March 2022 – Daily Devo Time

Daily Devotional for March 31, 2022 – Trust God – and let Him help you keep the letters in ABC order

Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust God from the bottom of your heart;
don’t try to figure out everything on your own.
Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go;
he’s the one who will keep you on track.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

When Timothy was about three, I made him a set of quilted ABCs that he could manipulate in play to learn the alphabet and start to form words. One morning, he very carefully laid the letters out on the floor – from right to left, so that the line started on the left with Z, Y, X…you get the picture. Greg tried to help him by gently suggesting that the row was backwards. Timothy was not having it! He got angry – and he called Greg an unkind name.

Greg quietly left the room. I told Timothy his behavior was unacceptable. He argued with me as he kept fidgeting with the letters. In just a few minutes, he realized his mistake, and he called to his Uncle Greg to please come see that he was right after all…the letters were backwards! And this little boy was truly remorseful for his defiance and outburst.

If we knew how often God quietly walks away and lets us stew in our mistakes for a bit, we would be amazed – and humbled. If we know how many times God saves us from ourselves – and complete ruin – we would fall to our knees and thank Him over and over.

We’ve all tried to help a child who insisted that he/she “can do it myself!” We’ve all been that child. But we aren’t children anymore. It is time for us to trust God…to quit trying to figure out everything on our own…and to let God show us what is right and true – then speak and act accordingly.

I am so grateful for God’s love and care – and for His wisdom and guidance. The more I grow in my love and understanding of God, the more I know that I need Him to help me “get the letters in the right order” – and so much more. My prayer is that we would all begin to seek God’s wisdom and will more each day – and trust His guidance. He truly is the One who will keep us on track – and place all of the ABC’s in the right order. Hallelujah!

Daily Devotional for March 30, 2022 – Serving Christ with love and loyalty – it’s time to put on your “necklace” and straighten your “crown”

Proverbs 3:3-4
Let love and loyalty
always show like a necklace,
and write them in your mind.
God and people will like you
and consider you a success.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

On our 30th wedding anniversary, Greg gave me a necklace with three diamonds – one for each decade of marriage. We’ve been married over 47 years now, but whenever I wear this piece of jewelry, I still think of that special day – and the bond between us that has only strengthened in the years since.

In 2013, my brother’s dear friend, Amy, died unexpectedly. Amy’s sister, Beth, asked me to speak at the funeral. A few weeks later, Beth sent me a beautiful heart-shaped diamond necklace. She included a note thanking me for my words at Amy’s service – and telling me to think of Amy and Tim when I wear the necklace. Indeed, I do think of my brother and his precious friend – and my friendship with Beth and her family – whenever I wear this heart next to mine.

A few weeks before my mother died, she lost a diamond ring. Mother loved her rings, and she was sad to lose this one. Everyone searched, but the ring seemed to have simply vanished. Just days before mother left us, my cousin Natalie spotted something on the carport at my parents’ house – my mother’s diamond ring, crushed by a car tire. Apparently, Mother dropped the ring getting out of her car, and no one noticed. Subsequently, the ring must have been run over, and nobody saw it as the car drove in and out of its parking spot. Once we started leaving the carport open for foot traffic, there lay the ring!

My mother left instructions that my sister, my niece and I were to divide her jewelry – and her diamond rings – after her passing. You guessed it…I got the “runover ring.” I had the ring made into a necklace. And every time I wear it, I think of my mother and feel her with me.

I read this translation of Proverbs 3:3-4 this morning and thought about my necklaces – and other pieces of jewelry that hold special meaning for me. They are outward symbols of the inward love and loyalty I feel for certain people. Others may not realize the significance of a particular necklace, bracelet, ring or pair of earrings I am wearing. But I hope that the joy and memories they invoke for me will convey to those I encounter as an expression of kindness, acceptance, grace and love.

I know these are merely physical objects…but I hope the feelings they stir in me remind me to be kind and loving toward others. I pray that I would be known as someone who is loyal to God – and faithfully obedient to the teachings of Jesus Christ. My desire is to be someone who serves others in His name, with love and honor. A piece of jewelry doesn’t make us a faithful Disciple…or even more loving toward others. Jewelry most certainly does not make us successful! What matters is the “crown of jewels” we wear as Christ’s beloved, redeemed believers…heirs to His throne – and how we honor this incredible gift.

Make this the day that you straighten your crown and put on your best “jewelry” of love and loyalty – and serve others with grace, kindness, obedience and faith, all in the name of Jesus Christ. Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for March 29, 2022 – It’s time to take a look at “the man in the mirror.”

Proverbs 27:19
Just as water mirrors your face,
so your face mirrors your heart.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

In his song, “Man in the Mirror*,” the late Michael Jackson sang…

I’m starting with the man in the mirror
I’m asking him to change his ways
And no message could’ve been any clearer
If they wanna make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself and then make a change

This song – and scripture passage – beg the question…Does your face mirror your heart? Does the image reflected in the mirror or a pool of water match what others know of you? I think we have all known people who appear to be one person – but are really something quite different. People don’t wear signs on their chests that say, “I’m a bigot,” or “I abuse people and animals” – or even “I am a liar and a cheater.”

We have probably all said of someone, “He/she is the nicest person, only to have someone else contradict this claim – sometimes with justification.” Conversely, I have known people who were lauded as something of a hero, and I knew personally that their hearts were hard – and some of their words and actions were truly despicable.

The lesson of this Proverb seems to be that people are watching. They are looking to see if our “face” lines up with our “heart.” What are we showing the world? Are we looking the other way – or even condoning – racism, hatred, bigotry, discrimination, and other forms of social injustice? Are we making grand gestures that suggest we are generous with our assets, while secretly behaving selfishly – or lying and cheating to get ahead? Are we serious about Jesus’ commands to “Love one another” and treat others as we wish to be treated? Is the persona we present to the world who we truly are…or are we completely different at home and/or with our closest friends and relatives?

God is calling us to start with “the man in the mirror,” and change our ways to reflect His love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, compassion, inclusion, and moral decency. It is time for each of us to take a long, hard look at our reflection and decide whether what we see is pleasing and honorable to God. None of us is perfect…we can all make improvements here or there. Make this the day that you commit to aligning your face and your heart with the teachings of Jesus, for all the world to see. Make this the day that you “take a look at yourself and then make a change.” Alleluia!

*Man in the Mirror lyrics © Yellowbrick Road Music
Songwriters: Glen Ballard / Siedah Garrett

Daily Devotional for March 28, 2022 – People are watching, and the devil is waiting…how will you react and respond?

Proverbs 17:17
Friends love through all kinds of weather,
and families stick together in all kinds of trouble.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

“At your highest moment, be careful – because that’s when the devil comes for you.” – Denzel Washington to Will Smith at the 94th Academy Awards

I almost didn’t watch “the Oscars” last night. Sadly, I had turned back to the program when comedian Chris Rock made what was obviously an unkind (at best) and hurtful comment aimed at Jada Pinkett Smith, who suffers from a condition known as Alopecia. Smith all but shaved her head over a year ago to cope with hair loss. It appeared at first that her husband, Will, was laughing off the comment. But in case you didn’t see it Will Smith stepped up onto the stage moments later and slapped Chris Rock across the face. He then uttered a hateful declaration, complete with a foul expletive. The whole room – and the world at large – gasped. Some thought it was a staged stunt…but it appears this was the real result of a gut reaction from an angry husband.

Ironically, Smith was later awarded the Oscar for “Best Actor”…and he offered a tearful speech in which he apologized to many (although not to Chris Rock) and claimed he acted out of love. He noted that “love will make you do crazy things.” He also shared the quote I have offered from fellow actor, Denzel Washington… “At your highest moment, be careful – because that’s when the devil comes for you.”

In a moment where the world has so many genuine problems, I realize this is not one of them…or is it? People are influenced by celebrities, politicians…and even Christian disciples who claim to operate in the will and love of Jesus Christ. Yes, people are literally fighting for their lives all over this planet, and we would do well to focus on their plight and ask God to protect and rescue them. But I believe this is also a moment for us to collectively take a minute and consider that the devil is after all of us! And if you find yourself in a situation where “life” is pretty good at the moment – or you are “on top of your game” in some way – be assured that he is not happy!

As Christ’s disciples, you and I cannot afford to have moments where we step on a stage and slap someone. The world is watching…and the devil is whispering into the ears of all who will listen, “Watch this! I’m about to make this one lose his/her mind! You will see how followers of Jesus really react when provoked!” I get it…we are human, and we will all make mistakes at some point. We will say and do things we should not…and people will see our “ugly side.” But we must make every single effort we can to avoid this. We must continually ask God to guard and guide us…to give us Supernatural strength and resolve…and to help us react and respond in His love at all times.

People on both sides of this kerfuffle will stand up for their opinions…and I have no doubt that Will Smith will continue to defend his words and actions as gestures of a family sticking together in all kinds of trouble. But consider the words of Denzel Washington. The devil is always watching and waiting. He will come for us when we least expect it – especially at our “highest moments.” Be on guard…draw close to God and stay there! Remember that people are watching, and call on God to always be with you as you react and respond to this world. Do all you can in every situation to bring glory and honor to your relationship with Him. Love will indeed make you do crazy things at time. Our job as Christians is to make sure they are “crazy good” and always honor our commitment to Jesus Christ! Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for March 27, 2022 – Running from the enemy – it’s time to hide behind the Rock!

Psalm 62:7-8
My protection and success come from God alone. He is my refuge, a Rock where no enemy can reach me. O my people, trust him all the time. Pour out your longings before him, for he can help!

The Living Bible copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, a former kindergarten student has been sharing information about an artisan in Kyiv named Bogdan, who sells handcrafted leather bags and accessories on Etsy*. My former student, Dustin, purchased a backpack from Bogdan just before the war began – and he subsequently received notification that his shipment would be delayed. In an e-mail exchange, Bodgan apologized for the wait and explained that he was literally on his way to a postal office in Kyiv to mail the package when he had to turn around because of a ballistic attack. Dustin assured Bodgan that shipment of his order was not a top priority – he could wait.

Today, Dustin posted photos of his new hand-made leather backpack, which arrived this week. Bogdan included a note to tell Dustin that he, his wife and three children are now in Poland, but they relocated their inventory – and even their sewing machines – to the home of one of their artisans who stayed in Kyiv, and they are back in business! Because of my relationship with Dustin, I have felt a personal connection to this story, and it has made the struggle and heartache of this war even more real for me. And by the way…Bogdan says on his Etsy page that a bomb fell on his neighbors’ yard…and that’s when he and his family jumped in a car and fled!

Consider the sheer terror of this. Imagine having to literally jump in a car and “run for your life!” You and I both know this is not an isolated incident. Millions of people around the world are seeking refuge this day from an “enemy” in some form. In addition to wars, violence and physical abuse, people are battling enemies like addiction, conflict in relationships, depression, grief, illness, and more. And in every single situation, God is there. He is the Rock where no enemy can reach.

Surely many who face an enemy today have cried out to God…so why are they still in peril? The short answer is, “I don’t know.” I do not fully understand why God allows war and suffering of any kind. What I do know is that He never leaves us. And the more we learn to trust God and lean on Him – even when we are at our lowest point, or facing imminent physical danger – we can be assured that God will rescue us, even if that rescue comes in the form of death.

We humans want God to act like a magician who waves a wand and makes everything okay. We seek a genie who will grant our every wish. God simply does not operate like this. The more I study, the more I see that God uses every experience to show us His power – and His grace, mercy and love for us. Every minute of our lives is an opportunity for God to build our strength and faith…to teach us to rely on Him in all circumstances, and to continually trust that He truly is our refuge.

I don’t know about you, but I have had to “let go and let God” many times…and I am sure there will be many more instances of this in the future. I marvel at the strength and courage of those in Ukraine – and others who are facing huge “enemies” with grit, faith and grace. My prayer is that in whatever circumstance you find yourself, God is your Rock and your refuge. Let us all pour out our hearts before Him, fully confident that He can – and will – help us. Alleluia!

*Bogdan’s Etsy Site

Daily Devotional for March 26, 2022 – Grab your quilt – and share God’s love!

March 26 ~ Proverbs 10:12
Hatred starts fights,
but love pulls a quilt over the bickering.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

Each year during the Easter season, I set out a giant “Easter egg” cookie jar and surround it with “Easter grass” and bunnies, ducks and eggs I have collected over the years. I made a few of them myself, while others were purchased…and the children even painted a few of these treasures. The last few years, I’ve closed the lid on my piano and displayed these items atop it. Wanting to make more of a display – and protect the piano – I went in search of a “throw” among my treasures. I found a portion of an old multi-colored quilt that has 2” feed sack squares in hues that are mostly blue and pink. It was the perfect backdrop for an Easter display!

Quilts have special significance to me. My grandmother Polly was a master hand quilter. So were my great-grandmothers. And while her quilts were machine created, my mother-in-law was always piecing patchwork together. I don’t know the “history” of this quilt, except that it was in a closet at my parents’ house. I am fairly certain my great-grandmother Chandler made it. When I turned over the blanket, there was a floral backing, spackled with white paint. Yes, my parents used this quilt at some point as a “drop-cloth” for a painting project!

I can remember carrying old quilts to picnics, the beach, and sports stadiums. We sat on them, wrapped up in them, made them into “forts” for play, pallets for a nap, and more. For me, nothing is more comforting or “snuggly” than an old soft quilt. And I have learned to appreciate the intricacies of their handiwork…the miniscule pieces that often create them. One of my prized quilts is called a “postage stamp” because the squares are truly the size of a stamp with which you would mail a letter! Others have scraps of material that I recall belonging to dresses my grandmother wore. And I marvel at the stitching. My Mam-ma Polly loved to fill the spaces between squares with perfectly formed leaves, flowers, and more. She made sure each stitch was just right – and uniform in diminutive size.

When I read this passage and saw love compared to a quilt that covers bickering, I thought about my collection and what these artistic blankets represent for me. And I thought about the hatred that exists in the world today. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could just wrap each other in an old quilt?! Wouldn’t it be great to simply snuggle together for a while and enjoy the warmth, softness and comfort of love for one another as human beings and God’s amazing creations…and forget everything else? What is preventing us from doing this – if only in our hearts and minds?

Today, as you go about your business, “carry a quilt” with you. Wrap everything you say and do in the “quilt” of God’s love – and let Him do the sorting and sifting. Be the kid in the fort that waves his/her arms and said, “Everybody come on in!” Appreciate God’s attention to detail and how He stitched between the squares and patched us all together. Look at the “scraps” of us that God has intertwined to create this beautiful and wonderful thing we call Humanity. You and I are part of the fabric. It’s time to embrace the “patches” sewn next to us…to love others with the abundant, incredible, all-powerful love of Christ Jesus…and to do our part as His beloved disciples.

Grab a quilt, snuggle up, and thank God for His amazing grace and mercy…then do your part to cover others in His love and care. Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for March 25, 2022 – Taking God seriously – and doing what is fair and just

Micah 6:8
But he’s already made it plain how to live, what to do,
what God is looking for in men and women.
It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor,
be compassionate and loyal in your love,
And don’t take yourself too seriously—
take God seriously.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

Last night, the Arkansas Razorbacks men’s basketball team beat #1-ranked Gonzaga in a “Sweet 16” round of the NCAA “March Madness” tournament. Virtually every “expert” picked Gonzaga to trounce the Razorbacks soundly. A few hours later, they were all eating their words – if not their hats! Every game, fans gripe about the referees – on both sides of the court. We forget that these men and women are humans – mortals who don’t get everything right, try as they may. There might be one or two in the mix who make more than a few mistakes…but for the most part, these people are really good at what they do – or they wouldn’t be calling NCAA games! And yes, rabid fans take themselves – and the game – too seriously!

As I watched last night and hoped for “our” boys to win, I looked at the opposing team members. I watched the camera pan from a free throw shooter to an image of his parents and grandparents, who were watching nervously from the stands. They were as anxious for their son as we were for our “boys.” In that moment, I was humbled. Yes, I still wanted to beat Gonzaga and send them home…but I saw them for the “equals” they were. And therein lies the lesson for this day.

God wants us to see each other as equals…and to treat each other fairly. He calls on us to offer compassion to others. God calls us to be loyal in love – but not to the point that we take ourselves too seriously – or elevate one person or group to a level of importance greater than another. In other words, we are to see each other as God sees us – and love them all. This doesn’t mean that we have to condone bad behavior – or agree about everything. But we must always be fair and just to our neighbors.

I will tell you…this is hard for me sometimes. I have trouble loving the elected official who berates and disparages someone who disagrees with him/her – or outright lies and cheats in order to get ahead. I do not feel warm and fuzzy toward people who want to make life hard for others, mistreat children and animals, or impose their dictatorship and will on others. There is a temptation to throw things at the TV when commentators start spewing lies and personal opinions to convince viewers to agree with them. And I am thoroughly “done” with those who want to decide whether certain people or groups can enter their business, participate in certain activities, or even worship with them.

At the same time, I must stop and realize that each one of these people was created by the same God who created you and me. He loves them with just as much fervor and profundity as we are granted. God desires redemption by the blood of Jesus – and a seat at His Heavenly table – for every one of these individuals. These are God’s children…He loves them…and we are called to love them, too.

As I watch the next game in this tournament, I will still be cheering for our beloved “Hogs.” I will probably get caught up in the excitement of the game – and I may even fuss at the players, coaches and referees a bit. But I will try really hard not to take myself – or the game – too seriously. And I will make a concerted effort in every area of life to take God more seriously – and consider each of His children in the light of how precious they are to Him. I will pray that His will – not mine – be done in each of their lives. And I will ask God to have mercy on me, a sinner…and to grant me the capacity to show grace, compassion and kindness toward others – for His glory and honor. Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for March 24, 2022 – Storing up treasure in Heaven…we don’t have a minute to waste!

Matthew 6:21
“Don’t hoard treasure down here where it gets eaten by moths and corroded by rust or—worse!—stolen by burglars. Stockpile treasure in heaven, where it’s safe from moth and rust and burglars. It’s obvious, isn’t it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being.

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

The angels came for my cousin, Bob, a couple of nights ago. I have been picturing him in Heaven, guitar on his knee, feasting at the abundant Table of Grace – and basking in the glow of Jesus’ presence. This is where I picture so many loved ones who have preceded me…and it gives me indescribable peace and comfort. I know that the “treasure” they enjoy in Heaven awaits me and so many others…and I don’t fear death in the least.

One of Bob’s nephews noted that Bob was not perfect…but he was kind, gentle and loving – and a true servant of His God. Bob worked in maintenance at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. One of his chief delights was helping to light the campus for Christmas each fall. The work started early…and truthfully, it probably was ongoing year-round. The end result was truly a sight to behold.

During the pandemic, Bob “retired” – only to return this last Christmas season to help once again with hanging lights and decorations. People traveled to this campus from all corners of the state and beyond. In this small way, Bob and his co-workers did their part to share the Light of Christ through actual lights and décor that reminded visitors of the glory of our Lord. And now He sits in the actual presence of Jesus!

You and I are still on this earth for a purpose. It may be hard to see what this mission is from time to time…but I assure you, God has a plan for each of us. I believe that God wants us to savor this journey – to make memories and share His love with as many people as we can. He may not call us to hang lights on a college campus, but He has commanded us to be gentle, kind and loving toward all others. God may not give us the ability to serenade others with a guitar or mandolin, but He is calling on us to sing His praises and share His message with everyone we meet.

We will miss Bob, but we will see him again. Meanwhile, you and I have “Heavenly treasure” to stockpile in the form of missions and ministries…and our loved ones will surely help the angels to safeguard it there for us. Make this a day that you honor God’s abundant gifts to us by following His commands – and loving others as He loves us.

None of us knows how long we have on this earth. We don’t have a minute to waste. The place where your treasure is stored is where you truly want to be. Take stock of the “treasure” you are storing – and make sure it is worthy of your time and energy – and pleasing to God. Alleluia.

Daily Devotional for March 23, 2022 – “Don’t you dare test the Lord your God!” It’s time we really start to listen!

Matthew 4:5-7
For the second test the Devil took him to the Holy City. He sat him on top of the Temple and said, “Since you are God’s Son, jump.” The Devil goaded him by quoting Psalm 91: “He has placed you in the care of angels. They will catch you so that you won’t so much as stub your toe on a stone.”

Jesus countered with another citation from Deuteronomy: “Don’t you dare test the Lord your God.”

Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.

Last week, Greg and I hiked in a nearby county along a beautiful, clear, cold creek. The water was running swiftly, and we could see the smooth rocks on the bottom. Greg had been at this exact spot before and noted that it was part of a designated hiking trail. “The only way across is to wade the creek,” he told me. He said he took off his shoes, rolled up his pants legs, and waded across in water about ankle deep. There was no other choice. Greg and his friend, Rick, had hiked about five miles from a northern trailhead. In order to reach their car, they had to cross this creek! So they did what was required and took a leap of faith – and safely made it to the other side.

Honestly, this crossing wasn’t as dramatic as I make it sound…but on the day that we visited, I was not inclined to make that same trek, and I was glad we didn’t need to in order to complete our hike! But I know that if this was necessary, I could do what was needed to get safely across…and God would have my back! It would be a “leap” worth taking.

During this pandemic, a lot of people have said, “God will take care of me,” and gone right on with their daily routines. The results of this have been mixed, at best. Some have skated by unscathed, while others have suffered – even died. I believe we must continually be in tune with God – and ask, “Lord, is this a leap worth taking?”

The God who has placed us in the care of angels has also given us medical professionals and scientists who advise us about how to stay safe and healthy. The God who doesn’t want us to as much as stub our toe has given us seatbelts, airbags, warnings about carcinogens and poisons, smoke alarms and weather warning systems. The God in whose shadow we rest has given us millions of protections, guards and guides – including trail maps to point out creek crossings! But God also allows us free will. So we will have to decide over and again which “leaps” are worth the risk.

Too many of us want to say, “Let’s just stick our finger in this hole and see what happens. God will protect us!” It is up to you and me to pay attention and heed warnings and wisdom. It is up to us to listen for God’s voice and know when it is safe to “cross the creek” – and when we need to turn around and go another direction. In every situation and circumstance, Jesus has warned us…“Don’t you dare test the Lord your God!” Maybe it’s time we really started to listen!

Daily Devotional for March 22, 2022 – Staying faithful to the real Superhero, Jesus Christ…this is not a drill!

Matthew 24:4-14
Jesus answered: Don’t let anyone fool you. Many will come and claim to be me. They will say that they are the Messiah, and they will fool many people.

You will soon hear about wars and threats of wars, but don’t be afraid. These things will have to happen first, but that isn’t the end. Nations and kingdoms will go to war against each other. People will starve to death, and in some places there will be earthquakes. But this is just the beginning of troubles.

You will be arrested, punished, and even killed. Because of me, you will be hated by people of all nations. Many will give up and will betray and hate each other. Many false prophets will come and fool a lot of people. Evil will spread and cause many people to stop loving others. But if you keep on being faithful right to the end, you will be saved. When the good news about the kingdom has been preached all over the world and told to all nations, the end will come.

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

All the Light We Cannot See*, written by Anthony Doerr, won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2015, as well as the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction. This war novel centers on a blind French girl and a young German orphan – and what happens to them during WWII. I have just finished reading this compelling novel, and it will take me a few days to truly digest it all – particularly in light of current events around the world.

We have seen what happens when false prophets arise and claim to possess power and authority that is not rightfully due any human being. Since we humans are slow learners, there is always potential to repeat these mistakes. Jesus warned us. He told us that these evil people would try to fool us. And He told us how to navigate this…to keep on loving others – and to be faithful right to the end.

In this novel, young German boys were told that they were fighting to make everything better…and to purify humans and create a superior population. Some are old enough to remember this time. Others have heard parents and grandparents talk of it. So this is not so far removed from where we are today…and sadly, a lot of these ideas and attitudes still exist. People want to believe in a “superhero” who will take the world by storm and change it – especially if this person promises to make everything look and feel like they desire.

Jesus is very clear in this passage. Jesus is the Superhero! He has given us specific instructions about how to speak and act until He returns. Earlier in Matthew 22, Jesus reiterated that we are to love God with our whole heart, mind and soul…and to love others as we love ourselves. Now He is telling us to keep loving others – and to stay faithful to His teachings…right to the end.

You and I must sift through the “noise” of this world and listen for the voice of our Lord and Savior. In All the Light We Cannot See, some of the characters begin to discover that what they are doing is questionable, at best…that their “leaders” and “prophets” are not telling them the truth. And they begin to take incredible leaps of faith – even as time to make any difference quickly disappears.

We are not living in a novel – and this is not a “drill.” This is our opportunity to get things right…to listen to Jesus and do what He tells us. It is time to truly start operating in love – for all people – and we don’t have a minute to waste! The time to stand as faithful disciples of Jesus Christ is now. It is time to truly “Love one another.” Alleluia!

* All the Light We Cannot See

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