Let Your Light Shine: Living the Parable of the Lamp

Light is essential for life; it illuminates, guides, and reveals. In a spiritual sense, light symbolizes truth, goodness, and the very presence of God. “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.” (1 John 1:5, NIV). Jesus Himself said “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”” (John 8:12, NIV).

Jesus’ life and teachings illuminate the path to God…and so should ours.

As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect His light in our lives. This means that our actions, words, and attitudes should reveal the truth of the Gospel and the character of God. We are to be beacons of God’s love and grace in a world that is often darkened by sin and despair. But, so often, we seem to be beacons of God’s condemnation.

Embracing our identity as the light of the world comes with a responsibility. We are to live in such a way that others can see Christ in us. This does not mean we are to be perfect, but it does mean we strive to live according to the teachings of Jesus. Our lives should be marked by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Daily Prayers

New Beginnings: Lessons from Jesus’ Baptism

“And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. John wore clothing made of camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. And this was his message: “After me comes the one more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”” (Mark 1:4–11, NIV)     

Jesus’s baptism was a transition. It marked the beginning of his ministry. It is not just a story, it’s a turning point. In John 2:4, Jesus told Mary that his time had not come yet. But now in Mark 1:4 through 11 his time has come. I think about the scene by the Jordan River. There were crowds there waiting to get baptized by John the Baptist. And then Jesus shows up. Some of the people there might have known him as a person, but they did not realize that this Jesus, this person that they knew as the son of the carpenter from Nazareth was the Savior for all humanity.

What can we, as Christians today, learn from this moment in Jesus’s life? How does Jesus’s baptism by John in the Jordan River speak into our lives today, especially as we begin the new year? This text that we’re looking at today is not just an account to admire, it is a layered event, full of meaning for our lives here and now. As the brand-new year stretches out before us, full of unknown things, we can find comfort and direction right here on the bank of the Jordan River with Jesus.

Prayer for Sunday, January 7, 2024

Dear Heavenly Father,
In this quiet moment of reflection, I’m filled with deep gratitude for Your incredible gift of sacrifice for our sins. The story of Your provision, the ultimate sacrifice in Jesus, is a powerful reminder of Your boundless love and grace. Thank You for this extraordinary act of love that has opened the way for us to have a personal relationship with You. It’s amazing to think that You would go to such lengths to ensure our redemption and freedom. Your willingness to bear the cost of our sins is both humbling and awe-inspiring. Please help me to live in a way that honors this incredible gift. May my actions, words, and thoughts reflect the gratitude and joy that come from knowing the depth of Your love and sacrifice. And let this gratitude spill over into how I treat others, sharing the story of Your love and sacrifice wherever I go. In Jesus’ holy name, I pray ,Amen.

Jan. 8 Prayer
Jan. 9 Prayer
Jan. 10 Prayer
Jan. 11 Prayer
Jan. 12 Prayer
Jan. 13 Prayer
Jan. 14 Prayer

Rejoice Always: Embracing Joy in Expectation

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not treat prophecies with contempt but test them all; hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil. May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16–24, NIV)  

The journey of faith is not about instant perfection. It’s about daily progress. As we wait in this season in Advent, we are also waiting in life – we’re waiting for growth, for change, for the fullness of God’s work in us to be realized. This work is not a burden, it is a gift. Our Redeemer who came as a baby in Bethlehem will come again in glory.

Paul reassures us with the promise that God will do it. Not us. We cannot do it. Nothing in our efforts can accomplish the transformation. Not our church attendance or a flawless life, nothing but God. This is the heart of the gospel, God is at work in us, accomplishing what we could never accomplish on our own. It is the promise that allows us to let go of our striving and rest in the assurance of God’s unfailing grace and power.

When we look at it this way, the call to hold on to what is good takes on new meaning. We hold on, not because we fear losing our salvation or God’s favor, but because in doing so, we participate in the divine. We become co-laborers with Christ, spreading goodness in a world that is full of brokenness and despair. This is the work of Advent, holding on to hope, peace, joy and love and sharing these gifts with others.

As we move through the Advent season we are reminded of the prophetic voices that called Israel to expect the coming Messiah. They held on to hope against hope, believing that God would fulfill his promises. We are inheritors of that same promise and our anticipation during Advent.

While we wait, we are active participants in the kingdom of God. We’re not idle, but we are called to live out the kingdom values here and now the way we love our neighbor, the way we care for the least of these, the way we steward the creation, all of these things are reflections of our anticipation of Christ return. The joy of Advent is not just in the waiting, it is in the doing. It is in living out the teachings of Jesus. Today. It is in being his hands and feet in a world that yearns for a touch of love.

MSAC Bible Challenge

Sunday: Titus 1-3, Philemon 1, Monday: Hebrews 1-6, Tuesday: Hebrews 7-10,
Wednesday: Hebrews 11-13, Thursday: James 1-5,
Friday: 1 Peter 1-5, Saturday: 2 Peter 1-3, Sunday: 1 John 1-5

Preparing the Way: Hearts Ready for the Coming King

“The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God, as it is written in Isaiah the prophet: “I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way”— “a voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’ ” And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem went out to him. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River. John wore clothing made of camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. And this was his message: “After me comes the one more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”” (Mark 1:1–8, NIV)     

John the Baptist’s call to “Prepare the way” rings through the centuries to reach us today. But how do we do this? How do we “prepare the way?” We can start by looking at our values, priorities, and relationships. Are there crooked places in our lives that need straightening? Are there rough patches that need smoothing? Are there hurts and anger that we need to let go of? Are there sins that we need to turn away from and leave behind us? This season of Advent is a time to take stock is a time to realign our priorities. It is a time to confess and receive forgiveness. It is a time to embrace John’s humility and Jesus’ power and allow God’s spirit to work within us, transforming us more and more into the likeness of Jesus Christ.

As we prepare for the coming of Jesus, we are invited to enter into this process of repentance. And it is a process! We talked before about the fact that sin is fun. It is enjoyable. Turning away from it is hard; quite often, it is a one-step forward, two-step back situation. But the first step is to examine our lives, to identify areas where we have wandered from the path that God has set for us, and to take tangible steps toward returning to that path and returning to God. It is not enough to merely smooth out the rough edges; we must make our paths straight, creating direct, unobstructed ways for the Lord to enter our hearts and lives. We have talked before about during Isaiah’s day when he wrote the words to make straight the paths; they would send people to clear the roads of any rocks and detours in the road because the king was coming, and they did not want him hindered by obstacles. Our obstacles are our sins. They get in the way of us and Jesus. We must look at our lives and begin working on turning away from the sins that are coming in between us and Jesus.

This Advent, put thoughts of the secular side of of the holiday out of your mind and think about the Jesus we are waiting for. The Jesus who will come again. The Jesus who, when he returns, will not be a helpless little baby in a manger. The baby has grown up into our Savior; he has grown up into God who will absolutely judge all of our deeds.

MSAC Bible Challenge

Sunday: Ephesians 4-6, Monday: Philippians 1-4, Tuesday: Colossians 1-4,
Wednesday: 1 Thessalonians 1-5, Thursday: 2 Thessalonians 1-3, Friday: 1 Timothy 1-6,
Saturday: 2 Timothy 1-4, Sunday: Titus 1-3, Philemon 1

Unchained Spirit: Proclaiming Faith Beyond Our Circumstances

““Therefore I want you to know that God’s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!” For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!” (Acts 28:28–31, NIV)

In a world brimming with uncertainties and challenges, proclaiming one’s faith can often be daunting. Amidst personal struggles, societal pressures, and the complexities of modern life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and let these circumstances silence our spiritual voices. However, it is crucial to remember that our faith, much like a lighthouse in a stormy sea, shines brightest in the face of adversity.

The essence of faith lies in its resilience. It’s not merely a fair-weather friend, present only in times of comfort and convenience. True faith is a steadfast companion, unwavering even when the path ahead seems insurmountable. History and religious texts are replete with examples of individuals like Moses, Esther, and Paul, who, despite facing seemingly insurmountable odds, never ceased to proclaim their faith. Their stories aren’t just relics of the past but are potent reminders that the human spirit, bolstered by faith, can transcend any obstacle.

Our circumstances, no matter how dire, don’t define our ability to express and live out our faith. In fact, they often serve as a canvas against which our faith can manifest its true colors. It’s in the moments of hardship that our faith is tested and its depth truly revealed. By embracing our faith during trials, we not only strengthen our own spiritual resolve but also become beacons of hope and resilience for others.

Moreover, proclaiming our faith amidst difficulties is a powerful testament to its authenticity. It shows that our belief is not contingent on external conditions but is an integral part of who we are. This authenticity resonates with others and can inspire them to explore their own faith journeys.

Our circumstances should never be a barrier to expressing our faith. Instead, they should be viewed as opportunities to demonstrate the unwavering strength and transformative power of faith. By holding firm to our beliefs in the face of adversity, we not only enrich our own spiritual lives but also light the way for others in their quest for spiritual fulfillment.

MSAC Bible Challenge

Sunday: Acts 16-17, Monday: Acts 18-20, Tuesday: Acts 21-23, Wednesday: Acts 24-26, Thursday: Acts 27-28, Friday: Romans 1-3, Saturday: Romans 4-7, Sunday: Romans 8-10

Outlines and Summaries

Faithful Witness:The Light of Christ in Everyday Life

“They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day, and came in even larger numbers to the place where he was staying. He witnessed to them from morning till evening, explaining about the kingdom of God, and from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets he tried to persuade them about Jesus. Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe.” (Acts 28:23–24, NIV) 

In Acts 28:23-24, we see a picture of relentless faith and the varied responses to the Gospel. Imagine Paul, confined yet unfettered in spirit, engaging with the Jewish leaders from dawn to dusk. His passionate discourse about Jesus, which he anchors in the Law of Moses and the Prophets, shows a man driven by a divine mission.

These verses offer us a dual reflection. First, they teach us about the nature of witness. Paul’s example is one of patience and endurance. His approach isn’t forceful but invitational, as he opens his home and his heart, despite his own chains. His is an invitation to dialogue, to explore the depths of God’s narrative together.

Second, we see the spectrum of human response. Some were persuaded by Paul’s words, while others disbelieved. This is a profound truth about the human condition: the same message can resonate differently with each heart. As believers, this is a vital lesson. We are called to share the truth with love and let the seeds fall where they may, knowing some will take root and others may not.

Paul’s resilience reminds us to persist in our faith journey and our witness, despite mixed reactions. Our responsibility is not the outcome but the outpouring of our testimony. It’s about faithfulness to the call to share the Good News, not the guarantee of its acceptance.

This passage invites us to reflect on our own witness. Are we sharing our faith with the same vigor and persistence as Paul? Are we opening up opportunities for dialogue about our faith with patience and humility? Whether we face acceptance or rejection, may we remain steadfast, trusting that the impact of our testimony is not always ours to see. In the mosaic of God’s plan, every faithful sharing adds a piece, contributing to the greater picture that only God can fully see.

MSAC Bible Challenge

Sunday: John 19-21, Monday: Acts 1-3, Tuesday: Acts 4-6,
Wednesday: Acts 7-8, Thursday: Acts 9-10, Friday: Acts 11-13,
Saturday: Acts 14-15, Sunday: Acts 16-17

Outlines and Summaries

Embracing Our Identity as God’s Children

“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.”

1 John 3:1–3, NIV

While All Saints Day is the first day of November, many churches celebrate the first Sunday in November. The day is a poignant time for Christians around the world to remember and honor the saints, known and unknown, who have walked the path of faith before us. It’s a day that transcends time, connecting us with the cloud of witnesses who have finished their races and now dwell in the presence of God. This sacred day is not only a remembrance but also a celebration of the holy lives that continue to inspire and guide us in our spiritual journey. It serves as a heartfelt reminder that we, too, are part of this vast family of believers and are called to live lives worthy of the calling we have received.

Being God’s child is an intimate and powerful identity that shapes our entire existence. It means we are loved beyond measure, chosen by grace, and adopted into an everlasting family. This divine kinship brings comfort in times of loneliness and strength in moments of weakness. As children of God, we are inheritors of a legacy of faith, hope, and love. The reality of this identity is empowering; it encourages us to rise above our daily challenges and live with purpose. In recognizing ourselves as God’s children, we also acknowledge our responsibility to emulate the traits of our heavenly Father – to show compassion, to act justly, and to walk humbly with our God.

All Saints Day rekindles our awareness of this spiritual lineage and our place within it. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the beauty of our faith that connects us not only with those who are physically present but also with the saints who have set a benchmark of faithfulness. This connection bolsters our understanding of being God’s child, knowing that we walk the same path they once did, fueled by the same spirit that they were. It is a day of unity, a day of solidarity, and a day that reinforces the profound truth that in every age, God’s children are called to reflect His light into the darkness, just as the saints once did.


If you are unable to attend worship or your church doesn’t observe All Saints Day, please think of the many saints who have made an impact on your own walk with Christ as the video plays. Then, as you are led, pray the prayer below thanking God for placing them in your life.

Gracious and Everlasting Father, we raise our hearts to You in gratitude and praise. You, O Lord, are the Architect of ages, the Shepherd of saints, and the Giver of grace. Today, we remember with joy and thanksgiving the saints of all times and places who have walked the path of righteousness, lighting the way with their lives of faithful witness.
We thank You for those who taught us, not just with words, but with the eloquence of their lives. For their courage in adversity, their steadfast faith in trials, and their infectious joy in Your presence, we give You praise. They were vessels of Your truth, bearers of Your love, and reflections of Your glory. In their stories, we find the map of Your grace and the depth of Your commitments.
Thank You for the silent prayers they uttered, the sacrifices unnoticed by all but You, and the ripples of their godly influence that continue to shape our world. For their compassion in action, their patience in suffering, and their unwavering devotion to Your calling, we lift up our voices in adoration.
May their memories spur us on to greater deeds of love and service. Let their examples of faithfulness remind us that we, too, are called to be saints in this present age—living testimonies of Your kingdom here on earth.
We praise You, Lord, for their lives that bore fruit that endures and for their whispers of wisdom that still echo in the corridors of time. Bless us with their spirit of perseverance and the joy of their heavenly perspective.
Together with the saints of old, we join in the eternal hymn of Your glory, for You are worthy, O God, of all honor, all glory, and all praise, forever and ever.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

MSAC Bible Challenge

Sunday: John 3-4, Monday: John 5-6, Tuesday: John 7-8,
Wednesday: John 9-10, Thursday: John 11-12, Friday: John 13-15,
Saturday: John 16-18, Sunday: John 19-21

Outlines and Summaries

Weathering the Storms

Acts 27:13-20

In the book of Acts, Chapter 27, verses 13-20, we find an account of Paul and his companions at sea. As they set out, a gentle wind blew, giving them confidence to proceed. But very soon, this gentle wind turned into a raging storm, making their journey treacherous. Huge waves rocked the ship, strong winds threatened to tear it apart, and the sky was so overcast that neither the sun nor the stars could be seen for many days. The crew was in utter despair, fearing for their lives. All (including Luke) except Paul, lost all hope.

This story might remind us of our own life’s journey. There are times when everything seems calm and peaceful, and then, out of nowhere, we face a storm – maybe it’s a health issue, financial troubles, or relationship problems. These unexpected trials can shake our faith, fill our hearts with fear, and make us feel lost.

But just as Paul and his companions were not alone in their storm, we are never alone in ours. God is with us. Even when things seem the darkest and we can’t see a way out, God’s presence remains constant. We might not always understand why we go through these storms, but we can trust that God is in control and that He has a purpose for everything.

Paul remained calm during the storm, trusting in God’s promise that he would stand before Caesar. Despite the turbulent seas and the crew’s hopelessness, Paul’s faith never wavered. This is a lesson for us too. In the midst of our storms, when everything seems to be falling apart, our trust in God can anchor us.

Remember, storms don’t last forever. Just as the dawn breaks after the darkest night, there is hope and restoration after our trials. The same God who calms the stormy sea can calm the storms in our hearts.

It’s okay to feel scared or uncertain during challenging times. But let’s not let those feelings overshadow our trust in God. Let’s remind ourselves of His promises, His love, and His faithfulness. With Him by our side, we can weather any storm.

Today, if you find yourself in the midst of a storm, hold onto your faith, trust in God’s plan, and believe that brighter days are ahead. And always remember, after the storm, there’s a rainbow. With God, hope is never lost.

MSAC Bible Challenge

Sunday: Luke 12-13, Monday: Luke 14-16, Tuesday: Luke 17-18,
Wednesday: Luke 19-20, Thursday: Luke 21-22, Friday: Luke 23-24,
Saturday: John 1-2, Sunday: John 3-4

Outlines and Summaries

Embracing New Beginnings

Isaiah 43:18-19, God assures the Israelites of His transformative power by promising to make a way in the wilderness and bring forth rivers in the desert. This promise serves as a timeless reminder for every generation. Change, though inevitable and often resisted, is an integral aspect of our spiritual journey. God’s call to perceive the “new thing” invites us to embrace change with expectancy. Throughout life, we encounter personal deserts—periods of challenges, doubts, or stagnation. Yet, even in these challenging times, God pledges rivers of grace, peace, and provision. These deserts are transient phases, refining and preparing us for God’s purpose. Embracing God’s promise means taking active steps in faith, possibly venturing into the unfamiliar or letting go of past hurts. As we align with God’s will, our transformation has a broader impact, inspiring others with testimonies of hope and resilience. Isaiah’s words serve as an enduring testament to God’s love and faithfulness. Amid uncertainties, we are called to be rooted in this promise, releasing the old to make space for the divine new, and walking in anticipation, knowing God continually works for our good.

Embodying the spirit of Isaiah’s message requires us to be dynamic and adaptable, understanding that God’s methods and manifestations might change, but His nature and purpose remain steadfast. We’re reminded that our personal transformations aren’t just about individual growth or blessings but are intrinsically linked to the broader community. As we navigate the challenges and blessings of our faith journey, our lived testimonies serve as beacons for others, offering guidance, hope, and a glimpse of God’s enduring love. In a world that often seems to be shifting away from traditional church values, the essence of being the Church lies not just in rituals or structures but in living out the core principles of love, service, and witness. Isaiah’s words beckon us to embrace a forward-looking faith, one that cherishes the timeless truths while being sensitive to the fresh ways God is moving in the present. As believers, our role is not merely to reminisce about the past but to actively participate in the “new thing” God is orchestrating, ensuring that His love and message resonate even in a rapidly changing world.

Isaiah 43:18-19 offers more than a historical reflection; it presents a vibrant and dynamic blueprint for today’s believers. In a world that often seems disoriented from its spiritual roots, we are called to be torchbearers of faith, constantly renewing ourselves through God’s word and drawing strength from His promises. By integrating the lessons from Isaiah, we not only honor our rich heritage but also forge a path that resonates with relevance and purpose in our contemporary context. In doing so, we ensure that even in a post-church world, the essence of the Church — its love, unity, and witness — remains undiminished.

MSAC Bible Challenge

Sunday: Mark 15-16, Monday: Luke 1, Tuesday: Luke 2-3,
Wednesday: Luke 4-5, Thursday: Luke 6-7, Friday: Luke 8-9,
Saturday: Luke 10-11, Sunday: Luke 12-13

Paul Testifies…Again

Acts 26:12-20

Have you ever experienced a moment in life so transformative, so profound, that it forever altered the trajectory of your existence? Such moments, often etched into our hearts, become stories we share with friends, families, and sometimes even strangers. Yet, as time progresses, the fervor with which we share these tales can wane, overshadowed by the monotony of daily life or the fear of redundancy. Today, we see the Apostle Paul standing before King Agrippa recounting his Damascus Road experience. Though he had shared this testimony numerous times before various audiences, Paul’s passion remains undiminished. Through his example, we are reminded of the power and importance of consistently sharing our transformative encounters with Christ, reaffirming the notion that our testimonies, told and retold, have the unmatched potential to light the path for others searching for truth.

Every time Paul retold his story, it was an act of defiance against the forces that sought to silence the Gospel. Whether he was in chains, facing imminent danger, or standing before the highest authorities of the land, Paul understood that his testimony was not just his story, but God’s story working through him. The story of a persecutor turned proclaimer, of a man who went from breathing threats to breathing hope. And it’s this persistent repetition that demonstrates a significant truth to us: our testimonies never grow old or irrelevant. They are living tales of God’s enduring grace and transformative power in our lives.

In our own journeys, many of us have moments where God intervened, where light broke through the darkness, where the scales fell from our eyes, much like Paul. These are the stories of our personal Damascus Road experiences. However, sharing them once or twice and then shelving them denies others the chance to find hope and inspiration in our encounters with the divine. Paul’s repetitive sharing teaches us that every time we narrate our testimonies, there’s potential for someone new to be touched, for a heart to soften, for a soul to feel a stirring. Our stories, much like the parables of old, possess a timeless relevance, and it’s our responsibility, our privilege, to echo them time and time again.

Let us be inspired by Paul’s unwavering commitment to sharing his testimony. Let us recognize the strength in vulnerability, the courage in repetition, and the vast potential our shared stories have to impact the world. In an age of fleeting moments and transient trends, our consistent testimonies stand as beacons of God’s eternal love and transformative power. Let’s pledge not just to remember our Damascus Road experiences but to share them again and again, letting the world know of a love that changes everything.

MSAC Bible Challenge

Sunday: Matthew 15-17, Monday: Matthew 18-19,  Tuesday: Matthew 20-21,
Wednesday: Matthew 22-23, Thursday: Matthew 24-25, Friday: Matthew 26,
Saturday:
Matthew 27-28, Sunday: Mark 1-3