Today's Reading
Numbers. This illustrates one of the hard truths about leadership: some followers are never happy. Later in today's reading is a description of the tithes required of the priests. It seems that God instituted this plan in which the Levites could not own land as a result of what happened just before: the people didn't respect the exclusivity of the priesthood so God showed His holiness and left them fear and awe. Only those of Levi could come near the sacred places. The Levites wouldn't own property, but receive their incomes from the tithes and offerings. The Levites then were to give the best of what they received from the people. This is a great life lesson for those of us who receive our income from ministry.
Mark describes the scene shortly after the resurrection. I'm touched by the words in verse 7, "Go tell the disciples, including Peter..." Peter was surely the one who told Mark about this and was deeply moved that Christ wanted to include him following his denials. Some of you will notice "alternate endings" for this Gospel. The reason we have them has to do with the way these writings were passed from person to person long before printing presses. They had to be hand-copied and could end up with minor variations from that. Also, the earliest copies we have available are dated at least 300 years after they were written. In others, the manuscripts are probably copies of copies of copies. It's likely that during those years someone edited the manuscript with additions. The shorter version of this chapter is the older edition (according to scholars) and, therefore, more accurate.
Psalms. The deepest discouragement I ever felt was at the betrayal of a close friend. I keep learning what it is to work through those times by constantly calling upon God.
Proverbs. Human strength is indeed feeble. I pray that all of us would discover it.
Your thoughts today? How about questions?
Showing posts with label Mark. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mark. Show all posts
Monday, March 12, 2012
Sunday, March 11, 2012
March 11
Today's Reading
Numbers. Korah was from the tribe of Levi. As a member of the priestly tribe that represented the people to God and vice versa, the rebellious Levites brought a serious judgment upon themselves. God took their lives, but spared the censers which had been dedicated for worship. Dathan and Abiram were from the tribe of Reuben, who had been the oldest son of Jacob. Reuben was removed from the rights of the firstborn because of rebellion; now these descendants of Reuben were judged harshly because of their rebellion. We struggle with rebellion against authority almost from birth. Why do you think God was so strict in His judgment on this rebellion?
Mark. The Savior's love for me...and you. That's the reason He had to die.
One friend told me that he views life as a war. That's certainly David's perspective in this Psalm.
Living above the fray. That seems to be our choice in Proverbs today.
I would love to hear how these Scriptures are speaking to you.
Numbers. Korah was from the tribe of Levi. As a member of the priestly tribe that represented the people to God and vice versa, the rebellious Levites brought a serious judgment upon themselves. God took their lives, but spared the censers which had been dedicated for worship. Dathan and Abiram were from the tribe of Reuben, who had been the oldest son of Jacob. Reuben was removed from the rights of the firstborn because of rebellion; now these descendants of Reuben were judged harshly because of their rebellion. We struggle with rebellion against authority almost from birth. Why do you think God was so strict in His judgment on this rebellion?
Mark. The Savior's love for me...and you. That's the reason He had to die.
One friend told me that he views life as a war. That's certainly David's perspective in this Psalm.
Living above the fray. That seems to be our choice in Proverbs today.
I would love to hear how these Scriptures are speaking to you.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
March 10
Today's Reading
Numbers. It's a dangerous thing to disobey God, then try to undo it by disobeying Him again. Far too often, parents let their kids "whine them" into changing a decision. God won't be manipulated like that! As I write this, I am praying for someone who reacted to being held accountable for sin. Now, not being able to manipulate family members who stood their ground, the person is angrily sinning even more and excusing it. Not a good move!
Mark. Jesus refused to answer the trumped-up charges, but answered truthfully about who He is. It's a great lesson for us.
If you wonder about the discrepancy between Mark, where the rooster was described as crowing twice, and the other accounts, remember that Peter himself was Mark's primary source of material. This is essentially Peter's story as he must have told it first-hand. Consequently, twice is probably the accurate answer.
Psalms today reminds me of something Jeremiah said: the hearts of people are desperately wicked. Only God can undo that condition!
Proverbs. If we are living in a day of economic judgment, it would be good to heed this verse.
Fire away, you guys. What do you notice today?
Numbers. It's a dangerous thing to disobey God, then try to undo it by disobeying Him again. Far too often, parents let their kids "whine them" into changing a decision. God won't be manipulated like that! As I write this, I am praying for someone who reacted to being held accountable for sin. Now, not being able to manipulate family members who stood their ground, the person is angrily sinning even more and excusing it. Not a good move!
Mark. Jesus refused to answer the trumped-up charges, but answered truthfully about who He is. It's a great lesson for us.
If you wonder about the discrepancy between Mark, where the rooster was described as crowing twice, and the other accounts, remember that Peter himself was Mark's primary source of material. This is essentially Peter's story as he must have told it first-hand. Consequently, twice is probably the accurate answer.
Psalms today reminds me of something Jeremiah said: the hearts of people are desperately wicked. Only God can undo that condition!
Proverbs. If we are living in a day of economic judgment, it would be good to heed this verse.
Fire away, you guys. What do you notice today?
Friday, March 9, 2012
March 9
Today's Reading
Numbers. In The Circle Maker/ins> (I highly recommend it), Mark Batterson calls this "Quailmageddon". Quail provided the meat and also brought God's anger. Why?
Miriam's leprosy came as a result of rebellion, not against Moses, but against God. Why do you think she was made leprous and not Aaron? How do you think she felt during that week outside the camp, when the entire nation knew she was there because of sin? Twelve spies brought back a good sample and a bad report. Two of them stood by faith that the promises of God were bigger than the giants in the Land. The other ten chucked faith and cowered in fear. Their fear laid the foundation for Israel to spend forty years in that wilderness.
Mark. I was impressed by Jesus' warning, "Watch and pray, for the spirit is willing, but the body is weak." I regularly pray, "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one." Over the past year or two, God has been transforming this part of my prayer life. When an intercessor recently delivered me God's message, "Guard your heart," I took it seriously.
The historical setting of Psalm 52 was a difficult time for David. He trusted God, regardless of his outward circumstances. He was hiding in caves, being pursued by Saul. As I read, "Look what happens to mighty warriors
who do not trust in God.
They trust their wealth instead
and grow more and more bold in their wickedness." (Psalm 52:7 NLT), I was immersed in conviction. I realized that I was reading the general state of the church in America at this time!
Proverbs. A call to humility and honesty.
Let us hear, Climbing Companions, how you are doing. What puzzles you? What delights you?
Numbers. In The Circle Maker/ins> (I highly recommend it), Mark Batterson calls this "Quailmageddon". Quail provided the meat and also brought God's anger. Why?
Miriam's leprosy came as a result of rebellion, not against Moses, but against God. Why do you think she was made leprous and not Aaron? How do you think she felt during that week outside the camp, when the entire nation knew she was there because of sin? Twelve spies brought back a good sample and a bad report. Two of them stood by faith that the promises of God were bigger than the giants in the Land. The other ten chucked faith and cowered in fear. Their fear laid the foundation for Israel to spend forty years in that wilderness.
Mark. I was impressed by Jesus' warning, "Watch and pray, for the spirit is willing, but the body is weak." I regularly pray, "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one." Over the past year or two, God has been transforming this part of my prayer life. When an intercessor recently delivered me God's message, "Guard your heart," I took it seriously.
The historical setting of Psalm 52 was a difficult time for David. He trusted God, regardless of his outward circumstances. He was hiding in caves, being pursued by Saul. As I read, "Look what happens to mighty warriors
who do not trust in God.
They trust their wealth instead
and grow more and more bold in their wickedness." (Psalm 52:7 NLT), I was immersed in conviction. I realized that I was reading the general state of the church in America at this time!
Proverbs. A call to humility and honesty.
Let us hear, Climbing Companions, how you are doing. What puzzles you? What delights you?
Thursday, March 8, 2012
March 8
Today's Reading
Numbers opens today with instructions about using trumpets. Anyone who has watched a movie like Return of the King on the big screen can't help but feel a sense of awe at this Biblical word picture. I found myself reading this chapter in technicolor. The depiction of the people setting out and on the march is vivid. Then I was struck by Moses' words recorded at the end: And whenever the Ark set out, Moses would shout, "Arise, O Lord , and let your enemies be scattered! Let them flee before you!" And when the Ark was set down, he would say, "Return, O Lord , to the countless thousands of Israel!" (Numbers 10:35, 36 NLT) I think it would greatly benefit you and me to grab hold of this concept. We who follow Jesus are t war with a fierce enemy.
Later, Moses becomes totally frustrated and talks to God about it. Notice the level of their intimacy! Wow! What do you think about God's harsh response to the people's complaints?
Mark tells a story of love and another of betrayal. I have been in both these roles at various times in my life. I have also been the recipient of the former and victim of the latter.
Psalms. One night of pleasure was now haunting David day and night (Psalm 51:3). The wages of sin is always death in some form.
Proverbs. May God increase the number of godly people who speak wisdom and healing to this generation.
Climbing Companion, what would you speak to us today?
Numbers opens today with instructions about using trumpets. Anyone who has watched a movie like Return of the King on the big screen can't help but feel a sense of awe at this Biblical word picture. I found myself reading this chapter in technicolor. The depiction of the people setting out and on the march is vivid. Then I was struck by Moses' words recorded at the end: And whenever the Ark set out, Moses would shout, "Arise, O Lord , and let your enemies be scattered! Let them flee before you!" And when the Ark was set down, he would say, "Return, O Lord , to the countless thousands of Israel!" (Numbers 10:35, 36 NLT) I think it would greatly benefit you and me to grab hold of this concept. We who follow Jesus are t war with a fierce enemy.
Later, Moses becomes totally frustrated and talks to God about it. Notice the level of their intimacy! Wow! What do you think about God's harsh response to the people's complaints?
Mark tells a story of love and another of betrayal. I have been in both these roles at various times in my life. I have also been the recipient of the former and victim of the latter.
Psalms. One night of pleasure was now haunting David day and night (Psalm 51:3). The wages of sin is always death in some form.
Proverbs. May God increase the number of godly people who speak wisdom and healing to this generation.
Climbing Companion, what would you speak to us today?
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
March 7
Today's Reading
Numbers. Among the subjects covered today is the way the people moved or paused according to the direction of God. What does that teach us in our calendar-driven culture? I certainly am guilty of living more by the clock and the calendar and it's hard to keep in balance. Every time I go to the DR I am confronted with a culture that starts when the people arrive. I have noticed, though, that the more educated the church down there gets, the more driven they are by the clock.
Mark records some of Jesus' instructions concerning the time when He returns. What are your insights about this? Do you think His return could be soon? Are you ready?
I find Psalm 50 to be so relevant! We are surrounded by those who ignore God and our temptation is to forget Him and how much we need Him. On the other hand, our obedience and our sacrifices open the door for Him to provide for us. I am grateful for growing intimacy with God. It was good to be reminded of His great majesty.
Proverbs. The world may be shaking around us, but God calls us to trust and obey. He will see us through.
Fire away! I look forward to your remarks!
Numbers. Among the subjects covered today is the way the people moved or paused according to the direction of God. What does that teach us in our calendar-driven culture? I certainly am guilty of living more by the clock and the calendar and it's hard to keep in balance. Every time I go to the DR I am confronted with a culture that starts when the people arrive. I have noticed, though, that the more educated the church down there gets, the more driven they are by the clock.
Mark records some of Jesus' instructions concerning the time when He returns. What are your insights about this? Do you think His return could be soon? Are you ready?
I find Psalm 50 to be so relevant! We are surrounded by those who ignore God and our temptation is to forget Him and how much we need Him. On the other hand, our obedience and our sacrifices open the door for Him to provide for us. I am grateful for growing intimacy with God. It was good to be reminded of His great majesty.
Proverbs. The world may be shaking around us, but God calls us to trust and obey. He will see us through.
Fire away! I look forward to your remarks!
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
March 6
Today's Reading
Numbers. Nazirite vows and dedication offerings. Ought to be some interesting discussion on these today! By the way, the dedication offerings from each tribe were the same. You have my permission to skim after you read one (that's what I do). If you prefer, you can read it each time and -- perhaps -- have it memorized by the time you're done. Then you can quote it to your family at the dinner table!
Mark. Jesus talks about the future. Some of His words seem to apply to a few years after this scene -- Jerusalem was conquered and destroyed by Rome in A.D. 70. Other words seem to apply to the end of the world. I think the signs which he mentioned are intensifying. What do you think?
Today's Psalm speaks of death as a great equalizer. It sounds morbid, but we are all moving toward it. What does this do to your perspective about the prosperity of bad people?
Proverbs. I think today's verses mean that we will get the most out of life when we put God first. What do you think?
I look forward to your comments. Any questions?
Numbers. Nazirite vows and dedication offerings. Ought to be some interesting discussion on these today! By the way, the dedication offerings from each tribe were the same. You have my permission to skim after you read one (that's what I do). If you prefer, you can read it each time and -- perhaps -- have it memorized by the time you're done. Then you can quote it to your family at the dinner table!
Mark. Jesus talks about the future. Some of His words seem to apply to a few years after this scene -- Jerusalem was conquered and destroyed by Rome in A.D. 70. Other words seem to apply to the end of the world. I think the signs which he mentioned are intensifying. What do you think?
Today's Psalm speaks of death as a great equalizer. It sounds morbid, but we are all moving toward it. What does this do to your perspective about the prosperity of bad people?
Proverbs. I think today's verses mean that we will get the most out of life when we put God first. What do you think?
I look forward to your comments. Any questions?
Monday, March 5, 2012
March 5
Today's Reading
Numbers. At this time in their history, Israel was nomadic. When they moved from place to place, great care was taken to protect and preserve the Tabernacle and its contents. For the first time, I noticed that the items from the sanctuary were draped in blue cloth for travel. I'm quite sure it was the bright blue of Israel's national colors today.
It hit me today how "unfair" it seems to us that God gave specific duties to each of the clans. Most of us have grown up with the idea that we can do anything we choose with our lives. When they were born, they were pre-assigned responsibilities and couldn't do something different. Actually, that is consistent with much of the world throughout history.
Following that is a story about a strange custom to test a wife and tell her jealous husband for certain if she was faithful. I wonder just how many times a couple put that test to work? What if she was unfaithful and her husband wanted to forgive her? Would he risk the possibility that she would never be able to bear children again? Just thinkin'!
Mark. The religious leaders of Jesus' day (and some today, too!) made the mistake of thinking they had an answer for every question. Jesus' replies tell us that, if our God has no mystery, He is too small.
Speaking of mystery, Psalms reminds us of the greatness of Jerusalem. Why not New York? Or Hong Kong? For reasons we can't fully understand, the hearts and minds of world leaders are often turned to Jerusalem. Even today, one national leader is openly advocating wiping all Jews from the face of the earth so that he and his can rule Jerusalem.
Proverbs gives us a hint of how to succeed or fail in today's troubling economy.
What are your thoughts today? How about your questions?
Numbers. At this time in their history, Israel was nomadic. When they moved from place to place, great care was taken to protect and preserve the Tabernacle and its contents. For the first time, I noticed that the items from the sanctuary were draped in blue cloth for travel. I'm quite sure it was the bright blue of Israel's national colors today.
It hit me today how "unfair" it seems to us that God gave specific duties to each of the clans. Most of us have grown up with the idea that we can do anything we choose with our lives. When they were born, they were pre-assigned responsibilities and couldn't do something different. Actually, that is consistent with much of the world throughout history.
Following that is a story about a strange custom to test a wife and tell her jealous husband for certain if she was faithful. I wonder just how many times a couple put that test to work? What if she was unfaithful and her husband wanted to forgive her? Would he risk the possibility that she would never be able to bear children again? Just thinkin'!
Mark. The religious leaders of Jesus' day (and some today, too!) made the mistake of thinking they had an answer for every question. Jesus' replies tell us that, if our God has no mystery, He is too small.
Speaking of mystery, Psalms reminds us of the greatness of Jerusalem. Why not New York? Or Hong Kong? For reasons we can't fully understand, the hearts and minds of world leaders are often turned to Jerusalem. Even today, one national leader is openly advocating wiping all Jews from the face of the earth so that he and his can rule Jerusalem.
Proverbs gives us a hint of how to succeed or fail in today's troubling economy.
What are your thoughts today? How about your questions?
Sunday, March 4, 2012
March 4
Today's Reading
Numbers. For you with a background in military strategy, do you notice any significance to the size of the tribes at the different points of the compass, as listed today? The largest number was on the east side, which was always to be the entrance to the Tabernacle.
Put God first. That's a simple message throughout Scripture. For them, it meant their firstborn sons. God designated the tribe of Levi to substitute for the firstborn of the rest of Israel. The number of Levites was short of making up for the firstborn, so the remainder had to be redeemed with an offering. Your thoughts?
Mark. Constant tests. Each of our passages today is about a test. The religious leaders hated Jesus because He was diminishing their control over the people. What do you think about the way Jesus responded to the tests?
Psalms. What a description! Picture the throngs: millions upon millions gathered at the Throne to sing His praises. People from every nation, tribe and tongue. Each one personally significant to Him! Awesome!
Storms. We all have them. The distinction, according to Proverbs, is the location of our heart.
My ears are open. I hope to hear thoughts and questions from you today!
Numbers. For you with a background in military strategy, do you notice any significance to the size of the tribes at the different points of the compass, as listed today? The largest number was on the east side, which was always to be the entrance to the Tabernacle.
Put God first. That's a simple message throughout Scripture. For them, it meant their firstborn sons. God designated the tribe of Levi to substitute for the firstborn of the rest of Israel. The number of Levites was short of making up for the firstborn, so the remainder had to be redeemed with an offering. Your thoughts?
Mark. Constant tests. Each of our passages today is about a test. The religious leaders hated Jesus because He was diminishing their control over the people. What do you think about the way Jesus responded to the tests?
Psalms. What a description! Picture the throngs: millions upon millions gathered at the Throne to sing His praises. People from every nation, tribe and tongue. Each one personally significant to Him! Awesome!
Storms. We all have them. The distinction, according to Proverbs, is the location of our heart.
My ears are open. I hope to hear thoughts and questions from you today!
Saturday, March 3, 2012
March 3
Today's Reading
Today we read the final verses of Leviticus, containing specific instructions about the gifts we bring to God. Then, as now, many people wanted to get away with giving as little as possible. If only we could develop a heart of true gratitude...I think we would approach Him with open hands rather than clinched fists!
The book of Numbers is about, well, numbers! Everything and everyone counts and Numbers kept track. In the midst of the tallying are a few great, memorable stories from Israel's history. Today we get a subtle glimpse at God's blessing upon Joseph. Do you remember when Jacob called Joseph in to speak a blessing upon him after they were all in Egypt? Jacob crossed his hands when he placed them upon Joseph's sons. Notice that the number of fighting men in Ephraim (younger son) is larger than his brother Manasseh. Now add them up. Together they are second only to Judah!
Mark. The people wanted a king who would free them from Roman tyranny. Jesus came as a King who would free their hearts. A conquering king would have ridden into the city on a war horse. Jesus rode in on a donkey, the action of kings coming in peace. His way was the way of a Servant.
Psalm 46. In all the chaos, "Be still and know..." Ahh, I needed that!
Proverbs. The only way to change what people deeply want is to change their hearts. Put your work and prayers into the Gospel. It is the ONLY HOPE for the USA!
What questions do you have today? What insights can you share? I look forward to them!
Today we read the final verses of Leviticus, containing specific instructions about the gifts we bring to God. Then, as now, many people wanted to get away with giving as little as possible. If only we could develop a heart of true gratitude...I think we would approach Him with open hands rather than clinched fists!
The book of Numbers is about, well, numbers! Everything and everyone counts and Numbers kept track. In the midst of the tallying are a few great, memorable stories from Israel's history. Today we get a subtle glimpse at God's blessing upon Joseph. Do you remember when Jacob called Joseph in to speak a blessing upon him after they were all in Egypt? Jacob crossed his hands when he placed them upon Joseph's sons. Notice that the number of fighting men in Ephraim (younger son) is larger than his brother Manasseh. Now add them up. Together they are second only to Judah!
Mark. The people wanted a king who would free them from Roman tyranny. Jesus came as a King who would free their hearts. A conquering king would have ridden into the city on a war horse. Jesus rode in on a donkey, the action of kings coming in peace. His way was the way of a Servant.
Psalm 46. In all the chaos, "Be still and know..." Ahh, I needed that!
Proverbs. The only way to change what people deeply want is to change their hearts. Put your work and prayers into the Gospel. It is the ONLY HOPE for the USA!
What questions do you have today? What insights can you share? I look forward to them!
Friday, March 2, 2012
March 2
Today's Reading
Leviticus. In Chapter 26, God's people are given the blessing that follows obedience and the judgment that comes with disobedience. Do you think that the recent economic crisis is at least partly a result of our disobedience to God? What about the drought in the Western U.S.?
Mark. Today's reading takes place as Jesus nears the cross. He knows what is ahead, but his disciples do not. It sounds like He spoke clearly to them about His suffering and they turned right around and asked for places of honor in the kingdom. He used the opportunity to teach them about serving.
Psalms. 10 Listen to me, O royal daughter; take to heart what I say.
Forget your people and your family far away.
11 For your royal husband delights in your beauty;
honor him, for he is your lord. Those of us who belong to Christ ARE the bride and He is the husband who delights in us! What an awesome thought!
Every good and perfect gift comes from God: Proverbs today affirms it.
It's great to have you along for the journey. Make sure you check the previous day's comments each day. We are having some great input this year! Your thoughts? Your questions?
Leviticus. In Chapter 26, God's people are given the blessing that follows obedience and the judgment that comes with disobedience. Do you think that the recent economic crisis is at least partly a result of our disobedience to God? What about the drought in the Western U.S.?
Mark. Today's reading takes place as Jesus nears the cross. He knows what is ahead, but his disciples do not. It sounds like He spoke clearly to them about His suffering and they turned right around and asked for places of honor in the kingdom. He used the opportunity to teach them about serving.
Psalms. 10 Listen to me, O royal daughter; take to heart what I say.
Forget your people and your family far away.
11 For your royal husband delights in your beauty;
honor him, for he is your lord. Those of us who belong to Christ ARE the bride and He is the husband who delights in us! What an awesome thought!
Every good and perfect gift comes from God: Proverbs today affirms it.
It's great to have you along for the journey. Make sure you check the previous day's comments each day. We are having some great input this year! Your thoughts? Your questions?
Thursday, March 1, 2012
March 1
Today's Passage
Leviticus. What a challenge it was for them to live in a way that reflected God's ultimate purpose for His kingdom. When someone violated God's pattern, the judgment was often swift. As I reflect on the harsh response to someone cursing God, I am reminded how easy it is for God's Name to become nothing more than a lame expression in a culture. It's that way for our culture now. God wanted them to be an example and He didn't want it watered down. Therefore, He quickly removed the first offender.
You know the expression, "The rich get richer and the poor get poorer." God's plan for His people was a system that rewarded hard work but didn't permanently create a class of people who had all the economic advantages.
Mark. Notice the contrast between the way Jesus treated the children and the way He treated the rich young ruler. What do you think of it?
Psalms. Did you ever feel like you were trying to live right? Trying to obey God? But your world came apart anyway? Why did God let it happen? The Psalmist obviously struggled just like we do.
Proverbs. My prayer is to be godly and not a fool.
I love to read your insights and questions. I hope we can hear from you today.
Leviticus. What a challenge it was for them to live in a way that reflected God's ultimate purpose for His kingdom. When someone violated God's pattern, the judgment was often swift. As I reflect on the harsh response to someone cursing God, I am reminded how easy it is for God's Name to become nothing more than a lame expression in a culture. It's that way for our culture now. God wanted them to be an example and He didn't want it watered down. Therefore, He quickly removed the first offender.
You know the expression, "The rich get richer and the poor get poorer." God's plan for His people was a system that rewarded hard work but didn't permanently create a class of people who had all the economic advantages.
Mark. Notice the contrast between the way Jesus treated the children and the way He treated the rich young ruler. What do you think of it?
Psalms. Did you ever feel like you were trying to live right? Trying to obey God? But your world came apart anyway? Why did God let it happen? The Psalmist obviously struggled just like we do.
Proverbs. My prayer is to be godly and not a fool.
I love to read your insights and questions. I hope we can hear from you today.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
February 28
Today's Reading
Leviticus. God designated times for celebration and times for solemnly seeking Him. The celebrations gave them time to reflect on God's goodness and to look forward with faith. They also reminded them of how God was powerful to deliver their people in times past. They were scheduled around the farming industry because this was an agrarian society. What does it say to you and me who, because of labor-saving devices, have come to believe we must squeeze every drop of activity out of every day?Recent conversations on several levels have convinced me that our rapid pace of life is one of the biggest thieves robbing spiritual maturity from us. It is time for us to put an end to mindlessly filling our lives with activity.
Mark. Today's passages offer Jesus' teachings on a variety of subjects. Which one speaks the most to you? I have often been challenged by Jesus' response when the disciples reported that someone outside their group was seeing miracles in Jesus' name. I grew up in a tradition that seriously doubted whether God ever does anything outside our particular denomination. God, forgive us!
Do you think today's Psalm applies to us and our nation today? I do! We have been pummeled for so long with the message of multiculturalism that we have forgotten the things that made us great. It was never the strength of our arms that protected us. It was that so many in this land called upon the Lord and lived His ways.
At the same time, I have repented of a sinful error I have seen in me and in our church. We dreamed big dreams, then cut them down to the size of our own resources. Instead of praying through and waiting for God to provide from His resources, we worked our plans with a prayer for God to bless them. We called the end result "God's work", but they were really our own work because we refused to trust and wait upon God. I never want to live that way again!
Proverbs. This is one that often catches me. I'm a talker. I have received a warning. I read this sitting on a plane one day. I was headed into a meeting in which I would be tempted to talk a lot. God helped me zip my lip!
What are your thoughts for today?
Leviticus. God designated times for celebration and times for solemnly seeking Him. The celebrations gave them time to reflect on God's goodness and to look forward with faith. They also reminded them of how God was powerful to deliver their people in times past. They were scheduled around the farming industry because this was an agrarian society. What does it say to you and me who, because of labor-saving devices, have come to believe we must squeeze every drop of activity out of every day?Recent conversations on several levels have convinced me that our rapid pace of life is one of the biggest thieves robbing spiritual maturity from us. It is time for us to put an end to mindlessly filling our lives with activity.
Mark. Today's passages offer Jesus' teachings on a variety of subjects. Which one speaks the most to you? I have often been challenged by Jesus' response when the disciples reported that someone outside their group was seeing miracles in Jesus' name. I grew up in a tradition that seriously doubted whether God ever does anything outside our particular denomination. God, forgive us!
Do you think today's Psalm applies to us and our nation today? I do! We have been pummeled for so long with the message of multiculturalism that we have forgotten the things that made us great. It was never the strength of our arms that protected us. It was that so many in this land called upon the Lord and lived His ways.
At the same time, I have repented of a sinful error I have seen in me and in our church. We dreamed big dreams, then cut them down to the size of our own resources. Instead of praying through and waiting for God to provide from His resources, we worked our plans with a prayer for God to bless them. We called the end result "God's work", but they were really our own work because we refused to trust and wait upon God. I never want to live that way again!
Proverbs. This is one that often catches me. I'm a talker. I have received a warning. I read this sitting on a plane one day. I was headed into a meeting in which I would be tempted to talk a lot. God helped me zip my lip!
What are your thoughts for today?
Monday, February 27, 2012
February 27
Today's Reading
Leviticus. Today's Scripture contains an instruction I have questions about, especially given Jesus' compassion for the sick, the hurting and the outcasts. It says, "In all future generations, none of your descendants who has any defect will qualify to offer food to his God." The examples it gives are ones that bring me almost to tears. Perhaps, like other recent Leviticus passages, it is an outward law to teach an inward principle: we must present ourselves wholeheartedly to Him when we worship. What do you think?
Mark. Moses and Elijah weren't just two of the most famous people in Israel's history. Moses represented The Law and Elijah The Prophets. The only Scripture they had in Jesus' day was our Old Testament and the Jewish religion was built on The Law and The Prophets. The Mount of Transfiguration was a statement that Jesus was the fulfillment of both The Law and The Prophets.
When they came down from the mountain, Jesus' encounter with the demon in the little boy was a great lesson on dealing with evil spirits. Jesus was specific with His questions. The answers indicate the presence of what some call a "generational spirit." That means the spirit's presence came from the sins of someone else in the child's family. This often is the case when someone in a family has had serious dealings with the occult. The spirit was deeply entrenched and not easily rooted out. But Jesus showed the way!
Psalms today declares God as "the source of all my joy." I am not sure I can always say that, but that's the way I want it to be.
Proverbs. Perhaps it's better to open up and admit hatred than to hide it, but I would think that it should be in the form of confession and repentance.
I hope to hear from you today.
Leviticus. Today's Scripture contains an instruction I have questions about, especially given Jesus' compassion for the sick, the hurting and the outcasts. It says, "In all future generations, none of your descendants who has any defect will qualify to offer food to his God." The examples it gives are ones that bring me almost to tears. Perhaps, like other recent Leviticus passages, it is an outward law to teach an inward principle: we must present ourselves wholeheartedly to Him when we worship. What do you think?
Mark. Moses and Elijah weren't just two of the most famous people in Israel's history. Moses represented The Law and Elijah The Prophets. The only Scripture they had in Jesus' day was our Old Testament and the Jewish religion was built on The Law and The Prophets. The Mount of Transfiguration was a statement that Jesus was the fulfillment of both The Law and The Prophets.
When they came down from the mountain, Jesus' encounter with the demon in the little boy was a great lesson on dealing with evil spirits. Jesus was specific with His questions. The answers indicate the presence of what some call a "generational spirit." That means the spirit's presence came from the sins of someone else in the child's family. This often is the case when someone in a family has had serious dealings with the occult. The spirit was deeply entrenched and not easily rooted out. But Jesus showed the way!
Psalms today declares God as "the source of all my joy." I am not sure I can always say that, but that's the way I want it to be.
Proverbs. Perhaps it's better to open up and admit hatred than to hide it, but I would think that it should be in the form of confession and repentance.
I hope to hear from you today.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
February 26
Today's Reading
Leviticus. You will note that the statues mentioned today all have at least two things in common. First, they are sins against God; violations of His holiness. Second, they are sins against other humans, each destructive in its own way. Consequently, they all break what Jesus described as the Great Commandment ("You shall love God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind.") and the second greatest one ("You shall love your neighbor as yourself.")
Mark. "If anyone is ashamed of me and my message in these adulterous and sinful days, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” Today's passage is one important lesson after another, but what a conclusion! I don't know about you, but I have had moments in my life when I was ashamed.
Mark includes the account of Jesus healing a blind man. Did you notice that Jesus took him by the hand outside the village to heal him? Then, Jesus told him to bypass the village on the way home. I noticed that only recently!
Psalms reminds me of Jesus' words from the cross: "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?" I think that was because the weight of our sins made Jesus fully experience what we experience. Is it that God has forsaken us or that we feel forsaken?
Proverbs. Accepting discipline is a sign of maturity.
Your feedback has been great, including some recently by email and telephone! What do you notice today?
Leviticus. You will note that the statues mentioned today all have at least two things in common. First, they are sins against God; violations of His holiness. Second, they are sins against other humans, each destructive in its own way. Consequently, they all break what Jesus described as the Great Commandment ("You shall love God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind.") and the second greatest one ("You shall love your neighbor as yourself.")
Mark. "If anyone is ashamed of me and my message in these adulterous and sinful days, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” Today's passage is one important lesson after another, but what a conclusion! I don't know about you, but I have had moments in my life when I was ashamed.
Mark includes the account of Jesus healing a blind man. Did you notice that Jesus took him by the hand outside the village to heal him? Then, Jesus told him to bypass the village on the way home. I noticed that only recently!
Psalms reminds me of Jesus' words from the cross: "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?" I think that was because the weight of our sins made Jesus fully experience what we experience. Is it that God has forsaken us or that we feel forsaken?
Proverbs. Accepting discipline is a sign of maturity.
Your feedback has been great, including some recently by email and telephone! What do you notice today?
Saturday, February 25, 2012
February 25
Today's Reading
Leviticus. When Israel was enslaved to Egypt, they were dealing with the difficulty of the slavery. Their slave status left them as societal outcasts who were seen as "different". It meant that they were not so tempted to worship the gods of the Egyptians. That all changed, however, when they were free from slavery and on their own. They were surrounded by pagan people with a variety of pagan worship acts, including child sacrifice and sexual immorality. Their very freedom exposed them to a great temptation to follow after the false gods. How does this relate to us? To you?
Mark. Today's passage gives an example of Jesus' creativity in ministry. I can't imagine the way He touched the deaf and dumb man. I am amazed at the question he asked the Gentile woman. What do you see?
Today's Psalm is a little hard to understand unless you filter it through the words of Paul in Ephesians..."Our struggle isn't against flesh and blood..." Our real enemies are spiritual.
Proverbs. Our attitude about money trumps the amount of money we have.
Questions? Thoughts?
Leviticus. When Israel was enslaved to Egypt, they were dealing with the difficulty of the slavery. Their slave status left them as societal outcasts who were seen as "different". It meant that they were not so tempted to worship the gods of the Egyptians. That all changed, however, when they were free from slavery and on their own. They were surrounded by pagan people with a variety of pagan worship acts, including child sacrifice and sexual immorality. Their very freedom exposed them to a great temptation to follow after the false gods. How does this relate to us? To you?
Mark. Today's passage gives an example of Jesus' creativity in ministry. I can't imagine the way He touched the deaf and dumb man. I am amazed at the question he asked the Gentile woman. What do you see?
Today's Psalm is a little hard to understand unless you filter it through the words of Paul in Ephesians..."Our struggle isn't against flesh and blood..." Our real enemies are spiritual.
Proverbs. Our attitude about money trumps the amount of money we have.
Questions? Thoughts?
Friday, February 24, 2012
February 24
Today's Reading
Leviticus. Obviously, based on our recent discussion, the section on "bodily discharge" is about health statutes. The description of The Day of Atonement is vivid. The High Priest had to symbolically cleanse himself, then his family. Then he offered sacrifice for the people. This was the only day of the year that someone (only the High Priest) could go behind the veil into the Holy of Holies (or "Most Holy Place") which represented the presence of God. What are your thoughts or questions?
Mark. Much of my early church experience included forms of legalism. Legalism is an attempt to quantify God's Law and make a person right by outward performance. Jesus describes something much different here. Manmade purity by laws only puts people into bondage and serves to protect the sins of the rule-makers.
Psalms. Isn't it amazing how much our hearts long for God in difficult times? Yet we humanly want to avoid difficulty at all costs!
Proverbs. I want to always treasure knowledge. How about you?
I hope to hear from you today!
Leviticus. Obviously, based on our recent discussion, the section on "bodily discharge" is about health statutes. The description of The Day of Atonement is vivid. The High Priest had to symbolically cleanse himself, then his family. Then he offered sacrifice for the people. This was the only day of the year that someone (only the High Priest) could go behind the veil into the Holy of Holies (or "Most Holy Place") which represented the presence of God. What are your thoughts or questions?
Mark. Much of my early church experience included forms of legalism. Legalism is an attempt to quantify God's Law and make a person right by outward performance. Jesus describes something much different here. Manmade purity by laws only puts people into bondage and serves to protect the sins of the rule-makers.
Psalms. Isn't it amazing how much our hearts long for God in difficult times? Yet we humanly want to avoid difficulty at all costs!
Proverbs. I want to always treasure knowledge. How about you?
I hope to hear from you today!
Thursday, February 23, 2012
February 23
Today's Reading
Leviticus. When people were healed from their skin diseases, it was critical to make sure they were really well. Shaving off all their hair made it possible to see outbreaks that otherwise might have been missed. Failure to discover and quarantine people with such diseases could have led to an epidemic.
As I read this passage, I am reminded of a problem several years ago. It turned out that the Yuma High School buildings had developed serious mold. It was big news at the time because it took millions to clean up. Why spend the money? Because of the illness it would have otherwise caused!
Mark today tells about an ordinary day in the life of Jesus. He fed multiplied thousands (5,000 men plus women and children), walked on the water and healed all the people who touched Him. God never asks us to do what He doesn't provide the resources to do. Are you ready to face needs the way Jesus did? I am finding it to be a life of desperate prayer!
Psalm. I really needed the encouragement of this Psalm today.
Proverbs. May all our words be as a life-giving fountain! I have recently grieved over God's people who need to be in unity. Walking in forgiveness is the call of Jesus.
I hope to hear from you today!
Leviticus. When people were healed from their skin diseases, it was critical to make sure they were really well. Shaving off all their hair made it possible to see outbreaks that otherwise might have been missed. Failure to discover and quarantine people with such diseases could have led to an epidemic.
As I read this passage, I am reminded of a problem several years ago. It turned out that the Yuma High School buildings had developed serious mold. It was big news at the time because it took millions to clean up. Why spend the money? Because of the illness it would have otherwise caused!
Mark today tells about an ordinary day in the life of Jesus. He fed multiplied thousands (5,000 men plus women and children), walked on the water and healed all the people who touched Him. God never asks us to do what He doesn't provide the resources to do. Are you ready to face needs the way Jesus did? I am finding it to be a life of desperate prayer!
Psalm. I really needed the encouragement of this Psalm today.
Proverbs. May all our words be as a life-giving fountain! I have recently grieved over God's people who need to be in unity. Walking in forgiveness is the call of Jesus.
I hope to hear from you today!
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
February 22
Today's Reading
Leviticus. Leprosy and similar diseases were a constant danger. An outbreak could virtually consume this nation and God gave instructions on what to watch out for. In their system, the priests were the ones to determine if something was a contagious skin disease or not. Lepers became social outcasts. But Jesus had compassion for them. We must similarly care for those our culture has cast away.
Mark. An unbelieving hometown, success coupled with resistance as disciples go on the road, as well as a jealous queen and wimpy king: these all make up the high drama of today's passage. I thought about John's beheading in light of the horrible acts of terror we hear of today. Surely, John saw the death blow coming and yielded himself to the Lord. Would I do the same?
Psalms. When we experience difficulty, God has a purpose in it! We may never understand why we must go through the trials,but we must trust that God is faithful.
Proverbs reminds me to not take sin lightly.
What are these Scriptures saying to you today?
Leviticus. Leprosy and similar diseases were a constant danger. An outbreak could virtually consume this nation and God gave instructions on what to watch out for. In their system, the priests were the ones to determine if something was a contagious skin disease or not. Lepers became social outcasts. But Jesus had compassion for them. We must similarly care for those our culture has cast away.
Mark. An unbelieving hometown, success coupled with resistance as disciples go on the road, as well as a jealous queen and wimpy king: these all make up the high drama of today's passage. I thought about John's beheading in light of the horrible acts of terror we hear of today. Surely, John saw the death blow coming and yielded himself to the Lord. Would I do the same?
Psalms. When we experience difficulty, God has a purpose in it! We may never understand why we must go through the trials,but we must trust that God is faithful.
Proverbs reminds me to not take sin lightly.
What are these Scriptures saying to you today?
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
February 21
Today's Reading
Leviticus. Today's passage contains some of the dietary laws God gave His people to keep them physically healthy. Some research has shown the benefits of these. A great book on the food subject is called The Maker's Diet. Hmmm. I wonder if kosher markets are selling locusts and beans instead of pork and beans.
The laws concerning a woman's impurity after pregnancy seem irrelevant. She and her husband were to abstain during that time. However, I heard a few years back that a medical study was done on Jewish women who observe those regulations today. They have almost zero instances of ovarian cancer.
Can anyone doubt the compassion of Jesus after reading Mark today? I found myself wondering when and where she had heard of the idea of grabbing the hem of his garment. The Gospels record several such instances.
Psalms. Paul wrote in Romans that we should not be conformed to this world. The first time we commit a heinous sin -- something which deeply violates our own conscience -- we can feel exactly like what this passage says. I have been there. Have you? On the other hand, continuing such sins sears our conscience and we lose that pure heart we once had.
I want to always be open to instruction. That's because I believe Proverbs.
Fire away, you guys. I love your insights and ponder your questions.
Leviticus. Today's passage contains some of the dietary laws God gave His people to keep them physically healthy. Some research has shown the benefits of these. A great book on the food subject is called The Maker's Diet. Hmmm. I wonder if kosher markets are selling locusts and beans instead of pork and beans.
The laws concerning a woman's impurity after pregnancy seem irrelevant. She and her husband were to abstain during that time. However, I heard a few years back that a medical study was done on Jewish women who observe those regulations today. They have almost zero instances of ovarian cancer.
Can anyone doubt the compassion of Jesus after reading Mark today? I found myself wondering when and where she had heard of the idea of grabbing the hem of his garment. The Gospels record several such instances.
Psalms. Paul wrote in Romans that we should not be conformed to this world. The first time we commit a heinous sin -- something which deeply violates our own conscience -- we can feel exactly like what this passage says. I have been there. Have you? On the other hand, continuing such sins sears our conscience and we lose that pure heart we once had.
I want to always be open to instruction. That's because I believe Proverbs.
Fire away, you guys. I love your insights and ponder your questions.
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