The Challenge--Day 16

Today's Scripture:  Matthew 11:20-12:8
(Click on the link to read today's verses.)

"Yoke" is a common metaphor for the Torah (the written law in Jesus' time). It seems the religious leaders had taken the Torah and created a yoke so heavy none could carry its weight. This is not Jesus' way. His yoke is easy... his burden light.

Do you consider the way of Jesus easy, the burden light? What makes it heavy for you? Ask Jesus to show you how it might become easy and light.

Lord, help me to remember that if my work for You feels like a burden,

then maybe it's not Your work. You say we learn by being under Your yoke,

let me not be deceived by legalism and tradition. 

Show me when I have laid Your yoke down for another's.

Keep me next to You.

The Challenge--Day 15

Today's Scripture:  Matthew 11:1-19
(Click on the link to read the scripture.)

"Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?" they asked. John was not quite sure this man was the one. There are times we might feel the same way...ask the same question.

Are you the one? Is this really you? You want me to do WHAT? And like John we wonder if it might be easier to wait. And then, how long do we wait, on what are we waiting?

Is it possible you are waiting when you already know the answer? 

Lord, You know my heart better than I do.

Where am I hesitant to believe and act on what I know to be true?

Bless me with the faith to fully trust You.

The Challenge--Day 14

Today's Scripture:  Matthew 10:16-42
(Click the link to read the scripture.)

This scripture reminds me of opposite day. I heard it called "The Upside Down Kingdom" once. Jesus reminding us that he did not come to bring peace but a sword. We must lose our life to find it.

What would be the toughest thing to give up about your life? Loved ones...creature comforts... money? Are you willing to lay it down for Christ?

Help me, Father, to see the world as You see it.

Help me to know what is real and what's temporary,

what to hold on to and what to let go.

Teach me to live as Jesus.

The Challenge--Day 13

Today's Scripture:  Matthew 9:27-10:15
(Click on the link to read the today's verses.)

"When he saw the crowds he had compassion on them...". I love this. Jesus' heart stirred up for the harassed and the helpless. 

What are you feeling harassed or helpless about lately?

Spend a few moments imagining Jesus' heart stirred up for you. What words of encouragement is he giving you?

Lord, I praise You for Your compassion and mercy.

Thank You for being concerned for me.

Sabbath Challenge--Day 12

Today's Scripture:  Matthew 9:1-26

Today we practice the discipline of Lectio Devina once again. Taking a little more time than usual to consider God's word. You can read the scriptures by clicking on the link above, but you might want the book in your hand today. 

Take time to read the scripture through at least twice... maybe three times.

What portion or word seems to be sticking out to you in this passage?

Pray this simple question... "Lord, what are you saying to me?"

Now rest... rest in the knowledge that God is revealing his will and way through his word.

Father God, Your Word is a lamp to my feet

and a light to my path. Bless me with the light of understanding,

that I may follow Your Way.