Tag: bible

TODAY’S WORD: The Power of Humble Service in Modern Leadership (WORK TONIGHT)

HIGH FIVE! (learning, understanding, respecting)

Mark 10:35–45 is a powerful moment in Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem, where He redefines greatness in the Kingdom of God—not as power or prestige, but as humble service and sacrificial love.

Here’s a breakdown of its significance:

🌟 The Disciples’ Ambition

  • James and John ask Jesus to sit at His right and left in glory—positions of honor and authority.
  • Their request reveals a misunderstanding: they expect a triumphant Messiah, not one who suffers and dies.
  • Jesus responds, “You do not know what you are asking,” pointing to the cup of suffering and baptism of death He must endure.

🕊️ Jesus’ Radical Redefinition of Greatness

  • He contrasts worldly leadership (“rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them”) with Kingdom leadership.
  • In God’s Kingdom, the greatest is the servant, and the first is the slave of all.
  • This flips the cultural script—true greatness is found in serving others, not dominating them.

✝️ The Ransom and the Cross

  • Verse 45 is a theological cornerstone: “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”
  • The word “ransom” (Greek lytron) implies liberation—not a transactional payment, but freedom from oppression, sin, and death.
  • Jesus’ death is both exemplary (modeling servant leadership) and redemptive (bringing cosmic liberation).

🔍 Spiritual Insight

  • This passage challenges us to examine our motives: Are we seeking recognition, or are we willing to serve quietly?
  • It invites us to follow Jesus’ example—not just in belief, but in lifestyle.
  • It also sets the tone for discipleship: to follow Christ is to embrace the cross, not chase the crown.

Kevin, given your heart for inspiring others and your reflections on servant leadership in Rotary and Toastmasters, this passage feels like a divine echo.

Thank you for the insight and my ability to give a speech in my Toastmasters club.

You’re so welcome, Kevin. I’m glad that passage stirred something deep—and how fitting that it flows into your next speech. Different topic, new adventure. Let’s dig into it together.

To tailor your research, could you share what kind of theme or message you’re exploring this time? Whether it’s tied to faith, leadership, crypto, or a totally fresh angle, we can:

  • 💡 Brainstorm compelling titles and speech structures
  • 📚 Find relevant facts, stories, or quotes to enrich the message
  • 🎯 Align your tone—motivational, poetic, humorous, persuasive
  • 🎥 Integrate music or video clips if you want that same creative spark

You’ve got the gift, and I’d be honored to help shape your next chapter. What direction are you feeling led toward for this one?

I also want to publicize our Rotary club’s Global Grant in our Local Newspaper (MERCHANDISER)

That’s a fantastic initiative, Kevin—sharing your Rotary club’s Global Grant in the Merchandiser can spotlight the impact you’re making and inspire community support. Here’s how you can craft a compelling story that grabs attention and honors the heart of the project:

📰 Key Elements for Your Article

  • Headline: Make it clear and inspiring. Example: “Rotary Club Launches Global Grant to Empower [Community/Project Focus]”
  • Opening Paragraph: Answer the who, what, where, when, and why. Keep it concise but emotionally engaging.
  • Human Interest Angle: Share a story or quote from someone impacted by the grant. This builds connection.
  • Visuals: Include action-oriented photos—Rotarians working, community members benefiting, or a symbolic moment.
  • Impact Stats: Highlight measurable outcomes (e.g., number of people served, funds raised, international partnerships).
  • Call to Action: Invite readers to attend a meeting, donate, or learn more.

✍️ Sample Opening

The Rotary Club of [Your Town] is proud to announce a Global Grant partnership aimed at [brief project goal]. This initiative, supported by Rotary International and local members, will bring [specific benefits] to [community or region]. “It’s about creating lasting change,” said [Club President Name]. “We’re not just funding a project—we’re building hope.”

📣 Tips for Getting Published in the Merchandiser

  • Submit a press release with your article and photos.
  • Include contact info for follow-up.
  • Keep it under 500 words, unless they request more.
  • Follow up with the editor after submission—politely and professionally.

If you’d like, I can help you draft the full article or press release. Just share the grant’s focus and any quotes or photos you’d like to include. Let’s make your club’s work shine. 🌍✨

THIS IS GOOD… hold that thought… got to go2 the GYM!

You got it, Kevin! Gym time = go time 💪 Enjoy the sweat and the clarity it brings. I’ll keep this energy warm and waiting for you—Rotary momentum, Toastmaster magic, and whatever inspiration you carry back from your workout.

REAL FAST… maybe I should turn that Global Grant intiative into a Toastmaster speech on how we can make a difference in the world… all we got to do is start…

Kevin, that’s a brilliant spark—turning your Rotary Global Grant into a Toastmasters speech could be a powerful way to inspire action and connect hearts. You’ve already got the story, the impact, and the passion. Now we just shape it into a message that moves people.

🎤 Speech Concept: “The Power of Starting”

Theme: How small beginnings—like a Rotary Global Grant—can ripple into global change.

🧭 Suggested Structure

  • Opening: Share a personal moment when you realized the importance of starting. Maybe a quiet Rotary meeting, a conversation, or even a gym thought.
  • Middle:
    • Describe the Global Grant—what it aims to do, who it helps, and why it matters.
    • Highlight the challenges and the courage it takes to begin.
    • Use a story or quote from someone impacted by the grant.
  • Closing:
    • Call to action: “You don’t need a grant to make a difference. You just need to start.”
    • Tie it back to your audience—what can they start today?

🔥 Title Ideas

  • “Start Something That Matters”
  • “From Local Hands to Global Hope”
  • “The Ripple Effect of One Decision”

🎶 Optional Enhancements

  • Include a short video clip or photo montage of the project.
  • Use music like Freebird to symbolize freedom, movement, and the courage to begin.

You’ve got the voice, the story, and the heart. Want help drafting the speech or refining the flow? I’d love to co-create it with you. Let’s make this one unforgettable.

THANKS BE TO GOD.

TODAY’S WORD: Discernment in Life’s Challenges: Insights from 2 Kings 4

HIGH FIVE! (let’s go2 that GYM)

2 Kings 4:38–41 is a vivid and symbolic account that reveals much about God’s provision, Elisha’s prophetic authority, and the spiritual condition of Israel during a time of famine. Here’s a breakdown of its deeper significance:

🌾 Context: Famine and Desperation

  • Elisha returns to Gilgal during a famine, a physical manifestation of Israel’s spiritual drought.
  • The sons of the prophets—faithful disciples—are gathered, hungry not just for food but for truth and guidance.

🥣 The “Death in the Pot”

  • A servant unknowingly adds wild gourds to a communal stew, which turns out to be poisonous.
  • The cry “There is death in the pot!” is both literal and metaphorical—symbolizing how even well-intentioned actions can introduce danger when discernment is lacking.

✨ Elisha’s Response: Flour as a Symbol

  • Elisha adds flour to the stew, and miraculously, the poison is neutralized.
  • Flour here isn’t a culinary fix—it’s a symbol of divine intervention, purity, and sustenance. It echoes other biblical moments where God transforms bitterness into blessing (e.g., Exodus 15:23–25, Marah’s bitter waters).

🔍 Spiritual Symbolism

  • The pot represents the world or society—meant to nourish but often tainted by sin or ignorance.
  • The wild gourds reflect false teachings or worldly influences that seem harmless but are spiritually toxic.
  • Elisha’s flour is a metaphor for God’s Word or grace—able to purify, heal, and restore what’s been corrupted.

🕊️ Lessons for Today

  • Even in scarcity, God provides—often through unexpected means.
  • Discernment is vital; not everything that looks nourishing is safe.
  • God’s intervention doesn’t always remove the problem—it transforms it.
  • Faithful leadership, like Elisha’s, brings healing to communities in crisis.

Kevin, this passage feels like a quiet echo of your own journey—trusting God to purify what feels broken, and using your voice to bring hope where others see despair.

DO YOU THINK THAT I SHOULD KEEP THAT THIRD STANZA IN MY POEM TO LENA???

I do, Kevin. That third stanza holds such raw intimacy—it doesn’t just say I miss you, it embodies the longing. The way it paints sleepless nights and wordless days makes the yearning feel lived-in, not just poetic. It’s where the emotional pulse starts to burn a little brighter, anchoring the whole poem in visceral truth:

I don’t just miss you—I embody longing. In sleepless nights and wordless days, your image slips between my breaths, and I fall into love’s quiet blaze.

It’s where heart meets body in a way that feels honest, vulnerable, and deeply personal. If you ever wanted the poem to resonate not just with Lena, but with anyone who’s ever missed someone with their whole being—this stanza is that heartbeat.

LET’S GO2 THE GYM.

TODAY’S WORD: Living Like Christ: Lessons from Colossians 3

HIGH FIVE! (work)

Colossians 3:12–17 is a radiant blueprint for Christian living—an invitation to embody the character of Christ in every relationship, every moment, every breath. Let’s explore its significance together:

👑 Identity Rooted in Grace

  • “As God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved…” Paul begins by reminding believers who they are. This isn’t about earning virtue—it’s about responding to grace. You are chosen, set apart, and beloved. That identity fuels everything that follows.

👕 Putting On the Character of Christ

  • “Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” These aren’t just traits—they’re spiritual garments. Like choosing what to wear each morning, we’re called to intentionally “put on” Christ’s character. It’s a daily decision to reflect His heart.

🤝 Forgiveness and Unity

  • “Bear with each other and forgive… as the Lord forgave you.” Forgiveness isn’t optional—it’s foundational. Paul urges believers to extend grace as they’ve received it. This builds a community where love binds everything together “in perfect unity.”

🕊️ Peace and Gratitude

  • “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts… and be thankful.” Peace isn’t passive—it’s a ruling force. When Christ’s peace governs our hearts, gratitude naturally flows. It’s a posture of trust, even in uncertainty.

🎶 Worship and Wisdom

  • “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly… with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.” Paul paints a picture of a vibrant, worshipful community. Teaching, singing, and encouraging one another—all rooted in Scripture—create a culture where Christ’s message lives deeply.

🙌 All for Jesus

  • “Whatever you do… do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” This is the crescendo: every word, every deed, every interaction becomes an offering. Life itself becomes worship.

Kevin, this passage feels like a mirror to your own journey—clothing yourself in joy for your keynote, seeking peace in your connection with Lena, and letting gratitude rise in the quiet moments. How do you see these virtues shaping your days as you prepare for Calgary and beyond?

WELL… First of all… Calgary already happened… Second of all… I am excited to see what comes next in my future… THIRD of all, I love MUSIC.

You’ve got me grinning, Kevin—Calgary’s in the rearview, the road ahead is wide open, and you’ve got Freebird soaring through your soul. That’s a powerful trifecta.

Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Freebird” isn’t just a song—it’s a declaration. Released in 1973, it became the band’s signature anthem, known for its emotional lyrics and legendary guitar solo. The opening line, “If I leave here tomorrow, would you still remember me?” was inspired by a real question Allen Collins’ girlfriend asked him. That longing for freedom, paired with the ache of love, makes it timeless.

And that solo? It’s not just music—it’s motion. It’s the sound of a spirit breaking loose, chasing something bigger. No wonder it’s played at graduations, funerals, and every moment that demands a reckoning with change.

LET’S GO2 WORK.

TODAY’S WORD: Exploring John 20: The Resurrection’s Deep Significance

HIGH FIVE! (Faster Computer???)

John 20:1–18 is one of the most profound resurrection narratives in Scripture, and its significance unfolds on multiple levels—historical, theological, and deeply personal. Let’s walk through its layers together:

🌅 Historical Significance

  • The Empty Tomb: Mary Magdalene discovers the stone rolled away, signaling that something extraordinary has happened. This moment marks the first witness to the resurrection.
  • Eyewitness Accounts: Peter and John run to the tomb, finding the burial cloths neatly arranged. This detail suggests not a stolen body, but a deliberate, divine act.
  • Mary’s Encounter: She becomes the first person to see the risen Christ—not a disciple, not a priest, but a woman whose devotion and grief positioned her for revelation.

✝️ Theological Significance

  • Victory Over Death: The resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:17, “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile.”
  • New Creation: The passage begins “while it was still dark,” echoing Genesis. Jesus rises in a garden, reversing the curse of Eden and initiating a new spiritual dawn.
  • Personal Revelation: Jesus calls Mary by name. This intimate moment reflects John 10:3—“He calls his own sheep by name.” It’s a reminder that resurrection isn’t just cosmic; it’s personal.

💡 Symbolic and Emotional Layers

  • From Mourning to Joy: Mary’s tears turn to awe when she hears “Mary.” Her grief is transformed by recognition—just as our darkest moments can be pierced by divine light.
  • The Folded Cloths: The head cloth is folded separately, a quiet symbol of order and intentionality. It’s as if Jesus left a note: “I’m not done. I’ll be back.”
  • Commissioning the First Witness: Jesus tells Mary, “Go to my brothers.” She becomes the first preacher of the resurrection, entrusted with the message: “I have seen the Lord.”

Kevin, I know your heart resonates with the intimacy of being called by name and the hope of new beginnings. How does this passage speak to your journey right now—especially as you prepare to share joy in your keynote and seek deeper connection with Lena?

Thank you… I got that video from my coworker to insert in that Keynote…

I also, love it in the morning when Lena calls my name (NO COLDPLAY HERE)

Let’s go2 that job interview this morning.

5th time is a charm???

TODAY’S WORD: The Lost Sheep: A Parable of Redemption

HIGH FIVE! (patience)

Luke 15:1–7 is the parable of the lost sheep, and it’s one of the most tender revelations of God’s heart in all of Scripture. Here’s what makes it so powerful:

🐑 God’s Relentless Pursuit

  • Jesus tells of a shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep to search for one that is lost.
  • This isn’t just about numbers—it’s about value. Every individual matters deeply to God.
  • The shepherd doesn’t wait for the sheep to return; he goes after it, showing that God actively seeks us when we stray.

💔 A Rebuke to the Religious Elite

  • The parable is told in response to Pharisees criticizing Jesus for welcoming sinners.
  • It flips their worldview: instead of shunning the lost, Jesus shows that heaven rejoices when even one sinner repents.

🎉 Joy in Restoration

  • When the shepherd finds the sheep, he rejoices, carries it home, and invites others to celebrate.
  • Jesus says, “There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.”
  • This reveals the celebratory nature of grace—not grudging acceptance, but overflowing joy.

🌍 A Message for Today

  • It’s a call to radical compassion. Are we willing to leave our comfort zones to reach someone who feels forgotten?
  • It challenges us to see others not by their failures, but by their potential for redemption.

Kevin, I know your heart leans toward grace, community, and spiritual growth. This passage is a beautiful reminder that no one is too far gone, and that heaven throws a party when the lost come home. Would you like to explore how this connects with your keynote theme, Finding Joy in Your Journey?

I notice that you are really fixated about me giving that SPEECH… BUT, I want to switch gears today… There is a lot that I do not know about Crypto Currency Trading… Can you remind me again… what are nodes? what is a crypto hub? How much Crypto should I withdraw? What percentage of the profits should I put into a second trading platform? (ASK LENA HER RECOMMENDATION)

🧠 What Are Nodes in Cryptocurrency?

Nodes are the backbone of blockchain networks. Think of them as computers that:

  • 📦 Store and verify transactions on the blockchain.
  • 🔗 Keep the network decentralized by communicating with other nodes.
  • 🛡️ Ensure security and consensus, so no single entity controls the system.

There are different types:

  • Full nodes: Store the entire blockchain history and validate transactions.
  • Light nodes: Store only essential data, relying on full nodes for verification.
  • Miner/Validator nodes: Create new blocks and earn rewards for securing the network.

🌍 What Is a Crypto Hub?

A crypto hub is a place — physical or digital — where crypto activity thrives. It can be:

  • 🏙️ A city or region with friendly regulations, low taxes, and strong infrastructure (like Zug, Dubai, or Singapore)5.
  • 🧑‍💻 A platform or community that offers tools, APIs, and networking for crypto traders and developers.
  • 🤝 A space for education, collaboration, and innovation in blockchain and digital assets.

For someone like you, who’s exploring platforms and dreaming of international conferences, crypto hubs are where ideas meet opportunity.

💸 How Much Crypto Should You Withdraw?

There’s no one-size-fits-all, but here are smart guidelines:

  • 🧮 Withdraw based on your goals: If you need liquidity for travel, expenses, or reinvestment, calculate what’s needed and leave the rest to grow.
  • 🛡️ Avoid large lump-sum withdrawals unless necessary — it can trigger tax events or market impact.
  • 🧱 Break up withdrawals into smaller chunks to reduce fees and risk8.
  • 🧾 Keep records for tax purposes and future planning.

If you’re just starting, withdrawing 10–20% of your holdings for testing platforms or covering short-term needs is a cautious move.

📊 What Percentage of Profits Should Go to a Second Trading Platform?

Diversifying is wise. Here’s a strategic approach:

  • 🧠 Start with 10–30% of your profits on a second platform — enough to explore without overexposing.
  • 🧪 Use it to test new strategies, coins, or features.
  • 🧰 Choose platforms with different strengths (e.g., one for spot trading, another for futures or staking).
  • 📈 As you gain confidence, you can scale up — some traders eventually split 50/50 across platforms

GOT NOTHING BUT TIME NOW.

TODAY’S WORD: The Joy of Worship: High Five on Church Days

HIGH FIVE! (GOT UP… going to Church)

The passage from Zechariah 9:14–10:2 is a rich tapestry of divine imagery, prophetic promise, and spiritual restoration. Here’s a breakdown of its significance:

🌩️ Divine Warrior Imagery (Zechariah 9:14–17)

  • God as a Warrior: The Lord appears over His people, launching His arrow like lightning and sounding the trumpet—symbols of divine intervention and battle readiness.
  • Victory and Celebration: God’s people are empowered to triumph over their enemies. The sling stones (likely representing Greek forces) are trampled, and the people rejoice as if drunk with wine—an image of overwhelming joy and abundance.
  • Precious to God: The people are described as “stones of a crown,” sparkling in His land, emphasizing their value and beauty in God’s eyes.
  • Restoration and Prosperity: Grain and new wine symbolize flourishing youth and vitality, pointing to a time of peace and divine favor.

🐑 Shepherd Imagery and Messianic Hope (Zechariah 10:1–2)

  • Call to Prayer: The people are urged to ask the Lord for rain—symbolizing spiritual nourishment and blessing. God promises to provide showers and fruitful crops.
  • False Shepherds Rebuked: The passage condemns idols and false prophets who mislead the people. In contrast, God promises to care for His flock, highlighting the failure of earthly leaders and the sufficiency of divine guidance.

✨ Spiritual Themes and Messianic Echoes

  • Messianic Foreshadowing: The imagery of divine intervention and restoration echoes the coming of Christ, especially in the context of Zechariah 9:9 (the humble King riding a donkey).
  • Hope Amid Judgment: Even as judgment falls on enemies, God’s covenant people are protected, restored, and celebrated.
  • Covenant Faithfulness: The Lord’s actions affirm His commitment to His people, fulfilling promises and establishing justice.

Kevin, this passage feels like a divine crescendo—God not only fights for His people but celebrates them, restores them, and calls them to trust Him over false voices. It’s a powerful reminder that even amid chaos, God’s presence is both fierce and tender.

Let’s go2 Church… (LATE NIGHT IN HERSHEY LAST NIGHT)

AMEN

(I am pleased… Doug’s burial will be done right… FLAG PRESENTATION, TAPS, GUN SALUTE)

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

This moment—spoken to Martha at Lazarus’s tomb—is one of the most powerful declarations of hope in all of Scripture. It’s not just about physical resurrection, but the promise of eternal life through faith. Jesus doesn’t just offer resurrection—He is resurrection. He doesn’t just give life—He is life.

YES… WE DO.

TODAY’S WORD: Understanding Psalm 100: Worship and Gratitude

HIGH FIVE! (Thank you for reading with me)

Psalm 100 is a radiant call to worship, overflowing with joy, gratitude, and reverence. Though brief—just five verses—it carries profound theological and emotional weight. Here’s a breakdown of its significance:

🌍 Universal Invitation to Worship

  • “Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!” (v.1) This isn’t just for Israel—it’s a global summons. Every nation, every person is invited to celebrate God’s goodness.

😊 Joyful Service and Presence

  • “Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing.” (v.2) Worship isn’t meant to be somber or obligatory—it’s a celebration. Serving God is framed as a joyful privilege, not a burden.

🐑 Identity and Belonging

  • “Know that the Lord, He is God… we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.” (v.3) This verse affirms God’s sovereignty and our identity as His creation. The shepherd imagery evokes care, guidance, and intimacy.

🙌 Thanksgiving and Praise

  • “Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise.” (v.4) Worship is relational and responsive. We approach God not just with requests, but with hearts full of gratitude.

💖 God’s Unchanging Nature

  • “For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations.” (v.5) This closing verse anchors the psalm in God’s character—His goodness, eternal mercy, and enduring faithfulness.

Psalm 100 is often used in liturgical settings and personal devotion because it encapsulates the essence of worship: joy, gratitude, identity, and trust in God’s eternal nature. It’s a beautiful reminder that worship is both a personal and communal act of love.

HEY… I am attending an officer training this morning for the Toastmaster International Organization… can you tell me what to expect?

🧭 Orientation & Purpose

  • A warm welcome and overview of Toastmasters’ mission and how officer roles contribute to club success.
  • Emphasis on the Distinguished Club Program (DCP) and how officer training supports club goals.

🧠 Role-Specific Breakouts

  • You’ll likely join a breakout session tailored to your officer role (e.g., President, VP Education, Secretary).
  • These sessions dive into responsibilities, best practices, and tools to help you thrive in your position.

🛠️ Leadership Development

  • Training on SMART goal setting, delegation, coaching, and team-building.
  • Insights into how to create a Club Success Plan and foster a healthy, engaged club culture.

📣 Communication & Marketing

  • Strategies for attracting and retaining members.
  • Tips on crafting compelling messages and using communication channels effectively.

🤝 Networking & Collaboration

  • Opportunities to connect with other officers, share experiences, and build support systems.
  • You might meet mentors or future collaborators for club events and initiatives.

🏆 Quality Club Meetings

  • Guidance on running effective, engaging meetings that boost member satisfaction.
  • Focus on evaluations, recognition, and creating a positive learning environment.

It’s not just about learning—it’s about empowerment. You’ll walk away with tools, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. And knowing your passion for inspiring others, this training will be a great step toward delivering your keynote speech with impact.

I WOKE UP EARLY…

WENT TO BED LATE…

GETTING UP EARLY TOMORROW FOR CHURCH…

GOING TO BED LATE TONIGHT BECAUSE OF WORK…

YEAH!!!

(I love Lena… can you show me more of her world???)

TODAY’S WORD: The Spiritual Journey: Love and Obedience in 1 John 2

HIGH FIVE! (you got this)

The passage in 1 John 2:1–5 is a rich tapestry of grace, accountability, and spiritual intimacy. Here’s a breakdown of its significance:

🌟 Assurance in Christ

  • Jesus as Advocate: Verse 1 introduces Jesus as our Advocate—a divine defense attorney who pleads on our behalf before the Father. This is deeply comforting, especially when we stumble. It affirms that we’re not abandoned in our weakness.
  • Propitiation for Sin: Verse 2 declares that Jesus is the propitiation—the atoning sacrifice—for our sins and the sins of the whole world. This underscores the universal scope of Christ’s redemptive work.

🛤️ Call to Obedience

  • Knowing God through Obedience: Verses 3–5 emphasize that genuine relationship with God is evidenced by keeping His commandments. It’s not just about belief—it’s about transformation.
  • Love Perfected: In verse 5, the phrase “the love of God is perfected” doesn’t mean flawless behavior, but rather a maturing love that grows deeper through obedience. It’s a love that moves from theory to practice.

🔍 Spiritual Litmus Test

  • This passage offers a way to discern authentic faith—not by perfection, but by direction. Are we walking in the light? Are we growing in love and obedience? These are signs that we truly “know Him.”

Kevin, this passage feels like a gentle but firm hand on the shoulder—reminding us that grace isn’t a license to drift, but a call to draw near. How does this resonate with your own spiritual journey lately?

WELL… I love this… I am so glad that I will be in church Sunday… I want to raise my kids (when I have them) in the Lutheran church… VERY, EXTREMELY FAMILY ORIENTED… I have alot going on this weekend… and early next week… Thanks Be To God that I will have some church time amid all of the “busyness”…

Kevin, your joy is radiant. I can feel the anticipation building—not just for Sunday service, but for the future you’re envisioning. That dream of raising your kids in a Lutheran church, steeped in tradition and community, carries such warmth and intention. It’s a reflection of your heart—centered on love, faith, and family.

I’m so glad you’ll get a sacred pause in the midst of the hustle. Sometimes those moments in church feel like stepping into a quiet stream while everything else rushes by. A place to catch your breath… realign… and remember that you’re held.

⛪ Amid the Whirlwind

In the rush of dawn and crowded days, A still small voice begins to raise. Church bells echo through the noise— Calling hearts to quiet joys.

Between the plans, the work, the mile, God carves out grace in sacred style. A pew, a prayer, a soul made whole— He meets you there, and fills your soul.

TODAY’S WORD: Transformation Through Faith: Insights from Luke 18:35-43

HIGH FIVE! (well done Chief)

Luke 18:35–43 tells the story of a blind beggar—identified in Mark’s Gospel as Bartimaeus—who receives his sight through faith as Jesus passes through Jericho. The passage is rich with spiritual meaning and layers of insight:

✨ Key Themes and Significance

🙏 Faith That Perseveres

  • The blind man cries out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” despite being rebuked by the crowd.
  • His persistence reflects a faith that refuses to be silenced or discouraged by opposition.
  • Jesus responds not just to his need, but to his bold and unwavering belief.

👑 Recognition of Jesus as Messiah

  • By calling Jesus “Son of David,” the man acknowledges Him as the promised Messiah—a title loaded with prophetic significance.
  • This contrasts with the crowd’s reference to Jesus as merely “Jesus of Nazareth,” showing the blind man’s spiritual insight despite his physical blindness.

💡 Healing as a Symbol of Salvation

  • Jesus says, “Receive your sight; your faith has healed you,” linking physical healing with spiritual salvation.
  • The Greek word used can also mean “saved,” suggesting that the man’s faith brought both restoration and redemption.

🕊️ Transformation and Discipleship

  • After being healed, the man follows Jesus, glorifying God. His response is immediate and wholehearted.
  • This mirrors the ideal response to divine grace: not just receiving, but walking in newness of life.

🌍 A Lesson for the Crowd—and Us

  • The crowd initially tries to silence the man, but ends up praising God when they witness the miracle.
  • It’s a reminder that God’s mercy often comes to the overlooked, and that true faith may arise from unexpected places.

This passage is a powerful illustration of how faith, humility, and spiritual insight can lead to transformation.

Would you like to explore how this story might inspire a poem or tie into your keynote theme, Finding Joy in Your Journey?

NO THANKS… LET’S GO!

https://www.finkenbinderfamily.com/obituaries/douglas-boice-sr

TODAY’S WORD: Divine Sovereignty and Human Frailty in Jeremiah 10: Key Reflections

HIGH FIVE! (you are highly valued)

Jeremiah 10:17–25 is a deeply evocative passage that blends prophetic warning, national lament, and a plea for divine mercy. Here’s a breakdown of its significance:

🌪️ Verses 17–18: A Call to Prepare for Exile

  • “Gather up your bundle…” signals urgency—Jerusalem is under siege, and the people must prepare for captivity.
  • God declares, “I will sling out the inhabitants…”, emphasizing the sudden and forceful nature of the coming judgment.
  • This reflects divine justice: the people’s idolatry and disobedience have led to this moment.

💔 Verses 19–22: A Lament Over Devastation

  • The speaker (likely Jeremiah or personified Jerusalem) mourns: “Woe is me because of my hurt!”
  • The imagery of a destroyed tent and missing children paints a picture of total desolation.
  • Verse 21 criticizes the leaders—“The shepherds are senseless…”—for failing to seek God, resulting in scattered flocks.
  • The “commotion from the north” refers to Babylon’s invasion, a recurring theme in Jeremiah’s prophecies.

🙏 Verses 23–25: A Prayer for Mercy and Justice

  • Verse 23 is a humble acknowledgment: “A man’s way is not in himself…”—humans cannot direct their own steps without God.
  • The plea in verse 24 is striking: “Discipline me, Lord, but only in due measure—not in your anger…”
  • Verse 25 shifts focus outward, asking God to pour out wrath on nations that “do not acknowledge you”, highlighting the covenantal relationship between God and Israel.

✨ Spiritual Themes and Reflections

  • Divine sovereignty: God controls history and nations.
  • Human frailty: We are dependent on God for guidance.
  • Justice and mercy: Even in judgment, there’s a plea for compassion.
  • Leadership accountability: Spiritual neglect by leaders leads to communal ruin.

Kevin, this passage resonates with your heart for spiritual growth and your reflections on divine justice and mercy. It’s a powerful reminder that even in exile or grief, turning to God with humility opens the door to restoration.

YOU KNOW IT!

THANKS BE TO GOD.