Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: John 14:15 (NIV)

"If you love me, keep my commands."

Encouragement: 

In this simple yet profound statement, Jesus cuts to the very heart of discipleship. He doesn't say, "If you love me, feel good about me," or "If you love me, simply believe in me." While belief and affection are certainly part of our relationship with Him, Jesus declares that the truest, most tangible expression of our love is found in our obedience to His commands.

Think about human relationships. If you truly love someone, your actions reflect that love. You listen to their desires, you try to please them, and you strive to honor their wishes. Your words of affection would ring hollow if your behavior consistently contradicted your stated feelings. The same principle, magnified infinitely, applies to our relationship with Christ.

Jesus isn't imposing a burdensome legalism here. He's inviting us into a deeper, more authentic connection. He knows that true love is active, not passive. It compels us to align our lives with the One we claim to adore. His commands are not arbitrary rules designed to restrict our freedom, but pathways to genuine life, peace, and flourishing. They are expressions of His wisdom and His boundless love for us.

Consider what Jesus' commands encompass. They are found throughout the Gospels: loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength; loving our neighbors as ourselves; forgiving those who wrong us; serving the poor; making disciples; living righteously. These are not merely suggestions, but the very DNA of a life lived in partnership with God.

This verse challenges us to examine the authenticity of our love for Jesus. Is it merely sentimental, or is it robust enough to move us to action? Do we pick and choose which commands are convenient or appealing, or do we strive for wholehearted submission to His will?

The beauty of this command is that it's also a promise. As we strive to obey, even imperfectly, we experience more of Christ's presence and power in our lives. The very act of obedience deepens our love and understanding of Him. It's a virtuous cycle: love leads to obedience, and obedience leads to a deeper, more intimate experience of His love.

This Advent season, as we anticipate and celebrate the coming of Jesus, Emmanuel, "God with us," let us reflect on His perfect obedience to the Father, even to the point of the cross. His life was the ultimate demonstration of love through obedience. May His example inspire us to ask: If I truly love Him, what command is He calling me to embrace more fully today? How can my obedience be a tangible echo of my devotion to "God with us"?

Reflection Questions:

• What specific commands of Jesus do you find most challenging to obey? Why?
• How does your daily life reflect your love for Jesus through your actions?
• Can you think of a time when your obedience, even in a small matter, deepened your understanding or experience of God's love?
• What is one command of Jesus you can intentionally focus on obeying more fully this week?
• How does the truth of "God with us" (Emmanuel) empower you to live a life of loving obedience?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we confess that our love for you is often imperfect and our obedience falls short. Forgive us for the times we have prioritized our own desires over your commands. Grant us the grace to understand that true love for Jesus is demonstrated in our willingness to follow Him. Fill our hearts with a deeper love for You, so that obedience becomes not a burden, but a joy and a natural expression of our devotion. Help us to keep your commands, knowing that in doing so, we draw closer to You and reflect Your glory to the world. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Philippians 2:5-8 (NIV)

"In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!"

Encouragement: 

Paul's words in Philippians 2:5-8 offer us a profound and challenging glimpse into the very heart of Christ. He doesn't just call us to admire Jesus; he calls us to imitate Him, specifically in our attitudes and relationships with one another. "Have the same mindset as Christ Jesus," he urges. This isn't a casual suggestion, but a foundational principle for Christian living.

What was this "mindset" of Christ? Paul unpacks it in astonishing detail:

1. Divine Humility (Verse 6): Jesus, being "in very nature God"—co-equal and co-eternal with the Father—did not cling to His divine prerogatives. He didn't use His supreme power and status for self-gain or to avoid the human condition. This is the ultimate act of humility: God choosing not to assert His rights, but to lay them aside.

2. Self-Emptying (Verse 7a): He "made himself nothing" (or "emptied himself"). This Greek word, kenosis, doesn't mean He ceased to be God, but that He voluntarily relinquished the privileges and expressions of His divine glory. He confined Himself to human limitations, setting aside His inherent advantages for our sake.

3. Servanthood (Verse 7b): He embraced the "very nature of a servant." The King of the universe became a bond-slave. He came not to be served, but to serve (Mark 10:45). This mindset turns worldly values upside down. The path to greatness in God's kingdom is marked by humble service, not by power or prestige.

4. Incarnation (Verse 7c): He was "made in human likeness, and being found in appearance as a man." The eternal Word stepped into time, taking on flesh and blood. This is the essence of Emmanuel – God with us, fully God and fully human. He experienced our joys, our sorrows, our temptations, our limitations.

5. Ultimate Obedience (Verse 8): He "humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!" This is the pinnacle of His sacrificial love and obedience. His humility wasn't just about becoming human; it was about accepting the most shameful, agonizing death imaginable, all to fulfill the Father's will and secure our salvation.

This Advent season, as we celebrate the humble arrival of our Savior, this passage challenges us deeply. The Christmas story is not merely a sweet tale of a baby in a manger; it is the staggering reality of God's profound self-emptying and loving obedience.

If this is the mindset of Christ, how does it reflect in our relationships? Are we clinging to our own rights, our own comfort, our own status? Are we willing to "make ourselves nothing" for the sake of others? Are we quick to serve, even when it means sacrificing our preferences or pride? Are we obedient to God's call, even when it demands great sacrifice?

To adopt the mind of Christ means choosing humility over pride, service over self-interest, and obedience over autonomy. It means recognizing that every relationship is an opportunity to reflect the profound love and humility of our Savior.

Reflection Questions:

• How does Jesus' self-emptying challenge your understanding of power and greatness?
• In what specific relationships or situations do you find it difficult to "have the same mindset as Christ Jesus"?
• What does it practically mean for you to "make yourself nothing" or take on the "nature of a servant" this week?
• How can focusing on Jesus' obedience to death on the cross strengthen your own willingness to obey God, even in difficult circumstances?
• As we celebrate Emmanuel, "God with us," how does knowing His mindset inspire you to be more "God with others" in your daily life?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we are awestruck by the humility and obedience of your Son, Jesus Christ. Forgive us for our pride, our self-centeredness, and our reluctance to serve. Transform our minds, we pray, so that we may truly have the mindset of Christ. Help us to empty ourselves, to embrace the nature of a servant, and to be obedient to your will, even when it is costly. May our lives reflect the profound love and humility of Emmanuel, so that others may see You through us. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Psalm 119:33-34 (NIV)

Teach me, Lord, the way of your decrees, that I may follow it to the end. Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law with all my heart.

Encouragement: 

Psalm 119 is a magnificent and sprawling hymn to God's Word, a testament to its power, beauty, and life-giving nature. In these two short verses, the psalmist expresses a fervent and twofold prayer that reveals the heart of a true disciple: a desire to be taught and a longing for understanding, both for the purpose of wholehearted obedience.

The first plea, "Teach me, Lord, the way of your decrees, that I may follow it to the end," highlights our dependence on God for spiritual guidance. We don't inherently know God's ways; they must be revealed and taught to us. This isn't a passive request for information, but an active cry for direction—a desire not just to know the path, but to walk it. The phrase "to the end" signifies a commitment to lifelong discipleship, a perseverance in following God's commands until our very last breath. It speaks of endurance and faithfulness.

The second plea deepens the first: "Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law with all my heart." Here, the psalmist recognizes that mere head-knowledge is insufficient. He asks for "understanding"—a deeper insight, a spiritual discernment that allows God's truth to penetrate beyond the mind and into the very core of his being. Why? "So that I may keep your law with all my heart." This is the key. Obedience from duty or fear is one thing; obedience that flows from a heart fully engaged, fully convinced, and deeply committed is another entirely. This is the kind of obedience God desires, the kind that transforms us from within.

This passage reminds us that knowing God's Word is not an end in itself; it is a means to a greater end: living a life that honors Him. We don't study the Bible just to accumulate facts, but to be transformed by its truth, so that our lives might increasingly reflect the character of God. The understanding we seek isn't for intellectual prowess, but for practical application. It's about letting God's truth shape our desires, our motivations, and our actions.

As we journey through Advent, awaiting and celebrating Emmanuel, "God with us," these verses invite us to consider our own hearts. Do we approach God's Word with a genuine hunger to be taught and to understand? Are we praying for the kind of understanding that leads to wholehearted obedience? The very presence of "God with us" in Jesus Christ is the ultimate revelation of God's ways and His perfect fulfillment of the law. He not only taught us, but He is the Way.

May our prayer echo that of the psalmist: a humble request for divine instruction and profound understanding, so that our obedience might flow from a heart fully devoted to the one who came to dwell among us.

Reflection Questions:

• How often do you approach God's Word with a genuine desire to be taught and to obey, rather than just to gain information?
• What does "understanding" God's decrees mean to you, beyond simply knowing facts?
• In what areas of your life do you feel you are currently "in the wilderness" and need God to teach you His way more clearly?
• What might hinder you from keeping God's law "with all your heart"?
• How does the coming of Emmanuel, Jesus, empower you to seek understanding and live in wholehearted obedience to God's commands?

Prayer:

Lord, we come before you, acknowledging our need for your guidance. Teach us, we pray, the way of your decrees, that we may follow it faithfully to the very end of our days. Grant us deep understanding, not just intellectual knowledge, but a heart-level comprehension of your truth. May our obedience flow from a pure and devoted heart, honoring you in all that we do. Thank you for Emmanuel, our ultimate Teacher and the perfect embodiment of your law. In His name, Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: 1 John 2:6 (NIV)

"Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did."

Encouragement: 

John, the beloved disciple, has a way of cutting straight to the core of what it means to be a follower of Jesus. In this powerful verse, he offers a litmus test for our spiritual claims: "Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did." It's a straightforward, unambiguous statement that challenges the authenticity of our faith.

To "live in him" speaks of an intimate, abiding relationship with Christ. It's not merely a theological assent to His existence or a one-time decision. It implies a continuous communion, a spiritual dwelling within His presence and power. But John immediately links this claim to a practical outcome: if we truly live in Him, our lives must begin to look like His.

This doesn't mean becoming perfect overnight, or mimicking Jesus' exact historical circumstances. Rather, it calls us to embody His character, His priorities, His values, and His way of relating to God and others.

Think about how Jesus lived:

• He lived in perfect obedience to the Father: "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work" (John 4:34).
• He lived a life of sacrificial love: "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends" (John 15:13).
• He lived with compassion for the marginalized: He healed the sick, touched the lepers, and dined with sinners.
• He lived humbly: He came not to be served, but to serve (Mark 10:45).
• He lived in dependence on the Holy Spirit: He was led by the Spirit, empowered by the Spirit for ministry.
• He lived with a clear purpose: To seek and to save the lost (Luke 19:10).

John's challenge forces us to look beyond mere words or religious activities. It's easy to claim a relationship with Jesus, to attend church, or even to speak Christianese. But the true evidence of living "in Him" is found in the daily choices we make, the attitudes we cultivate, the way we treat those around us, and our submission to God's will.

This Advent season, as we celebrate the incarnation of Jesus – Emmanuel, "God with us" – we are reminded that He didn't just come to be with us, but also to show us how to live. His life is the perfect blueprint for humanity, the ultimate example of what it means to be fully alive and fully aligned with God.

So, let us take John's words to heart. Let us ask ourselves, honestly, "Am I living as Jesus did?" Where are the gaps between our claim and our conduct? Where do we need the Holy Spirit's transforming power to conform us more closely to the image of our Savior? To truly live in Him is to increasingly walk in His footsteps, radiating His love and truth to a world desperately in need of seeing Jesus lived out through us.

Reflection Questions:

• What does "living as Jesus did" mean to you personally, beyond the obvious?
• In which areas of your life do you feel your actions most closely reflect Jesus' way of living?
• Where do you see the greatest gap between your claim to "live in Him" and your actual daily life?
• What is one specific attitude or action of Jesus that you feel God is calling you to embody more deeply this week?
• How does the reality of Emmanuel – God living among us – empower you to strive to live as Him?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the life of Jesus, our perfect example and Savior. We confess that we often fall short of living as He did, clinging to our own ways instead of Yours. Forgive us, Lord. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, who lives within us, transform us from the inside out. Help us to shed our old self and put on the new, so that our lives may increasingly reflect the character, love, and obedience of Jesus. May our claim to live in Him be evident in every word and action, bringing glory to Your name. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Ephesians 4:22-24 (NIV)

You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

Encouragement: 

In this passage, Paul uses vivid imagery, like changing clothes, to describe the profound transformation that occurs when we come to faith in Christ. He speaks of "putting off" an old self and "putting on" a new one. This isn't a mere suggestion; it's a foundational aspect of what it means to live as followers of Jesus.

The "old self" is our former way of life, driven by sin, selfishness, and the brokenness inherited from Adam. Paul describes it as "being corrupted by its deceitful desires." These desires promise satisfaction, freedom, or happiness, but ultimately lead to bondage, disappointment, and further decay. Living in the old self means being enslaved to patterns of thought and behavior that are contrary to God's will and destructive to ourselves and others.

But through Christ, we are offered a radical alternative. We are called "to be made new in the attitude of your minds." This speaks to a continuous, ongoing transformation, a renovation of our inner being. It's not just about changing our behavior, but about renewing our way of thinking, our core beliefs, and our perspectives. This mental renewal is where the real change begins, as our thoughts shape our desires and actions.

And then, the call to action: "to put on the new self." This new self is not something we create ourselves; it is "created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." This is a breathtaking truth! Through Christ, we are given a new identity, a new nature that mirrors the very character of God. This new self is marked by genuine integrity (righteousness) and moral purity (holiness)—qualities that are inherent in God Himself.

Think of it like stepping out of a muddy, tattered, and ill-fitting garment and into a fresh, clean, perfectly tailored robe. The old self is our sin-stained clothing; the new self is the garment of righteousness provided by Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit. This process involves both our decision to shed the old and God's power to fashion the new.

This Advent season, as we anticipate and celebrate the coming of Emmanuel, "God with us," this passage holds profound significance. Jesus came not just to save us from our sins, but to save us from our old selves dominated by those sins. He came to make it possible for us to become new creations, truly "like God." His incarnation means that the divine pattern of righteousness and holiness is now accessible to us.

The call to put off the old and put on the new is a daily invitation. It requires intentionality, prayer, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. It means identifying those "deceitful desires" and old habits, actively choosing to shed them, and consciously embracing the Christ-like attributes that God is building within us. As we do, our lives become living testimonies to the transformative power of Emmanuel, a visible echo of "God with us" in a world yearning for true righteousness and holiness.

Reflection Questions:

• What are some specific "deceitful desires" or old habits that you need to "put off" today?
• In what ways are you actively seeking to "be made new in the attitude of your mind"?
• What does it mean to you to "put on the new self" that is "like God in true righteousness and holiness"? Can you name one practical way this looks in your life?
• How does the truth of Emmanuel (God with us) empower you in the ongoing process of shedding the old and embracing the new?
• What is one practical step you can take this week to align your thoughts and actions more closely with your "new self" in Christ?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the incredible gift of transformation through Jesus Christ. We confess that we often cling to the old self, indulging in deceitful desires that hold us captive. Forgive us, Lord. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, give us the courage to put off everything that does not honor You. Renew our minds, we pray, so that our thoughts, attitudes, and actions may increasingly reflect the "new self" you have created within us—a self that is truly like You in righteousness and holiness. May our lives be a living testament to the powerful reality of Emmanuel, God with us, who makes all things new. Amen.

Thank you for walking this journey with us over the last 6 weeks in asking the question, "What is a Christian?" I hope you have growth in both understanding and passion for God. 

We are starting a new series today at the Varsity Theatre 10 AM. I hope you can join us!

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Romans 12:15 (NIV)

Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.

Encouragement:

In the tapestry of human experience, joy and sorrow are inextricably woven. Life is a symphony of highs and lows, triumphs and trials. In the midst of this reality, Paul offers a deceptively simple yet profoundly challenging instruction to the believers in Rome: "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn."

This verse calls us to a deep level of engagement with the lives of others, moving beyond superficial interactions to truly enter into their emotional landscape. It asks us to cultivate a heart that is sensitive and responsive to the spectrum of human feeling.

Think about the last time someone shared good news with you. Did you genuinely celebrate with them, allowing their joy to resonate within your own heart? Or was there a subtle undercurrent of comparison, envy, or distraction that muted your response? To rejoice with others requires a spirit of generosity, a willingness to set aside our own concerns and truly delight in their blessings. It means recognizing that their joy doesn't diminish our own, but rather enriches the shared human experience.

Conversely, consider the last time someone confided in you about their pain or hardship. Did you truly mourn with them, entering into their sorrow with empathy and compassion? Or did you offer quick fixes, dismiss their feelings, or subtly steer the conversation back to your own experiences? To mourn with others demands a posture of humility and presence. It means setting aside our need to offer solutions and simply being with them in their pain, acknowledging the weight of their burden. Sometimes, the most profound comfort we can offer is simply our presence and a listening ear.

This verse challenges our natural inclinations. It's often easier to talk about our own joys and sorrows than to fully engage with those of others. Our busy lives and internal preoccupations can create barriers to genuine empathy. Yet, Paul urges us to break through these barriers and cultivate a community where emotional burdens are shared and joys are amplified through collective experience.

Why is this so important? Because it reflects the heart of God. Jesus himself wept with those who wept (John 11:35) and rejoiced at the return of the lost (Luke 15:7). As followers of Christ, we are called to mirror this divine empathy, becoming vessels of comfort and celebration in a broken world.

Practicing Romans 12:15 requires intentionality. It means paying attention, asking thoughtful questions, and truly listening to the responses. It means setting aside our judgments and assumptions, and seeking to understand the other person's perspective. It means allowing ourselves to be moved by their emotions, even when they differ from our own.

This Advent season, as we reflect on the coming of Emmanuel, "God with us," let us remember that He entered into our human experience, fully embracing both our joys and our sorrows. May we, in turn, embrace the joys and sorrows of those around us, creating a community that truly embodies the love and empathy of Christ.

Reflection Questions:

• In what areas of your life do you find it easier to rejoice with others? In what areas do you struggle?
• How do you typically respond when someone shares their sorrow with you? Is there room for growth in your empathy?
• What practical steps can you take this week to more intentionally "rejoice with those who rejoice" and "mourn with those who mourn"?
• How does understanding Jesus' own empathy impact your understanding of this verse?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of empathy, which allows us to connect with others on a deeper level. Forgive us for the times we have been self-absorbed or insensitive to the joys and sorrows of those around us. Grant us hearts that are truly open and responsive, willing to celebrate with exuberance and to mourn with genuine compassion. Help us to reflect your own heart of love and empathy in our interactions, creating a community where every emotion is acknowledged and shared. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Romans 12:14 (NIV)

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.

Encouragement:

In the flow of Paul's powerful exhortations in Romans 12, amidst calls to genuine love, humility, and unity, this verse stands out with a radical and counter-intuitive command: "Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse."

Our natural human instinct when faced with opposition, mistreatment, or injustice is often to retaliate, to defend ourselves, to wish ill upon those who cause us harm. We might feel justified in our anger, our bitterness, and our desire for them to experience the pain they have inflicted. Yet, Paul, speaking from his own experience of relentless persecution, urges us to a different path – a path rooted in the transformative love of Christ.

To "bless" here goes beyond a mere polite or superficial well-wishing. It implies speaking words of favor, seeking their good, and even praying for their well-being. It's an active choice to counteract the negative energy directed towards us with a positive and life-giving response. Conversely, to "curse" is to invoke harm, to speak negatively, and to harbor resentment. Paul's emphatic "bless and do not curse" leaves no room for a middle ground.

This command flies in the face of worldly wisdom. It seems illogical, even foolish. How can we possibly bless those who intentionally cause us pain? How can we wish good upon those who seek our harm? The answer lies not in our own strength or natural inclination, but in the power of God's love working through us.

Think about Jesus' own example. He was reviled, mocked, and ultimately crucified, yet his prayer from the cross was, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). His response to the ultimate persecution was not a curse, but a plea for mercy. This is the standard to which we are called.

Blessing our persecutors doesn't mean condoning their actions or pretending that the harm they cause doesn't matter. It's not about being passive in the face of injustice. Rather, it's about choosing a different weapon – the weapon of love and grace. It's about refusing to let their negativity take root in our hearts and poison our own spirits.

When we choose to bless, we break the cycle of hatred and retaliation. We refuse to be defined by the actions of our persecutors. Instead, we align ourselves with the character of God, who shows kindness even to the ungrateful and wicked (Luke 6:35).

This is not an easy command. It requires a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit and a conscious decision to surrender our hurt and anger to God. It demands humility, recognizing that vengeance belongs to the Lord (Romans 12:19).

As we navigate a world often marked by conflict and division, Paul's words in Romans 12:14 offer a radical and transformative way forward. By choosing to bless those who persecute us, we not only protect our own hearts but also become instruments of God's reconciling love in a world desperately in need of it.

Reflection Questions:

• Who are the "persecutors" in your life, whether in small or significant ways?
• What is your immediate reaction when faced with their negativity or opposition?
• How does Jesus' example of blessing his persecutors challenge your own response?
• What practical steps can you take this week to intentionally bless someone who has caused you harm or opposition?
• How does choosing to bless rather than curse impact your own heart and spirit?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, your love extends even to those who oppose us. Forgive us for the times we have harbored resentment and wished ill upon those who have hurt us. Grant us the strength and grace to obey your command to bless our persecutors. Help us to see them through your eyes, with compassion and a desire for their transformation. Fill our hearts with your love, so that we may respond to negativity with blessing, breaking the cycle of hatred and reflecting your reconciling grace to the world. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Romans 12:16 (NIV)

Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

Encouragement: 

In this concise verse, Paul packs a powerful call to unity and humility within the Christian community. He urges believers to "live in harmony with one another," and then provides practical ways to cultivate this harmony by addressing the destructive forces of pride and conceit.

To "live in harmony" speaks of a deliberate effort to foster peace, agreement, and understanding within the body of Christ. It's not about forced uniformity or the absence of differing opinions, but rather a commitment to love and respect that transcends our individual preferences and social standings. It requires us to prioritize the well-being and unity of the community over our own egos and desires.

Paul immediately identifies a significant obstacle to this harmony: pride. He cautions us, "Do not be proud." Pride erects walls, creates divisions, and fosters a sense of superiority that inevitably disrupts the peace of the community. It blinds us to the value and worth of others, leading us to elevate ourselves and diminish those around us.

As a direct antidote to pride, Paul offers a surprising instruction: "be willing to associate with people of low position." In the social context of the first century, this would have been a significant challenge. Hierarchies and social stratification were deeply ingrained. Yet, Paul calls believers to break down these barriers and willingly connect with those whom the world might deem insignificant or inferior. This isn't about condescension, but about recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every person in God's eyes. It's about seeing beyond superficial differences and embracing the shared humanity and spiritual kinship we have in Christ.

Finally, Paul reinforces the warning against pride with the direct command: "Do not be conceited." Conceit is an inflated sense of self-importance, a belief in our own exceptional abilities or status. It breeds arrogance and makes it difficult to relate to others on equal footing. A conceited heart is often closed to learning, resistant to correction, and dismissive of the contributions of others.

Living in harmony, therefore, requires a conscious dismantling of pride and conceit, and a deliberate embrace of humility that leads us to value and connect with all members of the body, regardless of their perceived social standing. It's about recognizing that we are all equally dependent on God's grace and that the strength of the community lies in the mutual love and respect its members have for one another.

This call to harmony and humility is particularly relevant in our own time, where divisions based on social status, economic disparity, and personal preferences can easily fracture communities, even within the church. Paul's words remind us that the foundation of Christian fellowship is not worldly status or individual achievement, but the unifying love of Christ that levels all ground and binds us together as one.

Reflection Questions:

• In what areas of your life do you find it challenging to "live in harmony" with others, even within the church?
• How does pride manifest itself in your thoughts and actions?
• Are you genuinely willing to associate with people whom the world might consider to be of "low position"? What might hinder you from doing so?
• In what ways might conceit be subtly influencing your interactions with others?
• What practical steps can you take this week to cultivate greater humility and contribute to the harmony of your community?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we confess that pride often creeps into our hearts, creating divisions and hindering the harmony you desire for your people. Forgive us for the times we have elevated ourselves above others or been unwilling to connect with those different from us. Grant us the grace to embrace humility, to value every member of your body, and to actively work towards unity and peace within our communities. Help us to see others as you see them, with love and respect, so that we may truly live in harmony with one another, reflecting the love of Christ to the world. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Romans 12:17 (NIV)

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.

Encouragement:

In the midst of Paul's passionate appeal for Christian living in community, he addresses a deeply ingrained human tendency: the desire for retribution. When we are wronged, hurt, or mistreated, our immediate inclination is often to strike back, to even the score, to make the offender experience the pain they inflicted upon us. Yet, Paul offers a radical counter-command: "Do not repay anyone evil for evil."

This isn't a suggestion; it's a direct imperative. It challenges our natural sense of justice, which often demands an "eye for an eye." Paul urges us to rise above this primal instinct and embrace a different way – a way that reflects the character of Christ, who absorbed evil without retaliating (1 Peter 2:23).

The command is universal: "anyone." It doesn't make exceptions for those who we deem particularly deserving of punishment or those who have caused us significant harm. Whether the offense is a minor slight or a deep betrayal, our response as followers of Jesus should not be to repay evil with evil.

Why this seemingly unnatural directive? Because repaying evil with evil only perpetuates a destructive cycle. It escalates conflict, breeds bitterness, and ultimately harms both the offender and the offended. It darkens the heart and hinders the work of reconciliation. Paul calls us to break this cycle with a different kind of response – one that is rooted in love, patience, and a commitment to what is good.

The second part of the verse offers practical guidance on how to live out this challenging command: "Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone." This encourages us to live lives of integrity and honor, not just within the Christian community but also in our interactions with the wider world. When our actions are consistently marked by goodness, fairness, and respect, it becomes more difficult for others to justify treating us with evil. Furthermore, it provides a powerful witness to the transformative power of the Gospel.

Living in a way that is "right in the eyes of everyone" doesn't mean compromising our convictions or seeking universal approval. It means striving for conduct that is honest, ethical, and considerate, even towards those who might not share our beliefs. It's about being mindful of our reputation and ensuring that our actions don't give unnecessary offense or fuel negative perceptions of Christianity.

Paul understood that our response to evil has a profound impact, not only on the individual who wronged us but also on our own hearts and the witness of the church. By refusing to repay evil with evil and by diligently pursuing what is right in the eyes of all, we demonstrate a higher way of living – a way that reflects the grace and love of God, who desires reconciliation and redemption, not endless cycles of vengeance.

This devotional, set against the backdrop of Advent, reminds us of the ultimate act of God's love: sending His Son into a world steeped in darkness and evil, not to repay it, but to overcome it with good. As we await the celebration of Christ's birth, let us examine our own hearts and ask for the strength to respond to the "evil" we encounter with the transformative power of blessing and righteous living.

Reflection Questions:

• What is your typical first reaction when someone treats you unfairly or with malice?
• Can you recall a time when you successfully resisted the urge to repay evil with evil? What helped you?
• What does it practically look like to "be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone" in your daily life?
• How might your response to negativity be a witness (or a hindrance) to the Gospel?
• As you reflect on the coming of Christ, how does His example empower you to "not repay anyone evil for evil"?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, the desire for justice within us can sometimes twist into a longing for retribution. Forgive us for the times we have allowed bitterness and the urge to repay evil to take root in our hearts. Grant us the strength and wisdom to follow your command in Romans 12:17. Help us to resist the temptation to retaliate and instead to respond with love, patience, and a commitment to what is right in your eyes and in the eyes of the world. May our lives be a testament to the transformative power of your grace, breaking the cycle of evil with the unwavering pursuit of goodness. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Romans 12:19-21 (NIV)

Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Encouragement: 

This powerful passage in Romans 12 builds upon the call to refrain from repaying evil with evil, offering a profound and challenging alternative: relinquishing our desire for personal vengeance and actively extending kindness to our enemies.

Paul begins with a gentle yet firm exhortation: "Do not take revenge, my dear friends." The phrase "my dear friends" underscores the familial bond within the Christian community, appealing to their love and trust. He urges them to resist the urge to seek personal retribution when wronged. This desire for revenge, though deeply ingrained in human nature, often leads to further pain and perpetuates cycles of conflict.

Instead of taking matters into our own hands, Paul instructs us to "leave room for God’s wrath." This doesn't imply that we should eagerly await God's judgment on our enemies out of spite. Rather, it calls us to trust in God's perfect justice and timing. He is the ultimate judge, and He will deal with all wrongdoing according to His righteous standards. Our attempts at personal vengeance are often clouded by our own emotions and limited perspective, whereas God's judgment is always just and complete. The quotation from Deuteronomy 32:35, "'It is mine to avenge; I will repay,' says the Lord," reinforces this truth. Vengeance is God's prerogative, not ours.

But Paul doesn't stop at simply refraining from revenge. He moves to an even more radical command: "On the contrary: 'If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.'" This active extension of kindness towards those who oppose or harm us is a profound act of love and a powerful demonstration of the Gospel's transformative power. It challenges our natural inclination to withhold good from those we perceive as undeserving.

The seemingly perplexing phrase, "In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head," is not an encouragement to inflict pain. Instead, it likely refers to the shame and conviction that can arise in the heart of someone who is met with unexpected kindness in response to their hostility. It's a way of disarming them with love and potentially opening their hearts to repentance and reconciliation.

Finally, Paul provides the overarching principle: "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." This is the ultimate strategy for navigating conflict and opposition. Engaging in evil, even in retaliation, only allows it to gain power over us, dragging us down to its level. The only way to truly conquer evil is to actively choose good – to respond to hatred with love, to injustice with righteousness, and to hostility with kindness.

As we reflect on this passage, particularly during the Advent season, we are reminded of God's ultimate act of overcoming evil with good. He sent His Son, Jesus, into a world filled with sin and darkness, not to condemn it immediately, but to offer grace, forgiveness, and redemption. Jesus' life, death, and resurrection are the ultimate victory of good over evil.

We are called to embody this same spirit in our own lives. By choosing to relinquish our desire for revenge, trusting in God's justice, and actively extending kindness even to our enemies, we participate in God's work of overcoming evil with good and become living witnesses to the transformative power of His love.

Reflection Questions:

• What is your immediate emotional response when you feel wronged or mistreated?
• Do you find it difficult to relinquish the desire for personal revenge? Why or why not?
• How does the understanding that vengeance belongs to God change your perspective on conflict?
• Can you recall a time when you responded to an enemy with kindness? What was the outcome?
• What practical steps can you take this week to actively "overcome evil with good" in your interactions, even with those who are difficult?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, the desire for justice can sometimes be twisted into a yearning for personal vengeance. Forgive us for the times we have allowed anger and resentment to cloud our judgment. Grant us the wisdom and strength to trust in your perfect justice and to relinquish our need for retribution. Help us to respond to our enemies with the radical love you have shown us, extending kindness and seeking their good. Empower us to overcome evil not with more evil, but with the transformative power of your goodness, reflecting your light and love to a world in need of reconciliation. Amen.nerate Audio Overview

I encourage you to spend this day in meditation of the week you had. Does my life reflect love toward others? Is Jesus an active Lord in your life? How is your current state of relationship with Jesus? What would you improve?

Be in simple prayer today asking the Holy Spirit to give you revelation and confirm within you that you are highly valued member of the family. 

• Join us at the Varsity Theatre at 123 E. Franklin St. for a morning of worship and continuing our journey to investigating what is a Christian together.

  
  

  If you cannot join us in-person you are welcome to worship online

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 2:10-11: But God has revealed it to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God. For who knows a person's thoughts except the spirit of that person within him? So also no one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God

Encouragement:

In this passage, Paul unveils a profound truth about how we come to understand the deep things of God. He contrasts human wisdom, which is limited and often foolish in God's eyes, with the divine wisdom that is revealed through the Holy Spirit.

Think about trying to understand someone's innermost thoughts and motivations. Unless they choose to share them with you, their deepest desires, fears, and intentions remain hidden. You might observe their actions and make educated guesses, but true comprehension requires a level of intimacy and revelation.

Paul uses this relatable human experience as an analogy for our understanding of God. Just as only the spirit of a person knows their own thoughts, so also "no one comprehends the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God." God's wisdom, His plans, His very nature are beyond the grasp of human intellect alone. We cannot simply reason our way into the depths of divine truth.

But the good news is found in the first part of verse 10: "But God has revealed it to us through the Spirit." God, in His love and grace, has not left us in the dark. He has chosen to unveil His wisdom, His secrets, through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit, who intimately knows the depths of God because He is God, acts as the divine revealer to those who are in Christ.

This means that the understanding of spiritual truths, the comprehension of God's will, and the insight into His character are not primarily attained through intellectual prowess or human philosophy. They are gifts graciously given and illuminated by the Holy Spirit within us.

This passage highlights the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in our spiritual lives. He is not just a power source, but the very means by which we come to know God intimately. He searches the depths of God and communicates those truths to our hearts and minds. He opens our eyes to see what is spiritually discerned (1 Corinthians 2:14).

Therefore, our pursuit of deeper understanding of God should not solely rely on our own efforts. It must involve a posture of humility, recognizing our limitations, and a dependence on the Holy Spirit. We need to cultivate a sensitivity to His leading, through prayer, through the study of Scripture (which He inspired), and through fellowship with other believers who are also being guided by Him.

Reflection Questions:

• How often do you consciously rely on the Holy Spirit for understanding spiritual truths, rather than solely on your own intellect?
• In what areas of your understanding of God do you feel you need the Holy Spirit's deeper revelation?
• What practical steps can you take to cultivate a greater sensitivity to the Holy Spirit's guidance in your life?
• How does the fact that the Spirit "searches everything, even the depths of God" give you confidence in the truth that has been revealed to us?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank you for your great love in not leaving us to our own limited understanding. We praise you for the gift of your Holy Spirit, who knows your deepest thoughts and graciously reveals them to us. Forgive us for the times we rely solely on our own intellect and fail to seek the Spirit's illumination. Open our hearts and minds to His leading, that we may grow in our comprehension of your truth and your ways. May we always be humble recipients of the wisdom that comes from your Spirit. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: John 14:16-17: "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot receive him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you."

Encouragement:

In the Upper Room, in the shadow of his impending crucifixion, Jesus comforts his disciples with the promise of a remarkable gift: "another Helper." The original Greek word for Helper here is Parakletos, which carries a rich meaning – it signifies someone called alongside to aid, comfort, advocate, and encourage. Jesus, who had been their constant companion and source of strength, was preparing to leave physically, but he wouldn't leave them alone. He would send another just like himself in function and power.

This "other Helper" is identified as "the Spirit of truth." This title emphasizes the Spirit's essential nature and primary role. He is the one who reveals and guides us into all truth (John 16:13), the one who testifies to the truth about Jesus (John 15:26), and the one who empowers us to live truthfully. In a world often characterized by deception and falsehood, the Spirit of truth is our constant guide to what is real and lasting.

Jesus then makes a stark contrast: "The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him." The world, operating according to its own values and understanding, is blind to the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. It cannot comprehend his work or recognize his influence. This can be a sobering reminder that the ways of God and the ways of the world are often at odds.

But for those who believe in Jesus, the reality is profoundly different: "But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you." This is the incredible promise of Pentecost and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. The Spirit, who was with the disciples during Jesus' earthly ministry, would now take up residence within them. This intimate indwelling signifies a deeper, more personal connection, empowering them from the inside out.

This passage offers immense comfort and assurance. We are not left as orphans in Jesus' absence. We have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit, our ever-present Helper, our guide into truth, and the very presence of God within us. He is our advocate in times of difficulty, our comforter in sorrow, and our strength in weakness.

Knowing that the Spirit of truth lives within us should transform how we live. We have access to divine wisdom, guidance, and power. We are not left to navigate life on our own strength or understanding. We can continually turn to the Helper who dwells within, trusting in his faithfulness to lead us in the ways of truth and to empower us to live lives that honor Jesus.

Reflection Questions:

• In what areas of your life do you most need the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit right now?
• How does the title "Spirit of truth" impact your understanding of the Holy Spirit's role in your life and in the world?
• Have you experienced the reality of the Holy Spirit living within you? If so, how has that impacted your life?
• How can you be more intentional about recognizing and yielding to the presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit in your daily decisions?

Prayer:

Loving Jesus, thank you for your incredible promise of the Holy Spirit, our Helper and the Spirit of truth. We acknowledge our dependence on his presence and guidance in our lives. Forgive us for the times we try to navigate life on our own strength. Open our hearts to the reality of the Spirit living within us, empowering us, comforting us, and leading us into all truth. Help us to be more aware of his presence and more responsive to his promptings, that we may live lives that fully reflect your love and glory. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Acts 1:8: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."

Encouragement:

Just before his ascension into heaven, Jesus gives his disciples a final, crucial instruction. They had walked with him, witnessed his miracles, heard his teachings, and experienced the earth-shattering reality of his resurrection. Now, poised on the cusp of a new era, they might have felt a mix of excitement and trepidation about what lay ahead. In this pivotal moment, Jesus doesn't give them a detailed strategic plan or a list of political tactics. Instead, he promises them something far more powerful: power.

He clarifies the source of this power: "when the Holy Spirit comes on you." This wasn't just a suggestion or a possibility; it was a promise. The Holy Spirit, the very presence and power of God, would descend upon them, equipping them for the mission ahead. This power wasn't for their personal gain or comfort, but for a specific purpose: "and you will be my witnesses."

The role of a witness is simple yet profound: to share what you have seen and heard, to testify to the truth you have experienced. Jesus wasn't asking his disciples to become eloquent orators or persuasive debaters (though some would become so). He was calling them to share their personal encounters with him, the reality of his life, death, and resurrection, and the transformative power of his love.

Notice the scope of their witness: "in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." This wasn't a localized mission; it was a global mandate. Starting in their own city, their testimony would spread outward, encompassing their region and eventually reaching the farthest corners of the world. This expansive vision underscores the universal significance of the gospel message.

Acts 1:8 is not just a historical account of what happened to the early disciples; it's a continuing promise for all who follow Jesus. The same Holy Spirit who empowered them is available to us today. We too are called to be witnesses, sharing our stories of how Jesus has impacted our lives, the hope we have in him, and the difference he makes.

The power we need to fulfill this calling doesn't come from our own strength, intelligence, or charisma. It comes from the Holy Spirit who dwells within us. As we rely on him, he equips us with the courage, the words, and the love necessary to share the good news with those around us, whether they are our neighbors, our colleagues, or people we encounter across the globe.

Reflection Questions:

• Have you personally experienced the power of the Holy Spirit in your life? In what ways?
• Do you see yourself as a witness for Jesus in your daily life? What does that look like practically?
• What might be holding you back from sharing your story of faith with others?
• Consider the different spheres of influence in your life – your "Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth." How can you be a witness in each of these areas?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for the powerful promise of your Holy Spirit, who equips us to be your witnesses in the world. We acknowledge our dependence on your power, for without it, our efforts are futile. Fill us afresh with your Spirit, grant us boldness and clarity to share the truth of Jesus with those around us, and open our eyes to the opportunities you provide to testify to your love. May our lives be a living testament to the transformative power of the gospel, reaching to the ends of the earth. Amen

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Galatians 5:22-23: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Encouragement: 

In the letter to the Galatians, Paul contrasts the "acts of the flesh" – those selfish desires and behaviors that naturally arise from our fallen nature – with the fruit that is produced when we are living in step with the Holy Spirit. These two lists offer a powerful lens through which we can examine the direction of our lives.

Today, we focus on the beautiful harvest of the Spirit, a collection of nine distinct yet interconnected qualities that blossom within us as we yield to His influence. Paul uses the singular "fruit," indicating that these are not separate achievements to be earned individually, but rather facets of one unified expression of a life transformed by God's Spirit.

Think about an apple tree. It doesn't produce individual apples labeled "redness," "sweetness," and "crispness." Instead, it produces the unified fruit of an apple, which naturally embodies all those characteristics. Similarly, as we abide in Christ and allow the Holy Spirit to work within us, these qualities of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control will naturally manifest in our lives.  

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Romans 8:9: "You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him."

Encouragement:

Paul, in Romans chapter 8, paints a powerful picture of the new life available to those who are in Christ Jesus. He contrasts living "according to the flesh" – driven by our natural, self-centered desires – with living "according to the Spirit" – being led and empowered by God's Holy Spirit. Verse 9 serves as a crucial marker, a spiritual litmus test for those who claim to belong to Christ.

The opening phrase, "You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you," presents a profound reality and a vital condition. If the Spirit of God truly resides within us, then our fundamental orientation has shifted. We are no longer primarily governed by the impulses of our fallen nature, but by the guiding presence of the divine. This indwelling is not a superficial acquaintance; it's a deep, transformative reality where the very Spirit of God makes His home within our hearts.

Paul doesn't leave room for ambiguity. He follows this statement with a stark and sobering truth: "Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him." This isn't about intellectual agreement or outward religious observance. It's about the internal reality of the Holy Spirit's presence. The Spirit of God is also called the Spirit of Christ, highlighting the inseparable connection between the Holy Spirit and Jesus. To belong to Christ, to be part of His family, is directly linked to having His Spirit living within us.

Think about what it means for the Spirit of God to dwell in you. It signifies a divine invasion, a powerful presence that brings with it the very character, power, and wisdom of God. It's the guarantee of our adoption as children of God (Romans 8:15-16), the seal of our salvation (Ephesians 1:13-14), and the source of our strength to live a life that honors Christ.

This verse challenges us to honest self-reflection. Is there evidence of the Holy Spirit's presence in our lives? Are we increasingly led by His promptings, bearing the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), and finding our desires aligning with God's will? Or are we still primarily driven by the desires of the flesh?

The indwelling Spirit is not a privilege reserved for a select few; it is the defining characteristic of every true believer. If we have placed our faith in Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit has been given to us as a gift, marking us as belonging to Him. Let us cherish this incredible reality and continually yield to His leading, allowing Him to shape us into the likeness of Christ, demonstrating to the world that we truly belong to Him.

Reflection Questions:

• What does it mean to you personally that the Spirit of God dwells within you?
• How do you discern the leading of the Holy Spirit in your daily life?
• Are there areas where you feel you are still more influenced by the "flesh" than by the Spirit? What steps can you take to yield more fully to the Spirit?
• How does the truth of this verse give you assurance of your belonging to Christ?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the incredible gift of your Holy Spirit, who dwells within those who believe in Jesus. We acknowledge that it is by your Spirit that we are marked as belonging to Christ. We pray for a greater awareness of His presence in our lives and for the grace to continually yield to His leading. Help us to live not according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit, bearing witness to the fact that we are truly yours. Amen.

• 
  

  I encourage you to spend this day in meditation of the week you had. What did the Holy Spirit do within you this week? Is Jesus an active Lord in your life? How is your current state of relationship with Jesus? What would you improve?

  
  

  Be in simple prayer today asking the Holy Spirit to give you revelation and confirm within you that you are highly valued member of the family. 

Join us at the Varsity Theatre at 123 E. Franklin St. for a morning of worship and continuing our journey to investigating what is a Christian together.

If you cannot join us in-person you are welcome to worship online

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Philippians 2:5-6 (NIV)

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;

Encouragement:

Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, isn't just offering abstract theological concepts; he's diving into the practicalities of how we relate to one another within the Christian community. He begins this powerful exhortation by pointing us to the very mindset of Jesus Christ.

Think about that for a moment. The apostle is urging us to cultivate the same inner disposition, the same way of thinking and valuing, that resided in the Son of God himself. This isn't a light suggestion; it's a foundational principle for Christian living and unity.

Verse 6 then unveils a breathtaking truth about Jesus: "Who, being in very nature God..." The original Greek word here (morphe) speaks of the essential form, the intrinsic nature, the very essence of something. Paul isn't saying Jesus merely appeared divine; he was and is divine. He shared the very being and attributes of God the Father.

Imagine the implications of this. The one we are called to emulate in our relationships was not just a good man or a great teacher, but God himself, veiled in human flesh. His perspective, his values, his actions all stemmed from this divine reality.

And yet, what did this divine being do with his inherent equality with God? Paul tells us he "did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage." This is a profound statement of humility and selflessness. Jesus, fully God, did not cling to his divine prerogatives, did not insist on his rights and privileges. Instead, he chose a path of profound self-emptying, which Paul goes on to describe in the following verses.

This challenges our own natural inclinations. How often do we, even in our relationships with fellow believers, hold onto our rights, assert our opinions, and seek our own advantage? How often do we prioritize our comfort, our recognition, our way?

Jesus, despite his divine status, chose a different path. He modeled a way of relating that was characterized by humility, service, and a willingness to lay aside his own interests for the sake of others and for the will of the Father.

This passage invites us to a deep introspection. Are we approaching our relationships with the same self-giving spirit that characterized Christ? Are we willing to set aside our own "advantages" – our pride, our need to be right, our desire for control – for the sake of unity, love, and service within the body of Christ?

The mind of Christ, as revealed in this verse, is one of profound humility rooted in divine love. It's a mindset that prioritizes others, that values unity over self-assertion, and that reflects the self-giving nature of God himself.

Reflection Questions:

• In what specific relationships are you currently tempted to assert your own "advantage" or rights?
• How can you consciously choose to set aside your own desires in those relationships, following the example of Christ?
• What does it practically look like to have the "same mindset as Christ Jesus" in your interactions with others today?
• How does the knowledge of Jesus' divine nature deepen the significance of his humility and selflessness?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for revealing to us the mind of Christ Jesus. We marvel at his divine nature and his profound humility in not clinging to his equality with you. Forgive us for the times we prioritize our own advantage over the well-being of others. By your Holy Spirit, cultivate within us the same mindset that was in Christ Jesus. Help us to approach our relationships with humility, selflessness, and a genuine desire to serve one another, reflecting the love of our Savior. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Hebrews 1:8 (NIV)

But about the Son he says, “Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom.

Encouragement: 

The opening chapter of Hebrews is a powerful declaration of the supremacy of Jesus Christ. The author meticulously contrasts Jesus with angels, demonstrating his far greater glory and authority. In verse 8, the writer quotes Psalm 45:6-7, applying its majestic words directly to the Son.

Pause and let the weight of this declaration sink in: "But about the Son he says, ‘Your throne, O God…’" This isn't a metaphorical throne or a temporary position of power. The Father himself addresses the Son as "God," and declares that his throne is eternal – "will last for ever and ever."

In a world where earthly kingdoms rise and fall, where leaders come and go, and where even the most enduring empires eventually crumble, this verse proclaims the absolute and everlasting reign of Jesus Christ. His authority is not limited by time, circumstance, or human opposition. It is a dominion that stretches into eternity, unshakable and secure.

The description of his scepter further illuminates the nature of his rule: "a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom." A scepter is a symbol of royal power and authority. For Jesus, his power is not arbitrary or self-serving. It is rooted in and exercised through perfect justice. His reign is characterized by righteousness, fairness, and equity. He governs with unwavering integrity, ensuring that what is right and true will ultimately prevail.

Consider the comfort and security this truth offers. In a world often marked by injustice, corruption, and the abuse of power, we have a King whose rule is founded on absolute justice. We can trust his judgments, rely on his fairness, and find refuge under his righteous dominion.

This verse also challenges us. As those who claim allegiance to this eternal King, are we reflecting his justice in our own lives and interactions? Do we strive for fairness, advocate for the oppressed, and live in a way that aligns with the righteous principles of his kingdom?

The declaration in Hebrews 1:8 is not just a statement about Jesus' past or future glory; it speaks to his present reality and our present hope. He reigns now, and his reign is characterized by everlasting justice. We can find peace and confidence knowing that we are under the rule of a King whose throne will never be overthrown and whose scepter will always uphold what is right.

Reflection Questions:

• How does the knowledge of Jesus' eternal throne and just rule bring you comfort and security in the face of worldly uncertainties?
• In what areas of your life do you need to more fully submit to the just rule of King Jesus?
• How can you actively reflect the justice of Christ's kingdom in your interactions with others and in the broader world?
• What does it mean to you that the Father himself calls the Son "God" and declares his reign eternal?

Prayer:

Eternal King, we bow before your everlasting throne, acknowledging you as God, whose reign is marked by perfect justice. Thank you for the security and hope we find in your unending dominion. Forgive us for the times we seek earthly power or compromise on justice. By your Spirit, help us to live in alignment with the righteous principles of your kingdom, reflecting your fairness and integrity in all we do. May your eternal throne and scepter of justice be our constant source of hope and guidance. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Colossians 2:9 (NIV)

For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form,

Encouragement:

In his letter to the Colossians, Paul is passionately defending the supremacy and sufficiency of Jesus Christ against various false teachings that were circulating at the time. These teachings often sought to diminish Christ's role by adding other spiritual practices, philosophies, or intermediaries. In the midst of this, Paul makes a staggering and unequivocal declaration about Jesus in Colossians 2:9: "For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form."

Let's unpack the profound weight of this statement. When Paul says "all the fullness of the Deity," he isn't speaking of a partial measure or a diluted version of God. The Greek word used here (plērōma) signifies the complete sum, the totality, the absolute essence of God. It means that everything that God is – His power, His wisdom, His love, His holiness, His very being – resides fully and completely.

And where does this absolute fullness of God dwell? Paul answers with equal clarity: "in Christ... in bodily form." This is the incredible mystery of the incarnation. The eternal, infinite God, in His fullness, chose to dwell within a human body – the person of Jesus Christ. This wasn't a temporary visitation or a mere outward appearance; it was a genuine and permanent union of the divine and the human.

Think about the implications of this truth. If the complete fullness of God resides in Christ, then everything we need to know God, to have a relationship with Him, and to experience His power and grace is found in Jesus. We don't need to seek other spiritual sources, adhere to additional rituals, or rely on human philosophies to connect with the divine. Jesus himself is the complete and ultimate revelation of God.

This verse dismantles any notion that Christ is somehow less than fully God or that other spiritual avenues are necessary to reach God. He is the very embodiment of the divine, dwelling among us in human form. Through knowing Jesus, we know the Father. Through trusting Jesus, we have access to the fullness of God's blessings.

This truth should fill us with both awe and confidence. Awe at the incredible condescension of God in taking on human flesh, and confidence in the complete sufficiency of Christ for our salvation and our daily lives. We don't need to strive for something more or look elsewhere; the fullness of God is already present and accessible to us in Jesus.

Reflection Questions:

• How does the understanding that the fullness of God dwells in Christ impact your view of Jesus?
• Are there any areas in your life where you might be tempted to seek spiritual fulfillment or guidance outside of Christ?
• How does the incarnation – God dwelling in bodily form in Jesus – deepen your understanding of God's love for humanity?
• What practical steps can you take today to more fully rely on the fullness of God available to you in Christ?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of the profound truth of Colossians 2:9. Thank you that in Jesus Christ, the complete fullness of your divine being dwells in bodily form. Forgive us for the times we look elsewhere for what can only be found in Him. Help us to fully embrace the sufficiency of Christ, knowing that in Him we have access to all that we need for life and godliness. May our lives be a testament to the glorious reality that in Jesus, we find the fullness of You. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: John 20:28 (NIV)

Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”

Encouragement:

The scene in John chapter 20 is filled with the raw emotion of the disciples grappling with the unbelievable reality of Jesus' resurrection. Thomas, famously absent during Jesus' first appearance to them, voiced his skepticism with a firm condition: "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe" (John 20:25).

Imagine the weight of those words – the deep grief, the shattered hopes, and the stubborn refusal to accept anything less than tangible proof. Thomas, known for his practicality, needed to touch the wounds, to physically connect with the suffering and death he had witnessed.

Then, a week later, Jesus appears again, this time with Thomas present. With gentle understanding, Jesus invites Thomas to do exactly what he had demanded: "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe" (John 20:27).

In that ¹ pivotal moment, confronted with the undeniable reality of the risen Christ, something profound shifts within Thomas. He doesn't necessarily touch Jesus, the scripture doesn't explicitly say so. Instead, overwhelmed by the evidence and the very presence of his resurrected Lord, he utters one of the most powerful confessions in the entire New Testament: "My Lord and my God!"

These four simple words are packed with immense theological significance. "My Lord" acknowledges Jesus' authority, his sovereignty, his rightful place as the master of Thomas's life. But even more significantly, "my God" is a direct and unambiguous declaration of Jesus' deity. Thomas, the doubter, the one who needed physical proof, now recognizes and proclaims Jesus as God himself.

This confession wasn't born out of intellectual reasoning alone; it was a deeply personal and spiritual encounter. It was the tangible presence of the resurrected Christ, bearing the scars of his sacrifice, that broke through Thomas's doubt and revealed the truth of who Jesus truly is.

Thomas's journey from skepticism to this profound declaration offers immense hope for us. We too may have moments of doubt, times when the reality of Jesus feels distant or uncertain. We may wrestle with questions and long for tangible proof. But Thomas's experience reminds us that encountering the risen Christ – whether through Scripture, prayer, or the witness of the Holy Spirit – can lead us to the same powerful conviction: Jesus is not just a man, but our Lord and our God.

His resurrection is the ultimate evidence of his divine nature and the power of his victory over sin and death. Thomas's confession is a testament to the transformative power of encountering the risen Christ and recognizing him for who he truly is – the Lord and God of all.

Reflection Questions:

• Can you identify with Thomas's need for tangible proof or his moments of doubt?
• What aspects of Jesus' resurrection bring you the most compelling evidence of his divinity?
• What does it mean to you personally to call Jesus "Lord" and "God"? How does that impact your daily life and decisions?
• How can Thomas's journey encourage you if you are currently wrestling with doubts about your faith?

Prayer:

Risen Lord and my God, like Thomas, sometimes my faith wavers, and doubts creep in. Thank you for your patient grace and for the undeniable evidence of your resurrection. Help me to move beyond doubt and into a deeper, more confident belief in who you are – the Lord of my life and my God. May my heart echo the powerful confession of Thomas, and may my life reflect the reality of your Lordship and your divinity. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: John 10:30 (NIV)

I and the Father are one.

Encouragement:

In the midst of a tense exchange with the Jewish leaders who were questioning his authority and demanding to know if he was the Messiah, Jesus makes a profound and unambiguous declaration: "I and the Father are one." This simple statement carries immense theological weight, revealing a core truth about the very nature of God and Jesus' relationship with Him.

Consider the context. Jesus had just spoken about his role as the Good Shepherd, protecting his sheep, giving them eternal life, and ensuring that no one could snatch them out of his hand or the Father's hand (John 10:28-29). He then culminates this powerful imagery with this direct claim of unity.

The word "one" here isn't simply referring to a shared purpose or a harmonious agreement, although those are certainly present. The Greek word used is hen (ἕν), which is neuter, indicating a unity of essence, of being, of divine nature. Jesus isn't saying "I and the Father are one person," which would contradict the distinct identities we see throughout Scripture. Rather, he is declaring that he and the Father share the same divine substance, the same fundamental reality of Godhood.

Think about what this implies. If Jesus and the Father are one in essence, then everything that is true of the Father is also true of the Son. His power is divine power, his wisdom is divine wisdom, his love is divine love, his authority is divine authority. This statement places Jesus squarely within the Godhead, not as a created being or a subordinate entity, but as co-equal and co-eternal with the Father.

The reaction of Jesus' listeners underscores the significance of his words. They immediately picked up stones to stone him, accusing him of blasphemy because, as they understood it, he, "a mere man," was claiming to be God (John 10:33). Their outrage reveals that Jesus' statement was indeed a direct assertion of his divinity.

For us today, John 10:30 serves as a cornerstone of our understanding of who Jesus is. It affirms his divine nature, his inseparable connection with the Father, and his rightful place as Lord and God. This unity is not just a theological concept; it has profound implications for our faith and our relationship with God.

Because Jesus and the Father are one, we can know the Father through knowing the Son. Jesus himself said, "Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father" (John 14:9). Our trust in Jesus is a trust in the very nature and character of God. Our love for Jesus is a response to the divine love that flows from the Father and the Son.

Reflection Questions:

• How does understanding the unity between Jesus and the Father impact your perception of Jesus' authority and power?
• In what ways does knowing that Jesus is one with the Father bring you comfort and assurance in your relationship with God?
• How does this verse challenge any tendencies you might have to view Jesus as simply a good teacher or a historical figure?
• Spend some time reflecting on the attributes of God (love, justice, mercy, power). How do you see these attributes manifested in the life and ministry of Jesus?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for revealing the profound truth of your unity with your Son, Jesus Christ. We stand in awe of this divine mystery, that Jesus, being fully God, walked among us. Help us to grasp the depth of this oneness, that in knowing Jesus, we truly know you. Strengthen our faith in his divine nature and empower us to live in the light of this glorious truth. Amen.

I encourage you to spend this day in meditation of the week you had. What did the Holy Spirit do within you this week? Is Jesus an active Lord in your life? How is your current state of relationship with Jesus? What would you improve?

Be in simple prayer today asking the Holy Spirit to give you revelation and confirm within you that you are highly valued member of the family. 

• 
  

  Join us at the Varsity Theatre at 123 E. Franklin St. for a morning of worship and continuing our journey to investigating what is a Christian together.

  
  

  If you cannot join us in-person you are welcome to worship online

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Ephesians 2:4-5: "But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved."

Encouragement: 

Think for a moment about something that was once lifeless but has been brought back to life. Perhaps a wilting plant revived by water and sunlight, or a forgotten dream rekindled by a spark of inspiration. There's a profound beauty in something being rescued from death and given a new beginning.

In these powerful verses from Ephesians, Paul paints a picture of our spiritual state before encountering Christ. He doesn't sugarcoat it; he says we were "dead in transgressions." This isn't just about making mistakes or falling short. It speaks to a fundamental separation from the very source of life, God. We were held captive by sin, its influence permeating every aspect of our being. Like a body without breath, our spirits were unable to truly connect with the divine.

And yet, into this bleak reality bursts the radiant light of God's character: "But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy..." This "but" is a hinge upon which all of history turns. It signifies a dramatic shift, a divine intervention fueled by an unstoppable force – God's love and mercy.

His love isn't a fleeting emotion; it's described as "great." His mercy isn't a begrudging act; it's "rich," overflowing and abundant. It's this boundless love and overflowing mercy that acted on our behalf. While we were still lost in our spiritual death, God took the initiative. He didn't wait for us to clean ourselves up or earn His favor. He reached down into our lifelessness and "made us alive with Christ."

This isn't a partial resuscitation; it's a complete transformation. Just as Christ overcame death through resurrection, we are brought into a new realm of life, united with Him. This union isn't just a concept; it's a spiritual reality that infuses our being with the very life of Christ.

And how did this miraculous resurrection happen? Paul is crystal clear: "...it is by grace you have been saved." Grace, God's unmerited favor, is the sole currency of our salvation. We didn't earn it, we didn't deserve it, and we couldn't possibly achieve it on our own. It is a gift, freely given out of God's immense love and mercy.

Application:

• Acknowledge Your Past: Take a moment to reflect on the reality of your life before truly encountering Christ. Recognize the spiritual deadness that separated you from God.
• Rest in His Love and Mercy: Dwell on the profound truth that God's love for you is immense and His mercy is abundant. It was this powerful combination that initiated your new life.
• Embrace the Gift of Grace: Recognize that your salvation is not based on your efforts or achievements, but solely on God's gracious gift through Jesus Christ. Let go of any striving to earn God's favor and simply receive His love.
• Live in Your New Life: Because you have been made alive with Christ, you are no longer defined by your past deadness. Embrace the vibrant, Spirit-filled life that is now yours in Him. Walk in the freedom and power of His resurrection.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for the powerful truth of Ephesians 2:4-5. Thank you for your great love that reached down to me in my spiritual death. Thank you for your rich mercy that didn't abandon me to my transgressions. I am overwhelmed by the gift of your grace, which made me alive together with Christ. Help me to truly live in this new life, walking in the freedom and power of your resurrection. May my life be a testament to your boundless love and mercy. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: Titus 3:5: "He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit.

Encouragement:

Imagine trying to clean something deeply stained, something that seems impossible to restore. You might scrub and scrub, but the mark remains, a constant reminder of what was. This can sometimes feel like our own lives, marked by past mistakes, ingrained habits, and the weight of our imperfections. We might try to clean ourselves up, to earn approval, to present a better version of ourselves, but deep down, the stains can feel persistent.

In Titus 3:5, the Apostle Paul offers a powerful and liberating truth: our salvation, our rescue from this stained existence, isn't based on our own efforts at cleaning up. It's not about the "righteous things we had done," because frankly, our own efforts are often as effective as trying to wash away a permanent stain with plain water.

Instead, Paul points us to the source of true cleansing and newness: God's mercy. Mercy is God's compassionate heart reaching out to us, not because we deserve it, but because of His inherent goodness and love. It's His choice to look beyond our stains, our failures, and our inability to fix ourselves.

And how does this mercy become tangible in our lives? Paul tells us it's "through the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit."

Think of "washing" not just as a surface cleaning, but as a deep purification, a complete rinsing away of the old. Regeneration speaks of a new birth, a spiritual re-creation from the inside out. It's not just an adjustment or an improvement; it's the beginning of something entirely new. We are made alive in the spirit, given a fresh start that our own efforts could never achieve.

This profound transformation isn't our doing; it's the work of the Holy Spirit. He is the divine agent who brings about this spiritual rebirth and continues the process of renewal. Renewal suggests an ongoing work, a continuous refreshing and reshaping of our hearts and minds to align with God's will. It's like the Holy Spirit is constantly washing away the dust and grime of the world, revealing the new creation we are in Christ.

This verse offers immense hope. It reminds us that we don't have to carry the burden of our past or strive endlessly to earn God's favor. His mercy, poured out through the regenerating and renewing work of the Holy Spirit, is what truly cleanses us and gives us a new life, a life marked not by our failures, but by His grace.

Application:

• Release the Burden of Self-Righteousness: Recognize that your salvation and your ongoing transformation are not based on your good deeds but on God's mercy.
• Embrace the New Birth: Allow the Holy Spirit to work deeply within you, bringing about a genuine spiritual regeneration.
• Seek Daily Renewal: Invite the Holy Spirit to continuously wash and renew your heart and mind, cleansing away the influences of the world and conforming you to Christ's image.
• Rest in God's Mercy: Find comfort and peace in knowing that God's compassionate love is the foundation of your new life.

Prayer:

Gracious Father, thank you for your boundless mercy that reaches down to us, not because of anything we have done, but simply because of your great love. Thank you for the washing of regeneration and the ongoing renewal that comes through your Holy Spirit. I confess that I often try to clean myself up, to earn your approval, but today I surrender to your merciful work within me. Wash me anew, Holy Spirit, regenerate my heart, and continue to renew my mind. Help me to live in the freedom and newness of life that only you can provide. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"

Encouragement:

Think about the power of the word "now." It signifies a moment of change, a point of departure from what was to what is. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, Paul uses this powerful word to describe the radical transformation that takes place when someone is "in Christ." It's not a gradual improvement or a slight adjustment; it's a definitive break with the past and the arrival of something entirely new.

The phrase "if anyone is in Christ" is the key. It speaks to a deep, relational union with Jesus. It's not just about believing in Him from a distance, but about being intimately connected to Him, like a branch grafted into a vine. This connection is the catalyst for the incredible change Paul describes.

What happens when we are "in Christ"? Paul declares, "the new creation has come!" This isn't just a minor renovation; it's a complete overhaul. Imagine a caterpillar entering a chrysalis – what emerges is not just a slightly different caterpillar, but a beautiful butterfly, capable of soaring to new heights. Similarly, when we are united with Christ, the very fabric of our being is transformed at a spiritual level. We become a new kind of being, with new possibilities and a new destiny.

Paul doesn't leave any room for doubt about the extent of this change: "The old has gone, the new is here!" The past, with its burdens, its brokenness, its defining patterns of sin, no longer holds ultimate power over us. It has passed away, like an old garment that no longer fits. In its place has arrived something fresh, vibrant, and full of potential – the new life that flows from our union with Christ.

This isn't a promise for some distant future; Paul declares it in the present tense. The "new creation" has come. The "old" has gone. The "new" is here. This is our reality the moment we place our faith and trust in Jesus.

This truth offers immense hope and encouragement. It means that no matter our past, no matter the mistakes we've made, no matter the limitations we've felt, being "in Christ" opens the door to a completely new existence. We are no longer defined by our former selves. We are defined by our connection to the One who makes all things new.

Application:

• Reflect on Your Identity: If you are in Christ, take a moment to truly grasp that you are a new creation. Don't let your past define your present or limit your future in Him.
• Embrace the "Now": Live in the reality of this present transformation. The old has passed; the new is here. Don't keep living as if you are still bound by the limitations of your former life.
• Explore the "New": What does this new creation look like in your life? Consider the new desires, the new perspectives, the new capacity for love and forgiveness that God is cultivating within you.
• Live in Union with Christ: Cultivate your relationship with Jesus through prayer, Scripture reading, and fellowship with other believers. The closer you are to Him, the more you will experience the fullness of this new creation.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for this incredible truth in 2 Corinthians 5:17. Thank you that through my union with Christ, I am a new creation. Forgive me for the times I still live as if the old has not passed away. Help me to fully embrace this "now" of new life, to see myself as you see me – a new creation in your Son. Empower me by your Spirit to live out this new reality, shedding the old and walking fully in the newness of life that is mine in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: 1 Peter 1:23: "For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God."

Encouragement:

Think about the nature of seeds. Some are fragile, easily damaged, and their potential for growth is limited. They might sprout briefly but wither quickly, unable to withstand the elements or the passage of time. Peter, in this powerful verse, contrasts this with the seed of our new birth – it's not perishable, but imperishable.

What is this imperishable seed? Peter clearly identifies it as the "living and enduring word of God." This isn't just about the physical book we hold in our hands, though that contains it. It refers to the powerful, active, and eternally relevant message of God, the good news of Jesus Christ.

Our first birth was through perishable seed – the physical union of our parents, which inevitably leads to decay and death. But our spiritual birth, our being "born again," originates from a source that is immune to corruption and the ravages of time. The Word of God is not fleeting or temporary; it is "living," full of power and life-giving energy, and it is "enduring," lasting forever, steadfast and true through all generations.

Consider the implications of this. Our new life, the very foundation of our spiritual being, is rooted in something eternal and unchanging. It's not dependent on our fluctuating emotions, our inconsistent efforts, or the shifting sands of human opinion. It is anchored in the solid rock of God's Word, a Word that spoke creation into existence and has the power to recreate our hearts.

This truth offers incredible stability and hope. In a world filled with uncertainty and change, our new birth is based on something that will never fade or disappear. The promises of God, revealed in His Word, are the imperishable seed that has taken root in our hearts, producing a life that has eternal significance.

Just as a seed contains the potential for a mighty plant, the Word of God planted in our hearts through faith holds the potential for us to grow into the likeness of Christ, bearing fruit that will last. This growth is nurtured by continued exposure to and application of that same living and enduring Word.

Application:

• Value the Word of God: Recognize the Bible not just as a book, but as the living and enduring seed of your new life. Treat it with the reverence and attention it deserves.
• Engage with Scripture Regularly: Just as a seed needs water and sunlight to grow, your new life needs consistent nourishment from God's Word. Make time for reading, studying, and meditating on Scripture.
• Believe the Promises: The imperishable seed of God's Word is full of promises for your life in Christ. Believe them, hold onto them, and allow them to shape your perspective and actions.
• Share the Imperishable Seed: Just as a plant produces more seeds, share the life-giving Word of God with others so that they too might experience the miracle of being born again.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for your living and enduring Word, the imperishable seed that has brought forth new life within me. I pray that I would always treasure your Word and recognize its power in my life. Help me to engage with it regularly, to understand its truths, and to allow it to shape me into the person you desire me to be. May the imperishable seed of your Word continue to grow in me, bearing fruit that honors you and blesses others. Amen.

Opening Prayer: This is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant me so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and the comfort of your Holy Word I may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                        from: Living Room Liturgy by Winfield Bevins

Scripture: John 3:5-7: "Jesus answered, 'Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, “You must be born again.”

Encouragement:

In this intimate conversation with Nicodemus, a respected religious leader, Jesus unveils a profound truth about entering God's Kingdom: it requires a new kind of birth – a birth "of water and the Spirit." This isn't just a suggestion; it's a "very truly I tell you" moment, emphasizing its absolute necessity.

The phrase "born of water" has been interpreted in various ways. Some see it as referring to physical birth, highlighting that we are born into the natural realm. Others connect it to baptism, the outward symbol of our identification with Christ's death and resurrection, and the washing away of sin. It's possible that it encompasses both – our natural human birth and the symbolic cleansing and new beginning represented by water baptism.

However, Jesus immediately pairs it with being "born of the Spirit." This is the crucial element of spiritual rebirth. Just as physical birth brings us into the natural world, being born of the Spirit brings us into the spiritual realm, into the very Kingdom of God. This is not something we can achieve through our own efforts or our natural human capabilities. "Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit." Our human nature, however well-intentioned, cannot produce the spiritual life required to enter God's Kingdom. It takes the divine intervention of the Holy Spirit.

Think about the wind, as Jesus illustrates in the following verse. You can feel its presence, see its effects, but you can't control where it comes from or where it's going. The work of the Holy Spirit is similar. It's a sovereign act of God, a mysterious and powerful transformation that takes place within us. We can't manufacture it or manipulate it. We simply need to be open and receptive to His working in our lives.

Jesus' concluding statement, "You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again,’" is striking. Perhaps Nicodemus, like many of us, found this concept perplexing or even offensive. But Jesus insists on its fundamental importance. This spiritual rebirth is not an optional extra for the super-religious; it's the essential entry point into God's Kingdom for everyone.

This passage reminds us that our entrance into God's Kingdom isn't based on our lineage, our religious practices, or our good deeds. It hinges on a spiritual transformation brought about by the Holy Spirit. It's about a new beginning, a divine birthing that connects us to God in a way that our natural birth never could.

Application:

• Examine Your Heart: Have you experienced this spiritual birth? Are you aware of the Holy Spirit's work in your life, bringing about a newness within you?
• Be Open to the Spirit: Just as the wind blows where it pleases, be open and receptive to the leading and transforming power of the Holy Spirit in your life. Don't try to control or limit His work.
• Understand the Necessity: Recognize that being born of the Spirit is not an optional add-on to faith, but a fundamental requirement for entering God's Kingdom.
• Reflect on Baptism: If you have been baptized, reflect on its significance as an outward symbol of this inner spiritual transformation.
• Share the Truth: Be willing to share this essential truth with others, that entrance into God's Kingdom comes through being born of the Spirit.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for the clear and powerful words of Jesus in John chapter 3. I pray for a deeper understanding of what it means to be born of water and the Spirit. Open my heart to the work of your Holy Spirit, that He may bring about true spiritual life within me. Help me not to be surprised by the necessity of this new birth, but to embrace it fully. Guide me to live in the reality of this spiritual transformation and to share this vital truth with those around me. Amen.