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March 14
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“There is salvation in no one else!  God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.”  (Acts 4:12, NLT)

Peter’s declaration to a skeptical — if not hostile — audience is not made with malice.  It is made as a faithful testimony to the scriptures and to the evidence of God’s work in our time.

Each day, we have an opportunity akin to Peter and John’s, as recorded in today’s reading. If we are diligent students of God’s written word, and vigilant for His presence, we will have numerous occasions to give faithful testimony.

People may dispute the former, and discount the latter; but our role as Christian disciples is to give faithful testimony remains.  – Luther

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March 12
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“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live.  Teach them to your children and to their children after them.”  (Deuteronomy 4:9, NIV)

We each have a capital “s” Story and a little “s” story.

The former is the history of God’s dealings with His people, with whom — as disciples of Jesus — we identify; and what we have become through adoption.  The latter is the history of God’s dealings with us personally; what He has done for us personally.  Both stories are ours.  Both stories, if remembered faithfully, will keep our focus clear; our resolve strong; and our confidence in our heavenly Father unshakable.

Furthermore, these stories are not ours to keep to ourselves as a “private collection,” but ours to share with our children and our “children.”

Today, recall your Story and your story.  These are our gifts to those who follow us.  – Luther

(Reminder: Daily Encouragement will be on break tomorrow, as is customary.  Have a great day in worship — and, if you are in a place that observes Daylight Savings Time, remember to advance your clock one hour when you retire tonight!)

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March 11
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“Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, ‘Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.’”  (Mark 9:35, NLT)

Jesus doesn’t ignore humanity’s competitive spirit, but He directs it to the channel of service — and few of us want servitude to be our destination.  Even in our “service” organizations, leadership comes with benefits: Recognition; greater autonomy; and strategic activities.  Conversely, true servitude (e. g. the condition of the servant) is marked by obscurity, slavish obedience, and seemingly menial activities (e. g. “foot-washing” and door-tending).

However, no where else is leadership — as Jesus defines leadership — to be found.

Seldom will you find a line at the doorway to true service, but inside that door you will always find the company of the risen Christ.  Is this Person sufficient, or must we have perquisites (“perks”) as well?   – Luther

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