Thought for Friday March 20

I am the Lord your God: hear my voice.

"Unseen, I answered you in thunder;

I tested you at the waters of Meribah.

Hear, my people, and I will admonish you;

O Israel, will you not hear me?"

I am the Lord your God: hear my voice.

Mark 12: 28 – 34 And no one dared to ask him [Jesus] any more questions.

Have I ever been afraid to ask Jesus a question? Are there answers I don’t want to hear?

Action: Take 5 minutes and ask Jesus a question about a passage you find difficult and quietly listen for an answer.

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Thought for Thursday March 19

The son of David will live for ever.

The promises of the Lord I will sing forever;

through all generations my mouth shall proclaim your faithfulness,

For you have said, "My kindness is established forever";

in heaven you have confirmed your faithfulness.

The son of David will live for ever.

Matthew 1: 16 – 24 Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly.

Have I ever been inclined to just quietly slip out of a bad situation? What does it take for me to get past my fears and do the most loving thing I can?

Action: Fix something around your home today in honor of St. Joseph.

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Thought for Wednesday March 18

Praise the Lord, Jerusalem.

Glorify the LORD, O Jerusalem;

praise your God, O Zion.

For he has strengthened the bars of your gates;

he has blessed your children within you.

Praise the Lord, Jerusalem.

Matthew 5: 17 – 19 I have come not to abolish [the law] but to fulfill.

Have I ever thought of the law as something to be fulfilled? What is/ should be the purpose of law?

Action: Pick a law, any law (biblical, criminal, institutional) and ask what its real purpose is and what values it upholds and think about how you uphold those same values in everything you do.

Thought for Tuesday March 17

Remember your mercies, O Lord.

Your ways, O LORD, make known to me;

teach me your paths,

Guide me in your truth and teach me,

for you are God my savior.

Remember your mercies, O Lord.

Matthew 18: 21 - 35 Be patient with me, and I will pay you back in full.

What do I owe God? What am I doing to pay him back?

Action: Read the prayer at the following link: http://www.prayerfoundation.org/st_patricks_breastplate_prayer.htm

Thought for Monday March 16

Athirst is my soul for the living God.

When shall I go and behold the face of God?

As the hind longs for the running waters,

so my soul longs for you, O God.

Athirst is my soul for the living God.

When shall I go and behold the face of God?

Luke 4: 24 – 30 Indeed, I tell you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah when the sky was closed for three and a half years and a severe famine spread over the entire land. It was to none of these that Elijah was sent, but only to a widow in Zarephath in the land of Sidon.

Do I ever feel overwhelmed seeing how many people need help? Who do I feel I have been sent to help and can help?

Action: Focus some effort on one person you know you can help, even if it is with something small.

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Thought for Friday March 13

Remember the marvels the Lord has done.

When the LORD called down a famine on the land

and ruined the crop that sustained them,

He sent a man before them,

Joseph, sold as a slave.

Remember the marvels the Lord has done.

Matthew 21: 33 – 46 Hear another parable. There was a landowner who planted a vineyard, put a hedge around it, dug a wine press in it, and built a tower. Then he leased it to tenants and went on a journey. When vintage time drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants to obtain his produce.

What gifts has God given me? What am I producing with them?

Action: Use one of your God given talents today to help somebody.

Thought for Thursday March 12

Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

Blessed the man who follows not

the counsel of the wicked

Nor walks in the way of sinners,

nor sits in the company of the insolent,

But delights in the law of the LORD

and meditates on his law day and night.

Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

Luke 16: 19 – 31 If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded if someone should rise from the dead.

Do I read the Bible with the intent of making changes in my life? What does it take to get me to change?

Action: Make a list of the last 3 changes in your life that were inspired by reflection on scripture.

Thought for Wednesday March 11

Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.

I hear the whispers of the crowd, that frighten me from every side,

as they consult together against me, plotting to take my life.

Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.

Matthew 20: 17 – 28 Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death, and hand him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and scourged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day.

Would I continue on the road to Jerusalem after hearing Jesus’ description of what will happen? Am I using Lent to prepare myself for the reality of Jesus death and resurrection?

Action: Add something new to your Lenten program to help you focus on Jesus’ death – give up something you really like, fast an extra day or two, abstain on Wednesdays, go to something at a church that you were planning to skip, etc.

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Thought for Tuesday March 10

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

"Why do you recite my statutes,

and profess my covenant with your mouth,

Though you hate discipline

and cast my words behind you?"

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

Matthew 23: 1 – 12 For they preach but they do not practice.

Do I always practice what I preach? Are there things I believe I should do, but just can’t?

Action: Think of one thing you think everyone should do and make a point of doing it today.

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Thought for Monday March 9

Lord, do not deal with us according to our sins.

Help us, O God our savior,

because of the glory of your name;

Deliver us and pardon our sinsfor your name's sake.

Lord, do not deal with us according to our sins.

Luke 6: 36 – 38 Stop judging and you will not be judged. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven.

Is this a message that really needs to be heard in my society? Is this a message I really need to take to heart?


Action: The next time you encounter someone being unjustly judged or condemned, speak up.

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Thought for Friday March 6

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

I trust in the LORD;my soul trusts in his word.

My soul waits for the LORD

more than sentinels wait for the dawn.

Let Israel wait for the LORD.

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

Matthew 5: 20 – 26 You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment. But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment,

Is Jesus’ standard too high for me? Would I prefer a simpler Old Testament set of rules?

Action: Pick a number between one and ten (inclusive). Got your number? Now, read the commandment that goes with that number and ask yourself how Jesus would ask you to live it.

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Thought for Thursday March 5

Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.

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.

Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.

Matthew 7: 7 – 12 Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.

What am I looking for in life? Are there any spiritual doors I don’t want to have opened for me?

Action: Start asking, seeking and knocking for a new spiritual insight – you might have to take a class, join a prayer group, attend a retreat, read a book, volunteer for a service project or talk to someone about God (children often have excellent insight).

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Thought for Wednesday March 4

A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

A clean heart create for me, O God,

and a steadfast spirit renew within me.

Cast me not out from your presence,

and your Holy Spirit take not from me.

A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

Luke 11: 29 – 32 she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and there is something greater than Solomon here.

Where do I look for wisdom? Do I think of Jesus as wise?

Action: Identify some situation in your life which you have not handled with wisdom and try to fix it.

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Thought for Tuesday March 3

From all their distress God rescues the just.

Look to him that you may be radiant with joy,

and your faces may not blush with shame.

When the poor one called out, the LORD heard,

and from all his distress he saved him.

From all their distress God rescues the just.

Matthew 6: 7 – 13 Our Father who art in heaven,

Who do I include in “our”? Who does Jesus include?

Action: Pray the Our Father slowly and think about the meaning of every word from Jesus’ point of view. What did he mean by Father, Heaven, Kingdom, Bread, Temptation, etc.?

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Thought for Monday March 2

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.

The law of the LORD is perfect,

refreshing the soul.

The decree of the LORD is trustworthy,

giving wisdom to the simple.

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.

Matthew 25: 21 – 46 For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.

Are these the things that define my practice of the faith? How often do I do these?

Action: Adopt someone or something and find ways to care for it. [Not necessarily a legal adoption. It could be a child or a new pet, or the birds in your yard, the homeless man you pass on the way to work, a lonely co-worker, a bored child, a nursing home patient, a prisoner …]

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Thought for Friday February 27

A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

For you are not pleased with sacrifices;

should I offer a burnt offering, you would not accept it.

My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit;

a heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

Matthew 9: 14 – 15 The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.

Do I fast and abstain? If so, does it help me appreciate Jesus?

Action: Pick 3 times during the day and try to imagine what you would be doing different at each of those moments if Jesus were not in your life.

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Thought for Thursday February 26

Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

He is like a treeplanted near running water,

That yields its fruit in due season,

and whose leaves never fade.

Whatever he does, prospers.

Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

Luke 9: 22 – 25 Jesus said to his disciples: "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."

What insight about Jesus do I get from hearing that he knew he had to suffer? Can I relate to his decision to persevere?

Action: Do something for someone you know who is suffering.

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Thought for Ash Wednesday February 25

Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

Give me back the joy of your salvation,

and a willing spirit sustain in me.

O Lord, open my lips,

and my mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

Matthew 6: 1 – 18 When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites

What sacrifices do I make for the Kingdom of God? Do I bear sacrifice well?

Action: Act happy while you fast and abstain.

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Thought for Tuesday February 24

Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.

Trust in the LORD and do good,

that you may dwell in the land and be fed in security.

Take delight in the LORD,

and he will grant you your heart's requests.

Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.

Mark 9:30 – 37 If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.

Who do I put first? Who has always put me first?

Action: Do something today to honor someone who put you first.

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Thought for Monday February 23

The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.

The LORD is king, in splendor robed;

robed is the LORD and girt about with strength.

The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.

Mark 9: 14 – 29 Everything is possible to one who has faith.

Do I believe that I could have enough faith to do anything? What am I failing to do because of a lack of faith?

Action: The best way to grow in faith is to exercise faith. Launch into some project you have been avoiding with faith that your faith will grow.

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Thought for Friday February 20

Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.

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.
Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.

Mark 8: 34 – 9: 1 For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and that of the Gospel will save it.

What would it mean to lose my life? Am I willing to lose even part of my life?

Action: Think of something about yourself you would like to change, and decide what you would have to “die to” in order to make that change.

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Thought for Thursday February 19

From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth.

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."

From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth.

Mark 8: 27 – 33 He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and rise after three days.

Do I really want to work for someone who predicts this kind of outcome? What did the disciples know that kept them going in spite of this prediction?

Action: Make a list of 3 – 5 reasons to kept following Jesus in spite of his own prediction.

Thought for Wednesday February 18

To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.

How shall I make a return to the LORD

for all the good he has done for me?

The cup of salvation I will take up,

and I will call upon the name of the LORD.

To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.

Mark 8: 22 – 26 "Do you see anything?"

What do I see? Do I see Jesus Christ working in the world today?

Action: Make a point of seeing 5 things in your environment from a different angle and then try to see Jesus’ actions from a different angle.

Thought for Tuesday February 17

The Lord will bless his people with peace.

The voice of the LORD is over the waters,

the LORD, over vast waters.

The voice of the LORD is mighty;

the voice of the LORD is majestic.

The Lord will bless his people with peace.

Mark 8: 14 - 21 The disciples had forgotten to bring bread, and they had only one loaf with them in the boat.

What do I forget when I go out to do the work of Jesus? What do I always take with me?

Action: Make a list of things (spiritual, emotional, & physical) that you need to do the work of the Kingdom.

Thought for Monday February 16

Offer to God a sacrifice of praise.

"Why do you recite my statutes,

and profess my covenant with your mouth

Though you hate discipline

and cast my words behind you?"

Offer to God a sacrifice of praise.

Mark 8: 11 – 13 "Why does this generation seek a sign?”

Do I look for signs from God? Have I ever used “not having a sign” as an excuse for not doing something I knew I should do?

Action: Do something you have been putting off while waiting for the “right time” or ‘right sign”.

Thought for Friday February 13

Blessed are those whose sins are forgiven.

You are my shelter; from distress you will preserve me;

with glad cries of freedom you will ring me round.

Blessed are those whose sins are forgiven.

Mark 7: 31 – 37 And people brought to him a deaf man who had a speech impediment and begged him to lay his hand on him.

What do I hear everyday that I would rather be deaf to? What would I miss most if I were deaf?

Action: Pick 5 words that you believe shouldn’t be in your vocabulary (e.g. hate, stupid, can’t, Texas, ugly, @#$%^) and try to stop saying them.

Thought for Thursday February 12

Blessed are those who fear the Lord.

Blessed are you who fear the LORD,

who walk in his ways!

For you shall eat the fruit of your handiwork;

blessed shall you be, and favored.

Blessed are those who fear the Lord.

Mark 7: 24 – 30 He [Jesus] entered a house and wanted no one to know about it, but he could not escape notice.

Have I ever wanted people to not notice that Jesus was in my life? Do people notice that Jesus is in my life?

Action: Try and notice Jesus in the life of someone you know who has never mentioned faith, religion, spirituality, etc.

Thought for Wednesday February 11

O bless the Lord, my soul!

All creatures look to you

to give them food in due time.

When you give it to them, they gather it;

when you open your hand, they are filled with good things.

O bless the Lord, my soul!

Mark 7: 14 – 23 From within the man, from his heart, come evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly. All these evils come from within and they defile.

How am I doing? What defiles me?

Action: Pick one thing you do that “defiles” you and quit doing it – for as long as you can.

Thought for Tuesday February 10

O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!

All sheep and oxen,yes, and the beasts of the field,

The birds of the air, the fishes of the sea,

and whatever swims the paths of the seas.

O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!

Mark 7: 1 – 13 "Why do your disciples not follow the tradition of the elders but instead eat a meal with unclean hands?"

What do I do based mostly on familial or societal tradition? Is following tradition having a positive effect on my life?

Action: Adopt a tradition (for Valentine’s Day, Lent, Spring, President’s Day, Etc) that is new to you that you think will have a positive effect on your life. To get started you could ask others what they do or research different cultures.

Thought for Monday February 9

May the Lord be glad in his works.

You send forth springs into the watercourses

that wind among the mountains.

Beside them the birds of heaven dwell;

from among the branches they send forth their song.

May the Lord be glad in his works.

Mark 6: 53 – 56 As they were leaving the boat, people immediately recognized him [Jesus].

How do I recognize Jesus? Do I see him working in the world?

Action: Look for Jesus this week in places where you have never noticed him being.

Thought for February 6

The Lord is my light and my salvation.

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?

The Lord is my light and my salvation.

Mark 6: 14 - 29 When he [Herod] heard him [John] speak he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him.

Do I like to listen to things that challenge me? Do I ever find scripture perplexing?

Action: Read (or otherwise face) something spiritual you have been avoiding because you find it too challenging.

Thought for Thursday February 5

O God, we ponder your mercy within your temple.

Great is the LORD and wholly to be praised

in the city of our God.

His holy mountain, fairest of heights,

is the joy of all the earth.

O God, we ponder your mercy within your temple.

Mark 6: 7 – 13 Jesus summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over unclean spirits.

If Jesus were to send me out like this (two by two) whom would I want to go with? Who most helps me do the work of God?

Action: If you have someone you would want to go with, do something nice for him or her today. If you don’t know someone you would want to go with, treat yourself to a “rugged individualist” special treat.

Thought for Wednesday February 4

The Lord's kindness is everlasting to those who fear him.

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.

The Lord's kindness is everlasting to those who fear him.

Mark 6: 1 – 6 Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and among his own kin and in his own house." So he was not able to perform any mighty deed there,


Do I ever pigeonhole people based on my first impression or experience of them? Do I stereotype people in a way that limits their ability to “perform mighty deeds” around me?

Action: Take a fresh look (for both skills and inabilities you have never noticed) at 3 people in your life and see if you can notice how God is working through them in ways you haven’t noticed.

Thought for Tuesday February 3

They will praise you, Lord, who long for you.

I will fulfill my vows before those who fear him.

The lowly shall eat their fill;

they who seek the LORD shall praise him:

"May your hearts be ever merry!"

They will praise you, Lord, who long for you.

Mark 5: 21 – 43 But his disciples said to him, "You see how the crowd is pressing upon you, and yet you ask, Who touched me?"

In the crowd of people that has surrounded me throughout my life, who has touched me? How have I touched others?

Action: Make it your goal to help (touch) as many people as have helped you, but don’t overburden yourself with a schedule.

Extra Credit: Pay it forward and try to touch the lives of 3 people for every 1 that has touched you.

Thought for Monday February 2

Who is this king of glory? It is the Lord!

Who is this king of glory?

The Lord, strong and mighty,

the Lord, mighty in battle.

Who is this king of glory? It is the Lord!

Luke 2: 22 – 40 Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in the sight of all the peoples:

Have my eyes seen the salvation prepared for all peoples? What does salvation look like?

Action: See if you can spot 10 things in your everyday environment that you have never “seen” before.

Thought for Friday January 30

The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.

Commit to the LORD your way;

trust in him, and he will act.

He will make justice dawn for you like the light;

bright as the noonday shall be your vindication.

The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.

Mark 4: 26 – 34 To what shall we compare the Kingdom of God, or what parable can we use for it? It is like a mustard seed that, when it is sown in the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on the earth. But once it is sown, it springs up and becomes the largest of plants and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the sky can dwell in its shade.

Does this give me hope that my faith will grow? Does it give me hope that my society can grow toward God from the smallest seeds of good?

Action: Do something really small to help establish the Kingdom of God and believe that your action will grow.

Thought for Thursday January 29

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.

Mark 4: 21 – 25 To the one who has, more will be given; from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.

Am I a “have” or a “have not”? Am I excited about what I may be given or worried about what might be taken away?

Action: Thank God for what you have.

Thought for Wednesday January 28

You are a priest for ever, in the line of Melchizedek.

“Yours is princely power in the day of your birth, in holy splendor;

before the daystar, like the dew, I have begotten you.”

You are a priest for ever, in the line of Melchizedek.

Mark 4: 1 – 20 A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path, and the birds came and ate it up.

What in my life “eats” the word of God before it can even begin to take root? What can I do about it?

Action: Identify something in your life that steals your attention from God and work to get more control over it. For example: turn off your computer, cell phone, TV, ipod or put away your romance, spy, western or mystery novel or a little while every day.

Thought for Tuesday January 27

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

Your justice I kept not hid within my heart;

your faithfulness and your salvation I have spoken of;

I have made no secret of your kindness and your truth

in the vast assembly.
Here am I Lord; I come to do your will.

Mark 3: 31 – 35 A crowd seated around him told him, “Your mother and your brothers and your sisters are outside asking for you.” But he said to them in reply, “Who are my mother and my brothers?”

What do I think Mary would have said in response to this? Does my relationship with my family help me to be a more faithful, loving and spiritual person?

Action: Write, call, text, email or visit someone in your family today.

Thought for Monday Jaunary 26

Proclaim God's marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Sing to the Lord a new song;

sing to the Lord, all you lands.

Sing to the Lord; bless his name.
Proclaim God's marvelous deeds to all the nations.

Mark 3: 22 – 30 If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand.

Is there division in my society? Is that division slowing progress toward establishing the Kingdom of God?

Action: Join in with a project you believe transcends petty divisions to focus on solutions.

Thought for Friday January 23

Kindness and truth shall meet.

Kindness and truth shall meet;

justice and peace shall kiss.

Truth shall spring out of the earth,

and justice shall look down from heaven.

Kindness and truth shall meet.

Mark 3: 13 – 19 Jesus went up the mountain and summoned those whom he wanted and they came to him.

Do I feel like Jesus wants me? Do I want relationship with him?

Action: Make a list of five things about yourself that you believe makes Jesus want you. List 5 things that might make him not want you and choose one of them to begin working to change.

Thought for Thursday January 22

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

May all who seek you

exult and be glad in you,

And may those who love your salvation

say ever, “The LORD be glorified.”

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

Mark 3: 7 – 12 He had cured many and, as a result, those who had diseases were pressing upon him to touch him.

What have I seen Jesus do that makes me want to touch him?

Action: Ask Jesus to cure you.

Thought for Wednesday January 21

You are a priest for ever, in the line of Melchizedek.

“Yours is princely power in the day of your birth, in holy splendor;

before the daystar, like the dew, I have begotten you.”

You are a priest for ever, in the line of Melchizedek.

Mark 3: 1 – 6 “Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?”

Are good and evil my only choices? What do I do that is evil? What do I do that is good?

Action: Honestly examine your life and identify an evil that you do or are at least involved in and quit.

Thought for Tuesday January 20

The Lord will remember his covenant for ever.

I will give thanks to the LORD with all my hear

tin the company and assembly of the just.

Great are the works of the LORD,

exquisite in all their delights.

The Lord will remember his covenant for ever.

Mark 2: 23 – 28 The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath.

What is the value of the Sabbath? Does my society value the Sabbath?

Action: Make a plan to celebrate the Sabbath in a way that honors its true value.

Thought for Monday January 19

You are a priest for ever, in the line of Melchizedek.

“Yours is princely power in the day of your birth, in holy splendor;

before the daystar, like the dew, I have begotten you.”

You are a priest for ever, in the line of Melchizedek.

Mark 2: 18 – 22 Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them?


Do I experience Jesus like a groom at his wedding? Am I celebrating with him?

Action: Do something today to celebrate Christ’s mission?

Thought for Friday January 16

Do not forget the works of the Lord!

What we have heard and know,

and what our fathers have declared to us,

we will declare to the generation to come

The glorious deeds of the LORD and his strength.
Do not forget the works of the Lord!

Mark 2: 1 – 12 They came bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. Unable to get near Jesus because of the crowd, they opened up the roof above him.

How hard do I work to bring people to Jesus? Do I give up easily?

Action: If you have been working to bring someone to Jesus and meeting obstacles at every turn, show that person this gospel passage and tell him or her that you intend to keep trying.

Thought for Thursday January 15

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

Come, let us bow down in worship;

let us kneel before the LORD who made us.

For he is our God,

and we are the people he shepherds, the flock he guides.

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

Mark 1: 40 – 45 The man went away and began to publicize the whole matter. He spread the report abroad so that it was impossible for Jesus to enter a town openly.

Do I tell people what Jesus has done for me? Should I?


Action: Write a brief article, one or two paragraphs, about what Jesus has done for you. If you can, give it to someone else to read.

Thought for Wednesday January 14

The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.

Give thanks to the LORD, invoke his name;

make known among the nations his deeds.

Sing to him, sing his praise,

proclaim all his wondrous deeds.

The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.

Mark 1: 29 – 39 He approached, grasped her hand, and helped her up. Then the fever left her and she waited on them.


If Jesus cured me, would I immediately jump up and serve him? What excuses do I give for not serving him?

Action: Face one of your excuses head on and try to overcome it.

Thought for Tuesday January 13

You have given your Son rule over the works of your hands.

All sheep and oxen,

yes, and the beasts of the field,

The birds of the air, the fishes of the sea,

and whatever swims the paths of the seas.

You have given your Son rule over the works of your hands.

Mark 1: 21 – 28 All were amazed and asked one another, “What is this? A new teaching with authority.

Do I look for authoritative teaching? Do I prefer teaching with relative terms like – “in some cases”, “it depends”, “usually”, “maybe”, or even “We can agree to disagree”?

Action: Try to go for one day without using relative terms when you are talking about what you believe.

Thought for Monday January 12

Let all his angels worship him.

The heavens proclaim his justice,

and all peoples see his glory.

Let all his angels worship him.

Let all his angels worship him.

Mark 1: 14 – 20 Jesus said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Then they left their nets and followed him.

What would Jesus have to offer me for me to give up everything I know? What am I willing to leave behind?


Action: If there is something you are holding on to that is getting in the way of living your faith, make a plan to give it up.

Thought for Froday January 9

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.

Luke 5: 12 – 16 “Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean.”

Is there something I want Jesus to do for me? When was the last time I asked him?

Action: Ask Jesus to do something for you today.

Thought for Thursday January 8

Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

May his name be blessed forever;

as long as the sun his name shall remain.

In him shall all the tribes of the earth be blessed;

all the nations shall proclaim his happiness.

Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

Luke 4: 14 – 22 Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news of him spread throughout the whole region.

Do I know what it means to be “in the power if the Spirit”? Do I really want to know?

Action: If you have ever had an experience of “the Spirit” share it with someone. If someone shares such an experience with you, pay attention.

Thought for Wednesday January 7

Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

O God, with your judgment endow the king,

and with your justice, the king’s son;

He shall govern your people with justice

and your afflicted ones with judgment.

Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

Mark 6: 45 – 52 But at once he spoke with them, “Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!”

What do I need courage to do? Do I find that courage in Jesus?

Action: Ask Jesus to give you the courage to do something you have been afraid to do and take a step toward doing it.

Thought for Tuesday January 6

Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

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.

Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

Mark 6: 34 – 44 When Jesus saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd;

Do I accept Jesus’ leadership or do I prefer to be my own shepherd? How well is my choice working for me?

Action: Pick some area of your life that you are in complete control of, and ask Jesus to take it over. Ask him continuously to guide you through your decisions and actions in that area.

Thought for Monday January 5

I will give you all the nations for an inheritance.

The LORD said to me, “You are my Son;

this day I have begotten you.

Ask of me and I will give you

the nations for an inheritance

and the ends of the earth for your possession.”

I will give you all the nations for an inheritance.

Matthew 4: 12 – 25 From that time on, Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

Does celebrating Christmas make me feel like the Kingdom of God is at hand? If it is at hand, is there something of which I should repent?

Action: Begin the new year by repenting of a sin or bad habit.

Thought for Friday January 2

All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

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.

All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

John 1: 19 – 28 When the Jews from Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to him to ask him, “Who are you?”

What is my most honest answer for “Who are you?”? Who do I really want to be?

Action: If there is a difference between who you are and who you want to be, make a change in your life to close the gap.

Thought for Thursday January 1

May God bless us in his mercy.

May the peoples praise you, O God;

may all the peoples praise you!

May God bless us,

and may all the ends of the earth fear him!

May God bless us in his mercy.

Luke 2: 16 – 21 Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told to them.

What did I glorify God for in the last year? Did I glorify him enough?

Action: Resolve to glorify God for one thing each day of the new year.

Thought for Wednesday December 31

Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!

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 shall all the trees of the forest exult before the LORD.

Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!

John 1: 1 – 18 What came to be through him was life, and this life was the light of the human race; the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

Do I sometimes feel like the human race has sunk into darkness? Where do I see the light of the human race?

Action: Resolve to be the light in 3 dark situations in the coming year.

Thought for Tuesday December 30

Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!

Bring gifts, and enter his courts;

worship the LORD in holy attire.

Tremble before him, all the earth.

Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!

Luke 2: 36 – 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 Monday 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 Friday December 26 (Feast of St. Stephen)

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

Be my rock of refuge,

a stronghold to give me safety.

You are my rock and my fortress;

for your name’s sake you will lead and guide me.

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

Matthew 10: 17 – 22 Jesus said to his disciples: “Beware of men, for they will hand you over to courts and scourge you in their synagogues, and you will be led before governors and kings for my sake as a witness before them and the pagans.

Is this really what I wanted to hear the day after Christmas? Is it something I need to hear?

Action: Bear witness to Christ by continuing to celebrate Christmas until the season is over (January 10, 2009).

Thought for Christmas Day

A light will shine on us this day: the Lord is born for us.

The LORD is king; let the earth rejoice;

let the many isles be glad.

The heavens proclaim his justice,

and all peoples see his glory.

A light will shine on us this day: the Lord is born for us.

Luke 2: 15 – 20 So they went in haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Thought for Wednesday December 24 Christmas Eve

For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

He shall say of me,

“You are my father, my God, the rock, my savior.”

Forever I will maintain my kindness toward him,

and my covenant with him stands firm.
For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

Matthew 1: 1 – 25 Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said,

How would I feel if an “angel of the Lord” appeared to me? Scared, annoyed, excited, apprehensive?

Action: Don’t do anything today that isn’t intended to bring joy to yourself or others.

Thought for Tuesday 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 Monday December 22

My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.

“The bows of the mighty are broken,

while the tottering gird on strength.

The well-fed hire themselves out for bread,

while the hungry batten on spoil.

The barren wife bears seven sons,

while the mother of many languishes.”

My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.

Luke 1: 46 – 56 He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty.

What do I hunger for? Do I believe God can satisfy my hunger?

Action: Tell God what your are most hungry for with confidence that he can satisfy that hunger.

Thought for Friday 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 many people rejoice over my existence?

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

Thought for Thursday December 18

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

Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel,

who alone does wondrous deeds.

And blessed forever be his glorious name;

may the whole earth be filled with his glory.

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

Matthew 1: 18 – 25 She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.

How do my actions give my name meaning? What do I want my name to mean?

Action: Make a point of calling people by their names today, conscious that we are all still creating ourselves as persons.

Thought for Wednesday December 17

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.

Matthew 1: 1 – 17 Perez became the father of Hezron, Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab. Amminadab became the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon, Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab.

Who cares? Why are people interested in genealogy? Is it important to see ourselves as a product of a long line of people even if we don’t who they are?

Action: Send a Christmas card to your most distantly related, shirttail cousin or friend just to acknowledge that we are all one family in Christ.

Thought for Tuesday December 16

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 15

Teach me your ways, O Lord.

Your ways, O LORD, make known to me;

teach me your paths,

Guide me in your truth and teach me,

for you are God my savior.

Teach me your ways, O Lord.

Matthew 21: 23 – 27 “By what authority are you doing these things? And who gave you this authority?”

Do I respect God’s authority over his creation? Can I think of any examples of his authority being dismissed?


Action: Look around you for something that seems to be out of kilter with God’s intent, and take step toward fixing it.

Thought for Friday 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 11

The Lord is gracious and merciful; slow to anger, and of great kindness.

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 gracious and merciful; slow to anger, and of great kindness.

Matthew 11: 11 – 15 From the days of John the Baptist until now, the Kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent are taking it by force.

We still have violence, but is it different than it would be if Jesus had not come? How does Jesus help me “survive” the violence that is around me and in my own heart?

Action: The next time you have a violent thought (like slamming into the guy who just cut you off in traffic) ask Jesus to help you resist the temptation and then do something nice for the next person you see.

Thought for Wednesday December 10

O bless the Lord, my soul!

Merciful and gracious is the LORD,

slow to anger and abounding in kindness.

Not according to our sins does he deal with us,

nor does he requite us according to our crimes.

O bless the Lord, my soul!

Matthew 11: 28 – 31 “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.”


What burden would you like taken from you? Do you trust Jesus enough to give it to him?


Action: Ask Jesus to help you with some task that has been bothering you.

Thought for Tuesday December 9

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 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;

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.

Thought for Friday December 5

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 When he entered the house, the blind men approached him and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I can do this?” “Yes, Lord,” they said to him.

Did Jesus really think they would say, “No”? How important is it to proclaim your faith?

Action: Tell someone you love/care about them even if you think it is so ridiculously obvious that you don’t need to say it.

Thought for Thursday December 4

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, 24 – 27 Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on themwill be like a wise man who built his house on rock.

How often do I act on something I have read in the bible?

Action: Do something this week that was directly inspired by Jesus’ words.

Thought for Wednesday December 3

I shall live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.

You spread the table before me

in the sight of my foes;

You anoint my head with oil;

my cup overflows.

I shall live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.

Matthew 15: 29 – 37 Great crowds came to him, having with them the lame, the blind, the deformed, the mute, and many others.

Is Jesus so inspiring to me that I try to bring other people to him? Do I ever make a conscious effort to be Christ to someone in need?

Action: Be Christ for someone today: smile, encourage, help, give …

Thought for Tuesday December 2

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 December 1

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, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.”

Do I feel worthy of asking Jesus for a favor? Do I ever ask Jesus to do things for me just out of friendship?


Action: Ask Jesus for 4 favors today.

Thought for Friday November 29

Here God lives among his people.

'Even the sparrow finds a home,

and the swallow a nest

in which she puts her young–

Your altars, O LORD of hosts,

my king and my God!

Here God lives among his people.

Luke 21: 29 – 33 “Consider the fig tree and all the other trees. When their buds burst open, you see for yourselves and know that summer is now near; in the same way, when you see these things happening, know that the Kingdom of God is near.


Do I see any signs that the Kingdom of God is near? What would I like to see happening?


Action: Get involved with or start your own project to make the Kingdom of God a little more present here and now.

Thought for Thursday November 27 Thanksgiving USA

Lord, I thank you for your faithfulness and love.

I will give thanks to your name,

Because of your kindness and your truth.

When I called, you answered me;

you built up strength within me.

Lord, I thank you for your faithfulness and love.

Luke 17: 11 – 19 And one of them, realizing he had been healed, returned, glorifying God in a loud voice; and he fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him.


What am I most thankful for? What do I take for granted?


Action: Count your blessings and give thanks for all that you have.

Thought for Wednesday November 26

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 25

The Lord comes to judge the earth.

Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice;l

et the sea and what fills it resound;

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

Then shall all the trees of the forest exult.

The Lord comes to judge the earth.

Luke 21: 5 – 11 While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, “All that you see here– the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.”

What do I most like or not like to see in churches (the buildings only)? What kinds of things help me to worship and pray?


Action: Decorate your house for Advent in a way that will really help you focus on the season.

Thought for Monday November 24

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.”


If I won the lottery, would I give a large donation to charity? If I did, would that donation be better than what I am giving now?

Action: Give until it hurts – make a donation that is a little more than is easy for you. It doesn’t have to be money – blood is in great demand at this time of year.

Thought for Friday November 21

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!

Luke 19: 45 – 48 … all the people were hanging on his words.


Which words of Jesus am I hanging on? What would be different if the whole world lived out my favorite passage from the Gospel?


Action: Give yourself a treat today for all of the work you put into reading and thinking about Jesus’ words.

Thought for Thursday November 20

The Lamb has made us a kingdom of priests to serve our God.

Let the faithful exult in glory;

let them sing for joy upon their couches;

Let the high praises of God be in their throats.

This is the glory of all his faithful. Alleluia.

The Lamb has made us a kingdom of priests to serve our God.

Luke 19: 41 – 44 As Jesus drew near Jerusalem, he saw the city and wept over it, saying, “If this day you only knew what makes for peace – but now it is hidden from your eyes.”


Do I believe that peace is possible in the world, my country, my community or even just in my own family? What do I imagine it looks like?


Action: Make a gesture of peace to someone with whom you have been “at war.”

Thought for Wednesday November 19

Holy, holy, holy Lord, mighty God!

Praise him with sounding cymbals,

praise him with clanging cymbals.

Let everything that has breath

praise the LORD! Alleluia.

Holy, holy, holy Lord, mighty God!

Luke 19: 11 – 28 While people were listening to Jesus speak, he proceeded to tell a parable because he was near Jerusalem and they thought that the Kingdom of God would appear there immediately.

Do I expect the Kingdom of God to just appear? Am I working to make it happen?


Action: Change one thing in your surroundings that is not consistent with the presence of the Kingdom of God.

Thought for Tuesday November 18

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.


What am I willing to do to see Jesus better?


Action: Start now making a plan for getting to know Jesus better during Advent.

Thought for Monday November 17

Those who are victorious I will feed from the tree of life.

He is like a treeplanted near running water,

That yields its fruit in due season,

and whose leaves never fade.

Whatever he does, prospers.

Those who are victorious I will feed from the tree of life.

Luke 18: 35 – 43 He shouted, “Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!”


Would I ever want to be pitied, even by Jesus? Can I think of any problems that have arisen from blind pride?


Action: Set aside your pride and get you hands dirty working to fix some problem that most people try to just ignore.

Thought for Friday November 14

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.

What about my life am I set on preserving? What would I like to lose?


Action: Examine your life for something you do frequently/consistently that bears no fruit and quit doing it.

Thought for Thursday November 13

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 12

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

Only goodness and kindness 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.

Luke 17: 11 – 19 And one of them, realizing he had been healed, returned, glorifying God in a loud voice; and he fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him.


How often do I say “Thank You” to people who have helped me? Do I sometimes take help for granted?


Action: Think back in your life and pick out something someone did for you that has had a great impact on your life, especially if you didn’t notice at the time; contact the person who helped you and thank him or her.

Thought for Tuesday November 11

The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.

Trust in the LORD and do good,

that you may dwell in the land and be fed in security.

Take delight in the LORD,

and he will grant you your heart’s requests.

The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.

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.’

What have I been commanded to do? Have I done it?


Action: Go do something you were commanded to do.

Thought for Monday November 10

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 Jesus said to his disciples, “Things that cause sin will inevitably occur, but woe to the one through whom they occur.”


Have I noticed that causes of sin frequently occur in my life? Have I ever noticed myself causing someone else to sin?


Action: Make a plan for change with someone to whom you have been a bad example (cursing, drinking, careless driving, gossiping, goofing off, etc).

Thought for Friday November 7

Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.

I rejoiced because they said to me,

“We will go up to the house of the LORD.”

And now we have set foot

within your gates, O Jerusalem.

Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.

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

What am I squandering? Am I a good steward of the resources entrusted to me?


Action: Pick something you tend to waste (time, food, money, energy) and make a real effort to conserve it and put it to a positive use.

Thought for Thursday November 6

Let hearts rejoice who search for the Lord.

Sing to him, sing his praise,

proclaim all his wondrous deeds.

Glory in his holy name;

rejoice, O hearts that seek the LORD!

Let hearts rejoice who search for the Lord.

Luke 15: 1 – 10 In just the same way, I tell you, there will be rejoicing among the angels of God over one sinner who repents.

In this big, complicated world, does the repentance of just one sinner seem like something worth celebrating? Do I believe God is happy when I repent?

Action: Repent of one of your sins and celebrate the great effect that repentance will have.

Thought for Wednesday November 5

The Lord is my light and my salvation.

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.

The Lord is my light and my salvation.

Luke 14: 25 – 43 Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. Which of you wishing to construct a tower does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if there is enough for its completion?


Have I calculated the cost of carrying my cross with Jesus? Do I have what it takes to complete the job?

Action: Find something in your life (time, money, talent) that you are not investing in the Kingdom of God and make the decision to reallocate it to some task you have been putting off.

Thought for Tuesday November 4

I will praise you, Lord, in the assembly of your people.

To him my soul shall live;

my descendants shall serve him.

Let the coming generation be told of the LORD

that they may proclaim to a people yet to be born

the justice he has shown.

I will praise you, Lord, in the assembly of your people.

Luke 14: 15 - 24 A man gave a great dinner to which he invited many. But one by one, they all began to excuse themselves. The first said to him, ‘I have purchased a field and must go to examine it

What’s my excuse for not accepting everything God offers me?


Action: Go to some religious function you would normally skip.

Thought for Monday November 3

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.