Sunday, April 12

John 14:1-7 “In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?” (v.2 NRSV)

This Gospel passage is often read at funerals, and sometimes preceded or followed by the hymn, “How lovely is Thy dwelling place,” inspired by Brahms’ Requiem. Whenever I hear these words of Scripture, they give me great hope and encouragement that this life is not all there is.

Yes, I know that already because I have accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior God’s salvation is a double gift: Forgiveness and eternal life. But there are times when, because I am a flawed human being, I get nervous about the hereafter and need reassurance.

The parent who raised me moved a lot when I was a child, and sometimes I didn’t know we would be packing up, or where we were going next. So, it is especially meaningful to me that Jesus promises us an unshakeable, forever home. Even more wonderful, in verse 3, He says, “I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also.” What wondrous love is this!

Exodus 14:5-22; Psalms 146, 147; 1 John 1:1-7

Monday, April 13

Psalm 1 Happy are they who have not walked in the counsel of the wicked … They are like trees planted by streams of water … everything they do shall prosper. (vv.1a, 3a,c BCP).

When we moved to a townhouse in Maryland it had a bland back yard. So, we added a terracotta-colored stamped concrete patio and planted some flowers. Also, we were told about a tree we had never heard of before—a river birch. These love to be near water and their peach-colored bark peels in beautiful ways. Because we suspected an undergrown stream ran through our back yard (it tended to be sunken and wet), we bought and planted a river birch. It grew like crazy and flourished beside our patio.

This psalm always reminds me of that beautiful tree, and I think the psalmist chose a good symbol to describe those who follow God’s law, refuse to consort with the wicked, and shun evil. For such a tree to do well in soggy circumstances, it must be strong and resist potentially damaging elements—helpful spiritual advice, too.

Exodus 14:21-31; Psalms 2, 3; 1 Peter 1:1-12; John 14:8-17

Tuesday, April 14

1 Peter 1:13-25 Therefore prepare your minds for action; discipline yourselves; set all your hope on the grace that Jesus Christ will bring you when he is revealed. (v.13 NRSV)

BibleGateway.com titled this passage, “A Call to Holy Living.” As a refugee from the fundamentalism to which I was exposed as a child, I tended to downplay the role of holiness in my life. I associated it too much with rigid rules, negative judgmentalism, and a theology that had no room for grace.

However, due to a succession of circumstances in the past couple of years, I realized I needed to revisit the idea of “holy living.” The root meaning of “holy” is to be set apart, as in set apart for, or consecrated unto God. In Christianity, holiness usually refers to believers striving for a life of moral purity and separation from sin. Those criteria still make me a little “itchy,” because I find that the original meaning of “set apart for God” better informs my discipleship. It makes room for Jesus’ grace, mercy, patience, and forgiveness, so that we can “set all our hope” on that grace He will bring us when He is revealed in glory. Hallelujah! I’m pretty sure God isn’t nearly as uptight as those church people I once knew.

Exodus 15:1-21; Psalms 5, 6; John 14:18-31

Wednesday, April 15

John 15:1-11 “Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me.” (v.4)

For most of my adult life, I did not eat enough fruit because it was hard to always find good produce, and most fruit required a lot of work to wash, peel, core, section—or whatever. Then, a few years ago, I resolved my love-hate relationship with fresh fruit by starting to make weekly fruit salad that combines fresh, frozen, and canned fruit. And it’s delicious!

As part of this endeavor, I discovered specialized grapes— “cotton candy” green grapes and “candy snap” red grapes. Grapes were not a favorite of mine before, but these are scrumptious. As I prepared my fruit salads, I began noticing that in the packages of grapes, if any became disconnected from the piece of vine that’s in the container, the grapes almost immediately shriveled or rotted. This brought home to me in a powerful, concrete way Jesus’ teaching about himself as the vine, and us as the branches that must bear good fruit. We truly do need to stay connected to Jesus, for life!

Exodus 15:22—16:10; Psalm 119:1-24; 1 Peter 2:1-10

Thursday, April 16

1 Peter 2:11-25 For you were going astray like sheep, but now you have returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls. (v.25)

I’ve always loved depictions of Jesus as the Good Shepherd that are seen in stained-glass windows, paintings, greeting cards, and even the tiny sculpture atop a music box that stands on the hutch over my desk. So many of these images are filled with tenderness and love as Christ cradles a lost or injured sheep, carries a lamb gently on his shoulders, or bends to feed a hungry ewe. Psalm 23 tells us the Lord is our shepherd, and Psalm 100:3 says, “we are [God’s] people, the sheep of his pasture.”

St. Peter has a wonderful way of describing our salvation as returning to our Shepherd after going astray like lost sheep. Long ago, Isaiah wrote (53:6), “All we, like sheep, have gone astray.” Going astray—sinning, or omitting to do God’s will—is the default setting of our human nature. Praise God, He has given us a Good Shepherd to rescue us and be the “guardian of our souls.”

Exodus 16:10-22; Psalm 18:1-20; John 15:12-27

Friday, April 17

Exodus 16:23-36 Moses said, “Eat it today, for today is a Sabbath to the Lord; today you will not find it in the field. Six days you shall gather it, but on the seventh day, which is a Sabbath, there will be none.” … So the people rested on the seventh day. (vv.25-26, 30)

This story tells how God gave the Israelites manna in the desert, instructing them how much to gather daily. They learned the hard way about collecting too much or not enough. Finally, they figured out that gathering a double portion on the sixth day would last through the Sabbath—when they were not to do any work such as manna-getting (or, in 2026, grocery shopping).

Like many Christians, my husband and I used to do “junk” after church on Sunday—paid bills, mowed the lawn, did the laundry, shopped. But then God convicted us with Scriptures such as this Old Testament passage (and many others): Take the Sabbath seriously as a day of rest! God is very serious about sabbath-keeping. Now, after church, we eat simply, watch a movie, go for a walk, or take a nap—resting from the cares and distractions of the world as well as relaxing. If even God needed to rest on the seventh day, so do His people. In our 24/7 culture, rest is in short supply and we all need it more than ever. It’s both a physical and a spiritual obligation.

Psalms 16, 17; 1 Peter 3:13—4:6; John 16:1-15

Saturday, April 18

Psalm 20 The Lord answer you in the day of trouble! … May he send you help from the sanctuary … May he remember all your offerings … May he grant you your heart’s desire and fulfill all your plans. (vv.1-4)

I imagine the words of this psalm as an ancient greeting card. In fact, these verses might be nice to include in a birthday card or a note of encouragement. God wants the best for us. He wants us to succeed! He delights in helping us.

But we tend to forget how involved in our lives the Creator of the Universe longs to be. We look for support and assistance from earthly sources and are often disappointed. After a few false starts and flubs, we realize that perhaps we should have called upon the Lord to start with. He recognizes and is proud of our offerings and our service, and longs to fulfill our hearts’ desires—when these are consistent with God’s values and His will.

Psalm 37:4 reminds us: “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” God takes delight in you, so return the favor—and the love. Things will turn out better. Just wait and see!

Exodus 17:1-16; Psalm 21; 1 Peter 4:7-19; John 16:16-33

Sunday, April 19

Exodus 18:1-12 Then Moses told his father-in-law all that the Lord had done to Pharaoh and to the Egyptians for Israel’s sake...and how the Lord had delivered them. (v.8 RSV)

Moses is a model for us in our relationship with in-laws. He resists the temptation to simply succumb to small talk when his wife’s father comes for a visit. After the compulsory comments of welfare and weather, Moses carries the content of the conversation to a higher level. He begins to share out of his own experience how God has been involved in his life. Can you imagine?

Many of our extended family members are anything-but interested in matters of faith. For many, one’s relationship with Jesus Christ is considered a private matter quarantined from family conversations. Still, it is probably safe to assume that our in-laws are interested in us. They want to know what’s been going on in our life.

Moses’ approach is noteworthy. He doesn’t preach a sermon. He gloves his faith in the approachable fabric of personal experience. He simply shares ways God had been at work in his life. As you take time today to focus on the Lord, ask Him to open the eyes of non-believing family members to evidences of God’s grace in your life.

Psalms 148, 149, 150; 1 John 2:7-17; Mark 16:9-20

Monday, April 20

Exodus 18:13-27 “You and the people with you will wear yourselves out, for the thing is too heavy for you; you are not able to perform it alone.” (v.18)

From our point of view, it was a near ideal situation. Not only was Moses’ father-in-law genuinely interested in Israel’s God, but he was also sincerely concerned for his daughter’s husband. He saw that Moses was bordering on “burn out” and spoke up in the nick of time.

Unlike the Jethro we remember from the Beverly Hillbillies television program, this Jethro was a wise and prudent man. As a priest in Midian, he had learned ways of working smarter with effectiveness rather than working harder with exhaustion. In Jethro we see a model of delegation and mutual ministry that has not only been embraced by the church but by successful corporations. We are foolish to create work or ministry environments where we are indispensable.

Moses was willing to accept Jethro’s constructive criticism. He didn’t become defensive. He didn’t reluctantly submit. He gratefully incorporated the gist of Jethro’s plan. Moses apparently sensed that God was using a member of his family as a means of personal support and divine insight. It is likely that the Lord is attempting to speak through family members in our lives. Those who know our weaknesses and strengths are worth listening to. Are you willing to listen?

Psalm 25; 1 Peter 5:1-14; Matthew 1:1-17, 3:1-6

Tuesday, April 21

Exodus 19:1-16 “You have seen what I did to the Egyptians and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself.” (v.4)

Spring. I love this season! It’s the time of the year when trees blossom, meadows flower, and April showers color the backyard green once again. It is also the time when the migrant birds begin their return trip north. They soar unrestrained high above the ground. Their mid-air winged dance is a celebration of this awesome season of renewed life.

Perhaps it was in the springtime that the Creator gave to Moses this picture of His provision and faithfulness. Being carried on the wings of eagles in flight. Our gracious Lord desires our companionship. He who created this beautiful world created us as well. He made us in His own image in order that we could enjoy fellowship with Him.

In the desert of our daily lives God dispatches mighty eagles to swoop down and pick us up. And we are carried high above the circumstances under which we are inclined to stoop, pooped and stressed. But we are not just lifted above the drudgeries of routine for the sake of being airborne. The Lord sends His flock of carrier birds to transport us into His very presence.

Psalms 26, 28; Colossians 1:1-14; Matthew 3:7-12

Wednesday, April 22

Exodus 19:16-25 Then Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet God; and they took their stand at the foot of the mountain. (v.17)

Some wear a collar. Some wear a cross. Some a clerical robe. Regardless, they all bear a calling which their vestments merely symbolize.

I’m speaking of those who watch over your soul as those who will one day give an account. We call them priests or pastors or shepherds.

From the very beginning God has called and equipped individuals whose privilege in life is to symbolize His presence and lead His flock. Moses is such a shepherd. He goes before the people of God to give them a sense of direction and protection and to remind them of their election as a holy nation. Moses is the person God uses to help His people take a stand. The Israelites needed Moses, and they usually esteemed his leadership.

Most who know would agree. There has never been a time when it has been more difficult to be a minister. Expectations are unrealistic. Authority is questioned. Commitment is questionable. The church is viewed by culture-at-large as irrelevant. Nonetheless, God still calls individuals to wear the mantle of leadership and go before His people with stage directions and scripts for the drama of worship and life.

Ministry is a lonely task. Those who serve you need affirmation. Have you prayed for them today? Why not drop them a note or e-mail them with words of appreciation. Esteem the role he or she represents in spite of their imperfections.

Psalm 38; Colossians 1:15-23; Matthew 3:13-17

Thursday, April 23

Exodus 20:1-21 “In every place where I cause my name to be remembered I will come to you and bless you.” (v.24b)

Forgetfulness is one of the consequences of a fallen world. From the beginning of time people have had a tendency to forget the ways God has been faithful in our lives. We are not an exception. And when we forget to factor the Lord into our lives, we get ourselves into big trouble.

To counter our mental lapses the Lord has given us symbols to jog our memories of His goodness and His purpose. In the Old Testament there is the rainbow, a pile of stones, the ark of the covenant, and a jar of manna. In the New Testament there is a cup and a loaf, not to mention a cross and a flame. These visual aids remind us of who we are and to whom we belong.

When we allow these symbols to make regular deposits in our memory banks, we are blessed with a sense of His presence and the ability to trust Him for the things that overwhelm us.

Psalm 37:1-18; Colossians 1:24—2:7; Matthew 4:1-11

Friday, April 24

Exodus 24:1-18 “All the Lord has spoken we will do, and we will be obedient.” (v.7)

The term May Day can either refer to the first day of May or a call for help from someone in distress. I’d like to call you to embrace both definitions at the same time. At the beginning of a new month, it is wise to remind ourselves of our plight apart from the Father. Recognizing our tendency to drift upon the sea of cultural relativism, we’d best call upon the Lord to guide us safely through the days that lie ahead. May Day! May Day!

Those who followed Moses called upon the Lord. They, too, know all too well their own tendency for moral shipwrecks. And so their understanding of their need for God was verbalized in a statement of commitment. Like a bride or groom at the altar they said “I do” to Him. They pledged their devotion as a tangible expression of their faith. They went on record to say they would do what the Lord desired.

And perhaps today is a good day to follow suit. (No tuxedo required!) Tell the Lord you will serve Him for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health.

Psalm 105:1-22; Colossians 2:8-23; Matthew 4:12-17

Saturday, April 25

Exodus 25:1-22 “And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst.” (v.8)

The church isn’t a building. It is people. Accountants, teachers, corporate executives, homemakers, dental hygienists, plumbers, lawyers, clergy, physicians, and clerks. And wherever the people of God go, the church is found. It is grammatically incorrect to say we go to church. We are the church!

But that is not to say that the church facility is unimportant. Quite to the contrary. The place the church gathers to do its work of worship each week is sacred space. As in the days of Moses and the Israelites, it is the place that has been created, adorned, and set apart to represent the holy presence of God who is with us at all times.

The sanctuary is a significant symbol for God’s people. It is holy otherness. It suggests that God has His own room in our house. It’s His room, but His room reminds us He is a part of our lives. Even though it may be the least used room on your church property, it is the most important.

As you go to worship tomorrow, be especially mindful of the architecture, the furnishings, and the symbolic art that surrounds you. Allow these silent voices to whisper to your heart that God “is in the house.” Take comfort from the knowledge that you are most welcome in His presence.

Psalms 30, 32; Colossians 3:1-17; Matthew 4:18-25

Sunday, April 26

1 John 2:18-29 But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth. I do not write to you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it and because no lie comes from the truth. (vv.20-21 NIV)

While searching for God many years ago, just before I committed my life to Christ, I subscribed to The Plain Truth published by the Worldwide Church of God. This was Ted Armstrong’s sect that preached, among other things, that there were only two persons in God. I read it weekly thinking that it was truth. However, I remember that, in picking it up after I received Jesus as my Lord and Savior, the Holy Spirit immediately witnessed to me that it was false teaching. I instantly knew it was wrong.

After becoming a Christian, I continued to attend the same church for a short time. However, I soon realized that the minister preached a gospel of works salvation instead of salvation by faith in Jesus Christ and works by the Holy Spirit. I would sit there waiting for him to tell the congregation how to live in the power of the Holy Spirit, but all we heard was to live a good life. I soon left that church and found a church where Christ was preached from the pulpit.

I am learning, over the years, to trust the Holy Spirit to lead me to truth, and I use God’s word, the Bible, as my final test.

Exodus 28:1-4, 30-38; Psalms 63, 98; Mark 6:30-44

Monday, April 27

Exodus 32:1-20 When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, they gathered around Aaron and said, “Come, make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we don’t know what has happened to him.” (v.1)

How easy it is to forget God. How easily we turn from God when things are difficult and when things are good.

Early in my Christian experience, when I read Exodus, I couldn’t get over those Israelites complaining to God over and over again during their time in the desert. They even told Moses they wanted to return to Egypt. God was always there for them. First with sweet water from the bitter pool, then manna and quail from heaven, finally with water from the rock. Every time they needed something they complained, and God always answered their demands. I couldn’t understand how they could be so unfaithful. They experienced miracle after miracle and still worshiped man-made gods.

I have come to realize that I am just like them. I seem to turn to God when things are difficult but turn from God when things are good. I still don’t trust God for my daily needs. I lean on my bank account, stocks, and bonds for my security. I confess that material things are sometimes a god to me. But I am grateful that I recognize this character defect. God and I are working on it. Together, we are working it out.

Psalms 41, 52; Colossians 3:18—4:18; Matthew 5:1-10

Tuesday, April 28

Matthew 5:11-16 “Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (vv.15-16)

When I first became a Christian, I wanted to tell everyone about Jesus and what he had done for me. So, I did. Just about everyone rejected me, and I turned a lot of people off because they knew me too well. That was many, many years ago and I am grateful that my life has radically changed.

Telling the story of Jesus is much more than words. We must live the story before we can share the story. If God’s love shines through us, we’ll help others; if we live in the power of the Holy Spirit, we’ll be more free of sin; if the fruit of the Spirit is reflected in our lives, then, and only then, will people want what we have been given. When our lives are full of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and self-control, then Jesus is being glorified and his light shines forth.

Witness with your life...then your words. But, do both.

Exodus 32:21-34; Psalm 45; 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10

Wednesday, April 29

Psalm 119:49-72 Do good to your servant according to your word, Lord. Teach me knowledge and good judgment, for I trust your commands. (vv.65-66)

I love Psalm 119. Over the past few decades, since I rededicated my life to Christ, my life just keeps getting better and better, and I love to praise my God. I spent much of my life playing god, but I got tired of creating pain for myself and others. I finally let go and am letting God run my life—most of the time. My life is less complicated, more focused on God with a lot fewer worldly distractions. I am learning to take care of myself, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I have also learned to say “no” when I fear I am getting over-committed.

All this new wisdom has come to me as I have learned to give myself to Christ as Lord each morning and renewed his Spirit during the day. Today, I have peace and joy and a road map for daily living. Thank You, Father, for making me Your child through Christ our Lord.

Exodus 33:1-23; 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12; Matthew 5:17-20

Thursday, April 30

1 Thessalonians 2:13-20 For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? Indeed, you are our glory and joy.  (vv.19-20)

Several years ago, I started working in the Kairos prison ministry. Each week I lead a Bible study in the prison with about a dozen inmates. What a blessing it has been for all of us, but especially it has been a blessing to me.

I know how Paul felt seeing people grow in grace and finding meaning in life. My ministry is to help the inmates find a life for themselves behind bars. I don’t get involved in why they are there or if and when they may be released. My only concern is their life now.

Each week as I enter the prison chapel and see their eyes of gratitude as they see me, I thank God for the opportunity of being used by Him. Yes, the “men in blue” (inmates) are my crown. They are my pride and joy.

Exodus 34:1-17; Psalm 50; Matthew 5:21-26

Friday, May 1

1 Thessalonians 3:1-13 May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones. (vv.12-13)

A few years ago, when I made my Cursillo, I experienced unconditional love in a powerful way for the first time in my life. Cursillo is a Spanish word that means “a short course in Christianity.” Over the Cursillo weekend, the participant experiences the best of Christian teaching within a framework of unconditional love.

I had been raised in a family of conditional love. I was praised when I did well in school, for instance; but I felt unloved when I did less than my best. Experiencing unconditional love on that Cursillo weekend changed my life.

We cannot give what we have not experienced; but, when we have been given the gift of love by the Lord in a special way, real fulfillment comes in the sharing of it. A year after I made my Cursillo, I worked as a team member sharing God’s unconditional love. Then, I was led to the Kairos ministry where God breaks down prison walls with His unconditional love. I have seen “tough guys” cry and hug other inmates at the end of a Kairos weekend. Overflowing love carries everything in its pathway to God.

Exodus 34:18-35; Psalms 40, 54; Matthew 5:27-37

Saturday, May 2

1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 As for other matters, brothers and sisters, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more. (v.1)

When I first committed my life to Jesus, God gave me a big brother in Christ. It was a Paul and Timothy relationship. I have never forgotten my first year as a baby Christian. The man who mentored me was on the staff of Campus Crusade for Christ (now known as Cru). I spent time with him daily in Bible study and prayer. Charles really helped me grow in faith and godly wisdom. His name should have been Barnabas, the encourager.

I love to see people grow in Christ. I see the inmates at the prison growing in Christ. I see the men in our Tuesday morning Bible study growing in Christ. I am in a small group with some men and have the pleasure of watching them growing in Christ. My wife and I are helping each other along our spiritual journey. God wants us to be holy, and, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to grow into the image of Christ. This is pleasing to God.

Exodus 40:18-38; Psalm 55; Matthew 5:38-48

Sunday, May 3

Hebrews 12:1-14 And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. (vv.1b-2 NIV)

In the person of Jesus we have an example of everything we need in order to lead an effective life. He is the perfect one, the prize to be won by a life dedicated to him and his kingdom on earth. Nothing less than life eternal awaits us in his embrace.

The race can and will be ours if we but fix our attention on him as he did on us at Calvary. Our struggles with sin, our limited human abilities, our lack of patience and our doubts can all be diminished to nothing if we but trust in Jesus and fasten our eyes on his radiance at the finish line.

This is not easy. It is a life of hard work and discipline to turn away from our own inward desires and turn instead outward to Jesus. What I am always so grateful for is that Jesus offers us help with the Holy Spirit, who strengthens us for the work that we need to do. All we have to do is ask.

Leviticus 8:1-13, 30-36; Psalms 24, 29; Luke 4:16-30

Monday, May 4

Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen.” (v.6a)

My mother was a quiet person, a nurse who spent all of her adult life helping the sick and their families cope with illnesses that were often terminal. This put a great deal of stress on her, but she maintained an outward appearance of calm competency mixed with gentle and genuine concern.

I never heard my mother pray aloud although she was a regular at church and the spiritual leader of the family. She would go to her room and read her Bible and do her devotions and she would pray silently and at length. My siblings and I referred to this time of hers as “talking to God.”

I know now that it was her personal relationship with Jesus Christ that gave her the strength to continue in a demanding job and then through her own illness. She knew that God was with her every day.

Leviticus 16:1-19; Psalms 56, 57, 58; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

Tuesday, May 5

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up just as in fact you are doing. (v.11)

I can remember times when I have been discipled by a friend in the church. Words of encouragement can be so powerful. They can carry us over the top and can be the turning point of a problem. We are reminded that we are not alone in our trouble by this simple act of a friend, sensing our need and offering encouragement.

That someone cares about us can be a wonderful feeling. When someone reaches out and touches us with their kindness, their interest, and their attention, we feel blessed and loved. As we all are members of the Body of Christ, then each kindness is a gift from Christ directly, as we all live in him.

Each of us needs reassurance now and then and that implies that we, too, can offer our support to help others. We worship together, beside each other in praise of our loving God and in thanksgiving for all He gives us. God’s gifts to us are given to be shared with others.

Leviticus 16:20-34; Psalms 61, 62; Matthew 6:7-15

Wednesday, May 6

Matthew 6:19-24 “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (v.21)

Even though I understand that this passage is part of Christ’s teaching about the love of money, every time I read it, I think immediately of my family: my wife, my four children, my two grandchildren. And then my thoughts shift to my church family, the other Christians in my life that mean so much to me. This is treasure, indeed, and this is where my heart is.

It is so easy to become distracted by all that clamors for our attention, especially when things are not going well, when illness or financial crisis or just plain busyness gets in the way and we forget that which is in our hearts, our treasures. All I have to do is look at my children peacefully asleep and I am immediately mindful of the true treasures of life. We could say in reverse, “Look into your heart, there is your treasure.”

In a world that is full of worldly priorities, let us not forget the treasures in our hearts.

Leviticus 19:1-18; Psalm 72; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28

Thursday, May 7

Psalm 71 But as for me, I will always have hope. (v.14a)

Christians hope for many things, and it is our faith that assures us that the things hoped for will come to pass.

We hope that we will be with Christ in heaven, and our faith assures us that we will abide with him as he abides with us.

We hope that God’s will be done for us, and our faith assures us, that if we actively and sincerely seek His will, we are living in fulfillment of His will.

We hope that God’s grace be given us, and our faith assures us that God’s grace, His most precious gift, is ours.

We hope that our unbelief will be conquered by the courage of our belief, and our faith assures us that our belief will free us from a world of slavery to sin.

We hope that God will never abandon us, and our faith assures us that nothing can ever separate us from the love of God.

We hope for the light, and our faith assures us that the light of Jesus Christ will ever shine on us.

Leviticus 19:26-37; Psalm 70; 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12; Matthew 6:25-34

Friday, May 8

2 Thessalonians 2:1-17 Stand firm, and hold to the teachings we passed on to you. (v.15)

This injunction by Paul is something we can all use to encourage others and to arm ourselves against the enemy. One of the ways our faith is shown to others is by the firmness of our belief, our unshakable faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Gospels never waver in the story they tell: Jesus Christ is God incarnate from the Virgin Mary; he lived a life of purity from sin; died for us voluntarily to cleanse us of our sins and; triumphed over death with his resurrection. Now that is something to hold onto.

The Gospels are our anchor, the solid rock upon which we stake our faith and our refuge from all assailants. But the Gospel of Jesus Christ is, above all else, the witness to the wonderful love of God for us. Our faith brings us unimaginable joy.

It is easy to stand firm when we are anchored to the precious love of Jesus Christ and filled with the joy of his love for us.

Leviticus 23:1-22; Psalm 106:1-18; Matthew 7:1-12

Saturday, May 9

2 Thessalonians 3:1-18 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one. (v.3)

When we believe in the power of God to do all the things that we attribute to Him we also believe that He will never abandon us, that He will be faithful and do what He promises. This belief empowers us with the strength and protection of the Holy Spirit. No one can do anything to us if we are so protected.

But spiritual warfare is waged beneath the surface of our lives. God promises to protect us from all evil. We are warned of the danger by numerous scriptural references. Our prayers to the Lord to deliver us from evil are answered. The Bible stands ready to guide us in all things. We are a part of the Body of Christ and in those numbers find strength and encouragement. Finally, we have trusted Christian leaders to guide us.

May God continue to protect us from the evil that surrounds us. May He strengthen us to march forward against the foe. And may His faithfulness and love be always with us.

Leviticus 23:23-44; Psalms 75, 76; Matthew 7:13-21

Sunday, May 10

Luke 12:13-21 Speaking to the people, he went on, “Take care! Protect yourself against the least bit of greed. Life is not defined by what you have, even when you have a lot.” (v.15 MSG)

I was chatting with some women recently about our summer vacations. I mentioned that we were in Paris for a few days. She asked if we went to the luxury handbag store and what I bought. I disappointed her by saying we didn’t go. I was happy to share my moving spiritual experience at the newly repaired Notre Dame Cathedral. Standing in that majestic structure, in the presence of our Lord, I was humbled.

I don’t write this to show my piety or self-righteousness because I eschewed the designer shops for the cathedral. I write this because the passage spoke directly to me. It could have easily been me patronizing the shops, happy with my purchase for a short while. But my heavenly perspective wouldn’t have grown. I may have missed out on that sweet time in the cathedral with the Lord, and those are the moments that I want to define my life.

Leviticus 25:1-17; Psalms 93, 96; James 1:2-8, 16-18

Monday, May 11

Colossians 1:9-14 For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. (v.9 NASB)

A while ago, I read about praying for your girlfriends. It’s a great idea! Life is hard, and we all need support. Jesus-loving women need to take care of our sisters. I pick one girlfriend each week and lift them in prayer. I don’t tell them I am doing it, so I don’t always know what their needs are.

Paul didn’t know the folks of Colossus he was writing to, but he prayed anyway. I’m using this Scripture as a guide as I pray for my girlfriends, whom I am so blessed to have in my life.

Pray for them to: Trust God’s will; gain spiritual wisdom; please and honor God; be a blessing to those around them; grow in their knowledge of God; be filled with God’s strength; have great patience and endurance; stay full of Christ’s joy; give thanks continuously.

I would love someone to pray for me that way, too.

Leviticus 25:35-55; Psalm 80; Matthew 13:1-16

Tuesday, May 12

1 Timothy 2:1-6 Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. (v.2 MSG)

I find it challenging to follow Paul’s words about praying for leaders. I am happy to pray for my pastors. However, praying for government leaders, especially those with whom I disagree, is almost impossible for me.

And yet, I am called to do it just like I am called to tithe and fast. It will have to be an act of obedience, just as those other acts are.

So, I’ve decided that whenever I hear or read something that infuriates me or with which I disagree, I’m going to try to pray for those leaders. Not only does it put my frustrations to better use, but it also reminds me that God is in control, and I should trust Him. Everyone needs prayer, especially those whose actions affect my tranquility and ability to lead a quiet life.

Leviticus 26:1-20; Psalm 78:1-39; Matthew 13:18-23

Wednesday, May 13

Psalm 119:97-120 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light to my path. (v.105 NASB)

Shout out to Amy Grant for ensuring that we sing this verse whenever we see it!

In the Bible, God provides us with laws but also guidelines for how to live. Not only does He give us the Ten Commandments and Proverbs to illuminate our walks, but the New Testament is full of Jesus’ teachings and wisdom nuggets by Paul and Peter on how live and be in relationship with others.

Jesus says the greatest commandment is to “Love your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37), and the second most important commandment is to “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). These are what we as lovers of Jesus should lead with. But the next verse is vital to how we execute it. “On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 22:40). Start with love and follow with the law. Unfortunately, we as humans tend to focus more on the laws and not the love.

Lord, we want to light our paths with Your word which tells us to first love You, and others, then consider Your laws. Forgive us when we get it mixed up.

Leviticus 26:27-42; Ephesians 1:1-10; Matthew 22:41-46

Thursday, May 14

Psalm 8 O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! (v.1)

We just returned from a vacation in France. It is always a blessing to see other parts of the world that the Lord created. The rolling hills, vineyards, endless fields of sunflowers and lavender were just gorgeous. God paints in bright colors.

The trip ended in Paris and the only thing we wanted to see was the restored Notre Dame Cathedral, which had recently re-opened. A fire almost destroyed Notre Dame in April 2019.

We tried for weeks to get the free entry tickets, but none were available. So we took a chance early Sunday morning and went to the cathedral. It was a grey, rainy morning but inside the softly lit cathedral, there were bright vibrant stained-glass windows, paintings of biblical stories and saints, candles, sculptures, and art pieces. It was breathtaking and beautifully restored. The impressive cathedral reflected the magnificence and splendor of the Lord.

Oh Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth! All honor and glory are Yours, Father. I hope such as resplendent cathedral blesses and honors You.

Daniel 7:9-14; Psalm 47; Hebrews 2:5-18; Matthew 28:16-20

Friday, May 15

Psalm 86 All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and they shall glorify Your name. (v.9)

As we wandered through the interior of Notre Dame Cathedral, awestruck and moved to tears by the preciousness of the moment in glorifying our Lord, we heard the organ begin to play. You couldn’t help but be aware that you were on Holy Ground.

As it was Sunday morning, mass was beginning. The chairs in the center of the cathedral started to fill up. I looked around and saw people from every nation, culture, speaking every language, old, young, wearing burqas, and covered in piercings and tattoos. Although mass was in French, it didn’t matter. Everyone gathered to sit and worship in the presence of the Lord. The only English words spoken were from the priest who welcome everyone.

Thank You, Lord, for enabling this cathedral to be restored. Thank You for blessing the hands and creative genius of all the artisans who worked on it. And finally, thank You for the experience of worshiping You in your great and magnificent cathedral. I imagine heaven will be like this.

1 Samuel 2:1-10; Psalm 85; Ephesians 2:1-10; Matthew 7:22-27

Saturday, May 16

Psalm 90 Long before the mountains were born, long before you brought earth itself to birth, from “once upon a time” to “kingdom come”—you are God. (v.2 MSG)

The world is a scary place these days—from wars, famine, unnecessary violence, disease, and financial crises. Let’s not forget we are just a few short years out of a plague that shut down the entire world for a while. Anxiety is rampant among all ages, but especially among the newer generations who have no idea where to put their trust.

I am grateful that You, Lord God Almighty, who created this earth long, long ago, have not abandoned it. You have not abandoned us either, although at times it may feel like it. You, Lord, are with us till the end because You are God, and it all leads back to “thy kingdom come.” Long after we are dust, God Almighty will be here. If we seek You, You will answer us and walk through our days with us, especially the really horrible ones.

Numbers 11:16-17, 24-29; Psalm 87; Ephesians 2:11-22; Matthew 7:28—8:4

Sunday, May 17

Psalm 66 Come and hear, all you who fear God; let me tell you what he has done for me. (v.16 NIV)

A once popular song from years ago asked, “What have you done for me lately?” Our present day memories are often very short, and yesterday’s success or failure shapes today’s opinion poll. Yesterday’s goodwill tour can erase last year’s scandal, and tonight’s miscue can cancel last month’s success. What have you done for me lately?

The psalmist’s corporate memory, however, reaches beyond just the recent past and includes the full scope of God’s “awesome deeds” and “how wonderful he is in his doing toward all people.” Even though the people of God were “tried just as silver is tried,” the psalmist recalls that the “place of refreshment” dominated the people’s memory.

Can we recall the mighty and awesome works of God? Can we remember the hand of God in His dealing with Israel? Can we recollect the drama of Jesus’ life, ministry, death, and resurrection? With the “big picture” as a backdrop, can we tell others what God has done for us?

What has the Lord done for you lately? And whom have you told?

Exodus 3:1-12; Psalm 67; Hebrews 12:18-29; Luke 10:17-24

Monday, May 18

Psalm 89:1-18 I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you have established your faithfulness in heaven itself. (v.2)

Is the human understanding of love defined from a subjective or objective perspective? A subjective perspective suggests that feelings, emotions, and experience influence our understanding of love. Our hearts go pitter patter, our palms are clammy, and we can’t wait until the next phone call or date. To paraphrase a Motown classic, “Could it be we’re falling in love?”

Love based on feelings, emotions, and experience is often short-lived. Feelings change, emotions bounce from joy to sadness, and experiences vary from the good to the bad. As feelings, emotions, and experiences change (and they will) we fall in and out of love.

The psalmist contrasts our subjective understanding of love to an objective understanding of love: God’s love. Unlike our often-variable feelings of love, God’s love is permanent, reliable, and trustworthy.

This is good news for those of us who face the often-shifting sands of human love at home, work, or with friends. Unlike the sandbar that shifts with the tide, God’s love is strong and fixed like the granite rocks of the breakwater.

Joshua 1:1-9; Ephesians 3:1-13; Matthew 8:5-17

Tuesday, May 19

Psalm 97 The Lord is king! Let the earth rejoice! Let the farthest coastlands be glad. (v.1 NLT)

Elvis Presley still remains a strong icon in our popular culture years after his death. Commemorative plates, musical collections, and clever commercials continue to keep the myth of the “King” alive in American life. But like other earthly kingdoms, some real and some mythical, we simply choose to forget the “darkside” of the aging Elvis. In the end, our earthly kingdoms are shattered, broken, or simply crumble away. Our “kings” frustrate and disappoint us.

Even Israel’s experience with her kings proved a disappointment. With a few notable exceptions (i.e. David and Josiah), her kings rejected the Lord and His commandments. Israel’s political leadership was the frequent target of the Lord’s anger and discipline. Israel’s kings often frustrated and disappointed the Lord and His people.

Perhaps the psalmist had experienced that disappointment as he proclaims the Lord as King. The psalmist reminds Israel—and us—that the only trustworthy, consistent and dependable ruler was, is, and will be the Lord.

1 Samuel 16:1-13a; Psalms 99, 100; Ephesians 3:14-21; Matthew 8:18-27

Wednesday, May 20

Psalm 101 I will set no worthless thing before my eyes; I hate the work of those who fall away; It shall not fasten its grip on me. (v.3 NAS)

My parents can recall home life as children without television. Like my children, I cannot ever recall home life as a child without television. The difference between my childhood with television and my children’s recollections will be one small piece of hardware: the remote control. Will my children ever believe you had to stand up and walk across the floor to change the channel?

Just as television technology has changed from black and white to color and from tower antennae to satellite, so has the programming. In some cases, for the better; in other cases, for the worse. The classic programs from not so long ago are like boring baked potatoes compared to the spicy and steamy fare of today. Channel surfing can reveal explicit language, sexually suggestive situations, and even graphic sexual activity. Will my children ever believe that Ginger on Gilligan’s Island was as spicy and steamy as it ever was?

The psalmist understood how images are played and replayed in the “theater of our mind.” These images may draw us to or lure us from the Lord. One family I know has Psalm 101:3 framed above their television set. Mom and dad decide if a program seeks to honor the Lord and biblical values. How might your television or movie viewing change if you posted Psalm 101:3 over the television?

Isaiah 4:2-6; Psalm 109; Ephesians 4:1-16; Matthew 8:28-34

Thursday, May 21

Psalm 105:1-22 Until the time that his word came to pass, the word of the Lord tested him. (v.19)

A yearly requirement for Army National Guard and Reserve soldiers is to pass the Army Physical Fitness test: two minutes each of push-ups and sit-ups and a two-mile run. It is twenty minutes of physical exertion, and I can’t say that I enjoy it. But do any of us enjoy taking physical, academic, or spiritual tests?

Joseph certainly did not enjoy slavery and imprisonment, but he endured these tests and tried to maintain the Lord’s perspective. From the Lord’s perspective, Joseph’s testing, his rise to leadership and Israel’s journey to Egypt because of famine all worked to fulfill the Lord’s intention for His people. As Joseph told his brothers years after they sold him into slavery, “Do not be grieved or angry with yourselves, because you sold me here; for God sent me before you to preserve life...it was not you who sent me here, but God” (Genesis 45:5-8). “And as for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive” (Genesis 50:20).

The psalmist reminds us that the tests and trials of life help accomplish the Lord’s intentions, develop our character (Romans 5:3,4), and provide godly discipline to His children (Hebrews 12:6, 10, 11). The difficult circumstances of life can work for good in the lives of the godly; it depends on our perspective.

Zechariah 4:1-14; Ephesians 4:17-32; Matthew 9:1-8

Friday, May 22

Psalm 102 My days are like a lengthened shadow, and I wither away like grass. (v.11)

“Dust in the wind, all we are is dust in the wind.” I listened to those words on the radio as I drove to my college reunion. 1983...It was a good year. It seems so long ago and the years seem to pass more quickly as I grow older.

The psalmist understood the fleeting nature of time and our lives. Shadows and withering grass seem like appropriate images to describe that which we often deny: our mortality.

For many, that’s how it all ends. Eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we die. For many, when the shadows disappear and the grass dies, that is how it all ends. Death and the grave have the final say and the cycle continues with futility.

“But you, O Lord, endure forever, and your Name from age to age” (v.12). Because of the Lord’s endurance and constant love, believers know that death and the grave do not have the final say. Because of the Lord’s love poured out on the cross, believers know they will be raised up on the last day.

Jeremiah 31:27-34; Ephesians 5:1-20; Matthew 9:9-17

Saturday, May 23

Psalm 107:33-43 Whoever is wise will ponder these things, and consider well the mercies of the Lord. (v.43)

A fast-food restaurant jingle tells us “You deserve a break today!” We tell our bosses that we have earned a promotion or that we are due a raise. Perhaps advancement, leisure, or financial success have become our rights as those living the American dream.

What have we earned or what do we deserve from God? Deserts turned into pools of water? Dry lands into water springs? A fruitful harvest? The psalmist reminds us that the Lord blessed Israel because of His mercy, not because of their worthiness.

Mercy implies setting aside the demands of justice. Israel’s record of faithfulness to their covenant with the Lord was spotty at best. God’s chosen people “were fools and took to rebellious ways” (v.17).

Despite Israel’s “adultery,” Yahweh had mercy. Despite the just demand for punishment, Yahweh “sent forth his word and healed them and saved them from the grave” (v.20). And despite the just demand for our punishment because of our sinfulness, the Lord sent His Son to heal us and save us from the grave. “Whoever is wise will ponder these things, and consider well the mercies of the Lord” (v.43).

Ezekiel 36:22-27; Psalm 108; Ephesians 6:10-24; Matthew 9:18-26

Sunday, May 24

Deuteronomy 16:9-12 And rejoice before the Lord your God at the place he will choose as a dwelling for his Name… (v.11 NIV)

For centuries, and even today, many Hebrews have recited birkats, short prayers of praise and thanksgiving for the beginning of the day, the end of the day, before and after meals, at harvest, etc. It is a habitual exercise to praise and thank God for all He provides as one goes about their daily life.

For Christians, Christ now makes His dwelling place in our hearts, mind, and souls. We may not harvest grain, but how often do we thank God for the jobs we do have? The housing and food our income helps us afford? Even the hard lessons learned that shape our faith?

We have prayers in the back of our prayer books that often go unnoticed. There are also short services for families to use in the morning, noonday, evening, and at bedtime (Compline.) I urge you to thumb through them. Consider making a few of these resources part of your daily devotions. You might find your outlook shifts towards the positive more often.

Psalm 118; Acts 4:18-21, 23-33; John 4:19-26

Monday, May 25

1 Timothy 1:1-17 The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. (v.5)

It seems more and more people want to buck the system. Rules are restrictive, commands are oppressive, laws are antiquated. To the casual viewer, the commands in the Bile may seem more “Thou shall not” than anything else. Chrisitan values are seen as too strict, out of touch with society, and negatively motivated.

That could be no further from the truth. Jesus said that the first commandment is to love God and the second is to love neighbor—everything else depends on doing these two things (Matthew 22:39-40). God sets boundaries out of love. They are designed to protect us and provide guidance, so we do not stray into trouble.

A Chinese adage states that the obedient dog is allowed to roam within the fenced yard while the disobedient one is chained. There is freedom in obeying what God commands. It opens us to receive His love guiltlessly and to realize He watches over us.

We are used to following our GPSs without question instead of veering off on our own, so why do we have the tendency to buck the Holy Spirit’s promptings?

Proverbs 10:1-12; Psalm 25; Matthew 12:22-32

Tuesday, May 26

Matthew 12:33-42 Then some of the Pharisees and teachers of the law said to him, “Teacher, we want to see a sign from you.” (v.38)

If I am honest, I have asked God the same thing. But my intentions were sincere. I wanted a holy flashlight shining into the fog of my situation. Some sign I was in His will and headed in the right direction, that He heard me, and would be right there beside me.

These Pharisees had a different motive. They wanted proof in order to believe. Jesus gives examples of how Gentiles in ages past believed and repented, so why was it, He asked, that those who called themselves children of God were so reluctant to open their hearts and spiritual eyes?

Perhaps because the rituals had become their center of worship. When people concentrate more on the rules than the giver of them, they will do one of two things: they become prone to judgementalism, or they turn away in disbelief and dismay because the rules are too rigid.

Let’s not close our eyes, hearts, and minds to the mysteries of God even if they don’t fit into the way we have always done things.

Proverbs 15:16-33; Psalms 26, 28; 1 Timothy 1:18—2:8

Wednesday, May 27

Psalm 38 Lord, do not forsake me; do not be far from me, my God. Come quickly to help me,  my Lord and my Savior. (vv.21-22)

This psalm, contributed as being from David, is one of desperation. David certainly faced dangerous episodes in his life, some of his own doing, some because of whom he was called to become. However, there are two things we can notice that may help us when we call out to God.

First, he was contrite. He admitted he was a sinner. He humbled himself instead of being angry at God for not giving his anointed special treatment. No entitlement mentality here.

Second, he knew who to turn to when unfairness, danger, or strife loomed. He did not “lean on his own understanding” but instead fell on his knees. He did not try to battle his enemies without relying on his Lord for guidance and protection.

A young boy asked his dad if he could hold his hand as they crossed a bridge over some rapids. The dad replied that instead he would hold his son’s hand. When the boy asked what the difference was, the dad told him, “Because I will never let go.”

Proverbs 17:1-20; 1 Timothy 3:1-16; Matthew 12:43-50

Thursday. May 28

Proverbs 21:30—22:6 Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life. (v.4)

These proverbs have the same thread running through them. Following God leads to better things than following the ways of humanity, which is often misguided, self-motivated, and scheming. If we learn at a young age that God’s ways, even if we do not understand them, are the best way, then even if we stray from these ways, His love will call us back. Each one of us has been like the Prodigal Son at one point, haven’t we? How wonderful it is to fall humbly into the arms of a forgiving, loving Father than a punitive judge!

Don’t be misled by prosperity gospel talk. Riches that come to the Christian are eternal ones that neither moth nor time can destroy. We may or may not be blessed with material wealth in this life, but when we realize that all is from God and we are mere stewards of what He provides, then our attitude of gratitude will enrich us abundantly. So, parents and grandparents, teach the children well… and forget not the lessons God has taught you.

Psalm 37:1-18; 1 Timothy 4:1-16, Matthew 13:24-30

Friday, May 29

1 Timothy 5:17-25 But those elders who are sinning you are to reprove before everyone, so that the others may take warning. (v.20)

Teachers and preachers who know God’s ways and practice them receive a double honor. They are examples for newer Christians to follow, and they receive God’s favor as well. But if one in authority falls from grace, that person needs to be reprimanded in front of and by his or her peers. Transparency is key.

We have all seen or heard news reports of pastors, priests, and ministers who have committed heinous acts then tried to cover them up. Glen C. Taylor, a Canadian psychologist and pastor, wrote Fruitful Boughs Broken, a book that provides biblical examples of how those in leadership who have sinned should be treated within the Body of Christ, some based on these passages in 1 Timothy. Both victim and offender need help.

We are all human—we all fall short, as Paul states in Romans. There must be an opening for repentance as well as reprimand, counseling as well as rebuke. When resulting actions are both punitive and grace-filled, the whole Body of believers benefit and healing begins.

Proverbs 23:19-21, 29—24:2; Psalm 31; Matthew 13:31-35

Saturday, May 30

Matthew13:36-43 Whoever has ears, let them hear. (v.43b)

Not everyone will get it. It was true over two thousand years ago, and it is still true today. If there has been one theme running through the passages this week, it is that we must open our minds to hear and receive God’s ways. We often don’t, even as believers. Like David, we can sin. But like hm, we are also called to repent and return.

Christ died on the cross and carried our sins so we can have the grace of forgiveness. But we have our role to play as well. It is not given carte blanche. How prepared is your soil this week? Has it been fertilized with God’s Word? Has the soft rains of mercy fallen on it? Or are there hard clumps of doubt, sin, and faith-drought that are preventing God’s blessings from taking root?

Whoever has ears, let them hear also implies that they should then respond to what they have heard and been taught through Scripture. Faith, like love, is not an emotion. It is a verb.

Proverbs 25:15-28; Psalm 30, 32; 1 Timothy 6:6-21

Sunday, May 31

Psalm 63 I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely. (v.8 NLT)

As a young child, I was extremely scared of people wearing masks or dressed up in costumes. When we went as a family to Disney World, I dreaded the characters coming out to visit. As soon as a character headed our way, I would dive towards my mom clinging to her legs and hands. My parents would try talking to me, explaining that they were just people dressed up in costumes. But that brought me no comfort, I would just cling harder to my mom. I knew that she would protect me from the big bad characters.

As a Christian, I have that same confidence (even more so) that Jesus will protect me from any “bad character” or situation. If I start to worry, get fearful, or am uncomfortable in a relationship or circumstance, I cling to the Lord. Knowing that He will keep me safe. He will hold me securely. While my relationship/circumstance might not change immediately clinging to Him will bring me peace in the midst of what is going on.

Ecclesiastes 1:1-11; Psalm 98; Acts 8:26-40; Luke 11:1-13

Monday, June 1

Psalm 52 You love to destroy others with your words, you liar! (v.4)

We live in a social media driven world. At least for my generation. While there are people who use social media to spread love and truth, they unfortunately seem to be in the minority. Whereas our enemy, the liar, is having a field day flooding social media with hate, lies, and gossip.

Have you ever taken a moment to read through the comments on popular posts? I normally, don’t. But the other day, I did. I was appalled at the way commenters were ripping each other to shreds. That might sound overdramatic, but it was truly that bad. I think the anonymity of sitting behind a computer screen, typing whatever pops into a person’s mind, has created a toxic environment that the enemy uses to destroy others.

Words have the power to build up or tear down. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want the enemy to be able to tear people down using my words. So, each morning I pray this simple prayer, “Lord, please let my words build people up not tear them down today.”

Ecclesiastes 2:1-15; Psalm 41; Galatians 1:1-17; Matthew 13:44-52

Tuesday, June 2

Galatians 1:18—2:10 There was only this report: “That man who once persecuted us is now preaching the very message he used to try to destroy.” Their response was to recognize and worship God because of me! (v.4 MSG)

I met my best friend, Joshua, right after he had been saved. He was in a Christian Regeneration program (Open Homes Fellowship (OHF)) for recovering addicts.

Joshua grew up in a Christian home, but he turned his back on his roots and Jesus as a teenager. He was addicted to drugs. And he went to prison for counterfeiting money.

When he got out of prison, he went to the program at OHF. He gave his life to Jesus while in this program. Joshua graduated from the program, but felt called to continue living at OHF. He ended up becoming the Director of Phase One. He introduced men to Jesus through his own testimony of healing and freedom. Joshua pointed hundreds of men towards Jesus, towards their salvation, and towards freedom from addictions during his time at OHF.

While Joshua once stood for everything opposite of a Christian life, Jesus transformed him into a man who preached the message of salvation and freedom from addictions found only in a relationship with Jesus. His testimony led other men to worship God.

Ecclesiastes 2:16-26; Psalm 45; Matthew 13:53-58

Wednesday, June 3

Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance. (v.4 NLT)

Most of the time we think of crying and laughing and grieving and dancing happening in different moments. But sometimes they can happen in the same space and time.

The Lord has blessed me with several of these shared “time” moments since my dad died earlier this year. While I have been grieving the loss of my dad, the Lord has reminded me of times I stood on my dad’s feet as we spun and danced around our family room. Another moment was when my aunt and I drove my dad’s ashes down to Pass-A-Grille, FL (where we had sailed as a family). As we looked over the water, sharing memories of my dad, we had tears streaming down our faces, but laughter bursting forth from our mouths as we both remembered my dad’s crazy humor.

Yes, there is “a time” for everything, but sometimes they can happen in the same space and time. Those times are gifts that Jesus gives us to treasure and cherish in our hearts for eternity.

Psalm 119:49-72; Galatians 2:11-21; Matthew 14:1-12

Thursday, June 4

Psalm 50 But giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors me. (v.23)

On December 2, 1987, I was sitting in the office of Children’s Home Society signing adoption papers for my daughter. I was an eighteen-year-old unwed mom. If I kept my daughter, we would have had no roof over our heads, no food to eat, and no hope in life.

Needless to say, I was not feeling very thankful at that moment. I was angry at God, angry at my daughter’s father, and just plain angry. But I knew that I was doing the right thing for my daughter.

As, I look back at that moment I have tears in my eyes and a heart overflowing with thankfulness to Jesus for giving me the strength to do what needed to be done. It cost me a lot emotionally to sign my name on those papers. But I will always praise God and thank Him for the way He honored that sacrifice by giving me peace that my daughter has a good life. Sometimes, giving thanks when we least feel like giving thanks is when we need to give thanks the most.

Ecclesiastes 3:16—4:3, Galatians 3:1-14; Matthew 14:13-21

Friday, June 5

Matthew 14:22-36 But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?” (vv.30-31)

Recently, God called me out of my comfortable living arrangement of fifteen years. I had just finished packing up my dad’s house and now God was calling me to pack again. And I was leaving during a time when my roommate was experiencing a major emotional crisis.

I felt surrounded by strong winds and waves of emotional upheaval. I kept trying to walk in faith eyes focused only on Jesus, but I began to sink. I spoke with a pastor, my family and friends. They all told me that it was clear that God was calling me out of the situation, but I just couldn’t seem to let go. I sank faster into the stormy emotional waves.

Then Jesus stuck out his hand grabbing me out of the waves. He showed me that He was providing exactly who my roommate needed during her crisis. That He was getting the glory for taking care of her. As I watched the circumstances play out, I knew that I should have never doubted Jesus. His plan is always perfect.

Ecclesiastes 5:1-7; Psalms 40, 54; Galatians 3:15-22

Saturday, June 6

Galatians 3:23—4:11 During the time before you knew God, you were slaves to powers that are not gods at all. But now, when you are just beginning to know the one True God—actually, He is showing how completely He knows you—how can you turn back to weak and worthless idols made by men, icons of these spiritual powers? Haven’t you endured enough bondage to these breathless idols? (vv.8-9 The Voice)

Prior to giving my life to Jesus, I was an alcoholic and a drug addict. My entire life, all my friends, and all my time revolved around alcohol and cocaine. I worshipped them. They were my gods.

When I became a Christian, I stopped drinking and using drugs. None of my new friends drank alcohol or used cocaine. They were completely focused on worshipping Jesus. So, there was no temptation to return to my old ways.

Then came the day when I ran into my ex-fiancé. It took all of thirty minutes for him to offer me alcohol. I froze. Did I really want to go back to worshipping those puny “gods” again? Did I want my life to be controlled by “breathless idols?”

I wasted my entire young adult life in bondage to alcohol and cocaine. Now that I had tasted the freedom offered by Jesus, I did not want to turn back to weak worthless idols. I have not picked up a bottle of alcohol in twenty-two years. Jesus is my God, not alcohol or cocaine.

Ecclesiastes 5:8-20; Psalm 55; Matthew 15:1-20