“‘He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 'The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.'’ Then they remembered his words.” – Luke 24:6-8

It was May Day, 1990. The place, Moscow's Red Square. "Is it straight, Father?" one Orthodox priest asked another, shifting the heavy, eight-foot crucifix on his shoulder. "Yes," said the other. "It is straight." Together the two priests from the Russian Orthodox monastery at Zagorsk, along with a group of believers held ropes that steadied the beams of the huge cross, walked the parade route. Before them was passed the official might of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics: The usual May Day procession of tanks, missiles, troops, and salutes to the Communist party elite. Behind the tanks surged a giant crowd of protesters, shouted up at Mikhail Gorbachev. "Bread!...Freedom!...Truth!"

As the throng passed directly in front of the Soviet leader standing in his place of honor, the priests hoisted their heavy burden toward the sky. The cross emerged from the crowd. As it did, the figure of Jesus Christ obscured the giant poster faces of Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels, and Vladimir Lenin that provided the backdrop for Gorbachev's reviewing stand. "Mikhail Sergeyevich!" one long-bearded monk, his deep voice cleaving the clamor of the protesters and piercing straight toward the angry Soviet leader. "Mikhail Sergeyevich! Christ is risen!" 

For those who trust in Christ, we have the assurance that we will have a new life because of Christ’s resurrection. Today in prayer, praise the Lord that we have eternal life in Him.

“The seed dies into a new life and so does man.” – George McDonald

God’s Word: “So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body.” – 1 Corinthians 15:42-44

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail   

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

“Jesus answered him, ‘I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.’” – Luke 23:43

In September 1862, Union General William Nelson was consumed with the defense of Louisville, Kentucky. He angrily dismissed Brigadier General Jefferson C. Davis for lackadaisical behavior. Five days later, Davis challenged Nelson to a duel and when Nelson insulted him further, Davis shot Nelson in the lobby of a hotel. The bullet mortally wounded him. As men rushed to help him, General Nelson had just one request, "Send for a clergyman; I wish to be baptized." He never had time as an adolescent or young man. He never had time as a private or after he became a general. But now, with just minutes left on this earth, getting right with the Lord was his top priority. The Reverend Talbott arrived within five minutes, baptizing the General and hearing his last confession. Ten minutes later General Nelson was dead, having expressed great penitence over, “the many sins he had committed.”

When we have faith in Christ, we have the assurance that as we pass through death and we will have everlasting life in Him. Today in prayer, praise Jesus that He freely gives eternal life to all that trust in Him.

“It is not darkness you are going to, for God is Light. It is not lonely, for Christ is with you. It is not unknown country, for Christ is there.” – Charles Kingsley

God’s Word: “The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 15:56-57

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

“And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.’” – Luke 22:19

The oldest synagogue in the western hemisphere is the Mikve synagogue on the island of Curaçao. The building dates to the year 1732. It is both an active synagogue and a major tourist attraction in Curaçao. "The first thing they ask is why there's sand on the floor," said Rene Maduro, past president of the congregation. "If you look at the way this synagogue is set up, it's like the desert. You've got the tabernacle in the middle, where the tablets were kept, and the tribes of Israel around the sides to protect it."

Every day a member of the congregation sprinkles sand on the floor as a reminder of the years their ancestors wandered in the Desert of Sinai on their way from bondage in Egypt to the freedom of the Promised Land. They thought a visible symbol would aid the memory.

So it is for us for the Lord's Supper. We believe the visible symbols of the bread and the cup keep fresh for us the memory of our freedom from sin and our hope for a better promised land made possible by the torn body and shed blood of Jesus Christ.

Today in prayer, thank Jesus for the Lord’s Supper and remember His sacrifice for you.

“The link between the cross and the crown is the Table of the Lord. Do not forget, when you sit down at the Communion, that the bread and the cup point back to Christ’s accomplished work, and forward to your accomplished salvation.” – A.T. Pierson

God’s Word: “While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, ‘Take it; this is my body.’” – Mark 14:22

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

“As he looked up, Jesus saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. ‘I tell you the truth,’ he said, ‘this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.’” – Luke 21:1-4

Brian Kluth is a pastor, bestselling generosity author, inspirational speaker, and media commentator. He said the following: “After my '40-Day Spiritual Journey to a More Generous Life' book became an unexpected bestseller, I was contacted by NBC to do a TV news story. When the TV reporter interviewed me, she asked, 'So, you think God wants everyone rich?' I said, 'No, I don’t believe that.' She was a little surprised by my answer and then asked, 'Well, what do you believe?' I responded, 'I believe that everyone needs to learn to become more generous with whatever God has given them.' She then asked, 'Well, didn’t your book becoming a bestseller make you rich?' I replied, 'No, it helped me become more generous!' The truth is--every one of us in America is rich when you compare us to the rest of the world. What each of us needs to learn is how to become more generous with whatever God entrusts to us.”

We all need to learn to be more generous in all that the Lord has blessed us. Today in prayer, ask Jesus to give you wisdom and a generous heart to give to others in need.

“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill

God’s Word: “And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.” – 2 Corinthians 8:1-2

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

"Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: 'Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.'" - Luke 2:28-32

In 1965, Gerald Coffee’s Navy plane was downed in North Vietnam. Years later, he wrote Readers' Digest of the special memory he has of his third Christmas in the POW camp. It was 1968. The Vietnamese distributed to each prisoner three Christmas candy bars wrapped in colorful red foil on the outside and sliver on the inside. Coffee describes how he flattened one wrapper and shaped it into a beautiful swan. He then folded the second wrapper into small pleats, which he tied in the center with a thread that fanned out the edges to make Rosette. All the while outside of his cell, he listened to guards laughing as they observed the holiday with their families. He was reminded of his sons and wife so far away. Finally, with great joy, he formed the third candy wrapper into a beautiful Bethlehem Star. He then attached the paper ornaments on three straws and pushed the straws into crevices in the wall above his bed. In the light from the yellow bulb he sat watching his newly fashioned Christmas ornaments.

Gerald Coffee then shared how he began to compare the simplicity of the first Christmas in a manger with his own simple celebration as a POW. He discovered how precious his faith was as it sustained him through his imprisonment. He writes: “ Here, there was nothing to distract me from the awesomeness of Christmas—no commercialism, no presents, little food. I was beginning to appreciate my own spirituality because I had been stripped of everything by which I had measured my identity: rank, uniform, money, family. Yet, I continued to find strength within. I realized that although I was hurting, lonely and scared- this was the most significant Christmas of my life.”

This Christmas do not let commercialism or any other thing crowd out the meaning of the day. Today in prayer, praise Jesus that He entered the world for our salvation.

"Love came down at Christmas, love all lovely, love divine;

love was born at Christmas-- Star and angels gave the sign.

Worship we the Godhead, love incarnate, love divine;

worship we our Jesus-- what should be our sacred sign?

Love shall be our token love be yours and love be mine;

love to God and neighbor love for prayer and gift and sign." - Christina Rossetti

God's Word: "And all mankind will see God's salvation." - Luke 3:6

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS FOR CHRISTMAS

"Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.'" - Luke 2:13-14

Just before Christmas in 1947, Princeton Seminary student David Crawford and eight friends went Christmas caroling throughout the campus. As they advanced to Mercer Street, the group paused before the legendary professor Albert Einstein’s house.

“Of course we won't go see the Einsteins,” said one student.

“Well, why not?” asked David. “It's Christmas. What will we sing?”

Everyone knew Dr. Einstein was Jewish, but they decided to sing at his home.

“What about Jingle Bells?” asked one student.

“No, that was too secular” the group argued.

“I think we should sing 'Silent Night' in German” suggested another student.

So the choral group rang the famed professor's doorbell and when he answered, began singing 'Silent Night' in German.

The kindly, Dr. Einstein smiled and invited the young men into his home. Opening up a closet, he got out his own violin and then played for them “O, Holy Night.”

For more than two thousand years man has been echoing the "Glory to God in the Highest.” Today in prayer, praise Jesus that He willingly left His Heavenly home for you.

"Mary and Joseph, along with both the simple shepherds and the learned Wise Men, show us that communication with the Lord needs two partners: God sends a message, but we must be willing to receive the news." - Christopher M. Belitto

God's Word: "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." - Isaiah 9:6

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

"If he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, 'I repent,' forgive him." - Luke 17:4

On July 20, 2012, James Holmes entered the Century movie theater in Aurora, Colorado, during a midnight screening of the film “The Dark Knight Rises.” Dressed in tactical clothing, he shot into the audience with multiple firearms, killing 12 people and injuring 58 others. He was arrested minutes later. One of those who was wounded was Pierce O'Farrill. He was shot in the right arm and left foot, and had shrapnel lodged in his chest. He has also forgiven Holmes. "I'm not angry at him. I'll pray for him," Pierce said. "This is going to be hard for people to understand, but I feel sorry for him. When I think what that soul must be like to have that much hatred and that much anger in his heart -- what every day must be like. I can't imagine getting out of bed every morning and having that much anger and hatred for people that he undoubtedly has." Pierce continued: "There is evil in this world, and there is a darkness. There is an enemy, but the wonderful news is there is a Light, and there is a Light that shines brighter than the darkness ever imagined." Pastor Ryan Heller, Pierce's pastor at The Edge Church in Aurora, said the following Sunday: "Pierce has already forgiven him. I think that is exactly what we need to talk about this morning is forgiveness. God wants us to live lives of continual forgiveness. Forgiving brings strength and vitality. The reason that Pierce is able to forgive is because Jesus is in him."

The Lord calls upon us to forgive others just as we have been forgiven by Him. Today in prayer, thank Christ that you have been freed from your sins and then forgive others in the same way.

"They who forgive most will be most forgiven." - Philip J. Bailey

God's Word: "Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." - Colossians 3:13

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

“There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores.” – Luke 16:19-20

It is called “The Hartford Project.” It is an eight year old service project of Connecticut churches to the inner city of Hartford, Connecticut. In June 2012, Valley Brook Community Church in Granby sent more than 40 middle and high school students and leaders to minister to the inner city. Daily activities centered around service, discipleship, and life in the city. Students began their days with morning worship and lessons from leaders from Hartford churches and non-profit organizations. Soon thereafter, dozens of teams headed out on the streets to run day camps, serve at car washes, do landscaping, paint houses, and assist with social and spiritual programs that have already gained traction in Hartford. As part of that experience, students lived in the shelter of South Church on Main Street. Sleeping on floors in close quarters, participants learned firsthand what it means to lose personal privacy and the comforts of home. “Each morning the kids needed to clean up their space, pack up their clothes, and move out,” said Dan Heermance, director of student ministries at Valley Brook. “This was intentional. It helped them to understand what it means to be homeless, to live in a shelter, and how blessed they are to have homes.”

It is not a sin to be poor. However, it is a sin not to minister to them. Today in prayer, ask Jesus to make you sensitive to those in need and minister to them.

“The worst sin towards our fellow creatures is not to hate them, but to be indifferent to them.” – George Bernard Shaw

God’s Word: “If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?” – 1 John 3:17

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

“And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.' In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” – Luke 15:9-10

On August 19, 2012, Danielle Hatherly Carroll, an Australian artist was teaching an outdoor art class in Battery Park New York City. She was very busy and was wiping her hands frequently and throwing rags and towels into a large clear trash bag. She went home and went to bed. “At 3:30 on Monday morning I woke up,” said Danielle. “and felt my left hand right way and just thought, ‘Oh, my God,’ because I knew I hadn’t taken [my wedding ring] off. I didn’t have one doubt in mind that it was down in Battery Park.” She sneaked out of bed and got dressed to find her ring, trying all along to not wake her husband because this was the second time she had lost her wedding ring. This newly lost ring was a replacement, a gift from her husband in 2011 on their 10th wedding anniversary. Her husband Steve did wake up and at 4:15 Monday morning the couple found themselves digging through bags of trash. On the verge of giving up hope, the pair spotted a city trash truck on the edge of the park and decided to leave a note asking that day’s driver to help their search. The driver of the truck that day was Parks Department Gary Gaddist. Gary was touched by the note and decided to help. Less than an hour later Gary, had found Danielle's ring. He called Steve and confirmed it was the ring. The couple jumped into a taxi and met Gary at the park. “The first thing I did was give him a big hug and gush, Thank you, thank you so much,” Danielle said.  “Then I grabbed him again and gave him another hug and a kiss on the cheek. He knew how happy I was.”

When someone comes to Christ in faith, it is a miracle. Today in prayer, rejoice in the Lord that He actively seeks and has found millions who trust in Him.

“There is no one so far lost that Jesus cannot find him and cannot save him.” – Andrew Murray

God’s Word: “I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” – Luke 15:7

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

“Then Jesus said to his host, "When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous."” – Luke 14:12-14

On August 5, 2012, six people were slain at a Sikh temple in suburban Milwaukee before police shot and killed the gunman.

Two weeks later, Faith Builders Church invited the Sikh Community to their church to show their love and support. Faith Builders Church is just two miles from the Sikh temple.

"We as a community would like to open up our doors and our hearts to those members who are suffering," said Janniel Manswell, a member of Faith Builders.

Representatives from the Sikh temple spoke to the crowd of their faith and survival since the shooting.

"We feel we are not alone and we have so much thanks for all the community," said member Inderjeet Singh Dhillon.

Members of the victims’ families say they've felt the support of neighbors in recent weeks.

"The local community has shown a tremendous amount of love and we just hope that it grows from here," said Kamwardeep Singh Kaleka.

Speakers talk about religious freedom and acceptance in between musical performances by national artists like Danny Gokey. It's an event showing the best way to overcome hate is with love.”

Love your neighbor and give hospitality to those in need. Today in prayer, praise the Lord for the gifts He has given you and seek to give hospitality to others.

“We all depend on God’s grace and provision; we are all guests of a gracious and generous host. As we welcome others to our tables and into our lives, we remember, represent, and anticipate God’s hospitality.” – Christine D. Pohl

God’s Word: “Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” – Romans 12:13

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

“I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.” – Luke 13:5

William Edward Parry was a British explorer. In 1819, he led an expedition to the Arctic Ocean in search of the Northwest Passage. The landing party came aground and then plotted their position using the stars. They walked north the whole day. And then totally exhausted, they finally stopped for the night. They took their bearings again from the stars. And they were shocked to discover that they were farther south than when they had started. They then discovered that they had been walking on an ice floe that was moving south faster than they were moving north! They were drifting in the opposite direction. The same can be true of us spiritually. If we neglect to listen carefully to what Christ said, we will begin to drift away from Him. And our drifting will lead to disobedience. And if we don’t repent, that disobedience will lead to punishment - that would be tragic. Keep your eyes on the Lord constantly!

We all need to repent and follow Jesus. Today in prayer, repent of any sin in your life and seek to follow Jesus in all that you do.

“Repentance is not a popular word these days, but I believe that any of us recognize it when it strikes us in the gut. Repentance is coming to our senses, seeing, suddenly, what we've done that we might not have done, or recognizing ... that the problem is not in what we do but in what we become.” – Kathleen Norris

God’s Word: “From that time on Jesus began to preach, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.’” – Matthew 4:17

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

“Then Jesus said to his disciples: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear.” – Luke 12:22

Nathan Norman was born on December 28, 2006 in Rustburg, Virginia. He began having seizures just before his 1st birthday. The doctors administered a battery of tests, but could not accurately diagnosis his illness. In October 2008, his seizures began to happen more frequently. Where he used to have them once or twice every few months, he began having 10 - 15 a month. Then the doctors located a tumor on Nathan’s brain. 

Doctors were only able to remove part of the tumor and test confirmed little Nathan had brain cancer. His parents are both Christians and little Nathan has accepted Jesus as his Savior.

This year, Nathan will turn 6 years old. Neither his parents nor Nathan is worried for his life, because he is safe in Jesus. The only gifts he wants are Christmas cards from his heroes – emergency responders and law enforcement officers. They have been a source of encouragement  to him. His parents have decorated the house early this year because Nathan loves the lights and all of his family loves celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ our Savior. 

The Lord is in control and there is no need to worry. Today in prayer, give your anxieties and worries to Him and relax in Christ’s peace.

"Oh, how great peace and quietness would he possess who should cut off all vain anxiety and place all of his confidence in God." – Thomas `a Kempis

God’s Word: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

"Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation.” – Luke 11:4

On May 11, 2002, Eric Smallridge, was driving drunk on Gulf Breeze Parkway in Florida. His speeding jeep slammed into a four-door Mazda driven by 20 year old Lisa Dickson with her friend Meagan Napier in the passenger seat. Both girls died in the accident.

Eric was sentenced to 22 years in prison, but both of the girls’ mothers asked the court to reduce the sentence to 11 years.

Since 2004, Meagan’s mother, Renee Napier, and Eric now speak to audiences about drunk driving and forgiveness.  “I could be angry, hateful and bitter,” Renee said. “But I didn’t want to live my life that way. There was no way I could move on and live a happy life without forgiving Eric. Eric became a Christian through these events and is now extremely close to both families.

Christian songwriter Matthew West heard about this amazing story and it was the inspiration for his song “Forgiveness” which encourages us to forgive others.

Christ is the model of forgiveness. Today in prayer, ask the Lord to give you the love to forgive others as He has forgiven you.  

“If we really want to love, we must learn how to forgive.” – Mother Teresa

God’s Word: “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” – Mark 11:25

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

“He answered: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'” – Luke 10:27

On September 24, 2012, Marcos Ugarte saw that a neighbor's house was on fire. The 14-year-old from Troutdale, Oregon ran to his neighbors' house where a family of five, including a grandmother and two children, were trapped inside. The father of the home tried numerous times to get upstairs to rescue his 7-year old son, Cody, but was unable to reach him through the thick smoke. The grandmother of the young boy was trying to pull a ladder from the backyard. Marcos grabbed the ladder and climbed to the second floor to the boy's room. He burst through the window and rescued the boy trapped inside. Showing kindness to others is nothing new for Marcos. He assists with the care of his two brothers, who both suffer from kidney failure.  

Proud of his son's action, Eduardo said: "I think it's awesome. I hope that he would perhaps through this recognize that God has a purpose for him."

We need to minister to our neighbors just as Jesus would. Today in prayer, ask the Lord to give you eyes to see those in need and wisdom on how to help them.

“Man may dismiss compassion from his heart, but God never will.” – William Cowper

God’s Word: “And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'” - Matthew 22:39

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

""O unbelieving and perverse generation," Jesus replied, "how long shall I stay with you and put up with you? Bring your son here."” – Luke 9:41

Joseph McCabe was born in 1867 in Cheshire, England. He entered the Franciscan order at the age of 15, and spent a year of preliminary study at Gorton Monastery. In 1890 he was ordained into the priesthood with the name Father Antony.

He was recognized as an outstanding scholar of philosophy, and was sent for a year to study at the Catholic University of Louvain. It was there he learned Hebrew. In October 1895, he was put in charge of the newly founded Franciscan college in Buckingham. But McCabe had gradually been losing his faith and eventually left that post and the priesthood in February 1896.

Shortly after leaving the priesthood, McCabe began writing. He wrote a pamphlet on his experiences, “From Rome to Rationalism.”From 1898–1899 he was secretary of the Leicester Secular Society, and he was a founding board member in 1899 of the Rationalist Press Association of Great Britain. He became a public speaker and spoke out against faith. He died on January 10, 1955, at the age of eighty-seven. The epitaph he requested was "He was a rebel to his last day."

When questions arise, draw near to Jesus in faith. Today in prayer, thank Christ that He is our Rock and in Him we can place our entire faith.

“None but the Lord himself can afford us any help from the awful workings of unbelief, doubtings, carnal fears, murmurings. Thank God one day we will be done forever with ‘unbelief’” – Arthur W. Pink

God’s Word: “Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Timothy 1:13-14

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

“The disciples went and woke him, saying, "Master, Master, we're going to drown!" He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. "Where is your faith?" he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, "Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him."” – Luke 8:24-25

On Saturday night November 3, 2012, 19-year-old Tyler Campbell went to a church event. After church, Tyler told his family he was leaving to stop by a friend's house, and would be home by midnight. Tyler did not come home that night.

Tyler had fallen asleep on Interstate 65 and didn't wake up until his truck went off the road and dropped some 30 feet into a ravine near the Alabama-Tennessee state line. He would be found three days later.

The crash broke his leg and shoulder.  Yet, he climbed out of the wreckage and tried climbing up the embankment, failing many times.

Tyler remembered: “I just prayed to God to take my life. I went as far as I could go. And God told me, 'I wasn't done yet.'"

On Tuesday afternoon, in pain, cold, and only fueled by rainwater, Tyler finally made it to the roadway where a driver spotted him. First responders rushed to his aid.

A reporter told Tyler’s father Lee that he was a lucky young man. Lee responded: "I don't believe in luck. It was the Lord. It was 100 percent in His plan, and His will, and His way. He talked to my son through the whole thing, and I would say, per what Tyler has told me, they've become very close."

Whether it is during our darkest hours or when things are going well, the Lord can be trusted. Today in prayer, praise Jesus that in Him you can place your faith.

“Faith is to believe what we cannot see, and the reward of this faith is to see what we believe.” - Augustine

God’s Word: “"'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes."” – Mark 9:23

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

“Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven--for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little.” – Luke 7:47

In 2003, Eric Smallridge, of Tallahassee, Fla., was found guilty of two counts of DUI manslaughter. While driving at twice the legal limit for alcohol, he hit a car carrying Lisa Dickson and Meagan Napier, both 20, killing both girls instantly. He got 22 years for the crime.  

"I felt like our system had served us well and justice had been served. I definitely felt that," said Meagan’s mother Renee. 

But a few years later, Renee came forward and asked the judge to reduce Eric's sentence by half. She claimed Eric was truly sorry for what he'd done and deserved leniency.

In October 2012, the judge obliged -- partly because of what she said, but mostly because of who she was.

Eric feels blessed: "It's going to be like being on borrowed time, because I know I should still be in prison, because the justice system said I should still be in prison."

Renee said: "It's not going to do me any good, and it's not going to do him any good. I would grow old and bitter and angry and hateful. ... In my opinion, forgiveness is the only way to heal." 

One of the most powerful ways to show God’s love is forgiveness. Today in prayer, forgive those who have wronged you, just as Christ as forgiven you.

“We have a free, full, final, forever forgiveness in the atoning work of Christ.” – J. Sidlow Baxter

God’s Word: “For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” – Matthew 6:14-15

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

"Looking at his disciples, he said: "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God." - Luke 6:20

T. V. Philip, was born in India and a lay member of the Mar Thoma Church, has worked and taught in India, Europe, USA and Australia. He is a church historian, and a former Professor at the United Theological College, Bangalore, India.

The wealthy and the mighty of this world depend on their wealth and influence. They have their reward in this world itself. The poor have nothing to depend upon except on God. Their joy and blessedness comes out of their utter dependence on God; it is the joy of walking in the company of God. This is what happens when we live in the kingdom of God. This is a new thing. The poor are favored in the kingdom not only because injustice is done to them in this world, but also because they trust in God. ‘This poor man cried and God heard him.’

During these tough economic times, remember the poor during this holiday season. Today in prayer, thank Christ that the poor in spirit are blessed by Him, and ask the Lord how you can help the poor.

"Poverty is no sin." - George Herbert

God's Word: "Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?" - James 2:5

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

"After this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector by the name of Levi sitting at his tax booth. "Follow me," Jesus said to him and Levi got up, left everything and followed him." - Luke 5:27-28

In 1975, 13-year-old Hicham Chehab was a Muslim fighting Christians in Lebanon. He was preparing to become a Muslim Imam when a car accident laid him up for a year.

In 1980, in his first semester in college, his brother was killed by Christian militia. Hicham's response was to study by day, and by night take out his revenge in attacks on Christians. However, when he started to study the Bible and the Gospel in a Cultural Studies class in college, he began to learn about forgiveness and love towards others. The Sermon on the Mount especially spoke to him.  "I felt the doors of heaven open and I could forgive my enemies."

He started to believe in Jesus and was baptized in 2000.  He became a pastor and a missionary in Beirut.  He traveled to the United States and attended the Concordia Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana and then finished his PhD in missiology.

Today, Hicham pastors Salam Arabic Fellowship, the first Arabic LCMS church in the Chicago area. He also works as a missionary to Muslims in Illinois.

He is still spreading the good news about Christ and hopes to change peoples' lives so they can have faith in Jesus.  He went through a lot in his life but when he found God things started to change for the good. "What is impossible with men is possible with God."

Jesus calls people from all over the world to follow Him. Today in prayer, pray for those who do not know Christ that they may know that He is Lord and follow Him.

"Following Christ has nothing to do with success as the world sees it. It has to do with love." - Madeleine L'Engle

God's Word: "'Come, follow me,' Jesus said, 'and I will make you fishers of men.' At once they left their nets and followed him." - Matthew 4:19-20

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

"When the devil had finished all this tempting, he left him until an opportune time." - Luke 4:13

Klaus 'Dick' Radandt had a menagerie of exotic animals on his farm in North Liberty, Indiana.

In December 2004, Radandt's wife, Terrilyn, became concerned when he did not return for lunch after going to the barnyard about 10 a.m. She investigated and found him lying on the ground and called paramedics, who were unable to revive him.

Police were called in and the investigation faulted a pet wildebeest for Radandt’s death. The wildebeest, an African antelope weighing approximately 500 pounds, attacked him in the barnyard behind his home. The 64-year old Radandt died from the attack.

Wildebeests naturally grow large curved horns, but this animal's horns had been cut down to the nubs, police said. The coroner said the male animal apparently used its head to repeatedly ram Radandt and then trampled him after he fell to the ground. The official cause of death was blunt force trauma to the chest and head.

We often get lackadaisical toward temptation, but it is always crouching waiting to strike in our weakest moments. Today in prayer, ask the Lord to make you aware of any temptations or “pet sins” and have Him lead you away from all temptation.

"When evil desire finds you armed with the fear of God and the determined to resist, it will flee far away from you.” – Hermas, the Shepherd

God's Word: "And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”- Matthew 6:13

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE

“‘I am the Lord's servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May it be to me as you have said.’ Then the angel left her.” – Luke 1:38

In 2012, Olivia Neubauer turned 100 years old and she continued to teach at Chicago’s Ashburn Lutheran School. For 77 years, this faithful servant of the Lord continued to help others.

She was so dedicated to her job that nothing could stop her from doing it - she said that the Lord would tell her when it was time to stop.

Olivia's teaching career began in 1935. She took 10 years off to raise her own children, then for 47 years she taught at Ashburn Lutheran. She taught reading to kindergarten and pre-kindergarten pupils, and she was director for a play that the pupils gave every spring.

"I've been blessed," she in 2007, when she was 95 years old. "It's been a real, beautiful life. I really have enjoyed life and I've enjoyed the children all the way through."

In November 2012, after a brief illness, the Lord called His faithful servant Olivia home.

The Lord has called us to serve others. Today in prayer, ask Jesus how you can better serve others for Him.

“As long as I see any thing to be done for God, life is worth living; but O how vain and unworthy it is to live for any lower end!” – David Brainerd

God’s Word: “Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Matthew 20:26-28

By Peter Kennedy, Copyright 2012, Devotional E-Mail

DEVOTIONS IN LUKE