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“Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has looked favorably on his people and redeemed them. He has raised up a mighty savior for us in the house of his servant David, as he spoke through the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, that we would be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us. Thus, he has shown the mercy promised to our ancestors, and has remembered his holy covenant, the oath that he swore to our ancestor Abraham, to grant us that we, being rescued from the hands of our enemies, might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all our days. And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, to give knowledge of salvation to his people by the forgiveness of their sins. By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” (Luke 1: 68-79) Reflection Each new day is a gift that lies before us, unfolding and opening before our senses Our words and actions form a building song that only you, great Creator hear all notes You help us turn from failings and build us up in healing and forgiveness When we are down you write a song on our heart We are learning to hear it and sing it back to you Warm us in the power of your justice to go where you say to go We live for you and the lifting up of your light in the darkness Shine in our minds and hearts, Dear Jesus --Andrew Fitch Prayer El Shaddai, you put the Earth into its orbit Giving each the balance of night and day Voices and silence rise to you in praise Govern and guide with your fore-steps of peace Before and behind us, living as your beloved Lifting concerns and pains, falling into your grace. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Advent, we long for Christ’s coming: Christ coming as a baby; Christ coming again; Christ in our lives today.
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See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight—indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap; he will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the descendants of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, until they present offerings to the Lord in righteousness. Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old and as in former years. (Malachi 3: 1-4) Reflection One time, a friend and I sat watching infomercials. It is entertaining to see a powerful light or a new type of cleaner amaze and impress. Another friend came into the room and asked, “What in the world are you watching?” It is equally and strangely comforting to watch those videos showing how things are made or a chemist transforming water or powder into a flaming show of dazzling colors. The science of how things work in God’s world is tremendous! Transforming and cleaning is entertaining when someone else is doing it! For God, though, to roll up God’s sleeves and put the focus of clean directly on us does not sound entertaining or comforting. “Light it up, angels, this one has some serious spots and smudges!” Ouch. This is going to hurt, but, yes, Lord, I know I need it so that I can shine for you. --Andrew Fitch Prayer O great God, wash me clean. In your hands, my stains have no power to cling. My sins and transgressions, missteps, and mistakes crumble before your Spirit—mighty wind and purifying fire. Strengthen me to clean for you and do it well—that all that harms and scars this Creation would be turned back by the hands and feet of your faithful. In Christ Jesus, Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Advent, we long for Christ’s coming: Christ coming as a baby; Christ coming again; Christ in our lives today. We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on November 27, 2015.
Prayer Stir up your power, Lord Christ, and come. By your merciful protection alert us to the threatening dangers of our sins, and redeem us for your life of justice, for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen Reflection Each of the prayers of the day in Advent begin: Stir up. This Sunday and the fourth Sunday of Advent we pray Stir up your power, Lord Christ, and come. Those are both frightening and hopeful words. “Let sleeping dogs lie,” they say. But here we pray that the power of God will be stirred up. That could be very scary. Yet, there are powers operating in this world that frighten us greatly, too. The hopefulness of this prayer is that God’s power comes and stirs in this world to heal it, make it whole. Let us pray throughout Advent that God’s stirring in this world brings us peace. Let it begin with each of us. --Jim Bricker Reading
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust; do not let me be put to shame; do not let my enemies exult over me. Do not let those who wait for you be put to shame; let them be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous. Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long. Be mindful of your mercy, O Lord, and of your steadfast love, for they have been from of old. Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for your goodness’ sake, O Lord! Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way. All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness, for those who keep his covenant and his decrees. (Psalm 25: 1-10) Reflection At the Thanksgiving dinner table in my family, often it would be hard to get a volunteer to lead the prayer before the big meal. So, in November 2006, I decided I’d write a litany that we all could say together. I share this with you on this day that we uplift the blessings God has given us. –Chad Hershberger Leader: Creator God, we raise our voices and say People: Thank you for the blessings you give us each day Leader: Thank you for the bounties of this land People: Which come directly from your hand Leader: Thank you for the food on our Thanksgiving table People: Prepared by hands that were more than able Leader: Thank you for family with bonds like no other People: For sister and brother and father and mother Leader: Thank you for friends, beside us they walk People: And lend us their ears when we need to talk Leader: We thank you the most for your only Son People: On earth, the victory over death He won Leader: O Lord, you are good, your mercy will last People: You are the same-- future, present and past Leader: So, with all generations, our voices we raise People: With psalms of thanksgiving, we give you our praise All: Amen Prayer: Almighty God our Father, your generous goodness comes to us new every day. We thank you with gratitude from the depth of our soul for all you are and all you do. You created us, you redeem us and through your Holy Spirit you sanctify us. For this we give you eternal thanks. In Jesus’ name we pray—Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Advent, we long for Christ’s coming: Christ coming as a baby; Christ coming again; Christ in our lives today. Reading How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy that we feel before our God because of you? Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and restore whatever is lacking in your faith. Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you. And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we abound in love for you. And may he so strengthen your hearts in holiness that you may be blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints. (1 Thessalonians 3: 9-13) Reflection This can be used at the beginning of Thanksgiving Dinner (developed by Chad Hershberger) In September 1620, a small ship called the Mayflower set sail from Plymouth, England. The passengers, most of them Puritans who had been persecuted for their religious beliefs, spent 66 days in the hold of the ship. After sailing for more than two months, the Mayflower finally reached land on Cape Cod. They arrived in the new world on November 21. One month later, all 102 passengers set foot on land and began to establish the colony of Plymouth, Massachusetts. The Pilgrims, as these people came to be called, had borrowed money from a group of English merchants to cross the Atlantic Ocean and planned to start a settlement in the Virginia Colony in America. During the long voyage, storms blew their crowded little vessel off course. Most of the Pilgrims had suffered terribly from the long voyage. They immediately began to build shelters, but soon they were overcome by a general sickness. Through the course of the winter 46 died, nearly half their original number. Some who became ill on the voyage and who were too sick to be moved stayed on the Mayflower, which was anchored in Plymouth Harbor for the winter. The following spring, friendly Indians helped the settlers to plant corn, and in the autumn, the first crop was harvested. Governor William Bradford proclaimed three days of prayer and thanksgiving. The Pilgrims gave a huge feast and invited the Indian Chief, Massosoit, and 90 of his people. The custom of observing a special harvest Thanksgiving Day spread throughout the other colonies in the following years. After the American Revolution, the various states continued the custom, each one naming its own day for giving thanks. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the first national Thanksgiving Day on the last Thursday in November. The present date, the fourth Thursday of November, was established by Congress in 1941, and signed into law by President Franklin Roosevelt. Thanksgiving has become a day when turkey is eaten (and one is pardoned by the president beforehand), and football games are played. Parades display big balloons and Santa Claus officially comes into New York City, marking the start of the Christmas season. It is a day when Americans overindulge, spending important time with family and friends. But most of all, in the midst of our busy lives and a hectic world, we pause, to give thanks to our creator, for the blessings bestowed on us each and every day. Let us pray: We give thanks, our Father in heaven, For the pleasure of gathering for this occasion. We give thanks for this food prepared by loving hands. We give thanks for life, the freedom to enjoy it all, and all other blessings. As we celebrate being with friends and family, let us remember those who are lonely. As we share out of our abundance, let us remember those who are without. As we gather in our homes, let us remember the homeless. As we take time off from work, let us remember the jobless. We are thankful for our health, let us remember those who are ill. As we celebrate peace, let us remember those who are at war. We are thankful for those present around us, let us remember those who are absent. As we partake of this food, let us remember those who have none. On this day and always, we pray for health and strength to carry on and try to live as You would have us. This we ask in the name of Christ, Our Heavenly Father. Amen (Prayer adapted from material by Harry Jewell and Phil Bramley) Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Advent, we long for Christ’s coming: Christ coming as a baby; Christ coming again; Christ in our lives today. Reading
“There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” Then he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. “Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21: 25-36) Reflection The first couple verses of our text today are a bit unsettling as they speak of distress and confusion; fainting from fear and foreboding. Unsettling indeed as even the heavens will be shaken. Thankfully, Jesus then tells us a parable. Of a fig tree. No harm in that; just to remind us to watch. Because when we watch, we see signs and we won’t be taken by surprise. Finally, Jesus reminds us in the midst of all that may happen, his words will not pass away. Watch for that. See for yourself. --Ruth Gates Prayer Dear God, help us watch for signs of your love so we may see for ourselves your words will not pass away. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Advent, we long for Christ’s coming: Christ coming as a baby; Christ coming again; Christ in our lives today. Reading
The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David; and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. In those days Judah will be saved, and Jerusalem will live in safety. And this is the name by which it will be called: “The Lord is our righteousness.” (Jeremiah 33: 14-16) Reflection What is God up to in this text? Assurance. God is assuring his people that the days are surely coming when God will fulfill the promise made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. A branch will spring up and justice and righteousness will be in the land. Saving and safety will be known, and it will all be called, “The Lord is our righteousness.” Assurance. What would you like to be assured of these days? Jeremiah gives us a big picture concept of assurance for sure. Really big. In our small picture it may just be to be certain God loves us. God is with us. God’s got this. And, when you think about it, that’s actually a really big deal, too. --Ruth Gates Prayer Dear God, thank you that when we need assurance, you are there. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Advent, we long for Christ’s coming: Christ coming as a baby; Christ coming again; Christ in our lives today. Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to believe in You and trust in You always and in all things. Amen.
Reading: John 3:14-17 (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: WOW! That's all it takes! Believe in Jesus. It sounds so simple, but is it really? To truly believe in God we also need to trust Jesus, and oftentimes trust is not something that is easy to give. I once did trust falls with my campers. They stood on the edge of the picnic table and were supposed to fall straight back into our arms. Many of them didn't trust us. They sat down as they fell which made it harder for us to catch them. Many times, we are so like those campers. We don't trust God to be with us. We worry over things that we really don't need to. We waste valuable time because of our distrust. God sent us Jesus- "His only begotten Son" so that we would have a real visible reminder that God is with us always. All we need to do is trust. --Beth Roux Prayer: Speak Lord, your servant is listening. Your humility is my guide and your confident love is my path. Be ever with me, for surely I will not stay in this way for very long. Move me to serve, share, and speak your love. Let it be so in accordance with your Word, King Jesus.
Reading: John 18:33-37 (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 world scares me. Jesus confronting Pilate has always struck me with such uncomfortableness. He could have just walked out of the palace and no one could have touched him. Yet, he chose to confront someone who barely listened in a position of great power. The world and it’s rich and often corrupt leaders have so much power. They don’t consider the needs of the poor and weak. Yet, there Jesus sits there speaking the truth, officially beginning the movement of Gospel justice. Yes, there is a part of me that knows the story like an old beloved movie and I want to shout like I am watching a horror movie, “What are you doing?! Don’t stay there! Get out of there! You’re going to get killed!” I imagining him turning his head ever so slightly to look to me and thought whispering into my heart, “I know the Way of life. Take heart. Do not be afraid.” Let your love reign in me. You know the Way so much better than I do. You lead with the most genuine path of love. --Andrew Fitch We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on March 30, 2016.
Prayer: God who is and who was and who is to come, when things are hard to understand, help us remember your presence is what is constant. Amen. Reading: Revelation 1: 4-8 (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 book of Revelation is a difficult one to understand. Someday I hope to dig in and study it. In the meantime, the four verses we read today should be manageable, right? So, I read them over and over...and over some more. This is what I noticed: The statement, (God) who is and who was and who is to come, is in there twice - in verse 4 and verse 8. And, yes, of course there are verses in between about seven spirits, clouds, tribes and wailing but I'm not going to get into that. At the beginning and at the end of something hard to understand in life, it would be good to remember God is there. He is there in the middle, too. Someday I will know what the spirits, clouds, tribes and wailing are all about. Someday there will be answers to the questions in life about our ups and downs, clouded days, relationships and tears. Today we are in the middle and God is there. He was there all the yesterdays and will be with us all the tomorrows; the Lord God who is and who was and who is to come. --Ruth Gates Prayer: Gracious God, ruler of the universe I praise your holy name. Thank you for the creation that is under your power. Let us roar out your greatness to all those around. Help us follow your commands of loving you with all our being and loving our neighbors. AMEN
Reading: Psalm 93 (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 know you just answered those questions above, but I have another question or two for you. What did you picture in your mind as you read the text? What images did you see? I look for imagery a lot when I read the Bible. In this text I see a powerful being sitting on a gold glowing throne. There are mountains around them in the back and oceans in front of them. The waves are powerful and crashing but under the control of God. All is bright and glowing. The scene is very colorful with vibrant colors. It reminds me of a beautiful fall day in the mountains but at the seashore. Both are places where I see God all around. It also reminds me of how powerful God is and that God can control the seas. God, the creator, is eternal and will reign forever. --Charlene Rineer Prayer: Lord God, thank you for sending your son to be our king always. Help us to trust you through all the changes in this world. Amen.
Reading: Daniel 7: 9-10, 13-14 (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: As I write this in late October, there is breaking news of a military coup in the Sudan. Social and political unrest lead to and follow changes of leadership in Haiti and throughout the Middle East. Here in the US, Presidents can serve no more than 8 years, and democratically elected legislatures tend to change majorities more often than that. Even the great dynasties all eventually came to an end. Change can be promising or scary. There are winners and losers, all part of the imperfection of our humanity. As Christians, we know that there is one thing that will never change, and that is the dominion and love of God through Jesus. His kingdom will have no end. Hallelujah. --Erin Hayes Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to make the right decisions in my life. Give me that knowledge and strength to deal with the things which are troubling me now. Guide me throughout my life and keep me safe always. Thank you for giving us your son, Jesus. Amen.
Reading: Mark 15:6-15 (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: More than once, I have received a gift and thought to myself, "What am I going to do with this?" Sometimes the gift was just put away never to be seen again or given away. But there have been other gifts which have completely changed my outlook and even my life! In 1982 my grandmother gave me a nice journal which I thanked her for and put away for years. Just last year, while cleaning out some old boxes I came across this book. I dusted it off and wrote the first entry of what was to become my daily diary- an important part of my life today. It took me nine years, but I finally came to realize what its purpose was in my life. Jesus was given to us as a gift from God. What difference will this gift make in your life? Don't store Jesus away. Love, trust, and obey Jesus. Pilate had a decision to make about what to do with Jesus. Today, we have that decision to make, too. Will you decide to follow Jesus? --Rebecca Schwartz Prayer: Guide our waking and our sleeping and help us to find rest in you. Amen.
Reading: Mark 13: 1-8 (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 last month of the church year, our readings often talk about end times. I’ve been doing some research on the disciples for a project for camp and in our story today, we see Peter, James, John, and Andrew. Just four of the twelve, spending some time with Jesus. Peter, James, and John were the “main three” and Andrew was Peter’s brother. It makes sense that they were all hanging out together with Jesus. I wonder if that is what it will be like in heaven. Will we all have some small group time with Jesus? Will be able to ask him questions about anything? Will we hear explanations like these four? Or will Jesus speak in ways that will bring up even more questions. What do you envision heaven to be like? What are you looking most forward to in those days? --Chad Hershberger Prayer: Our gratitude flows up to you, O Lord, for the work done on the cross. Amen.
Reading: Hebrews 10: 11-25 (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 found this verse of great importance when I read this passage: “Where there is forgiveness of these, there is no longer any offering for sin.” It reminds me that Jesus was sent for the forgiveness of our sins and changed what humans needed to do- we no longer had to make an offering for our sin, he took care of it. All those rules and laws in the Old Testament taken care of in Jesus’ act on the cross. I’m going to be more grateful for that today. Sometimes, faith seems so simple. For me, this verse reminded me the simplicity of what --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 15, 2018.
Prayer: Dear God, help us to not stumble. Thank you for watching over us. Your wisdom and love light our way. Amen Reading: Psalm 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: I like this Psalm. It is so upbeat and full of positivity (a good word). We hear so much negative news it is hard to see the positive. Look for it. It is out there. While we may still have to deal with the bad, a bit of good can give us strength. We know in our hearts God is watching over us. He gives us wisdom and His love lights our way so we do not stumble. Therefore, go forth and do good joyfully! -- Alice Yeakel Prayer: Shine, Jesus, shine and let us shine your light forever. Amen.
Reading: Daniel 12: 1-3 (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: Later this month, we will celebrate a new church year as we begin the season of Advent once again. As we get ready for that, the scripture readings in November often talk about the end times. This passage is one of them. I like the last verse of this passage: “Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.” Knowing that our eternal life is secure, it’s great to know that we shall shine forever. Live in the good of that knowledge today. --Chad Hershberger Prayer: God, keep me from letting other things influence me so that I forget about you and your constant, never-ending love. Amen.
Reading: Mark 12:28-30 (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: Both verses tell us to love the Lord with everything we have. When I first read the two verses, I thought of the camp song "Love the Lord Your God.” Then I thought about how loving anything with everything, even God, can be extremely difficult. It seems like it is so easy to become caught up in loving other more material things, because you can see them, than loving God that you believe in but don't see physically. When I was a counselor at camp, constantly aware of my Christian faith, it helped me to keep God as a large part of my life. But when I left camp for the summer, other things seemed to move into the part of me that was keeping my faith strong and important. Even though other things often take precedence, I think God still appreciates that we often go back and try harder to love God with all our hearts. -- Meghan Weaver Prayer: Gracious God our hearts cry out to you. This season we are living in is full of struggles and trials. We know you feel our pains and hear our cries. We trust and hope in you and for great things to come. Be with us and give us peace. AMEN
Reading: John 11:32-44 (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: This Biblical story is one that is referenced to a lot because it has the famous verse: “Jesus wept”. When I hear that, I know that Jesus has much love for Lazarus and his sisters. Jesus feels their pain and shares in their emotion of grief. Jesus shows his human side when he cried. That next portion of the story is where we see him doing what only God can do, and that is raise Lazarus from the dead. Jesus performs a miraculous deed for the sake of the people. Jesus shows compassion and shows everyone the glory of God. I imagine much rejoicing happens next, but that is not stated in the Biblical text. Of course, the raising of Lazarus from the dead does not go unnoticed. It was a sign of God’s power being done through Jesus. I believe that many people would have become believers that day. Some believed but did not like what they were seeing. They were afraid of that power and influence. God’s power is truly one to be in awe of. God brings us through hard times and raises our spirits. God’s power is something that we need to shout about from the mountaintops. --Charlene Rineer We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on October 28, 2015.
Prayer: You know the plans you have for us, God. Help us to see the way. Reading: Revelation 21:1-6 (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: Well, we’ve done it again. We’ve come to a passage in the book of Revelation. This is a tough book, isn’t it? There are so many ways to look at things as we learn more about the end times. When I read this passage this time, I was struck by something in the very beginning. I’ve heard of the new heaven and new earth but I never paid attention that the passage also tells us that the sea will cease to exist. Wow! I’m sure that fishermen aren’t too happy about that one? I wonder why the sea will go away? Doesn’t God like water? Where will the whales, and shrimp, and seahorses go? So many questions! And then I take pause to say, “It’ll be okay.” God has a plan and who am I to question that plan. As we celebrate All Saints Day this Sunday, we can also look at the plans God had for others in our lives who passed on the faith. My daughter’s Sunday School class is to bring in a picture of a saint that they knew who passed on the faith to them. We will remember them and remember that we are to pass on the faith, too. As for the sea- well, I guess we’ll have to just wait and see. –Chad Hershberger Prayer: Creator God, we praise you for all you have given us. We thank you for the wonderful mountains and seas. We marvel at the beautiful sunrises and sunsets. We delight in the many animals and variety of plants. We find rest and peace in your great creation. May we care for and treasure the earth always. AMEN
Reading: Psalm 24 (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: Psalms were written for many different purposes. Psalms were written to honor creation, to lament and cry out to God, and to give God praises. This Psalm was said to have been written for an entrance song going into the temple. A few of the spots you see the word SELAH. Those spots were for musical interludes. No words were sung, and the musicians would just play their instruments. It was a time for those around to ponder the words of the prayer that they had sung. It was a reflective moment. It is more of a silent time to just be. Silent times are sometimes hard. We like to fill in the empty spaces with words. Those times of silence in worship can seem awkward if you are not use to them. I encourage you to find some silent time in your week so you can just sit and reflect on God’s wonderful creation and all that God has given you. --Charlene Rineer We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on February 1, 2019.
Prayer: Great God, we praise you for your almighty power that you choose to use for our deliverance. Guide us to share this good news with all people. Loosen our grip to share in the feasting with all in need. In your great name we pray. Amen. Reading: Isaiah 25:6-9 (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: Changing the sheets with a young child or puppy can be quite the adventure. Before you know it you aren’t sure what is clean and which way the sheets are supposed to be going and suddenly piles or forts are being constructed. Clean sheets are a good thing. Clean sheets for a record of errors is a professional accomplishment. In this case the sheet is not a good thing that God removes. God is changing the sheets and remaking the bed of the world that we live in. It isn’t just a feast, it is a house cleaning in God’s kingdom. God is taking out the trash and washing away the sin. We rejoice and take part in the sparkly shiny goodness. --Andrew Fitch |
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