Ordinary Time: Wednesday, August 29, 2007

It was two years ago today that Katrina came ashore. Let us say a special prayer today for our brothers and sisters in the Gulf South Region.

Old Testament Lesson

1 Kings 3:1-15

We see Solomon today ask God for wisdom. Notice how he approached God. He told God that He had shown favor to David and had made Solomon king of many people at a young age. And to do these things, he needed God's wisdom. He didn't puff up and say give me power or strength or might. He didn't tell God how great he was. He simply said for me to do the things you've assigned to me, I need your wisdom.

Friends, that's a good thought for each for us today, no matter who we are, or what we do. To do the things God has called us to do, we desperately need His wisdom.

New Testament Lesson

Acts 27:9-26

One of the most important things we can do in times of trouble is to keep our hope up. Today in this passage, there appeared to be no hope for those that had been shipwrecked. It looked like they were done for. Then Paul gets up to speak and starts off by saying basically, I told you so. but, then he says, don't worry, you will be alright. The Lord has a plan for me and for you, and we will make it through this time for His plan.

Even in the worst storm, God still has a plan for us. Just because the wind is blowing and the rain is coming doesn't mean that He has abandoned us. Paul reminded the people of that. Today, his words speak to us as well. God is with us, even now.

Gospel Lesson

Mark 14:1-11

We see in this passage Judas go to betray Jesus. There are lots of theories to why he did it, but in truth, we'll never know the full story. But, we do know that one of the 12, one of the closest ones to Jesus betrayed Him. Once again, this shows that Jesus went through and experienced everything that we do. We know the pain of severed friendship and betrayal. So does Jesus. Our God does not turn a blind eye to all that we bring before, but in fact has been in our shoes, walked where we walk, and lived as we live.

And, He comes that we may have life, and have it more full. Today, let us cast our cares to Him, for He cares for us. And let us live in His grace.