Keeping Open to Christ's Call

Scripture – Matthew 8:14-18: ¹⁴When Jesus came into Peter’s house, he saw Peter’s mother-in-law lying in bed with a fever. ¹⁵He touched her hand and the fever left her, and she got up and began to wait on him. ¹⁶When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick. ¹⁷This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: “He took up our infirmities and carried our diseases.” ¹⁸When Jesus saw the crowd around him, he gave orders to cross to the other side of the lake.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Peter had a house and people under his care. He at least had his mother-in-law. Possibly he had a wife. I wonder if he had any children. Those are things we’ll never know. However, Peter’s decision to follow Jesus changed his life in many profound ways. And that decision affected other people. That was all part of the cost of discipleship for him. When I keep myself open to Christ’s on-going call in my life, there are risks involved. I’ve been in my present church for many years. My children have grown up in this community. This is the only home they’ve ever known. The Lord has called me to stay in this place a few different times over the years. At the same time, I work at keeping myself open to His call to move to a different place. If that comes, I’ll be ready to respond. Following Jesus always brings changes and costs, along with rich rewards.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) As much as I like where I am, I will keep myself open. I will listen for God’s call. I will respond to whatever that may be.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you, Lord, for keeping me in this place all these years. I have appreciated that. Keep me fresh in my service to you and your church. Keep me open to the new things you are doing and the new directions in which you are leading. Keep me open to your continuing direction and call – whether it be to continue here or to move someplace else.

A Simple Request

Scripture – Matthew 8:10-13: ¹⁰When Jesus heard this, he was astonished and said to those following him, “I tell you the truth, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith. ¹¹I say to you that many will come from the east and the west, and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. ¹²But the subjects of the kingdom will be thrown outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” ¹³Then Jesus said to the centurion, “Go! It will be done just as you believed it would.” And his servant was healed at that very hour.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) One lesson from the centurion seems pretty clear to me: Sometimes people outside the church demonstrate more faith in Christ than those of us on the inside. I don’t understand the business about subjects of the kingdom being thrown outside into the darkness. I do understand the centurion came to Jesus, expecting Him to keep His word. And so the servant was healed.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Often – more often than I care to admit – I ask Jesus to do things I really don’t think He will do. Or I tell Him how I want my request answered, and even give Him some ideas as to how He might meet my need. I will continue practicing simple trust and faith. I will ask Jesus to do some specific things – to meet specific concerns.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please hear my prayers. And open my mind and heart to trust you to respond. Give me the simple faith of this centurion. You know what I’m asking today.

Ready for More

Scripture – Matthew 8:5-9: ⁵When Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to him, asking for help. ⁶“Lord,” he said, “my servant lies at home paralyzed and in terrible suffering.” ⁷Jesus said to him, “I will go and heal him.” ⁸The centurion replied, “Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed. ⁹For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus offers to do more than what the centurion asks. The centurion simply states a concern about his servant. Jesus offers to go and heal him. But the centurion didn’t ask for that. And he turns down Jesus’ offer. “Just say the word,” is all he needs. He understands authority and how it works. That’s part of his job. He believes Jesus has the authority to heal anyone at any time. He also does not feel worthy to have Jesus come to his home.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) How often does Jesus offer more than I ask? What more would have happened if this soldier would have let Jesus come to his home? That I’ll never know. But what am I asking of Him today. What is He offering me today? What limits do I put on my requests? I’ll open myself today to whatever He offers me. I’ll ask boldly for what I need, knowing I deserve nothing.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, your power is greater than I can handle. So I’m usually afraid to tap into it fully. Help me know what I need today. Give me clarity and boldness to ask for your help. And give me courage to accept all that you offer. Lift me to some new places today, Lord. I’m ready to ride wherever you want to carry me.

Be Clean!

Scripture – Matthew 8:1-4: ¹When he came down from the mountainside, large crowds followed him. ²A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” ³Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” Immediately he was cured of his leprosy. ⁴Then Jesus said to him, “See that you don’t tell anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) It’s easy, I find, to take Jesus’ healing ministry for granted. I tend to skip over them as neat stories that don’t really connect much with life today. Yet He really did heal people. And He still does today. He is willing to do that. Usually I just don’t think to ask. Although, sometimes I’m afraid to ask because His healing word might be this simple: “Be clean!” I’ve heard that when I’ve been carrying a grudge against someone. I ask Him to remove the resentment I feel. And He responds with, “Be clean!” A lot of attitudes that I carry within me are really easy to release. I just don’t want to.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) How will I be different today because of this? That remains to be seen. I have some personal things I don’t want to share here. However, I will look at some of them. I will remember Jesus is ready and willing to make me clean if I turn them over to Him.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, this isn’t really a new lesson today. At the same time, it is one that comes in this new day. Help me see myself honestly. Guide me to freedom today. Thank you for your willingness to clean up my act.

Believing Jesus

Scripture – Matthew 7:24-27: ²⁴“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. ²⁵The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. ²⁶But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. ²⁷The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Hearing the words of Jesus is, of course, very important. Putting them into practice lays a foundation that will be firm and unshakable. True faith involves actions. It calls me to live as though the words of Christ are true. So I turn the other cheek, not because I think that will stop someone from hitting me again, but because that’s what Jesus said to do. Often I will get hit again. As I learn to redefine the meaning of “treasure” my life becomes freer. The foundation of my life moves from sand to rock.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) What specific words of Jesus will I put into practice today? I’ll answer that question and, with intention, I’ll do that.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, open my ears to hear your words today. Open my heart to trust you. Open my way to live in your truth this day.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting tomorrow morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Reading for November 25:

Scripture – Matthew 7:28-29: ²⁸When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, ²⁹because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.

Being Known By Christ

Scripture – Matthew 7:21-23: ²¹“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. ²²Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ ²³Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus came to bring us into a personal relationship with God. He did not come to give us a new ethical framework. Nor did He come to give us a new list of rules to follow. I’ve known a lot of people who miss that. They’ll do good things or begin coming to church functions, all with the hope of somehow pleasing God so that He will fix whatever’s wrong in their lives. Yet knowing Christ in a personal way is the heart of Christian experience. Good works come out of that relationship.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I’ll continue doing good things, because God loves me and has made me part of His forever family.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, you know my imperfections better than I do. You know me better than anyone. And in that full knowledge, you love me and accept me. Lord, you know I love you. Keep using me to do good things, not to gain your acceptance, but because I already have it. Thank you for knowing me.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Recognizing the Easy Way

Scripture – Matthew 7:13-14: ¹³“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. ¹⁴But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Taking the easy way is almost always an attractive option. And in a lot of day to day things it’s a good option. Our microwave serves a very good purpose. At the same time, so does our stove, even though it takes longer and involves a little more work. I get into trouble when I make life choices based on the easiest way. For example, I can go through life just catching the headlines, but never understanding the issues because it’s easier. Likewise, I can take the path of least resistance and flow along with the main stream. Or I can move against that. It seems to me, Christ calls us to be counter-cultural most of the time. And that takes work.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will look for the small gate and the narrow road today. I’ll avoid taking the easy way just because I’m tired or afraid.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, please empower me today to walk as you lead me. My commitment is to let you be the directing, guiding influence in my life. Give me courage and strength to live like that this day.

Giving Good Gifts

Scripture – Matthew 7:9-12: ⁹“Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? ¹⁰Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? ¹¹If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! ¹²So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Sometimes I forget that God is perfect. His love is perfect. His gifts are perfect – specifically chosen for me. I don’t always do well with gift giving. Usually, what gets in the way is my own idea of what a good gift is. So if I’m not careful, I’ll end up giving you something I really like. However, it may well be something you have no interest in. God always gives good gifts. That is, they are gifts that fit me and fulfill me. A gift really reveals a lot about the giver. And God’s gifts reveal His personal love for me.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) To give a good gift, I have to pay attention to the one receiving the gift. That is, I have to look beyond myself. I will do that. Especially as this Christmas season unfolds, I will give loving thought to the gifts I give.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, thank you for the gifts you give. Thank you for your loving faithfulness and kindness. Teach me to give as you do.

Waiting Patiently

Scripture – Matthew 7:6-8: ⁶“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces. ⁷“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. ⁸For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus gives a promise with no time frame. I will receive. I will find. The door will be opened. It just may not happen when I want it to happen. Sometimes, I just give up. I may even convince myself God doesn’t hear me. In this day and age, the concept of delayed gratification is being lost. I can get instant approval for a loan and make no payments for a year or two. So, why wait? I read recently that God may seem slow, but He’s never late. He will give me what I need when I need it.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will let that assurance sink in today. With that, I will live in peace.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, you always hear me when I speak to you. You always give me what I need. Please give me your peace today. Slow me down in my expectations. There are many things worth waiting for. Please grant me patience and joy as I wait.

Why Do I Worry?

Scripture – Matthew 6:28-34: ²⁸“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. ²⁹Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. ³⁰If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? ³¹So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ ³²For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. ³³But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. ³⁴Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) What are the implications of this for life in our North American culture? I was out at a local shopping mall last night. We have such a wide array of choices at that mall. There are multiple places to buy clothes or shoes or jewelry or cell phones. The options for eating are also abundant. At the same time, it occurred to me there’s not one thing for sale at that mall that is necessary. In the midst of such affluence and so many distractions, how do I seek first God’s kingdom and righteousness?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) The line between wants and needs is a tricky one to draw for me. For example, I need to get gas for one of our cars today. Just that statement says a lot about who I am and where I live. The very computer I use to write these words – is that a need or just an extra thing to have? I’ll be very conscious of when I spend money today. I’ll ask myself why I’m doing it. Is it for a want or a need? And every time I spend money today, I will thank God for His continuing provision in my life.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, I am very thankful I live in this place and in this time. Thank you for taking such great care of me. By your grace, I have never faced hunger. I have never been without adequate clothing. I have never been without shelter. Still, I tend to get distracted by all that stuff around me. Help me focus on you and your kingdom today. Remind that worry about any of the stuff of life is wasted energy. Thank you for the daily bread you provide today.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting tomorrow morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Reading for Sunday, November 18:

Scripture – Matthew 7:1-5: ¹“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. ²For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. ³“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? ⁴How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? ⁵You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.

Who Will Be In Charge Today?

Scripture – Matthew 6:24-27: ²⁴“No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money. ²⁵“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? ²⁶Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? ²⁷Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus states a simple fact – I cannot function with two masters. When I try, I am constantly confused and unproductive. One of Satan’s most effective tricks in life is to get me believing I am in control. I begin trusting my own wisdom and abilities alone. Yet when I do that, I’m giving into the control of the Evil One. For the fact is, he is ready and willing to take control of my life. His main goal is to get me trusting anyone but Christ. And to that end he will use any manipulative technique he can. Jesus Christ, on the other hand, does not manipulate. He is always up front about what He wants and what He’ll do for me. As in this passage here – He will provide all I need. The only real choice I have is who will be my master? For the fact is, I will be mastered whether I feel like it or not. By the grace of God, I can choose who that master will be.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will not worry today. I will remind myself that Christ is the one I’ve chosen to be the guiding, controlling force in my life. I will look to Him and trust Him.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, you are indeed the ultimate power and authority. Protect me today from Satan’s traps. You always have my best in mind. So lead me in your ways and teach me your paths for my life. Thanks.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Going Deeper

Scripture – Matthew 6:19-23: ¹⁹“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. ²⁰But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. ²¹For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. ²²“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. ²³But if your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) This is one of those passages of scripture that will keep working its way deeper and deeper into my inner being if I let it. The more I keep it on the surface, the less challenging it is. However, I just read this week that one of the main purposes of God’s word is not to inform, but to transform. So, for example, what will I do with this treasure business? If I let this word drop clear down into my heart of hearts, what does that reveal about what I treasure in life? I think I know what’s there, but I don’t really want to take a good look. That takes work and no small amount of courage. It’s far easier to swim on the surface.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) As I continue practicing listening to what God has to say to me, I’ll open myself to His word at a deeper level. I’m not sure if there’s a bottom line, beyond which I can go no deeper. But I will certainly move into a new level over these next few days and see what transforming work will be done.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, I don’t write these words lightly. I must admit I’ve been resisting your influence within. I’ve reached a point that seems deeper than most people, and I’ve let myself be satisfied with that. Yet there is much more growing for me to do. Lead me into that. Show me what I really treasure in life. Lead me ever closer to your perfection.

Bearers of God's Grace

Scripture – Matthew 6:14-18: ¹⁴For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. ¹⁵But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. ¹⁶“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. ¹⁷But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, ¹⁸so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Forgiveness is hard to give if I haven’t received it myself. Many years ago this lesson overwhelmed me in a powerful way. I experienced God’s grace as I never had before. I accepted the fact that He accepted me as I am. That experience was a turning point in my spiritual life. At the same time, it began a new dynamic in my on-going journey with Christ. For I find His grace coming to me time and again. Just a month or so ago it hit me again in a wonderfully redeeming and lifting way. If I didn’t have this experience of God’s forgiveness in my life, there’s no way I could extend real forgiveness to anyone else. I simply would not know what it was. However, I do know. And knowing the great freedom God gives me through His forgiveness, how can I withhold that from someone else by holding something over them?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) God’s grace has been an amazing thing in my life. I will be a bearer of that grace in the midst of this conditional, unforgiving world.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, it is only through your power and presence that I can do that. Please keep teaching me about forgiveness – especially how to give it. I’m sorry for the times I hold onto things people have done and keep them as a justification for my own resentment. Thank you for your forgiveness. Help me be a bearer of your grace today.

Exceptionally Simple Words

Scripture – Matthew 6:9-13: ⁹“This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, ¹⁰your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. ¹¹Give us today our daily bread. ¹²Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. ¹³And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) These are exceptionally simple words. I’ve read a book or two about them. I’ve preached on them. I’ve been through classes where we’ve studied these words over a few weeks. Yet they present an exceptionally simple example of how to pray. They’re more than words to be repeated. They reveal attitudes to be lived. In prayer – any prayer – I recognize God is God, and I am not. I remember He is in control of the ultimate future of creation. I trust Him to provide my daily needs, to grant me His forgiveness and to teach me how to be a forgiving person with others. In my daily struggle with the evil one, He will protect me and lead me safely forward. If I spend too much time studying these words, I forget to live them.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I’ll take God at His word today. I won’t over think things. I’ll just trust Him and let Him lead me on.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, your words are very clear and simple. I’m sorry for confusing myself by thinking too much. Teach me today to take these words to heart – to trust you as the ultimate director and protector for my life. Provide what I need and lead me wherever you will.

A New Experience in Prayer

Scripture – Matthew 6:5-8: ⁵“And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. ⁶But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. ⁷And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. ⁸Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Prayer is an interesting experience. The simplest definition I’ve heard is that prayer is one’s natural conversation with God. The idea of conversation means listening is part of the process, as well as speaking. Often I overlook the listening part. In some ways, my personal prayers turn into babbling. I find myself just lifting up a list of thanksgivings and requests. I seldom take the time to sit quietly and listen. As I think in terms of prayer being a natural conversation, I’m also aware my prayers are sometimes quite boring. If I sat down with another person day after day and went through the same things in the same tone of voice over and over, that person would soon find it to be tedious and tiresome. I get Jesus’ point about praying in secret, and I do that. How can I pray in a more engaging and interesting way?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I’ll begin experimenting with how I pray. I’ll pay attention to my language, my posture, my affect and my attitude. I’ll also take intentional time to listen without daydreaming or drifting off into planning my day.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, it is a continuing wonder that you hear me when I pray. Day after day you are faithful in that. And I thank you. I’m sorry for being so lackadaisical in my prayer life. Teach me to engage you in real conversation. Keep my ears open to your word in my life.

Free to Be God's Child

Scripture – Matthew 5:43-48: ⁴³“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ ⁴⁴But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, ⁴⁵that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. ⁴⁶If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? ⁴⁷And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? ⁴⁸Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) To be a true and mature child of God, my life will reflect His influence. That means I will go out of my way to love those who are against me. Who are my enemies today? I don’t think of any in my day to day living. By the grace of God, I live in this country in relative safety. Still, the call remains to live a life that shows I’m a child of God.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will live with that image in mind today. How might that affect my behavior? I’ll pay attention to that and find out.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, thank you for ringing me into your forever family. I’m sorry for the times I embarrass you and disappoint you. You’ve taught me better than that. It is a pleasant and joyful experience to live as your child. Remind me often that I’m free to do that.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting tomorrow morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Reading for Sunday, November 11:

Scripture – Matthew 6:1-4: ¹“Be careful not to do your ‘acts of righteousness’ before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. ²“So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. ³But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, ⁴so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Needed: A New Self

Scripture – Matthew 5:38-42: ³⁸“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ ³⁹But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. ⁴⁰And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. ⁴¹If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. ⁴²Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Wow! These verses really turn life upside down. One of the troubling things about reading such short passages of scripture is they can pack a powerful punch. My human nature naturally wants to retaliate. If someone hits me, I want to hit back. If someone takes something from me, I want to grab it back – and probably hit the person, as well. There is a deeply ingrained sense of getting even in me. Yet here we have Jesus again saying, “But I tell you…”

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will avoid retaliating today. I don’t expect anyone to hit me. But, sarcastic remarks most likely will come my way. I will turn the other cheek when that happens.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Help me in this, Lord. This is where your Spirit in me is my only hope. I can’t go on long just exercising self control. I need a new self I don’t have to worry about controlling. And only you can provide that.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Yes or No

Scripture – Matthew 5:33-37: ³³“Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord.’ ³⁴But I tell you, Do not swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; ³⁵or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. ³⁶And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. ³⁷Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Often it’s hard to get a simple “yes” or “no” from someone. I’ve known people to vehemently declare they would do something. They promise over and over they will do it. It seems like the more they emphasize that, the less likely it will happen. Actually, I have done that myself more than a few times. I’ve learned to avoid doing that. If I’m asked to do something, I practice saying “yes” or “no.” I don’t put any conditions on it (like, if I have time or if I’m in town). And I don’t second-guess it. If something comes up and I have to change my response, I do so upfront, quickly and honestly. At least, that’s how I act on my good days.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will pay attention to this today. I’ll discipline myself to answer honestly and simply.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, your direction here is very clear. Give me patience and sensitivity to other people as they respond. Help me keep the log out of my eye, so I can help them with the speck in theirs. Help me live today saying “yes” to you.

Living Under Grace

Scripture – Matthew 5:27-32: ²⁷“You have heard that it was said, ‘Do not commit adultery.’ ²⁸But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. ²⁹If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. ³⁰And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell. ³¹“It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’ ³²But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, causes her to become an adulteress, and anyone who marries the divorced woman commits adultery.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus takes the letter of the Jewish law and makes it personal. “You have heard….but I tell you.” In that, He makes it much harder. For the responsibility comes to me to make decisions regarding behavior. Rather than giving a list of rules or a joy description that says what a Christian is, He simply says, live like a Christian.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will keep that responsibility in the forefront of my mind today. How do I live as a Christian? How will I live this day?

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, here is where your grace gets a little hard to deal with. It’s so much easier to have a clear rule that I obey or I don’t. Yet you call me to make decisions based on your guidance. Help me do that. Help me live in a way that honors you today.

We Know What to Do

Scripture – Matthew 5:25-26: ²⁵“Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. ²⁶I tell you the truth, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) This describes two people heading to court to have a dispute settled by a stranger. Jesus says to settle things quickly between yourselves. That’s a simple command that’s hard to follow for some reason. If I have a disagreement with you, who better to settle it than the two of us? We might bring in a third person to help us communicate more clearly. But no one needs to tell us what’s best. Part of maturity is the ability and willingness to work things out.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I’ll pay attention to these words today and in the future. I will avoid letting little disputes grow into major obstacles.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, you are the head of the body of Christ. Remind me of that as life keeps moving on. In you I and we have the direction we need for solving disagreements and making choices. Give me and us your wisdom and peace this day.

A New Word

Scripture – Matthew 5:21-24: ²¹“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ ²²But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell. ²³“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, ²⁴leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Here’s something I’ve never noticed before. The concern as I come to the altar is that someone has something against me. I think I’ve always skipped over that and read it as though I have something against another believer. Then I should go and work that out. As true and good as that might be, it’s not what Jesus says here. If I remember there’s someone in the church who is upset with me about something, my responsibility is to go to them. Whether I’m at fault or not makes no difference. If you have a problem with me, we have a problem. The body of Christ is affected negatively by that. And worship is disrupted.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I’ll pay attention to this. Who might have something against me? If I suspect that, I will contact that person.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, thank you for this insight. Your word continues to come alive in new ways. That’s why I keep reading and work to keep open to it. Please keep speaking and keep up your transforming work in my imperfect heart.

Letting the Light Shine

Scripture – Matthew 5:13-16: ¹³“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. ¹⁴“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵Neither 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. ¹⁶In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) That little word “let” keeps popping up in scripture. “Let your light shine,” Jesus said. I don’t have to make it shine. It’s already shining. I just have to uncover it and let it do its illuminating work. I’m not to control it, like a flashlight beam. Rather, I let it shine like a lamp, casting a wider circle of light in the darkness. My good deeds are not focused just in one place. My attitude and actions shine all the time.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will look at ways I cover or direct the light of Christ that’s in me. I will uncover at least one of those spots.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Help me in that, Lord Jesus. Help me be a simple, honest witness for you today. I’m sorry for directing your light and trying to control it. Teach me to simply let it shine in whatever direction you choose, so you might be praised this day.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting tomorrow morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Reading for Sunday, November 4:

Scripture – Matthew 5:17-20: ¹⁷“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. ¹⁸I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. ¹⁹Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. ²⁰For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.

A Servant's Heart

Scripture – Matthew 5:7-12: ⁷Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. ⁸Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. ⁹Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. ¹⁰Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. ¹¹“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. ¹²Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus describes all kinds of people who are blessed. It seems like the blessing may not be so evident to people in the midst of their situations. It’s like the blessing in the present is based on the future promise – “for they will be shown mercy,” “for they will see God.” Often, faithful living and serving does not bring an immediate reward. That’s one of the odd dynamics of Christian living. The size or intensity of the reward I receive is directly related to how little I seek it. So I don’t serve someone to hear, “Thank you.” I serve because they need help.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I’ll be mindful of my motives today. Often they’re mixed. I will do a couple things out of a servant perspective – expecting nothing in return.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, you know that’s hard for me. I often tell people I’m happy to do something for them and then, I feel some resentment when they don’t give me something in return. I’m sorry for that. Please give me your servant’s heart today.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Dealing With the Crowds

Scripture – Matthew 5:1-6: ¹Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, ²and he began to teach them, saying: ³“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. ⁴Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. ⁵Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. ⁶Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) There’s a lot of room for imagination here. How far up the mountainside did Jesus go? Did He move out of sight of the crowds? Was He trying to get away from them so He could do some private teaching with His disciples? Was He assuming the traditional teaching posture (sitting down) in an elevated place to better address the crowds? Whatever His intentions were, these next few chapters in Matthew are packed with profound lessons. This whole section is known as Jesus’ “Sermon on the Mount.” And it begins with this list of people who are “blessed.”

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) As an introvert, being in the midst of a large crowd much of the time will eventually drain the life from me. At the same time, I can still interact with a lot of people for a time. I will be aware of my need to get away from people and my call to engage people. I’ll trust Christ to guide me in that.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, you know me better than I know myself. Please show me when to withdraw from people for refreshment and when to engage them in love and service. Keep my vision lifted up – taking my direction from you. For I trust you to take care of me – even as I offer myself in service to you.