Read 2 Corinthians 12-13
Today's Devotion-- 2 Cor 13:5-7
5Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? 6And I trust that you will discover that we have not failed the test. 7Now we pray to God that you will not do anything wrong. Not that people will see that we have stood the test but that you will do what is right even though we may seem to have failed. (NIV)
taken from www.biblegateway.com
When I was a teenager I was a member of a local church where many of my friends attended. As with many new believers, I was devout and fervent in my faith. But on a church-sponsored senior trip with my friends, I found out that many of the people I looked up to as Christians often made poor choices. Some of the 'most Christian' kids in the youth group were talking about life one way in class and living another way in their daily lives. Even some of the adult sponsors weren't being as perfect as I presumed they were (and expected them to be). I became frustrated with this 'Christian' thing and and pretty much gave up on religion for more than 15 years.
This passage is convicting to me. Instead of looking into my own heart and examining my faith (which was obviously pretty weak), I judged others and used their examples as an excuse to stop doing what was hard (maintaining faith in a self-centered world) and to go along with the crowd. Don't get me wrong, compared to most I was still a 'good girl' (although I don't know why I feel obligated to say that...maybe because my Mom reads this!), but I didn't make choices that glorified God.
Over the years I realized that Christians are far from perfect, and that I shouldn't be judging their faith. Most importantly, I shouldn't be evaluating my faith by looking at others. God has expectations for me alone, and I need to be living up to those...nothing else.
It's still really easy to judge myself and see my failures more than my successes, but I know that God loves me no matter what I do....which makes me want to do his will even more! I won't be a 'perfect' Christian until the day I stand in front of the King and Jesus himself steps in front of me to cover my failures.
It's scary to think, though, that there may be new Christians out there, just like I was, watching my actions to see if I stand up to the 'perfect' example they expect. I know that I will fail. I pray that God gives them the grace and the wisdom to not use my failures as an excuse to step away from the faith.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
2 Corinthians -- Sharing the Gospel
Read 2 Corinthians 10-11
Today's Devotion 2 Cor 10:10-11
10For some say, "His letters are weighty and forceful, but in person he is unimpressive and his speaking amounts to nothing." 11Such people should realize that what we are in our letters when we are absent, we will be in our actions when we are present. (NIV)
taken from www.biblegateway.com
When you think of Paul, what kind of speaker to do you imagine he was? I presumed he was all 'fire and brimstone', powerfully admonishing sinners and proclaiming the salvation of Christ. He may be reflecting his modesty in this passage, but I imagine he's repeating things that he's heard others say about him. What if his speaking was monotone, unimaginative, and, well, downright boring? Hard to imagine, but even if it is true, he had an amazing impact on the people who heard him speak.
The real value we are able to gain, though, is from his letters. They are pretty clear and to the point with truths from the Gospel. If we have trouble understanding his meaning, we are able to go back again and again to learn more.
Do you have difficulty sharing the gospel with others? Maybe Paul's idea here would work for us, too. If we took the time to think through the message we want to share with a specific person, we could write it down. That way we wouldn't be distracted or deterred from completing our thoughts. In addition, the person who receives the letter will have the opportunity to go back to it again and again, allowing him or her to reflect on the message and ask questions for clarification. Yes, it's possible that the letter may get thrown away, but in the process of writing you may have the chance to solidify the message in your own head so you are better prepared to speak it in the future!
Who in your life who would benefit from a heartfelt letter about Jesus? I challenge you to write it...and send it!
Today's Devotion 2 Cor 10:10-11
10For some say, "His letters are weighty and forceful, but in person he is unimpressive and his speaking amounts to nothing." 11Such people should realize that what we are in our letters when we are absent, we will be in our actions when we are present. (NIV)
taken from www.biblegateway.com
When you think of Paul, what kind of speaker to do you imagine he was? I presumed he was all 'fire and brimstone', powerfully admonishing sinners and proclaiming the salvation of Christ. He may be reflecting his modesty in this passage, but I imagine he's repeating things that he's heard others say about him. What if his speaking was monotone, unimaginative, and, well, downright boring? Hard to imagine, but even if it is true, he had an amazing impact on the people who heard him speak.
The real value we are able to gain, though, is from his letters. They are pretty clear and to the point with truths from the Gospel. If we have trouble understanding his meaning, we are able to go back again and again to learn more.
Do you have difficulty sharing the gospel with others? Maybe Paul's idea here would work for us, too. If we took the time to think through the message we want to share with a specific person, we could write it down. That way we wouldn't be distracted or deterred from completing our thoughts. In addition, the person who receives the letter will have the opportunity to go back to it again and again, allowing him or her to reflect on the message and ask questions for clarification. Yes, it's possible that the letter may get thrown away, but in the process of writing you may have the chance to solidify the message in your own head so you are better prepared to speak it in the future!
Who in your life who would benefit from a heartfelt letter about Jesus? I challenge you to write it...and send it!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
2 Corinthians -- God's Blessing
Read 2 Corinthians 8-9 (yes, we skipped 6-7, you can go back and read them if you want!).
Today's Devotion -- 2 Cor 9:6-11
6Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9As it is written: "He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever."
10Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. (NIV)
taken from www.biblegateway.com
In the news this morning I saw that the OPEC countries have decided to reduce production amounts, which will lead to more increases in the cost of gasoline (NOTE: Remember yesterday's devotion? Don't take my word for it or panic over this info...check it out for yourself to be sure I'm reporting correctly!). Of course this may lead to additional increases in the cost of other things we buy, like food and household supplies. Unfortunately, no ones' income is rising at the same rate.
When your expenses increase and your income doesn't, how do you balance your household budget? Do you cut back on extras like eating out, cable/satellite, and fun things like entertainment, gifts, and vacation? Do you increase the amount you charge on credit cards? Or do you cut back on your saving and giving?
It sounds like people in the Macedonian churches and the one in Corinth were dealing with difficult financial situations, too. In fact, Paul talks about the Macedonian churches giving out of their extreme poverty and they saw it as a privilege to share.
God doesn't intend for us to go into debt to pay our tithes, but he does intend for us to live within the income level he's provided. Sometimes that means we have to make tough decisions about what and where we eat, what we drive, and even where we live. Often our choices define our circumstances, but we continue our costly habits while we hurt our future by not saving anything and increasing our debt. And we stop giving God back a portion of what he's given us.
God promises that he will give us what we need (but not necessarily what we want). However, we have to be responsible with what he gives so we can honor him with the way we live. This passage gives us two promises we can count on
-- he will make all grace abound in us so that in ALL things at ALL times we have ALL we need so we can abound in every good work (presuming we use it wisely), and
-- We will be made rich in every way so we can be generous on every occasion.
That doesn't mean we get increased income (although he can do that if he wants), but it means we will always have enough to share. How is he asking you to share today?
SHAMELESS PLUG: If you are having difficulty making ends meet or would like to find ways to give what you would really like to give, a new Financial Peace University class will be starting this Sunday. Send me a note and I can give you more information. This class isn't just for folks who are in debt (although it helps immensely if you are), it can help you plan ways to give, save, and prepare for the future while enjoying what you make today. More information is available at www.daveramsey.com.
Today's Devotion -- 2 Cor 9:6-11
6Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9As it is written: "He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever."
10Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. (NIV)
taken from www.biblegateway.com
In the news this morning I saw that the OPEC countries have decided to reduce production amounts, which will lead to more increases in the cost of gasoline (NOTE: Remember yesterday's devotion? Don't take my word for it or panic over this info...check it out for yourself to be sure I'm reporting correctly!). Of course this may lead to additional increases in the cost of other things we buy, like food and household supplies. Unfortunately, no ones' income is rising at the same rate.
When your expenses increase and your income doesn't, how do you balance your household budget? Do you cut back on extras like eating out, cable/satellite, and fun things like entertainment, gifts, and vacation? Do you increase the amount you charge on credit cards? Or do you cut back on your saving and giving?
It sounds like people in the Macedonian churches and the one in Corinth were dealing with difficult financial situations, too. In fact, Paul talks about the Macedonian churches giving out of their extreme poverty and they saw it as a privilege to share.
God doesn't intend for us to go into debt to pay our tithes, but he does intend for us to live within the income level he's provided. Sometimes that means we have to make tough decisions about what and where we eat, what we drive, and even where we live. Often our choices define our circumstances, but we continue our costly habits while we hurt our future by not saving anything and increasing our debt. And we stop giving God back a portion of what he's given us.
God promises that he will give us what we need (but not necessarily what we want). However, we have to be responsible with what he gives so we can honor him with the way we live. This passage gives us two promises we can count on
-- he will make all grace abound in us so that in ALL things at ALL times we have ALL we need so we can abound in every good work (presuming we use it wisely), and
-- We will be made rich in every way so we can be generous on every occasion.
That doesn't mean we get increased income (although he can do that if he wants), but it means we will always have enough to share. How is he asking you to share today?
SHAMELESS PLUG: If you are having difficulty making ends meet or would like to find ways to give what you would really like to give, a new Financial Peace University class will be starting this Sunday. Send me a note and I can give you more information. This class isn't just for folks who are in debt (although it helps immensely if you are), it can help you plan ways to give, save, and prepare for the future while enjoying what you make today. More information is available at www.daveramsey.com.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
2 Corinthians 4-5 -- Highly Illogical
Read 2 Corinthians 4-5
Today's Devotion -- 2 Cor 4:3-4
3And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. 4The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. (NIV)
taken from www.biblegateway.com
There have been several situations lately where we've seen news accounts of people standing firmly for what they believe is right. There are boycotts, letters to the editor, and even occasional sit-ins sponsored by groups who have heard about situations and are voicing their displeasure. The sad thing is, many of these responses to situations are really responses to only one side of the story. People hear some news, are outraged, and respond without looking into the situation to understand the truth behind the story.
One example is the boycott of the Oprah show by a group of women in Florida. They are upset that she will not have Sarah Palin as a guest, presuming that Oprah is so much in favor of Obama that she refuses to promote the Republicans. What the women have failed to acknowledge is Oprah's commitment to not host any of the current candidates. Yes, she had Obama on the show, but back in 2006, before he was an official candidate. She has stated that she'd love to talk with Sarah on the show...after the election regardless of the results.
Other examples are the scary e-mail notes you receive that talk about terrible crimes, poison in our sodas or food, bug eggs on our lick and stick envelopes, etcetera. Stories with just enough logic in them that we get nervous and spread this 'truth' to everyone in our mailbox without first checking www.snopes.com to find out if the story has any reality.
The god of this age has blinded us to truth. We see something on the news, get a story forwarded to us in an e-mail sent by trustworthy friends, or even have someone we respect tell us of a situation. We jump right in and respond without checking it out.
The truth has been so maligned by rumor and one-sided newscasting that we no longer know how to find out what the real situation is/was. It's gotten so bad that the real truth of God's word gets lost or viewed as a fable because it doesn't fit into the logic of the world (which isn't very logical!).
God doesn't want us to make a choice to follow him based on logic alone. He's a jealous God, and he wants our minds AND our hearts. He needs us to trust that his way is the right way, then he removes the veil of confusion from our minds so we can logically see the reality behind his purpose. This makes it difficult for us to effectively witness to others, because we cannot possibly explain God's logic to others who are only capable of seeing the logic of the world.
The challenge, then, is for us to find ways to appeal to the hearts and souls of others. How do you help others see the illogical truth? Who helped you to see it, and what strategies did they use?
Today's Devotion -- 2 Cor 4:3-4
3And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. 4The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. (NIV)
taken from www.biblegateway.com
There have been several situations lately where we've seen news accounts of people standing firmly for what they believe is right. There are boycotts, letters to the editor, and even occasional sit-ins sponsored by groups who have heard about situations and are voicing their displeasure. The sad thing is, many of these responses to situations are really responses to only one side of the story. People hear some news, are outraged, and respond without looking into the situation to understand the truth behind the story.
One example is the boycott of the Oprah show by a group of women in Florida. They are upset that she will not have Sarah Palin as a guest, presuming that Oprah is so much in favor of Obama that she refuses to promote the Republicans. What the women have failed to acknowledge is Oprah's commitment to not host any of the current candidates. Yes, she had Obama on the show, but back in 2006, before he was an official candidate. She has stated that she'd love to talk with Sarah on the show...after the election regardless of the results.
Other examples are the scary e-mail notes you receive that talk about terrible crimes, poison in our sodas or food, bug eggs on our lick and stick envelopes, etcetera. Stories with just enough logic in them that we get nervous and spread this 'truth' to everyone in our mailbox without first checking www.snopes.com to find out if the story has any reality.
The god of this age has blinded us to truth. We see something on the news, get a story forwarded to us in an e-mail sent by trustworthy friends, or even have someone we respect tell us of a situation. We jump right in and respond without checking it out.
The truth has been so maligned by rumor and one-sided newscasting that we no longer know how to find out what the real situation is/was. It's gotten so bad that the real truth of God's word gets lost or viewed as a fable because it doesn't fit into the logic of the world (which isn't very logical!).
God doesn't want us to make a choice to follow him based on logic alone. He's a jealous God, and he wants our minds AND our hearts. He needs us to trust that his way is the right way, then he removes the veil of confusion from our minds so we can logically see the reality behind his purpose. This makes it difficult for us to effectively witness to others, because we cannot possibly explain God's logic to others who are only capable of seeing the logic of the world.
The challenge, then, is for us to find ways to appeal to the hearts and souls of others. How do you help others see the illogical truth? Who helped you to see it, and what strategies did they use?
Monday, September 8, 2008
2 Corinthians -- Letters of Reference
We are going to finish up our trip through the Bible for a while after this next lesson on 2 Corinthians. In case you weren't there, the class decided that we would like to have more time to dive into the Scripture -- one book per week (and in some cases as many as three!) was just too fast to capture all the lessons we have to learn.
The chapters in 2 Corinthians are short, so today read chapters 1-3.
Today's devotion -- 2Corinthian 3:1-3
1Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, like some people, letters of recommendation to you or from you? 2You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everybody. 3You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts. (NIV)
taken from www.biblegateway.com
The first three chapters of 2 Corinthians have some fun analogies. Did you find a parade? A new perfume? An escrow deposit?
In today's text, Paul addresses apparent doubts about his authority and dedication. Instead of letters of reference, he relies on the changed lives of those he ministers to.
If we take that same reference forward to current times, each of us is actually a referral for those who have shown us the truth of the Gospel -- everyone who had had a hand in the development of our faith since we first heard of God!
So what is your letter of reference saying today?
Junk mail -- tired and crabby from too much weekend and not very full of joy?
Unwanted bill -- letting others know how they must work harder to meet expectations?
Form letter -- a cookie-cutter Christian who shows a slick brochure to the world but who hides his or her 'real' life in the small print?
Handwritten card -- delivering the encouragement of God's love in a personal way to each individual?
What will those you meet today think about they type of mail you are delivering?
The chapters in 2 Corinthians are short, so today read chapters 1-3.
Today's devotion -- 2Corinthian 3:1-3
1Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, like some people, letters of recommendation to you or from you? 2You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everybody. 3You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts. (NIV)
taken from www.biblegateway.com
The first three chapters of 2 Corinthians have some fun analogies. Did you find a parade? A new perfume? An escrow deposit?
In today's text, Paul addresses apparent doubts about his authority and dedication. Instead of letters of reference, he relies on the changed lives of those he ministers to.
If we take that same reference forward to current times, each of us is actually a referral for those who have shown us the truth of the Gospel -- everyone who had had a hand in the development of our faith since we first heard of God!
So what is your letter of reference saying today?
Junk mail -- tired and crabby from too much weekend and not very full of joy?
Unwanted bill -- letting others know how they must work harder to meet expectations?
Form letter -- a cookie-cutter Christian who shows a slick brochure to the world but who hides his or her 'real' life in the small print?
Handwritten card -- delivering the encouragement of God's love in a personal way to each individual?
What will those you meet today think about they type of mail you are delivering?
Friday, September 5, 2008
2 Maccabees -- History?
Read 2 Maccabbees 14 and 15
Today's Devotion - 2 Maccabees 15:27-39
27Fighting with their hands and praying to God with their hearts, they laid low at least thirty-five thousand, and rejoiced greatly over this manifestation of God's power. 28When the battle was over and they were joyfully departing, they discovered Nicanor lying there in all his armor; 29so they raised tumultuous shouts in their native tongue in praise of the divine Sovereign. 30Then Judas, who was ever in body and soul the chief defender of his fellow citizens, and had maintained from youth his affection for his countrymen, ordered Nicanor's head and whole right arm to be cut off and taken to Jerusalem.
31When he arrived there, he assembled his countrymen, stationed the priests before the altar, and sent for those in the citadel. 32He showed them the vile Nicanor's head and the wretched blasphemer's arm that had been boastfully stretched out against the holy dwelling of the Almighty. 33He cut out the tongue of the godless Nicanor, saying he would feed it piecemeal to the birds and would hang up the other wages of his folly opposite the temple.
34At this, everyone looked toward heaven and praised the Lord who manifests his divine power, saying, "Blessed be he who has kept his own Place undefiled!" 35Judas hung up Nicanor's head on the wall of the citadel, a clear and evident proof to all of the Lord's help.
36 By public vote it was unanimously decreed never to let this day pass unobserved, but to celebrate it on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, called Adar in Aramaic, the eve of Mordecai's Day.
37Since Nicanor's doings ended in this way, with the city remaining in possession of the Hebrews from that time on, I will bring my own story to an end here too. 38If it is well written and to the point, that is what I wanted; if it is poorly done and mediocre, that is the best I could do. 39Just as it is harmful to drink wine alone or water alone, whereas mixing wine with water makes a more pleasant drink that increases delight, so a skillfully composed story delights the ears of those who read the work. Let this, then, be the end. (NAB)
taken from http://www.usccb.org/nab/bible
We have spent a week looking at the text of a book that was not officially placed into the canon of scripture that is used by protestant churches. 1 and 2 Maccabees are two of six books included in the Catholic Bible but not in protestant ones.
The Maccabees are obviously books of history (instead of books of wisdom or prophecy). Presuming they are a true historical report, why do you think they aren't included in our Bibles?
Have you received any new insights into God as a result of your reading this week?
Today's Devotion - 2 Maccabees 15:27-39
27Fighting with their hands and praying to God with their hearts, they laid low at least thirty-five thousand, and rejoiced greatly over this manifestation of God's power. 28When the battle was over and they were joyfully departing, they discovered Nicanor lying there in all his armor; 29so they raised tumultuous shouts in their native tongue in praise of the divine Sovereign. 30Then Judas, who was ever in body and soul the chief defender of his fellow citizens, and had maintained from youth his affection for his countrymen, ordered Nicanor's head and whole right arm to be cut off and taken to Jerusalem.
31When he arrived there, he assembled his countrymen, stationed the priests before the altar, and sent for those in the citadel. 32He showed them the vile Nicanor's head and the wretched blasphemer's arm that had been boastfully stretched out against the holy dwelling of the Almighty. 33He cut out the tongue of the godless Nicanor, saying he would feed it piecemeal to the birds and would hang up the other wages of his folly opposite the temple.
34At this, everyone looked toward heaven and praised the Lord who manifests his divine power, saying, "Blessed be he who has kept his own Place undefiled!" 35Judas hung up Nicanor's head on the wall of the citadel, a clear and evident proof to all of the Lord's help.
36 By public vote it was unanimously decreed never to let this day pass unobserved, but to celebrate it on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, called Adar in Aramaic, the eve of Mordecai's Day.
37Since Nicanor's doings ended in this way, with the city remaining in possession of the Hebrews from that time on, I will bring my own story to an end here too. 38If it is well written and to the point, that is what I wanted; if it is poorly done and mediocre, that is the best I could do. 39Just as it is harmful to drink wine alone or water alone, whereas mixing wine with water makes a more pleasant drink that increases delight, so a skillfully composed story delights the ears of those who read the work. Let this, then, be the end. (NAB)
taken from http://www.usccb.org/nab/bible
We have spent a week looking at the text of a book that was not officially placed into the canon of scripture that is used by protestant churches. 1 and 2 Maccabees are two of six books included in the Catholic Bible but not in protestant ones.
The Maccabees are obviously books of history (instead of books of wisdom or prophecy). Presuming they are a true historical report, why do you think they aren't included in our Bibles?
Have you received any new insights into God as a result of your reading this week?
Thursday, September 4, 2008
2 Maccabbees -- Persecution
WARNING: Today's reading is pretty graphic...
Read 2 Maccabbees 5, 6, and 7
Today's Devotion -- 2 Mac 6:18-28
18Eleazar, one of the foremost scribes, a man of advanced age and noble appearance, was being forced to open his mouth to eat pork. 19 But preferring a glorious death to a life of defilement, he spat out the meat, and went forward of his own accord to the instrument of torture, 20as men ought to do who have the courage to reject the food which it is unlawful to taste even for love of life.
21Those in charge of that unlawful ritual meal took the man aside privately, because of their long acquaintance with him, and urged him to bring meat of his own providing, such as he could legitimately eat, and to pretend to be eating some of the meat of the sacrifice prescribed by the king; 22in this way he would escape the death penalty, and be treated kindly because of their old friendship with him.
23But he made up his mind in a noble manner, worthy of his years, the dignity of his advanced age, the merited distinction of his gray hair, and of the admirable life he had lived from childhood; and so he declared that above all he would be loyal to the holy laws given by God. He told them to send him at once to the abode of the dead, explaining: 24"At our age it would be unbecoming to make such a pretense; many young men would think the ninety-year-old Eleazar had gone over to an alien religion. 25Should I thus dissimulate for the sake of a brief moment of life, they would be led astray by me, while I would bring shame and dishonor on my old age. 26Even if, for the time being, I avoid the punishment of men, I shall never, whether alive or dead, escape the hands of the Almighty.
27Therefore, by manfully giving up my life now, I will prove myself worthy of my old age, 28and I will leave to the young a noble example of how to die willingly and generously for the revered and holy laws." He spoke thus, and went immediately to the instrument of torture. (NAB)
taken from http://www.usccb.org/nab/bible
It is so easy to forget that there are thousands of Christians around the world who are persecuted in painful ways, often killed, for their faith. Voice of the Martyrs (at http://persecution.com) tells of current day persecution:
A Saudi member of the religious police cut his daughter’s tongue off and burned her to death for converting to Christianity.
Hindu militants have launched attacks on Christians throughout the state, setting buildings on fire and beating and killing believers in at least 12 districts.
On August 5, Eritrean authorities locked eight high school students in metal a shipping container and burned hundreds of Bibles at Sawa Defense Training Centre. According to Compass Direct News, the students were imprisoned in the container after they objected to authorities confiscating and burning 1,500 Bibles taken from new students who arrived at the training center for the new 2008-2009 school year.
In America we wonder why God allows us to lose jobs, get sick, or die before we think it's time. In other countries, people are praising God because he gives them strength to stand strong while unthinkable things happen simply because they are believers.
Please don't forget to pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Read 2 Maccabbees 5, 6, and 7
Today's Devotion -- 2 Mac 6:18-28
18Eleazar, one of the foremost scribes, a man of advanced age and noble appearance, was being forced to open his mouth to eat pork. 19 But preferring a glorious death to a life of defilement, he spat out the meat, and went forward of his own accord to the instrument of torture, 20as men ought to do who have the courage to reject the food which it is unlawful to taste even for love of life.
21Those in charge of that unlawful ritual meal took the man aside privately, because of their long acquaintance with him, and urged him to bring meat of his own providing, such as he could legitimately eat, and to pretend to be eating some of the meat of the sacrifice prescribed by the king; 22in this way he would escape the death penalty, and be treated kindly because of their old friendship with him.
23But he made up his mind in a noble manner, worthy of his years, the dignity of his advanced age, the merited distinction of his gray hair, and of the admirable life he had lived from childhood; and so he declared that above all he would be loyal to the holy laws given by God. He told them to send him at once to the abode of the dead, explaining: 24"At our age it would be unbecoming to make such a pretense; many young men would think the ninety-year-old Eleazar had gone over to an alien religion. 25Should I thus dissimulate for the sake of a brief moment of life, they would be led astray by me, while I would bring shame and dishonor on my old age. 26Even if, for the time being, I avoid the punishment of men, I shall never, whether alive or dead, escape the hands of the Almighty.
27Therefore, by manfully giving up my life now, I will prove myself worthy of my old age, 28and I will leave to the young a noble example of how to die willingly and generously for the revered and holy laws." He spoke thus, and went immediately to the instrument of torture. (NAB)
taken from http://www.usccb.org/nab/bible
It is so easy to forget that there are thousands of Christians around the world who are persecuted in painful ways, often killed, for their faith. Voice of the Martyrs (at http://persecution.com) tells of current day persecution:
A Saudi member of the religious police cut his daughter’s tongue off and burned her to death for converting to Christianity.
Hindu militants have launched attacks on Christians throughout the state, setting buildings on fire and beating and killing believers in at least 12 districts.
On August 5, Eritrean authorities locked eight high school students in metal a shipping container and burned hundreds of Bibles at Sawa Defense Training Centre. According to Compass Direct News, the students were imprisoned in the container after they objected to authorities confiscating and burning 1,500 Bibles taken from new students who arrived at the training center for the new 2008-2009 school year.
In America we wonder why God allows us to lose jobs, get sick, or die before we think it's time. In other countries, people are praising God because he gives them strength to stand strong while unthinkable things happen simply because they are believers.
Please don't forget to pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
2 Maccabees -- An Historical Account
Read 2 Maccabees 1 and 2
Today's Devotion -- 2 Maccabees 2:19-31
19This is the story of Judas Maccabeus and his brothers, of the purification of the great temple, the dedication of the altar, 20 the campaigns against Antiochus Epiphanes and his son Eupator, 21and of the heavenly manifestations accorded to the heroes who fought bravely for Judaism, so that, few as they were, they seized the whole land, put to flight the barbarian hordes, 22regained possession of the world-famous temple, liberated the city, and reestablished the laws that were in danger of being abolished, while the Lord favored them with all his generous assistance.
23All this, which Jason of Cyrene set forth in detail in five volumes, we will try to condense into a single book.
24In view of the flood of statistics, and the difficulties encountered by those who wish to plunge into historical narratives where the material is abundant, 25we have aimed to please those who prefer simple reading, as well as to make it easy for the studious who wish to commit things to memory, and to be helpful to all.
26For us who have taken upon ourselves the labor of making this digest, the task, far from being easy, is one of sweat and of sleepless nights, 27just as the preparation of a festive banquet is no light matter for one who thus seeks to give enjoyment to others. Similarly, to win the gratitude of many we will gladly endure these inconveniences, 28while we leave the responsibility for exact details to the original author, and confine our efforts to giving only a summary outline. 29As the architect of a new house must give his attention to the whole structure, while the man who undertakes the decoration and the frescoes has only to concern himself with what is needed for ornamentation, so I think it is with us.
30To enter into questions and examine them thoroughly from all sides is the task of the professional historian;
31but the man who is making an adaptation should be allowed to aim at brevity of expression and to omit detailed treatment of the matter. 32Here, then, we shall begin our account without further ado; it would be nonsense to write a long preface to a story and then abbreviate the story itself. (NAB)
taken from http://www.usccb.org/nab/bible
I don't have too much of a devotional thought to go along with this today, but I thought this portion of text was important so we would have a good understanding of the purpose for 2 Maccabees.
If you were to write a Biblical-style account of the Church and faith today, what key points would you include?
Today's Devotion -- 2 Maccabees 2:19-31
19This is the story of Judas Maccabeus and his brothers, of the purification of the great temple, the dedication of the altar, 20 the campaigns against Antiochus Epiphanes and his son Eupator, 21and of the heavenly manifestations accorded to the heroes who fought bravely for Judaism, so that, few as they were, they seized the whole land, put to flight the barbarian hordes, 22regained possession of the world-famous temple, liberated the city, and reestablished the laws that were in danger of being abolished, while the Lord favored them with all his generous assistance.
23All this, which Jason of Cyrene set forth in detail in five volumes, we will try to condense into a single book.
24In view of the flood of statistics, and the difficulties encountered by those who wish to plunge into historical narratives where the material is abundant, 25we have aimed to please those who prefer simple reading, as well as to make it easy for the studious who wish to commit things to memory, and to be helpful to all.
26For us who have taken upon ourselves the labor of making this digest, the task, far from being easy, is one of sweat and of sleepless nights, 27just as the preparation of a festive banquet is no light matter for one who thus seeks to give enjoyment to others. Similarly, to win the gratitude of many we will gladly endure these inconveniences, 28while we leave the responsibility for exact details to the original author, and confine our efforts to giving only a summary outline. 29As the architect of a new house must give his attention to the whole structure, while the man who undertakes the decoration and the frescoes has only to concern himself with what is needed for ornamentation, so I think it is with us.
30To enter into questions and examine them thoroughly from all sides is the task of the professional historian;
31but the man who is making an adaptation should be allowed to aim at brevity of expression and to omit detailed treatment of the matter. 32Here, then, we shall begin our account without further ado; it would be nonsense to write a long preface to a story and then abbreviate the story itself. (NAB)
taken from http://www.usccb.org/nab/bible
I don't have too much of a devotional thought to go along with this today, but I thought this portion of text was important so we would have a good understanding of the purpose for 2 Maccabees.
If you were to write a Biblical-style account of the Church and faith today, what key points would you include?
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
1 Maccabees -- The Underdog in the Fight
Today's Reading -- 1 Maccabees 3 and 4
Devotion -- 1 Maccabees 3:17-23
17 But when they saw the army coming against them, they said to Judas: "How can we, few as we are, fight such a mighty host as this? Besides, we are weak today from fasting."
18 But Judas said: "It is easy for many to be overcome by a few; in the sight of Heaven there is no difference between deliverance by many or by few; 19 for victory in war does not depend upon the size of the army, but on strength that comes from Heaven. 20 With great presumption and lawlessness they come against us to destroy us and our wives and children and to despoil us; 21 but we are fighting for our lives and our laws. 22 He himself will crush them before us; so do not be afraid of them." 23 When he finished speaking, he rushed suddenly upon Seron and his army, who were crushed before him. (NAB)
taken from http://www.usccb.org/nab/bible
At the end of yesterday's reading, Matthias, leader of the Jewish rebellion against the evil politics reigning in Israel, died and named his son, Judas (also called Maccabee), as the new leader of the Jewish army. He and his many brothers took on the challenge of war 'joyfully'.
At this point they have successfully killed many of the Samaritans who had attacked them, and now they are facing an immense army of Syrians, led by Seron. Their small band of men was dwarfed by the giant army of Syria and needless to say most were terrified of the fight they were facing.
As in the past, the leaders faith was greater than that of the followers. Judas knew that God was on his side and that they would prevail despite the way the situation looked.
The challenges we face usually aren't as drastic as death by mutilation, as these men faced. But in the midst of our daily lives, the difficulties that come at us seem just as scary. It doesn't take long for our imaginations to turn life challenges into giant armies waiting to attack. We find an unusual lump on our bodies and all of a sudden we are imagining how well we'd handle chemotherapy and hair loss. We lose a job and our minds immediately show us a stark picture of life in a homeless shelter. We fall once again into that sin we try so hard to avoid, and we can't comprehend how God would be willing to forgive us one more time.
Life can turn on us in a moment, and sometimes the worst things we can imagine actually come to pass. But if we face them alone we will be more terrified and less able to cope. Like Judas Maccabee, we must remember that God is on our side -- regardless of whether we win or lose the battle, He is in control. While that doesn't always make the battle easier to understand or to fight, there is peace in knowing that God will win in the end.
God helped the Israelites to victory in their battle, but they still had to go through the fight. As often as we wish he would just wipe our foes, our troubles, off the face of the earth, that isn't how he works. If you are in a difficult situation, turn to others who will join in your fight. If you aren't able to see God in the situation, find someone who can show him to you and who will take on the role of the faithful leader. If we stand firm in him and stay strong in our faith, he will help us to be victorious, too.
Devotion -- 1 Maccabees 3:17-23
17 But when they saw the army coming against them, they said to Judas: "How can we, few as we are, fight such a mighty host as this? Besides, we are weak today from fasting."
18 But Judas said: "It is easy for many to be overcome by a few; in the sight of Heaven there is no difference between deliverance by many or by few; 19 for victory in war does not depend upon the size of the army, but on strength that comes from Heaven. 20 With great presumption and lawlessness they come against us to destroy us and our wives and children and to despoil us; 21 but we are fighting for our lives and our laws. 22 He himself will crush them before us; so do not be afraid of them." 23 When he finished speaking, he rushed suddenly upon Seron and his army, who were crushed before him. (NAB)
taken from http://www.usccb.org/nab/bible
At the end of yesterday's reading, Matthias, leader of the Jewish rebellion against the evil politics reigning in Israel, died and named his son, Judas (also called Maccabee), as the new leader of the Jewish army. He and his many brothers took on the challenge of war 'joyfully'.
At this point they have successfully killed many of the Samaritans who had attacked them, and now they are facing an immense army of Syrians, led by Seron. Their small band of men was dwarfed by the giant army of Syria and needless to say most were terrified of the fight they were facing.
As in the past, the leaders faith was greater than that of the followers. Judas knew that God was on his side and that they would prevail despite the way the situation looked.
The challenges we face usually aren't as drastic as death by mutilation, as these men faced. But in the midst of our daily lives, the difficulties that come at us seem just as scary. It doesn't take long for our imaginations to turn life challenges into giant armies waiting to attack. We find an unusual lump on our bodies and all of a sudden we are imagining how well we'd handle chemotherapy and hair loss. We lose a job and our minds immediately show us a stark picture of life in a homeless shelter. We fall once again into that sin we try so hard to avoid, and we can't comprehend how God would be willing to forgive us one more time.
Life can turn on us in a moment, and sometimes the worst things we can imagine actually come to pass. But if we face them alone we will be more terrified and less able to cope. Like Judas Maccabee, we must remember that God is on our side -- regardless of whether we win or lose the battle, He is in control. While that doesn't always make the battle easier to understand or to fight, there is peace in knowing that God will win in the end.
God helped the Israelites to victory in their battle, but they still had to go through the fight. As often as we wish he would just wipe our foes, our troubles, off the face of the earth, that isn't how he works. If you are in a difficult situation, turn to others who will join in your fight. If you aren't able to see God in the situation, find someone who can show him to you and who will take on the role of the faithful leader. If we stand firm in him and stay strong in our faith, he will help us to be victorious, too.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Maccabees
This week we are taking a little departure from our typical study. Next Sunday we will study the time frame between the Old and New Testaments. To prepare, we are reading 1 and 2 Maccabees our of the New American Bible version (used primarily by those in the Catholic Church). You can find the full text here. There are 31 chapters total in both books of Maccabees, so I'll just pull out a chapter or two per day.
Today, Read 1 Maccabees 1 and 2 (note -- two separate links to click).
Devotion -- 1 Maccabees 2:61-64
61 And so, consider this from generation to generation, that none who hope in him shall fail in strength. 62 Do not fear the words of a sinful man, for his glory ends in corruption and worms.
63 Today he is exalted, and tomorrow he is not to be found, because he has returned to his dust, and his schemes have perished. 64 Children! be courageous and strong in keeping the law, for by it you shall be glorified. (NAB)
taken from http://www.usccb.org/nab/bible/
The first two chapters of this book detail a rebellion by the Jews, an alliance with the Gentiles, and an overthrow of Jerusalem by others who had formed a fake alliance with Israel. There are Jews who visibly throw away their heritage, joining up with Gentiles and killing any who cling to their faith. Others fight violently to maintain their heritage, going so far as to forcefully circumcize any boys or men in Jerusalem who had not yet been circumcized.
Those who would remain faithful move out of the city and form a camp in the desert. After a massacre on the Sabbath (because they refused to 'work' on the Holy Day), the remaining faithful Jews vow to fight for their rights.
Despite the fact that they are over 2000 years old, these words in today's text hold true today. Regardless of how powerful our role models, President, world leaders, or talk show hosts may be, any glory they seek for themselves will fade away. Same goes for us...even if none of us achieve power or fame, any thing we do that does not glorify God will turn to dust. Only those things that give him glory and implement his will shall remain for eternity.
So be courageous and strong! Stand firm to the end, and God will lift us up.
Today, Read 1 Maccabees 1 and 2 (note -- two separate links to click).
Devotion -- 1 Maccabees 2:61-64
61 And so, consider this from generation to generation, that none who hope in him shall fail in strength. 62 Do not fear the words of a sinful man, for his glory ends in corruption and worms.
63 Today he is exalted, and tomorrow he is not to be found, because he has returned to his dust, and his schemes have perished. 64 Children! be courageous and strong in keeping the law, for by it you shall be glorified. (NAB)
taken from http://www.usccb.org/nab/bible/
The first two chapters of this book detail a rebellion by the Jews, an alliance with the Gentiles, and an overthrow of Jerusalem by others who had formed a fake alliance with Israel. There are Jews who visibly throw away their heritage, joining up with Gentiles and killing any who cling to their faith. Others fight violently to maintain their heritage, going so far as to forcefully circumcize any boys or men in Jerusalem who had not yet been circumcized.
Those who would remain faithful move out of the city and form a camp in the desert. After a massacre on the Sabbath (because they refused to 'work' on the Holy Day), the remaining faithful Jews vow to fight for their rights.
Despite the fact that they are over 2000 years old, these words in today's text hold true today. Regardless of how powerful our role models, President, world leaders, or talk show hosts may be, any glory they seek for themselves will fade away. Same goes for us...even if none of us achieve power or fame, any thing we do that does not glorify God will turn to dust. Only those things that give him glory and implement his will shall remain for eternity.
So be courageous and strong! Stand firm to the end, and God will lift us up.
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