November 2023 – Daily Devo Time

Daily Devotional for November 30, 2023 – Meeting the needs of others…it’s always the “Season of Giving” with God

Proverbs 19:17
Mercy to the needy is a loan to God,
and God pays back those loans in full.

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.

We are wrapping up the month in which at least some of our focus turns to thankfulness. As we leave November and enter a new month, we will be presented with many opportunities to “give to the poor and needy.” There will be coat, toy, and food drives…“angel” trees…Salvation Army red buckets, and more monetary collections than you can count. And we will respond – in part because we are caught up in the “Christmas Spirit!”

Do not misunderstand me…I will support many of these causes during the holidays. But more importantly, I want us to think about the “needy” who are among us every day of the year. People are in physical need of everything from food to clothing to shelter. They are also in “need” of spiritual and emotional support – especially at this time of the year. Already, I have seen a post on Facebook from a young mother who “just can’t get into it this year.” This mother of three says she is “not even excited about Christmas.”

A childhood friend of mine lost her husband last week after he endured a lengthy illness…and two days later, her brother died. Other childhood friends are saying “Good-bye” to their wife/sibling/mother/grandmother/friend who died from malaria following a mission trip last month to Uganda. Her daughter posted on Facebook…“I don’t know what any of us are going to do without you. Who will I call when I just need someone to talk to?”

Others just wish that the whole “holiday season” would be over and done. They don’t have the mental or financial capacity to cope with the “abundance” of everything related to the season…and they just need someone to tell them, “It’s okay…Jesus doesn’t require lights, trees, and festivities.”

After the last strand of tinsel is boxed away and every crumb of Christmas cheer has been consumed, there will still be people in need. The truth is, there are always “needy” people. And this is where you and I come into the picture. God is calling on us to look around…to be awake and alert to the magnificent possibilities available to us for offering mercy to the needy, in whatever form is necessary. This may be as simple as stopping to listen to an acquaintance in Walmart as he/she “unloads” – or as challenging as organizing efforts to help a family get back on their feet – or sitting with someone who is dying and needs to know that someone is there to help usher him/her into Heaven.

Many people grieve deeply during the holidays – for several reasons. Greg and I have both endured loss during this season, and we deeply understand this particular type of “neediness.” Many ministered to us and our families – and offered love and mercy in the name of Jesus, and we are truly grateful for their outpouring. We have made a conscious effort to “pay it forward” as much as possible.

It doesn’t matter where, when, or how the needs are presented to us…God will equip us to meet them in the name of Jesus. And we are promised repayment in full for our efforts. But don’t do anything out of a desire to be rewarded…do these things to honor and glorify the One who has done everything for us. And if you find yourself in need, know that you are not alone. God cares – others care – and my prayer is that God will send His “angels of mercy” to minister to you and set you upright again. Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for November 29, 2023 – Honesty truly 𝒊𝒔 the best policy…

Proverbs 11:3
A good man is guided by his honesty; the evil man is destroyed by his dishonesty.

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

Yesterday, I watched the televised funeral of former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. I have always loved and respected President and Mrs. Carter. I firmly believe that their faith has guided their words and actions – and they have conducted themselves with textbook honesty. Sadly, we cannot say this about more than a few of our leaders – even Presidents. I won’t name them here…after all, this is not for me to judge. But a lot of this has been publicly documented.

Some people make mistakes and atone for them. Others make dishonesty the hallmark of their lives. They are dishonest in everything from personal relationships to business deals, and the bottom line becomes serving their own self-importance – and sheer greed. We find it upsetting when these people seem to “get by with murder,” but I must tell you…I don’t believe this is the case. At some point, there will be a day of reckoning for them. I don’t know if it will happen on this earth – or when they stand before God in the afterlife. But every person will have to account for his/her words and actions…and God is not mocked or fooled!

In many ways, some Presidents have done more for our country and its people after serving in office than during their tenure. I believe President Jimmy Carter is one of these. His Habitat for Humanity project comes to mind. Rosalynn Carter’s work to erase the stigma associated with mental health care, Ladybird Johnson’s roadside beautification endeavors, and the work that Presidents Clinton, Bush, and Obama have done to encourage Americans to come together on several projects are also examples of putting service before self and setting aside differences in an effort to make a positive difference. You can’t accomplish such things if you are operating in selfishness, deception, dishonesty, and greed.

We are all human beings. We make mistakes. We are all tempted at times to “skimp” here or “fudge a little” there to benefit ourselves or someone we love – or to skew a situation in our favor. God looks at us and sees our intention – and our efforts. He knows when we strive to be honest stewards of His gifts and blessings – and to conduct ourselves in a way that glorifies Him. God also knows when we lie, cheat, steal, and operate with greed and selfishness – with absolutely no remorse or apology. Furthermore, God knows when we look past or encourage dishonesty and deceit in others, perhaps because it serves our own interests in some manner. I know it may seem like some people get a total pass on this, but again I assure you, nobody fools God!

I am grateful for the examples of First Lady Rosalynn and President Jimmy Carter. I am also thankful that three former Presidents could set aside any differences and come together to genuinely help our country and its people. I want to be a good steward of God’s blessings. This verse is reminding me to do a little “self-check” to ensure that I operate with honesty and integrity in even the smallest things – and bring glory to God with every word and action. I pray that God will also help us to seek the truth in others – and never endorse or encourage their dishonesty. We serve a God of truth and righteousness…and as His beloved children, it is our job to demonstrate these qualities in our own lives, all for His glory. Give yourself an “honesty test” – and make sure you are getting this right! Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for November 28, 2023 – The one who blesses is abundantly blessed…it’s always the season for giving!

Proverbs 11:25
The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed;
those who help others are helped.

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.

A few weeks ago, I was making a purchase at a local store, and as I fished change from my wallet, a little metal cross fell out. The clerk said rather wistfully, “Oh, I used to have one of those, but I don’t know what happened to it.” I recognized the cross…Greg and I were each given one years ago one Sunday morning by our then-pastor, Dean Waychoff – perhaps as he offered us Holy Communion. We have both carried these in our wallets for nearly 30 years.

I also have another little cross that is similar, if a little lightweight. I think I was “gifted” it on a Walk to Emmaus. As I handed the change to the clerk, I handed her the cross that had fallen from my wallet and said, “Here…you can have this one.” She protested, but I insisted, and I told her, “I have two.” Her face lit up, and I could see that she was genuinely touched. I walked away feeling a great sense of joy and peace.

Now, I could have swapped and given the lady the other cross. But in the moment, that didn’t even occur to me. And I thought later, “Dean would love that I shared this cross – and the love of Christ – with another.” I can assure you…I have not missed that little piece of metal. Every time I see the other one, I will be reminded of the woman’s face and how she appeared to be so touched by the gesture. She didn’t know the significance of this particular cross to me…but she knew that someone cared enough to share and bless her.

You and I have opportunities to bless others every day. When we visit with a neighbor, we may be serving as their “sounding board.” When we write a card of sympathy, encouragement – or even well wishes – to another person, the recipient is blessed by the sentiments and the knowledge that someone took time to write to them. Even when we stop to send a text, the other person is blessed by our time and attention.

The obvious “blessings” like monetary donations (this is “Giving Tuesday”) and other physical “gifts” readily come to mind when we think about blessing someone. But we are called by God to be more thoughtful – and instinctive – about these gestures. Give the “cross” – or the coat or scarf – and never look backward. Buy someone a cup of coffee or offer an unsolicited compliment. Make a favorite dish for someone because you know how much they love it. You will never miss what you gave away – even if it was a minute or two of your time. And so many opportunities to bless someone else really don’t cost us anything!

Matthew 6:1-13 tells us not to make a show of our giving. I take this admonition seriously and never want to negate God’s blessing by “sounding a trumpet” when I “do alms!” Please understand that my story about the little cross is merely meant to serve as an illustration. Look for ways great and small to bless others every day. Even handling a household chore for another family member could be just the “blessing” he/she needs to make the day brighter. Ask God to show you how, when, and where to do this. I promise, He will start to multiply your opportunities – and you and the recipients will feel His joy and peace. Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for November 27, 2023 – Because of Jesus, we have beauty for ashes, joy instead of mourning – and more than we need!

Philippians 4:18-20
At the moment I have all I need—more than I need! I am generously supplied with the gifts you sent me when Epaphroditus came. They are a sweet-smelling sacrifice that pleases God well. And it is he who will supply all your needs from his riches in glory because of what Christ Jesus has done for us. Now unto God our Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

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.

This past week, two families in our county suffered house fires. One fire took the home of a young couple who survived with 3-month-old twins – but their 18-month-old baby perished. The other happened early in the morning of Thanksgiving Day, and again, a couple lost everything. Thankfully, they were unharmed – as were their two older children. This man and woman are dearly loved in our community – she is a paraprofessional at our high school, and he works at the hospital. In the last few years, their son died tragically. Efforts are underway to support both of these families with fundraising projects.

House fires touch me deeply. My paternal grandparents lost their home to a fire on December 20, 1981. They were both in their early 70s, and a lifetime of possessions and memories went up in smoke in a matter of minutes. Reports from the Thanksgiving Day tragedy were that the fire became so involved that firefighters had to step away for their own safety and let the structure burn. In my grandparents’ case, the firefighters could not get to their house in time…and the fire burned so hot that even their cast iron skillets and bathtub were reduced to ashes.

My mother wrote a story a few years after my grandparents’ fire, and she referenced Isaiah 61:3, which says in The Living Bible…“To all who mourn in Israel he will give: beauty for ashes; joy instead of mourning; praise instead of heaviness. For God has planted them like strong and graceful oaks for his own glory.” A few days after the fire, my dad used his tractor blade to work through the rubble and clean up the burn site. A few months later when warm weather arrived, my grandmother’s petunias sprang from that area with an abundance of blooms and color. Mother noted that we literally got “beauty for ashes.”

When my grandparents’ house burned, Greg and I lived 90 minutes away in another city. I hurried to my parents’ house to be with them and offer whatever support I could. I remember my dad saying over and again, “It’s okay…they are okay.” And for the most part, both of my grandparents were physically okay, save the shock and some temporary rises in blood pressure. In some ways, they never emotionally recovered from this loss – and yes, a house fire is akin to a physical death. But at the same time, the community rallied around them and helped them rebuild in every way.

Good friends who wintered elsewhere generously offered their home for my grandparents, so they could have their own space. A dear family friend who was a master builder graciously rearranged his busy schedule so that he and his sons could construct a new home for my grandparents within three months! My grandparents’ church family “pounded” them with food and other gifts to restock their shelves. I cannot begin to tell you how many people came to their aid. My grandparents and my own parents had done so much for many – and their generosity was repaid in abundance. Because of the evidence of their love of Christ and how they “sacrificed” for others all their lives, He supplied all their needs – and then some – in this moment.

I do not personally know either family that suffered such tragedies last week. But I see that God is meeting them in this moment and supplying their needs. Out of their abundance and their commitment to Christ, people are coming forward to pour out blessings and gifts upon these families and to help them see how God always provides. When you have an opportunity to participate in such efforts, don’t miss it! And if/when you find yourself in some sort of “lack,” I pray that you will remember that with Christ, we always have everything we need…and He will handle the details. Christ will bring “beauty for ashes,” and joy instead of mourning. I know this – because I have seen it firsthand. Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for November 26, 2023 – Too little or too much – Christ gives us strength to face anything and is always plenty

Philippians 4:10-14
The Lord has made me very grateful that at last you have thought about me once again. Actually, you were thinking about me all along, but you didn’t have any chance to show it. I am not complaining about having too little. I have learned to be satisfied with whatever I have. I know what it is to be poor or to have plenty, and I have lived under all kinds of conditions. I know what it means to be full or to be hungry, to have too much or too little. Christ gives me the strength to face anything.

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

As I write this, I am sitting with our nephew, Nathan, while he sculpts with Play-doh®. I read him the scripture for today, and he asked, “Have you ever been poor?” I told him that I would not call myself “poor,” but when I was a child, my family struggled to make ends meet. My parents both worked several jobs just to pay the bills, and we didn’t have a lot of “extras” that other kids had. But…we always had plenty! We had a comfortable home, food to eat, clothing to wear, and a big extended family that loved us dearly.

After my siblings and I were grown and out of the house, my dad started his own business and did quite well. My parents were then able to enjoy some of the “plenty” that Paul talked about. When we were growing up, my mother wore the same dresses for years. Later, she filled the closets with beautiful clothes and enjoyed wearing them. My parents were able to travel and eat at nice restaurants and relish these “extras.” I wouldn’t say they ever had “too much” – or that they were what many would consider “wealthy,” but they were far better off materially than when we were young.

When I was in second grade, my dad worked away from home as a welder on construction of the Kerr-McGee Navigation System on the Arkansas River. For many months, Daddy worked in Gillette, Arkansas. He would get up early on Monday mornings and drive to south Arkansas to work all week…and on Friday nights, he would drive home after work. A few weekends, we drove down to visit him instead. It was a long, dreary drive.

Every Sunday night as Daddy tucked me into bed, I cried. I knew he would be gone Monday morning when I woke up. Daddy told me, “I need to do this so you can have money to buy a horse and other extra things you kids want.” When I was in fifth grade, my family moved to Oklahoma for six months – again for Daddy to work on the lock and dam construction. My brother was physically sick most of the time with fevers and sore throats…and my sister and I were heartsick and homesick, and we all three cried often to “go home.” Mother and Daddy enjoyed having extra “spending money” – taking us shopping and out to eat in Muskogee, and not worrying about the bills. But they finally gave up and moved us back to our home in Heber Springs.

This is what Paul is trying to tell us…our joy is not found in “things” – or even in abundance of some sort. Our joy, peace, and hope are found in the assurance of Jesus Christ to help us face anything. My siblings and I enjoyed new Barbies and other toys, always having candy bars in the fridge, and those shopping sprees. But we loved living near our friends, grandparents, and other relatives even more. We loved the comfort and safety of our childhood home. We would rather not have an allowance – or a horse, dance lessons, and new bicycles – and have our daddy home all week. Being “rich” was not important to us…but being together with those we loved was critical. (And for the record, my brother got well almost instantly after we returned to Arkansas! He was literally homesick!”)

Listen when I tell you that “rich” people get sick and die. They have addictions, relationships issues, and are subject to personal trials and tragedies of all kinds. “Rich” people need Jesus just as much as “poor” ones. Money and things do not actually make us “wealthy,” popular, or successful – it’s all about our relationship with Christ. If we focus on living for Him and serving as He commands, we will always feel His presence and power. He will stand in the gap and make all the difference in every circumstance.

I cling to the last verse of this passage. Christ truly does give me the strength to face anything. When all else is stripped away, I still have Jesus in my life – and that will always be more than enough. In Christ, I am always at “home.” What about you? Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for November 25, 2023 – Meditating on God’s blessings – even on your worst day…it’s a great day to be thankful!

Philippians 4:8-9
Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.

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 Saturdays, the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette “Religion” section features an article by Paul Prather, pastor of Bethesda Church near Mt. Sterling, KY. Today, Prather’s commentary was titled “Every day you’re not in an ICU is a great day.” He talked of caring for his first wife, who was diagnosed with inoperable cancer at age 39 and remained virtually bedfast for the next five years before her passing. Prather was her primary caregiver. He noted that one lesson he discovered during this ordeal was this: “Any day I can get out of bed under my own power and go downstairs to brew my coffee is a good day. Pretty much whatever happens from there, I’m ahead of the game.”

Prather went on to note that choosing to be positive is just that – a choice. And honestly, choosing to live as Paul reminds us here – by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse – is also a mindset…one that Christ has called us to as His redeemed believers and disciples.

Prather also acknowledge that we do not live in “the best of all possible worlds.” But he admits that this is the only world we have at the moment. I have said many times that nothing about serving Jesus was ever promised to be easy. God didn’t say, “Believe in Christ, and I will make your life a perpetual bed of roses.” What God did say is that He would never leave us…that we would always have the presence and power of His Holy Spirit available at the merest whisper. God promised that He will bless us beyond measure…it is just up to Him to determine the “how, when, and where!” So be grateful. Thank God that you woke up this morning and were able to stumble to some device to read this message! Thank God for being with us in every situation – and at all times. And choose to follow the words of Paul and meditate on the best, not the worse – the beautiful not the ugly.

Praise God from whom all blessings flow…and keep on “keepin’ on” forever and ever. Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for November 24, 2023 – Experiencing the “peace that passes all understanding” – remember to say your prayers!

Philippians 4:6-7
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs, and don’t forget to thank him for his answers. If you do this, you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will keep your thoughts and your hearts quiet and at rest as you trust in Christ Jesus.

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

Late last night, our eleven-year-old nephew, Nathan, began texting me. After several exchanges, I told him, “I am going to sleep. Good night!” He replied. “Okay…remember to say your prayers!” This is not the first time this kid has told me…“Remember to say your prayers before bedtime.” It makes me so happy to know that our children are aware of the power of prayer – and how important it is to communicate with God.

This scripture passage is one of my favorites. We find such assurance in these words from Paul. If we will surrender to God, tell Him our needs, and offer gratitude in advance for His answers, He will work in ways we cannot understand – and provide peace beyond what we can comprehend.

Does this mean you will never worry again or have anxious moments? Not at all. But we must learn to quickly give these to God and trust Him to handle them. I shared a post on Facebook recently from someone who wrote about living in the land of “You know.” What was intended was that we learn to say, “God, YOU know!” and let Him handle everything according to His will. We need to gratefully, humbly surrender to God with the complete assurance that He does indeed know…what is happening in every moment of our lives…what we need in any given moment…and how to help us when we cannot even pull together thoughts and words to express what is in our heart and on our minds.

We need to learn to bask in the peace that God always offers us in every situation. We need to learn to trust this assurance. How do we accomplish this? The answer is to humbly, gratefully pray…to talk to God and tell Him, as best we can, what is on our heart – and believe that He will fill in the gaps and address our needs perfectly.

The ”peace that passes all understanding” is real…and available to all who trust God and call on Him. My prayer for you today is that you experience this peace for yourself…and remember to pray at bedtime! Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for November 23, 2023 – Give thanks, love one another, stay on track and steady in God…lessons for this Thanksgiving Day

Philippians 4:1; 4-5
My dear, dear friends! I love you so much. I do want the very best for you. You make me feel such joy, fill me with such pride. Don’t waver. Stay on track, steady in God.

Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him! Make it as clear as you can to all you meet that you’re on their side, working with them and not against them. Help them see that the Master is about to arrive. He could show up any minute!

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.

It is late in the afternoon as I write this message, and I have just now looked at social media for the first time today. I was busy this morning baking a turkey breast and getting things ready for lunch with Greg and his brother and sister-in-law, who drove up from Little Rock to spend Thanksgiving Day with us. We talked about the years when our gatherings were much larger – and all the fun we had and being together and playing games and “cards” (Hearts!).

When I finally looked at Facebook, my “memory” was a picture taken 12 years ago at my grandmother Polly’s Assisted Living Facility. My sister and I were enjoying a “Thanksgiving dinner” with Mam-ma Polly. I shared the photo and said I was sure that my sister and grandmother had cornbread dressing and a good hot roll today for their Thanksgiving Dinner in Heaven.

Thanksgiving Day – and all holidays – look so different these days than even 10 years ago. Our immediate family has dwindled and scattered to the point that “family gatherings” are almost a thing of the past. Yet we are no less grateful, and our love for each other is still strong. We’ve gotten creative, and we find new and different ways to celebrate and share our love for each other. Yesterday, Greg and I took the children to “Urban Air” (an indoor amusement park in a nearby city) for a day of fun. Our “Thanksgiving Meal” shared together was burgers and fries at McDonald’s…and we savored each bite and a great, lively conversation.

The words of Paul to the Philippians are profound and important- and I echo them today. I love each of you with the love of Christ…and I love my family and friends dearly. Truly, I want the best for each one. My prayer is that of Paul…that we would all celebrate God every day. He is so good to us – far above and beyond what we could imagine or deserve – and worthy of our praise every day of the year, not just on this one!

I don’t know what Thanksgiving Day looks like for you, but wherever you are and however you are celebrating, put God at the forefront. Truly make this day – and every day – a time to reflect on His goodness and put it into practice as you interact with others. Follow the commands we have been given…love one another…and work together to further God’s Kingdom. Someday, we will all have the opportunity to sit at God’s Heavenly table and have cornbread dressing, a good hot roll, and whatever else our heart (and stomach) desires – even a burger and fries! Be ready for the Master’s return…and make sure you serve every day with words and actions that reflect your steadfast obedience and faithfulness. Happy Thanksgiving Day! Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for November 22, 2023 – Keep your eyes on serving Jesus…it’s time to let go

Philippians 3:12-14
I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.

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

“I am so tired of worrying about everything, for everyone, every second of the day. But, I am also worried that nobody will worry as good as I do, about all of the things that need worrying about. – ©ConfidentlyMoms”

Yesterday, I shared a meme of this quote on Facebook. I thought it was funny, and I’ll admit…I also could relate. I have lost count of how many times I have written about worry – and how it is evil and we should all “let go and let God” have complete control. And then I pick up my “worries” and start again. Clearly, I am with Paul – I don’t have everything totally together!

But also like Paul, I know where to focus…and what I should do. And I am working hard to improve. I believe God acknowledges my efforts to trust and serve Him, and He is equipping me for more as I grow and learn. I am by no means a paragon of virtue. I am a humble servant who wants to do better each day. My prayer is that you will join me in the journey. Humble yourself before God and dedicate your life to following His commands and serving as He desires. Keep your eye on the goal…building the Kingdom of Heaven and sharing the message of Jesus with the world – and someday sitting at God’s Heavenly table for all eternity.

We are human – we are always going to worry. But I find that the more I give things to God, the quicker the worries dissipate, and my focus becomes clearer. The more I keep my eyes on God and trust Him in all things, the more He reaches out to me and shows me just what He can do in my life – and in the lives of others. The more I follow Jesus’ commands to love God and love others as He loves us, the easier it becomes to feel His presence and power every minute of the day and night.

Make this the day you truly surrender to God and start to look forward instead of backward. None of us is “there” yet – we won’t be this side of Heaven. But God will bless and multiply your faithful efforts to serve as He commands…and you will feel the difference. It’s time to “let go and let God” – and focus on serving Him with all we have for all the days to come. Alleluia!

Daily Devotional for November 21, 2023 – Serving God by treating others as equally – it’s time to love others as He loves us!

Philippians 2:5-11
Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

This morning, I did a little early shopping that included a grocery pickup – and a couple of other stops at discount stores to pick up a few things for the holidays and beyond. Most of the clerks were quite engaging and friendly. I don’t know their backstories (although I did hear one of them mention a newborn grandbaby), but I suspect they have holiday meals to prepare and things to do, just like I do. Yet, they were cheerfully serving me…loading my purchases into the cart and groceries into my car, with well wishes for a happy Thanksgiving.

As we fully enter this holiday season, we would do well to think of Jesus and how He serves us, even though He is the equal of God. This scripture passage reminds us that Jesus humbled Himself to the point of death on the cross, even though His was the name at which every knee should bow – and every tongue confess that He is LORD! My point is that the associate who loads your groceries at Walmart…the clerk who checks your purchases at Dollar Tree…the Salvation Army volunteer ringing the bell…and those who will no doubt serve you a meal or two – either tableside or from a drive-thru window – are all equal in the eyes of God. They are each as precious to Him as you are…every one entitled to salvation by the blood of Jesus Christ. So be kind. Treat them as you wish to be treated.

Have you really stopped to consider that the person of color loves his/her children just as much as you love yours? The joys, triumphs, worries, hopes, and dreams these people experience for their children are just as profound as those you experience. Has it ever occurred to you that a same-sex couple loves each other with as much fervor as you love your partner or spouse? They enjoy the same bonds…the same “life” challenges…and the same aspirations as a straight couple.

When you look at an old person – do you see someone whose life has been carefully guided and guarded by God – or do you discount their value and capabilities because they are elderly? When you look at a young person, do you “size up” his/her appearance and judge – or do you see the potential that God sees? Did you ever stop to think that people in other countries live, love, laugh, cry, grieve, worship, and celebrate just like you and I do? EVERYTHING you feel, they feel. EVERYTHING God offers to you, He offers them, as well.

As we count our blessings this week, remember that you and I do not have a “corner on the market” when it comes to the love, care, and blessings of Jesus Christ. Everything God did through Him for you and me…He also did for every other human being. If you are truly grateful for Jesus and want to serve and honor Him, take a good look at each person you encounter, and see what Christ sees.

Love all others with the love of Christ – not just the ones that make you feel good in some way. Humbly acknowledge that while God thinks you are amazing and precious…He also believes this about everyone else. Then treat each person with the love, care, and respect that a beloved child of God should receive. And be thankful for the humble sacrifices of Jesus – and God’s love and care…and show it with every word and action. Alleluia!

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