Sept. 30

Philippians 2

In our reading today, we see how Paul patterns his life to Jesus. Despite what goes on around him he seeks to find comfort through Jesus's love, tenderness in His compassion, and joy being like minded with Him. He reminds us that our attitudes should be just the same. Bottom line is that we must yield every aspect of our life to King Jesus. Once we follow King Jesus, we lose our right to think we are correct about anything that doesn't line up with Him. That includes our thoughts and what we say, our attitudes towards serving and sacrifice, and also how we behave. The result of Jesus's obedience led Him to be exalted to the highest place being given the highest name above all names. While we won't achieve such status, we are still called to live a life worthy of our calling, and yes, we will look different to others. The end result for us is eternal life with our King. Patterning our life after Jesus isn't easy, He never said it would be.  What I find comforting to know is that God's mercy and grace is new every morning, and every time when we fall short, we can run to the foot of the cross, the throne of grace, and ask for forgiveness.  So if we aren't following King Jesus's model, who are we following? There are so many choices vying for our attention but in the end, every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord. 

Randi

Don't forget to get dressed!

September 29th

Isaiah 57:14-59:21

Philippians 1:1-26

Psalm 71:1-24

Proverbs 24:9-10

Today's reading brought me to Isaiah 59:17 "He put on righteousness as his breastplate, and the helmet of salvation on his head; he put on the garments of vengeance and wrapped himself in zeal as a cloak". Does this remind you of anything? 

I love to see connections between the Old Testament and the New Testament. Today's reading drew me to look at the connection between Ephesians and Isaiah as I have so often read of the need to put on the armour of God, but I had no idea that Paul was referencing armor that God had literally put on himself.

God "got dressed" when he was going out to defend those who couldn't defend themselves. We often think of putting on the armor of God to protect ourselves, but in Isaiah, God is putting on this armor to protect others who are defenseless. 

To put on righteousness means to be right with God. As a breastplate does, righteousness protects our hearts from the dangers of sin. Abraham was an example of how his faith and obedience to God was credited to him as righteousness. Lot was another man who had many issues, but he was seen as righteous because he did not adopt the sinful ways of those living around him. These men demonstrated unwavering faith. To wear this righteousness, we must be in God's word and in prayer. Then we can handle life one step at a time, pursuing righteousness each choice we get.

God has given us the gift of salvation through Christ, and wearing the helmet of salvation protects our heads from the lies that we can be told and keeps our knowledge and wisdom intact. Salvation is God's promise to us. As a helmet in those days would give soldiers vision, salvation gives us the opportunity to focus on what's important. Paul shows that his focus is on salvation in today's reading from Philippians (1:21-26). We have this hope that should inspire us to get through each day knowing that we are children of God who have eternal life with Him. Are you putting on your head the helmet of salvation each day?

I encourage you to explore Ephesians 6 and read about the other armor that Paul writes is necessary in all spiritual battles. We face these battles daily, and sometimes we aren't even aware. It is important that we "get dressed" so that we can be prepared for what battles the day may bring!

Bible Blog Post 9/27/2020

Good afternoon, Grace Family. Below is Anthony's blog post for today's readings. Have a blessed day!

Isaiah 51:1-53:12

Ephesians 5:1-33

Psalm 69:19-36

Proverbs 24:7

Raised by Christ

It's been noted that the way a child is raised greatly affects how they will behave in the future. Maybe it determines what interests they will have, what their work ethic would be, perhaps the sports team they'll root for, or even whether they call it tomato sauce or "gravy"... but what Paul teaches to the Ephesians in chapter 5 of his letters begins to open their minds as to how life should be by being raised by Christ and this can happen whenever you accept Jesus into your life. 

At the beginning of chapter 5 Paul clearly states that his audience needed to "Follow God's Example… and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us…" He was basically repeating Jesus' command from John 13:34.  This was said as a reaction to what he heard was going on in Ephesus amongst the new Christians there.  He follows this order by issuing warnings of their current behaviors, which he calls "fruitless deeds" since they were not acts of goodness, righteousness, and truth.  He then points out that these evil actions are seen and witnessed by God and cannot be hidden - hello wake-up call! 

But Paul was not only going to play the role of that strict teacher you had from high school, pointing out every error on your test in bold red ink.  He also showed his audience hope and compassion by later talking about how different life would be if they applied what they learned from Jesus and His teachings to their own lives.  He was motivating them to study in order to be prepared for the test of life.  They simply had to let themselves be raised by Christ. 

Are you willing to let yourself be raised by Christ?   Are you going to forgive as God forgave you?  Are you going to expose sinful actions and try to correct them as Paul was doing and as Christ did before him?  Are you willing to let go of any pride and choose to submit to others, putting their needs before yours, just as Christ did for you?  Are you going to lead your household in the way of love and truth?

Anthony

September 26: Of the Season of Anger

Isaiah 48:12-50:11

Ephesians 4:17-32

Psalm 69:1-18

Proverbs 24:5-6

"In your anger do not sin."  Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. - Ephesians 4:26-27

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

As those of us in the US approach the next thirty nine days or so, a season bookended by a controversial Supreme Court nomination on one end, and a fiercely contested election on the other, where the in-between space is filled with pandemic and protest, riot and looting, could there possibly be any more difficult instructions from Paul?  

"But Paul," one might reply, "anger is natural.  And, in this case, it IS righteous, isn't it?  After all, isn't it wrong to loot and riot, and to condone such behavior?  Or to malign a candidate for their religious beliefs?"

Turns out the first verse above acknowledges man can get angry.  The concern is when man lets the anger fester, and it turns from whatever productive purpose it might have had, to wrath, to "raca".  And while we are called to speak out against sin and evil, we are called to do so in uplifting and constructive ways.  

I confess this is one of my biggest failures.  I have a temper, and what my tongue does when riding my temper hurts more than it heals, exacerbates more than it remedies.  Worse, the loss of temper, while cathartic, does not lead to lasting relief - more often than not, I find myself dwelling - righteously, I delude myself - on the wrongs that have been done.  And whatever intent to correct I might have had deteriorates into condescension, belittlement.

Why do I respond this way?  A pastor explained it to me this morning: that type of anger evidences a desire for control and, consequently, a refusal to trust God and His providence.  It stems, again, from such a poor relationship with God that I don't trust Him, that I want things done my way instead of His.  And, in doing so, I hurt more than I heal, and exacerbate more than I remedy.  If truly my desire was for the person's benefit, in my righteous anger, I would entrust that person, that situation to God, and be at peace.  Clearly, I still have much to learn.

Father, when we fall short of Your instructions through Paul, be merciful with us.  Rather than condemn us as we deserve, remember Your Son's sacrifice, and reveal Yourself to us so that we might get to know You better, and trust You with our all.

September 25: Of a Grandfather’s Patience

Isaiah 45:11-48:11

Ephesians 4:1-16

Psalm 68:19-35

Proverbs 24:3-4

"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." - Ephesians 4:2

I was blessed with two interesting grandfathers who, while both intellectually prodigious, were physically chalk and cheese.  My paternal grandfather - Lolo - was an imposing man, tall and powerful, with a voice that had grown gravelly with age.  He was an athlete, and in college he was on the varsity volleyball team.  

My maternal grandfather - Abuelito - was different. To call him diminutive would have been generous. And where my other grandpa was a varsity athlete, the closest he got to athletics was as a mascot for the women's volleyball team.  

It wasn't easy for him.  First people made fun of him; later on, when he served honestly in government, they attacked him more aggressively.  They challenged his reasoning and his decisions, they even questioned his integrity.  

Through it all, though, he kept his cool.  He was always gentle, patient, bearing with the other person in love.  My mom later explained to me he never lost his cool because there was never anything at stake.  He knew who he was, he knew what he knew, he had strength in his convictions - so the accusations, the allegations, were nothing more than empty words, with no weight to them.  

These are trying times for Christians.  People of faith are attacked, ridiculed, ostracized, even cast out.  Churches are burned, images defiled, believers killed for their faith.  It is really difficult to be humble and gentle and patient.  I know it is tough for me.

It would help if I reminded myself there is nothing at stake.  I should know who I am, what Jesus has done for me, how this story ends.  So it doesn't matter what they say, what they accuse, what they allege - there is nothing of mine at stake.  And freed of that sense of loss, like my Abuelito, I should find it easier to be humble, gentle and patient during the attacks.

Father, when enemies gather against us, remind us that You are in control, our security and our worth are in You, and we know how this story ends.  So we don't have to get angry; we can be gentle and patient.  In Jesus's name we pray.

Sept.23

Ephesians 2

Last week one of my kindergarteners looked at me randomly and said "Mrs. Rivera, I love the world and I love Jesus". I smiled behind my mask and told her that I loved Jesus too and we made the universal connection sign when you have something in common and waved our thumb and pinky at each other. Yesterday, that same little girl was having a complete meltdown and didn't want to stay in the class. I took her into the hallway trying to figure out which one of the many possibilities could be the one that had her so upset. School is hard this year. It is overwhelming for a child to be in a mask all day, sit at a table by themselves, and not be able to get the reassuring hug from their teacher that everything is all right. So, I comforted her the only way I know how, with the love of Christ. I reminded her of our conversation and how she told me that she loved Jesus but I more importantly, I told her that when she feels sad to always remember that Jesus also loves her. To hear that Jesus loves her was enough for this brave 5 year old to take a deep breath, feel the love of Christ, stop crying and go back into the class. Today's reading reminded me that first, God so loved, and because of that love, we have been saved by grace. The grace and love that lives inside of us by the power of the Holy Spirit is to be shared. We were created to do good works, (which can come in many different ways), not for ourselves, but to reflect the spirit that lives in us bringing glory to God. There are so many  people out there who are overwhelmed, tired of wearing masks, and are scared. They need to know that Jesus loves them. Ask the Lord to put someone in your life today who you can pass His message along to.

Randi

Grace and Peace to You

September 22^nd, 2020

Isaiah 39:1-41:16

Ephesians 1:1-23

Psalm 66:1-20

Proverbs 23:25-28

 

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

 

When I was growing up, my elementary school was attached to a Church of England church that we would walk to for special religious occasions. Every time we went there for a service, we would turn to those around us and say "peace be with you" as we shook their hand. It is a memory I have that I think fondly of, and I have never experienced that ritual at any other church I've attended on a regular basis.

 

In today's passage in Ephesians, Paul opens by wishing grace and peace to those he's writing to. There are many passages in the Bible that contain this phrase, and often they are in writings/letters. It made me think about how touched I would be to receive a letter starting with that. For someone to truly wish me grace and peace is such a blessing!

 

What is the significance of grace and peace? Grace comes from God our Father. It is the unmerited favor of God, something we do not deserve, but he freely gives it to us because he loves us deeply. Sometimes I think we forget about God's grace. Paul gives everyone a great reminder of this. Some would say we cannot truly experience God's peace without accepting his grace first.

The Hebrew word for peace is one you've probably heard before: "Shalom", which means harmony, wholeness, completeness, prosperity, welfare and tranquility. What lovely things! Christ is our Prince of Peace, the kind of peace that surpasses understanding. We can live in God's peace and experience completeness as we draw closer to Him.

 

I pray that you would experience firsthand God's grace and Christ's peace as you read this and as you go about your day.

Bible Blog Post 9/20/2020

Isaiah 33:10-36:22

Galatians 5:13-26

Psalm 64:1-10

Proverbs 23:23

The Spirit of Life

Each of us has the potential to love others immensely as God intends, but we also have the potential to do great harm.  We are naturally selfish by nature, but God has provided us with His Word, His son, and His gift of the Holy Spirit to help us overcome our selfish ways and desires.  When we accept Jesus Christ into our hearts, we receive the Holy Spirit, our personal compass that helps us navigate through life.  

If someone asked you right now to point north, could you do so with 100% certainty? A few moments ago, we tried this experiment together.  Anthony pointed one way towards New Canaan, while I pointed behind me in the direction of I-95 northbound.  It turns out I was pointing east, and I learned that New Canaan is actually north of us.  Go figure.  Just because the highway signs say "north," it doesn't necessarily mean that it's pointing north.  If I had a compass, I could have easily pointed in the right direction, but I didn't, so I went off my best judgement.  How often do we base our decisions on our feelings and our own "best judgement" instead of turning to God and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us? 

In today's reading, Paul talks about Life in the Spirit in his letter to the Galatians.  There is a constant battle that we, as humans, face in our day-to-day lives when making decisions, and that is the battle between Satan's lies in our selfish desires versus God's way, the way of love and humility.  This Life in the Spirit, that Paul was talking about, should have acted as a compass for the audience in his letter.  It would have pointed them away from the evils they were facing and directed them to God's way.  Similarly, today, we're faced with the choice of living life selfishly with earthly desires and living a life of joy, promised by God, and guided by the Holy Spirit. 

Life is full of choices, some easier than others, some more exciting than others; but no matter what we are facing, we should always refer to the Holy Spirit within us to base our decisions.  It is crucial to keep a strong connection with God through prayer and reading His word; otherwise, we may drift off course and choose the world's way instead of His.

Amanda and Anthony

September 19: Of Knowing Where to Find the Strength to Finish the Race

Isaiah 30:12-33:9

Galatians 5:1-12

Psalm 63:1-11

Proverbs 23:22

Yesterday we wrote about complacency, and the importance of running the race till the finish.  But if you're like me, you are going to have days where you just don't feel like you have enough to finish.  Where you've given what you know is your best, and it just isn't going to be enough.  What do you do then?  Where do you go for the strength?  On whom do you depend?

In both the OT and NT readings today, Isaiah and Paul talk about looking for help, for security in the wrong places. "Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in the multitude of their chariots and in the great strength of their horsemen…" Isaiah decries.  And Paul castigates those who think they can trust works, rather than grace.  

Whom do you trust, and why?  I find I trust those whom I know.  The Israelites knew the Egyptians' strength.  The Judaizers within the Galatian church knew the law.  So that was what they trusted.  David, on the other hand, who wrote Psalm 63 - he knew God.  He had "seen [Him] in the sanctuary and beheld [His] power and glory.  He knew Him because David took time to get to know Him, remembering God as he lay in his bed, thinking of Him through the watches of the night.  

Because of this, David knew that when things seemed helpless - when he was "in a dry and parched land where there is no water", or when he know there were those who wanted to kill him, he could continue to run the race, not just hopeful, but hope-filled and certain of the victory in the end.  Because he took the time and made the effort to get to know the Lord.

Father, give us the same desire David had to get to know You, so that we learn to put our confidence in You when our circumstances seem dire and hopeless.  In Jesus's name we pray.

September 18: Of Complacency, Wottle and Isaiah

Isaiah 28:14-30:11

Galatians 3:23-4:31

Psalm 62:1-12

Proverbs 23:19-21

There is a genre of videos on YouTube dedicated to premature celebrations - in sports, mostly.  People who think they've won the fight and start celebrating, and then are knocked out.  Or runners or cyclists who begin the victory dance before breaking the tape and come in second.   They think they've won, they stop trying, and they lose.  It is a genre dedicated to complacency.

And directly opposite that, there's the video of Dave Wottle, in the 800M run in the 1972 Munich Olympics.  Dead last, by a wide margin, for over half a race, he fought back.  The video is worth watching - it can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86NFrS1RJQc

Isaiah understood the danger of complacency.  He wrote the prophecies of warning in today's Old Testament reading around, or shortly after the time of renewal under Hezekiah.  In everything Hezekiah did, "he sought his God and worked wholeheartedly.  And so he prospered."  (2 Chr 31:21).  It was during this time Judah warned of a complacency, a security founded on the rediscovered prosperity,  not on the Lord. 

Like Dave Wottle, Isaiah understood the Israelites - indeed, all the faithful - are in a battle.  Where Wottle's battle was over 800 meters and a minute forty-five, ours is every step we take over the entire time we have on earth.  And unlike those in the premature celebration videos, Isaiah understood the need to stay focused the entire time we were at war, even when prosperity made it seem like we had an insurmountable lead. 

Father, things aren't all that easy now.  But one day, they may get easier again.  Whether easy or difficult, whether in the lead or behind, remind us that our race isn't over till we have come home to You.  Protect us from complacency; keep us fighting to know You, to love You, to trust You, and to be with You every day of our life.

Thursday, September 17

THURSDAY, SEPTEMEBR 17, 2020

"Is the law, therefore, opposed to the promise of God? Absolutely not! For if a law had been given that could impart life, then righteousness would certainly have come by the law. But the Scripture declares that the whole world is a prisoner of sin, so that what was promised, being given through faith in Jesus Christ, might be given to those who believe." (Galatians 3:21,22)


The style and content of Galatians ties closely to the Book of Romans. Martin Luther, having discovered Galatians in his devotionals, begin formulating his teaching about "by faith alone" and "by grace alone" ("sola fide" and "sola gratia"), which became two of the five tenets of the Protestant Reformation.

In this passage above, we find Paul's wrestling with the place of the Law in God's redemptive history. Verses 15 to 18 articulate that the inheritance of God's people would come by promise, such as that given to Abraham in Genesis 12 and 15, and not by Law.

Yet, the Law existed "because of the transgressions until the Seed to whom the promised referred had come." The Law mediated between God and man. As Paul points out in Romans 3:20, "no one will be declared righteous in God's sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin." The Law brings accountability before a holy God and points us to our desperate need for an external mediator, the Lord Jesus Christ.

The inheritance of God's people are true riches (particularly God's presence), but, in order to experience them, we must first receive Christ (John 1:12). God gives us freedom to welcome or not welcome Him and His Kingdom agenda each day. Our choice makes a difference not just for today, but for eternity. May we embrace both the riches and purpose of our calling as His children.


Lord God, thank You for providing the Law to make us conscious of our sin. Help us to grow in knowledge of how much we need You. We welcome You and Your presence today. Give us strength so that we may obey You, by the power of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus's Name, amen.


________________________________________________________________________
596 Glenbrook Road, Unit 13 | "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection
Stamford, CT 06906-1423 | and the life. He who believes in me will
(C) 203.820.1741 | live, even though he dies; and whoever
(H) 203.355.9374 | lives and believes in me will never die.
(E) swe@edwa.info | Do you believe this?'" -- John 11:25,26

Sept. 16

Galatians 3

By definition, faith is complete trust or confidence in someone or something  based on spiritual intuition rather than proof.  Paul reminds us that Abraham's faith was credited to him as righteousness. My faith waivers daily but when I take a moment to remember that our faith is based on God breathed scriptures which point us towards Jesus, the Messiah, and I simply believe this truth, it changes the way I look at, and react to what's happening around me. A big part of my faith rests in looking back on situations and remembering how God worked and learning that through each trial, not knowing how they will turn out, I can trust Him. Also, sitting still in God's presence and pressing in to try and sense the direction to take brings peace to my spirit. If God spoke to me once, then He'll speak to me again when I come to Him first thing in the morning asking for daily provision or specific prayer requests. To flow in the spirit that way releases us from the letter of the law and I think that's what the Apostle Paul is trying to show us. Does God work through us because we observe the law, or because we believe what we've seen? Perhaps Paul is trying to get us to remember that God has never failed us when we submit our hearts to Him and trust Him to work. I will be fasting this Friday and praying that by faith our church will sense God's love and allow His spirit to move through us. I look forward to seeing what the move of the Lord's spirit will bring if we allow Him room. If anyone would like to join me, please let me know.

Blessings,

Randi

Bible Blog Post - September 13, 2020

Isaiah 12:1-14:32

2 Corinthians 13:1-14

Psalm 57:1-11

Proverbs 23:9-11

In 2 Corinthians, Paul is writing a warning to the Christians at the young church established there.  Previously, toward the end of chapter 12, Paul highlighted "that there may be discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder."  These are not characteristics of what it means to be a Christ-follower.  As Pastor Rich said today when touching on the subject of "WWJD," it is easier to identify what Christ would do, but it is much more difficult to put His teachings into practice because our feelings often get in the way.  

In today's reading in chapter 13, Paul tells the church body in Corinth to examine themselves to see whether they are really in the faith.  Paul was displeased with what he was hearing about them and their behaviors within the church.  Like the members in Corinth, we also need to examine ourselves to see if we are truly in the faith.  Do we simply say that we are for God, or do our actions show that we are for Him?  Thinking back to James 2:17, "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."  Faith is a commitment to God.  Faith is an action Word.  Faith requires us to absorb God's Word in the bible and apply it within our lives.  We should see ourselves as ambassadors of Christ.   

This week, be very intentional during your bible study and ask God to reveal to you who you are in Jesus Christ.  Reach out to God in prayer and ask Him to highlight the areas that don't align with His ways.  Pray for His wisdom to help you make the necessary changes.  Let's not be stagnant in our faith; let's be active followers!

Anthony and Amanda 

September 12: Of the Day After

Isaiah 10:1-11:16

2 Corinthians 12:1-21

Psalm 56:1-13

Proverbs 23:6-8

Nineteen years and one day ago, an acquaintance of mine died in the collapse of the South Tower, where he worked on the 98th floor if memory serves.  Today, the day after we remembered the tragedy, I remembered his wife, whom he had recently married.  When he died, she was carrying their first child.  I looked up the September 12 print edition of the Wall Street Journal, and thought every single story on the front page had been written about them.  

Today's OT reading and psalm may have well been written for them as well.  Footnotes in the NIV Study Bible say Psalm 56 was a prayer for help "when the psalmist is attacked by enemies and his very life is threatened."  And it is true - for my friend and his family, the enemies were in hot pursuit and they did not know it; they conspired, they lurked, hoping to take their lives.  My friend's widow had misery to record, tears for the Lord's scroll.  

But more than just despair, there is also hope.  One thing I learned today - in 2007, first the Governor of Arkansas, then President George W Bush recognized September 12 as the National Day of Encouragement.  And in Isaiah we read of how the remnant "will truly rely on the Lord, the Holy One of Israel".  The psalmist speaks of calling for help from God, whom he trusts and is therefore unafraid of what man might do to him.  

The terrorist attacks of 9/11 occurred over 19 years ago, but today there is still so much we deal with that is cause for despair.  Let's remember that today is the National Day of Encouragement, and let us go out and offer encouragement to all those who need it - not encouragement borne of man, but that which comes from God Who, per Isaiah, promises us of days when beast and prey will lie peacefully together, and even children will have no need to fear. 

Father, in times of fear, may we bring all those we encounter Your hope and peace.  

September 11: Of Thorny, Painful Reminders

Isaiah 8:1-9:21

2 Corinthians 12:1-10

Psalm 55:1-23

Proverbs 23:4-5

"Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.  Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me.  But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.'" - 2 Corinthians 12:7-9

In the aftermath of the unexpected horror of 9/11 nineteen years ago, on a cool morning of clearest, bluest sky that foretold little of the impending tragedy, amidst the shock, the horror, the disbelief, and the sadness at the loss of almost three thousand colleagues, friends, sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, I think the second most asked question on everyone's minds and lips was "who?" - as in, "who would do this?".  I believe the most asked question was "why?"

Of the 2,606 people who went to work the next day, or the 246 who got on planes, surely there were many who knew the Lord - good people, who strove to live lives pleasing to God.  Of the 343 firefighters and the 60 police officers, surely there many who had risked their lives to save others, all examples of "greater love hath no man"…so why?  Why did they all have to die that way, that day? Why did they, their loved ones, our nation have to suffer such tragedy? 

At least Paul got a straight answer - God let him suffer so Paul would remember he needed God.  No choice - Paul couldn't pull the thorn out.   And Paul didn't choose - wouldn't have chosen - the thorn; God did, for Paul.  

Why, then, the tragedy of 9/11?  I cannot know what God's plans were for everyone affected that day, but it was interesting to read that in its aftermath, US church attendance surged 25%.  In their despair, absent answers that made sense, people turned to God.  God's plan might  have been different than any we would have drawn up, but He had his reasons, among them a reminder of our dependence, and a call to turn back to Him.

Today, we remember 9/11, a commemoration made heavier by the pandemic for which there is no cure, by a surge in crime for which there seems no end and, on the west coast, by wildfires we cannot seem to stop, a heatwave over which we have no control, and power outages we should not be experiencing.  Very little of this makes sense, and none of it is anything we would want for ourselves.  

Lord, when it doesn't make sense, when, as the psalmist prays, "my heart is in anguish within me" and "the terrors of death have fallen on me", listen to my prayer, O God, do not ignore my please; hear and answer me.  When it seems there is no hope, and You will not take away the reason for our pain, remind us that Your grace - not our strength - is sufficient for us; that it is  when we are weak that You call us most clearly to depend on You.  May we have the good sense to listen, and to do so.

Thursday, September 10

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2020

"If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness." (2 Corinthians 11:30)


In 2 Corinthians, Paul captures his most personal sentiments in addressing the early church at Corinth. In this autobiographical section, he recounts all his accolades as an apostle: "Since many are boasting in the way the world does, I too will boast." (2 Corinthians 11:18) From his tone, we understand that this boasting does not represent his preferred stance; rather, he offers it as a means of proving the rights of his apostleship. Given his thorough commitment to Christ and His Kingdom, Paul's words carried weight, but he readily acknowledges that his only boast lay in the One Who had called him.

This sentiment reflects what we read from Jeremiah 9:23,24: "Let not the wise boast of their wisdom/ or the strong boast of their strength/ or the rich boast of their riches,/ but let the one who boasts boast about this:/ that they have the understanding to know me,/ that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness,/ justice and righteousness on earth,/ for in these I delight... " By boasting of his weakness, Paul points to God's strength.

Whenever we meet success, we may be confident that God empowered the whole process: either by giving us intellect, time, or partners or the opportunity to develop our skills. Please reflect back on a recent success. How did God bring it about? Have you praised Him for that? How can you boast more fully of God's strength (in the midst of our weakness)?


Lord God, thank You that we all may testify to Your strength and provision. Thank You for making every success possible and standing with us in every difficulty. Thank You that You empower us through Your Holy Spirit. Help us to remember our position with humility and to trust You through each challenge. In Jesus's mighty Name, amen.




________________________________________________________________________
596 Glenbrook Road, Unit 13 | "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection
Stamford, CT 06906-1423 | and the life. He who believes in me will
(C) 203.820.1741 | live, even though he dies; and whoever
(H) 203.355.9374 | lives and believes in me will never die.
(E) swe@edwa.info | Do you believe this?'" -- John 11:25,26

Sept. 9

Psalm 53

In the New Testament Jesus claims to have an intimate relationship with God as His Father. As we read through the gospels, we learn how Jesus prayed.  He repeatedly recalls the Psalms in His prayers, especially when He is confronted with the Pharisees and even when He was on the cross.  Prayer is how we communicate to God. In today's reading, the evil nature of man is brought before us, and basically David is telling us that those who don't believe in God are fools. Not having a God leads to giving in to the passions that fight for our attention in this world.  See everyone might have different ideas about what reading the Bible means. The Psalms show us what prayer looks and sounds like and gives a scripted way to pray, opening our hearts and minds to God.  So maybe, in this Godless world, we can plant a seed by pointing people to the Psalms as a way to start reading the Bible and pray for God's spirit to move in their hearts. 

Blessings,

Randi

Bible Blog Post 9/6/20

Song of Solomon 1:1-4:16

2 Corinthians 8:16-24

Psalm 50:1-23

Proverbs 22:22-23

How invested are you in your spiritual growth and your walk with God?  Do you find yourself seeking out opportunities to serve Him and bring honor to His name, or do you simply go through the motions and do things because you think you're supposed to?  God is aware of all of our deeds and actions, and the motives behind them all.  He knows when our intentions are wholehearted, and when they are lacking sincerity.  

I don't think it's God's goal for us to merely go through the motions of following Him, or doing things out of habit that hold no weight.  As we read in Psalm 50, followers of God were making sacrifices because it was the thing to do as a form of repentance. God wanted His followers to truly understand the meaning behind their offerings and make corrective changes to their lives instead of falling into the routine of sinning followed by a sacrifice, then sinning again followed by another sacrifice, etc. 

As Christians today, we must look at our own tendencies and behaviors.  Even actions that started with good intent and passion for the Lord can eventually turn into routine things that we feel like we have to do.  Take communion for example - When was the last time you felt you should not partake in communion because you didn't feel you were right with God that specific Sunday? But, you took communion anyway because everyone around you was participating? If you feel like this is you, maybe it's time to reset yourself and your focus.  Be intentional in your prayer and your open conversation with the Lord. Psalm 50 suggests starting by thanking God for His good grace each and every day.  When we show gratitude to God it paves the way for a change in perspective and appreciation for His mercy and our position before Him. 

Amanda & Anthony

September 5: Of the Difference Between Socialism and Christian Generosity

Ecclesiastes 10:1-12:14

2 Corinthians 8:1-15

Psalm 49:1-20

Proverbs 22:20-21

One of the growing debates in the US as we approach the elections in November is the one between capitalism and socialism.  One of the arguments made in favor of socialism is that it is what Jesus would want - "sharing with the poor".  I disagree.  Socialism demands people give what they have due to an external imposition.  In today's New Testament reading, Paul explains that what the Lord asks is even more powerful.  

The spirit of giving Paul describes emanates from an internal compulsion, so much so that, referring to the Macedonian churches, "in the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity…they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability."

This compulsion does not come from outside of us.  Paul makes clear he is "not commanding" the Corinthians, but points out the earnestness of others in following the example of our Lord.  He talks about willingness - not command - that makes the gift acceptable.  Again, not an external imposition, but an internal compulsion.  

But where does that internal compulsion to give come from?  Isn't man inherently selfish?  Perhaps.  But I believe man experiences joy when benefiting from someone else's generosity, and right next to the selfishness in us is a desire to cause that same joy we experience to someone else.  So when we receive, and experience joy, we desire to pass it on.

And we HAVE been given - priceless, unattainable gifts of grace and mercy.  As Paul puts it, we know "the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for [our] sake He became poor…".  Jesus gave us His all.  And it is because of His giving we have in us the seed for this internal compulsion to give, even in poverty, in hardship and uncertainty.  

Father, Jesus's sacrifice has planted the seeds of our own generosity.  Nurture that seed that it grows and bears fruit, that we might give as we have been given.  In Jesus's name we pray.

September 4: Of Paul and Parents, and What Children Don’t Need

Ecclesiastes 7:1-9:18

2 Corinthians 7:8-16

Psalm 48:1-14

Proverbs 22:17-19

Today's NT reading is reassurance and guidance for the parent.  Extrapolating from Paul's experience, our children do not need us to be their friends, they need us to be their parents.  

If anyone wants to hear parenting stories of pain, challenge, suffering and - at times - despair, you really should get my parents to talk.  How crazy are the stories?  I won't steal their thunder, but I will say my mom used to both laugh and cry reading about the antics of Dennis the Menace and Calvin of "Calvin and Hobbes".  Here's a conversation starter: ask them about comic books and spanking.  

The thing is, my parents did used to punish me growing up (and for the record, I am grateful they did, else I'd probably be writing this from prison).  But while I went and nursed my hurts afterwards, I never knew till much later how much it broke their heart that such discipline was necessary.  But they did it anyway - every time I needed it.  Like Paul to the Corinthians, they caused me sorrow, and while they did regret the need to do so, they didn't regret doing so because the pain they caused led to repentance.  I think it still makes them smile in wonder that they disobedient son they had is now writing scripture blogs. 

Paul was wise enough to recognize when and how the Corinthians needed to be corrected, and strong enough to confront the need for correction.  He didn't condone their faults, he called them out at risk of rejection.  As parents, we inevitably want our children's love and acceptance (shh…don't tell them).  But sometimes we have to be prepared to face rejection in order to follow Paul's example, and bring them up in the ways of the Lord.  They don't need us to be their friends - they need us to be their parents.  

Father, give us parents the wisdom to recognize when our children need guidance, and the courage and strength to provide it, even at risk of their rejection.  

Thursday, September 3

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

"Who loves money never has money enough;
whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income.
This too is meaningless....

"The sleep of a laborer is sweet
whether he eats little or much,
but the abundance of a rich man permits him no sleep."

(Ecclesiastes 5:10,12)


"He who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth
and he who gives gifts to the rich -- both come to poverty."

(Proverbs 22:16)


Solomon's wisdom on finances appears in both Ecclesiastes and Proverbs today. In each verse highlighted above, the undertone speaks to our attitudes about money -- and how those attitudes bring us closer or farther from true wealth.

While Ecclesiastes provides many insights on life, sometimes striking us as jaded, it does highlight that this earthly life involves many challenges. Ultimately, our heavenly reward awaits, but this life will have physical, emotional, and relational pain. While Solomon concludes frequently that "this too is meaningless" in several places, it does appear that he often speaks about those "meaningless" items in isolation. That is, were we to focus on something "meaningless," we could become consumed (to the negative) about it.

Even with "our" money, the Scriptures clearly teach that we should have a God- and others-oriented attitude. Proverbs extols the reward of generosity: "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed." (Proverbs 11:25) "The generous themselves will be blessed, for they share their food with the poor." (Proverbs 22:9) Generosity appears to unlock the reward of greater closeness and refreshment from God.

I will close with an extended reflection from A. W. Tozer's "The Pursuit of God," in a chapter on the "The Blessedness of Possessing Nothing." In it, he explains how Abraham found true riches in his willingness to sacrifice even his own son, Isaac:

"Now he was a man wholly surrendered, a man utterly obedient, a man who possessed nothing. He had concentrated his all in the person of his dear son, and God had taken it from him.

"God could have begun out on the margin of Abraham's life and worked inward to the center; He chose rather to cut quickly to the heart and have it over in one sharp act of separation. In dealing thus He practiced an economy of means and time. It hurt cruelly, but it was effective.

"I have said that Abraham possessed nothing. Yet was not this poor man rich? Everything he had owned before was his still to enjoy: sheep, camels, herds, and goods of every sort. He had also his wife and his friends, and best of all he had his son Isaac safe by his side. He had everything, but he possessed nothing.

"There is the spiritual secret.

"There is the sweet theology of the heart which can be learned only in the school of renunciation. The books on systematic theology overlook this, but the wise will understand."


Lord God, give us wisdom and generosity of spirit so that we may refresh and bless others. Extend our resources so that our gifts may "live beyond their means." Bring clarity to our minds about our finances and our attitudes towards You and others. In Jesus's Name, amen.


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Blog from Aimee

Blog post 2 September 2020

Ecclesiastes 1:1-3:22

2 Corinthians 6:1-13

Psalm 46:1-11

Proverbs 22:15

Life with God is in an ending beautiful journey. Life is depressing being apart for God. We see in the stories life with the goddess empty fruitless and wealth wisdom popularity and pleasure is vanity. When we truly turn from the world to God we will find true happiness. We can learn and see from the stories how we ought  to be living and can be spared the heartaches of living a wasted life.

As God's co-workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. For he says,

"In the time of my favor I heard you,

    and in the day of salvation I helped you."

God is ready to help us right now. Do you believe that God is really to help you now? I pray that in our troubles and doubts we can "be still and know that I am God".  

So if you are going through trouble and hardship like Paul, we can draw close to God and confide in him.I pray that we appreciate our loving and disciplined God and that we allow God to train and correct us to make us better. Just as parents discipline their children to learn the difference between right and wrong. I pray that we honor God and his power and majesty. May we live each day to be still and to exalt God. Let us let go and let God be in control.

Amen

https://youtu.be/rW9MbYQrTUI