiar people, devoted to the God who led them out of Egypt. It will also expose their need for a savior who can take away the curse that comes when these commandments are broken.

STUDY THE SCRIPTURE

 

Click here to access the reading from Exodus 20:1-21

For more help use this Bible Study method

 

REFLECTION

 

We Have a Problem, God Is the Solution

by Nancy Gleeson

God’s commandments are not a To Do List. His objective is not to have His people become even more rigid and focused on following the law. The point He is making with setting these standards is that it is impossible to be without sin. When we consider all that goes into obedience to the law, we realize that every human being falls short. Breaking any of the ten commandments separates us from God because God is righteous, and we are not.

However, God does not want us to remain apart from Him. Once we realize we have a problem with sin, He wants us to accept His solution; His gift of a Savior who shed his own blood for our salvation. The magnitude of all sin appears to be the same from God's perspective (no such thing as a little bitty sin), and in the same way God sees only Jesus’ blood when He views sinners who follow Christ. (no one better than the next).

We cannot earn God’s favor. We do not work for God's mercy. His grace and love are bestowed upon us when we acknowledge our sin. The Law is a call to Jesus. We can look to the law to show our sin, and we can look to God who saves us from it!

“Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.” Romans 3:20

UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER

MONDAY - MEDICAL PERSONNEL - Pray for our doctors, nurses, and all medical professionals to have strength, wisdom, endurance, and alertness.

Jesus Prays for His Followers

Today’s text comes just before Jesus’ arrest, death, and resurrection. Before these culminating events, Jesus takes time to pray. He prays for His followers, and then prays for all those who will believe because of their testimony. That includes us! As you read, remember that you are hearing the very prayers of God Himself – His desire for His people. What does Jesus say in this prayer? What does it say about His desires for you?

STUDY THE SCRIPTURE

Click here to access the reading from John 17:6-26 

For more help use this Bible Study method

REFLECTION

Powerful Prayers of Jesus

by Nancy Gleeson

Jesus is praying for the disciples, not for the world, but for the ones that believed He was sent by God. He prays to the Father to allow us to recognize His glory and His majesty and in response, for each of us to trade everything we have to behold Him. We are drawn to the unbelievable, and in Jesus, we have found something far greater than ourselves!

Yet, Jesus prays that we be protected and sanctified to know the truth and to know He is our greatest treasure! It is only through a disciple's testimony of Jesus that we become a Christian. Unlike other religions, we don’t seek to hear good advice for our life.  We search to hear the good news for our life!  Jesus died for us!  The more we know who Jesus is and what Jesus has done, the more we believe this message from others.

Jesus prays that we each know what it is we need, and for us to know how to get it. Jesus wants us to dwell in the very love God has for Him because God has the same love for us. He freely gives love to us not because we are lovable, but because He sees Jesus when he looks at us. Every person’s deepest desire is to be loved. When we don’t find it, we are tortured. Jesus' love brings us true joy. Jesus knows the glorious outcome fulfilled through His love.

Jesus is praying for his disciples, but He is also praying the deepest desires of His heart for YOU!

UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER

MONDAY - MEDICAL PERSONNEL - Pray for our doctors, nurses, and all medical professionals to have strength, wisdom, endurance, and alertness.

The Beast out of the Sea

As you read today about “the beast out of the sea,” remember that you are reading over the shoulders of the first readers of this letter. The specifics of the passage probably would have led the early Christians to understand this beast to be the nation of Rome (who came to them across the sea) and the emperor (who oppressed the church and demanded to be worshiped). God shows His people that, as scary as Rome seemed, Rome was just a tool of the enemy, and the enemy would be defeated. What, in our world today, might the enemy be using to draw your heart away from God?

STUDY THE SCRIPTURE

Click here to access the reading from Revelation 13:1-10

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REFLECTION

Taking a Stand

by Nancy Gleeson

Closing in on this 2020 presidential election has most everyone concerned. Each candidate requires that we accept the good with the bad and just choose the lesser of two evils. Take note of the lesson in Revelation Chapter 13. We are not to trust the government entirely, nor view our president as a personal deliverer from all our economic, cultural, or political problems. Our hope is always in God regardless of who the world leaders may be; our worship belongs solely to God. 

God calls for His people to endure, even in the most extreme circumstances. Many consider the current state of affairs to be most extreme! God warns us about the end of times when the final government will have policy intent on making war and killing Christians. We must endure for Christ when we are persecuted, no matter what obstacles stand against us. We must be faithful to God!

Do not go in the direction of the world. Be willing to take a stand. Be holy in your conduct! No one knows when the Antichrist will appear, but we do know this ultimate world leader will be the most fascinating person in human history. He will be received in gladness and all the kings of the earth will yield their authority to him.

Brace yourself because the world will be worshiping and honoring the beast. But Christians will not, and so suffering will come. (Is that not the same principle governing now?) All these things will come to pass within the permissive will of the Almighty. The Book of Revelation calls it the "Mystery of God". The same God who cares for us now will allows our suffering.

God has this message His people:

“Whoever has ears, let them hear. 

“If anyone is to go into captivity, into captivity they will go.

If anyone is to be killed with the sword, with the sword they will be killed.”

This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of God’s people.”  Rev. 13:9-10

UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER

MONDAY - MEDICAL PERSONNEL - Pray for our doctors, nurses, and all medical professionals to have strength, wisdom, endurance, and alertness.

The Scroll and the Lamb

Revelation 5 draws on Old Testament symbols (the scroll in Ezekiel and sealed books in Isaiah and Daniel) and the number ‘7’ which means complete. These symbols point to God’s ultimate plan of cosmic salvation – his promise to punish evil and restore all of creation. But, the author asks, who is worthy to open the scroll? What do you learn about Jesus as you read this text?

STUDY THE SCRIPTURE

Click here to access the reading from Revelation 5:1-14

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REFLECTION

The Scroll and the Lamb

By Nancy Gleeson

Welcome to the throne room where God is seated holding the scroll that cannot be opened until Jesus is standing there. Jesus is both the Lion and the Lamb who has triumphed over sin. He is the Lion from the line of Judah, the Lion’s cub. There will be a KING and tribute will come to Him! His name will be above every name; every knee shall bow in Heaven and Earth. Just as Jacob promised, the scepter did not depart from Judah's line.

Jesus is the Lamb. This Lion became an innocent animal because honor with God comes through humility. These horns show Jesus’ strength and there are 7 horns which represent completion. Jesus came to procure His Kingdom by overcoming sin and death. Through His resurrection, and because of HIs purpose and His work, Jesus is the only One worthy of opening the scroll.

We need do nothing but WORSHIP!! The proper heavenly response to the fact that Jesus is sovereign over all things is to sing a new song. WORTHY ARE YOU! Jesus has perfect power for He is Omnipotent, Omnipresent, and Omniscient. No one in Heaven or on Earth is like this Lamb.

Amen.

UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER – MONDAY

MEDICAL PERSONNEL Pray for our doctors, nurses, and all medical professionals to have strength, wisdom, endurance, and alertness.

Jonah Flees From God

Like the prodigal son, Jonah says “no” to the Father, and tries to run from God. As you study this short text, consider the enormous calling God had placed on Jonah, and the things that Jonah must have felt and thought. What made Jonah’s heart hardened toward God? Are there any ways you’ve been running from God lately?  

STUDY THE SCRIPTURE

Click here to access the reading from Jonah 1:1-3

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REFLECTION

Running the Other Way

By Nancy Gleeson

  

As we think about God’s command to Jonah, we may wonder why it is that Jonah did not do what God told him. He was to go to Nineveh and cry out against its wickedness, but instead, he sailed for Tashish to flee from the Lord. Do we realize that God has asked us to do the same thing, and we don't always do what God tells US to do?

Matthew 28:19-20 commands, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Are we doing this? What is the reason for our disobedience? I don’t know about you, but I’m not sure how good I am at making disciples and baptizing them. Since given a choice, I prefer something I do well. Perhaps that is the very reason God has for stretching our growth with such a challenge.

We know God does not need our help. We understand it is not what we can do for Him but what He can do for us. And apparently, God wants to change us, specifically our issues with pride and self-righteousness.  He watches us make our own choices as we practice free will, defying His commands whenever we want. But He does not leave us to relish in the glory of our self-righteousness. Instead, he lets us face our pride (which is sin) and turn to Him for grace and mercy.

God allows opportunities for us to surrender so He can continue the work of salvation in us. He lets the choice be ours, Defiance or Obedience. What shall we choose to do the next time He challenges us? Will we strive for spiritual growth knowing God doesn’t need us, but wants us to become more like Him? Remember, in all things, God is with us, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we can succeed beyond our own strength. 

God makes all things possible!

UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER - MONDAY

MEDICAL PERSONNEL  Pray for our doctors, nurses, and all medical professionals to have strength, wisdom, endurance and alertness.

The Cost of Discipleship

July 13, 2020

Jesus tells us in this teaching that following him is expensive. There is a cost to following Jesus and serving others the way that he has called us to serve. This teaching comes at a time where Jesus was experiencing great popularity – and he warned his fans that it wouldn’t always be easy to follow. As you study, consider that warning for us today. Are we willing to pay the cost of following Jesus? 

STUDY THE SCRIPTURE

Click here to access the reading from Luke 14:25-34

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REFLECTION

Follow Jesus

by Nancy Gleason

How many of us pack lightly for vacation?  I just returned from Michigan along with my suitcase filled with many clean clothes that were never worn.  When my daughter packed for her summer in France, we needed to open her luggage at the check-in to pull out 3 pounds of stuff that put her over the weight limit.  Our tendency is to think we need more than we really do because we want to have something with us, “just in case”.

When we set out to follow Jesus, we are able to leave behind everything! There is nothing to bring and no worries to keep. Becoming a Christian means turning toward God and turning away from concern for self and earthly possessions. 

Jesus makes it clear that following him is a serious commitment above any personal commitment we have ever made. It requires putting our allegiance to family secondary to Him. What does that look like? Is it simply family discord at the dinner table when discussing religion? Or will it trickle down into how we live our life reflecting our Christian values even when we rock the boat?

Following Jesus is an all or nothing proposition (which is quite unpopular during this time of self-interest). Most everyone believes individual needs are most important. We want to do what feels good rather than sacrificing for moral principles. Aligning ourselves with truth and righteousness to reflect WWJD is what we must be prepared to do. 

Jesus is willing to meet us where we are, and we must be willing to release everything of value to be with Him. As we do, our relationship with Jesus becomes vital and we come to love Jesus above all others. Our submission makes us the empty vessels that can serve the Kingdom of God. The One who redeems us also calls us into costly discipleship and we find that “Follow Jesus” is both a gift and a demand.

UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER     

MONDAY - MEDICAL PERSONNEL

Pray for our doctors, nurses, and all medical professionals to have strength, wisdom, endurance, and alertness.