Learning from John the Baptist
Read: Luke 11:1-4 Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples. (v. 1) When you and I read the Bible, we can learn from and admire biblical characters, but God is always the hero. You and I, like each biblical character, are imperfect and sinful by nature. Over the past two weeks, we have […]
Faithful to the End
Read: Matthew 14:1-14 His disciples came and took the body and buried it, and they went and told Jesus. (v. 12) Can you think of something in this sin-tainted world that breaks your heart and makes you wonder, How can this be? I lament when human trafficking, sexual immorality, injustice, racism, poverty, war, crime, and abuse […]
Public Affirmation
Read: Luke 7:24-28 I tell you, among those born of women none is greater than John. (v. 28) Can you think of a time when you were hurting and feeling low, and someone was there to support you? Perhaps there was a time when you were picked on and someone stood up for you, a moment […]
A Moment of Doubt
Read: Luke 7:18-23 And John, calling two of his disciples to him, sent them to the Lord, saying, “Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?” (vv. 18-19) Have you experienced a time when your faith wavered? Perhaps you experienced the loss of a loved one, a health issue, a […]
Increase and Decrease
Read: John 3:22-36 He must increase, but I must decrease. (v. 30) We live in a competitive culture. Each person is encouraged to advance, grow wealthier, increase in popularity, and gain followers. While many put self ahead of others, it’s refreshing to see someone applaud the accomplishments and achievements of someone else. That’s what we see […]
Pointing to the Lamb
Read: John 1:29-42 The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (v. 29) Do you have a title? Maybe a job title or profession, or maybe a role: son or daughter, dad or mom, grandparent, spouse, friend, co-worker, neighbor, or […]
A Witness to the Light
Read: John 1:1-18 He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. (v. 7) Light is a blessing. From campfires to oil lamps to electrical lightbulbs and sunlight; light helps people see, work, and find their way. Consider how natural light blesses your day and how artificial light […]
Faith in Action
Read: Luke 3:9-14 Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. (v. 9) For those in the United States, today is Thanksgiving Day. Whether you have much or little, you have something to be thankful for. You are alive. God offers you hope. I trust that you […]
Heaven Was Opened
Read: Matthew 3:13-17 The heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him. (v. 16) Before a popular star takes the stage, there’s usually an opening act. An up-and-coming talent warms up the crowd. Then, with lights and fanfare, the main performer enters […]