On with some reflections about the last week of Jesus' life....
1. With which of the characters mentioned in chapter 22 do you identify with - Judas (sells out Jesus for money), Peter (passionate, but weak in a moment) and those arguing for first place in verses 24-29 (give me Jesus and give me success)? Why?
2. Think about the Last Supper. What does communion really mean to you? How could you make it more meaningful?
3. Look at 22:32 - Jesus tells Peter he has prayed for him during this difficult time. Is there someone you know who is enduring a great test? Why not come along side of them and pray with them?
4. Luke 22:39-46 - Jesus prays on the Mount of Olives. How do you respond to Jesus's agony in these verses? Personally, I find this passage profound. Even Jesus struggles with God's will. He knows what has to be done, but asks, "isn't there another way?" Jesus' honesty gives me the courage to be equally honest in my prayers with my Father. Sometimes, although I trust God, I wonder if God could/would give me another path. Do you have similar struggles?
5. Luke 23 - Pilate, Herod, religious authorities, the crowd - all condemn Jesus. As you read this chapter where would you be in the crowd? Are you in front shouting "Crucify Him!", in the middle going along with the crowd, or on the fringes wondering what was happening to this amazing teacher? Why are you there?
6. On the Road to Emmaus. Jesus loves to show up unexpectedly in our lives. Often we don't recognize Him. Can you recall a personal Emmaus Road? Do you know the feeling the disciples recall - "Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?" Pray always that Jesus will reveal the message of the scriptures to you.
This week may you know God's peace like you have never known it.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Week 5 - Luke 21 - 24
Wow...these chapters overwhelm me with their richness and their lessons. As you read this week, remember to pray first. Ask God to reveal his very personal insights. This morning as I write, I am deeply moved by the events of Jesus' last week. No matter how many times I read the scriptures about this period of Jesus' life, I still cry. I cry because of his suffering, I cry because he forgives, I cry because he is alone. I cry because it is personal to me. How great is God's love. Wow.
Reflections....
1. Luke 21:1-4 The Widow's Offering. The obvious question is this: do we give sacrificially? The less obvious question is what is the attitude of our heart in our giving? Do we give freely? Generously? Often? Responsibly?
2. Luke 21:33 "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away." The Message reads: "Sky and earth will wear out; my words won't wear out."
Jesus' words feed my soul. If I don't read scripture consistently, I hunger for its spiritual nutrition. This verse implies to me all of life is temporal. He (Jesus) is not. All life ends whether it's with the second coming of Christ or my death. Jesus and the power of his words does not end. The question I ask myself - are His words living in my life? Does my life reveal Jesus to the world? Am I giving the world something that lives forever?
3. Luke 22:24-27 Consider this quote from Dietrich Bonhoeffer: "The church is the church only when it exists for others. To make a start, it should give away all its property to those in need. The church must share in the secular problems of ordinary human life, not dominating, but helping and serving. It must tell people of every calling what it means to live in Christ, to exist for others. It must not under-estimate the importance of human example (which has its origins in the humanity of Jesus and is so important in Paul's teaching); it is not abstract argument, but example, that gives its word emphasis and power." (Taken from Letters and Paper from Prison by Dietrich Bonhoeffer as quoted in The Spiritual Formation Bible, page 1397).
I suspect most of us struggle with this line of thinking....do you?
Comments appreciated. More posting on these chapters in Luke. Have to go to basketball game! Peace.
Reflections....
1. Luke 21:1-4 The Widow's Offering. The obvious question is this: do we give sacrificially? The less obvious question is what is the attitude of our heart in our giving? Do we give freely? Generously? Often? Responsibly?
2. Luke 21:33 "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away." The Message reads: "Sky and earth will wear out; my words won't wear out."
Jesus' words feed my soul. If I don't read scripture consistently, I hunger for its spiritual nutrition. This verse implies to me all of life is temporal. He (Jesus) is not. All life ends whether it's with the second coming of Christ or my death. Jesus and the power of his words does not end. The question I ask myself - are His words living in my life? Does my life reveal Jesus to the world? Am I giving the world something that lives forever?
3. Luke 22:24-27 Consider this quote from Dietrich Bonhoeffer: "The church is the church only when it exists for others. To make a start, it should give away all its property to those in need. The church must share in the secular problems of ordinary human life, not dominating, but helping and serving. It must tell people of every calling what it means to live in Christ, to exist for others. It must not under-estimate the importance of human example (which has its origins in the humanity of Jesus and is so important in Paul's teaching); it is not abstract argument, but example, that gives its word emphasis and power." (Taken from Letters and Paper from Prison by Dietrich Bonhoeffer as quoted in The Spiritual Formation Bible, page 1397).
I suspect most of us struggle with this line of thinking....do you?
Comments appreciated. More posting on these chapters in Luke. Have to go to basketball game! Peace.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Week 5 Genesis 38 - 44
Haven't you enjoyed reading these familiar Bible stories? I remember these stories from my days in Sunday School at the First Church of God...flannel graph and all. If you have no idea how flannel graph works that means you're way young...see me and I'll explain it to you!
We enter the longest narrative in Genesis - the story of Joseph. There are so many good questions for these chapters it's hard to pick and choose.
1. I'm backing up a bit to chapter 37 for some context. This is a chapter of how NOT to parent. Favoritism always gets a parent in trouble. Obviously Jacob didn't learn from his own life lessons of what happens when a parent favors one child over another. Joseph struts his stuff in chapter 37 and creates an attitude of hatred among his brothers. The question I ask is have you been on either side of this situation? As a parent have you favored a child over another and lived with the consequences? Or, as a child have you been the favored child or the discarded child and lived with the consequences? Have these situations had an impact on your relationship with God? If so, what?
2. Another thought about chapter 37. Verse 36 tells us Joseph is sold to the house of Potiphar. Joseph has started a journey he certainly does not understand. Over a period of years, the journey is revealed. Are you in the midst of a life journey wtih God you don't understand? How do you cope with it? If the Genesis narrative tells us anything, it certainly tells us about God's provision. Take hope in the story of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph.
3. Tamar and Judah story - Chapter 38. As you read this story think about these questions: When has God taken something bad in your life and created something good? Have you ever found it hard to live up to your end of a bargain? Do you admire Tamar's actions in this story? Remember from this pregnancy comes comes the family line of Jesus. God works in our imperfections...I take great hope from this fact.
4. The Renovare Spiritual Transformation Bible has this note on Chapter 39: "The Lord was with Joseph during circumstances that today seem especially extreme: sold into slavery, accused of rape and imprisoned, forgotten after giving wise counsel. But in their midst he knew God was with him. What circumstances hinder your sense that God is with you? What helps you realize God's presence? How do you plan to 'practice the presence of God' in the future?" (Page 70 in the Old Testament)
5. Chapter 40 might be titled "The Forgotten Good Deed." Verse 14 says: "But remember me when it is well with you; pleasae do me the kindness to make mention of me to Pharaoh, and so get me out of this place." Verse 23 reads: "Yet the chief cupbearer did not remember Joseph, but forgot him." Two thoughts: when have you been forgotten by someone? And when have you forgotten God?
6. Chapter 41 chronicles Joseph's rise to power in Egypt. As I thought about Joseph's lengthy time in prison I wondered if his youthful arrogance was replaced by a mature humility? Obviously Joseph was born with a strong sense of his personal power and charisma, did his time in exile and his time in prison bring forth a self reckoning that allowed God to work through him? Is this not true in our own lives? The bumps and bruises of every day living can either turn us into wise servants of God or bitter characters. Which are you?
7. Chapters 42 - 44 share an all too familiar family tale. Families give us much pain in our lives and much joy. When there has been separation (or a family rift), reconciliation is so sweet. We cry (Joseph - 42:24), we celebrate (the banquet Joseph gives), we confess (the brothers among each other) and finally we reunite. Sometimes it takes us a long time to see our own part in a family division. When we finally realize it, we must act. Relationships are too precious to waste time on personal pride. Today, if you need to reconcile with a family member, ask God to help you and make it right.
As as I said at the beginning of this long post, there are many questions and lessons in these chapters. What questions or insights do you have? Please feel free to comment.
We enter the longest narrative in Genesis - the story of Joseph. There are so many good questions for these chapters it's hard to pick and choose.
1. I'm backing up a bit to chapter 37 for some context. This is a chapter of how NOT to parent. Favoritism always gets a parent in trouble. Obviously Jacob didn't learn from his own life lessons of what happens when a parent favors one child over another. Joseph struts his stuff in chapter 37 and creates an attitude of hatred among his brothers. The question I ask is have you been on either side of this situation? As a parent have you favored a child over another and lived with the consequences? Or, as a child have you been the favored child or the discarded child and lived with the consequences? Have these situations had an impact on your relationship with God? If so, what?
2. Another thought about chapter 37. Verse 36 tells us Joseph is sold to the house of Potiphar. Joseph has started a journey he certainly does not understand. Over a period of years, the journey is revealed. Are you in the midst of a life journey wtih God you don't understand? How do you cope with it? If the Genesis narrative tells us anything, it certainly tells us about God's provision. Take hope in the story of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph.
3. Tamar and Judah story - Chapter 38. As you read this story think about these questions: When has God taken something bad in your life and created something good? Have you ever found it hard to live up to your end of a bargain? Do you admire Tamar's actions in this story? Remember from this pregnancy comes comes the family line of Jesus. God works in our imperfections...I take great hope from this fact.
4. The Renovare Spiritual Transformation Bible has this note on Chapter 39: "The Lord was with Joseph during circumstances that today seem especially extreme: sold into slavery, accused of rape and imprisoned, forgotten after giving wise counsel. But in their midst he knew God was with him. What circumstances hinder your sense that God is with you? What helps you realize God's presence? How do you plan to 'practice the presence of God' in the future?" (Page 70 in the Old Testament)
5. Chapter 40 might be titled "The Forgotten Good Deed." Verse 14 says: "But remember me when it is well with you; pleasae do me the kindness to make mention of me to Pharaoh, and so get me out of this place." Verse 23 reads: "Yet the chief cupbearer did not remember Joseph, but forgot him." Two thoughts: when have you been forgotten by someone? And when have you forgotten God?
6. Chapter 41 chronicles Joseph's rise to power in Egypt. As I thought about Joseph's lengthy time in prison I wondered if his youthful arrogance was replaced by a mature humility? Obviously Joseph was born with a strong sense of his personal power and charisma, did his time in exile and his time in prison bring forth a self reckoning that allowed God to work through him? Is this not true in our own lives? The bumps and bruises of every day living can either turn us into wise servants of God or bitter characters. Which are you?
7. Chapters 42 - 44 share an all too familiar family tale. Families give us much pain in our lives and much joy. When there has been separation (or a family rift), reconciliation is so sweet. We cry (Joseph - 42:24), we celebrate (the banquet Joseph gives), we confess (the brothers among each other) and finally we reunite. Sometimes it takes us a long time to see our own part in a family division. When we finally realize it, we must act. Relationships are too precious to waste time on personal pride. Today, if you need to reconcile with a family member, ask God to help you and make it right.
As as I said at the beginning of this long post, there are many questions and lessons in these chapters. What questions or insights do you have? Please feel free to comment.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Memorize
Another quick thought for you. As you read this week choose a verse and memorize it. Psalm 27:14 is mine: "Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." Simple and powerful. Share yours.
Week 4
Good Morning....most of you who read this blog know my father-in-law passed away on Thursday, January 22nd. Thursdays and Fridays are my blog posting days. Obviously, my energies were directed elsewhere. So this week's postings about the scriptures are a little different.
The Psalms....
We are reading Psalm 22-28. May I advise you to read them slowly and more than once. This week as you read the Psalms, please slow down. Let the words linger in your mind. Read them out loud. Pray them. Maybe you print these out and have them by your bed and read them before you sleep. Linger with these passages.
Some ideas for you....
1. Psalm 23. Put your name through out the Psalm. For me it would read like this: "The Lord is Jana's shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes Jana lie down in green pastures, he leads Jana beside quiet waters...." You get the idea.
2. Pick one of these Psalms and write your own response to it. For example:
The Psalms....
We are reading Psalm 22-28. May I advise you to read them slowly and more than once. This week as you read the Psalms, please slow down. Let the words linger in your mind. Read them out loud. Pray them. Maybe you print these out and have them by your bed and read them before you sleep. Linger with these passages.
Some ideas for you....
1. Psalm 23. Put your name through out the Psalm. For me it would read like this: "The Lord is Jana's shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes Jana lie down in green pastures, he leads Jana beside quiet waters...." You get the idea.
2. Pick one of these Psalms and write your own response to it. For example:
Psalm 27:1 "The Lord is my light and my salvation---whom shall
I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life--of whom shall I be
afraid?"My response: Thank you Lord. Grant me the ability to walk in your light, to live in your strength, not my own. May I live this verse.
Do this for the entire Psalm. I have found when I do this - enter into conversation - what I learn about my faith and my God is enlightening. Try it.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Luke 12:32-Luke 16, Week 3, Part 3
Chapter 13 is full of hard scripture to read, yet full of hope. Think on this:
a. Do you believe what Jesus says in verses 1-9? "Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were worse sinners than all other Galileans?" Jesus seems to be saying sin is sin. The result of sin is the same for all. Perhaps we should get things right with God now, rather than later. The same would apply to our family and friends. Take care of our relationships.
b. Then there is the hope expressed in verses 6-9....reminds me of Abraham talking to God about Sodom and Gomorrah.
c. We often carry burdens which cause us to walk like a cripple. Will you allow Jesus to relieve your burdens? Or is more comfortable to carry them and remain the same? See verses 10-17.
d. Jesus laments about Jerusalem. I am struck by His grief that a city He loves and a people He calls ignore Him. Do you ever think about Jesus feeling grief over our ignorance of His teaching?
a. Do you believe what Jesus says in verses 1-9? "Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were worse sinners than all other Galileans?" Jesus seems to be saying sin is sin. The result of sin is the same for all. Perhaps we should get things right with God now, rather than later. The same would apply to our family and friends. Take care of our relationships.
b. Then there is the hope expressed in verses 6-9....reminds me of Abraham talking to God about Sodom and Gomorrah.
c. We often carry burdens which cause us to walk like a cripple. Will you allow Jesus to relieve your burdens? Or is more comfortable to carry them and remain the same? See verses 10-17.
d. Jesus laments about Jerusalem. I am struck by His grief that a city He loves and a people He calls ignore Him. Do you ever think about Jesus feeling grief over our ignorance of His teaching?
Luke 12:32-Luke 16, Week 3, Part 2
As I do these readings, I like to mix up the translations I read. Different translations and paraphrases give me a different view. I sometimes take Jesus words casually. Honestly, I act sometimes like the words don't apply to me. I know this sounds ridiculous. But I've asked you to be honest as we read these scriptures together and I'm trying to do the same. Take for example these verses from Chapter 12 from the Good News translation:
"Be ready for whatever comes, dressed for action and with your lamps lit, like servants who are waiting for their master to come back from a wedding feast. When he comes and knocks, they will open the door for him at once. How happy are those servants whose master finds them awake and ready when he returns! I tell you, he will take off his coat, have them sit down, and will wait on them.
How happy they are if he finds them ready, even if he should come at midnight or even later! And you can be sure that if the owner of a house knew the time when the thief would come, he would not let the thief break into his house. And you, too, must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you are not expecting him."
Peter said, "Lord, does this parable apply to us, or do you mean it for everyone?"
The Lord answered, "Who, then, is the faithful and wise servant? He is the one that his master will put in charge, to run the household and give the other servants their share of the food at the proper time. How happy that servant is if his master finds him doing this when he comes home! Indeed, I tell you, the master will put that servant in charge of all his property.
But if that servant says to himself that his master is taking a long time to come back and if he begins to beat the other servants, both the men and the women, and eats and drinks and gets drunk, then the master will come back one day when the servant does not expect him and at a time he does not know. The master will cut him in pieces and make him share the fate of the disobedient.
"The servant who knows what his master wants him to do, but does not get himself ready and do it, will be punished with a heavy whipping.
But the servant who does not know what his master wants, and yet does something for which he deserves a whipping, will be punished with a light whipping. Much is required from the person to whom much is given; much more is required from the person to whom much more is given. Luke 12:35-48
How can I ignore the truth of this scripture? What has lulled me to sleep and makes me forget the side of Jesus that says "Be ready! I will return?" Why do I not live every day of my life in the expectation of his return? I am the servant that has been given much. I know what Jesus wants from me. How silly that I choose to ignore Him?! Who are you in this scripture?
"Be ready for whatever comes, dressed for action and with your lamps lit, like servants who are waiting for their master to come back from a wedding feast. When he comes and knocks, they will open the door for him at once. How happy are those servants whose master finds them awake and ready when he returns! I tell you, he will take off his coat, have them sit down, and will wait on them.
How happy they are if he finds them ready, even if he should come at midnight or even later! And you can be sure that if the owner of a house knew the time when the thief would come, he would not let the thief break into his house. And you, too, must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you are not expecting him."
Peter said, "Lord, does this parable apply to us, or do you mean it for everyone?"
The Lord answered, "Who, then, is the faithful and wise servant? He is the one that his master will put in charge, to run the household and give the other servants their share of the food at the proper time. How happy that servant is if his master finds him doing this when he comes home! Indeed, I tell you, the master will put that servant in charge of all his property.
But if that servant says to himself that his master is taking a long time to come back and if he begins to beat the other servants, both the men and the women, and eats and drinks and gets drunk, then the master will come back one day when the servant does not expect him and at a time he does not know. The master will cut him in pieces and make him share the fate of the disobedient.
"The servant who knows what his master wants him to do, but does not get himself ready and do it, will be punished with a heavy whipping.
But the servant who does not know what his master wants, and yet does something for which he deserves a whipping, will be punished with a light whipping. Much is required from the person to whom much is given; much more is required from the person to whom much more is given. Luke 12:35-48
How can I ignore the truth of this scripture? What has lulled me to sleep and makes me forget the side of Jesus that says "Be ready! I will return?" Why do I not live every day of my life in the expectation of his return? I am the servant that has been given much. I know what Jesus wants from me. How silly that I choose to ignore Him?! Who are you in this scripture?
Luke 12:32-Luke 16, Week 3
The first Luke passage reads like this in The Message paraphrase:
Don't be afraid of missing out. You're my dearest friends! The Father wants to give you the very kingdom itself.
"Be generous. Give to the poor. Get yourselves a bank that can't go bankrupt, a bank in heaven far from bankrobbers, safe from embezzlers, a bank you can bank on.
It's obvious, isn't it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being. Luke 12:32-34
The current economy, the bailouts, our own personal financial loses, are given God's perspective in this scripture.
Don't be afraid of missing out. You're my dearest friends! The Father wants to give you the very kingdom itself.
"Be generous. Give to the poor. Get yourselves a bank that can't go bankrupt, a bank in heaven far from bankrobbers, safe from embezzlers, a bank you can bank on.
It's obvious, isn't it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being. Luke 12:32-34
The current economy, the bailouts, our own personal financial loses, are given God's perspective in this scripture.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Genesis 22 - 28, Week 3
Our reflections cover three major topics this week. They are 1)faith and obedience, 2) family relations, and 3) God's assurance.
1. Abraham tested - chapter 22. Why would God do this test to Abraham? Why ask Abraham to sacrifice the very child he waited years to have and is the fulfillment of God's promise for Abraham's future? Obviously, it's a test of faith.
Meditate on these questions: Has God ever tested you like this? I don't mean has he asked you to sacrifice your child. But has he tested your faith and commitment? Have you obeyed God when your common sense screamed "ridiculous?"
Abraham's life is an example of consistent obedience to God's directions. If someone looks at your life or writes a narrative such as this one, would your life reflect a life of faith or a life of self determination?
Remember the God who tests is the same God who provides.
2. Sarah dies and Abraham buys a buriel plot for her. Finally he owns land in this foreign place. What does this tell you about his relationship with Sarah?
3. In chapter 24 God orchestrates the marriage of Isaac and Rebekah. What impresses you most about this story? The servant's faith? Rebekah's willingness to go? Abraham's insistence of a wife from his country? Why?
4. Jacob and Esau. The two stories here - Esau trading his birthright for food and Jacob stealing Isaac's blessing - are full of familiar family conflicts. Lying, coniving, covering up, taking advantage of people's weaknesses, jealousy, playing favorites - these are all traits we've experienced in our families. Which of these traits have you experienced in your family? Have the experiences affected your relationship with God? If so, how?
What is God telling you through the Jacob and Esau stories? Is there someone in your family you need to forgive? Are you the family member inflicting pain on others? Is God calling you to turn away from a destructive behavior?
Have you had a victory over a destructive behavior and God has blessed you as a result?
5. Jacob flees Esau's wrath. Sometimes the consequences of our actions are hard to swallow. The entire family pays a big price for Jacob's deception. The family will never be the same.
Have you had experiences that literally changed everything in your life? Where was God in the experience?
6. God gives Jacob assurance of His protection and the fulfillment of His promise to Abraham through Jacob. We all have turning points in our lives. Times when we have an "aha" moment and the insight causes us to make a change. Jacob has one of these moments.
He vows to recognize God from this time forward and give God a tenth of all he has. So when was the last time you bargained with God? Have you kept your part of the bargain? How does God speak to you?
Remember to start your readings with prayer.....blessings!
1. Abraham tested - chapter 22. Why would God do this test to Abraham? Why ask Abraham to sacrifice the very child he waited years to have and is the fulfillment of God's promise for Abraham's future? Obviously, it's a test of faith.
Meditate on these questions: Has God ever tested you like this? I don't mean has he asked you to sacrifice your child. But has he tested your faith and commitment? Have you obeyed God when your common sense screamed "ridiculous?"
Abraham's life is an example of consistent obedience to God's directions. If someone looks at your life or writes a narrative such as this one, would your life reflect a life of faith or a life of self determination?
Remember the God who tests is the same God who provides.
2. Sarah dies and Abraham buys a buriel plot for her. Finally he owns land in this foreign place. What does this tell you about his relationship with Sarah?
3. In chapter 24 God orchestrates the marriage of Isaac and Rebekah. What impresses you most about this story? The servant's faith? Rebekah's willingness to go? Abraham's insistence of a wife from his country? Why?
4. Jacob and Esau. The two stories here - Esau trading his birthright for food and Jacob stealing Isaac's blessing - are full of familiar family conflicts. Lying, coniving, covering up, taking advantage of people's weaknesses, jealousy, playing favorites - these are all traits we've experienced in our families. Which of these traits have you experienced in your family? Have the experiences affected your relationship with God? If so, how?
What is God telling you through the Jacob and Esau stories? Is there someone in your family you need to forgive? Are you the family member inflicting pain on others? Is God calling you to turn away from a destructive behavior?
Have you had a victory over a destructive behavior and God has blessed you as a result?
5. Jacob flees Esau's wrath. Sometimes the consequences of our actions are hard to swallow. The entire family pays a big price for Jacob's deception. The family will never be the same.
Have you had experiences that literally changed everything in your life? Where was God in the experience?
6. God gives Jacob assurance of His protection and the fulfillment of His promise to Abraham through Jacob. We all have turning points in our lives. Times when we have an "aha" moment and the insight causes us to make a change. Jacob has one of these moments.
He vows to recognize God from this time forward and give God a tenth of all he has. So when was the last time you bargained with God? Have you kept your part of the bargain? How does God speak to you?
Remember to start your readings with prayer.....blessings!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Luke 9 - 12:31
Two things really strike me about this week's readings: The emphasis on prayer and the harsh words Jesus says about living like a Pharisee. If anyone ever tries to portray Jesus as a weak, soft man who had a few good things to say - they certainly have not read these chapters in Luke. Jesus here is direct, almost angry, and persistent in his teaching that we live authentically and righteously. To live less than a righteous life is a life not worth living. He also emphasizes God's provision for those who seek Him. While the life Jesus calls us to live is demanding, it is also doable because of the Holy Sprit and prayer. We are not to be discouraged, rather energized because Jesus provides us with the tools and fuel to live this life.
Begin your reading with prayer - ask for an open heart and mind to hear/see what God wants to reveal to you. Receive it with grace and action.
1. Luke 9:1 & 10:1 - Jesus sends out the apostles in the chapter 9 and "seventy-two others" in chapter 10. Note they are told to go simply - really they are told to take nothing. They are to count on others for their provisions. Their mission is urgent and they must not be distracted. Ok, so where does God need you to go? Urgently. Where is your harvest ground? Are you traveling to it with the assurance of Jesus' provision? Or are you waiting for something else?
2. Luke 9:20 "But what about you?" he (Jesus) asked. "Who do you say I am?" Put yourself in this scripture conversation...how does the conversation go between you and Jesus. Take a moment and write out the conversation. What do you learn?
3. Prayer - The Transfiguration (9:28-36), The Lord's Prayer (11:1-4), Pray boldly (11:5-13). As you read these scriptures what do you learn about God? What do you learn about prayer? Take a few moments and really let yourself linger with these questions.
4. Luke 10:25 The Good Samaritan Parable. Put yourself in this parable as one of the characters. If you were half dead and your rescuer is of a race or political persuasion you mistrust, how do you respond? What happens to your outlook? If you are the religious leaders who do not respond with compassion, how do you justify your behavior? If you are "the expert in the law" who asks the question, how do you respond to Jesus? Jesus has just taken your neat and tidy world and blown it apart.
5. Luke 10:38 Mary & Martha. In my Bible I have my name written above Martha. The verse reads like this: "Jana, Jana," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed." I pause here and look at my Lord and simply say, "I know." I will slow down and remember your presence is in ALL things. Heavy sigh.
6. Through most of chapter 11 and the first part of chapter 12 warning us about how we live. Take some time with these verses. I find myself in the role of the Pharisee more often than I care to admit. What about you?
7. Try this exercise with Luke 11:42-44;12:1-3. "Jesus Christ is reflected in us through the seamless integrity of our worship---expressed both in the words we whisper privately and in the love with which we carry out our deeds. The 'yeast of the Pharisees' - hypocrisy of the heart--must be rooted out. Read this passage twice, slowly the second time. Sit quietly, allowing a word or phrase to stand out. Reflect on this word or phrase or action. Why is it meaningful to you? Use that word or phrase to pray back to God the truth God has given you. Be quiet before God and attentive to anything God may be showing you." (page 1380, The Spiritual Formation Bible, Zondervan Publishing House)
8. Greed. Luke 12:13 - There is nothing like money or wealth to get us off track spiritually. Either too much money or not enough money will distract us from our walk with God. Again Jesus says put God first. Exceptions do not work here.
9. Do Not Worry....my response, "yea, right!" This ties right in with the greed conversation doesn't it? We become consumed with money many times for the right reasons. It's a good thing to provide for our families; it's a good thing to think ahead and save; it's a good thing to spend wisely and frugally. However, when money or things regarding money consume us, we need to talk to God at some length. Luke 12:22-31 is all about perspective. How is yours?
As always, appreciate your comments. Would love to know if you're using the questions to help you study or meditate.
Begin your reading with prayer - ask for an open heart and mind to hear/see what God wants to reveal to you. Receive it with grace and action.
1. Luke 9:1 & 10:1 - Jesus sends out the apostles in the chapter 9 and "seventy-two others" in chapter 10. Note they are told to go simply - really they are told to take nothing. They are to count on others for their provisions. Their mission is urgent and they must not be distracted. Ok, so where does God need you to go? Urgently. Where is your harvest ground? Are you traveling to it with the assurance of Jesus' provision? Or are you waiting for something else?
2. Luke 9:20 "But what about you?" he (Jesus) asked. "Who do you say I am?" Put yourself in this scripture conversation...how does the conversation go between you and Jesus. Take a moment and write out the conversation. What do you learn?
3. Prayer - The Transfiguration (9:28-36), The Lord's Prayer (11:1-4), Pray boldly (11:5-13). As you read these scriptures what do you learn about God? What do you learn about prayer? Take a few moments and really let yourself linger with these questions.
4. Luke 10:25 The Good Samaritan Parable. Put yourself in this parable as one of the characters. If you were half dead and your rescuer is of a race or political persuasion you mistrust, how do you respond? What happens to your outlook? If you are the religious leaders who do not respond with compassion, how do you justify your behavior? If you are "the expert in the law" who asks the question, how do you respond to Jesus? Jesus has just taken your neat and tidy world and blown it apart.
5. Luke 10:38 Mary & Martha. In my Bible I have my name written above Martha. The verse reads like this: "Jana, Jana," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed." I pause here and look at my Lord and simply say, "I know." I will slow down and remember your presence is in ALL things. Heavy sigh.
6. Through most of chapter 11 and the first part of chapter 12 warning us about how we live. Take some time with these verses. I find myself in the role of the Pharisee more often than I care to admit. What about you?
7. Try this exercise with Luke 11:42-44;12:1-3. "Jesus Christ is reflected in us through the seamless integrity of our worship---expressed both in the words we whisper privately and in the love with which we carry out our deeds. The 'yeast of the Pharisees' - hypocrisy of the heart--must be rooted out. Read this passage twice, slowly the second time. Sit quietly, allowing a word or phrase to stand out. Reflect on this word or phrase or action. Why is it meaningful to you? Use that word or phrase to pray back to God the truth God has given you. Be quiet before God and attentive to anything God may be showing you." (page 1380, The Spiritual Formation Bible, Zondervan Publishing House)
8. Greed. Luke 12:13 - There is nothing like money or wealth to get us off track spiritually. Either too much money or not enough money will distract us from our walk with God. Again Jesus says put God first. Exceptions do not work here.
9. Do Not Worry....my response, "yea, right!" This ties right in with the greed conversation doesn't it? We become consumed with money many times for the right reasons. It's a good thing to provide for our families; it's a good thing to think ahead and save; it's a good thing to spend wisely and frugally. However, when money or things regarding money consume us, we need to talk to God at some length. Luke 12:22-31 is all about perspective. How is yours?
As always, appreciate your comments. Would love to know if you're using the questions to help you study or meditate.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Genesis 15-21
In these chapters, Abram's story continues. Abram asks God about the promise issued in chapter 12. God reassures Abram the promise will be fulfilled. Later Abram has doubts as does Sarai, so they follow the cultural custom of giving Abram, Hagar, Sarai's maidservant. Hagar does as she is told and Sarai has a problem with it and mistreats her. Hagar leaves. God reassures Hagar. Hagar returns.
God comes again to Abram with assurances of His covenant. This time circumcision is the outward sign of God's promise. Abram becomes Abraham and Sarai becomes Sarah to signal again God's promise. Abram obeys the circumcision command, even while laughing at the thought of an old man having a son. God understands the laugh and says the son's name will be Isaac which means "laughter." Who says God doesn't have a sense of humor?
Later, Sarah overhears God talking to Abraham about a son coming by next year. Sarah really laughs at the thought of her carrying a child. God calls her on it. She becomes afraid and denies it. God looks at her. I think her laughter stopped. After all "Is anything too hard for the Lord?"
Throw in some Sodom and Gomorrah drama with Lot and family and we have quite a story here. Chapter 21 brings Isaac on the scene. Sarah gets scared and orders Hagar out of the fold to die. God shows mercy to Hagar. Abraham has seen the initial fulfillment of God's promise. This is not light reading folks!
Here is some food for thought as you read this week:
1. Abraham: Reflect on this quote from The Renovare Spiritual Formation Bible: "Abraham's story reminds us that faith must involve more than hoping for the best in times of uncertainty. Faith often brings on uncertainty through acts of submission to God. Faith often means taking a voluntary step from the known into the unknown in response to God's leading." (page 37 in the OT) Is God asking you to step into the unknown? If so are you going? Why or why not?
2. Abraham and Sarah receive many assurances from God that He will fulfill his promise...yet they still take things into their own hands. (Chapter 16) As you read this story of Sarai, Abram, and Hagar which character do you like the most? The least? Why?
3. Where have you been waiting for God to fulfill a promise? How do you cope with the delay?
4. Lot: There is a tension in Lot's life that feels all too familiar. Lot chooses the best land. He lives in the midst of lots of evil. His family is warned of coming doom and they hesitate to leave. The angels have to pull Lot out of town.
In our affluent culture we too get sucked into a lifestyle often contrary to God's lifestyle. Whether it's accumulating stuff, watching too much TV, viewing internet porn or keeping our schedules so busy there is no time for anything but exhaustion, we have chosen a life opposed to God's best. God gives us warnings, but we tarry. Why? Is your life structured to encourage your relationship with God? Or does it take you away from relationship with Him?
5. I am reassured by Abraham's story. The Genesis narration reveals him as a God's friend. He and God talk a lot. Abraham negotiates with God (Sodom and Gomorrah) and God listens. Abraham believes God (he will have an heir) and yet Abraham has those moments of doubt where he takes things into his own hands. God does not change his plan for Abraham even though he doubts. He still fulfills His promise to him. I do the same thing. I believe God is in control. I believe God will provide and care for me and my family. Yet, there are those moments of doubt. Those moments of thinking I could do all this better myself. I try. It fails. God remains faithful in His plan. Thank you!
How does Abraham's story of promise, waiting and fulfillment speak to you?
Work with this story of Abraham, Sarah, Lot, Hagar and Ishmael. Where are you in this narration?
Enjoy!
God comes again to Abram with assurances of His covenant. This time circumcision is the outward sign of God's promise. Abram becomes Abraham and Sarai becomes Sarah to signal again God's promise. Abram obeys the circumcision command, even while laughing at the thought of an old man having a son. God understands the laugh and says the son's name will be Isaac which means "laughter." Who says God doesn't have a sense of humor?
Later, Sarah overhears God talking to Abraham about a son coming by next year. Sarah really laughs at the thought of her carrying a child. God calls her on it. She becomes afraid and denies it. God looks at her. I think her laughter stopped. After all "Is anything too hard for the Lord?"
Throw in some Sodom and Gomorrah drama with Lot and family and we have quite a story here. Chapter 21 brings Isaac on the scene. Sarah gets scared and orders Hagar out of the fold to die. God shows mercy to Hagar. Abraham has seen the initial fulfillment of God's promise. This is not light reading folks!
Here is some food for thought as you read this week:
1. Abraham: Reflect on this quote from The Renovare Spiritual Formation Bible: "Abraham's story reminds us that faith must involve more than hoping for the best in times of uncertainty. Faith often brings on uncertainty through acts of submission to God. Faith often means taking a voluntary step from the known into the unknown in response to God's leading." (page 37 in the OT) Is God asking you to step into the unknown? If so are you going? Why or why not?
2. Abraham and Sarah receive many assurances from God that He will fulfill his promise...yet they still take things into their own hands. (Chapter 16) As you read this story of Sarai, Abram, and Hagar which character do you like the most? The least? Why?
3. Where have you been waiting for God to fulfill a promise? How do you cope with the delay?
4. Lot: There is a tension in Lot's life that feels all too familiar. Lot chooses the best land. He lives in the midst of lots of evil. His family is warned of coming doom and they hesitate to leave. The angels have to pull Lot out of town.
In our affluent culture we too get sucked into a lifestyle often contrary to God's lifestyle. Whether it's accumulating stuff, watching too much TV, viewing internet porn or keeping our schedules so busy there is no time for anything but exhaustion, we have chosen a life opposed to God's best. God gives us warnings, but we tarry. Why? Is your life structured to encourage your relationship with God? Or does it take you away from relationship with Him?
5. I am reassured by Abraham's story. The Genesis narration reveals him as a God's friend. He and God talk a lot. Abraham negotiates with God (Sodom and Gomorrah) and God listens. Abraham believes God (he will have an heir) and yet Abraham has those moments of doubt where he takes things into his own hands. God does not change his plan for Abraham even though he doubts. He still fulfills His promise to him. I do the same thing. I believe God is in control. I believe God will provide and care for me and my family. Yet, there are those moments of doubt. Those moments of thinking I could do all this better myself. I try. It fails. God remains faithful in His plan. Thank you!
How does Abraham's story of promise, waiting and fulfillment speak to you?
Work with this story of Abraham, Sarah, Lot, Hagar and Ishmael. Where are you in this narration?
Enjoy!
Review Week 1 - Looking forward to Week 2 January 11-17
So how are you doing? Behind already? Remember: Just pick up where you left off! Don't get hung up on reading everything. Rather, read consistently! I found I liked reading all of the OT (Old Testament) readings at once, the NT (New Testament) readings on another day and one Psalm a day. I could follow the story better this way.
The blog questions are to help your motivation so you read with purpose and not to simply "get it done." Conversation on the blog is optional.
As you begin to read each day remember to ask these two questions: What truths is God revealing to me? How do I apply these truths?
As you think over last week's readings, what truth was prevalent to you?
For me: Genesis 12:1 "The Lord had said to Abram, 'Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you.'"
I have been called out of everything I expected life to bring me. I must go where God shows me to go. And then as Psalm 5:3 says.."wait in expectation." I build my life on His word and promises. Therefore my house will not collapse (Luke 6:49).
God is good....all the time.
Week 1 - Luke Reflections Posted Saturday, January 3
I deleted the original post by mistake....still learning!
In Luke we start with chapter 5:27, where Jesus calls Levi (Matthew). We end with chapter 8 where Jesus raises Jarius' daughter from the dead. Like Genesis the spiritual lessons are many and diverse. I encourage you to read a passage more than once. As you read pay attention to words or phrases that resonate with you. Go back to those phrases/words and ask yourself why that particular word struck you. Often in this pattern of reading scripture, you will find God speaking to you about a particular issue or struggle in your life. Please remember we are reading the scriptures for spiritual formation in this exercise, not simply information. We need to practice both types of scripture reading, but our primary purpose this year in these readings is formation.Ok, so here are some reflection questions/observations as you read Luke this week.
1. Luke 5:27 - Jesus calls Levi (Matthew). Like Abram, Levi picks up and follows. It is probable that Levi was familiar with Jesus' ministry in Capernaum and maybe even knew him. In this passage Levi goes from a some time follower to a full time disciple. I see myself here...how about you? I am very familiar with Jesus and his teachings. However, Jesus calls me to a deeper relationship - a disciple. The question for all of us - will we go?
2. Luke 5:36-39 Wineskins. Are you stuck in a religious rut? Is Jesus calling you to something new in 2009 while you want to stay in the old wineskin? Pray for courage. Pray for insight. Pray for listening ears.
3. Luke 6:12 Jesus prays in solitude all night. The next day he chooses the 12 apostles. When was the last time you prayed long and hard about a major decision you needed to make? More often we make the decision based on our assumptions and ideas and then ask God to bless it. Ouch. I am guilty as charged. I wonder what our lives would look like if we prayed "all night" before a major decision? More than that, what would our lives look like if we obeyed?
4. Luke 6:20- 49 Luke's Sermon on the Plain. Well, I could ask about a 1000 reflection questions for this passage. Let's go with two to get you started. Love your enemy....it is very difficult to love/forgive/serve someone who has wronged me. As my teenagers would say "Really???" Jesus just can't be serious here. But He is. Who do you need to forgive in 2009? Who is your difficult "love them anyway" person?
And how about 'do not judge'? My study Bible makes this note, "Jesus did not relieve his followers of the need for discerning right and wrong (look at verses 43-45 ), but he condemned unjust and hypocritical judging of others." We truly never know what is happening in the hearts and homes of people. We simply must love first. Pray to look at people through the eyes of Jesus.
5. Luke 7:1-10 The Centurion. I am struck by the faith of the Centurion. What if I lived my life like this? What if I saw myself as not worthy to have Jesus in my house? What if I believed Jesus? What if I followed him with simplicity of heart? What if I wouldn’t reason away my faith? What if.....?
6. Luke 7:11 Quite frankly I had forgotten about this story. Today I am struck by Jesus' compassion for the widow...."don't cry." How about you?
7. Luke 8:4-15 Parable of the Sower. No matter how many times I've read this parable, it still convicts me. Which soil are you? Why?
8. Luke 8:22-25 Jesus asks the question "Where is your faith?" And your answer?????
9. Luke 8:42b-48 "She...touched the fringe of his clothes..." This woman always moves me. As a last resort she risks everything to simply touch his clothes. He acknowledges. She believes. He forgives. She lives. Is this not our story?
Ok, well there is enough food for thought for this week. I'll try to post some on the Psalms tomorrow. Peace.
In Luke we start with chapter 5:27, where Jesus calls Levi (Matthew). We end with chapter 8 where Jesus raises Jarius' daughter from the dead. Like Genesis the spiritual lessons are many and diverse. I encourage you to read a passage more than once. As you read pay attention to words or phrases that resonate with you. Go back to those phrases/words and ask yourself why that particular word struck you. Often in this pattern of reading scripture, you will find God speaking to you about a particular issue or struggle in your life. Please remember we are reading the scriptures for spiritual formation in this exercise, not simply information. We need to practice both types of scripture reading, but our primary purpose this year in these readings is formation.Ok, so here are some reflection questions/observations as you read Luke this week.
1. Luke 5:27 - Jesus calls Levi (Matthew). Like Abram, Levi picks up and follows. It is probable that Levi was familiar with Jesus' ministry in Capernaum and maybe even knew him. In this passage Levi goes from a some time follower to a full time disciple. I see myself here...how about you? I am very familiar with Jesus and his teachings. However, Jesus calls me to a deeper relationship - a disciple. The question for all of us - will we go?
2. Luke 5:36-39 Wineskins. Are you stuck in a religious rut? Is Jesus calling you to something new in 2009 while you want to stay in the old wineskin? Pray for courage. Pray for insight. Pray for listening ears.
3. Luke 6:12 Jesus prays in solitude all night. The next day he chooses the 12 apostles. When was the last time you prayed long and hard about a major decision you needed to make? More often we make the decision based on our assumptions and ideas and then ask God to bless it. Ouch. I am guilty as charged. I wonder what our lives would look like if we prayed "all night" before a major decision? More than that, what would our lives look like if we obeyed?
4. Luke 6:20- 49 Luke's Sermon on the Plain. Well, I could ask about a 1000 reflection questions for this passage. Let's go with two to get you started. Love your enemy....it is very difficult to love/forgive/serve someone who has wronged me. As my teenagers would say "Really???" Jesus just can't be serious here. But He is. Who do you need to forgive in 2009? Who is your difficult "love them anyway" person?
And how about 'do not judge'? My study Bible makes this note, "Jesus did not relieve his followers of the need for discerning right and wrong (look at verses 43-45 ), but he condemned unjust and hypocritical judging of others." We truly never know what is happening in the hearts and homes of people. We simply must love first. Pray to look at people through the eyes of Jesus.
5. Luke 7:1-10 The Centurion. I am struck by the faith of the Centurion. What if I lived my life like this? What if I saw myself as not worthy to have Jesus in my house? What if I believed Jesus? What if I followed him with simplicity of heart? What if I wouldn’t reason away my faith? What if.....?
6. Luke 7:11 Quite frankly I had forgotten about this story. Today I am struck by Jesus' compassion for the widow...."don't cry." How about you?
7. Luke 8:4-15 Parable of the Sower. No matter how many times I've read this parable, it still convicts me. Which soil are you? Why?
8. Luke 8:22-25 Jesus asks the question "Where is your faith?" And your answer?????
9. Luke 8:42b-48 "She...touched the fringe of his clothes..." This woman always moves me. As a last resort she risks everything to simply touch his clothes. He acknowledges. She believes. He forgives. She lives. Is this not our story?
Ok, well there is enough food for thought for this week. I'll try to post some on the Psalms tomorrow. Peace.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Direct Link to Readings
Please note I have posted a direct link to the readings. Click on Crosswalk (Look to your top right on the screen) and this link will take you to the current reading schedule. Please note you can read the scriptures right here too. This way you can access the readings and the questions all in one step. Any questions, please leave a comment. thanks.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Psalms – Week 1
I have trouble with the Psalms. I know I am supposed to find them inspiring. I find them confusing. So in an effort to stay honest with this exercise of reading the Bible through in a year; I have decided to really study the Psalms and try to find some understanding. I’ve begun a book recommended to me at a conference: Answering God; The Psalms As Tools for Prayer by Eugene H. Peterson. I’ll keep you “posted” on my results.
Here are some thoughts for you while reading the Psalms this week.
1. Psalms 1 & 2 work together. In Psalm 1 we have “Blessed in the man” or “Happy are those” who “delight in the law of the Lord, and on his law they meditate day and night.” Consider these questions: "What do you give your attention to? What do you immerse yourself in? What do you take pleasure in? Where do you take your life cues from? The verbs suggest habits: following, walking, sitting, and meditating. Do we loiter with and turn our ears to rebels and scoffers, or do we go beyond mere duty and eagerly attend to God’s guidance and teaching?" (Questions taken from The Renovare Spiritual Formation Bible).
2. Psalm 2 moves from meditating on God’s word to rebelling against it. The study notes from The Renovare Spiritual Formation Bible suggest we have a choice of paths we can take. The paths? - Either meditating on God’s word allowing it to influence our lives or to rebel against God’s authority. Are you more inclined to rebel or to meditate?
3. Psalm 3 – Peaceful sleep in the midst of adversity. Just last night I slept fitfully because I couldn’t turn off my mind. Perhaps I need to pray this Psalm before bed tonight! What images of God’s presence comfort you and remind you of His steadfast care?
4. Psalm 5 - I have verse 3 circled in my Bible. Give God your requests and “wait in expectation.” This is faith.
5. Psalm 6 – If you have a terminal illness or have cared for someone with a terminal illness, this Psalm speaks profoundly. The emotion of this Psalm resonates with me – haven’t we all cried to God in this way?
6. Psalm 7 – Verses 9 – 11 reveal the Psalmist’s confidence in God to be just. Sometimes I lose sight of God’s justice. I tend to want justice in my time with my definition. God says wait. He is in control.
Hope you are finding these reflections helpful...feel free to post comments.
Here are some thoughts for you while reading the Psalms this week.
1. Psalms 1 & 2 work together. In Psalm 1 we have “Blessed in the man” or “Happy are those” who “delight in the law of the Lord, and on his law they meditate day and night.” Consider these questions: "What do you give your attention to? What do you immerse yourself in? What do you take pleasure in? Where do you take your life cues from? The verbs suggest habits: following, walking, sitting, and meditating. Do we loiter with and turn our ears to rebels and scoffers, or do we go beyond mere duty and eagerly attend to God’s guidance and teaching?" (Questions taken from The Renovare Spiritual Formation Bible).
2. Psalm 2 moves from meditating on God’s word to rebelling against it. The study notes from The Renovare Spiritual Formation Bible suggest we have a choice of paths we can take. The paths? - Either meditating on God’s word allowing it to influence our lives or to rebel against God’s authority. Are you more inclined to rebel or to meditate?
3. Psalm 3 – Peaceful sleep in the midst of adversity. Just last night I slept fitfully because I couldn’t turn off my mind. Perhaps I need to pray this Psalm before bed tonight! What images of God’s presence comfort you and remind you of His steadfast care?
4. Psalm 5 - I have verse 3 circled in my Bible. Give God your requests and “wait in expectation.” This is faith.
5. Psalm 6 – If you have a terminal illness or have cared for someone with a terminal illness, this Psalm speaks profoundly. The emotion of this Psalm resonates with me – haven’t we all cried to God in this way?
6. Psalm 7 – Verses 9 – 11 reveal the Psalmist’s confidence in God to be just. Sometimes I lose sight of God’s justice. I tend to want justice in my time with my definition. God says wait. He is in control.
Hope you are finding these reflections helpful...feel free to post comments.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Please leave a comment!
I would love to know what you think about these reflections! Feel free to leave a comment. :)
Friday, January 2, 2009
Some reflections about Week 1.
Remember to check the reading list on Crosswalk.com. See Post #2 for details.
We begin the year in Genesis, Psalms and Luke. In Genesis we encounter the creation story, Adam & Eve, Cain & Able, Noah & the flood, the tower of Babel and the start of Abram's journey. We shouldn't have any trouble finding some spiritual truth for our lives in these stories. As you read these stories either for the first time or for the 100th time, use these questions to stimulate your reflection.
1. Creation is chaos to order in Genesis 1. Where has God taken chaos in your life and brought order? Is there some chaos right now in your life that requires God's order?
2. When you think about temptation, what is the first struggle that comes to mind in your life right now?
3. God never stops trying to be in relationship with us. The story of Adam and Eve and Cain and Abel are good examples of how God provides ways for a relationship with Him even though we have displeased Him. Have you confessed those sins in your own life that have displeased God? Have you received the forgiveness He gives so freely? Do you live a life of forgiveness?
4. Few of us have the faith and obedience of Noah. His was an obedience that spanned over a 100 years. Read the story again. Ask yourself, what is God asking of me?
5. The tower of Babel was a grand plan. Have you experienced a time in your life when you had a grand plan & suddenly it fell apart? Did you find God in the failure? What did you learn?
6. Abram - Genesis 12:4 "So Abram went..." Will you go wherever God calls? What are you resisting in your faith journey?
These are just a few questions to get you thinking and talking to God. More later on Luke and Psalms.
We begin the year in Genesis, Psalms and Luke. In Genesis we encounter the creation story, Adam & Eve, Cain & Able, Noah & the flood, the tower of Babel and the start of Abram's journey. We shouldn't have any trouble finding some spiritual truth for our lives in these stories. As you read these stories either for the first time or for the 100th time, use these questions to stimulate your reflection.
1. Creation is chaos to order in Genesis 1. Where has God taken chaos in your life and brought order? Is there some chaos right now in your life that requires God's order?
2. When you think about temptation, what is the first struggle that comes to mind in your life right now?
3. God never stops trying to be in relationship with us. The story of Adam and Eve and Cain and Abel are good examples of how God provides ways for a relationship with Him even though we have displeased Him. Have you confessed those sins in your own life that have displeased God? Have you received the forgiveness He gives so freely? Do you live a life of forgiveness?
4. Few of us have the faith and obedience of Noah. His was an obedience that spanned over a 100 years. Read the story again. Ask yourself, what is God asking of me?
5. The tower of Babel was a grand plan. Have you experienced a time in your life when you had a grand plan & suddenly it fell apart? Did you find God in the failure? What did you learn?
6. Abram - Genesis 12:4 "So Abram went..." Will you go wherever God calls? What are you resisting in your faith journey?
These are just a few questions to get you thinking and talking to God. More later on Luke and Psalms.
Some Beginning Thoughts
Ok, 2009 has begun! Let's get ready to start our Bible In A Year program! Here are some beginning points to remember:
- Begin each day/reading with prayer. Seems like a no brainer, I know, but it's very important to ask God to open our hearts and minds to receive what He wants to say to us. Part two - be ready to receive it. Give the Holy Spirit room and permission to work.
- Ask these two questions about the scripture as you read: What truths does God reveal in these passages? How can I apply these truths today?
- We are reading these scriptures for spiritual transformation. Our intent here is not to intellectually disect the Word. It is often easier to analyze with our mind than listen for God with our heart. Our purpose is to bridge the heart and mind to maintain a daily connection with God. As we allow the scriptures to penetrate our hearts, spiritual transformation occurs. This takes time and discipline.
- It is important to establish a daily spiritual routine. This means we intentionally choose to spend time in scripture reading, prayer and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the truths of God's words to us. A daily journal helps with this - more on that in another post.
- This reading plan is presented to help you with your spiritual routine. If you miss a day or two, just pick up with the current day and go forward. Reading the scripture consistently is the goal.
- Do your daily spiriutal routine when it works best for you. If you are a morning person, do it in the morning. If night is better, do it then. As one of the journal books I use says: "Invest time with God during the best part of your day, every day. (Transformation Journal, Ginhamsburg Church)
- Stay honest in this process of reading scripture. As you read ask questions of God, of yourself and of our community. Feel free to post your thoughts, insights and questions.
Be intentional. Be strong. Accept God's blessing.
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