Luke 14:12-14

Luke 14:12-14 - Daily Devotion - 10 August 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

12 He said also to the man who had invited him, “When you host a dinner or a banquet, don’t invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors so you can be invited by them in return and get repaid. 13 But when you host an elaborate meal, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. 14 Then you will be blessed because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”

REFLECTIONS

Written by Yuan Vongsavanh

In yesterday’s devotion, we heard how Jesus rebuked the guests who would choose the seat of honour at a banquet (v7-11). His point was to highlight that those who put themselves first will be humbled, but the humble will be exalted. In today’s passage we hear how Jesus instructs his host – and maybe there’s a rebuke here too.

He speaks very directly to the man who had invited him. In v12-13, he basically says that a host should not always be just inviting their family and friends, or others who can return the favour of hosting. Instead, Jesus says to invite those who do not have the means or the ability to return the favour.

When someone says, “I invited my friends over and cooked them lunch this weekend”, we often reply with something like, “Oh that’s really nice of you.” But according to Jesus, there’s nothing especially impressive or admirable about that. He asks us for a much more radical kind of hospitality. Jesus asks us to share what we have and be hospitable to “the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind” (v13) – to those who are in need, those who are society’s outcasts, those who have absolutely no means of returning the favour of hosting us. He’s calling us to share what we have out of love, with compassion for the downtrodden, and without any other expectation from our guests.

And it is because they cannot repay us that we will be blessed, says Jesus, as we will “be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous” (v14).

I always find it so challenging to hear directly from Jesus’s word in the Bible, especially here where Jesus teaches the counter-cultural way of living as a Christian. His challenge is as relevant now as it was in Jesus’s time. Pray now about these three simple verses. Ask God to remind us that we are spiritual beggars who have received every spiritual blessing from Him, without any expectation or requirement to pay him back. Pray that we will strive to be hospitable to those around us who are in need.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Yuan is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.

Luke 14:7-11

Luke 14:7-11 - Daily Devotion - 9 August 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

7 Then when Jesus noticed how the guests chose the places of honor, he told them a parable. He said to them, 8 “When you are invited by someone to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honor because a person more distinguished than you may have been invited by your host. 9 So the host who invited both of you will come and say to you, ‘Give this man your place.’ Then, ashamed, you will begin to move to the least important place. 10 But when you are invited, go and take the least important place, so that when your host approaches he will say to you, ‘Friend, move up here to a better place.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all who share the meal with you. 11 For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”

REFLECTIONS

Written by Alan Vongsavanh

Today's passage picks up from where yesterday’s passage left off: Jesus is dining at the house of a prominent Pharisee. Jesus sees that the guests would arrive and pick the most important position at the table. He uses this opportunity to teach his listeners that God’s order of things is different – that those who exalt themselves would be humbled, whilst those who are humble will be exalted.

I can’t help but think of myself, and I’m sure I’m not alone – we all like to feel important and be treated that way by others. However, Jesus gives us the warning that if we see ourselves as better than we are and better than others, we will be humiliated in the judgement to come, and that those who are humble will be honoured. This reminds me of Matthew 20:16, where Jesus says, “So the last will be first, and the first last.” God’s ways are so different to the ways of our world and the instincts of our hearts.

Jesus’ teaching also reminds me that if we think we’re more or better than those around us, if we compare ourselves to others and let ourselves get puffed up, we’re believing that we have earned the honour we are given – which means we’ve forgotten that all things come from God, as undeserved gifts. The way to honour is to realise and accept that you don’t deserve honour.

Let’s remind ourselves that we do not belong to this world or it’s values, and our goal is not to be honoured by the world. Pray that God would help us not to see ourselves as greater than we ought, but to humble ourselves before God and others. Pray that God would raise us to honour in the kingdom to come, not because we have earned it by because of his grace.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alan is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.

Luke 14:1-6

Luke 14:1-6 - Daily Devotion - 8 August 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

1 Now one Sabbath when Jesus went to dine at the house of a leader of the Pharisees, they were watching him closely. 2 There right in front of him was a man whose body was swollen with fluid. 3 So Jesus asked the experts in religious law and the Pharisees, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath or not?” 4 But they remained silent. So Jesus took hold of the man, healed him, and sent him away. 5 Then he said to them, “Which of you, if you have a son or an ox that has fallen into a well on a Sabbath day, will not immediately pull him out?” 6 But they could not reply to this.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Mary Hong

Love in action

Friends, do you enjoy eating or sharing food in a meal together? Food is a great gift from God. It is one of the greatest joys in life for me, because it brings people from different backgrounds together. There are many special moments that happen when we enjoy a meal together.

As I read this passage, I am reminded of Jesus's humility and selfless acts of love to those He meets. On this occasion it is on a Sabbath day, around a meal in the home of a leader of the Pharisees. Because it was a Sabbath day, all the food would have been prepared in advance.

At the table sitting across from Jesus is a man who is suffering from a condition known as dropsy.  Jesus heals him, even though he knows the Pharisees are watching Him closely. He then asks the lawyers and Pharisees, “Which of you, if you have a son or an ox that has fallen into a well on a Sabbath day, will not immediately pull him out?” (verse 5). The Pharisees could not give a response to this, which reveals their hypocrisy and their lack of love.

But with Jesus, this passage displays his humility and compassion, even in the face of intense criticism and hostility from the leaders. Despite their questioning and opposition, Jesus shows the man kindness and puts love into action by healing him.

This passage humbles me, because we see Jesus showing love and kindness to a man He has only just met. This happens throughout the Gospels: Jesus is willing to heal and show compassion, no matter what the cost or the risk.

Friends, compassion and love should always be at the front and centre of our lives. Pray that we would all look to Jesus as our ultimate example when we are given opportunities to love and care for those around us. May we not allow traditions and rules to get in the way of us showing love and compassion. Pray that this passage will help remind us to follow the two greatest commandments, to love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind and soul and to love our neighbours as ourselves.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mary is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregation.

Luke 13:31-35

Luke 13:31-35 - Daily Devotion - 7 August 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

31 At that time, some Pharisees came up and said to Jesus, “Get away from here because Herod wants to kill you.” 32 But he said to them, “Go and tell that fox, ‘Look, I am casting out demons and performing healings today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will complete my work. 33 Nevertheless I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the next day, because it is impossible that a prophet should be killed outside Jerusalem.’ 34 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those who are sent to you! How often I have longed to gather your children together as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you would have none of it! 35 Look, your house is forsaken! And I tell you, you will not see me until you say, ‘Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!’”

REFLECTIONS

Written by Stephen Shead

If someone said to me, “Quick, get away – someone very powerful has sent a contract killer for you, and they’re on their way now!”, I can think of a few ways I might react. Mostly, I’d panic. But I definitely wouldn’t say either of the two things Jesus says in response to the warning about Herod. It took me a while to work out what Jesus meant, but in verse 32 he basically says: “I’m not running away – I must stay and complete the work my Father has given me to do, of delivering and healing people.” But then he says that soon he will leave anyway – not to run away from death, but because: “it is impossible that a prophet should be killed outside Jerusalem” (v33). That is, he’s deliberately and resolutely heading for the place where he knows without a doubt that he’ll be killed.

He knows that those who will kill him are God’s precious, loved, rebellious, tragic chosen people Israel – Jesus’ own people. He knows that, in killing him, they will be bringing judgment on themselves – their “house” will be forsaken by God (v35). And he is filled with sorrow and compassion.

As usual, as Jesus is explaining this, he throws in some breath-taking claims about himself. He is like a mother hen, and the people of Israel are like the chicks who he longs to protect. All through the Old Testament, that image is used to describe God himself as the protector of his people (for example, Psalm 17:8 and 91:4). And Jesus finishes by quoting Psalm 118 – “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!” Psalm 118 is the climax of the psalms about the Messiah – about how the Messiah will be all alone, under attack on every side, and yet God will deliver him and bring salvation through him. Jesus knew all those things were to be fulfilled in him, and in the death that awaited him.

I can’t comprehend Jesus’ determination and clear-mindedness. He knew the plan laid out for him in the Scriptures – that it would end in victory, but only through unimaginable suffering and death. What a Saviour! I also found this another helpful reminder that judgment is coming, but there is no place for gloating or feeling glad that others are facing disaster. We must strive to feel Jesus’ compassion for those who hate us – otherwise how will we preach the gospel with conviction? Give thanks now for Jesus, and pray for his heart to grow in you.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sheena is a member of our Fairfield Evening congregation.

Luke 13:22-30

Luke 13:22-30 - Daily Devotion - 6 August 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

22 Then Jesus traveled throughout towns and villages, teaching and making his way toward Jerusalem. 23 Someone asked him, “Lord, will only a few be saved?” So he said to them, 24 “Exert every effort to enter through the narrow door because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. 25 Once the head of the house gets up and shuts the door, then you will stand outside and start to knock on the door and beg him, ‘Lord, let us in!’ But he will answer you, ‘I don’t know where you come from.’ 26 Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets.’ 27 But he will reply, ‘I don’t know where you come from! Go away from me, all you evildoers!’ 28 There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth when you see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets in the kingdom of God but you yourselves thrown out. 29 Then people will come from east and west, and from north and south, and take their places at the banquet table in the kingdom of God. 30 But indeed, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.”

REFLECTIONS

Written by Stephen Shead

“Are only a few people going to be saved?” That’s such a common question – I’ve been asked it many times before ... and I think I finally have my go-to Bible passage for it!

The main point of Jesus’ answer seems to be: “Don’t get too distracted by the question of whether other people will go to heaven or hell – pay attention to your own spiritual state, and make every effort to stay out of hell yourself!” Of course, we should be deeply concerned that so many people are not saved, and we need to pass on God’s warning that those who reject his Son will face eternal judgment. But it’s not our place to declare who is or isn’t in hell, and being too interested in that may be a sign that you’re being too casual about your own position before God.

There were two other things I found really helpful in Jesus’ teaching on heaven and hell here. The first is that what will make all the difference in the end is not what you’ve done, but who you know. When God (or the owner of the house in Jesus’ parable) explains why those outside cannot enter, he says twice: “I don’t know you or where you come from” (v 25, 27). You might be able to do some good deeds in amongst your sins, but God’s Son Jesus is the only one who can bring you into a relationship with God, where you know God and he knows you (John 17:3). Trusting in Jesus is the beginning, middle and end of salvation.

And secondly ... what’s the answer? Will only a few be saved in the end? At first, the answer sounds like it’s going to be “Yes”, because Jesus talks about how narrow the door is and that many will not be able to enter (v 24). And yet, at the end he paints a picture of people streaming from the four compass points to enter the kingdom – outsiders, people who were “without hope and without God in the world” (Eph. 2:12).

So, will many people be saved? Well, your priority is to make sure that you are, not be so arrogant that you start announcing other people’s eternal destiny. But in the end, you can trust that God’s mercy is wide and deep and rich and powerful. Trust me (or better, trust Jesus): Heaven will be packed!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elyse is a member of our Fairfield Evening congregation.

Luke 13:18-21

Luke 13:18-21 - Daily Devotion - 4 August 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

18 Thus Jesus asked, “What is the kingdom of God like? To what should I compare it? 19 It is like a mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the wild birds nested in its branches.”

20 Again he said, “To what should I compare the kingdom of God? 21 It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed with three measures of flour until all the dough had risen.”

REFLECTIONS

Written by Stephen Shead

I love Jesus’ parables. But as I read today’s passage, I realised that Jesus’ parables are like the opposite of a sermon illustration. When we use sermon illustrations, we try to take a deep truth and make it as clear as possible. But when Jesus spoke in parables, he usually wasn’t trying to hand the meaning to us on a platter. His parables are designed to make us think, and puzzle, and work hard for the treasures they hold.

The general idea of today’s pair of brain-teasers is clear. They’re both about the kingdom of God. In both, the kingdom is represented by something that at first is very small but becomes huge or has a huge impact. The tiny mustard seed becomes a tree. The small bit of yeast permeates the whole batch of dough. And, Jesus is telling us: Don’t worry if the kingdom of God looks small and insignificant to you now. It will grow to be huge and fill everything.

Some parts of these stories are a bit harder to pin down. For what it’s worth, I’d guess the man planting the seed and the woman working in the yeast represent people who tell others the message about Jesus, and the birds in the branches are those who believe the message. God’s kingdom will bring them protection, provision, and a place to belong together.

Here are two final thoughts, as I tried to push a bit deeper. First, it’s not just that the kingdom will grow. Why does the seed grow into a tree, or the dough rise and expand? It’s not really because of the planter or the kneader. The tree and the dough grow through an invisible power that is not in their hands. And when we live and breathe the gospel, God is working invisibly, in places we can’t see, to grow his kingdom of life and light.

Secondly – this is a bit more left-field: Why do these parables appearhere in Luke’s Gospel? Yesterday we heard about an unnamed woman who had been crippled for 18 years. Even though the big and important people disapproved, Jesus freed her and restored her to life and wholeness. Is that woman’s story an example of the mustard-seed kingdom? It seems small and unimportant –she seems small and unimportant. But God’s kingdom will grow through countless stories of people just like this woman – the nobodies, the powerless, the helpless – hearing about Jesus, trusting in him, and receiving forgiveness, joy, and everlasting life.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

David is a member of our Fairfield Evening congregation.

Luke 13:10-17

Luke 13:10-17 - Daily Devotion - 3 August 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

10 Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath, 11 and a woman was there who had been disabled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten herself up completely. 12 When Jesus saw her, he called her to him and said, “Woman, you are freed from your infirmity.” 13 Then he placed his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God. 14 But the president of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, said to the crowd, “There are six days on which work should be done! So come and be healed on those days, and not on the Sabbath day.” 15 Then the Lord answered him, “You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from its stall and lead it to water? 16 Then shouldn’t this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen long years, be released from this imprisonment on the Sabbath day?” 17 When he said this, all his adversaries were humiliated, but the entire crowd was rejoicing at all the wonderful things he was doing.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Aly Phan

I can’t imagine what it’s like to suffer with a bent back for eighteen years. I’m already suffering from soreness and poor posture after 8 hours sitting at my desk for work!

Jesus was teaching at a synagogue when he takes notice of this crippled woman. Without hesitation, Jesus puts on display his power to heal with just a handful of words and a touch of his hands. When I read of Jesus performing miracles, I imagine what it would have been like to be there – it must be such a remarkable thing to see, right before your very eyes.

But as the story continues, that's not the focus. What’s remarkable is not the length of time the woman has suffered so intensely, nor the fact that Jesus did what no one else could ever do. What’s remarkable is that Jesus is scorned by the synagogue leaders for “working” on a day that should be reserved for rest!

The religious leaders in Jesus’ day thought of themselves as people who obeyed God’s law. But they were narrow-sighted. They were missing the most crucial things of all: love for God and for their neighbour, and praise to God.

When I read this passage, my first instinct is to scoff and scorn the synagogue leaders. But when I reflect, I know that there are times when I seek to keep God’s rules as a tick-the-box exercise, rather than longing to obey God out of love and reverent fear of Him. I forget that, just as Jesus freed this woman from her crippling burden, He has freed us from guilt and from rule-keeping, and that he is worthy of my praise. I too am humiliated, like the adversaries in verse 17.

Pray now that we will all remember to be thankful to God who has the power to heal and set us free from physical and spiritual chains, and that we will learn to praise God more and more for His love for us.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Aly is a member of our Fairfield Evening congregation.

Luke 13:6-9

Luke 13:6-9 - Daily Devotion - 2 August 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

6 Then Jesus told this parable: “A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came looking for fruit on it and found none. 7 So he said to the worker who tended the vineyard, ‘For three years now, I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree, and each time I inspect it I find none. Cut it down! Why should it continue to deplete the soil?’ 8 But the worker answered him, ‘Sir, leave it alone this year too, until I dig around it and put fertilizer on it. 9 Then if it bears fruit next year, very well, but if not, you can cut it down.’”

REFLECTIONS

Written by Paul Bogg

I have a mandarin tree in my backyard. On the outside, it actually looks pretty good.  It’s doubled in height in the past 3 years, and has good colour.  But the fruit – well, it’s not as plentiful as I would like, and the fruit that I've picked this year is so sour that you can’t bear to take another bite!  But I look at the tree and think: should I give it one more year? I’ve invested time into it, I’ve cared for it – but if it doesn’t bear edible fruit next season, I’m not quite sure I should keep it around.

This short parable from Jesus today reminds me firstly that God cares for his people – he cares enough to feed and nurture them, to watch them grow, and he longs to see the trees that he has grown bear fruit. And even if those trees don’t seem to be bearing fruit, he is prepared to give it one more season. God is the loving gardener that loves to see his garden bear fruit.  God is also a pragmatic gardener. Jesus warns his people in the previous passage to repent.  Today he warns his people that they ought to be bearing fruit. For those that aren’t bearing fruit – he is prepared to cut down.

So how do I bear fruit for God today? I am reminded of John 15 verse 5: “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing”.  Jesus tells us how: by abiding in him.  By abiding in Jesus, God will nurture you, and to enable new growth you might find that he prunes a few things off, but then in time new shoots will appear, and once those shoots become branches then he will cause those branches to bear much fruit.  But fruiting takes time – in fact, it takes seasons to happen, so patience is required.

So abide in Jesus. Draw deeper into the true vine through prayer. Soak in the loving nourishment that He gives you through his word and the fellowship with your brothers and sisters. Trust him as he does his work tending to the garden. And in the midst of your service to him, expect the shoots, and the branches, and the fruiting to happen.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Paul is a member of our Bossley Park Morning congregration.

Luke 13:1-5

1 August 2024, Luke 13:1-5
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

1 Now there were some present on that occasion who told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. 2 He answered them, “Do you think these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered these things? 3 No, I tell you! But unless you repent, you will all perish as well! 4 Or those eighteen who were killed when the tower in Siloam fell on them, do you think they were worse offenders than all the others who live in Jerusalem? 5 No, I tell you! But unless you repent you will all perish as well!”

REFLECTIONS

Written by Stephen Shead

In 2010, when my family was living in Chile, the country was hit by a devastating earthquake and tsunami. More than 800 people died. In the following weeks, I remember hearing some preachers on the radio and internet declaring that the earthquake was God’s judgment on the people of Chile because of their sin.

I also remember thinking, when I heard those preachers: “Why are you ignoring what Jesus said??”

Today we’re returning to Luke’s Gospel in our daily devotions, and we’re jumping in at a gruesome moment: Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, had slaughtered a group of Galileans and used their blood for repulsive purposes. That’s all we know, but obviously there were people saying similar things to those Chilean preachers: “The reason they suffered a horrific death is because they were worse sinners than the rest.”

Jesus turns that claim completely on its head. You can’t interpret that event to say, “those people are worse sinners.” Instead, you should use it as a reminder that you are a sinner – so unless you turn back to God and put your trust in his Son, you will perish on the day of judgment.

What Jesus means is that, when we hear about disasters or terrible events, we don’t have a direct word from God to interpret those events – especially if we’re pointing the finger at other people. Instead, when we hear about disasters, we should use them to wake up and remember God’s urgent warnings in the Bible: that this world is not forever, Jesus is returning, and when he does, “that day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3:12-13).

I think Jesus’ words here mean we should be very cautious about some of the comments that people have made following the assassination attempt against Donald Trump. Of course God was Lord over the events of that day. But we can’t use it to declare that God is for or against Donald Trump, either as a person or a President. That would be ignoring what Jesus says here!

Instead, Trump’s “close shave with death” should remind us that this life is brief and fragile, and one day we will all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. On that day, all that will matter is whether we responded to God’s call to turn to Jesus in repentance and faith.

Don’t try to read the tea leaves or interpret the news. But have you listened to God’s Word and turned back to Jesus?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Stephen is our Senior Minister.

Psalm 120-121

Psalm 120 & 121 - Daily Devotion - 31 July 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

As you read, keep in mind our two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

Psalm 120 A song of ascents.
1 In my distress I cried out
to the LORD and he answered me.
2 I said, “O LORD, rescue me
from those who lie with their lips
and those who deceive with their tongues.”
3 How will he severely punish you,
you deceptive talker?
4 Here’s how! With the sharp arrows of warriors,
with arrowheads forged over the hot coals.
5 How miserable I am.
For I have lived temporarily in Meshech;
I have resided among the tents of Kedar.
6 For too long I have had to reside
with those who hate peace.
7 I am committed to peace,
but when I speak, they want to make war.

Psalm 121 A song of ascents.
1 I look up toward the hills.
From where does my help come?
2 My help comes from the LORD,
the Creator of heaven and earth.
3 May he not allow your foot to slip.
May your Protector not sleep.
4 Look! Israel’s Protector
does not sleep or slumber.
5 The LORD is your protector;
the LORD is the shade at your right hand.
6 The sun will not harm you by day,
or the moon by night.
7 The LORD will protect you from all harm;
he will protect your life.
8 The LORD will protect you in all you do,
now and forevermore.

REFLECTIONS

Now think about the two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

Then pray, seeking to delight in God or to depend on God.

Psalm 119:161-176

Psalm 119:161-176 - Daily Devotion - 30 July 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

As you read, keep in mind our two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

161 ש (Sin/Shin)
Rulers pursue me for no reason,
yet I am more afraid of disobeying your instructions.
162 I rejoice in your instructions,
like one who finds much plunder.
163 I hate and despise deceit;
I love your law.
164 Seven times a day I praise you
because of your just regulations.
165 Those who love your law are completely secure;
nothing causes them to stumble.
166 I hope for your deliverance, O LORD,
and I obey your commands.
167 I keep your rules;
I love them greatly.
168 I keep your precepts and rules,
for you are aware of everything I do.

169 ת (Tav)
Listen to my cry for help, O LORD.
Give me insight by your word.
170 Listen to my appeal for mercy.
Deliver me, as you promised.
171 May praise flow freely from my lips,
for you teach me your statutes.
172 May my tongue sing about your instructions,
for all your commands are just.
173 May your hand help me,
for I choose to obey your precepts.
174 I long for your deliverance, O LORD;
I find delight in your law.
175 May I live and praise you.
May your regulations help me.
176 I have wandered off like a lost sheep.
Come looking for your servant,
for I do not forget your commands.

REFLECTIONS

Now think about the two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

Then pray, seeking to delight in God or to depend on God.

Psalm 119:145-160

Psalm 119:145-160 - Daily Devotion - 29 July 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

A reminder: This month, we are using our do-it-yourself method for reading the Psalms. As you read, keep in mind our two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

145 ק (Qof)
I cried out with all my heart, “Answer me, O LORD!
I will observe your statutes.”
146 I cried out to you, “Deliver me,
so that I can keep your rules.”
147 I am up before dawn crying for help.
I find hope in your word.
148 My eyes anticipate the nighttime hours
so that I can meditate on your word.
149 Listen to me because of your loyal love.
O LORD, revive me, as you typically do.
150 Those who are eager to do wrong draw near;
they are far from your law.
151 You are near, O LORD,
and all your commands are reliable.
152 I learned long ago that
you ordained your rules to last.

153 ר (Resh)
See my pain and rescue me.
For I do not forget your law.
154 Fight for me and defend me.
Revive me with your word.
155 The wicked have no chance for deliverance,
for they do not seek your statutes.
156 Your compassion is great, O LORD.
Revive me, as you typically do.
157 The enemies who chase me are numerous.
Yet I do not turn aside from your rules.
158 I take note of the treacherous and despise them,
because they do not keep your instructions.
159 See how I love your precepts.
O LORD, revive me with your loyal love.
160 Your instructions are totally reliable;
all your just regulations endure.

REFLECTIONS

Now think about the two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

Then pray, seeking to delight in God or to depend on God.

Psalm 119:129-144

Psalm 119:129-144 - Daily Devotion - 27 July 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

As you read, keep in mind our two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

129 פ (Pe)
Your rules are marvelous.
Therefore I observe them.
130 Your instructions are a doorway through which light shines.
They give insight to the untrained.
131 I open my mouth and pant,
because I long for your commands.
132 Turn toward me and extend mercy to me,
as you typically do to your loyal followers.
133 Direct my steps by your word.
Do not let any sin dominate me.
134 Deliver me from oppressive men,
so that I can keep your precepts.
135 Smile on your servant.
Teach me your statutes!
136 Tears stream down from my eyes,
because people do not keep your law.

137 צ (Tsade)
You are just, O LORD,
and your judgments are fair.
138 The rules you impose are just
and absolutely reliable.
139 My zeal consumes me,
for my enemies forget your instructions.
140 Your word is absolutely pure,
and your servant loves it.
141 I am insignificant and despised,
yet I do not forget your precepts.
142 Your justice endures,
and your law is reliable.
143 Distress and hardship confront me,
yet I find delight in your commands.
144 Your rules remain just.
Give me insight so that I can live.

REFLECTIONS

Now think about the two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

Then pray, seeking to delight in God or to depend on God.

Psalm 119:113-128

Psalm 119:113-128 - Daily Devotion - 26July 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

As you read, keep in mind our two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

113 ס (Samek)
I hate people with divided loyalties,
but I love your law.
114 You are my hiding place and my shield.
I find hope in your word.
115 Turn away from me, you evil men,
so that I can observe the commands of my God.
116 Sustain me as you promised, so that I will live.
Do not disappoint me.
117 Support me so that I will be delivered.
Then I will focus on your statutes continually.
118 You despise all who stray from your statutes,
for such people are deceptive and unreliable.
119 You remove all the wicked of the earth like slag.
Therefore I love your rules.
120 My body trembles because I fear you;
I am afraid of your judgments.

121 ע (Ayin)
I do what is fair and right.
Do not abandon me to my oppressors.
122 Guarantee the welfare of your servant.
Do not let the arrogant oppress me.
123 My eyes grow tired as I wait for your deliverance,
for your reliable promise to be fulfilled.
124 Show your servant your loyal love.
Teach me your statutes.
125 I am your servant. Give me insight,
so that I can understand your rules.
126 It is time for the LORD to act—
they break your law.
127 For this reason I love your commands
more than gold, even purest gold.
128 For this reason I carefully follow all your precepts.
I hate all deceitful actions.

REFLECTIONS

Now think about the two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

Then pray, seeking to delight in God or to depend on God.

Psalm 119:97-112

Psalm 119:97-112 - Daily Devotion - 25 July 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

As you read, keep in mind our two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

97 מ (Mem)
O how I love your law!
All day long I meditate on it.
98 Your commandments make me wiser than my enemies,
for I am always aware of them.
99 I have more insight than all my teachers,
for I meditate on your rules.
100 I am more discerning than those older than I,
for I observe your precepts.
101 I stay away from every evil path,
so that I might keep your instructions.
102 I do not turn aside from your regulations,
for you teach me.
103 Your words are sweeter
in my mouth than honey!
104 Your precepts give me discernment.
Therefore I hate all deceitful actions.

105 נ (Nun)
Your word is a lamp to walk by
and a light to illumine my path.
106 I have vowed and solemnly sworn
to keep your just regulations.
107 I am suffering terribly.
O LORD, revive me with your word.
108 O LORD, please accept the freewill offerings of my praise.
Teach me your regulations.
109 My life is in continual danger,
but I do not forget your law.
110 The wicked lay a trap for me,
but I do not wander from your precepts.
111 I claim your rules as my permanent possession,
for they give me joy.
112 I am determined to obey your statutes
at all times, to the very end.

REFLECTIONS

Now think about the two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

Then pray, seeking to delight in God or to depend on God.

Psalm 119:81-96

Psalm 119:81-96 - Daily Devotion - 24 July 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

As you read, keep in mind our two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

81 כ (Kaf)
I desperately long for your deliverance.
I find hope in your word.
82 My eyes grow tired as I wait for your promise to be fulfilled.
I say, “When will you comfort me?”
83 For I am like a wineskin dried up in smoke.
I do not forget your statutes.
84 How long must your servant endure this?
When will you judge those who pursue me?
85 The arrogant dig pits to trap me,
which violates your law.
86 All your commands are reliable.
I am pursued without reason. Help me!
87 They have almost destroyed me here on the earth,
but I do not reject your precepts.
88 Revive me with your loyal love
that I might keep the rules you have revealed.

89 ל (Lamed)
O LORD, your instructions endure;
they stand secure in heaven.
90 You demonstrate your faithfulness to all generations.
You established the earth and it stood firm.
91 Today they stand firm by your decrees,
for all things are your servants.
92 If I had not found encouragement in your law,
I would have died in my sorrow.
93 I will never forget your precepts,
for by them you have revived me.
94 I belong to you. Deliver me!
For I seek your precepts.
95 The wicked prepare to kill me,
yet I concentrate on your rules.
96 I realize that everything has its limits,
but your commands are beyond full comprehension.

REFLECTIONS

Now think about the two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

Then pray, seeking to delight in God or to depend on God.

Psalm 119:65-80

Psalm 119:65-80 - Daily Devotion - 23 July 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

As you read, keep in mind our two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

65 ט (Tet)
You are good to your servant,
O LORD, just as you promised.
66 Teach me proper discernment and understanding.
For I consider your commands to be reliable.
67 Before I was afflicted I used to stray off,
but now I keep your instructions.
68 You are good and you do good.
Teach me your statutes.
69 Arrogant people smear my reputation with lies,
but I observe your precepts with all my heart.
70 Their hearts are calloused,
but I find delight in your law.
71 It was good for me to suffer
so that I might learn your statutes.
72 The law you have revealed is more important to me
than thousands of pieces of gold and silver.

73 י (Yod)
Your hands made me and formed me.
Give me understanding so that I might learn your commands.
74 Your loyal followers will be glad when they see me,
for I find hope in your word.
75 I know, LORD, that your regulations are just.
You disciplined me because of your faithful devotion to me.
76 May your loyal love console me,
as you promised your servant.
77 May I experience your compassion so I might live.
For I find delight in your law.
78 May the arrogant be humiliated, for they have slandered me.
But I meditate on your precepts.
79 May your loyal followers turn to me,
those who know your rules.
80 May I be fully committed to your statutes,
so that I might not be ashamed.

REFLECTIONS

Now think about the two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

Then pray, seeking to delight in God or to depend on God.

Psalm 119:49-64

Psalm 119:49-64 - Daily Devotion - 22 July 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

A reminder: This month, we are using our do-it-yourself method for reading the Psalms. As you read, keep in mind our two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

49 ז (Zayin)
Remember your word to your servant,
for you have given me hope.
50 This is what comforts me in my trouble,
for your promise revives me.
51 Arrogant people do nothing but scoff at me.
Yet I do not turn aside from your law.
52 I remember your ancient regulations,
O LORD, and console myself.
53 Rage takes hold of me because of the wicked,
those who reject your law.
54 Your statutes have been my songs
in the house where I live.
55 I remember your name during the night, O LORD,
and I will keep your law.
56 This has been my practice,
for I observe your precepts.

57 ח (Khet)
The LORD is my source of security.
I have determined to follow your instructions.
58 I seek your favor with all my heart.
Have mercy on me as you promised.
59 I consider my actions
and follow your rules.
60 I keep your commands eagerly
and without delay.
61 The ropes of the wicked tighten around me,
but I do not forget your law.
62 In the middle of the night I arise to thank you
for your just regulations.
63 I am a friend to all your loyal followers
and to those who keep your precepts.
64 O LORD, your loyal love fills the earth.
Teach me your statutes!

REFLECTIONS

Now think about the two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

Then pray, seeking to delight in God or to depend on God.

Psalm 119:33-48

Psalm 119:33-48 - Daily Devotion - 20 July 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

As you read, keep in mind our two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

33 ה (He)
Teach me, O LORD, the lifestyle prescribed by your statutes
so that I might observe it continually.
34 Give me understanding so that I might observe your law
and keep it with all my heart.
35 Guide me in the path of your commands,
for I delight to walk in it.
36 Give me a desire for your rules,
rather than for wealth gained unjustly.
37 Turn my eyes away from what is worthless.
Revive me with your word.
38 Confirm to your servant your promise,
which you made to the one who honors you.
39 Take away the insults that I dread.
Indeed, your regulations are good.
40 Look, I long for your precepts.
Revive me with your deliverance.

41 ו (Vav)
May I experience your loyal love, O LORD,
and your deliverance, as you promised.
42 Then I will have a reply for the one who insults me,
for I trust in your word.
43 Do not completely deprive me of a truthful testimony,
for I await your justice.
44 Then I will keep your law continually
now and for all time.
45 I will be secure,
for I seek your precepts.
46 I will speak about your regulations before kings
and not be ashamed.
47 I will find delight in your commands,
which I love.
48 I will lift my hands to your commands,
which I love,
and I will meditate on your statutes.

REFLECTIONS

Now think about the two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

Then pray, seeking to delight in God or to depend on God.

Psalm 119:17-32

Psalm 119:17-32 - Daily Devotion - 19 July 2024
St Barnabas Anglican Church Fairfield & Bossley Park

As you read, keep in mind our two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

17 ג (Gimel)
Be kind to your servant.
Then I will live and keep your instructions.
18 Open my eyes so I can truly see
the marvelous things in your law.
19 I am a resident foreigner in this land.
Do not hide your commands from me.
20 I desperately long to know
your regulations at all times.
21 You reprimand arrogant people.
Those who stray from your commands are doomed.
22 Spare me shame and humiliation,
for I observe your rules.
23 Though rulers plot and slander me,
your servant meditates on your statutes.
24 Yes, I find delight in your rules;
they give me guidance.

25 ד (Dalet)
I collapse in the dirt.
Revive me with your word.
26 I told you about my ways and you answered me.
Teach me your statutes.
27 Help me to understand what your precepts mean.
Then I can meditate on your marvelous teachings.

28 I collapse from grief.
Sustain me by your word.
29 Remove me from the path of deceit.
Graciously give me your law.
30 I choose the path of faithfulness;
I am committed to your regulations.
31 I hold fast to your rules.
O LORD, do not let me be ashamed.
32 I run along the path of your commands,
for you enable me to do so.

REFLECTIONS

Now think about the two questions:

  1. What things in this Psalm can I relate to?

  2. Is there anything in the Psalm that makes me think of Jesus?

Then pray, seeking to delight in God or to depend on God.