DAILY READING Mark 10:42-45 REFLECTION   Mark the Evangelist ( Blessed are the Peacemakers) By Diane Ward Reflection Completing a year-long contract in a contentious angry workplace I declined the offer. Years forward I see a battle ground raging in major cities where civil law is responsible for bringing about peace. It is not always possible to be among peace-loving people and not easy to be a peacemaker in an antagonistic environment. True leadership is not about power or status. Harmony...

DAILY READING Luke 11:27-28 REFLECTION   Luke the Physician By Diane Ward Of the four gospels Luke the physician records the most accounts of Jesus healing the sick and rebuking death. (Luke 11:27-28) We are entering the middle of Luke’s gospel now and already Jesus is engaging battle with the Jewish leaders. This is an ongoing battle that will lead to Jesus’ crucifixion, and he knows it well but does not show any signs of shrinking back. Jesus’ very presence should command respect, but their...

DAILY READING Romans 15:5-12 REFLECTION   Abounding in Hope By Diane Ward Paul prayed for believers to live in harmony with one another guided by Christ’s example to bring glory to God. He used Old Testament scripture to show that God’s plan has always been for both Jews and Gentiles to glorify Him, the source of hope and encouragement for all believers. He wanted us to see and understand His plan for restoration. My left eye was accidentally injured by a piece of propelled glass when I was...