Today’s Community Scripture – 5/30/2025

Peter and the apostles answered, “It’s necessary to obey God rather than men. The God of our ancestors raised up Jesus, the One you killed by hanging him on a cross. God set him on high at his side, Prince and Savior, to give Israel the gift of a changed life and sins forgiven. And we are witnesses to these things. The Holy Spirit, whom God gives to those who obey him, corroborates every detail.” When they heard that, they were furious and wanted to kill them on the spot. But one of the council members stood up, a Pharisee by the name of Gamaliel, a teacher of God’s Law who was honored by everyone. He ordered the men taken out of the room for a short time, then said, “Fellow Israelites, be careful what you do to these men. Not long ago Theudas made something of a splash, claiming to be somebody, and got about four hundred men to join him. He was killed, his followers dispersed, and nothing came of it. A little later, at the time of the census, Judas the Galilean appeared and acquired a following. He also fizzled out and the people following him were scattered to the four winds.

                              Acts 5:29–37 (MSG)

– Reflection:

I need to step back a few chapters in Acts to discuss obeying God and what He has placed in our hearts. When we pursue things here on earth instead of what we know He has for us to do, we become absorbed in the world’s ways. I aspire to be more like the apostles by focusing on what has been instilled in me and the path I have been set on. Peter and the apostles boldly declare that obeying God takes precedence over obeying human authorities. They affirm that God raised Jesus—whom the people had crucified—and exalted Him as Prince and Savior to offer Israel forgiveness and transformation. The apostles testify to these truths and emphasize that the Holy Spirit, given to those who obey God, confirms their message.

– Where do we go from here?

In light of Peter’s bold declaration, we are reminded that true obedience begins with a heart aligned with God’s will. As believers, we are called to stand firm in our faith, even when it challenges societal norms or human expectations. Moving forward, we must seek to listen for God’s voice, trust in His purpose, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide our actions. This means living lives that reflect the transformation Jesus offers—lives characterized by courage, grace, and an unwavering commitment to truth. Let us be witnesses, like the apostles, boldly proclaiming what we know to be true and allowing our obedience to serve as a testimony of God’s power and love.

– Our Prayer for Today

Father, we ask that You continue to shape our hearts according to Your will. Instill in us a deep desire to follow You faithfully, to listen for Your voice, and to act in obedience. May the Holy Spirit guide our steps, affirm Your truth in our lives, and empower us to be witnesses of Your grace and mercy.

Today’s Community Scripture – 5/29/2025

There was a disciple in Damascus by the name of Ananias. The Master spoke to him in a vision: “Ananias.” “Yes, Master?” he answered. “Get up and go over to Straight Avenue. Ask at the house of Judas for a man from Tarsus. His name is Saul. He’s there praying. He has just had a dream in which he saw a man named Ananias enter the house and lay hands on him so he could see again.” Ananias protested, “Master, you can’t be serious. Everybody’s talking about this man and the terrible things he’s been doing, his reign of terror against your people in Jerusalem! And now he’s shown up here with papers from the Chief Priest that give him license to do the same to us.” But the Master said, “Don’t argue. Go! I have picked him as my personal representative to non-Jews and kings and Jews. And now I’m about to show him what he’s in for—the hard suffering that goes with this job.” So Ananias went and found the house, placed his hands on blind Saul, and said, “Brother Saul, the Master sent me, the same Jesus you saw on your way here. He sent me so you could see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” No sooner were the words out of his mouth than something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes—he could see again! He got to his feet, was baptized, and sat down with them to a hearty meal.

Acts 9:10–19 (MSG)

– Reflection:

At the heart of this story is Ananias, an ordinary man/disciple, suddenly called into an extraordinary mission. His initial reaction would have probably been mine too, fear and protest, is deeply human. Saul (later Paul) was infamous for persecuting Christians, and Ananias had every reason to be afraid. Yet, despite his fear, he listens. He obeys. And in doing so, he becomes a vessel for one of the most powerful conversions in Christian history. This moment reminds us that God often calls us into uncomfortable places, asking us to trust beyond what we can see or understand. Ananias didn’t know the full plan he only knew he was being asked to go to someone dangerous, someone broken, someone blind. But his obedience became the bridge between Saul’s blindness and his new vision, both physical and spiritual. And Saul; blinded, humbled, praying receives not judgment, but healing. The man who once brought fear is now met with compassion. Ananias calls him “Brother Saul,” a title of acceptance and grace. This is the heart of the gospel: transformation through love, not condemnation.

– Where do we go from here?

The falling of the scales symbolizes more than just restored sight; it represents the shedding of an old identity and an outdated way of seeing the world. Saul is reborn, not merely as a man who can see, but as a man who will now help others see. Now that we’ve witnessed the powerful transformation of Saul into Paul and the courageous obedience of Ananias, we are called to reflect on our own journey of faith and action. Where do we go from here? We move forward with open hearts, ready to be used by God in unexpected ways. Like Ananias, we must be willing to listen—even when it’s uncomfortable—and trust that God’s plans are greater than our fears. Similarly, like Paul, we must be open to transformation, allowing grace to reshape our identity and purpose. This story invites us to live boldly, love radically, and walk in obedience, knowing that even the smallest act of faith can ignite a ripple of redemption in the world around us. The road ahead is not always clear, but with trust in the One who calls us, we can step forward with courage and hope.

– Our Prayer for Today

Father, You are the One who sees beyond what we can imagine—who calls the broken, the fearful, and even the persecutor into Your purpose. Thank You for the story of Saul and Ananias, as a reminder that no one is beyond Your reach and that obedience, even when it feels risky, can change the world.

Today’s Community Scripture – 5/28/2025

All this time Saul was breathing down the necks of the Master’s disciples, out for the kill. He went to the Chief Priest and got arrest warrants to take to the meeting places in Damascus so that if he found anyone there belonging to the Way, whether men or women, he could arrest them and bring them to Jerusalem. He set off. When he got to the outskirts of Damascus, he was suddenly dazed by a blinding flash of light. As he fell to the ground, he heard a voice: “Saul, Saul, why are you out to get me?” He said, “Who are you, Master?” “I am Jesus, the One you’re hunting down. I want you to get up and enter the city. In the city you’ll be told what to do next.” His companions stood there dumbstruck—they could hear the sound, but couldn’t see anyone—while Saul, picking himself up off the ground, found himself stone-blind. They had to take him by the hand and lead him into Damascus. He continued blind for three days. He ate nothing, drank nothing.

Acts 9:1–9 (MSG)

– Reflection:

Saul was a devout and zealous Pharisee, deeply committed to the Jewish law, which he believed was the true path to honoring God. Convinced that the followers of Jesus were a dangerous sect leading people astray, he took it upon himself to hunt them down, believing he was upholding righteousness. With fervent determination, he persecuted early Christians, imprisoning them and even approving of their executions. Yet, in his zeal, Saul was unknowingly fighting against the very God he sought to serve—misguided in his belief that he was protecting the faith, when in truth, he was opposing the fulfillment of God’s promise through Jesus Christ. I do’t think there has been a time where a people has been wronged and GOD has not been there in the gap for them when needed. Jesus and his father stood in the gap for the apostles while Saul was chasing them down and hunting and killing them. What did Jesus do? He didn’t kill him he turned Saul into a disciple and named him Paul. He transformed him into a new person. Amazing. Let go of what needs to be let go of and follow him.

– Where do we go from here?

Saul’s life changed drastically when he was struck blind on the road to Damascus and had to confront the truth that everything he believed was being turned upside down. From that moment on, Saul became Paul, a devoted follower of Jesus and one of the most influential apostles in spreading the gospel.

If you’re asking this in a spiritual or reflective sense, it could mean:

A call to transformation: Like Saul, perhaps it’s time to re-examine your beliefs or actions and ask if they align with truth and love.

A journey of purpose: Paul’s life after conversion was filled with mission, writing, and service. Where could your own mission be leading you?

A moment of surrender: Saul had to relinquish control and trust in something greater. Is there something you’re being called to release or to trust in?

– Our Prayer for Today

Father, today I come before You with a heart open to Your truth. Like Saul, I may have walked paths with conviction, yet not always in alignment with Your will. Forgive me for the times I’ve acted out of zeal without love, or pursued what I thought was right without seeking Your voice. Lord, I ask for clarity where I’ve been blind and courage where I’ve been hesitant. Just as You met Saul on the road to Damascus, meet me in the midst of my journey. Interrupt my plans if they lead me away from You and guide me toward the purpose You’ve prepared for me. Transform my heart, renew my mind, and fill me with the same passion Paul had—not to persecute, but to proclaim Your grace. Let today be a turning point, where I walk not in my understanding but in the light of Your truth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Today’s Community Scripture – 5/27/2025

“But you, Israel, are my servant. You’re Jacob, my first choice,
descendants of my good friend Abraham. I pulled you in from all over the world, called you in from every dark corner of the earth, Telling you, ‘You’re my servant, serving on my side. I’ve picked you. I haven’t dropped you.’ Don’t panic. I’m with you. There’s no need to fear for I’m your God. I’ll give you strength. I’ll help you. I’ll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you. “Count on it: Everyone who had it in for you will end up out in the cold real losers. Those who worked against you will end up empty-handed nothing to show for their lives. When you go out looking for your old adversaries you won’t find them Not a trace of your old enemies, not even a memory. That’s right. Because I, your God,
have a firm grip on you and I’m not letting go. I’m telling you, ‘Don’t panic. I’m right here to help you.’

Isaiah 41:8–13 (MSG)

Key Verse – There’s no need to fear for I’m your God. I’ll give you strength. I’ll help you. I’ll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you. Isaiah 41:10 (MSG)

– Reflection:

On Friday, my wife and I watched as our oldest son at home receive his High School Diploma. There were so many emotions among the other parents as their kids’ names were called, which was great. Then came our son, and I didn’t scream and yell as I thought I would; I’m not sure why, but I didn’t. I watched him carefully to see how he would act while standing there, waiting to be called. He rubbed his hands together and started across that stage, and I knew he was off to the next phase. I know GOD has him because He gave everything to us to instill in him to honor GOD Himself. He is getting ready for the next task that has been placed before him. I know he will be good because of what the Holy Spirit will do for him. He reads these devotionals too and sometimes asks questions about them as well. So I know as he steps into the next chapter of his life, he will be just fine. We and GOD have his back, so he will be just fine.

– Where do we go from here?

Now, we move forward with faith. This moment signifies not just an ending, but a beginning—a launching point into the life God has always been preparing for him. As parents, we transition from guiding every step to watching with trust as he takes his own. We continue to pray, support, and believe in the foundation that has been laid. He will face challenges, yes, but he will also rise, because the same Spirit that stirred his curiosity in devotionals and shaped his character through our love will now lead him into his purpose. We advance with gratitude, hope, and the quiet confidence that he is not alone—he walks with God, and we walk with him in spirit, always.

– Our Prayer for Today

Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, filled with awe at the journey You’ve led our son through. Thank You for the strength, wisdom, and grace You’ve poured into him—and into us as parents—as he reaches this significant milestone. Watching him walk across that stage was more than a ceremony; it was a testimony of Your faithfulness. Lord, as he steps into this next phase of life, we place him entirely in Your hands. Guide his steps, steady his heart, and fill him with courage and clarity. Let the seeds of faith planted in him grow deep roots. May the Holy Spirit continue to stir his heart, lead him in truth, and remind him that he is never alone. We ask for Your protection over his path, Your wisdom in his decisions, and Your peace in every challenge. Let him walk boldly, knowing that You go before him, and that we—his family—stand behind him with love and prayer. Thank You for the gift of watching him grow and for what’s to come. We trust You completely. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s Community Scripture – 5/26/2025

On their release, Peter and John went back to their own people and reported all that the chief priests and the elders had said to them. When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. “Sovereign Lord,” they said, “you made the heavens and the earth and the sea, and everything in them. You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David:
“ ‘Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the Lord and against his anointed one.’ Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.

– Reflection:

When was the last time you did something “boldly”? I know the last thing I did that was considered bold was create this devotional site and share my thoughts about my faith and the relationship I have with God. Another bold thing I can share is being a dad and a husband. I have honored those little ones throughout their lives, helping them become adults and just being there for them. Being a husband and sharing my life with my wife, and becoming more one each and every day, allows us to share our lives together. Those are two of the best jobs I could have and want to keep. Just like the Holy Spirit empowered and inspired the early church with the conviction to walk in righteousness, honoring God with each and every step. It is tempting to be timid in our faith and bold in non-essentials. We easily see the boldness of sports fans, commentary on popular culture, and bold living through adventure and travel (which I love!). But what does it mean to speak and live boldly through our faith? Twice in this passage, and even more times in the surrounding text, we are told of the boldness in word and action by the apostles. I appreciate how scripture shows us the importance of word and deed together. It instructs us to hold the powerful accountable, to speak truth into the systems of the day, and to take action in caring for the oppressed and working toward justice.

– Where do we go from here?

How might your faith, your trust in our risen Lord, who preaches welcome to the outcast, good news to the poor, healing for the sick, and comfort for the broken-hearted, move you to boldness of speech and action? Whatever that answer is for you, may you be guided and sustained by the Holy Spirit. In our passage for today, we encounter Peter and John after they had been detained, questioned, threatened, and released by the religious leaders of the day. The hope of the religious leaders was that Peter and John would be silenced after threats and imprisonment. Instead, Peter and John were emboldened by the Holy Spirit, gathered with friends in prayer, and spoke out and acted even more boldly. The threats of the powerful are no match for the boldness of the Holy Spirit.

– Our Prayer for Today

Father, our hearts break for all that is happening in the world around us, as well as for all that is taking place within us. Sometimes, we may be tempted to turn away, tune out, and live quietly to ourselves. Open our hearts so that we may receive the boldness of your Spirit to live and speak for our brothers and sisters in need, witnessing to the promise and hope of your coming kingdom. Amen.