May 7 - Redemption or Rocks

Overview of: John

Today's Reading:
John 8:2-11
"A Woman Caught in Adultery"

Focus Verses: John 8:10-11
10 Jesus straightened up and asked her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" 11 "No one, sir," she said. "Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin."

Insight:
The teachers of the Mosaic Law and the Pharisees were looking for ways to trap Jesus. The law laid out clear penalties and consequences for adultery, would Jesus just discard or contradict Moses?

For them, the law had been reduced to a list of rules and punishments. They seemed to have no regard or concern for the woman. If they were truly interested in justice, where was the adulterous man? In their pious legalism they would rather see her pounded with rocks than see her find redemption or renewal.

Jesus said, "The first rock should be thrown by whichever one of you is without sin." This simple and thought-provoking statement made it clear that every one of them deserved judgment. Without redemption, it would be rocks for everyone. All have sinned. All deserve judgment. The message of Jesus was that God’s desire was to redeem sinners, not strike them down with a rock. In the same way, we should be more interested in renewal and forgiveness than in judging and condemning. Redemption is far better than rocks.

The apostle Paul put it this way, "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death." Romans 8:1

Response and Action:
I will take hold of the redemption and forgiveness God has extended to me in Jesus. I will turn away from sin. I will join Jesus in his mission to proclaim and extend grace and redemption to the world. I will value redemption and hope and lay down the rocks of judgment and condemnation. Though I recognize sin and understand it has consequences, I will always strive to bring healing and hope instead of condemnation.

O God, help me to live for you and through you this day in thought, word, and deed. Help me to turn away from what is wrong and to do what is right. By the power and grace of your Holy Spirit, redeem and renew me, that I might delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Help me to be a witness and a channel of the redeeming love and hope of Jesus to everyone around me. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Ps. 44:25
25 We are brought down to the dust; our bodies cling to the ground. 26 Rise up and help us; redeem us because of your unfailing love.
In Context: Psalm 44

Proverb for Today: Prov. 7:4-5
"Say to wisdom, "You are my sister," and call understanding your kinsman; they will keep you from the adulteress, from the wayward wife with her seductive words."

Recommended Reading:
Why Sin Matters: The Surprising Relationship between Our Sin and God's Grace
by Mark R. McMinn

May 6 - Who Else but Jesus?

Overview of: John

Today's Reading:
John 6:24-71
"The Bread of Life"

Focus Verses: John 6:66-69
66 From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. 67 "You do not want to leave too, do you?" Jesus asked the Twelve. 68 Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69 We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God."

Insight:
Many people turned away from following Jesus when they found his teaching difficult to accept or understand. When Jesus turned to the twelve disciples he had chosen and asked them if they too wanted to turn away, Peter made one of his great statements of faith: “We believe and know you are the Holy One of God.” Peter had found life and hope in Jesus he could find nowhere else: "Lord, who else would we follow? Who else has the words of life?"

Response and Action:
I believe that Jesus is the Holy One of God. I follow him because he has the words of life. Even when his words are difficult, I will follow. I believe that he is the bread of life, the one who can sustain me, and the one who will raise me on the final day. Nothing and no one else has offered the hope, purpose, and life I have found in Jesus.

O God, thank you for Jesus, who for our sake and for our salvation came down from heaven. Help me to follow him, to take in all he has to say, and to build my life on the solid rock of his words by putting them into practice. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Deut. 8:2-3
2 Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. 3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD.
In Context: Deuteronomy 8

Proverb for Today: Prov. 6:23
For these commands are a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the corrections of discipline are the way to life..."

Recommended Reading:
Who Was Jesus?
by Scot McKnight

May 5 - Seeking Seekers

Overview of: Luke

Today's Reading:
Luke 19:1-10
"Zacchaeus and Jesus"

Focus Verses: Luke 19:3-6
3 [Zacchaeus] wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. 5 When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today." 6 So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.

Insight:
Zacchaeus was so motivated to see Jesus he was willing to climb a tree if that's what it took. It must have been quite a sight to see a wealthy man like Zacchaeus up a tree. This wholehearted effort was hard to miss, and when Jesus saw him, he looked up and said something to this effect: "Come down here! You're obviously a man with a story, and I've just got to hear it. Let's go to your house."

Zacchaeus was seeking out Jesus; and Jesus was "seeking the lost" (Lk. 19:10). That was a very happy convergence of searches. Today there are many people seeking a glimpse of Jesus, and it’s good to know that Jesus is still seeking them through his church and by his Spirit. Those who have found Christ need to join him in seeking out those who are still searching for him.

Response and Action:
I will join Jesus in his mission to seek and save the lost. I will draw near to Christ and keep my eyes open for others who are searching for the truth, salvation, hope, forgiveness, restoration, and purpose he has for them. Because I have found Jesus, I must become a seeker like him.

O God, give me the grace and discernment to see those who are seeking Jesus. Help me to draw nearer to Jesus every day, so that I might be more able to help others do the same. Thank you that Jesus came to seek and save the lost. Help me to join him in seeking out those who are searching for him and all he has to offer. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: 1 Chron. 16:10-11
10 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. 11 Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.
In Context: 1 Chronicles 16:7-36

Proverb for Today: Prov. 5:21
"For a man's ways are in full view of the LORD, and he examines all his paths."

Recommended Reading:
Who Was Jesus?
by Scot McKnight

Reading Schedule for May 5 - 10

May 5 - Luke 19:1-10
May 6 - John 6:24-71
May 7 - John 8:2-11
May 8 - Mark 7:1-37
May 9 - Matt. 18:21 – 19:12
May 10 - John 10:1-40

You're invited to read through the Bible with Dave Burkum. Six readings each week will take you through key scripture passages from Genesis through Revelation. Click here to download your copy of the Useful Breath Reading Schedule for 2007-08.

May 3 - Going Home

Overview of: Luke

Today's Reading:
Luke 15:11-32
"The Welcoming Father"

Focus Verses: Luke 15:7
20 So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.

Insight:
This story is most often called "The Parable of the Prodigal Son." I guess that makes sense since the story line follows the son, and most of us probably identify more strongly with the son.

The main idea of the story, however, seems to be centered in the character of the father. He was willing to let the son leave him. He longed for the son to come to his senses and be restored. He ran to welcome the son when he returned. He rejoiced and threw a party to celebrate being reunited with his estranged son. It was like receiving his son back from the dead!

Response and Action:
I recognize that God has give me the freedom to honor and serve him, or to wander and reject him. I believe that when I turn away from him, he longs for me to return and be restored. I want to have the wisdom to come home to God and to live for him. I must give thanks to God for his goodness in extending forgiveness and reconciliation to me. I will share God's love for my brothers and sisters who are wandering. With God, I long for them to come home and find their place in his family. When they return, I will run alongside God to welcome them. I will celebrate their restoration and renewal.

O God, thank you for welcoming me home. Thank you for your redeeming and saving love for all people. Thank you for giving your son, that whoever believes in him might have eternal life. Give me your heart for those who have wandered or turned away from you. Give me a readiness to reach out to them and to run to meet them with your gracious welcome. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Lam. 3:40
40 Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the LORD.
In Context: Lamentations 3

Proverb for Today: Prov. 3:11-12
"My son, do not despise the LORD's discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in."

Recommended Reading:
Coming Home to Your True Self: Leaving the Emptiness of False Attractions
by Albert Haase

May 2 - I Once Was Lost

Overview of: Luke

Today's Reading:
Luke 15:1-10
"The Lost Sheep & Lost Coin"

Focus Verses: Luke 15:7
7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.

Insight:
The Pharisees and religious teachers were always grumbling about the sinners, tax collectors, and riffraff with whom Jesus associated. One such undesirable was a man named Zacchaeus (Lk. 19). When Jesus went to his house, he explained to the grumblers that being with these people was central to his purpose--"The son of man came to seek and save the lost."

In today's text we see Jesus telling two stories in response to the grumbling. He explained that he was like a woman sweeping the house to find a lost coin, or a shepherd who went out to find a lost sheep. He said that heaven was filled with rejoicing when the lost were found. He explained that his time spent with sinners was necessary because nothing pleased God more than a sinner who repented and turned from sin.

Response and Action:
I will give thanks to God for Jesus who came to save sinners. I will turn from sin and follow Jesus. I will join him in his mission to save. I will go wherever the lost people are. I will sweep through the house of my community. I will search out the fields of my daily associations and friendships to find the lost and help them find Jesus.

O God, have mercy upon me, a sinner. Thank you that Jesus came into the world to seek and save the lost. Thank you for finding me, a lost coin, a lost sheep. Thank you that the searching and saving mission of Jesus is continually being fulfilled through his church, guided and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Give me a heart for those who are lost. Make me a seeker with a passion to find those who need to find Jesus. It's in his name that I pray, Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Ez. 34:11-12
11 " 'For this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. 12 As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness."
In Context: Ezekiel 34

Proverb for Today: Prov. 2:4-5
"...and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God."

Recommended Reading:
What's So Amazing about Grace
by Philip Yancey

May 1 - Wise Enough to Give Up

Overview of: Luke

Today's Reading:
Luke 14:15-35
"The Call and the Cost"

Focus Verses: Luke 14:28-33
28 "Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? 29 For if he lays the foundation and is not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule him, 30 saying, 'This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.'

31 "Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Will he not first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? 32 If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still a long way off and will ask for terms of peace. 33 In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple."

Insight:
Until a person is wise enough to see that he doesn't have what it takes to build the life he needs, he won't turn to Christ. Until a person recognizes that she doesn't have the resources to withstand the attacks and struggles of life, she won't turn to Christ. The wisdom to acknowledge limitations and needs is what moves us to turn away from self and reach out to Jesus.

Response and Action:
I give up on my ability to build my own life. I am looking to Jesus for the direction, purpose, and resources to find my life. I give up on defending myself from the challenges and adversaries that threaten to ruin me. I am depending on Jesus to defend and sustain me. Life is too big for me, but it is not too big for God. I am ready to be a disciple of Jesus because I have given up on me.

O God, thank you for Christ Jesus and his invitation to follow him. Give me the wisdom to hear and respond to his call with all my heart. Help me to see the wisdom of recognizing my limitations and my inability to build or sustain my life without him. Help me to find my life, my purpose, my joy, my strength, my very self in Christ. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Ps. 127:1
1 Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.
In Context: Psalm 127

Proverb for Today: Prov. 1:32
"For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them..."

Recommended Reading:
Renovation of the Heart: Putting on the Character of Christ
by Dallas Willard

April 30 - Justice Today

Overview of: Matthew

Today's Reading:
Matt. 25:31-46
"The Sheep and the Goats"

Focus Verses: Matt. 25:31-32
31 "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.

Insight:
I am currently reading N. T. Wright's new book, Surprised by Hope. Yesterday I read chapter 9 ("Jesus, the Coming Judge"). Early in the chapter, Wright says, "The picture of Jesus as the coming judge is the central feature of another absolutely vital and nonnegotiable Christian belief: that there will indeed be a judgment in which the creator God will set the world right once and for all." This judgment, he explains, is part of the Good News because we will all be delivered from "a world of systematic injustice, bullying, violence, arrogance, and oppression.”

Those of us who have placed our faith in Jesus, and have embraced his agenda for the world, have already begun to participate in the redemptive work the kingdom. As followers of Jesus we are, today, bringing hope to the "least of these." We are, today, standing in opposition to systematic injustice, violence, and pride. We are his sheep, we hear his voice (John 10), and we follow his lead today. We are committed to Jesus, and so we anticipate his coming to judge because we see it as the ultimate realization of the Good News.

Response and Action:
I must live the Good News of Jesus today. Because Jesus is my king, I must commit myself to the work of his kingdom. He is my shepherd, so I will follow where he leads. I must oppose sin, and unrighteousness of every kind: injustice, disregard for the poor, violence, marginalization of minorities, and abuse of the environment. I must live with a concern for the lost, the poor, the sick, the hurting, the forgotten, and the abused.

O God, help me to live for you and through you in thought, word, and deed. Help me to turn away from what is wrong and to do what is right. Help me to love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love others as myself. Give me a heart for righteousness and a compassion for the oppressed. Help me to act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with you. May your kingdom come--your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Through Christ Jesus, who will one day judge the living and the dead, and whose kingdom will have no end, Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Ezekiel 34:15-17
15 I myself will tend my sheep and have them lie down, declares the Sovereign LORD. 16 I will search for the lost and bring back the strays. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak, but the sleek and the strong I will destroy. I will shepherd the flock with justice. 17 " 'As for you, my flock, this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will judge between one sheep and another, and between rams and goats.
In Context: Ezekiel 34

Proverb for Today: Prov. 30:5
"Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him."

Recommended Reading:
Surprised by Hope
by N. T. Wright

April 29 - Watchful, Faithful, and Ready

Overview of: Matthew

Today's Reading:
Matt. 25:1-30
"Parables: Lamps and Talents"

Focus Verses: Matt. 25:13, 29
13 "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.

29 "For everyone who has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him."

Insight:
The two parables in today's reading have been interpreted most often in the light of the second coming of Christ. Of course, for anyone who believes in God, the ideas of being watchful and faithful have much broader application and importance. Had the first century Jewish leaders been more watchful and faithful, they would have recognized Jesus as the Christ. And today, if followers of Jesus are going to be ready for opportunity, service, hardship, death, and crisis, they must be watchful and faithful.

Response and Action:
I want to approach life with thoughtfulness and readiness. I will live with reverence toward God, think ahead, and give prayerful consideration to my actions. I will remember that my thoughts and actions have consequences, and hold my choices up to the light of God's word. I will strive to be a good steward, to be faithful with all God has given to me, using it for his purposes and for his glory. I want to be faithful to Christ, so that whatever happens, I will be ready.

O God, by the power and grace of your Holy Spirit, lead, teach, transform, shape, and strengthen me that I might delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Help me to be a good steward of all you have given me. Grant me the wisdom and the will to guard my heart, feed my spirit, stimulate my mind, and care for my body. Help me to be watchful and to fix my eyes on Jesus. It's in his name that I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 23:4
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
In Context: Psalm 23

Proverb for Today: Prov. 29:18
"Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but blessed is he who keeps the law."

Recommended Reading:
Interpreting the Parables
by Craig Blomberg

April 28 - More Workers

Overview of: Matthew

Today's Reading:
Matt. 20:1-16
"Parable of the Vineyard Workers"

Focus Verses: Matt. 20:13-16
13 "But he answered one of them, 'Friend, I am not being unfair to you. Didn't you agree to work for a denarius? 14 Take your pay and go. I want to give the man who was hired last the same as I gave you. 15 Don't I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?' 16 "So the last will be first, and the first will be last."

Insight:
The master of the vineyard was not primarily interested in pay, but rather in people and purpose. His main concern was to enlist people into the meaningful work of his kingdom. Some of the workers were more concerned about pay equity than about helping the others find employment.

It's likely that many of the last to be hired were in the worse condition; maybe they were less desirable or unable to compete or be as productive. In such a case, the mercy of the master is even more profound. Whatever the case, it's clear the master was motivated by his own generosity, not by the merits of his workers.

Response and Action:
God's grace is extended to everyone. I will rejoice in his generosity to all people and be thankful for his goodness to me. I will not waste my time by comparing myself to others. I will serve God with a thankful heart knowing that it is only by his grace that anyone serves. I will give thanks and praise for every new worker in the vineyard and pray for more to come.

O God, thank you for your grace and mercy. Thank you for giving me a place to work in your vineyard. Your generosity and goodness are such a blessing. Serving you gives me hope and purpose. Keep calling more and more people to your vineyard, O Lord, and bless them with all good things. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 146:5-8
5 Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God, 6 the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them—the LORD, who remains faithful forever. 7 He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets prisoners free, 8 the LORD gives sight to the blind, the LORD lifts up those who are bowed down, the LORD loves the righteous.
In Context: Psalm 146

Proverb for Today: Prov. 28:20
"A faithful man will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished."

Recommended Reading:
Interpreting the Parables
by Craig Blomberg

Reading Schedule for April 28 - May 3

April 28 - Matt. 20:1-16
April 29 - Matt. 25:1-30
April 30 - Matt. 25:31-46
May 1 - Luke 14:15-35
May 2 - Luke 15:1-10
May 3 - Luke 15:11-32

You're invited to read through the Bible with Dave Burkum. Six readings each week will take you through key scripture passages from Genesis through Revelation. Click here to download your copy of the Useful Breath Reading Schedule for 2007-08.

April 26 - The Son of God

Overview of: John

Today's Reading:
John 5:1-47
"Healing, Life, and Scripture"

Focus Verses: John 5:24-26
24 "I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life. 25 I tell you the truth, a time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live. 26 For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son to have life in himself."

Insight:
Jesus was persecuted for more than breaking Sabbath laws. There were attempts and plots to kill him, not because he was a controversial teacher, but because "he was calling God his own father, and making himself equal with God" (John 5:18). He claimed to be the Son of God, the promised redeemer, the giver of eternal life, the one who would raise the dead, and the one who would judge on the final day.

Response and Action:
My faith is in Jesus. I accept his claims about himself. I believe he is the fulfillment of the promises found in the law and the prophets of the Hebrew Scriptures. I believe that the scriptures, the Holy Spirit, and the testimony of the saints all testify to the truth of Christ. My hope of life, purpose, and eternity are in Jesus. I will seek to do good and pursue his righteousness today and every day as I eagerly await the day of his appearing—the day when he will redeem all humankind and all of creation with his resurrection power.

O God, thank you for the life and redemption given through Christ Jesus, your Son. Give me the wisdom and the will to follow and serve him. Help me to live in such a way that my life becomes another testimony of the hope and life he came to give. Strengthen and transform me that I might know Christ and the power of his resurrection. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 16:8-11
8 I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. 9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, 10 because you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay. 11 You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
In Context: Psalm 16

Proverb for Today: Prov. 26:12
"Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him."

Recommended Reading:
Who Was Jesus?
by N. T. Wright

April 25 - Mercy for the Humble

Overview of: Luke

Today's Reading:
Luke 18:1-30
"Prayers, Children, and a Rich Man"

Focus Verses: Luke 18:13-14
13 "But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.' 14 "I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."

Insight:
Jesus taught that God sees the injustices of our world and will one day bring justice and set all things right. Jesus warned those who looked down at others and felt a little too sure of their own goodness. He told them that truly righteous people understand they are sinners, and have a deep sense of their need for mercy. Humility is the mark of true righteousness.

Response and Action:
I want to be humble before God and others. I want to be quicker to see the sin in my own life than to notice the faults of others. I will deal with the log in my own eye before trying to help others with the speck in theirs. I want to draw upon God’s grace for living a righteous life. I will be careful to give God glory for any good thing he does in me. I will put aside arrogance and self-congratulation and depend on God to lift me up at the right time.

O God, have mercy on me, a sinner. Thank you for your son, Jesus, who has brought your grace and forgiveness to me. Help me to follow him in humility and full surrender. Thank you for the promise of redemption Christ brings for me and for the whole world. Give me the wisdom and the strength to join him in his redemptive work today, as he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: 2 Chron. 33:10-13
10 The LORD spoke to Manasseh and his people, but they paid no attention. 11 So the LORD brought against them the army commanders of the king of Assyria, who took Manasseh prisoner, put a hook in his nose, bound him with bronze shackles and took him to Babylon. 12 In his distress he sought the favor of the LORD his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers. 13 And when he prayed to him, the LORD was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea; so he brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the LORD is God.
In Context: 2 Chronicles 33

Proverb for Today: Prov. 25:6-7a
"Do not exalt yourself in the king's presence, and do not claim a place among great men; it is better for him to say to you, "Come up here," than for him to humiliate you before a nobleman."

Recommended Reading:
Why Sin Matters: The Surprising Relationship between Our Sin and God's Grace
by Mark R. McMinn

April 24 - First Things

Overview of: Luke

Today's Reading:
Luke 12:13-48
"Wealth, Worry, and Watchfulness"

Focus Verses: Luke 12:13-48
32 "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Insight:
Life does not consist of the abundance of possessions. Security is not to be found in things (even lots of things). Worry about things can lead to misplaced priorities: obsession with self; blindness toward the needs of others; disregard for righteousness; failure to recognize the real beauty of today; and distorted values. Our pursuits and treasures indicate whether our perspective toward life is temporal and false, or eternal and true.

Response and Action:
I want to live with the eternal values and perspectives of the kingdom of Christ. I want to seek first his kingdom and his righteousness. I want my faith in Christ, my pursuit of his righteousness, and my submission to his authority to determine the way I live and the choices I make. I do not want my faith in self or the pursuit of things to determine my relationship with Christ. I want to seek Jesus, his ways, and his priorities more than anything else. I will put first the things that last.

O God, help me to live for you and through you in thought, word, and deed. Help me to love you with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. Shape my love for others by the grace and work of Christ in my life. Give me the wisdom to recognize what is true and what has eternal value. I trust you to provide for my needs as I put you first. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Proverbs 2:1-5
1 My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, 2 turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, 3 and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, 4 and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, 5 then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.
In Context: Proverbs 2

Proverb for Today: Prov. 24:19
"Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of the wicked..."

Recommended Reading:
The Pursuit of God
by A. W. Tozer

April 23 - Convinced

Overview of: Luke

Today's Reading:
Luke 16:1-31
"Money, Marriage, and Mercy"

Focus Verses: Luke 16:29-31
29 "Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.' 30" 'No, father Abraham,' he said, 'but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.' 31"He said to him, 'If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.' "

Insight:
There are honest skeptics who are truly searching for truth. There are dishonest skeptics who have no intention of looking beyond their own opinions. An honest skeptic is open to dialogue and receptive to new ideas. A dishonest skeptic would not be convinced even if someone rose from the dead (they would explain it away).

Response and Action:
I want to be a discerning and thoughtful person. I want to develop critical thinking skills and be able to give careful consideration to difficult questions about life and faith. I do not, however, want to confuse critical thinking with dishonest skepticism. I don't want to confuse tough questions with thoughtful conclusions. I will look to the scriptures with an open mind and a receptive heart. I will avoid the arrogance that leads to a closed mind.

O God, thank you for your son, Jesus, and for the Scriptures, and for the Holy Spirit. Thank you for the capacity to think and to believe. Grant me the courage and honesty to be open to truth. Give me the wisdom to discern my own weakness and limitations. Make me wise and give me understanding, so that I might live by the truth and give you praise. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 14:1-2
1 The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." They are corrupt, their deeds are vile; there is no one who does good. 2 The LORD looks down from heaven on the sons of men to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God.
In Context: Psalm 14

Proverb for Today: Prov. 23:23
"Buy the truth and do not sell it; get wisdom, discipline and understanding."

Recommended Reading:
Letters from a Skeptic
by Gregory A. Boyd

April 22 - Making Time

Overview of: Mark

Today's Reading:
Mark 6:14-56
"John Beheaded, Jesus Besieged"

Focus Verses: Mark 6:31-34
31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." 32 So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. 33 But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. 34 When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.

Insight:
With the news of John's death and the relentless press of the crowds, Jesus decided to retreat to a solitary place with his disciples for rest. There was no escape. Everywhere Jesus went, the crowds anticipated his arrival and were waiting for him.

Instead of being completely upset with the crowds and telling them to leave him alone, Jesus had compassion on them. Jesus saw how desperate they were for guidance and truth. And so, instead of sending them away and guarding his own needs and agenda, Jesus began to teach them many things and sent his disciples to find food for them. When only a small amount of food was found, Jesus multiplied that food and fed the crowd.

Response and Action:
Jesus' love and compassion for others is compelling. I am thankful that he sees our needs and extends his grace and provision, putting our interests and wellbeing above his own. I will give God thanks for the grace upon grace I receive from Christ. I will follow Jesus' example and look beyond my own interests to the interests of others. Like Jesus, I want to have compassion and care for others who may interrupt my plans. I want to be willing to serve the needs of others, even if it means upsetting my schedule and delaying the fulfillment of my own needs.

O God, thank you for Jesus who although he existed in the very form of God did not consider equality with a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself for us. Thank you for the sacrifices Christ Jesus has made for us and for our salvation. Help me to follow him and, strengthened by his Spirit, to be ready and willing to empty myself and make sacrifices for others. Give me compassion and mercy for others. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 103:13,14
13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him; 14 for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust.
In Context: Psalm 103

Proverb for Today: Prov. 22:9
"A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor."

Recommended Reading:
Kingdom Come: How Jesus Wants to Change the World
by Allen M. Wakabayashi

April 21 - Kingdom People

Overview of: Matthew

Today's Reading:
Matt. 13:24-58
"Parables from a Prophet"

Focus Verses: Matt. 13:31-32
31 He told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. 32 Though it is the smallest of all your seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and perch in its branches."

Insight:
When the kingdom of heaven takes root in a person's life, it takes over. It "becomes the largest plant in the garden" and it "works its way all through the dough." When you truly find it, you value it above anything else and "sell everything to buy it." At the end of the age there will be a great sorting out of all things--the good from the bad, the righteous from the unrighteous, and the kingdom from the non-kingdom.

Response and Action:
If I believe that Jesus is the King, I must live in the ways and values of his kingdom. To accept Jesus is to surrender to his purpose and agenda in the world. If I am truly a believer and follower of Jesus, his kingdom and his righteousness will become the dominant and all-consuming center of my life. I must seek him and value him above all else.

I will do all I can to grow in my love, obedience, and knowledge in Christ Jesus. I will thoughtfully and purposefully do my best to bring all of my life--my thoughts, my actions, my choices, and my desires--into conformity with Jesus and his kingdom.

O God, your name is Holy. I long to see your kingdom established--your will lived out on earth as it is in heaven. Help me to be a person of your kingdom. Give me the faith and humility and courage to embrace Jesus as Lord and Savior. By the power and grace of your Holy Spirit, lead, teach, transform, shape, and strengthen me, that I might live a kingdom life. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 21:1-4
1 O LORD, the king rejoices in your strength. How great is his joy in the victories you give! 2 You have granted him the desire of his heart and have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah 3 You welcomed him with rich blessings and placed a crown of pure gold on his head. 4 He asked you for life, and you gave it to him—length of days, for ever and ever.
In Context: Psalm 21

Proverb for Today: Prov. 21:1
"The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases."

Recommended Reading:
The Community of the King
by Howard Snyder

Reading Schedule for April 21 - 26

April 21 - Matt. 13:24-58
April 22 - Mark 6:14-56
April 23 - Luke 16:1-31
April 24 - Luke 12:13-48
April 25 - Luke 18:1-30
April 26 - John 5:1-47


You're invited to read through the Bible with Dave Burkum. Six readings each week will take you through key scripture passages from Genesis through Revelation. Click here to download your copy of the Useful Breath Reading Schedule for 2007-08.

April 19 - Walk this Way

Overview of: Matthew

Today's Reading:
Matthew 11:1-30
"Jesus and Truth"

Focus Verses: Matt. 11:27-30
27 "All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. 28 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Insight:
Only Jesus can truly reveal God the Father to us. He extends a promise of rest for the weary and blessing for the burdened. Just as a young ox learns how to work by being yoked together with an older and more experienced animal, Jesus invites us to be yoked with him. By walking beside him, not pushing ahead of him or dragging behind him, we will learn to walk in the pace and power of his Spirit. He will not add to our burden, but will instead share the load with us.

Response and Action:
I want to keep in step with the Spirit of Christ. I will study the scriptures and give careful thought to my ways. I will do all I can to follow in the footsteps of Christ--to walk as he walked. I will yield myself to him so that he might live through me. I will be prayerful and thoughtful about my choices, thoughts, and actions. I will stay in close fellowship with others who are seeking Christ, so that together we might walk in the light as he is in the light.

O God, show me your ways through the teaching and life of Christ Jesus. Help me to obey his commands, to walk in his ways, to meditate upon his words, to follow his example, and cling to his promises. Jesus, walk beside me and teach me to walk in the unforced rhythms of grace. It's in your name that I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 68:19-20
19 Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens. Selah 20 Our God is a God who saves; from the Sovereign LORD comes escape from death.
In Context: Psalm 68

Proverb for Today: Prov. 19:16
"He who obeys instructions guards his life, but he who is contemptuous of his ways will die."

Recommended Reading:
The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism
by Timothy Keller