Category: Daily Prayer

Our scripture this week is Matthew 25:1-13, taken today from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV).

“Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this. Ten bridesmaids took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. When the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the bridegroom was delayed, all of them became drowsy and slept. But at midnight there was a shout, ‘Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’ Then all those bridesmaids got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise replied, ‘No! there will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.’ And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him into the wedding banquet; and the door was shut. Later the other bridesmaids came also, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open to us.’ But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I do not know you.’ Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.

This parable is difficult in several ways, but one of the confusing points is this: why wouldn’t the wise bridesmaids share their oil with those who had none? This seems to go against what Jesus teaches about caring for one another. The problem is that Jesus isn’t talking about oil or any earthly commodity.

When we talk about sharing our faith, it means we tell our story, explaining our relationship with God and how He has worked in our lives. We offer others an invitation but it is up to them to accept God’s gift and live in faith. This is a personal responsibility, no one can do it for us.

The wise bridesmaids in the parable were those who were prepared, even though the wait was long. The foolish bridesmaids weren’t ready for the bridegroom’s arrival and were caught without what was needed. When Christ returns we must all be ready, and it is up to each of us individually to make the preparations in our lives.

Loving Lord, we hear Your promise to return for us. Help us to live in readiness, receiving the gift of faith and using it in our lives every day. Amen.

This week I’ll be including scripture from several different translations. Yesterday’s was from the New International Version (NIV), today’s from the Common English Bible (CEB). I usually read from a variety of bibles over the week, finding the somewhat different wording adds to my understanding of the lesson. However, I always find the same message no matter what words are used. God is constant and consistent and His word and His love are unchanging.

Our scripture this week is Matthew 25:1-13.

“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten young bridesmaids who took their lamps and went out to meet the groom. Now five of them were wise, and the other five were foolish. The foolish ones took their lamps but didn’t bring oil for them. But the wise ones took their lamps and also brought containers of oil. “When the groom was late in coming, they all became drowsy and went to sleep. But at midnight there was a cry, ‘Look, the groom! Come out to meet him.’ “Then all those bridesmaids got up and prepared their lamps. But the foolish bridesmaids said to the wise ones, ‘Give us some of your oil, because our lamps have gone out.’ “But the wise bridesmaids replied, ‘No, because if we share with you, there won’t be enough for our lamps and yours. We have a better idea. You go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’ But while they were gone to buy oil, the groom came. Those who were ready went with him into the wedding. Then the door was shut. “Later the other bridesmaids came and said, ‘Lord, lord, open the door for us.’ “But he replied, ‘I tell you the truth, I don’t know you.’ “Therefore, keep alert, because you don’t know the day or the hour.

Jesus teaches us about patience in this parable. We are not patient people by and large, tending to become frustrated when we aren’t able to get things done as we’d like. We always seem to be in a hurry, wanting everything to happen now!

Jesus says God’s kingdom doesn’t work like that and all our petty agitation at having to wait won’t change His plan. Instead of becoming angry, we should ask ourselves “What does God want me to learn in this time He has given?” I have a good friend who prays for people in the store while waiting in line. He uses the gift of waiting to calm himself and intercede for others.

If we look at these interruptions in our schedule as God’s blessing rather than impediments, we may develop a more patient attitude with ourselves and others. When you are delayed today, pause and ask God what He has to show you in that moment. You may find things you would have missed if you had just hurried on through your day.

Gracious God, help us to slow down and pay attention. Show us the benefit of spending time in prayer and enjoying the wonder of Your creation. Amen.

Our scripture this week is Matthew 25:1-13.

“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep. “At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’ “Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’ “‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’ “But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. “Later the others also came. ‘Lord, Lord,’ they said, ‘open the door for us!’ “But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I don’t know you.’ “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.

In this lesson Jesus teaches about being ready for the coming of the kingdom, using the illustration of a wedding party awaiting the arrival of the bridegroom. While this example may seem strange to us, it was the custom of that time and those who heard would understand. Waiting for the bridegroom to arrive was a sometimes boring duty, but the party would begin after that.

Jesus teaches us that we must wait patiently for His return as well and we will “not know the day or the hour” (v. 13). Why must it be a surprise? Why can’t Jesus tell us when it will be? Mark 13:32 says “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father“.

In Acts 1:7 He tells the disciples “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority”. God doesn’t have to explain Himself to anyone, even the Son and the angels, and certainly not to us. He wants us to be ready at any time, always keeping His commandments and sharing His love.

Wise and wonderful God, we are curious about many things and often seek to know that which is not meant for us. Help us to focus on what is most important – our connection to You and others through Your love. Amen.

Our scripture this week is Matthew 23:1-12.

Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them. They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. They love to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the synagogues, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all students. And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father–the one in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.

Jesus explains that those who seek power and position for themselves are not hearing God’s call. He’s not saying that leadership is bad, instead He teaches that leaders must be responsible to God and those whom they serve. This is a very foreign concept in a world ruled by monarchs and military force.

Jesus tells the people “All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted” (v. 12). This is a complete surprise to everyone, including His disciples. Later, He teaches “the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28). Jesus shows this servant leadership by washing their feet, a task normally performed by the lowest servant in the household.

Do we sometimes feel we are above the things Jesus calls us to do? We need to remember His love for all of us and His willingness to do whatever was necessary that we might be saved. We each have responsibilities to God and each other, and we must carry them out no matter how menial or thankless. Jesus did no less and He expects no less of us.

Loving Lord, sometimes it’s hard for us to accept our place and the things You ask of us. Help us to be humble servants of Your kingdom and Your children. Amen.

Our scripture this week is Matthew 23:1-12.

Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them. They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. They love to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the synagogues, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all students. And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father–the one in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.

Jesus teaches that we must be aware of the effects of our actions. He says the religious leaders “place heavy burdens on the shoulders of others” (v. 4) through their interpretation and enforcement of the Law. They are doing this intentionally, to keep their grip on power and their position.

Do we harm others unintentionally perhaps? Think about the things you say and do and how they might impact the lives of others. As we have discussed, the world is watching and our behavior as Christians can cause people to react positively or negatively.

We must consider our words and actions to reflect Christ’s truth and not seem like the Pharisees of the present. Sharing His love will help people understand the joy of a relationship with God and each other. Let us be the ones who help lift their burdens and bring them to Christ.

Gracious God, we hear the call to go into the world to share the Good News. Make us strong in faith to help others find the way to Your love. Amen.

Our scripture this week is Matthew 23:1-12.

Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them. They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. They love to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the synagogues, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all students. And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father–the one in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.

Jesus says we must all be students, no matter what our experience or position. Those who think they know everything become inflexible and intolerant of anything that might contradict their opinion. Jesus says there is no end to our learning and we must always be open to the truth God has for us.

This doesn’t just mean newly discovered things, often it is a reminder of very old things we may have forgotten. Jesus said “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them” (Matthew 5:17). He wants us to remember what God has promised from the very beginning.

Above all, God is constant and consistent. His love for us and His law are unchanging. He calls us to see and understand things which may seem new to us, but have always been part of His plan.

Loving Lord, we often close our minds to things we don’t want to deal with or things we don’t understand. Help us to learn the lessons You have for us and use them to show others Your love. Amen.

Our scripture this week is Matthew 23:1-12.

Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them. They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. They love to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the synagogues, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all students. And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father–the one in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.

Jesus teaches us to humble ourselves before God and others. By offering ourselves as servants we are able to reach out with His love to those in need and show them the joy of a connection with God. This is the blessing and the command to those who follow Jesus.

We are warned against pride that steals the meaning of our efforts, feeling that we have accomplished something when it is only due to God’s gifts. Jesus says of the Pharisees “they do all their deeds to be seen by others” (v. 5), a sad commentary on their motivation. It is done not to help others or to please God but only to increase their own standing in the community.

We need to understand that what the world thinks of us isn’t important. The world can’t save us! Only our repentance and acceptance of Christ’s pardon can bring us to eternal life.

Loving Lord, we are sorry when our pride overrides our love. Help us to be the humble servants You intend, serving You and each other. Amen.

Our scripture this week is Matthew 23:1-12.

Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them. They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. They love to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the synagogues, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all students. And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father–the one in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.

Jesus teaches us to be conscious of our behavior and its effect on others. When we act wrongly, two bad outcomes are possible. Those observing may think our actions are acceptable, or they may think “if this is how Christians act I want no part of it”.

Like it or not, we are being watched as followers of Jesus. Others form opinions about Christianity based on us. If they see our actions don’t match our words, we have failed as the Pharisees do in this lesson.

Jesus tells us to take up our cross and follow Him (Matthew 16:24). There is a cost to being a disciple and the world is watching. We know the Lord will be with us when we accept His forgiveness and share His love with everyone.

Gracious God, we are grateful for Your love and mercy. Help us to be living examples of the lessons Jesus taught, obeying Your will and sharing the Good News with the world.

Our scripture this week is Matthew 23:1-12.

Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them. They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. They love to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the synagogues, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all students. And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father–the one in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.

One of the lessons Jesus shares warns about having a double standard – especially one for ourselves and another for those around us. He holds up the Pharisees as an example of those who do this. We must strive to be fair in our treatment of each other and the expectations we have.

Jesus tells us that this group of leaders hold the people to a standard they do not follow themselves. While they require strict adherence to the smallest points of the law from the people, they feel free to ignore its application to them. They want respect and honor for their position but do nothing to deserve it.

Jesus teaches that we are all equal in the eyes of God and we must see each other in the same way. We must not let our feelings and opinions influence our treatment of people. Jesus shows us that we must be blind to people’s position or social standing, dealing with everyone in love as He does.

Gracious God, we often let our judgement of others hamper our relationship. Help us to see everyone through the eyes of love, knowing we are all Your children. Amen.

Our scripture this week is Matthew 23:1-12.

Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it; but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on the shoulders of others; but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them. They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. They love to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the synagogues, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all students. And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father–the one in heaven. Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.

After long debate with the religious leaders, Jesus addresses the crowd. He wants them to understand that while they should hear the teachings of the scribes and Pharisees, their example is not to be followed. They send a mixed message because their actions don’t match their words.

Sadly, we still see this in our society today. The advice to “practice what we preach” often goes unheeded. If we advocate a certain behavior from others, it must be something we are willing to do as well.

Jesus teaches us to be humble servants of God’s kingdom, obeying and teaching His way to all. Our faith must be one of belief and action, knowing and following God’s commandments. Only when our thoughts, words and behavior match His will we be truly His children.

Gracious God, we hear the lesson but it is hard for us to put it into practice. Help us resolve our disagreements and disobedience, to be energetic followers of Christ. Amen.