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Weekly Devotional

January 18, 2010

God’s Peace be with you all.

2 Corinthians 9:9-15   ⁹ As it is written, "He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures forever."  ¹⁰ He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.  ¹¹ You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving to God through us;  ¹² for the rendering of this ministry not only supplies the needs of the saints but also overflows with many thanksgivings to God.  ¹³ Through the testing of this ministry you glorify God by your obedience to the confession of the gospel of Christ and by the generosity of your sharing with them and with all others,  ¹⁴ while they long for you and pray for you because of the surpassing grace of God that he has given you.  ¹⁵ Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

I was surprised yesterday afternoon by a visit from Bishop Yoos.  He had been in Laurens working with a congregation yesterday morning and was then headed to Greenville for an installation later in the afternoon.  He had a little time, and called to see if he could come by and visit. 

We had a wonderful afternoon together, and Carrie and I shared with him many of the joys and concerns we have going on at Springs of Grace.  We talked about Billy’s funeral, as well as the upcoming Spaghetti Supper.  He was really excited that SoG is willing to step outside of the box and pursue evangelism in this community.  His advice to the two of us was to communicate with the congregation that we all need to be praying for this coming Saturday.  Not just that it is a success to us, but that it is an event which will make a lasting impact on those in this community that seek God.  So for the devotion this week, I first of all lift up to you the scripture above.  I find that it speaks to me as we approach next Saturday.  Also, I offer below a prayer, and ask that each of you use it (or your own) and pray for this Saturday.  We will be doing the work of God in the world, and we need God’s guidance as we work.

Holy God, Holy and immortal one; guide us as we seek to nourish the community gathered around us this coming Saturday.  Bless our ministry in this place, and may it be a ministry that is fruitful.  Help us to remember that we do all things to your glory.  Most of all help us to be faithful witnesses to the gospel message, and that we might be instruments of your peace and grace in the world.  All this we ask in your son’s name, Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

In our prayers this week:  Wendi, Kim, Lisa, Eunice, Sharon, Ann, Robert, and Catherine.

God’s Peace,

Pastor Judson