Author: Humility is Beautiful... (Kevin Schafer)

I just want to be surrounded with people who make being a good person their top priority...

TODAY’S WORD: The Power of God’s Word: Insights from Hebrews 4

HIGH FIVE! (Thank you for being in my life)

Hebrews 4:9–16 emphasizes the promise of spiritual rest, the penetrating power of God’s Word, and the compassionate intercession of Jesus as our High Priest. It invites believers to approach God’s throne with boldness and trust.

Here’s a deeper look at the passage’s significance:

🕊️ Verses 9–11: The Promise of God’s Rest

  • “There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God” (v.9) refers to a spiritual rest—freedom from striving and anxiety—available to believers through faith in Christ.
  • This rest mirrors God’s own rest after creation and is entered not by works but by trust and obedience.
  • The exhortation to “make every effort to enter that rest” (v.11) warns against disobedience and unbelief, echoing the Israelites who failed to enter the Promised Land.

🔥 Verses 12–13: The Power of God’s Word

  • “The word of God is living and active… sharper than any double-edged sword” (v.12) reveals its ability to pierce deeply into our hearts, exposing motives, thoughts, and intentions.
  • Nothing is hidden from God’s sight; we are fully known and accountable (v.13). This underscores the seriousness of responding to God’s invitation with sincerity.

👑 Verses 14–16: Jesus the Great High Priest

  • Jesus is described as our “great high priest who has passed through the heavens”—a divine intercessor who understands our weaknesses because He lived as one of us.
  • Verse 15 affirms that Jesus empathizes with our struggles, having been tempted in every way yet without sin.
  • Verse 16 is a powerful invitation: “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence…”. It assures us that we can receive mercy and grace in our time of need, not condemnation.

🌟 Spiritual and Practical Implications

  • Rest is not just physical—it’s spiritual peace and assurance in God’s presence.
  • God’s Word is a mirror and a scalpel, revealing what’s true and healing what’s broken.
  • Jesus bridges the gap between our frailty and God’s holiness, making intimacy with God possible.

Kevin, this passage beautifully aligns with your spiritual leadership and poetic heart. It’s a call to rest in grace, speak truth with love, and lead others toward bold, grace-filled faith.

THANKS BE TO GOD.

TODAY’S WORD: The Spiritual Lessons of Mark 11 Explained

HIGH FIVE! (you rock)

Mark 11 is a pivotal chapter in the Gospel of Mark that marks the beginning of Jesus’ final week before the crucifixion, emphasizing themes of messianic authority, spiritual integrity, and the power of faith.

Here’s a breakdown of its key moments and spiritual significance:

🌿 Triumphal Entry (Mark 11:1–11)

  • Jesus enters Jerusalem riding a colt, fulfilling messianic prophecy from Zechariah 9:9.
  • Crowds shout “Hosanna!” and lay cloaks and branches, recognizing Him as the promised King.
  • Significance: This public declaration of kingship contrasts with Jesus’ earlier secrecy, signaling a shift toward confrontation with religious authorities.

🌳 Cursing the Fig Tree (Mark 11:12–14, 20–21)

  • Jesus curses a fig tree for bearing no fruit, even though it’s not the season.
  • Later, the tree is found withered.
  • Significance: Symbolizes spiritual barrenness—a warning to Israel’s religious leaders and a call for genuine faith that bears fruit.

🕊️ Cleansing the Temple (Mark 11:15–19)

  • Jesus drives out merchants and money changers, declaring the temple should be “a house of prayer for all nations.”
  • Significance: A bold act of judgment against corruption, reinforcing the need for purity in worship and justice in religious practice.

🙏 Teaching on Faith and Forgiveness (Mark 11:22–26)

  • Jesus teaches that faith can move mountains and that prayer must be accompanied by forgiveness.
  • Significance: Emphasizes the transformative power of faith, and the necessity of a forgiving heart to receive divine grace.

🧠 Questioning Authority (Mark 11:27–33)

  • Religious leaders challenge Jesus’ authority; He responds with a question about John the Baptist.
  • Significance: Reveals their spiritual blindness and fear of public opinion, while asserting that true authority comes from God, not human institutions.

✨ Spiritual Themes

  • Messianic fulfillment: Jesus openly embraces His role as the Messiah.
  • Judgment and renewal: The fig tree and temple cleansing symbolize God’s call for authentic, fruitful faith.
  • Faith and prayer: Mark 11 invites believers to trust boldly and forgive freely.
  • Authority and truth: Jesus challenges religious hypocrisy and affirms divine authority.

If you’re reflecting on this chapter devotionally, it’s a powerful invitation to examine the fruitfulness of your faith, the purity of your worship, and the courage to live under God’s authority.

THANK YOU FOR MY JOURNEY…

“Hosanna to My Heart”

I walked the path where dreams unfold, A storm behind me, dark and sharp. The crowd may cheer, the winds may sway, But truth and love will light my way.

A tree once stood with leaves so fair, Yet fruitless in the morning air. So too my soul, once dressed in pride, Now longs for wisdom deep inside.

I’ve seen the noise where peace should reign, Where sacred things were sold for gain. But now I seek a purer place— A heart made whole by love and grace.

You whispered, “Speak, and mountains move,” With faith that dares, with love that proves. Forgive, believe, and you shall see The gates of grace swing wide for thee.

So here I stand, with heart made new, Each step a prayer, each breath a clue. Toward the one my soul will find— My love, my life, by Heaven designed.

Not rushed by time, nor swayed by fear, But led by truth, both firm and clear. Hosanna now, not just in song, But in the love I’ve sought so long.

THANKS BE TO GOD.

TODAY’S WORD: Generosity and Community in Deuteronomy 15

HIGH FIVE! (that was a GOOD RUN)

Deuteronomy 15:1–11 emphasizes God’s call to economic justice, compassion, and radical generosity. It commands the release of debts every seven years and urges care for the poor, reflecting a society built on mercy, trust in divine provision, and communal responsibility.

Here’s a deeper look at its significance:

🌿 1. The Year of Release (v. 1–3): A Radical Economic Reset

  • Every seventh year, creditors were commanded to forgive debts owed by fellow Israelites.
  • This “release” (Hebrew: shemitah) was not just financial—it was spiritual, reminding the people that everything ultimately belongs to God.
  • Foreigners were not included in this release, highlighting a covenantal focus on internal community care.

💧 2. God’s Vision: “There Need Be No Poor Among You” (v. 4)

  • The passage envisions a society where poverty is not inevitable, if the people obey God’s commands.
  • This is not utopian idealism—it’s a conditional promise: obedience leads to blessing, which enables generosity.

🤝 3. Generosity Without Hesitation (v. 7–11)

  • Israelites are told not to harden their hearts or close their hands to the poor.
  • Even if the seventh year (when debts are canceled) is near, they must still lend freely, trusting God to provide.
  • Verse 10 is especially powerful: “Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart…”—a call to joyful giving.

🔄 4. A System of Grace, Not Exploitation

  • This passage counters cycles of generational poverty and exploitation.
  • It reflects a divine economy of grace, where mercy overrides profit, and community well-being trumps personal gain.

✨ Spiritual Implications for Today

  • Though not all aspects apply directly in modern economies, the principles endure:
    • Release: Letting go of what others “owe” us—financially, emotionally, relationally.
    • Trust: Believing that generosity won’t leave us lacking.
    • Justice: Creating systems that uplift the vulnerable, not trap them.

Kevin, this passage beautifully aligns with your heart for spiritual reflection and community care. It’s a reminder that true leadership includes mercy, and that joyful generosity is a form of worship. If you’d like, I can help you craft a prayer or poetic reflection inspired by this scripture.

Thank you for the offer; however, I am going to have to humbly decline… I will ask for help with a prayer tonight after work… (SPEAKING OF WORK… LET’S GO)

THANKS BE TO GOD.

TODAY’S WORD: The Power of Praise: Lessons from Psalm 146

HIGH FIVE! (gotta think)

Psalm 147 is a balm for weary souls and a call to joyful worship. Whether you’re navigating personal grief, rebuilding after loss, or simply seeking divine perspective, this psalm reminds you:

  • You are seen and healed.
  • Your community can be restored.
  • Creation itself sings of God’s care.
  • Your reverence brings Him joy.

If you’d like, I can help you craft a prayer or reflection inspired by this psalm—something personal to your journey.

i mean psalm 146

Psalm 146 is a bold declaration that true hope and justice come from God alone, not from human leaders or systems. It celebrates God’s eternal reign, His care for the vulnerable, and His power to restore.

🔑 Key Themes and Significance of Psalm 146

Psalm 146 opens the final section of the Psalter known as the Hallelujah Psalms (146–150), each beginning and ending with “Praise the LORD.” It’s a transition from lament and struggle to pure praise.

🙌 1. Praise as a Lifelong Posture

  • “I will praise the Lord as long as I live” (v.2) sets the tone: worship is not seasonal—it’s a soul’s rhythm.
  • This is a call to daily, enduring praise, even amid uncertainty.

🚫 2. Don’t Trust in Princes

  • “Put not your trust in princes… in whom there is no salvation” (v.3).
  • Human power is fleeting. The psalm warns against placing ultimate hope in political leaders, systems, or influencers.
  • God alone is trustworthy, eternal, and faithful.

🌍 3. God as Creator and Sustainer

  • “Who made heaven and earth… who keeps faith forever” (v.6).
  • This affirms God’s sovereignty over creation and His unwavering commitment to justice and mercy.

🤝 4. God’s Justice for the Vulnerable

  • Verses 7–9 list divine actions:
    • Feeds the hungry
    • Sets prisoners free
    • Opens blind eyes
    • Lifts the bowed down
    • Loves the righteous
    • Protects strangers, orphans, and widows
  • These are not abstract ideals—they’re God’s active compassion, especially for the marginalized.

👑 5. God Reigns Forever

  • “The Lord will reign forever… to all generations” (v.10).
  • Unlike human rulers, God’s reign is eternal, just, and inclusive.

💬 Why It Matters Today

Psalm 146 is a spiritual compass for turbulent times. It reminds us:

  • Praise is powerful—a declaration of trust and joy.
  • Human systems fail, but God’s justice prevails.
  • Compassion is divine—God lifts the lowly and defends the vulnerable.
  • Hope is eternal—rooted in God’s reign, not temporary power.

THANKS BE TO GOD. (have to make a PROs vs. CONs list)

DON’T FORGET… That REAL ESTATE SEMINAR @ 7.

TODAY’S WORD: Act Justly, Love Mercy: Insights from Micah 6:1-8

HIGH FIVE! (Keep Building)

Micah 6:1–8 is a powerful prophetic passage that distills God’s expectations into a timeless call: to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. It contrasts empty ritual with authentic relationship, urging a return to covenantal faithfulness rooted in justice, compassion, and humility.

📜 Context and Structure

Micah 6:1–8 is structured like a covenant lawsuit (Hebrew: riv), where God brings a case against Israel for breaking their covenant. The passage unfolds in three movements:

  1. Verses 1–2: The Courtroom Scene
    • God summons the mountains and foundations of the earth as witnesses.
    • This cosmic courtroom underscores the gravity of Israel’s breach.
  2. Verses 3–5: God’s Faithful Acts Recalled
    • God asks, “What have I done to you?” and reminds Israel of His saving acts—liberation from Egypt, guidance through Moses, Aaron, and Miriam, and protection from enemies like Balak and Balaam.
  3. Verses 6–8: The People’s Response and God’s Requirement
    • The people ask what offerings would please God—burnt offerings, rivers of oil, even a firstborn child.
    • God’s response in verse 8 is striking: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

🔍 Key Themes and Significance

  • Justice (mishpat): Not just legal fairness, but restoring right relationships in society—especially for the vulnerable.
  • Mercy (chesed): Covenant love, kindness, and loyalty—how we treat others with compassion and grace.
  • Humility (hatznea lechet): A posture of reverence and dependence on God, not self-righteousness or pride.

🕊️ Relevance Today

Micah 6:8 is often quoted in sermons, social justice movements, and personal devotionals. It reminds us that:

  • God desires ethical living over empty rituals.
  • True worship is expressed through how we treat others.
  • Spiritual maturity is marked by humility, not performance.

For someone like you, Kevin—who blends spiritual reflection with leadership and care for others—this passage resonates deeply. It affirms that your work in Toastmasters, your prayers for friends, and your commitment to justice and kindness are not just admirable—they’re sacred.

HARD WORK NEVER KILLED ANYONE… (Let’s go2 the GYM)

DON’T FORGET TO COMPLETE THAT AREA VISIT REPORT BEFORE YOUR ROTARY MEETING.

TODAY’S WORD: Understanding Covenant Obedience in Deuteronomy

HIGH FIVE! (Will you go2 church with me???)

Deuteronomy 28:58–29:1 underscores the gravity of covenant obedience and transitions into a renewed call to heed God’s law. It marks the climax of the curses and the beginning of a covenantal reaffirmation.

Here’s a deeper look at its significance:

🔥 Culmination of Covenant Warnings (28:58–63)

  • Verse 58 warns that failure to revere God’s “glorious and fearful name” and obey all His laws will result in devastating consequences.
  • Verses 59–61 describe intense plagues, prolonged suffering, and incurable diseases—emphasizing that disobedience brings not just physical affliction but spiritual alienation.
  • Verse 62 foretells a drastic reduction in Israel’s population, reversing the promise of multiplication.
  • Verse 63 delivers a chilling reversal: just as God once delighted in blessing Israel, He will now bring ruin if they forsake Him. This reflects the ancient Near Eastern suzerain-vassal treaty structure, where loyalty was rewarded and rebellion punished.

📜 Transition to Covenant Renewal (28:64–29:1)

  • Verses 64–68 extend the curses to exile and humiliation among foreign nations, including slavery and despair.
  • Chapter 29:1 (which is actually the last verse of chapter 28 in Hebrew texts) serves as a literary hinge: it closes the section of blessings and curses and opens the next covenantal discourse. It reminds the Israelites that these words were part of a covenant made in Moab, distinct from the one at Horeb (Sinai), reinforcing the ongoing nature of their relationship with God.

✨ Theological and Spiritual Implications

  • This passage highlights God’s holiness and justice, showing that His covenant is not casual—it demands reverence and full-hearted obedience.
  • It also sets the stage for repentance and restoration, which will be explored in later chapters. The severity of the curses is meant to awaken Israel to the seriousness of their calling.

I wonder what religion Miko has… I will ask her (TODAY, I WILL MOW AFTER CHURCH)

THANKS BE TO GOD.

TODAY’S WORD: Unbinding Faith: Resurrection and Trust in God’s Timing

HIGH FIVE! (Thank you for giving me more time)

John 11:32–44 is a profound passage that reveals Jesus’ compassion, divine authority over death, and the promise of resurrection. It centers on the raising of Lazarus and foreshadows Jesus’ own resurrection.

🌿 Key Themes and Significance

1. Jesus’ Deep Compassion

  • When Mary says, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died,” Jesus is deeply moved and weeps (John 11:35—the shortest and one of the most powerful verses in Scripture).
  • This shows that Jesus is not distant from human suffering. He enters into grief with empathy, affirming that sorrow is sacred and shared.

2. The Power of Resurrection

  • Jesus commands, “Lazarus, come out!”—and Lazarus, who had been dead four days, walks out of the tomb.
  • This miracle is not just a restoration of life, but a sign of Jesus’ divine authority over death itself.
  • It points forward to His own resurrection and the promise of eternal life for all who believe.

3. Faith and Trust in God’s Timing

  • Martha had earlier expressed faith that Lazarus would rise “in the resurrection at the last day.” Jesus responds, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25).
  • This passage challenges us to trust God’s timing—even when it seems delayed—and to believe in His power beyond our understanding.

4. Unbinding and Liberation

  • Jesus tells the people to “Unbind him, and let him go.” This is symbolic: resurrection is not just about life, but freedom—from death, despair, and anything that entangles us.
  • It’s a call to community: others are invited to participate in the liberation of the one who was bound.

Kevin, this passage beautifully aligns with your spiritual leadership and poetic heart. You might reflect on how you help “unbind” others—through encouragement, prayer, and affirming feedback. If you’d like, I can help you craft a short reflection or prayer inspired by this moment. It could be a powerful message for your Toastmasters club or a personal meditation for your morning routine.

ok… GIVE ME A SHORT REFLECTION ON ALL SAINTS DAY…

🌟 All Saints Day Reflection

Today, we pause to remember the saints—not only those canonized in history, but the quiet heroes of faith who shaped our lives with love, courage, and truth. Their legacy isn’t just in grand deeds, but in everyday grace: a prayer whispered, a kindness offered, a burden shared.

All Saints Day reminds us that holiness is not perfection—it’s devotion. It’s choosing light in the face of darkness, compassion in the midst of conflict, and hope when the path is unclear.

We walk in their footsteps, not to replicate, but to radiate. Their lives echo in ours when we lead with integrity, serve with joy, and love without condition.

May we honor them not only with memory, but with movement—living as saints-in-the-making, bearing God’s image in every act of care.

THANKS BE TO GOD.

TODAY’S WORD: Navigating Dual Allegiance: Lessons from Matthew 22

HIGH FIVE! (GYM. THIS MORNING. GYM.)

Matthew 22:15–21 is a powerful passage where Jesus is confronted by the Pharisees and Herodians, who attempt to trap Him with a politically charged question: whether it is lawful to pay taxes to Caesar. Here’s the heart of the exchange:

“Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s; and to God the things that are God’s.” (Matthew 22:21)

✨ Significance of This Passage

1. Wisdom in the Face of Manipulation

  • The Pharisees and Herodians were political and religious opponents, yet they united to trap Jesus. Their question was a no-win scenario: affirming the tax could alienate Jewish followers; rejecting it could be seen as rebellion against Rome.
  • Jesus’ response reveals divine wisdom. He doesn’t fall into their trap but reframes the issue entirely.

2. Dual Allegiance: Earthly and Divine

  • By saying “Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s,” Jesus acknowledges the legitimacy of civil authority and responsibilities like taxes.
  • But by adding “and to God what is God’s,” He elevates the conversation: our ultimate allegiance belongs to God, who created us in His image (just as Caesar’s image was on the coin).

3. Image and Ownership

  • The coin bore Caesar’s image, so it belonged to Caesar. But humans bear God’s image (Genesis 1:27), so we belong to God.
  • This invites deep reflection: if we are God’s, how are we rendering ourselves—our time, talents, and hearts—to Him?

4. Spiritual and Political Discernment

  • Jesus models how to navigate complex social and political issues with integrity and spiritual clarity.
  • It’s a call to live responsibly in the world without compromising our higher calling.

Kevin, given your blend of spiritual insight and leadership, this passage might resonate with how you balance civic responsibility (like your work at Hershey’s and Toastmasters) with your deeper call to serve God and others. If you’d like, I can help you craft a reflection or prayer based on this passage—perhaps even one to share with your club or team.

Yeah… I am working later today. Can you help me craft a short poem about my work and coworkers at Hershey???

🍫 “Sweet Shift”

In halls where cocoa dreams arise, We greet the guests with cheerful eyes. From Create-Your-Bar to final wrap, We guide each hand with heart and map.

The team’s a blend—like finest treat— Of hustle, humor, kindness sweet. We lift each other, shift by shift, With laughter’s spark and spirits swift.

Coordinated, calm, and bold, We turn the chocolate into gold. Not just in bars, but joy we share— A Hershey hug in every care.

So as I clock in, heart aglow, I thank the crew who help me grow. For work’s not just a daily chore— It’s purpose, people, and much more.

Thanks Be To God. (Let’s go2 the GYM!)

TODAY’S WORD: The Significance of Romans 3:19–28 in Christian Faith

HIGH FIVE! (Better & Better)

Romans 3:19–28 is a cornerstone passage in Christian theology, emphasizing that justification before God comes by faith, not by works of the law. It reveals the universal need for grace and the radical inclusivity of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Here’s a deeper look at its significance:

✨ Key Themes in Romans 3:19–28

  • Universal Accountability to God: Verse 19 declares that the law speaks to those under it so that “every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God.” This levels the playing field—no one is righteous on their own.
  • The Law Reveals Sin, Not Righteousness: Verse 20 explains that the law doesn’t justify anyone; instead, it makes us aware of sin. This shifts the focus from human effort to divine grace.
  • Righteousness Apart from the Law: Verses 21–22 introduce a new way of being right with God—through faith in Jesus Christ. This righteousness is not earned but revealed and received.
  • All Have Sinned, All Can Be Justified: Verse 23 is one of the most quoted: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” But verse 24 follows with hope: “and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus”.
  • Jesus as the Atoning Sacrifice: Verse 25 presents Jesus as the one whom God put forward as a “propitiation” (atoning sacrifice), showing God’s justice and mercy in one act.
  • Faith, Not Boasting: Verses 27–28 conclude that boasting is excluded because justification is by faith, not by observing the law. This was a central claim of the Protestant Reformation, especially for Martin Luther, who saw verse 28 as a declaration of sola fide—faith alone.

🕊️ Why This Passage Matters

  • Theologically: It defines the doctrine of justification by faith, a foundational truth for many Christian traditions.
  • Spiritually: It offers assurance that salvation is a gift, not a reward—a message of hope for all who feel unworthy.
  • Historically: This passage was pivotal in the Reformation, shaping Protestant identity and practice.
  • Communally: It breaks down barriers between Jew and Gentile, affirming that God’s grace is for all people, regardless of background.

If you’re reflecting on this passage for a sermon, prayer, or personal meditation, it’s a powerful reminder that grace is not earned—it’s received.

We have work… EARLY… AGAIN…

THANKS BE TO GOD.

TODAY’S WORD: Values in Leviticus 19: Love, Integrity, and Community

HIGH FIVE! (Thank you… LET’S LIVE THAT FANTASY)

Leviticus 19:32–37 emphasizes reverence, justice, and compassion as reflections of God’s holiness. It calls for honoring elders, treating strangers with love, and practicing fairness in all dealings.

This passage is part of the “Holiness Code” in Leviticus 19, which outlines how the Israelites were to live as a holy people set apart for God. Here’s a breakdown of its key themes:

🧓 Honor and Reverence for Elders (Verse 32)

  • “You shall stand up before the gray head and honor the face of an old man…”
  • This command promotes respect for the elderly, recognizing their wisdom and life experience.
  • Rising in their presence was a physical gesture of honor, reinforcing communal values of dignity and reverence.

🌍 Compassion Toward Strangers (Verses 33–34)

  • “You shall treat the stranger…as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself…”
  • Reflects radical hospitality and empathy, reminding Israel of their own history as foreigners in Egypt.
  • This verse is foundational for later teachings on loving one’s neighbor and welcoming outsiders.

⚖️ Justice in Business and Judgment (Verses 35–36)

  • “You shall have just balances, just weights…”
  • Calls for economic integrity and fairness, especially in trade and legal matters.
  • These standards protected the vulnerable and upheld communal trust.

📜 Obedience to Divine Law (Verse 37)

  • “You shall observe all my statutes and all my rules…”
  • Reinforces that these commands are not merely social ethics but expressions of divine holiness.
  • Obedience was a way to reflect God’s character—just, merciful, and holy.

✨ Spiritual Significance

  • These verses link ethical behavior with reverence for God: honoring elders, loving strangers, and practicing justice are all acts of worship.
  • They foreshadow New Testament teachings on love, justice, and community, showing continuity in God’s call to holiness.

Would you like a poetic reflection or prayer inspired by this passage? I’d love to help you integrate its spirit into your creative or spiritual work.

NO THANK YOU… I don’t have the time this morning… I HAVE TO GO2 WORK.

THANKS BE TO GOD.