TREATMENT TIME
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
I Corinthians 13:13 – “And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love.”
Our Response to the Word
Get ready–Valentine’s Day is coming. Besides grabbing some flowers and chocolate, it behooves us to re-visit the essence of real love. And all we have to do is visit the hallmark (get it?) truths in the “love chapter” of 1 Corinthians 13. And we see such love all around us. For example, there are parents who forego all kinds of personal pleasures in order to provide needed resources for their kids. And don’t forget the friend who voluntarily offers a kidney for another. No chocolates and flowers can do that.
Make no mistake – this full-blown love (called “agape” in Greek) isn’t wimpy and sentimental. Nothing could be further from the truth. As we study Scripture and experience the sacrificing support of a faith community, we begin to grasp that agape love isn’t necessarily soft-hearted. It’s really tough-minded and realistic about the kind of world we live in.
For good measure along with deep love, we need full helpings of faith and hope. These supportive concepts lead directly to the whole idea of unconditional and self-giving love. Rev. Bob Dannals says: “By vividly displaying the virtues of faith, hope, and love between chaps. 12 and 14 of this letter, Paul threw down a “slam dunk” of substance and meaning to the Corinthian Church. He captured their attention!”
The Love Chapter has been around for a couple thousand years. It does a Masterful job of explaining how tough love sacrifices, putting others’ needs first. Since these words were penned, nations have come and gone; some day we will be gone as well. But this love lasts. Thankfully, we have been honored to live out this self-sacrificing love and pass it to the next generation. Flowers and chocolates can’t hold a candle to that.
Join Us in Prayer
Our Father in Heaven, we thank you for demonstrating what real love is. Help us to understand the real meaning of love and help us to demonstrate that love to everyone around us. Amen!
–Contributed by Norman Conquest
I Corinthians 13:13 – “And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love.”
Our Response to the Word
Get ready–Valentine’s Day is coming. Besides grabbing some flowers and chocolate, it behooves us to re-visit the essence of real love. And all we have to do is visit the hallmark (get it?) truths in the “love chapter” of 1 Corinthians 13. And we see such love all around us. For example, there are parents who forego all kinds of personal pleasures in order to provide needed resources for their kids. And don’t forget the friend who voluntarily offers a kidney for another. No chocolates and flowers can do that.
Make no mistake – this full-blown love (called “agape” in Greek) isn’t wimpy and sentimental. Nothing could be further from the truth. As we study Scripture and experience the sacrificing support of a faith community, we begin to grasp that agape love isn’t necessarily soft-hearted. It’s really tough-minded and realistic about the kind of world we live in.
For good measure along with deep love, we need full helpings of faith and hope. These supportive concepts lead directly to the whole idea of unconditional and self-giving love. Rev. Bob Dannals says: “By vividly displaying the virtues of faith, hope, and love between chaps. 12 and 14 of this letter, Paul threw down a “slam dunk” of substance and meaning to the Corinthian Church. He captured their attention!”
The Love Chapter has been around for a couple thousand years. It does a Masterful job of explaining how tough love sacrifices, putting others’ needs first. Since these words were penned, nations have come and gone; some day we will be gone as well. But this love lasts. Thankfully, we have been honored to live out this self-sacrificing love and pass it to the next generation. Flowers and chocolates can’t hold a candle to that.
Join Us in Prayer
Our Father in Heaven, we thank you for demonstrating what real love is. Help us to understand the real meaning of love and help us to demonstrate that love to everyone around us. Amen!
–Contributed by Norman Conquest
Monday, March 21, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Our Response to the Word
This is one of my favorite scriptures in the Bible! It is a calming to my spirit when things feel like they are out of control. It reminds me that no matter what happens in my life, God has a plan for me. His plans will prosper me and not harm me. They are plans that give hope and a future, the King James Version speaks to “an expected end”.
Focus on the last few words….a hope and a future. As humans in our flesh, we always try to predict or set up our future. We rely on our education, our career, our title and other people to help us get to that great future we have planned in our mind. The problem with that approach is depending on ourselves or others to elevate us. Unless it is in God’s plan, eventually it will lead to disappointment.
I challenge you to trust God and be assured He has a plan for life, one to prosper you and not harm you to give you hope and a future.
Take comfort in knowing that the plans others have or even we have can never supersede the plan God has for you. Be Blessed!
Join Us in Prayer
Our Father in Heaven, We thank you for taking care of all our needs and our desires. Help us to never be anxious for our future or be disappointed when things don’t line up the way we think they should. Help us to trust in You with all our heart, mind and soul. Amen!
– Contributed by Pamela Bryant, SVP Supply Chain Services, BSWH
Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Our Response to the Word
This is one of my favorite scriptures in the Bible! It is a calming to my spirit when things feel like they are out of control. It reminds me that no matter what happens in my life, God has a plan for me. His plans will prosper me and not harm me. They are plans that give hope and a future, the King James Version speaks to “an expected end”.
Focus on the last few words….a hope and a future. As humans in our flesh, we always try to predict or set up our future. We rely on our education, our career, our title and other people to help us get to that great future we have planned in our mind. The problem with that approach is depending on ourselves or others to elevate us. Unless it is in God’s plan, eventually it will lead to disappointment.
I challenge you to trust God and be assured He has a plan for life, one to prosper you and not harm you to give you hope and a future.
Take comfort in knowing that the plans others have or even we have can never supersede the plan God has for you. Be Blessed!
Join Us in Prayer
Our Father in Heaven, We thank you for taking care of all our needs and our desires. Help us to never be anxious for our future or be disappointed when things don’t line up the way we think they should. Help us to trust in You with all our heart, mind and soul. Amen!
– Contributed by Pamela Bryant, SVP Supply Chain Services, BSWH
Wednesday, March 16, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
Matthew 16:24 – “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.”
Our Response to the Word
This story told by Missionary Paris Reidhead grabbed my heart. In 1732, two young Moravian men “sold out to God” were called to minister to slaves in the Caribbean islands. But evil slave owners would not allow missionaries anywhere near them. So, the brave young men sold themselves as slaves – to preach the gospel.
They planned to go to the small island where three thousand slaves had never heard the name of Jesus. They knew not what the future held, but it didn’t matter. The young men only knew…their Lord is worthy. Theirs was a mission of winning souls. Conviction was deeply embedded inside them and there was no turning back.
The families were on the harbor that cold, dark day to see them off. It was almost a funeral service. Siblings clung to their brothers in desperation, unwilling to let them go. Mother’s hearts were broken. Fathers were stoic and quiet – with large lumps in their throats. The parents knew their sons would never return, for this was not a temporary assignment. They questioned, ‘Did God really require the very lives of their sons for His service? Was there no easier way?’ While pride burst inside for this dedication to the Lord, they also held feared and grieved.
The boys themselves were apprehensive and sad, but very sure of their calling. They were prepared to give their lives if necessary. Without a tear shed, they boarded the ship waving and smiling. Their hearts were lightened; the peace of God flooded in. They both knew this was God’s will for them, beyond a shadow of a doubt.
As the ship took sail, they waved furiously to their loved ones. It was recorded that one shouted across the ocean as the ship made her way: “May the Lamb that was slain…receive the reward of His suffering!”
Jesus Christ said: “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” (Matthew 16:25) These young men lost their lives with their families only to find their true life in Christ. This is the ultimate expression of truly following Christ, no matter the consequences. It made me wonder: ‘what I am doing for the reward of His suffering? What are we all doing?’
Join Us in Prayer
Lord, give us a renewed passion for You. Give us a hunger for the lost. We ask that You bring revival to this nation…in Jesus’ sweet name we pray. Amen!
–Contributed by Julia May, Informatics Spec II, Supply Chain Informatics, BSWH
Matthew 16:24 – “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.”
Our Response to the Word
This story told by Missionary Paris Reidhead grabbed my heart. In 1732, two young Moravian men “sold out to God” were called to minister to slaves in the Caribbean islands. But evil slave owners would not allow missionaries anywhere near them. So, the brave young men sold themselves as slaves – to preach the gospel.
They planned to go to the small island where three thousand slaves had never heard the name of Jesus. They knew not what the future held, but it didn’t matter. The young men only knew…their Lord is worthy. Theirs was a mission of winning souls. Conviction was deeply embedded inside them and there was no turning back.
The families were on the harbor that cold, dark day to see them off. It was almost a funeral service. Siblings clung to their brothers in desperation, unwilling to let them go. Mother’s hearts were broken. Fathers were stoic and quiet – with large lumps in their throats. The parents knew their sons would never return, for this was not a temporary assignment. They questioned, ‘Did God really require the very lives of their sons for His service? Was there no easier way?’ While pride burst inside for this dedication to the Lord, they also held feared and grieved.
The boys themselves were apprehensive and sad, but very sure of their calling. They were prepared to give their lives if necessary. Without a tear shed, they boarded the ship waving and smiling. Their hearts were lightened; the peace of God flooded in. They both knew this was God’s will for them, beyond a shadow of a doubt.
As the ship took sail, they waved furiously to their loved ones. It was recorded that one shouted across the ocean as the ship made her way: “May the Lamb that was slain…receive the reward of His suffering!”
Jesus Christ said: “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” (Matthew 16:25) These young men lost their lives with their families only to find their true life in Christ. This is the ultimate expression of truly following Christ, no matter the consequences. It made me wonder: ‘what I am doing for the reward of His suffering? What are we all doing?’
Join Us in Prayer
Lord, give us a renewed passion for You. Give us a hunger for the lost. We ask that You bring revival to this nation…in Jesus’ sweet name we pray. Amen!
–Contributed by Julia May, Informatics Spec II, Supply Chain Informatics, BSWH
Wednesday, March 16, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
Matthew 16:24 – “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.”
Our Response to the Word
This story told by Missionary Paris Reidhead grabbed my heart. In 1732, two young Moravian men “sold out to God” were called to minister to slaves in the Caribbean islands. But evil slave owners would not allow missionaries anywhere near them. So, the brave young men sold themselves as slaves – to preach the gospel.
They planned to go to the small island where three thousand slaves had never heard the name of Jesus. They knew not what the future held, but it didn’t matter. The young men only knew…their Lord is worthy. Theirs was a mission of winning souls. Conviction was deeply embedded inside them and there was no turning back.
The families were on the harbor that cold, dark day to see them off. It was almost a funeral service. Siblings clung to their brothers in desperation, unwilling to let them go. Mother’s hearts were broken. Fathers were stoic and quiet – with large lumps in their throats. The parents knew their sons would never return, for this was not a temporary assignment. They questioned, ‘Did God really require the very lives of their sons for His service? Was there no easier way?’ While pride burst inside for this dedication to the Lord, they also held feared and grieved.
The boys themselves were apprehensive and sad, but very sure of their calling. They were prepared to give their lives if necessary. Without a tear shed, they boarded the ship waving and smiling. Their hearts were lightened; the peace of God flooded in. They both knew this was God’s will for them, beyond a shadow of a doubt.
As the ship took sail, they waved furiously to their loved ones. It was recorded that one shouted across the ocean as the ship made her way: “May the Lamb that was slain…receive the reward of His suffering!”
Jesus Christ said: “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” (Matthew 16:25) These young men lost their lives with their families only to find their true life in Christ. This is the ultimate expression of truly following Christ, no matter the consequences. It made me wonder: ‘what I am doing for the reward of His suffering? What are we all doing?’
Join Us in Prayer
Lord, give us a renewed passion for You. Give us a hunger for the lost. We ask that You bring revival to this nation…in Jesus’ sweet name we pray. Amen!
–Contributed by Julia May, Informatics Spec II, Supply Chain Informatics, BSWH
Matthew 16:24 – “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.”
Our Response to the Word
This story told by Missionary Paris Reidhead grabbed my heart. In 1732, two young Moravian men “sold out to God” were called to minister to slaves in the Caribbean islands. But evil slave owners would not allow missionaries anywhere near them. So, the brave young men sold themselves as slaves – to preach the gospel.
They planned to go to the small island where three thousand slaves had never heard the name of Jesus. They knew not what the future held, but it didn’t matter. The young men only knew…their Lord is worthy. Theirs was a mission of winning souls. Conviction was deeply embedded inside them and there was no turning back.
The families were on the harbor that cold, dark day to see them off. It was almost a funeral service. Siblings clung to their brothers in desperation, unwilling to let them go. Mother’s hearts were broken. Fathers were stoic and quiet – with large lumps in their throats. The parents knew their sons would never return, for this was not a temporary assignment. They questioned, ‘Did God really require the very lives of their sons for His service? Was there no easier way?’ While pride burst inside for this dedication to the Lord, they also held feared and grieved.
The boys themselves were apprehensive and sad, but very sure of their calling. They were prepared to give their lives if necessary. Without a tear shed, they boarded the ship waving and smiling. Their hearts were lightened; the peace of God flooded in. They both knew this was God’s will for them, beyond a shadow of a doubt.
As the ship took sail, they waved furiously to their loved ones. It was recorded that one shouted across the ocean as the ship made her way: “May the Lamb that was slain…receive the reward of His suffering!”
Jesus Christ said: “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” (Matthew 16:25) These young men lost their lives with their families only to find their true life in Christ. This is the ultimate expression of truly following Christ, no matter the consequences. It made me wonder: ‘what I am doing for the reward of His suffering? What are we all doing?’
Join Us in Prayer
Lord, give us a renewed passion for You. Give us a hunger for the lost. We ask that You bring revival to this nation…in Jesus’ sweet name we pray. Amen!
–Contributed by Julia May, Informatics Spec II, Supply Chain Informatics, BSWH
Monday, March 14, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
Matthew 12:34b- “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”
Our Response to the Word
At the most recent meeting of our Community Group (small group from our church), we were discussing what shapes our world views. Most of us mentioned our family lives as children and how we were raised as being a large part of how our world view was initially shaped. Some shared about how they had come to be saved and how that had confirmed or changed their world views.
I shared a quote from the poem Ulysses that says “I am part of all that I have met”. He is saying that everything that he has encountered has in some way shaped who he is. I asked if that was true.
I then mentioned Matthew 12:34 and suggested that many things can have some impact on our lives, but the things that we pursue or seek are usually what most influence us. What we fill our hearts with – our desires, goals and ambitions – define us and our world views.
Our Men’s group has been studying discipleship. If we are disciples (from the Latin word meaning students) of God, we are putting our focus on Him. If He is the desire of our hearts, what our mouths speak will reflect that. If we allow other things to have priority above Him, our words will echo that as well.
Join Us in Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us keep our focus on You. Draw us that we always desire to know You more. Let the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable to You. We ask this in Jesus name. Amen!
– Contributed by Carson Harrod, Ph.D. Asst Investigator, BRI
Matthew 12:34b- “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”
Our Response to the Word
At the most recent meeting of our Community Group (small group from our church), we were discussing what shapes our world views. Most of us mentioned our family lives as children and how we were raised as being a large part of how our world view was initially shaped. Some shared about how they had come to be saved and how that had confirmed or changed their world views.
I shared a quote from the poem Ulysses that says “I am part of all that I have met”. He is saying that everything that he has encountered has in some way shaped who he is. I asked if that was true.
I then mentioned Matthew 12:34 and suggested that many things can have some impact on our lives, but the things that we pursue or seek are usually what most influence us. What we fill our hearts with – our desires, goals and ambitions – define us and our world views.
Our Men’s group has been studying discipleship. If we are disciples (from the Latin word meaning students) of God, we are putting our focus on Him. If He is the desire of our hearts, what our mouths speak will reflect that. If we allow other things to have priority above Him, our words will echo that as well.
Join Us in Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us keep our focus on You. Draw us that we always desire to know You more. Let the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable to You. We ask this in Jesus name. Amen!
– Contributed by Carson Harrod, Ph.D. Asst Investigator, BRI
Friday, March 11, 2016
Scripture Speaks to us
II Corinthians 5:20 – “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us…”
Our Response to the Word
Most of us have bucket lists. You’ve possibly developed a mental list of “want to’s” before your time on earth is done. They might involve thrill seeking adventures or trips to famous places. Well, I have a confession to make as it relates to my bucket list, that is to attend an Iowa Caucus. Go ahead and throw the nerd flag on me. Guilty as charged. But there’s something so purely Americana about it that I’m drawn to its quirkiness. But amidst all our political efforts, I can accurately predict one thing about our next President’s term.
Our moral trajectory won’t improve because of whom we elect. There are multiple causes one can get fired up for this election year – economic, social, defense, issues of integrity. Each cause has multiple candidates saying he or she will take us back to the promised land. But here’s the deal. THEY WON’T. Now one can point to the increasing influence of so-called “evangelicals” in politics, yet we see the decline in the church and social values over the last three decades. So how is that working out for us?
The good news is none of this comes as a surprise to our Creator. If you look at Jesus, he spoke plenty about how we as believers are to wrestle with this tricky tug of war between politics and religion. First, Jesus spoke of small things, like a mustard seed or a yeast, that eventually grow into bigger things. Phillip Yancey in “The Jesus I Never Knew” states that awakenings in the last two thousand years didn’t come from believers relying on politicians or shouting louder than the “other side” to share the Gospel message. Rather, awakenings come from a groundswell of Christ followers acting out their faith in simple yet beautiful ways, every day.
Finally, to use another political term, I’m reminded that we are all “ambassadors” here on earth. In Second Corinthians (or Two Corinthians as some candidates may say), Paul reminds us that God makes his appeal to the world through Christians. As we pass through this temporary world, may we live out our faith through action in a way that people take notice and want to go to our place of permanent residence. I confess sometimes trying to get “comfortable” in this world as if it is my final resting place, which thankfully it is not.
I pray that we would all be informed, get involved and vote our conscience. Biblically, we are to follow those in authority so long as it doesn’t call us to do something that conflicts with God’s Word. Just don’t expect our political system to bring an awakening — only the Church can do. And, most importantly, pray for our leaders. Nationally or locally, Democrat or Republican, we can and should pray for them.
Join Us In Prayer
Our Heavenly Father enable to live out our faith such that others may be drawn to You. Help us to be Your reflections on this Earth. Amen!
– Contributed by Scott Peek, President, Baylor Medical Ctr McKinney
II Corinthians 5:20 – “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us…”
Our Response to the Word
Most of us have bucket lists. You’ve possibly developed a mental list of “want to’s” before your time on earth is done. They might involve thrill seeking adventures or trips to famous places. Well, I have a confession to make as it relates to my bucket list, that is to attend an Iowa Caucus. Go ahead and throw the nerd flag on me. Guilty as charged. But there’s something so purely Americana about it that I’m drawn to its quirkiness. But amidst all our political efforts, I can accurately predict one thing about our next President’s term.
Our moral trajectory won’t improve because of whom we elect. There are multiple causes one can get fired up for this election year – economic, social, defense, issues of integrity. Each cause has multiple candidates saying he or she will take us back to the promised land. But here’s the deal. THEY WON’T. Now one can point to the increasing influence of so-called “evangelicals” in politics, yet we see the decline in the church and social values over the last three decades. So how is that working out for us?
The good news is none of this comes as a surprise to our Creator. If you look at Jesus, he spoke plenty about how we as believers are to wrestle with this tricky tug of war between politics and religion. First, Jesus spoke of small things, like a mustard seed or a yeast, that eventually grow into bigger things. Phillip Yancey in “The Jesus I Never Knew” states that awakenings in the last two thousand years didn’t come from believers relying on politicians or shouting louder than the “other side” to share the Gospel message. Rather, awakenings come from a groundswell of Christ followers acting out their faith in simple yet beautiful ways, every day.
Finally, to use another political term, I’m reminded that we are all “ambassadors” here on earth. In Second Corinthians (or Two Corinthians as some candidates may say), Paul reminds us that God makes his appeal to the world through Christians. As we pass through this temporary world, may we live out our faith through action in a way that people take notice and want to go to our place of permanent residence. I confess sometimes trying to get “comfortable” in this world as if it is my final resting place, which thankfully it is not.
I pray that we would all be informed, get involved and vote our conscience. Biblically, we are to follow those in authority so long as it doesn’t call us to do something that conflicts with God’s Word. Just don’t expect our political system to bring an awakening — only the Church can do. And, most importantly, pray for our leaders. Nationally or locally, Democrat or Republican, we can and should pray for them.
Join Us In Prayer
Our Heavenly Father enable to live out our faith such that others may be drawn to You. Help us to be Your reflections on this Earth. Amen!
– Contributed by Scott Peek, President, Baylor Medical Ctr McKinney
Wednesday, March 9, 2016
Scripture Speaks to us
1 Thessalonians 5: 16-17 – “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Our Response to the Word
One of the many blessings I have of working at BHVH is to collect prayer requests from the Pilgrim Chapel and to lift them up to the Lord. Here are some minimally edited samples that reflect the verse above:
“For the health, happiness, contentment, of my family. May we always be close.”
“My son had a trauma injury. God is doing amazing things with and for him. Please pray to renew his mind and health in Jesus name.” “That I be blessed with a job, house, car and education…be a godly woman and forsake all men but my husband. That I get to go home to my kids soon. And even though things are going bad that I still smile and thank God. Amen!”
“Pray that my wife come to know Christ. That my son turn to follow Christ.”
”Help him find his way. And wash the pain away.”
“My dad has lived through five heart procedures, but has yet to give his heart to the Great Physician. Please pray for him to be saved.”
“Please pray for my nephew. He attempted suicide yesterday.”
“Me and my husband. We are going through some tuff times. Bless you.”
And finally………….
“Bless my daughter in intensive care, Lord, remove the allergic reaction and seizures from her body. Bless her dialysis and get her little body to the point that she can walk out of this hospital. Thank you Lord for this blessing. Dad”
Join Us In Prayer
Our Heavenly Father, we pray that You help us become stronger in our faith so that we are quick to come into Your presence-in joy and in sorrow. Help us to spread that hope to others as well. Amen!
– Contributed by Chaplain Don Ryan, Baylor Heart and Vascular Health
1 Thessalonians 5: 16-17 – “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Our Response to the Word
One of the many blessings I have of working at BHVH is to collect prayer requests from the Pilgrim Chapel and to lift them up to the Lord. Here are some minimally edited samples that reflect the verse above:
“For the health, happiness, contentment, of my family. May we always be close.”
“My son had a trauma injury. God is doing amazing things with and for him. Please pray to renew his mind and health in Jesus name.” “That I be blessed with a job, house, car and education…be a godly woman and forsake all men but my husband. That I get to go home to my kids soon. And even though things are going bad that I still smile and thank God. Amen!”
“Pray that my wife come to know Christ. That my son turn to follow Christ.”
”Help him find his way. And wash the pain away.”
“My dad has lived through five heart procedures, but has yet to give his heart to the Great Physician. Please pray for him to be saved.”
“Please pray for my nephew. He attempted suicide yesterday.”
“Me and my husband. We are going through some tuff times. Bless you.”
And finally………….
“Bless my daughter in intensive care, Lord, remove the allergic reaction and seizures from her body. Bless her dialysis and get her little body to the point that she can walk out of this hospital. Thank you Lord for this blessing. Dad”
Join Us In Prayer
Our Heavenly Father, we pray that You help us become stronger in our faith so that we are quick to come into Your presence-in joy and in sorrow. Help us to spread that hope to others as well. Amen!
– Contributed by Chaplain Don Ryan, Baylor Heart and Vascular Health
Monday, March 7, 2016
Scripture Speaks to us
Matthew 16: 15-16- But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
Our Response to the Word
Son of Man, Son of God
Jesus asks, “What are the people saying about who the Son of Man is?” The disciples tell him a range of opinions…from Elijah, John the Baptist, to Jeremiah and other prophets. He asks again, “Who do you say I am?” And Simon Peter answers, “You are the Christ, the Messiah, the Son of the Living God.” What a revelation! And Jesus, in turn, tells Peter who he REALLY was, “You are Peter, a rock. This is the rock on which I will put together my church, a church so energized that not even the gates of hell will be able to keep it out. WOW!
And that’s not all, Jesus goes on to tell him that Peter will have the keys to the kingdom, complete access to God’s kingdom with no barriers between heaven and earth. And with that, he made them promise they would not tell anyone that He was the Messiah. Because Peter knew and believed, these things were his.
Powerful information exchange in that short span of time, eh? Are you ready for Jesus to tell YOU who YOU really are? Jesus conquered death and this world for us; he expects great things from us because of His indwelling Spirit. He laid it out for Peter. When we come to see Jesus as the Son of Man, the Son of God, the Messiah, we will also hold the keys to the kingdom where no barriers exist.
The truth of who Jesus is can transform us. And who we are in Christ Jesus will transform the world. Are we ready to answer the question Jesus poses?
Join Us In Prayer
Dear Son of God, Messiah of us all, we stand before you with the question before us…….Who are you? Who are you to others? Who are you to me? My answer will determine my journey. Lord, be ever with me as I venture forth making my claim that you are the one and only Son of God. Help me honor my inheritance on earth and serve with a heart of Love to bring the kingdom to others. In your most holy name, Amen!
– Contributed by Judy Cash, CNO BIR
Matthew 16: 15-16- But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
Our Response to the Word
Son of Man, Son of God
Jesus asks, “What are the people saying about who the Son of Man is?” The disciples tell him a range of opinions…from Elijah, John the Baptist, to Jeremiah and other prophets. He asks again, “Who do you say I am?” And Simon Peter answers, “You are the Christ, the Messiah, the Son of the Living God.” What a revelation! And Jesus, in turn, tells Peter who he REALLY was, “You are Peter, a rock. This is the rock on which I will put together my church, a church so energized that not even the gates of hell will be able to keep it out. WOW!
And that’s not all, Jesus goes on to tell him that Peter will have the keys to the kingdom, complete access to God’s kingdom with no barriers between heaven and earth. And with that, he made them promise they would not tell anyone that He was the Messiah. Because Peter knew and believed, these things were his.
Powerful information exchange in that short span of time, eh? Are you ready for Jesus to tell YOU who YOU really are? Jesus conquered death and this world for us; he expects great things from us because of His indwelling Spirit. He laid it out for Peter. When we come to see Jesus as the Son of Man, the Son of God, the Messiah, we will also hold the keys to the kingdom where no barriers exist.
The truth of who Jesus is can transform us. And who we are in Christ Jesus will transform the world. Are we ready to answer the question Jesus poses?
Join Us In Prayer
Dear Son of God, Messiah of us all, we stand before you with the question before us…….Who are you? Who are you to others? Who are you to me? My answer will determine my journey. Lord, be ever with me as I venture forth making my claim that you are the one and only Son of God. Help me honor my inheritance on earth and serve with a heart of Love to bring the kingdom to others. In your most holy name, Amen!
– Contributed by Judy Cash, CNO BIR
Monday, February 29, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
Jude 21 – “Keep yourselves in the love of God…” and Philippians 2:14 – “In everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing.”
Our Response to the Word
The Lord showed me something early one morning on my way to work at 4:30. The stop-up was a long steady stream of lights that went for miles…not able to go forward…not able to be productive…only able to sit and wait. “What’s the hold up?” “I need to get going and do what I am designed to do…paid to do!” I can’t be late for work!!” “Ahh!”
Think about this: Is there a blockade keeping you from going forward in any area of your life? I was seeing a parable before my eyes and I felt the working of the Holy Spirit within me. I was seeing an example of my “blindness”…up until now. At first, I didn’t think much about it but as it kept going on and on for miles it caught my attention.
I then begin to question myself, “Is there anything in my life that is keeping me from going forward?” “Is there anything that is keeping God from flowing through me and in the lives of others around me? “Is there something that was stopping the flow of God’s blessings in my life?”
Frustrations, offenses, inadequacies, fear, anger … and the list goes on and on. These are the sneaky culprits that build up blockades to stop the God’s blessings from flowing through us. And WE are responsible to remove these blockades! Some blockades kept me from moving forward and kept God from doing what He wanted to do in that area. Now, He is giving me instructions…a parable…an example in what to do about it. Now that’s exciting!!
Thankfully, God shows us how to keep things moving right along…an “Adventure in Faith”. One which we can learn and share. It starts with a decision and the commitment to go forward in God.
Life is truly worth living when we are not stagnate and sitting by the wayside. It’s time to go forward and become the person that we are designed to be. Make the quality decision and get in the flow! Get moving! Feel the excitement of the flow…the movement…the joy of freedom!
Join Us In Prayer
Father, Reveal to us areas that are closed and stopped up in our lives. Forgive us Lord and teach us to always stay in Your Love so that we keep the avenues open for You to flow to us and through us to others. In Jesus Name, Amen!
– Contributed by Jennifer Deloach, Access Svc Representative, Baylor All Saints Medical Ctr
Jude 21 – “Keep yourselves in the love of God…” and Philippians 2:14 – “In everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing.”
Our Response to the Word
The Lord showed me something early one morning on my way to work at 4:30. The stop-up was a long steady stream of lights that went for miles…not able to go forward…not able to be productive…only able to sit and wait. “What’s the hold up?” “I need to get going and do what I am designed to do…paid to do!” I can’t be late for work!!” “Ahh!”
Think about this: Is there a blockade keeping you from going forward in any area of your life? I was seeing a parable before my eyes and I felt the working of the Holy Spirit within me. I was seeing an example of my “blindness”…up until now. At first, I didn’t think much about it but as it kept going on and on for miles it caught my attention.
I then begin to question myself, “Is there anything in my life that is keeping me from going forward?” “Is there anything that is keeping God from flowing through me and in the lives of others around me? “Is there something that was stopping the flow of God’s blessings in my life?”
Frustrations, offenses, inadequacies, fear, anger … and the list goes on and on. These are the sneaky culprits that build up blockades to stop the God’s blessings from flowing through us. And WE are responsible to remove these blockades! Some blockades kept me from moving forward and kept God from doing what He wanted to do in that area. Now, He is giving me instructions…a parable…an example in what to do about it. Now that’s exciting!!
Thankfully, God shows us how to keep things moving right along…an “Adventure in Faith”. One which we can learn and share. It starts with a decision and the commitment to go forward in God.
Life is truly worth living when we are not stagnate and sitting by the wayside. It’s time to go forward and become the person that we are designed to be. Make the quality decision and get in the flow! Get moving! Feel the excitement of the flow…the movement…the joy of freedom!
Join Us In Prayer
Father, Reveal to us areas that are closed and stopped up in our lives. Forgive us Lord and teach us to always stay in Your Love so that we keep the avenues open for You to flow to us and through us to others. In Jesus Name, Amen!
– Contributed by Jennifer Deloach, Access Svc Representative, Baylor All Saints Medical Ctr
Friday, February 26, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
1 Corinthians 16:13– “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong”. Joshua 1:6- “Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them”.
Our Response to the Word
Several years ago, I spent a wonderful evening with a group of teenagers at the Lincoln Memorial on the Washington Mall during our youth choir trip.
The weather was perfect. I was excited to show them Honest Abe lit up at night. And before we left, I made sure to find the marker. A few steps from the top, there’s a brass plate in the stone that marks the spot where Martin Luther King Jr. stood to deliver the “I Have a Dream” speech.
A 13-year-old girl looked up at me and said a little unbelievingly, “That happened here?” And then with wider eyes, “Martin Luther King stood here?” Some took pictures of the marker. Some took pictures from the marker. One asked if she could borrow my phone to call her mom to tell her where she was.
Many of the heroes we idolize come from childhood, before we’re too jaded and world-weary to believe in heroes anymore. But we should recognize that our heroes are normal people with massive goals.
We should realize that Lincoln and Washington and King were people with the courage to go all in, to hone their talent and ability, to pursue the dream and the message and the vision and the purpose God had given them, with single-minded devotion, without fear of opposition or rejection or failure.
That’s what heroism is. Heroes are ordinary people who choose to do extraordinary things, who find both the momentary and sustained courage to rise above their limitations. When we recognize that our heroes are just like us, we remember that we can be heroes, too.
Join Us In Prayer
Our Heavenly Father, help us to follow the path You have laid down for us. Help us to emulate You in everything we do. Amen!
– Adapted from an article by Rev. Matt Sapp of Georgia
1 Corinthians 16:13– “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong”. Joshua 1:6- “Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them”.
Our Response to the Word
Several years ago, I spent a wonderful evening with a group of teenagers at the Lincoln Memorial on the Washington Mall during our youth choir trip.
The weather was perfect. I was excited to show them Honest Abe lit up at night. And before we left, I made sure to find the marker. A few steps from the top, there’s a brass plate in the stone that marks the spot where Martin Luther King Jr. stood to deliver the “I Have a Dream” speech.
A 13-year-old girl looked up at me and said a little unbelievingly, “That happened here?” And then with wider eyes, “Martin Luther King stood here?” Some took pictures of the marker. Some took pictures from the marker. One asked if she could borrow my phone to call her mom to tell her where she was.
Many of the heroes we idolize come from childhood, before we’re too jaded and world-weary to believe in heroes anymore. But we should recognize that our heroes are normal people with massive goals.
We should realize that Lincoln and Washington and King were people with the courage to go all in, to hone their talent and ability, to pursue the dream and the message and the vision and the purpose God had given them, with single-minded devotion, without fear of opposition or rejection or failure.
That’s what heroism is. Heroes are ordinary people who choose to do extraordinary things, who find both the momentary and sustained courage to rise above their limitations. When we recognize that our heroes are just like us, we remember that we can be heroes, too.
Join Us In Prayer
Our Heavenly Father, help us to follow the path You have laid down for us. Help us to emulate You in everything we do. Amen!
– Adapted from an article by Rev. Matt Sapp of Georgia
Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
Matthew 8:18, 23-24– When Jesus saw the crowd around him, he gave orders to cross to the other side of the lake. Then a teacher of the law came to him and said, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” Jesus replied, “Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” Another disciple said to him, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.” But Jesus told him, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead.”…………..”
Our Response to the Word
Honoring Our Limitations!
Jesus connected with people spiritually, emotionally and physically. Over the past several days he healed the leper, the Centurion’s servant, Peter’s mother-in-law. After noting these who were healed, Matthew simply notes that Jesus healed/delivered many.
He was surrounded by the many tasks that needed attention. But he deliberately pulled himself away. It is quite probable to assume that Jesus was exhausted, physically drained as “power went out of Him.” (Mark5:30) The preaching and the continual needs of the crowd would add to His fatigue. He determined He needed rest and in order for that rest to be realized it would require a separation for a time away from the responsibilities that were His.
Our Lord makes a deliberate move to break away from the tasks at hand. He commands his disciples to get into the boat so that they might go to the other side. Wearied from the day’s work, we find Jesus sound asleep in the boat, in middle of the storm.
Perhaps there is something for us here. We are surrounded by responsibilities, needs etc. … it is not so much taking a vacation from the tasks at hand, but in the middle of those responsibilities, carving out time for rest. Jesus was aware of His human physical limitations and honored them. He made a deliberate decision to rest, and He was willing to leave the “rowing” to others.
Join Us In Prayer
God grant us the awareness of our own limitations; help us to see them as opportunities for rest, reflection and growth. Amen!
– Contributed by Chaplain Earl Murdoch, Baylor Medical Center At McKinney
Matthew 8:18, 23-24– When Jesus saw the crowd around him, he gave orders to cross to the other side of the lake. Then a teacher of the law came to him and said, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” Jesus replied, “Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” Another disciple said to him, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.” But Jesus told him, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead.”…………..”
Our Response to the Word
Honoring Our Limitations!
Jesus connected with people spiritually, emotionally and physically. Over the past several days he healed the leper, the Centurion’s servant, Peter’s mother-in-law. After noting these who were healed, Matthew simply notes that Jesus healed/delivered many.
He was surrounded by the many tasks that needed attention. But he deliberately pulled himself away. It is quite probable to assume that Jesus was exhausted, physically drained as “power went out of Him.” (Mark5:30) The preaching and the continual needs of the crowd would add to His fatigue. He determined He needed rest and in order for that rest to be realized it would require a separation for a time away from the responsibilities that were His.
Our Lord makes a deliberate move to break away from the tasks at hand. He commands his disciples to get into the boat so that they might go to the other side. Wearied from the day’s work, we find Jesus sound asleep in the boat, in middle of the storm.
Perhaps there is something for us here. We are surrounded by responsibilities, needs etc. … it is not so much taking a vacation from the tasks at hand, but in the middle of those responsibilities, carving out time for rest. Jesus was aware of His human physical limitations and honored them. He made a deliberate decision to rest, and He was willing to leave the “rowing” to others.
Join Us In Prayer
God grant us the awareness of our own limitations; help us to see them as opportunities for rest, reflection and growth. Amen!
– Contributed by Chaplain Earl Murdoch, Baylor Medical Center At McKinney
Monday, February 22, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
Exodus 7:14-16 – “Then the LORD said to Moses, “Pharaoh’s heart is unyielding; he refuses to let the people go. Go to Pharaoh in the morning as he goes out to the river. Confront him on the bank of the Nile, and take in your hand the staff that was changed into a snake. Then say to him, ‘The LORD, the God of the Hebrews, has sent me to say to you: Let my people go, so that they may worship me in the wilderness. But until now you have not listened.”
Our Response to the Word
In this text, the people of God were in oppression and slavery by Pharoah (a hard taskmaster). God told
Moses to warn Pharoah of the consequences if he didn’t let the people of God go to worship.
Moses was instructed to visit Pharoah at a specific place. He was then to stand next to him and speak the words that God had commanded. Wow! When I think about the events in this chapter it affirms how greatly God wants to use us and how precious true worship must be in the eyes of God.
Moses was past 80 years old, yet God used him to approach the world’s most powerful man; to warn him concerning his treatment toward God’s people. Have you ever really thought about that?
Now consider all of the oppression, cruelty, and abuse that are happening in our society. I believe God wants to use us in like manner (as Moses). Many of us are gracefully positioned amongst the powerful, rich, and famous; yet many of them have no personal relationship with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Moses’ continued obedience to God resulted in the release of a massive amount of people who had been oppressed for years. I want to encourage you to be courageous and keep an open heart to receive the assignment that God has for your life. The task may seem a bit intimidating, but be assured that God has all things working in your favor. The service is definitely worth the sacrifice!
After all, all souls are precious in God’s eyes.
Join us in Prayer
Our Heavenly Father, we pray that we pay heed to Your call for our lives. Help us to be ready to serve You anytime and anywhere. Use us for Your Kingdom. Amen!
– Contributed by Trenia Warren, Supply Chain Services- Buyer II, Baylor Scott & White Health
Exodus 7:14-16 – “Then the LORD said to Moses, “Pharaoh’s heart is unyielding; he refuses to let the people go. Go to Pharaoh in the morning as he goes out to the river. Confront him on the bank of the Nile, and take in your hand the staff that was changed into a snake. Then say to him, ‘The LORD, the God of the Hebrews, has sent me to say to you: Let my people go, so that they may worship me in the wilderness. But until now you have not listened.”
Our Response to the Word
In this text, the people of God were in oppression and slavery by Pharoah (a hard taskmaster). God told
Moses to warn Pharoah of the consequences if he didn’t let the people of God go to worship.
Moses was instructed to visit Pharoah at a specific place. He was then to stand next to him and speak the words that God had commanded. Wow! When I think about the events in this chapter it affirms how greatly God wants to use us and how precious true worship must be in the eyes of God.
Moses was past 80 years old, yet God used him to approach the world’s most powerful man; to warn him concerning his treatment toward God’s people. Have you ever really thought about that?
Now consider all of the oppression, cruelty, and abuse that are happening in our society. I believe God wants to use us in like manner (as Moses). Many of us are gracefully positioned amongst the powerful, rich, and famous; yet many of them have no personal relationship with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Moses’ continued obedience to God resulted in the release of a massive amount of people who had been oppressed for years. I want to encourage you to be courageous and keep an open heart to receive the assignment that God has for your life. The task may seem a bit intimidating, but be assured that God has all things working in your favor. The service is definitely worth the sacrifice!
After all, all souls are precious in God’s eyes.
Join us in Prayer
Our Heavenly Father, we pray that we pay heed to Your call for our lives. Help us to be ready to serve You anytime and anywhere. Use us for Your Kingdom. Amen!
– Contributed by Trenia Warren, Supply Chain Services- Buyer II, Baylor Scott & White Health
Friday, February 19, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
Matthew 5:1-12- Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them………..”
Our Response to the Word
The Message’s version of the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12) bears a moment of your time today. Let your heart soak up this modern message. Know that you are blessed beyond measure in all situations.
When you are at the end of your rope, you are blessed. With less of you, there is more of God. When you feel you have lost what is most dear to you, you are blessed because then you will feel the embrace of the One truly most dear to you.
When you’re content with just who you are- no more, no less, you are blessed because that’s the moment you find yourself the proud owner of everything that can’t be bought. When you have worked up a good appetite for God, you are blessed because He is the food and drink of the best meal you will ever eat.
When you care, you are blessed. When you are at that moment of care-FULLNESS, you find yourself fully cared for. When you can show people how to cooperate instead of competing or fighting, you are blessed because that’s when you find out whose you really are, and your place in God’s family.
When your commitment to God provokes persecution, you are blessed because the persecution drives you deeper into God’s kingdom.
Every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me, count yourself blessed because it means the truth is too close for their comfort and they are uncomfortable. Be glad when this happens; you are in good company.
Join us in Prayer
Dear Father of my blessings, thank you for all the blessings in my life. When things aren’t going to way I would like, help me see You, working for my good. When I feel loss, help me see and feel the blessings of your presence. Help me bring to this day a full heart of caring with peace in my words and actions and the knowledge that you are always with me. Through Christ, Amen!
– Contributed by Judy Cash, CNO, BIR
Matthew 5:1-12- Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them………..”
Our Response to the Word
The Message’s version of the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12) bears a moment of your time today. Let your heart soak up this modern message. Know that you are blessed beyond measure in all situations.
When you are at the end of your rope, you are blessed. With less of you, there is more of God. When you feel you have lost what is most dear to you, you are blessed because then you will feel the embrace of the One truly most dear to you.
When you’re content with just who you are- no more, no less, you are blessed because that’s the moment you find yourself the proud owner of everything that can’t be bought. When you have worked up a good appetite for God, you are blessed because He is the food and drink of the best meal you will ever eat.
When you care, you are blessed. When you are at that moment of care-FULLNESS, you find yourself fully cared for. When you can show people how to cooperate instead of competing or fighting, you are blessed because that’s when you find out whose you really are, and your place in God’s family.
When your commitment to God provokes persecution, you are blessed because the persecution drives you deeper into God’s kingdom.
Every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me, count yourself blessed because it means the truth is too close for their comfort and they are uncomfortable. Be glad when this happens; you are in good company.
Join us in Prayer
Dear Father of my blessings, thank you for all the blessings in my life. When things aren’t going to way I would like, help me see You, working for my good. When I feel loss, help me see and feel the blessings of your presence. Help me bring to this day a full heart of caring with peace in my words and actions and the knowledge that you are always with me. Through Christ, Amen!
– Contributed by Judy Cash, CNO, BIR
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
Matthew 5: 11-12- “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you”.
Our Response to the Word
What do you do when stress escalates, becoming distress? When anxiety goes up, our functioning often goes down, reverting to more primitive and less developed thoughts and actions. Regression explains why otherwise sophisticated and rational Christ-followers seem to trade in their understandings of God. Sadly, some Christ-followers appear ready to trade in Jesus for the “Warrior God.”
In early history, survival of the fittest was the rule. Our ancestors tended to extremes when it came to demonstrating fitness for survival, especially regarding violence. Into this context, the Hebrew people received guidance from God that introduced fairness. “An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth,” literally. This retribution rule was far more compassionate than previous practices.
But then the bar was raised again. The advent of the Prince of Peace occurs. This Prince rules with love, believing self-sacrificing love has the power to actually transform the world. “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, do not resist the evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also” (Matthew 5:38-41).
Jesus actually models how to live with love as one’s guiding principle, demonstrating the spiritual poverty of those who oppress and violently rule others. Christians around the world know these things, favoring Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) as a pinnacle of his teaching.
Yet, when anxiety rises, our tendency is to flee, abandoning the Prince of Peace and his teachings. We might “go primitive,” preferring the Warrior God over God’s son, Jesus Christ.
Evidently, it takes a mature faith to stay with Jesus when stress escalates and regression calls. May we rise to the occasion in this new year, guided by the power of love modeled and taught by our life teacher, Jesus the Christ.
Join us in Prayer
Our Heavenly Father, we pray that you help us stay firm in our faith in tough times. Help us to be rooted in Your values even when it seems easy to abandon and follow our own ways. Keep us strong and calm through turbulent times. Amen!
– Adapted from our guest contributor, Mark Tidsworth of Pinnacle Leadership
Matthew 5: 11-12- “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you”.
Our Response to the Word
What do you do when stress escalates, becoming distress? When anxiety goes up, our functioning often goes down, reverting to more primitive and less developed thoughts and actions. Regression explains why otherwise sophisticated and rational Christ-followers seem to trade in their understandings of God. Sadly, some Christ-followers appear ready to trade in Jesus for the “Warrior God.”
In early history, survival of the fittest was the rule. Our ancestors tended to extremes when it came to demonstrating fitness for survival, especially regarding violence. Into this context, the Hebrew people received guidance from God that introduced fairness. “An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth,” literally. This retribution rule was far more compassionate than previous practices.
But then the bar was raised again. The advent of the Prince of Peace occurs. This Prince rules with love, believing self-sacrificing love has the power to actually transform the world. “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, do not resist the evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also” (Matthew 5:38-41).
Jesus actually models how to live with love as one’s guiding principle, demonstrating the spiritual poverty of those who oppress and violently rule others. Christians around the world know these things, favoring Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) as a pinnacle of his teaching.
Yet, when anxiety rises, our tendency is to flee, abandoning the Prince of Peace and his teachings. We might “go primitive,” preferring the Warrior God over God’s son, Jesus Christ.
Evidently, it takes a mature faith to stay with Jesus when stress escalates and regression calls. May we rise to the occasion in this new year, guided by the power of love modeled and taught by our life teacher, Jesus the Christ.
Join us in Prayer
Our Heavenly Father, we pray that you help us stay firm in our faith in tough times. Help us to be rooted in Your values even when it seems easy to abandon and follow our own ways. Keep us strong and calm through turbulent times. Amen!
– Adapted from our guest contributor, Mark Tidsworth of Pinnacle Leadership
Monday, February 15, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
Exodus 3: 4-5- When the Lord saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, “Moses! Moses!” And Moses said, “Here I am.” “Do not come any closer,” God said. “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.”
Our Response to the Word
Moses is one of the most famous names in the Old Testament. Depending on one’s exposure to Moses growing up, he is either a man of significant religious influence, meaning and inspiration or maybe he’s just the guy that Charlton Heston played in a TV movie that we all tried to get our grandparents to turn the station from because something better was on.
In early chapters of Exodus, we see the life of Moses before he encountered the Lord. He was born in a time when all newborn Hebrew boys were ordered to be killed. This reminds us the world we live in is very broken because of our sinful nature. Moses was placed in a basket in the Nile River as in infant and escaped Pharaoh’s death sentence. This reminds us that God intervenes, often in ways we don’t see or recognize at the time, because his plan of redemption is perfect. And when Moses had great anger over how his people were treated, he killed another man. This reminds us of the sinful nature of man, even the most revered Biblical figures.
Then comes the burning bush. On a day which was probably a normal work day for Moses, God interrupted in a wonderful way and changed the path of the Israelites. Interestingly, Moses’s reaction when hearing how God was calling him was more or less, “you must have the wrong number God, certainly there are more qualified people”. I don’t know about you, but I certainly have felt this inadequacy before in my life, whether it come in a work setting, relationships or ministry opportunities. While seeking wise counsel or reading up on an issue is not a bad thing, the reality is: If God is on our side, we have all the support we need. It may not always be easy, but God will use normal people to achieve great things eternally.
For me, the struggle is to always be prepared to hear the call of God, which may come in a whisper. Days may feel like they run together and we may not be called to great things every day, but it is important to position our hearts, minds and souls to be able to hear God, even if our response is timid or reluctant at first. The busyness of work, kids, and life in general is one of Satan’s easiest tools to use against us. I hope this year, believers can expectantly wait for God’s call and then boldly follow.
Join us in Prayer
Our Heavenly Father, Show us where You want us to go and what You want us to do. Forgive us for all those times when we have followed our own ways in spite of Your call. Give us the strength to follow You. Amen!
– Contributed by Scott Peek, President, BSWH McKinney
Exodus 3: 4-5- When the Lord saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, “Moses! Moses!” And Moses said, “Here I am.” “Do not come any closer,” God said. “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.”
Our Response to the Word
Moses is one of the most famous names in the Old Testament. Depending on one’s exposure to Moses growing up, he is either a man of significant religious influence, meaning and inspiration or maybe he’s just the guy that Charlton Heston played in a TV movie that we all tried to get our grandparents to turn the station from because something better was on.
In early chapters of Exodus, we see the life of Moses before he encountered the Lord. He was born in a time when all newborn Hebrew boys were ordered to be killed. This reminds us the world we live in is very broken because of our sinful nature. Moses was placed in a basket in the Nile River as in infant and escaped Pharaoh’s death sentence. This reminds us that God intervenes, often in ways we don’t see or recognize at the time, because his plan of redemption is perfect. And when Moses had great anger over how his people were treated, he killed another man. This reminds us of the sinful nature of man, even the most revered Biblical figures.
Then comes the burning bush. On a day which was probably a normal work day for Moses, God interrupted in a wonderful way and changed the path of the Israelites. Interestingly, Moses’s reaction when hearing how God was calling him was more or less, “you must have the wrong number God, certainly there are more qualified people”. I don’t know about you, but I certainly have felt this inadequacy before in my life, whether it come in a work setting, relationships or ministry opportunities. While seeking wise counsel or reading up on an issue is not a bad thing, the reality is: If God is on our side, we have all the support we need. It may not always be easy, but God will use normal people to achieve great things eternally.
For me, the struggle is to always be prepared to hear the call of God, which may come in a whisper. Days may feel like they run together and we may not be called to great things every day, but it is important to position our hearts, minds and souls to be able to hear God, even if our response is timid or reluctant at first. The busyness of work, kids, and life in general is one of Satan’s easiest tools to use against us. I hope this year, believers can expectantly wait for God’s call and then boldly follow.
Join us in Prayer
Our Heavenly Father, Show us where You want us to go and what You want us to do. Forgive us for all those times when we have followed our own ways in spite of Your call. Give us the strength to follow You. Amen!
– Contributed by Scott Peek, President, BSWH McKinney
Friday, February 12, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
Genesis 22; 7-8 -“Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, “Father?” “Yes, my son?” Abraham replied. “The fire and wood are here,” Isaac said, “but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?” Abraham answered, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And the two of them went on together”.
Our Response to the Word
Sherry, our oldest daughter, had already been in ICU for over a month. We were exhausted , her doctors were perplexed, and we were facing what no parent ever would want to consider! Her condition was not improving; in fact her body seemed to be rejecting every effort to make her better.
As David and I searched for answers from who we thought was a “loving God”, the despair was almost more that we could bear. As I read My Daily Bread for that day, the scripture was Genesis 22. I thought I might have sensed a fraction of what Abraham felt as he tied his boy to the alter in order to give him up to the Lord! I couldn’t believe that was what our loving Lord wanted us to do! How are we supposed to do this? How in God’s holy name are we supposed to throw up our hands and let her go??
But as we both read the scripture together, we did just that! We made a pact together to be willing to let her go if that was what He wanted. Now I’m not trying to compare my own situation with any Bible hero, but I do believe that He uses those examples to make His will clear to us. So as we made our baby a “DNR”, we felt that it was God’s turn to make the next move. And He did! As in Abraham’s case, He intervened!
I’m not “good” enough for God’s mercy as none of us are worthy, but I am claiming His grace on me , my family, and so very specially on my Sherry! His mercy covered her that day. Shortly afterwards, she began to improve. Now almost 20 years later, she is a vibrant example of what God can do!
Trust in Him today and in His mercy and grace for you and those you love. He will not abandon you …….EVER!
Join us in Prayer
Gracious Father, thank You for Your mercy and grace that covers all of our sin and all of our afflictions. Thank You for holding our hand and guiding us through often very difficult periods of life! In Jesus’ Name, Amen!
– Contributed by Sally Ramirez, RN, Recovery Room, BSWH Garland
Genesis 22; 7-8 -“Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, “Father?” “Yes, my son?” Abraham replied. “The fire and wood are here,” Isaac said, “but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?” Abraham answered, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And the two of them went on together”.
Our Response to the Word
Sherry, our oldest daughter, had already been in ICU for over a month. We were exhausted , her doctors were perplexed, and we were facing what no parent ever would want to consider! Her condition was not improving; in fact her body seemed to be rejecting every effort to make her better.
As David and I searched for answers from who we thought was a “loving God”, the despair was almost more that we could bear. As I read My Daily Bread for that day, the scripture was Genesis 22. I thought I might have sensed a fraction of what Abraham felt as he tied his boy to the alter in order to give him up to the Lord! I couldn’t believe that was what our loving Lord wanted us to do! How are we supposed to do this? How in God’s holy name are we supposed to throw up our hands and let her go??
But as we both read the scripture together, we did just that! We made a pact together to be willing to let her go if that was what He wanted. Now I’m not trying to compare my own situation with any Bible hero, but I do believe that He uses those examples to make His will clear to us. So as we made our baby a “DNR”, we felt that it was God’s turn to make the next move. And He did! As in Abraham’s case, He intervened!
I’m not “good” enough for God’s mercy as none of us are worthy, but I am claiming His grace on me , my family, and so very specially on my Sherry! His mercy covered her that day. Shortly afterwards, she began to improve. Now almost 20 years later, she is a vibrant example of what God can do!
Trust in Him today and in His mercy and grace for you and those you love. He will not abandon you …….EVER!
Join us in Prayer
Gracious Father, thank You for Your mercy and grace that covers all of our sin and all of our afflictions. Thank You for holding our hand and guiding us through often very difficult periods of life! In Jesus’ Name, Amen!
– Contributed by Sally Ramirez, RN, Recovery Room, BSWH Garland
Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
Genesis 8:22: “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease”.
Our Response to the Word
In today’s world, we do not like to be kept waiting. Any question can be answered in the blink of an eye with a few clicks on our phones. I have thought that for many the concept of seedtime and harvest means no more than ordering a meal at the box and then pulling around to the window to get the food.
For such a busy, on-the-go culture, the idea of waiting for a ‘harvest’ has become foreign. Even as Christians, we sometimes want God to move on our timetable to answer our prayers and desires. Yet, all the way back to the time of Noah, God said that seed time and harvest would not cease as long as the earth remains. He says that seasons will come and go and day will continue to follow night. That still holds true in 2016 because God is faithful to keep His word.
It can sometimes be a challenge to wait on God’s promises when the seasons do come and go and we are still waiting. “I really hoped that it would happen in 2015…”. But God is not slow in keeping His promises (2 Peter 3:9) even when we might think that He is.
If you are trustfully waiting on God, having planted a seed and waiting for a harvest, be encouraged in 2016! Isaiah 40:31 is one of the first verses that I learned as a child. It says, “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint.”
While we are waiting and continuing to trust God, He is also working faithfulness in us. Not only does a seed that we planted have to grow to fruition in His perfect timing, but we will be growing as well when we rely and wait on God. Trust God in 2016, through the cold and the heat, through the winter and summer, both day and night. He is always faithful.
Join Us in Prayer
Father, give us the strength to trust you in all things. Help us to wait on Your will and Your timing for everything in our lives. In Jesus name we ask, Amen!
– Contributed by Carson Harrod, Asst Investigator, BRI
Genesis 8:22: “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease”.
Our Response to the Word
In today’s world, we do not like to be kept waiting. Any question can be answered in the blink of an eye with a few clicks on our phones. I have thought that for many the concept of seedtime and harvest means no more than ordering a meal at the box and then pulling around to the window to get the food.
For such a busy, on-the-go culture, the idea of waiting for a ‘harvest’ has become foreign. Even as Christians, we sometimes want God to move on our timetable to answer our prayers and desires. Yet, all the way back to the time of Noah, God said that seed time and harvest would not cease as long as the earth remains. He says that seasons will come and go and day will continue to follow night. That still holds true in 2016 because God is faithful to keep His word.
It can sometimes be a challenge to wait on God’s promises when the seasons do come and go and we are still waiting. “I really hoped that it would happen in 2015…”. But God is not slow in keeping His promises (2 Peter 3:9) even when we might think that He is.
If you are trustfully waiting on God, having planted a seed and waiting for a harvest, be encouraged in 2016! Isaiah 40:31 is one of the first verses that I learned as a child. It says, “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint.”
While we are waiting and continuing to trust God, He is also working faithfulness in us. Not only does a seed that we planted have to grow to fruition in His perfect timing, but we will be growing as well when we rely and wait on God. Trust God in 2016, through the cold and the heat, through the winter and summer, both day and night. He is always faithful.
Join Us in Prayer
Father, give us the strength to trust you in all things. Help us to wait on Your will and Your timing for everything in our lives. In Jesus name we ask, Amen!
– Contributed by Carson Harrod, Asst Investigator, BRI
Monday, February 8, 2016
Scripture Speaks to Us
Genesis 13: 14-15– “The Lord said to Abram after Lot had parted from him, “Look around from where you are, to the north and south, to the east and west. All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring[a] forever”.
Our Response to the Word
Abrams’ Gift
The condensed version of Chapter 13 tells us of Abram leaving Egypt at God’s direction with his whole family (including Lot) and arriving to the area known as Negev. Abram, in his wisdom knew that he and Lot should live apart from each other and offered Lot first choice of where he wished to settle in this new land. Lot chose the plain of Jordan and Abram took the less lush land.
Following the divvying up of land with Lot, God told Abram to raise his eyes and look to the north, south, east, and west as far as he could see with the Divine promise that it would be forever his and his offspring’s. And this is where I’d like us to pause and consider this great gift to a man who was still known as Abram, not Abraham. God told Abram to rise up, walk through the length and breadth of the land, and come to know it as his.
We have been given a greater gift in Jesus Christ for all eternity. In this New Year, why don’t we open our Bibles and read through the ‘length and breadth of God’s Word and discover the great gifts awaiting us? We are all called out of the desert into the Promised Land, but we do have to walk away from some things and “walk into” new thoughts, new actions, and a renewed awareness of where God the Father, Jesus, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are in our lives. If not today, when?
Join Us in Prayer
Giver of eternal gifts, Thank you for the gift of Jesus Christ that holds the power to lead us out of the deserts we so often create in our souls. Give us the strength for the journey you already have prepared for us and the faith to follow you. Help us walk the length and breadth of your Word and be your beloved children. Through Christ, Amen!
– Contributed by Judy S. Cash, Chief Nursing Officer
Baylor Institute of Rehabilitation- Northwest
Genesis 13: 14-15– “The Lord said to Abram after Lot had parted from him, “Look around from where you are, to the north and south, to the east and west. All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring[a] forever”.
Our Response to the Word
Abrams’ Gift
The condensed version of Chapter 13 tells us of Abram leaving Egypt at God’s direction with his whole family (including Lot) and arriving to the area known as Negev. Abram, in his wisdom knew that he and Lot should live apart from each other and offered Lot first choice of where he wished to settle in this new land. Lot chose the plain of Jordan and Abram took the less lush land.
Following the divvying up of land with Lot, God told Abram to raise his eyes and look to the north, south, east, and west as far as he could see with the Divine promise that it would be forever his and his offspring’s. And this is where I’d like us to pause and consider this great gift to a man who was still known as Abram, not Abraham. God told Abram to rise up, walk through the length and breadth of the land, and come to know it as his.
We have been given a greater gift in Jesus Christ for all eternity. In this New Year, why don’t we open our Bibles and read through the ‘length and breadth of God’s Word and discover the great gifts awaiting us? We are all called out of the desert into the Promised Land, but we do have to walk away from some things and “walk into” new thoughts, new actions, and a renewed awareness of where God the Father, Jesus, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are in our lives. If not today, when?
Join Us in Prayer
Giver of eternal gifts, Thank you for the gift of Jesus Christ that holds the power to lead us out of the deserts we so often create in our souls. Give us the strength for the journey you already have prepared for us and the faith to follow you. Help us walk the length and breadth of your Word and be your beloved children. Through Christ, Amen!
– Contributed by Judy S. Cash, Chief Nursing Officer
Baylor Institute of Rehabilitation- Northwest