Daily Reading & Meditation

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Go, and Do Not Sin Again

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 8:1-11 – but Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. Early in the morning he came again to the temple; all the people came to him, and he sat down and taught them. The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placing her in the midst they said to him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Reaction to Jesus’ Words

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 7:40-53 – When they heard these words, some of the people said, “This is really the prophet.” Others said, “This is the Christ.” But some said, “Is the Christ to come from Galilee? Has not the scripture said that the Christ is descended from David, and comes from Bethlehem, the village where David was?” So there was a division among the people over him. …..

Msgr. Charles Pope: Where the Tree Falls, There It Will Lie – A Meditation on the Finality of Judgment

By Msgr. Charles Pope – Some engage in the wishful thinking that humans can suddenly and dramatically become converted and wholly different. To be sure, there are what are sometimes called “sudden conversions” of individuals. But what this usually means is that the person’s disposition against God and/or the faith is transformed into an openness to the truth and grace of God. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: His Hour Had Not yet Come

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30 – After this Jesus went about in Galilee; he would not go about in Judea, because the Jews sought to kill him. Now the Jews’ feast of Tabernacles was at hand. But after his brothers had gone up to the feast, then he also went up, not publicly but in private. .. Some of the people of Jerusalem therefore said, “Is not this the man whom they seek to kill? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Father’s Witness to Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 5:31-47 – If I bear witness to myself, my testimony is not true; there is another who bears witness to me, and I know that the testimony which he bears to me is true. You sent to John, and he has borne witness to the truth. Not that the testimony which I receive is from man; but I say this that you may be saved. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: My Father Is Working Still, and I Am Working

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 5:17-30 – But Jesus answered them, “My Father is working still, and I am working.” This was why the Jews sought all the more to kill him, because he not only broke the Sabbath but also called God his Father, making himself equal with God. Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing; for whatever he does, that the Son does likewise. For the Father loves the Son, and shows him all that he himself is doing …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: How Often Shall I Forgive?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:21-35 – Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven. “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. …..

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus’ Power to Heal and Cleanse

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 4:24-30 – And he said, “Truly, I say to you, no prophet is acceptable in his own country. But in truth, I tell you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when there came a great famine over all the land; and Elijah was sent to none of them but only to Zarephath, in the land of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Father, I Have Sinned against Heaven and You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 15:1-3,11-32 – Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. And the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” So he told them this parable: And he said, “There was a man who had two sons; and the younger of them said to his father, `Father, give me the share of property that falls to me.’ And he divided his living between them. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Stone Which the Builders Rejected

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 21:33-46 – “Hear another parable. There was a householder who planted a vineyard, and set a hedge around it, and dug a wine press in it, and built a tower, and let it out to tenants, and went into another country. When the season of fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants, to get his fruit; and the tenants took his servants and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lazarus Was Carried to Abraham’s Bosom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 16:19-31 – “There was a rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, full of sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man’s table; moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried; …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation, by Can You Drink Christ’s Cup?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 20:17-28 – And as Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside, and on the way he said to them, “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man will be delivered to the chief priests and scribes, and they will condemn him to death, and deliver him to the Gentiles to be mocked and scourged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day.” Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came up to him …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Humbles Oneself Will Be Exalted

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 23:1-12 – Then said Jesus to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; so practice and observe whatever they tell you, but not what they do; for they preach, but do not practice. They bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with their finger. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Be Merciful as Your Father Is Merciful

Author Don Schwager , Servants of the Word – Luke 6:36-38 -Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful. “Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For the measure you give will be the measure you get back.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Love and Pray for Your Enemies

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:43-48 – “You have heard that it was said, `You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Ask and You Will Receive from Your Father in Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 7:7-12 – “Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For every one who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Or what man of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Sign of Jonah for an Evil Generation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:29-32 – When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, “This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of Jonah. For as Jonah became a sign to the men of Nineveh, so will the Son of man be to this generation. The queen of the South will arise at the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them; for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, something greater than Solomon is here. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Your Heavenly Father Knows What You Need

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 6:7-15 – “And in praying do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. Pray then like this: Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Eternal Life Versus Eternal Punishment

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 25:31-46 – “When the Son of man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate them one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and he will place the sheep at his right hand, but the goats at the left. Then the King will say to those at his right hand, `Come, O blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you …..

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Fasting for the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:14-15 – Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Take up Your Cross Daily and Follow Christ

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:22-25 – “The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.” And he said to all, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake, he will save it…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: When You Pray, Fast, and Give Alms

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 – “Beware of practicing your piety before men in order to be seen by them; for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. “Thus, when you give alms, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by men. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Beware of the Leaven of the Pharisees and Herod

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:14-21 – Now they had forgotten to bring bread; and they had only one loaf with them in the boat. And he cautioned them, saying, “Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” And they discussed it with one another, saying, “We have no bread.” And being aware of it, Jesus said to them, “Why do you discuss the fact that you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive or understand? ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: No Sign Shall Be Given to This Generation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:11-13 – The Pharisees came and began to argue with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven, to test him. And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign shall be given to this generation.” And he left them, and getting into the boat again he departed to the other side.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Alone Can Satisfy Our Hunger for God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:1-10 – In those days, when again a great crowd had gathered, and they had nothing to eat, he called his disciples to him, and said to them, “I have compassion on the crowd, because they have been with me now three days, and have nothing to eat; and if I send them away hungry to their homes, they will faint on the way; and some of them have come a long way.” ….

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Has Done All Things Well

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 7:31-37 – Then he returned from the region of Tyre, and went through Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, through the region of the Decapolis. And they brought to him a man who was deaf and had an impediment in his speech; and they begged him to lay his hand upon him. And taking him aside from the multitude privately, he put his fingers into his ears, and he spat and touched his tongue …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Out of the Heart Come Evil Thoughts

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 7:14-23 – And he called the people to him again, and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: there is nothing outside a man which by going into him can defile him; but the things which come out of a man are what defile him.” And when he had entered the house, and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Many Were Made Well

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:53-56 – And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret, and moored to the shore. And when they got out of the boat, immediately the people recognized him, and ran about the whole neighborhood and began to bring sick people on their pallets to any place where they heard he was. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Gave Them Authority over Sickness and Unclean Spirits

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:7-13 – And he called to him the twelve, and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Marveled because of Their Unbelief

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:1-6 – He went away from there and came to his own country; and his disciples followed him. And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue; and many who heard him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get all this? What is the wisdom given to him? What mighty works are wrought by his hands! Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and are not his sisters here with us?” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Tell Them How Much the Lord Has Done for You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 5:1-20 – They came to the other side of the sea, to the country of Gerasenes. And when he had come out of the boat, there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, who lived among the tombs; and no one could bind him any more, even with a chain; for he had often been bound with fetters and chains, but the chains he wrenched apart …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Why Are You Afraid?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:35-41 – On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. And a great storm of wind arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What the Kingdom of God Is Like

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:26-34 – And he said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed upon the ground, and should sleep and rise night and day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he knows not how. The earth produces of itself, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. But when the grain is ripe, at once he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.” ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Living in the Light of God’s Truth and Wisdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:21-25 – And he said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under a bushel, or under a bed, and not on a stand? For there is nothing hid, except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret, except to come to light. If any man has ears to hear, let him hear.” And he said to them, “Take heed what you hear; the measure you give will be the measure you get, and still more will be given you. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Taught People Using Parables

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:1-20 – Again he began to teach beside the sea. And a very large crowd gathered about him so that he got into a boat and sat in it on the sea; and the whole crowd was beside the sea on the land. And he taught them many things in parables, and in his teaching he said to them: “Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seed fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured it. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Does the Will of God Is My Brother and Sister

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:31-35 – And his mother and his brothers came; and standing outside they sent to him and called him. And a crowd was sitting about him; and they said to him, “Your mother and your brothers are outside, asking for you.” And he replied, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” And looking around on those who sat about him, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does the will of God is my brother, and sister, and mother.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: People Were Saying of Jesus, ‘He Is beside Himself’

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – GOSPEL READING: Mark 3:19b, 20-21 – Then he went home; 20 and the crowd came together again, so that they could not even eat. 21 And when his family heard it, they went out to seize him, for people were saying, “He is beside himself.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Appointed Twelve to Be with Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:13-19 – And he went up on the mountain, and called to him those whom he desired; and they came to him. And he appointed twelve, to be with him, and to be sent out to preach and have authority to cast out demons: Simon whom he surnamed Peter; James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Is It Lawful… to Save Life or to Kill?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:1-6 – Again he entered the synagogue, and a man was there who had a withered hand. And they watched him, to see whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him. And he said to the man who had the withered hand, “Come here.” …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Son of Man Is Lord of the Sabbath

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 2:23-28 – One Sabbath he was going through the grain fields; and as they made their way his disciples began to pluck heads of grain. And the Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath?” And he said to them, “Have you never read what David did, when he was in need and was hungry, he and those who were with him …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: We Never Saw Anything like This!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 2:1-12 – And when he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and he was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Lord Jesus Can Make Me Clean

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 1:40-45 – And a leper came to him beseeching him, and kneeling said to him, “If you will, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand and touched him, and said to him, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean. …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Healed Many Who Were Sick

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 1:29-39 – And immediately he left the synagogue, and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon’s mother-in-law lay sick with a fever, and immediately they told him of her. And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her; and she served them. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Taught with Authority

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 1:21-28 – And they went into Capernaum; and immediately on the Sabbath he entered the synagogue and taught. And they were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one who had authority, and not as the scribes. And immediately there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Spirit Descends upon the Father’s Beloved Son

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:45-52 – And he [John the Baptist] preached, saying, “After me comes he who is mightier than I, the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Come and See

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 1:43-51 – The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. And he found Philip and said to him, “Follow me.” Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael, and said to him, “We have found him of whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: We Have Found the Messiah!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 1:35-42 – The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples; 36 and he looked at Jesus as he walked, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said to them, “What do you seek?” And they said to him, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Rachel Weeping for Her Children

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 2:13-18 – Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: John Saw the Word of God Made Flesh and Believed

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 20:1a, 2-8 – Now on the first day of the week [Mary Magdelan] ran, and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.” Peter then came out with the other disciple, and they went toward the tomb. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Joyful Expectation of the Messiah

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:46-56 – And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation. …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Joyful Anticipation of the Messiah

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:39-45 – In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a city of Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Hail, O Favored One, the Lord Is with You!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:26-38 – In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Hail, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and considered in her mind what sort of greeting this might be. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Many Will Rejoice at His Birth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – READING: Luke 1:5-25 – In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah; and he had a wife of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Elijah Must First Come 

Author Don Schwager , Servants of the Word – Matthew 17:9a,10-13 – And as they were coming down the mountain the disciples asked him, “Then why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?” He replied, “Elijah does come, and he is to restore all things; but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not know him, but did to him whatever they pleased. So also the Son of man will suffer at their hands.” …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Lord Will Lead You in the Way You Should Go

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – “But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the market places and calling to their playmates, `We piped to you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not mourn.’ For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, `He has a demon’; the Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, `Behold, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Is Elijah Who Is to Come

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:11-15 – Truly, I say to you, among those born of women there has risen no one greater than John the Baptist; yet he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and men of violence take it by force. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Come to Me and I Will Give You Rest

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:28-30 – Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: God Carries Us in His Bosom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:12-14 – What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Your God Will Come and Save You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 5:17-26 – On one of those days, as he was teaching, there were Pharisees and teachers of the law sitting by, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem; and the power of the Lord was with him to heal. And behold, men were bringing on a bed a man who was paralyzed, and they sought to bring him in and lay him before Jesus; …..

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Kingdom of Heaven Is at Hand

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:35-10:1,6-8 – And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every infirmity. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few …..

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do You Believe?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:27-31 – And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud, “Have mercy on us, Son of David.” When he entered the house, the blind men came to him; and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to him, “Yes, Lord.” Then he touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith be it done to you.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Shall Enter the Kingdom of Heaven?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 7:21,24-27 – “Not every one who says to me, `Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. “Every one then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house upon the rock; and the rain fell, and the floods came …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Is the Lord – We Have Waited for Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 15:29-37 – And Jesus went on from there and passed along the Sea of Galilee. And he went up on the mountain, and sat down there. And great crowds came to him, bringing with them the lame, the maimed, the blind, the dumb, and many others, and they put them at his feet, and he healed them, so that the throng wondered, when they saw the dumb speaking, the maimed whole, the lame walking, and the blind seeing; …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Blessed Are the Eyes Which See What You See!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:21-24 – In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been delivered to me by my Father; ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Many Will Sit at Table in the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 8:5-11 – As he entered Capernaum, a centurion came forward to him, beseeching him and saying, “Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, in terrible distress.” And he said to him, “I will come and heal him.” But the centurion answered him, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; but only say the word, and my servant will be healed. …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lest Your Hearts Be Weighed Down

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 21:34-36 – “But take heed to yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a snare; for it will come upon all who dwell upon the face of the whole earth. But watch at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of man.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: My Words Will Not Pass Away

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 21:29-33 – And he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees; as soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away till all has taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Son of Man Is Coming with Great Glory

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 21:20-28 – “But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation has come near. Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, and let those who are inside the city depart, and let not those who are out in the country enter it; for these are days of vengeance, to fulfil all that is written. Alas for those who are with child and for those who give suck in those days! For great distress shall be upon the earth and wrath upon this people; …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Not a Hair of Your Head Will Perish

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 21:12-19 – But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name’s sake. This will be a time for you to bear testimony. Settle it therefore in your minds, not to meditate beforehand how to answer; …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Take Heed That You Are Not Led Astray

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 21:5-11 – And as some spoke of the temple, how it was adorned with noble stones and offerings, he said, “As for these things which you see, the days will come when there shall not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” And they asked him, “Teacher, when will this be, and what will be the sign when this is about to take place?” ….

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: She Put in All That She Had

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 21:1-4 – He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury; and he saw a poor widow put in two copper coins. And he said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; for they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all the living that she had.”

The Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: They Did Not Want Me to Reign over Them

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 19:11-28 – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 19:11-28 – As they heard these things, he proceeded to tell a parable, because he was near to Jerusalem, and because they supposed that the kingdom of God was to appear immediately. He said therefore, “A nobleman went into a far country to receive a kingdom and then return. Calling ten of his servants, he gave them ten pounds, and said to them, `Trade with these till I come.’ …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Zacchaeus Received Jesus Joyfully

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 19:1-10 – He entered Jericho and was passing through. And there was a man named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector, and rich. And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because he was small of stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, make haste and come down; …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What Do You Want Me to Do for You?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 18:35-43 – As he drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging; and hearing a multitude going by, he inquired what this meant. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” And he cried, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Always Pray and Do Not Lose Heart

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 18:1-8 – And he told them a parable, to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor regarded man; and there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, `Vindicate me against my adversary.’ … I tell you, he will vindicate them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of man comes, will he find faith on earth?”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: One Will Be Taken and the Other Left

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:26-37 – As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be in the days of the Son of man. They ate, they drank, they married, they were given in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. Likewise as it was in the days of Lot — they ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built, but on the day when Lot went out from Sodom fire and sulphur rained from heaven and destroyed them all ….

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Coming of Christ’s Kingdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:20-25 – Being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was coming, he answered them, “The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed; nor will they say, `Behold, here it is!’ or `There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.” And he said to the disciples, “The days are coming when you will desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and you will not see it. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Fell at Jesus’ Feet Giving Thanks

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:11-19 – On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: We Have Only Done Our Duty

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:7-10 – “Will any one of you, who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep, say to him when he has come in from the field, `Come at once and sit down at table’? Will he not rather say to him, `Prepare supper for me, and gird yourself and serve me, till I eat and drink; and afterward you shall eat and drink’? Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Lord Jesus Increase Our Faith

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:1-6 – And he said to his disciples, “Temptations to sin are sure to come; but woe to him by whom they come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung round his neck and he were cast into the sea, than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin. Take heed to yourselves; if your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him; ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Necessity of Prudent Foresight

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 16:1-8 – He also said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a steward, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his goods. And he called him and said to him, `What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your stewardship, for you can no longer be steward.’ And the steward said to himself, `What shall I do, since my master is taking the stewardship away from me? ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Sinners Were Drawn to Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 15:1-10 – Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. And the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” So he told them this parable: “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost, until he finds it? …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The True Cost of Discipleship

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:25-33 – Now great multitudes accompanied him; and he turned and said to them, “If any one comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me, cannot be my disciple. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Invitation to the King’s Banquet Table

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:15-24 – When one of those who sat at table with him heard this, he said to him, “Blessed is he who shall eat bread in the kingdom of God!” But he said to him, “A man once gave a great banquet, and invited many; and at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, `Come; for all is now ready.’ …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Will Be Repaid at the Resurrection of the Just

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:12-14 – He said also to the man who had invited him, “When you give a dinner or a banquet, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your kinsmen or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return, and you be repaid. But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. You will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Were Watching Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:1-6 – One Sabbath when he went to dine at the house of a ruler who belonged to the Pharisees, they were watching him. And behold, there was a man before him who had dropsy. And Jesus spoke to the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath, or not?” But they were silent. Then he took him and healed him, and let him go. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Blessed Is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:31-35 – At that very hour some Pharisees came, and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” And he said to them, “Go and tell that fox, `Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course. Nevertheless I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the day following; for it cannot be that a prophet should perish away from Jerusalem.’ ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Do Not Risk Being Shut Out

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:22-30 – He went on his way through towns and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem. And some one said to him, “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” And he said to them, “Strive to enter by the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. When once the householder has risen up and shut the door, you will begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, `Lord, open to us.’ ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: What God’s Kingdom Is Like

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:18-21 – He said therefore, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed which a man took and sowed in his garden; and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.” And again he said, “To what shall I compare the kingdom of God?

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Unless You Repent – You Will Perish

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:1-9 – There were some present at that very time who told him of the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And he answered them, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered thus? I tell you, No; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Heed the Warning Signs before It Is Too Late

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:54-59 – He also said to the multitudes, “When you see a cloud rising in the west, you say at once, `A shower is coming’; and so it happens. And when you see the south wind blowing, you say, `There will be scorching heat’; and it happens. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky; but why do you not know how to interpret the present time? …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: I Came to Cast Fire upon the Earth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:49-53 – “I came to cast fire upon the earth; and would that it were already kindled! I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how I am constrained until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division; for henceforth in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three; ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Be Ready to Answer – the Lord Draws Near

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:39-48 – But know this, that if the householder had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have left his house to be broken into. You also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an unexpected hour.” Peter said, “Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for all?” And the Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and wise steward, whom his master will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time? …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: When the Master Knocks – Open at Once

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:35-38 – “Let your loins be girded and your lamps burning, and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the marriage feast, so that they may open to him at once when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes; truly, I say to you, he will gird himself and have them sit at table, and he will come and serve them. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Storing up True Riches

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:13-21 – One of the multitude said to him, “Teacher, bid my brother divide the inheritance with me.” But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or divider over you?” And he said to them, “Take heed, and beware of all covetousness; for a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” And he told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man brought forth plentifully ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Is an Evil Generation; It Seeks a Sign

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:29-32 – When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, “This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of Jonah. For as Jonah became a sign to the men of Nineveh, so will the Son of man be to this generation. The queen of the South will arise at the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them; for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, something greater than Solomon is here. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Hear the Word of God and Keep It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:27-28 – As he said this, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, “Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts that you sucked!” But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: If It Is by the Finger of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:15-26 – But some of them said, “He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons”; while others, to test him, sought from him a sign from heaven. But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls. And if Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: How Much More Will the Heavenly Father Give!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:5-135 And he said to them, “Which of you who has a friend will go to him at midnight and say to him, `Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him’; 7 and he will answer from within, `Do not bother me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything’? ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord, Teach Us to Pray

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:1-4 – He was praying in a certain place, and when he ceased, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” And he said to them, “When you pray, say: “Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Are Anxious

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:38-42 – Now as they went on their way, he entered a village; and a woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving; and she went to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Go and Do Likewise

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:25-37 – And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” He said to him, “What is written in the law? How do you read?” And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Who Hears You Hears Me

Author Don Schwager , Servants of the Word – Luke 10:13-16 – “Woe to you, Chorazin! woe to you, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it shall be more tolerable in the judgment for Tyre and Sidon than for you. And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You shall be brought down to Hades. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Kingdom of God Has Come near to You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:1-12 – After this the Lord appointed seventy others, and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to come. And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs in the midst of wolves. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Fit for the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:57-62 – As they were going along the road, a man said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man has nowhere to lay his head.” To another he said, “Follow me.” But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus’ Face Was Set toward Jerusalem

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:51-56 – When the days drew near for him to be received up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. And he sent messengers ahead of him, who went and entered a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him; but the people would not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus Perceived the Thought of Their Hearts

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:46-50 – And an argument arose among them as to which of them was the greatest. But when Jesus perceived the thought of their hearts, he took a child and put him by his side, and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me; for he who is least among you all is the one who is great.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Were Astonished at the Majesty of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:43-45 – And all were astonished at the majesty of God. But while they were all marveling at everything he did, he said to his disciples, “Let these words sink into your ears; for the Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men.” But they did not understand this saying, and it was concealed from them, that they should not perceive it; and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.

Cleaning Up the Pope’s Mess, by Brian A. Graebe

By Brian A. Graebe, First Things – (Peggy Noonan recounted) Clare Boothe Luce’s quip that every president is remembered for a sentence: “He freed the slaves.” “He made the Louisiana Purchase.”… What will Pope Francis’s sentence be? His most famous catchphrase, “Who am I to judge?” appeared early, just months after ascending to Peter’s chair, and set a tone of openness or ambiguity (depending on one’s point of view) that would become a hallmark of his pontificate… During his remarks on Copacabana beach, the Holy Father went off-script and exhorted the millions of young people there, “¡Hagan lío!”—“Make a mess!” Among the possibilities for Pope Francis’s sentence, a leading contender would have to be, “He made a mess.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Do You Say That Jesus Is?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:18-22 – Now it happened that as he was praying alone the disciples were with him; and he asked them, “Who do the people say that I am?” And they answered, “John the Baptist; but others say, Elijah; and others, that one of the old prophets has risen.” And he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered, “The Christ of God.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Suppressing Truth to Ease a Guilty Conscience

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:7-97 – Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the old prophets had risen. Herod said, “John I beheaded; but who is this about whom I hear such things?” And he sought to see him.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Gave Them Authority over All Demons and Diseases

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:1-6 – And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal. And he said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Hear the Word of God and Do It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:19-21 – Then his mother and his brothers came to him, but they could not reach him for the crowd. And he was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see you.” But he said to them, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Every Secret Shall Come to Light

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:16-18 – “No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a vessel, or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is hid that shall not be made manifest, nor anything secret that shall not be known and come to light. Take heed then how you hear; for to him who has will more be given, and from him who has not, even what he thinks that he has will be taken away.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Who Has Ears to Hear, Let Him Hear

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:4-15 – And when a great crowd came together and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable: “A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell along the path, and was trodden under foot, and the birds of the air devoured it. And some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns grew with it and choked it. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Women Provided for Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:1-3 – Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, preaching and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Which Will Love Him More?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:36-50 – One of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee’s house, and took his place at table. And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was at table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment, and standing behind him at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head, and kissed his feet, ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: How Shall I Compare This Generation?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:31-35 – “To what then shall I compare the men of this generation, and what are they like? They are like children sitting in the market place and calling to one another, `We piped to you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not weep.’ For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine; and you say, `He has a demon.’ ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Say the Word – Be Healed

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:1-10 – After he had ended all his sayings in the hearing of the people he entered Capernaum. Now a centurion had a slave who was dear to him, who was sick and at the point of death. When he heard of Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and heal his slave. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: A Life Built on a Solid Foundation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:43-49 – “For no good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit; for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. The good man out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil man out of his evil treasure produces evil; for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do You Not See the Log in Your Own Eye?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:39-42 – He also told them a parable: “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? A disciple is not above his teacher, but every one when he is fully taught will be like his teacher. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Good to Those Who Hate You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:27-38 – “But I say to you that hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. To him who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from him who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to every one who begs from you; and of him who takes away your goods do not ask them again. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Blessed Are You Poor – Yours Is the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:20-26 – And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: “Blessed are you poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. “Blessed are you that hunger now, for you shall be satisfied. “Blessed are you that weep now, for you shall laugh. “Blessed are you when men hate you, and when they exclude you and revile you, and cast out your name as evil, on account of the Son of man! ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Chose Twelve Apostles

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:12-19 – In these days he went out to the mountain to pray; and all night he continued in prayer to God. And when it was day, he called his disciples, and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles; Simon, whom he named Peter, and Andrew his brother, and James and John, and Philip, and Bartholomew, ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Is It Lawful to Save Life or to Destroy It?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:6-11 – On another Sabbath, when he entered the synagogue and taught, a man was there whose right hand was withered. And the scribes and the Pharisees watched him, to see whether he would heal on the Sabbath, so that they might find an accusation against him. But he knew their thoughts, and he said to the man who had the withered hand, “Come and stand here.” And he rose and stood there. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Son of Man Is Lord of the Sabbath

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:1-5 – On a Sabbath, while he was going through the grain fields, his disciples plucked and ate some heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands. But some of the Pharisees said, “Why are you doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath?” And Jesus answered, “Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, he and those who were with him ….

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Unity of the New and the Old

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 5:33-39 – And they said to him, “The disciples of John fast often and offer prayers, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees, but yours eat and drink.” And Jesus said to them, “Can you make wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Will Catch People for the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 5:1-11 – While the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret. And he saw two boats by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Laid His Hands on Every One and Healed Them

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 4:38-44 – And he arose and left the synagogue, and entered Simon’s house. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was ill with a high fever, and they asked him about her. And he stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her; and immediately she rose and served them. Now when the sun was setting, all those who had any that were sick with various diseases brought them to him; and he laid his hands on every one of them and healed them. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: His Word Was with Authority and Power

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 4:31-37 – And he went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee. And he was teaching them on the Sabbath; and they were astonished at his teaching, for his word was with authority. And in the synagogue there was a man who had the spirit of an unclean demon; and he cried out with a loud voice, 34 “Ah! What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Foolish Will Miss Heaven’s Wedding Feast

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 25:1-13 – “Then the kingdom of heaven shall be compared to ten maidens who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Are You Ready to Meet the Lord?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 24:42-51 – Watch therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the householder had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have watched and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an hour you do not expect. “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: True Beauty and Goodness Come from Within

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 23:27-32 – “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you are like white washed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within they are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. So you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but within you are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Neglect Justice, Mercy and Faith

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 23:23-26 – “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you tithe mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law, justice and mercy and faith; these you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. You blind guides, straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel! “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Do Not Close the Door to God’s Kingdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 23:13-22 – “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because you shut the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither enter yourselves, nor allow those who would enter to go in. Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you traverse sea and land to make a single proselyte, and when he becomes a proselyte, you make him twice as much a child of hell as yourselves. “Woe to you, blind guides, who say, `If any one swears by the temple, it is nothing; but if any one swears by the gold of the temple, he is bound by his oath.’ …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Would Not Come to the Feast!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 22:1-14 – And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a marriage feast for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the marriage feast;but they would not come. Again he sent other servants, saying, `Tell those who are invited, Behold, I have made ready my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves are killed, and everything is ready; come to the marriage feast.’ …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Do You Begrudge My Generosity?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 20:1-16 – “For the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. After agreeing with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the market place; and to them he said, `You go into the vineyard too, and whatever is right I will give you.’ So they went. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Give – and You Will Have Treasure in Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 19:16-22 – And behold, one came up to him, saying, “Teacher, what good deed must I do, to have eternal life?” And he said to him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? One there is who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments.” He said to him, “Which?” And Jesus said, “You shall not kill, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Let the Children Come to Me

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 19:13-15 – Then children were brought to him that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked the people; but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” And he laid his hands on them and went away.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What God Has Joined Together

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 19:3-12 – And Pharisees came up to him and tested him by asking, “Is it lawful to divorce one’s wife for any cause?” He answered, “Have you not read that he who made them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, `For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord, How Often Shall I Forgive My Brother?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:21-19:1 – Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven. “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: If Your Brother Sins against You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:15-20 – “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Is the Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14 – At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them, and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Not to Give Offense

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 17:22-27 – As they were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day.” And they were greatly distressed. When they came to Capernaum, the collectors of the half-shekel tax went up to Peter and said, “Does not your teacher pay the tax?” ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Nothing Will Be Impossible to You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 17:14-20 – And when they came to the crowd, a man came up to him and kneeling before him said, “Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an epileptic and he suffers terribly; for often he falls into the fire, and often into the water. And I brought him to your disciples, and they could not heal him.” And Jesus answered, “O faithless and perverse generation, how long am I to be with you? …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Whoever Loses His Life for My Sake Will Find It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 16:24-28 – Then Jesus told his disciples, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? Or what shall a man give in return for his life? ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Are the Christ – the Son of the Living God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 16:13-19 – Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do men say that the Son of man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”… Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Great Is Your Faith! Be It Done for You as You Desire

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 15:21-28 – And Jesus went away from there and withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and cried, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely possessed by a demon.” But he did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, “Send her away, for she is crying after us.”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: It Is I – Have No Fear

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 14:22-36 – Then he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but the boat by this time was many furlongs distant from the land, beaten by the waves; for the wind was against them. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Blessed the Loaves and Fishes

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 14:13-21 – Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a lonely place apart. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. As he went ashore he saw a great throng; and he had compassion on them, and healed their sick. 15 When it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a lonely place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Herod’s Reaction to John the Baptist

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 14:1-12 – At that time Herod the tetrarch heard about the fame of Jesus; and he said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist, he has been raised from the dead; that is why these powers are at work in him.” For Herod had seized John and bound him and put him in prison, for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife; because John said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Joy in Finding Hidden Treasure and Pearl of Great Price

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:44-46 – “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Righteous Will Shine like the Sun in the Father’s Kingdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:36-43 – Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.” He answered, “He who sows the good seed is the Son of man; the field is the world, and the good seed means the sons of the kingdom; the weeds are the sons of the evil one, and the enemy who sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the close of the age, and the reapers are angels. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What the Kingdom of Heaven Is Like

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:31-35 – Another parable he put before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed which a man took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Guarding the Good Seed of God’s Word in Our Heart

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:24-30 – Another parable he put before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field; but while men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Whoever Hears the Word and Understands It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:18-23 – “Hear then the parable of the sower. When any one hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what is sown in his heart; this is what was sown along the path. As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Many Longed to Hear What You Hear

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:10-17 – Then the disciples came and said to him, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” And he answered them, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For to him who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Since They Had No Root They Withered Away

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:1-9 – That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat there; and the whole crowd stood on the beach. And he told them many things in parables, saying: “A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Who Are My Brothers and Sisters?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 12:46-50 – While he was still speaking to the people, behold, his mother and his brothers stood outside, asking to speak to him. But he replied to the man who told him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: An Adulterous Generation Seeks for a Sign

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 12:38-42 – Then some of the scribes and Pharisees said to him, “Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you.” But he answered them, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign; but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the whale, so will the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Until Jesus Brings Justice to Victory

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word- Matthew 12:14-21 – But the Pharisees went out and took counsel against him, how to destroy him. Jesus, aware of this, withdrew from there. And many followed him, and he healed them all, and ordered them not to make him known. This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah: ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: I Desire Mercy and Not Sacrifice

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 12:1-8 – At that time Jesus went through the grain fields on the Sabbath; his disciples were hungry, and they began to pluck heads of grain and to eat. But when the Pharisees saw it, they said to him, “Look, your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath.” He said to them, “Have you not read what David did, when he was hungry, and those who were with him: ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Take My Yoke upon You and Learn from Me

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:28-30 – Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Heavenly Things Revealed to Infants

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:25-27 – At that time Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been delivered to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and any one to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Will You Be Exalted to Heaven?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:20-24 – Then he began to upbraid the cities where most of his mighty works had been done, because they did not repent. “Woe to you, Chorazin! woe to you, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Have Not Come to Bring Peace, but a Sword

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 10:34 – 11:1 – “Do not think that I have come to bring peace on earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and a man’s foes will be those of his own household. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Sheep in the Midst of Wolves – Wise and Innocent

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 10:16-23 – “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of men; for they will deliver you up to councils, and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear testimony before them and the Gentiles. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Freely Have You Received – Freely Give

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 10:7-15 – And preach as you go, saying, `The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying, give without pay. Take no gold, nor silver, nor copper in your belts, no bag for your journey, nor two tunics, nor sandals, nor a staff; for the laborer deserves his food. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Gives His Disciples Authority to Heal and Set Free

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 10:1-7 – And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every infirmity. The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Never Seen Anything like This

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:32-38 – As they were going away, behold, a dumb demoniac was brought to him. And when the demon had been cast out, the dumb man spoke; and the crowds marveled, saying, “Never was anything like this seen in Israel.” But the Pharisees said, “He casts out demons by the prince of demons.” ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Take Heart, Your Faith Has Made You Well

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:18-26 – While he was thus speaking to them, behold, a ruler came in and knelt before him, saying, “My daughter has just died; but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.” And Jesus rose and followed him, with his disciples. And behold, a woman who had suffered from a hemorrhage for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment; ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Day Will Come When They Will Fast

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:14-17 – Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Desire Mercy – Not Sacrifice

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:9-13 – As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax office; and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. And as he sat at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Jesus and his disciples. And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Take Heart – Your Sins Are Forgiven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:1-8 – And getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his own city. And behold, they brought to him a paralytic, lying on his bed; and when Jesus saw their faith he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Frees Those Who Are Bound Up

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 8:28-34 – And when he came to the other side, to the country of the Gadarenes, two demoniacs met him, coming out of the tombs, so fierce that no one could pass that way. And behold, they cried out, “What have you to do with us, O Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?” Now a herd of many swine was feeding at some distance from them. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Teacher, I Will Follow You Wherever You Go

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 8:18-22 – Now when Jesus saw great crowds around him, he gave orders to go over to the other side. And a scribe came up and said to him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man has nowhere to lay his head.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Say the Word and My Servant Will Be Healed

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 8:5-17 – As he entered Capernaum, a centurion came forward to him, beseeching him and saying, “Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, in terrible distress.” And he said to him, “I will come and heal him.” But the centurion answered him, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; but only say the word, and my servant will be healed. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord, You Can Make Me Clean

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 8:1-4 – When he came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him; and behold, a leper came to him and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” And he stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Wise Who Built Their House upon the Rock

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 7:21-29 – “Not every one who says to me, `Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, `Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, `I never knew you; depart from me, you evildoers.’ ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: You Will Know Them by Their Fruits

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 7:15-20 – “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thorns, or figs from thistles? So, every sound tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears evil fruit. A sound tree cannot bear evil fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Love Your Enemies and Pray for Them

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:43-48 – “You have heard that it was said, `You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Let What You Say Be Simply Yes or No

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:33-37 – “Again you have heard that it was said to the men of old, `You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ But I say to you, Do not swear at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: If Your Eye Causes You to Sin

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:27-32 – “You have heard that it was said, `You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and throw it away; it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Be Reconciled to Your Brother

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:20-26 – For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. “You have heard that it was said to the men of old, `You shall not kill; and whoever kills shall be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment; ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Great Are Those Who Teach and Obey the Commandments

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:17-19 – “Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Rejoice and Be Glad, for Your Reward Is Great in Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:1-12a – Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. 5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Poor Widow Has Put in More Than the Rest

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 12:38-44 – And in his teaching he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to go about in long robes, and to have salutations in the market places 39 and the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at feasts, who devour widows’ houses and for a pretense make long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Christ Is the Son of David

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 12:35-37 – And as Jesus taught in the temple, he said, “How can the scribes say that the Christ is the son of David? David himself, inspired by the Holy Spirit, declared, `The Lord said to my Lord, Sit at my right hand, till I put your enemies under your feet.’ David himself calls him Lord; so how is he his son?” And the great throng heard him gladly.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Love the Lord with All Your Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strength

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 12:28-34 – And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him, “Which commandment is the first of all?” Jesus answered, “The first is, `Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one; and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second is this, `You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Know Neither the Scriptures nor the Power of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 12:18-27 – And Sadducees came to him, who say that there is no resurrection; and they asked him a question, saying, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies and leaves a wife, but leaves no child, the man must take the wife, and raise up children for his brother. There were seven brothers; the first took a wife, and when he died left no children …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Will Respect My Beloved Son

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 12:1-12 – And he began to speak to them in parables. “A man planted a vineyard, and set a hedge around it, and dug a pit for the wine press, and built a tower, and let it out to tenants, and went into another country. When the time came, he sent a servant to the tenants, to get from them some of the fruit of the vineyard. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Gave You This Authority?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 11:27-33 – And they came again to Jerusalem. And as he was walking in the temple, the chief priests and the scribes and the elders came to him, and they said to him, “By what authority are you doing these things, or who gave you this authority to do them?” Jesus said to them, “I will ask you a question; answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Have Faith in God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 11:11-26 – And he entered Jerusalem, and went into the temple; and when he had looked round at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the twelve. On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. And seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see if he could find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What Do You Want Me to Do for You?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 10:46-52 – And they came to Jericho; and as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great multitude, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Are You Able to Drink the Cup That I Drink?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 10:32-45 – And they were on the road, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them; and they were amazed, and those who followed were afraid. And taking the twelve again, he began to tell them what was to happen to him, saying, “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man will be delivered to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death, and deliver him to the Gentiles ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: We Have Left Everything and Followed You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 10:28-31 – Peter began to say to him, “Behold, we have left everything and followed you.” Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life…

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Immensity of What Jesus Has Done for Us

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 21:20-25 – Peter turned and saw following them the disciple whom Jesus loved, who had lain close to his breast at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?” When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?” Jesus said to him, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do You Love Jesus More Than These?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 21:15-19 – When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” A second time he said to him, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: May They Become Perfectly One

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 17:20-26 – “I do not pray for these only, but also for those who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one; even as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory which you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Consecrated in God’s Truth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 17:11-19 – And now I am no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. While I was with them, I kept them in your name, which you have given me; I have guarded them, and none of them is lost but the son of perdition, that the scripture might be fulfilled. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Is Eternal Life – to Know the Father the Only True God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 17:1-11 – When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him power over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Peace in Overcoming the World

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 16:29-33 – His disciples said, “Ah, now you are speaking plainly, not in any figure! Now we know that you know all things, and need none to question you; by this we believe that you came from God.” Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? The hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, every man to his home, and will leave me alone; yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Lord Jesus Was Taken up into Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 28:16-20 – Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Holy Spirit Will Guide You into All the Truth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 16:12-15 – “I have yet many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Will Send the Counselor to You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 16:5-11 – But now I am going to him who sent me; yet none of you asks me, `Where are you going?’ But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your hearts. Nevertheless I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: When the Counselor Comes, the Spirit of Truth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 15:26-16:4 – But when the Counselor comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness to me; and you also are witnesses, because you have been with me from the beginning. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Are Not of the World

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 15:18-21 – “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, `A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you; if they kept my word, they will keep yours also. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Have Called You Friends

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 15:12-17 – “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Abide in My Love

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 15:9-11 – As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Abide in Me, and I in You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 15:1-8 – “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine dresser. Every branch of mine that bears no fruit, he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already made clean by the word which I have spoken to you. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: My Peace I Give to You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 14:27-31 – Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. You heard me say to you, `I go away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I go to the Father; for the Father is greater than I. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: If You Love Me, Keep My Word

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 14:21-26 – He who has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me; and he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?” Jesus answered him, “If a man loves me, he will keep my word ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Lord, Show Us the Father

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 14:7-14 – If you had known me, you would have known my Father also; henceforth you know him and have seen him.” Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and we shall be satisfied.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and yet you do not know me, Philip? He who has seen me has seen the Father; how can you say, `Show us the Father’? ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Let Your Hearts Be Troubled!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 14:1-6 – “Let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And when I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The One Who Receives Me

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 13:16-20 – Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. I am not speaking of you all; I know whom I have chosen; it is that the scripture may be fulfilled, `He who ate my bread has lifted his heel against me.’

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Believe in Me – That You May Not Remain in Darkness

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 12:44-50 – And Jesus cried out and said, “He who believes in me, believes not in me but in him who sent me. And he who sees me sees him who sent me. I have come as light into the world, that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness. If any one hears my sayings and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: My Sheep Hear My Voice

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 10:22-30 – It was the feast of the Dedication at Jerusalem; it was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the portico of Solomon. So the Jews gathered round him and said to him, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness to me…

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: I Am the Good Shepherd

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 10:11-18 – I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hireling and not a shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. He flees because he is a hireling and cares nothing for the sheep. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: You Have the Words of Everlasting Life

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:60-69 – Many of his disciples, when they heard it, said, “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?” But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples murmured at it, said to them, “Do you take offense at this? Then what if you were to see the Son of man ascending where he was before? ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: He Who Eats This Bread Will Live Forever

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:52-59 – The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in you; he who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: If Anyone Eats of This Bread, He Will Live for Ever

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:44-51 – No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the prophets, `And they shall all be taught by God.’ Every one who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me. Not that any one has seen the Father except him who is from God; he has seen the Father. Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: I Will Raise You up at the Last Day

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:35-40 – Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; he who comes to me shall not hunger, and he who believes in me shall never thirst. But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. All that the Father gives me will come to me; and him who comes to me I will not cast out. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: I Am the Bread of Life

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:30-35 – So they said to him, “Then what sign do you do, that we may see, and believe you? What work do you perform? Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, `He gave them bread from heaven to eat.'” Jesus then said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven; my Father gives you the true bread from heaven. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Labor for the Food Which Endures to Eternal Life

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:22-29 – On the next day the people who remained on the other side of the sea saw that there had been only one boat there, and that Jesus had not entered the boat with his disciples, but that his disciples had gone away alone. However, boats from Tiberias came near the place where they ate the bread after the Lord had given thanks. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Said: “It Is I – Do Not Be Afraid”

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:16-21 – 16 When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea, 17 got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum. It was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. 18 The sea rose because a strong wind was blowing. 19 When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near to the boat. They were frightened, 20 but he said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” 21 Then they were glad to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Miraculous Sign of Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:1-15 – After this Jesus went to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, which is the Sea of Tiberias. And a multitude followed him, because they saw the signs which he did on those who were diseased. Jesus went up on the mountain, and there sat down with his disciples. Now the Passover, the feast of the Jews, was at hand. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Who Believes in the Son Has Eternal Life

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 3:31-36 – He who comes from above is above all; he who is of the earth belongs to the earth, and of the earth he speaks; he who comes from heaven is above all. He bears witness to what he has seen and heard, yet no one receives his testimony; he who receives his testimony sets his seal to this, that God is true. …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: God so Loved the World That He Gave Us His Only Son

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 3:16-21 – For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. He who believes in him is not condemned; he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: You Must Be Born Anew

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 3:7-15 – Do not marvel that I said to you, `You must be born anew.’ The wind blows where it wills, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know whence it comes or whither it goes; so it is with every one who is born of the Spirit.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can this be?” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Unless One Is Born Anew

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 3:1-8 -Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do, unless God is with him.” Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Go and Preach the Gospel to the Whole Creation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 16:9-15 – Now when he rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons. She went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and wept. But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Revealed Himself Again to the Disciples

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 21:1-14 – After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias; and he revealed himself in this way. Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat; but that night they caught nothing. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus Opened Their Minds to Understand the Scriptures

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 24:35-48 – Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread. As they were saying this, Jesus himself stood among them. But they were startled and frightened, and supposed that they saw a spirit. And he said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do questionings rise in your hearts? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Did Not Our Hearts Burn While He Opened to Us the Scriptures

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 24:13-35 – That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. 16 But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Have Seen the Lord!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 20:11-18 – But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb; and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: News of the Resurrection

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 28:8-15 – So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Hail!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brethren to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.”….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Laid Him in a Rock-Hewn Tomb

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 23:50-56 – Now there was a man named Joseph from the Jewish town of Arimathea. He was a member of the council, a good and righteous man, who had not consented to their purpose and deed, and he was looking for the kingdom of God. This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then he took it down and wrapped it in a linen shroud, and laid him in a rock-hewn tomb, where no one had ever yet been laid. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: It Is Finished

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 19:17-30 – “So they took Jesus, and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called the place of a skull, which is called in Hebrew Golgotha. There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, and Jesus between them. Pilate also wrote a title and put it on the cross; it read, ‘Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews’. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus’ Supreme Humility and Unfailing Love

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 13:1-15 – Now before the feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. And during supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going to God, rose from supper, laid aside his garments, and girded himself with a towel. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Tragedy of the Betrayal

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 26:14-25 – Then one of the twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What will you give me if I deliver him to you?” And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him. Now on the first day of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Where will you have us prepare for you to eat the Passover?” ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Extravagant Love for Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 12:1-11 – Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. There they made him a supper; Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at table with him. Mary took a pound of costly ointment of pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment. …

Msgr. Charles Pope: See What the End Shall Be – A Homily for Palm Sunday

By Msgr. Charles Pope – The Passion, which we read in the liturgy for Palm Sunday, is too long to comment on in detail, so we will only examine a portion of it here… It may be of some value to examine the problems associated with the more moderate range of personalities involved. The usual villains (the Temple leaders, Judas, and the recruited crowd shouting, “Crucify him!”) are unambiguously wicked and display their sinfulness openly. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Took Counsel How to Put Him to Death

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 11:45-56 – Many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what he did, believed in him; but some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. So the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered the council, and said, “What are we to do? For this man performs many signs. If we let him go on thus, every one will believe in him, and the Romans will come and destroy both our holy place and our nation.” …

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Am the Son of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 10:31-42 – The Jews took up stones again to stone him. Jesus answered them, “I have shown you many good works from the Father; for which of these do you stone me?” The Jews answered him, “It is not for a good work that we stone you but for blasphemy; because you, being a man, make yourself God.” Jesus answered them, “Is it not written in your law, `I said, you are gods’? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Before Abraham Was, I Am

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 8:51-59 – Truly, truly, I say to you, if any one keeps my word, he will never see death.” The Jews said to him, “Now we know that you have a demon. Abraham died, as did the prophets; and you say, `If any one keeps my word, he will never taste death.’ Are you greater than our father Abraham, who died? And the prophets died! Who do you claim to be?” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Truth Will Make You Free

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 8:31-42 – Jesus then said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham, and have never been in bondage to any one. How is it that you say, `You will be made free’?” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: When You Have Lifted up the Son of Man

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 8:21-30 – Again he said to them, “I go away, and you will seek me and die in your sin; where I am going, you cannot come.” Then said the Jews, “Will he kill himself, since he says, `Where I am going, you cannot come’?” He said to them, “You are from below, I am from above; you are of this world, I am not of this world. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Go, and Do Not Sin Again

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 8:1-11 – but Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. Early in the morning he came again to the temple; all the people came to him, and he sat down and taught them. The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placing her in the midst they said to him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Reaction to Jesus’ Words

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 7:40-53 – When they heard these words, some of the people said, “This is really the prophet.” Others said, “This is the Christ.” But some said, “Is the Christ to come from Galilee? Has not the scripture said that the Christ is descended from David, and comes from Bethlehem, the village where David was?” So there was a division among the people over him. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: His Hour Had Not yet Come

Author Don Schwager , Servants of the Word – John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30 – After this Jesus went about in Galilee; he would not go about in Judea, because the Jews sought to kill him. Now the Jews’ feast of Tabernacles was at hand. 10 But after his brothers had gone up to the feast, then he also went up, not publicly but in private. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Father’s Witness to Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 5:31-47 – If I bear witness to myself, my testimony is not true; there is another who bears witness to me, and I know that the testimony which he bears to me is true. You sent to John, and he has borne witness to the truth. Not that the testimony which I receive is from man; but I say this that you may be saved. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: My Father Is Working Still, and I Am Working

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 5:17-30 – But Jesus answered them, “My Father is working still, and I am working.” This was why the Jews sought all the more to kill him, because he not only broke the Sabbath but also called God his Father, making himself equal with God. Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing; for whatever he does, that the Son does likewise. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Walk and Sin No More

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 5:1-16 – After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, in Hebrew called Bethzatha, which has five porticoes. In these lay a multitude of invalids, blind, lame, paralyzed. One man was there, who had been ill for thirty-eight years. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus – the Divine Physician

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 4:43-54 – After the two days he departed to Galilee. For Jesus himself testified that a prophet has no honor in his own country. 45 So when he came to Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him, having seen all that he had done in Jerusalem at the feast, for they too had gone to the feast. So he came again to Cana in Galilee, where he had made the water wine. And at Capernaum there was an official whose son was ill. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: God, Be Merciful to Me a Sinner!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 18:9-14 – He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and despised others: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, `God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: How Often Shall I Forgive?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:21-35 – Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven. “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus’ Power to Heal and Cleanse

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 4:24-30 – And he said, “Truly, I say to you, no prophet is acceptable in his own country. But in truth, I tell you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when there came a great famine over all the land; and Elijah was sent to none of them but only to Zarephath, in the land of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Stone Which the Builders Rejected

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 21:33-46 – “Hear another parable. There was a householder who planted a vineyard, and set a hedge around it, and dug a wine press in it, and built a tower, and let it out to tenants, and went into another country. When the season of fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants, to get his fruit; and the tenants took his servants and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lazarus Was Carried to Abraham’s Bosom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 16:19-31 – “There was a rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, full of sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man’s table; moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Can You Drink Christ’s Cup?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 20:17-28 – And as Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside, and on the way he said to them, “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man will be delivered to the chief priests and scribes, and they will condemn him to death, and deliver him to the Gentiles to be mocked and scourged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Humbles Oneself Will Be Exalted

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 23:1-12 – Then said Jesus to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; so practice and observe whatever they tell you, but not what they do; for they preach, but do not practice. They bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with their finger. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Be Merciful as Your Father Is Merciful

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:36-38 – Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.37 “Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; 38 give, and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For the measure you give will be the measure you get back.”

 Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Love and Pray for Your Enemies

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:43-48 – “You have heard that it was said, `You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Be Angry, Be Reconciled

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:20-26 – For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. “You have heard that it was said to the men of old, `You shall not kill; and whoever kills shall be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that every one who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Ask and You Will Receive from Your Father in Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 7:7-12 – “Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For every one who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Or what man of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Your Heavenly Father Knows What You Need

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 6:7-15 – “And in praying do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. Pray then like this: Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Eternal Life Versus Eternal Punishment

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 25:31-46 – “When the Son of man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate them one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and he will place the sheep at his right hand, but the goats at the left. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Fasting for the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:14-15 – Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Take up Your Cross Daily and Follow Christ

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:22-25 – “The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.” And he said to all, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake, he will save it. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: When You Pray, Fast, and Give Alms

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 – “Beware of practicing your piety before men in order to be seen by them; for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. “Thus, when you give alms, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by men. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Who Is the Greatest in God’s Kingdom? 

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 9:30-37 – They went on from there and passed through Galilee. And he would not have any one know it; for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, “The Son of man will be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him; and when he is killed, after three days he will rise.” But they did not understand the saying, and they were afraid to ask him. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: All Things Are Possible to Him Who Believes

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 9:14-29 – And when they came to the disciples, they saw a great crowd about them, and scribes arguing with them. And immediately all the crowd, when they saw him, were greatly amazed, and ran up to him and greeted him. And he asked them, “What are you discussing with them?” And one of the crowd answered him, “Teacher, I brought my son to you, for he has a dumb spirit; …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Is My Son, the Beloved – Listen to Him!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 9:2-13 – Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain apart, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no one on earth could bleach them. And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, who were talking with Jesus. Then Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Loses His Life for My Sake Will Save It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:34 – 9:1 – And he called to him the multitude with his disciples, and said to them, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it. For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Do You Say That Jesus Is?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:27-33 – And Jesus went on with his disciples, to the villages of Caesarea Philippi; and on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do men say that I am?” And they told him, “John the Baptist; and others say, Elijah; and others one of the prophets.” And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Blind Man Was Restored, and Saw Everything Clearly

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:22-26 – And they came to Bethsaida. And some people brought to him a blind man, and begged him to touch him. And he took the blind man by the hand, and led him out of the village; and when he had spit on his eyes and laid his hands upon him, he asked him, “Do you see anything?” And he looked up and said, “I see men; but they look like trees, walking.” ..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Beware of the Leaven of the Pharisees and Herod

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:14-21 – Now they had forgotten to bring bread; and they had only one loaf with them in the boat. And he cautioned them, saying, “Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” And they discussed it with one another, saying, “We have no bread.” And being aware of it, Jesus said to them, “Why do you discuss the fact that you have no bread? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: No Sign Shall Be Given to This Generation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:11-13 – The Pharisees came and began to argue with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven, to test him. And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign shall be given to this generation.” And he left them, and getting into the boat again he departed to the other side.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Has Done All Things Well

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 7:31-37 – Then he returned from the region of Tyre, and went through Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, through the region of the Decapolis. And they brought to him a man who was deaf and had an impediment in his speech; and they begged him to lay his hand upon him. And taking him aside from the multitude privately, he put his fingers into his ears, and he spat and touched his tongue ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Demon Has Left Your Daughter

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 7:24-30 – And from there he arose and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And he entered a house, and would not have any one know it; yet he could not be hid. But immediately a woman, whose little daughter was possessed by an unclean spirit, heard of him, and came and fell down at his feet. Now the woman was a Greek, a Syrophoenician by birth. And she begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Many Were Made Well

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:53-56 – And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret, and moored to the shore. And when they got out of the boat, immediately the people recognized him, and ran about the whole neighborhood and began to bring sick people on their pallets to any place where they heard he was. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Come Away and Rest a While

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:30-34 – The apostles returned to Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a lonely place, and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a lonely place by themselves. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Herod’s Guilty Conscience

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:14-29 – King Herod heard of it; for Jesus’ name had become known. Some said, “John the baptizer has been raised from the dead; that is why these powers are at work in him.” But others said, “It is Elijah.” And others said, “It is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Gave Them Authority over Sickness and Unclean Spirits

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:7-13 – And he called to him the twelve, and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; 9 but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus Marveled because of Their Unbelief

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:1-6 – He went away from there and came to his own country; and his disciples followed him. And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue; and many who heard him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get all this? What is the wisdom given to him? What mighty works are wrought by his hands! ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Woman Who Took Heart in Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 5:21-43 – And when Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered about him; and he was beside the sea. Then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and seeing him, he fell at his feet, and begged him, saying, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well, and live.” ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Tell Them How Much the Lord Has Done for You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 5:1-20 – They came to the other side of the sea, to the country of Gerasenes. And when he had come out of the boat, there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, who lived among the tombs; and no one could bind him any more, even with a chain; for he had often been bound with fetters and chains, but the chains he wrenched apart, and the fetters he broke in pieces; and no one had the strength to subdue him. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Why Are You Afraid?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:35-41 – On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. And a great storm of wind arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What the Kingdom of God Is Like

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:26-34 – And he said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed upon the ground, and should sleep and rise night and day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he knows not how. The earth produces of itself, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. But when the grain is ripe, at once he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Living in the Light of God’s Truth and Wisdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:21-25 – And he said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under a bushel, or under a bed, and not on a stand? For there is nothing hid, except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret, except to come to light. If any man has ears to hear, let him hear.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus Taught People Using Parables

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:1-20 – Again he began to teach beside the sea. And a very large crowd gathered about him so that he got into a boat and sat in it on the sea; and the whole crowd was beside the sea on the land. And he taught them many things in parables, and in his teaching he said to them: “Listen! A sower went out to sow. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Whoever Does the Will of God Is My Brother and Sister

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Daily Quote from the Early Church Fathers: The cross of Christ as victory, by Augustine of Hippo, 430-543 A.D. – “[Mary] did the Father’s will. It was this in her that the Lord magnified, not merely that her flesh gave birth to flesh… When he said, ‘Blessed are they who hear the Word of God and keep it’ (Luke 11:28), he was in effect saying: ‘My mother whom you have called blessed is blessed for the reason that she keeps the Word of God, not that the Word was made flesh in her and dwelt among us (John 1:14), but that she keeps the very Word of God through which she was made and which was made flesh in her.” (excerpt from TRACTATE ON JOHN 10.3.2)

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Frees Us from Satan’s Power

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:22-30 – And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, “He is possessed by Beelzebul, and by the prince of demons he casts out the demons.” And he called them to him, and said to them in parables, “How can Satan cast out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Appointed Twelve to Be with Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:13-19 – And he went up on the mountain, and called to him those whom he desired; and they came to him. And he appointed twelve, to be with him, and to be sent out to preach and have authority to cast out demons: Simon whom he surnamed Peter; James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: All Pressed upon Jesus to Touch Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:7-12 – Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the sea, and a great multitude from Galilee followed; also from Judea and Jerusalem and Idumea and from beyond the Jordan and from about Tyre and Sidon a great multitude, hearing all that he did, came to him. And he told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd, lest they should crush him …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Is It Lawful… to Save Life or to Kill?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:1-6 – Again he entered the synagogue, and a man was there who had a withered hand. And they watched him, to see whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him. And he said to the man who had the withered hand, “Come here.” And he said to them, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to kill?” But they were silent. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Son of Man Is Lord of the Sabbath

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 2:23-28 – One Sabbath he was going through the grain fields; and as they made their way his disciples began to pluck heads of grain. And the Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath?” And he said to them, “Have you never read what David did, when he was in need and was hungry, he and those who were with him …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Fasting or Feasting?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 2:18-22 – Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting; and people came and said to him, “Why do John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Many Sinners Were Sitting with Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 2:13-17 – He went out again beside the sea; and all the crowd gathered about him, and he taught them. And as he passed on, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax office, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. And as he sat at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners were sitting with Jesus and his disciples; for there were many who followed him. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: We Never Saw Anything like This!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 2:1-12 – And when he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and he was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Lord Jesus Can Make Me Clean

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 1:40-45 – And a leper came to him beseeching him, and kneeling said to him, “If you will, you can make me clean.” 41 Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand and touched him, and said to him, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Healed Many Who Were Sick

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 1:29-39 – And immediately he left the synagogue, and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon’s mother-in-law lay sick with a fever, and immediately they told him of her. And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her; and she served them.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Taught with Authority

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 1:21-28 – And they went into Capernaum; and immediately on the Sabbath he entered the synagogue and taught. And they were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one who had authority, and not as the scribes. And immediately there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Humbly Submitted to Baptism by John

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 3:13-17 – Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now; for thus it is fitting for us to fulfil all righteousness.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Manifested His Glory at Cana

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 2:1-12 – On the third day there was a marriage at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there; Jesus also was invited to the marriage, with his disciples. When the wine failed, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” And Jesus said to her, “O woman, what have you to do with me? My hour has not yet come.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Beloved Son

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:45-52 – And he [John the Baptist] preached, saying, “After me comes he who is mightier than I, the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Come and See

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 1:43-51 – The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. And he found Philip and said to him, “Follow me.” Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael, and said to him, “We have found him of whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: We Have Found the Messiah!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 1:35-42 – The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples; and he looked at Jesus as he walked, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said to them, “What do you seek?” And they said to him, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Behold the Lamb of God!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 1:29-34 – The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, `After me comes a man who ranks before me, for he was before me.’ I myself did not know him; but for this I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Word Became Flesh and Dwelt among Us

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 1:1-18 – In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: An Angel of the Lord Appeared to Joseph in a Dream

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23 – Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfil what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt have I called my son.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Favor of God Was upon Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 2:22-35 – And when the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male that opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”) and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Rachel Weeping for Her Children

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 2:13-18 – Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: John Saw the Word of God Made Flesh and Believed

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 20:1a, 2-8 – Now on the first day of the week [Mary Magdelan] ran, and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.” Peter then came out with the other disciple, and they went toward the tomb. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Nothing Is Impossible with God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:67-79 – And his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying, “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people, and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, that we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all who hate us; ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What Then Will This Child Be?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:57-66 – Now the time came for Elizabeth to be delivered, and she gave birth to a son. And her neighbors and kinsfolk heard that the Lord had shown great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. And on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they would have named him Zechariah after his father ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Joyful Expectation of the Messiah

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:46-56 – And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed; 49 for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Joyful Anticipation of the Messiah

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:39-45 – In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a city of Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! …

Dr. Malone to RFK, Jr.: Americans Have Been Subjected to ‘Military-Grade Information Warfare’, by Suzanne Burdick, Ph.D.

By Suzanne Burdick, Ph.D., Children’s Health Defense – According to Malone, U.S. Americans for the last three years have been subjected to “military-grade information warfare — capability and technology that was designed for our opponents for military warfare outside of the U.S. — that has been turned on American citizens.”…“We were basically trained to accept an unlicensed, unsafe, non-effective medical product based on no science — on hope — and trained into us through this well-developed system of propaganda, censorship, information control and everything else….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Hail, O Favored One, the Lord Is with You!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:26-38 – In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Hail, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and considered in her mind what sort of greeting this might be. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Many Will Rejoice at His Birth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:5-25 – In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah; and he had a wife of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 1:1-17 – The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Will Make Them Joyful in My House of Prayer for All Peoples

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 5:33-36 – You sent to John, and he has borne witness to the truth. Not that the testimony which I receive is from man; but I say this that you may be saved. He was a burning and shining lamp, and you were willing to rejoice for a while in his light. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: My Steadfast Love and Covenant of Peace

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:24-30 – When the messengers of John had gone, he began to speak to the crowds concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to behold? A reed shaken by the wind? What then did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, those who are gorgeously appareled and live in luxury are in kings’ courts. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Blind See, the Lame Walk, the Poor Receive Good News

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:18-23 – The disciples of John told him of all these things. And John, calling to him two of his disciples, sent them to the Lord, saying, “Are you he who is to come, or shall we look for another?” And when the men had come to him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to you, saying, `Are you he who is to come, or shall we look for another?'” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Which Son Did the Father’s Will?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 21:28-32 – “What do you think? A man had two sons; and he went to the first and said, `Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ And he answered, `I will not’; but afterward he repented and went. And he went to the second and said the same; and he answered, `I go, sir,’ but did not go. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: All Hold That John Was a Prophet

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 21:23-27 – And when he entered the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came up to him as he was teaching, and said, “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?” Jesus answered them, “I also will ask you a question; and if you tell me the answer, then I also will tell you by what authority I do these things. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Lord Will Lead You in the Way You Should Go

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:16-19 – “But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the market places and calling to their playmates, ‘We piped to you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not mourn.’ For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, `He has a demon’ ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Come to Me and I Will Give You Rest

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:28-30 – Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: God Carries Us in His Bosom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:12-14 – What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Your God Will Come and Save You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 5:17-26 – On one of those days, as he was teaching, there were Pharisees and teachers of the law sitting by, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem; and the power of the Lord was with him to heal. And behold, men were bringing on a bed a man who was paralyzed, and they sought to bring him in and lay him before Jesus …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Kingdom of Heaven Is at Hand

By author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:35-10:1,6-8 – And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every infirmity. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do You Believe?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:27-31 – And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud, “Have mercy on us, Son of David.” When he entered the house, the blind men came to him; and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to him, “Yes, Lord.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Shall Enter the Kingdom of Heaven?

Author Don Schwager , Servants of the Word – Matthew 7:21,24-27 – “Not every one who says to me, `Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 24 “Every one then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house upon the rock;

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Is the Lord – We Have Waited for Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 15:29-37 – And Jesus went on from there and passed along the Sea of Galilee. And he went up on the mountain, and sat down there. And great crowds came to him, bringing with them the lame, the maimed, the blind, the dumb, and many others, and they put them at his feet, and he healed them, so that the throng wondered, when they saw the dumb speaking, the maimed whole, the lame walking …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Blessed Are the Eyes Which See What You See!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:21-24 – In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been delivered to me by my Father; and no one knows who the Son is except the Father …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Many Will Sit at Table in the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 8:5-11 – As he entered Capernaum, a centurion came forward to him, beseeching him and saying, “Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, in terrible distress.” And he said to him, “I will come and heal him.” But the centurion answered him, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; but only say the word, and my servant will be healed. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Not a Hair of Your Head Will Perish

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 21:12-19 – But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name’s sake. This will be a time for you to bear testimony. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Take Heed That You Are Not Led Astray

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 21:5-11 – And as some spoke of the temple, how it was adorned with noble stones and offerings, he said, “As for these things which you see, the days will come when there shall not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” And they asked him, “Teacher, when will this be, and what will be the sign when this is about to take place?” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: She Put in All That She Had

Author Don Schwager. Servants of the Word – Luke 21:1-4 – He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury; and he saw a poor widow put in two copper coins. And he said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; for they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all the living that she had.”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: All Live to Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 20:27-40 – There came to him some Sadducees, those who say that there is no resurrection, and they asked him a question, saying, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies, having a wife but no children, the man must take the wife and raise up children for his brother. Now there were seven brothers; the first took a wife, and died without children ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: All the People Hung upon His Words

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 19:45-48 – And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold, saying to them, “It is written, `My house shall be a house of prayer’; but you have made it a den of robbers.” And he was teaching daily in the temple. The chief priests and the scribes and the principal men of the people sought to destroy him …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Know the Time of Your Visitation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 19:41-44 – And when he drew near and saw the city he wept over it, saying, “Would that even today you knew the things that make for peace! But now they are hid from your eyes. For the days shall come upon you, when your enemies will cast up a bank about you and surround you, and hem you in on every side …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Did Not Want Me to Reign over Them

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 19:11-28 – As they heard these things, he proceeded to tell a parable, because he was near to Jerusalem, and because they supposed that the kingdom of God was to appear immediately. He said therefore, “A nobleman went into a far country to receive a kingdom and then return. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Zacchaeus Received Jesus Joyfully

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 19:1-10 – He entered Jericho and was passing through. And there was a man named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector, and rich. And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because he was small of stature. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What Do You Want Me to Do for You?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 18:35-43 – As he drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging; and hearing a multitude going by, he inquired what this meant. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” And he cried, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: One Will Be Taken and the Other Left

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:26-37 – As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be in the days of the Son of man. They ate, they drank, they married, they were given in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. Likewise as it was in the days of Lot — they ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Coming of Christ’s Kingdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:20-25 – Being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was coming, he answered them, “The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed; nor will they say, `Behold, here it is!’ or `There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Fell at Jesus’ Feet Giving Thanks

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:11-19 – On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: We Have Only Done Our Duty

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:7-10 – “Will any one of you, who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep, say to him when he has come in from the field, `Come at once and sit down at table’? Will he not rather say to him, `Prepare supper for me, and gird yourself and serve me, till I eat and drink; and afterward you shall eat and drink’? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord Jesus Increase Our Faith

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:1-6 – And he said to his disciples, “Temptations to sin are sure to come; but woe to him by whom they come! 2 It would be better for him if a millstone were hung round his neck and he were cast into the sea, than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Will Entrust to You the True Riches?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 16:9-15 – And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous mammon, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal habitations. “He who is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much; and he who is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much. If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will entrust to you the true riches? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Necessity of Prudent Foresight

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 16:1-8 – He also said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a steward, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his goods. And he called him and said to him, `What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your stewardship, for you can no longer be steward.’ …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Sinners Were Drawn to Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 15:1-10 – Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. And the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” So he told them this parable: “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost, until he finds it? ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The True Cost of Discipleship

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:25-33 – Now great multitudes accompanied him; and he turned and said to them, “If any one comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me, cannot be my disciple. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Invitation to the King’s Banquet Table

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:15-24 – When one of those who sat at table with him heard this, he said to him, “Blessed is he who shall eat bread in the kingdom of God!” But he said to him, “A man once gave a great banquet, and invited many; and at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, `Come; for all is now ready.’ ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: You Will Be Repaid at the Resurrection of the Just

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:12-14 – He said also to the man who had invited him, “When you give a dinner or a banquet, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your kinsmen or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return, and you be repaid. But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Every One Who Exalts Himself Will Be Humbled

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:1, 7-11 – One sabbath when he went to dine at the house of a ruler who belonged to the Pharisees, they were watching him. Now he told a parable to those who were invited, when he marked how they chose the places of honor, saying to them, “When you are invited by anyone to a marriage feast, do not sit down in a place of honor, lest a more eminent man than you be invited by him ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Blessed Is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:31-35 – At that very hour some Pharisees came, and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” And he said to them, “Go and tell that fox, `Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Blessed Is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:31-35 – At that very hour some Pharisees came, and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” 32 And he said to them, “Go and tell that fox, `Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course. Nevertheless I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the day following …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: What God’s Kingdom Is Like

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:18-21 – He said therefore, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed which a man took and sowed in his garden; and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.” And again he said, “To what shall I compare the kingdom of God? It is like leaven which a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Freedom from Bondage for Eighteen Years

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:10-17 – Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. And there was a woman who had had a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years; she was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. And when Jesus saw her, he called her and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your infirmity.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Unless You Repent – You Will Perish

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:1-9 – There were some present at that very time who told him of the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And he answered them, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered thus? I tell you, No; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Heed the Warning Signs before It Is Too Late

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:54-59 – He also said to the multitudes, “When you see a cloud rising in the west, you say at once, `A shower is coming’; and so it happens. And when you see the south wind blowing, you say, `There will be scorching heat’; and it happens. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky; but why do you not know how to interpret the present time? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Came to Cast Fire upon the Earth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:49-53 – “I came to cast fire upon the earth; and would that it were already kindled! I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how I am constrained until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division; for henceforth in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Be Ready to Answer – the Lord Draws Near

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:39-48 – But know this, that if the householder had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have left his house to be broken into. You also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an unexpected hour.” Peter said, “Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for all?” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: When the Master Knocks – Open at Once

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:35-38 – “Let your loins be girded and your lamps burning, and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the marriage feast, so that they may open to him at once when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Storing up True Riches

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:13-21 – One of the multitude said to him, “Teacher, bid my brother divide the inheritance with me.” But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or divider over you?” And he said to them, “Take heed, and beware of all covetousness; for a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Holy Spirit Will Teach You What to Say

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word -Luke 12:8-12 – “And I tell you, every one who acknowledges me before men, the Son of man also will acknowledge before the angels of God; but he who denies me before men will be denied before the angels of God. And every one who speaks a word against the Son of man will be forgiven; but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Fear Those Who Kill the Body

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:1-7 – In the meantime, when so many thousands of the multitude had gathered together that they trod upon one another, he began to say to his disciples first, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Lose the Key of Knowledge

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:47-54 – Woe to you! for you build the tombs of the prophets whom your fathers killed. So you are witnesses and consent to the deeds of your fathers; for they killed them, and you build their tombs. Therefore also the Wisdom of God said, `I will send them prophets and apostles, some of whom they will kill and persecute’ …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Load Burdens Hard to Bear

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:42-46 – “But woe to you Pharisees! for you tithe mint and rue and every herb, and neglect justice and the love of God; these you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. Woe to you Pharisees! for you love the best seat in the synagogues and salutations in the market places. …

 Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What Makes the Heart Clean and Holy?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:37-41 – While he was speaking, a Pharisee asked him to dine with him; so he went in and sat at table. The Pharisee was astonished to see that he did not first wash before dinner. And the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees cleanse the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside you are full of extortion and wickedness. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Is an Evil Generation; It Seeks a Sign

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:29-32 – When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, “This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of Jonah. For as Jonah became a sign to the men of Nineveh, so will the Son of man be to this generation. The queen of the South will arise at the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Hear the Word of God and Keep It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:27-28 – As he said this, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, “Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts that you sucked!” But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: If It Is by the Finger of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:15-26 – But some of them said, “He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons”; while others, to test him, sought from him a sign from heaven. But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls. And if Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: How Much More Will the Heavenly Father Give!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:5-13 – And he said to them, “Which of you who has a friend will go to him at midnight and say to him, `Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him’; and he will answer from within, `Do not bother me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything’? ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord, Teach Us to Pray

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:1-4 – He was praying in a certain place, and when he ceased, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” And he said to them, “When you pray, say: “Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Are Anxious

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:38-42 – Now as they went on their way, he entered a village; and a woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving; and she went to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Go and Do Likewise

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:25-37 – And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” He said to him, “What is written in the law? How do you read?” And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” And he said to him, “You have answered right; do this, and you will live.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Do You Say That Jesus Is?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:18-22 – Now it happened that as he was praying alone the disciples were with him; and he asked them, “Who do the people say that I am?” And they answered, “John the Baptist; but others say, Elijah; and others, that one of the old prophets has risen.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Suppressing Truth to Ease a Guilty Conscience

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:7-9 – Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the old prophets had risen. Herod said, “John I beheaded; but who is this about whom I hear such things?” And he sought to see him.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Gave Them Authority over All Demons and Diseases

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:1-6 – And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal. And he said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Hear the Word of God and Do It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:19-21 – Then his mother and his brothers came to him, but they could not reach him for the crowd. And he was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see you.” But he said to them, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Every Secret Shall Come to Light

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:16-18 – “No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a vessel, or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is hid that shall not be made manifest, nor anything secret that shall not be known and come to light. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Women Provided for Jesus

By Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:1-3 – Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, preaching and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Which Will Love Him More?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 19:25-27 – Luke 7:36-50 – One of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee’s house, and took his place at table. And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was at table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment …..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: How Shall I Compare This Generation?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:31-35 – “To what then shall I compare the men of this generation, and what are they like? They are like children sitting in the market place and calling to one another, `We piped to you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not weep.’ For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine; and you say, `He has a demon.’ …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Lord Had Compassion on Her

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:11-17 – Soon afterward he went to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a great crowd went with him. As he drew near to the gate of the city, behold, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow; and a large crowd from the city was with her. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Say the Word – Be Healed

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:1-10 – After he had ended all his sayings in the hearing of the people he entered Capernaum. Now a centurion had a slave who was dear to him, who was sick and at the point of death. When he heard of Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and heal his slave. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: A Life Built on a Solid Foundation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:43-49 – “For no good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit; for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. The good man out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil man out of his evil treasure produces evil; for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do You Not See the Log in Your Own Eye?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:39-42 – He also told them a parable: “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? A disciple is not above his teacher, but every one when he is fully taught will be like his teacher. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Good to Those Who Hate You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:27-38 – “But I say to you that hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. To him who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from him who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Blessed Are You Poor – Yours Is the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word- Luke 6:20-26 – And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: “Blessed are you poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. “Blessed are you that hunger now, for you shall be satisfied. “Blessed are you that weep now, for you shall laugh. “Blessed are you when men hate you, and when they exclude you and revile you, and cast out your name as evil, on account of the Son of man! …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Chose Twelve Apostles

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:12-19 – In these days he went out to the mountain to pray; and all night he continued in prayer to God. And when it was day, he called his disciples, and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles; Simon, whom he named Peter, and Andrew his brother, and James and John, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Son of Man Is Lord of the Sabbath

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:1-5 – On a Sabbath, while he was going through the grain fields, his disciples plucked and ate some heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands. But some of the Pharisees said, “Why are you doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath?” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Unity of the New and the Old

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 5:33-39 – And they said to him, “The disciples of John fast often and offer prayers, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees, but yours eat and drink.” And Jesus said to them, “Can you make wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: He Laid His Hands on Every One and Healed Them

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 4:38-44 – And he arose and left the synagogue, and entered Simon’s house. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was ill with a high fever, and they asked him about her. And he stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her; and immediately she rose and served them. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: His Word Was with Authority and Power

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 4:31-37 – And he went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee. And he was teaching them on the Sabbath; and they were astonished at his teaching, for his word was with authority. And in the synagogue there was a man who had the spirit of an unclean demon; and he cried out with a loud voice ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: No Prophet Is Acceptable in His Own Country

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 4:16-30 – And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; and he went to the synagogue, as his custom was, on the Sabbath day. And he stood up to read; and there was given to him the book of the prophet Isaiah. He opened the book and found the place where it was written, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Master Will Settle His Account with Them

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 25:14-30 – “For it will be as when a man going on a journey called his servants and entrusted to them his property; to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them; and he made five talents more. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Foolish Will Miss Heaven’s Wedding Feast

Author Don Schwager Servants of the Word – Matthew 25:1-13 – “Then the kingdom of heaven shall be compared to ten maidens who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Are You Ready to Meet the Lord?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 24:42-51 – Watch therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the householder had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have watched and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an hour you do not expect. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: True Beauty and Goodness Come from Within

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 23:27-32 – “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you are like white washed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within they are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. So you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but within you are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Neglect Justice, Mercy and Faith

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 23:23-26 – “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you tithe mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law, justice and mercy and faith; these you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Do Not Close the Door to God’s Kingdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 23:13-22 – “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because you shut the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither enter yourselves, nor allow those who would enter to go in. Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you traverse sea and land to make a single proselyte, and when he becomes a proselyte, you make him twice as much a child of hell as yourselves. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Humbles Oneself Will Be Exalted

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 23:1-12 – Then said Jesus to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; so practice and observe whatever they tell you, but not what they do; for they preach, but do not practice. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: What Is the Greatest Rule of Life?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 22:34-40 – But when the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they came together. And one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question, to test him. “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Would Not Come to the Feast!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 22:1-14 – And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a marriage feast for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the marriage feast; but they would not come. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Do You Begrudge My Generosity?

By Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 20:1-16 – “For the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. After agreeing with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the market place; …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Can Enter the Kingdom of Heaven?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 19:23-30 – And Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, it will be hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” When the disciples heard this they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Give – and You Will Have Treasure in Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 19:16-22 – And behold, one came up to him, saying, “Teacher, what good deed must I do, to have eternal life?” And he said to him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? One there is who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Let the Children Come to Me

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 19:13-15 – 13 Then children were brought to him that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked the people; 14 but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” 15 And he laid his hands on them and went away.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What God Has Joined Together

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 19:3-12 -And Pharisees came up to him and tested him by asking, “Is it lawful to divorce one’s wife for any cause?” He answered, “Have you not read that he who made them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, `For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’?

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord, How Often Shall I Forgive My Brother?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:21-19:1 – Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven. “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. …

 Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: If Your Brother Sins against You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:15-20 – “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. 16 But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Is the Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14 – At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them, and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Not to Give Offense

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 17:22-27 – As they were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day.” And they were greatly distressed. When they came to Capernaum, the collectors of the half-shekel tax went up to Peter ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Nothing Will Be Impossible to You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 17:14-20 – And when they came to the crowd, a man came up to him and kneeling before him said, “Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an epileptic and he suffers terribly; for often he falls into the fire, and often into the water. And I brought him to your disciples, and they could not heal him.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Whoever Loses His Life for My Sake Will Find It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 16:24-28 – Then Jesus told his disciples, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. 26 For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? Or what shall a man give in return for his life? …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: You Are the Christ – the Son of the Living God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 16:13-19 – Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do men say that the Son of man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Great Is Your Faith! Be It Done for You as You Desire

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 15:21-28 – And Jesus went away from there and withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and cried, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely possessed by a demon.” But he did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, “Send her away, for she is crying after us.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: It Is I – Have No Fear

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 14:22-36 – Then he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but the boat by this time was many furlongs distant from the land …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus Blessed the Loaves and Fishes

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 14:13-21 – Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a lonely place apart. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. As he went ashore he saw a great throng; and he had compassion on them, and healed their sick. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Herod’s Reaction to John the Baptist

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 14:1-12 – At that time Herod the tetrarch heard about the fame of Jesus; and he said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist, he has been raised from the dead; that is why these powers are at work in him.” For Herod had seized John and bound him and put him in prison, for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Took Offense at Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:54-58 – and coming to his own country he taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished, and said, “Where did this man get this wisdom and these mighty works? Is not this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? 56 And are not all his sisters with us? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Trained for the Kingdom of Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:47-53 – “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net which was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind; when it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into vessels but threw away the bad. So it will be at the close of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous, and throw them into the furnace of fire …

 Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Joy in Finding Hidden Treasure and Pearl of Great Price

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:44-46 – “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Righteous Will Shine like the Sun in the Father’s Kingdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:36-43 – Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.” He answered, “He who sows the good seed is the Son of man; …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What the Kingdom of Heaven Is Like

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:31-35 – Another parable he put before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed which a man took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” ..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Guarding the Good Seed of God’s Word in Our Heart

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:24-30 – Another parable he put before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field; but while men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Hears the Word and Understands It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:18-23 – “Hear then the parable of the sower. When any one hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what is sown in his heart; this is what was sown along the path. As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Many Longed to Hear What You Hear

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:10-17 – Then the disciples came and said to him, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” And he answered them, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For to him who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Since They Had No Root They Withered Away

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:1-9 – That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat there; and the whole crowd stood on the beach. And he told them many things in parables, saying: “A sower went out to sow. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Are My Brothers and Sisters?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 12:46-50 – While he was still speaking to the people, behold, his mother and his brothers stood outside, asking to speak to him. But he replied to the man who told him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” ..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: An Adulterous Generation Seeks for a Sign

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 12:38-42 – Then some of the scribes and Pharisees said to him, “Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you.” But he answered them, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign; but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Until Jesus Brings Justice to Victory

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 12:14-21 – But the Pharisees went out and took counsel against him, how to destroy him. Jesus, aware of this, withdrew from there. And many followed him, and he healed them all, and ordered them not to make him known. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: I Desire Mercy and Not Sacrifice

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 12:1-8 – At that time Jesus went through the grain fields on the Sabbath; his disciples were hungry, and they began to pluck heads of grain and to eat. But when the Pharisees saw it, they said to him, “Look, your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Take My Yoke upon You and Learn from Me

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:28-30 – Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Heavenly Things Revealed to Infants

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:25-27 – At that time Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Will You Be Exalted to Heaven?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:20-24 – Then he began to upbraid the cities where most of his mighty works had been done, because they did not repent. “Woe to you, Chorazin! woe to you, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Have Not Come to Bring Peace, but a Sword

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 10:34 – 11:1 – “Do not think that I have come to bring peace on earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; 36 and a man’s foes will be those of his own household. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Fear Him Who Can Destroy Soul and Body in Hell

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 10:24-33 – “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master; it is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household. “So have no fear of them; for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Sheep in the Midst of Wolves – Wise and Innocent

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 10:16-23 – “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of men; for they will deliver you up to councils, and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear testimony before them and the Gentiles. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Freely Have You Received – Freely Give

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 10:7-15 – And preach as you go, saying, `The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying, give without pay. Take no gold, nor silver, nor copper in your belts, no bag for your journey, nor two tunics, nor sandals, nor a staff; for the laborer deserves his food. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus Gives His Disciples Authority to Heal and Set Free

Author Don Schwager. Servants of the Word – Matthew 10:1-7 – And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every infirmity. The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Never Seen Anything like This

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:32-38 – As they were going away, behold, a dumb demoniac was brought to him. And when the demon had been cast out, the dumb man spoke; and the crowds marveled, saying, “Never was anything like this seen in Israel.” But the Pharisees said, “He casts out demons by the prince of demons.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Day Will Come When They Will Fast

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:14-17 – Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Desire Mercy – Not Sacrifice

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:9-13 – As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax office; and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. And as he sat at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Jesus and his disciples. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Take Heart – Your Sins Are Forgiven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:1-8 – And getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his own city. And behold, they brought to him a paralytic, lying on his bed; and when Jesus saw their faith he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Will Know Them by Their Fruits

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 7:15-20 – “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thorns, or figs from thistles? So, every sound tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears evil fruit. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Throw Your Pearls before Swine

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 7:6,12-14 – “Do not give dogs what is holy; and do not throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under foot and turn to attack you. So whatever you wish that men would do to you, do so to them; for this is the law and the prophets. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: First Take the Log out of Your Own Eye

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 7:1-5 -“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Why Are You Anxious – Seek First His Kingdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 6:24-34 – “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink, nor about your body, what you shall put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lay up Treasure in Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 6:19-23 – “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Your Heavenly Father Knows What You Need

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 6:7-15 – “And in praying do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. Pray then like this: Our Father who art in heaven …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: When You Pray, Fast, and Give Alms

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 – Beware of practicing your piety before men in order to be seen by them; for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. “Thus, when you give alms, sound no trumpet before you …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Love Your Enemies and Pray for Them

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:43-48 – “You have heard that it was said, `You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Return Evil for Evil

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:38-42 – “You have heard that it was said, `An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist one who is evil. But if any one strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; and if any one would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well…

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Let What You Say Be Simply Yes or No

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:33-37 – “Again you have heard that it was said to the men of old, `You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ But I say to you, Do not swear at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: If Your Eye Causes You to Sin

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:27-32 – “You have heard that it was said, `You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that every one who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and throw it away …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Be Reconciled to Your Brother

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:20-26 – For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. “You have heard that it was said to the men of old, `You shall not kill; and whoever kills shall be liable to judgment.’ …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Great Are Those Who Teach and Obey the Commandments

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:17-19 – “Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Salt of the Earth and Light of the World

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:13-16 – “You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trodden under foot by men. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Rejoice and Be Glad, for Your Reward Is Great in Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:1-12a – Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Immensity of What Jesus Has Done for Us

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 21:20-25 – Peter turned and saw following them the disciple whom Jesus loved, who had lain close to his breast at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?” When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Do You Love Jesus More Than These?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 21:15-19 – When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” A second time he said to him, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: May They Become Perfectly One

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 17:20-26 – “I do not pray for these only, but also for those who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one; even as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Consecrated in God’s Truth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – And now I am no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. While I was with them, I kept them in your name, which you have given me …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Is Eternal Life – to Know the Father the Only True God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word Alternate reading: Luke 1:39-45 GOSPEL READING: John 17:1-11 1 When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Your Sorrow Will Turn into Joy

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 16:20-23 – Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy. When a woman is in travail she has sorrow, because her hour has come; but when she is delivered of the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a child is born into the world. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Lord Jesus Was Taken up into Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 24:46-53 – Jesus said to the Eleven: “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be preached in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Holy Spirit Will Guide You into All the Truth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 16:12-15 – “I have yet many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: I Will Send the Counselor to You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 16:5-11 – But now I am going to him who sent me; yet none of you asks me, `Where are you going?’ But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your hearts. Nevertheless I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: When the Counselor Comes, the Spirit of Truth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 15:26-16:4 – But when the Counselor comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness to me; and you also are witnesses, because you have been with me from the beginning. [John 16] …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Are Not of the World

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 15:18-21 – “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Abide in My Love

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 15:9-11 – As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Abide in Me, and I in You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 15:1-8 – “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine dresser. Every branch of mine that bears no fruit, he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already made clean by the word which I have spoken to you. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: My Peace I Give to You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 14:27-31 – Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. You heard me say to you, `I go away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I go to the Father…

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: If You Love Me, Keep My Word

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 14:21-26 – He who has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me; and he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Lord, Show Us the Father

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 14:7-14 – If you had known me, you would have known my Father also; henceforth you know him and have seen him.” Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and we shall be satisfied.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and yet you do not know me, Philip? ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Let Your Hearts Be Troubled!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 14:1-6 – “Let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The One Who Receives Me

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 13:16-20 – Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. I am not speaking of you all; I know whom I have chosen; it is that the scripture may be fulfilled, `He who ate my bread has lifted his heel against me.’

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Believe in Me – That You May Not Remain in Darkness

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word -John 12:44-50 – And Jesus cried out and said, “He who believes in me, believes not in me but in him who sent me. And he who sees me sees him who sent me. I have come as light into the world, that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: My Sheep Hear My Voice

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 10:22-30 – It was the feast of the Dedication at Jerusalem; it was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the portico of Solomon. So the Jews gathered round him and said to him, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Came That They May Have Life Abundantly

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 10:1-10 – “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber; but he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the gatekeeper opens; the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Have the Words of Everlasting Life

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:60-69 – Many of his disciples, when they heard it, said, “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?” But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples murmured at it, said to them, “Do you take offense at this? 62 Then what if you were to see the Son of man ascending where he was before? It is the spirit that gives life, the flesh is of no avail; the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. 64 But there are some of you that do not believe.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Who Eats This Bread Will Live Forever

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:52-59 – The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in you …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: If Anyone Eats of This Bread, He Will Live for Ever

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:44-51 – No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the prophets, `And they shall all be taught by God.’ Every one who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me. Not that any one has seen the Father except him who is from God; he has seen the Father.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Will Raise You up at the Last Day

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:35-40 – Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; he who comes to me shall not hunger, and he who believes in me shall never thirst. But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. All that the Father gives me will come to me; and him who comes to me I will not cast out.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Am the Bread of Life

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:30-35 – So they said to him, “Then what sign do you do, that we may see, and believe you? What work do you perform? Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, `He gave them bread from heaven to eat.'” Jesus then said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven; my Father gives you the true bread from heaven.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Labor for the Food Which Endures to Eternal Life

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:22-29 – On the next day the people who remained on the other side of the sea saw that there had been only one boat there, and that Jesus had not entered the boat with his disciples, but that his disciples had gone away alone. However, boats from Tiberias came near the place where they ate the bread after the Lord had given thanks. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Said: “It Is I – Do Not Be Afraid”

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:16-21 – When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea, got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum. It was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. The sea rose because a strong wind was blowing. …

 Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Miraculous Sign of Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:1-15 – After this Jesus went to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, which is the Sea of Tiberias. And a multitude followed him, because they saw the signs which he did on those who were diseased. Jesus went up on the mountain, and there sat down with his disciples. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Who Believes in the Son Has Eternal Life

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 3:31-36 – He who comes from above is above all; he who is of the earth belongs to the earth, and of the earth he speaks; he who comes from heaven is above all. He bears witness to what he has seen and heard, yet no one receives his testimony; he who receives his testimony sets his seal to this, that God is true. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: God so Loved the World That He Gave Us His Only Son

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: John 3:16-21 16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Must Be Born Anew

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 3:7-15 – Do not marvel that I said to you, `You must be born anew.’ The wind blows where it wills, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know whence it comes or whither it goes; so it is with every one who is born of the Spirit.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Unless One Is Born Anew

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 3:1-8 – Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do, unless God is with him.” Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Go and Preach the Gospel to the Whole Creation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 16:9-15 – Now when he rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons. She went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and wept. But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Revealed Himself Again to the Disciples

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 21:1-14 – After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias; and he revealed himself in this way. Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat; but that night they caught nothing.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Opened Their Minds to Understand the Scriptures

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 24:35-48 – Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread. As they were saying this, Jesus himself stood among them. But they were startled and frightened, and supposed that they saw a spirit. And he said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do questionings rise in your hearts? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Did Not Our Hearts Burn While He Opened to Us the Scriptures

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 24:13-35 – That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, “What is this conversation which you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still, looking sad.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: I Have Seen the Lord!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 20:11-18 – But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb; and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: News of the Resurrection

By Franciscan Media – James of Oldo was born into a well-to-do family near Milan in 1364. He married a woman who like him, appreciated the comforts that came with wealth. But an outbreak of the plague drove James, his wife, and their three children out of their home and into the countryside. Despite those precautions, two of his daughters died from the plague. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: It Is Finished

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 19:17-30 – “So they took Jesus, and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called the place of a skull, which is called in Hebrew Golgotha. There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, and Jesus between them. Pilate also wrote a title and put it on the cross; it read, ‘Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews’.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Tragedy of the Betrayal

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 26:14-25 – Then one of the twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What will you give me if I deliver him to you?” And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Betrayal and Faltering Loyalty to Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 13:21-33,36-38 – When Jesus had thus spoken, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, “Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.” The disciples looked at one another, uncertain of whom he spoke. One of his disciples, whom Jesus loved, was lying close to the breast of Jesus …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Extravagant Love for Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 12:1-11 – Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. There they made him a supper; Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at table with him. Mary took a pound of costly ointment of pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Took Counsel How to Put Him to Death

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 11:45-56 – Many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what he did, believed in him; but some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. So the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered the council, and said, “What are we to do? For this man performs many signs. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Am the Son of God

By Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 10:31-42 – The Jews took up stones again to stone him. Jesus answered them, “I have shown you many good works from the Father; for which of these do you stone me?” The Jews answered him, “It is not for a good work that we stone you but for blasphemy; because you, being a man, make yourself God.”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Before Abraham Was, I Am

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 8:51-59 – Truly, truly, I say to you, if any one keeps my word, he will never see death.” The Jews said to him, “Now we know that you have a demon. Abraham died, as did the prophets; and you say, `If any one keeps my word, he will never taste death.’ Are you greater than our father Abraham, who died? And the prophets died! Who do you claim to be?”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Truth Will Make You Free

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 8:31-42 – Jesus then said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham, and have never been in bondage to any one. How is it that you say, `You will be made free’?” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: When You Have Lifted up the Son of Man

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 8:21-30 – Again he said to them, “I go away, and you will seek me and die in your sin; where I am going, you cannot come.” Then said the Jews, “Will he kill himself, since he says, `Where I am going, you cannot come’?” He said to them, “You are from below, I am from above; you are of this world, I am not of this world. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Follows Me Will Not Walk in Darkness

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 8:12-20 – Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” The Pharisees then said to him, “You are bearing witness to yourself; your testimony is not true.” Jesus answered, “Even if I do bear witness to myself, my testimony is true, for I know where I have come and where I am going, but you do not know where I come or where I am going.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Reaction to Jesus’ Words

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 7:40-53 – When they heard these words, some of the people said, “This is really the prophet.” Others said, “This is the Christ.” But some said, “Is the Christ to come from Galilee? Has not the scripture said that the Christ is descended from David, and comes from Bethlehem, the village where David was?” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: His Hour Had Not yet Come

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30 – 1 After this Jesus went about in Galilee; he would not go about in Judea, because the Jews sought to kill him. 2 Now the Jews’ feast of Tabernacles was at hand. 10 But after his brothers had gone up to the feast, then he also went up, not publicly but in private.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Father’s Witness to Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 5:31-47 – If I bear witness to myself, my testimony is not true; there is another who bears witness to me, and I know that the testimony which he bears to me is true. You sent to John, and he has borne witness to the truth.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: My Father Is Working Still, and I Am Working

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 5:17-30 – But Jesus answered them, “My Father is working still, and I am working.” This was why the Jews sought all the more to kill him, because he not only broke the Sabbath but also called God his Father, making himself equal with God. Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing; for whatever he does, that the Son does likewise. For the Father loves the Son, and shows him all that he himself is doing …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Walk and Sin No More

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: John 5:1-16 1 After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. […]

 Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus – the Divine Physician

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 4:43-54 – After the two days he departed to Galilee. For Jesus himself testified that a prophet has no honor in his own country. So when he came to Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him, having seen all that he had done in Jerusalem at the feast, for they too had gone to the feast. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: God, Be Merciful to Me a Sinner!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 18:9-14 – He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and despised others: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, `God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Are Not Far from the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 12:28-34 – And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him, “Which commandment is the first of all?” Jesus answered, “The first is, `Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one; and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: God’s Kingdom Has Come upon You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:14-23 – Now he was casting out a demon that was dumb; when the demon had gone out, the dumb man spoke, and the people marveled. But some of them said, “He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons”; while others, to test him, sought from him a sign from heaven. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Relaxes One of the Commandments

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:17-19 – “Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: How Often Shall I Forgive?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:21-35 – Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven. “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus’ Power to Heal and Cleanse

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 4:24-30 – And he said, “Truly, I say to you, no prophet is acceptable in his own country. But in truth, I tell you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when there came a great famine over all the land; and Elijah was sent to none of them but only to Zarephath, in the land of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Father, I Have Sinned against Heaven and You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 15:1-3,11-32 – Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. And the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” So he told them this parable: And he said, “There was a man who had two sons; 12 and the younger of them said to his father ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Stone Which the Builders Rejected

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 21:33-46 – “Hear another parable. There was a householder who planted a vineyard, and set a hedge around it, and dug a wine press in it, and built a tower, and let it out to tenants, and went into another country. When the season of fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants, to get his fruit …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Lazarus Was Carried to Abraham’s Bosom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 16:19-31 – “There was a rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, full of sores, who desired to be fed …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Sign of Jonah for an Evil Generation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word- Luke 11:29-32 – When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, “This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of Jonah. For as Jonah became a sign to the men of Nineveh, so will the Son of man be to this generation. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Your Heavenly Father Knows What You Need

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 6:7-15 – “And in praying do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Eternal Life Versus Eternal Punishment

Author Don Schwager – Matthew 25:31-46 – “When the Son of man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate them one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and he will place the sheep at his right hand, but the goats at the left.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Calls Sinners to Follow Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 5:27-32 – “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” 31 And Jesus answered them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; 32 I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Fasting for the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word- Matthew 9:14-15 – Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Take up Your Cross Daily and Follow Christ

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:22-25 – “The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.” And he said to all, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: When You Pray, Fast, and Give Alms

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 – “Beware of practicing your piety before men in order to be seen by them; for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. “Thus, when you give alms, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by men.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: We Have Left Everything and Followed You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 10:28-31 – Peter began to say to him, “Behold, we have left everything and followed you.” Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What God Has Joined Together

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 10:1-12 – And he left there and went to the region of Judea and beyond the Jordan, and crowds gathered to him again; and again, as his custom was, he taught them. And Pharisees came up and in order to test him asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” He answered them, “What did Moses command you?”

 Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: If Your Hand or Eye Causes You to Sin

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 9:41-50 – For truly, I say to you, whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you bear the name of Christ, will by no means lose his reward. “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were hung round his neck and he were thrown into the sea.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Any One Who Does a Mighty Work in My Name

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 9:38-40 – John said to him, “Teacher, we saw a man casting out demons in your name, and we forbade him, because he was not following us.” But Jesus said, “Do not forbid him; for no one who does a mighty work in my name will be able soon after to speak evil of me. For he that is not against us is for us.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Is the Greatest in God’s Kingdom?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 9:30-37 – They went on from there and passed through Galilee. And he would not have any one know it; 31 for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, “The Son of man will be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him; and when he is killed, after three days he will rise.” ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: All Things Are Possible to Him Who Believes

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 9:14-29 – And when they came to the disciples, they saw a great crowd about them, and scribes arguing with them. And immediately all the crowd, when they saw him, were greatly amazed, and ran up to him and greeted him. And he asked them, “What are you discussing with them?”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Loses His Life for My Sake Will Save It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:34 – 9:1 – And he called to him the multitude with his disciples, and said to them, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Do You Say That Jesus Is?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:27-33 – And Jesus went on with his disciples, to the villages of Caesarea Philippi; and on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do men say that I am?” And they told him, “John the Baptist; and others say, Elijah; and others one of the prophets.” And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.” …

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Blind Man Was Restored, and Saw Everything Clearly

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:22-26 – And they came to Bethsaida. And some people brought to him a blind man, and begged him to touch him. And he took the blind man by the hand, and led him out of the village; and when he had spit on his eyes and laid his hands upon him, he asked him, “Do you see anything?”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Beware of the Leaven of the Pharisees and Herod

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:14-21 – Now they had forgotten to bring bread; and they had only one loaf with them in the boat. And he cautioned them, saying, “Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” And they discussed it with one another, saying, “We have no bread.”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: No Sign Shall Be Given to This Generation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:11-13 – The Pharisees came and began to argue with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven, to test him. And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign shall be given to this generation.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus Alone Can Satisfy Our Hunger for God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:1-10 – In those days, when again a great crowd had gathered, and they had nothing to eat, he called his disciples to him, and said to them, “I have compassion on the crowd, because they have been with me now three days, and have nothing to eat …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Has Done All Things Well

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 7:31-37 – Then he returned from the region of Tyre, and went through Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, through the region of the Decapolis. And they brought to him a man who was deaf and had an impediment in his speech; and they begged him to lay his hand upon him. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Demon Has Left Your Daughter

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 7:24-30 – And from there he arose and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And he entered a house, and would not have any one know it; yet he could not be hid. But immediately a woman, whose little daughter was possessed by an unclean spirit, heard of him, and came and fell down at his feet. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Out of the Heart Come Evil Thoughts

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 7:14-23 – And he called the people to him again, and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: 15 there is nothing outside a man which by going into him can defile him; but the things which come out of a man are what defile him.” 17 And when he had entered the house, and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Rejecting the Commandments of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 7:1-13 – Now when the Pharisees gathered together to him, with some of the scribes, who had come from Jerusalem, they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands defiled, that is, unwashed. (For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, do not eat unless they wash their hands, observing the tradition of the elders …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Many Were Made Well

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:53-56 – And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret, and moored to the shore. And when they got out of the boat, immediately the people recognized him, and ran about the whole neighborhood and began to bring sick people on their pallets to any place where they heard he was.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Come Away and Rest a While

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:30-34 – The apostles returned to Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a lonely place, and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a lonely place by themselves. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Herod’s Guilty Conscience

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:14-29 – King Herod heard of it; for Jesus’ name had become known. Some said, “John the baptizer has been raised from the dead; that is why these powers are at work in him.” But others said, “It is Elijah.” And others said, “It is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus Gave Them Authority over Sickness and Unclean Spirits

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:7-13 – And he called to him the twelve, and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Marveled because of Their Unbelief

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:1-6 – He went away from there and came to his own country; and his disciples followed him. And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue; and many who heard him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get all this? What is the wisdom given to him? What mighty works are wrought by his hands! …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Woman Who Took Heart in Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 5:21-43 – And when Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered about him; and he was beside the sea. Then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and seeing him, he fell at his feet, and begged him, saying, “My little daughter is at the point of death. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Tell Them How Much the Lord Has Done for You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 5:1-20 – They came to the other side of the sea, to the country of Gerasenes. And when he had come out of the boat, there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, who lived among the tombs; and no one could bind him any more, even with a chain …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Why Are You Afraid?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:35-41 – On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. And a great storm of wind arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke him and said to him ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Living in the Light of God’s Truth and Wisdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:21-25 – And he said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under a bushel, or under a bed, and not on a stand? For there is nothing hid, except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret, except to come to light.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Taught People Using Parables

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:1-20 – Again he began to teach beside the sea. And a very large crowd gathered about him so that he got into a boat and sat in it on the sea; and the whole crowd was beside the sea on the land. And he taught them many things in parables, and in his teaching he said to them: “Listen! A sower went out to sow. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Whoever Does the Will of God Is My Brother and Sister

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:31-35 – And his mother and his brothers came; and standing outside they sent to him and called him. And a crowd was sitting about him; and they said to him, “Your mother and your brothers are outside, asking for you.” And he replied, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Frees Us from Satan’s Power

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:22-30 – And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, “He is possessed by Beelzebul, and by the prince of demons he casts out the demons.” And he called them to him, and said to them in parables, “How can Satan cast out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: People Were Saying of Jesus, ‘He Is beside Himself’

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:19b, 20-21 – Then he went home; 20 and the crowd came together again, so that they could not even eat. And when his family heard it, they went out to seize him, for people were saying, “He is beside himself.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Appointed Twelve to Be with Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:13-19 – And he went up on the mountain, and called to him those whom he desired; and they came to him. And he appointed twelve, to be with him, and to be sent out to preach and have authority to cast out demons: Simon whom he surnamed Peter; James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: All Pressed upon Jesus to Touch Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:7-12 – Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the sea, and a great multitude from Galilee followed; also from Judea and Jerusalem and Idumea and from beyond the Jordan and from about Tyre and Sidon a great multitude, hearing all that he did, came to him. And he told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd, lest they should crush him …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Is It Lawful… to Save Life or to Kill?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:1-6 – Again he entered the synagogue, and a man was there who had a withered hand. And they watched him, to see whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him. And he said to the man who had the withered hand, “Come here.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Son of Man Is Lord of the Sabbath

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 2:23-28 – One Sabbath he was going through the grain fields; and as they made their way his disciples began to pluck heads of grain. And the Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath?” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Fasting or Feasting?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 2:18-22 – Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting; and people came and said to him, “Why do John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: We Never Saw Anything like This!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 2:1-12 – And when he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and he was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Lord Jesus Can Make Me Clean

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word   GOSPEL READING: Mark 1:40-45 40 And a leper came to him beseeching him, and kneeling said to him, “If you […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Healed Many Who Were Sick

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 1:29-39 – And immediately he left the synagogue, and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon’s mother-in-law lay sick with a fever, and immediately they told him of her. And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her; and she served them. That evening, at sundown, they brought to him all who were sick or possessed with demons. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Taught with Authority

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 1:21-28 – And they went into Capernaum; and immediately on the Sabbath he entered the synagogue and taught. And they were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one who had authority, and not as the scribes. And immediately there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, “What have you to do with us …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Kingdom of God Is at Hand

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 1:14-20 – Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe in the gospel.” And passing along by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net in the sea; for they were fishermen. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord, You Can Make Me Clean

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 5:12-16 – While he was in one of the cities, there came a man full of leprosy; and when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and besought him, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” And he stretched out his hand, and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Spirit of the Lord Is upon Me

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 4:14-22 – And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee, and a report concerning him went out through all the surrounding country. And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all. And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; and he went to the synagogue, as his custom was, on the Sabbath day. And he stood up to read …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Take Heart, It Is I; Have No Fear

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:45-52 – Immediately he made his disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. And after he had taken leave of them, he went up on the mountain to pray. And when evening came, the boat was out on the sea, and he was alone on the land. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They All Ate and Were Satisfied

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:34-44 – As he went ashore he saw a great throng, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things. And when it grew late, his disciples came to him and said, “This is a lonely place, and the hour is now late; send them away, to go into the country and villages round about and buy themselves something to eat.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: From Darkness and Death to Light and Life

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 4:12-17,23-25 – Now when he heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth he went and dwelt in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Word Became Flesh and Dwelt Among Us

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 1:1-18 – In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Anna Recognized the Coming of Christ and Gave Thanks to God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 2:36-40 – And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher; she was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years from her virginity, and as a widow till she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Favor of God Was upon Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 2:22-35 – And when the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male that opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”) and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: John Saw the Word of God Made Flesh and Believed

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 20:1a, 2-8 – Now on the first day of the week [Mary Magdelan] ran, and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.” Peter then came out with the other disciple, and they went toward the tomb. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Nothing Is Impossible with God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:67-79 – And his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying, “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people, and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What Then Will This Child Be?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:57-66 – Now the time came for Elizabeth to be delivered, and she gave birth to a son. And her neighbors and kinsfolk heard that the Lord had shown great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. And on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they would have named him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said, “Not so; he shall be called John.”…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Joyful Expectation of the Messiah

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:46-56 – And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Joyful Anticipation of the Messiah

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:39-45 – In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a city of Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Hail, O Favored One, the Lord Is with You!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:26-38 – In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Hail, O favored one, the Lord is with you!”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Will Save His People from Their Sins

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel” (which means, God with us). 24 When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took his wife, 25 but her knew her not until she had borne a son; and he called his name Jesus.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 1:1-17 – The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram, and Ram the father of Amminadab ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: My Steadfast Love and Covenant of Peace

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:24-30 – When the messengers of John had gone, he began to speak to the crowds concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to behold? A reed shaken by the wind? What then did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, those who are gorgeously appareled and live in luxury are in kings’ courts. What then did you go out to see? A prophet?

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Blind See, the Lame Walk, the Poor Receive Good News

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:18-23 – The disciples of John told him of all these things. And John, calling to him two of his disciples, sent them to the Lord, saying, “Are you he who is to come, or shall we look for another?” And when the men had come to him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to you, saying, `Are you he who is to come, or shall we look for another?'”…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Which Son Did the Father’s Will?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 21:28-32 – “What do you think? A man had two sons; and he went to the first and said, `Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ And he answered, `I will not’; but afterward he repented and went. And he went to the second and said the same; and he answered, `I go, sir,’ but did not go. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: All Hold That John Was a Prophet

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 21:23-27 – And when he entered the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came up to him as he was teaching, and said, “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?” Jesus answered them, “I also will ask you a question; and if you tell me the answer, then I also will tell you by what authority I do these things.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Elijah Must First Come

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 17:9a,10-13 – And as they were coming down the mountain 10 the disciples asked him, “Then why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?” He replied, “Elijah does come, and he is to restore all things; but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not know him, but did to him whatever they pleased. So also the Son of man will suffer at their hands.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Lord Will Lead You in the Way You Should Go

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:16-19 – “But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the market places and calling to their playmates, `We piped to you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not mourn.’ For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, `He has a demon’; the Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, `Behold, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Is Elijah Who Is to Come

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 11:11-15 Truly, I say to you, among those born of women there has risen no one greater […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Come to Me and I Will Give You Rest

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:28-30 – Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Why Christmas Stories Fill Us With Hope, by Dr. Donald DeMarco

By Dr. Donald DeMarco, Catholic Exchange – The life of Christ is the greatest story ever told. But in terms of popularity, and thanks to television, our two most popular Christmas stories, that return to charm us each Christmas Season, are Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and Franks Capra’s cinematic production of It’s a Wonderful Life. The latter was inspired by Civil War historian Philip Van Doren Stern’s short story, The Greatest Gift, written in 1943. Charles Dickens published his masterpiece exactly 100 years earlier.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: God Carries Us in His Bosom 

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:12-14 – What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Your God Will Come and Save You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 5:17-26 – On one of those days, as he was teaching, there were Pharisees and teachers of the law sitting by, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem; and the power of the Lord was with him to heal. And behold, men were bringing on a bed a man who was paralyzed …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Kingdom of Heaven Is at Hand

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 9:35-10:1,6-8 9:35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do You Believe?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:27-31 – And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud, “Have mercy on us, Son of David.” When he entered the house, the blind men came to him; and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to him, “Yes, Lord.” Then he touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith be it done to you.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Shall Enter the Kingdom of Heaven?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 7:21,24-27 – “Not every one who says to me, `Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. “Every one then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house upon the rock…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Is the Lord – We Have Waited for Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 15:29-37 – And Jesus went on from there and passed along the Sea of Galilee. And he went up on the mountain, and sat down there. And great crowds came to him, bringing with them the lame, the maimed, the blind, the dumb, and many others, and they put them at his feet, and he healed them, so that the throng wondered …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Blessed Are the Eyes Which See What You See!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:21-24 – In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been delivered to me by my Father; and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, or who the Father is except the Son …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Many Will Sit at Table in the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 8:5-11 – As he entered Capernaum, a centurion came forward to him, beseeching him and saying, “Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, in terrible distress.” And he said to him, “I will come and heal him.” But the centurion answered him, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; but only say the word, and my servant will be healed. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: All the People Hung upon His Words

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 19:45-48 – And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold, saying to them, “It is written, `My house shall be a house of prayer’; but you have made it a den of robbers.” And he was teaching daily in the temple. ..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Know the Time of Your Visitation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 19:41-44 – And when he drew near and saw the city he wept over it, saying, “Would that even today you knew the things that make for peace! But now they are hid from your eyes. For the days shall come upon you, when your enemies will cast up a bank about you and surround you, and hem you in on every side…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Did Not Want Me to Reign over Them

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 19:11-28 – As they heard these things, he proceeded to tell a parable, because he was near to Jerusalem, and because they supposed that the kingdom of God was to appear immediately. He said therefore, “A nobleman went into a far country to receive a kingdom and then return. Calling ten of his servants, he gave them ten pounds, and said to them …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Zacchaeus Received Jesus Joyfully

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 19:1-10 – He entered Jericho and was passing through. And there was a man named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector, and rich. And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because he was small of stature. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What Do You Want Me to Do for You?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 18:35-43 – As he drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging; and hearing a multitude going by, he inquired what this meant. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” And he cried, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Always Pray and Do Not Lose Heart

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 18:1-8 – And he told them a parable, to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor regarded man; and there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, `Vindicate me against my adversary.’ …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: One Will Be Taken and the Other Left

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:26-37 – As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be in the days of the Son of man. They ate, they drank, they married, they were given in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. Likewise as it was in the days of Lot — they ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Coming of Christ’s Kingdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:20-25 – Being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was coming, he answered them, “The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed; nor will they say, `Behold, here it is!’ or `There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.” And he said to the disciples, “The days are coming when you will desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and you will not see it.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Fell at Jesus’ Feet Giving Thanks

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:11-19 – On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: We Have Only Done Our Duty

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:7-10 – “Will any one of you, who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep, say to him when he has come in from the field, `Come at once and sit down at table’? Will he not rather say to him, `Prepare supper for me, and gird yourself and serve me, till I eat and drink; and afterward you shall eat and drink’? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord Jesus Increase Our Faith

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:1-6 – And he said to his disciples, “Temptations to sin are sure to come; but woe to him by whom they come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung round his neck and he were cast into the sea, than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin. Take heed to yourselves; if your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Necessity of Prudent Foresight

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 16:1-8 – He also said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a steward, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his goods. And he called him and said to him, `What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your stewardship, for you can no longer be steward.’

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The True Cost of Discipleship 

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:25-33 – Now great multitudes accompanied him; and he turned and said to them, “If any one comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me, cannot be my disciple.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Invitation to the King’s Banquet Table

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:15-24 – When one of those who sat at table with him heard this, he said to him, “Blessed is he who shall eat bread in the kingdom of God!” But he said to him, “A man once gave a great banquet, and invited many; and at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, `Come; for all is now ready.’

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Every One Who Exalts Himself Will Be Humbled

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:1, 7-11 – One sabbath when he went to dine at the house of a ruler who belonged to the Pharisees, they were watching him. Now he told a parable to those who were invited, when he marked how they chose the places of honor, saying to them ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Were Watching Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:1-6 – One Sabbath when he went to dine at the house of a ruler who belonged to the Pharisees, they were watching him. And behold, there was a man before him who had dropsy. And Jesus spoke to the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath, or not?” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Blessed Is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:31-35 – At that very hour some Pharisees came, and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” And he said to them, “Go and tell that fox, `Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Do Not Risk Being Shut Out

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:22-30 – He went on his way through towns and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem. 23 And some one said to him, “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” And he said to them, “Strive to enter by the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. When once the householder has risen up and shut the door, you will begin to stand outside and to knock at the door …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What God’s Kingdom Is Like

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:18-21 – He said therefore, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed which a man took and sowed in his garden; and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.” …

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditations: Freedom from Bondage for Eighteen Years

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:10-17 – Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. And there was a woman who had had a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years; she was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. 12 And when Jesus saw her, he called her and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your infirmity.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Unless You Repent – You Will Perish

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:1-9 – There were some present at that very time who told him of the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And he answered them, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered thus? I tell you, No; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. ..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Heed the Warning Signs before It Is Too Late

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:54-59 – He also said to the multitudes, “When you see a cloud rising in the west, you say at once, `A shower is coming’; and so it happens. And when you see the south wind blowing, you say, `There will be scorching heat’; and it happens. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky; but why do you not know how to interpret the present time? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Came to Cast Fire upon the Earth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:49-53 – “I came to cast fire upon the earth; and would that it were already kindled! 50 I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how I am constrained until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division; for henceforth in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three; …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Be Ready to Answer – the Lord Draws Near

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:39-48 – But know this, that if the householder had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have left his house to be broken into. You also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an unexpected hour.” Peter said, “Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for all?”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: When the Master Knocks – Open at Once

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:35-38 – “Let your loins be girded and your lamps burning, and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the marriage feast, so that they may open to him at once when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes; truly, I say to you, he will gird himself and have them sit at table, and he will come and serve them….

 Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Storing up True Riches

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:13-21 – One of the multitude said to him, “Teacher, bid my brother divide the inheritance with me.” But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or divider over you?” And he said to them, “Take heed, and beware of all covetousness; for a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Holy Spirit Will Teach You What to Say

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:8-12 – “And I tell you, every one who acknowledges me before men, the Son of man also will acknowledge before the angels of God; but he who denies me before men will be denied before the angels of God. And every one who speaks a word against the Son of man will be forgiven; but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Do Not Fear Those Who Kill the Body

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. 3 Therefore whatever you have said in the dark shall be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in private rooms shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Lose the Key of Knowledge

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:47-54 – Woe to you! for you build the tombs of the prophets whom your fathers killed. So you are witnesses and consent to the deeds of your fathers; for they killed them, and you build their tombs. Therefore also the Wisdom of God said, `I will send them prophets and apostles …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What Makes the Heart Clean and Holy?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:37-41 – While he was speaking, a Pharisee asked him to dine with him; so he went in and sat at table. The Pharisee was astonished to see that he did not first wash before dinner. And the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees cleanse the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside you are full of extortion and wickedness.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: This Is an Evil Generation; It Seeks a Sign

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:29-32 – When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, “This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of Jonah. For as Jonah became a sign to the men of Nineveh, so will the Son of man be to this generation.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Hear the Word of God and Keep It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:27-28 – As he said this, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, “Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts that you sucked!” But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: If it is by the Finger of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:15-26 – But some of them said, “He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons”; while others, to test him, sought from him a sign from heaven. But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: How Much More Will the Heavenly Father Give!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:5-13 – And he said to them, “Which of you who has a friend will go to him at midnight and say to him, `Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him’; and he will answer from within, `Do not bother me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord, Teach Us to Pray

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:1-4 – He was praying in a certain place, and when he ceased, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” And he said to them, “When you pray, say: “Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread; and forgive us our sins…”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: You Are Anxious

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:38-42 – Now as they went on their way, he entered a village; and a woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving; and she went to him and said …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Go and Do Likewise

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:25-37 – And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” He said to him, “What is written in the law? How do you read?” And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” And he said to him, “You have answered right; do this, and you will live.”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Your Names Are Written in Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:17-24 – The seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name!” And he said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall hurt you. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: He Who Hears You Hears Me

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:13-16 – “Woe to you, Chorazin! woe to you, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it shall be more tolerable in the judgment for Tyre and Sidon than for you. And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You shall be brought down to Hades. 16 “He who hears you hears me, and he who rejects you rejects me, and he who rejects me rejects him who sent me.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Kingdom of God Has Come Near to You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:1-12 – After this the Lord appointed seventy others, and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to come. And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs in the midst of wolves. 4 Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and salute no one on the road.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Fit for the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:57-62 – As they were going along the road, a man said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man has nowhere to lay his head.” To another he said, “Follow me.” But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus’ Face Was Set toward Jerusalem

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:51-56 – When the days drew near for him to be received up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. And he sent messengers ahead of him, who went and entered a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him; but the people would not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. …

 Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus Perceived the Thought of Their Hearts

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:46-50 – And an argument arose among them as to which of them was the greatest. But when Jesus perceived the thought of their hearts, he took a child and put him by his side, and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me …”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Suppressing Truth to Ease a Guilty Conscience

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:7-9 – Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the old prophets had risen. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Gave Them Authority over All Demons and Diseases

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:1-6 – And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal. And he said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Hear the Word of God and Do It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:19-21 – Then his mother and his brothers came to him, but they could not reach him for the crowd. And he was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see you.” But he said to them, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Every Secret Shall Come to Light

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:16-18 – “No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a vessel, or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is hid that shall not be made manifest, nor anything secret that shall not be known and come to light. ..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Who Has Ears to Hear, Let Him Hear

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:4-15 – And when a great crowd came together and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable: “A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell along the path, and was trodden under foot, and the birds of the air devoured it. And some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Women Provided for Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:1-3 – Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, preaching and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Which Will Love Him More?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:36-50 – One of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee’s house, and took his place at table. And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was at table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment, and standing behind him at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: How Shall I Compare This Generation?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:31-35 – “To what then shall I compare the men of this generation, and what are they like? They are like children sitting in the market place and calling to one another, `We piped to you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not weep.’

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Lord Had Compassion on Her

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:11-17 – Soon afterward he went to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a great crowd went with him. As he drew near to the gate of the city, behold, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow; and a large crowd from the city was with her. And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Say the Word – Be Healed

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:1-10 – After he had ended all his sayings in the hearing of the people he entered Capernaum. Now a centurion had a slave who was dear to him, who was sick and at the point of death. When he heard of Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and heal his slave.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: A Life Built on a Solid Foundation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:43-49 – “For no good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit; for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. The good man out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil man out of his evil treasure produces evil; for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do You Not See the Log in Your Own Eye?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Luke 6:39-42 39 He also told them a parable: “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Good to Those Who Hate You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:27-38 – “But I say to you that hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. To him who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from him who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Blessed Are You Poor – Yours Is the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 1:1-16, 18-23 – And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: “Blessed are you poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. “Blessed are you that hunger now, for you shall be satisfied. “Blessed are you that weep now, for you shall laugh. “Blessed are you when men hate you, and when they exclude you and revile you, and cast out your name as evil, on account of the Son of man!

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus Chose Twelve Apostles

Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:12-19 – In these days he went out to the mountain to pray; and all night he continued in prayer to God. And when it was day, he called his disciples, and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles; Simon, whom he named Peter, and Andrew his brother, and James and John, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Son of Man Is Lord of the Sabbath

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:1-5 – On a Sabbath, while he was going through the grain fields, his disciples plucked and ate some heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands. But some of the Pharisees said, “Why are you doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath?” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Unity of the New and the Old

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 5:33-39 – And they said to him, “The disciples of John fast often and offer prayers, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees, but yours eat and drink.” And Jesus said to them, “Can you make wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Will Catch People for the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 5:1-11 – While the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret. And he saw two boats by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Laid His Hands on Every One and Healed Them

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 4:38-44 – And he arose and left the synagogue, and entered Simon’s house. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was ill with a high fever, and they asked him about her. And he stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her; and immediately she rose and served them. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: His Word Was with Authority and Power

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 4:31-37 – And he went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee. And he was teaching them on the Sabbath; and they were astonished at his teaching, for his word was with authority. And in the synagogue there was a man who had the spirit of an unclean demon; and he cried out with a loud voice …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: No Prophet Is Acceptable in His Own Country

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 4:16-30 – And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; and he went to the synagogue, as his custom was, on the Sabbath day. And he stood up to read; and there was given to him the book of the prophet Isaiah. He opened the book and found the place where it was written, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Master Will Settle His Account with Them

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 25:14-30 – “For it will be as when a man going on a journey called his servants and entrusted to them his property; to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them; and he made five talents more. So also, he who had the two talents made two talents more.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Foolish Will Miss Heaven’s Wedding Feast

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 25:1-13 – “Then the kingdom of heaven shall be compared to ten maidens who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Are You Ready to Meet the Lord?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 24:42-51 – Watch therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the householder had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have watched and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an hour you do not expect. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: True Beauty and Goodness Come from Within

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 23:27-32 – “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you are like white washed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within they are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. So you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but within you are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Neglect Justice, Mercy and Faith

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 23:23-26 – “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you tithe mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law, justice and mercy and faith; these you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Close the Door to God’s Kingdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 23:13-22 – “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because you shut the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither enter yourselves, nor allow those who would enter to go in. Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you traverse sea and land to make a single proselyte, and when he becomes a proselyte, you make him twice as much a child of hell as yourselves. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Humbles Oneself Will Be Exalted

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 23:1-12 – Then said Jesus to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; so practice and observe whatever they tell you, but not what they do; for they preach, but do not practice. They bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with their finger.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: What Is the Greatest Rule of Life?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 22:34-40 – But when the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they came together. And one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question, to test him. Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Would Not Come to the Feast!

Author Don Schwager – And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a marriage feast for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the marriage feast; but they would not come. Again he sent other servants, saying, `Tell those who are invited, Behold, I have made ready my dinner ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do You Begrudge My Generosity?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 20:1-16 – “For the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. After agreeing with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the market place ….

 Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Can Enter the Kingdom of Heaven?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 19:23-30 – And Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, it will be hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” When the disciples heard this they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Give – and You Will Have Treasure in Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 19:16-22 – And behold, one came up to him, saying, “Teacher, what good deed must I do, to have eternal life?” And he said to him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? One there is who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Let the Children Come to Me

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 19:13-15 – Then children were brought to him that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked the people; but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” And he laid his hands on them and went away.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What God Has Joined Together

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 19:3-12 – And Pharisees came up to him and tested him by asking, “Is it lawful to divorce one’s wife for any cause?” He answered, “Have you not read that he who made them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, `For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So they are no longer two but one flesh.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord, How Often Shall I Forgive My Brother?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:21-19:1 – Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven. “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: If Your Brother Sins Against You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:15-20 – “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Who Is the Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14 – At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them, and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Not to Give Offense

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 17:22-27 – As they were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day.” And they were greatly distressed. When they came to Capernaum, the collectors of the half-shekel tax went up to Peter and said, “Does not your teacher pay the tax?”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Nothing Will Be Impossible to You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 17:14-20 – And when they came to the crowd, a man came up to him and kneeling before him said, “Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an epileptic and he suffers terribly; for often he falls into the fire, and often into the water. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Loses His Life for My Sake Will Find It

Author Don Schwager – Matthew 16:24-28 – Then Jesus told his disciples, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? Or what shall a man give in return for his life?

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: You Are the Christ – the Son of the Living God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 16:13-19 – Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do men say that the Son of man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Great Is Your Faith! Be It Done for You as You Desire

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 15:21-28 – And Jesus went away from there and withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and cried, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely possessed by a demon.” But he did not answer her a word. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: It Is I – Have No Fear

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 14:22-36 22 Then he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Blessed the Loaves and Fishes

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 14:13-21 – Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a lonely place apart. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. As he went ashore he saw a great throng; and he had compassion on them, and healed their sick. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Herod’s Reaction to John the Baptist

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 14:1-12 – At that time Herod the tetrarch heard about the fame of Jesus; and he said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist, he has been raised from the dead; that is why these powers are at work in him.” or Herod had seized John and bound him and put him in prison, for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Took Offense at Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:54-58 – and coming to his own country he taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished, and said, “Where did this man get this wisdom and these mighty works? Is not this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Trained for the Kingdom of Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:47-53 – “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net which was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind; when it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into vessels but threw away the bad.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Joy in Finding Hidden Treasure and Pearl of Great Price

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:44-46 – “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Righteous Will Shine like the Sun in the Father’s Kingdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:36-43 – Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.” He answered, “He who sows the good seed is the Son of man; the field is the world, and the good seed means the sons of the kingdom; the weeds are the sons of the evil one, and the enemy who sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the close of the age, and the reapers are angels. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What the Kingdom of Heaven Is Like

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:31-35 – Another parable he put before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed which a man took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” He told them another parable. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Guarding the Good Seed of God’s Word in Our Heart

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:24-30 – Another parable he put before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field; but while men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also. And the servants of the householder came and said to him, ‘Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? ..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Hears the Word and Understands It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:18-23 – “Hear then the parable of the sower. When any one hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what is sown in his heart; this is what was sown along the path. As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet he has no root in himself …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Many Longed to Hear What You Hear

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:10-17 – Then the disciples came and said to him, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” And he answered them, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For to him who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Since They Had No Root They Withered Away

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 13:1-9 – That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat …and sat there; and the whole crowd stood on the beach. And he told them many things in parables, saying: “A sower went out to sow.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: An Adulterous Generation Seeks for a Sign

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 12:38-42 – Then some of the scribes and Pharisees said to him, “Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you.” But he answered them, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign; but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the whale, so will the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Desire Mercy and Not Sacrifice

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 12:1-8 – At that time Jesus went through the grain fields on the Sabbath; his disciples were hungry, and they began to pluck heads of grain and to eat. But when the Pharisees saw it, they said to him, “Look, your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath.” He said to them, “Have you not read what David did, when he was hungry, and those who were with him: how he entered the house of God and ate the bread of the Presence …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Take My Yoke upon You and Learn from Me

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 11:28-30 28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Heavenly Things Revealed to Infants

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:25-27 – At that time Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. ..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Will You Be Exalted to Heaven?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:20-24 – Then he began to upbraid the cities where most of his mighty works had been done, because they did not repent. “Woe to you, Chorazin! woe to you, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: I Have Not Come to Bring Peace, but a Sword

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 10:34 – 11:1 – “Do not think that I have come to bring peace on earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and a man’s foes will be those of his own household.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Sheep in the Midst of Wolves – Wise and Innocent

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 10:16-23 – “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of men; for they will deliver you up to councils, and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear testimony before them and the Gentiles. ..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Freely Have You Received – Freely Give

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 10:7-15 – And preach as you go, saying, `The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying, give without pay. Take no gold, nor silver, nor copper in your belts, no bag for your journey, nor two tunics, nor sandals, nor a staff; for the laborer deserves his food. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Gives His Disciples Authority to Heal and Set Free

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 10:1-7 – And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every infirmity. The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Never Seen Anything like This

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:32-38 – As they were going away, behold, a dumb demoniac was brought to him.33 And when the demon had been cast out, the dumb man spoke; and the crowds marveled, saying, “Never was anything like this seen in Israel.” But the Pharisees said, “He casts out demons by the prince of demons.”

 Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Take Heart, Your Faith Has Made You Well

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:18-26 – While he was thus speaking to them, behold, a ruler came in and knelt before him, saying, “My daughter has just died; but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.” And Jesus rose and followed him, with his disciples. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Day Will Come When They Will Fast

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Desire Mercy – Not Sacrifice

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:9-13 – As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax office; and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. And as he sat at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Jesus and his disciples. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Take Heart – Your Sins Are Forgiven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:1-8 – And getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his own city. And behold, they brought to him a paralytic, lying on his bed; and when Jesus saw their faith he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Frees Those Who Are Bound Up

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 8:28-34 – And when he came to the other side, to the country of the Gadarenes, two demoniacs met him, coming out of the tombs, so fierce that no one could pass that way. And behold, they cried out, “What have you to do with us, O Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Why Are You Afraid, O Men of Little Faith?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 8:23-27 – And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. And they went and woke him, saying, “Save, Lord; we are perishing.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Teacher, I Will Follow You Wherever You Go

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 8:18-22 – Now when Jesus saw great crowds around him, he gave orders to go over to the other side. And a scribe came up and said to him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man has nowhere to lay his head.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Say the Word and My Servant Will Be Healed

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 8:5-17 – As he entered Capernaum, a centurion came forward to him, beseeching him and saying, “Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, in terrible distress.” And he said to him, “I will come and heal him.” But the centurion answered him, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; but only say the word, and my servant will be healed. ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord, You Can Make Me Clean

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word- Matthew 8:1-4 – When he came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him; and behold, a leper came to him and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” And he stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Wise Who Built Their House upon the Rock

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 7:21-29 – “Not every one who says to me, `Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, `Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Will Know Them by Their Fruits

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 7:15-20 – “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thorns, or figs from thistles? So, every sound tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears evil fruit. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Do Not Throw Your Pearls before Swine

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 7:6,12-14 – “Do not give dogs what is holy; and do not throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under foot and turn to attack you. So whatever you wish that men would do to you, do so to them; for this is the law and the prophets. “Enter by the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is easy, that leads to destruction …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: When You Pray, Fast, and Give Alms

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 – “Beware of practicing your piety before men in order to be seen by them; for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. “Thus, when you give alms, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by men. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Love Your Enemies and Pray for Them

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:43-48 – “You have heard that it was said, `You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Return Evil for Evil

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word    GOSPEL READING: Matthew 5:38-42 38 “You have heard that it was said, `An eye for an eye and a […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Let What You Say Be Simply Yes or No

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – “Again you have heard that it was said to the men of old, `You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ But I say to you, Do not swear at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: If Your Eye Causes You to Sin

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:27-32 – “You have heard that it was said, `You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that every one who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and throw it away; it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Be Reconciled to Your Brother

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:20-26 – For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. “You have heard that it was said to the men of old, `You shall not kill; and whoever kills shall be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother shall be liable to the council, and whoever says, `You fool!’ shall be liable to the hell of fire…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Great Are Those Who Teach and Obey the Commandments

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 5:17-19 17 “Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Salt of the Earth and Light of the World

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:13-16 – “You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trodden under foot by men. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Rejoice and Be Glad, for Your Reward Is Great in Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:1-12a – Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Poor Widow Has Put in More Than the Rest

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 12:38-44 – And in his teaching he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to go about in long robes, and to have salutations in the market places and the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at feasts, who devour widows’ houses and for a pretense make long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Christ Is the Son of David

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 12:35-37 – And as Jesus taught in the temple, he said, “How can the scribes say that the Christ is the son of David? David himself, inspired by the Holy Spirit, declared, `The Lord said to my Lord, Sit at my right hand, till I put your enemies under your feet.’

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Love the Lord with All Your Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strength

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Mark 12:28-34 28 And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Know Neither the Scriptures nor the Power of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 12:18-27 – And Sadducees came to him, who say that there is no resurrection; and they asked him a question, saying, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies and leaves a wife, but leaves no child, the man must take the wife, and raise up children for his brother. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Give to God What Belongs to God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 12:13-17 – And they sent to him some of the Pharisees and some of the Herodians, to entrap him in his talk. And they came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are true, and care for no man; for you do not regard the position of men, but truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Who Gave You This Authority?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 11:27-33 – And they came again to Jerusalem. And as he was walking in the temple, the chief priests and the scribes and the elders came to him, and they said to him, “By what authority are you doing these things, or who gave you this authority to do them?” Jesus said to them, “I will ask you a question; answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Have Faith in God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Mark 11:11-26 11 And he entered Jerusalem, and went into the temple; and when he had looked round […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: What Do You Want Me to Do for You?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 10:46-52 – And they came to Jericho; and as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great multitude, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Are You Able to Drink the Cup That I Drink?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 10:32-45 – And they were on the road, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them; and they were amazed, and those who followed were afraid. And taking the twelve again, he began to tell them what was to happen to him …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: We Have Left Everything and Followed You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 10:28-31 – Peter began to say to him, “Behold, we have left everything and followed you.” Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Give – and You Will Have Treasure in Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 10:17-27 – And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him, and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Immensity of What Jesus Has Done for Us

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 21:20-25 – Peter turned and saw following them the disciple whom Jesus loved, who had lain close to his breast at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?” When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?” Jesus said to him, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do You Love Jesus More Than These?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 21:15-19 – When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” A second time he said to him, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: May They Become Perfectly One

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word- John 17:20-26 – “I do not pray for these only, but also for those who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one; even as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory which you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Is Eternal Life – to Know the Father the Only True God

Author Don Schwager – When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him power over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Peace in Overcoming the World

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 16:29-33 – His disciples said, “Ah, now you are speaking plainly, not in any figure! 30 Now we know that you know all things, and need none to question you; by this we believe that you came from God.” Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Ask in Jesus’ Name, That Your Joy May Be Full

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 16:23-28 – In that day you will ask nothing of me. Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask anything of the Father, he will give it to you in my name. Hitherto you have asked nothing in my name; ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Your Sorrow Will Turn into Joy

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 16:20-23 – Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy. When a woman is in travail she has sorrow, because her hour has come; but when she is delivered of the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a child is born into the world. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Your Sorrow Will Turn into Joy

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 16:16-20 – “A little while, and you will see me no more; again a little while, and you will see me.” Some of his disciples said to one another, “What is this that he says to us, `A little while, and you will not see me, and again a little while, and you will see me’; and, `because I go to the Father’?” They said, “What does he mean by `a little while’? We do not know what he means.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Holy Spirit Will Guide You into All the Truth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 16:12-15 – “I have yet many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Will Send the Counselor to You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 16:5-11 – But now I am going to him who sent me; yet none of you asks me, `Where are you going?’ But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your hearts. Nevertheless I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: When the Counselor Comes, the Spirit of Truth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 15:26-16:4 – But when the Counselor comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness to me; and you also are witnesses, because you have been with me from the beginning.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Are Not of the World

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 15:18-21 – “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Have Called You Friends

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 15:12-17 – “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Abide in My Love

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 15:9-11 – As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Abide in Me, and I in You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 15:1-8 – “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine dresser. Every branch of mine that bears no fruit, he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already made clean by the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: If You Love Me, Keep My Word

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – “If a man loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. 24 He who does not love me does not keep my words; and the word which you hear is not mine but the Father’s who sent me.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord, Show Us the Father

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – If you had known me, you would have known my Father also; henceforth you know him and have seen him.” Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and we shall be satisfied.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and yet you do not know me, Philip? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Let Your Hearts Be Troubled!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 14:1-6 – “Let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The One Who Receives Me

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 13:16-20 – Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. I am not speaking of you all; I know whom I have chosen; it is that the scripture may be fulfilled, `He who ate my bread has lifted his heel against me.’ …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Believe in Me – That You May Not Remain in Darkness

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: John 12:44-50 44 And Jesus cried out and said, “He who believes in me, believes not in me […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: My Sheep Hear My Voice

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 10:22-30 – It was the feast of the Dedication at Jerusalem; it was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the portico of Solomon. So the Jews gathered round him and said to him, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: I Am the Good Shepherd

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 10:11-18 – I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hireling and not a shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. He flees because he is a hireling and cares nothing for the sheep…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Have the Words of Everlasting Life

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:60-69 – Many of his disciples, when they heard it, said, “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?” But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples murmured at it, said to them, “Do you take offense at this? Then what if you were to see the Son of man ascending where he was before?

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Who Eats This Bread Will Live Forever

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:52-59 – The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat” So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in you…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: If Anyone Eats of This Bread, He Will Live for Ever

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:44-51 – No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the prophets, `And they shall all be taught by God.’ Every one who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Will Raise You up at the Last Day

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:35-40 – Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; he who comes to me shall not hunger, and he who believes in me shall never thirst. But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. All that the Father gives me will come to me; and him who comes to me I will not cast out. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Am the Bread of Life

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:30-35 – So they said to him, “Then what sign do you do, that we may see, and believe you? What work do you perform? Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, `He gave them bread from heaven to eat.'” Jesus then said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven; my Father gives you the true bread from heaven.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Labor for the Food Which Endures to Eternal Life

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:22-29 – On the next day the people who remained on the other side of the sea saw that there had been only one boat there, and that Jesus had not entered the boat with his disciples, but that his disciples had gone away alone. However, boats from Tiberias came near the place where they ate the bread after the Lord had given thanks. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Said: “It Is I – Do Not Be Afraid”

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:16-21 – When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea, got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum. It was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. The sea rose because a strong wind was blowing. When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near to the boat. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Miraculous Sign of Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 6:1-15 – After this Jesus went to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, which is the Sea of Tiberias. And a multitude followed him, because they saw the signs which he did on those who were diseased. Jesus went up on the mountain, and there sat down with his disciples. 4 Now the Passover, the feast of the Jews, was at hand. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Who Believes in the Son Has Eternal Life

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 3:31-36 – He who comes from above is above all; he who is of the earth belongs to the earth, and of the earth he speaks; he who comes from heaven is above all. He bears witness to what he has seen and heard, yet no one receives his testimony; he who receives his testimony sets his seal to this, that God is true. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: God so Loved the World That He Gave Us His Only Son

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 3:16-21 – For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Must Be Born Anew

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 3:7-15 – Do not marvel that I said to you, `You must be born anew.’ The wind blows where it wills, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know whence it comes or whither it goes; so it is with every one who is born of the Spirit.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can this be?” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Unless One Is Born Anew

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 3:1-8 – Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do, unless God is with him.” Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Go and Preach the Gospel to the Whole Creation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 16:9-15 – Now when he rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons. She went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and wept. But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it. After this he appeared in another form to two of them, as they were walking into the country. ..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Revealed Himself Again to the Disciples

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 21:1-14 – After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias; and he revealed himself in this way. Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Opened Their Minds to Understand the Scriptures

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 24:35-48 – Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread. As they were saying this, Jesus himself stood among them. But they were startled and frightened, and supposed that they saw a spirit. And he said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do questionings rise in your hearts?

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Did Not Our Hearts Burn While He Opened to Us the Scriptures

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 24:13-35 – That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing him.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Have Seen the Lord!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 20:11-18 – But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb; and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.”…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: News of the Resurrection

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 28:8-15 – So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Hail!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brethren to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Laid Him in a Rock-Hewn Tomb

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 16:1-7 – Luke 23:50-56 – Now there was a man named Joseph from the Jewish town of Arimathea. He was a member of the council, a good and righteous man, who had not consented to their purpose and deed, and he was looking for the kingdom of God. This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus’ Supreme Humility and Unfailing Love

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 13:1-15 – Now before the feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. And during supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Tragedy of the Betrayal

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 26:14-25 – Then one of the twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What will you give me if I deliver him to you?” And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Betrayal and Faltering Loyalty to Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 13:21-33,36-38 – When Jesus had thus spoken, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, “Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.” The disciples looked at one another, uncertain of whom he spoke. One of his disciples, whom Jesus loved, was lying close to the breast of Jesus; so Simon Peter beckoned to him and said, “Tell us who it is of whom he speaks.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Extravagant Love for Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 12:1-11 – Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. There they made him a supper; Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at table with him. Mary took a pound of costly ointment of pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Took Counsel How to Put Him to Death

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 11:45-56 – Many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what he did, believed in him; but some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. So the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered the council, and said, “What are we to do? For this man performs many signs…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Am the Son of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 10:31-42 – The Jews took up stones again to stone him. 32 Jesus answered them, “I have shown you many good works from the Father; for which of these do you stone me?” The Jews answered him, “It is not for a good work that we stone you but for blasphemy; because you, being a man, make yourself God.” Jesus answered them, “Is it not written in your law, `I said, you are gods’? …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Before Abraham Was, I Am

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 8:51-59 – Truly, truly, I say to you, if any one keeps my word, he will never see death.” The Jews said to him, “Now we know that you have a demon. Abraham died, as did the prophets; and you say, `If any one keeps my word, he will never taste death.’ Are you greater than our father Abraham, who died? And the prophets died! Who do you claim to be?” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Truth Will Make You Free

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 8:31-42 – Jesus then said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham, and have never been in bondage to any one. How is it that you say, `You will be made free’?” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: When You Have Lifted up the Son of Man

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 8:21-30 – Again he said to them, “I go away, and you will seek me and die in your sin; where I am going, you cannot come.” Then said the Jews, “Will he kill himself, since he says, `Where I am going, you cannot come’?” He said to them, “You are from below, I am from above; you are of this world, I am not of this world. I told you that you would die in your sins, for you will die in your sins unless you believe that I am he.” ..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Go, and Do Not Sin Again

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 8:1-11 – but Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. Early in the morning he came again to the temple; all the people came to him, and he sat down and taught them. The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placing her in the midst they said to him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Reaction to Jesus’ Words

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 7:40-53 – When they heard these words, some of the people said, “This is really the prophet.” Others said, “This is the Christ.” But some said, “Is the Christ to come from Galilee? Has not the scripture said that the Christ is descended from David, and comes from Bethlehem, the village where David was?” So there was a division among the people over him. ..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: His Hour Had Not yet Come

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30 – After this Jesus went about in Galilee; he would not go about in Judea, because the Jews sought to kill him. Now the Jews’ feast of Tabernacles was at hand. But after his brothers had gone up to the feast, then he also went up, not publicly but in private. Some of the people of Jerusalem therefore said, “Is not this the man whom they seek to kill? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Father’s Witness to Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 5:31-47 – If I bear witness to myself, my testimony is not true; there is another who bears witness to me, and I know that the testimony which he bears to me is true. You sent to John, and he has borne witness to the truth. Not that the testimony which I receive is from man; but I say this that you may be saved. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: My Father Is Working Still, and I Am Working

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 5:17-30 – But Jesus answered them, “My Father is working still, and I am working.” This was why the Jews sought all the more to kill him, because he not only broke the Sabbath but also called God his Father, making himself equal with God. Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing; for whatever he does, that the Son does likewise. ..

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Walk and Sin No More

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 5:1-16 – After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, in Hebrew called Bethzatha, which has five porticoes. In these lay a multitude of invalids, blind, lame, paralyzed. One man was there, who had been ill for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him and knew that he had been lying there a long time, he said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus – the Divine Physician

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: John 4:43-54 43 After the two days he departed to Galilee. 44 For Jesus himself testified that a […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: God, Be Merciful to Me a Sinner!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 18:9-14 – He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and despised others: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, `God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Are Not Far from the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 12:28-34 – And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him, “Which commandment is the first of all?” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: God’s Kingdom Has Come upon You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:14-23 – Now he was casting out a demon that was dumb; when the demon had gone out, the dumb man spoke, and the people marveled. But some of them said, “He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons”; while others, to test him, sought from him a sign from heaven.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Relaxes One of the Commandments

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 5:17-19 – “Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: How Often Shall I Forgive?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:21-35 – Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven. “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus’ Power to Heal and Cleanse

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 4:24-30 – And he said, “Truly, I say to you, no prophet is acceptable in his own country. But in truth, I tell you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when there came a great famine over all the land; and Elijah was sent to none of them but only to Zarephath, in the land of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Father, I Have Sinned against Heaven and You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Luke 15:1-3,11-32 1 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. 2 And […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Stone Which the Builders Rejected

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 21:33-46 – “Hear another parable. There was a householder who planted a vineyard, and set a hedge around it, and dug a wine press in it, and built a tower, and let it out to tenants, and went into another country. When the season of fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants, to get his fruit; and the tenants took his servants and beat one, killed another, and stoned another.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lazarus Was Carried to Abraham’s Bosom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 16:19-31 – “There was a rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, full of sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man’s table; moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Can You Drink Christ’s Cup?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 20:17-28 17 And as Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside, and on […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Humbles Oneself Will Be Exalted

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 23:1-12 1 Then said Jesus to the crowds and to his disciples, 2 “The scribes and the […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Be Merciful as Your Father Is Merciful

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Luke 6:36-38 36 Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.37 “Judge not, and you will not be […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Be Angry, Be Reconciled

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 5:20-26 20 For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Ask and You Will Receive from Your Father in Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 7:7-12 7 “Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Sign of Jonah for an Evil Generation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Luke 11:29-32 29 When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, “This generation is an evil generation; […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Your Heavenly Father Knows What You Need

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 6:7-15 7 “And in praying do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Eternal Life Versus Eternal Punishment

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word Alternate reading: Matthew 16:13-19 GOSPEL READING: Matthew 25:31-46 31 “When the Son of man comes in his glory, and all the […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus Calls Sinners to Follow Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Luke 5:27-32 7 After this he went out, and saw a tax collector, named Levi, sitting at the […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Fasting for the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager,Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 9:14-15 14 Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Take up Your Cross Daily and Follow Christ

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Luke 9:22-25 22 “The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: When You Pray, Fast, and Give Alms

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 – “Beware of practicing your piety before men in order to be seen by them; for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. “Thus, when you give alms, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by men. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Beware of the Leaven of the Pharisees and Herod

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Mark 8:14-21 14 Now they had forgotten to bring bread; and they had only one loaf with them […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: No Sign Shall Be Given to This Generation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:11-13 – The Pharisees came and began to argue with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven, to test him. And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign shall be given to this generation.” And he left them, and getting into the boat again he departed to the other side.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Alone Can Satisfy Our Hunger for God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 8:1-10 – In those days, when again a great crowd had gathered, and they had nothing to eat, he called his disciples to him, and said to them, “I have compassion on the crowd, because they have been with me now three days, and have nothing to eat; and if I send them away hungry to their homes, they will faint on the way; and some of them have come a long way.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Has Done All Things Well

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 7:31-37 – Then he returned from the region of Tyre, and went through Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, through the region of the Decapolis. And they brought to him a man who was deaf and had an impediment in his speech; and they begged him to lay his hand upon him. And taking him aside from the multitude privately, he put his fingers into his ears, and he spat and touched his tongue ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Demon Has Left Your Daughter

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 7:24-30 – And from there he arose and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And he entered a house, and would not have any one know it; yet he could not be hid. But immediately a woman, whose little daughter was possessed by an unclean spirit, heard of him, and came and fell down at his feet. Now the woman was a Greek, a Syrophoenician by birth. And she begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. …

Out of the Heart Come Evil Thoughts: Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 7:14-23 – And he called the people to him again, and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: there is nothing outside a man which by going into him can defile him; but the things which come out of a man are what defile him.” And when he had entered the house, and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. And he said to them, “Then are you also without understanding? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Rejecting the Commandments of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 7:1-13 – Now when the Pharisees gathered together to him, with some of the scribes, who had come from Jerusalem, they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands defiled, that is, unwashed. (For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, do not eat unless they wash their hands, observing the tradition of the elders; …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Many Were Made Well

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:53-56 – And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret, and moored to the shore. And when they got out of the boat, immediately the people recognized him, and ran about the whole neighborhood and began to bring sick people on their pallets to any place where they heard he was.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Come Away and Rest a While

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:30-34 – The apostles returned to Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a lonely place, and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a lonely place by themselves. Now many saw them going, and knew them, and they ran there on foot from all the towns, and got there ahead of them. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Herod’s Guilty Conscience

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:14-29 – King Herod heard of it; for Jesus’ name had become known. Some said, “John the baptizer has been raised from the dead; that is why these powers are at work in him.” But others said, “It is Elijah.” And others said, “It is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus Gave Them Authority over Sickness and Unclean Spirits

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:7-13 – And he called to him the twelve, and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics. And he said to them, “Where you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Marveled because of Their Unbelief

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:1-6 – He went away from there and came to his own country; and his disciples followed him. And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue; and many who heard him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get all this? What is the wisdom given to him? What mighty works are wrought by his hands! Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Woman Who Took Heart in Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 2:22-40 – And when Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered about him; and he was beside the sea. Then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and seeing him, he fell at his feet, and begged him, saying, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well, and live.” …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Tell Them How Much the Lord Has Done for You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 5:1-20 – They came to the other side of the sea, to the country of Gerasenes. And when he had come out of the boat, there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, who lived among the tombs; and no one could bind him any more, even with a chain …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Why Are You Afraid?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:35-41 – On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. And a great storm of wind arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What the Kingdom of God Is Like

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:26-34 – And he said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed upon the ground, and should sleep and rise night and day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he knows not how. The earth produces of itself, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. But when the grain is ripe, at once he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Living in the Light of God’s Truth and Wisdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:21-25 – And he said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under a bushel, or under a bed, and not on a stand? For there is nothing hid, except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret, except to come to light. If any man has ears to hear, let him hear.” And he said to them, “Take heed what you hear ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Taught People Using Parables

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 4:1-20 – Again he began to teach beside the sea. And a very large crowd gathered about him so that he got into a boat and sat in it on the sea; and the whole crowd was beside the sea on the land. And he taught them many things in parables, and in his teaching he said to them: “Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seed fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured it. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Does the Will of God Is My Brother and Sister

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:31-35 – And his mother and his brothers came; and standing outside they sent to him and called him. And a crowd was sitting about him; and they said to him, “Your mother and your brothers are outside, asking for you.” And he replied, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” And looking around on those who sat about him, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does the will of God is my brother, and sister, and mother.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Frees Us from Satan’s Power

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:22-30 – And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, “He is possessed by Beelzebul, and by the prince of demons he casts out the demons.” And he called them to him, and said to them in parables, “How can Satan cast out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: People Were Saying of Jesus, ‘He Is beside Himself’

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:19b, 20-21 – Then he went home; 20 and the crowd came together again, so that they could not even eat. 21 And when his family heard it, they went out to seize him, for people were saying, “He is beside himself.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: All Pressed upon Jesus to Touch Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:7-12 – Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the sea, and a great multitude from Galilee followed; also from Judea and Jerusalem and Idumea and from beyond the Jordan and from about Tyre and Sidon a great multitude, hearing all that he did, came to him. And he told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd, lest they should crush him; for he had healed many, so that all who had diseases pressed upon him to touch him. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Is It Lawful… to Save Life or to Kill?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 3:1-6 – Again he entered the synagogue, and a man was there who had a withered hand. And they watched him, to see whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him. And he said to the man who had the withered hand, “Come here.” And he said to them, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to kill?” But they were silent.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Son of Man Is Lord of the Sabbath

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 2:23-28 – One Sabbath he was going through the grain fields; and as they made their way his disciples began to pluck heads of grain. And the Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath?” And he said to them, “Have you never read what David did, when he was in need and was hungry, he and those who were with him…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Fasting or Feasting?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 2:18-22 – Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting; and people came and said to him, “Why do John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day. …

 Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Many Sinners Were Sitting with Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 2:13-17 – He went out again beside the sea; and all the crowd gathered about him, and he taught them. And as he passed on, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax office, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. And as he sat at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners were sitting with Jesus and his disciples; for there were many who followed him.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: We Never Saw Anything like This!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 2:1-12 – And when he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and he was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Lord Jesus Can Make Me Clean

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 1:40-45 – And a leper came to him beseeching him, and kneeling said to him, “If you will, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand and touched him, and said to him, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Healed Many Who Were Sick

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 1:29-39 – And immediately he left the synagogue, and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon’s mother-in-law lay sick with a fever, and immediately they told him of her. And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her; and she served them. That evening, at sundown, they brought to him all who were sick or possessed with demons. …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus Taught with Authority

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – And they went into Capernaum; and immediately on the Sabbath he entered the synagogue and taught. And they were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one who had authority, and not as the scribes. And immediately there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Kingdom of God Is at Hand

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word- Mark 1:14-20 – Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe in the gospel.” And passing along by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net in the sea; for they were fishermen.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Joy of Mine Is Now Full

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 3:22-30 – After this Jesus and his disciples went into the land of Judea; there he remained with them and baptized. John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because there was much water there; and people came and were baptized. For John had not yet been put in prison.

 Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord, You Can Make Me Clean

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 5:12-16 – While he was in one of the cities, there came a man full of leprosy; and when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and besought him, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” And he stretched out his hand, and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him.

 Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Spirit of the Lord Is upon Me

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 4:14-22 – And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee, and a report concerning him went out through all the surrounding country. And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all. And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; and he went to the synagogue, as his custom was, on the Sabbath day.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They All Ate and Were Satisfied

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Mark 6:34-44 – As he went ashore he saw a great throng, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things. And when it grew late, his disciples came to him and said, “This is a lonely place, and the hour is now late…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Christ Stands among You

Author Don Schwager,Servants of the Word – John 1:19-28 – And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” He confessed, he did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the prophet?” And he answered, “No.” They said to him then, “Who are you? Let us have an answer for those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?”

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Word Became Flesh and Dwelt among Us

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – John 1:1-18 – In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Anna Recognized the Coming of Christ and Gave Thanks to God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 2:36-40 – And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher; she was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years from her virginity, and as a widow till she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Favor of God Was upon Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 2:22-35 – And when the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male that opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”) and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Rachel Weeping for Her Children

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 2:13-18 – Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The One Who Endures to the End Will Be Saved

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 10:17-22 – Beware of men; for they will deliver you up to councils, and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear testimony before them and the Gentiles. When they deliver you up, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: What Then Will This Child Be?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:57-66 – Now the time came for Elizabeth to be delivered, and she gave birth to a son. And her neighbors and kinsfolk heard that the Lord had shown great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. And on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they would have named him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said, “Not so; he shall be called John.” …

 Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Many Will Rejoice at His Birth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 1:5-25 – In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah; and he had a wife of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Will Save His People from Their Sins

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 1:18-25 – Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child of the Holy Spirit; and her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 1:1-17 – The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram ….

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Blind See, the Lame Walk, the Poor Receive Good News

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:18-23 – The disciples of John told him of all these things. And John, calling to him two of his disciples, sent them to the Lord, saying, “Are you he who is to come, or shall we look for another?” And when the men had come to him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to you, saying, `Are you he who is to come, or shall we look for another?'”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Which Son Did the Father’s Will?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 21:28-32 – “What do you think? A man had two sons; and he went to the first and said, `Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ And he answered, `I will not’; but afterward he repented and went. And he went to the second and said the same; and he answered, `I go, sir,’ but did not go..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: All Hold That John Was a Prophet

Author Don Schwager , Servants of the Word – Matthew 21:23-27 – And when he entered the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came up to him as he was teaching, and said, “By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?” Jesus answered them, “I also will ask you a question; and if you tell me the answer, then I also will tell you by what authority I do these things.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Elijah Must First Come

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 17: 9a,10-13 – And as they were coming down the mountain the disciples asked him, “Then why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?” He replied, “Elijah does come, and he is to restore all things; but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not know him, but did to him whatever they pleased. So also the Son of man will suffer at their hands.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Come to Me and I Will Give You Rest

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 11:28-30 – Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: God Carries Us in His Bosom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 18:12-14 – What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go in search of the one that went astray? And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine that never went astray. So it is not the will of my Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Your God Will Come and Save You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – On one of those days, as he was teaching, there were Pharisees and teachers of the law sitting by, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem; and the power of the Lord was with him to heal. And behold, men were bringing on a bed a man who was paralyzed, and they sought to bring him in and lay him before Jesus …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Kingdom of Heaven Is at Hand

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the – Matthew 9:35-10:1,6-8 – And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every infirmity. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do You Believe?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 9:27-31 – And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud, “Have mercy on us, Son of David.” When he entered the house, the blind men came to him; and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to him, “Yes, Lord.” Then he touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith be it done to you.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Shall Enter the Kingdom of Heaven?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word -Matthew 7:21,24-27 – “Not every one who says to me, `Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. “Every one then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house upon the rock; and the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat upon that house …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Is the Lord – We Have Waited for Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Matthew 15:29-37 – And Jesus went on from there and passed along the Sea of Galilee. And he went up on the mountain, and sat down there. And great crowds came to him, bringing with them the lame, the maimed, the blind, the dumb, and many others, and they put them at his feet, and he healed them, so that the throng wondered, when they saw the dumb speaking, the maimed whole, the lame walking, and the blind seeing; and they glorified the God of Israel.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Is the Lord – We Have Waited for Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – And Jesus went on from there and passed along the Sea of Galilee. And he went up on the mountain, and sat down there. And great crowds came to him, bringing with them the lame, the maimed, the blind, the dumb, and many others, and they put them at his feet, and he healed them, so that the throng wondered, when they saw the dumb speaking, the maimed whole, the lame walking, and the blind seeing; and they glorified the God of Israel.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: She Put in All That She Had

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 21:1-4 – He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury; and he saw a poor widow put in two copper coins. And he said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; for they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all the living that she had.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: All Live to Him

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 20:27-40 – There came to him some Sadducees, those who say that there is no resurrection, and they asked him a question, saying, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies, having a wife but no children, the man must take the wife and raise up children for his brother. Now there were seven brothers; the first took a wife, and died without children;

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation:

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 19:45-48 – And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold, saying to them, “It is written, `My house shall be a house of prayer’; but you have made it a den of robbers.” And he was teaching daily in the temple. The chief priests and the scribes and the principal men of the people sought to destroy him; but they did not find anything they could do, for all the people hung upon his words.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Know the Time of Your Visitation

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word –  Luke 19:41-44 – And when he drew near and saw the city he wept over it, saying, “Would that even today you knew the things that make for peace! But now they are hid from your eyes. For the days shall come upon you, when your enemies will cast up a bank about you and surround you, and hem you in on every side, and dash you to the ground, you and your children within you, and they will not leave one stone upon another in you; because you did not know the time of your visitation.”

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: They Did Not Want Me to Reign over Them

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 19:11-28 – As they heard these things, he proceeded to tell a parable, because he was near to Jerusalem, and because they supposed that the kingdom of God was to appear immediately. He said therefore, “A nobleman went into a far country to receive a kingdom and then return. Calling ten of his servants, he gave them ten pounds, and said to them, `Trade with these till I come.’

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What Do You Want Me to Do for You?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 18:35-43 – As he drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging; 36 and hearing a multitude going by, he inquired what this meant. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” 38 And he cried, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Always Pray and Do Not Lose Heart

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 18:1-8 – And he told them a parable, to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor regarded man; and there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, `Vindicate me against my adversary.’ For a while he refused; but afterward he said to himself, `Though I neither fear God nor regard man ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: One Will Be Taken and the Other Left

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:26-37 – As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be in the days of the Son of man. They ate, they drank, they married, they were given in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. Likewise as it was in the days of Lot — they ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Coming of Christ’s Kingdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:20-25 – Being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was coming, he answered them, “The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed; nor will they say, `Behold, here it is!’ or `There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.” And he said to the disciples, “The days are coming when you will desire to see one of the days of the Son of man…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Fell at Jesus’ Feet Giving Thanks

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:11-19 – On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: We Have Only Done Our Duty

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:7-10 – “Will any one of you, who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep, say to him when he has come in from the field, `Come at once and sit down at table’? Will he not rather say to him, `Prepare supper for me, and gird yourself and serve me, till I eat and drink; and afterward you shall eat and drink’? Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded?

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord Jesus Increase Our Faith

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 17:1-6 – And he said to his disciples, “Temptations to sin are sure to come; but woe to him by whom they come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung round his neck and he were cast into the sea, than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin. Take heed to yourselves; if your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Will Entrust to You the True Riches?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 16:9-15 – And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous mammon, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal habitations. “He who is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much; and he who is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much. If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will entrust to you the true riches? …

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: The Necessity of Prudent Foresight

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 16:1-8 – He also said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a steward, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his goods. And he called him and said to him, `What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your stewardship, for you can no longer be steward.’

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Sinners Were Drawn to Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 15:1-10 – Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. And the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” So he told them this parable: “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The True Cost of Discipleship

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:25-33 – Now great multitudes accompanied him; and he turned and said to them, “If any one comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me, cannot be my disciple. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Invitation to the King’s Banquet Table

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:15-24 – When one of those who sat at table with him heard this, he said to him, “Blessed is he who shall eat bread in the kingdom of God!” But he said to him, “A man once gave a great banquet, and invited many; and at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, `Come; for all is now ready.’ But they all alike began to make excuses. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Will Be Repaid at the Resurrection of the Just

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:12-14 – He said also to the man who had invited him, “When you give a dinner or a banquet, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your kinsmen or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return, and you be repaid. But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. You will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Every One Who Exalts Himself Will Be Humbled

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:1, 7-11 – One sabbath when he went to dine at the house of a ruler who belonged to the Pharisees, they were watching him. Now he told a parable to those who were invited, when he marked how they chose the places of honor, saying to them, “When you are invited by any one to a marriage feast, do not sit down in a place of honor, lest a more eminent man than you be invited by him….

The Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: They Were Watching Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 14:1-6 – One Sabbath when he went to dine at the house of a ruler who belonged to the Pharisees, they were watching him. And behold, there was a man before him who had dropsy. And Jesus spoke to the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath, or not?”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Blessed Is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:31-35 – At that very hour some Pharisees came, and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” And he said to them, “Go and tell that fox, `Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course. Nevertheless I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the day following; for it cannot be that a prophet should perish away from Jerusalem.’

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Do Not Risk Being Shut Out

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:12-19 He went on his way through towns and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem. And some one said to him, “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” And he said to them, “Strive to enter by the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. When once the householder has risen up and shut the door, you will begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, `Lord, open to us.’ …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What God’s Kingdom Is Like

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:18-21 – He said therefore, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed which a man took and sowed in his garden; and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.” And again he said, “To what shall I compare the kingdom of God? It is like leaven which a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened.”

Catholic Couple Find Solidarity With Others in Sharing NFP Struggles, Other Challenges, by Anita Draper

By Anita Draper, CNS – Actively living out their Catholic faith as individuals and a couple — following the church’s teachings on natural family planning in particular — has sometimes been challenging for Nick and Emily Frase…. But for Nick, who grew up in the Diocese of Superior, the lesson that being a faithful Catholic wouldn’t always come easy was built into his formation. Strength in their faith and the support of a solid Christian community has guided the couple through trying times… “Having that community of a bunch of people just trying to do marriage and parenthood to the best of their ability ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Freedom from Bondage for Eighteen Years

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:10-17 – Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. And there was a woman who had had a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years; she was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. And when Jesus saw her, he called her and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your infirmity.”

Complicit Clergy: Chaste Same-Sex Attracted Catholics, Feeling Betrayed by Pope Francis, Urge Him to Repent

Posted by Complicit Clergy, OIn the aftermath of Pope Francis’s pronouncement in a just-premiered documentary seemingly supporting the legalization of gay civil unions, chaste same-sex attracted Catholics are […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Unless You Repent – You Will Perish

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 13:1-9 – There were some present at that very time who told him of the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And he answered them, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered thus? I tell you, No; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Heed the Warning Signs before It Is Too Late

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:54-59 – He also said to the multitudes, “When you see a cloud rising in the west, you say at once, `A shower is coming’; and so it happens. And when you see the south wind blowing, you say, `There will be scorching heat’; and it happens. You hypocrites!…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: I Came to Cast Fire upon the Earth

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:49-53 – “I came to cast fire upon the earth; and would that it were already kindled! I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how I am constrained until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division; for henceforth in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three; …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Be Ready to Answer – the Lord Draws Near

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:39-48 – But know this, that if the householder had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have left his house to be broken into. You also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an unexpected hour.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: When the Master Knocks – Open at Once

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:35-38 – “Let your loins be girded and your lamps burning, and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the marriage feast, so that they may open to him at once when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes; …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Storing up True Riches

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:13-21 – One of the multitude said to him, “Teacher, bid my brother divide the inheritance with me.” But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or divider over you?” And he said to them, “Take heed, and beware of all covetousness; for a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” And he told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man brought forth plentifully; and he thought to himself, `What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Holy Spirit Will Teach You What to Say

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:8-12 – “And I tell you, every one who acknowledges me before men, the Son of man also will acknowledge before the angels of God; but he who denies me before men will be denied before the angels of God. And every one who speaks a word against the Son of man will be forgiven; but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Fear Those Who Kill the Body

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 12:1-7 – In the meantime, when so many thousands of the multitude had gathered together that they trod upon one another, he began to say to his disciples first, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. Therefore whatever you have said in the dark shall be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in private rooms shall be proclaimed upon the housetops. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Lose the Key of Knowledge 

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:47-54 – Woe to you! for you build the tombs of the prophets whom your fathers killed. So you are witnesses and consent to the deeds of your fathers; for they killed them, and you build their tombs. Therefore also the Wisdom of God said, `I will send them prophets and apostles, some of whom they will kill and persecute ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Load Burdens Hard to Bear 

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:42-46 – “But woe to you Pharisees! for you tithe mint and rue and every herb, and neglect justice and the love of God; these you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. Woe to you Pharisees! for you love the best seat in the synagogues and salutations in the market places.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What Makes the Heart Clean and Holy?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:37-41 – While he was speaking, a Pharisee asked him to dine with him; so he went in and sat at table. The Pharisee was astonished to see that he did not first wash before dinner. And the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees cleanse the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside you are full of extortion and wickedness. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: This Is an Evil Generation; It Seeks a Sign

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:29-32 – When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, “This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of Jonah. For as Jonah became a sign to the men of Nineveh, so will the Son of man be to this generation. The queen of the South will arise at the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them ….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Hear the Word of God and Keep It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:27-28 – As he said this, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, “Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts that you sucked!” But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: If It Is by the Finger of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:15-26 – But some of them said, “He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons”; while others, to test him, sought from him a sign from heaven. But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls. And if Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: How Much More Will the Heavenly Father Give!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word- Luke 11:5-13 – And he said to them, “Which of you who has a friend will go to him at midnight and say to him, `Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him’; and he will answer from within, `Do not bother me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything’?

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord, Teach Us to Pray 

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 11:1-4 – He was praying in a certain place, and when he ceased, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” And he said to them, “When you pray, say: “Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread; and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive every one who is indebted to us; and lead us not into temptation.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Are Anxious

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:38-42 – Now as they went on their way, he entered a village; and a woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving; and she went to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Go and Do Likewise

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:25-37 – And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” He said to him, “What is written in the law? How do you read?” And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” And he said to him, “You have answered right; do this, and you will live.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Your Names Are Written in Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:17-24 – The seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name!” And he said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall hurt you. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Who Hears You Hears Me

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:13-16 – “Woe to you, Chorazin! woe to you, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it shall be more tolerable in the judgment for Tyre and Sidon than for you. And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You shall be brought down to Hades. 16 “He who hears you hears me, and he who rejects you rejects me, and he who rejects me rejects him who sent me.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Kingdom of God Has Come near to You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 10:1-12 – After this the Lord appointed seventy others, and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to come. And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs in the midst of wolves.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Fit for the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:57-62 – As they were going along the road, a man said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man has nowhere to lay his head.” To another he said, “Follow me.” But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus’ Face Was Set toward Jerusalem

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:51-56 – When the days drew near for him to be received up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. And he sent messengers ahead of him, who went and entered a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him; but the people would not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Perceived the Thought of Their Hearts

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:46-50 – And an argument arose among them as to which of them was the greatest. But when Jesus perceived the thought of their hearts, he took a child and put him by his side, and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me; for he who is least among you all is the one who is great.” …

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Were Astonished at the Majesty of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:43-45 – And all were astonished at the majesty of God. But while they were all marveling at everything he did, he said to his disciples, “Let these words sink into your ears; for the Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men.” But they did not understand this saying, and it was concealed from them, that they should not perceive it; and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Do You Say That Jesus Is?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:18-22 – Now it happened that as he was praying alone the disciples were with him; and he asked them, “Who do the people say that I am?” And they answered, “John the Baptist; but others say, Elijah; and others, that one of the old prophets has risen.” And he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered, “The Christ of God.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Suppressing Truth to Ease a Guilty Conscience

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – GOSPEL READING: Luke 9:7-9 – Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the old prophets had risen. Herod said, “John I beheaded; but who is this about whom I hear such things?” And he sought to see him.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Jesus Gave Them Authority over All Demons and Diseases

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 9:1-6 – And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal. And he said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics. And whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart..

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Hear the Word of God and Do It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:19-21: Then his mother and his brothers came to him, but they could not reach him for the crowd. And he was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see you.” But he said to them, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Every Secret Shall Come to Light

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:16-18 – “No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a vessel, or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is hid that shall not be made manifest, nor anything secret that shall not be known and come to light. Take heed then how you hear; for to him who has will more be given, and from him who has not, even what he thinks that he has will be taken away.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Who Has Ears to Hear, Let Him Hear

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:4-15 – And when a great crowd came together and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable: “A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell along the path, and was trodden under foot, and the birds of the air devoured it.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Women Provided for Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 8:1-3 – Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, preaching and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Which Will Love Him More?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:36-50 – One of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee’s house, and took his place at table. And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was at table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: How Shall I Compare This Generation?

By Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:31-35 – “To what then shall I compare the men of this generation, and what are they like? They are like children sitting in the market place and calling to one another, `We piped to you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not weep.’ For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine; and you say, `He has a demon.’ …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Lord Had Compassion on Her

By Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:11-17: Soon afterward he went to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a great crowd went with him. As he drew near to the gate of the city, behold, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow; and a large crowd from the city was with her. And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Say the Word – Be Healed

By Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – By Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 7:1-10 – After he had ended all his sayings in the hearing of the people he entered Capernaum. Now a centurion had a slave who was dear to him, who was sick and at the point of death. When he heard of Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and heal his slave. And when they came to Jesus, they begged him earnestly, saying, “He is worthy to have you do this for him…

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: A Life Built on a Solid Foundation

By Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:43-49 – “For no good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit; for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. The good man out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil man out of his evil treasure produces evil; for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. “Why do you call me `Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you? …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do You Not See the Log in Your Own Eye?

By Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:39-42 – He also told them a parable: “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? A disciple is not above his teacher, but every one when he is fully taught will be like his teacher. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Good to Those Who Hate You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:27-38 – 27 “But I say to you that hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. 29 To him who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from him who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. 30 Give to every one who begs from you; and of him who takes away your goods do not ask them again. 31 And as you wish that men would do to you, do so to them….

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Blessed Are You Poor – Yours Is the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:20-26: And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: “Blessed are you poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. “Blessed are you that hunger now, for you shall be satisfied. “Blessed are you that weep now, for you shall laugh. “Blessed are you when men hate you, and when they exclude you and revile you, and cast out your name as evil, on account of the Son of man! …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Is It Lawful to Save Life or to Destroy It?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:6-11 – On another Sabbath, when he entered the synagogue and taught, a man was there whose right hand was withered. And the scribes and the Pharisees watched him, to see whether he would heal on the Sabbath, so that they might find an accusation against him. But he knew their thoughts, and he said to the man who had the withered hand, “Come and stand here.” And he rose and stood there.

The Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Son of Man Is Lord of the Sabbath

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 6:1-5 – On a Sabbath, while he was going through the grain fields, his disciples plucked and ate some heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands. But some of the Pharisees said, “Why are you doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath?” …

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Unity of the New and the Old

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 5:33-39: And they said to him, “The disciples of John fast often and offer prayers, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees, but yours eat and drink.” And Jesus said to them, “Can you make wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days.”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: You Will Catch People for the Kingdom of God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Luke 5:1-11: While the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret. 2 And he saw two boats by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. 3 Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: He Laid His Hands on Every One and Healed Them

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – And he arose and left the synagogue, and entered Simon’s house. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was ill with a high fever, and they asked him about her. 39 And he stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her; and immediately she rose and served them. 40 Now when the sun was setting, all those who had any that were sick with various diseases brought them to him; and he laid his hands on every one of them and healed them. 41 And demons also came out of many, crying, “You are the Son of God!”

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: His Word Was with Authority and Power 

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word – Meditation: When you listen to the word of God in Scripture how do you respond to it? Do you hear it with indifference, selective submission, or with the full assent of faith and obedience? When Jesus taught he spoke with authority. He spoke the word of God as no one had spoken it before. When the Rabbis taught they supported their statements with quotes from other authorities.

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: No Prophet Is Acceptable in His Own Country

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Luke 4:16-30 16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; and he went to […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: The Foolish Will Miss Heaven’s Wedding Feast

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 25:1-13 1 “Then the kingdom of heaven shall be compared to ten maidens who took their lamps […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Are You Ready to Meet the Lord? 

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 24:42-51 42 Watch therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. 43 […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: True Beauty and Goodness Come from Within

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 23:27-32 27 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you are like white washed tombs, which […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Neglect Justice, Mercy and Faith

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 23:23-26 23 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you tithe mint and dill and […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do Not Close the Door to God’s Kingdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word Alternate reading: John 1:45-51 GOSPEL READING: Matthew 23:13-22 13 “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because you shut […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Whoever Humbles Oneself Will Be Exalted

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 23:1-12 1 Then said Jesus to the crowds and to his disciples, 2 “The scribes and the […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: What Is the Greatest Rule of Life?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 22:34-40 34 But when the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they came together. 35 […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: They Would Not Come to the Feast!

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 22:1-14 1 And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying, 2 “The kingdom of heaven may be […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Do You Begrudge My Generosity?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 20:1-16 1 “For the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who went out early in the […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Can Enter the Kingdom of Heaven?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word –

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: What God Has Joined Together

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 19:3-12 3 And Pharisees came up to him and tested him by asking, “Is it lawful to […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Lord, How Often Shall I Forgive My Brother? 

Aauthor Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 18:21-19:1 21 Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Who Is the Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14 1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Not to Give Offense

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 17:22-27 22 As they were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of man is […]

Daily Scripture Reading and Meditation: Nothing Will Be Impossible to You

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 17:14-20 14 And when they came to the crowd, a man came up to him and kneeling […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations: You Are the Christ – the Son of the Living God

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word Alternate reading: Matthew 17:1-9 GOSPEL READING: Matthew 16:13-19 13 Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations: Great Is Your Faith! Be It Done for You as You Desire

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word  GOSPEL READING: Matthew 15:21-28 21 And Jesus went away from there and withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations: It Is I – Have No Fear

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 14:22-36 22 Then he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Jesus Blessed the Loaves and Fishes

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 14:13-21 13 Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a lonely […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations: Herod’s Reaction to John the Baptist

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 14:1-12 1 At that time Herod the tetrarch heard about the fame of Jesus; 2 and he […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations: They Took Offense at Jesus

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 13:54-58 54 and coming to his own country he taught them in their synagogue, so that they […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations: Joy in Finding Hidden Treasure and Pearl of Great Price

GOSPEL READING: Matthew 13:44-46 – 44 “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. 45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, 46 who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations: The Righteous Will Shine like the Sun in the Father’s Kingdom

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 13:36-43 36 Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations: What the Kingdom of Heaven Is Like

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 13:31-35 31 Another parable he put before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditation: Whoever Hears the Word and Understands It

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 13:18-23 18 “Hear then the parable of the sower. 19 When any one hears the word of the […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations: Many Longed to Hear What You Hear

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 13:10-17 10 Then the disciples came and said to him, “Why do you speak to them in […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations: Since They Had No Root They Withered Away

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 13:1-9 1 That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. 2 […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations: Who Are My Brothers and Sisters?

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 12:46-50 ( 46 While he was still speaking to the people, behold, his mother and his brothers stood […]

 Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations: An Adulterous Generation Seeks for a Sign

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 12:38-42 38 Then some of the scribes and Pharisees said to him, “Teacher, we wish to see […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations: Until Jesus Brings Justice to Victory

Author Don Schwager, Servants of the Word GOSPEL READING: Matthew 12:14-21 14 But the Pharisees went out and took counsel against him, how to destroy him. 15 […]

Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations: July 14, 2020

Will You Be Exalted to Heaven? Author Don Schwager, 14 JULY 2020 GOSPEL READING: Matthew 11:20-24 20 Then he began to upbraid the cities where most of […]

Daily Mediatation: I Have Not Come to Bring Peace, but a Sword

I Have Not Come to Bring Peace, but a Sword Author Don Schwager, MONDAY 13 JULY 2020 GOSPEL READING: Matthew 10:34 – 11:1 34 “Do not think […]

Daily Reading & Meditation: Friday (July 10)

Sheep in the midst of wolves – wise and innocent Author Don Schwager – Scripture:  Matthew 10:16-23 16 “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the […]

Daily Reading & Meditation: Wednesday (July 8)

Jesus gives his disciples authority to heal and set free Author Don Schwager – Scripture:  Matthew 10:1-7 1 And he called to him his twelve disciples and […]

Daily Reading & Meditation: Tuesday (July 7)

Never seen anything like this Author Don Schwager – Scripture:  Matthew 9:32-38 32 As they were going away, behold, a dumb demoniac was brought to him.33 And […]

Daily Reading & Meditation: Monday (July 6)

Take heart, your faith has made you well Author Don Schwager – Scripture:  Matthew 9:18-26 18 While he was thus speaking to them, behold, a ruler came […]

Daily Reading & Meditation: Thursday (July 2)

Take heart – your sins are forgiven Author Don Schwager – Scripture:  Matthew 9:1-8 1 And getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his […]

Daily Reading & Meditation: Tuesday (June 30)

 “Why are you afraid, O men of little faith?” Author Don Schwager – Scripture:  Matthew 8:23-27   23 And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed […]

Daily Reading & Meditation: Monday (June 29)

“You are the Christ – the Son of the living God” Author Don Schwager – Gospel: Matthew 16:13-19    13 Now when Jesus came into the district […]

Daily Reading & Meditation: Monday (July 27)

What the kingdom of heaven is like Author Don Schwager – Scripture:  Matthew 13:31-35 31 Another parable he put before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is […]

Daily Reading & Meditation: Friday (June 26)

“Lord, you can make me clean” Author Don Schwager – Scripture:  Matthew 8:1-4 1 When he came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him; 2 and […]

Daily Reading & Meditation: Thursday (June 25)

“The wise who built their house upon the rock” Author Don Schwager – Scripture:  Matthew 7:21-29 21 “Not every one who says to me, `Lord, Lord,’ shall […]

Daily Reading & Meditation: Wednesday (June 24)

“The hand of the Lord was with him” Author Don Schwager – Scripture: Luke 1:57-66,80  (alternate reading: Luke 1:5-17,or Matthew 7:15-20) 57 Now the time came for Elizabeth to […]

Daily Reading & Meditation: Tuesday (June 23)

“Do not throw your pearls before swine” Author Don Schwager – Scripture: Matthew 7:6, 12-14    6 “Do not give dogs what is holy; and do not throw […]