The king called in the man he had forgiven and said, "You evil servant! I forgave you that tremendous debt because you pleaded with me. Shouldn't you have mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?" Then the angry king sent hte man to prison until he had paid every penny. That's what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to f orgive your brother and sisters in your heart. Matthew 18:32-35
We live in a world that paints word pictures of love. We love our families. We love our careers. We even say we love inanimate things like a new pair of shoes, a car or a great desert. But that type of love will never change our world. Agape love is Christ's unconditional love towards us, but agapao love is what others see as our actions as we reflect the love of Christ. If Christians truly demonstrated agapao love, then our world couldn't help but to be drawn to Christ.
The man in our verses today did not show this love to his fellow servant. His own master at that time, took out he punishment that he intended for his fellow servant on him instead. The man clearly forgot how loving and forgiving his master was to him and he did not reflect that love on others. As you think about this story and I if you are not famliar with it I encourage you to read Matthew 18, it makes me ponder how many times, my Father forgives me and I do not show this agapao love to others. I become very similiar to the man that eventually ends up in prison.
As Christians we have been forgiven a debt that only the master can pay! If you want to show others what Christ is like reflect his love to others. Extend that selfless mercy to others and show agapao love!
Lord, you've forgiven me so many times I've lost count. Each time I fail you, you pick me back up and help me on my way, loving me time and time again. But when I am faced with the same situation, I am not always as generous. Please I beg of you to help me see that when others are looking for that forgiveness from me, that I have your heart and walk in your ways in forgiveness. In Jesus' name. Amen
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Mustard Seeds and Mountains
The disciples asked Jesus privately, "Why couldn't we cast out that demon?" "You don't have enough faith," Jesus told them. "I assure you, even if you had faith as small as a mustard seed you could say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' adn it would move. Nothing would be impossible." Matthew 17: 19-20
Did you know that the average sized aspirin bottle can hold 180,000 mustard seeds? One of those miniscule seeds, when planted in fertile soil, can produce a 10 foot high bush in 3 months. How many times have we faced mountains and felt our faith was too small and insufficient? We may have asked ourselves, "How could God remove that mountain?" Perhaps you may have even given up asking?
When the disciples felt the sting of failure over their inability to heal the boy in today's reading, Jesus directed them to place their faith - no matter how small - in Him rather than in their own abilities.
Remember placing your faith in God is placing you faith in the one that can and will do His will in your life. I ask you today to pray with that faith and see what happens!
God, the mountain of my circumstances seems so large, yet when I look to you as the source of my strength, it becomes insignificant. My faith seems small, yet when I place it in the Creator's hands, it can produce a greater harvest than I could ever imagine. Lord, take my tiny seed of faith, and multiply it with your strength, wisdom and guidance. Thank you for assuring my heart that nothing is impossible with you! In Jesus' name. Amen.
Did you know that the average sized aspirin bottle can hold 180,000 mustard seeds? One of those miniscule seeds, when planted in fertile soil, can produce a 10 foot high bush in 3 months. How many times have we faced mountains and felt our faith was too small and insufficient? We may have asked ourselves, "How could God remove that mountain?" Perhaps you may have even given up asking?
When the disciples felt the sting of failure over their inability to heal the boy in today's reading, Jesus directed them to place their faith - no matter how small - in Him rather than in their own abilities.
Remember placing your faith in God is placing you faith in the one that can and will do His will in your life. I ask you today to pray with that faith and see what happens!
God, the mountain of my circumstances seems so large, yet when I look to you as the source of my strength, it becomes insignificant. My faith seems small, yet when I place it in the Creator's hands, it can produce a greater harvest than I could ever imagine. Lord, take my tiny seed of faith, and multiply it with your strength, wisdom and guidance. Thank you for assuring my heart that nothing is impossible with you! In Jesus' name. Amen.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Scars of the Past
Joesph made a hasty exit because he was overcome with emotion for his brother and wanted to cry. Going into his private room, he wept there. Genesis 43:30
You may or may not know the story of Joesph, but this is a story of forgiveness and God's blessings. Joesph had due cause to seek revenge on his brothers. No one would have questioned that decision. If you have not read this story in quite sometime, I recommend that you take a few minutes to catch up and really feel the impact of that story.
There are many times when others in our lives have caused us pain or perhaps we were the ones that caused the pain and cannot find self-forgiveness. I offer this to you today. Though you cannot change the past, you can affect the future by your response to the wrong suffered by you or by your hands. You can feed the fire of bitterness and depression or you can hold your scars before God and ask for his grace to forgive others, including yourself, for what has happened.
Lord, I do not deny the pain that I have experienced and have caused, but by your grace I give you these painful wounds, no matter how deep they are. I realize that I am powerless to fix the past or to change others, and I also understand that your love can heal me. I give you my scars, O God, and I thank you for your peace and mercy and joy that will flourish within me in the absence of bitterness. Help me to see myself in that new light of your grace! In Jesus' name. Amen
You may or may not know the story of Joesph, but this is a story of forgiveness and God's blessings. Joesph had due cause to seek revenge on his brothers. No one would have questioned that decision. If you have not read this story in quite sometime, I recommend that you take a few minutes to catch up and really feel the impact of that story.
There are many times when others in our lives have caused us pain or perhaps we were the ones that caused the pain and cannot find self-forgiveness. I offer this to you today. Though you cannot change the past, you can affect the future by your response to the wrong suffered by you or by your hands. You can feed the fire of bitterness and depression or you can hold your scars before God and ask for his grace to forgive others, including yourself, for what has happened.
Lord, I do not deny the pain that I have experienced and have caused, but by your grace I give you these painful wounds, no matter how deep they are. I realize that I am powerless to fix the past or to change others, and I also understand that your love can heal me. I give you my scars, O God, and I thank you for your peace and mercy and joy that will flourish within me in the absence of bitterness. Help me to see myself in that new light of your grace! In Jesus' name. Amen
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Unexpected Blessings
Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it's in your power to help them. - Proverbs 3:27
I have noticed a number of TV shows that do a great job of surprising people with unexpected gifts and events. You have all seen them. Maybe you have done that for someone as well. Can you see the look on their faces? We delight in their joy, and become part of the excitment, don't we?
Now I am going to ask, does it have to always be a big thing? A few weeks ago, my daughter, Bethany, took it upon herself to have 28 random acts of kindness. Here is the link to that work.
jbeo.blogspot.com/2012/01/28-smiles.html
The thing that impressed me most about this was that she didn't know the people that were getting the blessing in most cases and expected nothing in return, in all cases. As we think about how God shares and blesses us everyday, let's use the example from Him and honestly Bethany to do this on a daily basis. No matter the past, no matter the present and no matter the future, of this blessing and your relationship with that person, I believe that God is calling us to do this work far more often than we do! (intersting side note - it is a humbling experience as a parent when you realize your kids have much to teach you!)
Dear God, I realize that with you in my life, I have the power to encourage my brother and sister. I know that I also have the power to discourage people simply by withholding good things or kind words. Help me to look for opportunites today to delight someone with an unexpected blessing! Thank you for the chance to participate in showing your goodness to each person you place in my path. In Jesus' name, Amen.
I have noticed a number of TV shows that do a great job of surprising people with unexpected gifts and events. You have all seen them. Maybe you have done that for someone as well. Can you see the look on their faces? We delight in their joy, and become part of the excitment, don't we?
Now I am going to ask, does it have to always be a big thing? A few weeks ago, my daughter, Bethany, took it upon herself to have 28 random acts of kindness. Here is the link to that work.
jbeo.blogspot.com/2012/01/28-smiles.html
The thing that impressed me most about this was that she didn't know the people that were getting the blessing in most cases and expected nothing in return, in all cases. As we think about how God shares and blesses us everyday, let's use the example from Him and honestly Bethany to do this on a daily basis. No matter the past, no matter the present and no matter the future, of this blessing and your relationship with that person, I believe that God is calling us to do this work far more often than we do! (intersting side note - it is a humbling experience as a parent when you realize your kids have much to teach you!)
Dear God, I realize that with you in my life, I have the power to encourage my brother and sister. I know that I also have the power to discourage people simply by withholding good things or kind words. Help me to look for opportunites today to delight someone with an unexpected blessing! Thank you for the chance to participate in showing your goodness to each person you place in my path. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Who May Enter?
Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill? Those who lead blameless lives adn do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts? Psalm 15:1-2.
When we attend worship and kneel at the altar, we present our hearts in reverent worship to God. It is our inward sacrifice of praise. In these verses the psalmist presents another side of worship - the worship that praises God with our lives. We offer this side of worship when we live our lives integrity and honesty in everyday situations. We offer it when we treat others with respect no matter who is listening. When we avoid gossip, and tell the truth instead of resorting to a lie.
I am thankful that we don't have to be perfect to worship God. No one including myself is without fault. However, when we worship God we offer ourselves, just as we are. Sinners that need a Savior. I urge you today to live your lives with integrity and honor for God, and I also add that we stop using those sins as excuses to become closer to God. We know that we have all done that. We say we are not worthy to worship God because of this and that. Well you are right, you alone are not worthy. But our loving savior, Jesus Christ, has made that place at worship available to us. So I ask you to come no matter what and worship and praise the living God.
In Jesus' name Amen
When we attend worship and kneel at the altar, we present our hearts in reverent worship to God. It is our inward sacrifice of praise. In these verses the psalmist presents another side of worship - the worship that praises God with our lives. We offer this side of worship when we live our lives integrity and honesty in everyday situations. We offer it when we treat others with respect no matter who is listening. When we avoid gossip, and tell the truth instead of resorting to a lie.
I am thankful that we don't have to be perfect to worship God. No one including myself is without fault. However, when we worship God we offer ourselves, just as we are. Sinners that need a Savior. I urge you today to live your lives with integrity and honor for God, and I also add that we stop using those sins as excuses to become closer to God. We know that we have all done that. We say we are not worthy to worship God because of this and that. Well you are right, you alone are not worthy. But our loving savior, Jesus Christ, has made that place at worship available to us. So I ask you to come no matter what and worship and praise the living God.
In Jesus' name Amen
Monday, January 16, 2012
His Burden is Light
Then Jesus said "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke fits perfectly, and the burden I give you is light. Matthew 11:28-30
Whenever I read these verses I breathe a sigh of relief. Jesus knows our challenges and deadlines before we face them. He knows the weariness of our minds and bodies before we are aware of that situation.
Are you facing what seems like a situation today that is beyond your ability? Are you facing a situation that is within your ability, and at the end of the day you are exhausted?
I encourage you to lay down your burdens and give them to the creator of the universe and let Him help you today. Release that pressure and feel how being yoked to Him will change your day!
LORD, thank you for your offer to carry my burdens for me. I give them all to you and I gladly receive your rest! I place myself under your yoke to learn from you. Teach me your wisdom that is humble and pure, and help me to walk in the ways you set before me. Thank you for your mercy and love that invite me to live my life resting and trusting in you! In Jesus' name I pray Amen.
Whenever I read these verses I breathe a sigh of relief. Jesus knows our challenges and deadlines before we face them. He knows the weariness of our minds and bodies before we are aware of that situation.
Are you facing what seems like a situation today that is beyond your ability? Are you facing a situation that is within your ability, and at the end of the day you are exhausted?
I encourage you to lay down your burdens and give them to the creator of the universe and let Him help you today. Release that pressure and feel how being yoked to Him will change your day!
LORD, thank you for your offer to carry my burdens for me. I give them all to you and I gladly receive your rest! I place myself under your yoke to learn from you. Teach me your wisdom that is humble and pure, and help me to walk in the ways you set before me. Thank you for your mercy and love that invite me to live my life resting and trusting in you! In Jesus' name I pray Amen.
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Of Infinite Value
Not even a sparrow, worth only half penny, can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to him than a whole flock of sparrows. - Matthew 10:29-31
God cares about even the smallest creatures that in the world's eyes are worth only a penny or less (in Biblical times). This same God created the expanse of the universe, the highest mountains, and the deepest oceans. He cares for us, watches lovingly over us and cares about us, and I mean all of us.
I get in a mood sometimes, that I like to play God. I like to think that some people are not loveable. I start to judge and make accusations without knowing or caring about the facts. Now as I read this passage that is not being very God like. God knows all and sees all and still loves us. Wow, that is not where I was at that is for sure. If I want to be more like God, it is exactly the opposite. Loving first and always.
Spend time today not in the judger mode as many of us end up but more so in the learning and loving mode.
Lord, thank you for your tender, watchful care. Help me to remember all through the day that you are with me. You know every detail about my life - who I am, what I like, where I go, my feelings towards others, nothing is hidden from you. I rejoice because I have no need to be afraid. Your love for me means more than anything else in this world. May I go about my days with quiet confidence and peace, knowing that I am safe in your hands. Amen
God cares about even the smallest creatures that in the world's eyes are worth only a penny or less (in Biblical times). This same God created the expanse of the universe, the highest mountains, and the deepest oceans. He cares for us, watches lovingly over us and cares about us, and I mean all of us.
I get in a mood sometimes, that I like to play God. I like to think that some people are not loveable. I start to judge and make accusations without knowing or caring about the facts. Now as I read this passage that is not being very God like. God knows all and sees all and still loves us. Wow, that is not where I was at that is for sure. If I want to be more like God, it is exactly the opposite. Loving first and always.
Spend time today not in the judger mode as many of us end up but more so in the learning and loving mode.
Lord, thank you for your tender, watchful care. Help me to remember all through the day that you are with me. You know every detail about my life - who I am, what I like, where I go, my feelings towards others, nothing is hidden from you. I rejoice because I have no need to be afraid. Your love for me means more than anything else in this world. May I go about my days with quiet confidence and peace, knowing that I am safe in your hands. Amen
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