Daily Devotional

As the disciples walked to Emmaus, Jesus said to them, “You foolish people! You find it so hard to believe what the prophets wrote in Scriptures. Wasn’t it clearly predicted that the Messiah would have to suffer all these things before entering his glory?” Then Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets, explaining from the Scriptures the things concerning himself.

“That very day two of them were going to a village named Emma′us, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, “What is this conversation which you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still, looking sad.”

My heart, O God, is steadfast;
I will sing and make music with all my soul.
Awake, harp and lyre!
I will awaken the dawn.

My mother was a wonderful mother. She worked hard to provide a home for my family. She brought great joy to our lives through her thoughtfulness, hard work, and dedication to our family. She helped to build a wonderful family-owned business. My Mom was strong, and her life was a blessing to so many.

When I was in high school my church youth group went on a small trip to Carlsbad Caverns. We took in all the sights at this wonderful national park. We ventured into the large cave and explored the wonders of a world deep beneath the ground. We gathered outside the caves, late in the evening, to watch the bats emerge from their slumber and go hunting. It was an amazing experience to see these massive caves.

The Arizona Diamondbacks were preparing to play the Los Angeles Dodgers. This professional baseball game was to be played at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. The players were in uniform, the stadium staff was in place to host the game and the fans were beginning to take their seats. Unfortunately, the game could not begin. A swarm of bees had also arrived at the stadium. The bees were just behind home plate. It was dangerous situation that would delay the game for just over two hours.

Like so many families, we spend much of our time at the ballfields. Our youngest daughter plays softball. The games are exciting and it’s so much fun to cheer on our team. The trunk of our car is filled with gloves, bats, cleats, and chairs for mom and dad. We are always ready for a day of games on the diamond.

Where do you go when you need to get away? I’ve always loved to go to the movies. I find when life starts to overwhelm, I can immerse myself in a story that helps me forget, for awhile, the pressures of everyday life.

As they were saying this, Jesus himself stood among them. But they were startled and frightened, and supposed that they saw a spirit. And he said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do questionings rise in your hearts? See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself; handle me, and see; for a spirit has not flesh and bones as you see that I have.” And while they still disbelieved for joy, and wondered, he said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate before them.

Praise the Lord!
O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
for his steadfast love endures for ever!
Who can utter the mighty doings of the Lord,
or show forth all his praise?
Blessed are they who observe justice,
who do righteousness at all times!

-Psalm 106:1-3