Asides

May 12
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Uncategorized Aside

“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.” (Proverbs 12:25, NIV)

As the channels of the Good News, we live in a “target-rich environment.” That is to say, a disciple of Jesus has ample opportunity to cheer others because most people are ridden with anxiety. 

If all we knew was what we read in the newspaper, see on the television, or hear on the radio, we would be anxious about the condition of our food; the safety of public transport; the performance of our educational institutions; the viability of the economy; and the prospects for the future.  These are a few of the anxieties that “weigh down the heart.” 

A kind word in such an environment is always welcome. Will you choose to be the candle in the darkness; the cool drink of water in the desert; the smile in the sea of frowns?  – Luther

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May 10
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“Jesus replied, ‘What is impossible with man is possible with God.'” (Luke 18: 27, NIV)

Make no mistake about it, there are impossibilities in this life.  To act or to say otherwise is to risk doing ourselves, and those who get their cues from us, a great deal of harm. Each day presents its own challenges, and we do well to weigh whether we have the time, the strength, the wisdom, the funds, or the alliances and allegiances to prevail. Doing so brings us to the point where we know, without a doubt, that if we are to succeed in the task before us, it must be “with God.”

 Jesus reminds us today (as He did the disciples 2,000 years ago) that where we will utterly fail by ourselves; with God, we can achieve, succeed, and prevail. 

The child of God is never — never — in the realm of impossibility when mindful of his/her heavenly Father.  – Luther

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May 9
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“Be generous, and you will be prosperous. Help others, and you will be helped.” (Proverbs 11:25, Good News Translation)

If the word of God is true, then we need not fear the personal expense being generous. If the word of God is true, then we need not avoid the inconvenience of helping others. 

To give liberally of our time, talent, and treasure is a litmus test of our faith in God.  To be eager to help others — particularly those who cannot return the favor — is a counterintuitive investment in our future. 

Be generous and helpful out of obedience.  This is what God expects of his children. Be generous and helpful out of love for our heavenly Father, because doing so makes us partners with Him in His work in this world; and because doing so allows us to achieve His point of view through imitation.

We will be surprised, amazed, and humbled by the faithfulness of God when we exercise our faith in Him in these simple ways.  – Luther

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