Each morning on Monday through Thursday, Pastor Young-Mee Park will send an email with a Bible verse and prayer. If you would like to receive these emails, please subscribe to our enews by clicking here.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 14
And he [Jesus] said to them, “Take care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.” (Luke 12:15)
It is hard not to think that our value comes from how much stuff we have, that money is the way to prove we’re winning in life. That’s the lie we keep hearing every day in our world! Forgive us when we get astray and give in to greed, envy, and unhealthy ambitions. Help us remember that you are the giver of every gift that makes life possible and good. May we live our lives trusting in your goodness and shaping our lives according to your will and purpose that all may have life and have it abundantly. Amen.
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10
Praise the Lord! Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise in the assembly of the faithful. Let Israel be glad in its Maker; let the children of Zion rejoice in their King. (Psalm 149:1-2)
We praise you, O God, our Maker and our King! With believers of every time and place, we raise our voices to sing a new song. You wipe away every tear from our eyes and give water to the thirsty from the spiring of life. You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing. Grant us grace, O God, that we may delight in you, and you in us, from this time on and forevermore. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9
By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. (Galatians 5:22-23)
We are your people called to grow like trees planted by streams of water and bear fruit. We are your people called to trust and hope, care and share, comfort and heal. Free us from small-minded and lopsided pursuits. Save us from frenzied and joyless grabs for happiness. May we live by the Spirit. In everything we do, may we bear its fruit - joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Amen.
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8
You did not choose me, but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name. (John 15:16)
Each generation, each congregation, and each individual have their unique gifts to share and fruits to bear. We are your people placed in a variety of settings and spaces, to work with you to move a heart, touch a life, and make a difference. Grant us courage that we may rise up to the challenges of our time and embrace the opportunities it presents. Grant us grace that we may go forth and bear fruit, fruit that will last. Amen.
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 7
It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone. (Ephesians 1:11-12, The Message)
Thank you, God, for creating us each with unique gifts and placing us here on earth for glorious living! Long before we were born, long before we first heard about you, you had plans for us – plans for virtuous, victorious, joyful, and abundant living. In each moment and in every detail of our lives, may we do our best to work out your plan, trusting, hoping, loving, caring, and enduring. Amen.
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3
The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it, for he has founded it on the seas and established it on the rivers. (Psalm 24:1-2)
What a beautiful and abundant world you have created, O God! Summer and winter, springtime and harvest, sun, moon, and stars in their courses above - they join all nature in witness to your great faithfulness, mercy, and love. May we add our voices in praising you, O God. In every word we speak, every choice we make, every act of kindness and generosity, may we declare your goodness for all the world to hear. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2
Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, “Look, half of my possessions, Lord, I will give to the poor, and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will pay back four times as much.” (Luke 19:8)
What a memorable encounter! When in your presence and touched by your grace, Zacchaeus was changed – from a taker to a giver, from a greedy, self-centered cheat and traitor to a cheerful and generous participant in your way. Freed from the grip of money and possessions, he was restored to the joy and freedom of living abundantly as your child. Come to us, Lord Jesus, and bless us with the same presence and power, joy and freedom! Amen.
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1
When Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” So he hurried down and was happy to welcome him. (Luke 19:5-6)
As you came to Zacchaeus clinging on a tree by that roadside, come to us, Lord Jesus. As you told Zacchaeus to come down, speak your word and come stay with us. Wherever we are, whatever we are doing, come find us, Lord Jesus, and enter our lives. Shine your light into our hearts and let your grace wash over us, that we, too, may welcome you and live, truly live! Amen.
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Monday, October 31
A man was there named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was rich. He was trying to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was short in stature. (Luke 19:2-3)
We get deterred by so many things, Lord Jesus. Sometimes, it’s the clamor of the crowd that tells us that, to have the good life we always wanted, we need more money, more stuff. Sometimes, it’s our inner voice that tells us that we are too “short”, that we are not enough. Help us not to let these destructive voices keep us from coming to you, Lord Jesus! Help us seek your presence; help us find our way! Amen.
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God—not the result of works, so that no one may boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
It’s all your grace, O God. It’s your gift from start to finish. Every breath we take, every step of faith we take, it’s all your grace. You have created us in your image, each with unique gifts and calling. And you lead us on the right path for your name’s sake. May we go forth relying on your grace alone. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26
But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven but was beating his breast and saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ (Luke 18:13)
When in deep water and we find it difficult to swim, may we pray. When in gusty winds and we find it unable to fly, may we pray. When in the middle of hurricanes and floods and we feel defeated and powerless, may we pray. When in trials and tribulation and we are breaking down in tears, may we pray. “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!”
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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25
The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. (Luke 18:11)
Probably not overtly, but deep down inside, we often compare ourselves with others. Probably not openly and publicly, but secretly and complacently, we sometimes pride ourselves on our moral performance while judging our brothers and sisters as lacking in quality and character. Help us remember, Lord Jesus, how you came to us as a humble servant. Help us embrace each other with humility and compassion as you did the humanity. Amen.
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MONDAY, OCTOBER 24
He [Jesus] also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt. (Luke 18:9)
Forgive us, Lord Jesus, when we think that we are right and righteous while others are wrong and unworthy. Forgive us, Lord Jesus, when we are complacently pleased with ourselves and regard those that are different from us as less-than. Teach us your way, Lord Jesus, and put us back to a right relationship with you and others. All our trust placed in you, may we live in peace and harmony, love and grace. Amen.
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20
All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the person of God may be proficient, equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Thank you for your life-giving spirit that runs through every part of Scripture. Thank you for your Word of life that shows us truth, exposes our rebellion, corrects our mistakes, and gives us the strength and energy to keep on going. Shape us up through your Word, O God, that we may be equipped for every good work you have prepared for us. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19
But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have known sacred writings that are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 3:15-15)
So many voices in this world claim our attention and allegiance, O God. And we sometimes get distracted and confused. Help us not to let these deceiving voices faze us, but to let your Word guide us as a lamp unto our feet. May we stick with what we have learned and believe – the truth of your love and grace as shown in the Holy Scripture. Amen.
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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18
And will not God grant justice to his chosen ones who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long in helping them? (Luke 18:7)
We often struggle with challenging situations in our lives and the world. We often feel weary and anxious, frustrated and overwhelmed. And we sometimes wonder – where is God? Yet, we know that you are there deeply committed to justice, kindness, and mercy. May we never lose heart and cry out to you day and night! Patiently, persistently, and prayerfully, may we pursue your will and purpose in our lives. Amen.
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MONDAY, OCTOBER 17
Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray always and not to lose heart. (Luke 18:1)
You taught us by your examples; your taught us by telling us stories. It couldn’t be clearer – without constant prayer life, we will lose heart, we will lose our hope. Help us pray, Lord Jesus! May we pray whether the time is favorable or unfavorable, convenient or inconvenient. May we pray with our words; may we pray with our lives. May we pray always and never lose heart! Amen.
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13
Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, a descendant of David—that is my gospel, for which I suffer hardship, even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But the word of God is not chained. (2 Timothy 2:8-9)
May we remember you, Christ Jesus - your love and grace, courage and compassion. May we remember you, Lord Jesus - your life and passion, crucifixion and resurrection. May we remember that your Word, alive and powerful, can never be chained. May we remember and be encouraged! May we remember and let your Holy Spirit revive our souls again! Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12
You then, my child, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me through many witnesses entrust to faithful people who will be able to teach others as well. (2 Timothy 2:1-2)
Sometimes we feel alone and afraid to go one step farther. Sometimes we feel discouraged and think that our work is in vain. Grant us grace that we may build one another up and move forward in the strength of your spirit. May we be strong in your grace, Lord Jesus. May we be faithful. Amen.
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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 11
Then Eli perceived that the LORD was calling the boy. Therefore Eli said to Samuel, “Go, lie down, and if he calls you, you shall say, ‘Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening.’” (1 Samuel 3:8b-9)
You are not finished with us. You are not finished with the church or our world, either. You are still speaking! You are still revealing yourself to us – your compassion and justice, hope and truth. Give us ears to hear what you are saying to us here and now, in this particular place, at this particular time in history. Speak, Lord, for your servants are listening! Amen.
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MONDAY, OCTOBER 10
Now the boy Samuel was ministering to the Lord under Eli. The word of the Lord was rare in those days; visions were not widespread. Then the Lord called, “Samuel! Samuel!” and he said, “Here I am!” and ran to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” (1 Samuel 3:1 & 4-5)
We often think that you stopped speaking. We often think that you are done with us, that you do not reveal yourself anymore. So, we live in our well-defined and well-established world, not expecting much of you. Yet, you are still speaking! You still call us! Open our ears to hear your voice. Then, hearing, may we answer, “Here I am, Lord!” Amen.
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6
God is the one who saved and called us with a holy calling. This wasn’t based on what we have done, but it was based on his own purpose and grace that he gave us in Christ Jesus before time began. (2 Timothy 1:9, Common English Bible)
You have saved and called us with a holy calling, O God, not because of who we are or what we have done, but purely because of who you are and what you have done for us. You are the source of all gifts that make life possible, good, and meaningful. In Christ Jesus, death is defeated, and we are given a new life. May we answer your call with glad and grateful hearts. May we live our lives according to your will and purpose. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5
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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, for the sake of the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus, To Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. I am grateful to God—whom I worship with a clear conscience, as my ancestors did—when I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. (2 Timothy 1:1-3)
May we worship you in truth and spirit and with a clear conscience. Day and night, may we pray and give thanks to you for all the wonderful gifts from your hand – family, friends, and church. Like Paul with his young friend, Timothy, may we hold one another in mutual care and work together for the sake of the promise of life that is in you, Christ Jesus. May we bless each other with your grace, mercy, and peace. Amen.
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MONDAY, OCTOBER 3
The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” The Lord replied, “If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you. (Luke 17:5-6)
We sometimes are disheartened, O God. War, violence, injustice, oppression, division, disaffiliation… We are in deep trouble, and our faith seems to be too small. Yet, you say that faith the size of a mustard seed is enough. All you need is a small opening in our hearts to enter and work miracles. Come and change us, O God. Transform our understanding and imagination, our memory and our will. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
A devout life does bring wealth, but it’s the rich simplicity of being yourself before God. Since we entered the world penniless and will leave it penniless, if we have bread on the table and shoes on our feet, that’s enough. (1 Timothy 6:6-8, The Message)
We brought nothing into the world when we were born; we can take nothing out of it when we leave. Help us, O God, not to fall into temptation and become trapped by foolish and harmful desires of this world. Help us to live a devout life. Make us rich with your wealth – simple joy, steadfast love, and abiding hope. Amen.
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
“Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Take these deeds, both this sealed deed of purchase and this open deed, and put them in an earthenware jar, in order that they may last for a long time. For thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Houses and fields and vineyards shall again be bought in this land.” (Jeremiah 32:14-15)
We long for the day when war will be no more, violence will be no more, hunger and homelessness will be no more. We pray for the day when homes and fields and vineyards will again be bought and there will be peace and joy in this land. Grant us courage, O God, that trusting in your covenant, kept in an earthenware jar, we may work together toward that day of great redemption. Amen.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
Then you should shatter the clay jar in the sight of the people who are with you, and you should say to them: This is what the Lord of heavenly forces says: Just as one smashes the potter’s piece beyond repair, so I will smash this people and this city. (Jeremiah 19:10-11a, Common English Bible)
We sometimes feel that this world is like a smashed clay jar, broken beyond repair. There is so much misery, injustice, and suffering in this land, with millions of people caught in the crossfire of war or somewhere on the road alone and afraid, distressed and despairing. Yet, you are a God determined to redeem and rebuild. Use us, O God, to restore the broken jar, one piece at a time. Amen.
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22
I’m so grateful to Christ Jesus for making me adequate to do this work. He went out on a limb, you know, in trusting me with this ministry. The only credentials I brought to it were violence and witch hunts and arrogance. But I was treated mercifully because I didn’t know what I was doing—didn’t know Who I was doing it against! (1 Timothy 1: 12-13, The Message)
We may not have persecuted believers like Paul did some two thousand years ago. But, we, too, often act out of fear and anger, arrogance and ignorance. We, too, often act against you! Treat us mercifully, gracious God, and bring us back on the right path. Forgive us, change us, and use us for your ministry, that your name be glorified and your Kingdom furthered. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBEr 21
And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my lost sheep. (Luke 15:6)
It’s all about joy! Anytime one of your children discovers the abundant life you desire for all, you rejoice! You are a God of love, and, therefore, you rejoice and want us to share in your joy as well! From the places of fear and anger, despair and resignation, lead us to that place of abundant joy. May we rejoice in you and you in us, blessed Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
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Tuesday, September 20
So he told them this parable: “Which one of you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost until he finds it? (Luke 15:3-4)
Searching is hard work. Finding a lost sheep and bring it back to the fold often feels like an impossible mission. Yet, you never let go. Relentlessly and with dogged determination, you pursue your lost sheep, for your care and mercy are for all, no exceptions. With humble and grateful hearts, may we join you in your search and rescue mission and never give up. Amen.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him. And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, “This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.” (Luke 15:1-2)
Lord Jesus, you welcomed everyone – fans and critiques, enthusiasts and skeptics. You ate with everyone – friends and strangers, people in good standing and people with questionable reputations. You constantly reached across dividing lines and shared your life with others freely and joyfully. Grant us grace that we may do the same. May we reach out and share, like you did for us and with us. Amen.
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15
And the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance: that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the foremost. (1 Timothy 1:14-15)
You came, Lord Jesus, that we may have life and have it abundantly. You came, Christ our Savior, that we may be saved from a life of sin and death. This is sheer mercy, for we are all sinners, unable to save ourselves! May your grace overflow in us with faith and love in Christ Jesus. May we take your Word to heart and depend on it, that we may live, truly live. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14
But the aim of such instruction is love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and sincere faith. Some people have deviated from these and turned to meaningless talk. (1 Timothy 1:5-6)
The whole point of what we pursue is love – a love that comes from a pure heart. The aim of our life’s journey is love – love that originates from sincere faith and a life open to your Spirit’s moving. All else is meaningless talk! May we stay focused and never wander off, that we may have life and have it abundantly! Amen.
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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13
I have indeed received much joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, my brother. (Philemon 1:7)
With our love, may we inspire joy and encourage each other. With our words of support and acts of kindness, may we strengthen each other’s hearts. May we never cease to receive what we need for this life’s journey from you; may we never cease to refresh each other’s hearts with what we have received from you – your joy and love, peace and hope. Amen.
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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
I thank my God always when I mention you in my prayers, because I hear of your love for all the saints and your faith toward the Lord Jesus. (Philemon 1:4-5)
We praise you for those whose faith in Christ Jesus brims over to other believers. We thank you for those whose love for Christ Jesus spills over onto others and makes an impact in our communities and the world. We pray for those who tirelessly support and encourage us and ask for your blessings upon them. May we hold one another in prayer; may we care and share, love and serve - freely, joyfully, and gratefully. Amen.
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1
Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. (Hebrews 13:1-2)
More often than not, we keep our welcome circulating among our own kind of people – those we have affinity with, those we feel comfortable around. Yet, you tell us to welcome strangers. You want us to show hospitality to people from different walks of life, of unknown backgrounds. Help us choose hospitality over fear, generosity over stinginess, and experience the joy and blessing of your presence. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31
The next time you put on a dinner, don’t just invite your friends and family and rich neighbors, the kind of people who will return the favor. Invite some people who never get invited out, the misfits from the wrong side of the tracks. You’ll be—and experience—a blessing. (Luke 14:12-14, The Message)
In the eco-system of hospitality of this world, guest lists are comprised of those who will add to the party and return the favor later. Yet, you tell us to invite people who never get invited out. Grant us courage, Lord Jesus, that we may build bridges and not walls. Grant us grace, Lord Jesus, that we may be, and experience, a blessing of lasting friendship with you and people from different walks of life. Amen.
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TUESDAY, AUGUST 30
For all who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. (Luke 14:11)
Get ahead, make it to the top, and be recognized and rewarded – clamors the world all around us. But you tell us that the currency of your Kingdom is humility, not arrogance. Help us not to anxiously scramble for greatness but pursue your heart. In joy and gratitude, may we live our lives as citizens of your Kingdom where everyone is honored, especially the least and the last. Amen.
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MONDAY, AUGUST 29
On one occasion when Jesus was going to the house of a leader of the Pharisees to eat a meal on the Sabbath, they were watching him closely. (Luke 14:1)
Sometimes, we are like the pharisee and his distinguished guests. We invite you, not to enjoy your company, but to scrutinize you. We come to you, not to learn from you, but to gauge you. Whatever the motive, look kindly upon us, Lord Jesus. Open our eyes to see you; open our ears to hear you. And, seeing and hearing, may we receive you with humility and gratitude. Amen.
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 25
But the Lord answered him [synagogue leader] and said, ‘You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger, and lead it away to give it water?” (Luke 13:15)
At the heart of the matter is compassion and mercy. At the heart of the matter is healing and restoration. Draw us near to your heart, Lord Jesus. Your Gospel is about life and health, hope and promise. Help us not to get stuck in the rules and customs of our making. Free us to care and share, love and serve, that in everything we do and say, your name be hallowed. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 24
But the leader of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had cured on the sabbath, kept saying to the crowd, ‘There are six days on which work ought to be done; come on those days and be cured, and not on the sabbath day.’ (Luke 13:14)
Forgive us, O God, when we think that paying attention to the rules and sticking with them will save us. Forgive us, O God, when we think that we are standing up straight, when, in fact, we are entrapped in the crippling conditions of our own making. Come to us with your gift of healing! Come to us with your gift of freedom! Amen.
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TUESDAY, AUGUST 23
When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said, ‘Woman, you are set free from your ailment.’ When he laid his hands on her, immediately she stood up straight and began praising God. (Luke 13:12-13)
You see us as we are, stooped over and unable to stand up straight. You see us as we are, in our pain and suffering. And, seeing, you call us over to you. May we hear you when you call. Without doubt nor hesitation, may we accept the healing grace you offer. Immediately, may we stand up straight and sing your praises. Amen.
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MONDAY, AUGUST 22
Now he [Jesus] was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. And just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight. (Luke 13:10-11)
When we are stooped over and unable to see the path before us, come and heal us, Lord Jesus. When we are suffering and struggling, come and restore us, Lord Jesus. Come and free us from whatever ails and restricts us; come and make us healthy and whole. In your strong and beautiful name we pray. Amen.
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 18
Pray then in this way: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. (Matthew 6:9-!0)
You alone are holy, O Lord. Yet, you want us to partake in your holiness. You want your name to be hallowed in our lives. Come, Jesus our King! Make us your Kingdom people, set aside for your purpose and will. Pure and holy, tried and true, may our lives be a reflection of your glory. In your holy name we pray. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17
The Lord declares, Am I a God who is only nearby and not far off? Can people hide themselves in secret places so I might not see them? Don’t I fill heaven and earth? (Jeremiah 23:23-24, Common English Bible)
Where could we go to be out of your sight? Where could we go to escape your presence? You are everywhere! Nearby and far off, up there in heaven and down below here on earth, you permeate the world in sustaining grace and creative power, shaping and steering it according to your design and purpose. May we live our everyday lives aware of your presence and power. May we shape our lives according to your will. Amen.
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TUESDAY, AUGUST 16
But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Even heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you, much less this house that I have built! (1 Kings 8:27)
What an awesome God we serve! You are the ineffable mystery far beyond all that exists. The highest heaven cannot contain you, nor any human constructions, be it a temple or a set of concepts, statements, or doctrines. You are outside of humanity’s full grasp, experience, or perception. Yet, you are a revealing God. You came to us in Christ Jesus. You keep coming to us and are still speaking. May we live our daily lives alert to your coming and speaking! Amen.
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MONDAY, augusT 15
When I look up at your skies, at what your fingers made—the moon and the stars that you set firmly in place— what are human beings that you think about them; what are human beings that you pay attention to them? (Psalm 8:3-4, Common English Bible)
O Lord our God, your power is displayed throughout the universe. The stars, the moon, the galaxies! The woods, forest glades, lofty mountains, and gentle breeze! How great you are! You indeed are the Lord and Creator of all there is. And yet, you care for us and pay attention to us. In awe and wonder, love and adoration, may we come to you as children would to a loving parent. Amen.
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 11
Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
Instead of worrying, may we pray. Instead of fretting, may we lay out everything before you. Instead of relying on our own strength and insisting our own ways, may we let you come and settle us down. May we stay steady in Christ Jesus our Lord, that we may be filled with his peace and wholeness and pursue his will. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10
Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving. At the same time pray for us as well that God will open to us a door for the word, that we may declare the mystery of Christ, for which I am in prison, so that I may reveal it clearly, as I should. (Colossians 4:2-4)
The mystery of Christ, the wonder of God’s love, the depth of the Spirit’s communion - who can fathom the fullness of your wisdom, O God? With our eyes wide open in gratitude, may we devote ourselves to prayer. May we stay alert to your movement in our lives and the world, that we may join you in your work and reflect your glory, as we should. Amen.
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TUESDAY, AUGUST 9
Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. (Romans 12:12-13)
Sometimes, we feel discouraged. Sometimes, we feel confused and lost. In our world, as well as in our personal lives, we have so many problems. Some are manageable, but many are so big and so complex that what we can do seems insignificant, like a drop in the ocean. Help us be patient and never lose hope, Lord Jesus. May we persist in acts of kindness; may we persevere in prayer. Amen.
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MONDAY, AUGUST 8
While he lived on earth, anticipating death, Jesus cried out in pain and wept in sorrow as he offered up priestly prayers to God. Because he honored God, God answered him. (Hebrews 5:7, The Message)
You knew our griefs and struggles. You were with us, as one of us, walking our walk and speaking our language. And you prayed, crying out in pain and weeping in sorrow. May we do the same. At every turn of our lives, through the ups and downs of our existence, may we lay it all out before you, assured that we will be heard. In your holy name we pray. Amen.
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 4
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
A joyful, grateful, and prayerful life – this is your will for our lives; this is the way we should live. Help us, O Lord, that no matter what the circumstances, may we rejoice, pray all the time, and give you thanks. Through the ups and downs of our life’s journey, may we walk with you, laying it all out before you and waiting for your guidance and direction, expectantly, joyfully, and gratefully. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3
Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone. (Matthew 14:22-23)
You miraculously fed the five thousand! What a success! Yet, instead of savoring the moment with your disciples, you told them to leave, dismissed the crowd, and went up the mountain by yourself to pray. You knew that success, in particular, demanded withdrawal and prayer. May we pray, not only when we are faced with troubles, but also when things are going well. May we pray always - before, during and after the peaks and troughs of our life’s journey. Amen.
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TUESDAY, AUGUST 2
And the whole city was gathered around the door. And he [Jesus] cured many who were sick with various diseases. In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed. (Mark 1: 33-34a, 35)
After a particularly long day of work, you prayed. Early in the morning, when you could have used more sleep, you got up, went to a deserted place, and prayed. Prayer was your lifeline! It’s where and how you received energy and vision. Just like you did, may we take time to pray, that we, too, may find what need for this life’s journey in prayer – strength and courage, direction and purpose. Amen.
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MONDAY, AUGUST 1
Now during those days he went out to the mountain to pray; and he spent the night in prayer to God. And when day came, he called his disciples and chose twelve of them, whom he also named apostles: (Luke 6:12-13)
Before you began your public ministry, you prayed, spending forty days alone in the wilderness. Before you selected your disciples, you went to the mountain, spending the entire night alone in prayer. At key moments, you prayed. Before making decisions and embarking on a new chapter, you prayed. May we do the same. At every turn of our lives, may we lay it all out before you and pursue your will. Amen.
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THURSDAY, JULY 28
Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:8-9)
Where there is hatred, helps us bring love. Where there is doubt, help us bring faith. Where there is falsehood, help us bring truth. Where there's despair, help us bring hope. Help us speak up for what is right and share your love with all. May we keep on doing what you have taught us, that together, as one human family, we may live in your peace. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 27
“They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’ “He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me. (Matthew 25:44-45)
Lord Jesus, you do not come to us with a name tag around your neck, but incognito! You come to us as a hungry stranger or a homeless refugee, parched with heat or shivering from cold. May we never fail to see you in all, especially in the powerless and the vulnerable. May we welcome everyone as we would welcome you. Amen.
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TUESDAY, JULY 25
I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me. (Matthew 25:35-36)
This is how you want us to share in your life – share a meal, make new friends, and offer a hand! This is how you want us to join in your work – take care of the sick and visit those in prison. Lord, help us see you in the poor and hungry, overlooked or ignored. Around the world or down the street, help us share your love with all. Amen.
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Monday, JULY 24
Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. (2 Corinthians 13:11)
Vacation Bible School is over, and we pray for all the children in our community and the world. Help them refuse to hate; help them refuse to fight. Help them talk it out; help the listen well. Help them practice what they have learned and continue to grow as makers of your peace and spreader of your joy. Amen.
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THURSDAY, JULY 21
As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God’s life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, “I am holy; you be holy.” (1 Peter 1:14-16, The Message)
When we are distracted and pulled away by many things, gently pull us back, Lord Jesus. Into a way of life that is pure and holy, into a life that is centered and grounded, pull us back. As the world rushes on, grant us grace that we may take time to speak with you and feed on your word. In joy or in sorrow, through trials or triumphs, shape us into your life, Lord Jesus, a life beaming with your peace and holiness. Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 20
But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.’ (Luke 10:41-42)
Lord, we confess that, more often than not, we are like Martha. We are distracted by many things. We fuss far too much and get ourselves worked up over nothing. Yet, you tell us that only one thing is essential. May we find what we need for our life’s journey in your presence and power - direction and purpose, peace and energy. And, may we let anything or anyone ever take it away from us. Amen.
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TUESDAY, JULY 19
She had a sister, Mary, who sat before the Master, hanging on every word he said. But Martha was pulled away by all she had to do in the kitchen. (Luke 10:39-40a, The Message)
Often, we are like Martha, distracted and pulled away by many tasks. Often, we fret and worry, thinking that there’s so much to do but not enough time. May we stop and take time to sit at your feet, Lord Jesus. May we listen to your Word and let it give meaning and purpose to everything we do. Amen.
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MONDAY, JULY 18
As they continued their travel, Jesus entered a village. A woman by the name of Martha welcomed him and made him feel quite at home. (Luke 10:38, The Message)
You were a traveling preacher without any place to call home. What would it have meant for you to be welcomed into someone’s home? Just like Martha did, we open the doors of our hearts to you, Lord Jesus. Just like Martha did, we welcome you into our homes and lives. Come in today, come in to stay, come into our hearts, Lord Jesus! Amen.
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THURSDAY, July 14
This is what he showed me: the Lord was standing beside a wall built with a plumb-line, with a plumb-line in his hand. And the Lord said to me, ‘Amos, what do you see?’ And I said, ‘A plumb-line.’ Then the Lord said, ‘See, I am setting a plumb-line in the midst of my people Israel.’ (Amos 7:7-8)
We need your plumb line, O God. We need you to give us a true measure of the edifice we are building. Come and show us the fatal flaws and weaknesses of that which is supposed to be straight. Judge us and justify us, right us and center us, that we may be built into a strong and enduring structure. Come with your plumb line, O God, and save us! Amen.
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 13
Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?’ He said, ‘The one who showed him mercy.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Go and do likewise. (Luke 10:36-37)
So many in this world are like the man who fell into the hands of the thieves - beaten, robbed, and left on the side of the Jericho road. Help us not to cross over to the other side and pass by, O God. Help us not to ignore those in desperate need but to show mercy. Grant us grace that we may be good neighbors to each other and live in peace as one humanity. Amen.
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TUESDAY, JULY 12
He [Jesus] said to him [lawyer], ‘What is written in the law? What do you read there?’ He answered, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.’ And he said to him, ‘You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live.’ (Luke 10:26-28)
Yes, he had the right answer, and so do we. We know your commandment; we know your purpose and will. May we be your followers, not just with our lips, but with our lives, not just in our heads, but also with our hearts and hands. May we love you and our neighbors with all our souls and strength. May we lead a life of love in action and live, truly live. Amen
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MONDAY, JULY 11
Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus. ‘Teacher,’ he said, ‘what must I do to inherit eternal life?’ (Luke 10:25)
We want eternal life. We want a good, rich, and abundant life that will stand the test of time. So, we ask, what must I do to have that? Yet, we already have the answer. We know enough. God, help us put into practice what we already know – care and share, love and serve! In your holy name we pray. Amen.