It was in the fulness of time. In a place selected by God. In a manner and fashion chosen by God. God acted. It is still being discussed and debated. It is not fully believed by all. It is said God could have done better. Yet, it was on this night that God chose to give the world God's only Son through human birth to a young, frightened woman. The event took place in a stable, a setting that most, if not all, with which people can identify through slowly dying agricultural roots, yes, among the common people, God sent a Son. Some have said it should have been in a palace; but who can identify with a palace? Those who can are limited in number. Some have said it could have been in a better place, like Rome. The fast pace of Rome even in those days would not have worked. It was on a tranquil night that the cry of a newborn broke the night. It brought wonder and excitement mixed with the fear of the unknown to that young couple blessed by the birth of their first child. The mother knew to name him Jesus, as told by the angel. She knew that his birth was to take away the sins of the world. She had heard that this special child would also be known as Emmanuel, God with us, for God truly chose to be with us on that night. Have you chosen to live with God?
Set aside some quiet time today to celebrate in your own way, this special, special gift given to you and me. Later this evening, find a church if you don't already have one, and go and be with others as they celebrate the specialness of this birth. God gave to us, what can we give to God except ourselves?
PRAYER: Loving God, may the meaning of this day never be lost on me. As family and friends arrive, may the joy of being with them only add to the joy of You being with me. Emmanuel it is! And may we never forget that. God, we know that the specialness of today is made more difficult by the absence of those with whom we once spent this day, but we celebrate Your presence as comfort and peace. We remember that the birth on this night came as Your sign that You would defeat sin and death. God, we also remember there are many who cannot be with loved ones tonight because of their service to country or because of their need to be elsewhere; may the spirit of love unite us even if physcially we cannot be together. But in all our doings and celebrations, be glorified! I pray in the Name of He born tonight, Jesus, my Lord, amen!
Have a great and blessed Christmas!
Eradio and Nellie Valverde
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Thursday, December 22, 2011
The New Song of Christmas
Loving God, may the true power and peace of Christmas be with this dear reader today; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Psalm 96: 1 O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth. 2 Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day. 3 Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. 4 For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised : he is to be feared above all gods. 5 For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens. 6 Honour and majesty are before him: strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. 7 Give unto the LORD, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength. 8 Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts. 9 O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth. 10 Say among the heathen that the LORD reigneth : the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved : he shall judge the people righteously. 11 Let the heavens rejoice , and let the earth be glad ; let the sea roar , and the fulness thereof. 12 Let the field be joyful , and all that is therein: then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice 13 Before the LORD: for he cometh , for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth. (KJV)
This psalm starts with something difficult for most people; new songs. In my life there have been "new song" moments where a song has come on the radio (I'm dating myself, I know) and immediately I knew that I liked that song. One was "Blue" by LeAnn Rimes. I remember exactly where we were and where we were going. And there have been others that I have immediately liked. In the sacred, a new hymnal for most people brings mixed responses and of course a mad dash to one's favorite hymns to see if they "made the cut" or if there really are new songs. And new songs don't come over very well the first time through. But some make lasting impressions such as "Tu Has Venido A La Orilla" or other hymns whose melody and message bring us great comfort and joy (that phrase is in a Christmas hymn!).
But true worship is not about us. It is about God as this psalm is reminding us. Christmas is about God and not about us. It is a worshipful time in which we remember the goodness and greatness of God. Christmas then as Christmas now, should involve all of creation as the psalmist sang. The presence of God's truth especially during a time of half-truths and outright lies, should serve to motivate us to righteousness.
PRAYER: Loving God, let this Christmas be all about You and Your love and truth for my life. May I seek to be more like You this day and all days. May I join the chorus of those singing Your praises and may we invite others to join us; this I pray in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Psalm 96: 1 O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth. 2 Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day. 3 Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. 4 For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised : he is to be feared above all gods. 5 For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens. 6 Honour and majesty are before him: strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. 7 Give unto the LORD, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength. 8 Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts. 9 O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth. 10 Say among the heathen that the LORD reigneth : the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved : he shall judge the people righteously. 11 Let the heavens rejoice , and let the earth be glad ; let the sea roar , and the fulness thereof. 12 Let the field be joyful , and all that is therein: then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice 13 Before the LORD: for he cometh , for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth. (KJV)
This psalm starts with something difficult for most people; new songs. In my life there have been "new song" moments where a song has come on the radio (I'm dating myself, I know) and immediately I knew that I liked that song. One was "Blue" by LeAnn Rimes. I remember exactly where we were and where we were going. And there have been others that I have immediately liked. In the sacred, a new hymnal for most people brings mixed responses and of course a mad dash to one's favorite hymns to see if they "made the cut" or if there really are new songs. And new songs don't come over very well the first time through. But some make lasting impressions such as "Tu Has Venido A La Orilla" or other hymns whose melody and message bring us great comfort and joy (that phrase is in a Christmas hymn!).
But true worship is not about us. It is about God as this psalm is reminding us. Christmas is about God and not about us. It is a worshipful time in which we remember the goodness and greatness of God. Christmas then as Christmas now, should involve all of creation as the psalmist sang. The presence of God's truth especially during a time of half-truths and outright lies, should serve to motivate us to righteousness.
PRAYER: Loving God, let this Christmas be all about You and Your love and truth for my life. May I seek to be more like You this day and all days. May I join the chorus of those singing Your praises and may we invite others to join us; this I pray in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
The Promises of Christmas
Amazing God, may Your love blaze a blessing upon the life of this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Isaiah 9: 2 The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined . 3 Thou hast multiplied the nation, and not increased the joy: they joy before thee according to the joy in harvest, and as men rejoice when they divide the spoil. 4 For thou hast broken the yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor , as in the day of Midian. 5 For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire. 6 For unto us a child is born , unto us a son is given : and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor , The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. (KJV)
Yesterday at breakfast there was a group of whom we believed were co-workers exchanging gifts. They were a loud group, laughing and laughing so hard some were crying with tears of joy and happiness. I don't know what gifts they exchanged and from the laughs I was guessing they were what some call "white elephant" or useless or comical gifts. They were having a great time being together and their joy spread over me. Isaish spoke of that joy of the time whenever the "light" would come upon the earth. Isaiah compared it to the joy of those about to harvest a great field or as those who are dividing a great treasure or those who enjoy each other so much they can exchange gifts, even funny ones. Why? That joy comes from the presence and power of God which is what Christmas is all about. God's presence can break the weight and burden of sin and in the midst of what may otherwise seem dismal, a child is born.
In the midst of what can serve to disturb and distress us comes this child who will "be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." Beyond titles, we read God's promises of God's actions in our lives: The God who brings wonder; the God who counsels; the infinite God; The loving parent and the One who brings peace. The God whose reign will NEVER end. This is Christmas. You ready?
PRAYER: Loving God, may these promises be realized in my life and in the life of those in need. May I be a part of helping to bring about Your work in a fulfilling way, a way of love and peace. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name I pray, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Isaiah 9: 2 The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined . 3 Thou hast multiplied the nation, and not increased the joy: they joy before thee according to the joy in harvest, and as men rejoice when they divide the spoil. 4 For thou hast broken the yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor , as in the day of Midian. 5 For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire. 6 For unto us a child is born , unto us a son is given : and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor , The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. (KJV)
Yesterday at breakfast there was a group of whom we believed were co-workers exchanging gifts. They were a loud group, laughing and laughing so hard some were crying with tears of joy and happiness. I don't know what gifts they exchanged and from the laughs I was guessing they were what some call "white elephant" or useless or comical gifts. They were having a great time being together and their joy spread over me. Isaish spoke of that joy of the time whenever the "light" would come upon the earth. Isaiah compared it to the joy of those about to harvest a great field or as those who are dividing a great treasure or those who enjoy each other so much they can exchange gifts, even funny ones. Why? That joy comes from the presence and power of God which is what Christmas is all about. God's presence can break the weight and burden of sin and in the midst of what may otherwise seem dismal, a child is born.
In the midst of what can serve to disturb and distress us comes this child who will "be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." Beyond titles, we read God's promises of God's actions in our lives: The God who brings wonder; the God who counsels; the infinite God; The loving parent and the One who brings peace. The God whose reign will NEVER end. This is Christmas. You ready?
PRAYER: Loving God, may these promises be realized in my life and in the life of those in need. May I be a part of helping to bring about Your work in a fulfilling way, a way of love and peace. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name I pray, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Christmas is Salvation
Blessed Lord, bless and protect those loved ones of this dear reader who need Your touch today; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Titus 2: 11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly , righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. (KJV)
The other evening I chose to join my wife for supper rather than stay with the group at my meeting and so I decided to walk the 1.7 miles from Drew University to our hotel. I was joined on this adventure by the president of Iliff School of Theology, David Trickett. What most of us take for granted, New Jersey does not provide: sidewalks! And that makes for an interesting walk in the dark along a very busy highway. But I was able to re-visit my year at Iliff as I walked and talked with Dr. Trickett. I told him the most challenging question was asked of me in a class at Iliff by Dr. Harvey Potoff, an elderly, almost ready to retire professor of theology. He was a captivating teacher and he had a classroom full of captive first year seminary students when he said, "I know most of you know that salvation is being saved from sin; but I ask you an equally important question today, What are you saved to?" I had to confess that at that point in my life I had not given that much thought. I knew I needed Jesus to save me from my sin, but I had not thought about to what Jesus had saved me.
The answer is a better life, a grace-filled life, a daily walk with the Lord. That is what we are saved to. And Christmas is that time when we remember again, the greatest gift shared with the world was that which John wrote in the sixteenth verse of his third chapter of his gospel; God's love was so great that God gave His only begotten son that we would not perish. And beyond perishing our call is to live life as the tenth verse of the tenth chapter in that same Gospel says, we might live abundantly. Christmas is about living abundantly, and not in the material sense, but in the sense of the spiritual things that are ours for the asking. Christmas is about the world needing to know we have a Savior, who will and does save us from our wickedness, our doubts, our fears, our angers, and the list goes on and on; but who also takes us into a realm of deep spiritual blessings that is life in abundance, a life lived to the fullest. And as Titus says, we should be all about works that reflect that change that has come into our lives.
PRAYER: Loving God, blessed are You for Your love and for sharing Jesus Christ with us. During this hectic pace of Christmas may we slow down enough to remember that Jesus came to save us from and to something. The to part is most special if we let it be. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Titus 2: 11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly , righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. (KJV)
The other evening I chose to join my wife for supper rather than stay with the group at my meeting and so I decided to walk the 1.7 miles from Drew University to our hotel. I was joined on this adventure by the president of Iliff School of Theology, David Trickett. What most of us take for granted, New Jersey does not provide: sidewalks! And that makes for an interesting walk in the dark along a very busy highway. But I was able to re-visit my year at Iliff as I walked and talked with Dr. Trickett. I told him the most challenging question was asked of me in a class at Iliff by Dr. Harvey Potoff, an elderly, almost ready to retire professor of theology. He was a captivating teacher and he had a classroom full of captive first year seminary students when he said, "I know most of you know that salvation is being saved from sin; but I ask you an equally important question today, What are you saved to?" I had to confess that at that point in my life I had not given that much thought. I knew I needed Jesus to save me from my sin, but I had not thought about to what Jesus had saved me.
The answer is a better life, a grace-filled life, a daily walk with the Lord. That is what we are saved to. And Christmas is that time when we remember again, the greatest gift shared with the world was that which John wrote in the sixteenth verse of his third chapter of his gospel; God's love was so great that God gave His only begotten son that we would not perish. And beyond perishing our call is to live life as the tenth verse of the tenth chapter in that same Gospel says, we might live abundantly. Christmas is about living abundantly, and not in the material sense, but in the sense of the spiritual things that are ours for the asking. Christmas is about the world needing to know we have a Savior, who will and does save us from our wickedness, our doubts, our fears, our angers, and the list goes on and on; but who also takes us into a realm of deep spiritual blessings that is life in abundance, a life lived to the fullest. And as Titus says, we should be all about works that reflect that change that has come into our lives.
PRAYER: Loving God, blessed are You for Your love and for sharing Jesus Christ with us. During this hectic pace of Christmas may we slow down enough to remember that Jesus came to save us from and to something. The to part is most special if we let it be. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Monday, December 19, 2011
Awe and Wonder
Loving God of this special season, bless and protect the life and needs of this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Nellie and I are on the road and this devotional is being written on the Mac side of my laptop; this may mean your letters may appear with strike-throughs. I pray that is not so with everyone, but some of you do get them and makes it hard to read. I invite you to the blog where this same devotional will appear without strike-throughs: http://TheUniversityOfTheWay.blogspot.com. Pray for our safe return later today to Texas.
Our text for today comes from Luke 2: 1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed . 2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) 3 And all went to be taxed , every one into his own city. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) 5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. 6 And so it was , that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered . 7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes , and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. 8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field , keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And, lo , the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid . 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold , I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes , lying in a manger. 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying , 14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. 15 And it came to pass , as the angels were gone away from them into heaven , the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass , which the Lord hath made known unto us. 16 And they came with haste , and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. 17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. 18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these things , and pondered them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned , glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen , as it was told unto them. (KJV)
It seemed as if all the world was on Seventh Avenue, New York City two nights ago. The languages and appearances of people made us know the world was here. Too numerous to count, one person said (in English), "We're not walking, we're waddling!" And it was true. We could not take full strides of a walk, we walked in mini-steps and we were pushed from side to side, just like ducks as we waddled to our destination. And we had to keep changing destinations because the crowds just waiting to get inside those were incredibly large. The famous coffee shop, about 50 deep outside in the cold, waiting to get in to warm up with a coffee, hot tea or hot chocolate. The large store for toys, with a ferris wheel in the center and three stories of toys, also, too many folks just waiting to get in. Years ago, Dr. Norman Vincent Peale said, "And all this because of a little baby born some two thousand years ago."
We act, though, as it is our birthday. We have lists or have been put on lists naming our requests for OUR presents. We will await Christmas Eve or Christmas morning to see what we received. Yesterday's newspaper had a photo from Catalan, España, where children line up to see a "king" who takes their requests and promises to take those lists to the Three Kings, who are the ones in that part of the world who delivers the gifts. I pray that in spite of the lights and trees and Santas, we not lose the wonder and awe of that which God did on our behalf on that special night. The model of the shepherds' response should be ours as well; frightful at first, later realizing that God did indeed act in this special way, their lives were never the same. That last verse in today's passage, verse 20 says, the shepherds left "glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen."
May it be so in our lives that we realize that God does love us and enough so, that God worked in that special part of the world in a special way. May that little baby's birth be the symbol of our re-birth to the things of God not just at Christmas, but all the time.
PRAYER: Loving God, we pray that the birth of Jesus be our birth to the newness of a life lived in the spiritual realm, seeing with His eyes the things You have brought in our midst. May the wonder and awe of Christmas never leave us. We pray in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Nellie and I are on the road and this devotional is being written on the Mac side of my laptop; this may mean your letters may appear with strike-throughs. I pray that is not so with everyone, but some of you do get them and makes it hard to read. I invite you to the blog where this same devotional will appear without strike-throughs: http://TheUniversityOfTheWay.blogspot.com. Pray for our safe return later today to Texas.
Our text for today comes from Luke 2: 1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed . 2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) 3 And all went to be taxed , every one into his own city. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) 5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. 6 And so it was , that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered . 7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes , and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. 8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field , keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And, lo , the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid . 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold , I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes , lying in a manger. 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying , 14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. 15 And it came to pass , as the angels were gone away from them into heaven , the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass , which the Lord hath made known unto us. 16 And they came with haste , and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. 17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. 18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these things , and pondered them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned , glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen , as it was told unto them. (KJV)
It seemed as if all the world was on Seventh Avenue, New York City two nights ago. The languages and appearances of people made us know the world was here. Too numerous to count, one person said (in English), "We're not walking, we're waddling!" And it was true. We could not take full strides of a walk, we walked in mini-steps and we were pushed from side to side, just like ducks as we waddled to our destination. And we had to keep changing destinations because the crowds just waiting to get inside those were incredibly large. The famous coffee shop, about 50 deep outside in the cold, waiting to get in to warm up with a coffee, hot tea or hot chocolate. The large store for toys, with a ferris wheel in the center and three stories of toys, also, too many folks just waiting to get in. Years ago, Dr. Norman Vincent Peale said, "And all this because of a little baby born some two thousand years ago."
We act, though, as it is our birthday. We have lists or have been put on lists naming our requests for OUR presents. We will await Christmas Eve or Christmas morning to see what we received. Yesterday's newspaper had a photo from Catalan, España, where children line up to see a "king" who takes their requests and promises to take those lists to the Three Kings, who are the ones in that part of the world who delivers the gifts. I pray that in spite of the lights and trees and Santas, we not lose the wonder and awe of that which God did on our behalf on that special night. The model of the shepherds' response should be ours as well; frightful at first, later realizing that God did indeed act in this special way, their lives were never the same. That last verse in today's passage, verse 20 says, the shepherds left "glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen."
May it be so in our lives that we realize that God does love us and enough so, that God worked in that special part of the world in a special way. May that little baby's birth be the symbol of our re-birth to the things of God not just at Christmas, but all the time.
PRAYER: Loving God, we pray that the birth of Jesus be our birth to the newness of a life lived in the spiritual realm, seeing with His eyes the things You have brought in our midst. May the wonder and awe of Christmas never leave us. We pray in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Monday, December 12, 2011
Changing the Labels
Amazing God of all people, bless and protect the life and needs of this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Luke 1: 26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, 27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And the angel came in unto her, and said , Hail , thou that art highly favoured , the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. 29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be . 30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold , thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. 32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. 34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be , seeing I know not a man? 35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. 36 And, behold , thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing shall be impossible . 38 And Mary said , Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her. (KJV)
This passage is known as The Annunciation or the announcing to Mary of that which God expected of her. This passage has inspired several great works of art that try to depict the visitation of the angel with Mary. The Roman Catholic Church even celebrates a Feast Day on March 25, a full nine months before Christmas, as the day when this occurred. The passage is key to us because it tells us several things: God visits us where we are. God knows our condition and abilities and thus the calls that have come upon our lives. God can take the things we have already labeled as impossible and make them doable. And sometimes God even points to others in whom we thought whatever we had labeled as impossible was, in our opinion, No Way in Heaven, and we see that they, too, are doing what we thought they nor we could do.
Such is the Advent Journey. God visiting and inviting us to service. And Advent should be our saying, Yes, Lord, with Your help in whatever You might ask, I will do.
PRAYER: Loving God, take that in my life that I had already labeled as Never and change to Now. That which I had labeled as Impossible and make doable, so that I might serve and glorify You. I pray this in the precious and powerful name of Jesus my Lord, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Luke 1: 26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, 27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And the angel came in unto her, and said , Hail , thou that art highly favoured , the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. 29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be . 30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold , thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. 32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. 34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be , seeing I know not a man? 35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. 36 And, behold , thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing shall be impossible . 38 And Mary said , Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her. (KJV)
This passage is known as The Annunciation or the announcing to Mary of that which God expected of her. This passage has inspired several great works of art that try to depict the visitation of the angel with Mary. The Roman Catholic Church even celebrates a Feast Day on March 25, a full nine months before Christmas, as the day when this occurred. The passage is key to us because it tells us several things: God visits us where we are. God knows our condition and abilities and thus the calls that have come upon our lives. God can take the things we have already labeled as impossible and make them doable. And sometimes God even points to others in whom we thought whatever we had labeled as impossible was, in our opinion, No Way in Heaven, and we see that they, too, are doing what we thought they nor we could do.
Such is the Advent Journey. God visiting and inviting us to service. And Advent should be our saying, Yes, Lord, with Your help in whatever You might ask, I will do.
PRAYER: Loving God, take that in my life that I had already labeled as Never and change to Now. That which I had labeled as Impossible and make doable, so that I might serve and glorify You. I pray this in the precious and powerful name of Jesus my Lord, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Thursday, December 08, 2011
The Presence of God
Loving God, bless and protect this dear reader today in all that they may face; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Luke 1: My soul doth magnify the Lord, 47 And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. 48 For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold , from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed . 49 For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. 50 And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation. 51 He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. 52 He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. 53 He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away . 54 He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy; 55 As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever. (KJV)
This is one of the recommended texts for the Psalter or Psalm reading. In Luke? you might ask. Yes, this is Mary, the mother of Jesus reflecting on her special position as the one chosen to carry the Christ child. She begins where it matters most in her spirit; she says that because of God's presence in her life she is able to give glory to God. She is also very happy because of God and God's power in her life. God came to her and chose her from among all the women of the earth at that time. For that selection, Mary knows that people will call her blessed. This visitation is special and great and serves to make the name of God even more holy. The rest of this psalm is a song of God's greatness in history, in the present, and in the time to come.
Today's Upper Room reading mentioned Advent as a time of new beginnings. And it is. On that night in which Mary was visited and given the news of her role in God's plan, her life would never be the same because of this new beginning given to her. The specialness of God in her life far outweighed any consequences or thoughts of consequences that tomorrow might hold for her or for her baby. If God was with her, that's all she needed to face the rest of today and all the tomorrows that might come.
Advent should be like that for us as well. The awesomeness of God in the right now far exceeds the what-could-bes of tomorrow.
PRAYER: Loving God of power and might, grace and light; You have visited me in a special way and do everytime I pray and listen for You after I pray. Make me know and live a way that says to me and to others that with You present and active in my life, that in itself far exceeds what I fear may come. Amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Luke 1: My soul doth magnify the Lord, 47 And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. 48 For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold , from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed . 49 For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. 50 And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation. 51 He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. 52 He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. 53 He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away . 54 He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy; 55 As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever. (KJV)
This is one of the recommended texts for the Psalter or Psalm reading. In Luke? you might ask. Yes, this is Mary, the mother of Jesus reflecting on her special position as the one chosen to carry the Christ child. She begins where it matters most in her spirit; she says that because of God's presence in her life she is able to give glory to God. She is also very happy because of God and God's power in her life. God came to her and chose her from among all the women of the earth at that time. For that selection, Mary knows that people will call her blessed. This visitation is special and great and serves to make the name of God even more holy. The rest of this psalm is a song of God's greatness in history, in the present, and in the time to come.
Today's Upper Room reading mentioned Advent as a time of new beginnings. And it is. On that night in which Mary was visited and given the news of her role in God's plan, her life would never be the same because of this new beginning given to her. The specialness of God in her life far outweighed any consequences or thoughts of consequences that tomorrow might hold for her or for her baby. If God was with her, that's all she needed to face the rest of today and all the tomorrows that might come.
Advent should be like that for us as well. The awesomeness of God in the right now far exceeds the what-could-bes of tomorrow.
PRAYER: Loving God of power and might, grace and light; You have visited me in a special way and do everytime I pray and listen for You after I pray. Make me know and live a way that says to me and to others that with You present and active in my life, that in itself far exceeds what I fear may come. Amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Wednesday, December 07, 2011
You Packed Yet?
Great indeed, is Thy faithfulness, O God. May it be so for this dear reader today; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Isaiah 61: 1 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted , to proclaim liberty to the captives , and the opening of the prison to them that are bound ; 2 To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; 3 To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified . 4 And they shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations , and they shall repair the waste cities, the desolations of many generations. 8 For I the LORD love judgment, I hate robbery for burnt offering; and I will direct their work in truth, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them. 9 And their seed shall be known among the Gentiles, and their offspring among the people: all that see them shall acknowledge them, that they are the seed which the LORD hath blessed . 10 I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels. 11 For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth ; so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations. (KJV-400th)
It seems like every other week Nellie and I pack for a trip. We ask each other or ourselves, How many days? What's the occasion? ("Are we going to church?") What will the weather be like? And once we're comfortable with our answers, we pack. Advent is a time of packing and unpacking as well. We should pack that which will bless God and our journey with God, and unpack that which weighs us down and serves us no purpose. The prophet wrote of that which God had shared with him; the needed things that should be proclaimed among God's people: God's Spirit was active and among them; Glad tidings (Good News) was being shared; Brokenhearts would be mended; Captives would be set free; prison doors would fling open and the declaration that this was the acceptable year of the Lord. This message would be later read in worship, where a young carpenter would declare that this passage was about Himself. That which the prophet prepared became that necessary part of the Messiah's journey among us.
Christ's first visit should still be an occasion of great celebration, much like a wedding where every person is truly happy and hope for a new family is felt among all those present. Have we unpacked our thoughts and lives to feel that about Jesus having come 2,000 years ago? If not, it's not too late to do that now.
PRAYER: Loving God, for Jesus' first visit I am truly happy and blessed. May I live my life in a joyous way that says to others that I am awaiting with hope His next arrival. May my journey be with You be filled with joy and hope. I pray this in Christ's name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Isaiah 61: 1 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted , to proclaim liberty to the captives , and the opening of the prison to them that are bound ; 2 To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; 3 To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified . 4 And they shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations , and they shall repair the waste cities, the desolations of many generations. 8 For I the LORD love judgment, I hate robbery for burnt offering; and I will direct their work in truth, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them. 9 And their seed shall be known among the Gentiles, and their offspring among the people: all that see them shall acknowledge them, that they are the seed which the LORD hath blessed . 10 I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels. 11 For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth ; so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations. (KJV-400th)
It seems like every other week Nellie and I pack for a trip. We ask each other or ourselves, How many days? What's the occasion? ("Are we going to church?") What will the weather be like? And once we're comfortable with our answers, we pack. Advent is a time of packing and unpacking as well. We should pack that which will bless God and our journey with God, and unpack that which weighs us down and serves us no purpose. The prophet wrote of that which God had shared with him; the needed things that should be proclaimed among God's people: God's Spirit was active and among them; Glad tidings (Good News) was being shared; Brokenhearts would be mended; Captives would be set free; prison doors would fling open and the declaration that this was the acceptable year of the Lord. This message would be later read in worship, where a young carpenter would declare that this passage was about Himself. That which the prophet prepared became that necessary part of the Messiah's journey among us.
Christ's first visit should still be an occasion of great celebration, much like a wedding where every person is truly happy and hope for a new family is felt among all those present. Have we unpacked our thoughts and lives to feel that about Jesus having come 2,000 years ago? If not, it's not too late to do that now.
PRAYER: Loving God, for Jesus' first visit I am truly happy and blessed. May I live my life in a joyous way that says to others that I am awaiting with hope His next arrival. May my journey be with You be filled with joy and hope. I pray this in Christ's name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Tuesday, December 06, 2011
Prescription and Plan for Life
Blessed Savior, grant Your faithfulness in the life of this dear reader in whatever they may face today; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from 1 Thessalonians 5: 16 Rejoice evermore. 17 Pray without ceasing. 18 In every thing give thanks : for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 19 Quench not the Spirit. 20 Despise not prophesyings. 21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 22 Abstain from all appearance of evil. 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it. (King James Version, 400 years young this year!)
Have you ever suffered from physical pain and sought help from all kinds of folks rather than the doctor? One tells you to do this and another to do that. One says buy this and the other says buy that, and off we go. When we finally can stand the pain no longer and we go to the doctor, we get a prescription and perhaps a plan to avoid the pain in the future. Would you follow it? Most of us would say, Of course! Today's passage is a prescription and a plan for our Advent journey. Whatever may be ailing you spiritually stands no chance against one who is rejoicing. Just yesterday I reread the comment attributed to Martin Luther, "Laugh at the devil and he will flee from you." That makes sense. The devil does not want someone who is rejoicing, especially over something God may have done in their lives. The second part, Pray without ceasing. Occupy your mind with prayer and there is no room for anything that may detract you from God. Third, In everything give thanks! A grateful heart is a heart filled with grace, and a grace-filled heart is one filled with love, so much so it pours out unto others. Fourth, Quench not the Spirit. Receive and be guided and blessed by the Holy Spirit, do not resist the Holy Spirit. Fifth, speak God's word in all circumstances and situations. Sixth, reason out if what you are doing is good or not. Do no harm, Wesley said; Christ said for us to do good. Seventh, live a life that shows the positive presence of God in your heart.
What will be the result? A sanctified life; that is, a life made holy in this journey of life. And that may be just what your neighbor has been waiting to see and experience so that their life may be made right and ready for God.
PRAYER: Loving God, as I seek to live the life You intended, let me bless You and be a blessing to Yours. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from 1 Thessalonians 5: 16 Rejoice evermore. 17 Pray without ceasing. 18 In every thing give thanks : for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 19 Quench not the Spirit. 20 Despise not prophesyings. 21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 22 Abstain from all appearance of evil. 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it. (King James Version, 400 years young this year!)
Have you ever suffered from physical pain and sought help from all kinds of folks rather than the doctor? One tells you to do this and another to do that. One says buy this and the other says buy that, and off we go. When we finally can stand the pain no longer and we go to the doctor, we get a prescription and perhaps a plan to avoid the pain in the future. Would you follow it? Most of us would say, Of course! Today's passage is a prescription and a plan for our Advent journey. Whatever may be ailing you spiritually stands no chance against one who is rejoicing. Just yesterday I reread the comment attributed to Martin Luther, "Laugh at the devil and he will flee from you." That makes sense. The devil does not want someone who is rejoicing, especially over something God may have done in their lives. The second part, Pray without ceasing. Occupy your mind with prayer and there is no room for anything that may detract you from God. Third, In everything give thanks! A grateful heart is a heart filled with grace, and a grace-filled heart is one filled with love, so much so it pours out unto others. Fourth, Quench not the Spirit. Receive and be guided and blessed by the Holy Spirit, do not resist the Holy Spirit. Fifth, speak God's word in all circumstances and situations. Sixth, reason out if what you are doing is good or not. Do no harm, Wesley said; Christ said for us to do good. Seventh, live a life that shows the positive presence of God in your heart.
What will be the result? A sanctified life; that is, a life made holy in this journey of life. And that may be just what your neighbor has been waiting to see and experience so that their life may be made right and ready for God.
PRAYER: Loving God, as I seek to live the life You intended, let me bless You and be a blessing to Yours. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Monday, December 05, 2011
Making the Way Ready for Christ
Loving God, bless and protect this dear reader in all that they may face today; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from John 1: 6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe . 8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. 19 And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou? 20 And he confessed , and denied not; but confessed , I am not the Christ. 21 And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith , I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered , No. 22 Then said they unto him, Who art thou ? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself? 23 He said , I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias. 24 And they which were sent were of the Pharisees. 25 And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet? 26 John answered them, saying , I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not; 27 He it is , who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe's latchet I am not worthy to unloose . 28 These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing . (King James Version - In honor of its 400th Anniversary).
Advent is a time of preparation and reflection. It is a time of looking forward, backward, upward and inward as well. As we prepare for Christ's coming again, we ask if we are ready. As we remember Christ's first visit, we ask if we responded as Christ expected. As we reflect in Scriptre about Advent we ask, What more can I do? And as we reflect in prayer we ask, Am I prepared? John's short visit on the earth was to give witness to the coming of Jesus. He knew who and Whose he was. He knew he was not the Messiah, but he knew Him. He knew he was to fulfill the ancient prophecies as found in Isaiah and so he quoted the prophet and said yet again, "I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, make straight the way of the Lord." Get ready, in other words, and be made worthy, thus his offering of baptism.
John could not be trapped by those sent from the religious ones. He spoke from his heart and spirit and said he was only using water in preparation of one who would bring something the world needed, namely reconcilation with God.
As you live your life today ask yourself, Am I ready for Christ Jesus? Have I responded as Christ expected? Have I done all that Christ asked of me? Am I truly as prepared as I can be through Christ so that others can be reconciled with God?
PRAYER: Loving God, during this Advent Journey make me ready, make me faithful, make me prepare well, and help me to live in a way that gives witness to You; in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name I pray, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from John 1: 6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe . 8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. 19 And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou? 20 And he confessed , and denied not; but confessed , I am not the Christ. 21 And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith , I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered , No. 22 Then said they unto him, Who art thou ? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself? 23 He said , I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias. 24 And they which were sent were of the Pharisees. 25 And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet? 26 John answered them, saying , I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not; 27 He it is , who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe's latchet I am not worthy to unloose . 28 These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing . (King James Version - In honor of its 400th Anniversary).
Advent is a time of preparation and reflection. It is a time of looking forward, backward, upward and inward as well. As we prepare for Christ's coming again, we ask if we are ready. As we remember Christ's first visit, we ask if we responded as Christ expected. As we reflect in Scriptre about Advent we ask, What more can I do? And as we reflect in prayer we ask, Am I prepared? John's short visit on the earth was to give witness to the coming of Jesus. He knew who and Whose he was. He knew he was not the Messiah, but he knew Him. He knew he was to fulfill the ancient prophecies as found in Isaiah and so he quoted the prophet and said yet again, "I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, make straight the way of the Lord." Get ready, in other words, and be made worthy, thus his offering of baptism.
John could not be trapped by those sent from the religious ones. He spoke from his heart and spirit and said he was only using water in preparation of one who would bring something the world needed, namely reconcilation with God.
As you live your life today ask yourself, Am I ready for Christ Jesus? Have I responded as Christ expected? Have I done all that Christ asked of me? Am I truly as prepared as I can be through Christ so that others can be reconciled with God?
PRAYER: Loving God, during this Advent Journey make me ready, make me faithful, make me prepare well, and help me to live in a way that gives witness to You; in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name I pray, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Thursday, December 01, 2011
The Kiss of God
Living God, fall afresh on the life and needs of this dear reader through the presence of Your Spirit; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Psalm 85: LORD, thou hast been favourable unto thy land: thou hast brought back the captivity of Jacob. 2 Thou hast forgiven the iniquity of thy people, thou hast covered all their sin. Selah. 8 I will hear what God the LORD will speak : for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly. 9 Surely his salvation is nigh them that fear him; that glory may dwell in our land. 10 Mercy and truth are met together ; righteousness and peace have kissed each other. 11 Truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven. 12 Yea, the LORD shall give that which is good; and our land shall yield her increase. 13 Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set us in the way of his steps. (King James Version)
The earth sometimes reflects the drama of what happens when something positive is missing from it. In our case here in Texas, the drought has left very visible signs of the absence of water. Last evening, it was one of the major stories on a major network newscast. The images were startling as were the predictions of how long it would last. Broken chunks of dirt, dried and thirsty for water, the scorched brown earth, even a Christmas tree farm that did not open for business because of the lack of water. Can you imagine what our spirits must look like when we've chosen to apart ourselves from God? Just like people who complain (or used to!) when rain would come and "ruin" a picnic or outdoors event, some people complain about the presence of God in having to attend worship or to make decisions they know are right and correct, but lament not being able to "enjoy themselves." The presence of rain is like a wonderful kiss from God on God's earth. Imagine as the Psalmist did, to say that "mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other;" (v. 10) is this not the connection between our spirits and God?
God still knows how to give what is good and needed for not the earth but for us. Do we still know to seek God in a way that is pleasing and uplifting? Do we seek and receive and live righteousness when we have chosen to be apart from it?
PRAYER: Loving God, quench the parchness of my soul. Kiss my spirit with life-giving refreshment. May my soul and mind be in tune with You, so that I may be a part of those who truly are preparing the way for the arrival of the Messiah again. In Jesus' name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Psalm 85: LORD, thou hast been favourable unto thy land: thou hast brought back the captivity of Jacob. 2 Thou hast forgiven the iniquity of thy people, thou hast covered all their sin. Selah. 8 I will hear what God the LORD will speak : for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly. 9 Surely his salvation is nigh them that fear him; that glory may dwell in our land. 10 Mercy and truth are met together ; righteousness and peace have kissed each other. 11 Truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven. 12 Yea, the LORD shall give that which is good; and our land shall yield her increase. 13 Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set us in the way of his steps. (King James Version)
The earth sometimes reflects the drama of what happens when something positive is missing from it. In our case here in Texas, the drought has left very visible signs of the absence of water. Last evening, it was one of the major stories on a major network newscast. The images were startling as were the predictions of how long it would last. Broken chunks of dirt, dried and thirsty for water, the scorched brown earth, even a Christmas tree farm that did not open for business because of the lack of water. Can you imagine what our spirits must look like when we've chosen to apart ourselves from God? Just like people who complain (or used to!) when rain would come and "ruin" a picnic or outdoors event, some people complain about the presence of God in having to attend worship or to make decisions they know are right and correct, but lament not being able to "enjoy themselves." The presence of rain is like a wonderful kiss from God on God's earth. Imagine as the Psalmist did, to say that "mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other;" (v. 10) is this not the connection between our spirits and God?
God still knows how to give what is good and needed for not the earth but for us. Do we still know to seek God in a way that is pleasing and uplifting? Do we seek and receive and live righteousness when we have chosen to be apart from it?
PRAYER: Loving God, quench the parchness of my soul. Kiss my spirit with life-giving refreshment. May my soul and mind be in tune with You, so that I may be a part of those who truly are preparing the way for the arrival of the Messiah again. In Jesus' name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.
Eradio Valverde
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Great Tidings!
May Your joy and peace be with this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Isaiah 40: 1 Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. 2 Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished , that her iniquity is pardoned : for she hath received of the LORD'S hand double for all her sins. 3 The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. 4 Every valley shall be exalted , and every mountain and hill shall be made low : and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: 5 And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed , and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it. 6 The voice said , Cry . And he said , What shall I cry ? All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the field: 7 The grass withereth , the flower fadeth : because the spirit of the LORD bloweth upon it: surely the people is grass. 8 The grass withereth , the flower fadeth : but the word of our God shall stand for ever. 9 O Zion, that bringest good tidings , get thee up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings , lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up , be not afraid ; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God! 10 Behold, the Lord GOD will come with strong hand, and his arm shall rule for him: behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him. 11 He shall feed his flock like a shepherd : he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young . (King James Version)
Imagine a day without broadcast or print news. Better yet, imagine a day with nothing but good news. Such is the message of the entire Bible for those who love the Lord; but for those who do not, they have chosen a different path. Israel's story is our story. The people of God lived much like us, one day we're close to God, loving God and thanking God for all of God's wonderful blessings; then the next we're far from God, having chosen another path, usually one of self-direction and one of passion and pleasure. Our decision has led us away from God and we still sometimes blame God for our feeling so alienated from God.
The message in this Isaiah passage was the same one God shared with John the Baptist to share with God's people. It is a message of hope and peace. It is an invitation back to God. It is a call to the flock of God, that God our Shepherd shall gather us and carry us as God leads us back to God's place. Such is Advent, the time of preparation. It is a time spent shedding off that which has weighed us down with regret and guilt from the past, so that our time of preparation is a time of excitement and happiness for that which is coming.
PRAYER: Gracious God, You better than anyone know what has weighed me down and caused me to feel away and alone from You. Free me from all of that and allow this time of Advent to truly be a time of joyful preparation for that which You have, are, and will do. May I be a part of those who share good tidings with all. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Isaiah 40: 1 Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. 2 Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished , that her iniquity is pardoned : for she hath received of the LORD'S hand double for all her sins. 3 The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. 4 Every valley shall be exalted , and every mountain and hill shall be made low : and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: 5 And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed , and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it. 6 The voice said , Cry . And he said , What shall I cry ? All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the field: 7 The grass withereth , the flower fadeth : because the spirit of the LORD bloweth upon it: surely the people is grass. 8 The grass withereth , the flower fadeth : but the word of our God shall stand for ever. 9 O Zion, that bringest good tidings , get thee up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings , lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up , be not afraid ; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God! 10 Behold, the Lord GOD will come with strong hand, and his arm shall rule for him: behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him. 11 He shall feed his flock like a shepherd : he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young . (King James Version)
Imagine a day without broadcast or print news. Better yet, imagine a day with nothing but good news. Such is the message of the entire Bible for those who love the Lord; but for those who do not, they have chosen a different path. Israel's story is our story. The people of God lived much like us, one day we're close to God, loving God and thanking God for all of God's wonderful blessings; then the next we're far from God, having chosen another path, usually one of self-direction and one of passion and pleasure. Our decision has led us away from God and we still sometimes blame God for our feeling so alienated from God.
The message in this Isaiah passage was the same one God shared with John the Baptist to share with God's people. It is a message of hope and peace. It is an invitation back to God. It is a call to the flock of God, that God our Shepherd shall gather us and carry us as God leads us back to God's place. Such is Advent, the time of preparation. It is a time spent shedding off that which has weighed us down with regret and guilt from the past, so that our time of preparation is a time of excitement and happiness for that which is coming.
PRAYER: Gracious God, You better than anyone know what has weighed me down and caused me to feel away and alone from You. Free me from all of that and allow this time of Advent to truly be a time of joyful preparation for that which You have, are, and will do. May I be a part of those who share good tidings with all. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.
Eradio Valverde
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Make Ready Your Heart!
Loving God, bless and protect the life and needs of this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from 2 Peter 3: 8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish , but that all should come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat , the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up . 11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved , what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved , and the elements shall melt with fervent heat ? 13 Nevertheless we , according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. 14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation. (King James Version)
"If a thousand years are to the Lord one day; Jesus was in our backyard the day before yesterday!" So said one of the speakers at the World Methodist Conference. He was from Galilee so he could say that about Jesus. In today's passage we see the Advent theme: Jesus will come again. God promised this and God will hold to this. When, no one knows. Jesus shared what the writer shares, "The Lord will come as a thief in the night." And the understanding is that when He does come, an apocalyptic event will occur. Peter lists the heavens (skies) passing away with great noise. The elements (earth, wind, fire, and water) will melt with great heat. The earth will be consumed with fire. This is the warning and this is the question, What will happen to us? Peter knew that was a great concern to them and to him. Those who know and trust the Lord will be taken to a new heaven and a new earth, a place where righteousness can be found. This Peter says, is "salvation."
Advent is a time of personal preparation. Just like we decorated our churches to make them ready for this season, again the call is for us to be ready. We don't know the day or hour, but we do know as we say every time we take His Supper, "The Lord will come again." So be it, but let us be ready!
PRAYER: Come, Lord Jesus, to my waiting heart. Let me prepare room for You in my life and in my realm of being. May I seek to tell others about Your love and greatness. May I help others escape an event where those who do not know You are separated eternally from You. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from 2 Peter 3: 8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish , but that all should come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat , the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up . 11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved , what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved , and the elements shall melt with fervent heat ? 13 Nevertheless we , according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. 14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation. (King James Version)
"If a thousand years are to the Lord one day; Jesus was in our backyard the day before yesterday!" So said one of the speakers at the World Methodist Conference. He was from Galilee so he could say that about Jesus. In today's passage we see the Advent theme: Jesus will come again. God promised this and God will hold to this. When, no one knows. Jesus shared what the writer shares, "The Lord will come as a thief in the night." And the understanding is that when He does come, an apocalyptic event will occur. Peter lists the heavens (skies) passing away with great noise. The elements (earth, wind, fire, and water) will melt with great heat. The earth will be consumed with fire. This is the warning and this is the question, What will happen to us? Peter knew that was a great concern to them and to him. Those who know and trust the Lord will be taken to a new heaven and a new earth, a place where righteousness can be found. This Peter says, is "salvation."
Advent is a time of personal preparation. Just like we decorated our churches to make them ready for this season, again the call is for us to be ready. We don't know the day or hour, but we do know as we say every time we take His Supper, "The Lord will come again." So be it, but let us be ready!
PRAYER: Come, Lord Jesus, to my waiting heart. Let me prepare room for You in my life and in my realm of being. May I seek to tell others about Your love and greatness. May I help others escape an event where those who do not know You are separated eternally from You. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.
Eradio Valverde
Monday, November 28, 2011
Are You Ready?
Loving God, bless the life of this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Happy Advent Season everyone! Our text for today comes from Mark 1: 1 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; 2 As it is written in the prophets, Behold , I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 3 The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. 5 And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins. 6 And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of a skin about his loins; and he did eat locusts and wild honey; 7 And preached , saying , There cometh one mightier than I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose . 8 I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost. (King James Version: In honor of its 400th Birthday, we will studying our texts in the KJV until the end of the year).
"This is a great place. They have a Poblano Soup to die for." With those simple words, we were convinced to try this new place. Word of mouth. It is still the best and cheapest way to advertise anything worth knowing. Word of mouth makes or breaks new movies. It helps sell new books or not. Someone who cares enough prepares the way, as it were, of this which is coming. Advent is our opportunity to prepare the way for Jesus much like John the Baptist did prior to Jesus' start of His ministry. Mark's Gospel tells of this coming messenger and his purpose. It would be a "voice crying in the wilderness" (one of many phrases used beyond the Church thanks to the King James Bible), "Get ready, the Lord is coming!"
John did more than announce the coming Messiah, he started in sharing the message that God would be sharing through His Son: Confess your sins! Get right with God! Get to work in telling others! And it worked then and it can work now. John was an unamplified, unbroadcast voice by the River Jordan, telling the message of truth. It was a hard message for some to receive, for they did not want anyone to know of their sins, which they prayed remained hidden. But the offer: These sins and all their weight can be removed from you - it struck a chord because many came and presented themselves for the ritual of washing reserved not for Jews but for those wishing to be clean. And as they were baptized, they heard the message that the One coming after John would be greater; so much greater that John confessed he was not worthy to untie his sandal. So much greater that His baptism would be not of water but of the Holy Ghost!
Thanksgiving and Advent sort of ran together this past week. On Thursday we were having a great meal; come Sunday we saw the beauty of the church decked out in green and white, bright sparkling lights on the Christmas tree and wreaths; signs that the church building is ready for the celebration coming that is Christmas. The message may have been, Are you ready? As we remember and celebrate Jesus' first coming, what are we doing to ready ourselves for His second return? More importantly, as an old professor used to say, "What have we done about His first coming?" We can get ready, just like the people who came to John; confessing our sins and presenting our lives are that sacrifice of love and service to all the world.
PRAYER: Come Lord Jesus, come. Enter into my heart anew as Lord and Savior. Clean out the clutter of the sins and bad deeds of my heart. Let there be room for Thee in all places of my life. May I share with someone today of the goodness and grace You have shared with me, so that yet another person can be ready. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Happy Advent Season everyone! Our text for today comes from Mark 1: 1 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; 2 As it is written in the prophets, Behold , I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 3 The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. 5 And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins. 6 And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of a skin about his loins; and he did eat locusts and wild honey; 7 And preached , saying , There cometh one mightier than I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose . 8 I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost. (King James Version: In honor of its 400th Birthday, we will studying our texts in the KJV until the end of the year).
"This is a great place. They have a Poblano Soup to die for." With those simple words, we were convinced to try this new place. Word of mouth. It is still the best and cheapest way to advertise anything worth knowing. Word of mouth makes or breaks new movies. It helps sell new books or not. Someone who cares enough prepares the way, as it were, of this which is coming. Advent is our opportunity to prepare the way for Jesus much like John the Baptist did prior to Jesus' start of His ministry. Mark's Gospel tells of this coming messenger and his purpose. It would be a "voice crying in the wilderness" (one of many phrases used beyond the Church thanks to the King James Bible), "Get ready, the Lord is coming!"
John did more than announce the coming Messiah, he started in sharing the message that God would be sharing through His Son: Confess your sins! Get right with God! Get to work in telling others! And it worked then and it can work now. John was an unamplified, unbroadcast voice by the River Jordan, telling the message of truth. It was a hard message for some to receive, for they did not want anyone to know of their sins, which they prayed remained hidden. But the offer: These sins and all their weight can be removed from you - it struck a chord because many came and presented themselves for the ritual of washing reserved not for Jews but for those wishing to be clean. And as they were baptized, they heard the message that the One coming after John would be greater; so much greater that John confessed he was not worthy to untie his sandal. So much greater that His baptism would be not of water but of the Holy Ghost!
Thanksgiving and Advent sort of ran together this past week. On Thursday we were having a great meal; come Sunday we saw the beauty of the church decked out in green and white, bright sparkling lights on the Christmas tree and wreaths; signs that the church building is ready for the celebration coming that is Christmas. The message may have been, Are you ready? As we remember and celebrate Jesus' first coming, what are we doing to ready ourselves for His second return? More importantly, as an old professor used to say, "What have we done about His first coming?" We can get ready, just like the people who came to John; confessing our sins and presenting our lives are that sacrifice of love and service to all the world.
PRAYER: Come Lord Jesus, come. Enter into my heart anew as Lord and Savior. Clean out the clutter of the sins and bad deeds of my heart. Let there be room for Thee in all places of my life. May I share with someone today of the goodness and grace You have shared with me, so that yet another person can be ready. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Happy Thanksgiving!
Dear friends,
What a wonderful time of year is this holiday set aside to give thanks. May we never forget the intent and purpose behind it, and may we never cease to be a people that give thanks to God for all things. Last year I was asked to write a prayer for the UM Portal and this is what I shared. May it still speak to God our thankfulness:
Loving God, in the midst of plenty or in the presence of scarcity, I am blessed. Whether it is a plate filled with food or facing what we now call a full plate of cares and worries, I am still blessed. At a table with family and friends, even with the absence of dear loved ones whose love and life once nurtured and supported me, I am blessed. On this day of counting blessings to give you thanks, let me give you thanks because in your love, I count and I matter to you. For the food that nourishes me and for the nourishment of faith, I give you thanks. For life, and for the fullness of life, I give you thanks. For the warm embrace of your love, for the warm glow of hope and light, even in the pit of despair, I give you thanks. As an action of giving thanks, let my life be a never-ending prayer and sermon of gratitude. And for the love of a dear Savior, in whom all things guides and inspires, in Christ Jesus, I pray with Thanksgiving. Amen.
May all who are traveling, travel safely. May time with loved ones be a special time. May the cares and worries of the past not hinder the present.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Eradio and Nellie Valverde
What a wonderful time of year is this holiday set aside to give thanks. May we never forget the intent and purpose behind it, and may we never cease to be a people that give thanks to God for all things. Last year I was asked to write a prayer for the UM Portal and this is what I shared. May it still speak to God our thankfulness:
Loving God, in the midst of plenty or in the presence of scarcity, I am blessed. Whether it is a plate filled with food or facing what we now call a full plate of cares and worries, I am still blessed. At a table with family and friends, even with the absence of dear loved ones whose love and life once nurtured and supported me, I am blessed. On this day of counting blessings to give you thanks, let me give you thanks because in your love, I count and I matter to you. For the food that nourishes me and for the nourishment of faith, I give you thanks. For life, and for the fullness of life, I give you thanks. For the warm embrace of your love, for the warm glow of hope and light, even in the pit of despair, I give you thanks. As an action of giving thanks, let my life be a never-ending prayer and sermon of gratitude. And for the love of a dear Savior, in whom all things guides and inspires, in Christ Jesus, I pray with Thanksgiving. Amen.
May all who are traveling, travel safely. May time with loved ones be a special time. May the cares and worries of the past not hinder the present.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Eradio and Nellie Valverde
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Do You Know the Password?
Loving God, may this dear reader be part of those who pave the way for Your love to be felt in the heart of others; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Psalm 100: 1 On your feet now - applaud God! 2 Bring a gift of laughter, sing yourselves into his presence. 3 Know this: God is God, and God, God. He made us; we didn't make him. We're his people, his well-tended sheep. 4 Enter with the password: "Thank you!" Make yourselves at home, talking praise. Thank him. Worship him. 5 For God is sheer beauty, all-generous in love, loyal always and ever. (The Message) and the more traditional NRSV: 1 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. 2 Worship the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing. 3 Know that the Lord is God. It is he that made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him, bless his name. 5 For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.
To enter special places one had to know the password. The password was the key that allowed us entrance into that desired place. Growing up I remember seeing kids that had clubs that had passwords that allowed them entrance into the clubhouse, usually an old cardboard box that had housed a refrigerator or large appliance of some sort. This newer version of the Bible gives worship a wonderful perspective; what if you and I and others, entered into worship with the words, "Thank you!" on our lips, minds, hearts, and spirits? Having served as pastor for many years, I know that "Thank you!" for some is the last thing they wanted to say on Sundays. "Entertain me!" or "Humor me!" or "Give me something to think about," was about as close as they got, then they wondered why life was so miserable for them. "Thank you!" conveys a wonderful attitude we should have towards God. "Thank you!" puts us in the right spirit to worship and receive from God. I read yesterday a pastor's words on a rock given him. It's a small, smooth rock that he carries everywhere and it's his "Thank you!" rock. When it was given, he was instructed to hold it and say, "Thank you!" to God in all circumstances, and more often than not, even for the things that were not so "Thank you!"-worthy, he has been blessed and then it was a genuine "Thank you!" lifted up.
We're days away from the national day of "Thank You!" May we already be thinking about what great and wonderful things God has done. Even when the event was not what we expected or desired, may we learn to see what we can be thankful for, and then truly use the day of Thanksgiving, to say to the One who deserves it, "Thank you!"
PRAYER: Loving God, thank You! Amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Prayer Request: Our oldest grandchild, Sarai Evangelina Cortez, 4, of San Marcos, TX, is undergoing surgery tomorrow, Friday in Kyle, TX. Please keep her and her parents in prayer. Yes, and for her grandpa and grandma (on both sides!). She's having her tonsils removed. Thank you!
Our text for today comes from Psalm 100: 1 On your feet now - applaud God! 2 Bring a gift of laughter, sing yourselves into his presence. 3 Know this: God is God, and God, God. He made us; we didn't make him. We're his people, his well-tended sheep. 4 Enter with the password: "Thank you!" Make yourselves at home, talking praise. Thank him. Worship him. 5 For God is sheer beauty, all-generous in love, loyal always and ever. (The Message) and the more traditional NRSV: 1 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. 2 Worship the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing. 3 Know that the Lord is God. It is he that made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him, bless his name. 5 For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.
To enter special places one had to know the password. The password was the key that allowed us entrance into that desired place. Growing up I remember seeing kids that had clubs that had passwords that allowed them entrance into the clubhouse, usually an old cardboard box that had housed a refrigerator or large appliance of some sort. This newer version of the Bible gives worship a wonderful perspective; what if you and I and others, entered into worship with the words, "Thank you!" on our lips, minds, hearts, and spirits? Having served as pastor for many years, I know that "Thank you!" for some is the last thing they wanted to say on Sundays. "Entertain me!" or "Humor me!" or "Give me something to think about," was about as close as they got, then they wondered why life was so miserable for them. "Thank you!" conveys a wonderful attitude we should have towards God. "Thank you!" puts us in the right spirit to worship and receive from God. I read yesterday a pastor's words on a rock given him. It's a small, smooth rock that he carries everywhere and it's his "Thank you!" rock. When it was given, he was instructed to hold it and say, "Thank you!" to God in all circumstances, and more often than not, even for the things that were not so "Thank you!"-worthy, he has been blessed and then it was a genuine "Thank you!" lifted up.
We're days away from the national day of "Thank You!" May we already be thinking about what great and wonderful things God has done. Even when the event was not what we expected or desired, may we learn to see what we can be thankful for, and then truly use the day of Thanksgiving, to say to the One who deserves it, "Thank you!"
PRAYER: Loving God, thank You! Amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Prayer Request: Our oldest grandchild, Sarai Evangelina Cortez, 4, of San Marcos, TX, is undergoing surgery tomorrow, Friday in Kyle, TX. Please keep her and her parents in prayer. Yes, and for her grandpa and grandma (on both sides!). She's having her tonsils removed. Thank you!
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Christ, Our Shepherd!
God of power and light, may Your grace be sufficient for this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Ezekiel 34: 11 "'God, the Master, says: From now on, I myself am the shepherd. I'm going looking for them. 12 As shepherds go after their flocks when they get scattered, I'm going after my sheep. I'll rescue them from all the places they've been scattered to in the storms. 13 I'll bring them back from foreign peoples, gather them from foreign countries, and bring them back to their home country. I'll feed them on the mountains of Israel, along the streams, among their own people. 14 I'll lead them into lush pasture so they can roam the mountain pastures of Israel, graze at leisure, feed in the rich pastures on the mountains of Israel. 15 And I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep. I myself will make sure they get plenty of rest. 16 I'll go after the lost, I'll collect the strays, I'll doctor the injured, I'll build up the weak ones and oversee the strong ones so they're not exploited. 20 "'Therefore, God, the Master, says: I myself am stepping in and making things right between the plump sheep and the skinny sheep. 21 Because you forced your way with shoulder and rump and butted at all the weaker animals with your horns till you scattered them all over the hills, 22 I'll come in and save my dear flock, no longer let them be pushed around. I'll step in and set things right between one sheep and another. 23 "'I'll appoint one shepherd over them all: my servant David. He'll feed them. He'll be their shepherd. 24 And I, God, will be their God. My servant David will be their prince. I, God, have spoken. (The Message)
I was just thinking yesterday how far removed I have become from the land. By that I mean, while I personally have never lived on a farm or ranch, in my growing up years I was always discovering things about nature, the earth, creeks, water creatures, etc. I loved watching ants and the now rare horned frog. In fact, in a conversation with someone we said, "We're not on the farm anymore!" meaning what we had been saying shows that we've come a long way, for both good and bad, from what used to be. My experience with shepherds has not been firsthand. I have heard sermons and lectures on the image of a shepherd and I have a general understanding and a tremendous appreciation for how the shepherd, the solitary figure in charge of a flock of sheep, works and lays his/her life on the line for these sheep. I love the care and love that a shepherd shares with his flock. I love the idea of the sheep know the shepherd's voice and respond to it. Yet, you and I can't begin to understand the tremendous love that God has for God's people. This Old Testament passage speaks of that love and care that God claims for us. God shares how the want is there to gather the flock and make right the relationship between each sheep and between sheep and God. And the passage ends with God's promise that one shepherd, from the house of David, will be both shepherd and prince.
Sunday is a day to celebrate Christ as King. The passages thus far this week have been centered on that idea. Ours is a call to honor and worship Christ the King. Ours is to live a life that trust God for all things. Christ is our shepherd. What shall we want?
PRAYER: Loving God, we thank You for Your Son, whom we acknowledge as our King. May our lives reflect the honor and obedience deserved by Him. May we truly be sheep of Your flock all days. In Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Ezekiel 34: 11 "'God, the Master, says: From now on, I myself am the shepherd. I'm going looking for them. 12 As shepherds go after their flocks when they get scattered, I'm going after my sheep. I'll rescue them from all the places they've been scattered to in the storms. 13 I'll bring them back from foreign peoples, gather them from foreign countries, and bring them back to their home country. I'll feed them on the mountains of Israel, along the streams, among their own people. 14 I'll lead them into lush pasture so they can roam the mountain pastures of Israel, graze at leisure, feed in the rich pastures on the mountains of Israel. 15 And I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep. I myself will make sure they get plenty of rest. 16 I'll go after the lost, I'll collect the strays, I'll doctor the injured, I'll build up the weak ones and oversee the strong ones so they're not exploited. 20 "'Therefore, God, the Master, says: I myself am stepping in and making things right between the plump sheep and the skinny sheep. 21 Because you forced your way with shoulder and rump and butted at all the weaker animals with your horns till you scattered them all over the hills, 22 I'll come in and save my dear flock, no longer let them be pushed around. I'll step in and set things right between one sheep and another. 23 "'I'll appoint one shepherd over them all: my servant David. He'll feed them. He'll be their shepherd. 24 And I, God, will be their God. My servant David will be their prince. I, God, have spoken. (The Message)
I was just thinking yesterday how far removed I have become from the land. By that I mean, while I personally have never lived on a farm or ranch, in my growing up years I was always discovering things about nature, the earth, creeks, water creatures, etc. I loved watching ants and the now rare horned frog. In fact, in a conversation with someone we said, "We're not on the farm anymore!" meaning what we had been saying shows that we've come a long way, for both good and bad, from what used to be. My experience with shepherds has not been firsthand. I have heard sermons and lectures on the image of a shepherd and I have a general understanding and a tremendous appreciation for how the shepherd, the solitary figure in charge of a flock of sheep, works and lays his/her life on the line for these sheep. I love the care and love that a shepherd shares with his flock. I love the idea of the sheep know the shepherd's voice and respond to it. Yet, you and I can't begin to understand the tremendous love that God has for God's people. This Old Testament passage speaks of that love and care that God claims for us. God shares how the want is there to gather the flock and make right the relationship between each sheep and between sheep and God. And the passage ends with God's promise that one shepherd, from the house of David, will be both shepherd and prince.
Sunday is a day to celebrate Christ as King. The passages thus far this week have been centered on that idea. Ours is a call to honor and worship Christ the King. Ours is to live a life that trust God for all things. Christ is our shepherd. What shall we want?
PRAYER: Loving God, we thank You for Your Son, whom we acknowledge as our King. May our lives reflect the honor and obedience deserved by Him. May we truly be sheep of Your flock all days. In Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Way Out There? Or Right Here?
Living God of the fullness of life, fill the cup of this dear reader in all they need; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Ephesians 1: 15 That's why, when I heard of the solid trust you have in the Master Jesus and your outpouring of love to all the Christians, 16 I couldn't stop thanking God for you - every time I prayed, I'd think of you and give thanks. 17 But I do more than thank. I ask - ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory - to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, 18 your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for Christians, 19 oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him - endless energy, boundless strength! 20 All this energy issues from Christ: God raised him from death and set him on a throne in deep heaven, 21 in charge of running the universe, everything from galaxies to governments, no name and no power exempt from his rule. And not just for the time being, but forever. 22 He is in charge of it all, has the final word on everything. At the center of all this, Christ rules the church. 23 The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ's body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence. (The Message)
Way out there? Or right here? Such is the question asked the founder of the Methodist movement, John Wesley. You see, Mr. Wesley was on a ship bound for America when they encountered a terrible storm that destroyed a lot of the boat. Fearing death, Mr. Wesley cried and sought a place in which to die. He found a group of Moravians (Germans) who were singing and seemed excited about their possible death. Wesley could not understand this. The leader of the group asked Wesley if he knew Jesus Christ. Wesley replied he knew Jesus to be the Savior of the world. He was then asked if he did not know Him personally. Way out there? Or right here. It used to be you could ask any baby, "Where's Jesus?" and they would point skyward. And there Christ remains until our personal encounter with Him. In this passage, Paul is thanking God for the faith of the Christians in Ephesus and asking God that these Christians would continue to grow. Growth, Paul knows, comes from knowing Christ.
How do we know Christ better? It starts much like the initial encounter, with a prayer of invitation. We know the famous picture from the passage in Rev. 3:20, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock." And many a sermon has been preached about opening the door of our heart with a simple prayer, and inviting in the Savior of the world to be our Savior. Right here. And through prayer, through a disciplined pattern of Bible study, through worship, through conversations (listening is involved!) with Christ, we come to know Jesus better and as a result grow in our intelligence. Our closeness with Christ also helps our vision and focus for our lives. We get to know where it is that Christ is leading us and asking us to do. And Paul believes, Christ will also provide "endless energy and boundless strength." I do, too.
PRAYER: Come, Lord Jesus, into Your proper place in my heart and life. Help me move away from knowing You way out there, to knowing You right here. Rule as my Lord and Savior, guide me into a deeper knowledge of You. Heal my weakness and drive, for I seek Your energy and strength to live life to the fullest. I ask this in Your Name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Ephesians 1: 15 That's why, when I heard of the solid trust you have in the Master Jesus and your outpouring of love to all the Christians, 16 I couldn't stop thanking God for you - every time I prayed, I'd think of you and give thanks. 17 But I do more than thank. I ask - ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory - to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, 18 your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for Christians, 19 oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him - endless energy, boundless strength! 20 All this energy issues from Christ: God raised him from death and set him on a throne in deep heaven, 21 in charge of running the universe, everything from galaxies to governments, no name and no power exempt from his rule. And not just for the time being, but forever. 22 He is in charge of it all, has the final word on everything. At the center of all this, Christ rules the church. 23 The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ's body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence. (The Message)
Way out there? Or right here? Such is the question asked the founder of the Methodist movement, John Wesley. You see, Mr. Wesley was on a ship bound for America when they encountered a terrible storm that destroyed a lot of the boat. Fearing death, Mr. Wesley cried and sought a place in which to die. He found a group of Moravians (Germans) who were singing and seemed excited about their possible death. Wesley could not understand this. The leader of the group asked Wesley if he knew Jesus Christ. Wesley replied he knew Jesus to be the Savior of the world. He was then asked if he did not know Him personally. Way out there? Or right here. It used to be you could ask any baby, "Where's Jesus?" and they would point skyward. And there Christ remains until our personal encounter with Him. In this passage, Paul is thanking God for the faith of the Christians in Ephesus and asking God that these Christians would continue to grow. Growth, Paul knows, comes from knowing Christ.
How do we know Christ better? It starts much like the initial encounter, with a prayer of invitation. We know the famous picture from the passage in Rev. 3:20, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock." And many a sermon has been preached about opening the door of our heart with a simple prayer, and inviting in the Savior of the world to be our Savior. Right here. And through prayer, through a disciplined pattern of Bible study, through worship, through conversations (listening is involved!) with Christ, we come to know Jesus better and as a result grow in our intelligence. Our closeness with Christ also helps our vision and focus for our lives. We get to know where it is that Christ is leading us and asking us to do. And Paul believes, Christ will also provide "endless energy and boundless strength." I do, too.
PRAYER: Come, Lord Jesus, into Your proper place in my heart and life. Help me move away from knowing You way out there, to knowing You right here. Rule as my Lord and Savior, guide me into a deeper knowledge of You. Heal my weakness and drive, for I seek Your energy and strength to live life to the fullest. I ask this in Your Name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Monday, November 14, 2011
What Can I Do As Busy As I Am?
Loving God, in the midst of all expected of this dear reader, may the loudest and strongest voice, be Yours; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Matthew 25: 31 "When he (Jesus) finally arrives, blazing in beauty and all his angels with him, the Son of Man will take his place on his glorious throne. 32 Then all the nations will be arranged before him and he will sort the people out, much as a shepherd sorts out sheep and goats, 33 putting sheep to his right and goats to his left. 34 "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what's coming to you in this kingdom. It's been ready for you since the world's foundation. 35 And here's why: I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was homeless and you gave me a room, 36 I was shivering and you gave me clothes, I was sick and you stopped to visit, I was in prison and you came to me.' 37 "Then those 'sheep' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? 38 And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?' 39 40 Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me - you did it to me.' 41 "Then he will turn to the 'goats,' the ones on his left, and say, 'Get out, worthless goats! You're good for nothing but the fires of hell. 42 And why? Because - I was hungry and you gave me no meal, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, 43 I was homeless and you gave me no bed, I was shivering and you gave me no clothes, Sick and in prison, and you never visited.' 44 "Then those 'goats' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or homeless or shivering or sick or in prison and didn't help?' 45 "He will answer them, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you failed to do one of these things to someone who was being overlooked or ignored, that was me - you failed to do it to me.' 46 "Then those 'goats' will be herded to their eternal doom, but the 'sheep' to their eternal reward." (The Message)
The demands of our job or our schooling can prioritze our life. I need to do this and I have to complete that. I don't have time for churchy things! Yet, can you imagine some students prioritizing their lives not around school but around this passage? Yes, it actually has and does happen. The ones I'm referring to were some interesting students. Their leader would awaken early and spend about an hour on his knees in prayer. Yes, one hour. Then he would spend about an hour in reading his Bible. Yep, one hour. Then he would join his friends for about an hour of worship. Then to breakfast. Then to class. After school was when the interesting part would happen. They had a schedule for what they would do to comply with this list of demands from Jesus. They would visit orphanages. They would visit jails. They would visit hospitals. They would visit widows. They actually took Jesus serious about these demands being important for the life of the believer.
The list we place up on top of most Christian lives include the words worship, prayer, Bible study, etc. This list given by Jesus very honestly comes as a result of a great and earnest relationship with Him: Feeding the hungry. Giving water to the thirsty. Helping the homeless. Clothing the naked. Visiting the sick and the prisoner. And to make it more powerful and urgent, Jesus says, "That was me whom you helped or neglected to help." Ouch. Was that you, Lord, on the street asking for money or in the homeless shelter that took the bowl of soup and thanked me and the shelter for doing this? "Yes," Jesus will reply to you and me, "That was me. Thank you again."
That group of students were mocked for their goodness by other students. They were called "holy rollers," and because they always had their Bible, "Bible Moths," and one smart alec even thought to call them, "A bunch of Methodists!" Yes, that's who we are. Thank you, Jesus. And thank you, John and Charles Wesley, and all of those of the Holy Club who started a movement that became a church that needs to become a movement again.
PRAYER: Loving God, help me to go beyond the self and society imposed demands of my time. Help me go beyond the constraints of comfort and restraints that I or my church place on me. I want to go where You would have me go, to be the Church for all, especially the you's in the hungry, thirsty, stranger, naked, sick, and prisoner. Give me not only the courage and boldness to do this, but Your grace and peace. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Matthew 25: 31 "When he (Jesus) finally arrives, blazing in beauty and all his angels with him, the Son of Man will take his place on his glorious throne. 32 Then all the nations will be arranged before him and he will sort the people out, much as a shepherd sorts out sheep and goats, 33 putting sheep to his right and goats to his left. 34 "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what's coming to you in this kingdom. It's been ready for you since the world's foundation. 35 And here's why: I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was homeless and you gave me a room, 36 I was shivering and you gave me clothes, I was sick and you stopped to visit, I was in prison and you came to me.' 37 "Then those 'sheep' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? 38 And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?' 39 40 Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me - you did it to me.' 41 "Then he will turn to the 'goats,' the ones on his left, and say, 'Get out, worthless goats! You're good for nothing but the fires of hell. 42 And why? Because - I was hungry and you gave me no meal, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, 43 I was homeless and you gave me no bed, I was shivering and you gave me no clothes, Sick and in prison, and you never visited.' 44 "Then those 'goats' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or homeless or shivering or sick or in prison and didn't help?' 45 "He will answer them, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you failed to do one of these things to someone who was being overlooked or ignored, that was me - you failed to do it to me.' 46 "Then those 'goats' will be herded to their eternal doom, but the 'sheep' to their eternal reward." (The Message)
The demands of our job or our schooling can prioritze our life. I need to do this and I have to complete that. I don't have time for churchy things! Yet, can you imagine some students prioritizing their lives not around school but around this passage? Yes, it actually has and does happen. The ones I'm referring to were some interesting students. Their leader would awaken early and spend about an hour on his knees in prayer. Yes, one hour. Then he would spend about an hour in reading his Bible. Yep, one hour. Then he would join his friends for about an hour of worship. Then to breakfast. Then to class. After school was when the interesting part would happen. They had a schedule for what they would do to comply with this list of demands from Jesus. They would visit orphanages. They would visit jails. They would visit hospitals. They would visit widows. They actually took Jesus serious about these demands being important for the life of the believer.
The list we place up on top of most Christian lives include the words worship, prayer, Bible study, etc. This list given by Jesus very honestly comes as a result of a great and earnest relationship with Him: Feeding the hungry. Giving water to the thirsty. Helping the homeless. Clothing the naked. Visiting the sick and the prisoner. And to make it more powerful and urgent, Jesus says, "That was me whom you helped or neglected to help." Ouch. Was that you, Lord, on the street asking for money or in the homeless shelter that took the bowl of soup and thanked me and the shelter for doing this? "Yes," Jesus will reply to you and me, "That was me. Thank you again."
That group of students were mocked for their goodness by other students. They were called "holy rollers," and because they always had their Bible, "Bible Moths," and one smart alec even thought to call them, "A bunch of Methodists!" Yes, that's who we are. Thank you, Jesus. And thank you, John and Charles Wesley, and all of those of the Holy Club who started a movement that became a church that needs to become a movement again.
PRAYER: Loving God, help me to go beyond the self and society imposed demands of my time. Help me go beyond the constraints of comfort and restraints that I or my church place on me. I want to go where You would have me go, to be the Church for all, especially the you's in the hungry, thirsty, stranger, naked, sick, and prisoner. Give me not only the courage and boldness to do this, but Your grace and peace. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Thursday, November 10, 2011
What Are You Waiting For?
Our text for today comes from Judges 4: 1 The People of Israel kept right on doing evil in God's sight. With Ehud dead, 2 God sold them off to Jabin king of Canaan who ruled from Hazor. Sisera, who lived in Harosheth Haggoyim, was the commander of his army. 3 The People of Israel cried out to God because he had cruelly oppressed them with his nine hundred iron chariots for twenty years. 4 Deborah was a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth. She was judge over Israel at that time. 5 She held court under Deborah's Palm between Ramah and Bethel in the hills of Ephraim. The People of Israel went to her in matters of justice. 6 She sent for Barak son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali and said to him, "It has become clear that God, the God of Israel, commands you: Go to Mount Tabor and prepare for battle. Take ten companies of soldiers from Naphtali and Zebulun. 7 I'll take care of getting Sisera, the leader of Jabin's army, to the Kishon River with all his chariots and troops. And I'll make sure you win the battle." 8 Barak said, "If you go with me, I'll go. But if you don't go with me, I won't go." (NRSV)
This week's Lectionary does not include verse 8, but I think it makes the story more interesting to read it with the eighth verse included. Interesting how the people blame God for their own evil. It had been because of their own decisions and consequences that they ended up under foreign rule and an oppressive one at that; but they still cried out to God because it was so unpleasant living under stuch conditions. Interestingly enough, it was Deborah, who was now judge over Israel. She was God's spokesperson and ruler over Israel's limited matters. And through her role of representing God, God let her know that the time was right for a victory over this oppressive government. God even gave her the name of the man to lead this battle and that was Barak. How much more assurance do you need than to know 1) God called you by name. 2) God is with you. 3) God says you will win this battle. 4) The time is right! Well, Barak is very much like us. He says he won't go unless Deborah goes with him. That's a lot like saying, "Unless the senior pastor comes to pray with me before this surgery, I haven't been prayed for!" (Would anyone really say that?).
God has called us by name for whatever it is that God has asked of us. God is with us. God says that in all things we will be more than conquerors. God says the time is right for service. What's holding us back? There should really be nothing holding us back! Get to conquering!
PRAYER: Loving God, let nothing nor no one hold me back today. You are with me. You have called me by name to serve You and I will do whatever it is You ask of me. I can do this and all things with You by my side. In Jesus' great and powerful name I pray, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
This week's Lectionary does not include verse 8, but I think it makes the story more interesting to read it with the eighth verse included. Interesting how the people blame God for their own evil. It had been because of their own decisions and consequences that they ended up under foreign rule and an oppressive one at that; but they still cried out to God because it was so unpleasant living under stuch conditions. Interestingly enough, it was Deborah, who was now judge over Israel. She was God's spokesperson and ruler over Israel's limited matters. And through her role of representing God, God let her know that the time was right for a victory over this oppressive government. God even gave her the name of the man to lead this battle and that was Barak. How much more assurance do you need than to know 1) God called you by name. 2) God is with you. 3) God says you will win this battle. 4) The time is right! Well, Barak is very much like us. He says he won't go unless Deborah goes with him. That's a lot like saying, "Unless the senior pastor comes to pray with me before this surgery, I haven't been prayed for!" (Would anyone really say that?).
God has called us by name for whatever it is that God has asked of us. God is with us. God says that in all things we will be more than conquerors. God says the time is right for service. What's holding us back? There should really be nothing holding us back! Get to conquering!
PRAYER: Loving God, let nothing nor no one hold me back today. You are with me. You have called me by name to serve You and I will do whatever it is You ask of me. I can do this and all things with You by my side. In Jesus' great and powerful name I pray, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Wednesday, November 09, 2011
A Reflective Point
Loving God, blaze clear the path for the life of this dear reader today and all days; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Psalm 90: 1 Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. 2 Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. 3 You turn us back to dust, and say, "Turn back, you mortals." 4 For a thousand years in your sight are like yesterday when it is past, or like a watch in the night. 5 You sweep them away; they are like a dream, like grass that is renewed in the morning; 6 in the morning it flourishes and is renewed; in the evening it fades and withers. 7 For we are consumed by your anger; by your wrath we are overwhelmed. 8 You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of your countenance. 9 For all our days pass away under your wrath; our years come to an end like a sigh. 10 The days of our life are seventy years, or perhaps eighty, if we are strong; even then their span is only toil and trouble; they are soon gone, and we fly away. 11 Who considers the power of your anger? Your wrath is as great as the fear that is due you. 12 So teach us to count our days that we may gain a wise heart. 13 Turn, O Lord! How long? Have compassion on your servants! 14 Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, so that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. 15 Make us glad as many days as you have afflicted us, and as many years as we have seen evil. 16 Let your work be manifest to your servants, and your glorious power to their children. 17 Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and prosper for us the work of our hands— O prosper the work of our hands! (NRSV) (To read the modern version The Message click here: http://www.biblestudytools.com/msg/psalms/90.html).
This is one of the passages where an older translation of this passage is more appropriate than the modern one, in my opinion. It's an honest account of the Psalmist's life at that point and through prayer we can truly understand what he is trying to say to, and about, God. It's a reflective psalm as he is at a reflective point in his life and the biggest issue confronting him is his mortality and on top of that, his sinfulness. Not a happy place to be, but a necessary one. We all have those days when we're honest with God and with ourselves and we take stock of who we are and where we have been. We realize that not all our steps were God-directed. Not all our words and actions were God-pleasing. And we realize that the day may be soon coming when we will be called to account for these choices. Though we may not hear it preached very often, the Old Testament does speak a lot about God's wrath and anger. And it's usually directed towards those who make sinful decisions at some points in their lives. Is it any wonder that Wesley asked that all who wanted to join a class in the Methodist movement had to answer the question, "Are you willing to flee the coming wrath of God?"
The writer comes to an important decision point where he seeks forgiveness and compassion from God. And he seeks to want to please God more times than the times he has saddened God. Is it too much to ask that God's favor be upon God's people? Of course he realizes as do we, that God's favor does come our way and we recognize it more easily when we're seeking to do God's will than when we're wandering far away from God.
Where are you today?
PRAYER: Loving God, may I seek to close to You today. Let my eyes see Your favor upon me as my hands labor to please You. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Psalm 90: 1 Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. 2 Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. 3 You turn us back to dust, and say, "Turn back, you mortals." 4 For a thousand years in your sight are like yesterday when it is past, or like a watch in the night. 5 You sweep them away; they are like a dream, like grass that is renewed in the morning; 6 in the morning it flourishes and is renewed; in the evening it fades and withers. 7 For we are consumed by your anger; by your wrath we are overwhelmed. 8 You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of your countenance. 9 For all our days pass away under your wrath; our years come to an end like a sigh. 10 The days of our life are seventy years, or perhaps eighty, if we are strong; even then their span is only toil and trouble; they are soon gone, and we fly away. 11 Who considers the power of your anger? Your wrath is as great as the fear that is due you. 12 So teach us to count our days that we may gain a wise heart. 13 Turn, O Lord! How long? Have compassion on your servants! 14 Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, so that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. 15 Make us glad as many days as you have afflicted us, and as many years as we have seen evil. 16 Let your work be manifest to your servants, and your glorious power to their children. 17 Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and prosper for us the work of our hands— O prosper the work of our hands! (NRSV) (To read the modern version The Message click here: http://www.biblestudytools.com/msg/psalms/90.html).
This is one of the passages where an older translation of this passage is more appropriate than the modern one, in my opinion. It's an honest account of the Psalmist's life at that point and through prayer we can truly understand what he is trying to say to, and about, God. It's a reflective psalm as he is at a reflective point in his life and the biggest issue confronting him is his mortality and on top of that, his sinfulness. Not a happy place to be, but a necessary one. We all have those days when we're honest with God and with ourselves and we take stock of who we are and where we have been. We realize that not all our steps were God-directed. Not all our words and actions were God-pleasing. And we realize that the day may be soon coming when we will be called to account for these choices. Though we may not hear it preached very often, the Old Testament does speak a lot about God's wrath and anger. And it's usually directed towards those who make sinful decisions at some points in their lives. Is it any wonder that Wesley asked that all who wanted to join a class in the Methodist movement had to answer the question, "Are you willing to flee the coming wrath of God?"
The writer comes to an important decision point where he seeks forgiveness and compassion from God. And he seeks to want to please God more times than the times he has saddened God. Is it too much to ask that God's favor be upon God's people? Of course he realizes as do we, that God's favor does come our way and we recognize it more easily when we're seeking to do God's will than when we're wandering far away from God.
Where are you today?
PRAYER: Loving God, may I seek to close to You today. Let my eyes see Your favor upon me as my hands labor to please You. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.
Eradio Valverde
Tuesday, November 08, 2011
Encourage One Another!
God of all riches, provide faith and hope to the needs of this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from 1 Thessalonians 5: 1 I don't think, friends, that I need to deal with the question of when all this is going to happen. 2 You know as well as I that the day of the Master's coming can't be posted on our calendars. He won't call ahead and make an appointment any more than a burglar would. 3 About the time everybody's walking around complacently, congratulating each other - "We've sure got it made! Now we can take it easy!" - suddenly everything will fall apart. It's going to come as suddenly and inescapably as birth pangs to a pregnant woman. 4 But friends, you're not in the dark, so how could you be taken off guard by any of this? 5 You're sons of Light, daughters of Day. We live under wide open skies and know where we stand. 6 So let's not sleepwalk through life like those others. Let's keep our eyes open and be smart. 7 People sleep at night and get drunk at night. 8 But not us! Since we're creatures of Day, let's act like it. Walk out into the daylight sober, dressed up in faith, love, and the hope of salvation. 9 God didn't set us up for an angry rejection but for salvation by our Master, Jesus Christ. 10 He died for us, a death that triggered life. Whether we're awake with the living or asleep with the dead, we're alive with him! 11 So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you'll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you're already doing this; just keep on doing it. (The Message)
Christ will come again. We say that once a month during our celebration of Holy Communion. In the act of remembrance of that which Christ did for us, we celebrate that which Christ is doing and we celebrate that which Christ will do, and part of that is declaring our faith that Christ will come again. But for many of us we think, but not today. Please. We think of that day being in say, maybe, one thousand years from today. We think, but not too hard, that it might come after our death, but we prefer not to think about our death. Yes, Christ will come again, but I'm not going to worry about it. And some will and do ask, when? For Paul, there was no question. He met Christ and Christ told him that He would come again. Like He did with the disciples, He promised His return but did not give a date or time. Paul didn't worry about the day nor time, he was ready! Paul stresses to all, Christ loves you! Christ died for you! Christ wants to be with you! And Christ wants you to be with Him! So, be ready now and do all that you were created and called to do. Now.
Life is best spent living with hope and encouraging one another about that hope. We can't sit down and give up on life. Nor can we let others do that either. Christ does not want anyone left behind.
PRAYER: Loving God, help me in my purpose and plan for my life. I know You created me to do great things, among them to encourage others to have faith in You. Let me not fail. Let me share hope. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from 1 Thessalonians 5: 1 I don't think, friends, that I need to deal with the question of when all this is going to happen. 2 You know as well as I that the day of the Master's coming can't be posted on our calendars. He won't call ahead and make an appointment any more than a burglar would. 3 About the time everybody's walking around complacently, congratulating each other - "We've sure got it made! Now we can take it easy!" - suddenly everything will fall apart. It's going to come as suddenly and inescapably as birth pangs to a pregnant woman. 4 But friends, you're not in the dark, so how could you be taken off guard by any of this? 5 You're sons of Light, daughters of Day. We live under wide open skies and know where we stand. 6 So let's not sleepwalk through life like those others. Let's keep our eyes open and be smart. 7 People sleep at night and get drunk at night. 8 But not us! Since we're creatures of Day, let's act like it. Walk out into the daylight sober, dressed up in faith, love, and the hope of salvation. 9 God didn't set us up for an angry rejection but for salvation by our Master, Jesus Christ. 10 He died for us, a death that triggered life. Whether we're awake with the living or asleep with the dead, we're alive with him! 11 So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you'll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you're already doing this; just keep on doing it. (The Message)
Christ will come again. We say that once a month during our celebration of Holy Communion. In the act of remembrance of that which Christ did for us, we celebrate that which Christ is doing and we celebrate that which Christ will do, and part of that is declaring our faith that Christ will come again. But for many of us we think, but not today. Please. We think of that day being in say, maybe, one thousand years from today. We think, but not too hard, that it might come after our death, but we prefer not to think about our death. Yes, Christ will come again, but I'm not going to worry about it. And some will and do ask, when? For Paul, there was no question. He met Christ and Christ told him that He would come again. Like He did with the disciples, He promised His return but did not give a date or time. Paul didn't worry about the day nor time, he was ready! Paul stresses to all, Christ loves you! Christ died for you! Christ wants to be with you! And Christ wants you to be with Him! So, be ready now and do all that you were created and called to do. Now.
Life is best spent living with hope and encouraging one another about that hope. We can't sit down and give up on life. Nor can we let others do that either. Christ does not want anyone left behind.
PRAYER: Loving God, help me in my purpose and plan for my life. I know You created me to do great things, among them to encourage others to have faith in You. Let me not fail. Let me share hope. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Monday, November 07, 2011
Jesus Demands Our Best!
Loving God of all people, shine brightly the light of Your love upon this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Matthew 25: 14 "It's also like a man going off on an extended trip. He called his servants together and delegated responsibilities. 15 To one he gave five thousand dollars, to another two thousand, to a third one thousand, depending on their abilities. Then he left. 16 Right off, the first servant went to work and doubled his master's investment. 17 The second did the same. 18 But the man with the single thousand dug a hole and carefully buried his master's money. 19 "After a long absence, the master of those three servants came back and settled up with them. 20 The one given five thousand dollars showed him how he had doubled his investment. 21 His master commended him: 'Good work! You did your job well. From now on be my partner.' 22 "The servant with the two thousand showed how he also had doubled his master's investment. 23 His master commended him: 'Good work! You did your job well. From now on be my partner.' 24 "The servant given one thousand said, 'Master, I know you have high standards and hate careless ways, that you demand the best and make no allowances for error. 25 I was afraid I might disappoint you, so I found a good hiding place and secured your money. Here it is, safe and sound down to the last cent.' 26 "The master was furious. 'That's a terrible way to live! It's criminal to live cautiously like that! If you knew I was after the best, why did you do less than the least? 27 The least you could have done would have been to invest the sum with the bankers, where at least I would have gotten a little interest. 28 "'Take the thousand and give it to the one who risked the most. And get rid of this "play-it-safe" who won't go out on a limb. 29 30 Throw him out into utter darkness.' (The Message)
"In this economy?" It saddens my heart every time I hear that, especially in a church setting. People do silly and sad things when they fear the loss of money. Churches do worse things. Yet, here in a modern version is Jesus telling again the parable of the talents. And many have used the ancient word for a type of money to literally mean one's abilities and gifts. And that's appropriate, too. The main issue is, what have you done with what God has given you? And that questions includes abilities, talents, gifts, money, time, energy, love, et al. This version omits my favorite passage in verse 21, "'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.' 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.'" This modern version has Jesus making the faithful servants, "partners," which is not bad either. This version also has the weak servant saying, "I know you have high standards and hate careless ways, that you demand the best and make no allowances for error..." Jesus does have high standards for us; they're called ethical and loving ways to live. The "careless" way to live is to care less for the things of God and the people of God. Jesus does demand the best, which is He loves us and wants us, and wants to steer us away from sin ("error"). Is this such a terrible thing?
In God's economy, we count. We matter. God wants us. And God expects from us our best in our living, our giving, and our caring. Am I measuring up?
PRAYER: Loving God, may my mouth only share faith and hope. I pray that doubt and fear have no room in my mind or heart even in times like these. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Matthew 25: 14 "It's also like a man going off on an extended trip. He called his servants together and delegated responsibilities. 15 To one he gave five thousand dollars, to another two thousand, to a third one thousand, depending on their abilities. Then he left. 16 Right off, the first servant went to work and doubled his master's investment. 17 The second did the same. 18 But the man with the single thousand dug a hole and carefully buried his master's money. 19 "After a long absence, the master of those three servants came back and settled up with them. 20 The one given five thousand dollars showed him how he had doubled his investment. 21 His master commended him: 'Good work! You did your job well. From now on be my partner.' 22 "The servant with the two thousand showed how he also had doubled his master's investment. 23 His master commended him: 'Good work! You did your job well. From now on be my partner.' 24 "The servant given one thousand said, 'Master, I know you have high standards and hate careless ways, that you demand the best and make no allowances for error. 25 I was afraid I might disappoint you, so I found a good hiding place and secured your money. Here it is, safe and sound down to the last cent.' 26 "The master was furious. 'That's a terrible way to live! It's criminal to live cautiously like that! If you knew I was after the best, why did you do less than the least? 27 The least you could have done would have been to invest the sum with the bankers, where at least I would have gotten a little interest. 28 "'Take the thousand and give it to the one who risked the most. And get rid of this "play-it-safe" who won't go out on a limb. 29 30 Throw him out into utter darkness.' (The Message)
"In this economy?" It saddens my heart every time I hear that, especially in a church setting. People do silly and sad things when they fear the loss of money. Churches do worse things. Yet, here in a modern version is Jesus telling again the parable of the talents. And many have used the ancient word for a type of money to literally mean one's abilities and gifts. And that's appropriate, too. The main issue is, what have you done with what God has given you? And that questions includes abilities, talents, gifts, money, time, energy, love, et al. This version omits my favorite passage in verse 21, "'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.' 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.'" This modern version has Jesus making the faithful servants, "partners," which is not bad either. This version also has the weak servant saying, "I know you have high standards and hate careless ways, that you demand the best and make no allowances for error..." Jesus does have high standards for us; they're called ethical and loving ways to live. The "careless" way to live is to care less for the things of God and the people of God. Jesus does demand the best, which is He loves us and wants us, and wants to steer us away from sin ("error"). Is this such a terrible thing?
In God's economy, we count. We matter. God wants us. And God expects from us our best in our living, our giving, and our caring. Am I measuring up?
PRAYER: Loving God, may my mouth only share faith and hope. I pray that doubt and fear have no room in my mind or heart even in times like these. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Wednesday, November 02, 2011
We Who Know and Hope!
God of health and wellness, bless and strengthen this dear reader in whatever they may face today; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from 1 Thessalonians 4: 13 And regarding the question, friends, that has come up about what happens to those already dead and buried, we don't want you in the dark any longer. First off, you must not carry on over them like people who have nothing to look forward to, as if the grave were the last word. 14 Since Jesus died and broke loose from the grave, God will most certainly bring back to life those who died in Jesus. 15 And then this: We can tell you with complete confidence - we have the Master's word on it - that when the Master comes again to get us, those of us who are still alive will not get a jump on the dead and leave them behind. In actual fact, they'll be ahead of us. 16 The Master himself will give the command. Archangel thunder! God's trumpet blast! He'll come down from heaven and the dead in Christ will rise - they'll go first. 17 Then the rest of us who are still alive at the time will be caught up with them into the clouds to meet the Master. 18 Oh, we'll be walking on air! And then there will be one huge family reunion with the Master. So reassure one another with these words. (The Message)
I attended more than my share of funerals when I was young. My parents did not shield us from the realities and sufferings of death. And I'm old enough to remember a funeral being a room filled with women in black dresses and heads covered with black scarves. And I remember well the wailing and screaming that would happen whenever a new blacked-dressed woman in a scarf would walk in to join the rest. It was not a pleasant scene, but as I was later joined by siblings, we found humor and entertainment even in that; but not lacking the respect of the grief that was being felt by those mourning. Questions about what happens when we die haunt many. But not Paul. Paul had a face-to-face encounter with Jesus, Who was resurrected and Who showed and revealed to him many things, including the things that come after life. Thus with this passage he is addresses the fear and the grief of those who have lost loved ones. The first thing he teaches is, that unlike those who have no hope, we do! And because we have hope, we actually have something to look forward to! Paul saw the product of resurrection and so his hope is in the power of God to resurrect us. The rest of the passage is his portrayal of that great event of reunion with God and all of God's people.
This is a time in the Christian year when many who have died have been remembered either last Sunday or this coming Sunday. It is a sad time and a time when the question still is asked of what happens when we die. It is for us a time to remind all of what we know and hope for.
PRAYER: God of life and victory, bring to my heart the sureness of life even in the face of death. May I not fear death nor the unknown of the rest of this day and tomorrow. May my life be an example of one who trusts in You. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from 1 Thessalonians 4: 13 And regarding the question, friends, that has come up about what happens to those already dead and buried, we don't want you in the dark any longer. First off, you must not carry on over them like people who have nothing to look forward to, as if the grave were the last word. 14 Since Jesus died and broke loose from the grave, God will most certainly bring back to life those who died in Jesus. 15 And then this: We can tell you with complete confidence - we have the Master's word on it - that when the Master comes again to get us, those of us who are still alive will not get a jump on the dead and leave them behind. In actual fact, they'll be ahead of us. 16 The Master himself will give the command. Archangel thunder! God's trumpet blast! He'll come down from heaven and the dead in Christ will rise - they'll go first. 17 Then the rest of us who are still alive at the time will be caught up with them into the clouds to meet the Master. 18 Oh, we'll be walking on air! And then there will be one huge family reunion with the Master. So reassure one another with these words. (The Message)
I attended more than my share of funerals when I was young. My parents did not shield us from the realities and sufferings of death. And I'm old enough to remember a funeral being a room filled with women in black dresses and heads covered with black scarves. And I remember well the wailing and screaming that would happen whenever a new blacked-dressed woman in a scarf would walk in to join the rest. It was not a pleasant scene, but as I was later joined by siblings, we found humor and entertainment even in that; but not lacking the respect of the grief that was being felt by those mourning. Questions about what happens when we die haunt many. But not Paul. Paul had a face-to-face encounter with Jesus, Who was resurrected and Who showed and revealed to him many things, including the things that come after life. Thus with this passage he is addresses the fear and the grief of those who have lost loved ones. The first thing he teaches is, that unlike those who have no hope, we do! And because we have hope, we actually have something to look forward to! Paul saw the product of resurrection and so his hope is in the power of God to resurrect us. The rest of the passage is his portrayal of that great event of reunion with God and all of God's people.
This is a time in the Christian year when many who have died have been remembered either last Sunday or this coming Sunday. It is a sad time and a time when the question still is asked of what happens when we die. It is for us a time to remind all of what we know and hope for.
PRAYER: God of life and victory, bring to my heart the sureness of life even in the face of death. May I not fear death nor the unknown of the rest of this day and tomorrow. May my life be an example of one who trusts in You. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Tuesday, November 01, 2011
Happy Your Day, Saint?
God of grace, fill the cup of need in this dear reader with Your grace today and all days; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Matthew 5: 1 When Jesus saw his ministry drawing huge crowds, he climbed a hillside. Those who were apprenticed to him, the committed, climbed with him. Arriving at a quiet place, he sat down 2 and taught his climbing companions. This is what he said: 3 "You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule. 4 "You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you. 5 "You're blessed when you're content with just who you are - no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought. 6 "You're blessed when you've worked up a good appetite for God. He's food and drink in the best meal you'll ever eat. 7 "You're blessed when you care. At the moment of being 'carefull,' you find yourselves cared for. 8 "You're blessed when you get your inside world - your mind and heart - put right. Then you can see God in the outside world. 9 "You're blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That's when you discover who you really are, and your place in God's family. 10 "You're blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God's kingdom. 11 "Not only that - count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. 12 You can be glad when that happens - give a cheer, even! - for though they don't like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble. (The Message)
Good morning saints! Good morning sinners! Every time I have tried that on a Sunday morning I don't know why I get a louder "Good Morning!" from the sinners than the saints. Everyone who is baptized and believes in the promises of Jesus is a saint. That many times is more a liberal and generous labeling than is necessary in some folks. And I'm basing it on external expressions of faith or the lack thereof. Yet, who am I to judge? But it is up to me to encourage all to live as saints, worthy of the calling and the name. Today's passage is such a passage of example and encouragement. It is from Jesus' famous Sermon on the Mount and this morning it comes from the Message version of the Bible. As we read it we can feel the patient love of Jesus who seeks to embrace all who would listen and receive. Jesus begins by addressing those "at the end of their rope." And who hasn't or isn't there at times? Life doesn't always go our way; sometimes it seems life takes a different street and we're on the wrong street corner or midblock and life is at the stop and pulls away just as we hurriedly run to catch it. Yet, we're "blessed." Jesus then says that when there is less of us, there is more of God. Have you ever thought about that? When we feel weakest is when God can be strongest in our lives. That's a blessing is it not? Jesus also says we're blessed when we have lost "what is most dear to us," for it is then that God can embrace us. And who can't use a good embrace every day? We're also blessed when we're content with who we are; when we realize that God has made us just the way we are and we have something to offer to the world. Everything that matters was not bought but given to us by God's amazing love. That's an awesome blessing when we realize it.
We're blessed when we have worked up a great appetite for God, for God is the best food and drink that there is. Nothing the world offers comes close to that satisfaction. We're also blessed when we care for others, for it is in caring that we are cared for as well. Ours is a blessing when our "inside world," our spirit and our thoughts are put right in God. For when God is "inside" we can see the "outside" in a better light. We're blessed when we show people how to get along rather than to compete and disagree; for it is in doing so that we discover our place in God's great family. Our blessing also comes with our being persecuted; those are times when we can get even deeper into God and God's family. And we should be happy when we are found to be worthy to be put down or lied about. The saying is that we must be doing something right when we suffer insults and put-downs for God's sake. And never forget the company we're in when we're suffering in that way, for God's chosen prophets and messengers suffered in the same way. The applause that we get is the applause that matters, those done in Heaven.
So, Happy Saints Day to you! Live a life like the one Jesus mentioned above and you'll truly be a saint, not for the label but for the blessings.
PRAYER: Loving God, for many today is a day of remembering those who have died in the faith. We thank you for their lives, memories, and examples. May they seek to inspire and encourage us each day. But I thank you for the blessings that can be mine when I strive to live as one set apart by You and Your love to encourage and bless others. May it be so, for I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Matthew 5: 1 When Jesus saw his ministry drawing huge crowds, he climbed a hillside. Those who were apprenticed to him, the committed, climbed with him. Arriving at a quiet place, he sat down 2 and taught his climbing companions. This is what he said: 3 "You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule. 4 "You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you. 5 "You're blessed when you're content with just who you are - no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought. 6 "You're blessed when you've worked up a good appetite for God. He's food and drink in the best meal you'll ever eat. 7 "You're blessed when you care. At the moment of being 'carefull,' you find yourselves cared for. 8 "You're blessed when you get your inside world - your mind and heart - put right. Then you can see God in the outside world. 9 "You're blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That's when you discover who you really are, and your place in God's family. 10 "You're blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God's kingdom. 11 "Not only that - count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. 12 You can be glad when that happens - give a cheer, even! - for though they don't like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble. (The Message)
Good morning saints! Good morning sinners! Every time I have tried that on a Sunday morning I don't know why I get a louder "Good Morning!" from the sinners than the saints. Everyone who is baptized and believes in the promises of Jesus is a saint. That many times is more a liberal and generous labeling than is necessary in some folks. And I'm basing it on external expressions of faith or the lack thereof. Yet, who am I to judge? But it is up to me to encourage all to live as saints, worthy of the calling and the name. Today's passage is such a passage of example and encouragement. It is from Jesus' famous Sermon on the Mount and this morning it comes from the Message version of the Bible. As we read it we can feel the patient love of Jesus who seeks to embrace all who would listen and receive. Jesus begins by addressing those "at the end of their rope." And who hasn't or isn't there at times? Life doesn't always go our way; sometimes it seems life takes a different street and we're on the wrong street corner or midblock and life is at the stop and pulls away just as we hurriedly run to catch it. Yet, we're "blessed." Jesus then says that when there is less of us, there is more of God. Have you ever thought about that? When we feel weakest is when God can be strongest in our lives. That's a blessing is it not? Jesus also says we're blessed when we have lost "what is most dear to us," for it is then that God can embrace us. And who can't use a good embrace every day? We're also blessed when we're content with who we are; when we realize that God has made us just the way we are and we have something to offer to the world. Everything that matters was not bought but given to us by God's amazing love. That's an awesome blessing when we realize it.
We're blessed when we have worked up a great appetite for God, for God is the best food and drink that there is. Nothing the world offers comes close to that satisfaction. We're also blessed when we care for others, for it is in caring that we are cared for as well. Ours is a blessing when our "inside world," our spirit and our thoughts are put right in God. For when God is "inside" we can see the "outside" in a better light. We're blessed when we show people how to get along rather than to compete and disagree; for it is in doing so that we discover our place in God's great family. Our blessing also comes with our being persecuted; those are times when we can get even deeper into God and God's family. And we should be happy when we are found to be worthy to be put down or lied about. The saying is that we must be doing something right when we suffer insults and put-downs for God's sake. And never forget the company we're in when we're suffering in that way, for God's chosen prophets and messengers suffered in the same way. The applause that we get is the applause that matters, those done in Heaven.
So, Happy Saints Day to you! Live a life like the one Jesus mentioned above and you'll truly be a saint, not for the label but for the blessings.
PRAYER: Loving God, for many today is a day of remembering those who have died in the faith. We thank you for their lives, memories, and examples. May they seek to inspire and encourage us each day. But I thank you for the blessings that can be mine when I strive to live as one set apart by You and Your love to encourage and bless others. May it be so, for I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Monday, October 31, 2011
The Journey of Being Ready
Amazing God of love, bless and protect this dear reader in all that they may face today; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Matthew 25: 1 "God's kingdom is like ten young virgins who took oil lamps and went out to greet the bridegroom. 2 Five were silly and five were smart. 3 The silly virgins took lamps, but no extra oil. 4 The smart virgins took jars of oil to feed their lamps. 5 The bridegroom didn't show up when they expected him, and they all fell asleep. 6 "In the middle of the night someone yelled out, 'He's here! The bridegroom's here! Go out and greet him!' 7 "The ten virgins got up and got their lamps ready. 8 The silly virgins said to the smart ones, 'Our lamps are going out; lend us some of your oil.' 9 "They answered, 'There might not be enough to go around; go buy your own.' 10 "They did, but while they were out buying oil, the bridegroom arrived. When everyone who was there to greet him had gone into the wedding feast, the door was locked. 11 "Much later, the other virgins, the silly ones, showed up and knocked on the door, saying, 'Master, we're here. Let us in.' 12 "He answered, 'Do I know you? I don't think I know you.' 13 "So stay alert. You have no idea when he might arrive. (The Message)
"Christ will come again." It is part of our Holy Communion ritual and it is a tenet of our faith as Christians. The questions most seminary professors ask, "What have we done with His first coming? And what are we doing to prepare for His second coming?" Both are great questions and as much a part of our faith as our declaration of Christ's return. This teaching from Jesus has to do with our being ready. We should be ready daily to receive Jesus and His leading in our lives; and we should be ready to live a life that shows others that they too, should be ready for Jesus and all that He offers. The illustration mentioned above as late as the 20th Century was still a part of Palestinian life. I do not know if it still is, but the wedding celebration was a festive week or so. The bride and her bridesmaids would gather early and have their celebrations and await the arrival of the groom and his party. The tradition was to try and catch the bridal party asleep, so the bridegroom could come at any hour. The understanding was that no one was allowed on the street after dark without a lampt and so readiness involved having enough oil for the lamp while they awaited the arrival of the groom.
The Kingdom of God requires our commitment to being ready. Ready to enter in and ready to serve. We do not know the time nor date of Jesus' return, but we labor on, ready at each instant for that return. Jesus was stressing to His disciples and to us, that there is so much still to be done that we cannot just sit and look skyward. We must continue to care for one another as the second part of this chapter in Matthew will show. In the meantime, we do not lose heart nor hope. The journey should be as fulfilling as the destination.
PRAYER: Loving God, as I journey on today, remind me of the joy that is mine as I seek to serve You and Yours. May I not lose heart nor hope about all that is mine now and can be others if I but show them the way. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Matthew 25: 1 "God's kingdom is like ten young virgins who took oil lamps and went out to greet the bridegroom. 2 Five were silly and five were smart. 3 The silly virgins took lamps, but no extra oil. 4 The smart virgins took jars of oil to feed their lamps. 5 The bridegroom didn't show up when they expected him, and they all fell asleep. 6 "In the middle of the night someone yelled out, 'He's here! The bridegroom's here! Go out and greet him!' 7 "The ten virgins got up and got their lamps ready. 8 The silly virgins said to the smart ones, 'Our lamps are going out; lend us some of your oil.' 9 "They answered, 'There might not be enough to go around; go buy your own.' 10 "They did, but while they were out buying oil, the bridegroom arrived. When everyone who was there to greet him had gone into the wedding feast, the door was locked. 11 "Much later, the other virgins, the silly ones, showed up and knocked on the door, saying, 'Master, we're here. Let us in.' 12 "He answered, 'Do I know you? I don't think I know you.' 13 "So stay alert. You have no idea when he might arrive. (The Message)
"Christ will come again." It is part of our Holy Communion ritual and it is a tenet of our faith as Christians. The questions most seminary professors ask, "What have we done with His first coming? And what are we doing to prepare for His second coming?" Both are great questions and as much a part of our faith as our declaration of Christ's return. This teaching from Jesus has to do with our being ready. We should be ready daily to receive Jesus and His leading in our lives; and we should be ready to live a life that shows others that they too, should be ready for Jesus and all that He offers. The illustration mentioned above as late as the 20th Century was still a part of Palestinian life. I do not know if it still is, but the wedding celebration was a festive week or so. The bride and her bridesmaids would gather early and have their celebrations and await the arrival of the groom and his party. The tradition was to try and catch the bridal party asleep, so the bridegroom could come at any hour. The understanding was that no one was allowed on the street after dark without a lampt and so readiness involved having enough oil for the lamp while they awaited the arrival of the groom.
The Kingdom of God requires our commitment to being ready. Ready to enter in and ready to serve. We do not know the time nor date of Jesus' return, but we labor on, ready at each instant for that return. Jesus was stressing to His disciples and to us, that there is so much still to be done that we cannot just sit and look skyward. We must continue to care for one another as the second part of this chapter in Matthew will show. In the meantime, we do not lose heart nor hope. The journey should be as fulfilling as the destination.
PRAYER: Loving God, as I journey on today, remind me of the joy that is mine as I seek to serve You and Yours. May I not lose heart nor hope about all that is mine now and can be others if I but show them the way. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Thursday, October 27, 2011
A Wonderful Journey Back?
God of all days, may the present of today be Your presence with this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Psalm 107: 1 Oh, thank God - he's so good! His love never runs out. 2 All of you set free by God, tell the world! Tell how he freed you from oppression, 3 Then rounded you up from all over the place, from the four winds, from the seven seas. 4 Some of you wandered for years in the desert, looking but not finding a good place to live, 5 Half-starved and parched with thirst, staggering and stumbling, on the brink of exhaustion. 6 Then, in your desperate condition, you called out to God. He got you out in the nick of time; 7 He put your feet on a wonderful road that took you straight to a good place to live. 33 God turned rivers into wasteland, springs of water into sunbaked mud; 34 Luscious orchards became alkali flats because of the evil of the people who lived there. 35 Then he changed wasteland into fresh pools of water, arid earth into springs of water, 36 Brought in the hungry and settled them there; they moved in - what a great place to live! 37 They sowed the fields, they planted vineyards, they reaped a bountiful harvest. (The Message)
People are prone to wander, usually by necessity. Some show up in our communities. Some leave our communities. We'll never fully understand why. Do you understand why you may have wandered in your younger age or why you can't wait to retire so that you can wander back, wherever back may be? I know of at least two songs that tell of the hope of one day coming back or coming home. One was sung while at a Walk to Emmaus in Puerto Rico. The song is "My Viejo San Juan," and as this all-male "choir" sang it, tears formed on their eyes and on the eyes of those of us hearing it for the first time. We understood the words. It would be later that we learned the song was written for soliders from the island leaving to fight in a World War. Later the song came to mean something to all Puerto Ricans who left or were born off the island. The other song is from, I believe, Mexico, called "Adios Mariquita Linda" and also represents the departure of a beloved homeland to a foreign place. The hope is the promise of one day returning. And yet a third comes to mind, "Mi Tierra." And yes, even Dorothy knew, "There's no place like home." Or was it Toto who understood that better?
The Psalmist knew of God's love that would one day allow for a return to that place where we really are at home. The home promised in this psalm is a promise of restoration to wholeness. It is a journey back to where love, health, prosperity and abundance are all present for us, wonderfully provided by God for us all. This resonated well with those who left home either through economic hardships or the results of war or forced relocation; what a promise to return home!
Where have you wandered? What do you long for from where you left? Maybe where you're from is not as good as that place to which God is leading you and me. We can be sure of one thing, as God leads us, we are truly blessed now and will be wowed by the blessings that await us!
PRAYER: Lead on, Awesome God! Help me in my faltering steps and hold me when I faint. May I truly seek that which You are providing now and are preparing for my eventual arrival. May I not lose sight of all that I can and should do while on this journey, for there are many in need. I pray this in Christ Jesus, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Psalm 107: 1 Oh, thank God - he's so good! His love never runs out. 2 All of you set free by God, tell the world! Tell how he freed you from oppression, 3 Then rounded you up from all over the place, from the four winds, from the seven seas. 4 Some of you wandered for years in the desert, looking but not finding a good place to live, 5 Half-starved and parched with thirst, staggering and stumbling, on the brink of exhaustion. 6 Then, in your desperate condition, you called out to God. He got you out in the nick of time; 7 He put your feet on a wonderful road that took you straight to a good place to live. 33 God turned rivers into wasteland, springs of water into sunbaked mud; 34 Luscious orchards became alkali flats because of the evil of the people who lived there. 35 Then he changed wasteland into fresh pools of water, arid earth into springs of water, 36 Brought in the hungry and settled them there; they moved in - what a great place to live! 37 They sowed the fields, they planted vineyards, they reaped a bountiful harvest. (The Message)
People are prone to wander, usually by necessity. Some show up in our communities. Some leave our communities. We'll never fully understand why. Do you understand why you may have wandered in your younger age or why you can't wait to retire so that you can wander back, wherever back may be? I know of at least two songs that tell of the hope of one day coming back or coming home. One was sung while at a Walk to Emmaus in Puerto Rico. The song is "My Viejo San Juan," and as this all-male "choir" sang it, tears formed on their eyes and on the eyes of those of us hearing it for the first time. We understood the words. It would be later that we learned the song was written for soliders from the island leaving to fight in a World War. Later the song came to mean something to all Puerto Ricans who left or were born off the island. The other song is from, I believe, Mexico, called "Adios Mariquita Linda" and also represents the departure of a beloved homeland to a foreign place. The hope is the promise of one day returning. And yet a third comes to mind, "Mi Tierra." And yes, even Dorothy knew, "There's no place like home." Or was it Toto who understood that better?
The Psalmist knew of God's love that would one day allow for a return to that place where we really are at home. The home promised in this psalm is a promise of restoration to wholeness. It is a journey back to where love, health, prosperity and abundance are all present for us, wonderfully provided by God for us all. This resonated well with those who left home either through economic hardships or the results of war or forced relocation; what a promise to return home!
Where have you wandered? What do you long for from where you left? Maybe where you're from is not as good as that place to which God is leading you and me. We can be sure of one thing, as God leads us, we are truly blessed now and will be wowed by the blessings that await us!
PRAYER: Lead on, Awesome God! Help me in my faltering steps and hold me when I faint. May I truly seek that which You are providing now and are preparing for my eventual arrival. May I not lose sight of all that I can and should do while on this journey, for there are many in need. I pray this in Christ Jesus, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Crossing the Jordan River
Loving God of unexpected joys and surprises, may this day prove to such a joy to this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from Joshua 3: 7 God said to Joshua, "This very day I will begin to make you great in the eyes of all Israel. They'll see for themselves that I'm with you in the same way that I was with Moses. 8 You will command the priests who are carrying the Chest of the Covenant: 'When you come to the edge of the Jordan's waters, stand there on the river bank.'" 9 Then Joshua addressed the People of Israel: "Attention! Listen to what God, your God, has to say. 10 This is how you'll know that God is alive among you - he will completely dispossess before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites, and Jebusites. 11 Look at what's before you: the Chest (Ark) of the Covenant. Think of it - the Master of the entire earth is crossing the Jordan as you watch. 12 Now take twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one man from each tribe. 13 When the soles of the feet of the priests carrying the Chest of God, Master of all the earth, touch the Jordan's water, the flow of water will be stopped - the water coming from upstream will pile up in a heap." 14 And that's what happened. The people left their tents to cross the Jordan, led by the priests carrying the Chest of the Covenant. 15 When the priests got to the Jordan and their feet touched the water at the edge (the Jordan overflows its banks throughout the harvest), 16 the flow of water stopped. It piled up in a heap - a long way off - at Adam, which is near Zarethan. The river went dry all the way down to the Arabah Sea (the Salt Sea). And the people crossed, facing Jericho. 17 And there they stood; those priests carrying the Chest of the Covenant stood firmly planted on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan while all Israel crossed on dry ground. Finally the whole nation was across the Jordan, and not one wet foot. (The Message)
To follow someone as leader of a group or organization or even a church is never easy. The grief of having lost the former leader is not easily nor quickly forgotten, especially if the former leader was effective and well-loved. I have read and heard some less than pleasant stories of those who have come into an organization to try and lead once a beloved leader is gone. Think Apple Computers with Steve Jobs now gone. Think of a mega church with a new pastor. That's what God was addressing in the life of Joshua and the people of Israel. Moses was dead and now Joshua is in command. This selection was not an easy one for the usually grumbling people of God. And Josh knew that Mo was a hard act to follow! Yet, God steps in and says, "Don't worry about it, I am with you and beginning right now, you're going to look better and better in the eyes of these people." Keep in mind that it was Moses through whom God did some pretty amazing things, and most felt it was just Moses himself who had the power to open up the Red Sea and cross. Yet, now at the border of the Jordan River, God says, "Watch this." And another similar miracle happens, and the entire people of God, a new generation who had not experienced not seen the first miracle, only heard of it, now cross over dry land where there should be a river.
Josh's job was difficult. He had to convince the priests to trust God as they started walking towards the flood banks of the Jordan. There were twelve of them! He had to say to them, "Trust me, God is with us! Just walk!" Would you have had that faith to be one of the 12? How about the faith to be Joshua? Yet, the story says that the priests trusted enough to begin walking into the flood waters and to follow Joshua's command. The water opened up and across dry land they went into the Promised Land. The River Jordan has come to symbolize many things for many people since that day. Some even use it as the symbol of crossing from this life into the next. One song we sang a lot in Spanish was "I will not cross alone the Jordan River." And it's based on the faith we find in this story.
What "Jordan River" are you facing? What first steps do you have to take to make the journey across that challenge or opportunity? Trust God and start walking!
PRAYER: God of all faith, give me the faith of Joshua to face what I may face today. May I know You are with me as I walk towards the flooded banks of fear/opportunity. I know that with You by my side I will walk on dry land safely across. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Joshua 3: 7 God said to Joshua, "This very day I will begin to make you great in the eyes of all Israel. They'll see for themselves that I'm with you in the same way that I was with Moses. 8 You will command the priests who are carrying the Chest of the Covenant: 'When you come to the edge of the Jordan's waters, stand there on the river bank.'" 9 Then Joshua addressed the People of Israel: "Attention! Listen to what God, your God, has to say. 10 This is how you'll know that God is alive among you - he will completely dispossess before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites, and Jebusites. 11 Look at what's before you: the Chest (Ark) of the Covenant. Think of it - the Master of the entire earth is crossing the Jordan as you watch. 12 Now take twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one man from each tribe. 13 When the soles of the feet of the priests carrying the Chest of God, Master of all the earth, touch the Jordan's water, the flow of water will be stopped - the water coming from upstream will pile up in a heap." 14 And that's what happened. The people left their tents to cross the Jordan, led by the priests carrying the Chest of the Covenant. 15 When the priests got to the Jordan and their feet touched the water at the edge (the Jordan overflows its banks throughout the harvest), 16 the flow of water stopped. It piled up in a heap - a long way off - at Adam, which is near Zarethan. The river went dry all the way down to the Arabah Sea (the Salt Sea). And the people crossed, facing Jericho. 17 And there they stood; those priests carrying the Chest of the Covenant stood firmly planted on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan while all Israel crossed on dry ground. Finally the whole nation was across the Jordan, and not one wet foot. (The Message)
To follow someone as leader of a group or organization or even a church is never easy. The grief of having lost the former leader is not easily nor quickly forgotten, especially if the former leader was effective and well-loved. I have read and heard some less than pleasant stories of those who have come into an organization to try and lead once a beloved leader is gone. Think Apple Computers with Steve Jobs now gone. Think of a mega church with a new pastor. That's what God was addressing in the life of Joshua and the people of Israel. Moses was dead and now Joshua is in command. This selection was not an easy one for the usually grumbling people of God. And Josh knew that Mo was a hard act to follow! Yet, God steps in and says, "Don't worry about it, I am with you and beginning right now, you're going to look better and better in the eyes of these people." Keep in mind that it was Moses through whom God did some pretty amazing things, and most felt it was just Moses himself who had the power to open up the Red Sea and cross. Yet, now at the border of the Jordan River, God says, "Watch this." And another similar miracle happens, and the entire people of God, a new generation who had not experienced not seen the first miracle, only heard of it, now cross over dry land where there should be a river.
Josh's job was difficult. He had to convince the priests to trust God as they started walking towards the flood banks of the Jordan. There were twelve of them! He had to say to them, "Trust me, God is with us! Just walk!" Would you have had that faith to be one of the 12? How about the faith to be Joshua? Yet, the story says that the priests trusted enough to begin walking into the flood waters and to follow Joshua's command. The water opened up and across dry land they went into the Promised Land. The River Jordan has come to symbolize many things for many people since that day. Some even use it as the symbol of crossing from this life into the next. One song we sang a lot in Spanish was "I will not cross alone the Jordan River." And it's based on the faith we find in this story.
What "Jordan River" are you facing? What first steps do you have to take to make the journey across that challenge or opportunity? Trust God and start walking!
PRAYER: God of all faith, give me the faith of Joshua to face what I may face today. May I know You are with me as I walk towards the flooded banks of fear/opportunity. I know that with You by my side I will walk on dry land safely across. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Human Opinion or God's True Word?
Loving God, granter of life, thank You for this precious day; may it be a precious day in the life of this dear reader; in Christ Jesus I pray, amen.
Our text for today comes from 1 Thessalonians 2: 9 You remember us in those days, friends, working our fingers to the bone, up half the night, moonlighting so you wouldn't have the burden of supporting us while we proclaimed God's Message to you. 10 You saw with your own eyes how discreet and courteous we were among you, with keen sensitivity to you as fellow believers. And God knows we weren't freeloaders! 11 You experienced it all firsthand. With each of you we were like a father with his child, 12 holding your hand, whispering encouragement, showing you step-by-step how to live well before God, who called us into his own kingdom, into this delightful life. 13 And now we look back on all this and thank God, an artesian well of thanks! When you got the Message of God we preached, you didn't pass it off as just one more human opinion, but you took it to heart as God's true word to you, which it is, God himself at work in you believers! (The Message)
The Apostle Paul encountered many good people in his journeys of sharing the Good News with everyone. As he established churches he found that in them were found many good people, and some not so good. The same is true today. My only encouragemenet with the ones who are not yet where God would have them be, is that they're in the right place for perhaps one day God touching them and bringing them to faith. In this passage he is reminding these readers of how he and those with him worked hard at supporting themselves so that they would not be a burden to them while they labored among them in preaching and teaching the Gospel. They were to them like fathers who encouraged and held hands so they would not slip nor fall from their faith. And now as they looked back on those days, they rejoice because God's word became a living word,a true word; God Himself at work in the life of believers.
How about you? Is God alive and working in you or have you not yet made room for God in your life? And how do you view the Good News of God? A good human opinion of possibilities or options or have you received it as God's true word for your life? The right choice might make all the difference in the world (and Heaven!).
PRAYER: Loving God, bring rich and wonderful blessings upon Your church. For those who believe make their faith stronger. For those who have not yet come to faith, bless and protect them and help them come to true, living faith. Bless and protect those pastoral leaders among them, giving them encouragement and support during each day. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from 1 Thessalonians 2: 9 You remember us in those days, friends, working our fingers to the bone, up half the night, moonlighting so you wouldn't have the burden of supporting us while we proclaimed God's Message to you. 10 You saw with your own eyes how discreet and courteous we were among you, with keen sensitivity to you as fellow believers. And God knows we weren't freeloaders! 11 You experienced it all firsthand. With each of you we were like a father with his child, 12 holding your hand, whispering encouragement, showing you step-by-step how to live well before God, who called us into his own kingdom, into this delightful life. 13 And now we look back on all this and thank God, an artesian well of thanks! When you got the Message of God we preached, you didn't pass it off as just one more human opinion, but you took it to heart as God's true word to you, which it is, God himself at work in you believers! (The Message)
The Apostle Paul encountered many good people in his journeys of sharing the Good News with everyone. As he established churches he found that in them were found many good people, and some not so good. The same is true today. My only encouragemenet with the ones who are not yet where God would have them be, is that they're in the right place for perhaps one day God touching them and bringing them to faith. In this passage he is reminding these readers of how he and those with him worked hard at supporting themselves so that they would not be a burden to them while they labored among them in preaching and teaching the Gospel. They were to them like fathers who encouraged and held hands so they would not slip nor fall from their faith. And now as they looked back on those days, they rejoice because God's word became a living word,a true word; God Himself at work in the life of believers.
How about you? Is God alive and working in you or have you not yet made room for God in your life? And how do you view the Good News of God? A good human opinion of possibilities or options or have you received it as God's true word for your life? The right choice might make all the difference in the world (and Heaven!).
PRAYER: Loving God, bring rich and wonderful blessings upon Your church. For those who believe make their faith stronger. For those who have not yet come to faith, bless and protect them and help them come to true, living faith. Bless and protect those pastoral leaders among them, giving them encouragement and support during each day. I pray this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Monday, October 24, 2011
Christ is Our Life-Leader!
Loving God of new challenges and opportunities, bless and guide this dear reader into an awesome adventure of faith this day; I pray in Christ Jesus' name, amen.
Our text for today comes from Matthew 23: 1 Now Jesus turned to address his disciples, along with the crowd that had gathered with them. 2 "The religion scholars and Pharisees are competent teachers in God's Law. 3 You won't go wrong in following their teachings on Moses. But be careful about following them. They talk a good line, but they don't live it. They don't take it into their hearts and live it out in their behavior. It's all spit-and-polish veneer. 4 "Instead of giving you God's Law as food and drink by which you can banquet on God, they package it in bundles of rules, loading you down like pack animals. They seem to take pleasure in watching you stagger under these loads, and wouldn't think of lifting a finger to help. 5 Their lives are perpetual fashion shows, embroidered prayer shawls one day and flowery prayers the next. 6 They love to sit at the head table at church dinners, basking in the most prominent positions, 7 preening in the radiance of public flattery, receiving honorary degrees, and getting called 'Doctor' and 'Reverend.' 8 "Don't let people do that to you, put you on a pedestal like that. You all have a single Teacher, and you are all classmates. 9 Don't set people up as experts over your life, letting them tell you what to do. Save that authority for God; let him tell you what to do. No one else should carry the title of 'Father'; you have only one Father, and he's in heaven. 10 And don't let people maneuver you into taking charge of them. There is only one Life-Leader for you and them - Christ. 11 "Do you want to stand out? Then step down. Be a servant. 12 If you puff yourself up, you'll get the wind knocked out of you. But if you're content to simply be yourself, your life will count for plenty. (The Message)
Jesus is saying, Be careful what you preach and teach because you must live it. Jesus knew from hearing and seeing the religious authority figures of His day, that they taught what they knew well. What they didn't do well was to live their teachings. And worse because it was all head teachings, they did not know how to teach it from the heart. They had no personal relationship with God. Their teaching was all theory. And theory when not proven and lived, remains something unobtainable. They began to see their job as to teach the Don'ts instead of sharing God's love for humanity. Jesus came so that we could see God's love incarnate.
Our Life-Leader is Christ. In Jesus we have the perfect model of an obedient life surrended to God, a life that knew and lived the teachings and power behind the Law. We can do no wrong in following and surrendering our lives to Jesus Christ.
PRAYER: Loving God, let me surrender myself completely to You. May I see and seek in you my life's leading; be my Life-Leader. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Our text for today comes from Matthew 23: 1 Now Jesus turned to address his disciples, along with the crowd that had gathered with them. 2 "The religion scholars and Pharisees are competent teachers in God's Law. 3 You won't go wrong in following their teachings on Moses. But be careful about following them. They talk a good line, but they don't live it. They don't take it into their hearts and live it out in their behavior. It's all spit-and-polish veneer. 4 "Instead of giving you God's Law as food and drink by which you can banquet on God, they package it in bundles of rules, loading you down like pack animals. They seem to take pleasure in watching you stagger under these loads, and wouldn't think of lifting a finger to help. 5 Their lives are perpetual fashion shows, embroidered prayer shawls one day and flowery prayers the next. 6 They love to sit at the head table at church dinners, basking in the most prominent positions, 7 preening in the radiance of public flattery, receiving honorary degrees, and getting called 'Doctor' and 'Reverend.' 8 "Don't let people do that to you, put you on a pedestal like that. You all have a single Teacher, and you are all classmates. 9 Don't set people up as experts over your life, letting them tell you what to do. Save that authority for God; let him tell you what to do. No one else should carry the title of 'Father'; you have only one Father, and he's in heaven. 10 And don't let people maneuver you into taking charge of them. There is only one Life-Leader for you and them - Christ. 11 "Do you want to stand out? Then step down. Be a servant. 12 If you puff yourself up, you'll get the wind knocked out of you. But if you're content to simply be yourself, your life will count for plenty. (The Message)
Jesus is saying, Be careful what you preach and teach because you must live it. Jesus knew from hearing and seeing the religious authority figures of His day, that they taught what they knew well. What they didn't do well was to live their teachings. And worse because it was all head teachings, they did not know how to teach it from the heart. They had no personal relationship with God. Their teaching was all theory. And theory when not proven and lived, remains something unobtainable. They began to see their job as to teach the Don'ts instead of sharing God's love for humanity. Jesus came so that we could see God's love incarnate.
Our Life-Leader is Christ. In Jesus we have the perfect model of an obedient life surrended to God, a life that knew and lived the teachings and power behind the Law. We can do no wrong in following and surrendering our lives to Jesus Christ.
PRAYER: Loving God, let me surrender myself completely to You. May I see and seek in you my life's leading; be my Life-Leader. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious and powerful name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
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