Holy Week 2008 at Blue Sky Church

Palm Sunday- March 16, 2008- Gatherings at 9:00am and 11:00am

Good Friday- March 21, 2008- Gathering at 7:00pm

Easter Sunday- March 23, 2008- Gatherings at 9:00am and 11:00am
(Both w/ childcare)

Day 40- March, 16, 2008- Palm Sunday

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Coming Generations

That people who are now small children will become passionate followers of Christ; that they will finish evangelizing the world; that they will overcome evil and bring forth the promised blessing of God upon all peoples; that they will give Christ the finest whole-life worship of all history.

Matthew 21:9-10
The crowds going ahead of Him, and those who followed, were shouting,
"Hosanna to the Son of David;
BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD;
Hosanna in the highest!"
When He had entered Jerusalem, all the city was stirred, saying, "Who is this?"

Matthew 23:37-39
"Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were unwilling. "Behold, your house is being left to you desolate! "For I say to you, from now on you will not see Me until you say, 'BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD!'"

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Jerusalem- Pray for God's peace and glory to be upon Jerusalem.

Day 39- March 15, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Elderly People

That God's strength and peace will be poured out on everyone who is advanced in years. Pray that they may be honored, that they may be cared for; that lonliness be banished in lasting friendships and family bonds; that sickness be lifted; that they may live to see their prayers answered; that their later years will be significant, reflecting the glory of God.

Zechariah 2:10-11
"Sing for joy and be glad, O daughter of Zion; for behold I am coming and I will dwell in your midst," declares the LORD. "Many nations will join themselves to the LORD in that day and will become My people Then I will dwell in your midst, and you will know that the LORD of hosts has sent Me to you.

Luke 24:36
While they were telling these things, He Himself stood in their midst and said to them, "Peace be to you."

Genesis 24:1
Now Abraham was old, advanced in age; and the LORD had blessed Abraham in every way.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: United Arab Emirates and Yemen.

Day 38- March 14, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Refugees

For safe and legal immigration; for extended families to be united; for education, health arrangements and legal help; for Christians to open their homes and hearts to them; that the gospel; would come to them; for those who desire to return to their homeland to be granted asylum and repatriation and that God would open the way to resettle those who desire a new home; that those displaced by natural disasters would not give up hope.

Nehemiah 12:43
"And on that day they offered great sacrifices and rejoiced because God had given them great joy, even the women and children rejoiced, so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard from afar."

Deuteronomy 10:18-19
"He executes justice for the orphan and the widow, and shows His love for the alien by giving Him food and clothing. So show your love for the alien, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt."

Luke 19:37
"As soon as He was approaching, near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the miracles which they had seen."

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Syria, Tunisia, Turkey

Day 37- March 13, 2008

Seek God on Behalf of Arts and Entertainment:

That God will inspire artists and those in the entertainment industry with creativity and wisdom that reflects God's beauty; that they will seek God themselves and come to follow Christ with courage; that their work will bring strength, goodness and hope to our communities.

Jeremiah 31:12-14
"They will come and shout for joy on the height of Zion,
And they will be radiant over the bounty of the LORD--
Over the grain and the new wine and the oil,
And over the young of the flock and the herd;
And their life will be like a watered garden,
And they will never languish again.
"Then the virgin will rejoice in the dance,
And the young men and the old, together,
For I will turn their mourning into joy
And will comfort them and give them joy for their sorrow.
"I will fill the soul of the priests with abundance,
And My people will be satisfied with My goodness," declares the LORD.

Luke 12:32
"Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom.

Exodus 35:31-33
"And He has filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding and in knowledge and in all craftsmanship; to make designs for working in gold and in silver and in bronze, and in the cutting of stones for settings and in the carving of wood, so as to perform in every inventive work.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia

Day 36- March 12, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Gang Members

That God will satisfy their deep desires for significance and belonging; for God to break spiritual and social powers holding them; for caring Christians to embrace them in the authentic love of God's family; for blessing upon the neighborhoods they claim.

Jeremiah 33:10-11 The Message
"Yes, God's Message: 'You're going to look at this place, these empty and desolate towns of Judah and streets of Jerusalem, and say, "A wasteland. Unlivable. Not even a dog could live here." But the time is coming when you're going to hear laughter and celebration, marriage festivities, people exclaiming, "Thank God-of-the-Angel-Armies. He's so good! His love never quits," as they bring thank offerings into God's Temple. I'll restore everything that was lost in this land. I'll make everything as good as new.' I, God, say so.

Luke 7:13-16
When the Lord saw her, He felt compassion for her, and said to her, "Do not weep."
And He came up and touched the coffin; and the bearers came to a halt. And He said, "Young man, I say to you, arise!" The dead man sat up and began to speak. And Jesus gave him back to his mother. Fear gripped them all, and they began glorifying God, saying, "A great prophet has arisen among us!" and, "God has visited His people!"

Psalm 34:4,7 NIV
I sought the LORD, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him,
and he delivers them.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Lebanon, Libya and Morocco

"May I Walk Across Your Bridge"

To the church of Blue Sky in Loveland, to those ragamuffins living between the life in Jesus Christ and the death of this world:

Jesus came between
Bridged the gap between myself
And Abba above

Sitting between a cemetery and a golf course, between the sound of chirping birds and airplane engines, between Heaven and earth, I saw a bridge. The bridge was small and narrow, not wide and broad. While golfers moved between holes, with their golf clubs rattling on their backs, the sound of a hundred silent voices could be heard. I stared across the bridge, leading to the cemetery, and heard the sound of golf balls being hit behind me.

Life in Christ is not a grand parade marching toward death. Though by living for Christ and being willing to die for Him, as He died for me, is a parade marching into eternal life. Christ did not die for me to have my dream job, a shiny new car, a big, roomy house, or a wonderful, healthy family. He died so I might experience victory over death. The sun pours and the rain shines on the righteous and wicked alike. The fruits of the world are the breadcrumbs of the fruits of the spirit. And all too often what appears today as a blessing, spoils and rots if not nourished with the everlasting water of the Holy Spirit.

Whenever I think about what my reward will be for following Christ to the cross, to the tomb, and to my Father's house in Heaven, I think of Job. Here was a man who was doing "the right thing," by God and man. He just had the eventful circumstance of being caught in between a ruthless scheme of a jealous fiddler and the glorious truth and will of God Almighty. I believe Satan really thought he could lead Job astray, and that's the lie he feeds all of us, from the life and truth found in the Lord. In the end, God did bless Job in this life. However, Job's final words in an intense conversation with God were words of complete defeat.

My ears had heard of you
But now my eyes have seen you.
Therefore I despise myself
And repent in dust and ashes (Job 42: 5 – 6)

These are not the words of a man patting himself on the back for not taking a drink in 40 days, three years, or a decade. These are not words of a man who by his own will power resisted sexual lust and immorality for six weeks, only to slowly click back into the coffee grinder of sin. These are the words of a man, despite all his best efforts to stand strong amidst the powers of darkness, could do nothing but despise himself in the face of God and repent. It may seem over-dramatic or being too hard on myself, but if this Lenten Pilgrimage has confirmed anything for me it's that I have to vigilantly continue to take moral stock and ask God to remove these shortcomings. To quote another, I have to "trust in God and clean house."

I have to do this to continually remind myself to quit playing God. It's insidious how spiritual living can lead to self-righteousness. No man is righteous before God. The Fiddler would delight in me making the same mistake he did. I can't win a wager against a jealous fiddler, but Christ can and did. The Lord Jesus Christ bought my soul at a price and it's over and done with. "It's finished!" And I am thirsty. I'm thirsty to experience the God in Jesus Christ.

I experience God by serving God and loving others. I celebrate the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Not only in the spring, but everyday I breathe God's good air and remain willing to grow towards the Sunlight. Christ conquered death. I must die right along with Him and go to the tomb with Him. In Him, I will rise again! His body and His blood cover my unrighteousness. No matter how righteous or unrighteous I think I am, His body and His blood cover me. What the Father sees is His Son dwelling in one of His children, now and forever. I then cross that small, narrow bridge, He sees me from afar, and welcomes me into perfect union. Now is time to celebrate!

"For the saints who place their hope in the Lord will take on wings like eagles and will fly up to the Lord and will not die for all eternity."

~ Saint Francis of Assisi ~

Faithfully,

Adam Mackie

Day 35- March 11, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of The Athletic Industry

Pray for those in support roles as well as those with higher profiles, that they will know Christ and fulfill God's calling in their lives. Pray that athletes would be good examples of dedication, commitment and courage; that they will live with integrity and carry out the responsibility of wealth and reputation; that coaches would instill character; that God will reveal His calling and purpose for students and coaches in youth and university programs.

Psalm 65:5-8
By awesome deeds You answer us in righteousness, O God of our salvation,
You who are the trust of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest sea;
Who establishes the mountains by His strength,
Being girded with might;
Who stills the roaring of the seas,
The roaring of their waves,
And the tumult of the peoples.
They who dwell in the ends of the earth stand in awe of Your signs;
You make the dawn and the sunset shout for joy.

Luke 18:41-43
"What do you want Me to do for you?" And he said, "Lord, I want to regain my sight! "And Jesus said to him, "Receive your sight; your faith has made you well." Immediately he regained his sight and began following Him, glorifying God; and when all the people saw it, they gave praise to God.

1 Chronicles 29:11-12
"Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, indeed everything that is in the heavens and the earth; Yours is the dominion, O LORD, and You exalt Yourself as head over all. "Both riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all, and in Your hand is power and might; and it lies in Your hand to make great and to strengthen everyone.


Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Israel, Jordan and Kuwait.

Day 34- March 10, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Mothers

That God will powerfully refresh mothers in the honor and glory of motherhood; that they will be strengthened with grace, wisdom and love in serving their children; that they will be loved, protected and served by committed husbands; that mothers will model and express God's own nurturing love.

Psalm 126:1-3
When the LORD brought back the captive ones of Zion,
We were like those who dream.
Then our mouth was filled with laughter
And our tongue with joyful shouting;
Then they said among the nations,
"The LORD has done great things for them."
The LORD has done great things for us;
We are glad.

Luke 15:32
'But we had to celebrate and rejoice, for this brother of yours was dead and has begun to live, and was lost and has been found.'"

Proverbs 31:25-26,28
Strength and dignity are her clothing,
And she smiles at the future.
She opens her mouth in wisdom,
And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
Her children rise up and bless her;
Her husband also, and he praises her, saying:

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Egypt, Iran and Iraq

Day 33- March 9, 2008

Prayer focus for today: Seek God on Behalf of Depressed People

That God's healing presence will reach them; that the light of truth will dispel lies and the oppressive power of Satan; for helpful counsel; for the healing of long-standing wounds of mind and soul; that they would know the comfort and joy of the Holy Spirit; for renewing of their minds in Christ.

Psalm 46:1-5
God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change
And though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea;
Though its waters roar and foam,
Though the mountains quake at its swelling pride. Selah.
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
The holy dwelling places of the Most High.
God is in the midst of her, she will not be moved;
God will help her when morning dawns.

John 17:13
"But now I come to You; and these things I speak in the world so that they may have My joy made full in themselves.

2 Corinthians 7:6
But God, who comforts the depressed, comforted us by the coming of Titus;

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: The Middle East- Algeria, Bahrain and Cyprus

Day 32- March 8, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Judges and Law Enforcement Officials

Pray for righteous wisom, principled patience and gentle authority; for physical and emotional protection; strength and blessing for their families; that they will become agents of God's hand to resist evil and preserve an environment in which heaven's justice can increase.

Zechariah 9:9-10
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion!
Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem!
Behold, your king is coming to you;
He is just and endowed with salvation,
Humble, and mounted on a donkey,
Even on a colt, the foal of a donkey.
I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim
And the horse from Jerusalem;
And the bow of war will be cut off
And He will speak peace to the nations;
And His dominion will be from sea to sea,
And from the River to the ends of the earth.

John 14:27
"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.

Psalm 106:3
How blessed are those who keep justice,
Who practice righteousness at all times!

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Switzerland, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Uzbekistan, Vatican City and Yugoslavia.

Day 31- March 7, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Broken Families

Pray for healing of broken or embittered relationships; for comfort when a family member has passed away. Pray especially for children; that the Father heart of God will overshadow each to bring wholeness and that they would know the joy of being a part of God's family; that God will meet financial needs, bring supportive friends and grant hope to many who come to follow Christ.

Isaiah 11:2
The Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him,
The spirit of wisdom and understanding,
The spirit of counsel and strength,
The spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD.

Matthew 5:9
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

Psalm 146:9
The LORD protects the strangers;
He supports the fatherless and the widow,
But He thwarts the way of the wicked.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Romania, Russia, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Svalbard Islands and Sweden.

Day 30- March 6, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Unemployed People

That God will meet the needs of those without work in a way that they can clearly thank God for His provision; that they will soon find meaningful employment and glorify God for it; that God will open the way for righteous trade so that the entire city prospers in God's provision.

Isaiah 58:11-12
"And the LORD will continually guide you,
And satisfy your desire in scorched places,
And give strength to your bones;
And you will be like a watered garden,
And like a spring of water whose waters do not fail.
"Those from among you will rebuild the ancient ruins;
You will raise up the age-old foundations;
And you will be called the repairer of the breach,
The restorer of the streets in which to dwell.

Luke 10:5-6
"Whatever house you enter, first say, 'Peace be to this house.' "If a man of peace is there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you.

Ecclesiastes 3:13
moreover, that every man who eats and drinks sees good in all his labor--it is the gift of God.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland and Portugal.

Salvation Comes From the Lord

To the church of Blue Sky in Loveland, to those whose salvation comes from the Lord:

Breathe on me Jesus
Breathe the Holy Spirit's truth
Breathe how to forgive

From inside the fish, Jonah raises his voice in radical prayer and cries out ending with the seven-syllable phrase: "Salvation comes from the Lord." The Lord then commands the fish to vomit Jonah onto dry land. Many of us, like Jonah, have the fortune to live and see just how deep our bottoms will go. Others are saved prematurely, by the grace of God, from years of torment and suffering. While others still are much less fortunate. Though as for Jonah, it is only in utter and complete defeat that a merciful and gracious God gives us another chance.

The Lenten Pilgrimage invites me to sacrifice myself for the glory of Jesus Christ. Like Christ did for me, I must do for others. I must die to myself, everyday, through the Power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit realized in Jesus of Nazareth, God's only begotten son, must cover and bury my sinful nature. Only then can I form a new union with God the Father.

Father God created me. He is my Creator. He hurls me into the belly of the whale, only to spit me back out again. He spits me back out once I am willing and ready. When the back of my self-reliance finally snaps, God intervenes.

I've tried and I've tried for years to be something I'm not. I've tried to seek God everywhere, but where He lives. He lives in His kingdom rooted in my heart. Human aid does not allow me to realize myself. Only the person and character of Jesus Christ enables me to embody my True Nature. My own mortal powers and the mortal powers of others cannot save my life, though at times God does work through humans to guide me back to Him. Only God alone can deliver me to Paradise safely.

Jesus has shown me time and time again that if I try and save my life, I will lose it. However, when I lose my life for Him, He saves it! But how, exactly, do I do that? Every time I listen to my brother or sister who needs my ear, I mean really listen and pause asking Jesus for guidance and direction, I'm losing myself to Jesus. Every time I listen and respond with an act of Christ-like love or compassion, I'm losing myself to Jesus. When I surrender my spirit, allowing it to be empowered by Jesus, I'm losing myself to Jesus. When I place you as a priority, I'm losing myself to Jesus. I must forget myself completely. Only then am I becoming like Christ and growing in His image. Jesus, reveal how I can lose myself to You!

I follow the cross back to Eden. I must forget the teachings of this world, leaving them at the door. Knowledge here will do me no good. I can eat from the Eternal Tree, but I must be broken and my blood must be shed for the namesake of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Yahweh, shape me once again.

Faithfully,

Adam Mackie

Day 29- March 5, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Substance Abusers

That God will break every form of bondage, including alcoholism and drug addiction. Pray that God will heal their bodies; that wise counselors will bring intervention and help; that substance abusers will turn from self-centeredness to living their lives for Christ.

Isaiah 60:4-5
"Lift up your eyes round about and see;
They all gather together, they come to you
Your sons will come from afar,
And your daughters will be carried in the arms.
"Then you will see and be radiant,
And your heart will thrill and rejoice;
Because the abundance of the sea will be turned to you,
The wealth of the nations will come to you.

Luke 15:20
"So he got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.

Isaiah 14:3 NIV
On the day the LORD gives you relief from suffering and turmoil and cruel bondage...

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Italy, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania and Luxembourg.

Day 28- March 4, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Children

That children will hear the gospel and encounter Christ early in life; that God's great fatherly heart will be revealed with healing power to kids who have been mistreated or disapointed by their parents; for lasting family stability; for excellence in education; for wisdom to be formed in their early days; for safety from violence and perversion; for laughter and joy.

Genesis 50:17-20
'Thus you shall say to Joseph, "Please forgive, I beg you, the transgression of your brothers and their sin, for they did you wrong."' And now, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father." And Joseph wept when they spoke to him. Then his brothers also came and fell down before him and said, "Behold, we are your servants." But Joseph said to them, "Do not be afraid, for am I in God's place? "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive.

John 20:19-23
On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." And with that he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven."

Mark 10:14
When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: France, Georgia, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland and Isle of Man.

Day 27- March 3, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Physically Disabled People

That they will be surrounded with loving friends and family; for steady refreshment of their hearts toward God; for physical stamina and healing; for financial provision to cover the cost of therapy and special care; that they will know and display the love of God.

Isaiah 2:3-4
And many peoples will come and say,
"Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD,
To the house of the God of Jacob;
That He may teach us concerning His ways
And that we may walk in His paths."
For the law will go forth from Zion
And the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.
And He will judge between the nations,
And will render decisions for many peoples;
And they will hammer their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks
Nation will not lift up sword against nation,
And never again will they learn war.

Luke 21:37-38
Now during the day He was teaching in the temple, but at evening He would go out and spend the night on the mount that is called Olivet. And all the people would get up early in the morning to come to Him in the temple to listen to Him.

Isaiah 63:9
In all their affliction He was afflicted,
And the angel of His presence saved them;
In His love and in His mercy He redeemed them,
And He lifted them and carried them all the days of old.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Channel Islands, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faeroe Islands and Finland.

Day 26- March 2, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Government Leaders

That they will be examples of righteousness to our society; that they will experience God's wisdom in their deliberations; that they will speak and carry out dealings with truth, free from any corruption. Pray that they may advance God's justice; that they will be divinely restrained from hindering the service and worship of Jesus Christ; that they will come to know, honor and follow Christ!

Isaiah 33:5-8 NIV
The LORD is exalted, for he dwells on high;
he will fill Zion with justice and righteousness.
He will be the sure foundation for your times,
a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge;
the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure.
Look, their brave men cry aloud in the streets;
the envoys of peace weep bitterly.
The highways are deserted,
no travelers are on the roads.
The treaty is broken,
its witnesses are despised,
no one is respected.

Luke 19:41-42
When He approached Jerusalem, He saw the city and wept over it, saying, "If you had known in this day, even you, the things which make for peace! But now they have been hidden from your eyes.

1 Timothy 2:1-2
First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men,
for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Europe and Central Asia- Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria and the Canary Islands

Day 25- March 1, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Prisoners and their Families

That people in jails and prisons will hear the gospel and follow Christ; for fellowship of believers in prisons to multiply; that they be protected from violence and forces of spiritual evil; that the spouses and children of prisoners would be sustained, protected, provided for and honored rightly; that released prisoners find strength and wisdom to live restored, abundant lives.

Psalm 67:1,3-4
God be gracious to us and bless us,
And cause His face to shine upon us-- Selah.
Let the peoples praise You, O God;
Let all the peoples praise You.
Let the nations be glad and sing for joy;
For You will judge the peoples with uprightness
And guide the nations on the earth. Selah.

John 12:31-32
"Now judgment is upon this world; now the ruler of this world will be cast out.
"And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to Myself."

Psalm 69:32-33
The humble have seen it and are glad;
You who seek God, let your heart revive.
For the LORD hears the needy
And does not despise His who are prisoners.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Sudan, Swaziland, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Western Sahara, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Day 24- February 29, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Ministries

That Christian ministries will be founded in God's truth, annointed by God's power and funded by God's people; for refreshed vision and encouragement upon the dedicated workers who labor in specialized service designed to increase the impact of local churches.

Psalm 97:1, 4-6, 10-11
The LORD reigns, let the earth rejoice;
Let the many islands be glad.
His lightnings lit up the world;
The earth saw and trembled.
The mountains melted like wax at the presence of the LORD,
At the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.
The heavens declare His righteousness,
And all the peoples have seen His glory.
Hate evil, you who love the LORD,
Who preserves the souls of His godly ones;
He delivers them from the hand of the wicked.
Light is sown like seed for the righteous
And gladness for the upright in heart.

Luke 18:1
Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart

2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 (NIV)
Finally, brothers, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men, for not everyone has faith.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on:
Rwanda, Saint Helena, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leon, Somalia and South Africa.

He Will Always Love His Kids

To the church of Blue Sky in Loveland, to those who belong to Jesus Christ and live for His return:

I am one pillar -
Joyful and strong in Christ's love
The church stands on us

Most of us can think of a time where we showed up somewhere and didn't fit in. I remember as an adolescent going to a tryout for a highly competitive soccer team. I was wearing shorts with Chicago Bulls insignia, a Michael Jordan T-shirt and had an attitude that could fly from the free throw line to the backboard of the gymnasium. All the current players on the team wore the same blue jerseys. I felt a little out of place.

It was wintertime in Alaska, so we were playing soccer indoors. I entered the gym looking like I was more ready for a street game of one-on-one basketball than a soccer tryout. I stood among a group of seasoned players wearing blue jerseys on their backs and confidence on their face. The coach kicked a green and mustard colored, fussy soccer ball my direction. Instead of gracefully "trapping" the ball, with a smooth, backward motion of my foot, I planted my foot in place to receive the pass. The ball bounced off my foot, went out of control, and one of the seasoned players recovered the ball. He passed it back to his coach with laser-like precision.

The coach came over and said he didn't think I was cut out for this league. He said I was used to playing in the Boys & Girls Club leagues and this was a whole different level. I was crushed. I may have gone home and cried or just gotten really bitter. I know I thought that I was dealt a bad hand. If he only saw my talent as I did, he'd understand. I thought he was an elitist and that it wasn't a fair tryout. Regardless what I thought, I didn't "belong."

The word "belong" came to me recently in meditation. The farther I venture down the Lenten Pilgrimage road and the further I grow toward the light of Christ, the more I consider how I belong. I knew after the word "belong" was presented to me in meditation that God wanted me to say something about it. I began my daily routine of getting on my knees and looking at selective readings.

"Seeking God for the City 2008," the issues of "Tabletalk" my mom sends, and my "Reflections for Ragamuffins" by Brennan Manning have been great compliments to Scripture as I go along this year toward the Resurrection Celebration. I then prayed aloud the Lord's Prayer, followed by petitioning prayers on my heart for God to hear. After I finished praying I began to just sit silently with what it meant to me to belong. What does it mean for me to belong to Christ? How can I draw nearer to Him? It's not about what He wants me to do. It's about who He wants me to be! It's not "What Would Jesus Do?" It's "What Did Jesus Do?" Who I am is who I am as a result!

I tried to think of a time where I didn't belong and the anecdote about the soccer tryout came to mind. I slightly laughed. What was I doing trying to be Michael Jordan at a soccer tryout? I laughed to myself again. I was a funny kid – a funny kid who God loves. He loves me. Even when I want to be Michael Jordan, He loves me. Even when I "want to change the world" like John Lennon tried to do, He loves me. Even when I want to be a songwriter like David, He loves me. Even when I want to write as profoundly as Isaiah, He loves me. Even when I want to be Adam, He loves me. He loves me - Adam. He made me. Adam didn't make Him. He wants me to be me, Adam to be Adam, not anybody else.

I'm sure glad that when I show up for the Wedding of the Lamb that God isn't going to come over and say "Adam, I don't think you're cut out for this league." I'm so grateful that He will, like so many times before, open His compassionate arms, kiss me and say, "Welcome home Adam!" He'll put a multi-colored dream coat on me, dunk my head and lift it back up so gently. He'll then set me on His knee and push my hair out of my face so I can see Him. He'll offer me bread and crushed grapes and say, "Remember, you're mine Adam!" There's nothing I can do to deserve that kind of love.

However, when I do try to earn that kind of love I get bitter, jealous, and disappointed. It's easy for me to get bitter, jealous, and disappointed when I forget how He treated me upon my return. When all I see is Him treating my returning brothers in the same loving and compassionate way, I want Him to still treat me that way. He does, but I can fail to see it. In this mindset I want Him to love me the way I think He should love me. He does love me, the way He loves me, but not the way I think He should love me. I think He should see me for all I've done and reward me. I get an attitude similar to a middle school kid who doesn't make the soccer team. Instead, He just says, "You're already mine, but one of our lost brothers has returned to us. Let's all celebrate together!" If I am trapped in bitterness, jealousy, and hatred, then I don't want to celebrate. I want to wallow in self-pity, isolate in a dark cave and glorify my selfishness.

But by the grace and love of Jesus Christ I get sick and tired of doing that after awhile and want to return to the Wedding Feast. I want to join hands with my brothers and my God, the Lord Jesus Christ. He helps me to remember. I am a pillar - Joyful and strong in Christ's love. The church stands on us. Thanks and praise to God – Jesus Christ the Lord and King. He will always love His kids.

Electric. God of gods, Lord of lords, King of kings, the Prince of Peace, Wonderful Counselor. Sure fire, sure fire, true serenity, ease. Divinity of Jesus Christ. Wholeness, wholeness, wholeness, hurricanes of wholeness.

Faithfully,

Adam Mackie

Day 23- February 28, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Business People

Ask God to bless those who base business practices in righteousness. Pray that God will prosper those who pursue their business as mission for God's Kingdom. Pray for the gospel to spread in the marketplace; for righteous managers and executives; for creative, godly entrepreneurs. Pray that God would frustrate plans which escalate injustice and shake dominion of mammon and greed.

Isaiah 32:1,3-6
Behold, a king will reign righteously
And princes will rule justly...
Then the eyes of those who see will not be blinded,
And the ears of those who hear will listen.
The mind of the hasty will discern the truth,
And the tongue of the stammerers will hasten to speak clearly.
No longer will the fool be called noble,
Or the rogue be spoken of as generous.
For a fool speaks nonsense,
And his heart inclines toward wickedness:
To practice ungodliness and to speak error against the LORD,
To keep the hungry person unsatisfied
And to withhold drink from the thirsty.

John 18:37-38
Therefore Pilate said to Him, "So You are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say correctly that I am a king For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, to testify to the truth Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice. "Pilate said to Him, "What is truth?" And when he had said this, he went out again to the Jews and said to them, "I find no guilt in Him.

Deuteronomy 8:18
"But you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who is giving you power to make wealth, that He may confirm His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Mayotte, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Republic of Congo and Reunion.

Day 22- Seek God on Behalf of University Students

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of University Students

Pray for evangelization of entire campuses; for many to follow Christ; for the truth to shine in a setting often hostile and cynical toward matters of faith; for students to make wise decisions, to form godly lifestyles and shape their careers and ambitions to fulfill God's global purposes. Pray for leadership to be strong among Christian groups on campuses; for the advance of movements of prayer and mission mobilization; for the ministries that focus on students.

Psalm 74:10,20-23 NIV
How long will the enemy mock you, O God?
Will the foe revile your name forever?
Have regard for your covenant,
because haunts of violence fill the dark places of the land.
Do not let the oppressed retreat in disgrace;
may the poor and needy praise your name.
Rise up, O God, and defend your cause;
remember how fools mock you all day long.
Do not ignore the clamor of your adversaries,
the uproar of your enemies, which rises continually.

Luke 13:16-17
"And this woman, a daughter of Abraham as she is, whom Satan has bound for eighteen long years, should she not have been released from this bond on the Sabbath day?"
As He said this, all His opponents were being humiliated; and the entire crowd was rejoicing over all the glorious things being done by Him.

2 Timothy 2:15 KJV
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania and Mauritius.

Day 21- February 26, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Fathers

That fathers will look to God as the ultimate spiritual head of their household, serving and caring for their families; that God will instill a vision for wholesome, supportive fatherhood among the fathers of the city; that absentee fathers would change their lifestyles to nurture their wives and children; that children will see the character of the heavenly Father in the lives of their dads.

Habakkuk 2:4
"Behold, as for the proud one,
His soul is not right within him;
But the righteous will live by his faith.

Matthew 19:25-26
When the disciples heard this, they were very astonished and said, "Then who can be saved?" And looking at them Jesus said to them, "With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."

Ephesians 6:4
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea and Guinea-Bissau.

Day 20- February 25, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of the Unborn

That these precious children will be acknowleged and honored by all; for each of them to find sheltering homes; that the awful waste of their lives would cease; that they would come to Christ at an early age; for the parents of unborn babies, that God would turn their hearts towards their children.

Daniel 9:7,9,18-19
"Righteousness belongs to You, O Lord, but to us open shame, as it is this day--to the men of Judah, the inhabitants of Jerusalem and all Israel, those who are nearby and those who are far away in all the countries to which You have driven them, because of their unfaithful deeds which they have committed against You... "To the Lord our God belong compassion and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against Him;..."O my God, incline Your ear and hear! Open Your eyes and see our desolations and the city which is called by Your name; for we are not presenting our supplications before You on account of any merits of our own, but on account of Your great compassion. "O Lord, hear! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, listen and take action! For Your own sake, O my God, do not delay, because Your city and Your people are called by Your name."

Matthew 9:2
And they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralytic, "Take courage, son; your sins are forgiven."

Psalm 72:12,14
For he will deliver the needy when he cries for help,
The afflicted also, and him who has no helper...
He will rescue their life from oppression and violence,
And their blood will be precious in his sight;

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Congo- Democratic Republic (Zaire), Cote d'lvoire and Djibouti.

Day 19- February 24, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of International Visitors

For students, workers and business people from other lands to be treated with honor and respect; that they will enjoy new friendships; that they will encounter the message of the gospel clearly declared and lovingly demonstrated.

Isaiah 42:1-4
"Behold, My Servant, whom I uphold;
My chosen one in whom My soul delights
I have put My Spirit upon Him;
He will bring forth justice to the nations.
"He will not cry out or raise His voice,
Nor make His voice heard in the street.
"A bruised reed He will not break
And a dimly burning wick He will not extinguish;
He will faithfully bring forth justice.
"He will not be disheartened or crushed
Until He has established justice in the earth;
And the coastlands will wait expectantly for His law."

Luke 18:6-8
And the Lord said, "Hear what the unrighteous judge said; now, will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry to Him day and night, and will He delay long over them? "I tell you that He will bring about justice for them quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?"

Deuteronomy 31:12
"Assemble the people, the men and the women and children and the alien who is in your town, so that they may hear and learn and fear the LORD your God, and be careful to observe all the words of this law.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Africa- Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon and Cape Verde Islands.

Day 18- February 25, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Single People

Pray that Christ will fill the singles' hearts with His love; that they may taste the satisfaction which is found only in God; that friendships will bring ample fullness of relationship; for sexual purity and simplicity of lifestyle; for marvelous marriages for those who desire them. Pray for those single by divorce or death, that they would find healing and new hope for life ahead.

Psalm 72:17-19
May his name endure forever;
May his name increase as long as the sun shines;
And let men bless themselves by him;
Let all nations call him blessed.
Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel,
Who alone works wonders.
And blessed be His glorious name forever;
And may the whole earth be filled with His glory
Amen, and Amen.

John 12:27-28,30
"Now My soul has become troubled; and what shall I say, 'Father, save Me from this hour'? But for this purpose I came to this hour. "Father, glorify Your name " Then a voice came out of heaven: "I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again." Jesus answered and said, "This voice has not come for My sake, but for your sakes.

1 Corinthians 7:32
But I want you to be free from concern. One who is unmarried is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord;

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Thailand, Tibet, Timor, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Wake Island, Wallis and Futuna and West Papua.

Day 17- February 22, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Health Care Workers

That God will equip health care workers of every kind to serve others with loving hearts; that God will bless them with perseverance and joy; that the pressure of their professions will not crush their families and friendships; that many will follow Christ.

Zechariah 8:20-22
"Thus says the LORD of hosts, 'It will yet be that peoples will come, even the inhabitants of many cities. 'The inhabitants of one will go to another, saying, "Let us go at once to entreat the favor of the LORD, and to seek the LORD of hosts; I will also go." 'So many peoples and mighty nations will come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem and to entreat the favor of the LORD.'

Mark 9:15
Immediately, when the entire crowd saw Him, they were amazed and began running up to greet Him.

Psalm 41:1-2
How blessed is he who considers the helpless;
The LORD will deliver him in a day of trouble.
The LORD will protect him and keep him alive,
And he shall be called blessed upon the earth;
And do not give him over to the desire of his enemies.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Pitcairn Islands, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands and Sri Lanka.

Day 16- February 21, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Marriages

Thank God for sturdy marriages that reflect His faithfulness and beauty. Pray especially for marriages which are strained to a breaking point; for those that are failing, and that God will bring hope and help; that He will heal broken hearts and restore intimacy; for every marriage, that God will refresh and recenter homes in Christ.

Micah 5:4
And He will arise and shepherd His flock
In the strength of the LORD,
In the majesty of the name of the LORD His God
And they will remain,
Because at that time He will be great
To the ends of the earth.

Luke 10:1-3
Now after this the Lord appointed seventy others, and sent them in pairs ahead of Him to every city and place where He Himself was going to come. And He was saying to them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest. "Go; behold, I send you out as lambs in the midst of wolves.

Hebrews 13:4
Marriage is to be held in honor among all, and the marriage bed is to be undefiled; for fornicators and adulterers God will judge.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Myanmar, Nauru, Nepal, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Niue, Norfolk Island, Northern Mariana Islands and Pakistan.

Day 15- February 20, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Laborers

Pray that God will reveal the dignity and honor of doing work unto Christ; that workplaces would be a setting of safety, joy and friendship; for workers to be treated with justice and dignity; for continued employment in the changing global economy; for many to follow Christ and serve Him openly in the work place with co-laborers.

Isaiah 35:2-6
It will blossom profusely
And rejoice with rejoicing and shout of joy
The glory of Lebanon will be given to it,
The majesty of Carmel and Sharon
They will see the glory of the LORD,
The majesty of our God.
Encourage the exhausted, and strengthen the feeble.
Say to those with anxious heart,
"Take courage, fear not
Behold, your God will come with vengeance;
The recompense of God will come,
But He will save you."
Then the eyes of the blind will be opened
And the ears of the deaf will be unstopped.
Then the lame will leap like a deer,
And the tongue of the mute will shout for joy
For waters will break forth in the wilderness
And streams in the Arabah.

Matthew 4:23
Jesus was going throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness among the people.

Psalm 128:1-2
How blessed is everyone who fears the LORD,
Who walks in His ways.
When you shall eat of the fruit of your hands,
You will be happy and it will be well with you.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Korea-North, Korea-South, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Midway Island and Mongolia.

Screwtape and company V. God's property

To the church of Blue Sky in Loveland, to those surrendering their self for the glory of Jesus Christ:

Broken before God
My weakness is what strengthens
My wounds are what heal

The Son of God did not come to call the righteous, but sinners. The reason I must fall to my knees and submit to the body of Christ is the same reason I must go to the doctor when I break a bone. When I wake up and don't surrender my broken soul for healing, trying to desperately "walk it off," it only gets worse. It is only when I concede to my inner most self that I am powerless, and make a voluntary submission of my life for Christ's Kingdom, does any healing begin to begin.

It's easy with any spiritual practice or discipline, including action-orientated Christianity, to create a working routine. The routine works because a powerless man like me draws power, strength and direction from the spiritual practice or discipline. Without the routine of the discipline my life would virtually fall apart. However, as Screwtape explains to Wormwood in his fourth letter, there are ways of distracting Christian disciples. There are ways, Screwtape explains, "to turn their gaze away" from Screwtape's Enemy (God) to themselves.

Screwtape writes:
When they meant to ask Him for charity, let them, instead, start trying to manufacture charitable feelings for themselves and not notice what they are doing. When they meant to pray for courage, let them really be trying to feel brave. When they say they are praying for forgiveness, let them be trying to feel forgiven. Teach them to estimate the value of each prayer by their success in producing the desired feeling; and never let them suspect how much success or failure of that kind depends on whether they are well or ill, fresh or tired, at the moment. (C.S. Lewis, "The Screwtape Letters")

When my gaze becomes focused on myself I begin to worship the routine of worship. I worship my weekly Sunday outing, what outfit I am going to wear, how my hair is going to look and the people I may encounter. I worship all the wonderful blessings in my life. I worship the job I have, car I drive, the roof over my head, all the people that show me love and attention and I forget to be grateful and to thank the Blesser. I slowly start to love God's gifts more than God.

When my gaze is focused on myself I also begin to think I am more spiritually evolved than I am. A friend of mine, and spiritual adviser of sorts, used to say he was a spiritual infant. I laughed and asked, "What does that make me, a spiritual embryo?" I am prey to spiritual pride and spiritual giant-atitis, in some cases the worst sin of all. When I place myself before God, I worship myself as God. Such a case happened to one angel in particular, you may recall.

As I near the halfway point of the Lenten Pilgrimage, I realize more than anything how I need to take the Word of Jesus spoken to Levi to heart. I need the words "follow me" to shadow me now, and throughout the spring, summer, fall and winter of every season to come. Jesus said, "Follow me," and I must follow the heart of God. Like so many of us, I focus on the splinters in others and not the planks in myself. Or I do the reverse pride thing and think the plank in me is dreadfully unimaginable. Only to find later I am in the company of countless others in the same boat of sin. I forget we've all been forgiven by the furious love and grace of God. Grace means we don't deserve it. And I don't, but in fact I do because I am God's property. He can do with me whatever He wants. He can pay me the same for working the whole day through, as He pays another working only an hour or two.

Jesus' next statement, in the breath after saying "follow me" to Levi, gives me hope and encouragement. When the Pharisee's asked Jesus why He was eating with tax collectors and sinners, Jesus responded by saying, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick." All I can say is Jesus is the doctor of my soul...my soul doctor. And I pray He forever keeps me wide awake to my selfishness, my self-centeredness, and my sinfulness. I am God's ally and I would be walking into the hands of Screwtape and company if I claimed righteousness outside the grace, love, and mercy of Jesus Christ our Lord. He is my Deliverer.

Faithfully,
Adam Mackie

Day 14- February 19, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of News Media

For people throughout the industries of broadcast and print media to come to know Jesus personally; that attitudes of cynicism will be changed; for those who love Christ to be strengthened in wisdom; for a growing emphasis in their work on that which carries value and conveys kingdom values throughout the city.

Isaiah 42:6-7
"I am the LORD, I have called You in righteousness, I will also hold You by the hand and watch over You, And I will appoint You as a covenant to the people, As a light to the nations, To open blind eyes, To bring out prisoners from the dungeon And those who dwell in darkness from the prison.

John 12:35
So Jesus said to them, "For a little while longer the Light is among you Walk while you have the Light, so that darkness will not overtake you; he who walks in the darkness does not know where he goes.

Proverbs 4:24-26
Put away from you a deceitful mouth
And put devious speech far from you.
Let your eyes look directly ahead
And let your gaze be fixed straight in front of you.
Watch the path of your feet
And all your ways will be established.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Guam, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Johnston Atoll and Kiribati.

Day 13- February 18, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Native Peoples

For God's fullest blessing upon Native Americans; that those who live in and near your city would be honored for who they are and for all God intends them to be; that God would heal the wounds to our nation that have resulted from broken treaties and mistreatment; that the tribes will be treated justly and find their destiny and highest dignity; that churches will flourish among them and that God's praise will resound in first nation languages.

Psalm 145:11-12
They shall speak of the glory of Your kingdom
And talk of Your power;
To make known to the sons of men Your mighty acts
And the glory of the majesty of Your kingdom.

Luke 9:60
But He said to him, "Allow the dead to bury their own dead; but as for you, go and proclaim everywhere the kingdom of God."

Isaiah 51:4
"Pay attention to Me, O My people,
And give ear to Me, O My nation;
For a law will go forth from Me,
And I will set My justice for a light of the peoples.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: China- People's Republic, China-Taiwan, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands and Cook Islands.

Day 12- February 17, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Educators

That teachers and mentors will impart godly wisdom to form character in their students; for needed tools and proper facilities; for those who home-school their children; for renewed zeal for truth and virtue; that they would have opportunity to know God in Christ; that believers would know how to pray for their students.

Genesis 28:14
"Your descendants will also be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south; and in you and in your descendants shall all the families of the earth be blessed.

Matthew 24:14
"This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.

Luke 6:40
"A pupil is not above his teacher; but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Asia and the Pacific- Afghanistan, American Samoa, Antarctica, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei and Cambodia.

Day 11- February 16, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Homeless People

That God brings immediate relief, shelter, food and healthcare; that Christ will restore hope for the future; for wise counsel and trustworthy friendship; for protection from the risks of life on the streets; for employment, housing and restored family life.

Psalm 89:15-16
How blessed are the people who know the joyful sound!
O LORD, they walk in the light of Your countenance.
In Your name they rejoice all the day,
And by Your righteousness they are exalted.


Luke 24: 31-32
Then their eyes were opened and they recognized Him; and He vanished from their sight. They said to one another, "Were not our hearts burning within us while He was speaking to us on the road, while He was explaining the Scriptures to us?"

Psalm 107:41
But he lifted the needy out of their affliction and increased their families like flocks.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: United States of America, Uruguay, Venezuela and Virgin Islands of USA.

Day 10- February 15, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Agricultural Workers

That God will bless with great abundance families who farm, ranch or support agricultural industries; that they would follow Christ and find ways to be part of life-giving churches; especially for migrant workers who sometimes face injustice and great difficulties.

Isaiah 44:3-5 The Message
"But for now, dear servant Jacob, listen— yes, you, Israel, my personal choice. God who made you has something to say to you; the God who formed you in the womb wants to help you. Don't be afraid, dear servant Jacob, Jeshurun, the one I chose. For I will pour water on the thirsty ground and send streams coursing through the parched earth. I will pour my Spirit into your descendants and my blessing on your children. They shall sprout like grass on the prairie, like willows alongside creeks. This one will say, 'I am God's,' and another will go by the name Jacob; That one will write on his hand 'God's property'— and be proud to be called Israel."

John 7:37-39
Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. "He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, 'From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.'" But this He spoke of the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive; for the Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

Deuteronomy 16:15
"Seven days you shall celebrate a feast to the LORD your God in the place which the LORD chooses, because the LORD your God will bless you in all your produce and in all the work of your hands, so that you will be altogether joyful.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: St Kitts and Nevis, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and Turks and Caicos Islands.

Day 9- February 14, 2008

Prayer focus today: Seek God on Behalf of Pastors

That pastors and church leaders will be filled with wisdom; that they will be honored by those they serve; that God will pour His Spirit upon them in power and humility, giving fresh intimacy with Jesus; for protection from the plots of the evil one against their families and children; that deep friendships with other pastors will grow.

2 Chronicles 20:3-4,12
Jehoshaphat was afraid and turned his attention to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. So Judah gathered together to seek help from the LORD; they even came from all the cities of Judah to seek the LORD... "O our God, will You not judge them? For we are powerless before this great multitude who are coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are on You."

John 10:16
"I have other sheep, which are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will hear My voice; and they will become one flock with one shepherd.

1 Peter 5:2,7
shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness...casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

Today we focus our prayer for countries on: Puerto Rico, Saint Lucia, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Lenten Journey Thus Far... By Adam Mackie

To the church of Blue Sky in Loveland, to those seeking the face of God's only begotten son Jesus Christ:

Jesus, who are you today?
The real Jesus…
The only Jesus…

A Buddhist friend of mine once told me that if I ever meet the Buddha on the street that I should kill him. I find myself often meditating on the true nature of my friend's comment. Would this be true for Jesus too? One truth my experience has revealed for me is that God will always be greater than my greatest belief. When I think I've got God "figured out" and I put limits on what Christ will do in my life, then I am in for a very rude awakening.

I've never wholeheartedly observed Lent. This year the season leading up to the celebration of Christ's death, burial and resurrection has taken on new meaning for me. Although much to my dismay, I find myself still sending one or two of the long winded, elaborate emails I am notorious for and slipping the now and then cup of caffeinated coffee I try and will myself to resist. The point of Lent isn't whether or not I can run a 40-day marathon. It isn't to give myself a big pat on the back on Easter Sunday either.

However, it is easy for the Pharisee in me to get the upper hand. I hear this voice saying, "You must do what you said you'd do!" I hear another voice saying, "Are you kidding? You've already failed. Why go on?" And I hear a still, quiet voice saying compassionately, "Just follow me…"

I was raised to believe Jesus Christ was the only Son of God. At a young age I received Christ as my Lord and Savior. I remember becoming very upset as a child when after accepting Jesus I thought maybe He forgot or that it really didn't count or something. My mom sat me down and had me write out a letter proclaiming that I asked Jesus into my heart. She had me sign and date it.

On August 11, 1990 Adam Paul Mackie asked Jesus into his heart and to be his Lord.

8/11/90

10:30 P.M.

going into
5th Grade
Adam P. Mackie

Tennie A. Mackie

Adam P. Mackie Senior? in College
7/20/01
1:39 a.m.

As you can see, I still have this piece of paper today. If I ever need to refer to it, I do.

For a long time after, however, I thought Jesus was like a super hero for the world I lived in. The song that goes, "Where is Superman when you need a helping hand/Where is Wonder Woman when trouble is really coming…" comes to mind from all those seasons of Vacation Bible School. As I got older, Jesus became more and more of the foxhole, S.O.S., and I need reinforcements kind of person I called on. If things weren't going my way at school, I wanted that special girl with the nice hair, or I wanted those flashing lights behind me on the road to disappear, then I prayed like praying was going out of style. Though when the coast was clear, the grades were straight, and I was getting the attention I sought, I put my faith back into Adam.

To make a long story less long, it wasn't until I became seemingly hopeless and so filled with fear I was about to explode, I was willing to try a new way of living. I found God didn't work for me. I was to work for Him. He was to be the Employer and I was to be the employee. I became willing to go to any lengths for a new life and I signed my name again under the words, "I am willing to go to any lengths" on Nov. 14, 2005.

A new life I was given, indeed! I was freely given a way to develop a personal relationship with the God of my understanding, Christ Jesus. The only catch was I was to remain willing to grow along spiritual lines and pass on what I was freely given to the next man reaching out. The fruits of this life are too many to mention.

The personal relationship I have with Jesus Christ today continues to baffle me, confuse me, confirm me, uplift me, discourage me, comfort me, and give me a level of joy and peace that I never could have imagined. I am slowly beginning to comprehend that Jesus was a man, in the flesh, who suffered some serious mortal pain. I was blown away after watching "Passion of the Christ." To visually see what might have gone down was amazingly horrific to watch.

I am also starting to understand the significance in Jesus saying that He is the way, the truth, and the life and no one goes to the Father except through Him. I praise Jesus for the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit dwells inside me. The Holy Spirit is inside you too, if God's only begotten son lives in your heart.

I think the comment of meeting the Buddha on the street and killing him if you do has something to do with the death of self. When we can quiet our mind we may find there is no mind and there is no self. Debate the truth of this if you will, but my truth today is I am filled. I pray I can continue to pour out all that is not Adam (the world, the addictions, the resentments, the fear, the guilt, the shame, etc.) and have God continue to fill me with all that is Adam. The real Adam is found in the person and character of Jesus Christ. God, show me who You want me to be.

Faithfully,

Adam Mackie