David Bahn - Reflections

Today's readings are Matthew 1:6-17; 2 Kings 3; 18; 19; 1 Chronicles 3. In today’s readings, do you notice a promise to trust, a command to obey, a truth to embrace, a warning to heed, or an encouragement to rest in?
What do you learn about God, about yourself, or about the world?
Is there one verse or thought that stands out to you today? Talk to God about it.

Today's readings are Matthew 1:6-17; 2 Kings 3; 18; 19; 1 Chronicles 3. In today’s readings, do you notice a promise to trust, a command to obey, a truth to embrace, a warning to heed, or an encouragement to rest in?
What do you learn about God, about yourself, or about the world?
Is there one verse or thought that stands out to you today? Talk to God about it.

Today's readings are Matthew 1:1-4; Genesis 38; 46; Numbers 7

Baptized into the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, we carry the only name that ultimately matters. The name that saves. The people named in these genealogies testify of God's far-reaching grace. Shown in Jesus. Celebrated by saint and sinner alike.

Today's readings are from John 1:1-14; Psalm 36; Job 29; Exodus 40

When the Second Person of the Holy Trinity takes on human flesh he becomes more real for us. And so does religion, faith, truth, hope, love, and salvation. The Word became flesh...full of grace and truth. So profound. So simple. Such a mystery. Such a blessing. This faith we profess and believe is not just a concept. It is embodied in a person, Jesus of Nazareth. Son of Mary. Son of God. Real religion honors him by trusting in him, believing his promises, aligning ourselves with the Truth of his word, and reflecting his grace to all people.

Today's readings are Luke 1:39-80; 1 Samuel 2; Ezekiel 24 & 29

God doesn't smite people for fun - an overstatement to be sure. His ways are part of a more sweeping story of creation, fall, redemption, and consummation. The rise and fall of Babylon, Egypt, and Israel are part of the cosmic span of history. The manner of setting things right falls on the shoulders of Jesus, who will take the strike of God's hand of justice so that we may experience the mercy of God. There will be a day. And on that day we who wait, hope, and trust humbly in God's faithful and gracious love will rejoice in God's salvation.

Today's readings are Luke 1:14-38; Malachi 4; Leviticus 10; Jeremiah 33

Most followers of Jesus are willing to play second fiddle to Jesus. But as Christ-followers, we are also to be willing to play second fiddle to one another. Philippians 2:3 says, "Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves." In other words we ought always be willing to be second.

When we go to worship in a church building we can thank God for those who built it and who make it available for us even today. Although God is present everywhere. He has promised to be present in a very special way where two or three are gathered in his name, and when we receive the Lord's Supper where Jesus' body and blood are present in a mysterious, miraculous, and merciful way.

God delights to be with us. We should delight to be with him as well. 

The Great Commission is recorded in some form or another in Matthew 28:16-20; Mark 16:15-16; Luke 24:46-47; John 20:21-23; and Acts 1:8. These words of Jesus reflect at least 10 references in the Old Testament! This is no new commission. It is the Great Commission. Under the authority of the risen Jesus, for all people of all time to hear the Good News of his redemption and invitation into the reign and rule of God.

This is God’s gift - a peace beyond understanding, a peace unlike the world gives. A peace that is not just a greeting, salutation or closing. “Peace to you,” he says. Believe it. Receive it!

Peace,
dlb

Jesus' resurrection, profoundly good news, and the Holy Spirit's work through the two change hearts, hope, future, purpose, and people.  

This is the heart-changing power of God at work—through the risen Christ, the truly good news, and the outpoured Spirit. And just as those first disciples were transformed from fear into joyful witness, so we too are called, equipped, and sent to live boldly in the light of the resurrection, bearing the hope that cannot die and the message that still changes hearts today.