Good Evening/Morning! I started this before midnight. Tried something new for sleeping that didn't work so might as well do this so, Lord willing, I can sleep in
. You know in my quest to try to discover what's causing this sleeplessness, the thought came that I may be trying to hard. Now I'm not positive that this is from God because I haven't ha time to pray and process. However, it makes sense, at least during my sleepless stupor.
Then I opened the Sarah Young devo and boom! This sure sounds like me--ever planning, busy doing all I can to advance the Kingdom and bless God's church and others. I started thinking about the several (too many really) times God had to set me down to get my attention and remind me to be still and watch and know as I hold more loosely to what I think I need to be doing. I don't mean this as a pat on the back, but man, it can be very wearying be a servant leader. There are only so many hours in a day and only so much that God really does have for me to do. I can't do it all, but sure try too often! Forgive me Lord. God did bless us with a great refreshing vacation and then I was slammed down and pretty much incapacitated for over a month now. I love the line from the devo that feels like it's right from God's heart to mine..."Give your mind a break from planning." As if! Wish I could! I have lists for my to do lists. My mind is always planning. Now that is not why I can't sleep. I'm usually in that empty box and thinking of nothing but trying to sleep. BUT I do need to slow it down and allow God to lead for awhile. Maybe we are doing all we're supposed to be doing for such a time as this? Maybe we are to enjoy and celebrate how God has been using us and allow Christ to build he church, not Donald. So, I'm going to try a more hands off approach and juts watch for where God wants me/us to join Him as we go. Pray for that for me please! Thanks! It's time to let His Spirit lead more without all the planning, maybe. May I choose to rest and abide, trust and obey all day, daily.
It's too early to be posted yet, but ODB reminds us to plan prudently. Now that's a good word for me and us! "The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways." Amen! Help me plan with You Lord--prudently according to Your perfect plans and timing. May my choices honor You and follow the way of Jesus who worked from rest. Thanks! Amen! Check out the devo if you have it. Good stuff! Ok that's enough for now and gives you some prayer requests for me and us and some accountability opportunities to check in on me with. Jesus said, come to me all you who are weary and I will give you rest for your souls." Yes please! Amen and shalom to you all too!
Sarah Young:
Wagner's Update
Greetings Friends,
Crazy to think that we are half-way through the final term of this school year! Here’s what we’ve been up to since our last update.
African Field Studies in Cape Town
During our week-long school trip with seven juniors and seniors, we learned about the history of South Africa from early settlers to the end of apartheid, marveled at the diverse natural history and neighborhoods in and around Cape Town, experienced current ministries going on in the area, and were challenged by the complexity of contemporary issues facing South Africa and ways those issues are being addressed. We also thoroughly enjoyed tasting traditional South African cuisine!
Term Break Blessings
We had two glorious weeks of heart-filling joy, laughter, and fun with our grandson (& his parents), Micah & Lynnsi, as well as dear friends and RVA alumni at a marriage celebration! We returned to Kenya with tired bodies, thankful hearts, and special memories from our time together.
Third Term, Part 1
Here are some of the highlights from the first half of this term!
Ways to Pray
Brian is currently Stateside scoring AP Calculus exams while Missy is single parenting our nine boys as RVA heads into the final stretch of the school year. PRAY for good health, strength, and restful nights at the end of long days.
The senior class is experiencing their *lasts* with graduation just five short weeks away. PRAY for good closure as they make final memories together and excitement as they look ahead to where God is leading them next.
In the same way, current RVA staff will be leaving while new staff are preparing to come. As we look toward starting a new school year in August, there are still needs for teachers, dorm parents, and support staff. PRAY that God will graciously fill these needs with the right people at the right time.
Family News
Rachel & Luke (along with Bibi & Babu) are anxiously awaiting the birth of their second baby (grandbaby) any day now! PRAY for a safe delivery and that this sweet addition to the family would arrive in plenty of time to receive love and snuggles from Babu before his return trip to Kenya. PRAY for a healthy baby and a smooth transition to a family of four.
Along with grad school classes and church commitments, Hannah & Jamie are preparing for a long-awaited trip back to their childhood homes in Kenya! They’re looking forward to arriving in time for RVA’s alumni weekend, spending time with both sets of parents, visiting special people and places, and vacationing together at the Indian Ocean. PRAY for good health and safety in travels, along with making fun new memories together.
Micah successfully finished his second year of teaching middle school math & Lynnsi is fully funded and excited to begin her new role as a TCK Specialist with Interaction International! Check out her website to learn more: https://lynnsiwagnertckspecialist.my.canva.site. PRAY for all they have going on this summer between grad school courses, week-long camps for TCKs in transition, and preparations for changes in their jobs.
We’re so grateful for an amazing team of prayer warriors over many years of life and ministry at RVA. You are a blessing!
May the Light of God fill you to overflowing and gush forth from you driving back that darkness that seems to have a stranglehold on our neighborhoods. Sarah Youngs devo for
flows from
's message to next weeks (God is Light 1 John 1-2/ God is Love 1 John 3-4) What's God saying to you as He invites you to come dwell in His Light and Love and what will you do about that? May we be radiant with the Light of His presence!
Sarah Young devo:
You know this doing my blogs between 1-3 is becoming norm. But I question often why God is allowing it? Is my faith being tested? Am I under spiritual attack? Is there some heart issue that needs surgery? Or maybe some sin that needs repenting? IDK but my aim is to stay faithful and cease the moments I can to abide and hang out with Him. I'm actually becoming more alert during these wee morning hours before he allows me sleep. Check out ODB and ask God if you need some heart surgery. Do you have a heart of flesh or stone? Are others noticing the change in you from that surgery? Remember, we are made new and being made new in Christ when we submit to Him and stop leaning on our own understanding or ways. Ask for a supple heart, an open heart for Him to operate upon. Then watch the transformation as he leads you to much better things and ways. He does have great plans for you and us he is in the process of working together! PTL and cooperate!
ODB:
Heart Surgery
I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you. Ezekiel 36:26
Some years ago, after exchanging heated words, Carolyn and I resolved our conflict through compassion and love for each other. I confessed my wrongdoing, and she prayed for me, referencing Ezekiel 36:26: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” I sensed that God was conducting a form of spiritual heart surgery on me, taking away my fears and bitterness as He enfolded me in His love.
God delights for us to engage with the Scriptures as I did back then, but it’s important to note the passage’s original context. Ezekiel spoke on God’s behalf to His people with the promise that He would cleanse them. Why? “It is not for your sake . . . I am going to do these things, but for the sake of my holy name” (v. 22). God would do His purifying work among His people so that all the nations would revere Him and know that He is God.
God works His purposes in our lives not only to help us flourish and grow, but so we would bring Him honor. Even as He gave the Israelites the promise of a new heart and a new spirit, so through the inward work of the Holy Spirit, God replaces our cold and hardened hearts with those that receive and share His love and life.
By Amy Boucher Pye
REFLECT & PRAY
How have you experienced God’s “heart surgery”? How have others noticed the changes that He’s brought about in your life?
God of all life, thank You for changing me, for forming in me a new self that’s rooted in You. Please pour out Your love on me
Ezekiel, exiled in Babylon (Ezekiel 1:1), ministered to the exiled Jewish community during and after the destruction of Jerusalem. God promised restoration and a bright future to His people if they’d repent of their covenantal unfaithfulness. He’d forgive them and transform them into a holy nation. Only with a new heart and a new spirit would they be able to honor God (36:26-28; see 11:19-20). This new heart and spirit are central to God’s redemption plan.
The prophet Jeremiah also prophesied of God’s new covenant in Jeremiah 31:31-34. And Jesus spoke of “the new covenant in [His] blood” (Luke 22:20) hours before He died on the cross. He’s the mediator of the new covenant through “the sprinkled blood, which speaks of forgiveness” (Hebrews 12:24 nlt). And He alone can change our hearts.
K.T. Sim
Might as well wrap up with The Upper Room's speaking into trusting and following God and our Proverbs 3:5-6 verses. Hold loosely and allow God to have His way. Die to self, take up cross daily and follow Jesus prepared and ready! Amen!
UR: Right Conditions
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. - Proverbs 3:5 (NIV)
“Sorry, Cindy, but the compost you were going to use is unsuitable,” the school custodian apologized. “The sunflower seeds will die before they have the chance to grow.” Disappointment and frustration flooded me. The children and I had been looking forward to planting our seeds during our lesson, but we would have to
wait for some fresh compost to arrive. Instead, the children drew pictures of sunflowers and wrote facts about their life cycle.
A few days later, when someone else was covering the class, I was able to plant the seeds with individual children. It turned out to be a calmer experience than trying to teach and plant seeds at the same time.
I thought about how often I have prayed for a goal or dream and wondered why God didn’t answer my prayer at that particular time. The truth, I later discovered, was that the conditions were wrong and I wouldn’t have been able to grow as a person on my journey. If the circumstances aren’t right, our dreams and hopes, like the seeds, can fail. Sometimes God calls me to trust, wait, or even change direction completely. I have to trust and obey God. It is still a learning process, but I know with God’s help I can improve.
's PrayerCreator God, your timing is mysterious but perfect. Help us to trust and wait for your guidance. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Sarah Update:
Good afternoon, church family,
What a great day of worship
. Glad you were able to join us either in house or by way of Zoom. If you were unable to attend
, we pray that you are okay, and look forward to seeing you
.
Pastor Don shared from 1 John 1,2. Read through these two chapters and see what God is sharing with you.
** ** **
Praises shared
:
Debbie Siegfried is praising God for the safe and healthy delivery of her and Gerry's second grandson, Arthur John. Prayers for Michele, Michael and AJ as they grow together as a family of three.
Gary Bastan's praising God for his relatives receiving some good news: Mary - there is no cancer present in her stomach. Howie - is home and on medication to continue to heal blood disease. He is doing very well!
Lisa Wenner praising God for increasing the weight of the second twin that her niece, Lauren is carrying. Both twins are doing well!! They will continue to give her ultrasounds every two weeks. Praying for momma and babies.
Pastor Don is thankful for the tee shirt someone purchased him - it says " This Pastor has an awesome congregation". He is praising God for
each of our church family members!
Sally Williams is praising God that her grandson, Gaven, is graduating High School! Prayers for what the future plans are for Gaven.
Kay and Nancy are praising God for the safe traveling of Larry, Enol and their sons. They arrived home here in the states
, They are all looking forward to a time of rest. We hope to see them
in Worship. Richard will be attending Lehigh University,
beginning in September. Please keep Richard and his family in prayer as they get him settled in for college life.
Prayer needs:
Harry Waterman has several neighbors that have some health issues and is requesting prayer for them:
Goldie Graber (97 years old), Doug Beachim, Ronald Boyer, Dan Casey.
Millie Flexer's husband had his procedure this past week, but needs another procedure later this month. Prayers for healing.
Amber Sosa's mother's Aunt passed away - they are asking for prayer for the family during this difficult time.
** ** **
What's happening at St Matthew's this week:
- 10:00am Zoom Huddle/discussion
- 10 - 12pm Donuts/Coffee/Conversation - you are all welcome to come and hang out and make some
connections with those who enter our FH doors.
- 6:00pm FM/Adult gathering, beginning with a meal at 6:00pm followed by study and discussion.
All are welcome to attend.
Pray for on another; Sisters in Christ groups continue to pray for one another and communicate your prayer needs
with one another.
Have a great week, choosing JOY !!
Blessings,
Sarah
2 Corinthians 4:6-7
6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,”[a] made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.
7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.
Good Morning Worshipers! Prepare your hearts to worship in Spirit and truth and to enter His courts with
! Worship can be a 24-7 thing as we live our lives for Christ and pour ourselves out like a drink offering. Obedience is an act of worship too. Spending time in constant prayer is an act of worship. Being who you are created to be, doing what you are created to do, maturing in Christ are all acts of worship. So, how might you worship God
? This week? In the weeks ahead? He is so worthy of our worship, praise, glory and honor! Yes, hallowed be His name!
Days like
can trouble me. I haven't slept yet and it's 3:30. How can I honor God and bring His Word alive when I'm half asleep? BUT GOD! You see, He has allowed this sleeplessness for a reason and I spent the time with Him in study and prayer. Hopefully a few hours of sleep will follow after hitting the send button. He knows what lies ahead and will carry me. And I have little choice ahead but to lean hard on Him and allow Him to lead and use me
. It wouldn't hurt if you threw a prayer up for me (even if you read this and do so after church, because he is sovereign and other worldly and all prayers count and are used.)
we begin a study of First John and look at God being Light and THE Light of the World. I'm only including one devo below that ties to that in a way and ties to me and my journey as well. Sarah Young reminds us that we can be filled with the Light of God's presence. Are you? Have you allowed Him to drive all the darkness from you? His Light is cleansing and transforming. Soak in His Light
and go shine bright for the world to see as we unite to drive back the darkness. God has a plan for you and for that. Let's seek Him and His plans together and work at shining brighter each day as we dwell in His pure Light. Amen!
Good Morning Unified, Focused, Body of Christ! PTL! That is you and us as we come together as His Body for His purposes, learning to die to self and work for the better good of Kingdom advancement together. And that is built as we seek to become the people we are created to be, ding what we are created, gathered and empowered to do ad built on the foundation of Christ and informed by His Living Word. Amen! Pretty cool stuff! One in Christ, gathered, activated and sent to transform the world as we bring Christ and His Word alive, as we live and love more like Him! Amen! Now that is plenty to contemplate, process with some friends and pray through this morning. What's God saying to you and will you do about that? he does have great plans for you and us and they are coming alive in '25! PTL!
Just a very brief update: I had a great nights sleep as did Karen. Today we are involved (and thrashed some this morning as Karen is already out the door) in the baby shower and dedication of the 3 month premature twins of her boss that we have been praying for. What a miracle! They were born before they could have the baby shower. So today is that and why not dedicate the babies as well. Fun but busy morning. The coming together of friends to host this reminds me of the coming together of our Body to encourage, spur on, plan, pray and go love. many parts coming together for one big happy day and event. I pray and contemplate how God may want to do that with us as we consider some new opportunities and connection points where we get to, want to, go live, love, share the Good News and make disciples of Jesus and in His way. The cool part is we get to be who we are in Christ and do what we are gifted and inclined to do anyway to make it all happen. Pray into us seeking, hearing, processing, planning and doing His will. He is working all things together for good--including us. And He has some awesome things to discover and enact over the next few months. What ideas, dreams and visions is bringing to you? Let's start praying and planning! We are family, united in Christ and better together as we follow Him! Amen!
Check out these devos as you prepare your heart this morning and abide before going in Christ. We do need each other. Let us stay unified and focused on Christ and His mission of love! Shalom
I to We
ODB
As One
Whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. 1 Corinthians 11:26
A seemingly plain table with thirteen simple cups divided across separate panels make up the contemporary painting, “That They May All Be One,” which hangs in Wolfson College at Oxford University. Its simplicity actually emphasizes the significance of the event: Jesus’ last supper with His disciples. The most prominent panel, containing bread and a cup representing Jesus, is surrounded by twelve individual panels to signify the disciples’ presence.
The painting is a beautiful reminder of the meal where Jesus took bread and a cup to start a new celebration for all His followers, the practice of communion. And I appreciate the row of empty panels that complete the picture because the space seems to invite the viewer to join them at the table.
Paul encourages us that “whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26). Everyone who believes that Jesus’ death and resurrection provides the way for peace with God has a space waiting for them at the table.
And when we proclaim, or remember, Jesus’ sacrifice when we take communion, we act as one community of believers across the world and throughout time. It is as a beautiful image of the unity of the church.
By Lisa M. Samra
REFLECT & PRAY
What is meaningful to you about communion? How does communion point to believers’ unity in Jesus?
Jesus, as we take part of the celebration You gave us, remind me that we do it as one community.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Paul’s use of the words “on the night [Jesus] was betrayed” (1 Corinthians 11:23) underscores the serious nature of the matter he was addressing. It was Christ who implemented the first Communion (Lord’s Supper), and He did so on the Passover night before His crucifixion. Paul revisits the importance of this ordinance to correct a serious error in the church at Corinth. He leads into this section by saying, “In the following directives I have no praise for you” (v. 17)—stern words to hear from an apostle of Jesus. The apostle pointed out how there were “divisions” among the people (v. 18). Some were eating too much while others went hungry, and some were even getting drunk. Paul found such behavior appalling and warned of God’s judgment on those who were offending in this matter (vv. 27-32). He concluded by appealing for their renewed unity (v. 33)—a unity we can enjoy today with other sisters and brothers in Christ.
Tim Gustafson
UR: Grow in Faith
The Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. - Acts 17:11 (NIV)
After waiting three hours to have some blood work done, I went to a vegetarian restaurant close to the hospital. When I went to the register to pay, I placed the book I had been reading in the hospital by the counter. Quickly, the person standing behind me read the title and said aloud, “Clement of Alexandria. How interesting!” When the person asked what had motivated me to read the book, I responded that I wanted to know how the ancient Christians expressed, argued, and lived their faith in a diverse society.
The scripture for today tells us that the early Christians dedicated themselves to the study of scripture. They did not simply limit themselves to listening and believing what Paul preached. They “examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.”
We live in a diverse society with a wide variety in the ways people think, live, and believe. When we delve deeper into scripture and supplement our reading with works by Christian writers who faced great challenges because of their faith, the Holy Spirit empowers us to live and share the gospel. As Christians, we must nurture our spiritual needs so we can express, live, and share our faith according to Jesus’ teachings.
Today's Prayer
God of all knowledge and wisdom, guide us to your truth according to scripture. Grant us wisdom and increase our understanding so we can bear witness and share your good news with others. Amen.
Connection Blogs
June 7 - The Father Is Good!
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Matthew 7:7-11)
The Fatherhood of God was at the core of the teaching and prayer life of Jesus. In His own prayers Jesus continually referred to God as Father. In Matthew 7:7–11 Jesus teaches the multitudes to ask, seek, and knock. He taught them that there is a loving Father that is eagerly waiting to meet them at their point of need.
This poses a problem for many people in this generation. Because there has been so much abuse of children by fathers, the term father can have a negative, perverted connotation for some believers. Jesus teaches, however, that the nature of our Father is goodness. He is a good Father, perfect in His goodness. He said, “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him!” (Matthew 7:11, emphasis added).
Everything about the Father is good. It is in His nature to do good to His children. When we focus on the goodness of the Father, it makes miraculous changes in our attitudes toward life.
Father, how often I act like a spoiled child, trying to get my way. Your heart is to shower me with Your goodness if I will only receive it! Forgive me for the times I have questioned Your love for me when things go wrong or when people I love are hurting. Teach me how to be consistently aware that my life is in Your hands, and that Your plan is always for my good, even when things look bleak. Father, change my attitude to one of complete trust in Your ability to guide my life into Your purposes for the glory of Your kingdom!
--Adapted from The Prayer Factor by Sammy Tippit. This book is available at prayershop.org. Use the code CONPSP3 at checkout to receive an additional 10% discount.
Prayer Points
Praise God for being sovereign, all-powerful, just, and gentle—all at the same time!
Thank him for dealing gently with you in your faults.
Confess times of lashing out at others.
Commit yourself to reflecting the gentleness of God to those around you, and ask God to produce that part of his Spirit’s fruit in abundance in you.
Pray that Christians who differ with one another will present a positive example to the world of how to gently disagree in love. Ask God to present that example also through you in your own conflict situations.
Prayer Points taken from Patterns for Prayer by Alvin VanderGriend. This book is available at prayershop.org. Use the code CONPSP3 at checkout to receive an additional 10% discount.
Good Morning Again Praying Friends! It's been awhile since I included a Connections Blog in my blogs because they are not on line yet when I blog very early (like this morning). However, with our focus on women's prayer teams and our emphasis on striving to become a House of Prayer for the Nations, we need to focus on some prayer teachings and opportunities to learn to pray in power. Praying Scriptures leads to praying in power. And we know the prayers of a righteous person (you) are powerful and effective.
As I arose the third time this morning, the Connection blogs were posted. As I read through them, God nudged me to send them to you for your reading and application and even praying. Open your Bibles and pray Scriptures as you practice and absorb Scriptures to pray at other times as needed. Wield that double-edged sword in prayer! For the women's prayer teams, talk to your team about doing this and practicing powerful prayers for our church, our outreaches, for new ideas and connection points to neighbors and even for our communities and nation and leaders. God is right there with you listening and as you lift biblical prayers He respond with powerful and effective answers. His Kingdom will come and His will is done! Amen!
Try it! And keep praying and practicing and incorporating Scriptures as you pray. Then share those stories of how God answers. He will and in power! I'm praying for you! Shalom!
Connections:
June 6 - Experiencing the Fullness of God
Prayer concerns a relationship with God and reflects His active choice to communicate with us. Communicating with God involves our thoughts, words and gestures as we reach beyond our earthly limitations toward His transcendence. In short, prayer helps us to experience God in all of His fullness. Furthermore, practicing daily prayer and Bible reading is like having two arms that reach longingly toward the heavenly Father. Such a “praying person” receives God’s loving embrace as He answers through prayer and the Scripture.
George Müller learned that “the safe guide in every crisis is believing prayer in connection with the Word of God.” Müller discovered that the power for spiritual empowerment lay in Bible reading and that once his soul was filled with God’s Word, he was able to test his daily walk with the principles from God’s Word. What was true of a crisis in his life was true in every detail of his life. He literally walked throughout his day with scripture and prayer on his lips.
Like Müller, we also recognize the value of prayer and study of the scripture as two core inward spiritual disciplines that we practice in order to comprehend and to apply the will of God. Yet, his attitude in such prayer informs me. He seemed to pray always with his entire soul opened before God. I believe “praying the scripture” includes a vital attitudinal difference; namely, that something more is longed for in my inner person. Praying the scripture refers more to being than to doing and the application of the scripture’s “two-edged sword” (Heb. 4:12) with prayer implies that I long for the Spirit’s moral activity to be operative within my heart in dramatic ways. The result of this attitude of prayer provides me with a holistic approach where my entire being is linked to God in Christian communication.
Lord, so often I have neglected Your word in favor of other pursuits. Help me to employ the “two-edged sword” as I pray, having an attitude of prayer that flows from Your heart. Allow me to walk through any storm, struggle or situation standing firmly upon Your promises and precepts. May I discover, as Müller did, the spiritual empowerment for everyday life that comes from prayer that is embedded in Your word.
Praise your faithful God! Give thanks for God’s faithfulness to you even when you are unfaithful to him (2 Tim. 2:11-13).
Spend a few minutes asking God to help you think through your life and confessing any unfaithfulness he brings to your attention.
Commit yourself as God’s image-bearer to reflecting his faithfulness in your own.
Pray that Christians will be faithful to use individual and corporate outreach opportunities. Ask for the vision to see opportunities and the loving determination to follow through.
Prayer Points taken from Patterns for Prayer by Alvin VanderGriend. This book is available at prayershop.org. Use the code CONPSP3 at checkout to receive an additional 10% discount.
Good Morning Children of the Prayer-Hearing, Miracle-Bringing, King of the Universe! I gotta fly, but PTL! He has allowed me the miracle of sleep--ten hours last night--in response to your prayers and releasing His miracle power in prayer! Thank you and PTL! (Maybe it was the Rita's Ice! We had 30 of us gather and fellowship last nitght! Fun night!)However, that leaves little time to chat this morning as I have Anna Mae's funeral and then latter pre-marriage counseling. Sat I have the baptism of twin miracle babies we have prayed for. God is awesome and always on time! Check out the I to We devo below. Just as I've been saying and taching, we all have a place and a part and on part is too small to not be needed. You were created and are activated for such a time as this! Step boldly into your anointing today. There are a few devos below that that tie through it. We need givers, pray-ers, all kinds of servants to become God's dynamic movement. And we need each other! What's your part? What will you do about it? Praying for you! Keep on praying, believing and following Jesus! I'm praying for you and us and believing there are many more miracles to come--including many new lives in Christ! Pray and believe and do your part with me! Thanks!
I to We
ODB
The Gift of Giving
Each of you should give . . . not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7
In his 2024 address to 1,200 university graduates, billionaire businessman Robert Hale Jr. said, “These trying times have heightened the need for sharing, caring and giving. [My wife and I] want to give you two gifts: The first is our gift to you, the second is the gift of giving.” His words were followed by the distribution of two envelopes each to the unexpectant graduates—five hundred dollars to keep and five hundred to give away to a person in need.
Though Robert Hale’s wealth has allowed him to share like this on more than one occasion, generosity isn’t reserved for those with great means. Believers in Jesus in ancient Macedonia gave out of their poverty so the needs of believers in Jerusalem could be met. Paul said of the Macedonians, “In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity” (2 Corinthians 8:2). He commends them because “they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people” (vv. 3-4).
Those who recognize that they’ve been given much grace from God through Jesus can respond with generous hands to the needs of others. With God’s help, let’s give after the example of the one who said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
By Arthur Jackson
REFLECT & PRAY
What can you offer generously to someone? How have you been the recipient of another’s generosity?
Heavenly Father, please help me to give generously to others.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
A fitting label for the “Macedonian churches” (2 Corinthians 8:1)—Thessalonica and Berea—is “Exemplars of Grace.” These churches were planted by Paul on his second missionary journey in Philippi. Second Corinthians 8 describes these believers in Jesus. They weren’t content simply with being recipients of God’s favor (v. 1); they became channels of generosity. Furthermore, they didn’t allow their destitution to excuse them from sharing with others: “In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity” (v. 2). As recipients of God’s grace (v. 1), they viewed their participation not as an obligation but as a “privilege” (v. 4). Finally, the giving of their material possessions was the result of their having given themselves first to Christ (v. 5), who, “though he was rich . . . became poor, so that [we] through his poverty might become rich” (v. 9). As we give sacrificially to others in need, we reflect His giving ways.
When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he thought, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” - Genesis 28:16 (NIV)
Filling the watering can, I became aware that I was not alone. Two large antennae appeared at the top of the can.
Slowly but surely a gray neck became visible and then a magnificent shell, glistening and pristine in various shades of brown and cream. This scourge of the garden was a truly wonderful example of God’s creation.
The glory of God is visible even in the humble snail.
The appearance of the snail was just one of many occasions when I have gained a deeper appreciation of everyday things — when God and the wonder of human existence and creation made a strong impression upon me.
Jacob had such an experience when he awoke from sleep at a place he named Bethel. Jacob had not been looking for this experience; it happened quite suddenly. Each day and in ordinary ways God’s glory is revealed. Paying close attention to what is going on around us can be a transforming experience. God’s glory fills the earth and skies. May we be granted the vision to see it.
Today's Prayer
Dear God, thank you for the surprising beauty of your creation. Give us eyes to see and ears to hear your work in the world. Amen.
Thank God I'm Forgiven! Real life begins and flows from that special gift from God. How many benefits and praises can you lift from that truth as you begin your quiet time. Try it! Yes, thank God I am forgiven because...
Good Morning Thankful Worshipers! Been thinking a lot lately about Job's great praise through his troubling times, "The Lord gives and the Lord takes away. Praise be the Lord! I wonder why he allows only one night of sleep out of 20-30? But hey, Praise be the Lord because He has a plan and purpose for allowing it. PTL because I have to lean more on Him. PTL because I have to slow down and rely on others. PTL because others are stepping into their purposes. Thank God I'm forgiven and can know His love, grace and mercy no matter what I am facing or enduring! Yes, PTL!
This mornings devos really spoke to me and thread together to remind us of God's loving presence and how He works all things together for good. he is faithful--always! He doesn't waste our pain and wants to use it to grow us and the use us. he makes us new and sometimes that is through hard times. But because we are saved, we are activated and empowered to do the things He made us to do. We are His masterpieces. And the masterpieces become beautiful and useful as He pieces our lives together. Amen and PTL!
Spend some time in His loving presence today and soak in His love. he is working all things together for good! Amen! I heard Him and responded by spending time with Him and now I am very tired and praying He allows some sleep. If not, He has a plan in that. PTL!
UR: Eternal Faithfulness
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. - Lamentations 3:22-23 (NRSVUE)
This verse is one we can turn to when we feel overwhelmed, and I imagine overwhelmed is what Jeremiah must have been feeling when he wrote Lamentations. Things were the worst they had ever been for Israel. Many people had been slaughtered in a losing battle, while others died of starvation.
But Jeremiah tells us that he had hope because he called to mind God’s promises. He remembered how God’s steadfast love had not changed or been altered by the sins of the people. It was based not on their performance but on God’s unchanging heart. Next, Jeremiah tells us that God’s mercies never come to an end. Even though his nation had been defeated and the enemy had burned down the temple, God continued to be merciful to them. God hasn’t stopped being merciful to us either.
God is willing to forgive anyone who cries out for mercy. Jeremiah tells us about God’s great faithfulness. He had hope because he knew that no matter what was to come, God would faithfully provide for God’s people. Today, no matter what we face, no matter what has been torn down, we can call to mind God’s promises and put our hope in God.
Today's Prayer
Dear God, thank you for inspiring us with your word. Help us to have hope in all circumstances. Amen.
ODB
No Wasted Pain
The Lord said, “I have indeed seen the misery of my people . . . and I am concerned about their suffering.” Exodus 3:7
She looked into my eyes and said, “Don’t waste your pain.” My mind immediately returned to the time years prior when I’d led the memorial service for her young adult son whose life was taken in a car accident. She knew what she was talking about. She knew pain. But she also knew how God could use it to honor Him and help others—something this friend had done so very well. And as I heard her words, they comforted and encouraged me as I faced a serious cancer diagnosis. She was reminding me that God heard my cries and lament, and that He was with me in my pain and might use it to help others in a new way.
Moses also learned that God was with His people in their pain. “I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt,” God said. “I have heard them crying out . . . and I am concerned about their suffering” (Exodus 3:7). The Israelites, like us at times, must have felt alone in their pain. But God assured them He had a plan to “rescue them” and that “the cry” of their hearts was heard (vv. 8-9). He would ultimately use their pain to grow their faith, defeat their enemies, and bring Him honor.
In Psalm 90, the only psalm attributed to Moses, he declared that even though our “best years are filled with pain” (v. 10 nlt), God’s “unfailing love” is with us “to the end of our lives” (v. 14 nlt). He lovingly won’t waste our pain—and neither should we.
By Tom Felten
REFLECT & PRAY
What does it mean for you to know God hears your cries? How is God using your pain to help others?
Loving God, thank You for hearing my cries and using my pain to help others.
“God to the rescue!” is a major biblical/theological theme in Scripture and history. Because of His person and His promises, He’s mindful of the plight of His people throughout the ages. He’s loving, merciful, and compassionate; therefore, He sees the dilemmas and hears the groans of His people (see Exodus 2:23). And because He’s a promise keeper (v. 24), He acts for the well-being of those who belong to Him. We see this same dynamic in God’s ultimate rescue plan through Jesus (Galatians 4:4-5). Mary sang about such things in Luke 1:54-55: “[God] has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.” And God was with Mary and Abraham as they experienced pain in life, just as He’s with us in our pain.
Arthur Jackson
I to We (I really love how this devo keeps affirming what I am hearing form God and His plans for us!)
Good Morning! Please keep praying for me. I had one full night's sleep yesterday in over a month. Today seems to be back to no sleep. Gonna try again as soon as I hit send. This is really getting old! Satan be gone!
We had a great day of worship, sharing, and praying yesterday. Keep praying for our church to experience and bring revival and new life and learn to live,, love and make disciples like Jesus! Ask God what your part is in His Good News Delivery Company and step out in faith and with some friends. He has great plans for you and us! Amen! Kathy verified yesterday that we are very much growing to become the dynamic movement God and our bishop have called us to be for such a time as this. PTL!
Check out these devos. Do you see the thread? Is God speaking to your heart? Who are you processing that with? Many need deliverance and healing today. Sarah Young's devo spoke to my heart today about relaxing in God's healing. Chuck Swindoll reminds us of the importance of trusting God completely and how that can bring much inner peace. Our Daily Bread talks about persevering and running our races well and of God's loving mercy and grace when we fall short. The Upper Room reminds us how we can be part of something bigger God is doing and stepping out to advocate for and bless our neighbors. Try it!
OK. Enough! I thin God has spoken and I am now able to sleep. Please Lord!
“Not winning is in fact more powerful than winning,” Professor Monica Wadhwa argues. Her research reveals that people tend to be most energized and motivated not when they win but when they almost win. Falling just short of one’s ambitions tends to give people the motivation to keep growing and striving. Easy victories, on the other hand, tend to cripple energy and motivation.
Wadhwa’s perspective gives fresh insight into Paul’s analogy used in two passages that compare following Christ to running a race: 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 and Philippians 3:12-14. In both instances, Paul emphasizes that believers ought to give their pursuit of Christ and the gospel their all, “straining toward what is ahead” (Philippians 3:13) and running “in such a way as to get the prize” (1 Corinthians 9:24).
The paradoxical truth is that what we’re striving for—faithfully sharing the gospel (v. 23) and knowing Christ (Philippians 3:8)—aren’t things we can ever say we’ve achieved. We’ll always fall short. We’ll never be able to say we’ve “already arrived” (v. 12).
But that’s okay—because it’s the experience of drawing ever closer to Christ that matters. It’s only His strength that empowers and motivates us to pour our whole hearts into pursuing Him—the one who will one day carry us to victory.
By Monica La Rose
REFLECT & PRAY
How have you experienced growth through falling short? How can falling short encourage you to rely on Christ?
Dear God, thank You that I don’t need to fear falling short, but that You use these moments to continually draw me closer to You.
The athletic imagery of running a race used in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 is also seen in Hebrews 12:1-2. The Greek word trechō, translated “run,” is used in both passages. We’re to “run in such a way as to get the prize” (1 Corinthians 9:24) and “run with perseverance the race marked out for us” (Hebrews 12:1). The “great cloud of witnesses” (v. 1) included the “sometimes winning, sometimes losing” Old Testament believers. Though perfection will continue to elude us, as we “[fix] our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith” (v. 2), we can grow in faith and endurance.
Arthur Jackson
UR: Advocates
I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life. - 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NRSVUE)
Montez Bailey and his two friends were shot in my quiet neighborhood park. Montez died.
The community didn’t want revenge against the gang initiate who was responsible. They wanted healing. Several people in the neighborhood began to advocate for the area. They wrote grants. They lobbied. They urged the neighborhood council to take action.
Before long, they turned a run-down park into a gathering place with expansive lawns, soccer and baseball fields, basketball courts, a splash fountain, a playground, and picnic areas. The city agreed to establish The Forgiveness and Peace Garden — the only city-supported public garden where local people can tend a garden plot. Now families and groups enjoy a safe and peaceful time at the park.
The city built a community center nearby, one which had originally been planned for a wealthier area. My neighbor, one of those involved in this effort, told me how it impacts the lives and attitudes of the local teens. They now play sports in the park or go to the community center to hang out, study, and pursue fitness.
Advocacy is powerful. This is the heart of what it means to follow Jesus, our advocate in crisis and brokenness. Jesus is our source of peace.
Today's Prayer
Healer of all things, give us the courage to stand with others to advocate for justice and peace. Amen.
Good Morning Disciples that Jesus Loves! That is so true, but would you describe yourself that way? John did. Maybe if we did, we would be a bit more earnest in pursuit of and living for Jesus. we are so very loved by the God who is love and then saved, empowered and sent to love like Jesus. That is our mission that transforms our lives and of those around us. How's that going? Has God revealed someone to you that needs His love? Has your team discerned someone to love like Jesus loves you. Has the Holy Spirit given you dreams and visions for how to? be bold and courageous and step into your anointing today. God has great plans just for you! Rejoice, trust and follow well!
I was able to get three solid hours of sleep and some 10-30 minute naps before that. However, I need more rest as I cannot keep my eyes open right now. God has led me in a step in the right direction. That flows form abiding n matter my circumstances and then trusting and following well, just as I am. Check out the UR's reminder that as we allow what breaks God's heart to break ours we will reap with joy. What's breaking your heart right now? What are you doing about that? Ask God for eyes to see, ears to hear and for His heart and mind to step into your purposes today. Ask for willing feet and hands that hold loosely to your agenda for this day. Find someone to pray about this, to discern with and to plan and then cover you and help you. That is God's plan for you! Yes rejoice and come as you are and allow Him to move you closer to what he has created you to be and do. Amen! TWFYT asks a simple question that Jesus asked and still asks, "Do you want to be made whole?" How you answer that will determine what happens next. Choose Jesus! Choose love! Choose to trust and obey. Choose to die to self, take up cross today and allow Him to lead you to His best. He's waiting for you! And we are praying into us discovering and stepping into our purposes boldly and ready. May it be so Lord! Come! Amen! The harvest is waiting! Revival is at hand! Amen! Shalom shalom! Know perfect peace as you trust, surrender and follow today!
UR: No Labor Lost
Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. - Psalm 126:5 (NIV)
At an annual event that rewards hard work and excellence across sectors in Africa, our organization won an award. I went to receive it. As I stood on the podium, the chairman named the feats we have achieved over the years, and the crowd cheered. It was a spectacular moment because the hard work we thought had gone unnoticed was finally rewarded.
Reflecting on that moment, I thought of the future time when God will honor the saints, the martyrs, the unknown heroes of faith, the peacemakers, the generous givers, and others who work tirelessly for the cause of God’s kingdom (see Matt. 16:27). Even when we feel our service has gone unnoticed or seemingly unrewarded, God takes note.
Realizing that God sees my effort even when the world does not instills in me a fervent desire to serve God and humanity. I look forward to the day when I will stand before God among the cheering saints and hear God say to me, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matt. 25:21).
Today's Prayer
Dear God, when our heart and hands are weary, strengthen us. Amen.
TWFYT:
Sarah Update:
Good evening, all.....
What a gorgeous day it was today. Looks like the next couple of days are going to be the same.....sunshine and warmer temps.
Hope you all are able to find some time to enjoy the outdoors.
CONGRATULATIONS to Grandparents Debbie and Gerry Siegfried. They are celebrating the birth of their
second grandson, who was born this morning. Mommy and baby are doing well and Daddy is very proud.
Baby's name is Arthur John. Let's uplift this new family in our prayers as they begin this adventure together.
Parents of Arthur John are Michele and Michael Schuler.
Gwen Jones will be having surgery tomorrow morning (Tuesday) to have her pacemaker inserted. She is forever
grateful for all your prayer support, brings her comfort.
Anna Mae Diefenderfer's funeral will be at Trexler Funeral Home on Thursday, at 11:00am, viewing hours will be from
10:00 - 11:00am. Pastor Don will be officiating at the service.
Millie Flexer's husband had a heart procedure today (Monday) Continue to pray for him and the results.
Howie - Gary Bastan's relative is dealing with a blood infection. Prayers for healing.
Lisa Wenner is asking for prayer for her nephew's wife Lauren who is pregnant with twins. One of the twins is not
gaining weight as they should. There will be an ultrasound this week, and then a decision will be made as to what sort
of treatment is necessary. Prayers for an answer and wisdom for medical team.
Kay Paul and her daughter Nancy as asking for prayers for safe travel for Larry and Enol and their sons. They are due back
into the states this week. Let's pray them home safely.
Also keep Richard, their oldest son in your prayers as he transitions to college life at Lehigh University.
Also don't forget if you are not doing anything this Wednesday, we will be gathering at Rita's ice, in Emmaus, at 6:00pm.
Where your St Matthew's tee shirt, if you have one. Come one come all!
Thank you all for supporting one another in your prayers.
Good Morning Purposeful Listeners! Is that you? I always aim to be, but am not always successful. It takes focus to listen intently, discern and fulfill your revealed purposes of each day and for life in Christ. Going on a month and a half of sleeplessness and health issues finds me hard to stay focused and listen. It's even hard just to keep my quiet time alive. This morning is another example of that. 3:00 and still no sleep. A very long day lies ahead and I need to be on my game and following my purposes intently, yet I just want to sleep. Only God knows what stretching or correction or growing is allowing this season. Or maybe it's Satan trying to sift me or a test of faith. Sometimes it takes all you have to seek, focus, listen and follow God. I'm trying!
Two devos for today really tie to this. The Upper Room's titled "Listen" And TWFYT's about finding your purpose. You can't find your purpose if you don't seek, listen, surrender and follow God. One of our purposes is to seek and listen to God. They go hand in hand. Check them out below and seek God with all your heart. Don't lean on your own understanding and allow Him to lad you to and through your purposes for today. he does have great plans for you. Step out in faith, boldly into them!
One of my purposes right now is to cling to God and not my own devices and allow Him to lead me beside the still waters and to the green pastures. I have to choose to let Him carry me there. I am at the end of me and totally exhausted. I hear several of you are enduring this too. May we spur each other on, keep covering each other in prayer, and just allow God to have His way with us. Better days are ahead and until then commit to seeking, knocking, listening, discerning and following just as you are and as best as you can. That's all God expects!
So, shalom shalom...perfect peace to you and yours. God does have a plan no matter what you are going through and He is always there upholding you in His strong right hand. Amen! Speak Lord. Your servant is listening and wanting to follow you to my purposes for today. Come! Have all of me! Amen
UR: Listen
Then Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant is listening.” - 1 Samuel 3:10 (NIV)
I eased back into bed hoping for a few more minutes of rest before another long day began. My original plan to sleep late had been interrupted by an early summons to attend to my husband’s healthcare needs. Although I am usually able to return to sleep quickly, that morning sleep evaded me. While I lay still in the pre-dawn quiet, I became aware of the caw of a crow, trills from a songbird, the patter of gentle raindrops, and the soft sounds of breathing. Nothing exciting. Just restful reminders that God surrounds me with small gifts of peace and joy when I take time to listen.
The day’s responsibilities still stretched before me. My body still ached for rest. Nevertheless, God’s message of hope helped me rise to begin my day with assurance that I did not have to face it alone.
As Samuel responded to God in the middle of the night, I want to remain ready to listen when God speaks. May we never allow the busyness and bustle of daily life to mute the voice of the One who loves us beyond all measure.
Today's Prayer
Loving God, grant us listening hearts, ready to respond whenever and wherever you call. Thank you for the peace of your presence. Amen.
LISTEN ONLINE
