Monday | August 9, 2021
Matthew 17:22-27:
The disciple’s grief at hearing Jesus’ second prediction shows a glimmer of understanding on their part about what lies ahead for Jesus. This is followed by the tax collectors questioning Peter about Jesus paying the temple tax. In the end, Jesus pays the tax so as not to offend or cause scandal but he does so in a most unusual way.
I look to you as the model of what it means to be in the world but not of the world. It is a difficult balance so I lean on you to guide me in doing what is right and just.
Sunday | August 8, 2021
John 6:41-51:
The Jews knowledge about Jesus’ background gets in the way of being open to him. His reference to their ancestors and the manna in the desert does not even appeal to their senses, to their hearts. They are blind to him and deaf to his message.
There is so much to be learned from the fact that no matter how many times ignored and even completely rejected, you never gave up on your people. In the same way, you never give up on me.
Saturday | August 7, 2021
Matthew 17:14-20:
The father of the boy possessed by a demon goes first to Jesus’ disciples seeking healing for his son. They fail to heal the boy. Jesus rebukes his disciples by telling them that even faith the size of the smallest of seeds can move mountains.
Thank you for the gift of faith. I pray for faith strong enough to carry me through life and to you in heaven.
Friday | August 6, 2021
Mark 9:2-10:
Peter, James and John are given insight into the glory of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. In a sense it balances the earlier prediction of his passion, death and resurrection. Jesus instructs them not to share what they have seen and heard because they don’t fully understand and won’t until he has risen.
I think, no, I know I would have wanted to remain with you in that moment on the mountain. Yet it was through the inevitability of your suffering and death that you entered into your glory, for me and for all.
Thursday | August 5, 2021
Matthew 16:13-23:
In his conversation with his disciples, Jesus first asks about popular and then personal speculation about his identity. Peter responds with his profession of faith that Jesus is the Messiah. With that Jesus gives him authority, the rock of the community. And yet, Peter proves to be all too human by his reaction to Jesus’ prediction of his passion.
Two steps forward and three back. I suppose I will always be a “work in progress” but those disciples upon whose shoulders I stand, give me courage and hope.
Wednesday | August 4, 2021
Matthew 15:21-28:
Jesus’ disciples consider this tenacious Canaanite woman a nuisance when in fact she is courageously crossing boundaries like none other. Because of her persistence and remarkable faith Jesus listens to her and responds by healing her daughter. This encounter seems a turning point in Jesus’ ministry.
Just as your mission was not for a select group of people, your love knows no boundaries.
Tuesday | August 3, 2021
Matthew 14:22-36:
Jesus sends his disciples off in a boat to the other side of the sea while he stays behind to pray. The waters are rough and they are afraid. Suddenly Jesus is walking toward them on the water. Peter impulsively gets out of the boat to go to him. His fear causes him to falter but Jesus grabs hold of him. After this, they traveled to Gennesaret where Jesus healed all who touched him.
Rather than falling into despair, I must remember that you are always there to catch me when I fall, when I fail.
Monday | August 2, 2021
Matthew 14:13-21:
Jesus’ attempt to get away is thwarted. There would be no time to grieve, no rest for the weary.
The persistence of the people touched Jesus and he responded to their need. He healed the sick and then rather than send them home, he kept them together and fed them, their bodies and their spirits.
Everything you said and did was selfless. Help me to remember your example when I am tempted to let my needs outweigh the needs of others.
Sunday | August 1, 2021
John 6:24-35:
The people are not seeking spiritual sustenance. They are physically hungry and have recently witnessed Jesus’ miraculously provide food. This discourse from John’s Gospel breaks open the story from Exodus about the manna in the desert as it relates to the true life-giving food. It is in Jesus that there is nourishment and sustenance. He is the bread of life eternal.
Through this past year, I have learned the meaning of living on every word that comes from your mouth. It has been a blessing, one that I hope I never forget.
Saturday | July 31, 2021
Matthew 14:1-12:
John lived out his prophetic role. He spoke the truth and challenged sinful ways. He knew, like those who had gone before him, that there would be consequences. He also knew there was no other way.
I pray for the gift of courage. When everyone around me is complicit, I pray that I will, by your grace, be able to stand for the truth.
