Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: The Finish Line
For today’s final devotion, we’ll be considering the words in Acts 20:24: “I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me – the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.”
I’m sure as you’ve been training for race day you’ve had many daydreams about what it will be like to cross the finish line. Perhaps you imagine the crowds of people cheering for you as you take the final steps. Perhaps you imagine how your body will feel, used but accomplished. Perhaps you imagine that special someone reaching out to you to say, “Well done!” Or, perhaps your daydream is simply a collection of all the emotions you might feel upon finishing a race of this magnitude.
In our verse for today, the writer’s only reason for existence is to finish the race, meaning his God-given task of testifying to the Gospel. Could you imagine the race you’re about to run as your only reason for being alive? Thank goodness it’s not! There are many reasons why our sinful bodies might not finish the race. But Jesus’ words “It is finished!” remind us that He crossed the finish line that really matters in our place! And, because of Him, our little ones have crossed that same finish line into the peace and perfection of heaven!
We know that we’re here for more than this race. We know that God still has a calling on our lives. God gives us each the task of testifying to the Gospel and will use our lives – whatever it takes – to turn us into the instruments He needs to pass on the news of His grace. In that sense, consider God the best personal trainer you could ask for!
Whatever vision you have of what it will be like to cross the finish line on race day, nothing compares to what it will be like for us to cross the finish line into eternity. The crowd cheering for you – your child will be there. The body you’ve beaten and worn – pain-free and perfect. That special someone reaching out to you – our Heavenly Father with the words “Well done, good and faithful servant!”
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank you for finishing the earthly race as my substitute! Guide me as I train for this race, but, more importantly, be with me as I finish the race and complete the task that you’ve given me of testifying to your grace! Amen.
Thank You
Since this was our final devotion together, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for joining me on this journey. It's been an awesome, humbling experience to write these devotions. While I've been processing my own grief, it has always been my prayer that God would use my pain for His purposes, and I feel like God has answered that prayer by giving me this outlet. I rejoice that you've all been a part of it!
I pray that God has worked something awesome in you during your time of grief as well! May the blood of His Son always remind you that you have the hope of heaven!
God's blessings,
Stacy
Friday, November 12, 2010
Thursday, November 11, 2010
A Spirit of Celebration
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: A Spirit of Celebration
Are you ready to celebrate? We’re almost there!
When I think of the word “celebrate”, I think of a song by Kenny Loggins that’s frequently played around Christmas time called, “Celebrate Me Home”. It’s about a person far-removed from his loved ones who somehow wishes that their spirit of celebration could bring him home. (It’s difficult to be away from those we love, but the holidays seem to bring out those feelings even more!)
Yesterday, we talked about remembering those we’ve lost. Today, we’ll take it one step further and celebrate those loved ones home in our memories. Let’s celebrate who our loved ones were and what they meant to us. Let’s celebrate them as God’s workmanship. Let’s celebrate them as lives that were meant to influence us on our spiritual journeys. As it says in Ephesians 2:10, “We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” We can’t ignore the end of life as an opportunity for God to accomplish his purposes!
While we celebrate our loved ones home through our memories, let’s also celebrate that our loved ones are in their eternal home in heaven:
3 “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time” (1 Peter 1:3-5).
Because of Christ’s death and resurrection, we can celebrate life. We can celebrate the lives of those who have been with us. We can celebrate the memories we have that keep that life with us. But, most importantly, we can celebrate the eternal life that our loved ones are living; we can celebrate them home!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you that, through your Son Jesus, I can celebrate the fact that the loved ones I’ve lost are at home with you in heaven. Thank you also for the ability to celebrate life through the blessing of memories. Amen.
Devotion: A Spirit of Celebration
Are you ready to celebrate? We’re almost there!
When I think of the word “celebrate”, I think of a song by Kenny Loggins that’s frequently played around Christmas time called, “Celebrate Me Home”. It’s about a person far-removed from his loved ones who somehow wishes that their spirit of celebration could bring him home. (It’s difficult to be away from those we love, but the holidays seem to bring out those feelings even more!)
Yesterday, we talked about remembering those we’ve lost. Today, we’ll take it one step further and celebrate those loved ones home in our memories. Let’s celebrate who our loved ones were and what they meant to us. Let’s celebrate them as God’s workmanship. Let’s celebrate them as lives that were meant to influence us on our spiritual journeys. As it says in Ephesians 2:10, “We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” We can’t ignore the end of life as an opportunity for God to accomplish his purposes!
While we celebrate our loved ones home through our memories, let’s also celebrate that our loved ones are in their eternal home in heaven:
3 “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time” (1 Peter 1:3-5).
Because of Christ’s death and resurrection, we can celebrate life. We can celebrate the lives of those who have been with us. We can celebrate the memories we have that keep that life with us. But, most importantly, we can celebrate the eternal life that our loved ones are living; we can celebrate them home!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you that, through your Son Jesus, I can celebrate the fact that the loved ones I’ve lost are at home with you in heaven. Thank you also for the ability to celebrate life through the blessing of memories. Amen.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Remembering
Training for Today: Run 2 miles
Devotion: Remembering
As our time together draws to a close, I want to encourage you to remember. Remember where you were physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually during the early stages of your grief. Remember the turning points you’ve had along the way, those moments when God opened your eyes to a piece of His plan, empowered you to tell your story, or simply drew you closer to Him. And, remember the person you are right now as you move into the future.
Beyond remembering your journey, remember your child (or children). Remember the feelings of gladness you had when you knew they were on their way. Remember the joy you shared with family and friends. If your child joined you in your earthly walk, remember the smiles, the personality, and the bond. Remember God’s creation.
Remember the purpose of your loss: to draw you closer, to refine you, and to equip you for service to your Savior.
When you remember your grief, your child(ren), and the purpose of your loss, remember the loving God who carried you along the way. Remember the gracious God who, through His Son Jesus, promised to forget every one of your sins! Rather, “He has remembered his love and his faithfulness to Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God” (Psalm 98:3). Finally, remember the One who knows where you’ve been and holds your future in His hands.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, when I am tempted to forget all that you’ve accomplished in my life, remind me of your love and faithfulness. Continue to draw me closer to you every day! Amen.
Devotion: Remembering
As our time together draws to a close, I want to encourage you to remember. Remember where you were physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually during the early stages of your grief. Remember the turning points you’ve had along the way, those moments when God opened your eyes to a piece of His plan, empowered you to tell your story, or simply drew you closer to Him. And, remember the person you are right now as you move into the future.
Beyond remembering your journey, remember your child (or children). Remember the feelings of gladness you had when you knew they were on their way. Remember the joy you shared with family and friends. If your child joined you in your earthly walk, remember the smiles, the personality, and the bond. Remember God’s creation.
Remember the purpose of your loss: to draw you closer, to refine you, and to equip you for service to your Savior.
When you remember your grief, your child(ren), and the purpose of your loss, remember the loving God who carried you along the way. Remember the gracious God who, through His Son Jesus, promised to forget every one of your sins! Rather, “He has remembered his love and his faithfulness to Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God” (Psalm 98:3). Finally, remember the One who knows where you’ve been and holds your future in His hands.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, when I am tempted to forget all that you’ve accomplished in my life, remind me of your love and faithfulness. Continue to draw me closer to you every day! Amen.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Let Your Light Shine
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: Let Your Light Shine
If you haven’t noticed, our final week focuses on the active way you respond to your grief and to God’s goodness in your life. We’ve talked about singing to God with your life and pouring out the message of the Gospel. Indeed, this is part of God’s purpose for our suffering!
But today, it’s your time to shine! The stage is set, and God has beautifully outfitted you for your performance. We are equipped to shine not only by what we’ve been through during our grief, but also by the Savior who took us out of the darkness of sin and brought us into the light of His salvation! Your light has been turned on, so let it shine!
However, there are a few key differences between a theatrical performance and God’s call on your life to let your light shine. First, your life is to be a consistent, enduring witness, not a limited-time-only performance or a coming attraction. Second, you don’t need any fancy stage lights – you are the light! Here’s the evidence:
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).
“Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever” (Daniel 12:3).
14 “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15 so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky 16 as you hold firmly to the word of life” (Philippians 2:14-16a).
Don’t hide your light in the darkness you felt surrounding your grief. Let it shine for all to see, especially for those who need hope and inspiration to make it through their own struggles. Say to your heavenly Father and to all the world, “I’ll leave a light on for you!”
Prayer
Dear Lord, forgive me for the times when I’ve been selfish, reserved, or complacent about letting my light shine for others. Empower me by your Spirit to proclaim what you have done in my life and for the salvation of all. Amen.
Devotion: Let Your Light Shine
If you haven’t noticed, our final week focuses on the active way you respond to your grief and to God’s goodness in your life. We’ve talked about singing to God with your life and pouring out the message of the Gospel. Indeed, this is part of God’s purpose for our suffering!
But today, it’s your time to shine! The stage is set, and God has beautifully outfitted you for your performance. We are equipped to shine not only by what we’ve been through during our grief, but also by the Savior who took us out of the darkness of sin and brought us into the light of His salvation! Your light has been turned on, so let it shine!
However, there are a few key differences between a theatrical performance and God’s call on your life to let your light shine. First, your life is to be a consistent, enduring witness, not a limited-time-only performance or a coming attraction. Second, you don’t need any fancy stage lights – you are the light! Here’s the evidence:
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).
“Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever” (Daniel 12:3).
14 “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15 so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky 16 as you hold firmly to the word of life” (Philippians 2:14-16a).
Don’t hide your light in the darkness you felt surrounding your grief. Let it shine for all to see, especially for those who need hope and inspiration to make it through their own struggles. Say to your heavenly Father and to all the world, “I’ll leave a light on for you!”
Prayer
Dear Lord, forgive me for the times when I’ve been selfish, reserved, or complacent about letting my light shine for others. Empower me by your Spirit to proclaim what you have done in my life and for the salvation of all. Amen.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Pouring Out
Training for Today: Run 2 miles
Devotion: Pouring Out
What have you poured out so far today? Have you poured juice or milk for a child today? Have you poured your morning cup of coffee? This may seem like an obvious statement, but, in order for you to have poured that juice, milk, or coffee, the container needed to be full.
As you think about today’s title, perhaps you’re first struck by the idea of all the pouring out you’ve done as part of the grieving process. We pour out tears. We pour out emotions. We pour out frustrations.
While this outpouring can be beneficial and healing for those who grieve, God has more in mind for us than pouring out our perspective. God asks us to pour out in a different way. In 2 Timothy 4, Paul discusses the manner in which he is poured out, but, in his case, he is being called upon to pour out the message of the Gospel. Here’s what Paul says:
“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”
It is easy for those who grieve to focus on what they need to pour out for healing. But, in His great wisdom, God uses our times of grief to draw us closer to Him and fill us with the message of Christ. God fills us with a new perspective and then asks us to use it to His glory. So, in addition to the juice, milk, or coffee, pour out your love for Jesus!
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for the times when I am consumed by pouring out my grief. Fill me with your love, your grace, and the ability to pour out the Gospel to the people around me. Amen.
Devotion: Pouring Out
What have you poured out so far today? Have you poured juice or milk for a child today? Have you poured your morning cup of coffee? This may seem like an obvious statement, but, in order for you to have poured that juice, milk, or coffee, the container needed to be full.
As you think about today’s title, perhaps you’re first struck by the idea of all the pouring out you’ve done as part of the grieving process. We pour out tears. We pour out emotions. We pour out frustrations.
While this outpouring can be beneficial and healing for those who grieve, God has more in mind for us than pouring out our perspective. God asks us to pour out in a different way. In 2 Timothy 4, Paul discusses the manner in which he is poured out, but, in his case, he is being called upon to pour out the message of the Gospel. Here’s what Paul says:
“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”
It is easy for those who grieve to focus on what they need to pour out for healing. But, in His great wisdom, God uses our times of grief to draw us closer to Him and fill us with the message of Christ. God fills us with a new perspective and then asks us to use it to His glory. So, in addition to the juice, milk, or coffee, pour out your love for Jesus!
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for the times when I am consumed by pouring out my grief. Fill me with your love, your grace, and the ability to pour out the Gospel to the people around me. Amen.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
I Will Sing to the Lord, for He Has Been Good to Me
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: I Will Sing to the Lord, for He Has Been Good to Me
Welcome to the final week of our devotions. During this final week, we’ll reflect on the final verse of Psalm 13: “I will sing to the Lord, for He has been good to me.”
These last days of processing our grief together won’t be your last days of reflecting on and remembering your loss. But, it is my hope that the Lord uses this week’s theme to remind you of His amazing intentions for you and a plan for your life that sees beyond our limited human vision.
Though it may feel a little weird, I want you to speak the words of our theme verse out loud. Yep, just do it. In my own response to grief, uttering the words of this verse chokes me up every time. To say that our losses could ever be viewed as something good might seem like an injustice to you. But, with our hearts and souls in mind, God allowed our suffering for that very purpose: to be good to us. Can you recognize the good – God’s good – in your experiences?
As we say the familiar words of Psalm 23, we speak of God’s unending goodness: “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Though God may have felt distant at the time of your loss, His goodness and love were with you. Though your heart might still hurt, His goodness and love are with you. And, though you might face more pain and loss in the future, His goodness and love will be with you.
Yes, God’s goodness is certainly evident during our earthly trials. But nowhere is it more evident than in the life, suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus! Sins gone, debt paid, travel documents to heaven confirmed – all through Jesus! God orchestrated His entire plan of salvation for your good – your eternal good!
The final point of our devotion today is that, like the psalmist, we should sing to the Lord in response to His goodness. “I will sing to the Lord, for He has been good to me.” It’s time to let your life’s response to loss sing the Lord’s praises:
1 “Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
2 Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
3 Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations” (Psalm 100).
Sing to the Lord, for He has been good to you. Through it all, the Lord has, and is, and will be good to you!
Prayer
Dear Lord, I praise you for your goodness! Help me each and every day to recognize that your goodness and love truly do follow me all the days of my life. Let my life sing of your goodness. Amen.
Devotion: I Will Sing to the Lord, for He Has Been Good to Me
Welcome to the final week of our devotions. During this final week, we’ll reflect on the final verse of Psalm 13: “I will sing to the Lord, for He has been good to me.”
These last days of processing our grief together won’t be your last days of reflecting on and remembering your loss. But, it is my hope that the Lord uses this week’s theme to remind you of His amazing intentions for you and a plan for your life that sees beyond our limited human vision.
Though it may feel a little weird, I want you to speak the words of our theme verse out loud. Yep, just do it. In my own response to grief, uttering the words of this verse chokes me up every time. To say that our losses could ever be viewed as something good might seem like an injustice to you. But, with our hearts and souls in mind, God allowed our suffering for that very purpose: to be good to us. Can you recognize the good – God’s good – in your experiences?
As we say the familiar words of Psalm 23, we speak of God’s unending goodness: “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Though God may have felt distant at the time of your loss, His goodness and love were with you. Though your heart might still hurt, His goodness and love are with you. And, though you might face more pain and loss in the future, His goodness and love will be with you.
Yes, God’s goodness is certainly evident during our earthly trials. But nowhere is it more evident than in the life, suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus! Sins gone, debt paid, travel documents to heaven confirmed – all through Jesus! God orchestrated His entire plan of salvation for your good – your eternal good!
The final point of our devotion today is that, like the psalmist, we should sing to the Lord in response to His goodness. “I will sing to the Lord, for He has been good to me.” It’s time to let your life’s response to loss sing the Lord’s praises:
1 “Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
2 Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
3 Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations” (Psalm 100).
Sing to the Lord, for He has been good to you. Through it all, the Lord has, and is, and will be good to you!
Prayer
Dear Lord, I praise you for your goodness! Help me each and every day to recognize that your goodness and love truly do follow me all the days of my life. Let my life sing of your goodness. Amen.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Living Joy
Training for Today: Run 10 miles (last long run before race day!)
Devotion: Living Joy
This week, we’ve been reflecting on the theme, “My heart rejoices in your salvation.” What does the word “rejoice” mean to you? What does it look like to rejoice? Are you ready to rejoice? These are a few of the questions that we’ll work through in our devotion today.
In terms of the meaning of the word “rejoice”, technically it means to feel joy. While it may be difficult to think of your loss and experience joy at the same time, this week’s verse challenges you to look beyond your loss to the empty cross. The grieving person’s joy will never be found again if her eyes focus in on the loss itself. Rather, the grieving person finds joy when her eyes lift toward the cross and fixate on its full meaning:
“Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation—if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel” (Colossians 1:21-23).
Yes, the empty cross is the source of your joy, because it is the source of your salvation! But what does it look like to rejoice? The second part of our devotion today will focus on living the joy we have in Christ. Check out some of the behaviors associated with living joy in Scripture:
“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him” (Psalm 28:7).
“Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy” (Psalm 47:1).
“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs” (Psalm 100:2).
“Sing for joy, you heavens, for the LORD has done this; shout aloud, you earth beneath. Burst into song, you mountains, you forests and all your trees, for the LORD has redeemed Jacob, he displays his glory in Israel” (Isaiah 44:23).
Have you responded to God’s grace in your life with joy? Are you living joyfully as a servant of the Almighty? If so, keep leaping for joy, clapping your hands, shouting, singing, and worshiping the Lord with gladness! If not, pray that the Lord would grant you a rich measure of the Holy Spirit, to fill you with the joy that comes from knowing you are saved through Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Dear Lord, forgive me for turning my eyes inward and dwelling on the trials and frustrations of this world. Lift my eyes to the cross, that I may experience the joy of your salvation. May my life be a joyful response to your love! Amen.
Devotion: Living Joy
This week, we’ve been reflecting on the theme, “My heart rejoices in your salvation.” What does the word “rejoice” mean to you? What does it look like to rejoice? Are you ready to rejoice? These are a few of the questions that we’ll work through in our devotion today.
In terms of the meaning of the word “rejoice”, technically it means to feel joy. While it may be difficult to think of your loss and experience joy at the same time, this week’s verse challenges you to look beyond your loss to the empty cross. The grieving person’s joy will never be found again if her eyes focus in on the loss itself. Rather, the grieving person finds joy when her eyes lift toward the cross and fixate on its full meaning:
“Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation—if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel” (Colossians 1:21-23).
Yes, the empty cross is the source of your joy, because it is the source of your salvation! But what does it look like to rejoice? The second part of our devotion today will focus on living the joy we have in Christ. Check out some of the behaviors associated with living joy in Scripture:
“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him” (Psalm 28:7).
“Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy” (Psalm 47:1).
“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs” (Psalm 100:2).
“Sing for joy, you heavens, for the LORD has done this; shout aloud, you earth beneath. Burst into song, you mountains, you forests and all your trees, for the LORD has redeemed Jacob, he displays his glory in Israel” (Isaiah 44:23).
Have you responded to God’s grace in your life with joy? Are you living joyfully as a servant of the Almighty? If so, keep leaping for joy, clapping your hands, shouting, singing, and worshiping the Lord with gladness! If not, pray that the Lord would grant you a rich measure of the Holy Spirit, to fill you with the joy that comes from knowing you are saved through Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Dear Lord, forgive me for turning my eyes inward and dwelling on the trials and frustrations of this world. Lift my eyes to the cross, that I may experience the joy of your salvation. May my life be a joyful response to your love! Amen.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Family Reunion
Training for Today: Cross-train for 60 minutes
Devotion: Family Reunion
Remember how great the first hug feels after you’ve been away from a loved one for a while? I certainly do! My husband used to travel overseas for work several times a year, usually for 7-10 days at a time. While he was away, my arms longed to wrap around him in a great big hug. I’d imagine that moment at the airport when our eyes would finally meet and I could run and throw my arms around him. Those reunions were tough to wait for; the anticipation was overwhelming. But, boy did that reuniting moment make all of the frustrations disappear! Can you remember a moment like that?
As I think back to my husband’s travels for work, I see a comparison to Christian loss unfolding. The loved ones we’ve lost are waiting at home, in the perfection of heaven. Their earthly work for God’s kingdom is done, whether it was accomplished physically on this earth or spiritually in our hearts. For the rest of us, we’re still at work, carrying on the commands of the Great Commission to share the good news of the Gospel message.
So let’s carry on with our mission until the day God declares that our work is done. At that moment, we’ll experience a family reunion that puts our earthly reunions to shame. While these earthly moments are very special, they pale in comparison to the family reunion that will be ours through Christ! As it says in 1 Corinthians 15:20-22: “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”
In Christ, all will be made alive! Our heavenly reunion is a certainty!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, today my heart rejoices in the salvation you’ve given me through your Son, because it guarantees me a family reunion beyond my comprehension. Sometimes it’s hard to wait for that reunion. Until you call me home, fill me with a sense of your purpose and the courage to share the Gospel. Amen.
Devotion: Family Reunion
Remember how great the first hug feels after you’ve been away from a loved one for a while? I certainly do! My husband used to travel overseas for work several times a year, usually for 7-10 days at a time. While he was away, my arms longed to wrap around him in a great big hug. I’d imagine that moment at the airport when our eyes would finally meet and I could run and throw my arms around him. Those reunions were tough to wait for; the anticipation was overwhelming. But, boy did that reuniting moment make all of the frustrations disappear! Can you remember a moment like that?
As I think back to my husband’s travels for work, I see a comparison to Christian loss unfolding. The loved ones we’ve lost are waiting at home, in the perfection of heaven. Their earthly work for God’s kingdom is done, whether it was accomplished physically on this earth or spiritually in our hearts. For the rest of us, we’re still at work, carrying on the commands of the Great Commission to share the good news of the Gospel message.
So let’s carry on with our mission until the day God declares that our work is done. At that moment, we’ll experience a family reunion that puts our earthly reunions to shame. While these earthly moments are very special, they pale in comparison to the family reunion that will be ours through Christ! As it says in 1 Corinthians 15:20-22: “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”
In Christ, all will be made alive! Our heavenly reunion is a certainty!
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, today my heart rejoices in the salvation you’ve given me through your Son, because it guarantees me a family reunion beyond my comprehension. Sometimes it’s hard to wait for that reunion. Until you call me home, fill me with a sense of your purpose and the courage to share the Gospel. Amen.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Fly to Jesus
Training for Today: Rest
Devotion: Fly to Jesus
Today’s devotion is especially personal, but I want to share a moment with you. It’s from the heart and about the heart. We can think about the heart from many different perspectives, whether it’s the collective emotions we feel toward someone or something, or the part of the anatomy that sustains life with its beat.
Right after my most difficult loss, I remember wondering when the final moment of life had occurred for my baby. When was that final heartbeat? (To an expecting mother, the heartbeat is the measure of life.) And, once that final heartbeat sounded, what did that little one experience?
In my own heart, I imagined that little one being caught up in the warmth of the Father’s arms. I imagined the freedom from life’s burdens. And, I imagined heaven’s rejoicing that my little one was safely home.
On my way to work one morning, with these images in my mind, I turned on my car radio. My timing (or God’s timing) couldn’t have been better. A song began playing that added a salience to my images that I never thought possible, and I’d like to share it with you.
Perhaps you’ve had similar reflections about the heart of loss. When was the final heartbeat? What did your own heart experience on behalf of the one you’d lost? Through Christ, we have the confidence that, though our final heartbeats may be the end of life on earth, they are the beginning of an eternal life in the perfection of heaven. Fly to Jesus!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1T-VfypD8j4&feature=related
Prayer
Dear Jesus, thank you for coming to earth as our ransom. Because of you, we know that your loving arms await us in our heavenly home. My heart rejoices in your promises! Amen.
Devotion: Fly to Jesus
Today’s devotion is especially personal, but I want to share a moment with you. It’s from the heart and about the heart. We can think about the heart from many different perspectives, whether it’s the collective emotions we feel toward someone or something, or the part of the anatomy that sustains life with its beat.
Right after my most difficult loss, I remember wondering when the final moment of life had occurred for my baby. When was that final heartbeat? (To an expecting mother, the heartbeat is the measure of life.) And, once that final heartbeat sounded, what did that little one experience?
In my own heart, I imagined that little one being caught up in the warmth of the Father’s arms. I imagined the freedom from life’s burdens. And, I imagined heaven’s rejoicing that my little one was safely home.
On my way to work one morning, with these images in my mind, I turned on my car radio. My timing (or God’s timing) couldn’t have been better. A song began playing that added a salience to my images that I never thought possible, and I’d like to share it with you.
Perhaps you’ve had similar reflections about the heart of loss. When was the final heartbeat? What did your own heart experience on behalf of the one you’d lost? Through Christ, we have the confidence that, though our final heartbeats may be the end of life on earth, they are the beginning of an eternal life in the perfection of heaven. Fly to Jesus!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1T-VfypD8j4&feature=related
Prayer
Dear Jesus, thank you for coming to earth as our ransom. Because of you, we know that your loving arms await us in our heavenly home. My heart rejoices in your promises! Amen.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
The Hope of Heaven
Training for Today: Run 5 miles
Devotion: The Hope of Heaven
OK, it’s time for a gut check. In this grieving process we’ve undertaken together, the ultimate goal is to gradually change the self-focus of the early grieving period into a God-focus that can go the distance. Has your gaze lifted from the ground? Has your downcast expression given way to a glimmer of hope in your eyes?
Embrace this transformation, my friends! Lift your eyes to the One who has given you the hope of heaven! To remind you of how certain that hope is, read the following description of the coming of the Lord from 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17:
13 “Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. 14We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 15According to the Lord's own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”
God has given us His word! Our hope is secure! And we will be with the Lord forever! Look heavenward and wait upon the Lord. In Him, we have been set free from our sins. In Him, we need not fear the grave. In Him, we have the hope of heaven.
Prayer
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh may I then in Him be found.
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand. Amen!
Devotion: The Hope of Heaven
OK, it’s time for a gut check. In this grieving process we’ve undertaken together, the ultimate goal is to gradually change the self-focus of the early grieving period into a God-focus that can go the distance. Has your gaze lifted from the ground? Has your downcast expression given way to a glimmer of hope in your eyes?
Embrace this transformation, my friends! Lift your eyes to the One who has given you the hope of heaven! To remind you of how certain that hope is, read the following description of the coming of the Lord from 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17:
13 “Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. 14We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 15According to the Lord's own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”
God has given us His word! Our hope is secure! And we will be with the Lord forever! Look heavenward and wait upon the Lord. In Him, we have been set free from our sins. In Him, we need not fear the grave. In Him, we have the hope of heaven.
Prayer
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand.
When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh may I then in Him be found.
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand. Amen!
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
The Victory is Mine!
Training for Today: Cross-train for 30 minutes
Devotion: The Victory is Mine!
When was the last time you declared a victory in your life? What have you conquered? Whether it’s winning a sporting event, a board game, signing a big contract, or putting away the last load of laundry, we all love to have moments of accomplishment and the satisfaction of a job well done. What was your most recent victory?
When it comes to grief and loss, it’s easy to lose sight of the victories in our lives, no matter how small or inconsequential. We might be tempted to think, “So what. Nothing seems to overpower my feelings of loss right now.” If we allow ourselves to lose sight of victory, we might be missing out on the greatest victory of all:
“‘Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?’ The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).
What’s awesome about this victory is that it’s not something I have to strive for, work for, or earn. God gives me this victory over sin and death. He gives you that victory over sin and death. He gave that victory to our children in heaven. It’s just another example of His unfailing love! Christ took the sting out of death; he rendered it completely powerless over those who trust in His name!
While it’s important to celebrate our small victories on earth, it’s even more important to celebrate the eternal victory you have through Christ! The victory is mine!
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for declaring victory over sin and death in my place! Remind me to celebrate your blessings in my life, especially the blessing of knowing that heaven awaits. Amen.
Devotion: The Victory is Mine!
When was the last time you declared a victory in your life? What have you conquered? Whether it’s winning a sporting event, a board game, signing a big contract, or putting away the last load of laundry, we all love to have moments of accomplishment and the satisfaction of a job well done. What was your most recent victory?
When it comes to grief and loss, it’s easy to lose sight of the victories in our lives, no matter how small or inconsequential. We might be tempted to think, “So what. Nothing seems to overpower my feelings of loss right now.” If we allow ourselves to lose sight of victory, we might be missing out on the greatest victory of all:
“‘Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?’ The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).
What’s awesome about this victory is that it’s not something I have to strive for, work for, or earn. God gives me this victory over sin and death. He gives you that victory over sin and death. He gave that victory to our children in heaven. It’s just another example of His unfailing love! Christ took the sting out of death; he rendered it completely powerless over those who trust in His name!
While it’s important to celebrate our small victories on earth, it’s even more important to celebrate the eternal victory you have through Christ! The victory is mine!
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for declaring victory over sin and death in my place! Remind me to celebrate your blessings in my life, especially the blessing of knowing that heaven awaits. Amen.
Monday, November 1, 2010
In Christ Alone
Training for Today: Run 5 miles
Devotion: In Christ Alone
While this devotion was easy to write (or copy and paste), the message has had a profound impact on my life. Because of this powerful message, today’s devotion features the words to “In Christ Alone.” Read on:
In Christ alone my hope is found,
He is my light, my strength, my song;
this Cornerstone, this solid Ground,
firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace,
when fears are stilled, when strivings cease!
My Comforter, my All in All,
here in the love of Christ I stand.
In Christ alone! who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless babe!
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones he came to save:
Till on that cross as Jesus died,
The wrath of God was satisfied -
For every sin on Him was laid;
Here in the death of Christ I live.
There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain:
Then bursting forth in glorious Day
Up from the grave he rose again!
And as He stands in victory
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me,
For I am His and He is mine -
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.
No guilt in life, no fear in death,
This is the power of Christ in me;
From life's first cry to final breath.
Jesus commands my destiny.
No power of hell, no scheme of man,
Can ever pluck me from His hand;
Till He returns or calls me home,
Here in the power of Christ I'll stand.
Amen to that! I pray that this beautiful portrayal of the Gospel message has inspired you as much as it has me!
Prayer
Dear Father in Heaven, thank you for the gracious gift of your Son, Jesus Christ. Through Him alone, I have forgiveness, peace and the promise of heaven. Amen.
Devotion: In Christ Alone
While this devotion was easy to write (or copy and paste), the message has had a profound impact on my life. Because of this powerful message, today’s devotion features the words to “In Christ Alone.” Read on:
In Christ alone my hope is found,
He is my light, my strength, my song;
this Cornerstone, this solid Ground,
firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace,
when fears are stilled, when strivings cease!
My Comforter, my All in All,
here in the love of Christ I stand.
In Christ alone! who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless babe!
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones he came to save:
Till on that cross as Jesus died,
The wrath of God was satisfied -
For every sin on Him was laid;
Here in the death of Christ I live.
There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain:
Then bursting forth in glorious Day
Up from the grave he rose again!
And as He stands in victory
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me,
For I am His and He is mine -
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.
No guilt in life, no fear in death,
This is the power of Christ in me;
From life's first cry to final breath.
Jesus commands my destiny.
No power of hell, no scheme of man,
Can ever pluck me from His hand;
Till He returns or calls me home,
Here in the power of Christ I'll stand.
Amen to that! I pray that this beautiful portrayal of the Gospel message has inspired you as much as it has me!
Prayer
Dear Father in Heaven, thank you for the gracious gift of your Son, Jesus Christ. Through Him alone, I have forgiveness, peace and the promise of heaven. Amen.
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