We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts.  This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on August 1, 2018.
 
Prayer:  O, supreme Lord, there is only one of us.  Help us to live in unity with our brothers and sisters as you guide us.  Amen.    
 
Reading:  Ephesians 4:1-16 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  When I attended a Lutheran Outdoor Ministries conference one year, we sang a Taize song called, “There is One Lord.”  It was based on this scripture.  It reminded me that no matter what our difference, we are one through Christ.  If you’d like to hear it, you can listen at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zFqDMrRnZk.
 
The congregation continues to sing the chat throughout the song and the verse are sung by a soloist over top of the group singing.  That is also a powerful witness to the fact that we are the chorus of singers, being one in God, who is the “big singer.” 
 
When you fret over being divided with others, just remember that the big singer is one who unites us.  There is one Lord!
 
--Chad Hershberger

Prayer:  Creator God, you cater to our every need. I especially thank you today for the food I eat and for the many hands that get it from the earth to my plate. May I savor its flavor. May I see the opportunities, too, that food provides for serving You. Amen.
 
Reading: Psalm 78: 23-29 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 
Food, in most church traditions, symbolizes the faith, fellowship, and sustenance God grants through His work on earth. The Old Testament is full of stories when God fed His people through His prophets. The New reminds us to feed the poor and share our bounty. Jesus spent his ministry eating with those He taught, and of course, the Last Supper provided sacramental communion with Him, through Him. We honor and remember God when we give thanks before our meals for the food we eat and the hands that prepare it.
 
Earlier this month, I spent another wonderful four days at Family Camp. Perhaps that is why this psalm resonates so well with me. Through its imagery, I am thinking with gratitude of the people and place that so nourish our family with every visit. Toni is Mount Luther’s very own manna maker. She thoughtfully prepares every meal and snack to include foods she knows the campers and staff especially like. No one goes hungry; Toni always makes enough that there are seconds for those who want them. (And many would call her baked French toast the bread of angels, ha ha!) God works through Toni, giving us not only what we crave, but what we need. Family Camp is like a four-day banquet, sending us forth with full bellies and happy tongues, ready to serve God with thanks and joy!
 
--Heather LeBlanc

Prayer:  Help us to see you when we feel weighed down by complaining, Lord.  You are our rock and our refuge.  Amen.   
 
Reading: Exodus 16: 2-4, 9-15 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
I get tired of complaining.  For the most part, I try to be content in life and see the good.  But there are some who look on the cloudy side of life and constantly have something negative to say about almost every situation.
 
Imagine being Moses and Aaron.  The Israelites are all complaining about EVERYTHING!  Life is not good, and they are feeling helpless.  Complain, complain, complain is all they are doing.
 
But Moses and Aaron turn to God and God provides and helps ease the complaining, at least for a while.  When people who complain are getting us down, turn to God.  God will find a way to make the skies sunny again.  



--Chad Hershberger

Prayer:  Dear God, may we learn from Christ’s example and share kindness with others, at camp and throughout our daily lives. Amen.
 
Reading: Ephesians 4:32 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
This summer at camp, on July 20th, we celebrated the American Camp Association’s “Camp Kindness Day.” To celebrate campers decorated clothes pins to secretly pin kind messages on each other, they also drew pictures with chalk of times someone was kind to them, in crafts they painted kindness rocks to hide around camp, and at lunch everyone wrote a kind message in a card to someone else at camp. Even without special events to celebrate, camp is a special place where everyone is kind and inclusive. One of our campers drew a picture of how kind her counselors were when they welcome her into her A-frame cabin on Sunday (see picture above)! As followers of Christ, we are called to share kindness with others, just as God has so kindly forgiven us.

Today’s verse is also a beloved camp song – “Be Ye Kind”
Be ye kind, one unto another,
Tender-hearted, forgiving one another,
Even as God, for Christ’s sake has forgiven you.
Do do doodly do. Ephesian 4:32!
 
--Anne Harshbarger
 
 
 
 
 
 

Prayer:  God, thank you for all of the miracles you have and continue to perform! Amen.
 
Reading: John 6:1-21 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  In this passage, Jesus has a great crowd following him after they saw him perform many miracles. Jesus immediately knows he is to feed them. It is miraculous how five small barley loaves and two small fish feed the whole crowd! Have you ever felt this way at a potluck meal, where everyone so generously brings a large dish to share and there is always plenty leftover?
 
Sharing meals with others is one of my favorite things to do, especially when there is good conversation and laughter. For me and my family, food brings people together in an extra special way, and it is a way we can experience God’s blessings and fellowship with others.
 
The passage ends with Jesus walking on after taking time on the mountain by himself. Sometimes our faith and relationship with God needs times for respite in creation to be renewed and strengthened, like how Jesus often went up on mountains to pray.



--Anne Harshbarger

Prayer:  Thank you, Holy Spirit, for planting me where I am, for nourishing me with your love, for caring me while I grow, for making me one of your own. Amen.
 
Reading: Ephesians 3:14-21 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  

I’ve been spending my days with six-year-old twins this week, my niece and nephew. For me, whose children are grown (my youngest is now 19), I have thoroughly enjoyed this time when a trip to McDonald’s can be an adventure and even mundane tasks have the potential to take on marvelous significance when tackling them with a child’s enthusiasm. One such undertaking has been re-planting my sister’s garden wall. Yesterday, we cleared the surface of dead leaves and old growth; groans and gags broadcast each new batch of bugs or worms or mushy mushrooms. That gave us a chance to talk about how these “grossy-josie” things are all part of God’s plan to nourish the soil and plants. Today, we selected hardy annuals, drought-resistant yet shade-loving, as I explained how God made so many different kinds of plants to live in all types of gardens. I finished with a promise that even though the flowers look tiny and a little lonely spread far apart in the raised bed as positioned now, over the next weeks with a little water and care from the kids, their roots will dig deep and spread out underground until they can reach each other’s tendrils. Once established, they will be able to withstand dry spells and even the lack of sun. Soon, the whole flower bed will be bursting in colorful blooms.
 
How like His flowers and plants are we, His human design? We, too, are planted here and there, all different yet similar in our basic needs, able to spread out and connect with others. So long as we are rooted and well-nourished, we can flourish in all God’s intended glory. Our faith and the love of our creator get us through the tough patches, help us turn the icky parts of life into opportunities to grow, and make us stronger and even more beautiful. Indeed, thanks be to God!
 
--Heather LeBlanc
 

Prayer:  The eyes of all look to you, Lord. We call upon you.  Be near to us.  Amen
 
Reading: Psalm 145: 10-18 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 

Men construct buildings, bridges, highways.  God creates mountains, lakes, rivers.  We send messages and music over the airways via computers and satellites.  God sends thunder and lightning, breezes and gusty winds.
 
Which is more magnificent?  Who is more powerful?  The eyes of all look to (the Lord). (Psalm 145: 15a)
 
God is never-ending strength. He helps us endure the challenges and complexities of life. Look to God.  Take in God’s goodness.  Feel God’s strength and presence all around us.
 
--Alice Yeakel

Prayer:  Jesus, you know us so well. You know what we need and you provide. You prepare us, so we may accept your gifts of love, and you wait with patience for us to understand the depths of your generosity. Thank you, Abba. Amen.
 
Reading: 2 Kings 4: 42-44 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  
“I did it first!”
“No, I was first!”
Funny how when I read this passage – mind you, as a Lutheran, something I read every three years – I forgot that God uses Elisha to perform a very similar miracle using bread to feed a multitude of people. But the Jews in Jesus’ time would likely have known this story well. When they heard how Jesus of Nazareth was able to feed not just hundreds but thousands and with fish as well as with bread, the portent of the miracle could not have been lost to them. Here, then, was another man of God, someone to listen to, someone who would take care of the people’s needs.
We know that Jesus was not simply a prophet but God’s own son, and the nourishment He offered went far beyond filling one’s stomach. He is the Bread of Life. Yet I can’t help think of two kiddos whom I am watching this summer during the day. At six years old, to them everything is a competition and when someone compliments one on a deed, the other is quick to pipe up that he or she “did it first.”
“I lost my tooth first!”
“I can read a whole book through.”
“I helped make dinner.”
 
I shall make a point of sharing this Bible story – and that of Jesus – with them tonight, to remind them that doing a wondrous and important thing is just as wondrous and important whether you were first or not, so long as you do it for the right reasons. Thank God for Jesus and for the miraculous predecessors He sent to prepare the way for Him.
--Heather LeBlanc

Prayer:  Lord, may we use our freedom in Christ to serve your Kingdom in love. Amen. 
 
Reading: Galatians 5:13-15 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 
 
The title in my Bible for Galatians 5 says, “Freedom in Christ.” Christ’s sacrifice has set us free from sin to serve and share God’s great love. In this passage, Paul writes to remind those hearing this, that we are not set free to sin, because that will just enslave us again. Instead, we are set free to serve, and that we should be motivated by love. For when we love our neighbors as ourselves, we look for the good in each other, and even the tough stuff (like confrontations), can be communicated with love.  What is one way you have served in love this week? 


--Anne Harshbarger
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Prayer:  Caring, loving God, you showed us how to care for each other in Jesus’s example. Help me to see the opportunities you set before me to do your will and teach others in my care of your love. Help me be an example to them, for you. Amen.
 
Reading: Mark 6: 30-34 and 53-56 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  

I was an at home mother for almost twenty years. At various times while we lived near my husband’s family, I was caring for my stepson, his stepsister, our three kids, my niece, and even my nephew if he was sick from preschool. Even though I loved taking care of all these wonderful children – and I really did love it – there were times I was so exhausted I didn’t think I could string two sentences together. And then someone would want a book to be read, or have a really important question, or just need something that had to be talked out. And how could I refuse?
 
As I write this, I think how two of those kids I raised are counselors at Camp Mount Luther this summer. They are going to be hot, tired, and just plumb worn out on days when they can’t wait for “lights out.” But I have every confidence that when a child in their care has a nightmare, or wants to go to the bathroom, or just needs them, my grownup kid is going to be there for them.
 
And that’s God: He’s there for us. Whenever we need Him. I don’t know if God the Father gets tired, but as the human Son, He did. He knows. He understands. But how could He refuse? We are His children and He loves us that much.


--Heather LeBlanc

Prayer:  God, we come to you asking for your spirit to guide us in unity to love and worship together as one Body.  Amen.
 
Reading: Ephesians 2:11-22 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  It is not by our doing, but Christ’s that we are welcomed into heavenly citizenship. This passage reminds us that we are God’s people, built upon God’s foundation, and no longer strangers. We are fellow citizens – halleluiah!
 
One of my college professors used to talk about how we as Christians are citizens of heaven and that the Bible is our passport, to help us see what God is revealing to us through creation and the Word. Sometimes we feel like we do not belong or we are confused about where we are going, that is when I know I need this reminder of heavenly citizenship. There is a greater place for us, where we will all be as one and everyone will feel known and loved, no strangers, praising God!
 
The program staff were sharing Faith Five before dinner at camp last night and when discussing the scripture, we talked about how we are looking forward to joyfully worshipping God with everyone in heaven one day. We also talked about how that is so similar to our experiences at camp. As we reflected on how much fun we had worshipped at pond campfire Sunday night, we thought that camp is one of the closest experiences to heaven on earth…
 
 
--Anne Harshbarger
 
 
 

Prayer:  Thank you, oh Lord, for being with me every moment of my life. Whether guiding me, walking beside me, or having my back you are always around me and with me. I am so glad to know you. Amen.
 
Reading: Psalm 23 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:  

I have heard that for many adults, the 23rd psalm is so greatly ingrained that even with Alzheimer’s or dementia, they can speak the words along with a reader. This song of David is the first learned by many children, and it graces many of the funeral programs I’ve saved over the ages. In our church’s sanctuary, the words, “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want” are stenciled across the arch over the chancel, a reminder that there is nothing one needs that God does not provide.
 
I think David’s words in this psalm appeal to young and old, from Sunday School to final years, because the promises in the images are simple and understandable at any age. Whether or not you have ever been around sheep, we all know shepherds guide their flocks out and back from home each day, protecting them and keeping them together. That’s a comforting and welcome image to the young child venturing into new world experiences, but also to those who have experienced loss, friends and family scattered by time, work, and death. For His name’s sake we will be restored and walk in righteousness; whole and healthy, and good. Deep down, everyone wants to be good. For young people, the image of God wielding a heavy stick fits a picture of strength and defense, the grownup wanted by your side. The older person knows a staff can also be leaned on, a rod or cane supporting and preventing falls. Hearing we are chosen by our Lord–anointed—assures us that we are special to God and that somehow things will work out with any temporary enemies, be they bullies, grudge-holders, or worse. And so, goodness and mercy surely must follow: the young person growing in God’s mission, and the elders who we remember from our interactions and relationships with them.
 
If you have the chance, re-read this psalm with a child or an old friend. Take a moment to feel the love and comfort in its promise. Then once again, give thanks to God.
 
-Heather

Prayer:  Jesus, rabbi: thank you for teaching us. Holy Spirit, guide: thank you for inspiring those who minister. God, creator: thank you for your word, your example, and your love. Amen
 
Reading: Jeremiah 23: 1-6 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 
I am in awe of those people who hear God’s call and allow the Spirit to lead them into ministry. They are asked to walk in the footsteps of Jesus and His disciples, bringing the good news to many while extending the message for others. The charge must at times feel overwhelming.
 
Yesterday, I happened to come along just as a pastor received word that one of her parishioners had died. She was visibly shaken and saddened by the news. In that moment, I thought of Jesus at the news of Lazarus’s death and how He shared Martha’s and Mary’s pain. Despite knowing death would be conquered in just a short time, He wept.
 
I think we occasionally forget that our church leaders are both shepherds and sheep. We rely on them for guidance and protection, as we should, but they need support and fellowship just as any of us—probably more so. In His time as a teacher, Jesus was also a friend, eating and talking, resting and socializing. When the apostles complained or questioned, He sometimes grumbled before explaining His message again…and again…and again. There were times when He was exhausted, angry, or impatient. We should consider these lessons from our Lord, as well, and expect no more from our beloved pastors. They are the ones raised up to shepherd; let’s try to be affable sheep.
 
--Heather LeBlanc

Prayer: Loving God, we humbly come to you as your children, grateful for your numerous blessings and endless grace. We pray that we continue to live and walk humbly in community with you and one another as we learn to lead and share your love through our service this summer, and our whole lives. Amen.
 
Reading: Colossians 3:12-17 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 
 
This reflection was originally written for the 2021 Summer Staff as a short training study of humility and service! I wanted to share it here because it applies to us all as we live and service in community with the Body of Christ.
 
When Paul wrote Colossians, he wanted those who heard it to know that believers have everything they need in Christ. The theme that is stressed time and time again is connection with Christ and connections within the body of Christ (the church - US!). In this community we have been called to this summer, everything we need will be found in connections with Christ. This specific excerpt offers instructions on how to live for God day by day. It tells us to “clothe ourselves” in things like humility, patience, and love. Humility and patience are not always easy things to embody, but Paul reminds us when we set Christ-like love as the foundation, all of these things will be bound together in perfect unity. 
 
Then to let the peace of Christ rule our hearts. There will not always be peace in community (maybe we will need the Peace Table), but Paul is encouraging us to find ways to work and live together despite all of our differences. We can do this by recognizing, valuing, and using our individual differences as gifts or super powers! Call on others in the community to share their strengths when you humbly recognize your own shortcomings.
 
 
--Anne Harshbarger
 
 
 

Prayer:  Dear God, we do not always know everything that is going on.  Sometimes we are taken by surprise by news.  Keep us in your grace and peace.  Help us to carry through.  Amen
 
Reading: Mark 6: 14-29 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 

King Herod had heard of Jesus.  His name had become known.  Some were saying John the Baptist had been raised from the dead.  Wait!  What?  When did John the Baptist die?  What just happened?
 
The rest of our reading goes into the details - the gory details - of what happened.  Yes, John the Baptist was dead.  By orders of the King, schemed by a resentful person, grieving the King and leaving John’s disciples to lay his body in a tomb.  Yes, that’s what just happened and what disciples did.
 
Taken by surprise, news can be unsettling.  Getting filled in on the details may not make it any better.  May God keep us in grace and peace whatever happens.  May we be the disciples who carry through.
 
--Ruth Gates
 
 
 
 

Prayer:  Dear God, when we get sidetracked, may it at least still be in the direction of your will.  Amen
 
Reading: Ephesians 1: 3-14 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 

Well, I started out meaning to write about our text today from Ephesians 1 but the first word of verse 3 is “Blessed” and a song started in my head and now I am sidetracked singing, “Blessed be the Lord our God of Israel; from everlasting, to everlasting.”  There is clapping to the song so there went the typing.  The song has a moving sort of groove so I got up to make a cup of tea – singing, clapping and grooving on my way.  So…
 
…now I am totally sidetracked from writing, I’m wondering where the verse sung in that song comes from because it’s not from Ephesians.  I’m also remembering I had promised Chad I would have next week’s devotions written BEFORE arriving at Camp Mount Luther for Family Camp…next week.
 
Maybe we’ sing that song next week at Family Camp.  Just to know, I am already packed.  It’s only Tuesday.  Family Camp starts Sunday.  Obviously, that is what sidetracked me from writing yesterday and it looks like I will not get back on track today.  But I do know the direction I am going.  Where are you headed?  How about to Camp Mount Luther?  They sing there…a lot!  (clap, clap)
 
--Ruth Gates
 
 

Prayer:  Dear God, speak to us and dwell in our hearts.  Amen
 
Reading: Psalm 85: 8-13 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 

When you think of God, what words come to mind?  How would you describe God to someone?  Psalm 85 gives us a few promises of God’s character – steadfast love, faithfulness, righteousness, peace.  It also mentions God speaks to his people, his salvation is at hand and his glory dwells with us.
 
Sometimes when it seems God is too mysterious or somewhat distant, turn to Psalm 85 – while indescribable, God is real; while unseen, God’s will is fulfilled.
 
--Ruth Gates

Prayer:  Dear God, having you in the center of our hearts keeps our lives level.  May we find our righteousness keeping you in the middle.  Amen
 
Reading: Amos 7: 7-15 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 

“That person is half a bubble off plumb.” is not a nice thing to say but funny if said in jest with no unkindness.  No one is perfect, after all.  However, I don’t think God was joking around when he said, “See, I am setting a plumb line in the midst of my people Israel; I will never pass them by; the high places of Isaac shall be made desolate, and the sanctuaries of Israel shall be laid waste, and I will rise against the house of Jeroboam with the sword.” (Amos 7:  8b, 9)
 
So, if plumb lines are used to make sure a wall is built in a straight line, God’s plumb line shows whether Israel had been living according to perfect righteousness.  And the verses 8 and 9 don’t sound nice; definitely not so funny.
 
Feeling a half a bubble off plumb?  What needs to be straightened out or leveled off in your life?  Keeping in mind we are saved by grace (and that is not our own doing), it may still help to hold a plumb line once in awhile.  Get that bubble back in the middle.  Get God back in the center of your heart.
 
--Ruth Gates
 
 
 
 

Prayer:  Help us to know where you are sending us, God.  Listen to our prayers.  Amen.
 
Reading: Hebrews 11: 8-22 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 
 
I can get content with my life.  But look at Abraham.  At age 75, God asked him to leave all that was familiar and travel in unknown territory.  If God says, “Go,” we should go!
 
God spoke directly to Abraham.  This reminds me that we have a personal relationship with God.  Prayer is important.  We can communicate directly with God.  And, we need to listen for the Spirit calling us and answering us. 
 
God listened to Abraham’s argument not to destroy the city of Sodom if 10 good people were found.  God will listen to our arguments, too, when we pray.  Ask and you will receive!
 
--Chad Hershberger

Prayer:  Dear God, Jesus sent out twelve disciples with a mission.  As we love you and love others, may that mission be continued by many more including me.  Amen
 
Reading: Mark 6: 1-13 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 

The second half of our reading today is The Mission of the Twelve.  In the last verse we read that the twelve disciples cast out many demons and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.  Since we hear mostly about Jesus doing such things, it may be a bit surprising to hear the disciples did the same.  Does it make you wonder if you could, too?
 
This being a short devotion, let us not dive deeply into demons and healings.  Instead, let us remember a time when talking to a friend calmed your spirit.  Think about when once you were sick and a basket of goodies nourished your body and made you forget for a while how awful you felt.
 
Who did this for you?  A disciple.  Oh, not one of The Twelve but one of the dozens of dozens of dozens of dozens of dozens beyond count of those who love God and love others (including you!). 
 
And you?  As you love God and love others, spirits will be calmed, bodies will be fed, minds will find peace.  The Mission of the Twelve + Many More + You
 
--Ruth Gates
 
 
 
 

Prayer:  Your grace is sufficient, Lord.  Amen.      
 
Reading: 2 Corinthians 12: 2-10 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
There is a song I like by Ben Harper called, “Blessed to be a Witness.”  I’ve used it as a basis for a staff training theme a couple of times (including last year).  There is a line in that song that I’m reminded of often: “Only by the grace of God go I.”  
 
Paul reminds us of that same sentiment in our passage today.  He writes about God saying, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.”  We are the vessels that God bestows grace.  And that grace is sufficient and is what we need to hold onto, particularly when times are tough. 



--Chad Hershberger

We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts.  This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on November 14, 2014.
 
Prayer:  Give to us freely, God, when we reach out.  Amen.  
 
Reading:  Psalm 123 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection: 

When I saw the assigned texts for this Sunday, I laughed a bit because it was Psalm 123.  I thought to myself, "This psalm probably gets less reading time than its counterpart 100 chapters earlier."  We all have probably heard Psalm 23.  But Psalm 123 is rich in meaning and lessons as well.

Verse two tells us, "As the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, until he has mercy upon us."  It reminds us that in all we do, we should look to God, our master.  And then it tells us that we should ask God for mercy.

I have had an almost five-decades long relationship with God.  And, if there is one thing I know, God is a giving God.  God freely gives to God's children.  That is such a comforting thought.  This week, we will read of other stories about giving, especially money.  And as we do, I'd like you remember that God is a loving and giving God.  When we look to God, there will be no clenched fists but rather outstretched arms. 
--Chad Hershberger

Prayer:  God, help us to feel where you are leading us to go.  Amen. 
 
Reading: Ezekiel 2: 1-5 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
I have been thinking a lot lately about the Spirit.  We always say at camp that we want the Spirit to blow through this place in new and exciting ways.  We think of the Spirit as our guide, sustainer, and God dwelling in us.  Have you ever felt the tug of the Spirit?
 
When I was a young boy, my childhood pastor often said, ‘Chad, if God taps you on the shoulder, don’t say, “No.”’  Do you feel God, through the Spirit tapping on your shoulder?   
 
--Chad Hershberger

Prayer: May we be positive in all we do, Lord, and not get bitter.  Help us to see how we are being taught in all circumstances.  Amen.   
 
Reading: Ruth 1: 15-22 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
In this passage, we see Naomi change her name to Mara.  Mara means “bitter.”  She is bitter toward God for what has happened to her.
 
We should not be like Naomi/Mara.  We should look at everything and try to see it in a positive light.  How will this experience help me?  What does it teach me?  Let’s work not to be bitter! 

--Chad Hershberger

Prayer:  Great healer, heal us.  Amen.
 
Reading: Mark 5: 21-43 (Click to read text)
 
Stop and GROW:  After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers.

QUESTION 1:  What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text?
QUESTION 2:  What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story?
QUESTION 3:  What stories or memories does this text stir in me? 
QUESTION 4:  What is God up to in this text? 
 
Reflection:
 
Two things strike me as I read this story of Jesus’ healing a few people.  First, I love the image of Jesus coming across the lake and there is a big crowd.  Can you imagine if that were today?  It would probably be a bunch of paparazzi trying to get a glimpse and good picture of Jesus!
 
And then I am struck by the faith of those who sought out Jesus for healing.  They wanted to be better and truly believed Jesus could take care of them.  Do you think your faith is that strong?  Jesus rewarded them for their faith.
 
This story also reminds of one of the main things we learn during Pentecost- how Jesus is a healer.  If you have a need to be healed- mentally, physically, or spiritually- go to Jesus with faith.  He can restore you!


--Chad Hersberger