Matthew 15:32-39
But Jesus wasn’t finished with
them. He called his disciples and said, “I hurt for these people. For
three days now they’ve been with me, and now they have nothing to eat. I
can’t send them away without a meal—they’d probably collapse on the
road.”
His disciples said, “But where in this deserted place are you going to dig up enough food for a meal?”
Jesus asked, “How much bread do you have?”
“Seven
loaves,” they said, “plus a few fish.” At that, Jesus directed the
people to sit down. He took the seven loaves and the fish. After giving
thanks, he divided it up and gave it to the people. Everyone ate. They
had all they wanted. It took seven large baskets to collect the
leftovers. Over four thousand people ate their fill at that meal. After
Jesus sent them away, he climbed in the boat and crossed over to the
Magadan hills.
Scripture
quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002
by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs,
CO. All rights reserved.
After
the Arkansas Razorbacks defeated Alcorn State on October 1st, Coach
Bret Bielema settled in to revel in the victory with his wife, Jen. The
relaxation and celebration were short-lived. While dining out, the
Bielemas received a call from Marty Ragnow, mother of Frank Ragnow, an
offensive lineman for the Razorbacks. Frank Ragnow’s 50-year-old
father, Jon, had suffered a heart attack and died…and Marty wanted Coach
Bielema to be with Frank when she delivered the news.
Bret
Bielema found Frank Ragnow and sat with him as he took the devastating
call from his mother. And then Bret and Jen Bielema arranged for a
flight to Minnesota for Frank Ragnow to return to his family – and they
went along. The Bielemas did not have to do this. Surely they had
other things on their agenda. But Bret Bielema understood how important
this was…because teammates had crammed into a van to accompany him home
from Iowa when his sister, Betsy, died. Bret Bielema had subsequently
traveled with other players to the homes of their grieving families when
tragedy struck. While this might seem like “more than enough”…Bielema
knows that it is simply the right thing to do.
There is a lesson
here for us as Christians. When is it “more than enough”…and what does
this really mean? Jesus knew that the people who had followed Him were
not just hungry – they were famished. They had gone without food for
three days. So Jesus did what He could…He took the seven loaves and a
few fish, gave thanks to God, and started to feed the people. And in
the end, there was more than enough food for everyone.
Didn't
Jesus do the math? Why didn’t the rations come out exactly even? After
all, we’re talking about the Son of GOD here! To me, there are two
points to this “excess.” 1)God is showing us that He can do abundantly
and exceedingly above all that we ask for or anticipate; and 2)Jesus
seems to be demonstrating that we should go the extra mile…do all we can
and trust God BIG for miracles and blessings – so big that we end up
with more than enough. We should go above and beyond and over the top -
and never offer just what is “adequate.”
It would have been
“adequate” for Bret Bielema to sit with Frank Ragnow, hug his neck, and
maybe arrange for a flight home. But not only did Bret Bielema do more
by physically traveling to Minnesota with this young man…his wife, Jen,
went along, too! How often do we drop what we are doing to meet the needs of someone else?
Surely
Jesus was tired that day at Lake Galilee. I have no doubt that He was
weary from teaching, healing and traveling. But Jesus stopped to show
love and concern for His people and their profound hunger…and then He
FED them!
Are we feeding the people in our midst? Are we ready
and willing to drop everything and minister to someone else? Will we
faithfully look in the basket of seven loaves and a few fish and believe
that we can meet the needs of more than 4000 people – and have “more
than enough” left over?
Will we serve God above and beyond our
ability and what seems to be the obvious disconnect – and deliver “more
than enough?” Don’t you think we should?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 4, 2016
Matthew 15:1-9
After that, Pharisees and religion scholars came to Jesus all the way from Jerusalem, criticizing, “Why do your disciples play fast and loose with the rules?”
But Jesus put it right back on them. “Why do you use your rules to play fast and loose with God’s commands? God clearly says, ‘Respect your father and mother,’ and, ‘Anyone denouncing father or mother should be killed.’ But you weasel around that by saying, ‘Whoever wants to, can say to father and mother, What I owed to you I’ve given to God.’ That can hardly be called respecting a parent. You cancel God’s command by your rules. Frauds! Isaiah’s prophecy of you hit the bull’s-eye:
These people make a big show of saying the right thing,
but their heart isn’t in it.
They act like they’re worshiping me,
but they don’t mean it.
They just use me as a cover
for teaching whatever suits their fancy.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Jesus’ quote of Isaiah’s prophecy really says it all. Too many of us are using our Christian faith as a cover for teaching, saying and doing whatever suits our fancy. We claim to know and love Jesus…that we strive to serve Him daily. But our feet barely hit the floor in the morning before we are judging and criticizing others.
We may smile at those we encounter in public and “play nice.” But behind somewhat gritted teeth, we are labeling them based on their race, ethnic background, socio-economic level, sexual orientation, political affiliation…weight, height, hair color…their church denomination – or even their apparent lack of association with a particular church.
We make snap judgments – often based on appearances, one or two comments, or a brief encounter. Worse yet, we form opinions based on gossip from another “Christian” friend. We make up our minds almost instantly about how we feel toward a particular person or situation. And then we adjust the cross around our neck and get in our car with the bumper sticker that says, “Honk if you love Jesus” - and we move on with our day.
Many of us seem to have no problem criticizing and discriminating against certain people or groups while claiming to serve a Savior who commanded us to “Love others as well as you love yourself.” We say we serve a God who sent His Son to save the whole world and all who inhabit it…and then we act as if Jesus came exclusively for a hand-picked few (that includes us, of course!). This needs to stop!
Some of us are so busy twisting the “rules” to suit our own agendas that our “version” of Christian faith in no way reflects what Jesus commanded. And yet, we claim we are His servants and desire to do the will of God in all things. It’s time to realize that our efforts to manipulate God’s commands to fit our desires not only look ridiculous – they break His heart.
Being authentic in our faith and discipleship takes work – and a lot of conscious effort. But we can do better – and we must. Are you ready to “play by God’s rules?” Isn’t it time you were?
©2016 Debbie Robus
After that, Pharisees and religion scholars came to Jesus all the way from Jerusalem, criticizing, “Why do your disciples play fast and loose with the rules?”
But Jesus put it right back on them. “Why do you use your rules to play fast and loose with God’s commands? God clearly says, ‘Respect your father and mother,’ and, ‘Anyone denouncing father or mother should be killed.’ But you weasel around that by saying, ‘Whoever wants to, can say to father and mother, What I owed to you I’ve given to God.’ That can hardly be called respecting a parent. You cancel God’s command by your rules. Frauds! Isaiah’s prophecy of you hit the bull’s-eye:
These people make a big show of saying the right thing,
but their heart isn’t in it.
They act like they’re worshiping me,
but they don’t mean it.
They just use me as a cover
for teaching whatever suits their fancy.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Jesus’ quote of Isaiah’s prophecy really says it all. Too many of us are using our Christian faith as a cover for teaching, saying and doing whatever suits our fancy. We claim to know and love Jesus…that we strive to serve Him daily. But our feet barely hit the floor in the morning before we are judging and criticizing others.
We may smile at those we encounter in public and “play nice.” But behind somewhat gritted teeth, we are labeling them based on their race, ethnic background, socio-economic level, sexual orientation, political affiliation…weight, height, hair color…their church denomination – or even their apparent lack of association with a particular church.
We make snap judgments – often based on appearances, one or two comments, or a brief encounter. Worse yet, we form opinions based on gossip from another “Christian” friend. We make up our minds almost instantly about how we feel toward a particular person or situation. And then we adjust the cross around our neck and get in our car with the bumper sticker that says, “Honk if you love Jesus” - and we move on with our day.
Many of us seem to have no problem criticizing and discriminating against certain people or groups while claiming to serve a Savior who commanded us to “Love others as well as you love yourself.” We say we serve a God who sent His Son to save the whole world and all who inhabit it…and then we act as if Jesus came exclusively for a hand-picked few (that includes us, of course!). This needs to stop!
Some of us are so busy twisting the “rules” to suit our own agendas that our “version” of Christian faith in no way reflects what Jesus commanded. And yet, we claim we are His servants and desire to do the will of God in all things. It’s time to realize that our efforts to manipulate God’s commands to fit our desires not only look ridiculous – they break His heart.
Being authentic in our faith and discipleship takes work – and a lot of conscious effort. But we can do better – and we must. Are you ready to “play by God’s rules?” Isn’t it time you were?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 3, 2016
October 3 ~ Matthew 11:10-11
For John is the man mentioned in the Scriptures—a messenger to precede me, to announce my coming, and prepare people to receive me.
“Truly, of all men ever born, none shines more brightly than John the Baptist. And yet, even the lesser lights in the Kingdom of Heaven will be greater than he is!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
We seem to be wired to be “awestruck” by people who have public recognition…across all platforms. And while I do not mean any disrespect, they are truly just regular folk like you and me. I appreciate the work that people like Billy Graham, Mother Teresa, and Pope Francis have done to further God’s kingdom. But I also know some ordinary, everyday people who are quietly doing incredible work every single day to disciple and minister to others in the name of Jesus.
My own grandmother was about as plain and simple as they come. She didn’t live in a fancy house…she drove an Army-green 1965 Chevy Impala that resembled a tank. She made most of her own clothing and did not have expensive jewelry – or anything else of much monetary value. But she was ready and willing to share everything she had with others. Her first question to a stranger was usually, “Where do y’all go to church?” And quite often, she followed that with an invitation to join her for a meal.
My grandmother was not perfect. She could spit out some real zingers from time to time…and her opinions had little to no filter. You knew where you stood with her at all times. She could give you life advice as quickly and easily as she told you how to give your heart to Jesus and get to heaven! And I honestly believe that her “mansion” there is probably bigger than many…certainly as fine as that of many “women of the Bible” – and the likes of Mother Teresa and John Wesley! She continually heralded Jesus to any and all she met, through word and deed.
What does this all mean for us? You and I are just as precious and important to Jesus as John the Baptist…maybe even more! I don’t mean that to sound arrogant or disrespectful…but God sent John to herald Jesus’ coming. John was physically WITH Jesus…he saw firsthand who Jesus was – and why God sent Him. You and I do not have that luxury…yet we have our own missions to accomplish based on sheer faith. And as we obediently do so, we are building “equity” in our heavenly mansion.
Every word we speak…every gesture of kindness…every time we speak the name of Jesus to another – or demonstrate His power, strength, love, grace, kindness, mercy, compassion and forgiveness to someone – we are ensuring that our light will shine brightly in Heaven. God notes all that we do…nothing is wasted. As anointed and redeemed believers in Jesus, the “bad” is forgiven and scattered “as far as East is from West”…and the “good” things are noted for all Eternity.
It’s not about who we are…what matters is WHOSE we are – and how we share Jesus with others. At my grandmother’s funeral, I stated that I learned a LOT from her in our 56 years together. SHE is my role model for ministering to others in Jesus’ name…and I hope that someday, we are “next-door-neighbors” in heaven…right down the street from John the Baptist! My prayer is that your house would be in our “neighborhood,” too. Will we see you there?
©2016 Debbie Robus
For John is the man mentioned in the Scriptures—a messenger to precede me, to announce my coming, and prepare people to receive me.
“Truly, of all men ever born, none shines more brightly than John the Baptist. And yet, even the lesser lights in the Kingdom of Heaven will be greater than he is!
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
We seem to be wired to be “awestruck” by people who have public recognition…across all platforms. And while I do not mean any disrespect, they are truly just regular folk like you and me. I appreciate the work that people like Billy Graham, Mother Teresa, and Pope Francis have done to further God’s kingdom. But I also know some ordinary, everyday people who are quietly doing incredible work every single day to disciple and minister to others in the name of Jesus.
My own grandmother was about as plain and simple as they come. She didn’t live in a fancy house…she drove an Army-green 1965 Chevy Impala that resembled a tank. She made most of her own clothing and did not have expensive jewelry – or anything else of much monetary value. But she was ready and willing to share everything she had with others. Her first question to a stranger was usually, “Where do y’all go to church?” And quite often, she followed that with an invitation to join her for a meal.
My grandmother was not perfect. She could spit out some real zingers from time to time…and her opinions had little to no filter. You knew where you stood with her at all times. She could give you life advice as quickly and easily as she told you how to give your heart to Jesus and get to heaven! And I honestly believe that her “mansion” there is probably bigger than many…certainly as fine as that of many “women of the Bible” – and the likes of Mother Teresa and John Wesley! She continually heralded Jesus to any and all she met, through word and deed.
What does this all mean for us? You and I are just as precious and important to Jesus as John the Baptist…maybe even more! I don’t mean that to sound arrogant or disrespectful…but God sent John to herald Jesus’ coming. John was physically WITH Jesus…he saw firsthand who Jesus was – and why God sent Him. You and I do not have that luxury…yet we have our own missions to accomplish based on sheer faith. And as we obediently do so, we are building “equity” in our heavenly mansion.
Every word we speak…every gesture of kindness…every time we speak the name of Jesus to another – or demonstrate His power, strength, love, grace, kindness, mercy, compassion and forgiveness to someone – we are ensuring that our light will shine brightly in Heaven. God notes all that we do…nothing is wasted. As anointed and redeemed believers in Jesus, the “bad” is forgiven and scattered “as far as East is from West”…and the “good” things are noted for all Eternity.
It’s not about who we are…what matters is WHOSE we are – and how we share Jesus with others. At my grandmother’s funeral, I stated that I learned a LOT from her in our 56 years together. SHE is my role model for ministering to others in Jesus’ name…and I hope that someday, we are “next-door-neighbors” in heaven…right down the street from John the Baptist! My prayer is that your house would be in our “neighborhood,” too. Will we see you there?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for October 2, 2016
October 2 ~ Mark 7:31-37
Jesus left the region around Tyre and went by way of Sidon toward Lake Galilee. He went through the land near the ten cities known as Decapolis. Some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk. They begged Jesus just to touch him.
After Jesus had taken him aside from the crowd, he stuck his fingers in the man’s ears. Then he spit and put it on the man’s tongue. Jesus looked up toward heaven, and with a groan he said, “Effatha!”which means “Open up!” At once the man could hear, and he had no more trouble talking clearly.
Jesus told the people not to say anything about what he had done. But the more he told them, the more they talked about it. They were completely amazed and said, “Everything he does is good! He even heals people who cannot hear or talk.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When my mother was admitted to the hospital about a week before she died, she was adamant that there were to be “no visitors” outside of immediate family. She made an exception or two, but we did our best to screen those who entered the room – and subsequently, those who came to Mother’s home while she was on Hospice Care. For the most part, her wishes were honored…but still, there were times that I am sure she felt there were too many people around her.
It’s not that my mother was asocial…far from it! It’s not even that she did not want people to see her in a failing condition in her last days…although that was part of it. More than anything, Mother had things she knew she needed to attend to while she could…and she didn’t want distractions from anyone or anything that wasn’t germane to her agenda. Even at that, there were a couple of times when she told me, “We need to talk” – and then someone entered the room, and the conversation never took place.
I don’t dwell on this…but I do wonder sometimes what my mother wanted to talk about with me…what might have gone unsaid. And yet, I do know that many significant conversations did occur…that even in Mother’s last days of consciousness, she made important personal wishes known to some…and shared Jesus’ plan of salvation with others. I make no apologies for guarding the door and doing my best to honor her desire for “no visitors,” because I know there were valid reasons for this request.
When we read that Jesus healed a deaf man and told those in the crowd not to talk of it, I can see that He was not necessarily saying to hide His miracles from others. Jesus knew that word of these healings would leak out…but He also knew that His miracles would draw crowds and a lot of attention – and possibly create an unnecessary distraction. I believe that this story in Mark 7 reminds us to keep the main thing the main thing!
Too often, we are so busy judging others and condemning their sins that we squander our opportunities to share how Jesus has blessed and redeemed us…how He has worked in our lives. When we waste time and energy criticizing others, we totally negate the value and sincerity of our own testimony.
So many “causes” that we support in the name of Jesus are nothing more than distractions that draw a crowd of people and divert their focus from what Jesus is really trying to share with them. We attend this rally or that one…sign petitions…or post memes on social media…all to show that we are supporting XYZ for Jesus. And instead, Jesus would have been better served if we had been His hands and feet in physical service to those in need.
As we go about our daily living and discipleship, where are we attracting a crowd rather than focusing on the mission at hand? Where are we setting the scene for distractions that detract from what God wants us to accomplish? Will this be the day that you shift your focus and pare down your activities to those that are truly relevant to Christ’s mission for you as His disciple? Don’t you think it should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Jesus left the region around Tyre and went by way of Sidon toward Lake Galilee. He went through the land near the ten cities known as Decapolis. Some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk. They begged Jesus just to touch him.
After Jesus had taken him aside from the crowd, he stuck his fingers in the man’s ears. Then he spit and put it on the man’s tongue. Jesus looked up toward heaven, and with a groan he said, “Effatha!”which means “Open up!” At once the man could hear, and he had no more trouble talking clearly.
Jesus told the people not to say anything about what he had done. But the more he told them, the more they talked about it. They were completely amazed and said, “Everything he does is good! He even heals people who cannot hear or talk.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When my mother was admitted to the hospital about a week before she died, she was adamant that there were to be “no visitors” outside of immediate family. She made an exception or two, but we did our best to screen those who entered the room – and subsequently, those who came to Mother’s home while she was on Hospice Care. For the most part, her wishes were honored…but still, there were times that I am sure she felt there were too many people around her.
It’s not that my mother was asocial…far from it! It’s not even that she did not want people to see her in a failing condition in her last days…although that was part of it. More than anything, Mother had things she knew she needed to attend to while she could…and she didn’t want distractions from anyone or anything that wasn’t germane to her agenda. Even at that, there were a couple of times when she told me, “We need to talk” – and then someone entered the room, and the conversation never took place.
I don’t dwell on this…but I do wonder sometimes what my mother wanted to talk about with me…what might have gone unsaid. And yet, I do know that many significant conversations did occur…that even in Mother’s last days of consciousness, she made important personal wishes known to some…and shared Jesus’ plan of salvation with others. I make no apologies for guarding the door and doing my best to honor her desire for “no visitors,” because I know there were valid reasons for this request.
When we read that Jesus healed a deaf man and told those in the crowd not to talk of it, I can see that He was not necessarily saying to hide His miracles from others. Jesus knew that word of these healings would leak out…but He also knew that His miracles would draw crowds and a lot of attention – and possibly create an unnecessary distraction. I believe that this story in Mark 7 reminds us to keep the main thing the main thing!
Too often, we are so busy judging others and condemning their sins that we squander our opportunities to share how Jesus has blessed and redeemed us…how He has worked in our lives. When we waste time and energy criticizing others, we totally negate the value and sincerity of our own testimony.
So many “causes” that we support in the name of Jesus are nothing more than distractions that draw a crowd of people and divert their focus from what Jesus is really trying to share with them. We attend this rally or that one…sign petitions…or post memes on social media…all to show that we are supporting XYZ for Jesus. And instead, Jesus would have been better served if we had been His hands and feet in physical service to those in need.
As we go about our daily living and discipleship, where are we attracting a crowd rather than focusing on the mission at hand? Where are we setting the scene for distractions that detract from what God wants us to accomplish? Will this be the day that you shift your focus and pare down your activities to those that are truly relevant to Christ’s mission for you as His disciple? Don’t you think it should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Mark 7:24-30
Then he left Galilee and went to the region of Tyre and Sidon, and tried to keep it a secret that he was there, but couldn’t. For as usual the news of his arrival spread fast.
Right away a woman came to him whose little girl was possessed by a demon. She had heard about Jesus and now she came and fell at his feet, and pled with him to release her child from the demon’s control. (But she was Syrophoenician—a “despised Gentile”!)
Jesus told her, “First I should help my own family—the Jews. It isn’t right to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.”
She replied, “That’s true, sir, but even the puppies under the table are given some scraps from the children’s plates.”
“Good!” he said. “You have answered well—so well that I have healed your little girl. Go on home, for the demon has left her!”
And when she arrived home, her little girl was lying quietly in bed, and the demon was gone.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
At the end of a reality TV program I watch called “Project Runway,” the host says, “One day you’re in – the next day you’re out.” Let’s be honest…this is probably how we sometimes feel about ourselves…and/or how we treat others – and neither is acceptable.
Jesus demonstrated that there is no need to apologize for who we are if we genuinely trust that He is our LORD and Savior. There is no reason to assume that we have to wait in line behind those who are “more” in some manner to receive OUR salvation – or God’s blessings. Jesus also tells us not to treat others in this manner. We are in no way more important than another person – no matter who he/she is - or what he/she may have done. ALL who believe and demonstrate faith in Jesus – and surrender to Him – are welcome, and qualify for Salvation. ANYONE who believes in Jesus can be saved…and blessed.
I cannot emphasize enough how critical it is that we recognize not only our value in Jesus’ eyes…and but the fact that none of us is better than another to Him. “Country Club Christianity” runs somewhat rampant these days… and it needs to come to a screeching halt. The concept of “us vs. them” must disappear from our vocabulary – and our thought process. We need to look at every person we meet as a potential child of God - not a dog underneath the table waiting for scraps – even when they act like that’s where they belong.
Aren’t you tired of “Christians” judging others? I know I am! If you have ever for one minute felt like you were an “outsider” – for ANY reason, you know how horrible it feels. I am so grateful that Jesus does not recognize us in this way…that in His arms, we are ALL are welcome. Jesus is simply waiting for us to show Him that we accept His offer to sit at the table rather than glean scraps from the floor. Jesus is waiting for us to demonstrate to others that they are loved and accepted…that we know that He wants to share His table with them, as well…and so do we.
In the world of a reality TV fashion design contest, you may be in one day and out the next. But this is not the case with Jesus. The question you must settle is where your level of faith and Christian discipleship has positioned you – seated at the table, or on the floor underneath it waiting for scraps. Make this the day that you hear Jesus say, “Sit with me, and fill your plate.” And make sure that those you encounter know that they are welcome to join you.
©2016 Debbie Robus
Then he left Galilee and went to the region of Tyre and Sidon, and tried to keep it a secret that he was there, but couldn’t. For as usual the news of his arrival spread fast.
Right away a woman came to him whose little girl was possessed by a demon. She had heard about Jesus and now she came and fell at his feet, and pled with him to release her child from the demon’s control. (But she was Syrophoenician—a “despised Gentile”!)
Jesus told her, “First I should help my own family—the Jews. It isn’t right to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.”
She replied, “That’s true, sir, but even the puppies under the table are given some scraps from the children’s plates.”
“Good!” he said. “You have answered well—so well that I have healed your little girl. Go on home, for the demon has left her!”
And when she arrived home, her little girl was lying quietly in bed, and the demon was gone.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
At the end of a reality TV program I watch called “Project Runway,” the host says, “One day you’re in – the next day you’re out.” Let’s be honest…this is probably how we sometimes feel about ourselves…and/or how we treat others – and neither is acceptable.
Jesus demonstrated that there is no need to apologize for who we are if we genuinely trust that He is our LORD and Savior. There is no reason to assume that we have to wait in line behind those who are “more” in some manner to receive OUR salvation – or God’s blessings. Jesus also tells us not to treat others in this manner. We are in no way more important than another person – no matter who he/she is - or what he/she may have done. ALL who believe and demonstrate faith in Jesus – and surrender to Him – are welcome, and qualify for Salvation. ANYONE who believes in Jesus can be saved…and blessed.
I cannot emphasize enough how critical it is that we recognize not only our value in Jesus’ eyes…and but the fact that none of us is better than another to Him. “Country Club Christianity” runs somewhat rampant these days… and it needs to come to a screeching halt. The concept of “us vs. them” must disappear from our vocabulary – and our thought process. We need to look at every person we meet as a potential child of God - not a dog underneath the table waiting for scraps – even when they act like that’s where they belong.
Aren’t you tired of “Christians” judging others? I know I am! If you have ever for one minute felt like you were an “outsider” – for ANY reason, you know how horrible it feels. I am so grateful that Jesus does not recognize us in this way…that in His arms, we are ALL are welcome. Jesus is simply waiting for us to show Him that we accept His offer to sit at the table rather than glean scraps from the floor. Jesus is waiting for us to demonstrate to others that they are loved and accepted…that we know that He wants to share His table with them, as well…and so do we.
In the world of a reality TV fashion design contest, you may be in one day and out the next. But this is not the case with Jesus. The question you must settle is where your level of faith and Christian discipleship has positioned you – seated at the table, or on the floor underneath it waiting for scraps. Make this the day that you hear Jesus say, “Sit with me, and fill your plate.” And make sure that those you encounter know that they are welcome to join you.
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 30, 2016
Mark 7:14-23
Then Jesus called to the crowd to come and hear. “All of you listen,” he said, “and try to understand. Your souls aren’t harmed by what you eat, but by what you think and say!”
Then he went into a house to get away from the crowds, and his disciples asked him what he meant by the statement he had just made.
“Don’t you understand either?” he asked. “Can’t you see that what you eat won’t harm your soul? For food doesn’t come in contact with your heart, but only passes through the digestive system.” (By saying this he showed that every kind of food is kosher.)
And then he added, “It is the thought-life that pollutes. For from within, out of men’s hearts, come evil thoughts of lust, theft, murder, adultery, wanting what belongs to others, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, pride, and all other folly. All these vile things come from within; they are what pollute you and make you unfit for God.”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
There has been lots of talk lately in the news about the “5-second rule.” Apparently, new studies have been done (who pays for these things?!) to determine whether food that is dropped on the floor is safe to eat, if picked up within a certain amount of time - like five seconds. It turns out that there are extenuating circumstances…particularly what type of floor surface was involved and the specific food item in question.
The bottom line is that it probably is NOT a good idea to eat food that has fallen on the floor. However, we’ve all seen our kids do it before we could get to them to stop this – and the children are still here! I’ve been volunteering at the elementary school in Timothy and Zola’s classrooms, and I have had to remind myself that children are resilient…and they must have stomachs of iron! As they take turns drinking from the water fountain…eating all sorts of things without using hand sanitizer or washing their hands…and so much more, I try not to think about what they are ingesting!
In a way, you could maintain that we should be more worried about the knowledge and wisdom our children internalize than the potential for a few germs to enter their bodies as they eat their snacks and lunch – or quench their thirst. And this is essentially the message that Jesus is giving to us about our own daily living.
Too often, we are overly concerned with the wrong things. We worry about what this one or that one is thinking - or how he/she is living - but we don’t pay a bit of attention to what is in the person’s heart. We condemn all sorts of behaviors from others while demonstrating plenty of sins and “errors” of our own. In The Message, verse 16 says, “It’s not what you swallow that pollutes your life; it’s what you vomit—that’s the real pollution.”
So let’s stop worrying so much about “appearances.” Let’s quit judging others based on surface observations and things that really don’t matter that much…ditch the name calling and overt criticisms…and stop acting like we are better than the other guy because we call ourselves Christians. Let’s take a long hard look at what is in our heart…and what we present to others.
Are our words and actions polluted with sin? Do we have our priorities in line with those of Jesus? Are we focused on keeping the main thing the main thing? Are we more concerned with keeping up appearances and feeding the body…or feeding the heart and soul?
Jesus is very clear that what we think and say – and how we treat others – matters. Our thoughts, words and actions have lasting consequences. Are you more worried about the Spiritual “5-second rule”…or spending Eternity in His presence?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Then Jesus called to the crowd to come and hear. “All of you listen,” he said, “and try to understand. Your souls aren’t harmed by what you eat, but by what you think and say!”
Then he went into a house to get away from the crowds, and his disciples asked him what he meant by the statement he had just made.
“Don’t you understand either?” he asked. “Can’t you see that what you eat won’t harm your soul? For food doesn’t come in contact with your heart, but only passes through the digestive system.” (By saying this he showed that every kind of food is kosher.)
And then he added, “It is the thought-life that pollutes. For from within, out of men’s hearts, come evil thoughts of lust, theft, murder, adultery, wanting what belongs to others, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, pride, and all other folly. All these vile things come from within; they are what pollute you and make you unfit for God.”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
There has been lots of talk lately in the news about the “5-second rule.” Apparently, new studies have been done (who pays for these things?!) to determine whether food that is dropped on the floor is safe to eat, if picked up within a certain amount of time - like five seconds. It turns out that there are extenuating circumstances…particularly what type of floor surface was involved and the specific food item in question.
The bottom line is that it probably is NOT a good idea to eat food that has fallen on the floor. However, we’ve all seen our kids do it before we could get to them to stop this – and the children are still here! I’ve been volunteering at the elementary school in Timothy and Zola’s classrooms, and I have had to remind myself that children are resilient…and they must have stomachs of iron! As they take turns drinking from the water fountain…eating all sorts of things without using hand sanitizer or washing their hands…and so much more, I try not to think about what they are ingesting!
In a way, you could maintain that we should be more worried about the knowledge and wisdom our children internalize than the potential for a few germs to enter their bodies as they eat their snacks and lunch – or quench their thirst. And this is essentially the message that Jesus is giving to us about our own daily living.
Too often, we are overly concerned with the wrong things. We worry about what this one or that one is thinking - or how he/she is living - but we don’t pay a bit of attention to what is in the person’s heart. We condemn all sorts of behaviors from others while demonstrating plenty of sins and “errors” of our own. In The Message, verse 16 says, “It’s not what you swallow that pollutes your life; it’s what you vomit—that’s the real pollution.”
So let’s stop worrying so much about “appearances.” Let’s quit judging others based on surface observations and things that really don’t matter that much…ditch the name calling and overt criticisms…and stop acting like we are better than the other guy because we call ourselves Christians. Let’s take a long hard look at what is in our heart…and what we present to others.
Are our words and actions polluted with sin? Do we have our priorities in line with those of Jesus? Are we focused on keeping the main thing the main thing? Are we more concerned with keeping up appearances and feeding the body…or feeding the heart and soul?
Jesus is very clear that what we think and say – and how we treat others – matters. Our thoughts, words and actions have lasting consequences. Are you more worried about the Spiritual “5-second rule”…or spending Eternity in His presence?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 29, 2016
Mark 3:5-8
Jesus was angry as he looked around at the people. Yet he felt sorry for them because they were so stubborn. Then he told the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He did, and his bad hand was healed.
The Pharisees left. And right away they started making plans with Herod’s followers to kill Jesus.
Jesus led his disciples down to the shore of the lake. Large crowds followed him from Galilee, Judea, and Jerusalem. People came from Idumea, as well as other places east of the Jordan River. They also came from the region around the cities of Tyre and Sidon. All of these crowds came because they had heard what Jesus was doing.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was growing up, my daddy and my Mam-ma Polly had a saying, “Tend to your own rat killin’!” What they meant was, “Mind your own business, do what you know is right, and don’t worry about what the other guy thinks.” My mother also had a favorite saying in her last years…”You can’t fix stupid.” I know these may not be the nicest things to say…but at face value, they do hold a lot of truth.
I could not help but think of both of these phrases as I read today’s scripture passage. On the one hand, Jesus had demonstrated His power in both word and deed…and there were still some who simply refused to believe Him. The Book of Mark tells us that this angered Jesus…but it also saddened Him. On the other hand, people were rumbling and grumbling about Jesus’ miracles…doubting His authenticity - and even making plans to kill Him. And Jesus just “went on with His rat killin’!” He continued to minister to those who came to Him…to heal those who trusted and believed in His power and sovereignty.
What does this mean for you and me? Every day, we encounter people who, at best, do not agree with us on some level…and some who do not believe in Jesus or the faith in Him that we demonstrate. We are questioned, doubted, challenged…and sometimes mocked or ridiculed. We can get angry…and even stoop to the level of those who would argue with us. Or we can rely on God’s strength, stay in communication with the Holy Spirit…and “tend to our rat killin’!” We can go about our day doing what God has told us to do…sharing the love, grace power and mercy of Jesus Christ with others…and let God handle the rest.
Thankfully, the chances that you or I might be killed for our faith are slim to none. But there may be some lonely, hurtful, frustrating days/weeks/months/years. Do not be discouraged. Remember this passage from Mark 3. Take heart that you can’t fix everyone – and you’re not supposed to. You are simply to tend to the business and ministries of Jesus – and give Him room to do the heavy lifting. Are you with me?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Jesus was angry as he looked around at the people. Yet he felt sorry for them because they were so stubborn. Then he told the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He did, and his bad hand was healed.
The Pharisees left. And right away they started making plans with Herod’s followers to kill Jesus.
Jesus led his disciples down to the shore of the lake. Large crowds followed him from Galilee, Judea, and Jerusalem. People came from Idumea, as well as other places east of the Jordan River. They also came from the region around the cities of Tyre and Sidon. All of these crowds came because they had heard what Jesus was doing.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was growing up, my daddy and my Mam-ma Polly had a saying, “Tend to your own rat killin’!” What they meant was, “Mind your own business, do what you know is right, and don’t worry about what the other guy thinks.” My mother also had a favorite saying in her last years…”You can’t fix stupid.” I know these may not be the nicest things to say…but at face value, they do hold a lot of truth.
I could not help but think of both of these phrases as I read today’s scripture passage. On the one hand, Jesus had demonstrated His power in both word and deed…and there were still some who simply refused to believe Him. The Book of Mark tells us that this angered Jesus…but it also saddened Him. On the other hand, people were rumbling and grumbling about Jesus’ miracles…doubting His authenticity - and even making plans to kill Him. And Jesus just “went on with His rat killin’!” He continued to minister to those who came to Him…to heal those who trusted and believed in His power and sovereignty.
What does this mean for you and me? Every day, we encounter people who, at best, do not agree with us on some level…and some who do not believe in Jesus or the faith in Him that we demonstrate. We are questioned, doubted, challenged…and sometimes mocked or ridiculed. We can get angry…and even stoop to the level of those who would argue with us. Or we can rely on God’s strength, stay in communication with the Holy Spirit…and “tend to our rat killin’!” We can go about our day doing what God has told us to do…sharing the love, grace power and mercy of Jesus Christ with others…and let God handle the rest.
Thankfully, the chances that you or I might be killed for our faith are slim to none. But there may be some lonely, hurtful, frustrating days/weeks/months/years. Do not be discouraged. Remember this passage from Mark 3. Take heart that you can’t fix everyone – and you’re not supposed to. You are simply to tend to the business and ministries of Jesus – and give Him room to do the heavy lifting. Are you with me?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 28, 2016
Mark 13:7-8
Jesus began, “Watch out for doomsday deceivers. Many leaders are going to show up with forged identities claiming, ‘I’m the One.’ They will deceive a lot of people. When you hear of wars and rumored wars, keep your head and don’t panic. This is routine history, and no sign of the end. Nation will fight nation and ruler fight ruler, over and over. Earthquakes will occur in various places. There will be famines. But these things are nothing compared to what’s coming."
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
My mother used to say that the wars, crimes and atrocities we face today are nothing new. And indeed, if you read the Old Testament, you can learn about everything from the bloodiest, most heinous battle tactics to racism, sexism, and discrimination of every sort. Babies were killed to prove a point. There was torture and rape…and entire villages and tribes were decimated. Centuries ago, “prophets” told of the end of the world as if it was imminent…and we’re still here.
Today, we are barraged with lies and/or grossly exaggerated claims at every turn. For some reason, many people seem to delight in scaring the stuffing out of others with doomsday reports, while others have such inflated egos that they cannot seem to help but declare themselves the ultimate savior of all things that are wrong in the world.
So what are we to do? Who do we trust? How do we sift through all of the chatter and determine the truth? We start with prayer…and a long, deep breath. We “let go and let God”…and give Him our burdens and fears. We delve into the scriptures and let God’s word soak into our soul. The truth is there, along with answers to virtually all of the questions we have - if we will only calm down and pay attention.
We also have to exercise our God-given common sense. We have to ask ourselves…”What is this person really saying…and what does GOD say about the same issues?” If you will continue reading Mark 13 through at least verse 13, you will see that Jesus assures that the Holy Spirit will always be with us…and that those who persevere in their faith will be saved in the end.
Our Timothy has asked me several times lately, “Why are you and Uncle Greg always so happy?” It appears that on some level, we are filling our little ones with a “gloom and doom” impression of the world. Even they don’t understand how anyone could experience genuine and sustaining joy in light of all that is happening in the world. My answer to the question of why I am always happy has become, “Because God blesses us and takes care of us.”
Yes, bad things happen. Yes…I sometimes have sadness and heartaches, just like everyone else – even Jesus. But God is still with me…and He always will be. No matter what, I will be saved in the end…and I choose to focus on this rather than the darkness and despair that so many are propagating.
Who do YOU trust? More importantly, who do others believe you trust? People are watching…are you showing them genuine faith in Jesus? Don’t you think you should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Jesus began, “Watch out for doomsday deceivers. Many leaders are going to show up with forged identities claiming, ‘I’m the One.’ They will deceive a lot of people. When you hear of wars and rumored wars, keep your head and don’t panic. This is routine history, and no sign of the end. Nation will fight nation and ruler fight ruler, over and over. Earthquakes will occur in various places. There will be famines. But these things are nothing compared to what’s coming."
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
My mother used to say that the wars, crimes and atrocities we face today are nothing new. And indeed, if you read the Old Testament, you can learn about everything from the bloodiest, most heinous battle tactics to racism, sexism, and discrimination of every sort. Babies were killed to prove a point. There was torture and rape…and entire villages and tribes were decimated. Centuries ago, “prophets” told of the end of the world as if it was imminent…and we’re still here.
Today, we are barraged with lies and/or grossly exaggerated claims at every turn. For some reason, many people seem to delight in scaring the stuffing out of others with doomsday reports, while others have such inflated egos that they cannot seem to help but declare themselves the ultimate savior of all things that are wrong in the world.
So what are we to do? Who do we trust? How do we sift through all of the chatter and determine the truth? We start with prayer…and a long, deep breath. We “let go and let God”…and give Him our burdens and fears. We delve into the scriptures and let God’s word soak into our soul. The truth is there, along with answers to virtually all of the questions we have - if we will only calm down and pay attention.
We also have to exercise our God-given common sense. We have to ask ourselves…”What is this person really saying…and what does GOD say about the same issues?” If you will continue reading Mark 13 through at least verse 13, you will see that Jesus assures that the Holy Spirit will always be with us…and that those who persevere in their faith will be saved in the end.
Our Timothy has asked me several times lately, “Why are you and Uncle Greg always so happy?” It appears that on some level, we are filling our little ones with a “gloom and doom” impression of the world. Even they don’t understand how anyone could experience genuine and sustaining joy in light of all that is happening in the world. My answer to the question of why I am always happy has become, “Because God blesses us and takes care of us.”
Yes, bad things happen. Yes…I sometimes have sadness and heartaches, just like everyone else – even Jesus. But God is still with me…and He always will be. No matter what, I will be saved in the end…and I choose to focus on this rather than the darkness and despair that so many are propagating.
Who do YOU trust? More importantly, who do others believe you trust? People are watching…are you showing them genuine faith in Jesus? Don’t you think you should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 27, 2016
Luke 6:30-35
Give to everyone who asks and don’t ask people to return what they have taken from you. Treat others just as you want to be treated.
If you love only someone who loves you, will God praise you for that? Even sinners love people who love them. If you are kind only to someone who is kind to you, will God be pleased with you for that? Even sinners are kind to people who are kind to them. If you lend money only to someone you think will pay you back, will God be pleased with you for that? Even sinners lend to sinners because they think they will get it all back.
But love your enemies and be good to them. Lend without expecting to be paid back. Then you will get a great reward, and you will be the true children of God in heaven. He is good even to people who are unthankful and cruel.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It’s happened more than once. A person I thought was a friend did something hurtful toward me – or toward another friend or loved one. And then this person acted as if nothing had happened. There are also a few people who never respond to my kindnesses…who never say “Thank You” when I wish them well or do something nice for them. And I continue to do it anyway. Why? Because decades ago, someone gave me some excellent (and scriptural) advice when another person had treated me poorly…”Kill ‘em with kindness.”
Here’s the thing…think of all that you have done that broke Jesus’ heart. Did He turn His back on you? Did Jesus say, “You mistreated Me, so I am not doing another thing for you!”…or “You are dead to Me!” No, Jesus continues to love us and bless us even as we disappoint Him on a daily basis. We are offered unmerited favor, also known as GRACE – God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. And we are called to extend this same gift to others.
At every turn, we must ask ourselves, “How do we wish to be treated?” We must consider how Jesus treats us – even when we falter…how He reacts when we “borrow” and don’t repay…how He loves us even when we break His heart. We have to ask ourselves whether we think we are better than Jesus…or whether we should be implementing His model of compassion, grace, mercy and forgiveness in our daily interaction with others.
The answer is clear to me. I won’t say that I don’t have to sometimes grit my teeth and bite my tongue while I smile and say or do nice things for someone else. But because of God’s grace, I try to treat others as I wish to be treated…whether they reciprocate or not. At some point, your efforts may be noticed. The “borrower” or “offender” may acknowledge that you treated him/her better than he/she deserved. But either way, you will be able to say to yourself – and most importantly, to Jesus – “I did my best to honor what You commanded. I treated others as YOU treat me…and as I wish to be treated.”
There are people who will hurt us...people who will borrow and never repay…people who will disappoint us – or even break our hearts – and then act as if nothing ever happened. Bad things will happen to “good” people…at the hands of other people we thought were inherently “good.” How we react and respond speaks volumes about where we are as a Christian disciple. What - and WHO - are you showing to others these days?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Give to everyone who asks and don’t ask people to return what they have taken from you. Treat others just as you want to be treated.
If you love only someone who loves you, will God praise you for that? Even sinners love people who love them. If you are kind only to someone who is kind to you, will God be pleased with you for that? Even sinners are kind to people who are kind to them. If you lend money only to someone you think will pay you back, will God be pleased with you for that? Even sinners lend to sinners because they think they will get it all back.
But love your enemies and be good to them. Lend without expecting to be paid back. Then you will get a great reward, and you will be the true children of God in heaven. He is good even to people who are unthankful and cruel.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
It’s happened more than once. A person I thought was a friend did something hurtful toward me – or toward another friend or loved one. And then this person acted as if nothing had happened. There are also a few people who never respond to my kindnesses…who never say “Thank You” when I wish them well or do something nice for them. And I continue to do it anyway. Why? Because decades ago, someone gave me some excellent (and scriptural) advice when another person had treated me poorly…”Kill ‘em with kindness.”
Here’s the thing…think of all that you have done that broke Jesus’ heart. Did He turn His back on you? Did Jesus say, “You mistreated Me, so I am not doing another thing for you!”…or “You are dead to Me!” No, Jesus continues to love us and bless us even as we disappoint Him on a daily basis. We are offered unmerited favor, also known as GRACE – God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. And we are called to extend this same gift to others.
At every turn, we must ask ourselves, “How do we wish to be treated?” We must consider how Jesus treats us – even when we falter…how He reacts when we “borrow” and don’t repay…how He loves us even when we break His heart. We have to ask ourselves whether we think we are better than Jesus…or whether we should be implementing His model of compassion, grace, mercy and forgiveness in our daily interaction with others.
The answer is clear to me. I won’t say that I don’t have to sometimes grit my teeth and bite my tongue while I smile and say or do nice things for someone else. But because of God’s grace, I try to treat others as I wish to be treated…whether they reciprocate or not. At some point, your efforts may be noticed. The “borrower” or “offender” may acknowledge that you treated him/her better than he/she deserved. But either way, you will be able to say to yourself – and most importantly, to Jesus – “I did my best to honor what You commanded. I treated others as YOU treat me…and as I wish to be treated.”
There are people who will hurt us...people who will borrow and never repay…people who will disappoint us – or even break our hearts – and then act as if nothing ever happened. Bad things will happen to “good” people…at the hands of other people we thought were inherently “good.” How we react and respond speaks volumes about where we are as a Christian disciple. What - and WHO - are you showing to others these days?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 26, 2016
Luke 3:12-14
When tax collectors came to be baptized, they asked John, “Teacher, what should we do?”
John told them, “Don’t make people pay more than they owe.”
Some soldiers asked him, “And what about us? What do we have to do?”
John told them, “Don’t force people to pay money to make you leave them alone. Be satisfied with your pay.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The children in Timothy’s Sunday school class have been studying the book of James this month – in particular, James 1:22…”But be doers of the word, and not hearers only…” We have talked each Sunday about how important it is to learn what God wants for us…and to put it into action.
So as we look at these verses from James 1 and Luke 3 - and think about our own lives - we may sometimes wonder, “How will we convince people that we have really changed? What about the person who knew us ‘back in the day’…how will he/she ever believe that we are a new creature in Christ? How can we be sure that others see Jesus in our everyday living?”
The answer lies in John’s response to the tax collectors and soldiers…demonstrate the love and teachings of Jesus in how you live – and how you treat others. Be doers of the Word. You have to go the extra mile, do the right thing, and conduct yourself in a manner that honors Jesus in all things.
Too many “Christians” accepted Jesus’ gift of salvation…then went right back to their old habits. They still gossip, discriminate, call people names, take bribes and overcharge. They gripe and complain about everything from their job to the weather. Their circle of friends and the influences in their lives have not changed - and neither have their attitudes. Most observers would be hard-pressed to say that any transformation has occurred in these people…that Jesus has really made any difference in their lives.
It is one thing to say, “I’ve given my heart to Jesus…but it is totally another to demonstrate this in our daily living.” The tiniest details are what will make a real difference for God’s Kingdom. We can attend worship services on Sundays and participate in weekly Bible study groups…carry our Bibles…quote scripture…do “mission work” and listen to “Christian” music.
We can wear our crosses and drive cars with bumper stickers that say, “Honk if you love Jesus.” We can post those memes on social media about loving Jesus and believing in God. But none of this makes us a true Christian disciple. If our attitude and even SOME of our actions do not line up with God’s word and will - and the teachings of Jesus – our “witness” is contaminated.
Examine your daily living – every thought, word and action. See if what you are demonstrating represents true Christian discipleship – and glorifies Jesus. Make His teachings on attitudes and actions your daily habits. If second and third graders can learn to be “doers of the Word,” surely we adults can do the same. Are you with me?
©2016 Debbie Robus
When tax collectors came to be baptized, they asked John, “Teacher, what should we do?”
John told them, “Don’t make people pay more than they owe.”
Some soldiers asked him, “And what about us? What do we have to do?”
John told them, “Don’t force people to pay money to make you leave them alone. Be satisfied with your pay.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
The children in Timothy’s Sunday school class have been studying the book of James this month – in particular, James 1:22…”But be doers of the word, and not hearers only…” We have talked each Sunday about how important it is to learn what God wants for us…and to put it into action.
So as we look at these verses from James 1 and Luke 3 - and think about our own lives - we may sometimes wonder, “How will we convince people that we have really changed? What about the person who knew us ‘back in the day’…how will he/she ever believe that we are a new creature in Christ? How can we be sure that others see Jesus in our everyday living?”
The answer lies in John’s response to the tax collectors and soldiers…demonstrate the love and teachings of Jesus in how you live – and how you treat others. Be doers of the Word. You have to go the extra mile, do the right thing, and conduct yourself in a manner that honors Jesus in all things.
Too many “Christians” accepted Jesus’ gift of salvation…then went right back to their old habits. They still gossip, discriminate, call people names, take bribes and overcharge. They gripe and complain about everything from their job to the weather. Their circle of friends and the influences in their lives have not changed - and neither have their attitudes. Most observers would be hard-pressed to say that any transformation has occurred in these people…that Jesus has really made any difference in their lives.
It is one thing to say, “I’ve given my heart to Jesus…but it is totally another to demonstrate this in our daily living.” The tiniest details are what will make a real difference for God’s Kingdom. We can attend worship services on Sundays and participate in weekly Bible study groups…carry our Bibles…quote scripture…do “mission work” and listen to “Christian” music.
We can wear our crosses and drive cars with bumper stickers that say, “Honk if you love Jesus.” We can post those memes on social media about loving Jesus and believing in God. But none of this makes us a true Christian disciple. If our attitude and even SOME of our actions do not line up with God’s word and will - and the teachings of Jesus – our “witness” is contaminated.
Examine your daily living – every thought, word and action. See if what you are demonstrating represents true Christian discipleship – and glorifies Jesus. Make His teachings on attitudes and actions your daily habits. If second and third graders can learn to be “doers of the Word,” surely we adults can do the same. Are you with me?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 25, 2016
Luke 23:34-35
Jesus said, “Father, forgive these people! They don’t know what they’re doing.”
While the crowd stood there watching Jesus, the soldiers gambled for his clothes. The leaders insulted him by saying, “He saved others. Now he should save himself, if he really is God’s chosen Messiah.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was a little girl, I always wanted to take dance lessons like my classmates. My mother said we could not afford them. I will admit…I resented that. As a child, I failed to recognize that she and my dad were already scrimping and scraping to pay for piano lessons, braces for our teeth, and much more – times three! I distinctly remember my mother saying that if she didn’t make braces happen to alleviate the huge gap between my front teeth and give me a nice smile, she would regret it the rest of her life.
My mother was like many parents – she wanted to afford me every opportunity for a lifetime of success. Even thought she taught piano lessons, when my siblings and I were in junior high, Mother paid for us to study under another teacher with “conservatory-level” experience. For a girl growing up in our little community, piano lessons were sure to carry one further in life than learning to do a little tap and ballet. And Mother was right. Still, I did not understand…and I am sure that I didn’t appreciate many of my parents’ sacrifices - or why they made the decisions on my behalf that they did.
I’ll be honest…there are many instances where I don’t understand what Jesus does…even today. Why did He allow three elementary school children to lose their dad to cancer? Why does He allow the existence of orphans and foster children? Why are there terrorists and murderers…child molesters and people who abuse animals? Why doesn’t Jesus “come down from the cross” and fix all of this?
The answer that I keep getting is…”You wouldn’t really need Me if I fixed everything.” I also hear Jesus saying, “You don’t know what you are asking…and I forgive you for it.” In terms of how I relate this to my everyday living, I offer this…there are things that have happened to me in my lifetime that I do not understand. Not only have life-changing events occurred…accidents, illnesses, personal losses and disappointments…but I have also made some mistakes along the way. And each time, God has used these to teach me not only how much I need Him…but also great lessons in humility, compassion, grace and mercy.
I feel like I am more understanding about those around me because of the forgiveness I have been granted. I know that Jesus stayed on the cross for me – and for you. I know that because of His sacrifice, I am able to look at others with His heart and the desire that they come to know Him as I do...as the Savior who makes all things possible.
I seriously doubt that I would still be tap dancing or performing ballet at almost 60, but I still play the piano every week! And while I still question events and circumstances from time to time, I learn to trust Jesus more every day. What He allows can be used for His glory – and make us better disciples, if we will only pay attention and trust Him to know best. How well are you doing these days?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Jesus said, “Father, forgive these people! They don’t know what they’re doing.”
While the crowd stood there watching Jesus, the soldiers gambled for his clothes. The leaders insulted him by saying, “He saved others. Now he should save himself, if he really is God’s chosen Messiah.”
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
When I was a little girl, I always wanted to take dance lessons like my classmates. My mother said we could not afford them. I will admit…I resented that. As a child, I failed to recognize that she and my dad were already scrimping and scraping to pay for piano lessons, braces for our teeth, and much more – times three! I distinctly remember my mother saying that if she didn’t make braces happen to alleviate the huge gap between my front teeth and give me a nice smile, she would regret it the rest of her life.
My mother was like many parents – she wanted to afford me every opportunity for a lifetime of success. Even thought she taught piano lessons, when my siblings and I were in junior high, Mother paid for us to study under another teacher with “conservatory-level” experience. For a girl growing up in our little community, piano lessons were sure to carry one further in life than learning to do a little tap and ballet. And Mother was right. Still, I did not understand…and I am sure that I didn’t appreciate many of my parents’ sacrifices - or why they made the decisions on my behalf that they did.
I’ll be honest…there are many instances where I don’t understand what Jesus does…even today. Why did He allow three elementary school children to lose their dad to cancer? Why does He allow the existence of orphans and foster children? Why are there terrorists and murderers…child molesters and people who abuse animals? Why doesn’t Jesus “come down from the cross” and fix all of this?
The answer that I keep getting is…”You wouldn’t really need Me if I fixed everything.” I also hear Jesus saying, “You don’t know what you are asking…and I forgive you for it.” In terms of how I relate this to my everyday living, I offer this…there are things that have happened to me in my lifetime that I do not understand. Not only have life-changing events occurred…accidents, illnesses, personal losses and disappointments…but I have also made some mistakes along the way. And each time, God has used these to teach me not only how much I need Him…but also great lessons in humility, compassion, grace and mercy.
I feel like I am more understanding about those around me because of the forgiveness I have been granted. I know that Jesus stayed on the cross for me – and for you. I know that because of His sacrifice, I am able to look at others with His heart and the desire that they come to know Him as I do...as the Savior who makes all things possible.
I seriously doubt that I would still be tap dancing or performing ballet at almost 60, but I still play the piano every week! And while I still question events and circumstances from time to time, I learn to trust Jesus more every day. What He allows can be used for His glory – and make us better disciples, if we will only pay attention and trust Him to know best. How well are you doing these days?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 24, 2016
Luke 22:35-37
Then Jesus asked them, “When I sent you out to preach the Good News and you were without money, duffle bag, or extra clothing, how did you get along?”
“Fine,” they replied.
“But now,” he said, “take a duffle bag if you have one and your money. And if you don’t have a sword, better sell your clothes and buy one! For the time has come for this prophecy about me to come true: ‘He will be condemned as a criminal!’ Yes, everything written about me by the prophets will come true.”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
A couple of Sundays ago, my friend Valerie and I taught 2nd-3rd grade Sunday school together. We both had tan tote bags that looked very similar…and we both remarked that we had each thought the other one’s purse was ours. Valerie showed me how heavy her purse was…and I laughed, because mine was equally heavy. It seems that we women try to carry the world in our purses…and if there are small children involved, this is absolutely a necessity!
Once in a while, Greg and I will go somewhere that I do not carry a purse. Sometimes, I will slip a couple of things in the car…and I usually have a pocket for my phone. But in general, the days of “traveling light” pretty well disappeared for me years ago. Just as surely as I don’t carry my purse, the children or I will need something – tissues or a handkerchief…eyeglass cleaner…cream for some sort of bite, itch or “boo-boo”…hand sanitizer…a pen…my extra set of keys or my wallet…the kids’ sunglasses…and so much more. To go without these things might not amount to a matter of life or death, but I would rather be prepared than caught off guard!
How does this apply to our daily living as a Christian? Jesus is telling us that we can’t just wander through life and expect God to take care of everything for us. We can’t let our feet hit the floor in the morning without our “duffel bag” by our side, filled with the word of God (our sword), the presence of the Holy Spirit (our currency), confidence and faith in our mission (extra clothing), and direct communication with our Heavenly Father to assure that we are on the right track! We have no clue what we will need in any given minute, so we’d better be prepared for anything!
The battle is real. The stakes are high. The days of venturing out into the world with just the clothes on our back are gone. The devil’s enemies are waiting and watching, and they will pick out those who are not prepared and attack them with a vengeance. Many will never even see the “hit” coming. Do not be among them!
Your “duffel bag” may seem so heavy and cumbersome at times…and totally unnecessary at others. But I assure you, it is worth the weight. There will be days when you want to ask, “Why can’t I just ‘be’ today?” And the short answer is…”What if Jesus had said this on the cross?” Our “burden” pales in comparison to that of our Jesus. So pack your duffel bag and prepare for the journey ahead. There is work to be done - and we don’t have a minute to waste!
©2016 Debbie Robus
Then Jesus asked them, “When I sent you out to preach the Good News and you were without money, duffle bag, or extra clothing, how did you get along?”
“Fine,” they replied.
“But now,” he said, “take a duffle bag if you have one and your money. And if you don’t have a sword, better sell your clothes and buy one! For the time has come for this prophecy about me to come true: ‘He will be condemned as a criminal!’ Yes, everything written about me by the prophets will come true.”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
A couple of Sundays ago, my friend Valerie and I taught 2nd-3rd grade Sunday school together. We both had tan tote bags that looked very similar…and we both remarked that we had each thought the other one’s purse was ours. Valerie showed me how heavy her purse was…and I laughed, because mine was equally heavy. It seems that we women try to carry the world in our purses…and if there are small children involved, this is absolutely a necessity!
Once in a while, Greg and I will go somewhere that I do not carry a purse. Sometimes, I will slip a couple of things in the car…and I usually have a pocket for my phone. But in general, the days of “traveling light” pretty well disappeared for me years ago. Just as surely as I don’t carry my purse, the children or I will need something – tissues or a handkerchief…eyeglass cleaner…cream for some sort of bite, itch or “boo-boo”…hand sanitizer…a pen…my extra set of keys or my wallet…the kids’ sunglasses…and so much more. To go without these things might not amount to a matter of life or death, but I would rather be prepared than caught off guard!
How does this apply to our daily living as a Christian? Jesus is telling us that we can’t just wander through life and expect God to take care of everything for us. We can’t let our feet hit the floor in the morning without our “duffel bag” by our side, filled with the word of God (our sword), the presence of the Holy Spirit (our currency), confidence and faith in our mission (extra clothing), and direct communication with our Heavenly Father to assure that we are on the right track! We have no clue what we will need in any given minute, so we’d better be prepared for anything!
The battle is real. The stakes are high. The days of venturing out into the world with just the clothes on our back are gone. The devil’s enemies are waiting and watching, and they will pick out those who are not prepared and attack them with a vengeance. Many will never even see the “hit” coming. Do not be among them!
Your “duffel bag” may seem so heavy and cumbersome at times…and totally unnecessary at others. But I assure you, it is worth the weight. There will be days when you want to ask, “Why can’t I just ‘be’ today?” And the short answer is…”What if Jesus had said this on the cross?” Our “burden” pales in comparison to that of our Jesus. So pack your duffel bag and prepare for the journey ahead. There is work to be done - and we don’t have a minute to waste!
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 23, 2016
September 23 – Luke 17:1-4
Jesus said to his disciples:
There will always be something that causes people to sin. But anyone who causes them to sin is in for trouble. A person who causes even one of my little followers to sin would be better off thrown into the ocean with a heavy stone tied around their neck. So be careful what you do.
Correct any followers of mine who sin, and forgive the ones who say they are sorry. Even if one of them mistreats you seven times in one day and says, “I am sorry,” you should still forgive that person.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A 17-year-old boy in North Little Rock, Arkansas, lit a joint (marijuana), gave it to his 3-year-old nephew, and told him to “hit the blunt” (smoke it). The teenager made a video of the whole thing and posted it on Facebook. In the video, you can hear the child ask if this is “weed” and see him at least attempt to inhale…while his uncle laughs.
The teenage boy has been arrested and faces charges for endangering the welfare of a minor. The child has been physically examined and returned to other family members. No matter how you feel about marijuana – or the fact that this was illegal in numerous ways - no rational person would for even one minute condone encouraging a young child to smoke anything…much less a Schedule I controlled substance! This teenager made a horrible mistake…and he will probably pay for it with some serious jail time, at the very least.
If we look at these first verses of Luke 17, we are warned not to cause another person to sin. While most of us have enough sense to know that giving marijuana to a toddler is wrong…we think nothing of making off-color comments. We deride others and discriminate against them. We judge people, gossip, engage in name calling, and so much more – with no regard for how this might appear to those who are watching and listening. We operate in “do as I say, not as I do” mode…and we cannot see that we are essentially handing a joint to a three-year-old and saying, “hit the blunt!”
So “Part One” of our message for today is to watch what we say and do – ALL of it - and never cause another person to sin. But then Jesus adds another important command…we must forgive any who remorsefully ask for mercy and absolution. Jesus is so adamant about this that He emphasizes that we should do this seven times in one day, if necessary! I will be the first to tell you that I really struggle with this one!
I think one of the reasons this is so hard for me is that many people find it easy to say “I’m sorry”…but then nothing really changes. Many people promise to do better or that “it will never happen again,” and we know before the words leave their mouths that this is not the truth. I have tried to imagine how all of this must seem to Jesus. Because you see, for every ridiculous “apology” and promise to do better that someone offers to each of us…we offer 100 times this many of the same to Jesus. For every time someone has said to you, “I will try to do better,” you and I have told God this more times than we can even count.
If we want God’s grace, mercy and forgiveness…we have to extend these blessings to others. If we truly operate in Christian faith and believe that we serve a God of second, third, and 103rd chances…we have to offer those to the people in our midst. We cannot cause others to sin…but we cannot fail to forgive those who mistreat us and ask for our forgiveness, either. Given the events in our country in recent months – and in the world at large – this is a terribly difficult challenge for me. But nobody ever said it was easy to be a faithful Christian!
So we are commanded to stay awake and alert…to check our thoughts, words and actions (because people ARE watching!)…and to forgive all who apologize, and show them love, grace and mercy. In other words, we are to emulate Jesus at all times – and in all ways. As Christian Disciples…we are called to give this our best shot each and every day. How are you doing so far?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Jesus said to his disciples:
There will always be something that causes people to sin. But anyone who causes them to sin is in for trouble. A person who causes even one of my little followers to sin would be better off thrown into the ocean with a heavy stone tied around their neck. So be careful what you do.
Correct any followers of mine who sin, and forgive the ones who say they are sorry. Even if one of them mistreats you seven times in one day and says, “I am sorry,” you should still forgive that person.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
A 17-year-old boy in North Little Rock, Arkansas, lit a joint (marijuana), gave it to his 3-year-old nephew, and told him to “hit the blunt” (smoke it). The teenager made a video of the whole thing and posted it on Facebook. In the video, you can hear the child ask if this is “weed” and see him at least attempt to inhale…while his uncle laughs.
The teenage boy has been arrested and faces charges for endangering the welfare of a minor. The child has been physically examined and returned to other family members. No matter how you feel about marijuana – or the fact that this was illegal in numerous ways - no rational person would for even one minute condone encouraging a young child to smoke anything…much less a Schedule I controlled substance! This teenager made a horrible mistake…and he will probably pay for it with some serious jail time, at the very least.
If we look at these first verses of Luke 17, we are warned not to cause another person to sin. While most of us have enough sense to know that giving marijuana to a toddler is wrong…we think nothing of making off-color comments. We deride others and discriminate against them. We judge people, gossip, engage in name calling, and so much more – with no regard for how this might appear to those who are watching and listening. We operate in “do as I say, not as I do” mode…and we cannot see that we are essentially handing a joint to a three-year-old and saying, “hit the blunt!”
So “Part One” of our message for today is to watch what we say and do – ALL of it - and never cause another person to sin. But then Jesus adds another important command…we must forgive any who remorsefully ask for mercy and absolution. Jesus is so adamant about this that He emphasizes that we should do this seven times in one day, if necessary! I will be the first to tell you that I really struggle with this one!
I think one of the reasons this is so hard for me is that many people find it easy to say “I’m sorry”…but then nothing really changes. Many people promise to do better or that “it will never happen again,” and we know before the words leave their mouths that this is not the truth. I have tried to imagine how all of this must seem to Jesus. Because you see, for every ridiculous “apology” and promise to do better that someone offers to each of us…we offer 100 times this many of the same to Jesus. For every time someone has said to you, “I will try to do better,” you and I have told God this more times than we can even count.
If we want God’s grace, mercy and forgiveness…we have to extend these blessings to others. If we truly operate in Christian faith and believe that we serve a God of second, third, and 103rd chances…we have to offer those to the people in our midst. We cannot cause others to sin…but we cannot fail to forgive those who mistreat us and ask for our forgiveness, either. Given the events in our country in recent months – and in the world at large – this is a terribly difficult challenge for me. But nobody ever said it was easy to be a faithful Christian!
So we are commanded to stay awake and alert…to check our thoughts, words and actions (because people ARE watching!)…and to forgive all who apologize, and show them love, grace and mercy. In other words, we are to emulate Jesus at all times – and in all ways. As Christian Disciples…we are called to give this our best shot each and every day. How are you doing so far?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 22, 2016
Luke 12:57-59
“You don’t have to be a genius to understand these things. Just use your common sense, the kind you’d use if, while being taken to court, you decided to settle up with your accuser on the way, knowing that if the case went to the judge you’d probably go to jail and pay every last penny of the fine. That’s the kind of decision I’m asking you to make.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
The late poet and civil rights activist, Maya Angelou, is credited with the phrase…”When you know better, you do better.” If only that were true for most of us! I hope you understand that today’s scripture passage is not really about settling a dispute before you get to court…at least not in the way that you think. If you go back and read the preceding verses of Luke 12, you will see that Jesus is telling a crowd that had gathered that there was a change on the horizon. He was warning the disciples and others who were listening about the false teachings of those who didn’t want to recognize Him as the Messiah – or change their sinful ways.
So when Jesus talks of “settling up with your accuser” on the way to court, He is really telling us to get our act together now…or prepare for some serious judgment and punishment at some point! In other words, our actions have consequences…and failure to listen to Jesus and follow His teachings can get us in a heap of trouble!
What does this mean in everyday language for you and me? It means that before we say something unkind or questionable about another person, we need to prayerfully consider whether Jesus approves. Before we decide to lash out at someone – or discriminate against anyone in any way…we should remind ourselves of Jesus’ words in Luke 10:27 to love others as God loves us – and we love ourselves.
Every day when we awake, we should ask God to guide our steps. We should invite the Holy Spirit to dwell in our hearts and guard our words and actions. We should use the wisdom and “common sense” that Jesus continually gives us to avoid pitfalls and recognize the persuasions of imposters, con artists, frauds, and quacks who want to lead us down the wrong path. We should practice “active discipleship,” meaning we should steep ourselves in God’s Word and check at every turn to make sure that what we say and do lines up with His directives. We should never waste an opportunity to represent Jesus to another person – if only to offer him/her our warmest smile.
It’s pretty simple, really. How we live today matters. At some point, we will all have to answer to God for the things we said and did…how we treated others…whether we represented Jesus’ teachings and honored His sacrifice…and whether or not we truly even knew Him as our Savior. I don’t know about you, but when I stand before God and receive my “review,” I want to know that I did everything possible to honor and glorify my LORD…that I did my dead-level best to live every day according to His will.
When God says to you, “Let’s talk about how it went…” will your reply be one that reflects solid faithfulness – or more of a lousy excuse? This is the kind of decision that Christ is calling us to make today. How will you respond?
©2016 Debbie Robus
“You don’t have to be a genius to understand these things. Just use your common sense, the kind you’d use if, while being taken to court, you decided to settle up with your accuser on the way, knowing that if the case went to the judge you’d probably go to jail and pay every last penny of the fine. That’s the kind of decision I’m asking you to make.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
The late poet and civil rights activist, Maya Angelou, is credited with the phrase…”When you know better, you do better.” If only that were true for most of us! I hope you understand that today’s scripture passage is not really about settling a dispute before you get to court…at least not in the way that you think. If you go back and read the preceding verses of Luke 12, you will see that Jesus is telling a crowd that had gathered that there was a change on the horizon. He was warning the disciples and others who were listening about the false teachings of those who didn’t want to recognize Him as the Messiah – or change their sinful ways.
So when Jesus talks of “settling up with your accuser” on the way to court, He is really telling us to get our act together now…or prepare for some serious judgment and punishment at some point! In other words, our actions have consequences…and failure to listen to Jesus and follow His teachings can get us in a heap of trouble!
What does this mean in everyday language for you and me? It means that before we say something unkind or questionable about another person, we need to prayerfully consider whether Jesus approves. Before we decide to lash out at someone – or discriminate against anyone in any way…we should remind ourselves of Jesus’ words in Luke 10:27 to love others as God loves us – and we love ourselves.
Every day when we awake, we should ask God to guide our steps. We should invite the Holy Spirit to dwell in our hearts and guard our words and actions. We should use the wisdom and “common sense” that Jesus continually gives us to avoid pitfalls and recognize the persuasions of imposters, con artists, frauds, and quacks who want to lead us down the wrong path. We should practice “active discipleship,” meaning we should steep ourselves in God’s Word and check at every turn to make sure that what we say and do lines up with His directives. We should never waste an opportunity to represent Jesus to another person – if only to offer him/her our warmest smile.
It’s pretty simple, really. How we live today matters. At some point, we will all have to answer to God for the things we said and did…how we treated others…whether we represented Jesus’ teachings and honored His sacrifice…and whether or not we truly even knew Him as our Savior. I don’t know about you, but when I stand before God and receive my “review,” I want to know that I did everything possible to honor and glorify my LORD…that I did my dead-level best to live every day according to His will.
When God says to you, “Let’s talk about how it went…” will your reply be one that reflects solid faithfulness – or more of a lousy excuse? This is the kind of decision that Christ is calling us to make today. How will you respond?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 21, 2016
Luke 10:38-42
As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a village where a woman named Martha welcomed them into her home. Her sister Mary sat on the floor, listening to Jesus as he talked.
But Martha was the jittery type and was worrying over the big dinner she was preparing.
She came to Jesus and said, “Sir, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.”
But the Lord said to her, “Martha, dear friend, you are so upset over all these details! There is really only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it—and I won’t take it away from her!”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
For the last few years, I have worked with children at church as a Sunday school teacher and VBS assistant. Now that Timothy, Zola and Nathan are in school, I also volunteer in their classrooms. I never lost my love for teaching – or children…but as I work with children nowadays, I am reminded of an incredibly critical objective – to keep the main thing the main thing!
What does this mean? As I look at the children in each classroom, I see little minds ready to be filled with wisdom and knowledge. But more importantly, I see little hearts that need to be filled with love…the love of Jesus - and my own. On any given day, we have no clue what kids bring to the classroom. Some are foster children who may have been shuffled from home to home. Some are living in dysfunctional families with parents who argue constantly or have mountains of problems that fill the home with stress and strife. Some have special needs – physically and mentally - while others just have trouble fitting in with their peers.
Some are brilliant thinkers…or are highly creative and need lots of stimulation to nurture their gifts, while others struggle to grasp even the simplest concepts and need extra attention and repetition. Some are incredibly athletic and fit, while others can barely walk a straight line or dribble a ball.
The bottom line is that each and every child comes hungry for love and attention…for someone to meet them right where they are in that moment. And if we miss this as teachers/leaders/volunteers, we have missed the most important detail of the day. As I look back to the years that I was actually a public school teacher, I wonder how many days I was more concerned with getting all of my reports in on time - or meeting stated goals - and I missed an opportunity to reassure a child. How many times was I so frustrated and stressed out that I didn’t smile and offer a kind word to a child who really needed that more than anything else?
I cannot return to my kindergarten classroom of the 80s…but I can make a concerted effort moving forward to meet “children” of all ages, right where they are. We live in “Martha’s” world…but I want “Mary’s” heart! At the end of the day, my “to-do” list may still be full. But if I hear the voice of Jesus – and follow His lead, it won’t matter what else is left unchecked.
Have you discovered the One Thing worth worrying about…or are you busy with all of the little details? Don’t miss out on the most important part of Christian discipleship. Learn to focus on sharing Jesus with others every day – in all that you do. Trust Him to organize your details. Ensure that the ones that truly matter are accomplished. Are you ready to focus more on Jesus’ details and missions than your own? Will this be the day that you get started?
©2016 Debbie Robus
As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a village where a woman named Martha welcomed them into her home. Her sister Mary sat on the floor, listening to Jesus as he talked.
But Martha was the jittery type and was worrying over the big dinner she was preparing.
She came to Jesus and said, “Sir, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.”
But the Lord said to her, “Martha, dear friend, you are so upset over all these details! There is really only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it—and I won’t take it away from her!”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
For the last few years, I have worked with children at church as a Sunday school teacher and VBS assistant. Now that Timothy, Zola and Nathan are in school, I also volunteer in their classrooms. I never lost my love for teaching – or children…but as I work with children nowadays, I am reminded of an incredibly critical objective – to keep the main thing the main thing!
What does this mean? As I look at the children in each classroom, I see little minds ready to be filled with wisdom and knowledge. But more importantly, I see little hearts that need to be filled with love…the love of Jesus - and my own. On any given day, we have no clue what kids bring to the classroom. Some are foster children who may have been shuffled from home to home. Some are living in dysfunctional families with parents who argue constantly or have mountains of problems that fill the home with stress and strife. Some have special needs – physically and mentally - while others just have trouble fitting in with their peers.
Some are brilliant thinkers…or are highly creative and need lots of stimulation to nurture their gifts, while others struggle to grasp even the simplest concepts and need extra attention and repetition. Some are incredibly athletic and fit, while others can barely walk a straight line or dribble a ball.
The bottom line is that each and every child comes hungry for love and attention…for someone to meet them right where they are in that moment. And if we miss this as teachers/leaders/volunteers, we have missed the most important detail of the day. As I look back to the years that I was actually a public school teacher, I wonder how many days I was more concerned with getting all of my reports in on time - or meeting stated goals - and I missed an opportunity to reassure a child. How many times was I so frustrated and stressed out that I didn’t smile and offer a kind word to a child who really needed that more than anything else?
I cannot return to my kindergarten classroom of the 80s…but I can make a concerted effort moving forward to meet “children” of all ages, right where they are. We live in “Martha’s” world…but I want “Mary’s” heart! At the end of the day, my “to-do” list may still be full. But if I hear the voice of Jesus – and follow His lead, it won’t matter what else is left unchecked.
Have you discovered the One Thing worth worrying about…or are you busy with all of the little details? Don’t miss out on the most important part of Christian discipleship. Learn to focus on sharing Jesus with others every day – in all that you do. Trust Him to organize your details. Ensure that the ones that truly matter are accomplished. Are you ready to focus more on Jesus’ details and missions than your own? Will this be the day that you get started?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 20, 2016
Luke 10:25-37
Just then a religion scholar stood up with a question to test Jesus. “Teacher, what do I need to do to get eternal life?”
He answered, “What’s written in God’s Law? How do you interpret it?”
He said, “That you love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and muscle and intelligence—and that you love your neighbor as well as you do yourself.”
“Good answer!” said Jesus. “Do it and you’ll live.”
Looking for a loophole, he asked, “And just how would you define ‘neighbor’?”
Jesus answered by telling a story. “There was once a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. On the way he was attacked by robbers. They took his clothes, beat him up, and went off leaving him half-dead. Luckily, a priest was on his way down the same road, but when he saw him he angled across to the other side. Then a Levite religious man showed up; he also avoided the injured man.
“A Samaritan traveling the road came on him. When he saw the man’s condition, his heart went out to him. He gave him first aid, disinfecting and bandaging his wounds. Then he lifted him onto his donkey, led him to an inn, and made him comfortable. In the morning he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take good care of him. If it costs any more, put it on my bill—I’ll pay you on my way back.’
“What do you think? Which of the three became a neighbor to the man attacked by robbers?”
“The one who treated him kindly,” the religion scholar responded.
Jesus said, “Go and do the same.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Police have apprehended the 28-year-old man who allegedly placed a series of homemade bombs along the streets of New York City and a couple of New Jersey communities in recent days. Fingerprints left on some of the bombs led to this man’s arrest after a brief shootout with police in which he and two policemen were wounded.
Not long after news broke about this man’s apprehension, politicians took the airwaves to weigh in with their opinions. One person complained loudly that this suspected bomber will most likely receive quality medical care and be treated by top-notch doctors. In my mind, there are two obvious reasons to do this…1) we don’t often apprehend a would-be bomber and have the opportunity to question him/her to possibly learn things that might help prevent future acts of terrorism; and just as importantly…2) it’s the right thing to do.
I watched news coverage as emergency personnel loaded this young man into an ambulance. I looked at his face and thought of our own nephews – about this same age - and our little great-nephews and cousins who we love so dearly. I couldn’t help but look at him as the precious son of a mother and father – or the perhaps someone’s beloved brother or nephew. I do not in any way condone this man’s actions, and I do hope that justice is served. But I also pray that he encounters some “Good Samaritans” among the law enforcement and medical personnel who will attend to him now.
Perhaps he will be treated by a doctor or nurse who will give him the same tender care that would be given to his/her own child or loved one. Maybe he will be handled with respect and fairness…and just MAYBE this young man will recognize that this is better than he deserves. It is possible that this would-be bomber might see the love of Jesus in the words and actions of those who are now guarding his every move…and that God will be glorified.
Every day, we waste countless opportunities to love others as Christ loves us. We are so caught up in “What’s in it for me?” that we fail to see what Jesus wants us to see…to minister to others in His name and let Him control the end result. We don’t look at others as Jesus sees them…with the same lens through which He views each of us. We do not consider them to be as precious in Jesus’ sight…and we don’t love them like He does – or as He loves us.
Jesus is not ours exclusively…He came to save the world…not just the minuscule “sphere” in which you and I operate. Isn’t it time you opened your heart and mind to what He desires? Will this be the day that we become the “Good Samaritans” - wherever and whenever Christ provides us with an opportunity? Don’t you think it’s time we did?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Just then a religion scholar stood up with a question to test Jesus. “Teacher, what do I need to do to get eternal life?”
He answered, “What’s written in God’s Law? How do you interpret it?”
He said, “That you love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and muscle and intelligence—and that you love your neighbor as well as you do yourself.”
“Good answer!” said Jesus. “Do it and you’ll live.”
Looking for a loophole, he asked, “And just how would you define ‘neighbor’?”
Jesus answered by telling a story. “There was once a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho. On the way he was attacked by robbers. They took his clothes, beat him up, and went off leaving him half-dead. Luckily, a priest was on his way down the same road, but when he saw him he angled across to the other side. Then a Levite religious man showed up; he also avoided the injured man.
“A Samaritan traveling the road came on him. When he saw the man’s condition, his heart went out to him. He gave him first aid, disinfecting and bandaging his wounds. Then he lifted him onto his donkey, led him to an inn, and made him comfortable. In the morning he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take good care of him. If it costs any more, put it on my bill—I’ll pay you on my way back.’
“What do you think? Which of the three became a neighbor to the man attacked by robbers?”
“The one who treated him kindly,” the religion scholar responded.
Jesus said, “Go and do the same.”
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Police have apprehended the 28-year-old man who allegedly placed a series of homemade bombs along the streets of New York City and a couple of New Jersey communities in recent days. Fingerprints left on some of the bombs led to this man’s arrest after a brief shootout with police in which he and two policemen were wounded.
Not long after news broke about this man’s apprehension, politicians took the airwaves to weigh in with their opinions. One person complained loudly that this suspected bomber will most likely receive quality medical care and be treated by top-notch doctors. In my mind, there are two obvious reasons to do this…1) we don’t often apprehend a would-be bomber and have the opportunity to question him/her to possibly learn things that might help prevent future acts of terrorism; and just as importantly…2) it’s the right thing to do.
I watched news coverage as emergency personnel loaded this young man into an ambulance. I looked at his face and thought of our own nephews – about this same age - and our little great-nephews and cousins who we love so dearly. I couldn’t help but look at him as the precious son of a mother and father – or the perhaps someone’s beloved brother or nephew. I do not in any way condone this man’s actions, and I do hope that justice is served. But I also pray that he encounters some “Good Samaritans” among the law enforcement and medical personnel who will attend to him now.
Perhaps he will be treated by a doctor or nurse who will give him the same tender care that would be given to his/her own child or loved one. Maybe he will be handled with respect and fairness…and just MAYBE this young man will recognize that this is better than he deserves. It is possible that this would-be bomber might see the love of Jesus in the words and actions of those who are now guarding his every move…and that God will be glorified.
Every day, we waste countless opportunities to love others as Christ loves us. We are so caught up in “What’s in it for me?” that we fail to see what Jesus wants us to see…to minister to others in His name and let Him control the end result. We don’t look at others as Jesus sees them…with the same lens through which He views each of us. We do not consider them to be as precious in Jesus’ sight…and we don’t love them like He does – or as He loves us.
Jesus is not ours exclusively…He came to save the world…not just the minuscule “sphere” in which you and I operate. Isn’t it time you opened your heart and mind to what He desires? Will this be the day that we become the “Good Samaritans” - wherever and whenever Christ provides us with an opportunity? Don’t you think it’s time we did?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Luke 10:21-24
Then he was filled with the joy of the Holy Spirit and said, “I praise you, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for hiding these things from the intellectuals and worldly wise and for revealing them to those who are as trusting as little children. Yes, thank you, Father, for that is the way you wanted it. I am the Agent of my Father in everything; and no one really knows the Son except the Father, and no one really knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.”
Then, turning to the twelve disciples, he said quietly, “How privileged you are to see what you have seen. Many a prophet and king of old has longed for these days, to see and hear what you have seen and heard!”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
From the time Timothy was a baby, I have prayed that he would know Jesus at an early age and develop a strong, intimate relationship with Him. When Zola and Nathan came along, my prayers expanded to include them. I also pray this for the other “little ones” in our circle of family and friends – and all children really – but especially those with whom I have contact. I consider it not only my obligation as a Christian disciple – but also my privilege – to share the love and teachings of Jesus with these children and offer them the opportunity to embrace Him for themselves.
What is gratifying – and somewhat amazing – is how readily most children accept the existence of God…and Jesus. They sometimes question…”Where is God?” or “What does Jesus really look like?” But when we talk about God and share stories of the Bible…when I tell them about Jesus and how “mean men” nailed Him to a cross, where He died because of our sins…they nod, agree and seem to readily accept and internalize this information. They seem to grasp the concept of a “Forever Friend” (the Holy Spirit) who will live in their hearts and guide them each day - and help them make good choices. And my heart bursts with joy that they trust so eagerly.
Somewhere along the line, we become skeptical. I don’t know if the pressures of “the world at large” get to us or exactly what causes the shift…but we lose some of this innocent faith and start to crumble a bit. Some of us all but disintegrate! We begin to question God…and His motives and methods. We let go of Jesus’ hand and close our hearts to the Holy Spirit…and we start to trust mere mortals instead.
We listen to the opinions of others, rather than the teachings of Jesus. Like Timothy, Zola and Nathan, some of us have heard the Word of God since we were tiny babies. We have seen Christian faith in action through the role models and mentors in our lives. But when ungodly influences show up – and they always do – we are drawn to them as if they were irresistible shiny objects. Remember, all the devil needs is the tiniest of openings, and he will sneak into our lives like the slimy creature that he is – and wreak havoc in our lives and the lives of those around us!
Jesus acts as God’s “Special Agent” and provides us with all of the information and tools that we need to live in accordance with His will – and to accomplish His missions for us on this earth. For all of this to work as God ordained, we have to trust like little children. Is this a leap of faith? To some degree - yes. But don’t you know in your heart that this is how you should be living? Don’t you realize how privileged we are to have Jesus as our Savior…and God as our Heavenly Father?
Isn’t it time we stopped acting like we are such high-brow intellectuals who know it all…and surrendered our hearts completely to Jesus? Will this be the day that you “reconnect with your inner child” - and that level of innocence and faith - and let God have complete control in your life? Aren’t you ready to be His kid again?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Then he was filled with the joy of the Holy Spirit and said, “I praise you, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for hiding these things from the intellectuals and worldly wise and for revealing them to those who are as trusting as little children. Yes, thank you, Father, for that is the way you wanted it. I am the Agent of my Father in everything; and no one really knows the Son except the Father, and no one really knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.”
Then, turning to the twelve disciples, he said quietly, “How privileged you are to see what you have seen. Many a prophet and king of old has longed for these days, to see and hear what you have seen and heard!”
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
From the time Timothy was a baby, I have prayed that he would know Jesus at an early age and develop a strong, intimate relationship with Him. When Zola and Nathan came along, my prayers expanded to include them. I also pray this for the other “little ones” in our circle of family and friends – and all children really – but especially those with whom I have contact. I consider it not only my obligation as a Christian disciple – but also my privilege – to share the love and teachings of Jesus with these children and offer them the opportunity to embrace Him for themselves.
What is gratifying – and somewhat amazing – is how readily most children accept the existence of God…and Jesus. They sometimes question…”Where is God?” or “What does Jesus really look like?” But when we talk about God and share stories of the Bible…when I tell them about Jesus and how “mean men” nailed Him to a cross, where He died because of our sins…they nod, agree and seem to readily accept and internalize this information. They seem to grasp the concept of a “Forever Friend” (the Holy Spirit) who will live in their hearts and guide them each day - and help them make good choices. And my heart bursts with joy that they trust so eagerly.
Somewhere along the line, we become skeptical. I don’t know if the pressures of “the world at large” get to us or exactly what causes the shift…but we lose some of this innocent faith and start to crumble a bit. Some of us all but disintegrate! We begin to question God…and His motives and methods. We let go of Jesus’ hand and close our hearts to the Holy Spirit…and we start to trust mere mortals instead.
We listen to the opinions of others, rather than the teachings of Jesus. Like Timothy, Zola and Nathan, some of us have heard the Word of God since we were tiny babies. We have seen Christian faith in action through the role models and mentors in our lives. But when ungodly influences show up – and they always do – we are drawn to them as if they were irresistible shiny objects. Remember, all the devil needs is the tiniest of openings, and he will sneak into our lives like the slimy creature that he is – and wreak havoc in our lives and the lives of those around us!
Jesus acts as God’s “Special Agent” and provides us with all of the information and tools that we need to live in accordance with His will – and to accomplish His missions for us on this earth. For all of this to work as God ordained, we have to trust like little children. Is this a leap of faith? To some degree - yes. But don’t you know in your heart that this is how you should be living? Don’t you realize how privileged we are to have Jesus as our Savior…and God as our Heavenly Father?
Isn’t it time we stopped acting like we are such high-brow intellectuals who know it all…and surrendered our hearts completely to Jesus? Will this be the day that you “reconnect with your inner child” - and that level of innocence and faith - and let God have complete control in your life? Aren’t you ready to be His kid again?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 18, 2016
Luke 10:7-12
Stay with the same family, eating and drinking whatever they give you, because workers are worth what they earn. Don’t move around from house to house.
If the people of a town welcome you, eat whatever they offer. Heal their sick and say, “God’s kingdom will soon be here!”
But if the people of a town refuse to welcome you, go out into the street and say, “We are shaking the dust from our feet as a warning to you. And you can be sure that God’s kingdom will soon be here!” I tell you that on the day of judgment the people of Sodom will get off easier than the people of that town!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I read a little joke about a teacher who explained to her students that the mouth of a whale is very small for a creature of such great size. A little girl protested that the whale’s mouth was large enough to swallow Jonah, and a bit of an argument ensued. Finally, the little girl said, “Well, when I get to heaven, I will ask Jonah.” The teacher asked, “What if Jonah went to hell?” The little girl answered…”Then YOU ask him!”
This is funny on the surface…but obviously, we would be very upset with any child who spoke to an adult in such a manner. And God doesn’t want us to be rude and condescending with people…even when we are standing up for the validity of His word. Still, Jesus tells us in this passage that there comes a time when we have “played nice” long enough – and we must dust ourselves off and walk away. At this point, we have to trust that either He will make a difference where we cannot…or these people truly have chosen to reject Him as their Savior.
It’s hard to know when this point occurs…when to stop trying with some people. And I still don’t think that God means for us to give up on them completely. Sometimes, the best option we have is to back away and pray – and trust God to handle everything as only He can. Until we reach this point, we are called to treat others with love and kindness…to meet them where they are…to “eat what they offer” and minister to them with the love of Christ.
We are to show others kindness and compassion…to refrain from judgment, condescension, gossip and name calling. We are to reach out to others in the name of Jesus. It shouldn’t matter who they are, what they believe, who they worship, how rich or poor they are - or their race, creed, ethnicity, sexual orientation or political leaning.
My point is this…Jesus has commissioned us to spread His gospel and minister to all of His people - not just the ones we like. He has been very clear about how we are to offer grace, mercy, kindness and compassion to others…and when to say “When!” and walk away. Are we listening? Are we hearing His voice and obediently answering? Are we willing to serve Jesus with an open mind and heart…and leave the judgment to His discretion? Don’t you think we should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Stay with the same family, eating and drinking whatever they give you, because workers are worth what they earn. Don’t move around from house to house.
If the people of a town welcome you, eat whatever they offer. Heal their sick and say, “God’s kingdom will soon be here!”
But if the people of a town refuse to welcome you, go out into the street and say, “We are shaking the dust from our feet as a warning to you. And you can be sure that God’s kingdom will soon be here!” I tell you that on the day of judgment the people of Sodom will get off easier than the people of that town!
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
I read a little joke about a teacher who explained to her students that the mouth of a whale is very small for a creature of such great size. A little girl protested that the whale’s mouth was large enough to swallow Jonah, and a bit of an argument ensued. Finally, the little girl said, “Well, when I get to heaven, I will ask Jonah.” The teacher asked, “What if Jonah went to hell?” The little girl answered…”Then YOU ask him!”
This is funny on the surface…but obviously, we would be very upset with any child who spoke to an adult in such a manner. And God doesn’t want us to be rude and condescending with people…even when we are standing up for the validity of His word. Still, Jesus tells us in this passage that there comes a time when we have “played nice” long enough – and we must dust ourselves off and walk away. At this point, we have to trust that either He will make a difference where we cannot…or these people truly have chosen to reject Him as their Savior.
It’s hard to know when this point occurs…when to stop trying with some people. And I still don’t think that God means for us to give up on them completely. Sometimes, the best option we have is to back away and pray – and trust God to handle everything as only He can. Until we reach this point, we are called to treat others with love and kindness…to meet them where they are…to “eat what they offer” and minister to them with the love of Christ.
We are to show others kindness and compassion…to refrain from judgment, condescension, gossip and name calling. We are to reach out to others in the name of Jesus. It shouldn’t matter who they are, what they believe, who they worship, how rich or poor they are - or their race, creed, ethnicity, sexual orientation or political leaning.
My point is this…Jesus has commissioned us to spread His gospel and minister to all of His people - not just the ones we like. He has been very clear about how we are to offer grace, mercy, kindness and compassion to others…and when to say “When!” and walk away. Are we listening? Are we hearing His voice and obediently answering? Are we willing to serve Jesus with an open mind and heart…and leave the judgment to His discretion? Don’t you think we should be?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 17, 2016
Luke 10:1-6
The Lord now chose seventy other disciples and sent them on ahead in pairs to all the towns and villages he planned to visit later.
These were his instructions to them: “Plead with the Lord of the harvest to send out more laborers to help you, for the harvest is and the workers so few. Go now, and remember that I am sending you out as lambs among wolves. Don’t take any money with you, or a beggar’s bag, or even an extra pair of shoes. And don’t waste time along the way.
“Whenever you enter a home, give it your blessing. If it is worthy of the blessing, the blessing will stand; if not, the blessing will return to you.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
If you are not an Arkansas Razorbacks fan, substitute the images of your favorite team and one or two of its biggest rivals in what I am about to tell you. Now, imagine being with a group of rabid Razorbacks fans, dressed from head to toe in your best team garb. The University of Arkansas president says, “I want you to pair off and go down to Texas. Some of you go to Austin…the rest of you go to College Station.” But I want you to knock on doors and convince those folks to start rooting for the Razorbacks. Get them to send their kids to college at the UofA and participate in Razorbacks athletics and other school activities. Encourage them to renounce their allegiance to the Texas Longhorns and the A&M Aggies and support ONLY the Razorbacks in all things.
Would you do it? Even if with every fiber of your being, you believed that the Razorbacks and the university they represent were superior in every way…that being an Arkansas Razorbacks fan would totally change your life – and all for the better – could you approach someone you felt certain did not share your beliefs and try to change their mind? Do you think some folks in Texas would even open the door for you? And would you be worried for your safety around those who did?
I know I’ve gone out on a ridiculous limb here, but think about what Jesus was instructing these 35 pair of disciples to do! He was sending them into “enemy territory” for the most part - and in some ways saying, “Good luck out there!” But here’s the thing…luck was not what these people needed. While Jesus knew that they were taking big risks, He was walking with them every step of the way. For those who listened to Jesus’ voice and trusted Him, their obedient faith made the difference.
If you get right down to it, Jesus is sending us out into the world just as He did those 70 early disciples. He is telling us to interact with others…to spread the Good News to those who may/may not want to hear it…to “put on our Hog hat and knock on a Longhorn’s door” and invite the people inside to have a change of heart.
On a more basic, everyday level, Jesus is calling us to reach out to those who might differ from us in some way and say, “I serve a Savior who died for the sins of ALL of us…Who loves unconditionally and offers forgiveness and Eternal Life to anyone who will give their heart to Him.” We are called to treat others as Jesus treats us…and for some of us, that is a tall order! There is no room for malicious talk, judgment, hateful criticism, discrimination, an air of superiority, or unkindness of any sort. It’s no wonder that some people put up a wall of defense or get downright nasty when we approach, because our attitude comes across as arrogant, unloving – and anything but “Christian.”
So “put on the whole armor of God” – nothing more or less - and get out there and share Jesus with others. Demonstrate His love and compassion to each person you meet. Love them as you wish to be loved – and as He loves you. Carry the Holy Spirit in your heart, and trust that any effort you make with a sincere and obedient faith will make a difference. We’ll never convince many Longhorn and Aggie fans to “convert” to our side…but with the power of Jesus, we might just win a few souls to God’s Kingdom. And that’s worth a Woo…Pig! Sooie!...don’t you think?!
©2016 Debbie Robus
The Lord now chose seventy other disciples and sent them on ahead in pairs to all the towns and villages he planned to visit later.
These were his instructions to them: “Plead with the Lord of the harvest to send out more laborers to help you, for the harvest is and the workers so few. Go now, and remember that I am sending you out as lambs among wolves. Don’t take any money with you, or a beggar’s bag, or even an extra pair of shoes. And don’t waste time along the way.
“Whenever you enter a home, give it your blessing. If it is worthy of the blessing, the blessing will stand; if not, the blessing will return to you.
The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
If you are not an Arkansas Razorbacks fan, substitute the images of your favorite team and one or two of its biggest rivals in what I am about to tell you. Now, imagine being with a group of rabid Razorbacks fans, dressed from head to toe in your best team garb. The University of Arkansas president says, “I want you to pair off and go down to Texas. Some of you go to Austin…the rest of you go to College Station.” But I want you to knock on doors and convince those folks to start rooting for the Razorbacks. Get them to send their kids to college at the UofA and participate in Razorbacks athletics and other school activities. Encourage them to renounce their allegiance to the Texas Longhorns and the A&M Aggies and support ONLY the Razorbacks in all things.
Would you do it? Even if with every fiber of your being, you believed that the Razorbacks and the university they represent were superior in every way…that being an Arkansas Razorbacks fan would totally change your life – and all for the better – could you approach someone you felt certain did not share your beliefs and try to change their mind? Do you think some folks in Texas would even open the door for you? And would you be worried for your safety around those who did?
I know I’ve gone out on a ridiculous limb here, but think about what Jesus was instructing these 35 pair of disciples to do! He was sending them into “enemy territory” for the most part - and in some ways saying, “Good luck out there!” But here’s the thing…luck was not what these people needed. While Jesus knew that they were taking big risks, He was walking with them every step of the way. For those who listened to Jesus’ voice and trusted Him, their obedient faith made the difference.
If you get right down to it, Jesus is sending us out into the world just as He did those 70 early disciples. He is telling us to interact with others…to spread the Good News to those who may/may not want to hear it…to “put on our Hog hat and knock on a Longhorn’s door” and invite the people inside to have a change of heart.
On a more basic, everyday level, Jesus is calling us to reach out to those who might differ from us in some way and say, “I serve a Savior who died for the sins of ALL of us…Who loves unconditionally and offers forgiveness and Eternal Life to anyone who will give their heart to Him.” We are called to treat others as Jesus treats us…and for some of us, that is a tall order! There is no room for malicious talk, judgment, hateful criticism, discrimination, an air of superiority, or unkindness of any sort. It’s no wonder that some people put up a wall of defense or get downright nasty when we approach, because our attitude comes across as arrogant, unloving – and anything but “Christian.”
So “put on the whole armor of God” – nothing more or less - and get out there and share Jesus with others. Demonstrate His love and compassion to each person you meet. Love them as you wish to be loved – and as He loves you. Carry the Holy Spirit in your heart, and trust that any effort you make with a sincere and obedient faith will make a difference. We’ll never convince many Longhorn and Aggie fans to “convert” to our side…but with the power of Jesus, we might just win a few souls to God’s Kingdom. And that’s worth a Woo…Pig! Sooie!...don’t you think?!
©2016 Debbie Robus
Daily Devotional for September 16, 2016
Leviticus 19:18
Stop being angry and don’t try to take revenge. I am the Lord, and I command you to love others as much as you love yourself.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last week, I purchased something on eBay, and the seller contacted me the next day to say that extra items were inadvertently shipped with my order. This person asked if I would return these things and said she would e-mail me a prepaid shipping label. I agreed to do this. When the box arrived, there were double the “extra items” - and double the weight. So I had to contact the seller – who emailed me ANOTHER label that would cover the extra postage costs.
I thought about giving this seller a negative rating on eBay - or sending a message to express my dissatisfaction. But in the end, I have done nothing. Why? Partly because someone really MIGHT be in trouble if I did this…and I’ve tried to put myself in that person’s shoes. Were I to make such a mistake, I would truly appreciate a buyer who didn’t “rub salt in the wound!”
Additionally, it WAS a small inconvenience – and something of an aggravation to have to deal with this. But at the end of the day, it’s really not worth any more of my time and energy…certainly not worth “stirring the pot” and causing a problem for someone else.
So often, we "fly off the handle" and react to things that really don’t deserve that much effort and attention. We get angry when there is no need and seek revenge where it would be best to simply leave things alone. Timothy told me once when he had pushed Nathan…”He needed to be taught a lesson!” The truth is that most of the time, this is not our job! Sometimes our efforts to handle things on our own are not pretty – and don’t represent true Christian discipleship.
Are you making every effort to operate in love and a spirit of “second chances?” Do you give others the benefit of the doubt? Don’t you think it’s time we learned to check our attitudes before we react to others? Ask God to help you mature in this area. Learn to take a breath and step back before you totally make a mess of things. Think about how YOU would like to be treated…and make this your guideline for how to respond in kind.
In both the Old and New Testaments, we are commanded to love others as we love ourselves. We are told not to get angry or seek revenge. I’d say that this is pretty high on God’s list of priorities…wouldn’t you? So what are you doing to eliminate anger and revenge from your life?
©2016 Debbie Robus
Stop being angry and don’t try to take revenge. I am the Lord, and I command you to love others as much as you love yourself.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Last week, I purchased something on eBay, and the seller contacted me the next day to say that extra items were inadvertently shipped with my order. This person asked if I would return these things and said she would e-mail me a prepaid shipping label. I agreed to do this. When the box arrived, there were double the “extra items” - and double the weight. So I had to contact the seller – who emailed me ANOTHER label that would cover the extra postage costs.
I thought about giving this seller a negative rating on eBay - or sending a message to express my dissatisfaction. But in the end, I have done nothing. Why? Partly because someone really MIGHT be in trouble if I did this…and I’ve tried to put myself in that person’s shoes. Were I to make such a mistake, I would truly appreciate a buyer who didn’t “rub salt in the wound!”
Additionally, it WAS a small inconvenience – and something of an aggravation to have to deal with this. But at the end of the day, it’s really not worth any more of my time and energy…certainly not worth “stirring the pot” and causing a problem for someone else.
So often, we "fly off the handle" and react to things that really don’t deserve that much effort and attention. We get angry when there is no need and seek revenge where it would be best to simply leave things alone. Timothy told me once when he had pushed Nathan…”He needed to be taught a lesson!” The truth is that most of the time, this is not our job! Sometimes our efforts to handle things on our own are not pretty – and don’t represent true Christian discipleship.
Are you making every effort to operate in love and a spirit of “second chances?” Do you give others the benefit of the doubt? Don’t you think it’s time we learned to check our attitudes before we react to others? Ask God to help you mature in this area. Learn to take a breath and step back before you totally make a mess of things. Think about how YOU would like to be treated…and make this your guideline for how to respond in kind.
In both the Old and New Testaments, we are commanded to love others as we love ourselves. We are told not to get angry or seek revenge. I’d say that this is pretty high on God’s list of priorities…wouldn’t you? So what are you doing to eliminate anger and revenge from your life?
©2016 Debbie Robus
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