Day 40 Isaiah 53 Isaiah

Isaiah 53 Isaiah 
(Click the link to get to the passage)

It has been an enjoyable 40 days of Lent, thinking about the lives of men from the bible, and their experience of God. Their adventures, encounters, mistakes and lessons. It is reassuring to know that they didn't have all the answers and were each on a discovery of the character and love of God.

We finish today focusing back onto the person of Jesus - a prophecy written hundreds of years before he was born. Re-read each verse slowly, letting the amazing saving power of Jesus refresh your heart. Thank him for all he did on the cross, all that he beat in his death and resurrection, the gift of his Spirit when he returned to heaven and his individual love for you.

Then prepare for the extraordinary truth of the empty tomb, and rejoice.

Christ is risen. He is risen indeed - Hallelujah!

Grant, Lord,
that we who are baptized into the death
      of your Son our Saviour Jesus Christ
may continually put to death our evil desires
      and be buried with him; 
and that through the grave and gate of death
we may pass to our joyful resurrection;
through his merits,
who died and was buried and rose again for us,
your Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

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Day 39 Mark 15 Jesus Death

Mark 15 Jesus Death 
(Click the link to get to the passage)

The death of Jesus should never cease to shock us. We should have tears in our eyes when we read of Jesus beaten, betrayed, crucified and dead. As the disciples watched they saw their Lord and Saviour hanging from the cross. Where would we have been? Probably in the same crowd that shouted "Hosanna!" the week before, then "Crucify Him!" outside Pilate's building.

Take a moment today to contemplate Jesus' words from the cross: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Think about what Jesus went through - the separation from his Father - to restore the relationship between us and God. "Yet not my will but yours be done". And then be thankful. So very thankful.

Almighty Father,
look with mercy on this your family
for which our Lord Jesus Christ was content to be betrayed
      and given up into the hands of sinners
      and to suffer death upon the cross;
who is alive and glorified with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.

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Day 38 Acts 7 Stephen

Acts 7 Stephen 
(Click the link to get to the passage)

Stephen's response to being on the brink of being stoned to death is breathtaking. He preaches a sermon more inspiring and eloquent when faced with his own death than most of us could with hours of planning. His understanding of the scriptures shines through, and his conviction about the truth of Jesus is undeniable. His vision of Jesus standing in Heaven bears witness to his relationship with Jesus and the reality of his faith. That he can face his death whilst asking Jesus to forgive them shouts of his ability to lay all at the feet of his saviour.

The likelihood is that we will not face martyrdom. The fact that others do should remind is to pray about those areas of the world. But the story of Stephen goes one step further: it paves the way for us to see the amazing transformation of the life of Saul, persecuting the Christians but brought to faith by an encounter with the risen Jesus.

Almighty and everlasting God,

who in your tender love towards the human race
      sent your Son our Saviour Jesus Christ
to take upon him our flesh
and to suffer death upon the cross:
grant that we may follow the example of his patience and humility,
and also be made partakers of his resurrection;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

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Day 37 Ezekiel 3:16-27 Ezekiel

Ezekiel 3:16-27 Ezekiel  (Click the link to get to the passage)

Ezekiel has a challenge from The Lord to share what he is told - to challenge people about what they are doing that is sinful in God's eyes. This is always an uncomfortable thing, knowing that God is challenging us to challenge another person. But the motivation is clear to see - the saving of another. 

It is also difficult to be on the receiving end of such a challenge. Our heckles rise and pride can kick in. Wise council from Godly friends is however priceless. Take time today to pray for people you know who are away from the will of God. And also ask Him to point out to us where we are too. Consider asking a friend to keep you accountable. 

Almighty and everlasting God,
who in your tender love towards the human race
      sent your Son our Saviour Jesus Christ
to take upon him our flesh
and to suffer death upon the cross:
grant that we may follow the example of his patience and humility,
and also be made partakers of his resurrection;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

http://www.churchofengland.org/   

Day 36 Genesis 6 v 9-22 Noah

Genesis 6 v 9-22 Noah    (Click the link to get to the passage)

It is timely to re-read the story of Noah, especially as the film has recently been released - stretching the biblical story to Hollywood limits. Some would even say beyond truth. 

This year a lot of people in the UK have struggled with weather conditions never seen in our generation. Whilst others in the world struggle with similar conditions on a daily basis. Scientists from all corners of the globe make the link back to human behaviour and how we are not caring for our planet as we could or should. 

Take time today to pray for those who suffer as a result of the climate. Also pray for the efforts of governments and advisors working to put in place strategies to cope. But don't forget our individual responsibility to monitor our impact on the world we live in. 

Almighty and everlasting God,
who in your tender love towards the human race
      sent your Son our Saviour Jesus Christ
to take upon him our flesh
and to suffer death upon the cross:
grant that we may follow the example of his patience and humility,
and also be made partakers of his resurrection;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

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Day 35 Ruth 2 v 1-23 Boaz

Ruth 2 v 1-23 Boaz    (Click the link to get to the passage)

The story of Ruth and Boaz is a moving combination of a man who cares for his family, but also who falls in love with a woman that he marries and takes care of. This is matched by the loyalty and dedication of Ruth to her mother-in-law and her willingness to follow her and care for her into a different country. Through the grief of lost loved ones, happiness is rediscovered.

Take time today to think about those who have lost loved ones. This could be people we know, friends or family. But it could also be more removed, for people we do not know at all. There are many places in the world we can pray for where children have lost parents, where parents have lost children. War, famine, terror. Lift them to God and ask for his peace, love and provision at this time. 

Almighty and everlasting God,
who in your tender love towards the human race
      sent your Son our Saviour Jesus Christ
to take upon him our flesh
and to suffer death upon the cross:
grant that we may follow the example of his patience and humility,
and also be made partakers of his resurrection;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

http://www.churchofengland.org/

Day 34 Mark 1 v 1-13 John the Baptist

Mark 1 v 1-13 John the Baptist 
(Click the link to get to the passage)

What an amazing privilege it must have been to be able to pave the way for The Lord Jesus. To be the voice in the wilderness, to prepare the way for the coming Messiah. The one who had kicked in his mother's womb when his cousin came near was now meeting him at the beginning of his ministry. How his heart must have burned in his chest as he heard the words from heaven, "you are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased," and saw the Holy Spirit descending like a dove. John would fade and end up in prison as Jesus would move to centre stage. He would ultimately be killed for standing up for what was right.

John is an inspiration in his dedication to God. Pray today that we would have the tenacity to stand up for what is right and to continually point others to Jesus. May we never take the glory that belongs to him.

Most merciful God,
who by the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ
delivered and saved the world:
grant that by faith in him who suffered on the cross
we may triumph in the power of his victory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

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Day 33 Genesis 22 v 1-19 Abraham Sacrificing Isaac

Genesis 22 v 1-19 Abraham Sacrificing Isaac 
(Click the link to get to the passage)

The parallels with this story and Jesus are striking. God providing the sacrificial lamb, being wiling to sacrifice his only son, on the hill that would end up being just outside Jerusalem. It is inspiring to see Abraham's faith, and mind-boggling how far he would follow the voice of The Lord. He believed in the promise he had received and was willing to raise the knife on his son. As far as Abraham was concerned, his son was as good as dead, until God stepped in to stop him.

What would we be willing to sacrifice for Jesus? Take time to think honestly about what we would give up if Jesus asked us to. Our home? Our work? Our safety? We in the UK enjoy relative safety in our faith, but it isn't far from home that others do not. Let Jesus remind you of what he gave up for you and challenge you about how seriously you really take your faith and trust in him.

Most merciful God,
who by the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ
delivered and saved the world:
grant that by faith in him who suffered on the cross
we may triumph in the power of his victory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

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Day 32 Genesis 28 v 10-22 Jacob's Dream

Genesis 28 v 10-22 Jacob's Dream 
(Click the link to get to the passage)

Jacob is a man who had his character flaws. He suffered with feelings of inadequacy because his Father loved his brother Esau more than him, he was a deceiver (the literal meaning of his name) and cheated his brother out of his birthright – his father’s blessing. Jacob then has to flee and leave his family in fear of his life. Jacob is on that journey when he stops for the night. There he has an encounter with God which shapes his life and destiny as God reaffirms his promise of blessing and the promise of the land on which he is sleeping to his descendants.

All of us struggle with our own character flaws just as Jacob did. But God didn’t wait until they were all sorted before encountering him or speaking his words of promise and destiny over him. Of course, he didn’t let him stay in that place of flawed character but it didn’t stop God from using him whilst the Lord was working on his character.

God doesn’t wait until we’re perfect to use us. He doesn’t wait until we’re perfect to bless us or call us into our destiny. Take time today to thank Jesus for his grace and love for you. Give him space to meet with you today and allow him to reaffirm his blessing and calling on your life.

Most merciful God,
who by the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ
delivered and saved the world:
grant that by faith in him who suffered on the cross
we may triumph in the power of his victory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

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Day 31 Genesis 4 v 1-26 Cain and Abel

Genesis 4 v 1-26 Cain and Abel 
(Click the link to get to the passage)

Jealousy is a powerful emotion that can drive a man to all sorts of extremes of behaviour. For Cain it was a step further, being jealous of what he believed God had done for his brother and not for him. It is interesting to notice that Abel had given from the first-born of the flock, whereas Cain just brought some. Abel had given of the best, Cain gave what he could spare.

We must be on our guard not to look enviously at the spirituality of others, and our perception of what God has done for them. We must focus on our own relationship with Jesus, seeking to take the plank out of our own eye rather than being jealous of what we think are the blessings of others. God knows us all individually and loves us for who we are. He blesses all of his children with good things.

Spend time today thanking Jesus for what he did for you on the cross, and all that he has blessed you with spiritually and materially. Ask him to purify your attitude to what you have and how you use it. If you experience jealousy today, don’t let it take root in your heart, instead fight against it by pray for an even greater blessing from God upon the person you are jealous about.

Most merciful God,
who by the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ
delivered and saved the world:
grant that by faith in him who suffered on the cross
we may triumph in the power of his victory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

http://www.churchofengland.org/

Day 30 Matthew 1 v 18-25 Joseph, Jesus' father

Matthew 1 v 18-25 Joseph, Jesus' father 
(Click the link to get to the passage)

Joseph's part in the Gospel narrative is quite small in terms of verses written about him. We often forget that he was the earthly father figure in Jesus' life as he grew up. We don't even know how long he was around for, with there being no mention of him in Jesus' ministry years. However we do know he was with Jesus when he was 12. Being a godly father is a vital role. The importance of strong and loving fathers in the life of a child cannot be over-rated.

If you are a father, lay before Jesus your strengths and weaknesses. Confess your failings and rejoice in your successes. Ask him to challenge the parts of your fatherhood that is not what he would want of you and to affirm your strengths. Be prepared to hear the answer; he might surprise you!

If you are not a father, pray for those you know who are. Ask that they may fulfil their calling to be a strong Christian father with their children. 

Most merciful God,
who by the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ
delivered and saved the world:
grant that by faith in him who suffered on the cross
we may triumph in the power of his victory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

http://www.churchofengland.org/

Day 29 Acts 8 v 26-40 Philip and the Ethiopian

Acts 8 v 26-40 Philip and the Ethiopian   
(Click the link to get to the passage)

Evangelism is a well written about and often discussed topic. It can fill us with joy when someone becomes a Christian, and fill us with guilt if we feel we don't share our faith often enough. For Philip, the process was two-fold. He responded to what God wanted him to do and spoke to the Ethiopian. Then, equally importantly, started from where the man was questioning and guided him to the person of Jesus. The speed of the man's conversion is striking, as is the provision of God bringing the right person into his life at the right time.

Take time today to think about the people you know who do not know Jesus. Pray for them, and that they will move forwards in their discovery of who he is. But then also have the courage to pray for Jesus to show you the part you have to play in their journey to faith - and be ready for him to answer that prayer. 

Most merciful God,
who by the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ
delivered and saved the world:
grant that by faith in him who suffered on the cross
we may triumph in the power of his victory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

http://www.churchofengland.org/

Day 28 Job 42 v 1-17 Job

Job 42 v 1-17 Job   
(Click the link to get to the passage)

The book of Job is never easy to understand; the question of why it happens to him is never answered. Job never buckles in his belief and trust in God, even through the unhelpful contributions of his friends. It is inspiring and challenging to see that for Job, the presence of God was enough. In the face of God, his questions faded in the wonder of his Lord. "My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you. Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes.”

When we face situations that make us ask where God is, it is refreshing to read of Job who lost everything yet remained faithful to God. Sometimes we will never get an answer to "why...?" - but need to rest in the presence of God as our solace.

Whatever your situation today, take time to rest in God. Maybe a moment during lunch break, or in the car on the way home. Allow your questions to fade as you enjoy for a moment the empowering presence of God speaking loudly in your consciousness. Whatever you are facing take time today to renew your trust in the Lord and, through that, to know his peace.

Merciful Lord,
absolve your people from their offences,
that through your bountiful goodness
we may all be delivered from the chains of those sins
which by our frailty we have committed;
grant this, heavenly Father,
for Jesus Christ's sake, our blessed Lord and Saviour.

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Day 27 Luke 1 v 5-25; 57-80 Zechariah and the Birth of John the Baptist

Luke 1 v 5-25 Luke 1 57-80 Zechariah   
(Click the links to get to the passages)

Even though Zechariah was a priest of The Lord, who loved him and followed him blamelessly, he was gripped with fear when the angel of The Lord appeared. The opening words are reflected many times across the Bible - "do not be afraid". The angel then continues to explain the amazing news he brings, and that the path for the Saviour was being laid in place.

When we find ourselves powerfully in the presence of God, if our response is fear we are in good company. But hear again the words of the angel - and of Jesus himself: "Do not be afraid". However, be careful that our response is not unbelieving like that of Zechariah. He had been praying for what the angel had come to announce ("your prayer has been heard" - v13), but then asked for reassurance when the answer came. Let us be persistent in our prayers, but also quick to rejoice when the answers come. 

Merciful Lord,
absolve your people from their offences,
that through your bountiful goodness
we may all be delivered from the chains of those sins
which by our frailty we have committed;
grant this, heavenly Father,
for Jesus Christ's sake, our blessed Lord and Saviour.

http://www.churchofengland.org/

Day 26 1 Kings 21 v 1-29 Naboth's Vineyard

1 Kings 21 v 1-29 Naboth's Vineyard 
(Click the link to get to the passage)

There is much evil in the world. Each day as we watch the news, we are reminded all too graphically of what happens in the darkness. Sin leads to death, suffering, hurt and destruction. Today's reading shows how the selfishness and greed of those in authority lead to the scheming and murder of an innocent man.

When we watch the news today, what is our response? Is it to shake our heads and mutter how awful it all is? Or do we pray for God's protection of the weak, his presence and peace near those who suffer, and strength for those whose lives are affected so profoundly? Choose to watch or listen to the news today, and pray for what is presented as the Holy Spirit guides you.

Merciful Lord,
absolve your people from their offences,
that through your bountiful goodness
we may all be delivered from the chains of those sins
which by our frailty we have committed;
grant this, heavenly Father,
for Jesus Christ's sake, our blessed Lord and Saviour.

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Day 25 Nehemiah 2 v 1-8 Nehemiah before king

Nehemiah 2 v 1-8 Nehemiah before king
(Click the link to get to the passage)

So often people worry about how on earth they will be able to do or achieve the things that God has for them to do. At the beginning the questions pile in - money, time, resources, strength. Nehemiah accepts the call of God to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, and then prepares to meet the King. The phrase, "I was very much afraid" at the end of v2 screams of the risk he was taking, combined with "Then I prayed to the God of heaven, and I answered the king". Then slowly but surely the plan falls into place. Step by step the resources, people power and permission arrive, meaning Nehemiah can oversee the rebuilding of the walls.

Do we really trust that God has the big picture in his hands? Take time today to reflect on the past, and identify times that we have been walking in line with Jesus, and recognise that he has been putting the pieces in place. Rejoice that we serve an active and loving God who really does work for the good of those who love him. Allow the testimony of how God has worked in the past to encourage you today as you look forward to all that God has promised to do in your life and the tasks he has given you to do.

Merciful Lord,
absolve your people from their offences,
that through your bountiful goodness
we may all be delivered from the chains of those sins
which by our frailty we have committed;
grant this, heavenly Father,
for Jesus Christ's sake, our blessed Lord and Saviour.

http://www.churchofengland.org/

Day 24 1 Samuel 3 v 1-21 The Calling of Samuel

1 Samuel 3 v 1-21 The Calling of Samuel 
(Click the link to get to the passage)

Do we hear the call of God? The voice of our Lord that speaks out our name, waiting for us to hear. Verse 7 says, "Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD" - it was the first time he had heard the Lord call his name. But once it was pointed out to him that this was the voice of God, Samuel responded, listened and did amazing things for his Lord.

Do we recognise the voice of God in our lives, when we read the Bible, when we pray, when we live moment by moment with Jesus by our side? In the bustle, busy-ness, relentless noise of our world and life, do we miss the small call of our name, the Holy Spirit nudging at our heart to listen to him? Listen carefully today - you might be missing the most important thing because of the crowding in of all that clamours for our attention.

Merciful Lord,
absolve your people from their offences,
that through your bountiful goodness
we may all be delivered from the chains of those sins
which by our frailty we have committed;
grant this, heavenly Father,
for Jesus Christ's sake, our blessed Lord and Saviour.

http://www.churchofengland.org/