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Thank you for joining us for Reflections, short meditations on scripture intersecting life.
Show Notes
When I am starting something new, there's the excitement and freshness of this new thing. Perhaps I've been thinking of it, dreaming of it, praying for it for a long time. I bring energy, zest, and enthusiasm to the table. I've researched and planned and am ready to go.
And then when I'm nearing the finish line of said dream or project, I receive a fresh burst of energy because the end is in sight. I've almost reached my goal.
But it's in the messy middle that dreams fade, marriages fail, jobs lose their luster, and parenting seems not quite so fun.
"It's in the messy middle that we must "set our faces like a stone and determine to do His will."
Join me on this short podcast today to reflect about messy middles and how we can persevere through them. And remember, messy middles lead to enduring endings if we persevere.
May your soul's meditations be fuel for Spirit-led actions today!
Thank you for joining us for Reflections, short meditations on scripture intersecting life.
Show Notes
In today's Reflections we are meditating on Matthew 1:18-20.
This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit."
Consider this: When ordinary people humble themselves, set aside their own agendas, and make room for God to work, the Holy Spirit "invades," fills their space, and turns the ordinary into the miraculous.
Let's look at these verses in light of Joseph's life and choices. What can we learn from him to apply to our own lives? Feel free to leave your comments below.
Pray on!
The simple act of living out their Christian faith is dangerous for so many Christians around the world. Because of extremism, many are part of underground churches that worship in secret. Other have no community support at all and worship on their own.
Let's consider some facts on persecution. According to Open Doors, every month around the world the following occurs:
- 322 Christians are killed for their faith
- 214 churches and Christian properties are destroyed
- 772 forms of violence are committed against Christians (this includes beatings, abductions, rapes, arrests, and forced marriages)
According to the Pew Research Center, among the world's 25 most populous countries, these five countries have the highest religious restrictions: Egypt, Indonesia, Pakistan, Russia, and Turkey.
2016 International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church
This Sunday, November 6, 2016, is the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. Please take some time to pray for those who are suffering for their faith. I have listed resources here that will help you to pray in an informed way. These resources also highlight other ways you can help if you desire. For example, through VOM I have purchased Action Packs and filled them with blankets, clothing, etc. for displaced Christians. You'll find numerous opportunities to make a difference. But remember, we need to start with prayer, as that is the most powerful way to affect change.
Resources for the Persecuted Church
There are other organizations as well. These will get your started as you seek to become informed and to help. Thank you for supporting our brothers and sisters in Christ, and feel free to post your prayers in the comment section.
Pray on!
On today’s podcast I (Jane VanOsdol ) welcome Todd Daniels, the regional manager for the Middle East for International Christian Concern. With the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP) coming up on November 3, 2013, we wanted to draw attention to this issue. Be sure to see the link below for your IDOP kit. The kit includes several resources to use for yourself, with a small group, or your church. You will even find a lesson for children in it.
In this podcast’s session, we discuss several issues concerning the persecuted church, including the following topics:
- The scope of the problem of persecution
- Steps to take to make a difference to suffering Christians around the world
- How to pray for persecuted Christians
- Relevant scriptures
- Parts of the world where persecution exists
Resources
www.persecution.org
IDOP kit: http://info.persecution.org/IDOP2013
Save Our Sisters: http://www.persecution.org/assistance/save-our-sisters/
Suffering Wives and Children: http://www.persecution.org/assistance/suffering-wives-and-children/
https://www.facebook.com/persecuted
https://twitter.com/persecutionnews
The following organization is working with resettled Christians. It is a need, but a really challenging task:
http://www.iraqichristianrelief.org/our-projects/
Thank you for joining us for Reflections, short meditations on scripture intersecting life.
Show Notes
In today's Reflections we are meditating on Isaiah 61:2-3
To comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of His splendor.
The loss of a loved one is the most devastating loss we can endure. It shakes us as nothing else can. We are left bereft, dealing with a toxic swirl of emotions.
Like many of you, I know grief. I lost my second daughter when she was just 11 days old. God inserted Himself into the midst of my suffering, and walked through that time with my family and me. It was not easy, but as I held on to Him, He held me.
For those of you who know grief as your constant companion right now, I want to give you hope. You will get through this. I hope today's podcast encourages you in this journey.
To listen, just click on the triangles or subscribe on iTunes.
Pray on!
Thank you for joining us for Reflections, short meditations on scripture intersecting life.
Show Notes
In today's Reflections we are meditating on Luke 10:38-39:
As Jesus and His disciples were on their way, He came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to Him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what He said.
As I read through the Bible, I see that Mary was not the only one who ended up at the Lord's feet. Many others did too. And it was usually for one of two reasons:
- They were desperate for healing.
- They has just received their healing from Jesus.
What is it about being at the feet of Jesus that is so powerful? Let's consider that question today on Reflections.
To listen to this short 5-minute podcast, just click on the arrow below. Or subscribe to us on iTunes. We'd love it if you'd leave us a review too.
Be sure to grab your journal and record your own meditations after listening to and praying through the reflection.
May your soul's meditation be fuel for Spirit-led actions today!
Thank you for joining us for Reflections, short meditations on scripture intersecting life.
Show Notes
In today's Reflections we are thinking about Numbers 6:24-26.
The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.
It makes my heart full as I welcome, receive this blessing from the Lord. I must never forget that I am a child of His Light. In the Message Bible by Eugene Peterson called Conversations, he says "Since Christ has dawned in our lives, light not darkness, is the fundamental reality by which we live. And the radiance of His face bathes us with the blessings of new and emerging life."
As Christ-followers, we need to be all about pushing back the darkness that is encroaching on our world, our countries, our states, our cities, our neighborhoods—and our families. Many people live in a spiritual state of darkness
Join Only By Prayer in this Reflection by clicking the arrow below to see how we can reflect His light. You can also subscribe to this podcast on iTunes. Please leave us a review on iTunes if you desire.
Pray on!
Thank you for joining us for Reflections, short meditations on scripture intersecting life.
Show Notes
In today's Reflections we are thinking about Philippians 4:8 (NIV).
Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things.
Meditating is a bit like marinating. If you've ever soaked a piece of meat in a marinade, you know that the meat emerges from the process so much more flavorful and tender than when it started. God can do the same with us when we meditate on His word.
Listen in to today's short reflection as I share why this verse was important to me this week.
Pray on!
Thank you for joining us for Reflections, short meditations on scripture intersecting life.
Show Notes
In today's Reflections we are thinking about two scriptures, Matthew 7:7-8:
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
These two verse are actually a template for persistent prayer and give us much to reflect on. I discuss some of my important takeaways—and I'd like to hear yours too! Just click on the triangle below to listen to this short podcast. You can also subscribe to us on iTunes so that the podcast updates directly to your account. If you enjoy the podcast, would you mind leaving us a review on iTunes? Thank you!
Thanks for listening and be sure to leave any comments below!
Pray on!
In today's Reflections we are thinking about two scriptures: Isaiah 30:15 and Isaiah 32:17. As you listen to the podcast, you'll catch the similarities between the two right away.
What place do you have for quiet and stillness in your life? That's the question I felt like God was asking me today, one that I need to answer. That may not be yours.
As in any meditation, listen for what your message is from the Lord. What resonates with your soul? Write it down. Mull it over. Give some time to it. Pray over it. And keep the conversation going with God throughout your day. If you want to, share what was important to you in the comments below.
May your soul's meditations be fuel for Spirit-led actions today.
i pray
short podcasts to bring the sacred into your everyday
Do you only have a few minutes for prayer today? You're in the right place! Try one of our new i pray podcasts. A few minutes is all you need to pray God's word into any situation by interceding for friends, family, and yourself.
This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord Your God, listen to His voice, and hold fast to Him. For the Lord is your life, and He will give you many years in the land He swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Deuteronomy 30:19-20
Blessings or Curses?
It was a revelation to me when as a young adult I finally realized that I got to choose what I let my mind focus on. Too often I was focusing on depressing thoughts that were dragging me down. I remember thinking, "I am the only one in charge of my thoughts." It was time for me to choose a life mentality.
How about you? Are you ready to take charge of your thoughts? Stop blaming your spouse, children, your boss, or the state of politics for your bad attitude. Join me in prayer today as we intercede for each other.
i pray
short podcasts to bring the sacred into your everyday
Do you only have a few minutes for prayer today? You’re in the right place! Try one of our new i pray podcasts. A few minutes is all you need to pray God’s word into any situation by interceding for friends, family, and yourself.
Show Notes
I don’t think social media has improved our manners any. Our virtual, semi-anonymous world seems to bring out the worst in people, enabling them to say whatever nasty thing pops into their head. I’ve been horrified at comments from all sides. With controversial topics hogging the headlines and dominating social media, it feels that no matter what we say, we’re about to step on a landmine.
As I’ve prayed about how to handle this, this verse from Matthew 10:16 seems especially appropriate:
I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. Therefore be as wise as serpents and as gentle as doves.
To pray with us through this topic, just click on the arrow below.You can also subscribe in iTunes. Feel free to add any helpful suggestions in the comment section too!
Do you only have a few minutes for Bible study today? You’re in the right place! Try one of our new i hear podcasts. A few minutes is all you need to get God’s word into your heart and life!
Show Notes
"Times are changing," as the saying goes, but God does not change. He is eternal and timeless. When the culture seems to shift like sand underneath our feet, God calls us to hold our ground. Commit today to stand on firm upon the Rock and affect the culture for Christ.
It’s time to stand firm.
Please leave a comment below on your experience.
Have a blessed day!
Mary Kane
i pray
short podcasts to bring the sacred into your everyday
Do you only have a few minutes for prayer today? You're in the right place! Try one of our new i pray podcasts. A few minutes is all you need to pray God's word into any situation by interceding for friends, family, and yourself.
Show Notes
Sometimes I go through life oblivious to everyone and everything—except for my own agenda, my own schedule.
When I do that, I may miss the divine appointments and opportunities that God has scheduled for me that day. Will I take the time to look the homeless person in the eye and talk to her, or will I listen the the prompting of the Holy Spirit and smile at the person on the bus sitting next to me? I know we live in a dangerous world, but I need to be listening to the direction and guidance of the Spirit. At times He may move me along, but many times He would have me pause. I want to be alert to the work of the kingdom, not asleep on the job.
Today's Scripture
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behaviour in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. 1 Peter 3:15,16
Just click on the arrow below to pray along with us today. You may also subscribe on iTunes. Thanks for praying and in the comment section below, feel free to tell us about a divine appointment you kept.
Pray on!
i hear
short podcasts to bring the sacred into your everyday
Do you only have a few minutes for Bible study today? You’re in the right place! Try one of our new i hear podcasts. A few minutes is all you need to get God’s word into your heart and life.
Show Notes
Complaining is a socially acceptable pastime that doesn't really hurt anyone, right? Not according to God's word. Grumbling greatly affects our lives. It's time to exchange our whining for a little praising and praying.
It’s time to stop complaining.
Commit today to change your words and and watch God change your attitude--even your life!
Please leave a comment below on your experience.
Have a blessed day!
Mary Kane
i pray
short podcasts to bring the sacred into your everyday
Do you only have a few minutes for prayer today? You’re in the right place! Try one of our new i pray podcasts. A few minutes is all you need to pray God’s word into any situation by interceding for friends, family, and yourself.
Show Notes
At times in life, God lays on our hearts a new thing He wants us to do. It might be a calling, a passion, a new job, a business to start—something big and out of the ordinary.
So we pray, and pray, and pray some more. Two years pass by and we’ve still done nothing about it.
It’s time to take a step.
Click on the sideways arrow below to pray with us through James 2:17:
In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
Let’s pray.
And, yes, I’d love it if you’d take a minute to write down what your next step is in the comment section.
Pray on!
i hear short podcasts to bring the sacred into the every day. Are you short on time? Listen to an i hear podcast. Download important truths form God's word to your heart in minutes.
i hear short podcasts to bring the sacred into your everyday. Do you only have a few minutes for Bible study today? You’re in the right place! Try one of our new i hear podcasts. A few minutes is all you need to plant God’s word into your heart. Show Notes Someone today needs to rest in Christ.
i pray
short podcasts to bring the sacred into your everyday
Do you only have a few minutes for prayer today? You're in the right place! Try one of our new i pray podcasts. A few minutes is all you need to pray God's word into any situation by interceding for friends, family, and yourself.
Show Notes
Someone today has had their very foundation shaken. It is as if a giant earthquake has uprooted all that is safe and secure and familiar in your life. You are left quaking and wondering how you will make it through this time.
The answer to that is that we know the One who gives us His strong shoulders to lean on:
"Let the beloved of the Lord rest secure in Him, for He shields him all day long, and the one the Lord loves rests between His shoulders." Deuteronomy 33:12
We have all been shaken at some point in our lives. Let us pray together through this time.
Rushing and stressing are the hashtags that mark our generation.
Ask anyone how they've been and they will answer, "busy!" While God is about fruitfulness, He is not about busy. God's plan always includes margin, space and rest. When He sees we have exchanged His pace for the rat race, He calls us to come, rest and take a load off at the foot of the cross. #restinhim.
Please take a moment to rest in His presence and receive a little grace and peace. Push the play button below to listen to i hear: rest.
Thank you for joining me today for i hear.
God bless!
Mary Kane
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copyright 2016
i pray
short podcasts to bring the sacred into your everyday
Do you only have a few minutes for prayer today? You're in the right place! Try one of our new i pray podcasts. A few minutes is all you need to pray God's word into any situation by interceding for friends, family, and yourself.
Show Notes
Today we are praying about new life. Jesus is the only one, the only Savior who beat death and rose again. He is the difference. When we accept His sacrifice on the cross, taking the penalty of our sins upon Himself, then we also get to experience eternal life! When we die, we have the assurance that we will be with Him in heaven.
Abundant Life Today
But this promise is also for abundant life right now. God wants to do something new in us and through us. Today let's pray through Isaiah 43:18-19 for this new thing to spring up within us. Feel free to add your prayers or ask for prayer in the comment section.
Pray on!
i pray
short podcasts to bring the sacred into your everyday
Do you only have a few minutes for prayer today? You're in the right place! Try one of our new i pray podcasts. A few minutes is all you need to pray God's word into any situation by interceding for friends, family, and yourself.
Show Notes
Today we are praying about trust. Perhaps like me, you may sometimes have a problem fully trusting God because of current or past hurts and troubles. You're afraid of being hurt again. And, when we're honest, we wonder why God allowed these things to happen in the first place.
This world is a beautiful, messed up place, and both beauty and evil spill over into our lives. Let's use scripture to help us pray through our brokenness and healing — and our place in God's plan to redeem the world.
Today we're going to pray through two scriptures:
- Psalm 9:8-10
- John 16:33
To pray with us, just click on the arrow below. Feel free to leave a comment or your own prayer as you process the issue of trusting God.