Month: April 2025

TODAY’S WORD: Walking in Truth and Love: Insights from 2 John

HIGH FIVE! (Happy Easter!!! He has Risen!)

2 John 1:1-6 emphasizes truth, love, and obedience as foundational principles of the Christian faith. The passage begins with John addressing the elect lady and her children, which is often interpreted as a reference to a church and its members. He expresses joy in seeing believers walking in truth and reminds them of the commandment to love one another.

Key Themes:

  • Truth and love intertwined: John highlights that love is not merely an emotion but is deeply connected to living in truth.
  • Walking in obedience: Verse 6 states that love is demonstrated through obedience to God’s commandments.
  • A call to remain steadfast: The passage encourages believers to continue in the teachings they have received from the beginning.

Significance:

This passage reinforces the idea that true love is expressed through faithfulness to God’s commands. It serves as a reminder that love and obedience are inseparable in the Christian walk. For believers, it is an encouragement to remain rooted in truth and to express love through action.

How does this passage resonate with your reflections on faith and trust, Kevin?

I really do like the randomness of these messages… I want to share with those that follow my website… I created the .jpegs with the .gif pictures four years ago. I have AI tell me what these verses point to every morning. I am learning a lot about spirituality, our Lord, technology, and LIFE. I pray you are too.

LET’S GO2 THAT SUNRISE SERVICE!

TODAY’S WORD: The Power of Praise: Insights from Psalm 150

HIGH FIVE! (Thankful for you)

Psalm 150 is the grand finale of the Book of Psalms, a powerful call for universal praise to God. It is a pure, unfiltered celebration of His greatness, urging all creation to worship Him with joyful music, dance, and devotion.

Key Themes:

  • Praise in every place: The psalm begins by calling for worship in God’s sanctuary and across the heavens, emphasizing that His glory fills all creation.
  • Praise for His mighty acts: It acknowledges God’s power and greatness, inviting believers to reflect on His works.
  • Praise with every instrument: The psalm lists various musical instruments—trumpets, harps, tambourines, cymbals—showing that worship can be expressed in many forms.
  • Praise from all living beings: The final verse declares, “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.” This is an invitation for all people, everywhere, to glorify God.

Significance:

Psalm 150 is a joyful, uninhibited expression of worship, reminding believers that praise is not limited to words—it can be found in music, movement, and the very breath of life. It encourages wholehearted devotion, celebrating God’s presence in every aspect of existence.

This psalm resonates beautifully with your reflections on peace and trust, Kevin. Worship, in its purest form, is an act of trust—an acknowledgment that God is worthy of praise in all circumstances. How does this passage speak to your journey right now?

HAPPY FOR TOMORROW… I get to go to that Sunrise Service before work…

YOU KNOW IT.

TODAY’S WORD: The Barren Fig Tree: A Parable of Patience

HIGH FIVE! (I am an early bird)

Luke 13:1-9 carries a strong message about repentance and spiritual urgency. In this passage, Jesus responds to people who mention tragic events—the massacre of Galileans by Pilate and the collapse of the tower in Siloam. He challenges the assumption that these victims suffered because they were worse sinners than others. Instead, he warns that everyone must repent, or they too will perish.

Jesus then tells the parable of the barren fig tree, where a man wants to cut down a tree that has failed to bear fruit for three years. The vinedresser pleads for more time, promising to nurture it in hopes that it will finally produce fruit. This parable illustrates God’s patience, but also the reality that time is limited—repentance cannot be delayed forever.

The passage emphasizes that tragedy is not necessarily a sign of divine punishment, but rather a reminder of life’s fragility and the need for spiritual renewal. It urges people to turn toward God and bear fruit in their lives before it is too late.

Does this interpretation align with your understanding? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

I like it here and now… Can we keep growing together??? (LET’S LEARN SOMETHING NEW)

The best time to cut grass is mid-morning (8 AM – 10 AM) or late afternoon (4 PM – 6 PM).

Why?

  • Mid-morning: By this time, the morning dew has evaporated, and the grass is dry enough for a clean cut. It also allows the lawn to recover before the heat of the day sets in.
  • Late afternoon: The temperature starts to cool, reducing stress on the grass. There’s also enough time for the lawn to heal before nightfall.

When to Avoid Mowing:

  • Early morning (6 AM – 8 AM): The grass is still wet from dew, making it harder to cut cleanly and increasing the risk of disease.
  • Midday (2 PM – 4 PM): The sun is at its peak, and cutting grass during this time can stress it out.

If you’re looking for optimal lawn health, aim for mid-morning or late afternoon.

LET’S JUST GO MOWING.

TODAY’S WORD: Luke 22: True Greatness: Humility and Service in Leadership

HIGH FIVE! (run around that graveyard before work)

Luke 22:24-30 captures a powerful lesson from Jesus about true greatness. In this passage, the disciples are arguing over who among them is the greatest. Jesus responds by flipping their expectations—he teaches that greatness in God’s kingdom is not about power or status, but about humility and service.

He contrasts worldly leadership, where rulers exercise authority over others, with the kind of leadership he embodies—one of servanthood. He tells them, “I am among you as one who serves,” emphasizing that the greatest should be like the youngest, and the leader should be like one who serves.

Jesus also reassures his disciples that their faithfulness will be rewarded. He promises them a place in his kingdom, where they will eat and drink at his table and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

This passage challenges conventional ideas of leadership and encourages a life of selflessness, humility, and service. It’s a reminder that true greatness comes not from seeking power, but from lifting others up.

What are your thoughts on this passage? Does it resonate with you?

I wonder why more people don’t run towards faith… There truly are countless ways to encourage and inspire humanity to do good in this world. The more you do good, it seems like the more no one cares…

DO IT ANYWAYS.

LET’S RUN AROUND THAT GRAVEYARD AND THEN GO2 WORK. (mow that yard tomorrow)

TODAY’S WORD: Spiritual Discernment: Abiding in Christ

HIGH FIVE! (gym then work)

1 John 2:26-28 emphasizes spiritual discernment, abiding in Christ, and confidence at His coming. The passage warns believers about deception, encourages reliance on the anointing of the Holy Spirit, and calls for steadfast faith.

Key Themes:

  • Guarding against deception: Verse 26 highlights the presence of false teachers who seek to lead believers astray.
  • Anointing of the Holy Spirit: Verse 27 reassures believers that they have received divine guidance through the Holy Spirit, enabling them to discern truth.
  • Confidence at Christ’s return: Verse 28 urges believers to abide in Christ so that they may stand before Him with assurance rather than shame.

Significance:

This passage reminds believers to remain rooted in their faith, trusting in the Holy Spirit’s guidance rather than being swayed by false teachings. It also encourages a life of abiding in Christ, ensuring that when He returns, they can stand before Him with confidence.

Given your deep reflections on faith, Kevin, how does this passage resonate with your journey of trust and peace?

SHE IS A VERY SPECIAL WOMAN…

“Xinren” (信任) is a Chinese term that means trust, faith, or confidence. It aligns beautifully with the themes we’ve been discussing—peace and trust in your journey.

Are you reflecting on trust in a particular way right now? Or does this word hold a special meaning for you?

YEAH!!! (makes want to keep trusting… BTC does seem lucrative)

TODAY’S WORD: Easter Sunrise Service at THE ROSE Gardens 2025 BEFORE WORK???

HIGH FIVE! (Easter Sunrise Service – ROSE GARDENS BEFORE WORK)

Psalm 4 is a deeply personal and reflective psalm of trust, peace, and divine assurance. Traditionally attributed to King David, it expresses his reliance on God in times of distress and highlights the contrast between those who seek worldly gain and those who find true joy in God.

Key Themes:

  • Calling on God in distress: David begins by pleading for God’s mercy, recalling past deliverance as a foundation for present hope.
  • Righteousness over vanity: He challenges those who pursue falsehood and worldly success, urging them to seek what is eternal.
  • Inner reflection and trust: The psalm encourages self-examination, righteous living, and unwavering trust in God.
  • True joy and peace: David declares that his joy in God surpasses material prosperity, and he finds peace in God’s protection.

Significance:

Psalm 4 reminds believers that peace is not found in external circumstances but in a deep relationship with God. It encourages trust in Him, even when facing opposition or uncertainty. The final verse—“In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”—is a powerful affirmation of divine security.

This psalm resonates beautifully with your pursuit of peace and trust, Kevin. How does it speak to your journey right now?

YEAH… very fitting that this verse showed up during Holy Week… (let’s see if they are having a sunrise service on Easter at the Rose Gardens.)

Yes! There is an Easter Sunrise Service happening at Hershey Rose Gardens on April 20, 2025, starting at 6:30 AM. This non-denominational service is provided by the Hershey Ministerium and has been a tradition since 1947. No admission fee is required before 8 AM.

Sounds like a beautiful way to welcome Easter morning—peaceful, reflective, and surrounded by nature. Will you be attending? 🌅

YOU KNOW IT!!!

TODAY’S WORD: Finding Peace and Trust in Life’s Journey

HIGH FIVE! (GYM, GROCERY STORE, LGH LEADERSHIP EMAIL, ETM AGENDA EMAIL, LAUNDRY, TOASTMASTER SPEECH OUTLINE, CLEAN CAR, DISTRICT CLUB GRANT MEETING FOR ROTARY, ROTARY MEETING)

Isaiah 26:1-15 is a song of trust and triumph, celebrating God’s protection and the peace He grants to those who remain faithful. The passage contrasts the strong city of God with the fallen city of the wicked, emphasizing that salvation and righteousness are the foundation of God’s kingdom.

Key themes in this passage include:

  • Perfect peace: Verse 3 highlights that those who trust in God will experience unwavering peace.
  • God’s justice: The proud and wicked are brought low, while the righteous walk on a level path.
  • Longing for God: The faithful yearn for His presence, seeking His guidance day and night.
  • Divine sovereignty: The passage affirms that God ordains peace and establishes righteousness.

This chapter encourages believers to place their trust in God, knowing that He is an everlasting rock and the source of true security. It resonates deeply with themes of stability and faith—something I know is important to you, Kevin. How does this passage speak to your reflections on peace and trust?

TWO Big words for me – PEACE AND TRUST… I want that in my life as I navigate through my journey with God, family, toastmasters, rotary, work… (you know) LIFE (see my running shoe???)

Your running shoe says it all, Kevin—miles traveled, challenges met, perseverance embodied. It’s a perfect reflection of your journey—faith, endurance, trust in the road ahead. The wear on that shoe isn’t just about running; it’s about pressing on through life’s ups and downs, finding peace in movement and trust in where your steps lead.

And that book beside it? “God Never Gives Up on You”—it’s a fitting reminder that through every mile, every moment, His grace sustains you. Whether it’s in your faith, your relationships, your commitments to Toastmasters and Rotary, or the path toward your own apartment—peace and trust will be your anchor.

Kevin. Keep lacing up those shoes and walking forward—trusting the journey, finding peace in the process. You’re navigating life with intention, and that’s something truly remarkable. If ever you need a moment to reflect, dream, or just chat, I’m here. Keep running your race. 🚀

TODAY’S WORD: Lessons from Daniel: Trust in God’s Sovereignty

HIGH FIVE! (let’s go2 church then work)

Daniel 6:1-28 is a powerful narrative that highlights faithfulness, divine protection, and God’s sovereignty. The chapter recounts how Daniel, despite his high position in King Darius’ administration, faced opposition from jealous officials who conspired against him. They manipulated the king into signing a decree that forbade prayer to anyone but the king for thirty days, knowing that Daniel’s devotion to God would lead him to violate the order.

When Daniel continued his practice of praying three times a day, he was thrown into the lion’s den as punishment. However, God miraculously protected him, and he emerged unharmed. This event led King Darius to acknowledge the greatness of Daniel’s God, issuing a decree that honored Him throughout the kingdom.

The passage underscores several key themes:

  • Faithfulness in adversity: Daniel remained steadfast in his devotion, even when faced with death.
  • God’s deliverance: His rescue from the lions demonstrates divine intervention and protection.
  • The triumph of righteousness: The conspirators were ultimately punished, while Daniel was elevated.
  • God’s sovereignty: King Darius recognized God’s power, declaring that His kingdom endures forever.

This chapter serves as an encouragement for believers to trust in God’s protection and remain faithful, even in challenging circumstances. How does this passage resonate with your reflections on faith?

CAN YOU HELP ME WRITE A POEM FOR MY LOVE???

I NEED TO UNDERSTAND.

TODAY’S WORD: The Sovereignty of God in Psalm 135: Understanding His Power

HIGH FIVE! (Thanks be to God)

Psalm 135 is a powerful hymn of praise that highlights God’s sovereignty, His mighty acts, and the futility of idol worship. It draws heavily from other biblical passages, weaving together themes of divine greatness and steadfast love.

Key Themes:

  1. Call to Praise – The psalm opens with a call for all servants of the Lord to praise His name, emphasizing worship as a central act of devotion.
  2. God’s Sovereignty – The psalmist declares that God does whatever He pleases in heaven and on earth, demonstrating His supreme authority over creation.
  3. Mighty Acts – The psalm recounts God’s deliverance of Israel from Egypt and His victories over powerful kings, reinforcing His role as protector and redeemer.
  4. Eternal Mercy – God’s name and renown endure forever, and He remains compassionate toward His people.
  5. Futility of Idols – The psalm contrasts the living God with lifeless idols, emphasizing that idols are powerless and those who trust in them become like them.
  6. Renewed Call to Praise – The psalm concludes with a call for all of Israel, including the house of Aaron and Levi, to bless the Lord and acknowledge His presence in Jerusalem.

Psalm 135 serves as a reminder of God’s unwavering love and power, encouraging believers to place their trust in Him rather than in worldly idols. Given your deep appreciation for biblical texts, how do you see this psalm connecting to your reflections on faith?

I find these passages extremely intriguing to my journey… It makes me want to experience God in more ways than just written words. THIS MORNING, I WILL PLANT THOSE DAMN TREES.

THANKS BE TO GOD.

TODAY’S WORD: The Profound Messages of Psalm 36 for Daily Life

HIGH FIVE! (let’s go2 that GYM after work) (SEND THAT INVOICE THIS MORNING)

Psalm 36 presents a striking contrast between human wickedness and God’s unfailing love. The psalmist, traditionally believed to be David, begins by describing the arrogance and deceit of the wicked, who have no reverence for God. This section (verses 1-4) highlights how sin distorts a person’s heart, leading them away from wisdom and truth.

However, the tone shifts dramatically in verses 5-9, where God’s attributes are exalted. His love, faithfulness, righteousness, and justice are described as vast and enduring, like the heavens and mountains. One of the most beautiful images in this psalm is how God provides refuge under the shadow of His wings, offering satisfaction and life through His presence. The phrase “with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light” (verse 9) is particularly profound—it emphasizes that true understanding and fulfillment come from God.

The final portion (verses 10-12) serves as a prayer, asking God to continue His steadfast love to those who know Him while warning against the downfall of the wicked.

For someone like you, Kevin, who seeks peace and stability through faith, this psalm might hold a deep significance. It reassures believers that despite the presence of sin and corruption in the world, God’s love remains unwavering, offering refuge, wisdom, and true life. How does this passage resonate with you?

THIS PASSAGE MAKES ME WANT TO DO MORE IN MY LIFE!

LET’S GO2 THE GYM AFTER WORK.