Weekly Devotional by Jim Kerner

“And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love. (I Corinthians 13:13 NRSV Bible)

Someone once reminded me, “The average pencil is seven inches long, and the eraser is only a quarter of an inch long – just in case you thought optimism was dead.”

When we look at the troubles of our world and society, it may dampen our optimism, but today there is a great need for all of us to listen and follow God’s call of love and peace.

Jesus certainly was saddened by the state of people’s hearts and the condition of people’s relationship with God. However, Jesus was clearly focused on God’s ultimate plan of unconditional love. What greater hope and optimism can we have than when we focus on Christ, as the risen Savior, given in love!

Lord Jesus, help me to show your love each day by doing small acts of kindness. In your name I pray, Amen.

God of Majesty, Your ways are wonderful and Your works are awesome.

Dear God of All — We pray for the knowledge of Your will for us.
We pray for those in our lives and in our world that are in pain. We would ask for healing and up lifting that the pain will give way to rejoicing in the beauty of the world that You have given to all of us.
Guide us on our journey — Help us to serve You with the talents You have given us.
Oh Lord these gifts we ask of thee:
Spirit serene
Strength for the daily task
Courage for the road
Good cheer to help bare the travelers load and for the hours of rest
that come between an inward joy of all things heard and seen.

Thank You Lord for the blessings You have bestowed upon us – but most of all for the Gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ.
Amen.”

– Jim Kerner