PROCLAIM THE FAVOR OF THE LORD ON THOSE WHO LABOR AMONG AND FOR US!

God of the Journey, journey with this dear reader in a way this is blessed and fun! In Christ Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Our text for today comes from Philippians 2:19-30: 19 I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I may be cheered by news of you. 20 I have no one like him who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare. 21 All of them are seeking their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. 22 But Timothy's worth you know, how like a son with a father he has served with me in the work of the gospel. 23 I hope therefore to send him as soon as I see how things go with me; 24 and I trust in the Lord that I will also come soon. 25 Still, I think it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus—my brother and co-worker and fellow soldier, your messenger and minister to my need; 26 for he has been longing for all of you, and has been distressed because you heard that he was ill. 27 He was indeed so ill that he nearly died. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, so that I would not have one sorrow after another. 28 I am the more eager to send him, therefore, in order that you may rejoice at seeing him again, and that I may be less anxious. 29 Welcome him then in the Lord with all joy, and honor such people, 30 because he came close to death for the work of Christ, risking his life to make up for those services that you could not give me.

In every church there are those faithful servants that we count as our co-workers, brothers/sisters, and fellow soldiers in our fight against evil and the forms in which it presents itself to the people of God. Sometimes these servants are so faithful we take them for granted as always being there and we hate to see the day when age and illness claim them and their presence is no longer there or the day approaches when they will not be there in the same capacity. Here in our church we have two such dear sisters who have labored long and hard for the work of the Lord. One has been our organist, "Miss Bea" as we lovingly call her; the other has been our Welcome Center "mom" who, even at age 92, was the first at church, put in cinnamon rolls in the oven, made coffee, prepared juice and then set these out for those who come to our early service and Sunday school. This is our sister Ola. Both have a need to retire and it has broken the hearts of those who know and love them. I among them. Both represent a commitment to God that is fast dying in our churches unless we find those who are willing to step up and take their place. I told our church council that to find even one applicant for organist in this day and age is a rare thing for organists are a dying breed. And yes, to find a person willing to rise early on a Sunday when all the world seems to want to sleep in, to come and prepare nourishment even for the homeless that come just for a hot cup of coffee and a hot roll, also seems to be a vanishing type of special person. Such was that which Paul mentions in today's passage. Being in his situation Paul could not freely travel as he once did and the needs of the church in Philippi were such that he could only send the one whom he trusted would do right by that church and that was Timothy. The church had sent word to Paul of their needs through one of their faithful, Epaphroditus, whom some scholars believed worked so hard he came close to killing himself from the work in Christ that he did.

What is being said about us and our commitment to the Lord (or lack thereof)? Are we faithful and hardworking? Are we there every Sunday unless we're sick or out-of-town? And how do we treat those who are? Look again at verse 29: (NAS): "Therefore receive him in the Lord with all joy and hold (folks) like (them) in high regard." May our prayers be with the Beas and Olas of our churches, may our prayer also be that God raise us up to take those places that are being vacated by these saints.

PRAYER: God of all people, we praise You and thank You for dear sweet servants such as Bea and Ola. Bless and protect them during these days. As they enter into a new chapter of life, may You help them continue to write sweetly and lovingly those pages of life and the fullness of life. And raise up from among us those who can come forward and serve You in the same way. Let our prayer stir in us and in those for whom we pray, a newness of life and attitude towards life that we may faithfully serve You. We ask this in Christ Jesus' precious name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.

Eradio Valverde

PROCLAIM PROUDLY AND LOUDLY THAT GOD LOVES US ALL; IT IS OUR JOB!

Loving God of new days, may this day mark a new and great day of faith for this dear reader in all that they face; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.

Our text for today comes from Philippians 2:12-18: 12 Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed me, not only in my presence, but much more now in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who is at work in you, enabling you both to will and to work for his good pleasure. 14 Do all things without murmuring and arguing, 15 so that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine like stars in the world. 16 It is by your holding fast to the word of life that I can boast on the day of Christ that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. 17 But even if I am being poured out as a libation over the sacrifice and the offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you— 18 and in the same way you also must be glad and rejoice with me.

"I can't believe I got the job!" How often have you said that or dreamed that you had the chance to say that? In my case it was after dropping out of seminary and applying to work for Southwestern Bell Telephone and after passing the aptitude test I was invited to sit for an eight-hour exam. It was so difficult that I thought oh well, perhaps I can do the job for which I originally applied. But, no, thanks to God, I passed that test and was hired for the position the interviewer suggested. Then I began to worry if I could do the job... How often have we said that about our "job" as Christians? Paul says in verse 12 that we must "work out" our own "salvation with fear and trembling." How I interpret this is that when we establish a relationship with Christ Jesus, you and I have been "saved" from our sin and the certain path to our destruction both earthly and eternally. We've been saved to a new life, one in fullness and abundance in grace and love. We've also been given the task to do good works because we are saved. This is the journey of sanctification, a big word that means we walk daily with God being made more holy with each day (or so we should strive!), and that means working with fear and trembling at doing what we have been called to do: Live a life that shines the light and love of Christ to those who have not yet received.

The task seems big and it is, but as Paul also says, God stands behind us and not only gives us the power "to will and to work for His good pleasure." Our attitude should then be a positive one that says, I'm blessed to be a Christian and to have the joy of sharing Christ with others - no room for "murmuring and arguing!" - we've got work to do! And as we read about church attendance and participation we see that so many have already decided that God is not for them, we see that our job grows bigger each day. But here's the good news, we can do it!

PRAYER: Loving God, so many are lost in sin and negativity and I know it falls on me to do this great work; give me a heart, mind and body to tackle these things. I trust in You and with You behind me and by my side I can do it! I pray this in Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!

Eradio Valverde

PROCLAIM THAT JESUS CHRIST IS LORD!

God of wonderful blessings, surprise this dear reader with exactly what they need in this day; in Christ Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Our text for today comes from Philippians 2: 1-11: 1 If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7 but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death-- 9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

I believe all folks at one time or another find someone they want to be like and for a while imitate that other person's life. In the case of boys, they want to be just like dad; in the case of girls they want to be like mom. In my case I did want to be like my dad and grow up to be a milkman. His was the best job in the world as far as I knew and I wanted that for myself. At the age of 9 I started working in a small grocery store and I still knew, perhaps ever more so, that being a milkman was the best job in the world. Have you ever imitated Christ or Christ's attributes and attitudes towards life? Paul says we should and lists love, tenderness, compassion, having the same spirit and purpose in ourselves as would Christ. Christ humbled himself before God and the job God had given Him and so should we. Paul knew Jesus and said that He had "made Himself nothing...a servant...He humbled Himself and became obedient to death." As a result of that God glorified Him and gave him "the name that is above every name." A name so precious and powerful that one day just hearing that name will make everyone bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.

How far down that road are you? Are you living like Jesus? Are you trying to model your life in a way that invites others to be just like Him? The more we do so the more we shall get closer to that glorious day of every knee bowing and every tongue confessing that Jesus Christ is Lord.

PRAYER: Lord, let this be the day in which I begin imitating You and living like You. Let me thoughts, heart, spirit be all about serving and glorifying You and being Your servant with all people. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!

Eradio Valverde

PROCLAIM THAT TO LIVE IS CHRIST AND TO DIE IS GAIN!

Gracious God of all days, bless and protect this dear reader in all that they may face today; in Christ Jesus' name, amen.

Our text for today comes from Philippians 1: 15ff: 15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19 for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. 20 I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me. 27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved--and that by God. 29 For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.

What would you choose? Life or death? It's an ancient text shared throughout the pages of the Bible and made dramatically so by Joshua as the people were crossing and settling into the Promised Land. It's a choice we make every day as to how we will live our lives, the decisions we make, influences we make, etc. But for Paul he knew exactly what he faced: Certain death by execution if he were to be found guilty of the charges brought against him. Key to this morning's passage is verse 21: For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. Paul knew that Christ was with him in life here and in life beyond. He knew and had experienced the Risen Christ and so he knew of Christ's power over death, but he's torn about what he was assigned and called to do and that was to preach Jesus to all. He knew he wasn't reaching everyone and he had this urgency to reach as many as he could. He undertook those missionary journeys to reach people of the known world and he also longed to go to Spain and preach there. Even while imprisoned his enemies were preaching Christ in a way to make more trouble for him, but he said, either way Christ is being proclaimed. In all this he shares how his faith kept him from being frightened. He knew he had sufficient courage to face everything coming his way; fear in no way gripped his life.

Our sermon series on "Free From Fear in The New Year" winds down this coming Sunday and the message has been the same: Those with faith in God cannot let fear paralyze them. Paul is a prime example of living free from fear. How about you?

PRAYER: Lord, let that faith of Paul and that conviction to know that to live is Christ and to die is gain be mine as well. Give me that courage to share Christ and the courage to know that even in death Christ is with me and my gain. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.

Eradio Valverde

PROCLAIM THE GOOD NEWS OF GOD'S LOVE!

Precious Lord, guide this dear reader to a deeper understanding of Your love and care for him or her; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.

Here is our text for today as we being our study of Paul's letter to the Philippians: 1: 1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: 2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 I thank my God every time I remember you, 4 constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, 5 because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. 6 I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ. 7 It is right for me to think this way about all of you, because you hold me in your heart, for all of you share in God's grace with me, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. 8 For God is my witness, how I long for all of you with the compassion of Christ Jesus. 9 And this is my prayer, that your love may overflow more and more with knowledge and full insight 10 to help you to determine what is best, so that in the day of Christ you may be pure and blameless, 11 having produced the harvest of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God. 12 I want you to know, beloved, that what has happened to me has actually helped to spread the gospel, 13 so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to everyone else that my imprisonment is for Christ; 14 and most of the brothers and sisters, having been made confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, dare to speak the word with greater boldness and without fear.

If ever there was a passage the urges folks to find a church home and to be active in it, this is it! I know I'm preaching to the choir for some of you and your faithful worship attendance and participation; for others of you it may provide a challenge and opportunity to grow in that which we all know we need. We all need a place where folks gather to pray. Paul was a man of prayer and knew that all of those who had heard him preach and teach, had learned that lesson of praying for themselves, for their church and for him. Paul took comfort and received great strength in knowing people were praying for him. Nellie and I were talking about one of my first associates, a dear friend and pastor, who led our prayer and his favorite saying as he began he would say, "And friends if you pray for one another, you can rest assured someone is praying for you!" That to this day blesses me in knowing that someone is praying for me and I do have that rest and assurance that I need as I go about my daily life. Secondly, we need a place where we know God is glorified and lifted up. That should be happening in your church. And if the church isn't doing it, then you do it in your heart! God is praised because of His grace for us all. Thirdly, the church should be a place where you enjoy one another, the fellowship of believers. Most churches built in this country usually had what was called a "Fellowship Hall." Think about that and its importance at one time and possibly even now; a place to enjoy one another's presence and company. One theologian and pastor said, "All churches should have a Mission Hall as well, where we gather to determine what our mission is and to go out and serve in mission." Amen. Fourth, the church should provide a place where you can share and receive love. It's important to have a place where you can love one another. You begin, of course, with loving God and God's presence and you go to receive God's love and then you share that love not only with those in the pews put in the work place, in your home, in your play, etc.

The church should be the place where you learn that regardless of your situation your call to faithfulness remains the same. Paul found himself in prison and in chains and yet he says, all is well, I'm doing what God would have me do and I'm sharing the Gospel. Paul says the Imperial Guard, the elite of the emperor were now hearing of the good news of Jesus Christ. Would or could you, do the same if you found yourself locked up for being a Christian?

PRAYER: Loving God, help me today to proclaim joyfully that I belong to You. Let me be a person of worship. As I pray I am worshiping you and I pray that as Sunday comes around I would return to my church and do and be the person You would have me be. Let me also be the instrument that gives witness to others to join and be faithful to You in Your church. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!

Eradio Valverde

ENTHUSIASTICALLY LIVE A PRAYER LIFE - IT MIGHT JUST OPEN WIDE THOSE PRISON DOORS!

Gracious and merciful God, grant your deep peace and calm on the needs of this dear reader and the challenges they may face today; in Christ Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Our text for today comes from Ephesians 6: 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; 19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly , to make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly , as I ought to speak . 21 But that ye also may know my affairs, and how I do , Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things: 22 Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that ye might know our affairs, and that he might comfort your hearts. 23 Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen .

"I don't have time to pray!" How often have we said or heard that? The obvious answer to that challenge, according to Paul: Never stop praying! For the Christian to not pray is like for the human to say I can't make time to breathe! Sometimes that seems almost too real, we get caught up in so many things going this way and that that when we finally find time to sit down and catch our breath, it seems like we don't have time to breathe. Paul's remedy for himself as was for Jesus, was to pray always. A life prayer is a model that we can adopt that involves our always thinking towards God, "Lord, I'm facing this or I thank you for that, and as I do this let me do it in a way that glorifies you, etc." Prayer and that of praying for others is important. Paul stresses that praying for other Christians ("saints") is very important. Paul asked for prayer so that he might preach better, with boldness in ways that made the Gospel inviting and attractive. He knew that even as a prisoner in chains he had work to do and had not yet given up or resigned himself to defeat. He had a volunteer assistant to go forth and share in the telling and sharing of the Good News. And with that Paul closes his letter.

Friends, this letter I've called Enthusiastically, as evident in each's day's title because it is a part of four powerful letters of Paul that we sometimes can't find easily and so we are looking at them in order: Go, Enthusiastically Proclaim Christ! We're done with the Enthusiastic part, tomorrow we begin Proclaiming! My prayer is that each of these thoughts that I share will help all of us in how we live our lives before God. I have to confess that having enthusiasm for all things is not always present, but I pray that this may have blessed you as it has me. Add the passion and zest to your life that God intended. Let others see that you've taken a step towards that life in abundance that is ours through Jesus Christ. Don't be content with just surviving - live in Christ and thrive!

PRAYER: Loving God, I do not know what I would do if I were in prison having to wear chains, yet I know that sometimes my earthly pleasures and desires do enslave me and keep me away from You. Swing open the prison doors of that vice or sin that's holding me down and swing open the doors of my heart that I might have that enthusiasm of joy and love for You and Yours. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!

Eradio Valverde

ENTHUSIASTICALLY DRESS APPROPRIATELY FOR GOD AND GOD'S PEOPLE!

God of the Universe and of heart, bless and enrich the life of this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.

Our text for today comes from Ephesians 6: 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. 15 As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. 16 With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

"Clothes makes the man" or so the saying was some time ago. Actually, according to one source, Mark Twain is the source of that quote and it continues, "Naked people have little or no influence on society." We know what good old Mark Twain was saying and for many it still is true; dressing right makes a difference in how you feel about yourself and how you may be perceived by others. We'll talk about how some have no clue even to this day... But what Paul is saying to the Christian is to dress appropriately for our role and responsibility as a believe in the Most High God. Our call is to be strong in the Lord. That is learn and live as much as you can about Jesus Christ. Christ is our model and how He lived, so should we. And Christ made it possible for us to dress with what Paul says are the necessary clothes and protection for us even today: It is armor and it protects us against God's and our enemy. Ours is a spiritual battle and one against evil. And to face it spiritually naked would mean a sure loss for us! Hear now and learn what is ours for the wearing: A belt of truth around our waist; actually the ancient text went a little lower: gird your loins. The implication is obvious; be truthful in all your dealings even or especially your physical. The second is the breastplate of righteousness; guard your heart with what is right as the breastplate protects your heart and lungs. Live, feel, and breathe the right about what God says about our lives. The shoes should be those which make us ready to proclaim the good news. In other words let God guide you to new opportunities and challenges where you can share and give witness to what God has, is and will do in our lives and in the lives of others. The shield of faith is that which covers all of your life and body; the stronger we are in our faith the more we can resist anything evil that comes against us. The helmet of salvation should be that protects your brain with the thought: Because God so loved me, He sent Jesus for my sake so that I would not perish (die) but have everlasting life - I am saved! Our sword is the Word of God; God's Holy Bible is that with which we can advance and gain new ground for the Lord.

Are you dressed correctly for the day? If you peeked outside and saw rain you'd know how to dress. The same if you saw snow. Why not dress spiritually for that which you know may be coming? God's the best clothier there is!

PRAYER: Clothe me dear God in the armor I need today and all days to stand strong and firm in my faith. May I resist evil, give witness to good and live for what is right and Yours. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!

Eradio Valverde

ENTHUSIASTICALLY MAKE GOD REAL AND PRESENT IN YOUR LIFE!

Loving God of mercy, protection and comfort, bless the needs of this dear reader in all they may face today, in Christ Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Our text for today comes from Ephesians 6:1-9: 1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 "Honor your father and mother"—this is the first commandment with a promise: 3 "so that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth." 4 And, fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. 5 Slaves, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, in singleness of heart, as you obey Christ; 6 not only while being watched, and in order to please them, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart. 7 Render service with enthusiasm, as to the Lord and not to men and women, 8 knowing that whatever good we do, we will receive the same again from the Lord, whether we are slaves or free. 9 And, masters, do the same to them. Stop threatening them, for you know that both of you have the same Master in heaven, and with him there is no partiality.

The mission of the family includes the children. As a family raises up their children, they should involve the child(ren) in the mission and purpose of Whose they are and what they are about. For God, the family unit serves as not only a training ground but also holy or sacred ground. Most of the OT worship centers around what is celebrated and rememberd in the home. The act of deliverance from slavery was celebrated in the home; the sacrifice of the unblemished lamb, the marking of the door posts was done on the doors of the home, and the eating of the Passover meal was done in the home. Paul encourages children (the Children's Sermon of the day?) to be obedient to parents and to remember the Commandment that said to "Honor your father and mother," reminding them that "this is the first commandment with a promise: 'so that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.'" Fathers were urged not to provoke children to anger but rather to encourage them to an obedient and faithful life to the Lord.

The references to slaves is reminder of an ancient (thank God) practice that was common in Paul's day. Slaves were property and were treated and mistreated as such. Paul's teaching is to promote their wellbeing in reminding them that if we serve our earthly master as we seek to serve God it would go well with us. Yet masters (owners) of the slaves were urged to treat slaves in the same way.

Paul knows that in every aspect of our lives and in the lives of those with whom we live should involve God. If God is real and present in our homes everyone will know and be blessed by that knowledge. From the oldest to the youngest in every family, there should be a sense of exactly who we are in our faith and devotion. Is it evidence in your home?

PRAYER: Loving God I pray asking for my needs as a member of a family that You might share with me exactly that which I need to be more faithful to You, to making You real and present in my life in such a way that those around me will desire the same. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!

Eradio Valverde

------Prayer Needs: My younger brother is in an area of conflict overseas. I ask your prayers in his wellbeing and safety during the days he's there on assignment with our government. Also, please be in prayer for the families of those killed in the earthquake in Haiti. As UMs we suffered three losses that I'm aware of: Rev. Clinton Rabb of our conference who worked with the Board of Global Ministries; Rev. Sam Dixon, chief executive of UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) and Jean Arnwine of Highland Park UMC of Dallas who was on a medical mission team working in an eye clinic that this church sponsors every year. I don't know of funeral arrangments for Rev. Rabb but as soon as they are known I will share those.

ENTHUSIASTICALLY GET YOUR FAMILY TO DO THEIR MISSION!

18 Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, 19 as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts, 20 giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 21 Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ. 22 Wives, be subject to your husbands as you are to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife just as Christ is the head of the church, the body of which he is the Savior. 24 Just as the church is subject to Christ, so also wives ought to be, in everything, to their husbands. 25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, 26 in order to make her holy by cleansing her with the washing of water by the word, 27 so as to present the church to himself in splendor, without a spot or wrinkle or anything of the kind—yes, so that she may be holy and without blemish. 28 In the same way, husbands should love their wives as they do their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 For no one ever hates his own body, but he nourishes and tenderly cares for it, just as Christ does for the church, 30 because we are members of his body. 31 "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two will become one flesh." 32 This is a great mystery, and I am applying it to Christ and the church. 33 Each of you, however, should love his wife as himself, and a wife should respect her husband.

ENTHUSIASTICALLY SMELL SWEET FOR THE LORD!

Loving God of grace and peace, pour out Your rich blessings upon the needs of this dear reader; in Christ Jesus' Name, amen.

Our text for today comes from Ephesians 5:1-17: 1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children, 2 and live in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 But fornication and impurity of any kind, or greed, must not even be mentioned among you, as is proper among saints. 4 Entirely out of place is obscene, silly, and vulgar talk; but instead, let there be thanksgiving. 5 Be sure of this, that no fornicator or impure person, or one who is greedy (that is, an idolater), has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be associated with them. 8 For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Live as children of light— 9 for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right and true. 10 Try to find out what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to mention what such people do secretly; 13 but everything exposed by the light becomes visible, 14 for everything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, "Sleeper, awake! Rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." 15 Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, 16 making the most of the time, because the days are evil. 17 So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

I love the smell of Kirkland's. I won't deny it. It doesn't matter what mall in the country I may find myself in, if there's a Kirkland's, I'll walk into it just long enough to get a whiff of that store's aroma. I don't know how they do it, but for me, it's a uniform smell of everything good that they sell. I don't own stock in Kirkland's nor do I buy enough stuff in there nor do they ever give me any free stuff to justify this free commercial, I love the way the store smells. Which brings us to verse 2: Are you living a life in love so "sweet smelling" that it just draws people to you? If you think about it there are those people whose very appearance makes you smile. I'm talking about you walking down the street or sitting in a room awaiting for a meeting and then you see the person whose life has blessed you in a sweet way and you find yourself either smiling or grinning because he or she is there. So should we be living our lives that others are blessed just by knowing the love we have for them. Paul reminds us to remember the love Christ had for us in laying down his life for us. The rest of the verses in this passage remind us of the things that add bitterness to our lives and in turn make us repulsive to others. What a list! Raise your hand if you're or have been, guilty of any of those he lists? Immorality of any sort, impurity, greed, filthy talk, silly offensive talk, putting other things or people in God's place; all these things are things of darkness. We are people of the light and should walk and live as such.

PRAYER: Loving God, make my life a sweet smelling life because of what You did, are doing, and will do. Guide me to the fullness of life and the fullness of light and away from those things that harm and damage me and others. Let my life bless You and all of Yours today and all days. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!

Eradio Valverde

ENTHUSIASTICALLY PUT AWAY THE FORMER LIFE!

God of good gifts, share the wealth of your riches in the needs of this dear reader; in Christ Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Our text for today is from Ephesians 4:17-32: (The Message version of The Bible) 17 And so I insist - and God backs me up on this - that there be no going along with the crowd, the empty-headed, mindless crowd. 18 They've refused for so long to deal with God that they've lost touch not only with God but with reality itself. 19 They can't think straight anymore. Feeling no pain, they let themselves go in sexual obsession, addicted to every sort of perversion. 20 But that's no life for you. You learned Christ! 21 My assumption is that you have paid careful attention to him, been well instructed in the truth precisely as we have it in Jesus. 22 Since, then, we do not have the excuse of ignorance, everything - and I do mean everything - connected with that old way of life has to go. It's rotten through and through. Get rid of it! And then take on an entirely new way of life - a God-fashioned life, 23 a life renewed from the inside 24 and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you. 25 What this adds up to, then, is this: no more lies, no more pretense. Tell your neighbor the truth. In Christ's body we're all connected to each other, after all. When you lie to others, you end up lying to yourself. 26 Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry - but don't use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don't stay angry. Don't go to bed angry. 27 Don't give the Devil that kind of foothold in your life. 28 Did you used to make ends meet by stealing? Well, no more! Get an honest job so that you can help others who can't work. 29 Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift. 30 Don't grieve God. Don't break his heart. His Holy Spirit, moving and breathing in you, is the most intimate part of your life, making you fit for himself. Don't take such a gift for granted. 31 Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting, profane talk. 32 Be gentle with one another, sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you.

All Christians should have a "former life." That is to say when Christ comes into our lives, He changes us from what is wrong to what is right. Such is the power of the Gospel to transform and make right our lives. If you don't have a former life then perhaps it's time for a change. I am one of those raised in church and you would think "What kind of 'former life' could you possibly have?" Well, how much time you got? When I invited Christ into my life I wanted to be a new creation as His word says. I wanted to put away the negative and the evil and take up the positive and the spiritual. I wanted to put on Christ so that it would be He guiding and leading me in this Christian way. Paul is reminding Christians, as we all do need it, that we can and do fall back into what we used to do, but we shouldn't. The Christ way is the better way. What Jesus offers to us is a life that goes beyond existence into the fullness and joy of being alive. I can now compare this to the way I used to eat. I had tried diet after diet and usually given up. I prayed and prayed and asked God to help me with my health. I basicallly said, "Lord, I can't do it on my own anymore, I just give in to that which I shouldn't be eating." It was through the encouragement of my new doctor and Nellie's willingness to walk with me in this that we just learned a new way to eat. It wasn't easy, much like being a Christian, but it was better. Now we enjoy foods that are filled with whole wheat, fiber, and good to eat. I surprise myself even now that I sometimes choose a salad when I used to look down on those who chose that instead of ribs or fajitas. I choose healthy snacks and desserts and this is my greatest temptation because chocolate and me go way back! You have to pray for me for I am still tempted. In the same way, Paul reminds us of the renewal of our minds that we need to better follow and serve Christ (v. 23).

PRAYER: Loving God of all good things, help me today make the decision to choose the right way in following You. I ask dear Lord to help me put away those things that are harmful to me and to our relationship. I regret the former life and I want to live the new life. I can't do it alone; I need You. And I pray this prayer in full faith in Christ Jesus my Lord, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!

Eradio Valverde

ENTHUSIASTICALLY GET UP AND GO - USE THE GIFT GOD HAS GIVEN YOU!

God of new beginnings, at the start of a new work week, bless this dear reader in all she or he may face. If satisfaction and joy is absent, please grant it; if a job is needed, we pray You grant it as well; in Christ Jesus we pray, amen.

Our text comes from Ephesians 4:7-16: 7 But each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ's gift. 8 Therefore it is said, "When he ascended on high he made captivity itself a captive; he gave gifts to his people." 9 (When it says, "He ascended," what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower parts of the earth? 10 He who descended is the same one who ascended far above all the heavens, so that he might fill all things.) 11 The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. 14 We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine, by people's trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming. 15 But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body's growth in building itself up in love.

The gifts keep coming, yes even long after Christmas! Paul stresses to believers that ours are the gifts from our loving Savior. If you look at the list of gifts every single one is a gift of service: Apostles: Faithful students who put into practice that which they learn. Prophets: Faithful student who study and then share God's word in all situations especially those where a strong word of God's love needs to be present. Evangelists: Faithful students of the Good News who share them with all who have not yet or need to hear again. Pastors: Faithful students who share God's love with those in their flocks. Teachers: Faithful students who teach what they have learned and lived about God's word. All work together with one common objective: To build up the body of Christ seeking unity of faith and full, mature knowledge of Jesus Christ until we start to resemble Him. The aim is to mature to the point where we put away childish things and not being easily swayed away from the things of God. Grow up! Paul is saying and don't be led astray by "cartoons" (my word for attractive and entertaining but false teachings about God) that seem funny or attractive but serve no purpose. Our goal should be to grow together in Christ as one body that serve Him.

You might have noticed that the Holy Bible is an honest book of teachings and actions. The Word of God is never stagnant nor still; it invites, promotes and encourages action. To read each page is to hear God Himself say, "Get up and go!" There is much to do, much to share, much to learn. Get up and go!

PRAYER: Loving God, we praise You and thank You for all You share in Your Holy Word. May Your Holy Spirit come and fill me with all that I need to faithfully serve You. Let me accept the gift of service You have set aside for me and may I get up and go and do it! In Jesus' precious and powerful name I pray, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!

Eradio Valverde

ENTHUSIASTICALLY LIVE LIKE CHRIST WANTS YOU TO!

Loving God bless the needs of this dear reader in whatever they may face today; in Christ Jesus' name I pray, amen.

Our text for today is from Ephesians 4:1-6: 1 I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.

On June 13, 1976 on the campus of my alma mater, Southwestern University, I received my first ordination into The United Methodist Church. It was a special day and a major milestone in achieving the call on my life to serve the Lord as a minister of the Gospel. I thank God all of my family was present for that special day and upon returning home to Houston I sat in the living room and noticed my youngest sister, Sandra, came to sit directly across from me and was just staring at me. I asked her, "Sandra, what's wrong?" She kept staring and said, "Well, you're a minister now and I don't know how to act around you anymore." For those of you who speak Computer I would insert LOL right here. For those of you who don't, that means "Laugh (or laughing) Out Loud." Sandra is now engaged to a minister, so I hope she knows how to act around one now!

I have never forgotten that moment because it did speak the truth of that calling upon our life and in today's passage Paul takes it to the natural level: All Christians, that is, all who have asked Jesus to be Lord and Savior of their lives, have received marching orders or a call on their lives to live differently from what the world is used to. Our baptism was a mark of faithful service to the Lord and the Lord's creation. By our baptism we were initiated into the Body of Christ not for privilege but for a purpose, to share the Good News of Jesus with all. But do we live it? Obviously the Ephesians were not being known for faithfulness. If you turn back to Acts19:10ff you find that once Paul preached and baptized them with the Holy Spirit amazing things happened. The power of prayer was so powerful and present that folks started taking hankerchiefs and aprons prayed upon by Paul to place on their loved ones and healing occurred. Books that had nothing to do with the Christian faith but with magic were burned. So, these folks knew how to live, something happened and they found themselves far from the place where God wanted them. How is it with us?

Paul always shares a checklist of what God shares with him so here's ours: Humility. Are we living lives filled with humility? That is, are we placing the needs of others first above ours? Do we share with others as we should? Gentleness. Are we harsh with folks, abrupt and short? Then take a gentle pill. Patience. Do we find that our patience is easily tried and we lose it quickly? Then pray for patience. Forbearance. Do we put up with each other in loving and kind ways? Unity. Are we serving together for the good of the Lord or are we striving after our own agendas? Paul reminds us that the Body of Christ is one body. We are covered and led by the one Spirit and we all share in the one hope of our calling; that in Christ Jesus our sins are taken away, we are pulled into the fullness of life, and we long for the day when we will be home with God. The closing part of this passage is a benediction of hope and assurance: "one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all." Amen.

PRAYER: Gentle Savior, lead me to where I need to be. As I read today's word You spoke to me and examined me and I ask that You make me truly Yours. May all that You shared with Paul be mine today. May my life speak volumes of invitation and compassion to all who I encounter. I pray in Christ Jesus' precious name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.

Eradio Valverde

-----Prayer Updates: Caleb Eradio Garcia, our grandson, is breathing better and his second doctor's visit showed that. The doctor said to keep monitoring him. We praise God for that. Howard Burttschel's surgery went well and he was in recovery. Thank you all for your prayers.

-----Prayer Needs for today: For the memorial service of James Matz. May the Lord use all who are taking part to glorify God and bring comfort to the family. For John and Darlene Topp who are leaving or just left for Houston for preparations for John's surgery at M.D. Anderson.

ENTHUSIASTICALLY ENGAGE LIFE!

God of all people, as we await more cold weather, bless and protect the needs of this dear reader as well as use us to help those who have no protection from the elements; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.

Our text is chapter 3 of Ephesians: 1 This is the reason that I Paul am a prisoner for Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles— 2 for surely you have already heard of the commission of God's grace that was given me for you, 3 and how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I wrote above in a few words, 4 a reading of which will enable you to perceive my understanding of the mystery of Christ. 5 In former generations this mystery was not made known to humankind, as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit: 6 that is, the Gentiles have become fellow heirs, members of the same body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel. 7 Of this gospel I have become a servant according to the gift of God's grace that was given me by the working of his power. 8 Although I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given to me to bring to the Gentiles the news of the boundless riches of Christ, 9 and to make everyone see what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things; 10 so that through the church the wisdom of God in its rich variety might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. 11 This was in accordance with the eternal purpose that he has carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him. 13 I pray therefore that you may not lose heart over my sufferings for you; they are your glory. 14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name. 16 I pray that, according to the riches of his glory, he may grant that you may be strengthened in your inner being with power through his Spirit, 17 and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love. 18 I pray that you may have the power to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Everyone loves a mystery and many will not be solved or known until the end of time. As we read mystery novels, the whodunnit usually gets solved at the very end. Paul, while a prisoner in Rome, writes to share the unveiling of what he considered to be the mystery of his understanding, and keep in mind that a mystery was not always something to be solved rather something that is made known that wasn't known before. The mystery is found in verse 6: "the Gentiles have become fellow heirs, members of the same body, and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel." The blessing of nonJews was mentioned in the Old Testament, but to find out that Gentiles are now co-heirs in the promise of Jesus Christ is what was not known and for Paul that was great news. Spiritually speaking, there's enough in the bank to cover the check most of us need to write in terms of how we live our lives. And that's good news!

How do we live our lives? Are we living as one who is wealthy in the Lord blessed beyond our wildest dreams knowing that the promise and power of Jesus is ours? Or are we skiddish about the fullness of life because we think we don't have enough? Hear the good news: We have more than enough in Christ Jesus to live life to the fullest. And this coming from a man imprisoned for his faith with full knowledge that his death was not far off, yet he knew of the joy of living here and looking forward to the life there with and in Christ Jesus.

PRAYER: Loving God, forgive me for living like I don't have enough. In YOU and in Jesus I have more than enough. I am Your child and Your heir in the riches that You provide for me. Let me be made strong in that knowledge so that my life might bless You and Yours. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.

Eradio Valverde

------Prayer Needs: Please remember that this morning Caleb Eradio Garcia, our grandson, goes to the doctor to see if he's improving with his RSV. If he is, he goes home, if not, he has to be hospitalized. Also, prayers for Howard Burttschel's surgery this morning in Austin. Please pray for John Topp who travels to Houston for an important appointment at MD Anderson tomorrow. And prayers for Rev. Devlon Goodman and his congregation whose church suffered extensive damage to an early morning fire this past week in Mercedes, Texas. My associates and I toured the facility and were saddened at all they lost. We praise God no one was near the fire; they did have a team of workers from the North sleeping in another part of the church but they were all fine. Pray that the Lord help them in their recovery and rebuilding efforts.

ENTHUSIASTICALLY MAKING NEW FRIENDS

God of comfort and warmth, bless the needs of this dear reader in all they may face today, especially in keeping warm in this cold weather. In Christ Jesus I pray, amen.

Our text is from Galatians 2:11-22: 11 So then, remember that at one time you Gentiles by birth, called "the uncircumcision" by those who are called "the circumcision"—a physical circumcision made in the flesh by human hands— 12 remember that you were at that time without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us. 15 He has abolished the law with its commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new humanity in place of the two, thus making peace, 16 and might reconcile both groups to God in one body through the cross, thus putting to death that hostility through it. 17 So he came and proclaimed peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; 18 for through him both of us have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, 20 built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone. 21 In him the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; 22 in whom you also are built together spiritually into a dwelling place for God.

A United Methodist church across the street from another United Methodist Church? That was what I encountered many years ago in Ohio while on a mission saturation event with my previous conference. I had not yet heard the joke about the rescued man from a deserted island with three huts, one being his home, the other being his church and the first church he attended but got mad and so built another one. Was that why there were two UM churches directly across the street from each other? The answer was that no, one church until 1968 had been an Evangelical United Bretheran Church and the other a Methodist Church. When the merger occured in 1968, in Dallas, Texas, both became United Methodist churches. Such is what Paul is addressing in today's passage: Because of doctrinal differences and or customs and heritages and histories, we're not always united in any sense of the word. But in Christ Jesus, Paul says, we are (or should be!) for Christ paid for this unity with His own body. Those who "once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ" (v. 13). Christ Jesus destroyed the emnity between those who were of the Law and those who were under grace, the uncircumcised and the circumcised; all tradition and history exposed for what it truly is, just a reason to be separate from one another when Christ wants us united.

The message is a message of peace. This does not simply mean an absence of conflict or war, but a relationship so full that we find all our needs met, our wellbeing is complete; that is peace. And where there is peace there are no enemies, only friends. There are not different addresses, just one common one, the House of God. Christ is the cornerstone; it is He who holds us up and goes forth with us.

PRAYER: God of the great building of faith, I thank you for Jesus, my cornerstone Who holds me up especially during times of weakness and times when I feel alone and away from You and others. Help me today resolve to be a person who seeks new friends and family in You. May I seek to be a messenger of peace in all that I say, think, or do. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.

Eradio Valverde

ENTHUSIASTICALLY EMBRACE THE FULLNESS OF LIFE OFFERED TO US BY CHRIST

God of loving mercy, be merciful to this dear reader and may he or she be merciful today in all they may face. In Christ Jesus I pray, amen.

Our text comes from Ephesians 2:1-10: 1 And you he made alive, when you were dead through the trespasses and sins 2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience. 3 Among these we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, following the desires of body and mind, and so we were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. 4 But God, who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up with him, and made us sit with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God-- 9 not because of works, lest any man should boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. - Revised Standard Version (RSV).

Salvation is a central theme of the Bible, but it gets misunderstood and because of that is not shared as often as it should. Salvation is coming to life in Christ because of a new relationship we are offered, with love, from God Himself. While that may not sound profound imagine life without it. Right away you notice that if you've not yet come to life, as Paul says, you're where? In death or close to it. And existing without life in God is no existence at all. Life in Christ means a life free from the chains and weight of sin. Life in Christ means being led by Him and not by the other "spirit that is at work in the sons (& daughters) of disobedience." And as hard as this is to imagine and for some, to accept, it's free! It cost Christ everything and it's not a cheap grace, but it's still free. God loves you and me so much that He's offered this new relationship in Christ so that we might be free from the certain death that sinful living will bring. And to top it all off, we're the "workmanship" of God, "created in Christ Jesus for good works," in other words, once we're in that relationship it should show in all that we think, say, and do.

PRAYER: God of life and the fullness thereof, share that relationship anew with me this day. I know I should be living a life that shows I am saved, but I get scared about what that truly means. May Your Holy Spirit guide me to a new and deeper understanding of that today. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!

Eradio Valverde

------------Prayer Requests and Updates: For the James Matz family who is having a memorial service in our church this Friday morning at 10:00 a.m. For Rita Tanberg as she recovers from the needed procedure for her continued dialysis. And for Facundo Zavala, our custodian. He entered the hospital on Sunday morning at 8 a.m. set for surgery on Monday only to find the hospital did not order a needed patch for his surgery. He was discharged and reports back again on Sunday. Please pray that all go well with him and this needed surgery.

ENTHUSIASTICALLY DO MORE IN THE LORD FOR THE LORD!

Blessed Lord, grant Your guidance and strength to the needs of this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.

Our text for today is from Ephesians 1:15-23: 15 For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, 16 I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, 18 having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power in us who believe, according to the working of his great might 20 which he accomplished in Christ when he raised him from the dead and made him sit at his right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come; 22 and he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church, 23 which is his body, the fulness of him who fills all in all.

The question came from a devotional reading: If your church burned down to the ground, would your community miss it? That's one of those tough questions you pray you never have to live, though some have, because of all the worries and needs that would come with the result of such a catastrophe, would you think about what the community thinks? It is a good question as well, because it should make us as individual members first, to reflect on who we are and what kind of message we are sharing with those around us. Have we reached out in love to needs in our community? Have we gone the "second mile" in community events and concerns? Or are we a safe, incubator of whatever it is we are and do just for those willing to be a part of us?

Paul has heard some good things about the Ephesians namely that they are a people of faith. Yet his prayer for them is that that faith would increase so that greater things would be known about what and Who they were about. Paul knew that Christians who don't seek Christ daily and in greater ways are missing out on "riches" and "greatness" available to them. Those who are working in the Lord for the good of the Lord see a power that the world has yet to see. Is this true at your church? Is this true in your life?

PRAYER: Lord God, we confess that at times we like to coast with doing what we do best and what we do over and over again. We somehow expect that the doors of the church will fling open and crowds will come in, but to be honest, we sometimes don't do what we should with those who do visit us. Change all that by changing us. Make our heart be Yours. Make our eyes be Yours. Make the hope we have become the hope of the world, and this will come about only through Your power in Christ Jesus, in whose precious and powerful name we pray. Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!

Eradio Valverde