Palm Sunday, April 13

Scripture: 2 Kings 8-12, Psalm 103

God’s Story: In the eighth chapter of Kings we are reintroduced to the Shunammite woman from Chapter 4.  She and her husband showed hospitality to Elisha whenever he came through their town.  In return for her kindness, God gave her a son.  Her son became ill and died.  She immediately found Elisha, having faith that he could restore her son to life.  Because of her faith and steadfast love of God, her son was brought back, and her prayer was answered.  Now she is asked to leave her home and land for seven years.  She does, without hesitation.  When she returned after seven years she received her home and all the income she lost in those seven years from the King.  Talk about faith!!

Our (My) Story: Have you ever been nudged by the Holy Spirit?  If you are anything like me, I start asking questions or throwing up barriers. 

o Is that really you Lord?

o Are you sure you mean me?

o I’m too old.

o I’m too inexperienced.

o I’m too busy.

Give me a sign that it’s really you asking me to do xyz.

Can anyone relate here?  Recently I asked for a sign in two separate situations.  Not only did I get one but several signs that, indeed, the Lord was asking me to have faith to leap forward in His plan.  In both situations, I ended up being blessed!

Family Challenge: It’s Palm Sunday and this is not the typical Palm Sunday story.  However, it is a story of faith, commitment, promise, and love.  God loves us as high as the heavens are above the earth.   Put a blank piece of paper on the fridge.  Have everyone in your family write something they would like to do together to show others God’s love.  Brainstorming at its finest!  Follow through.

Prayer: God we love you and thank you for always being with us.  Help us to say yes and follow you wherever you lead.

~Deb Staley

Daily Prayer Focus:

Those who trust in other religions or only themselves.