Scripture Reading (1 Corinthians 15:54-57) “Swallowed Up In Victory”
“When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: ‘Death is swallowed up in victory.’ (55) ‘O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?’ (56) The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. (57) But thanks be to God, who gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ”
(Other scripture readings for further study and reflection: Romans 8:18-25)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Scripture Reading (2 Corinthians 1:3-4) “God of All Comfort”
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, (4) who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”
(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Ps 73:25-26, Mt 5:4, Rev 21:4)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Scripture Reading (Luke 12:4-7) “Fear Not”
“I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do. (5) But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him! (6) Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. (7) Why, even the hairs on your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.”
(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Prv 29:25, Isa 51:12, Heb 13:6, 1 Jn 4:4)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Devotional Reading (Isaiah 42:1-4) “Christ, The Chosen One”
There is only one “Anointed One” of God, that man is Christ. He is the Suffering Servant…………the Chosen One who has faithfully fulfilled all the righteous requirements of the Father expressed in the Law (since we could not). He did not labor to attain fame, position, and glory from men, but rather in meekness and with a spirit of gentleness, he made the way of reconciliation to God known to all, thus his word of encouragement, “…take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart…(Mt 11:29).” He came not to destroy (or condemn), but to save the lost. For even though we are like a “bruised weed” due to sin and the fallen condition of the world, we will not be utterly broken because he brings healing to our souls and supplies strength we need in our many weaknesses. Jesus did not grow faint in the Father’s work, but rather persisted through cross and the resurrection to usher in a New Kingdom (not of this world) where justice will be established into the new creation. I am thankful for Jesus, and the model he left us in joining him in his suffering for the sake message and kingdom where the world can experience a preview of real love, real mercy, real justice, and real power. All is found affectionately on the Son and should reflect in the words and lives of his servants, the church.
“Behold my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my Spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations. (2) He will not cry aloud or lift up his voice, or make it heard in the street; (3) a bruised reed he will not break, and a fainting burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice. (4) He will not grow faint or be discouraged till he has established justice in the earth; and the coastlands wait for his law.”
(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Mt 12:17-21, 1 Pt 2:21, Rom 8:16-17)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Scripture Reading (Proverbs 8:32-36) “Wisdom’s Appeal”
“And now, O sons, listen to me: blessed are those who keep my ways. (33) Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it. (34) Blessed is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors. (35) For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord, (36) but he who fails to find me injures himself; all who hate me love death.”
(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Prv 4:5-9, Jam 3:17)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Scripture Reading (1 Chronicles 16:8-13) “He Is Worthy of Our Praise!”
“Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples! (9) Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works! (10) Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice! (11) Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually! (12) Remember the wondrous works that he has done, his miracles and the judgments he uttered, (13) O offspring of Israel his servant, children of Jacob, his chosen ones!”
(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Ps 107, cf. Rom 2:28-29)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Scripture Reading (Matthew 21:14-17) “Hosanna, Son of David”
“And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple, and he healed them. (15) But when the chief priest and the scribes saw the wonderful things he did, and the children crying out in the temple, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David!’ they were indignant, (16) and they said to him, ‘Do you hear what these are saying?’ And Jesus said to them, ‘Yes; have you never read, ‘Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise?’ (17) And leaving them, he went out of the city to Bethany and lodged there.'”
(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: cf. Zech 9:9, Zeph 3:17-20)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
“His delight is not in the strength of the horse, nor his pleasure in the legs of man, (11) but the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.”
Scripture Reading (Isaiah 26:1-4) “Rock of Our Salvation”
“…We have a strong city he sets up salvation as walls and bulwarks. (2) Open the gates, that the righteous nation that keeps faith may enter in. (3) You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trust in you. (4) Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.”
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Isa 9:6, cf. Rev 21:9-24)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Devotional Reading (2 Kings 2:8-13) “Come To the Light”
The Word of God is like a mirror that peers into the very core of our being revealing the thoughts and motives of our heart. One who looks into the Holy Scriptures intently to seek God will also experience the darkness of sin being exposed in the presence of his radiant light.
2 Kings 22 records a story of king of Judah (Josiah) who commissions repairs of the temple. While performing the work, the High Priest (Hilkiah) finds “The Book of the Law.” It is then taken to the king and read aloud before him. Upon hearing the words, he tore his clothes and begin to grieve over the sin of Israel as he acknowledges God’s commands had not been kept.
Every time I read this passage of scripture I am often struck by Josiah’ response to God’s word as it is contrast at times how I fail to be as responsive as I need to in living out my faith in the areas of acknowledgment and grieving over personal sin. The question we should ask ourselves is this: In seeking God through his Word, do we feel conviction of sin that brings forth godly sorrow that leads to repentance? (2 Cor 7:10)
The Bible teaches that the Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two edge sword, that reaches down into the deepest recesses of our being. Further, Jesus taught those who seek his truth will come him to be examined, “…whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his deeds have been carried out in God (Jn 3:21).”
A true Christian desires the daily working of sanctification by the Spirit that we may grow in exhibiting the character of God for his glory. Note, it is not in anyway in our nature to desire correction from God (or anyone for that matter) but yet we should seek exhortation from him daily in our confession with the Bible wide open. We should pray to have a disposition towards God similar to what Josiah had, that we are grieved over our sin which displeases the one who died to save us from a lifestyle of sin. We also should be encouraged that God graciously and eagerly receives our humble prayers (Lk 18:9-14). God loves to restore broken vessels. It is his pleasure to grow a kingdom mindset within us. Such development takes time and God is so ever patient with us.
May these truths of his love us drive us into his arms and as we fully embrace transformation process for us. Pastor Preston Atkinson, a beloved brother in the faith, stated the following in his sermon this past Sunday: “We cannot change ourselves, only God can do it.” And that is Gospel news for us!
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: cf. Ez 36:26-27, Ps 51:10-12)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Scripture Reading (Matthew 7:24-27) “Christ, Our Foundation”
“Everyone who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. (25) And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the wind blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. (26) And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. (27) And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat that house, and it fell and great was the fall of it.”
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Eph 2:19-22, 1 Pt 2:4-5)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Devotional Reading (Hebrews 13:5-6) “The Lord is my Helper”
Money within itself is not evil, but a love for it has a destructive end to the one who lays unhealthy affection on it. The Bible exhorts those who place their faith in God to be content with the provisions he supplies. The writer of Hebrews in our focus text also states, “Keep your life free from the love of money…” A love for money is fueled by discontent. We are instructed to be content in God. Why? Because, “The Lord is my Helper.” Fear will not be allowed a foothold in our hearts because we place greater confidence in the power of God to preserve and deliver us from our provisional struggles.
While more money in certain instances is helpful and needed, it will never fulfill us in this life. We regularly witness public figures, athletes, and celebrities who are wealthy who have much riches yet are ensnared with many sorrows in their pursuit for MORE. To a believer, a love for “stuff” suffocates the life out of our faith. Jesus taught, “…the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful (Mt 13:22).”
Here is truth: Money is a tool……. a resource that God provides each of us in accordance with his will and our God-given abilities. It is also important to note that it is temporary. It can be here today and gone tomorrow. Solomon observes, “Do not toil to acquire wealth; be discerning enough to desist. (5) When your eyes light on it, it is gone, for suddenly it sprouts wings, flying like an eagle towards toward heaven (Prv 23:4-5).” No matter how much more or less we have, we are called to steward God’s resources in a way that glorifies his name. As our desire for more of God grows, so shall our contentment with earthly things.
Hebrews 13:5-6, “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ (6) So we can confidently say, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?’”
(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: 1 Tim 6:6-11)
Blessing,
Dr. Price
Devotional Reading (Psalm 131) “He Quiets My Soul”
Godly contentment strengthens our confidence that we may not simply just obey God, but also enjoy him. In this Psalm, David describes necessity of humility to access the presence and benefits of God. He expresses his denial of pride in three ways:
- (1) Lifted Heart. His heart is not elevated before the Lord. God does not abide with a prideful heart. A broken and contrite spirit is what he desires (Ps 51:17), for such a person will come humbly before him acknowledging his own sin and proclaiming God’s goodness.
- (2) Lofty Eyes. A person with presumptuous eyes will look upon and in a particular direction based on the affections that lives in one’s heart. Jesus taught, “For where you treasure is, there you heart will be also (Mt 6:21).” David acknowledges that he would not place his affections upon elevated places in life where he could be lifted before men and therefore glorified.
- (3) Sober Judgement of Self (Rom 12:3). His life was not consumed with deciphering things not revealed by God. Further, he understood his station as king. There were some things “too high for him” and it would be foolish for him to reach for things beyond the capacity God has given him. Even as king, he states in humility that some things are, “…too great and too marvelous for me.”
David trusted in the protection and care of God like a mother who works through a process to nurse her child. He says, “…like a weaned child is my soul within me.” He detached himself from habits of being dependent on his own abilities to grow and save himself. He recognized his limitations. It is being content with the will and provision of God we shall discover His strength working in our lives. It is not wise to place our hope in relationships, self-sufficiency, possessions, and title/positions, but rather in God where we shall find true peace. In a posture of humility, God will quiet and nourish our soul within, so that we can be still in the storms raging without.
Psalm 131, “O Lord, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me. (2) But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me. (3) O Israel, hope in the Lord from this time forth and forevermore.”
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Prv 6:16-17, 21:4, 1 Tim 6:6-10, Phi 4:12-13)
Blessing,
Dr. Price
- It is used as a preserver for food.
- It is used to enhance flavor for prepared meals.
- It is used as a purifying agent (e.g. water treatment).
Mark 9:49-50, “For everyone will be salted with fire. Salt is good, but if the salt has lost its saltiness, how will you make it salty again? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.”
Devotional Reading (Proverbs 28:13) “Means of Grace: Confession”
Repentance should be normal part of the daily life of a Christian. So should confession. James taught, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed (Jam 5:16).” Disclosing our sins to those who are trusted within the community of faith provides needed relief in these ways:
- Confession lifts the veil of darkness that our sins thrive in and exposes them to the light. Those who born again are lead by the Spirit to God’s light that our deeds can been seen and examined for our good (Jn 3:20-21).
- Confession lifts the burden of carrying the crushing weight of unexposed sin.
Through Jesus works on the cross and resurrection, God hands are open to receive daily confession that we may experience delivering power of his grace and mercy. Though our confession reflects our daily struggle to be faithful to God, his forgiveness is a demonstration of HIS unfailing faithfulness to all who call upon him (1 Jn 1:9). Confession is also an continual acknowledgment that we need God. We need Christ advocacy before the Father if we are to have any chance to live faithfully in his name.
As we grow spiritually so will our sorrow over individual sin. As our grief in this area grows, so shall repentance. Too often, so much emphasis is placed on theological head knowledge and spiritual gifts which manifest itself (outward) in our skills and talents, we miss out on confession which is a vital means of grace God has granted us which is centered on godly character (inward disposition).
Friends, take courage and come the throne of grace through the community of faith that God has provided that we may all mature and our adversary may not be able maintain a foothold in our lives.
“Proverbs 28:13, “Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.”
(Other suggested scripture readings: Heb 4:12-13, 14-16)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Devotional Reading (Galatians 5:13-14) “Liberty In Christ”
Religious autonomy and a life unencumbered with accountability to God is viewed as some of the foundational principles of our secular society. While having certain liberties are important; the Bible exalts freedom in Christ as the most important thing any person can have. Too often in an affluent society we use our freedoms for selfish gain and luxury, while our liberty in Christ is freedom from self-centered living. In our focus text, Paul exhorts that that we do not use our liberties for an opportunity for the flesh, but instead in service to others through love. He also taught, “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. (4) Let each of you not look only to his own interest, but also to the interest of others (Phi 2:3-4).”
True obedience to the law of God is rooted in love of one’s neighbor as thou self; not simply our works and words by which we can project a façade of righteousness towards others. If you are in Christ, he has set you free from sin and thus enables you and I to live as he would towards others. Thinking in this way should change the way we speak and treat people today, especially with those different from us. We are so busy trying to be right (and thus condemning others), we have lost sight of this rebuke Jesus gave the Pharisees that held a similar disposition to many today: “Go and learn what this means, I desire mercy and not sacrifice… (Mt 9:13).”
Friends, use your freedom to show mercy and grace on the foundation of truth of the Gospel. Let us not use our Christian liberty to mask a heart of sin with a veil of self-righteousness, but instead be led by humility and thankfulness towards God that produces a desire within us that wants others to experience the love of Christ as we also do.
“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. (14) For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself (Gal 5:13-14).’”
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Jn 8:36, 13:35-35)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Devotional Reading (Matthew 13:31-32) “A Grain of Mustard Seed”
A mustard seed is one of the smallest seeds on earth. It is typically 1-2 mm in diameter and varies in color from yellowish white to black. Though very small it has the potential to grow a mustard scrub ten feet in height. Jesus uses the mustard seed in an analogous way to teach a mystery that has been veiled since the foundation of the world. What does he intend to reveal about the kingdom of God in this parable of our focus scripture? A couple thoughts we should prayerfully consider:
- The things of God may appear to start small, but ultimately yields great results. The birth of the church is excellent example of this as it started with twelve disciples with minimal wealth, power or influence in the cultures by which they proclaimed the Gospel. Yet 2000 years later the church has grown across the whole world.
- Jesus says that once the tree is fully grown, the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches. Some biblical scholars understand this statement as a reference to Gentile nations who come to take refuge in Jesus, the Messiah (our Good Shepherd) and enjoy the blessings of the new covenant (Lk 22:20). Remember, Jesus said, “…I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd (Jn 10:16).” Paul also added, “For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility… (Eph 2:14).” Jesus planted the seed of the kingdom, whose faith has grown large and wide where both Jews and Gentiles are placed together as one family, under one Father, one Lord, One Spirit to enjoy the blessings of eternal salvation and entrance into a heavenly kingdom without enmity amongst one another.
All that come to Jesus are sent and given to him by the Father, and he will never turn or cast us away (Jn 6:37). Like birds seeking refuge and a home in a tree, we come to Jesus looking for security and significance in a kingdom that never fades and endures forever.
“He put another parable before them, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. (32) It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it is grown it is larger than all garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and and make nests in its branches.”
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Mt 6:19-21, Rom 11:11-24)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Devotional Reading (Matthew 5:1-12) “Blessings In Christ”
God is primarily concerned with the heart, that is, our inward disposition towards him and obedience to his Word. The Sermon on the Mount includes “Beatitudes” where Jesus identifies spiritual principles that leads to fulfillment in life because one’s core affections are on the source of our happiness which is God. Remember, while desired having gold, goods, and glory of this world does not ultimately satisfy us (Ecc 6:7-9). Rather, one who delights in God and his law finds spiritual well-being in our Creator, not created things. Notice, Jesus spotlights benefits centered around godly character, rather than earthly possessions and accolades. In summary, blessed are those who delight in God. Such person will produce the fruits of his righteousness in their life and reflect the character of a heavenly kingdom.
“Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. (2) And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: (3) Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (4) Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. (5) Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. (6) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. (7) Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. (8) Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. (9) Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. (10) Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (11) Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. (12) Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Ps 1, 119:97-104)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Devotional Reading (Psalm 111) “The Greatness of Our God”
With a strong hand and outstretch armed, God delivered Israel from slavery of Egypt under Pharaoh. Likewise, through his mighty works of redemption, he has rescued us from the enslaving power of sin. Through Christ we are granted access to the Promised Land (i.e. a heavenly kingdom) through Him. We praise him because his works reveals:
- His righteousness. Only God is good.
- His goodness to undeserved sinners like you and I.
- The depths of his grace and mercy. He spared no expense to save us. He gave his only Begotten Son.
- What he has accomplished is complete and cannot be undone by any power under heaven or outside of Himself.
- A immutable part of his character: He is faithful and just.
Embracing the wisdom of this truth cultivates a reverential fear of God that leads to praise to Him who endures forever!
“Praise the Lord! I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart, in the company of the upright, in the congregation. (2) Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them. (3) Full of splendor and majesty is his work, and his righteousness forever. (4) He has caused his wondrous works to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and merciful. (5) He provides food for those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever. (6) He has shown his people the power of his works, in giving them the inheritance of the nations. (7) The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy; (8) they are established forever and ever, to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness. (9) He sent redemption to his people; he has commanded his covenant forever. Holy and awesome is his name! (10) The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever!”
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Ps 96:1-4, 145:3, Zep 3:17, Isa 55:10-13)
Blessing,
Dr. Price
Devotional Reading (Proverbs 15:4) “Handle With Care”
“A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.”
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Eph 4:1-3, Col 4:5-6, 2 Tim 2:24-26)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
“But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. (2) And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, (3) but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. (4) While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel. (5) And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? (6) He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, (7) that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise.”
Devotional Reading (John 19:16-24, 28-30) “It Is Finished”
“…So they took Jesus, (17) and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called the Place of a Skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha. (18) There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, and Jesus between them. (19) Pilate also wrote an inscription and put it on the cross. It read, ‘Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.’ (20) Many of the Jews read this inscription, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Aramaic, in Latin, and in Greek. (21) So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, ‘Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but rather, ‘This man said, I am King of the Jews.’ (22) Pilate answered, ‘What I have written I have written.’ (23) When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his garments and divided them into four parts, one part for each soldier; also his tunic. But the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom, (24) so they said to one another, ‘Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to see whose it shall be.’ This was to fulfill the Scripture which says, ‘They divided my garments among them, for my clothing they cast lots.’ So the soldiers did these things,…”
…(28) After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), ‘I thirst.’ (29) A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. (30) When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, ‘It is finished,’ and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Rom 3:21-26, Heb 2:14-17, 1 Jn 2:1-2)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Devotional Reading (John 13:1-11) “Clean My Heart O’God”
Jesus died for the sins of the world whether one believes in him or not. Unless we lean on the mercy of God to wash us of our sins, we will share no inheritance of his salvation and glory in this life and in eternity. As we pray and ponder over his death and resurrection (this week), I encourage us all to pray to God that greater repentance be evidenced in our lives in light of the price Jesus paid that we may have life. We should also pray to the Lord of the Harvest (Mt 9:35-38) would help us go out and faithfully labor in the mission of his church as an expression of our love, gratitude and hope in God. Remember, Jesus died to make us servants, not Lords.
“Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. (2) During the supper, when the devil had already put in the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him, (3) Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, (4) rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. (5) Then he poured water into a basin and begin to wash the disciples feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. (6) He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, ‘Lord, do you wash my feet?’ (7) Jesus answered him, ‘What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterwards you will understand.’ (8) Peter said to him, ‘You shall never wash my feet.’ Jesus answered him, ‘If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.'”
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Phi 2:1-11, Lk 7:44, cf. Ps 51:1-10)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Devotional Reading (John 10:1-9) “Jesus, The Only Door to Salvation”
“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber. (2) But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. (3) To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. (4) When he has brought out all of his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. (5) A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers. (6) This figure of speech Jesus used with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them. (7) So Jesus again said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I saw to you, I am the door of the sheep. (8) All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did no listen to them. (9) I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture.”
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Jn 14:6, Acts 4:12, 1 Jn 5:11-12, cf: Isa 43:1-11)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Devotional Reading (Psalm 103:1-14) “He Blesseth My Soul”
“Blessed the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! (2) Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, (3) who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, (4) who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, (5) who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. (6) The Lord works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed. (7) He made known his ways to Moses, his acts to the people of Israel. (8) The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. (9) He will not always chide, nor will he keep his anger forever. (10) He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. (11) For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; (12) as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us. (13) As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him. (14) for he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust.”
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: (Lk 4:17-21, Rom 8:12-17, Heb 12:3-11)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Devotional Reading (John 5:19-24) “Honor the Son”
“Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, that the Son does likewise. (20) For the Father loves the Son and shows him all that he himself is doing. And greater works than these will he show him, so that you may marvel. (21) For as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son give life to whom he will. (22) For the Father judges no one, but has given all judgment to the Son, (23) that all may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. (24) Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgement, but has passed from death to life.'”
(Other suggested reading for further study and reflection: Ps 2:11-12, Mt 22:23-33, Rom 10:9-13)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
“Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! (2) Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! (3) Know the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. (4) Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! (5) For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.”
Devotional Reading (Micah 7:18-20) “The Steadfast Love of God”
“Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression for the remnant of his inheritance? He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in steadfast love. (19) He will again have compassion on us; he will tread our iniquities underfoot. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea. (20) You will show faithfulness to Jacob and steadfast love to Abraham, as you have sworn to our fathers from the days of old.”
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Ps 32:1, 103:8-14, Gal 3:7-9)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
Devotional Reading (Luke 22:24-30) “Greatness Through Humility”
“A dispute also arose among them, as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest. (25) And he said to them, ‘The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors. (26) But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves. (27) For who is the greater, one who reclines at table or one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table? But I am among you as the one who serves. (28) You are those who have stayed with me in my trials, (29)and I assign to you, as my Father assigned to me, a kingdom, (30) that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on the thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Prv 22:4, Phi 2:1-11, Jam 4:6-10)
Blessings,
Dr. Price
In Revelations 21, John sees a vision of the new heaven and new earth. This new creation is brought forth by God by the overthrow man’s earthly kingdoms and the devil who reigns over them (2 Cor 4:4, Eph 2:2). The Father accomplishes this through his Son who destroys the enemies of God with a sharp sword (Word of God) that comes from his mouth (Rev 19:11-16), which establishes his eternal Kingdom. His death and resurrection is key in this spiritual war.
Micah has a prophetic vision of this messianic age where God is elevated to true center of worship of all nations above all false gods (idolatry) man worships, thus, “It shall come to pass in the later days that the mountain of the house of the lord shall be established as the highest of the mountains,…(v1)” It is a kingdom where the dispensation of all forms of earthly governments come to an end. Even democracies shall cease to exist, for the King of all Righteousness will sovereignly reign in justice and truth. Similarly, Isaiah prophesied of Him, “…and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Earthly Father, Prince of Peace. (7) Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it, and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this (Isa 9:6-7).”
During His everlasting rule, peace will abide and flourish in the new creation. No longer will brother plot and rage in murderous envy against his brother (cf. Ecc 4:4). Instead, we shall be transformed by the blood of Christ; and resurrected to a glorified body and promise, “…they shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks; nations shall not lift up sword against nation, and neither shall they learn war anymore (v3).”
What is the application for us today? While we are to be agents of justice, mercy, and faithfulness (from a Gospel perspective) in our daily lives impacting our world for the salvation of souls for the glory of God on earth (as it is in heaven), we are not to lose sight of our ultimate aim and promise. There will never be heaven on earth created by man’s hands. What we groan for in our inward being is above where Christ is (2 Cor 5:1-2). Remember this my beloved Christian and be encouraged today.
“It shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the house of the Lord shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and it shall be lifted up above the hills; and peoples shall flow to it, (2) and many nations shall come, and say: “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.” For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem (3) He shall judge between many peoples, and shall decide disputes for strong nations far away; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore; (4) but they shall sit every man under his vine and under his fig tree, and no one shall make them afraid, for the mouth of the Lord of hosts has spoken. (5) For all the peoples walk each in the name of its god, but we will walk in the name of the Lord our God forever and ever (Mic 4:1-5).”
With grace and the love of Christ,
Dr. Price
(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: 1 Cor 15:35-49, Rev 21:22-27)
Abraham believed in God’s righteousness in that he could deliver the redemption he promised. God considered him just while he was still yet a sinner (ungodly) and unable to produce any righteous acts before Him that was salvific (cf. Rom 5:8). It is God alone that justifies us through faith in his Son’s saving works. Remember, salvation is granted as a gift from God (Eph 2:8-9). The recipient of gift does not work to pay for such gift, but enjoys the full benefits of it. The giver of the gift is the one who has labored and sacrificed for it until the full balance of its debt can be paid to complete the purchase of it. In the story of salvation, God is the Giver, who offered us Jesus (and his redemptive works) as a gift for all who believe in him. We are justified by his righteousness alone. Salvation is not based on ounce of human merit. There will be no boasting in human works, accolades, titles, and accomplishments in the presence of God in the Day of Judgement. There is only one who is worthy of all such praise, that is Christ. Such gift produces worship where we boldly declare in our hearts, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and blessing (Rev 5:12).” Amen.
“What then shall we say as gained by Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh? (2) For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. (3) For what does Scripture say, ‘Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.’ (4) Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. (5) And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness (Rom 4:1-5)”
May you be blessed with his gift today,
Dr. Price
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: (Rom 1:17, Gal 3:11, Heb 10:38)
Jesus is life-give sustenance given to us from heaven. His broken body on the cross nourishes and gives us eternal life. Eat of him and live today!Luke 9:10-17, “On their return the apostles told him all they had done. And he took them and withdrew apart to a town called Bethsaida. (11) When the crowds learned it, they followed him, and he welcomed them and spoke to them of the kingdom of God and cured those who had need of healing. (12) Now the day began to wear away, and the twelve came and said to him, ‘Send the crowd away to go into the surrounding villages and countryside to find lodging and get provisions, for we are here in a desolate place.’ (13) But he said to them, ‘You give them something to eat.’ They said, ‘We have no more than five loaves and two fish – unless we are to go and buy food for all these people.’ (14) For there were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, ‘Have them sit down in groups of fifty each.’ (15) And they did so, and had them all sit down. (16) And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing over them. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before crowd. (17) And they all ate and were satisfied. And what was left over was picked up, twelve baskets of broken pieces.”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Luke 22:19, John 6:22-59, cf. Exodus 16)
Psalm 92:12-15, “The righteous flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar in Lebanon. (13) They are planted in the house of the Lord; they flourish in the courts of our God. (14) They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green, (15) to declare that the Lord is upright; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Psalm 1, cf. 1 Corinthians 1:30)
In society today, it is difficult for people to agree on anything. In a “I love me some me” culture, it should be no surprise the our interpersonal relationships are filled with disagreements, divisions, discord, and tribalism where offenses abound. There are two primary attitudes that prevail today that feed a dysfunctional view of people:(1) I need everyone to agree with me.(2) I will surround myself with those who agree with me so my views, feelings, and emotions can feel secure and validated (unchallenged).This narcissistic way of thinking produces an individual who never matures and is stunted in their spiritual growth. Further, we lose out on the sanctifying work of God that helps us to be more God-centered, rather than self-centered. It was easier to love those who love you back, but to be as Christ, we must learn to love people who do not reciprocate such affection and posture towards us. In other words, by loving our enemies, God grants us the opportunity to live as Christ did. After all, he did not die the righteous, but rather the enemies of God. Barabbas is excellent picture of our salvation and God’s love for sinners. Jesus received the death penalty by trading places with him who was a murderer and insurrectionist (Mk 15:6-15). Further, Paul taught, “…But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Rom 5:8).” On the cross, Christ expressed obedient love in two ways:(1) Jesus died for us because he loved his Father. He committed himself fully to his redemptive plan for creation. The greatest love of all is not love of self. Jesus taught, “Greater love has no one other than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” True love is sacrificial and often costly. When I was young Christian, my first Pastor (Darren Williams) used to always teach us that, “love is NOT of the convenience.” That teaching still resonates today, though at the time I did not understand it.(2) Jesus died for those hostile to the will and lordship of God. Why? Because he understood that self-righteous, judgmental, hateful behavior towards sinners was not the way his Father would draw the lost, but rather as an agent God’s grace and truth. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is good news because it is through kindness and mercy God expresses his love for his creation.To love people that are unlovable, we need to look no further than the example of our Savior. All things are possible through God. Remember, love is not about merit, but is given to others as if we are paying a debt. “Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law (Rom 13:8).”Luke 6:27-36, “But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, (28) bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. (29) To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from the one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either. (30) Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back. (31) And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them. (32) ‘If you love those who love you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. (33) And if you do good to those who do good to you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. (34) And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount. (35) But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. (36) Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.”May you be blessed in his love today,Dr. Price(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Proverbs 24:17-18, Romans 12:14-21, Colossians 1:19-23)
In the Proverbs, Solomon identifies several things God has a great distaste for. One is strife among his children (i.e. the brethren). “There are six things that the Lord hates……one who sows discord among the brothers (Prv 6:16-19).” In our focus text, he highlights the important value of a collaborative relationship. The text expresses two helpful principles: (1) Such persons bear each other burdens by offering their whole self as stabilizing force to one another in a time of need; and (2) There is strength in numbers. By working together, we can be a light in each other’s blind spots and thus protecting one another from the wiles of our mutual adversary (i.e. the devil).Such cooperation produces God-glorifying success because each person is not solely concerned about their own matters and interests, but that of others also (Phi 2:3-11).In such an divisive world, a Christian should endeavor to find ways to be unified with one another (as defined and prescribed by scripture); rather than be agents of discord, or like a foolish person whose thinking is warped and sinful, who stirs up division by focusing on controversies, dissensions, and quarrels centered around their own definitions of ethics and morality. Such person’s self-righteousness condemns him. Instead, The Bible exhorts us to:(1) Endeavor to build bridges to one another,(2) Bear and address each other’s sin gracefully and with truth that loves.(3) Be exhaustive in our efforts to maintain the unity in the bond of peace, while being limited in our desire to break fellowship with a view it is a last resort.Why? Because we are better together than apart because of the hope that binds us is Christ. If we don’t grab hold to this truth in our hearts, the division operating in the church will further damage our fellowship, ruin our witness, and deeply hinder her true mission. Remember, a house divided cannot stand.Be Blessed,Dr. Price“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. (10) For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! (11) Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? (12) And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him – a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Psalm 133:1, Proverbs 27:17, Romans 12:9-13, Hebrews 10:24-25)
Christ is the promise of salvation to the world and the ultimate demonstration of the steadfast love of God.Be blessed,Dr. PricePsalm 89:1-4, “I will sing of the steadfast love of the Lord, forever; with my mouth I will make known your faithfulness to all generations. (2) For I said, ‘Steadfast love will be built up forever; in the heavens you will establish faithfulness.’ (3) You have said, ‘I have made a covenant with my chosen one; I have sworn to David my servant: (4) I will establish your offspring forever, and build your throne for all generations.’”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Isaiah 9:6-7, Luke 12:67-79, John 12:12-15, cf. Revelations 22:16)
God is our Refuge in the times of sicknesses, failing health, battles with sin, financial hardships, loneliness, anxieties, natural disasters and global perils. We especially hold to this biblical truth when we witness the evil prospering while we struggle to survive and are reviled for living for God. We often lose sight of God by focusing too much on the trial and tribulation raging all around us.In our focus passage for today, Solomon prescribes two antidotal exhortations:(1) Do not “fret” about the works of evildoers. Let not their schemes and boasting vex us.(2) Do not be “envious” of the wickedWhy? Because God see and knows all. God has set a time and day to judge all matters (Rom 12:17-21, 1 Cor 4:5). Remember, judgment rarely comes quickly, but it does appear suddenly like a thief in the night. In Psalm 73, the writer laments and complains to God about the prosperity of the wicked in light of the suffering of the righteous. His entire perspective changes when he turned his attention from focusing on evildoers, and looked up to God. He says, “But when I thought how to understand this, it seemed to me wearisome task, (17) until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I discerned their end (Ps 73:16-17).”My friends, trust God. Lean not to your own earthly understanding of these matter for it will exhaust you. Rest in God with the scriptures as your foundation for truth. He will preserve you though it all and render justice in due season. One day, he will wipe all tears away and remove pain and death from the creation through Christ. This is our ultimate hope, that sustains us through present day trial and suffering.May you be blessed richly in God’s presence.Dr. Price“Fret not yourself because of evildoers, and be not envious of the wicked, (20) for the evil man has no future; the lamp of the wicked will be put out. (21) My son, fear the Lord and the king, and do not join with those who do otherwise, (22) for disaster will arise suddenly from them, and who knows the ruin that will come from them both?”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Psalm 46:1-3, Ecclesiastes 9:4-6, Matthew 10:28-33)
Human understanding is limited, especially in light of the glory of God’s wisdom. No matter how high man’s wisdom piles to heaven, it will never come close to eclipsing the knowledge of God. Isaiah declares of God, “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts (Isa 55:9).” Further, James teaches that human wisdom is earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. In comparison he says of God, “…the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere (Jam 3:17).”So what is the encouragement of today’s devotional? Trust God. Lean NOT on our own knowledge and understanding, but instead yield completely to God. When there is a conflict between our way and what the Word of God prescribes for our life,……..we abandon our will and holdfast to God’s. Trusting in God leads to life. Faith is the key. May you be blessed richly in Christ today.Dr. Price“No wisdom, no understanding, no counsel can avail against the Lord.”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, James 1:5)
Mark 9:43-48, “And if your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life crippled than with two hands to go to hell, to the unquenchable fire. (45) And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life lame than with two feet to be thrown into hell. (47) And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into hell, (48) where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Romans 8:9-13, Colossians 3:5-7, 2 Timothy 2:22)
Mark 7:24-30, “And from there he arose and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And he entered a house and did not want anyone to know, yet he could not be hidden. (25) But immediately a women whose little daughter had an unclean spirit heard of him and came and fell down at his feet. (26) Now the woman was a Gentile, a Syrophoenician by birth. And he begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. (27) And he said to her, ‘Let the children be fed first, for it is not right to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.’ (28) But she answered him, ‘Yes Lord, yet even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.’ (29) And he said to her, ‘For this statement you may go your way; the demon has left your daughter.’ (30) And she went home and found the child lying in bed and the demon gone.”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Isaiah 42:1, 55:5, John 10:16, Ephesians 2:13-14, Colossians 3:11)
Proverbs 18:22, “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Proverbs 5:15-20, 31:10-12, Ecclesiastes 9:9, 1 Peter 3:7, cf. Ephesians 5:25-33)
Acts 2:42-47, “And they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. (43) And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. (44) And all who believed were together and had all things in common. (45) And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. (46) And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, (47) praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Acts 4:32-37, Romans 12:9-13, Hebrews 13:16, cf. Ephesians 4:25-28)
Proverbs 17:13-14, “If anyone returns evil for good, evil will not depart from his house. (14) The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so quit before the quarrel breaks out.”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Luke 6:27-36, Romans 12:9-21, 1 Peter 3:8-17)
Revelation 21:1-7, “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. (2) And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. (3) And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Behold, the dwelling place place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and and God himself will be with them as their God. (4) He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away. (5) And he who was seated on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.’ Also he said, ‘Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true. (6) And he said to me, ‘It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of water of life without payment. (7) The one who conquers will have this heritage, and I will be his God and he will be my son.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Isaiah 65:17-25, 1 John 2:15-17, 2 Peter 3:8-10, cf. 1 Corinthians 15:35-58)
Proverbs 15:31-33, “The ear that listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise. (32) Whoever ignores instruction despises himself, but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence. (33) The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor.”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Proverbs 9:8-10, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, cf. Hebrews 12:3-14)
Joel 2:12-13, “Yet even now,’ declares the Lord, return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; (13) and rend your hearts and not your garments.’ Return to the Lord, your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster.”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Psalm 51:14-17, Isaiah 55:6-7, Matthew 3:7-10)
Proverbs 13:13-14, “Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded. (14) The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death.'”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Psalm 1:1-6, 119:97-105, cf. John 1:1-5)
Matthew 21:1-11, “Now when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, (2) saying to them, ‘Go into the village in front of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to me. (3) If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, ‘The Lord needs them’, and he will send them at once. (4) This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet, saying, ‘(5) Say to the daughter of Zion, Behold, you king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.’ (6) The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them. (7) They brought the donkey and the colt and put on them cloaks, and he sat on them. (8) Most of the crowd spread the cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. (9) And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, ‘Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest! (10) And when he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up, saying, ‘Who is this?’ (11) And the crowds said, ‘This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee.’”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Psalm 136:1-3, Zechariah 9:9, cf. Revelations 19:11-16)
Matthew 18:23-35, “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. (24) When he began to settle, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousands talents. (25) And since he could not pay, his master ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. (26) So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.’ (27) And out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. (28) But when the same servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii, and seizing him, he began to choke him, saying, ‘Pay what you owe.’ (29) So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will repay you.’ (30) He refused and went and put him in prison until he should pay his debt. (31) When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their master all that had taken place. (32) Then his master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. (33) And should you not have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’ (34) And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. (35) So also my heavenly Father will do to everyone one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Proverbs 10:12, Matthew 6:9-13, Romans 8:13, Ephesians 4:31-32, Colossians 3:12-15)
Matthew 16:13-16, “Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, ‘Who do the people say the Son of Man is?’ (14) And they said, ‘Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ (15) He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ (16) Simon Peter replied, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.'”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Isaiah 9:6-7, Mark 1:21-28, John 6:66-69, 9:35-39)
Psalm 71:1-5, “In you, O Lord, do I take refuge; let me never be put to shame! (2) In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; incline your ear to me, and save me! (3) Be to me a rock of refuge, to which I may continually come; you have given the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress. (4) Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the gasp of the unjust and cruel man. (5) For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth.”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Psalm 18:1-3, 46:1-3, Proverbs 14:26-27)
Ecclesiastes 12:1-7, “Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, ‘I have no pleasure in them’; (2) before the sun and the light and the moon and the stars are darkened and the clouds return after the rain, (3) in the day when the keepers of the house tremble, and the strong men are bent, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those who look through the windows are dimmed, (4) and the doors on the street are shut – when the sound of the grinding is low, and one rises up at the sound of a bird, and all the daughters of song are brought low (5) they are afraid also of what is high, and terrors are in the way; the almond tree blossoms, the grasshopper drags itself along, and desire fails, because man is going to his eternal home, and the mourners go about the streets – (6) before the silver cord is snapped, and the golden bowl is broken, or the pitcher is shattered at the fountain, or the wheel is broken at the cistern, (7) and the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Isaiah 55:6-7, Hebrews 9:27, cf. Luke 16:19-31)
Proverbs 9:1-6, 10-11, “Wisdom has built her house; she has hewn her seven pillars. (2) She has slaughtered her beasts; she has mixed her wine; (3) She has sent out her young women to call from the highest places in the town, (4) ‘Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!’ To him who lack sense she says, (5) ‘Come, eat of my bread and drink of the wine I have mixed. (6) Leave your simple ways, and live, and walk in the way of insight.’(10) The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight. (11) For by me your days will be multiplied, and years will be added to your life.”(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Proverbs 14:15-16, 1 Corinthians 3:18-20, James 1:5-8)
Matthew 12:18-21, “Behold, my servant whom I have chosen, my beloved with whom my soul is well pleased. I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles. (19) He will not quarrel or cry aloud, nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets; (20) a bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not quench, until he brings justice to victory; (21) and in his name the Gentiles will hope.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Isaiah 42:1-9, 61:1-2, Matthew 3:13-17, Luke 9:28-35)
Matthew 10:26-33, “So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. (27) What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. (28) And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. (29) Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. (30) But even the hairs on your head are all numbered. (31) Fear not, therefore; you are more valuable than many sparrows. (32) So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, (33) but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Psalm 118:1-9, Ecclesiastes 9:4-6, 1 Peter 4:12-14)
Psalm 68:19-20, “Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears us up; God is our salvation. (20) Our God is God of salvation, and to God, the Lord, belong deliverances from death.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Isaiah 53:4-5, John 3:14-15, Galatians 1:3-5)
Matthew 5:2-12, “And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
‘(3) Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
(4) Blessed are the those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
(5) Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
(6) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
(7) Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
(8) Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
(9) Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
(10) Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
(11) Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. (12) Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.'”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Psalm 1, 119:1-8, 1 John 5:1-5)
Psalm 67, “May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us, (2) that you way may be known on earth, your saving power among all nations. (3) Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you! (4) Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you judge the peoples with equity and guide the nations upon earth. (5) Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you! (6) The earth has yielded its increase; God, our God, shall bless us. (7) God shall bless us; let all the ends of the earth fear him!”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Psalm 117, Ephesians 2:11-22, Philippians 2:9-11, 1 Peter 1:3-5)
Matthew 3:1-10, “In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, (2) ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (3) For this is he who spoke of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.’ (4) Now John wore a garment of camel’s hair and a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. (5) Then Jerusalem and all Judea and all the region about the Jordan were going out to him, (6) and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. (7) But when he saw the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, ‘You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee the wrath to come? (8) Bear fruit in keeping with repentance. (9) And do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father,’ for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children of Abraham. (10) Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.'”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Acts 17:29-31, Galatians 3:6-14, cf.1 Peter 2:4-5)
1 John 5:1-5, “Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father loves whoever has been born of him. (2) By this we know that we love the children of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome. (4) For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world – our faith. (5) Who is it that overcomes the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: John 16:25-33, Romans 8:12-17, Galatians 3:23-29)
Proverbs 4:1-13, “Hear, O sons, a father’s instruction, and be attentive, that you may gain insight, (2) for I give you good precepts; do not forsake my teaching. (3) When I was a son with my father, tender, the only one in the sight of my mother, (4) he taught me and said to me, ‘Let your heart hold fast my words; keep my commandments and live. (5) Get wisdom; get insight; do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of my mouth. (6) Do not forsake her, and she will keep you; love her, and she will guard you. (7) The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight. (8) Prize her highly, and she will exalt you; she will honor you if you embrace her. (9) She will place on your head a graceful garland; she will bestow on you a beautiful crown.’ (10) Hear, my son, and accept my words, that the years of your life may be many. (11) I have taught you the way of wisdom; I have led you in the paths of uprightness. (12) When you walk, your step will not be hampered, and if you run, you will not stumble. (13) Keep hold of instruction; do not let go; guard her, for she is your life.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Job 12:12-13, Proverbs 24:3-7, Ecclesiastes 7:11-12, Ephesians 5:15-17)
Proverbs 3:13-18, “Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, (14) for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold. (15) She is more precious than jewels, and nothing you desire can compare with her. (16) Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. (17) Her ways are the ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. (18) She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; those who hold her fast are called blessed.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Psalm 1:1-3, Proverbs 8:10-11, 16:16, James 1:5, 3:17-18)
John 18:33-37, “So Pilate entered his headquarters again and said to him, ‘Are you the King of the Jews?’ (34) Jesus answered, ‘ Do you say this of your own accord, or did others say it to you about me?’ (35) Pilate answered, ‘Am I a Jew? Your own nation and the chief priests have delivered you over to me. What have you done?’ (36) Jesus answered, ‘My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from this world.’ (37) Then Pilate said to him, ‘So you are a king?’ Jesus answered, ‘You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world – to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.'”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Isaiah 9:6-7, John 1:14-17, Revelations 19:11-21, 21:1-8)
1 John 1:5-10, “This is is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. (6) If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. (7) But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. (8) If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. (9) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (10) If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar and his word is not in us.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Numbers 23:19, Isaiah 6:1-7, Luke 5:1-10, John 3:19-21, 8:1-12)
John 12:23-26, “…The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. (24) Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone, but if it dies, it bears much fruit. (25) Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. (26) If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: John 19, 20; cf. Luke 9:23-26, 2 Timothy 2:3-4)
Daniel 12:1-3, “At that time shall arise Michael, the great prince who has charge of your people. And there shall be a time of trouble, such as never has been since there was a nation till that time. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone whose name shall be found written in the book. (2) And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. (3) And those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above, and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: John 5:25-29, 1 Corinthians 15:50-57, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, cf. Revelations 20:11-15)
1 Peter 1:3-5, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, (4) to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, (5) who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: John 1:12-13, Romans 8:16-17, Ephesians 1:11-14, Titus 3:4-7)
John 8:2-12, “Early in the morning he came again to the temple. All the people came to him, and he sat down and taught them. (3) The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placing her in the midst (4) they said to him, ‘Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. (5) Now in the Law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?’ (6) This they said to test him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. (7) And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, ‘Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.’ (8) And once more he bent down and wrote on the ground. (9) But when they heard it, they went away one by one, beginning with the older ones, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him. (10) Jesus stood up and said to her, ‘Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?’ (11) She said, ‘No one Lord.’ And Jesus said, ‘Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.’ (12) Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: John 3:16-18, Romans 6:20-23, Ephesians 2:1-10, 1 John 1:7-10)
John 6:30-35, “So they said to him, ‘Then what sign do you do, that we may see and believe you? What work do you perform? (31) Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ (32) Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but my Father gives you true bread from heaven. (33) For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.’ (34) They said to him, ‘Sir, give us this bread always.’ (35) Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.'”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Luke 22:19, 1 Corinthians 11:23-24, cf. Exodus 16).
James 1:19-21, “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; (20) for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. (21) Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Proverbs 18:1, Colossians 3:12-17, Matthew 5:5)
Ecclesiastes 9:11-12, “Again I saw that under the sun the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to the intelligent, nor favor to those with knowledge, but time and chance happen to them all. (12) For man does not know his time. Like fish that are taken in an evil net, and like birds that are caught in a snare, so the children of men are snared at an evil time, when it suddenly falls upon them.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Psalm 39:4-6, 90:12, cf. Matthew 13:47-50)
Hebrews 12:3-11, “Consider him who endured sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. (4) In your struggle against sin you have not resisted to the point of shedding your blood. (5) And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? ‘My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. (6) For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.’ (7) It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? (8) If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. (9) Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? (10) For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. (11) For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Job 5:17, Proverbs 3:11-12, 6:20-23, 12:1, 20:30, Revelations 3:19-20)
John 1:1-5, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (2) He was in the beginning with God. (3) All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. (4) In him was life, and the life was the light of men. (5) The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: John 3:19-21, 8:12, Hebrews 4:12-13, cf. Revelations 19:13)
Proverbs 24:17-22, “Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles, (18) lest the Lord see it and be displeased, and turn away his anger from him. (19) Fret not yourself because of evildoers , and be not envious of the wicked, (20) for the evil man has no future; the lamp of the wicked will be put out. (21) My son, fear the Lord and the king, and do not join with those who do otherwise, (22) for disaster from them will rise suddenly, and who knows the ruin that will come from them both?”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Isaiah 11:1-5, Romans 12:17-21, cf. Revelations 19:11-21)
Proverbs 17:3, “The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold, and the Lord test hearts.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Zechariah 13:7-9, 1 Peter 1:6-7, Revelations 3:18, cf. Hebrews 12:1-2)
Ecclesiastes 7:14, “In the day of prosperity be joyful, and in the day of adversity consider: God has made the one as well as the other, so that man may not find out anything that will be after him.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Matthew 5:45, Romans 5:1-5, cf. Philippians 4:10-13)
Luke 18:9-14, “He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt: (10) ‘Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. (11) The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. (12) I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ (13) But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ (14) I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than others. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.’”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Isaiah 64:6, Psalm 25:6-7, 1 Corinthians 1:26-31, Ephesians 2:8-9, Hebrews 4:16)
Hebrews 2:14-18, “Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things that through death he might destroy the power of death, that is, the devil, (15) and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. (16) For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. (17) Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of people. (18) For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Matthew 4:1-10, John 1:14-18, Philippians 2:5-11, Colossians 2:9, Hebrews 4:14-16)
Luke 11:5-13, “And he said to them, ‘Which of you who has a friend will go to him at midnight and say to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves, (6) for a friend of mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him; (7) and he will answer from within, ‘Do not bother me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed. I cannot get up and give you anything? (8) I tell you, though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his impudence he will rise and give him whatever he needs. (9) I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. (10) For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. (11) What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead give him a serpent; (12) or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? (13) If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Psalm 100:5, Luke 18:1-8, Hebrews 11:1,6, James 1:17, 1 John 5:14-15)
Luke 9:28-36, “…he took with him Peter and John and James and went up on the mountain to pray. (29) And as he was praying, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became dazzling white. (30) And behold, two men were talking with him, Moses and Elijah, (31) who appeared in glory and spoke of his departure, which he was about to accomplish in Jerusalem. (32) Now Peter and those who were with him were heavy with sleep, but when they became fully awake they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. (33) And as the men were parting from him, Peter said to Jesus, ‘Master, is it good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah’ not knowing what he said. (34) as he was saying these things, a cloud came and overshadowed them, and they were afraid as they entered the cloud. (35) And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, ‘This is my Son, my Chosen One, listen to him! (36) And when the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and told no one in those days anything of what they had seen.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Matthew 3:13-17, 2 Peter 1:16-21, cf. Exodus 40:34-38)
Proverbs 15:1-4, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a hard word stirs up anger. (2) The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of fools pour our folly. (3) The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good. (4) A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Proverbs 12:18, 16:24, cf. James 3:1-12)
2 Thessalonians 2:1-12, “Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we ask, brothers, (2) not to be quickly shaken in mind or alarmed, either by a spirit or a spoken word, or a letter seeming to be from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. (3) Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, (4) who opposes and exalts himself against every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God. (5) Do you not remember that when I was still with you I told you these things? (6) And you know what is restraining him now so that he may be revealed in his time. (7) For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work. Only he who now restrains it will do so until he is out of the way. (8) And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will kill with the breath of his mouth and bring to nothing by the appearance of his coming. (9) The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, (10) and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. (11) Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, (12) in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Revelations 13:1-10, 19:11-21, cf. Daniel 7, Joel 2)
Mark 14:22-25, “And as they were eating, he took the bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to them, and said: ‘Take: this is my body.’ (23) And the took the cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. (24) And he said to them, ‘This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. (25) Truly, I say to you, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Luke 22:14-20, 1 Corinthians 10:16, 11:23-26, cf: Revelations 19:6-10)
1 Thessalonians 4:1-8, “Finally, then, brothers, we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more. (2) For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus. (3) For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; (4) that each of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, (5) not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God; (6) that no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we told you beforehand and solemnly warned you. (7) For God has not called for impurity, but in holiness. (8) Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Philippians 3:12-16, 1 Peter 1:13-25)
Psalm 36:1-12, “Transgression speaks to the wicked deep in his heart; there is no fear of God before his eyes. (2) For he flatters himself in his own eyes that his iniquity cannot be found out and hated. (3) The words of his mouth are trouble and deceit; he has ceased to act wisely and do good. (4) He plots trouble while on his bed; he sets himself in a way that is not good; he does not reject evil. (5) Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. (6) Your righteousness is like the mountains of God; your judgements are like the great deep; man and beast you save, O Lord. (7) How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings. (8) They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights. (9) For with you is a fountain of life; in your light we do see light. (10) Oh, continue your steadfast love to those who know you, and your righteousness to the upright of heart! (11) Let not the foot of arrogance come upon me, nor the hand of the wicked drive me away. (12) There the evildoers lie fallen; they are thrust down, unable to rise.”(Other suggested scripture readings for further study and reflection: Psalm 73, Proverbs 10:27-32, cf. Romans 8:28-30)