Listen to Nick read the Firestarter and 2 Samuel 9:1-13.

David has a sense of reverence for the gifts from the Lord he had received in his life. Of these, one of the most precious was his deepest friend, Jonathan. Out of respect for his memory, David welcomes Jonathan’s son Mephibosheth into his household and in effect, adopts him as a son.

Notice what happens to those who do not receive David’s kind approach. In the refusal of the Ammonities and the Syrians to receive reconciliation with David, they sow the seeds of their own destruction.

The Lord reaches out to you and takes you as one of his children, not only to eat at his table, but to partake of his body and blood. Be as Mephibosheth and find yourself welcome in intimate communion with the Lord. Who needs your special acts of kindness?

2 Samuel 9—10

What are Bible Breaths? Learn More…
Example: Joy in all that You promise v. 21

Tuesdays are dedicated to the Old Testament books of history
and the Hebrew “Writings.”
In the season of Kingdomtide this year we read Proverbs 15-16, 2 Samuel and Ecclesiastes 1-4.

For all the Firestarters I recommend the ebook.  You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or tablet. Check the menu options at the site for more information

Listen to Nick read the Firestarter and Isaiah 34:12-17.

Isaiah envisions the judgment of those nations set against the Lord. An example is made of Edom, the land that originated from Esau, as typical of those nations that have made themselves enemies to God and his people. The chief city, Bozrah, meaning “Impenetrable,” will have its boundaries invaded by animals that usually inhabit the wild. With a nature-lover’s detail, Isaiah pictures how these various animals will be making their home within the walls of that worldly city that prided its protection by its own power.

In effect, Isaiah says that these wild animals do God’s will more than many humans! That is why God protects them and provides them with progeny by being sure that each animal has its mate.

Jesus said, “You are more valuable than a whole flock of sparrows.” (Matt. 10:31). Is there arrogance in you, which voids the protection, and care the Lord longs to give you?

Isaiah 34

Mondays are dedicated to the reading of the Hebrew Prophets.
In the season of Kingdomtide this year we read Isaiah 28 – 39.

What are “Bible Breaths”? Learn More…
Example: Willing to will what You will

For all the Firestarters I recommend the ebook.  You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or tablet. Check the menu options at the site for more information.

Listen to Nick read the Firestarter and the reading.

In every culture, in every age, one celebration that stands out as unique in its joy is a marriage. The Lord uses this image to have his chosen people catch the essence of the intimacy the Lord wants to have with his people. God wants to marry us!

Jesus furthers this image in the famous “Parable of the Wedding Feast.” Once again, Jesus pounds the Pharisees with another parable, spotlighting their rejection of that which God longs to share with us.

The invitation to the wedding is universal. However, a “yes” means more than just showing up. You must be wearing clothes to fit the occasion. Paul in his letter to the Colossians 3:12 ff. lists the proper garments. Meditate upon them. Some clothes do make the person!

Matthew 22:1–14

Audio of the Alphabyte “Trapeze” for this week.

What are “Bible Breaths”? Learn More…
Example: Wedding feast within my heart

Sundays are dedicated to the Gospels from the Revised Common Lectionary.
During the Seasons of Pentecost and Kingdomtide, we read the Gospel of Matthew.

For all the Firestarters I recommend the ebook.  You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or tablet. Check the menu options at the site for more information.