Monday, February 1, 2010 Jesus calls us to service. This is one of the accruing themes of the season of Epiphany as Jesus has come and has manifested Himself in His word and work as we behold His glory. Our response is to follow Him in willful obedience and service. What is it that God is calling you to do this week, this month, and this year? Take time thinking about this subject. In His first miracle, Jesus' mother tells the servants, "Whatever He tells you, do it." That is good advice for us to heed and follow.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010 - Isaiah 6:1-11 Isaiah chapter six is one of the grand chapters of the Old Testament. Here we have the call of Isaiah to be a prophet of God. Isaiah did not necessarily want to accept his call. He felt he was unqualified. He knew that he was a sinner and that he would be sent to a sinful nation who would not want to listen to him. What was he to do? God forgave his sin and used him in a mighty way. Can God use you to do His bidding? Of course, He can. No matter what "sin" might be prohibiting you, God in Christ has forgiven you to do His work for Him.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010 - 1 Corinthians 14:12-20 We continue in a series of readings dealing with the activity of the Holy Spirit. The role of the Holy Spirit is to edify and build up the body of Christ known as the church. The church will grow not by human means, by cunning ways, by programs, or building structures. The kingdom comes and grows by the Holy Spirit actively working in the lives of people. The Spirit comes through those means of grace that God has given us. May we call upon the Spirit to build us up to be His church.
Thursday, February 4, 2010 - Luke 5:1-11 In this season of Epiphany, we recall a series of first things. We have witnessed Jesus' first miracle; we have heard His first sermon. Now we see His first disciple called into active service. Peter is an interesting sort of fellow. He speaks first and questions later. He is bold in faith at one moment and timid the next. Peter is a lot like us today. He had his own questions and fears. He had sickness in his family. He worked long hours trying to run a business. When Jesus called Peter, he responded. The Savior used common ordinary people like you and me to be His followers. What is it that God is calling you to do? May we take the example of Peter and faithfully follow when we are asked to go.
Thursday, February 4, 2010 - Luke 5:1-11 In this season of Epiphany, we recall a series of first things. We have witnessed Jesus' first miracle; we have heard His first sermon. Now we see His first disciple called into active service. Peter is an interesting sort of fellow. He speaks first and questions later. He is bold in faith at one moment and timid the next. Peter is a lot like us today. He had his own questions and fears. He had sickness in his family. He worked long hours trying to run a business. When Jesus called Peter, he responded. The Savior used common ordinary people like you and me to be His followers. What is it that God is calling you to do? May we take the example of Peter and faithfully follow when we are asked to go.
Friday, February 5, 2010 - Psalm 136 The Psalm for this week falls under the Thanksgiving theme as the refrain reminds us, "For His mercy endures forever." Such is the testimony of faith. What is it that we have witnessed in our life? Has it not been the tender mercies of God? As you read this Psalm, think of the many blessings that God has given to you and then respond with David for His mercy endures forever.
Saturday, February 6, 2010 - Psalm 112 Portions of the Introit for next Sunday are taken from Psalm 112. David reminds us that "wealth and riches are in His house; and His righteousness endures forever." Why do we come on a regular basis to God's house? Is it not to receive the gifts of God? God is rich in mercy. He can and will supply you with whatever you need. All of His mercy is for the asking. Whatever your need might be, come and ask of Him who will give out of the abundance of His mercy. Today He stands ready to supply you with whatever you might need.
Prayer for Epiphany 5 - O God, our Loving Father, through the grace of Your Holy Spirit You plant the gift of Your love into the hearts of Your faithful people. Grant to Your servants soundness of mind and body, so that they may love You with their whole strength and with the whole heart do these things that are pleasing in Your sight. Amen.
Sources:
Lutheran Worship Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis, MO.©1982 p.25Lectionary Preaching Workbook Series C John R. Brokhoff C. S. S. Publishing Co. Lima, OH © 1979
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