January 18, 2014

Morning devotions from Matthew 12:

Jesus’ public ministry continues to be revealed. There are sabbath questions raised against him as his disciples pluck grain and as he heals a man’s withered hand. He quotes scriptures to those who question his actions. From Isaiah he quotes “a battered reed he will not break off, and a smoldering wick he will not put out, until he leads justice to victory, and in his name the gentiles will hope.” (Isaiah 42:3)

Some of the scribes and Pharisees wanted to see a sign, which elicited his response “an evil and adulterous generation craves for a sign; and yet no sign shall be given to it but the sign of Jonah the prophet.”  He goes on to say that like Jonah, the son of man shall spend three days and three nights in the heart of the earth, and that the men of Nineveh shall rise up and condemn this generation at the judgment, because they repented at Jonah’s preaching, and one greater than Jonah has come among them. 

This chapter finishes with the account of Jesus’ mother and siblings wanting to speak to him, and he responds that his disciples are his mother and brothers. He states “for whoever does the will of my father who is in heaven, he is my brother and sister and mother.” (Matthew 12:50)

Guide me today, most Holy Lord as one of your disciples in Springfield who proclaims your kingdom, lifts you up in this generation, and who is doing the will of our father in heaven. Thank you for inviting me to be one of your brothers, and today I will do everything to honor and glorify you. 

Last night Audrey and I saw “Hello Dolly” at Juanita K. Hammonds – it was delightful. Sally Struthers played Dolly and she was engaging and funny. We had seen this musical at the Muny in St. Louis decades ago, and last night was one of the most enjoyable theatrical experiences I have had. We must have seen at least a dozen members of Wesley at this performance. 

Today Pastor Mi Hyeon and I lead the second membership orientation at St. Paul. We had a good first session on Wednesday afternoon. Upward is in full gear and I will stop by the gym to encourage this ministry.  I will visit two members at Elfindale and call on the hospitals to pray with our folks who are there. I will continue to work on my sermon on Frenemies and finalize the College Age Ministry Grant application due at the conference office this week.