Day 17 Mon March 8, 2010

Day 17 Monday March 8, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
We are quickly approaching the half way point of Luke. We are now in the long extended “Journey’ or “Travel Narrative” of Luke which will feature some of his greatest teachings. (Chapters 9:51- 19)

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 10
10 After this the Lord appointed seventya others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. 2He said to them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. 3Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. 4Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. 5Whatever house you enter, first say, 'Peace to this house!' 6And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. 7Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the laborer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. 8Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; 9cure the sick who are there, and say to them, 'The kingdom of God has come near to you.'b 10But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, 11'Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you. Yet know this: the kingdom of God has come near.'c 12I tell you, on that day it will be more tolerable for Sodom than for that town.
Woes to Unrepentant Cities
13 "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the deeds of power done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14But at the judgment it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon than for you. 15And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? No, you will be brought down to Hades. 16 "Whoever listens to you listens to me, and whoever rejects you rejects me, and whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me."
The Return of the Seventy
17 The seventyd returned with joy, saying, "Lord, in your name even the demons submit to us!" 18He said to them, "I watched Satan fall from heaven like a flash of lightning. 19See, I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing will hurt you. 20Nevertheless, do not rejoice at this, that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven."
Jesus Rejoices
21 At that same hour Jesuse rejoiced in the Holy Spiritf and said, "I thankg you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will.h 22All things have been handed over to me by my Father; and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, or who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him." 23 Then turning to the disciples, Jesusi said to them privately, "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see! 24For I tell you that many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it."
The Parable of the Good Samaritan
25 Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus.j "Teacher," he said, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" 26He said to him, "What is written in the law? What do you read there?" 27He answered, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself." 28And he said to him, "You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live." 29 But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" 30Jesus replied, "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33But a Samaritan while traveling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity. 34He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35The next day he took out two denarii,k gave them to the innkeeper, and said, 'Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.' 36Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?" 37He said, "The one who showed him mercy." Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise."
Jesus Visits Martha and Mary
38 Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. 39She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to what he was saying. 40But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself ? Tell her then to help me." 41But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; 42there is need of only one thing.l Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her."


TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
In Saturdays text, Jesus had set his face toward Jerusalem. He is plowing forward with a group of followers- teaching them along the way. Just as they “jump on board” he tells them to get out and pair up because he has a mission in mind for them. One of the things I like in what you will read is that the harvest is seen as a precious commodity. It is valued. What that reminds me of is that the people in the world around us are precious and valuable in the eyes of God. We are called to the highest levels of patience and compassion and intentionality as we reach out to others. Reaching out is not an option. Two of the religious walk right by another in need. Did they not regard a man in the depths of despair as “precious”? Thankfully Jesus raises up a hero in the story as anyone who sees a need and says “I can do something to help AND I WILL.”

Switching topics on you, I’d like you to consider gas mileage. We have cars in our world that eat up a lot of gas and need “filling up all the time”. We have hybrids which may get 50+miles per gallon. Getting more mileage is a key value in producing new cars. But, not matter what the reality is the same- cars will need to be filled up as they approach the “E”. You and I, the people of God, are called to reach out and serve the world around us in our daily life. We do that whether we are businesspeople, scientists, teachers, administrators, parents, mechanics, pastors, or any other daily task. The key reminder at the end of today’s text is that we need to make sure we pause and get “filled up” for the service that lies ahead. Disciplines like regular worship and devotions and prayer are regular ways to get filled up, to rest, to renew, and to anticipate the future. Note how the “fueling” up in this text occurs in the midst of a small group. The support of other Christians is essential for us. Busy lives can drain our “spiritual gas tanks” quickly. That regular time to “re-fuel” is so important. I can personally tell you that walking through Luke with you is a great blessing in my life and I thank you for walking along and providing helpful feedback.
May you be charged up this day for the journey that lies ahead. The Lord will surround you with “precious people”. May you and I see them as such.

FRIENDS ADDED
70
Mary
Martha
Those who reach out and see others in this world as “precious”

CAUSES
Reaching out to those who come across the “dashboard of our life” esp. those who have tangible need

Expanding our definition of “neighbor”
Being agents of peace
Strengthening the devotional life of the followers of God—We need to “return to our sender” (recall earlier devotion this Lent on that theme)

Day 16 Saturday March 6, 2010

Day 16 Saturday March 6, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
Do you notice how there are at least 15 minutes of previews/coming attractions at any movie these days? There are at least 5-7 movies previewed- all which have similar endings- “Coming Soon” or “Thanksgiving 2010” or “July 4”. The point is the same—the advertisers want to drill it in your head that this is “around the bend” or something you should start to anticipate.! Today, we anticipate the next phase of Jesus’ ministry. It’s coming soon!

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 9:28-62
28 Now about eight days after these sayings Jesusf took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. 29And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white. 30Suddenly they saw two men, Moses and Elijah, talking to him. 31They appeared in glory and were speaking of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. 32Now Peter and his companions were weighed down with sleep; but since they had stayed awake,g they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. 33Just as they were leaving him, Peter said to Jesus, "Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings,h one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah"--not knowing what he said. 34While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were terrified as they entered the cloud. 35Then from the cloud came a voice that said, "This is my Son, my Chosen;i listen to him!" 36When the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and in those days told no one any of the things they had seen.
Jesus Heals a Boy with a Demon
37 On the next day, when they had come down from the mountain, a great crowd met him. 38Just then a man from the crowd shouted, "Teacher, I beg you to look at my son; he is my only child. 39Suddenly a spirit seizes him, and all at once hej shrieks. It convulses him until he foams at the mouth; it mauls him and will scarcely leave him. 40I begged your disciples to cast it out, but they could not." 41Jesus answered, "You faithless and perverse generation, how much longer must I be with you and bear with you? Bring your son here." 42While he was coming, the demon dashed him to the ground in convulsions. But Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, healed the boy, and gave him back to his father. 43And all were astounded at the greatness of God.
Jesus Again Foretells His Death
While everyone was amazed at all that he was doing, he said to his disciples, 44"Let these words sink into your ears: The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into human hands." 45But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was concealed from them, so that they could not perceive it. And they were afraid to ask him about this saying.
True Greatness
46 An argument arose among them as to which one of them was the greatest. 47But Jesus, aware of their inner thoughts, took a little child and put it by his side, 48and said to them, "Whoever welcomes this child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me; for the least among all of you is the greatest."
Another Exorcist
49 John answered, "Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he does not follow with us." 50But Jesus said to him, "Do not stop him; for whoever is not against you is for you."
A Samaritan Village Refuses to Receive Jesus
51 When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. 52And he sent messengers ahead of him. On their way they entered a village of the Samaritans to make ready for him; 53but they did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. 54When his disciples James and John saw it, they said, "Lord, do you want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?"k 55But he turned and rebuked them. 56Thenl they went on to another village.
Would-Be Followers of Jesus
57 As they were going along the road, someone said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go." 58And Jesus said to him, "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head." 59To another he said, "Follow me." But he said, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father." 60But Jesusm said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead; but as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God." 61Another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but let me first say farewell to those at my home." 62Jesus said to him, "No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God."

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

What’s around the corner for Jesus? a dramatic journey to Jerusalem.
What’s around the corner for some of people who encountered Jesus? A choice on whether to follow or not.

What’s around the corner for those who chose to follow Jesus? An exciting adventure, lots of great teaching on the ways of the kingdom. Ups and down and a lot of challenge.

What’s around the corner for us? Time will tell but one thing is certain, God promises to be there and walk with us. He will invite us into his group time and time again. He will send us out time and time again. He will watch over us and teach us how to be examples of Kingdom living.

Closer to Jesus and his ways—coming soon (for you and me!)

FRIENDS ADDED

Boy with demon and his father.
Children



OPPONENTS
Those who make excuses to follow or put their discipleship on hold


CAUSES
Peace—Jesus will not speak for violent ways and aggression. Notice how he calmed down the disciples who encountered opposition in Samaritan Village

Greatness is seen in service


OTHER NOTES
*Jesus’ Journey from 9:51- chapter 19 is being featured in our Sunday and Thursday evening worship services at Good Shepherd during Lent 2010

Day 15 Friday March 5 2010

Day 15 Friday March 5, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
Friends, we are over 1/3 of the way through Luke now. After tommorow’s devotion, Jesus will be done with the ministry in Galilee and heading toward Jerusalem. He will head on a long extended “Journey” in which he will teach his followers a lot about God’s intended ways for human interaction on this planet. We’ll get there. For now, Jesus is sending twelve of them out one last time before the journey. He certainly calls them to “trust in his provision”. Can we do the same? Can we see that one of God’s great desires is providing for us?


TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 9:1-27
Then Jesusa called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. 3He said to them, "Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread nor money--not even an extra tunic. 4Whatever house you enter, stay there, and leave from there. 5Wherever they do not welcome you, as you are leaving that town shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them." 6They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere.
Herod's Perplexity
7 Now Herod the rulerb heard about all that had taken place, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, 8by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the ancient prophets had arisen. 9Herod said, "John I beheaded; but who is this about whom I hear such things?" And he tried to see him.
Feeding the Five Thousand
10 On their return the apostles told Jesusc all they had done. He took them with him and withdrew privately to a city called Bethsaida. 11When the crowds found out about it, they followed him; and he welcomed them, and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed to be cured. 12 The day was drawing to a close, and the twelve came to him and said, "Send the crowd away, so that they may go into the surrounding villages and countryside, to lodge and get provisions; for we are here in a deserted place." 13But he said to them, "You give them something to eat." They said, "We have no more than five loaves and two fish--unless we are to go and buy food for all these people." 14For there were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, "Make them sit down in groups of about fifty each." 15They did so and made them all sit down. 16And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. 17And all ate and were filled. What was left over was gathered up, twelve baskets of broken pieces.
Peter's Declaration about Jesus
18 Once when Jesusd was praying alone, with only the disciples near him, he asked them, "Who do the crowds say that I am?" 19They answered, "John the Baptist; but others, Elijah; and still others, that one of the ancient prophets has arisen." 20He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter answered, "The Messiahe of God."
Jesus Foretells His Death and Resurrection
21 He sternly ordered and commanded them not to tell anyone, 22saying, "The Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised." 23 Then he said to them all, "If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. 24For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will save it. 25What does it profit them if they gain the whole world, but lose or forfeit themselves? 26Those who are ashamed of me and of my words, of them the Son of Man will be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. 27But truly I tell you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God."

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

How often do we say, “there is nothing I can do to help that person”? Maybe some situations are ‘over our head’ and we do not have the resources or the ability to handle it but. . consider today’s text as a text for the Christian community, as a group of people.

We see tangible need affecting a large group- specifically a food need. The twelve followers of Jesus, in a sense, say to Jesus, ‘there’s nothing we can do. Send them away’. But Jesus says, “you give them something”. In a sense, Jesus is saying, “friends, don’t think you don’t have anything to help them. You can do it!”

What Jesus showed in the story today is his desire to provide for those in need and to serve as a catalyst for those called to provide. As today’s text reminds us—“reach out boldly, reach out to the masses, reach out in tangible ways and he will find a way to provide!” Will we dare to believe in his provision or will we simply say, “we can’t help”?

God has a mission in this world and I believe he is ready to use us. Let’s dare to believe and act upon the belief that the Lord will continue to provide!

Jesus, help us always to trust in you as the provider for mission. We are your instruments. Help us to see that we have much to offer. Spark us to offer what we have for the sake of the world around us. Amen

FRIENDS ADDED

Indirect “friends” or “blessed people” through disciples ministry.


CONFUSED
Herod remains baffled by Jesus!


CAUSES
Trusting in the provision of the Lord


OTHER NOTES


Join me as we start a new Devotion Series in April and May called “The Ripple Effect” at http://www.ripplingout.blogspot.com/ (an exploration of Acts)

Day 14Thursday March 4 2010

Day 14 Thursday March 4, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
Last weekend, I took a group of 8th grade students to Washington DC for their confirmation retreat. It is a weekend of service which culminates in a walking tour of DC to feed the homeless on the street. In all the years I have done this, we have always had a good experience- our kids have done well and every homeless person we have encountered has been gracious.

This year, the first person we met will leave a lasting impact on me (as well as the kids). We were walking toward McPherson Square in DC and there was a man on a park bench- all huddled up with a suitcase of “dirty stuff” and a cardboard box surrounding his upper torso. He was probably 20 feet from a smaller museum building. From the looks of him, I would have guessed that he’d been homeless for a fairly long time. He was happy to get a meal (which my daughter handed to him). As we walked away, we all saw the 50+rats scurrying about around the edges of the building. A sight to disturb these suburban kid, their pastors and chaperones. The proximity to this man on the bench was so disturbing, so hopeless. When hope is not present, life is so difficult. Today, Jesus encounters 3 situtations where hope appears to have vanished!


TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 8:26-56
26 Then they arrived at the country of the Gerasenes,d which is opposite Galilee. 27As he stepped out on land, a man of the city who had demons met him. For a long time he had worne no clothes, and he did not live in a house but in the tombs. 28When he saw Jesus, he fell down before him and shouted at the top of his voice, "What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, do not torment me"-- 29for Jesusf had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. (For many times it had seized him; he was kept under guard and bound with chains and shackles, but he would break the bonds and be driven by the demon into the wilds.) 30Jesus then asked him, "What is your name?" He said, "Legion"; for many demons had entered him. 31They begged him not to order them to go back into the abyss. 32 Now there on the hillside a large herd of swine was feeding; and the demonsg begged Jesush to let them enter these. So he gave them permission. 33Then the demons came out of the man and entered the swine, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned. 34 When the swineherds saw what had happened, they ran off and told it in the city and in the country. 35Then people came out to see what had happened, and when they came to Jesus, they found the man from whom the demons had gone sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind. And they were afraid. 36Those who had seen it told them how the one who had been possessed by demons had been healed. 37Then all the people of the surrounding country of the Gerasenesi asked Jesusj to leave them; for they were seized with great fear. So he got into the boat and returned. 38The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with him; but Jesusk sent him away, saying, 39"Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you." So he went away, proclaiming throughout the city how much Jesus had done for him.
A Girl Restored to Life and a Woman Healed
40 Now when Jesus returned, the crowd welcomed him, for they were all waiting for him. 41Just then there came a man named Jairus, a leader of the synagogue. He fell at Jesus' feet and begged him to come to his house, 42for he had an only daughter, about twelve years old, who was dying. As he went, the crowds pressed in on him. 43Now there was a woman who had been suffering from hemorrhages for twelve years; and though she had spent all she had on physicians,l no one could cure her. 44She came up behind him and touched the fringe of his clothes, and immediately her hemorrhage stopped. 45Then Jesus asked, "Who touched me?" When all denied it, Peterm said, "Master, the crowds surround you and press in on you." 46But Jesus said, "Someone touched me; for I noticed that power had gone out from me." 47When the woman saw that she could not remain hidden, she came trembling; and falling down before him, she declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched him, and how she had been immediately healed. 48He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace." 49 While he was still speaking, someone came from the leader's house to say, "Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the teacher any longer." 50When Jesus heard this, he replied, "Do not fear. Only believe, and she will be saved." 51When he came to the house, he did not allow anyone to enter with him, except Peter, John, and James, and the child's father and mother. 52They were all weeping and wailing for her; but he said, "Do not weep; for she is not dead but sleeping." 53And they laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. 54But he took her by the hand and called out, "Child, get up!" 55Her spirit returned, and she got up at once. Then he directed them to give her something to eat. 56Her parents were astounded; but he ordered them to tell no one what had happened.

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES

Just as my story at the beginning, I am sure that each of you can think of situations that appear hopeless, especially people who are hopeless. Without hope- the future is bleak, uncertain, and confusing. With hope, there is power. Hope is “believing in spite of the evidence and watching the evidence change” as one activist likes to say.

One of the things I am mindful of today is that Jesus is the one who brings hope. In 3 different situations he “brings hope” to people who have no apparent future. He intervenes in their lives instills hope and new life.

The stories today are dramatic but there is no doubt in my mind that Jesus (and his followers) are called to “instill hope” in the world around them. Today, I am going to leave this pretty open ended and ask you to ponder the unique ways in which you can be a “messenger of hope” for others. What are the simple things you can do to help another? Think of someone specifically who is going through difficulty. Is God sending you to them in some way? Instill hope. It’s a needed resource in this world and in abundant supply from the God who provides.

Jesus, you are hope for the hopeless and rest for the weary. Build us up to be messengers of hope for others. When we feel the weight of the world on our heart and soul, send messengers of your hope to us- to remind us that we are not alone. We pray for those in our world in extremely difficult circumstances especially those affected by natural disasters. Send a flood of hope – tangible, spiritual, and emotional. Amen

FRIENDS ADDED

Gerasene Demoniac
Woman with Hemorages
Little Girl and her parents (Jairus is dad)

OPPONENTS
The owner of the pigs has gotta be a bit fired up
Many in the town want Jeus out of their


CAUSES
Instilling hope to the hopeless

I love how the Gerasene Demoniac wanted to follow Jesus on journey but Jesus said, "stay put and be a witness" where you are. One whom had hope restored is often a powerful witness in their local setting!

OTHER NOTES

Join me as we start a new Devotion Series in April and May called “The Ripple Effect” at http://www.ripplingout.blogspot.com/ (an exploration of Acts)

Day 13 Wednesday March 3, 2010

Day 13 Wed March 3, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
There are several great stories here today. The sower asks us “what kind of soil are we at this moment in time?” It also reminds me of the importance of being faithful in sharing the faith and leaving the results/impact to God. The sower consistently goes out and sows- over and over. Writing devotions in some ways is trying to honor the call to “sow”. I also love the story of how Jesus brings “calm in the midst of storms”. How many of you need to hear God’s voice in the midst of the storms of life- whether it’s because of illness, stress, anxiety, uncertainty, or for some other reasons? (You might listen to the song- Praise You in the Storm by Casting Crowns, Link at bottom)
It’s easy to jump to talk about those important aspects of today’s text. It’s important to ponder them but let’s not forget the first 3 verses today, which we might just plow by if not gently nudged. So, read it all but. . …don’t forget the first 3!

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 8:1-25
8 Soon afterwards he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. The twelve were with him, 2as well as some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3and Joanna, the wife of Herod's steward Chuza, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for thema out of their resources.
4 When a great crowd gathered and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable: 5"A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell on the path and was trampled on, and the birds of the air ate it up. 6Some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered for lack of moisture. 7Some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew with it and choked it. 8Some fell into good soil, and when it grew, it produced a hundredfold." As he said this, he called out, "Let anyone with ears to hear listen!"
9 Then his disciples asked him what this parable meant. 10He said, "To you it has been given to know the secretsb of the kingdom of God; but to others I speakc in parables, so that 'looking they may not perceive, and listening they may not understand.'
11 "Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 12The ones on the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. 13The ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy. But these have no root; they believe only for a while and in a time of testing fall away. 14As for what fell among the thorns, these are the ones who hear; but as they go on their way, they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. 15But as for that in the good soil, these are the ones who, when they hear the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patient endurance.
16 "No one after lighting a lamp hides it under a jar, or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a lampstand, so that those who enter may see the light. 17For nothing is hidden that will not be disclosed, nor is anything secret that will not become known and come to light. 18Then pay attention to how you listen; for to those who have, more will be given; and from those who do not have, even what they seem to have will be taken away."
19 Then his mother and his brothers came to him, but they could not reach him because of the crowd. 20And he was told, "Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you." 21But he said to them, "My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it."
22 One day he got into a boat with his disciples, and he said to them, "Let us go across to the other side of the lake." So they put out, 23and while they were sailing he fell asleep. A windstorm swept down on the lake, and the boat was filling with water, and they were in danger. 24They went to him and woke him up, shouting, "Master, Master, we are perishing!" And he woke up and rebuked the wind and the raging waves; they ceased, and there was a calm. 25He said to them, "Where is your faith?" They were afraid and amazed, and said to one another, "Who then is this, that he commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him?"

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
Luke 8:1-3 does not appear in the Mark, Matthew, or John. Although women are noted at the resurrection appearances (including these 3), Luke makes it chrystal clear that “women were part of his disciples” early on. They appear to accompany him from this moment all the way to Jerusalem. Some of these women could have been some of the 70 sent out in pairs to minister in the towns (in chapter 10) They will hear his great teaching on the way to Jerusalem (stories like the Good Samaritan, Lazarus and Dives, the Parables of the Lost Sheep, Coins, and Son), and they will experience the events we call “Holy Week”. Of all the followers, these 3 appear to be the ones who will “hang in the longest”. They hang out at the cross when others have left (or not even showed up) and they show up at the tomb early on a Sunday morning to be surprised beyond belief that the stone guarding Jesus’ tomb had been rolled away. But. ..I’m getting ahead of myself.

In a male dominated culture (as the first century was), when females had little rights, Jesus breaks the boundaries and says that women will be part of his leadership team. Why didn’t the other Gospels make that clear? Who knows? What we can give thanks for today is that we have Luke’s witness! I think of my life and how many women have played a key role in my faith journey or the women in my life who inspire my faith today.

Take some time today to give thanks for the female disciples who followed Jesus- for their faithfulness (note how some of them were exceedingly generous with their resources to support the “mission”) and for walking by faith. Imagine them on the journey as you read the rest of Luke. Don’t just focus on the 12 closest disciples who get all the press! Remember, there were others, including plenty of female followers.

And today, please give thanks for female followers of Jesus who have or continue to support you on your journey of faith. Who are those women who inspire you to be more like Jesus or have helped you grow closer to God?

Prayer- We thank you Jesus for those women who chose to follow you and for their support of your ministry. We thank you for their leadership, their provisions, and for their willingness to follow you all the way. Help us in our day to follow their example and follow you through “thick and thin”. Indeed those first disciples were the receptive “good soil” . Help us to be the good soil today, tomorrow, and in all the days to come!

FRIENDS ADDED
Mary Magdalene
Joanna
Susanna
Many other women
“Anyone who does the will of God”- says nothing about status, wealth, etc
*does not say anyone who “believes in the will of God”
*it says- “does” the will of God which means that faith is called to be mobilized, acted upon. It is not to sit still. We will see this theme in Luke 10 ithe the parable of the Good Samaritan

CAUSES
Jesus reminds us of the importance of ongoing sharing of the faith. Having outstretched hands and reaching out in society with God’s goodness is our job. The results are up to God. We can’t control receptivity of others. We can only reach out and share but. . . .as Jesus reminds us. .. . some will indeed be receptive. Christians will face rejection but our job is to remain faithful to reaching out.


Ministry of females—Jesus way ahead of his time

OTHER NOTES
Note the anxiety Jesus’ ministry is causing Jesus’ mother and family members!

One would expect that if the women accompany Jesus all the way to the cross and “empty tomb”, they will be a key part of the witness in the book of Acts, the post Resurrection era. Join me as we explore Acts in April and May at http://www.ripplingout.blogspot.com/


Song- Praise You in this Storm (comes to mind with verses 22-25) -- For the "Strorms" in our Life

Day 12 Tuesday March 2 2010

Day 12 Tue March 2, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
Thanks for continuing the journey with me through Luke. Take a look at our sign on the right before reading the text today.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 7:24-50
24 When John's messengers had gone, Jesusf began to speak to the crowds about John:g "What did you go out into the wilderness to look at? A reed shaken by the wind? 25What then did you go out to see? Someoneh dressed in soft robes? Look, those who put on fine clothing and live in luxury are in royal palaces. 26What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 27This is the one about whom it is written, 'See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.'28I tell you, among those born of women no one is greater than John; yet the least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." 29(And all the people who heard this, including the tax collectors, acknowledged the justice of God,i because they had been baptized with John's baptism. 30But by refusing to be baptized by him, the Pharisees and the lawyers rejected God's purpose for themselves.) 31 "To what then will I compare the people of this generation, and what are they like? 32They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling to one another, 'We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not weep.'33For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine, and you say, 'He has a demon'; 34the Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, 'Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' 35Nevertheless, wisdom is vindicated by all her children."
A Sinful Woman Forgiven
36 One of the Pharisees asked Jesusj to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee's house and took his place at the table. 37And a woman in the city, who was a sinner, having learned that he was eating in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster jar of ointment. 38She stood behind him at his feet, weeping, and began to bathe his feet with her tears and to dry them with her hair. Then she continued kissing his feet and anointing them with the ointment. 39Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw it, he said to himself, "If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what kind of woman this is who is touching him--that she is a sinner." 40Jesus spoke up and said to him, "Simon, I have something to say to you." "Teacher," he replied, "speak." 41"A certain creditor had two debtors; one owed five hundred denarii,k and the other fifty. 42When they could not pay, he canceled the debts for both of them. Now which of them will love him more?" 43Simon answered, "I suppose the one for whom he canceled the greater debt." And Jesusl said to him, "You have judged rightly." 44Then turning toward the woman, he said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has bathed my feet with her tears and dried them with her hair. 45You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not stopped kissing my feet. 46You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. 47Therefore, I tell you, her sins, which were many, have been forgiven; hence she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little." 48Then he said to her, "Your sins are forgiven." 49But those who were at the table with him began to say among themselves, "Who is this who even forgives sins?" 50And he said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."

TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
Let’s think about the sign at the top today which reads, “CANCELLED”

When I think of things getting cancelled it is usually bad news. Flights getting cancelled usually causes passengers stress. A cancelled TV show means that it did not have a successful run or it no longer had mass appeal. Those on limited resources know the fear of having one of their utilities cancelled such as heat or electric or gas or phone.

Cancelled things can sting. They can leave a mark. The cancellations we read about today, however, do not leave a mark. They are good news.
Jesus has not a bit of interest in seeing us buckle under the weight of sin. He has no joy in seeing us be held back by regret, anxiety, past failures, and actions we wish had never happened. He has no interest in us being continually labeled as “sinners”. So Jesus makes it clear, “I am hear to cancel out your flaws, debts, anxieties, problems--- so that you can be freed to be who I intended.


What do you need canceled out?
What do you need Jesus to take and wipe clean?



Jesus, we are thankful this day that you cancel out our sins. You remind us that you always seek to get us back on track. Fill us with the love of the woman in our text today. Teach us to be grateful for the fresh start and abundant life you have in store for us. Help us embrace that fresh start and head toward the new day. Amen



FRIENDS
Sinful Woman
John the Baptist—Jesus expresses extreme appreciation for John
Crowds


CAUSES
Canceling the personal debts/flaws in others
Hanging out with those others declare unworthy, sinful, sinners, outcasts, tax collectors
Challenging those who seek to hinder the extension of forgiveness
Mercy--

YOUTUBE.COM

A great contemporary song that comes to mind with today's text is "Mighty to Save" - Michael W. Smith or Chris Tomlin have great renditions. Check it out

Day 11 Mon March 1 2010

Day 11 Mon March 1, 2010

TODAY’S INTRO
March 1. Spring is around the corner. We are now one quarter of the way through Luke. On Saturday, we read about Jesus’ Sermon on the plain- profound yet difficult teaching. Today, Jesus heads back into Capernaum- which served as his home base during his ministry.

TODAY’S TEXT- Luke 7:1-23
7 After Jesusa had finished all his sayings in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. 2A centurion there had a slave whom he valued highly, and who was ill and close to death. 3When he heard about Jesus, he sent some Jewish elders to him, asking him to come and heal his slave. 4When they came to Jesus, they appealed to him earnestly, saying, "He is worthy of having you do this for him, 5for he loves our people, and it is he who built our synagogue for us." 6And Jesus went with them, but when he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to say to him, "Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; 7therefore I did not presume to come to you. But only speak the word, and let my servant be healed. 8For I also am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to one, 'Go,' and he goes, and to another, 'Come,' and he comes, and to my slave, 'Do this,' and the slave does it." 9When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, he said, "I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith." 10When those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the slave in good health.
Jesus Raises the Widow's Son at Nain
11 Soon afterwardsb he went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went with him. 12As he approached the gate of the town, a man who had died was being carried out. He was his mother's only son, and she was a widow; and with her was a large crowd from the town. 13When the Lord saw her, he had compassion for her and said to her, "Do not weep." 14Then he came forward and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And he said, "Young man, I say to you, rise!" 15The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesusc gave him to his mother. 16Fear seized all of them; and they glorified God, saying, "A great prophet has risen among us!" and "God has looked favorably on his people!" 17This word about him spread throughout Judea and all the surrounding country.
Messengers from John the Baptist
18 The disciples of John reported all these things to him. So John summoned two of his disciples 19and sent them to the Lord to ask, "Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?" 20When the men had come to him, they said, "John the Baptist has sent us to you to ask, 'Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?' " 21Jesusd had just then cured many people of diseases, plagues, and evil spirits, and had given sight to many who were blind. 22And he answered them, "Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the leperse are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have good news brought to them. 23And blessed is anyone who takes no offense at me."


TODAY’S STATUS UPDATES
One of the things we see in today’s story is a person outside the traditional religious institutions painted as a model of the faith. The Centurion is sympathetic to Jesus and his ways, supportive of his work, but not an “insider”. What I remember is that Jesus pays little attention to the distinctions of “insider” v. “outsider”. Jesus pays attention to questions like- “who needs my care?” and “who’s sympathetic to my cause?”.

The Centurion is someone who never physically appears in the story yet he reaches out to Jesus. He conveys his appreciation for Jesus’ ministry, his teaching, and his authority. He yearns to see if he might provide help for his servant, who is very ill.

In some ways, the centurion is a catalyst in helping bring God’s goodness to another. He helps set things in motion. He reaches out. He is an active force yet he can only help so much. He needs Jesus to be involved. Faith often works that way. Faith is not a “sit still and do nothing” life. Faith is about doing what we can and then, at the same time, putting it in the hands of Jesus. As we see time and time again, when we get things into Jesus’ hands, our burdens are a bit lighter, we have his support, and we realize we are not alone.






FRIENDS ADDED
Centurion
Centurion’s Servant (one would hope)
Widow and Widows Son
Various onlookers


CAUSES
Openness to the Gentiles---
Concern for the other
Walking with the sick