Saturday, February 1 – Human 2.0 – Life-giving water...

To prepare for worship tomorrow, read ahead through the fourth chapter of the gospel of John.  Jesus reveals more truth about who he is and gives a surprising offer to an undeserving person.

Read the whole chapter and answer the following questions:

1)  What word, phrase or image lingers in my thoughts?

2)  Where/How does this chapter connect with my life?

3)  What does God want me to do or be in response to his Word?

Friday, January 31 – Strive! ...for justice and peace

And to strive for justice and peace in all the earth. -- (Baptismal covenant, part 5 of 5)

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. ¹⁵ Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. ¹⁶ Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. ¹⁷ Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. ¹⁸ If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. ¹⁹ Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." ²⁰ No, "if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads." ²¹ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.  
                                                                                      –Romans 12:14-21 (NRSV)

Read carefully and prayerfully the passage above from Romans.  Is that realistic for the ‘real’ world we live in?  How does that apply to the economy and health care reform?  How does that apply to the wars in Afghanistan and Syria and the issues in Egypt and Israel/Palestine?

Talk to God about “justice” and “peace.”  How does God want you to contribute to God’s ongoing efforts to bring about both “on earth, as in heaven”?

Thursday, January 30 – Human 2.0 simply serves

To serve all people, following the example of Jesus…
                                   (Baptismal covenant, part 4 of 5)

So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. ¹⁵ For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. –John 13:14-15 (NRSV)

“In all this I have given you an example that by such work we must support the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, for he himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"
                    –Paul speaking to the Ephesians in Acts 20:35 (NRSV)

Simple things…everyday tasks…humble actions…these are the things that Jesus calls us to.  Every once in a while we may be called upon to do something ‘big’ or heroic, but most days it’s the simple things that make up our serving.  They are things that don’t get much notice… except by those for whom they are done, for those who need them. 

“We can do no great things, only small things with great love.”
                                                                               –Mother Theresa

Talk to God about the “small things” that you are called to do.

Wednesday, January 29 – Telling HIStory...and mine

To proclaim the good news of God in Christ through word and deed…                                                          (Baptismal Covenant, part 3 of 5)

For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him. ¹³ For, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved." ¹⁴ But how are they to call on one in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? ¹⁵ And how are they to proclaim him unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"   –Romans 10:12-15 (NRSV)

What has God done in your life?  What is God doing in your life?  You have a wonderful “God story” to tell.  It can be told through your words and your actions.  Tell it without hesitation or apology.  Share what you know and have experienced.  It may be just what some need to hear.  … then invite them to join you at Joyful Servant.

Talk to God about the story of your relationship.  Ask for help in telling it…through both word and deed.

Tuesday, January 28 – Keeping Connected to Truth

To hear the word of God and share in the Lord’s supper… (Baptismal Covenant, part 2 of 5)

"If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; ³² and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free."      –John 8:31-32 (NRSV)

In order for any relationship to grow, or even stay current, both parties need to be attentive and receptive to the other.  People who love and care for each other, talk, listen, and ‘feed’ one another regularly.  What kind of daily/weekly rhythm of communion with God do you have?

Talk to God about how your relationship is going.  Is there a desire with either partner to go deeper?  How can that happen?