Scripture: 1st Samuel 17:57-58 So when David came back from killing the Philistine, Abner sent for him and presented him to Saul. The Philistine’s head was still in David’s hand. Saul said to him, “Whose son are you, my boy?” “I’m the son of your servant Jesse from Bethlehem,” David answered. Thought for the Day: Today’s sermon will be based on the larger story of Saul and David’s
Scripture: Luke 4:31-32 Jesus went down to the city of Capernaum in Galilee and taught the people each Sabbath. They were amazed by his teaching because he delivered his message with authority. Thought for the Day: Jesus begins his public ministry in Luke’s Gospel with a trip to Capernaum. It speaks of the peoples’ amazement as he delivered his message with authority. The word here from the original
Scripture: Luke 4:14 Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and news about him spread throughout the whole countryside. Thought for the Day: What does it mean to speak of being in the power of the Spirit? Jesus had recently been baptized by John, and then spent time in the wilderness where he was tempted. It is a very powerful moment as he begins his
Scripture: Zechariah 4:6 He answered me: “This is the LORD’s word to Zerubbabel: Neither by power, nor by strength, but by my spirit, says the LORD of heavenly forces.” Thought for the Day: These words come from a divine messenger who is speaking to the Prophet Zechariah. The messenger removes any chance that Zechariah or other people could take credit for the vision, its interpretation or its fulfillment.
Scripture: Psalm 3:1-3 LORD, I have so many enemies! So many are standing against me. So many are talking about me: “Even God won’t help him.” But you, LORD, are my shield! You are my glory! You are the one who restores me. Thought for the Day: As people of faith, we claim hope as a central component of our convictions. But claiming it and actually living it
Scripture: Proverbs 25:2 It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out. Thought for the Day: I was really taken by the words of Richard Rohr who wrote: Metaphor is the only possible language available to religion because it alone is honest about Mystery. In the age of reason (last 300 – 400 years) or the Enlightenment, we
From Rev. Paula Gembala Prayer for the Week: God of grace and mercy, there are so many decisions and choices we must make each day, it is often difficult to know which way to turn. Remind us to seek you when we are unsure or need guidance. We know your steadfast love is always available, we only need to run to you. There are times when we have
Devotional By Rev. Mariah Newell Scripture: Micah 6:8 He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Thoughts for the Day: This year at CYF Conference, high school church camp, in Gonzales, Texas our youth explored this passage for a week. Andy Mangum, our Regional Minister,
Scripture: Psalm 42:1-2 Just like a deer that craves streams of water, my whole being craves you, God. My whole being thirsts for God, for the living God. When will I come and see God’s face? Thought for the Day: It is Saturday, and many of us are getting a few tasks done around the house or in the yard. Maybe there are some plans for dinner with
Devotional By Rev. Sheila Gillette Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard against your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Thought for the Day: In Pastoral Care, Joys and Concerns for the week are very important to this ministry.