Reading Schedule for June 9 - 14

June 9 - Acts 2:1-41
June 10 - Acts 3:1-26
June 11 - Acts 4:1-31
June 12 - Acts 2:42-47; 4:32-37
June 13 - Acts 5:1-42
June 14 - Acts 6:8 – 7:5; 7:51 – 8:3

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.

June 7 - Making Disciples

Overview of: Matthew and Acts

Today's Reading:
Matt. 28:16-20; Acts 1:1-26
"Commission & Ascension"

Focus Verses: Matt. 28:18-20
18 Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Insight:
The Good News of Jesus is something to be shared and taken to the whole world. Jesus commissioned his disciples to go and make more disciples. They would not have to do this alone; Christ promised to be with them to the very end of the age.

Response and Action:
I will share the Jesus with others. He is Lord--all authority in heaven and earth belongs to him. He is savior--everyone who believes and is baptized will be saved. He is master--his commands and his example are the way to life. He is present--he is with us, through his Spirit, to the very end. I will follow him, obey him, and share him with everyone around me. I will cultivate a sense of his presence, and look to the Holy Spirit for the transformation, insight, and strength I need to follow and serve Christ.

O God, help me to follow Jesus, my Lord and my Savior. Teach me to delight and walk in his ways. Give me the boldness and the joy I need to share him with the world around me. Help me to walk in the light as he is in the light. Make my life a testimony of his power to save, to redeem, to transform, and to guide. It's in his saving name that I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 98:1-2
1 Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him. 2 The LORD has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nations.
In Context: Psalm 98

Proverb for Today: Prov. 7:2
"Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye."

Recommended Reading:
Discipleship Essentials: A Guide to Building Your Life in Christ
by Greg Ogden

June 6 - Still Loved and Called

Overview of: John

Today's Reading:
John 21:1-25
"Breakfast in Galilee"

Focus Verses: John 21:4-7
4 Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. 5 He called out to them, "Friends, haven't you any fish?" "No," they answered. 6 He said, "Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some." When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish. 7 Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, "It is the Lord," he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water.

Insight:
This account of an incredible catch of fish is very similar to Luke's account of what happened when Peter first met Jesus and was called to follow him (Luke 5:1-11). It seems that Peter and the disciples were discouraged and uncertain of their calling. Though this was their third post-resurrection encounter with Jesus, the shame of abandoning him at his arrest, and Peter's guilt over denying him while he was on trial, seemed to hang over them. Even the resurrection seemed to be more of a confusing mystery to them than a joyful reality.

Jesus carefully and repeatedly presented himself to the disciples in ways that helped them process the outrageous possibility and meaning of the resurrection. By reenacting the events of his first call to Peter, Jesus seems to have been helping the disciples remember his love and purpose for them. In the beginning, he called them to be fishers of men; he now called them to be shepherds of his flock.

Response and Action:
Failures, fears, guilt, and confusion can take a toll my relationship with Christ and my sense of purpose. It's so important for me to remember that Christ's love and purpose for me are greater than my weakness. His grace is greater than my sin. His calling is deeper than my wandering. His wisdom is greater than my confusion. My relationship with God and the purpose of my life are rooted in his grace, not my performance. I will hold on to his faithfulness and unwavering love.

O God, thank you for the love and grace you have lavished upon me, that I should be called your child. And that is what I am! Thank you for your persistent and amazing grace that will not let me go. Thank you for the hope, the purpose, and the promise I have in Christ Jesus. It's in his redemptive and restoring name that I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 51:10-13
10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. 11 Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. 12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. 13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will turn back to you.
In Context: Psalm 51

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:
The Call: Finding and Fulfilling the Central Purpose of Your Life
by Os Guinness

June 5 - Seeing through Scripture

Overview of: Luke

Today's Reading:
Luke 24:13-49
"Emmaus Road and Jerusalem"

Focus Verses: Luke 24:44-45
44 He said to them, "This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms." 45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures.

Insight:
When Jesus came alongside the two disciples traveling to Emmaus and began to speak with them, they did not recognize him. The two travelers shared their sense of lost hope and sadness over Jesus' crucifixion, not knowing it was Jesus they were talking to. Rather than immediately revealing his identity to them, Jesus pointed them to the Scriptures. He wanted them to first see that who he was and what they had experienced was utterly consistent with the law and the prophets and the poets.

When Jesus appeared to his disciples in Jerusalem, he once again pointed them to the Scriptures, opening their minds to understand them. Jesus wanted their belief to be rooted in more than personal events; he wanted their faith to be rooted in the truth and tradition of Scripture. He wanted them to see him not just through the lens of their own experience, but also through the broader and more comprehensive lens of Scripture.

Response and Action:
I want to see and experience the presence, truth, and power of Christ Jesus in my life. In order to truly see and understand him, I need to be a student of the Scriptures. In reading the Bible, I am deepening and broadening my understanding of who Jesus is. A greater grasp of God's written word will give me greater insight into the words of Jesus. This will give me a greater recognition of who he is to me, and help me understand he calling and promise for my life.

O God, thank you for the Bible. Thank you for the words of the law, the prophets, and the psalms. Thank you for the gospels, the acts of the early church, and the teaching of the apostles. Open my mind to understand the Scriptures. Help me to see Jesus for who he truly is. By the power and grace of your Holy Spirit, open my eyes to the truth and make it burn within my heart. Help me to delight in and live by your word. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 119:15-16
15 I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. 16 I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word.
In Context: Psalm 119

Proverb for Today: Prov. 5:1-2
"My son, pay attention to my wisdom, listen well to my words of insight, that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge."

Recommended Reading:
The IVP Introduction to the Bible
by Philip S. Johnston

June 4 - Doubts

Overview of: John

Today's Reading:
John 20:1-31
"Resurrection Appearances"

Focus Verses: John 20:27-29
27 Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." 28 Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!" 29 Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

Insight:
Resurrection is an outrageous idea. It's no small thing to believe that Jesus has overcome death and is alive. The disciples who lived and walked with Jesus and listened to his teaching every day for years were surprised and shocked. The empty tomb seems to have taken them by surprise as much as the crucifixion had--maybe even more. Peter and John stood in the empty tomb and wondered what it meant. When Jesus spoke face to face with Mary, she was so grief stricken and confused she didn't recognize him. Even though Thomas had heard the eyewitness testimony of his friends, he couldn't accept it.

The resurrection of Jesus was not some clever story invented by disciples and friends deluded by wishful thinking. It was something they didn't seem to expect--something they were slow to understand and accept. But once they recognized and experienced the resurrected Christ, it was something that, quite understandably, convinced them that Jesus was indeed God. He was worthy of their worship, faith, and absolute devotion.

Response and Action:
My belief about the resurrection is critical to my view of Jesus. Because I believe Jesus conquered death and is alive today, I worship him, I put my faith in him, and I commit my life to him.

O God, help me to understand and see Jesus for who he truly is. Help me navigate through the doubts and questions in my mind and bring me into a clear and confident faith. Give me the honesty to face and voice my doubts and questions, but give me the courage and boldness to set aside my doubts and questions as you reveal the truth of Jesus and the power of his resurrection. O Christ, show me the power and truth of your resurrection through your word, your Spirit, your people, your promises, your presence, and all that is beautiful and true. Raise and renew me by your power and truth. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 80:17-19
17 Let your hand rest on the man at your right hand, the son of man you have raised up for yourself. 18 Then we will not turn away from you; revive us, and we will call on your name. 19 Restore us, O LORD God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.
In Context: Psalm 80

Proverb for Today: Prov. 4:18
"The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day."

Recommended Reading:
Doubting: Growing Through the Uncertainties of Faith
by Alister McGrath

June 3 - Everyday Witnesses

Overview of: Matthew

Today's Reading:
Matt. 27:62 – 28:15
"Resurrection Reports"

Focus Verses: Matthew 28:5-7
5 The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you."

Insight:
While the elders and chief priest told lies and gave bribes to suppress the truth of the empty tomb, Jesus entrusted women with the message of resurrection, and told them to tell his disciples. The religious leaders, who should have been looking for the truth and acting as ambassadors of truth, were actually blind and completely untrustworthy. Women, who were not even allowed to give testimony in a court of law, were chosen by Jesus to be the first witnesses of his victory over death.

Response and Action:
God uses ordinary and marginalized people to shame the "wise" and the "strong." Shepherds were the witnesses of Jesus' birth. Fishermen and tax collectors were the witnesses and partners in his ministry. Women were the first to witness his victory over death. And now, everyday people like me are the witnesses of the gospel--the living testimony of his presence and power in the church.

O God, thank you for entrusting ordinary people with the good news message of Jesus. Thank you for allowing me to be a voice of testimony. Help me, by faith, to do the good things you've prepared in advance for me to do. Help me to experience the power and hope of transformation through faith in Christ. Help me to be a witness for Jesus in the words of my mouth, the works of my hands, and the attitudes of my heart. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 96:2-3
2 Sing to the LORD, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. 3 Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.
In Context: Psalm 96

Proverb for Today: Prov. 3:3
"Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart."

Recommended Reading:
Character Witness: How Our Lives Can Make a Difference in Evangelism
by Christine Wood

June 2 - A Song of Hope and Trust

Overview of: Mark

Today's Reading:
Mark 15:21-47
"Crucifixion, Death, and Burial"

Focus Verses: Mark 15:33-34
33 At the sixth hour darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour. 34 And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?"—which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"

Insight:
When Jesus cried out, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me," he was quoting the opening lines of Psalm 22, a psalm of David. He must have known, recited, and pondered over this song many times, especially as he knew the time of his death was drawing near. I think he was quoting or alluding to the last words of this Psalm ("he has done it") when he said, "It is finished." The account of the crucifixion in Mark 15 and the words of Psalm 22 are amazingly interconnected considering the Psalm was written hundreds of years before the time of Christ.

I don't believe that Jesus was forsaken by God, or thought he had been forsaken by God. His reference to Psalm 22 is actually a way for him to declare his absolute faith that God would not forsake him. He knew the last verse as well as the first verse. While others mocked and treated him as though he had been forsaken by God, Jesus quoted a song that declared his faith and hope that God would vindicate him, and his expectation to be victorious over death.

Response and Action:
I will trust in God's promises, even in the face of adversity and the threat of death. I believe that God is able to save. When it looks like I have been forsaken, I will, like Jesus, cling to the belief that God will save and restore me. I believe that nothing can separate me from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus.

O God, thank you for the hope of salvation. Lead me away from temptation. Deliver me from evil. Provide for my needs today. Protect me from discouragement, and encourage me by your Spirit through your word, your people, your promises, and all that is beautiful and true. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 22:1-5
1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from the words of my groaning? 2 O my God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, and am not silent. 3 Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One; you are the praise of Israel. 4 In you our fathers put their trust; they trusted and you delivered them. 5 They cried to you and were saved; in you they trusted and were not disappointed.
In Context: Psalm 22

Proverb for Today: Prov. 2:6
"For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding."

Recommended Reading:
Praying the Psalms of Jesus
by James Sire

Reading Schedule for June 2 - 7

June 2 - Mark 15:21-47
June 3 - Matt. 27:62 – 28:15
June 4 - John 20:1-31
June 5 - Luke 24:13-49
June 6 - John 21:1-25
June 7 - Matt. 28:16-20; Acts 1:1-26


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 31 - Responsibility

Overview of: Matthew

Today's Reading:
Matt. 27:1-31
"Judas, Pilate, and Soldiers"

Focus Verses: Matthew 27:24
24 When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. "I am innocent of this man's blood," he said. "It is your responsibility!"

Insight:
When Judas experienced remorse for his actions, he tried to return the money the priests and elders had given him to betray Jesus. They said, "It's your responsibility, not ours." When Pilate saw that the crowd was out of hand and determined to see Jesus crucified, he said, "It's your responsibility, not mine." In the same way, it's easy for me to look at Judas, the priests and elders, Pilate, the crowd, and the Roman soldiers and think, "It's their fault; they're responsible for Jesus' death. It's their responsibility, not mine."

The scriptures, the Spirit, and my own conscience tell me that I need to take responsibility for my sin if I am to truly understand who Jesus is. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and the wages of sin is death. My sins, along with the sins of all humanity, are the reason Jesus died on the cross. He was wounded for our transgressions. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate, suffered death, was buried, and rose again on the third day.

Response and Action:
I will give thanks to God for the saving work Christ Jesus did on the cross. I will not deceive myself by refusing to take responsibility for my actions. I will confess my sins, repent, and surrender my life to Christ. I will confess Jesus is Lord and look to him for salvation and renewal. I will take the responsibility and take initiative to follow in the steps of Christ by the power of his Spirit.

O God, have mercy on me, a sinner. Thank you for Jesus who, in becoming human and dying at the hands of sinful men, demonstrated your great love for all humanity. By the power and grace of your Holy Spirit, save and renew me. Give me a heart that delights in your will, a mind to walk in your ways, and a desire to bring glory and honor to your name. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Isaiah 53:4-6
4 Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. 6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.
In Context: Isaiah 53

Proverb for Today: Prov. 31:8
"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute."

Recommended Reading:
The Incomparable Christ
by John R. W. Stott

May 30 - What Do You Think?

Overview of: Matthew

Today's Reading:
Matt. 26:36-75
"The Christ, the Son of God"

Focus Verses: Matthew 26:63-66
63 ...Jesus remained silent. The high priest said to him, "I charge you under oath by the living God: Tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God." 64 "Yes, it is as you say," Jesus replied. "But I say to all of you: In the future you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven." 65 Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, "He has spoken blasphemy! Why do we need any more witnesses? Look, now you have heard the blasphemy. 66 What do you think?" "He is worthy of death," they answered.

Insight:
If Jesus did not believe himself to be the Christ, the Son of God, or had been misunderstood, or misrepresented, his trial before the high priest would have been the perfect time for him to set the record straight.

Instead of backing away from the questions, Jesus said, "Yes, I am the Christ. And you will see me in my glory at the right hand of God the Father." It's clear that the high priest and the crowd understood Jesus' words to be a clear affirmation of his claims to deity and messiahship because they considered them to be blasphemy.

Response and Action:
I believe Jesus' claim to be the Son of God. I accept his authority. I believe he suffered death, was buried, and on the third day he rose again in accordance with the scriptures. I believe that he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. I believe he will come again to judge the living and the dead and that his kingdom will have no end.

Thank you, O God, for Jesus, your Son who came to live among us, full of grace and truth. Help me to grow in my relationship with him. Help me to follow him wherever he leads. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Daniel 7:13-14
13 "In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. 14 He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.
In Context: Daniel 7:1-14

Proverb for Today: Prov. 30:4
"Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Who has gathered up the wind in the hollow of his hands? Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and the name of his son? Tell me if you know!"

Recommended Reading:
The Incomparable Christ
by John R. W. Stott

May 29 - The Answer to Christ's Prayer

Overview of: John

Today's Reading:
John 17:1-26
"Jesus Prays for His Disciples"

Focus Verses: John 17:20-21
20 "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.

Insight:
While it would be confusing to most people, this chapter could be titled as "The Lord's Prayer." The model prayer Jesus gave his disciples when they asked him to teach them how to pray is profound and beautiful (Luke 11:1-4). The prayer of John 17 is very personal, deeply relational, missional, and hopeful.

Jesus asked his Father God to help him accomplish his mission in a way that would demonstrate divine love and glory. He asked God to protect, sustain, and guide his disciples. He asked God to help them know the truth and to live holy lives. He prayed for the unity of believers, not just those who were following him at that point, but for all believers who would eventually come to believe in him because of the testimony of his disciples.

Response and Action:
In this prayer of Jesus, I recognize his claim to divinity. He calls God his Father and claims to have been present with God in glory before the world began. I also recognize Jesus' call to his disciples to follow him in faith, to walk in holiness, to be witnesses of the truth, to share the gospel, and to live in unity with other believers.

O God, thank you for Jesus and his prayer for all who believe in him. Thank you, Jesus, for interceding for your people at God's right hand. By the power and grace of your Holy Spirit, help me to grow in my faith, to lead a righteous life, to be a light, to live in harmony and shared purpose with other believers, and to give glory to God. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 133:1
1 How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!
In Context: Psalm 133

Proverb for Today: Prov. 29:23
"A man's pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor."

Recommended Reading:
Love One Another: Becoming the Church Jesus Longs for
by Gerald L. Sittser

May 28 - Real World Promises

Overview of: John

Today's Reading:
John 16:5-33
"The Spirit, the Father, and the Son"

Focus Verses: John 16:33
33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Insight:
With the imminent approach of his death, resurrection, and return to the Father, Jesus gave his disciples important promises and provision. He promised to send the Holy Spirit who would convict the world of sin and guide them into all truth. He promised that though they would face grief and trouble, he would sustain them, and ultimately their grief would turn to joy. He promised them that they could make requests to God in his name, and that God would provide for them and make their joy complete. He promised them that though in this world they would see trouble, they could take heart and live in faith, being confident that he had overcome the world.

Response and Action:
I need to look to the Holy Spirit for truth, guidance, and understanding. I need to hold on to Christ Jesus through every hardship and grief. I need to find hope in Jesus, trusting that God hears and answers every request I offer up to him in Jesus' name. I need to remember that though troubles are a certainty in this broken world, Jesus has overcome the world and will one day set all things right. I will take courage and comfort in these promises.

O God, thank you for the Holy Spirit who convicts, guides, teaches and renews me. Thank you for the promise and hope I have in Christ. Help me to take courage as I face troubles and hardship, and help me to overcome through faith in Jesus. O God, sustain me by your Spirit. Redeem and renew all things through Jesus. May your kingdom come and your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 85:6-9
6 Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? 7 Show us your unfailing love, O LORD, and grant us your salvation. 8 I will listen to what God the LORD will say; he promises peace to his people, his saints—but let them not return to folly. 9 Surely his salvation is near those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land.
In Context: Psalm 85

Proverb for Today: Prov. 28:5
"Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD understand it fully."

Recommended Reading:
Father, Son and Spirit: The Trinity and John's Gospel
by Andreas J. Kostenberger

May 27 - Staying Connected

Overview of: John

Today's Reading:
John 15:1 – 16:4
"Jesus Teaches about Fruitful Living"

Focus Verses: John 15:5-8
5 "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. 8 This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.

Insight:
Living in relationship with Jesus is essential to becoming a person who glorifies God. In the same way a branch must be connected to the vine in order to produce fruit, I must live in connection with Christ. If I am abiding in Jesus, my life will bear fruit that looks and acts like Jesus. Loving as Christ has loved is the best evidence that I am abiding in him. Bearing the fruit of Christ's love brings glory to God.

Response and Action:
I will do all I can to abide in Christ. I will look to Jesus for the guidance, the power, the nurture, and the transformation I need to love as he loves. I will be intentional about seeking Christ through prayer, study, obedience, community, worship, and service. I do not want anything to threaten or diminish my connection with Jesus, and so I will put those things aside and ask God to prune away those dead branches that stifle my wellbeing and fruitfulness.

O God, thank you for the fruitful life I am able to live through Christ. Help me to stay connected to Jesus. By the power and grace of his 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. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Jeremiah 17:7-8
7 "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. 8 He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit."
In Context: Jeremiah 17:1-18

Proverb for Today: Prov. 27:18
"He who tends a fig tree will eat its fruit, and he who looks after his master will be honored."

Recommended Reading:
Life on the Vine: Cultivating the Fruit of the Spirit in Christian Community
by Philip D. Kenneson

May 26 - Promise and Peace

Overview of: John

Today's Reading:
John 14:1-31
"Jesus Comforts His Disciples"

Focus Verses: John 14:23-27
23 Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. 24 He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me. 25 All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

Insight:
Jesus promised his disciples that though he would be returning to the Father, he would not leave them as orphans. Through his Holy Spirit he would guide them, comfort them, sustain them, and live with them. He would give them peace as they faced the troubles and fearsome challenges of life. He would also return to redeem and renew the world. He called them to live in truth and obedience, trusting that following him would surely lead to eternal life.

Response and Action:
Because I believe in Christ Jesus and love him with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength, I will obey him. I will give careful attention to the Scriptures in order to know and understand his teachings, his example, and his commands. I will pray and meditate and cultivate sensitivity to the leading and conviction of the Holy Spirit. I will rest in his promises, even in the face of trouble, stress, and frightening circumstances.

O Father God, thank you for Jesus your Son who has shown me who you are. Thank you for the truth he has revealed, for the way he has shown, and for the life he has given. Help me to discern the leading and counsel of your Holy Spirit. Give me a readiness and desire to obey you in all things. Grant me the peace that the world cannot give, through Jesus Christ my Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Isaiah 26:3-4
3 You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. 4 Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD, is the Rock eternal.
In Context: Isaiah 26

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:
Father, Son and Spirit: The Trinity and John's Gospel
by Andreas J. Kostenberger

Reading Schedule for May 26 - 31

May 26 - John 14:1-31
May 27 - John 15:1 – 16:4
May 28 - John 16:5-33
May 29 - John 17:1-26
May 30 - Matt. 26:36-75
May 31 - Matt. 27:1-31



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 24 - Seeing Ways to Serve

Overview of: John

Today's Reading:
John 13:1-17
"Jesus Washing Feet"

Focus Verses: John 13:14-17
14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.

Insight:
The normal time for foot washing would have been upon entering the room. The water, basin, and towels must have been just sitting there in plain sight. Any one of the disciples could have taken the role of servant, but none of them did. They certainly must have seen no was serving them, but apparently did not see the opportunity to serve each other.

After the meal had begun, Jesus got up from the table, took the role of a servant, and began washing feet. He demonstrated that true greatness and authority is lived out in servanthood. He told his disciples blessing would result from doing what he had modeled.

Response and Action:
I want my eyes to be open to opportunities to serve. If I am observant, I will see these opportunities all around me. They may be as simple as washing dishes or housekeeping. The longer I follow Jesus, and the more like him I become, the better I should be at serving.

O God, make me a servant. Give me eyes that see what needs to be done. Give me hands that are ready to pitch in and help. Give me the humility and wisdom to see that no act of service or care is below me. Give me a willingness to serve and give me the joy and blessing that comes from serving in Jesus name. It's in his name that I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 25:8-9
8 Good and upright is the LORD; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways. 9 He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.
In Context: Psalm 25

Proverb for Today: Prov. 24:14
"Know also that wisdom is sweet to your soul; if you find it, there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off."

Recommended Reading:
Jesus With Dirty Feet
by Don Everts

May 23 - Bread and Wine

Overview of: Mark

Today's Reading:
Mark 14:1-31
"Devotion, Dinner, and Denial"

Focus Verses: Mark 14:22-25
22 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take it; this is my body." 23 Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, and they all drank from it. 24 "This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many," he said to them. 25 "I tell you the truth, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it anew in the kingdom of God."

Insight:
This special meal that Jesus gave to his disciples must be the most reenacted historical event of all time. Every day for most of the last two thousand years, some group of people somewhere around the world has broken bread, poured a cup, and remembered Jesus and the new covenant of his blood. And now, the sun never sets on this special meal, as every day millions of Christians all around the world are breaking bread in sacred remembrance and joyful proclamation of the redemption and new life Jesus has made possible through his death on the cross.

Response and Action:
I will join with other Christians every week to worship and remember Christ through with the simple elements of broken bread and poured wine. In doing so I will remember and give witness to my need for forgiveness and salvation. I will remember and give witness to God's great love for humanity. I will remember and give witness to my place in the church--the body of Christ. I will remember and give witness to my faith and hope in the promise of Christ's return to redeem, restore, renew, and set all things right.

O God, thank you for sending your only Son into the world to save and redeem. O Christ, thank you for your selfless sacrifice. Thank you for the new and living way you have made for us to be renewed and made right with God. Thank you for rescuing us from the dominion of darkness and bringing us into your kingdom. Thank you for your church and for the opportunity to gather with them around a table each week to remember the cross, the resurrection, and the hope and purpose you give to our lives. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 23:5-6
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
In Context: Psalm 23

Proverb for Today: Prov. 23:17
"Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the LORD."

Recommended Reading:
The Meal Jesus Gave Us
by N. T. Wright

May 22 - Ready and Watching

Overview of: Mark

Today's Reading:
Mark 13:1-37
"The End of the Age"

Focus Verses: Mark 13:32-34
32 "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. 34 It's like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with his assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch.

Insight:
These apocalyptic passages provoke more questions than provide answers. The destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. seems to fit the description of much of what Jesus is foretelling. Those events, however, do not adequately embody the full sense of finality and ultimate vindication Jesus describes.

It seems, to me, that Jesus was speaking of the destruction of Jerusalem, and, at the same time, using it as a picture of the final day when the Son of Man would return. I think he was pointing to the immediate crises and struggles of their time, while simultaneously putting them in the context of the ultimate crises and struggles of all time and all creation.

While the passage may be mysterious, it's important to not let the clear message of Jesus' words get lost among the questions.

1. Life will be filled with struggles and hardships. These struggles are part of the ultimate struggle (Mk. 15:5-13).
2. Believers need to be on guard because our troubled world is filled with false claims, false teachers, false Christs, and false miracles (Mk. 13:21-23).
3. Jesus, the Son of Man, will ultimately be vindicated and bring justice and redemption (Mk. 13:26-27).
4. Following Jesus is the way to be watchful and ready for anything that happens whenever it happens (Mk. 13:32-36).

Response and Action:
Am I living in the last days? Yes. If not the final days before Christ's return, certainly the last days for me (I'll be doing good if I live another 30 years). The difficult events and problems of my time and life are part of the ultimate struggles and conflicts of all time and all life. I need to follow Jesus with all my heart in order to be ready for this day, every day to come, and the never ending day of eternity.

O God, I want to be watchful, alert, and ready. Help me to follow Jesus with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Give me the peace and hope that comes from trusting him to sustain and provide for all my todays and tomorrows. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Isaiah 26:19-20
19 But your dead will live; their bodies will rise. You who dwell in the dust, wake up and shout for joy. Your dew is like the dew of the morning; the earth will give birth to her dead. 20 Go, my people, enter your rooms and shut the doors behind you; hide yourselves for a little while until his wrath has passed by.
In Context: Isaiah 26

Proverb for Today: Prov. 22:3
"A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it."

Recommended Reading:
Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church
by N. T. Wright

May 21 - Putting in Everything

Overview of: Mark

Today's Reading:
Mark 12:13-44
"Various Teachings"

Focus Verses: Mark 12:43-44
43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on."

Insight:
Giving is an indicator of what the heart values most. Giving demonstrates faith in God's promise to provide and sustain. Giving out of surplus requires less faith than giving out of sacrifice. It is difficult to be generous and open handed today if there is a real possibility of being empty handed tomorrow. If I am trusting God for everything I need, I will see everything I have as being from him and for him.

Response and Action:
If I truly trust God to provide for me, and if I put God first in my life, I will make giving a priority. Instead of using my resources first for everything I want and need, and then after that giving some—if anything--of what's left, I will first give what I have decided to give and then live on what remains. I want my giving to flow out of my thanksgiving and love for Jesus, my faith in God to provide for my needs, and my desire to seek first Christ's kingdom and his righteousness.

O God, my hope and my treasure are in you. My first desire is to honor and serve you. 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. Give me the faith that looks to you for purpose and provision. Give me the heart to live with generosity. Help me to excel in the grace of giving. Make me quick to share and a cheerful giver. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 112:4-5
4 Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for the gracious and compassionate and righteous man. 5 Good will come to him who is generous and lends freely, who conducts his affairs with justice.
In Context: Psalm 112

Proverb for Today: Prov. 21:17
"He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich."

Recommended Reading:
Thinking About Money
by Paul R. Stevens and Robert Banks