Daily Devotional

Elisha Hoffman served as a Union soldier during the American Civil War. There has never been a more divided time in our country’s history than during the Civil War.

Bill and Becky have been married for just over 50 years. They live in Houston, Texas. As part of their retirement, Bill and Becky set a goal to visit every state capitol. They loved to travel and spend quality time together. Sadly, Bill has cancer, and his health now prevents their travel. They were able to visit 49 states and their capitals. Sadly, they will not be ablet to visit the beautiful state of Alaska and its capital city of Juneau.

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. 15 Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Bless the Lord, O my soul;
and all that is within me, bless his holy name!
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits,

Archbishop Desmond Tutu was a remarkable servant of God. He was born to a poor family in South Africa during apartheid. Desmond Tutu became an Anglican priest and political leader. When Apartheid ended and the South African government integrated, he helped to lead the re-birth of South Africa. When Nelson Mandela became the president, he asked Archbishop Tutu to lead the historic Truth and Reconciliation Commission. His ministry helped to bring great healing to a country divided and damaged by racism.

Do you remember your first job? I do. I worked in an underwear factory! It was the summer before my freshman year at OU, and my job was typing labels for boxes of men’s briefs and tees. I sat in an office and typed for hours! Every day, when I arrived before 6 am, I’d walk through the production department. Long lines of sewing machines filled the warehouse. At the far end were seemingly endless lines of tables where the fabric was cut. It was an efficient set-up and employed several hundred people.

Donna Mad dox loves an adventure. She is a bit of a daredevil. When the opportunity came her way to experience something unique, she jumped at the chance. Donna was able to join up with a professional driver at the Michigan International Speedway and take several laps in a beautiful Ferrari. They reached the top speed of 150 miles per hour, and all the while, Donna was smiling.

My daughters have a very active schedule. School, homework, dance team, softball, theatre, and church keep them busy. My wife and I spend much of our time coordinating our calendars and driving them to each practice, program, game, and youth group event. It takes some effort, no doubt.

The book of Romans is one of the most theologically rich letters written by the Apostle Paul. Throughout the 16 chapters of this remarkable letter, Paul articulates his deep understanding of the Christian faith. In the book of Romans, we are taught some of Paul’s foundational understandings of the faith. Paul takes on topics such as the meaning of the law, salvation, death, and many other questions that cause concern for so many.

Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord;
let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.
Let us come before him with thanksgiving
and extol him with music and song.