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Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
Today's Frontline Devotion
Tuesday, June 3, 2003 Hope Builders |
Frontline E-Devotion Ministry
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Frontline Devotion for June 3, 2003, by Penny Risen
Text: 2 Corinthians 5:21
There it was again, speeding past in a white blur for the third time in a week!
As I stood at the foot of my driveway in fuzzy slippers, the panel truck with the red lettering broke the early morning silence and climbed the road uphill. "HOPE" it read.
I shuffled back into the kitchen having retrieved my newspapers, convinced a third time that to my blurry eyes this "HOPE" was a message I needed to seek. I admit that these few chilly mornings started out grumpy, with tasks ahead that weren't going to easy and with people difficult to deal with. I'm thankful that this odd shout-out of "HOPE" kept me moving in a more positive and loving direction.
Each day as Christians we hear and see small messages of Hope. If we open our eyes and heart to them, these "Hope Builders" can get us through even the toughest day.
A friend signs "Peace" at the end of an e-mail.
A child puts her tiny hand in her dad's to cross the street as you pass by.
A snatch of a radio song jolts you while channel surfing: "... Be still and know that He is God."
A grocery clerk wishes you a "Blessed Day!"
Consider what "Hope Builders" you have witnessed today. Today's text is the biggest "Hope Builder" I know: That for our sake, God sent Jesus Christ to take on our sin as His own. "So that in Him we might become the righteousness of God."
Because I'm forgiven by His grace, even when shuffling my way to pick up the paper in fuzzy slippers, I can start each beautiful or grumpy day with a fresh, sinless slate. And I can try to become righteousness, guided by my Lord speaking to me in small ways through my day.
Yes, my phantom white truck actually advertised "Hope Builders" -- a company doing a kitchen remodeling at a neighbor's. But to me, the truck called out loud and clear, that "HOPE" is as close as God's ear or a friend's smile.
Prayer: Dear Lord, let us begin each day with Hope. Open my heart to those around me who also are traveling the road toward righteousness. Allow me to be a "Hope Builder" to others, and help us to be grateful for each day You grant us a fresh beginning. Amen.
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All are welcome to join and share in our Devotional Ministry. Pastor Dave welcomes and appreciates feedback. pastordave@goodshepherdonline.org