Daily Devotions
New devotions are posted Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Rose
In the tapestry of creation, the rose stands as a resplendent emblem of beauty, intricacy, and profound meaning. Its delicate petals unfurl in a dance of elegance, whispering tales of love, resilience, and grace. As we contemplate the post-resurrection world through the lens of this exquisite bloom, we discover parallels that resonate deeply with the essence of Jesus.
Just as the rose emerges from the darkness of the earth, so did Christ emerge from the tomb, victorious over death. The fragrance of the rose, sweet and intoxicating, reminds us of the enduring aroma of Christ’s love, which fills our lives with hope and comfort. In its thorns, we find echoes of the pain and suffering Jesus endured for humanity’s sake, transforming agony into redemption.
And, just as yesterday’s Chancel Choir performance underscored, the rose embodies the promise of new beginnings. Its vibrant colors symbolize the richness of life that blooms abundantly in the wake of resurrection. Just as the rose blossoms in adversity, so does our faith in Christ flourish amidst trials, infusing our hearts with courage and resilience.
In a world often shrouded in darkness and uncertainty, the rose serves as a beacon of light, guiding us towards the eternal truth of Christ’s presence. Its velvety petals, soft to the touch, offer solace and reassurance, reminding us that in Christ, we find refuge and peace.
May God’s peace find you today. -Pastor Peter
Let us pray…Gracious God, may the rose’s beauty remind us of Christ’s love, offering hope and comfort on our post-resurrection journey. Amen.
Previously…
All In
What’s with this “ALL IN” as my title territory? I’m never quite sure if I understand current cultural jargon, but I think this two-word phrase is used to convey the most thoroughgoing commitment to something–a project, a proposal, a possibility. Well, that’s the turf traversed in Mark’s text here.
Costly Love
Last week it was the Pharisees that came to test Jesus. They had asserted themselves, in concert with the civic ruling authorities, to be the primary arbiters over the theological integrity of religious practice. And they didn’t much appreciate Jesus’ challenging their traditions, let alone their theology. Change, especially when it’s prompted by others, can be a threatening catalyst.
Grace Ain’t So Cheap
In reflecting on the profound writings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer that were shared on Wednesday, we are invited into a deeper understanding of what it truly means to live as disciples of Christ. Bonhoeffer’s journey toward faith led him through the realization that true faith is not found in striving to live a saintly life apart from the world, but rather in fully engaging with the complexities and challenges of life itself.
A Disturbing Story for Disturbing Times
If you were asked what is your favorite parable, what would your answer be? I think I can safely bet it isn’t the “Parable of the Wicked Tenants.” It’s an uncomfortable story, a disturbing story, that Jesus told the priests, scribes and elders who questioned his authority.