Thought for Friday December 30

Blessed are they who dwell in your house, O Lord.

How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD of hosts!

My soul yearns and pines for the courts of the LORD.

My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.

Blessed are they who dwell in your house, O Lord.

Luke 2: 22 – 40 The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.

Does it comfort me to know that Jesus wasn’t born knowing everything? How important is learning as part of the human experience?

Action: Learn something new today.

Thought for Thursday December 29

Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!

Sing to the LORD a new song;

sing to the LORD, all you lands.

Sing to the LORD; bless his name.

Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!

Luke 2: 22 – 35 The parents of Jesus took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord,

How do I think Mary and Joseph felt while presenting Jesus to the Lord? How do I think the God felt?

Action: Present yourself to God with some real gesture and words – for example kneel and offer God your mind and body.

Thought for Wednesday December 28

Our soul has been rescued like a bird from the fowler’s snare.

Broken was the snare,

and we were freed.

Our help is in the name of the LORD,

who made heaven and earth.

Our soul has been rescued like a bird from the fowler’s snare.

Matthew 2: 13 – 18 The angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him.”

Is “run away and hide” the advice I would expect from the God who sent plagues to Egypt, wiped out the Amalekites, and destroyed Jericho? Does the birth of Jesus seem to usher in a new era in God’s dealings with his people?

Action: Make a point of doing something nice for the “innocent” people around you.

Thought for Tuesday December 27

Rejoice in the Lord, you just!

The LORD is king; let the earth rejoice;

let the many isles be glad.

Clouds and darkness are around him,

justice and judgment are the foundation of his throne.

Rejoice in the Lord, you just!

John 20: 1 – 8 They have taken the Lord from the tomb, and we do not know where they put him.

Do I ever feel like Jesus is missing? Do I ever wonder where he is?

Action: This is the Christmas Season keep celebrating even though most of society is putting away Christmas.

Thought for Monday December 26

Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.

Rescue me from the clutches of my enemies and my persecutors.

Let your face shine upon your servant;

save me in your kindness.

Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.

Matthew 10: 17 – 22 You will be given at that moment what you are to say. For it will not be you who speak but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.


Am I comfortable with the idea of God speaking through me? Do I accept that there may be times when the only way God’s voice will be heard is if I speak it?


Action: Enjoy the Christmas season, but be prepared to stand up and speak the truth.

Thought for Friday December 23

Lift up your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand.

All the paths of the LORD are kindness and constancy

toward those who keep his covenant and his decrees.

The friendship of the LORD is with those who fear him,

and his covenant, for their instruction.

Lift up your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand.

Luke 1: 57 – 66 Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her.


What do I see god doing for other people? Do I rejoice with them?

Action: Rejoice with your family and friends for the next week or so – eat great food, sing carols, cheer on your favorite teams and don’t forget to thank God for everything he has done for you and them.

Thought for Thursday December 22

My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.

“My heart exults in the LORD,

my horn is exalted in my God.

I have swallowed up my enemies;

I rejoice in my victory.”

My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.

Luke 1: 46 – 56 “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior.

Am I rejoicing in God? What am I feeling as Christmas draws near?

Action: Start relaxing now so you can enjoy Christmas.

Thought for Wednesday December 21

Exult, you just, in the Lord! Sing to him a new song.

Give thanks to the LORD on the harp;

with the ten-stringed lyre chant his praises.

Sing to him a new song;

pluck the strings skillfully, with shouts of gladness.

Exult, you just, in the Lord! Sing to him a new song.

Zephaniah 3: 14 – 18 The LORD, your God, is in your midst, a mighty savior; He will rejoice over you with gladness, and renew you in his love, He will sing joyfully because of you, as one sings at festivals.
Am I ready to let go of all my plans and preparations and really rejoice in the Lord? Can I imagine God singing joyfully?
Action: Pick your favorite, joyful Christmas song and sing it at the top of your lungs (and to the one person who needs a warning – don’t call me at 0430 singing).

Thought for Tuesday December 20

Let the Lord enter; he is the king of glory.

The LORD's are the earth and its fullness;

the world and those who dwell in it.

For he founded it upon the seas

and established it upon the rivers.

Let the Lord enter; he is the king of glory.

Luke 1: 26 – 38 And of his Kingdom there will be no end.

What does Jesus’ kingdom have to do with me? Do I focus on what his Kingdom can do for me, or what I can do for his kingdom?

Action: Do something for the kingdom on the shortest day of the year.

Thought for Monday December 19

My mouth shall be filled with your praise, and I will sing your glory!

Be my rock of refuge,

a stronghold to give me safety,

for you are my rock and my fortress.

O my God, rescue me from the hand of the wicked.

My mouth shall be filled with your praise, and I will sing your glory!

Luke 1: 5 – 25 And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord.

Does the way I live my life bring joy and gladness to my parents? What could I do to make people rejoice over my existence?

Action: Do something today your Mom & Dad and God the Father would be proud of you for.

Thought for Friday December 16

O God, let all the nations praise you!

The earth has yielded its fruits;

God, our God, has blessed us.

May God bless us,

and may all the ends of the earth fear him!

O God, let all the nations praise you!

John 5: 33 – 36 The works that the Father gave me to accomplish, these works that I perform testify on my behalf that the Father has sent me.
What has God given me to do? How am I doing?

Action: Do some work for God this weekend.

Thought for Thursday December 15

I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.

I will extol you, O LORD, for you drew me clear

and did not let my enemies rejoice over me.

O LORD, you brought me up from the nether world;

you preserved me from among those going down into the pit.

I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.

Luke 7: 24 - Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John. Then what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom Scripture says: Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you he will prepare your way before you.


What prophets do I see working today? How would I like the job of preparing the way for Jesus?

Action: Help someone prepare (physically, emotionally, spiritually, etc) to do the work Jesus is calling him/her to.

Thought for Wednesday December 14

Let the clouds rain down the Just One, and the earth bring forth a Savior.

Kindness and truth shall meet;

justice and peace shall kiss.

Truth shall spring out of the earth,

and justice shall look down from heaven.

Let the clouds rain down the Just One, and the earth bring forth a Savior.

Isaiah 45: 6 – 25 I am the LORD, there is no other; I form the light, and create the darkness, I make well-being and create woe; I, the LORD, do all these things.

Do I ever take credit for something God did? How important is it to acknowledge that God is God?

Action: When you light your Advent candles, take a moment to thank God for creating the light.

Thought for Tuesday December 13

The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

I will bless the LORD at all times;

his praise shall be ever in my mouth.

Let my soul glory in the LORD;

the lowly will hear me and be glad.

The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

Matthew 21: 28 Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’ The son said in reply, ‘I will not,’ but afterwards he changed his mind and went. The man came to the other son and gave the same order. He said in reply, ‘Yes, sir,’ but did not go.

Which of these am I more likely to do? What interferes with my ability to do what I should do willingly

Action: Pick something you have been avoiding doing and do it happily.

Thought for Monday December 12

You are the highest honor of our race.

Your deed of hope will never be forgotten

by those who tell of the might of God.

You are the highest honor of our race.

Luke 1: 39 - 47 And Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior.”


What does my soul proclaim? What does my mouth proclaim?


Action: Do something today to rejoice in God’s greatness.

Thought for Thursday December 8

Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous deeds.

All the ends of the earth have seen

the salvation by our God.

Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands;

break into song; sing praise.

Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous deeds.

Luke 1: 26 – 38 Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.”

How hard is it to say yes to God? Would I ever give God such an open-ended yes as Mary did, or do I want more control?

Action: Say yes to something God has been trying to get you to do.

And wish a happy feast day or birthday to all of the Marys you know no matter how annoying they are.

Thought for Wednesday December 7

O bless the Lord, my soul!

Bless the LORD, O my soul;

and all my being, bless his holy name.

Bless the LORD, O my soul,

and forget not all his benefits.

O bless the Lord, my soul!

Matthew 11: 28 – 30 Jesus said to the crowds: “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.

How tired am I? How important are the things I have accepted as burdens?

Action: Let go of some burden that wasn’t really important anyway.

Thought for Tuesday December 6

The Lord our God comes with power.

Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice;

let the sea and what fills it resound;

let the plains be joyful and all that is in them!

Then let all the trees of the forest rejoice.

The Lord our God comes with power.

Matthew 18: 12 – 14 If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine in the hills and go in search of the stray?


Am I more likely to stay with the safe crowd or go looking for the one stray? What will I risk to help one person?


Action: Go out on a limb to help someone who really needs it.

Thought for Monday December 5

Our God will come to save us!

Kindness and truth shall meet;

justice and peace shall kiss.

Truth shall spring out of the earth,

and justice shall look down from heaven.

Our God will come to save us!

Luke 5: 17 – 26 But not finding a way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on the stretcher through the tiles into the middle in front of Jesus.
What do I do when there are obstacles in my path to God? How hard will I try to find another way?
Action: If there is some good thing you have wanted to do but haven’t been able to do, try to find a different way.

Thought for Friday December 2

The Lord is my light and my salvation.

I believe that I shall see the bounty of the LORD

in the land of the living.

Wait for the LORD with courage;

be stouthearted, and wait for the LORD.

The Lord is my light and my salvation.

Matthew 9: 27 – 31 Then he touched their eyes and said, "Let it be done for you according to your faith."

Do I really want something done to me according to my faith? Does God care for me based on my faith or his love?

Action: Treat people better than they treat you.

Thought for Thursday December 1

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good,

for his mercy endures forever.

It is better to take refuge in the LORD

than to trust in man.

It is better to take refuge in the LORD

than to trust in princes.

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.

Matthew 7: 21 – 27 Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. But it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock.

What is my house built on? What kind of foundation would be necessary for me to live up to my full potential?

Action: If there are in soft/sandy spots in your foundation, make a plan for shoring them up.

Thought for Wednesday November 30

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.

They are more precious than gold,

than a heap of purest gold;

Sweeter also than syrup

or honey from the comb.

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.

Matthew 4: 18 – 22 As Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew, casting a net into the sea; they were fishermen.

What job do I want Jesus to see me doing? Am I doing it?

Action: Find 3 ways you can help to bring about the Kingdom of God through the day-to-day work that you do.

Thought for Tuesday November 29

Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace for ever.

Justice shall flower in his days,

and profound peace, till the moon be no more.

May he rule from sea to sea,

and from the River to the ends of the earth.

Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace for ever.

Luke 10: 21 – 24 No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him.

What has Jesus revealed to me about the Father? Do I look to Jesus to learn the mind and heart of God?

Action: Look around today and see if you can find one small thing you know God would want changed and change it.

Thought for Monday November 28

Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.

Because of my relatives and friends

I will say, "Peace be within you!"

Because of the house of the LORD, our God,

I will pray for your good.

Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.

Matthew 8: 5 – 11 “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, suffering dreadfully.” He said to him, "I will come and cure him.” The centurion said in reply, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.”

Can I do anything to become worthy of Jesus entering under my roof? If I were the servant would I have wanted to meet Jesus or would I have just been happy about being cured?

Action: Do one thing this week to make your house or office more prepared for Jesus.

Thought for Thanksgiving Day November 24

1 Corinthians 1: 3 – 9 I give thanks to my God always on your account for the grace of God bestowed on you in Christ Jesus, that in him you were enriched in every way, with all discourse and all knowledge, as the testimony to Christ was confirmed among you, so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you wait for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ.


Be thankful.

Thought for Wednesday November 23

Great and wonderful are all your works, Lord, mighty God!

Let the sea and what fills it resound,

the world and those who dwell in it;

Let the rivers clap their hands,

the mountains shout with them for joy.

Great and wonderful are all your works, Lord, mighty God!

Luke 21: 12 - 19 For I [Jesus] myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking.

Has Jesus ever helped me find just the right words when I didn’t know what to say? Have I ever heard Jesus speak to me through someone else?

Action: Trust Jesus to help you speak to all of the annoying relatives and acquaintances you will run into for the next month or so.

Thought for Tuesday November 22

Give glory and eternal praise to him.

“Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord,

praise and exalt him above all forever.”

Give glory and eternal praise to him.

Luke 21: 5 – 11 Then they asked him, “Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?”

Wouldn’t it be nice to know when something bad is about to happen? Do I spend much time preparing myself for disasters – natural, personal or spiritual?

Action: Make a list of five things you need to do to prepare yourself for the worst — and then start working on them.

Thought for Monday November 21

Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face.

The LORD’s are the earth and its fullness;

the world and those who dwell in it.

For he founded it upon the seas

and established it upon the rivers.

Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face.

Luke 21: 1 – 4 He said, “I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.”

What have I given in the last year? What do I plan to give in the year ahead?

Action: Give thanks for what you have and give what you can.

Thought for Friday November 18

We praise your glorious name, O mighty God.

"Yours, O LORD, are grandeur and power,

majesty, splendor, and glory.

For all in heaven and on earth is yours."

We praise your glorious name, O mighty God.

Luke 19: 43 – 45 Jesus entered the temple area and proceeded to drive out those who were selling things, saying to them, "It is written, My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves."

What do I want Jesus to drive out of my church? Is selling things at church necessarily bad?

Action: Go to church this weekend and focus on prayer.

Thought for Thursday November 17

To the upright I will show the saving power of God.

“Offer to God praise as your sacrifice

and fulfill your vows to the Most High;

Then call upon me in time of distress;

I will rescue you, and you shall glorify me.”

To the upright I will show the saving power of God.

Luke 19: 41 – 44 If this day you only knew what makes for peace – but now it is hidden from your eyes.

If I did know what “makes for peace” would I have the courage to stand up and push for it? What do I see people courageously pushing for today?

Action: Be peacefully courageous.

Thought for Wednesday November 16

Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full.

My steps have been steadfast in your paths,

my feet have not faltered.

I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God;

incline your ear to me; hear my word.

Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full.

Luke 19: 11 – 28 Then the other servant came and said, ‘Sir, here is your gold coin; I kept it stored away in a handkerchief,’

Is there anything God has given me that he wants me to keep hidden away? Has God given me anything that I am hiding?

Action: Invest your talents in changing the world, or at least the part of it that is around you.

Thought for Tuesday November 15

I will seat the victor beside me on my throne.

He who walks blamelessly and does justice;

who thinks the truth in his heart

and slanders not with his tongue.

I will seat the victor beside me on my throne.

Luke 19: 1 – 10 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree in order to see Jesus, who was about to pass that way.

Have I ever gone out on a limb to see or know Jesus better? How important is convenience in my practice of faith?
Action: Start now making a plan for getting to know Jesus better during Advent.

Thought fro Monday November 14

Give me life, O Lord, and I will do your commands.

Indignation seizes me because of the wicked

who forsake your law.

Give me life, O Lord, and I will do your commands.

Luke 18: 35 – 43 Then Jesus stopped and ordered that he be brought to him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, "What do you want me to do for you?" He replied, "Lord, please let me see."

Why did Jesus ask the blind man what he wanted; wouldn’t it be obvious he wanted to see? Can I clearly articulate what I want Jesus to do for me?

Action: Ask Jesus to do one specific thing for you today.

Thought for Friday November 11

Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!

Within my heart I treasure your promise,

that I may not sin against you.

Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!

Luke 17: 26 – 37 Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses it will save it.

Who do I know who was willing to lose his life to save others? What am I willing to lose my life for?

Action: Thank someone who has given up something in his or her life for you.

Thought for Thursday November 10

Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob.

The LORD gives sight to the blind.

The LORD raises up those who were bowed down;

the LORD loves the just.

The LORD protects strangers.

Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob.

Luke 17: 20 – 25 For just as lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in his day.

Do I see the Son of Man lighting up the world? Have I ever had the experience of bringing new light to some situation?

Action: Storm into the gloomiest situation you encounter on a frequent basis and do something to light it up, even if it only lasts for a second.

Thought for Wednesday November 9

The waters of the river gladden the city of God, the holy dwelling of the Most High!

There is a stream whose runlets gladden the city of God,

the holy dwelling of the Most High.

God is in its midst; it shall not be disturbed;

God will help it at the break of dawn.

The waters of the river gladden the city of God, the holy dwelling of the Most High!

1st Corinthians 3: 9 – 11, 16 – 17 Brothers and sisters: You are God's building.


Do I spend more time and energy on my exterior or my interior? What do I want to experience when I walk into a church?


Action: Next time you go to church be aware that your presence, attitude, and actions can have as much impact on other people’s experience as all of the art, architecture and decorations.

Thought for Tuesday November 8

I will bless the Lord at all times.

I will bless the LORD at all times;

his praise shall be ever in my mouth.

Let my soul glory in the LORD;

the lowly will hear me and be glad.

I will bless the Lord at all times.

Luke 17: 7 – 10 When you have done all you have been commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we were obliged to do.’

Do I think I am special because I do some good things? Do I expect to do all I have been commanded to do?
Action: Do what God has commanded you to do.

Thought for Monday November 7

Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face.

The LORD’s are the earth and its fullness;

the world and those who dwell in it.

For he founded it upon the seas

and established it upon the rivers.

Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face.

Luke 17: 1 – 6 And the Apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith.”

Would greater faith make my life easier or harder? Do I want to grow in faith?
Action: Launch in to some project that will require greater faith than you actually have.

Thought for Friday November 4

The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power.

All the ends of the earth have seen

the salvation by our God.

Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands;

break into song; sing praise.

The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power.

Luke 16: 1 – 8 Jesus said to his disciples, "A rich man had a steward who was reported to him for squandering his property.

Have I squandered anything? Am I squandering any of the gifts God has given me?

Action: Make a conscious effort to use your gifts today.

Thought for Thursday November 3

I believe that I shall see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living.

One thing I ask of the LORD;

this I seek:

To dwell in the house of the LORD

all the days of my life,

That I may gaze on the loveliness of the LORD

and contemplate his temple.

I believe that I shall see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living.

Luke 15: 1 – 10 So Jesus addressed this parable to them. “What man among you having a hundred sheep and losing one of them would not leave the ninety-nine in the desert and go after the lost one until he finds it?

Would I leave the 99 and go after the one? Does this sound like a good business decision?

Action: Work on a lost cause.

Thought for Wednesday November 2

The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

In verdant pastures he gives me repose;

beside restful waters he leads me;

he refreshes my soul.

The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

John 6: 37 – 40 For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life, and I shall raise him on the last day.


Do I really believe the Son will raise me up on the last day? How would I like to spend me last day?


Action: Do something today that you would like to do on your last day.

Thought for Tuesday November 1

Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face.

The LORD's are the earth and its fullness;

the world and those who dwell in it.

For he founded it upon the seas

and established it upon the rivers.

Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face.

Revelations 7: 2 – 4, 9 – 14 "Who are these wearing white robes, and where did they come from?" I said to him, "My lord, you are the one who knows." He said to me, "These are the ones who have survived the time of great distress; they have washed their robes and made them white in the Blood of the Lamb."

Do I know many people who are already wearing white robes? Does death worry me less because of their example?

Action: If you know someone who is dying, make a plan to visit him or her soon.

Thought for Monday October 31

In you, O Lord, I have found my peace.

O LORD, my heart is not proud,

nor are my eyes haughty;

I busy not myself with great things,

nor with things too sublime for me.

In you, O Lord, I have found my peace.

Luke 14: 12 - 14 Rather, when you hold a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind; blessed indeed will you be because of their inability to repay you.

Would the world be different if people were less focused on what they can get out of a situation? How would I be different if I were?

Action: Do something really special for someone anonymously.

Thought for Friday October 28

Their message goes out through all the earth.

The heavens declare the glory of God,

and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.

Day pours out the word to day,

and night to night imparts knowledge.

Their message goes out through all the earth.

Luke 6: 12 – 16 When day came, he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he also named Apostles:
Who have I chosen to be with me through my best times and my worst times? Am I that chosen friend for anyone else?

Action: Have a nice weekend.

Thought for Thursday October 27

Blessed be the Lord, my Rock!

O God, I will sing a new song to you;

with a ten stringed lyre I will chant your praise,

You who give victory to kings,

and deliver David, your servant from the evil sword.

Blessed be the Lord, my Rock!

Luke 13: 31 – 35 Yet I must continue on my way today, tomorrow, and the following day, for it is impossible that a prophet should die outside of Jerusalem.

Do I have the perseverance to continue doing what I know I should day after day? Where do I look for the strength to keep going?

Action: If there is something you have given up on doing even though you know you should, take one step toward doing it again. If you are perfect and never give up, go to dinner and celebrate.

Thought for Wednesday October 26

The Lord is faithful in all his words.

Let all your works give you thanks, O LORD,

and let your faithful ones bless you.

Let them discourse of the glory of your Kingdom

and speak of your might.

The Lord is faithful in all his words.

Luke 13: 22 – 30 “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough.”


What kind of strength does it take to go through the narrow gate into the Kingdom of heaven? What am I doing to build up my strength?


Action: Try to identify some baggage you know won’t fit through the narrow gate and start the hard process of giving it up.

Thought for Tuesday October 25

The Lord has done marvels for us.

Then they said among the nations,

“The LORD has done great things for them.”

The LORD has done great things for us;

we are glad indeed.

The Lord has done marvels for us.

Luke 13: 18 – 21 Jesus said, “What is the Kingdom of God like? It is like a mustard seed that a man took and planted in the garden. When it was fully grown, it became a large bush and the birds of the sky dwelt in
its branches.”

What strikes me most about this description of the Kingdom of God? Do I have a role/place in this kingdom?
Action: Do something to make someone’s day.

Thought for Monday October 24

Our God is the God of salvation.

God arises; his enemies are scattered,

and those who hate him flee before him.

But the just rejoice and exult before God;

they are glad and rejoice.

Our God is the God of salvation.

Luke 13: 10 – 17 And a woman was there who for eighteen years had been crippled by a spirit; she was bent over, completely incapable of standing erect. When Jesus saw her, he called to her and said, “Woman, you are set free of your infirmity.” He laid his hands on her, and she at once stood up straight and glorified God.

Are there any infirmities I would like to be free from? What infirmities is my local society suffering from?

Action: Work to free yourself from the infirmities society is imposing on you.

Thought for Friday October 21

Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face.

The LORD’s are the earth and its fullness;

the world and those who dwell in it.

For he founded it upon the seas

and established it upon the rivers.

Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face.

Luke 12: 54 – 59 “Why do you not judge for yourselves what is right?

Would I rather be told what is right and wrong or figure it out for myself? Is the world simple enough to just live by a set of rules?

Action: If there is some issue on which you are just following authority without convictions of your own, rethink it. You may come to the same conclusion, but at least it will be your conclusion.

Thought for Monday October 17

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; he has come to his people.

Through his holy prophets he promised of old

that he would save us from our enemies,

from the hands of all who hate us.

He promised to show mercy to our fathers

and to remember his holy covenant.

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; he has come to his people.

Luke 12: 13 – 21 There I shall store all my grain and other goods and I shall say to myself, "Now as for you, you have so many good things stored up for many years, rest, eat, drink, be merry!"
What am I trying to store for the future? What do I think I need to rest, eat, drink and be merry?

Action: Make a plan for this week so that you reach a point where you can rest and be merry.

Thought for Friday October 14

I turn to you, Lord, in time of trouble, and you fill me with the joy of salvation.

Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you just;

exult, all you upright of heart.

I turn to you, Lord, in time of trouble, and you fill me with the joy of salvation.

Luke 12: 1 – 7 Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed on the housetops.

What have I said that I would not want proclaimed from the housetops? What have I said that I do want proclaimed?

Action: Say something today that is worthy of being proclaimed from the housetops. [“I love you” would count.]

Thought for Thursday October 13

With the Lord there is mercy, and fullness of redemption.

I trust in the LORD;

my soul trusts in his word.

My soul waits for the LORD

more than sentinels wait for the dawn.

With the Lord there is mercy, and fullness of redemption.

Luke 11: 47 – 54 The Lord said: "Woe to you who build the memorials of the prophets whom your fathers killed.

What is the value of building/creating a lasting memorial? How useful is a memorial to someone who did some great work, if the work is not continuing?

Action: The next time you see an historic site, a memorial, a statue, etc ask yourself if you are bearing witness to the same values the site is meant to honor.

Thought for Wednesday October 12

Lord, you give back to everyone according to his works.

Only in God is my soul at rest;

from him comes my salvation.

He only is my rock and my salvation,

my stronghold; I shall not be disturbed at all.

Lord, you give back to everyone according to his works.

Luke 11: 42 – 46 “Woe also to you scholars of the law! You impose on people burdens hard to carry, but you yourselves do not lift one finger to touch them.”
Does being right absolve me from my duty to be compassionate? Do I think God has ever given my a burden and not been there to help?

Action: The next time you tell someone else what he “should do,” find a way to help him do it.

Thought for Tuesday October 11

The heavens proclaim the glory of God.

The heavens declare the glory of God,

and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.

Day pours out the word to day,

and night to night imparts knowledge.

The heavens proclaim the glory of God.

Romans 1: 16 – 25 Ever since the creation of the world, his invisible attributes of eternal power and divinity have been able to be understood and perceived in what he has made. As a result, they have no excuse; for although they knew God they did not accord him glory as God or give him thanks.

Do I see the eternal power of God revealed in what he has made? Do I give him glory for his creation?

Action: Open your eyes and see the power of God in the world around you – look at the intricacies of an insect’s wing, or the power of water flowing in a river, or the sheer magnitude of a mountain, or go out at 2:00 am on Wednesday morning and marvel at the beauty of a full moon or …

Thought for Monday October 10

The Lord has made known his salvation.

All the ends of the earth have seen

the salvation by our God.

Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands;

break into song; sing praise.

The Lord has made known his salvation.

Luke 11: 29 – 32 At the judgment the queen of the south will rise with the men of this generation and she will condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and there is something greater than Solomon here.

How far will I go to seek wisdom? Who do I think of as the wisest person alive today?

Action: The next time someone asks you for advice, consider whether you have the gift of wisdom for that topic and give your advice accordingly.

Thought for Friday October 7

The Lord will remember his covenant for ever.

Majesty and glory are his work,

and his justice endures forever.

He has won renown for his wondrous deeds;

gracious and merciful is the LORD.

The Lord will remember his covenant for ever.

Luke 11: 15 – 26 “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste and house will fall against house.”

What divisions am I part of? Would I give up fighting to be “right” if it could heal a division?

Action: Get involved in healing a division in your family, neighborhood, community or country.

Thought for Thursday October 6

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; he has come to his people.

He has raised up for us a mighty savior,

born of the house of his servant David.

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; he has come to his people.

Luke 11: 5 – 13 Jesus said to his disciples: “Suppose one of you has a friend to whom he goes at midnight and says, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves of bread…”
Am I the kind of friend someone else would come to like this? Is Jesus this kind of a friend for me?

Action: Donate three loaves of bread to a local soup kitchen, food bank, shelter or family in need.

Thought for Wednesday October 5

Lord, you are merciful and gracious.

For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving,

abounding in kindness to all who call upon you.

Hearken, O LORD, to my prayer

and attend to the sound of my pleading.

Lord, you are merciful and gracious.

Jonah 4: 1 – 11 Jonah was greatly displeased and became angry that God did not carry out the evil he threatened against Nineveh.

Have I ever been mad because someone else didn’t “get what he deserved”? Do any of God’s children deserve evil?

Action: Pray that something really great happens to the worst person you know.

Thought for Tuesday October 4

If you, O Lord, mark iniquities, who can stand?

Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD

LORD, hear my voice!

Let your ears be attentive

to my voice in supplication.

If you, O Lord, mark iniquities, who can stand?

Luke 10: 38 – 42 Jesus entered a village where a woman whose name was Martha welcomed him.

Who welcomes me? Am I a welcoming person?

Action: Today is the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi. If the one who welcomes you has paws and a tail, do something special to thank your pet for being there.

Thought for Monday October 3

You will rescue my life from the pit, O Lord.

When my soul fainted within me,

I remembered the LORD;

My prayer reached you

in your holy temple.

You will rescue my life from the pit, O Lord.

Luke 10: 25 – 37 Jesus replied, “A man fell victim to robbers as he went down from Jerusalem to Jericho. They stripped and beat him and went off leaving him half-dead. A priest happened to be going down that road, but when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side.

How do I respond to people in need? Have I ever experienced being passed by on the opposite side?

Action: Be a good Samaritan this week.

Thought for Friday September 30

Guide me, Lord, along the everlasting way.

If I take the wings of the dawn,

if I settle at the farthest limits of the sea,

Even there your hand shall guide me,

and your right hand hold me fast.

Guide me, Lord, along the everlasting way.

Luke 10: 13 – 16 Jesus said, “Whoever listens to you listens to me.”

Do I want that responsibility? Am I conscious of this responsibility when I speak?

Action: Speak out against and work to change something in your community that is not consistent with Jesus’ teaching.

Thought for Thursday September 29

In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.

Because of your kindness and your truth;

for you have made great above all things

your name and your promise.

When I called, you answered me;

you built up strength within me.

In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.

Revelations 12: 7 – 12 War broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels battled against the dragon.

Am I willing to battle the dragons in the world today? Who can I get to help me battle dragons?

Action: Do what you can to battle evil and don’t let any Hungarian Horntails stop you.

Thought for Wednesday September 28

Let my tongue be silenced if I ever forget you!

Though there our captors asked of us

the lyrics of our songs,

And our despoilers urged us to be joyous:

“Sing for us the songs of Zion!”

Let my tongue be silenced if I ever forget you!

Luke 9: 57 – 62 And to another Jesus said, “Follow me.” But he replied, “Lord, let me go first and …”
How would I finish that sentence? What do I put ahead of Jesus?

Action: Take one step to let go of whatever holds you back from following Jesus.

Thought for Tuesday September 27

God is with us.

I tell of Egypt and Babylon

among those that know the LORD;

Of Philistia, Tyre, Ethiopia:

"This man was born there."

And of Zion they shall say:

"One and all were born in her;

And he who has established her

is the Most High LORD."

God is with us.

Zechariah 8: 20 - 23 In those days ten men of every nationality, speaking different tongues, shall take hold, yes, take hold of every Jew by the edge of his garment and say, "Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you."

Do I feel responsible for sharing my faith with people of other cultures? Have I learned anything from people who are different form me?

Action: Spend some time learning about another culture and how the people express their faith.

Thought for Monday September 26

The Lord will build up Zion again, and appear in all his glory.

Let this be written for the generation to come,

and let his future creatures praise the Lord:

“The LORD looked down from his holy height,

from heaven he beheld the earth,

To hear the groaning of the prisoners,

to release those doomed to die.”

The Lord will build up Zion again, and appear in all his glory.

Luke 9: 46 – 50 Then John said in reply, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow in our company.” Jesus said to him, “Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you.”

Who is for Jesus and who is against? How do I tell the difference?

Action: Show your support to someone who is trying to do good.

Thought for Friday September 23

Hope in God; I will praise him, my savior and my God.

Send forth your light and your fidelity;

they shall lead me on

And bring me to your holy mountain,

to your dwelling place.

Hope in God; I will praise him, my savior and my God.

Luke 9: 18 – 22 He said, “The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.”

Why was this God’s plan for saving humanity? What are the advantages of this plan?

Action: If you know someone who is frequently rejected, see if you can find a way to support him/her.

Thought for Thursday September 22

In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

Fill us at daybreak with your kindness,

that we may shout for joy and gladness all our days.

Prosper the work of our hands for us!

Prosper the work of our hands!

In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

Luke 9: 7 – 9 But Herod said, “Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” And he kept trying to see him.

Who is Jesus to me? Am I actively trying to see him better?

Action: Fix some situation so that people are able to see the kingdom Jesus came to establish. If that seems like to much, try just making one improvement toward that goal.

Thought for Wednesday September 21

Their message goes out through all the earth.

Not a word nor a discourse

whose voice is not heard;

Through all the earth their voice resounds,

and to the ends of the world, their message.

Their message goes out through all the earth.

Matthew 9: 9 – 13 As Jesus passed by, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post. He said to him, "Follow me." And he got up and followed him.

Do I think the author of the Gospel of Matthew would be surprised that his words were still so powerful 2000 years after he wrote them? What am I doing now that I would want to endure for that long?

Action: Do something this week that you believe will continue to have positive results for a long time.

Thought for Tuesday September 20

Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.

Make me understand the way of your precepts,

and I will meditate on your wondrous deeds.

Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.

Luke 8: 19 – 21 He said to them in reply, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”

How often do I consciously act on the Word of God? Do I want to have a familial relationship with Jesus?

Action: Do something specifically in response to something you have heard or read from the Bible.

Thought for Monday September 19

The just one shall live on your holy mountain, O Lord.

Who lends not his money at usury

and accepts no bribe against the innocent.

He who does these things

shall never be disturbed.

The just one shall live on your holy mountain, O Lord.

Luke 8: 16 – 18 No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light.

Do I sometimes hide my “light” because I am afraid of revealing too much of myself? Who sees my light even when I am trying to hide it?

Action: Share an insight you have had with someone you think can benefit from it.

Thought for Thursday September 15

I will walk with blameless heart.

My eyes are upon the faithful of the land,

that they may dwell with me.

He who walks in the way of integrity

shall be in my service.

I will walk with blameless heart.

Luke 2: 33 – 35 Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted and you yourself a sword will pierce so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

What destiny do I think my parents might have chosen for me? What would I wish for my children?

Action: Chose a destiny for yourself and begin working toward it. [I assume you will chose a good, Christ-centered one]

Thought for Wednesday September 14

Do not forget the works of the Lord!

Hearken, my people, to my teaching;

incline your ears to the words of my mouth.

I will open my mouth in a parable,

I will utter mysteries from of old.

Do not forget the works of the Lord!

John 3: 13 – 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.

Do I spend my time working to fix [save] bad situations or just complaining [condemning] about them? Do I see a lot of condemning in my society?

Action: Quit complaining about everyone else and go do something good.

Thought for Tuesday September 13

We are his people: the sheep of his flock.

Know that the LORD is God;

he made us, his we are;

his people, the flock he tends.

We are his people: the sheep of his flock.

Luke 7: 11 – 17 He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother.

What would I do if Jesus raised me to a new life? Would I go back to doing what I had always done?
Action: Do something this week that you have never done before – go skydiving, read a different book, go to something at a church, eat different food, plan a trip, tell someone you love him/her – and rise to new possibilities in your life.

Thought for Monday September 12

Proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes again.

May all who seek you

exult and be glad in you

And may those who love your salvation

say ever, "The LORD be glorified."

Proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes again.

1 Timothy 2: 1 – 8 Beloved: First of all, I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. This is good and pleasing to God our savior, who wills everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth.

Do I pray for everyone? Do I want everyone to be saved?

Action: The next time you feel disdain, contempt or even hatred for someone, thank God for creating him.

Thought for Friday September 9

You are my inheritance, O Lord.

You will show me the path to life,

fullness of joys in your presence,

the delights at your right hand forever.

You are my inheritance, O Lord.

1 Timothy 1: 1 – 2; 12 – 14 Paul, an Apostle of Christ Jesus by command of God our savior and of Christ Jesus our hope, to Timothy, my true child in faith: grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

How do I introduce myself? Could I introduce myself like Paul does?

Action: Introduce yourself to someone new today.

Thought for Thursday September 8

With delight I rejoice in the Lord.

Though I trusted in your mercy,

let my heart rejoice in your salvation.

With delight I rejoice in the Lord.

Matthew 1: 1 – 23 Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home.”

Am I afraid to bring Mary [or Jesus] into my home, family life, work…? Does Mary exemplify any values or attitudes I would like to emulate?

Action: Find one good thing about every Mary you know and try to copy it.

Thought for Wednesday September 7

Listen to me, daughter; see and bend your ear.

They are borne in with gladness and joy;

they enter the palace of the king.

The place of your fathers your sons shall have;

you shall make them princes through all the land.

Listen to me, daughter; see and bend your ear.

Luke 6: 20 – 26 Blessed are you who are poor, for the Kingdom of God is yours.
But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation.

Am I poor enough to need God? Am I rich enough to have consolation in this life?

Action: Do something to console someone who is having a tough time.

Thought for Tuesday September 6

The Lord is compassionate toward all his works.

Let all your works give you thanks, O LORD,

and let your faithful ones bless you.

Let them discourse of the glory of your Kingdom

and speak of your might.

The Lord is compassionate toward all his works.

Colossians 2: 6 – 15 See to it that no one captivate you with an empty, seductive philosophy according to the tradition of men, according to the elemental powers of the world and not according to Christ.

How much time do I spend in empty pursuits? What “seductive philosophies” have I rejected?

Action: If you know you are captivated by some things that are not according to Christ, make a special effort to insure you don’t drag anyone else down with you before you can free yourself.

Thought for Monday September 5

In God is my safety and my glory.

Only in God be at rest, my soul,

for from him comes my hope.

He only is my rock and my salvation,

my stronghold; I shall not be disturbed.

In God is my safety and my glory.

Luke 6: 6 – 11 On a certain sabbath Jesus went into the synagogue and taught, and there was a man there whose right hand was withered.

Do I appreciate the gift of my hands and use them to do the work of God? Have I noticed anyone who struggles because his hands are weak, or injured or arthritic?

Action: Do some good with your hands today and pray for those whose hands don’t work well.

Thought for Friday September 2

Come with joy into the presence of the Lord.

For he is good,

the LORD, whose kindness endures forever,

and his faithfulness, to all generations.

Come with joy into the presence of the Lord.

Luke 5: 33 – 39 And no one who has been drinking old wine desires new, for he says, "The old is good."

Happy 50th Anniversary to Fr. David Knight

Action: If you are in Memphis come on down to the celebration of Fr. Knight’s Golden Jubilee at 6:30 this evening, Friday Sept. 2, 2011 at Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Memphis. Old and new wine to be served afterwards.

Thought for Thursday September 1

The Lord has made known his salvation.

All the ends of the earth have seen

the salvation by our God.

Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands;

break into song; sing praise.

The Lord has made known his salvation.

Colossians 1: 9 – 14 Brothers and sisters: From the day we heard about you, we do not cease praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of God's will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, so as to be fully pleasing, in every good work bearing fruit and growing in the knowledge of God, strengthened with every power, in accord with his glorious might, for all endurance and patience, with joy giving thanks to the Father, who has made you fit to share in the inheritance of the holy ones in light.

Do I have all of the gifts mentioned here? Are they what I ask God to give me?

Action: Give somebody a gift today, even if he/she doesn’t recognize it as such.

Thought for Wednesday August 31

I trust in the mercy of God for ever.

I, like a green olive tree

in the house of God,

Trust in the mercy of God

forever and ever.

I trust in the mercy of God for ever.

Luke 4: 38 – 44 Simon's mother-in-law was afflicted with a severe fever, and they interceded with him about her. He stood over her, rebuked the fever, and it left her. She got up immediately and waited on them.


What is my usual attitude when I am sick? If I were suddenly cured would I immediately start serving someone else?


Action: Prepare yourself for illness or injury – get a flu shot, a first aid kit, CPR training, a physical, etc. – Remember your illnesses have an impact on other people.

Thought for Tuesday August 30

I believe that I shall see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living.

The LORD is my light and my salvation;

whom should I fear?

The LORD is my life's refuge;

of whom should I be afraid?

I believe that I shall see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living.

1 Thessalonians 5: 1 -6, 9 - 11 Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, as indeed you do.

How often do I encourage other people? How often do I need encouragement?

Action: Encourage one another.

Thought for Monday August 29

The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.

The LORD brings to nought the plans of nations;

he foils the designs of peoples.

But the plan of the LORD stands forever;

the design of his heart, through all generations.

The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.

Mark 6: 17 – 29 Herod feared John, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man, and kept him in custody. When he heard him speak he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him.


What prophets do I listen to? Do I sometimes avoid listening to people because I am afraid they will challenge my beliefs?

Action: Listen to a viewpoint or opinion that is different from your own and see if you can recognize any similar values.

Thought for Friday August 26

Rejoice in the Lord, you just!

Light dawns for the just;

and gladness, for the upright of heart.

Be glad in the LORD, you just,

and give thanks to his holy name.

Rejoice in the Lord, you just!

Matthew 25: 1 – 13 Since the bridegroom was long delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. At midnight, there was a cry,  "Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!"

Did I take yesterday’s message (Stay Awake!) seriously? Do I take it well when I get awakened?

Action: Do something to wake someone else up.

Thought for Thursday August 25

Fill us with your love, O Lord, and we will sing for joy!

Fill us at daybreak with your kindness,

that we may shout for joy and gladness all our days.

And may the gracious care of the LORD our God be ours;

prosper the work of our hands for us!

Prosper the work of our hands!

Fill us with your love, O Lord, and we will sing for joy!

Matthew 24: 42 – 51 Jesus said to his disciples: “Stay awake!”


Have I ever dozed off spiritually or morally? Do I ever get tired of trying to live in perfect accord with the message of Jesus?


Action: The next time you feel yourself nodding off, call or visit one of the holy people you know for inspiration.

Thought for Wednesday August 24

Your friends make known, O Lord, the glorious splendor of your Kingdom.

Let all your works give you thanks, O LORD,

and let your faithful ones bless you.

Let them discourse of the glory of your Kingdom

and speak of your might.

Your friends make known, O Lord, the glorious splendor of your Kingdom.

John 1: 45 – 51 Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one about whom Moses wrote in the law, and also the prophets, Jesus son of Joseph, from Nazareth.” But Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come from Nazareth?”


Do I ever form opinions about people based on something as trivial as where they are from? Have I ever come to really respect someone I had originally dismissed?


Action: Give someone you have written off another chance.

Thought for Tuesday August 23

You have searched me and you know me, Lord.

O LORD, you have probed me and you know me;

you know when I sit and when I stand;

you understand my thoughts from afar.

My journeys and my rest you scrutinize,

with all my ways you are familiar.

You have searched me and you know me, Lord.

Matthew 23: 23 – 26 You pay tithes of mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier things of the law: judgment and mercy and fidelity.


How much does my society value mercy? What is the difference between good judgment and judgmentalism?


Action: Pay close attention to the emails you forward to others and insure they demonstrate fidelity to the mind and heart of Jesus, are merciful to others, and that you judge that sending them along will have positive uplifting affects on those who read them.

Thought for Monday August 22

Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Announce his salvation, day after day.

Tell his glory among the nations;

among all peoples, his wondrous deeds.

Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Matthew 23: 13 – 22 You traverse sea and land to make one convert, and when that happens you make him a child of Gehenna twice as much as yourselves.
What responsibility do I have to lead others in living a good life? How am I doing?

Action: Make a point of doing something to model Christ to someone who needs a good example.

Thought for Friday August 19

Give thanks to the Lord; his love is everlasting.

They cried to the LORD in their distress;

from their straits he rescued them.

And he led them by a direct way

to reach an inhabited city.

Give thanks to the Lord; his love is everlasting.

Matthew 22: 34 – 40 He said to him, “You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

Do I really have any questions about this? Do I live by these commandments?

Action: Love God and your neighbor.

Thought for Thursday August 18

Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.

I announced your justice in the vast assembly;

I did not restrain my lips, as you, O LORD, know.

Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.

Matthew 22: 1 – 14 “The Kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son. He dispatched his servants to summon the invited guests to the feast, but they refused to come.”

Why would someone refuse to come to a wedding feast? Do I sometimes refuse to participate in something for no good reason?

Action: Don’t turn down the good things God offers you.

Thought for Wednesday August 17

The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

Only goodness and kindness will follow me

all the days of my life;

And I shall dwell in the house of the LORD

for years to come.

The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

Matthew 20: 1 – 16 Going out about five o’clock, he found others standing around, and said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’ They answered, ‘Because no one has hired us.’

Am I standing around doing less than I could be doing? Is it too late for me to get started working for the Kingdom of God?

Action: Start working on something you keep putting off.

Thought for Tuesday August 16

The Lord speaks of peace to his people.

Kindness and truth shall meet;

justice and peace shall kiss.

Truth shall spring out of the earth,

and justice shall look down from heaven.

The Lord speaks of peace to his people.

Matthew 19: 23 – 30 Jesus said to his disciples: “Amen, I say to you, it will be hard for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of heaven. Again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of God.”

How do I define “rich?” What kind of “rich” interferes with a spiritual life?

Action: Use some of your “wealth” to help somebody else today.

Thought for Monday August 15

The queen stands at your right hand, arrayed in gold.

They are borne in with gladness and joy;

they enter the palace of the king.

The queen stands at your right hand, arrayed in gold.

1 Corinthians 15: 20 - 27 The last enemy to be destroyed is death, for "he subjected everything under his feet.”

Is death my enemy? How do I plan to defeat death?

Action: Defeat death today by celebrating being alive.

Thought for Friday August 13

His mercy endures forever.

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good,

for his mercy endures forever;

Give thanks to the God of gods,

for his mercy endures forever;

Give thanks to the LORD of lords,

for his mercy endures forever.

His mercy endures forever.

Matthew 19: 3 – 12 He said in reply, “Have you not read that from the beginning the Creator made them male and female and said, For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, man must not separate.”


Can I think of any other conversation in the Gospel that is as specific as the one on divorce? Why is this passage interpreted more literally than most of the rest of what Jesus said?

Action: Do something nice for your spouse [or your community or yourself if you are not married].

Thought for Thursday August 11

Alleluia!

Why is it, O sea, that you flee?

O Jordan, that you turn back?

You mountains, that you skip like rams?

You hills, like the lambs of the flock?

Alleluia!

Matthew 18: 21 – 19: 1 That is why the Kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who decided to settle accounts with his servants. When he began the accounting, a debtor was brought before him who owed him a huge amount.

What does it say about the king that he loaned money in the first place? To whom am I in debt?

Action: Do a favor for someone without expecting any reciprocation.

Thought for Wednesday August 10

Blessed the man who is gracious and lends to those in need.

Blessed the man who fears the LORD,

who greatly delights in his commands.

His posterity shall be mighty upon the earth;

the upright generation shall be blessed.

Blessed the man who is gracious and lends to those in need.

John 12: 24 – 26 Jesus said to his disciples: “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.”


What have I seen other people give up for the sake of bearing fruit for others? What am I willing to give in order to bear more fruit?

Action: Give up something (an hour of TV, one Saturday a month, an hour of cleaning your house, facebooking one evening a week, etc) so you can bear more fruit.

Thought for Tuesday August 9

How sweet to my taste is your promise!

How sweet to my palate are your promises,

sweeter than honey to my mouth!

How sweet to my taste is your promise!

Matthew 18: 1 – 5, 10, 12 - 14 If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine in the hills and go in search of the stray?


Would I leave the 99 and go after the one? What would I do when I found the stray?

Action: Leave your comfort zone of the 99, and take a risk reaching out to one who has gone astray.

Thought for Monday August 8

Praise the Lord, Jerusalem.

He has granted peace in your borders;

with the best of wheat he fills you.

He sends forth his command to the earth;

swiftly runs his word!

Praise the Lord, Jerusalem.

Matthew 17: 22 – 27 Jesus asked him, “What is your opinion, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth take tolls or census tax? From their subjects or from foreigners?” When he said, “From foreigners,” Jesus said to him, “Then the subjects are exempt.

What are the 10 best things taxes have been used to pay for? What are the 10 worst things taxes are used for?

Action: Use your time, talent and/or treasure to improve a situation that tax money just can’t help.

Thought for Friday August 5

It is I who deal death and give life.

“Learn then that I, I alone, am God,

and there is no god besides me.

It is I who bring both death and life,

I who inflict wounds and heal them.”

It is I who deal death and give life.

Matthew 16: 24 – 28 For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.

Is there a part of my life I would do well to lose? What would I like to find for my life?

Action: If you are missing something in your life, start looking for it.

Thought for Thursday August 4

If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

Come, let us sing joyfully to the LORD;

let us acclaim the Rock of our salvation.

Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving;

let us joyfully sing psalms to him.

If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

Matthew 16: 13 – 23 “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”

Have I ever seen Christians disagree about something I thought was perfectly clear? Are Christians good at resolving differences of opinion?

Action: When you find yourself disagreeing with someone about a theological/spiritual issue, try to work back down to something you do agree on and build your Christian relationship on that.

Thought for Wednesday August 3

Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.

But soon they forgot his works;

they waited not for his counsel.

They gave way to craving in the desert

and tempted God in the wilderness.

Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.

Matthew 15: 21 – 28 She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters.”

Do I have enough dignity to ask for more than scraps? Do I have enough humility to accept scraps?

Action: Adopt a dog today. – Just kidding. Give the best you have to offer today even if it is only scraps.



But just in case: http://www.petfinder.com/index.html

Thought for Tuesday August 2

Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

A clean heart create for me, O God,

and a steadfast spirit renew within me.

Cast me not off from your presence,

and your Holy Spirit take not from me.

Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

Matthew 15: 1 – 2; 10 – 14 Some Pharisees and scribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem and said, "Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? They do not wash their hands when they eat a meal."


Do most traditions arise from good practices? Should the tradition itself take precedence over the original reason for the action?


Action: Wash your hands before every meal – because it is smart, not because it is a tradition.