Thought for Wednesday March 21

The Lord is gracious and merciful.
The LORD is gracious and merciful,
slow to anger and of great kindness.
The LORD is good to all
and compassionate toward all his works.
The Lord is gracious and merciful.

Isaiah 49: 8 – 15  Thus says the LORD:  In a time of favor I answer you, on the day of salvation I help you; and I have kept you and given you as a covenant to the people, To restore the land and allot the desolate heritages, Saying to the prisoners: Come out!

Have I witnessed God deliver on his promises?   Am I still waiting for him to do something?

Action:  Do a favor for someone.

Thought for Tuesday March 20

The Lord of hosts is with us; our stronghold is the God of Jacob.
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 Lord of hosts is with us; our stronghold is the God of Jacob.

John 5: 1 - 16  When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had been ill for a long time, he said to him, "Do you want to be well?"

Is that a dumb question?  Am I willing to give up the life I am comfortable with to be well physically, emotionally & spiritually?

 Action:  Do something to improve your physical, mental or spiritual health.

Thought for Monday March 19

The son of David will live forever.
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 forever.

  

Matthew 1: 16 – 24  Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man,

Would people describe me as a righteous person?  What is the difference between being righteous and being self-righteous?

Action:  Pick a righteous person to be your role model for the week; ask yourself what that person would do in the various situations you encounter.

Thought for Friday March 16

I am the Lord your God: hear my voice.
"If only my people would hear me,
and Israel walk in my ways,
I would feed them with the best of wheat,
and with honey from the rock I would fill them."
 I am the Lord your God: hear my voice.

Mark 12:  28 – 34  "Which is the first of all the commandments?" Jesus replied, "The first is this: Hear, O Israel!  The Lord our God is Lord alone!  You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul,  with all your mind, and with all your strength.  The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

Do I put God first?  Do I put love of neighbor second only to God?

Action:  Do something loving for someone this weekend.

Thought for Thursday March 15

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.

Luke 11: 14 – 23  Jesus was driving out a demon that was mute, and when the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke and the crowds were amazed.

Do I ever feel like there is a demon that keeps me from speaking up when I should?  What impact does it have when I do speak up for what is right and just?
 

Action:  Speak for someone who can’t.

Thought for Tuesday March 14

Praise the Lord, Jerusalem.
He sends forth his command to the earth;
swiftly runs his word!
He spreads snow like wool;
frost he strews like ashes.
Praise the Lord, Jerusalem.

Matthew 5: 17 - 19  Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in the Kingdom of heaven.

Do I pick and choose what commandments or teachings I will follow?   Am I bearing witness to everything I believe in?

Action:  Don’t break a commandment.

Thought for Tuesday March 13

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  Peter approached Jesus and asked him, "Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him?  As many as seven times?"

Was seven Peter’s limit?  What’s my limit?

Action:  Start anew with someone who has exceeded your limit, but don’t expect to much.

Thought for Monday March 12

Athirst is my soul for the living God.
When shall I go and behold the face of God?
Send forth your light and your fidelity;
they shall lead me on
And bring me to your holy mountain,
to your dwelling-place.

Athirst is my soul for the living God.
When shall I go and behold the face of God?

Luke 4: 24 – 30  Again, there were many lepers in Israel during the time of Elisha the prophet; yet not one of them was cleansed, but only Naaman the Syrian.

Do I believe there are specific things that I have been sent to do?  Do I feel like I am doing exactly what I should be doing or am I just winging it?

Action:  Spend some time discerning what you are specifically called to do?

Thought for Friday March 9

Remember the marvels the Lord has done.
The king sent and released him,
the ruler of the peoples set him free.
He made him lord of his house
and ruler of all his possessions.
Remember the marvels the Lord has done.

Matthew 21: 33 – 46  Therefore, I say to you, the Kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people that will produce its fruit.

Am I bearing fruit?  Does professing faith have value if it doesn’t produce real results?

Action:  Get involved with an action that will produce a positive change in your community.

Thought for Thursday March 8

Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

He is like a tree
planted 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 16: 19 - 31  Jesus said to the Pharisees: "There was a rich man who dressed in purple garments and fine linen and dined sumptuously each day. And lying at his door was a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, who would gladly have eaten his fill of the scraps that fell from the rich man's table.”

Am I aware of the people around me who are not as fortunate as I am?  Does it matter how they ended up needing help?

Action:  Look at the people you pass by every day and see who needs help and then do what you can.

Thought for Wednesday March 7

Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.
You will free me from the snare they set for me,
for you are my refuge.
Into your hands I commend my spirit;
you will redeem me, O LORD, O faithful God.
Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.

Matthew 20: 17 - 28    Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee approached Jesus with her sons and did him homage, wishing to ask him for something.  He said to her, "What do you wish?"  She answered him, "Command that these two sons of mine sit, one at your right and the other at your left, in your kingdom."

Did my mother ever do anything to embarrass me?  How do parents try to help their kids?

Action:  Follow the example of the best parent you know and help someone.

Thought for Tuesday March 6

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  They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people's shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them.

Do I ever feel like authorities are laying a burden on me?   Am I laying a burden on anyone else?

Action:  Help someone carry his burden.

Thought for Monday March 5

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 sins
for your name's sake. .
Lord, do not deal with us according to our sins

Luke 6: 36 – 38  Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap.

What am I giving?  What am I getting?

Action:  Give to someone who could use a little boost.

Thought for Friday March 2

If you, O Lord, mark iniquities, who can stand?
For with the LORD is kindness
and with him is plenteous redemption;
And he will redeem Israel
from all their iniquities.
If you, O Lord, mark iniquities, who can stand?

Matthew  5: 20 – 26  But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment, and whoever says to his brother, Raqa,  will be answerable to the Sanhedrin, and whoever says, 'You fool,' will be liable to fiery Gehenna.

Do I see a lot of anger in the world today?  Am I angry at any person or situation?

Action:  Find a way to let go of your anger.

Thought for Thursday March 1

Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.
I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all my heart,
for you have heard the words of my mouth;
in the presence of the angels I will sing your praise;
I will worship at your holy temple
and give thanks to your name.
Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.

 Matthew 7: 7 – 12  "Do to others whatever you would have them do to you.  This is the law and the prophets."

Do I treat others the way I want to be treated?  Are there people I think don’t deserve to be treated this way? 

Action:  Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. 

Thought for Wednesday February 29

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.

Jonah 3: 1 – 10  The word of the LORD came to Jonah a second time: "Set out for the great city of Nineveh, and announce to it the message that I will tell you."

Has good ever given me a second chance (after leaving me in the belly of a whale for 3 days)?  How do I respond when I am given a second chance?

Action:  Give a stubborn idiot a second chance.  [It’s Leap Day so you only have to do this once every 4 years.]

Thought for Tuesday February 28

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 – 15  Jesus said to his disciples: "In praying, do not babble like the pagans, who think that they will be heard because of their many words.  Do not be like them.”

Have I ever worried that I am not good at praying?  Is praying hard?

Action:  Pray.

Thought for Monday February 27

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.
Let the words of my mouth and the thought of my heart
find favor before you,
O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.

Matthew 25: 31 – 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.

Which of these have I done in the last week?  Do I ever have that nagging feeling that I should have done more?

Action:  Do your best.

Thought for Friday February 24

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.

Isaiah 58: 1 – 9 This, rather, is the fasting that I wish: releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs of the yoke;  setting free the oppressed, breaking every yoke; sharing your bread with the hungry, sheltering the oppressed and the homeless; clothing the naked when you see them, and not turning your back on your own.

Am I doing any of these things?  What can I do this weekend?

Action:  Do one of these this weekend.

Thought for Thursday February 23

Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.
He is like a tree
planted 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.

Deuteronomy 20: 15 – 30  Choose life, then, that you and your descendants may live, by loving the LORD, your God, heeding his voice, and holding fast to him.  For that will mean life for you

Have I chosen to live my life under these terms?  Do I feel like I have chosen my life or that I am stuck with it?

Action:  If you feel like there is something in your life you are just stuck with, transform it into something you can rejoice in.

Thought for Ash Wednesday February 22

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.

Joel 2: 12 – 18  Even now, says the LORD, return to me with your whole heart, with fasting, and weeping, and mourning; Rend your hearts, not your garments, and return to the LORD, your God.

Do I really need to be reminded to return to God every year?  Do I have a plan for this year?

Action:  Take Lent seriously.

Thought for Tuesday February 21

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.

Thought for Monday February 20

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.

Thought for Friday February 17

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.

Thought for Tuesday February 14

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 always take with me? What have I found that people most often need?

Action: Be somebody’s Valentine – give a gift, or a little time, a friendly ear, write a letter …

Thought for Monday February 13

Be kind to me, Lord, and I shall live.

Let your kindness comfort me

according to your promise to your servants.

Be kind to me, Lord, and I shall live.

James 1: 1 – 11 Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

Was my last trial joyful? Do I have perseverance?

Action: The next time you are challenged to do something hard. go for it with all of the joy and perseverance you can muster.

Thought for Friday February 10

I am the Lord, your God: hear my voice.

"If only my people would hear me,

and Israel walk in my ways,

Quickly would I humble their enemies;

against their foes I would turn my hand."

I am the Lord, your God: hear my voice.

Mark 7:31-37: People said of Jesus, "He has done everything well; he even makes the deaf to hear and the mute to speak."

Am I deaf to Christ’s words and mute in speaking them sometimes? Have I asked to be cured?

Action: Speak up for those who can’t or won’t speak for themselves.

Thought for Thursday February 9

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

Blessed are they who observe what is right,

who do always what is just.

Remember us, O LORD, as you favor your people;

visit us with your saving help.

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

Mark 7: 24 – 30 Jesus went to the district of Tyre. He entered a house and wanted no one to know about it, but he could not escape notice.

Are there times when I don’t want to be disturbed? How do I respond when I am interrupted?

Action: The next time someone interrupts you when you want to be alone, muster all of your energy and be gracious.

Thought for Wednesday February 8

The mouth of the just murmurs wisdom.

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 mouth of the just murmurs wisdom.

Mark 7: 14 – 23 Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person; but the things that come out from within are what defile…. 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.

What have I done in the last 3 days that might fall into Jesus’ list? Do I have to be evil to have evil thoughts?

Action: If this list reminds you of a particular weakness, come up with a positive action to do whenever you slip.

Thought for Tuesday February 7

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?"

Do I like traditions? Have I developed any traditions of my own?

Action: Adopt a new tradition (for Valentine’s Day, Lent, Spring, President’s Day, etc) to help others.

Thought for Monday February 6

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 Friday February 3

Blessed be God my salvation!

God's way is unerring,

the promise of the LORD is fire-tried;

he is a shield to all who take refuge in him.

Blessed be God my salvation!

Mark 6: 14 – 29 Others were saying, "He is Elijah"; still others, "He is a prophet like any of the prophets."

What was it like to live in a time when God sent prophets every so often to bring us closer to him? What is the advantage of knowing Jesus instead of waiting for another prophet?

Action: If you know a prophet, ask him who is going to win the Super Bowl. Enjoy the weekend.

Thought for Thursday 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: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.”

What is peace? Where do I find peace?

Action: Be the one peaceful person in the midst of bad situations.

Thought for Wednesday February 1

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 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 January 31

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: Help (touch) as many people as possible and if a soft touch doesn’t work, don’t be afraid to whack them a little.

Thought for Monday January 30

Lord, rise up and save me.

But you, O LORD, are my shield;

my glory, you lift up my head!

When I call out to the LORD,

he answers me from his holy mountain.

Lord, rise up and save me.

Mark 5: 1 – 20 “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God?”

What does Jesus have to do with my everyday life? Is it too little or too much?

Action: Write down 3 reasons why Jesus would want to be involved with you, and 3 reasons why you want to be involved with him.

Thought for January 27

Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness;

in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense.

Thoroughly wash me from my guilt

and of my sin cleanse me.

Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

Mark 4: 26 – 34 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.

What things can I think of that started small and grew into something great? Have I ever planted a “mustard seed”?

Action: Plant a small seed – do something good that you think could grow into something great.

Thought for Thursday January 26

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 25

Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.

Praise the Lord, all you nations;

glorify him, all you peoples!

Go out to all the world, and tell the Good News.

Mark 16: 15 – 18 These signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will drive out demons, they will speak new languages. They will pick up serpents with their hands, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not harm them. They will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.

Have I ever done any of these things? Have I ever tried?

Action: Find a way to communicate with someone who seems isolated, be brave enough to deal with some evil head-on, help heal someone who is hurting...

Thought for Tuesday January 24

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?”

Does my relationship with my family help me to be a more faithful, loving and spiritual person? Do I help my family to be more faithful?

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

Thought for Monday January 23

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 20

Have mercy on me, God, have mercy.

Have mercy on me, O God; have mercy on me,

for in you I take refuge.

In the shadow of your wings I take refuge,

till harm pass by.

Have mercy on me, God, have mercy.

Mark 3: 13 – 19 He appointed the Twelve: Simon, whom he named Peter; James, son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James, whom he named Boanerges, that is, sons of thunder; Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus; Thaddeus, Simon the Cananean, and Judas Iscariot who betrayed him.

Would Jesus have wanted me to be one of his posse? Would I have wanted to be one of the twelve?

Action: Do your best to carry out Jesus’ mission like his Apostles have.

Thought for Thursday January 19

In God I trust; I shall not fear.

I am bound, O God, by vows to you;

your thank offerings I will fulfill.

For you have rescued me from death,

my feet, too, from stumbling;

that I may walk before God in the light of the living.

In God I trust; I shall not fear.

Mark 3: 7 – 12 Jesus withdrew toward the sea with his disciples.

What is it about the sea that draws people? What is it about Jesus that draws me to him?

Action: The next time you feel drawn to serve others, worship God, or pray do so with gusto.

Thought for Wednesday January 18

Blessed be the Lord, my Rock!

My refuge and my fortress,

my stronghold, my deliverer,

My shield, in whom I trust,

who subdues my people under me.

Blessed be the Lord, my Rock!

Mark 3: 1 – 6 Then he said to the Pharisees, “Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?” But they remained silent. Looking around at them with anger and grieved at their hardness of heart,

Where does my hardness of heart show itself? Are there sad situations for which I have no compassion?

Action: Take on (volunteer, donate, campaign, support, etc) a new cause; one which you have ignored in the past.

Thought for Tuesday January 17

The Lord will remember his covenant for ever.

I will give thanks to the LORD with all my heart

in 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 16

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 The disciples of John and of the Pharisees were accustomed to fast.

What is the value of following customs? What am I accustomed to doing spiritually?

Action: Accustom yourself to something that helps you express your relationship with God.

Thought for Friday January 13

For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

For you are the splendor of their strength,

and by your favor our horn is exalted.

For to the LORD belongs our shield,

and to the Holy One of Israel, our King.

For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

Mark 2: 1 – 12 When Jesus returned to Capernaum after some days, it became known that he was at home.

What does it mean to be “at home”? Am I “at home” with Jesus?

Action: Enjoy being at home (yours or someone else’s) this weekend.

Thought for Thursday January 12

Redeem us, Lord, because of your mercy.

Yet now you have cast us off and put us in disgrace,

and you go not forth with our armies.

You have let us be driven back by our foes;

those who hated us plundered us at will.

Redeem us, Lord, because of your mercy.

Mark 1: 40 – 45 A leper came to him and kneeling down begged him and said, “If you wish, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand, touched the leper, and said to him, “I do will it. Be made clean.”

Would Jesus have healed this man even if he didn’t pity him? Am I more inclined to help someone for whom I feel pity?

Action: Do something for someone for whom you feel no pity.

Thought for Wednesday January 11

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

I have waited, waited for the LORD,

and he stooped toward me and heard my cry.

Blessed the man who makes the LORD his trust;

who turns not to idolatry

or to those who stray after falsehood.

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

Mark 1: 29 – 39 Simon’s mother-in-law lay sick with a fever. They immediately told him about her. He approached, grasped her hand, and helped her up. Then the fever left her and she waited on them.

Do I ever think that maybe Jesus cured her just so she would fix him dinner? Do I ever do things for people hoping they will do things for me?

Action: Serve somebody today.

Thought for Tuesday January 10

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 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 am I fishing for? Am I catching any?

Action: If you are not having success doing whatever work God has assigned you, consider changing your tactics.

Thought for Monday January 9

You will draw water joyfully from the springs of salvation.

Give thanks to the LORD, acclaim his name;

among the nations make known his deeds,

proclaim how exalted is his name.

You will draw water joyfully from the springs of salvation.

Isaiah 55: 1 – 11 Seek the LORD while he may be found, call him while he is near.

Where do I find God? How often do I seek God?

Action: Look for God somewhere you haven’t seen him before.

Thought for Friday January 6

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.

1 John 5: 5 – 13 Beloved: Who indeed is the victor over the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

Do I feel like a victor over all the world? Do I ever feel like the world has beaten me?

Action: Celebrate your victory, even if you feel like a loser.

Thought for Wednesday January 4

All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of 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 before the LORD.

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

John 1: 35 – 42 Jesus turned and saw them following him and said to them, “What are you looking for?”

Am I looking for anything? Is there something I really don’t want to find?

Action: Resolve to spend some time looking for Jesus in every situation in your life.

Thought for Tuesday January 3

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: 29 – 34 Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God.”

Have I seen enough in my experience of Jesus to testify that he is the Son of God? What else would I like to see?

Action: Testify to what you have seen.

Thought for Monday 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 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.