by Pauline Simonsen
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
[God] is my witness how constantly I remember you in my prayers at all times (Romans 1:9b).
Read Romans 1:1–15
How do you introduce yourself to a group of people you’ve never met?
The Apostle Paul is writing to the Christians of Rome – people he has never met before. He didn’t plant the church in Rome – in fact, it’s unlikely any apostle had visited Rome by this time. The house churches there grew up organically, with immigrant Christians (perhaps from that first Pentecost in Jerusalem), local slaves and diaspora Jews. It was a melting pot of people groups, like the city of Rome itself.
Paul had a long-held desire to come to the believers in Rome. Rome was the centre of the world, the capital of the Roman Empire – a great, cosmopolitan city. All roads led to Rome! Paul sees the huge strategic potential for spreading the gospel throughout the Roman Empire from the crossroads of Rome. And now, finally, the way may be opening for him to go there.
But first, he must introduce himself and his teaching to the Christians of Rome by letter. He must present his credentials. Paul opens by stating his name and identifying his patrons whose authority he carries. He is Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to proclaim the gospel of God. This ‘gospel of God’ is the good news about Jesus, long prophesied in the Hebrew Scriptures, a descendant of David in his human nature, and the Son of God in his divine nature, revealed in his resurrection from the dead.
These are Paul’s heavyweight patrons: God and his Son, Jesus Christ! They have called Paul and graced him to, in turn, ‘call people from among all the Gentiles’ to faith in this Jesus. That’s Paul’s job, and now he’s coming to Rome to ‘have a harvest’ there too. Nothing like declaring your intentions upfront!
I am impressed and chastened by Paul’s fervent desire to bring Jesus to the people of Rome –people he hasn’t met yet! See how his ardour burns fiercely for them: ‘God, whom I serve with my whole heart in preaching the gospel of his Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you in my prayers at all times’ (Romans 1:9). I wish I had a fraction of that ardour.
And then I remember: I have Paul’s heavyweight patrons too! The same God who called, sent and empowered the Apostle Paul calls, sends and empowers me. And you!
God, stir up our ardour for those who don’t yet know you. Fill us with passion for the good news of Jesus! Use us to bring your harvest home! Amen.
Pauline lives in sight of the ranges in the beautiful Manawatu region of New Zealand with her husband, Roger, and two cats. She leads a small Bible College there and offers spiritual direction and supervision to people from a wide range of backgrounds and denominations.
by Pauline Simsonsen
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
If you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Heavenly Father give …! (Luke 11:13)
Read Luke 11:1–13
The disciples are watching and listening to Jesus pray. And when Jesus finishes, one of them says, ‘Lord, teach us to pray.’
Now the disciples were good (mostly) Jewish boys: they probably prayed the great Shema, the 18 Benedictions, and the Kaddish three times daily, as good Jews did. They spoke to God in their prayers, using Psalms as their prayer book. However, there was something special about Jesus’ praying that was new and different for them. And they wanted it.
Jewish people never addressed God so personally – they never used God’s personal name, YHWH. They didn’t think of God as Father – yet this is consistently how Jesus talks to God: Abba, Father, Dad. Today in Middle Eastern streets, you can hear children calling out to their abba. It speaks of love and intimacy, of childlike dependence. This is the relationship that the disciples perceive in Jesus’ prayers, and they wonder at it and yearn for it.
So, Jesus gives them his prayer. Their Lord’s prayer. He reworks and simplifies the Jewish prayers to honour their traditions. But Jesus’ prayer reveals God as a loving Father who delights in giving good gifts to his children! This Abba God will care for his children and provide them with all they need: daily bread, forgiveness, deliverance from temptation and evil. Indeed, he will give his own Holy Spirit to those who ask him! Paul reminds us, ‘You received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children’ (Romans 8:15,16).
Jesus came to reveal the heart of God, which is that of an extravagantly loving, grace-abounding father (think of the prodigal son’s return!). Jesus shows the deep love and intimacy between him, as the Son, and God, his Father. Then, he invites his disciples into that intimate relationship, too.
And Jesus calls to us, his disciples now, and beckons us forward into the intimacy and love of this family of God. ‘Become a little child again,’ he says, ‘wholly depending on and trusting in your Heavenly Father. Come boldly and persistently, like little children do – leaping into Papa’s lap and badgering him to grant their request! Come, knowing that your Heavenly Abba loves to receive you and care for you.’
When you pray, say, ‘Abba …’
Lord Jesus, teach us to pray like you did! Please lead us to know our Heavenly Father as he wants to be known. Abba God, draw us to you and grow in us childlike trust in your goodness and love. Bless you, Abba.
Pauline lives in sight of the ranges in the beautiful Manawatu region of New Zealand with her husband, Roger, and two cats. She leads a small Bible College there and offers spiritual direction and supervision to people from a wide range of backgrounds and denominations.
by Greg Fowler
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age (Matthew 28:20b).
Read Matthew 28:11–20
A few years back, a Year 12 student spoke to me about tattoos. She told me that she wanted to get a tattoo on her arm, and she needed my help. I said she should discuss it with her parents, not me. To my surprise, she told me that her parents were thrilled with her idea, and they would also be grateful for my help. She asked me to translate the final words of Matthew 28 into Hebrew, and this is what she wanted on the inside of her forearm. The tattoo would look cool, and it would be a constant reminder to her that Jesus is with her always, to the end of the age. She also hoped people would ask her about the tattoo so that she could be a witness to God’s love. I couldn’t think of a better reason for a tattoo.
I often want things that don’t add much value to my life. Like many of us, I can get sucked into the latest ‘big thing’ or devote my time to things that aren’t helpful or useful for real rest. Buying a new car or bike, starting a new hobby, getting into that fantastic new show on Netflix, or allowing sport to take up too much of my time is easy for me to do. With the pressure of work and the complexities of relationships, I naturally drift toward distractions. We all do. And in and of themselves, distractions are not bad. It is my heart that usually needs a readjustment.
While I am chasing the latest distraction, Jesus stands ready to be more powerfully present with me than I could imagine. I think I need one of those tattoos, so I can be reminded every day that Jesus has given me his word that he will be with me always, until the end of the age.
Maybe if I see that, I will look to him for satisfaction and true rest. What more could I want than the maker of heaven and Earth to partner with me in his mission? What more could I want than his promise of deep rest that recharges my soul? I could not wish for anything more than his grace. May his last words to the disciples be encouragement to us all.
Dear Jesus, we hear your promise to be with us always. Help us to live our lives believing that promise. Give us your Spirit and grace, which renew us and hold us close to you. Amen.
Pastor Greg lives in beautiful Redland Bay with his wife, Connie, where they enjoy the beaches, weather and outdoor lifestyle of south Brisbane. He serves as the college pastor at Faith Lutheran College, Redlands.
by Greg Fowler
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it (Matthew 28:2).
Read Matthew 28:1–10
There have been a few times in my life when I have felt hemmed in with no place to go; I was out of options. It’s uncomfortable and depressing when it seems like there are obstacles in our lives that are blocking our paths. When our family was young, I had a job that paid well but it was unsatisfying and meant working long hours. I wanted to spend more time with my family, but I would have to put our financial security at risk if I did. It seemed I was stuck.
Jesus is the one who removes barriers in our lives. In all areas. Jesus came to Earth so that he could join us in our lives, and he wants to be involved in everything: spiritually, emotionally and financially. He wants all of us, not just a section we have compartmentalised. He wants to show his power in our entire lives. His resurrection demonstrates that.
I love the Scripture that tells of how the angel moved the stone. It wasn’t for Jesus’ benefit – he had already risen – it was for ours. God the Father sent his messenger to proclaim Jesus to the soldiers, to the witnesses and to us as hearers of the story. The message was word and deed. He is risen. He cannot be hemmed in. He has power over death and life. And the invitation to us all is simple: as he has broken free, he offers a relationship that will allow us to break free. What good news!
I chose to trust that Jesus wanted me to break free. I prayed and asked Jesus to show me the way. I asked others to pray for me and with me. Soon after, I received a job offer that allowed me more time with the family and more time for our church community. Jesus broke me out. He asks us all to look to the tomb when we feel we need to break free from something in our lives. See the stone and the angel and hear his promises.
Dear Jesus, as you showed your authority over all life and death through your resurrection, be with us in our struggles. As the stone was moved, we pray that you move obstacles that get in the way of living in the freedom you give. Amen.
Pastor Greg lives in beautiful Redland Bay with his wife, Connie, where they enjoy the beaches, weather and outdoor lifestyle of south Brisbane. He serves as the college pastor at Faith Lutheran College, Redlands.
by Greg Fowler
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb (Matthew 27:61).
Read Matthew 27:55–66
My father was diagnosed with cancer when he was just 69. He was an important part of my family’s life, and in his retirement he spent lots of time with my kids. When I got the phone call that my dad had died, I experienced many levels of grief. Of course, I would miss his company, but it hurt to see my children miss out on him as well. It hurt to see my mum be completely disoriented and never fully recover. I didn’t know what to do or say.
I took solace from the two Marys at Jesus’ tomb. They, too, felt grief on many levels: for themselves, for their community, and for all those whose lives would be changed by his touch. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary just sat together. They stayed with each other. When there were no words, they knew that just being there was enough.
I was blessed with several people who came and stayed with me when my dad died. They didn’t offer wise and comforting words, and I didn’t ask. ‘Just stay with me’ was all I said. Amazingly, things became clearer, and grief was replaced with love and blessings from those whom God has given to me as time went by. As Mary saw the risen Christ and her grief was transformed into hope, so I saw my children, my mum and my pain transformed by the blessings God provides.
In times of grief, the best gift we can give is to simply ask, ‘Can I stay with you?’ We don’t need fancy words or remarkable deeds. Just being there is healing. Listening to God’s word is healing. Seeing how God fills our lives with blessings is healing. Praise God for his love and his willingness to stay with us.
Lord, thank you for always staying with us. Prompt us to stay with one another as the two Marys at the tomb stayed with each other. Please help us to stay with those who need your presence. Amen.
Pastor Greg lives in beautiful Redland Bay with his wife, Connie, where they enjoy the beaches, weather and outdoor lifestyle of south Brisbane. He serves as the college pastor at Faith Lutheran College, Redlands.
by Greg Fowler
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, ‘Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?’ which means ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’ (Matthew 27:46).
Read Matthew 27:45–54
Who hasn’t felt abandoned at times? The most terrifying time of abandonment for me was when I went to hospital to have my tonsils removed when I was a child. Back then, parents were not allowed to stay with their children in the ward outside of visiting hours. When I was in my hospital gown and laughing with my mum, the operation and the environment didn’t matter. But when my mum was forced to leave me, I was distressed. I was powerless and alone, and I had no idea when it would end. Being powerless and alone is traumatic for everyone.
Jesus knows complete abandonment. On the cross, when the burden of all sin fell on him, Jesus was separated from the Father, and he had literally no-one in heaven or on Earth with him. He understands our loneliness more deeply than even we could, and he enters it willingly for us. In Jesus’ abandonment, he brought together all things that had been separated. He is the cure for loneliness.
Jesus’ cry on the cross guarantees that we don’t ever have to be separated from God. His work means that God’s presence is always available. Jesus’ cry is also an example to us in dealing with loneliness. It’s okay to cry out. It’s okay to tell those who are close to us that we feel alone. It’s okay to ask those we love for help. It’s okay to ask God directly to help. We can be confident that he will respond directly and through others.
Lord, be with us when we are lonely. Help us speak honestly with those around us when we feel we are being left out. Please send us your Spirit and be at work in our lives and relationships. Amen.
Pastor Greg lives in beautiful Redland Bay with his wife, Connie, where they enjoy the beaches, weather and outdoor lifestyle of south Brisbane. He serves as the college pastor at Faith Lutheran College, Redlands.
by Greg Fowler
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots. And sitting down, they kept watch over him there (Matthew 27:35,36).
Read Matthew 27:32–44
Every time I read or hear the account of Jesus’ crucifixion, I am deeply moved, and I get emotional. The words ‘it was my sin that held him there’ (from ‘How Deep the Father’s Love’) instantly swirl around in my mind as I recognise that Jesus went willingly to the cross for me. Sometimes, I am so overcome that I can’t see anything else in the text. But like all Scripture, the passion narratives are rich spiritual nourishment.
When our children were younger, we would occasionally go as a family to Rosehill Racecourse in Sydney. The organisers had bands and children’s rides, as well as sprawling gardens to play in while we watched the beautiful horses parade and race. While we would discuss which horse might go well, we were not inclined to place a bet because gambling is a losing proposition, even if it is just for a few dollars.
In our reading, we are challenged when we hear that the soldiers gambled in the shadow of God himself. The soldiers gambled for fabric; we gamble with the important things in life. We choose busyness over prayer, comfort over compassion, and often cynicism over faith. The soldiers were blind to the true identity of Jesus while they watched him on the cross. We can live as though we are blind to Jesus’ identity while he is at work in our lives. May his grace grow in our lives.
Dear Lord, may we see that your love is always with us and cannot be lost. We thank you that life with you is not a gamble. Thank you for the certainty that you give us. Amen.
Pastor Greg lives in beautiful Redland Bay with his wife, Connie, where they enjoy the beaches, weather and outdoor lifestyle of south Brisbane. He serves as the college pastor at Faith Lutheran College, Redlands.
by Greg Fowler
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made (Luke 10:39,40a).
Read Luke 10:38–42
Many years ago, American singer-songwriter Bobby McFerrin enchanted us all with his song ‘Don’t worry, be happy’. Despite its relaxed and catchy tune, as a natural worrier, I was never comforted by this song. Whenever it came on the radio, I found myself talking back to no-one in particular with phrases like, ‘How can I just not worry?’ and ‘It’s all right for you, but you don’t have my worries.’
When I get overburdened, I tend to fill my days with activity and keep myself so busy that I haven’t got time to dwell on my worries. I know that I am not alone with this trait. So, Martha is like a kindred spirit to me. I understand it’s easier to ignore important relational, financial or spiritual issues than stop and deal with them head-on.
Jesus is well aware of our inclinations to cling to our worries while we occupy ourselves with tasks. He also knows how important it is for us to sit at his feet and allow him to deal with our anxieties. Only by hearing Jesus’ words and resting in his promises can we be relieved of those things that rob us of peace.
Jesus’ words are not ordinary words, and he calls us to hear them as extraordinary words that perform what they say. When we pray for God’s Spirit to prepare us and take time to treasure Jesus’ words, we find that our worries melt away. We allow our minds to be focused on God and his solutions rather than on the problems that worry us.
Dear Jesus, help us to be more Mary and less Martha. Be gentle with us as we learn to be still and trust that your words will give us peace. Lift our hearts as we sit at your feet. Amen.
Pastor Greg lives in beautiful Redland Bay with his wife, Connie, where they enjoy the beaches, weather and outdoor lifestyle of south Brisbane. He serves as the college pastor at Faith Lutheran College, Redlands.
by Emma Strelan
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand. Then they knelt in front of him and mocked him. ‘Hail, King of the Jews!’ they said (Matthew 27:28,29).
Read Matthew 27:24–31
I don’t know if it’s just the corner of the internet I hang out in, but I’ve noticed that online, no topic, event or person is off-limits from becoming the subject of mockery. Whether it’s a silly internet meme that does the rounds or a string of scathing comments on a Facebook post, people on the internet love to mock. I’m almost amazed by the creativity and effort that goes into mocking and making a joke out of things online.
I won’t lie and say I don’t appreciate a tasteful meme that pokes fun at serious issues every now and then. However, I think we can all agree that most of the time, the mockery goes too far, damaging people’s livelihoods and wellbeing.
In our past few days of devotions, we’ve seen Jesus challenged and mocked by a variety of people, from those who consider themselves his intellectual opponents/superiors to his closest friends, and now by these Roman soldiers. And they go to quite creative lengths in their mocking endeavours to bring out the irony of this man who claims to be a king, providing him with all the pomp and circumstance due a king, but in the most twisted and mocking ways they can think of.
As humans, we are gifted with wit, creativity and fun. But with that comes the temptation to turn these into tools for power plays, manipulation and a chance to prove ourselves intelligent and funny to others. A snide, witty comment posted about the latest public appearance of a politician may get a few laughing reactions on Facebook; however, it is a far cry from the purpose for which we’ve been given these skills.
As Charles Spurgeon observed, if only we were ‘half as inventive in devising honour for our King as these soldiers were in planning his dishonour!’
As we read with horror the mockery our Saviour faced on his way to the cross, may we find ways to let our own intelligence and creativity bring him glory and honour instead.
Lord, you know what it is like to be at the receiving end of human cruelty. Please guide us to seek better uses of the creativity you’ve given us than to put others down. Keep showing us how to live with radical compassion. Amen.
Emma Strelan works part-time as a content producer with Lutheran Media and part-time as a freelance videographer around Adelaide. You’ll often find her rummaging through op shops or dreaming of her next camping trip or outdoor adventure. She feels blessed that her current work combines two of her biggest passions – creative media and exploring faith – and hopes the projects she works on will have a positive impact on others.