December 29, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for December 29th: Isaiah 63:7-9, Psalm 148, Hebrews 2:10-18, Matthew 2:13-23: Theme: The Twelve Days of Christmas Matthew: By this time, the hoopla of Christmas is well over. Wintertime has set in, and the waiting of advent is over – the baby is here. This story reminds us that there are some tuff times on the journey between fulfillment and a dream come true. This is the story of the slaughter of the innocents. Herod has ordered the killing of all boy children two and under. Joseph stays faithful to his role in protecting the Son of God. In a dream he is told to go to Egypt until the threat to his son is over. When they return, they return to the horror that all of the other children and mothers have suffered. But in the end, Jesus grows up to fulfill his mission to bring salvation to any who desire to be with God. Jesus is also killed, for standing up to the powers that be – We can celebrate though that this story transforms our world into a beautiful place. Isaiah: This is a continuation on the theme of the dark journey to a fulfilled dream. Israel is lamenting because of all of the turmoil in their homeland. All they seem to see if desolation everywhere? How can they see the good in any of this? All along for 63 chapters, Isaiah has been promising hope and peace. No one seems to see it. The days after Christmas can be a very dark time – it is cold, it is dark, people are still away on vacation, so the pews are empty – there is not a lot of money coming in. This is a time for lamentation for the church. We too are called to see the light in the midst of the darkness. We too are called to see hope in the midst of despair. We too must walk that lonesome journey between a prayer and an answer. Questions: what horrid conditions are the children of today facing? Is God calling us to do anything to help them? What challenges do we face as a church? What prayers need to be answered for our time?

December 22, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for December 22nd: Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19, Romans 1:1-7, Matthew 1:18-25; Theme: Fourth Sunday of Advent Matthew: We only hear of the story of Jesus birth in the book of Matthew. As we get closer to Christmas, we hear the telling of that story in each of our scriptures. Matthew focuses on the role of the father in this story. Joseph has a lot of thinking to do about his role. Mary has announced that she is pregnant, but they are not even married yet. By every right, Joseph has the right to divorce her and to move on. But just as an angel comes to Mary, an angel comes to Joseph in a dream and tells him what to do. Joseph understands that he is a critical part of the story – he takes care of Mary and the baby in the coming days. He understands that God has a plan, and it will come to pass with the birth of this baby. Isaiah: The people of Israel were looking for a change. They were looking for something to have hope in. Isaiah tells the story of the birth of a baby, as that child grows, change will become evident. This story has some striking differences from the Matthew story. First, the woman who gives birth is a young woman, but not necessarily a virgin. The child is not the messiah, but someone who serves God. Isaiah says the baby should be called Immanuel, Matthew says Emmanuel – both mean God with us. Both stories remind us that God is with us, and that God is always our salvation. Both are stories of hope and celebration for the signs in our lives that God cares about us, and always sends a person to make a difference. Questions: What signs are present in your life of God’s presence? What children are present in your lives that give you hope for the future? What role do father’s play in teaching children to have faith? Have angels ever spoke to you in a dream? Did you follow what the dream told you to do?

December 15, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for December 15th: Isaiah 35:1-10, Luke 1:47-55, James 5:7-10, Matthew 11:2-11; Theme: Third Sunday of Advent James: Advent is about learning to wait. It is about learning to get away from this instantaneous culture and realizing that the best things in life are worth waiting for. James encouraged the church to learn patience in an impatient world centuries ago. The book of James is a strong message against exploitation that is so prevalent in our culture. We are called as Christians to be different . Christmas can bring out the worst in us – it is so easy to get caught in so many bad habits. Advent is designed to bring out the best in us. It is intended for us to get in touch with the point of the season – to depend on God for all things as we prepare for the coming of his Son into our world and into our life! Matthew: We hear about the ministry of John from Jesus’ perspective. Unfortunately, John never got to see the fruition of Jesus ministry – he was executed very early on. But he was the for runner, who prepared the hearts of many to be prepared to receive the messiah. Jesus does speak of those people who did witness his ministry – the blind, the crippled, the sick. Jesus brings up John to prepare many others for the healing of the messiah including us: the modern generation. Jesus is grateful for all that John did for him, he was even baptized himself by John. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if Jesus appreciated all that we do in our ministry the way he appreciated John? Questions: How good are you at waiting? What are you preparing for this advent? How are you telling others about the messiah coming? Who are the people who could use a savior in this modern age?

December 8, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for December 8th: Isaiah 11:1-10, Psalm 72:1-7.18-19; Romans 15:4-13, Matthew 3:1-12; Theme: Second Sunday of Advent Romans: The gifts of the season are hope, joy, love and peace. As Paul speaks to the gentiles, he passes on those gifts and explains that they all from God. In this scripture Paul particularly speaks of the gift of hope. We learn hope through studying the scripture and living out our faith. We are also called to give our faith to others through hospitality. We are to welcome them into the same family that we have been welcomed into – God’s family. According to Paul, the gentiles hearing and accepting the gospel is proof of a loving God. If God love us then we can accomplish anything. That is the meaning of hope. Matthew: John the Baptist is a key figure during the season of advent. He is the precursor to Jesus. He tells everyone what to expect. John does not seem to have very good social skills. He does not even like the people that he is talking to. But he gets his point across even to us listening – that it is time for us to change our lives, to turn from evil and to embrace God. Whomever we are, we are being challenged to think differently. To look at our motives, and to make sure that they are in alignment with what Jesus was taught us to do. If John, who is a relative and determined to serve him, calls himself unworthy, than neither are we. But if we turn our life around, our gift this advent season will be grace. Questions: What gives you hope in your life? How do you pass hope onto to others who have none? What do you need to repent of? What needs to change in your life?

December 1, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for December 1st: Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122, Romans 13:11-14, Matthew 24:36-44: Theme: First Sunday of Advent Isaiah: Throughout the advent season, we look at what the book of Isaiah says about the coming messiah. What will he do for the world, what difference will he make in our lives. In chapter 1 of Isaiah, he talks about the destruction and pain that the people are feeling in exile. So in chapter 2 he talks about peace. Not just peace for his family, not just for his country, but for the whole world. Everyone will come to his country to learn the ways of peace. But the word of comfort comes after experiencing the problems of war. At the beginning of this chapter, the prophet encourages people to see the word – to picture the sense of peace that the messiah will bring. Matthew: This is the first lesson of the new Christian year, where we start with the end of the gospel of Matthew. This is the Sunday where the world is turned upside down, and we wait for Jesus to make it right side up again. As we prepare for the first coming of Christ, we hear about the second coming of Christ. We are reminded that we don’t know when the second coming, but our task is to stay alert and prepared at all times. Before cell phones, (BC), when a relative would come to visit, they would call before the trip, but you had no idea of when they would actually reach your house. Jesus is old school – he has no plans to announce his coming, but we have already received the call to be prepared. Questions: What would peace look like in our world? How are we called by God to be peacemakers? Are you good at waiting for things? What are you doing to prepare for the coming of Christ in your life?

November 24, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for November 24th: Jeremiah 23:1-6, Luke 1:68-79, Colossians 1:11-20, Luke 23:33-43; theme: Christ the King Sunday Colossians : This is Christ the King Sunday. An opportunity for us to think about who Christ is and why Christ is important to us. It was important for Paul to explain who Christ was in a way that would speak to the heart of the listener. Paul was a master of explaining what Christ has done for us. Paul says that Christ opened the doors so that all could share in his inheritance. He is a light in the midst of darkness, he is the image of God here on earth. Most importantly, he is the head of the church. As we reflect on each of the things that Christ has done for us, how can we not come to the conclusion that Christ is King? Luke: This is the last Sunday that we will be learning from the book of Luke. So it would be fitting that we read the end of the story – the crucifixion of Jesus. This is the story of how Jesus to the outskirts of town, and hung on a cross. This is the story of the passion. This is the very reason that Christ is King. The last words today’s story says I assure you that you will be with me in paradise. In the experience of death, Christ is forgiving us and preparing a place for us in the presence of God. In the resurrection, he shows that he has fulfilled his promise. And now that the door has been opened, we are free to walk through and experience the light in this life and the next. Questions: What does it mean for Christ to be King of the church? Of your life? How is Christ the image of God on Earth? How does the passion of Christ affect you? What lesson do you remember most from the book of Luke? How would you have reacted if you witnessed the crucifixion yourself?

November 17, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for November 17th: Isaiah 65:17-25, Isaiah 12, 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13, Luke 21:5-19 Theme: being faithful in service to God 2 Thessalonians : It is a well known fact that in any community that 20 percent of the people do 80 percent of the work. So what do we do with those who are freeloading? What do we do with those who genuinely are not able to help create community? Paul says that anyone who does not help should not eat. But he says that we all have a part to play in creating community no matter how minor that part is. But Paul goes on the encourage us to all do the right thing when it comes to faith. We should not stop doing right because others do nothing. We should follow the example of our leaders who are working to make a difference. Luke: Throughout the season of Pentecost, we have been following the journey of Jesus on his way to Jerusalem. He knows what is going to happen in Jerusalem, but he goes anyway. By this time he has started speaking out and making enemies. As Jesus prepares for his fate, he realizes that he must also prepare his followers. Things will not be easy for them either. So he tells them of all of the things that are going to happen in life and how they will be individually affected. But he tells them that their faith will sustain them through the hard times. And that if they are able to remain faithful no only will things get better, but they will get a reward. Questions: How do you feel about people who do not carry their weight? How does working with these people affect your performance? What faith tribulations are you going through right now? How does it feel to be persecuted because of your faith in Jesus?

October 27, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for October 27th: Joel 2:23-32, Psalm 65, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18, Luke 18:9-14: Theme: Life always gets better Joel: The book of Joel was written in response to a national catastrophe. The entire country had been devastated by a swarm of locust. They came through and ate everything for three years. By the time they were done, there was nothing left. The country looked like a war zone. Joel tells the people that this is a result of sin, and that they need to repent. After the short book details what happened, he offers these words of hope for the people. God will restore all that they lost. As a matter of fact, being that they are stronger people, life will be that much better. We may not be able to relate to a locust attack, but there are many environmental disasters happening in our nation. There are many people who have lost everything and have to rebuild their life. God is with them just as God was with the people in Joel’s time. We are become stronger because of the struggles we go through in life. Luke: Jesus continues to teach us how to pray in this scripture. But instead now he talks about the attitude that we should have when we pray. Prayer is not a privilege, it is a gift. Prayer does not make us better than others, prayer should make us humble. More importantly, God answers our prayers all of the same. We are all sinners, even those of us who strive to be righteous. The Pharisees were supposed to be the leaders of society, and the tax collector was despised by society. The both come to God, but with different prayers, with a different attitude with different outcomes. The tax collector left feeling that God has heard his cry, the Pharisee was just satisfied with his own prayer. The lesson for us, is that when we pray that we should be humble and trusting that God hears us, in spite of our sins. Questions: What situation is going on in the world most in need of hope? Do you pray often?

October 20, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for October 20th: Jeremiah 31:27-34, Psalm 119:97-104, 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5, Luke 18:1-8, Theme: prayer pays off Luke: prayer is an important part of our life as a Christian. Prayer is our conversation with God. The old song encourages us to take everything to God in prayer. In this scripture, an old lady is persistent with a judge to give her justice. The judge says that he finally gives in just to get her to stop pestering him. In some ways this demonstrates how we should be with God, but God has nothing in common with the judge. God hears our prayers and answers because God loves us, not because God is tired of hearing from us. As a matter of fact, the exact opposite is true. God enjoys our prayers. Sometime we have to continually pray for the same thing in order for it to finally happen. In the end, justice, mercy, and peace always prevail. But all of these things take persistent prayer. Jeremiah: Jeremiah always struggled with telling his people the truth – they would reap the consequences of their actions. God was not pleased with them. When they lost their homeland and were sent into exile, Jeremiah went right along with them. But Jeremiah that his role as prophet was not to let the people become discouraged. He let them know that God still loved them and that eventually they would be restored to their land and their life. They would get a second chance to have a right relationship with God. God would forgive them for their past life. But in having hope, and forgiveness – they needed to make a true change in their heart and life and vow to serve God in all that had been restored. Questions: Is there something that you have been praying for fervently? What social ills need to be corrected in our world? Have you ever been given a second chance in life? How did that experience change your perspective on life?

October 13, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for October 13th: Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7; Psalm 66:1-12; 2 Timothy 2:8-15; Luke 17:11-19 Theme: the value of gratefulness Luke: Have you ever done something for someone, and received no thanks for your effort? The story of the ten lepers shows us how Jesus responds to that situation. Healing of impossible illnesses were an important part of Jesus’ ministry. He had healed lepers before. The ten that come to him are also Samaritans (foreigners). Jesus still does what is necessary to make their lives better. Only one of them thinks to come back to say thank you. That person was truly transformed, and truly understand what it means to have a new life. As followers of Christ, we should all strive to be that tenth leper and be grateful. 2 Timothy: The letters to Timothy are Paul’s letters to his protégé. He is teaching him what it means to be a pastor. In the past he has told Timothy to hold onto the traditions that he inherited from his parents and to not be afraid to teach others what he has learned himself. In the lesson, Paul tells Timothy to trust in Jesus Christ. The power of the gospel is in the life and resurrection of Christ. As followers we should live in unity, we should endure the hardships of life, look for his faithfulness, but know that he does not appreciate your sin. All of the keys to to a successful life lie in our faith in Christ. Questions: How have you been healed by the presence of Christ? How do you say thank you for what you have received? Who is a mentor that you really appreciate? What is the best advice that they have given to you?

October 6, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for October 6th: Lamentations 1:1-6, Psalm 137, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Luke 17:5-10 Theme: The power of having faith Luke: This is another familiar and important verse. It is about the faith of a mustard seed. In other words if we have just a little faith, things will be different. We spend a lot of times looking for miracles to happen. Looking for the extraordinary. When God usually operates in the ordinary and the simple. God is not looking for the superstar but the plain things. Jesus is telling us that our greatest weapon against the trials of life is faith in the ordinary. And when we are faithful and we see transformation, we do not need to have special recognition, we did our duty as we are supposed just by being faithful. Lamentations: There are times when we have personal tragedies to speak of, and there are other times when a whole community is hit with grief. We don’t have a reading from Lamentations very often, but this is the cry of an entire community. It was common the speak of the community as a person. In this verse, we read about the condition of the city of Jerusalem as a result of the exile. Oh no, she sits alone and she suffers. In the old testament, the people are called the bride of God. They have a relationship with God. This verse in a continuation of that relationship. The people were not faithful to the ways of God and now they have to pay for it. In times of national disaster, we get together in faith to pray, to sing, to worship. Going through the national grief together brings us closer together, but more importantly, closer to God. Questions: When was a time when you had to rely on your faith to get through it? What does it mean to serve God? What tragedy has brought this community together in grief? How did the community come together to deal with it?

September 29, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for September 29th: Jeremiah 32:1-3, 6-15; Psalm 91:1-6, 14-16; 1 Timothy 6:6-19; Luke 16:19-31 - Theme: The true riches of God Luke: All throughout the Hebrew Testament, there seems to be one underlying message that they are trying to get across to the people. God gives us resources in order to help others less fortunate than us, not to take care of ourselves. So now it seems that Jesus must tell that same message. A rich man has watched a poor man who stood outside his door and never helped. He never even looked at the man. When he dies, he is told that he should have helped the man. In death he realizes that there is nothing he can do to change, but that he can warn his family to do different. He is told that it is too late, we cannot go back and talk to our neighbors after death. God speaks to us through life, through church, through the bible, through other people. We need to listen and heed the warning while we can. 1 Timothy: This lesson just reinforces the lesson of the gospel. For us to pursue the true riches of God and not of this world. It can get easy for us to get caught up with keeping up with the Joneses. For is to measure our success in life by material wealth. But as Christians it is important for us to keep things in perspective. For us to realize that all that we have is a gift from God. God provides for our needs. God also reminds us constantly that the most important things in life money cannot buy – love, hope, truth, peace, wellbeing. All things that only come from God. We cannot help but to be a part of this life, we cannot help but to interact with the world. But we are to be reminded that there is always something more important. Our true reward is waiting for us in heaven. Questions: Who is it that you see everyday but you ignore? What lesson that you have learned would you pass on to the next generation? What are the most valuable things that you have in life? How does being a Christian affect how you live in the world?

September 22, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for September 22nd: Jeremiah 8:18-9:1; Psalm 79:1-9; 1 Timothy 2:1-7; Luke 16:1-13 Theme: Being faithful with what God gives us Luke 16:1-13: This is one of those confusing parables – what in the world is Jesus trying to say? A servant owes money to his boss, and he gets the money from all of the people that owe him to pay his debt. And Jesus is praising this as behavior that we should emulate. Jesus turns it into a story of being responsible for what God has given us. That when we have been given much, them we are responsible for much. All of us have been made stewards of things that don’t belong to us, everything that we have actually belongs to God, we have been put in charge of it. And we spend our life thinking of how to make th best of it. How to serve God in everything that we do. I Timothy 2:1-7: We are reminded in this verse that everything that we do as faithful people starts with prayer. The first things that Paul tells us to do is to pray. Pray for leaders pray for ourselves, pray for faith. There is no second or third thing after prayer. Prayer is everything. Next Paul gives the faith statement of every Christian – Jesus Christ is our savior. Jesus is both human like us, and divine like God. Jesus Christ is the mediator between these two natures. And that we are called to give that good news to others, to be messengers of God. Paul celebrates that he is a teacher of this faith – that is our primary task as preachers and disciples of Christ. Questions: What has God given you responsibility over, how to you exercise good stewardship over those things? Who do you believe that Jesus Christ is to his followers? Who in your life do you take the time to teach the truth about Jesus?

September 15, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for September 15th: Jeremiah 4:11-12,22-28; Psalm 14, I Timothy 1:12-17, Luke 15:1-10 Theme: Lost in the world, found by God. Luke 15:1-10: The whole point of Jesus’ ministry on earth was to bring us back into relationship with God. With life- there are so many distractions that drive us away from that relationship. It has gotten to the point that most people don’t even understand why it is necessary to have a relationship. They think that life is all about us. When we are able to break away from that distraction and pay attention to God, Jesus celebrates as if his job has been done. We are all celebrate success. Most of us hate to lose things, we are happy when we find them. A celebration usually involves fixing a meal and inviting friends to celebrate with you. You can’t have a party without preparation of a table for people to come and join in. How do we prepare the table for others to come and join us? I Timothy 1: 12-17: Paul is celebrating being a saved sinner. He is recounting how he used to persecute Christians until Christ came to him personally. From that moment, Paul has been telling others about the gifts of salvation. He speaks of the importance of having faith in a world that convinces us that there is nothing for us to believe in. Paul builds upon Jesus message in Luke of the lost sinner being found. Paul says that he is that lost sinner. We all are. Christ came into this world to show us the way to God. How do we even begin to say thank you for all that Christ has done. Paul says by giving him honor and glory. Questions: How do you feel when you lose something of value? What do you do the celebrate finding something of value? How do you honor Christ for finding you? How does it feel to return to church after being absent?

September 8, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for September 8th: Jeremiah 18:1-11; Psalm 139:1-6,13-18; Philemon 1-21, Luke 14:25-33; Theme: We are all creations of God Psalm 139: no matter how long you know a person, there is always more to learn about that person. We are still learning things about ourselves as we grow. However, this psalm says that the God that created us, knew us before we were born and knows the exact number of hairs on our heads. In other words, God knows us better than we know ourselves. God created each of us for a certain purpose. God knows what it will take for us to fulfill that purpose. That is why it is important for us to be intentional about having a relationship with God. This scripture also gives us the assurance that there is never a time when God will desert us. God has been there and always will be. Even death and calamity can separate us from the love of God. God will always be there in our life. Philemon: There is only one chapter of this book, but this one chapter gives a very powerful message. It is about a slave who has become a Christian. If he is now free in Christ, is he still a slave? Is he equal to his master? The message to this slave, is not to worry about freedom. Spiritually, he is free. Spiritually he is equal. He is encouraged to think about his behavior toward others, not their behavior toward him. He is to be a brother to all, even to his master. Paul does ask his master to do the right thing and to free him. This is a story about relationships that have been transformed because the love of God is present. Paul is not encouraging slavery, he is encouraging Onesimus to put God first in all things. When God is first, all other things will fall into place. Questions: What special purpose has God created you for? How to you continue to grow in your relationship in order to grow in God? What relationships in your life need to be transformed? What problems in your life do you need to turn over to God?

September 1, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for September 1st: Jeremiah 2:4-13, Psalm 81:1,10-16, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Luke 14:1,7-14 Theme: Words to live by Hebrews: The Christian Church in the first century has to struggle with what it meant to be a Christian in a diverse world, community, city. How do you set yourself apart, and still remain a part of the whole. We still struggle with that question today. The book of Hebrews is an instruction book. The first rule of being a Christian is to always come from a place of love, peace, hospitality and understanding. Show love to fellow Christians, but even to strangers. We don’t know who God sends into our midst, but we do know that we are to show them hospitality. In all things we are to stay loyal to the task, consistent and most important centered on God. If we are centered on what God calls us to do, then God will be pleased and present in all that we go through in life. Luke: In all of this time, our social life has not changed. We still gather for parties. And in order to move forward in life, sometimes you have to go to a lot of dinner parties. It seems the more important you are, the more dinner parties you get invited to. Jesus cautions that we should not take the place of honor at a party, there may be someone more important than you, and then you will have to step aside. As a matter of fact, Jesus does not seem impressed with the social scene at all. He says that we should turn the party scene upside down. Think about those who were not invited, those who are not able to come because they have to work or other obligations. They are the real stars of the party, because they are the real stars of heaven. Jesus continually encourages us to think about those who are less fortunate, and to do all that we can to help them. Once again it is a matter of entertaining angels, by how we extend hospitality. Questions: What opportunities have you had to entertain angels? What does it mean to who hospitality in a hostile world? When do you think of helping those who are less fortunate? What would a dinner party for the poor look like?

August 25, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for August 25th: Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6, Hebrews 12:18-29; Luke 13:10-17: Theme: Being called by God to do a task Jeremiah: Today we look at the first chapter of the book of Jeremiah. For the next nine weeks, we will follow the story of Jeremiah. Jeremiah is considered one of the most important prophets of his time. He spoke to a changing world, about their need to get right with God. This scripture talks about Jeremiah being called by God to speak on God’s behalf, while he was still a child. Jeremiah felt that he did not have much to say, because he was so young. He also felt that he was not worthy of speaking for God. But God said that all of that was okay. He would purify Jeremiah so that what he has to say would make a difference. Jeremiah was from a priestly family that had a history of speaking out and challenging the status quo. In his life, he never left Israel in their suffering, he felt that he was a part of the community that he was trying to save. Hebrews: This text speaks of the need to change. Change is never easy, or pretty and it is always challenging. Jesus is trying to bring about a new people and a new understanding of our relationship with God. He contrast a regular mountain with a heavenly mountain. Paul encourages to strive for being on the heavenly mountain because that is where God is. God came to shake things up and to being a new world, but to challenge our faith. When we listen to God and do God’s will we are not only showing a glimpse of what heaven like, But we get to see heaven for ourselves. We start to develop an unshakable faith, that can get us through any circumstance. Questions: How does God speak to you? What does God want you to do? How do you deal with change? What is shakable in the world? What is unshakable I your faith?

August 18, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for August 18th: Isaiah 5:1-7, Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19, Hebrews 11:29-12:2, Luke 12:49-56: Theme: The signs of the times Luke: We all watch the craziness of the world on the news, but what is God telling us in the midst of what is happening? God is telling us that the more things change, the more things stay the same. People are the same as they have always been. God has been sending prophets to the world to help us to do differently, but we still do not listen. So God sent his only son to earth to help us to listen and to change. Jesus says that just as we can read nature, and know when it is going to be a sunny day, that we should be able to read the sign of the times. We will never be able to predict what will happen in the future, but Jesus has told us what the consequences of our actions are. We have to be more loving and more willing to listen to the voice of God – as a nation and as individuals. Hebrews: Hebrews is the book that teaches us the importance of faith. Without faith not only do we not have a future, but we also do not have a past. So Paul is going back in history to help the Isrealites remember all of the times that it was faith that helped them to get through a tough situation. We are all encouraged to be strengthened from this trip down memory lane. I think when we look at an unknown future, we can become discouraged and think that this time our faith is not enough to help us. Paul says that we can not only run the race in front of us, but we can win it. Our faith in is the miracle of Jesus Christ. And if it bought Jesus back to life, then it will help us to face an unknown future. Questions: What is your faith story? What challenges has Christ bought you through? What challenges do you face in the future? How do you deal with the stories of the news? What role does faith play in your life?

August 11, 2019

Scriptures for August 11th: Isaiah 1:1.10-20, Psalm 50:1-8,22-23, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Luke 12:32-40: Theme: What does it mean to have faith Hebrews: What does it mean when people say keep the faith? Why is faith important. This letter defines faith as believing in things that we cannot see. If we can see it clearly, then we know where we are headed and what we are supposed to do. But most of life is lived in a place where we don’t have all of the answers. And yet, decisions need to be made, we need to move forward. Faith in God is a way to keep us centered and headed in the right direction. We don’t know what the future – but we know who holds the future – God. God is always on our side. Isaiah: This is the very first chapter of the book of Isaiah. We will be reading from this book for the rest of the lectionary year. This book will follow the history of the Isrealites through a very dark time in history, to the time when they finally go home and their life is restored. As the people are reflecting on the bad things that have happened, they are comparing their times to a time long ago, when God said that God would destroy Sodom and Gomorrah for their sins, but they survived. Isaiah is explaining to them that their sin was much worse, so their punishment was much worse. But God also cares for them much more, and will forgive them if they repent. That is the good news of Isaiah’s prophecy. Questions: How do you keep your faith in an uncertain world? What does faith mean to you? What are the trials that God has brought you through? How do you know that God loves you?

August 4, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for August 4th: Hosea 11:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9,43; Colossians 3:1-11; Luke 12:13-21 Theme: a world where everyone is equal Colossians: Paul talks a lot in his writings about the difference between a spiritual life and an earthly life. As Christians we are spiritual beings, and we look beyond what the eye can see. We don’t act like people in the world. But I think that the most important message is at the end of this scripture. We are all equal in God’s eyes. God looks at our hearts, and not out physical appearance. Christ came to save us all – and wants all different types of people to be present in the kingdom of God. What would it be like if we lived like that on earth? What would that mean? We have to remember that our Christian life is about who we are inside. Inside of our hearts. But our hearts have been with us all along. So the Christ has been with us all the time, but sometimes it takes time to manifest it. Hosea: The beginning of Hosea was the lament, the bad news, now Hosea is giving a message of hope that things will get better, and God will show mercy on his children, no matter how bad they have been. Sometimes we have to ask ourselves what it will take for things to change. What will it take for people to have a change of heart and be willing to seek God out, instead of walking away. Hosea prophesies that the people will be exiled from their land. But then they can hear the voice of God and welcome God’s presence. For the people in Hosea’s time it took a war devastating their land, to give them the determination to rebuild. God was with them throughout all of it. God is the light at the end of the tunnel. And once the sunshine is present, God will not punish them again. Jesus gives us all hope for a better life. And if we repent, that grace is always waiting for us.

July 28, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for July 28th: Hosea 1:2-10; Psalm 85, Colossians 2:6-19, Luke 11:1-13; Theme: prayers to God Luke: More than any other gospel, Luke shows us the meaning of prayer. Jesus prays constantly. He prays alone, and he takes painstaking detail to teach his disciples to pray. Prayer is a way of talking to God about what we need, even though God always knows. God always answers our prayer, but not always in the way we expect. When we pray, God may say yes, no, or not right now. But the point is that God always answers. God has promised that God will provide for our needs. The story of the friend who comes knocking on you door at midnight is an example. It was expected that you would help that person. If you help your friends, God will do even more for you. Jesus was an example of how God answers prayers – he went to God in all things going on in his ministry – even when he went to the cross – his last words were a prayer. Hosea: The prophets seemed to go through great lengths to get the message of God to the people. They did whatever they needed to do to get people’s attention. Hosea is still a little extreme. He uses his marriage and his children to get the message that the people have broken their covenant with God. Hosea marries a women with a reputation of being a prostitute. He says that is like the relationship between God and his people. They have been unfaithful. He gives his children strange names to demonstrate the negative behavior of the people of Israel. Many of the prophets are still giving that negative message that the people will pay for the way that they treat God. They are trying to get the people to repent. But you attract more flies with sugar than with vinegar. When there is repentance, God also shows grace. Yet even in the message of grace in the words of Jesus – Hosea’s message of the consequences of sin still is important today. Questions: How is your prayer life? Do you feel connected to God when you pray? What would Hosea say to Christians of today?

July 21, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for July 21st: Amos 8:1-12; Psalm 52; Colossians 1:15-28; Luke 10:38-42: Theme: We are a sinful people Amos: The prophet Amos seems to have a knack for the dramatic. He loves to make examples that people can relate to . This time is a basket of summer fruit that is the example. Just as fruit spoils easily, so do the consequences of our actions. Amos tries to find as many ways as he can to help the people Israel understand that when they do not take care of the less fortunate, then they are like spoiled fruit. God will hold all of us accountable. Our luck will eventually run out. Amos is from the country, and he goes to the city to warn people that they are so concerned about themselves, that they do not attention to others. In a sense, he predicts the exile from their homeland as punishment and a lesson for not caring about others. He says that people are laughing now, but they will soon cry. Amos just wants people to become aware of their own insensitivity, and to do somethings different. Luke: Jesus has been busy teaching the crowds as he is making his way to Jerusalem. As he is traveling he is grateful that 20 miles out of town, he can drop in on his old friends Mary and Martha (and Lazurus). His friends go out of their way to make Jesus feel welcome, when they realize that he is coming to visit. But the two sisters have two different views of good hospitality. Martha want the house to be clean and everything perfect, and Mary wants to spend time with her guest. Jesus wants us to know that both styles of hospitality are important. It is important for us as Christian to work hard, but to also take some time and to study to word and to interact with others. Jesus needs both forms, sometimes even from the same person. Questions: What sins do our society need to turn away from? What sins do our congregation need to be aware of? How much time in your schedule do you allow for study? What preparations do you do when guest are coming to your house?

July 14, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for July 14th: Amos 7:7-17; Psalm 82; Colossians 1:1-14; Luke 10:25-37: theme: How do we live a righteous life? Luke: Now that Jesus has others spreading his stories, people are starting to notice. They want the sense of peace and confidence that they see in his followers. So a lawyer comes to him and want to be a part of the movement. He has gotten everything that he ever wanted in life, and since he is rich, if he cannot get it he can buy it. So now he wants to know what to do in order to be a part of Jesus group. Jesus does not make it easy for him. Money does not buy him a ticket into this group. Jesus tells a parable to help him to realize this for himself. What have you done to help others? What have you done to accept those who you don’t like. The lawyer does not even want to say the word Samaritan. But in this story the Samaritan knew what he must do to be saved. Jesus tells the lawyer that if he knows right from wrong, then he should practice it. Amos: Amos is a farmer who finds it very hard to get used to the ways of the city people. God uses that uncomfortableness for Amos to give the city folk an important message. They are not thinking about how their actions affect other people. They are not trying to help those who are less fortunate than they are. So Amos judges their actions. He says that God will look at their lives and see that they are not living in keeping with his teachings. Amos tells them that until they think of others, they don’t have a right relationship with God. And if they don’t have a right relationship, then life will get worse. Today we too are encouraged to examination our life and to think about who is less fortunate than we that we can help. We can learn from the bad luck of others, and change our society before it is too late. Questions: What are you doing to help those less fortunate? How hard it is to get right with God? What does our present society need to repent from to become a better world?

July 7, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for July 7th: 2 Kings 5:1-14; Psalm 30; Galatians 6:1-16; Luke 10:1-11, 16-20: Theme: evangelism – bringing others into the fold Luke: The gospel is the story of how Jesus recruiting his 12 disciples to start to do the work of the church. As Jesus’ ministry started to expand beyond just the Jews, he realized that he needed even more help. He realized that he would need to train even more people. So Jesus recruits 72 other people to go out and to make a difference in the world. He trains them how to go out into the world and to spread the good news. They cannot be afraid of strangers, but they do not need to force anyone to like them. Jesus also teaches them how to protect themselves in a very lonely world. Whatever they accomplish, they have a reward in the spirit. God will be grateful for all of the hard work that they do. Galatians: We have had a continuous reading of what it means to live life in the spirit. Life in the spirit is never a life lived in isolation. It is always a life lived in community. A life with certain challenges. Just as our personal life depends on the fruits of the spirit, so does our life in community. When we are living in the spirit, we have the authority and the responsibility to correct others. When negativity creeps up in their life, we have to encourage others to sweep it away. There is no limit to being good. It works in every situation. We can be confident that everything that we need is in Christ. there is never a reason to seek evil or to go back to worldly ways? Questions: Have you ever tried to spread the gospel to someone who didn’t know it? What do you do when you are rejected? How are you training yourself to spread the gospel? How do you correct others when they are wrong? Do you like to be with other people? Or do you prefer to be faithful all alone?

June 30, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for June 30th: 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14; Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20; Galatians 5:1, 13-25; Luke 9:51-62 Theme: passing on responsibility to our kids 2 Kings: This is the story of the end of Elijah’s ministry. Elijah has a special relationship with God, so he will not end in an earthly grave, but he will be taken up to heaven. Elijah is one of the most important messengers of God. He defined what it means to have a relationship with God, yet devote your life to teach others. When Elijah is no longer with us, a great amount of wealth will be lost. Luckily, Elijah has been training another prophet to take his place – that is Elisha. Elijah and Elisha may have the same knowledge, but they are vastly different people. Elisha knows that his mentor is not going to be around forever, so he tries to learn as much as he can. His request to Elijah is that he have all of his knowledge. Elisha receives Elijah’s red mantle which is the keeper of all of his knowledge. Elisha is forever grateful for being present when God took Elijah away. Galatians: This is a continuation of last week’s conversation, of the difference between life in the flesh and life in the spirit. And that once we have changed our life, things should get better for us. Many people think that living a faithful life can hold us down and stop us. Paul says that life in the spirit actually gives us a sense of freedom. We get to turn all of our burdens over to God. we don’t have to figure out all of the answers for ourselves. Paul also tells the consequences of each life. Life of the flesh is a selfish life with selfish results. Life in the spirit is godly life, with godly results. Your receive the fruits of the spirit. We have to be careful that what should be old habits, do not reappear in our lives. Paul says that we avoid that not allowing negative emotions, anger, jealousy and arrogance come into our lives or our thoughts. Questions: What was your relationship with your mentor? What mantle of knowledge did they pass on to you? Who are your mentoring? How do you avoid negative emotions? What do you do when they are present in your life?

June 23, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for June 23rd: 1 Kings 19:1-15; Psalm 42; Galations 3:23-29; Luke 8:26-39 1 Kings: I think that is one of the most important messages of the bible. When God “speaks” to Elijah through the silence. Elijah is afraid for his life and he runs. But he also asks for God to save him, so he is desparately seeking God. But he is looking for God in all of the wrong places – he is looking for God in the loud noises of life, in the exciting times, in the obvious. It is not until he is able to calm down inside that he finally realizes that God has been speaking all along. He just has not been listening. God does not save him or remove him from the threat, he tells him to go back into it and face it and deal with it. But this time Elijah knows that he does not have to run, because God is with him. Galatians: Paul talks about what life is like in the flesh and in the spirit. He says that life is different once we give our life to Christ because God helps us with our faith. Paul also stresses that gentiles who have Christ in their life are spiritually on the same level as people who have been Jewish all of their life. We become a part of God’s family when we put our faith in Christ. Even though we have different experiences, we become children of Abraham. What kind of world would it be if we treated all people as equal, even though they were different. Would that effect how we live our life? who we talk to? Who we sit next to? That is the world that Christ set out to create. Questions: What events cause you to talk to God? How do you pray? Do you pray when there is a lot going on? Or do you need a quiet space to a talk with God? Do you trust what God has to say to you? What does it mean to be equal and fair? How do you actively address the inequality of the world?

June 16, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for June 16th: Proverbs 8:1-4,22-31; Psalm 8; Romans 5:1-5; John 16:12-25: Theme: Father’s Day Proverbs: Proverbs is a mother’s advice to her son, who will one day be a prince. She knows that he is a teenager, but she does not want him to get distracted from his task by doing stupid things. In this verse, she is saying that lady wisdom shouts from the streets, but no one wants to listen. She tells her son that there is a connection between wisdom and God. Wisdom is personified as lady wisdom, or Sophia. The scriptures say that Sophia has been when God since God created the world. She has always been God’s closest advisor. So she too wants to come to earth to help people in their relationship with God. She too is in the throne room with God enjoying the presence of God. But she also likes being with the people. Romans: Paul is trying to tell us that when we have faith in God everything falls into place because we have everything that we need: We have peace, love, hope and endurance. As faithful people, we have just as much suffering as anyone else. But when we have faith we know that our suffering is never in vain. Going through the trials helps us to learn to endure pain. But it also gives us hope that trouble never comes to last forever, but hope, peace and love are ours to keep forever. The Holy Spirit never goes away, and neither does the gifts that it brings us. Questions: What advice did your mother give you growing up? Did you think of her advice as wise? What suffering have you had to endure? Did your faith help you in that journey? How?

June 2, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for June 2nd: Acts 1:1-11; Psalm 47; Ephesians 1:15-23; Luke 24:44-53; Theme: Ascension Acts: During the Easter Season, we give little attention to the ascension, when Jesus leaves his disciples. Even thought it is a very important part of our faith journey. What would life be like if Jesus was still present with us? Then it would not be up to us to do the work of Christ. We would get lazy and let Jesus have all of the fun. This is the moment that Jesus has been preparing his disciples for all along – when it would be up to them to carry on the faith. Most times Jesus is depicted as going up to heaven up on a cloud. The disciples stare at a space in the air where they think Jesus went. When Jesus says that he is now with the father. Heaven is a place in the hearts of the faithful, not a place in the sky. Jesus may be invisible as a spirit, but he has not left the earth. He is the life force that puts us in action to make a difference in our world in the here and now. Luke: This reading also tells the story of Jesus going up to heaven. Jesus follows in the footsteps of Moses, Elijah, Enoch, and others who did not die, but were taken up to heaven in bodily form. If Jesus was still here, there would be no need for the comforter, the Holy Spirit. Scripture says that Jesus took them as far as he could go, and then he blessed them. It was that blessing that inspired them to praise God and to continue in the work. How often do we dwell on the things that we have lost in life, and stop in life and refuse to go farther. When we are to be reminded that nothing last forever, things always change, and we have to be willing to move forward from those moments. Grateful for the time that we had, but prepared for the days ahead. Jesus blesses us all, Jesus sends the comforter to us all, Jesus encourages us all to move forward, from whatever it is that puts us in a state of grief and morning. Questions: How do you deal with loss? What encourages you to move forward? What tasks are you called to fulfill while on this earth? How do you know that Jesus’ spirit is still present in this world?

May 19, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for May 19th: Acts 11:1-18; Psalm 148; Revelation 21:1-6; John 13:31-35: Theme: Acceptance of all of God’s People Acts: This is an important verse on learning to understand others. Peter has been in ministry to the gentiles. Just as the Jewish powers that be were uncomfortable with Jesus not following tradition, they wanted to make sure that Peter followed his Jewish tradition. Peter had every intention to do just that, until God spoke to him and told him that it was okay to be accepting of others. It was okay to eat the things that they ate, in order to identify with them. When the authorities found out, they questioned Peter. Peter asked that the authorities not focus on what Peter did, but on what God was doing in the lives of the gentiles. As we struggle to understand the point of others, and to accept them, perhaps it is important for us to also look at what God is doing in their lives. If God accepts them as they are, shouldn’t we do the same? John 13:31-35: Jesus has gathered his disciples together for the last meal. He knows that Judas will betray him. So when Judas is not in the room, he takes the opportunity to speak to the other disciples. Jesus gives them the commandment to love one another. Love is the message that Jesus has been giving all along. Love one another. Does that mean to only love those who are just like us, or do we love all of God’s children? Do we love our enemies? Are the a part of the one In the Christian family, there are many interpretations of how far our love is supposed to go. But Jesus does give us a hint of what he means, when he says that God is glorified in our love for one another. Who are the people who God loves? Does God just love those who are like us? Or does God love everybody? How do we show love to one another? All questions we have to ponder everyday. Questions: When have you gone out of your comfort zone for your faith? What is God doing in the lives of people that you don’t understand? How does God call you to respond? What are you called to differently in order to “love one another”?

May 12, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for May 12th: Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23, Revelaion 7:9-17, John 10:22-30: Theme: Mother’s Day Psalm: This is one of the most popular bible verses, but it’s popularity can stand in the way of us really thinking about what it has to say to us. This is the first bible verse that my grandmother taught me as a child. It is also usually the last verse that we read at a funeral. But if you really look at it, the psalm has a powerful message for Easter. The Lord provides all that we need to live – peace, protection, provision, and support. The Lord also sends people into our lives to be a part of the task of taking care of us. On this Mother’s Day it is fitting to remember how we have been taken care of. Jesus often quoted the psalms to remember the promises of God. Imagine Jesus saying this psalm daily – living a hope to dwell in the house of the each and every day – forever. Acts: This is a story about the life of a faithful women who served God with her all. She served the church, she took care of others, she sewed and made things in order to help the church. So of course those who knew her would mourn her death. Her death was a great loss to the community. But it was also an opportunity for Peter to show the power of faith in Christ. Peter was able to raise her from the dead – and everyone was happy. That does not always happen in real life, that a loved is resurrected. But we can allow their legacy of faith to live on in us. We can give what we have received to others. We can live as faithfully as they lived. We can have hope in the resurrection to come, when that faith will finally live again. We can thank God for the modern Day Dorcas’s who work so hard to keep families and churches together. Questions: How have you felt protection, peace and power this week? How do you seek to be in God’s presence daily? Who are the modern Day Dorcas’s in your life? How to you honor their legacy?

May 5, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for May 5th: Acts 9: 1-20; Psalm 30; Revelation 5:11-14; John 21:1-19; Theme: Jesus charge to Peter and to us John : After the resurrection, Jesus makes a point to come to his disciples to encourage them to move forward. This is the third resurrection story, when Jesus appears to the disciples. It is interesting that Jesus comes to talk and teach over a meal. They have been fishing all day, Jesus fishes with them, tells them where to catch a lot of fish, and then sits down to eat with them. Peter has been at the trial, at the crucifixion, at the cave after the resurrection, even in the upper room with Thomas. He is looking forward to getting back to his life. But after this encounter with Jesus, things will never be the same. No longer will be fish for fish, but for men. Jesus asks Peter if he loves him. (He sure doesn’t act like it). Then Jesus makes Peter Bishop of the church. Actually he tells Peter to feed his sheep – to be the shepherd of the church. Peter takes on this role, even accepting his impending death. How much do any of us Love and follow Jesus? Acts: Luke goes through great trouble to introduce the enemy of the church. The person who has made it his mission to destroy the church, and to kill its members. In the story, Jesus himself appears and confronts this opponent. He stands in the middle of the road and asks him why is he persecuting him and his followers. Who would think that the biggest enemy of the church would become the biggest proponent of the church? Who would think that Saul would become Paul. But we know that all things are possible with God. The people that Saul has been attacking, take care and nurse Saul back to health. Christ has been working with all parties, with the heart of Saul, but also the heart of the followers. Christ tells them to not worry about anything, but to just take care of Paul. The love that saved Peter, also saved Paul. It is the love that saves us all. God has a way to make all things fall into place. If this love can transform a hater into a supporter, imagine what it can do for us. Questions: Put yourself in Peter’s position, how would you have answered Jesus? How would you have acted if you were Paul? What does feed my sheep mean?

April 28, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for April 28th: Acts 5:27-32; Psalm 150; Revelation 1:4-8; John 20:19-31 Theme: Doubting Thomas John : The story of Jesus coming to the disciples in the upper room is always the story on the Sunday After Easter. The disciples have no idea of what to make of Jesus’ body not being in the tomb. They do not have faith in the resurrection on the Sunday when he rose. It is not until Jesus appears to them after the event, that they finally start to understand what is going on. We typically hear of this story as doubting Thomas. But the story is not about doubt, it about how Thomas responds to realizing that the man before his really is his Lord and Savior. He asks for a sign and he gets it. Thomas needed that assurance in order to go forward in his faith. Jesus gives it to him, but he gives it to many others. Even now, Jesus still shows his presence in this day and age. Acts: This is a powerful faith statement by Peter. Now that the disciples have come to understand what the resurrection means, they want to tell the world. They are all out in the streets full force preaching the gospel. Finally, they are turned into the authorities, who question them and tell them to stop preaching. But Peter realizes that it is far more important to listen to God, than to man. He knows now what he must do. Peter gives the faith statement that Jesus has been raised from the dead. And that the disciples are witnesses to this miracle and they have a responsibility to tell the whole world. That is the faith statement that motivates them to go to all different kinds of people and to experience all kinds of abuse all for the sake of spreading the good news of Jesus’ resurrection. Questions: What assurance are you looking for to have faith in Christ? When you get it, how will you respond? What actions are you compelled to take because of your faith? How do you respond to rejection of the message of God’s love?

April 21, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for April 21st: Acts 10:34-43; Psalm 118:1-2,14-24; 1 Corinthians 15:19-26; Luke 24:1-12 Theme: Easter Luke : This is a continuation of the story that was told last week. Last week ended at the tomb, this week begins at the tomb. The women are going to pay their final respects. But someone has been there before they got there. They are in disbelief when the angel tells of the resurrection. They inform the others, and no one really knows what to do with this information. New life is hard for any of us to understand. We all tend to get caught in our old ways, and cannot think of anything else. If a miracle happens what do we do next? What does that mean for our life, for our understanding of life. Most of all, Jesus wants us to look at the situations of life in a new way. He wants us to realize that the impossible is possible, when we have faith in God. That is what the resurrection is all about. Acts: Peter is trying to put all of the pieces of what just happened to him together. He makes a statement about the resurrection. He was there to witness it all. When it was all happening and Jesus was with him, nothing made much sense. But now he sees that Jesus was preparing him for the resurrection. Jesus wanted him to go out into the world to make sure that everyone else knew. Everyone in the world must know about salvation, not just Jesus friends and family. Peter is starting to comprehend the fact that we are all equal in God’s eyes. So Peter has to be excited to tell anyone. Peter is telling this story to anyone willing to listen. Questions: What old ways of thinking is the resurrection calling you to give up? What does the resurrection mean to you? Is it a miracle, or just an ordinary part of life? Who are the people who need to hear the gospel that are not getting it yet? How would you tell this story if you had witnessed it for yourself?

April 14, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for April 14th: Luke 19:28-40; Psalm 118:1-2,19-29; Isaiah 50:1-9; Philippians 2:5-11; Luke 22:14-23:56; Theme: Palm and Passion Sunday Luke : As we prepare for Easter, the scriptures get longer and longer. Today it takes two whole chapters to tell the story of the passion of Christ. In the book of John, Jesus has been making his way to Jerusalem for three years. He finally arrives, and knows what he must face. The story starts with Jesus meeting with the disciples for the Passover meal, and ends with being buried in a borrowed tomb. In between is the most important, most told story of all time. It is the story which begins our faith. It is a story which helps us to understand God’s love for us. It is a story which shows us the consequences of sin. It is a story which demonstrates human nature, to betray, to dessert, to blame, to celebrate trajedy. The celebration of Easter makes no sense until we hear this story of Jesus journey to the cross. As we enter into the passion story this year – let us hear this story in a new way. Let us let God’s forgiveness sink in. This week, we will hear this story one more time. Psalm 31:9-16: This is the passion psalm. This is the psalm that Jesus quotes while in the cross – father into your hands I commit my spirit. It is one of 3 psalms which come to mind for Jesus. In his hour of need, he thinks of these psalms. This psalm is a cry for help in a time of despair. The psalmist outlines all of the horrible things going on in his life. But in spite of those things vows to trust God. Ask God for protection from not just his enemies, but the devastating affects of life. Not only is he suffering from his affliction, but from all of the social pressure that goes along with it. Not only does he give God his spirit, but he says that he has put his future into God’s hands. He trust that God wants the best for him and that things will get better. God is his healing and his salvation. Questions: How many times have you betrayed Jesus? How many times has Jesus shown forgiveness for your sins? How do you handle being in a tough spot in life? Do you trust God to make things better?

April 7, 2019

Scriptures for April 7th: Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126, Philippians 3:4-14; John 12:1-8; Theme: resurrection preview John: This scene shows the aftermath of Jesus raising Lazurus from the dead. After Lazurus has been raised, they are celebrating. Mary Magdelene comes in and honors Jesus by pouring perfume on him and wiping his feet with her hair. It is as if she is preparing him for burial. There is a lot of symbolism in this verse. The sweet smell of perfume hides the smell of death from Lazurus. Jesus was given perfume at his birth, and now he is given more at his death. Most significant is the fact the Judas is present at this dinner. He is the one to protest all that Mary is doing as extravagant, and in a few short days he will betray Jesus ….for money. That is the epitomy of selfishness. And yet it is just as important for him to be present at this meal as Mary. It is interesting how Jesus loves to keep unity. Psalm 126: The theme of this poem is restoration. This would have one of the ascent poems. One of the songs the people would have sung while they were going up the mountain to Jerusalem. They would have recounted all of the wonderful things that God was doing for them. They have a history of things to be grateful for. In this psalm, they sing of the times that God changed the fate of the nation. When they should have been mourning, they found reason to sing. When there was famine, the Lord provided. How can you not worship a God who always brings you through tough times? Questions: How is the church like Jesus dinner party, where we encounter our enemies as guest of Jesus? If we were to write a modern day psalm – what events in American history have we seen the hand of God? What extravagant gift do we bring to Jesus today? On our way to church, do we consciously think about the goodness of the God we worship?

March 31, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for March 31st: Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Luke 15: 1-3, 11-32, Theme: Lenten celebration Luke: The story of the prodigal son is one of the most popular stories in the Bible. We hear it so much that it can be easy for us to forget the true lesson of the story. Jesus is involved in an argument with the pharisees. They don’t understand why Jesus and his disciples refuse to follow protocol. If Jesus claims to be such a holy man, why does he spend so much time with questionable characters? Jesus tells three stories of things that were lost and were found. Each time the lost things was found, there is a celebration. If a woman can celebrate about finding a penny on the floor, then surely, a family can celebrate the return of a lost child. We are that lost child and God rejoices when we repent and return to him. Lent is a strange celebration, where God rejoices when we set life aside and take God more seriously. Imagine how God must feel about Easter? Psalm 32: Confession is good for the soul. The psalmist tells us how important it is for us to be honest with God about our lives. When we hold our sins inside, they can destroy us. The psalmist says that my body is wasting away. I am suffering because I am keeping the darkness inside of me. But once I talk with God and let the light in, things get better. He (the psalmist )is saying that having a relationship with God makes all of the difference in the world. It can be such a healing experience. But it can also save you from getting caught up in what is happening in the world. You can resist sin, by focusing on your relationship with God. This is a great reminder for lent – to think about the time of repentance as a great time to enjoy the benefits of God. Questions: How have you stepped away from God? What part of your life do you need to rededicate to God? What do you feel self-righteous about and refuse to celebrate? How is confession a part of your life? How do your feel about your relationship with God? Yo

March 24, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for March 24th: Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalms 63:1-8, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9, Theme: Lenten repentance Luke: Jesus, first answers the question of why do bad things happen to good people. As we watch the news, we can see countless stories all over the world where innocent people who are involved in tragedies that they did not create. We can’t help but to wonder why God allowed this to happen. Jesus is addressing a mass killing in his time – a group of Galileans who were killed when they entered into Jerusalem. – did they deserve to die? No, Jesus says that they did not deserve to die. God loves them just as he loves everyone. But Jesus uses this as an example of why we need to repent and return to God while we can. Lent is the season of repentance – of renewing our relationship with God. It is our chance to use our personal strength in order to change. He goes on to talk about a fig tree, which gets a second chance to produce fruit. The tree has been given grace, and God grants us second chances in order for us to have a chance to blossom. Isaiah: God starts out this passage with a promise of fulfillment. God is the source of well being, so God invites others to come, make God the center of your life and all that you are missing will be fulfilled. This promise comes as the end of the part of Isaiah where God has promised a savior, who will be the earthly agent to fulfill those promises. I love the end of this verse, why God reminds us that our ways are not his ways. We don’t always think like God does. We can get comfortable thinking about ourselves, rather than thinking about others. We can fill our pockets, and watch others who have empty pockets. God says that when God fulfills, it is in a way where everyone is happy and fulfilled. The promises of God extend to all people, not just some. But in order for us to be a part of those promises, we have to repent and make the walk back into God’s good graces. We have to put aside our ways and accept God’s ways. Questions : How do you pray about the victims of senseless violence? When have you been given a second chance? What promises do you need to see fulfilled in your life?

February 17, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for February 17th: Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20; Luke 6:17-26: Theme: What does it mean to be blessed? Luke: This text is commonly called the sermon on the plain or sermon on a level place. It gives us 4 blessings and 4 woes in living a faithful life. Jesus gives blessings to those who are poor, those who are hungry, those who are grieving, and those who are unfairly persecuted. He gives woes to those who are rich, those who have enough and don’t share, those who laugh when others cry and those who are spoken well of. God has a habit of turning the tables on life, and this is what he is doing. He encourages us to pay attention to those in need, and to know that God has heard their cry. That is why it is called the sermon on a level place, it reminds us to stay balanced in life. To know that our fate in life in in the hands of God. Life is not intended to be all wonderful, there will be struggle. But when that struggle comes, God will get us through. In our times of struggle, we have to know that we are blessed children of God, and God is on our side. 1 Corinthians: In this whole chapter, Paul is speaking of the resurrection. Paul is reminding us that the faith that we inherited frim Christ, is a faith in the resurrection. If we believe that Jesus was resurrected, there is no reason to believe that God won’t do the same for us. We will be able to celebrate. As a matter of fact, the real work of the soul does not begin until we die and we are brought to life by God. That does not mean that we are to take life for granted. God put all of us here for a reason. We need to help others in mission. We have to teach others the definition of resurrection. Life brings death, but faith in God brings life. When we are born, we take on death. We have no choice that is the world that we are born in. In order to be resurrected, you first have to die. Christ brings us hope and power to overcome death. Questions :How do you use the power of resurrection in your everyday life? How does life drain you? How are your restored in your belief in God? What are your doing to help the poor, hungry, grieving and persecuted? How are you blessed in your individual situation?

February 10. 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for February 10th: Isaiah 6:1-13; Psalm 138; 1 Corinthians 15:1-11; Luke 5:1-11 Theme: the things are faith is made of. 1 Corinthians: This is Paul’s witness to the gospel message. Paul testifies that even though he was not an original disciple, the Jesus did come to him. Paul is a witness to the spiritual resurrection. He is recounting not how Jesus died, but why Jesus died. Jesus died to free us from our sins. He was making a sacrifice for us. We are forgiven when he is resurrected. That is why it is so important for us to follow Jesus and to live out his mission. We need to tell our story of salvation, but we need to make that story available for others. The spirit of Christ appeared to Peter, then to Paul and now to you and me. There is still work that needs to be done, that is why Jesus is still alive and working within us. Luke: This is the story of how Jesus came to meet the disciples and to get them to follow hm. They were fishers, Jesus comes and watches them at work. At first they are discouraged because they have not caught anything. Jesus is not a fisherman, but Jesus tells them how to get more fish. When they are successful, Jesus says that they will become fishers of men. Jesus does not know much about church growth – but he knows what it is that attracts people. – Love and care. This boat belongs to Peter, and Peter eventually becomes bishop of Jesus church. He starts out skeptical, listening to Jesus, but not understanding a word. He continually doubts Jesus, but time and time again, Jesus comes through and helps Peter to understand what true faith means. Questions: Why do we celebrate the resurrection? How do we tell the faith story to new people? How are we like Peter, questioning everything that Jesus says? What does it mean to become fishers of men? When was the last time when our efforts made a difference and saved lives?

February 3, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for February 3rd: Jeremiah 1:4-10; Psalm 71:1-6; 1 Corinthians 13:1-13; Luke 4:21-30. Theme: Love is the greatest and hardest commandment 1 Corinthians: It is fitting that the chapter on love comes up during the week before Valentines Day. It is important to realize that Paul is not talking about romantic love between two people in this text. As a matter of fact, Paul is talking to a congregation that is divided and cannot cooperate in order to get anything done. So Paul tells them the love bears all things, love is not self serving, love learns to bear all things. In other words Paul is teaching us to be patient with one another. It is a prescription to get along with anyone. It is a prescription to put the overall mission before whether we really like people. It tells us how to treat other people, whomever they are. The most important verse to remember, that we treat all people with hope, faith, peace and most importantly love. Afterall – God is pure love for all people. Luke: Last week Jesus talked about his calling and he preached to the congregation about what it means to be called by God to fulfill a task. As the congregation listened, they were amazed at what he had to say. Luke like to point out that whenever he spoke, people were amazed at his ability to expound on the things of God. He had a gift for explaining things in a very clear way. Ultimately, it was this gift that got him kicked out in the street. He was a little too comfortable with God. He had an understanding that others did not have. Jesus continued to teach, but out in the streets where the people were. He went throughout the countryside performing miracles and healing people. But he was never able to do much of any of that in his own hometown. The people there refused to take him seriously. But he was able to transform the rest of the world, with his gift of bringing God to the people. Questions: How seriously do you take Jesus? Can Jesus still perform miracles in our world today? Do you show God’s love to all people or just the ones you like?

January 27, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for January 27th: Nehemiah 8:1-3,5-6,8-10, Psalm 19, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31, Luke 4:14-21; Theme: fulfilling God’s call Luke: Jesus went on a spiritual retreat in the woods to get closer to God, but he encountered the devil instead. He is able to overcome temptation and to truly understand what God wants him to do. Jesus regularly goes to temple, so he goes to share his experience with God. He gets to read scripture. He read from Isaiah – the spirit of the Lord is upon me. He not only reads, but tells the people That the spirit is indeed upon him. God has indeed called him to serve the community. He explains that he is the fulfillment of that scripture, he is the one that Isaiah was talking about. The people think that he is being egostitical. No one can fulfill God’s mission. But Jesus wanted to help them to understand that everybody can – if they just follow the ways of Jesus and serve and make a difference. 1 Corinthians: Paul takes more time to flesh out what spiritual gifts are. He talks about the body of Christ. We all have a different purpose. We are not to judge others. We are not to think that our gift is more important than others. We all work for the common good. Our gift, helps others to bring out their gifts. If we are able to work together as a church, we make each other stronger. Once again Paul spells out the gifts. This helps us to look around to see who has those gifts. The most important thing is that the mission is fulfilled. The only way the mission can be fulfilled is if we work together. Questions: How is the spirit of the Lord upon you? What are your spiritual gifts? How can you use them in the church? Do you feed others, or visit those who are sick? How are you using your gifts in the church? How is Jesus an example to you in your church life? Questions: How is the spirit of the Lord upon you? What are your spiritual gifts? How can you use them in the church? Do you feed others, or visit those who are sick? How are you using your gifts in the church? How is Jesus an example to you in your church life?

January 13, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for January 13th: Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29, Acts 8:14-17, Luke 3:15-17, 21-22; Theme: Baptism of the Lord Luke: This is a continuation of the story of John the Baptist, and his ministry to bring people to God. The people are expecting a messiah, and they are wondering if John is the one. Jesus hears John’s message and he comes forward to be baptized. Jesus knows that he is the intended messiah, but he needs to identify with those who are present and coming forward to be baptized. This was the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. Our baptism is also the beginning of our ministry. At this moment, God comes forward and also speaks to the people, that this is indeed the messiah. The good news has played out and now a life of salvation may begin. We relive this moment every year, to have a chance to renew our ministry. We have a chance to remember our baptism, to remember God’s love for us, and wants us to fulfill the ministry of revealing the messiah to the world. Isaiah: This passage from second Isaiah has a word of hope. It is more hopeful than most. During this time in history, the Isrealites had been exiled, because of their disrespect for God. But at some point God told them to come back to and start their life anew. God promised to be with them through the hard times so that things could get better. God takes full control of recovery of the redeemed. God says I will be with you though the waters, all nations will look to you, the children will come back, and life will be wonderful. The presence of God always ends with a family reunion. Divisions will disappear and everyone will be together, having a feast with God. Questions: What does your baptism mean in your life? How do you live out your baptism? What would be the perfect family reunion to you? What needs to happen in the world to make that happen?