Daily Devotions

Our devotions this Lenten season have been written by members of Faith Lutheran Church.  Today’s devotion is by Barbara McDowell. Also, if you would like to join our staff in praying the liturgy for Responsive Prayer/Suffrages just click here.

Now when he saw the crowds he went up on a mountainside and sat down.  His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them.  Matthew 5:1

Fellowship: a community of interest, activity, feeling, or experience

In these first two verses of Matthew 5, Jesus comes together with his disciples and the crowd and he begins to teach (the Beatitudes follow).  This gathering of people came together simply to hear the words of Jesus – to learn, grow, and strengthen their faith and understanding of his words.  Theirs was a fellowship of believers.

During our lifetime, we belong to many different groups – our families, school classes, sports teams, work teams, volunteer, and social groups.  Each one has a different focus that brings it together and each plays a unique role in our life and in making us who we are.  

Our faith community, our church home, is the place we come to – safe and secure – to find a place to grow and strengthen our faith; this focus is different from the other groups we are part of.  When we gather as a faith community to worship, in small groups or to serve, we gain something we cannot find in going it alone. 

We find fellowship, we know we belong, because of our shared Christian beliefs and values and we are better for it.  It is the place we can seek for this purpose.

Let us pray:  Dear God, as we come together as believers and followers of Jesus thank-you for strengthening our faith in you and the bond we share with others through our shared faith and fellowship.  Amen.

Our devotions this Lenten season have been written by members of Faith Lutheran Church.  Today’s devotion is by Roxy Funchess. Also, if you would like to join our staff in praying the liturgy for Responsive Prayer/Suffrages just click here.

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Acts 16:25 

My son Harrison is in 7th grade and used to use the excuse for not wanting to attend church activities:  “but, Mom, I don’t know any of those kids.”  He wasn’t the only one that felt that way!

Well, one by one, we started going to different kinds of activities at Faith. 

Confirmation kick-started us into seeing the same kids every week…summer camp at Lutherhill, then Faith Families, where people of all ages came to hang out on a Friday night to eat dinner together…putting together Grace Bags for homeless folks.

Before long, our whole family knows those other kids’ names (and their parents’ names as well)!  Sunday School now has familiar faces!

Paul and Silas had fellowship in prison, of all places.  Talk about unfamiliar faces…but when it comes down to it, we’re all God’s children, and if you bring God into the picture, things (and people) can change.  Little by little, Paul and Silas learned about those people; shared stories with them; and shared their love of Christ with them. 

It’s the same at Faith.  We all come from different corners of Houston.  Once we get past the uncomfortable not-knowing-anyone stage we meet those around us and find out that we have more in common than we thought, and it’s easier to invite more people over to Faith. 

Before long, there are fewer and fewer unfamiliar faces on Sunday morning!

Let us pray:  Heavenly Father, Help us to remember that whenever we step inside of Faith Lutheran Church, we immediately belong here.  You belong here. I belong here.  We all belong here.  Be a part of the fellowship that we share with each other.  Remind us that your love reaches out to all of us and there is always room for more.  In your name, we pray,  Amen.

Our devotions this Lenten season have been written by members of Faith Lutheran Church.  Today’s devotion is by Richard Pett. Also, if you would like to join our staff in praying the liturgy for Responsive Prayer/Suffrages just click here.

For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them. Matthew 18:20

One of the strengths of any church is its members. God has indeed richly blessed Faith Lutheran Church in that regard!

Our family has always treasured the relationships we have made while worshipping at Faith. Whether it is attending church together or serving in leadership, on a committee, or joining in one of the many learning or fellowship opportunities that Faith offers, it is always with friends in Christ.

We find God touching us in all things we do here, because it really is true that even when we are only two or three, God is with us…The Holy Spirit reaches out and fills us with faith, hope, and love – for each other and for those outside the body that is Faith Lutheran Church.

As we go into Lent, let us be ever mindful that God is in us whether it is just a couple of folks visiting before church, or with the Council when it deliberates a difficult decision.

He is with us in our homes, schools, businesses, on the highway, and even while we sleep. God loves us when we are alone, and when we are with others. We do not always make the right decisions or actions, but God is there, with forgiveness and love, to direct us away from the evils of this world and towards righteousness.

May we be reminded that the point is not how many of us are gathered, rather, that God will be with us whenever we open our hearts and minds to him.

Let us pray:  God, thank you for the gift of your son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Whenever we gather, be it two or three, or the entire congregation, may the Holy Spirit always be in our midst, your loving hand leading us in worship, learning, fellowship, and service. Please remind us to always be a light unto the world and to each other.  Amen.

Our devotions this Lenten season have been written by members of Faith Lutheran Church.  Today’s devotion is by George Adams. Also, if you would like to join our staff in praying the liturgy for Responsive Prayer/Suffrages just click here.

And behold, two of them were going that very day to a village named Emmaus, which was threescore furlongs from Jerusalem.  And they communed with each other of all things which had happened.  And it came to pass, while they communed and questioned together, that Jesus himself drew near, and went with them.Luke 24: 13-15

At my ripe old age, it is obvious to me that Jesus is present as I conduct my daily actions.   Too many times I forget that, but luckily not always.  However, I do not think that I always knew that.

I cannot point to a divine event that suddenly and permanently instilled this truth in me.  But I do remember many times when I grasped newer and keener insights into my faith that Jesus is forever with me.  At all of these times, I remember being with at least one other person, and usually with many more.

Many of these occasions happened at youth meetings and events when I was in high school.  Others happened during stressful times, in hospitals, visitations or funerals.  Still more happened while at I was at adult retreats, Promise Keepers, and other Christian events.  Some occurred during lunch with friends.  I also grew in faith and belief during very moving worship services.

Looking back, I now see that close association with other Christians has always been critical to gaining deeper understanding and commitment to my faith.

Let us pray:  Dear Lord, Help us remember that growth in our Faith happens when we seek you in fellowship with others. In Christ’s name, Amen.

Our devotions this Lenten season have been written by members of Faith Lutheran Church.  Today’s devotion is by Lenora Ohlenbusch. Also, if you would like to join our staff in praying the liturgy for Responsive Prayer/Suffrages just click here.

The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one.  Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’  The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  There is no commandment greater than these.”          Mark 12:29-31

Every time I read or hear these verses I am somewhat overwhelmed by both the enormity and simplicity of the message. It seems so simple; all I have to do is love God and my fellow man.  Jesus is restating the rules given to the Israelites through Moses.  God gave us the 10 Commandments along with some specific rules of how to worship and live a holy life and to please Him so that He will bless us.

That is not the whole story.  I can sit and love God with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength…and my neighbor as well.  But it’s not just about me and loving. I have the responsibility to put that love to work by actually sharing the message and doing the things that reflect that love through evangelism, worship, fellowship, learning, healing, stewardship, and service.

The truly wonderful thing about this message is that all of us are capable of love.  Age, gender, social status, color do not matter.  We can all love.  It doesn’t require money, time or a special talent.  And, because we can love, it only follows that we can put that love to work through actions by becoming part of a church community, reaching out to help and comfort and by using our time, talents, and treasures to follow this “…the most important one…” and “…no greater than these…” commandment.

Let us pray:  Our Heavenly Father,  we thank you for the directions you have given us.  Please help us to know and understand them, live them and share them.  We know they were given with love and in the name of your Son, Jesus.  Amen.  

Our devotions this Lenten season have been written by members of Faith Lutheran Church.  Today’s devotion is by Joyce Bauer. Also, if you would like to join our staff in praying the liturgy for Responsive Prayer/Suffrages just click here.

Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead.  There they gave a dinner for him.  Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at the table with him.  Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus’ feet, and wiped them with her hair.  The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.  But Judas Iscariot, one of the disciples, said, ‘Why was the perfume not sold for 300 denarii and the money given to the poor?” Jesus said, “Leave her alone.  She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial.  You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.”  John 12:1-8

Mary was delighted that Jesus had come for dinner in her home and with Lazarus and Martha.  She was happy to use the costly nard to anoint Jesus’ feet and wipe them with her hair.  This was a unique act for a special occasion before His death.

But one of the disciples present, Judas Iscariot, objected and asked why was she, Mary, using the expensive ointment?  Why not sell it and give the money to the poor and needy?!

A number of years ago my husband was approaching his 75th birthday…and he mentioned that it sure would be nice to have a luncheon and invite some of his close friends.  I, too, like Judas, thought that the money spent on a party could be given to the poor and needy or Lutheran World Relief.  I talked with my pastor about the luncheon and he assured me the Lord would feel this was an “OK” affair – honoring someone.  Having a 75th birthday was special and to go ahead with the plans.

We did, a happy occasion – all had a good time.  So, in the presence of the Lord, do special acts.  It is one of the many ways we worship.

Let us pray:  Thank you dear Lord for being available for us and our needs at all times.  Forgive us our sins and may we look forward to when we will live in your Kingdom.  In your name,  Amen.

Our devotions this Lenten season have been written by members of Faith Lutheran Church.  Today’s devotion is by Susan Ashley. Also, if you would like to join our staff in praying the liturgy for Responsive Prayer/Suffrages just click here.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Colossians 3:16

Has anyone ever asked you, “Why do you go to church and worship on Sundays?” 

If you’re like me, a life-long Lutheran, you may never have consciously considered this question but the answer to it lies at the very core of our faith.  So then why do we come together every week and worship? 

I believe that the purpose of worship is really three-fold. 

Throughout both the Old and New Testaments, God repeatedly commands us to give Him praise.  Through worship, Christians heed God’s command and come together in celebration and in praise of God. 

But worship also engages us as Christians in thoughtfulness and dialogue about God’s will in our lives.  It instructs us about how we are to live our lives and how we are to share God’s saving Word with others. 

And finally, the very act of worship helps us to grow in our faith.  Like the food we eat nourishes our bodies, worship feeds our very souls and keeps our faith strong so that as we go forth into the world each week we are armed to live a God-fearing, Christian life.

Let us pray:  Lord, may all my worship be holy and acceptable in Thine eyes and may it always serve to strengthen and preserve me in my faith unto life everlasting.  Amen.

Our devotions this Lenten season have been written by members of Faith Lutheran Church.  Today’s devotion is by Carl Watson. Also, if you would like to join our staff in praying the liturgy for Responsive Prayer/Suffrages just click here.

They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the King of Israel!”   John 12:13

When I joined Faith, almost 20 years ago, it was because Faith was my new bride’s home church and was becoming a part of our new life together.  Little did I know, not only was Faith to become our place to worship in receiving God’s message, but a place to be blessed by serving in God’s house in more ways than I could imagine. 

As our boys started Sunday School, Helen began serving as a Sunday School teacher, and I chose to serve in the Sunday School office, which I still do today.  My brother-in-law asked for help ushering and now I serve as lead on a team with my sons. I enjoy reading aloud, having done so for the boys growing up, and now I serve as lector in the Heritage service.  As the boys were growing up, another way to influence their church life was to serve with the Youth and Family Board. 

During the time Collin was going through confirmation, I volunteered to be the group leader for the boys, and when Evan went through confirmation I again served.  I now serve as Vice President on the Executive Board. Serving as a family has been a blessing to us and another way to worship.

Let us pray:  O God, the source of all joy, lead us in worship, this day, and empower us to step out in faith toward the directions in which you call us and strengthen us to serve you, following in the footsteps of the One whom you sent, Jesus Christ. In his name we pray, Amen.

Our devotions this Lenten season have been written by members of Faith Lutheran Church.  Today’s devotion is by Courtney Lerch. Also, if you would like to join our staff in praying the liturgy for Responsive Prayer/Suffrages just click here.

Sing to the LORD a new song;  sing to the LORD, all the earth. Sing to the LORD, praise his name;  proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. Psalm 96:1-3

Our son really loves to sing.  It does not matter what time of day it is, as we often hear various melodies emanating from his room during naptime and bedtime. 

It does not matter what season it is, as he is unaware of any liturgical issues arising from singing “Jingle Bells” in February.  All he knows is the joy and satisfaction that a song brings.

Singing is one of the most important parts of our worship experience.  It is not only one of the most ancient of sacred rituals, but it has also played such a prominent role in the development of the Lutheran Church. 

We also know that worship is more than simply what we do for an hour on Sunday morning, but rather the way in which our lives offer praise and thanksgiving to God.

How can we make singing for the Lord an everyday activity that fills our homes? 

What can we do each day to make our lives a song to our neighbors that brings them the love of Christ?

Let us pray:  Thank you for the gift of song in worship.  Help our lives be a song that proclaims your love to all people. Amen.

Our devotions this Lenten season have been written by members of Faith Lutheran Church.  Today’s devotion is by George Amundson. Also, if you would like to join our staff in praying the liturgy for Responsive Prayer/Suffrages just click here.

For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there in the midst of them. Matthew 18:20

Like the NFL, Sundays are big days for Faith Lutheran Church. Granted, so much goes on around here during the week:

· Faith Lutheran is a place where hurting people find healing.

· Thousands of people experience faith, hope, and love.

· Families are strengthened with a renewed sense of purpose.

· Faith is a leader in the renewal of the Lutheran witness to the Christian faith.

· God is glorified and the reach of the kingdom expanded.

But let’s take a look at Sunday. Remembering our Mandate (“Follow Jesus in blessing the world with faith, hope, and love”), it leads us to our Map (how do we do it?). Worship, along with Learning and Healing, is one of our core strategies to “how do we do it?”

What we have on Sunday is dynamic worship, rooted in our heritage, relevant to life today, expressed in a variety of styles, which glorify God and feed God’s people.

Faith Breathes is another term we use for worship. It reaches back to the creation story to God breathing new life into those God creates, just as God breathes new life into us as we worship. We breathe when we pray, when we sing, and when we share with one another.

I always preferred it better if I played as part of the team, instead of on my own, concerned only about my individual stats. The equipment manager, office staff, assistant coaches, the head coach, teammates, and yes, even the cheerleaders are all part of the team. I suppose some believe they can worship in nature, on some remote lake, or on top of a mountain, but for me, set me down in a pew, surrounded by Christians; my teammates.

Let us pray:  Dear Lord, as we gather in worship to receive and strengthen our faith, help us to remember our teammates, those that are with us and those future draft choices.  Amen.