SIXTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST                             

This is the day the LORD hath made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.   Jeremiah 28:5-9                                                                                                                 Romans 6:1-11                                                                                                                    Matthew 10:34-42                                                                                                                   Psalm 17:1-15    

In this gospel lesson we hear Jesus speaking to His disciples. He tells them discipleship means a life of self-denial, and bearing a cross, which is their Father's will.    

Jesus did not come to bring the kind of peace that glosses over deep differences just for the sake of superficial harmony.  Conflict and disagreement will arise between those who choose to follow Christ and those who don't. Christian commitment may separate friends and loved ones. Jesus was not encouraging disobedience to parents or conflict at home. He was showing that His presence demands a decision. As we take our cross and follow Him, our different values, morals, goals and purposes will set us apart from others. God should be our first priority.    

The connection between disciple and discipline is obvious. To be a true, effective disciple of Christ we must seek to discipline our lives and endeavor to walk even as He walked. In doing so, we will inherit eternal life and begin at once to experience the benefits of following Christ.    

Christian friends, Today Christ is calling Christians to cleansing, dedication, consecration and to full surrender. Your response will make the difference between your needing help and being able to help others. It will revolutionize your habits, prayer life, Bible reading, giving, witnessing and your church relationship. Is there something unselfish you can do for someone else today? Although no one else may see you, God will. Remember, Jesus gave His all. He is our example.  

LORD, shape my life as only You can,                                                            Guiding each day by Your loving plan;                                                                 Take what You need and give what You will,                                                     My life is Yours to use and to fill.  

PRAY WITH ME,  O God, because You have prepared for those who love You, such good things as surpass our understanding, pour into our hearts such love towards You that we, loving You above all things, may obtain Your promises, which exceed all that we can desire. In Jesus name, Amen  

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY - Life is like a game of tennis, you can't win without serving well.