29th. April. 2022. Daily Devotion.

When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this subject.” Acts 17:32

The apostle Paul was preaching in Athens about Jesus and the resurrection. Paul told the people that he could tell they were very religious because there were statues and shrines and temples to gods in every part of the city. There was even “an altar with this inscription: ‘to an unknown god’” (Acts 17:16-23). Paul used that idea to tell his listeners about God the Father and Jesus the Son, whom the people of Athens did not know yet.

In this way Paul shared the good news that God, who created everything, now calls on people everywhere to repent of their sin, because he sent his Son, Jesus, to pay the price for all our sin. Jesus gave up his life on a cross for our sake even though he had committed no sin. And then God proved his power over sin and death by raising Jesus from the dead.

Though Paul’s words were dismissed by some of the people who heard him, others were curious and wanted to hear more.

The gospel can be sneered at—or, with a hopeful curiosity, we can ask to hear more about the wonderful things God has done for us by raising Jesus from the dead. D. MacLeod

Lord of life, though we do not understand every­thing about the resurrection, give us a hopeful curiosity about all that it means for us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

God beyond all speech, above all thought and surpassing all imagination; when you speak, may we listen; when you draw near, may we rejoice in your presence; when you reveal yourself, may we bow in adoration. Amen.Gregory of Nazianzus (c.329-390)

God of eternity, you invite us to hold your hand as we deny ourselves, take up the cross and follow Jesus. We thank you that there is a place for us in your heart and that you lead us, day by day, into a new way of living. As we are enfolded in your love, may we discover new ways of forgiving. We praise you for the gifts of peace, joy and love and the promise of living with you for ever, for you alone are the one who can take us there. Amen. *

* Inspired by the lyrics for Somewhere by Stephen Sondheim

Prayer to Have Inner Peace in the Coming Day

Heavenly God, may I have peace within, night and in the coming day;
May I trust God that I am exactly where I am meant to be.
May I not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May I use those gifts that I have received, and pass on the love that has been given to me.
May I be confident knowing I am a child of God.
Let this presence settle into my bones, and allow my soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. This I pray in Christ’s name, Amen. ~ St. Therese of Lisieux.

A prayer for war-torn nations

Loving God, We pray for the people of Ukraine, Syria, Yemen, Palestine and many parts of Africa for all those suffering or afraid, that you will be close to them and protect them.

We pray for world leaders, for compassion, strength, and wisdom to guide their choices.

We pray for the world that in this moment of crisis, we may reach out in solidarity to our brothers and sisters in need.

May we walk in your ways so that peace and justice become a reality for the people of Ukraine and for all the world. Amen.