January 28 - Mark 4
Read: Mark chapter 4 (CEB, NIV, NRSV)
Reflection Question: Jesus said, "Pay attention to what you hear." By your own standard of measurement [that is, to the extent that you study spiritual truth and apply godly wisdom] it will be measured to you [and you will be given even greater ability to respond] – and more will be given to you besides. What has been the benefit of study for you, personally?
January 27 - Mark 3
Reflection Question: When Jesus went into the synagogue to teach, He was watched closely to make sure He didn’t do anything against the church rules. Because He thought doing good was more important than following rules, the Pharisees began to conspire against Him. Is there something you would like to see happen in the church (in the building, or out in the community) that would help people understand the authority of Jesus Christ?
January 26 - Mark 2
Read: Mark chapter 2 (CEB, NIV, NRSV)
Reflection Question: In this passage, four men made a hole in the roof where Jesus was teaching and lowered their paralyzed friend down through the hole to the Rabbi. When has someone cared so much for your spiritual life that they went above and beyond? When have you done that for someone else?
January 25 - Matthew 28, Mark 1
January 24 - Matthew 27
January 23 - Matthew 26
January 22 - Matthew 25
January 21 - Matthew 24
Read: Matthew chapter 24 (CEB, NIV, NRSV)
Reflection Question: Immediately after Jesus told his disciples that the Temple would be demolished, he spoke about the end of time. When you consider the ‘things’ of the church that are important to you, what comes to mind? What would you miss if your church was destroyed?
January 20 - Matthew 23
January 19 - Matthew 22
January 18 - Matthew 21
January 17 - Matthew 20
January 16 - Matthew 19
Read: Matthew chapter 19 (CEB, NIV, NRSV)
Reflection Questions: A young, rich man told Jesus he had been faithful in keeping the Commandments. Would that ensure that he would have eternal life? Jesus told him to sell all his possessions and give the money to the poor. He would then have treasure in heaven. Sadly, the young man found this to be too great a price. Has Jesus ever asked you to give up too much?Explain.
January 15 - Matthew 18
Read: Matthew chapter 18 (CEB, NIV, NRSV)
Reflection Question: Peter asked the Lord how many times he should forgive someone who has sinned against him. Jesus replied that Kingdom of God forgiveness requires that we readily forgive as many times as it takes. Unforgiveness can cause a block on someone's faith journey. Is there someone you need to forgive today? What is your plan?
January 14 - Matthew 16 and 17
Read: Matthew chapters 16 and 17 (CEB, NIV, NRSV)
Reflection Question: The disciples asked Jesus why they hadn't been able to drive out a demon. He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you this: If you had even faith as tiny as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and because of your faith the mountain would move. If you had just a sliver of faith, you would find nothing impossible." What mountain stands before you?
January 13 - Matthew 15
Read: Matthew chapter 15 (CEB, NIV, NRSV)
Reflection Question: A woman approached Jesus, asking that He expel an evil spirit from her daughter. She asked, she pleaded with Him, and she argued that she would take anything He would give. He commented on her faith and granted her request. When you approach Him in prayer, are you willing to take anything He will give? How do you know that is true?
January 12 - Matthew 14
January 11 - Matthew 13
January 10 -Matthew 12
Read: Matthew chapter 12 (CEB, NIV, NRSV)
Reflection Question: In this chapter, Jesus is confronted by several people who doubt His authority and are uncomfortable with the way He is shaking up the status quo. He says, "Anyone who isn't with me opposes me, and anyone who isn't working with me is actually working against me." On which side do you normally fall? How do you know that?