For all who use this blog for daily Bible reading and devotional thought, there will be a slight change for 2011. Our Bible reading this year will take the reader through the New Testament and the Prophetic books of the Old Testament. These readings are woven together one book at a time through the year. 

Our plan will continue to offer a New Testament reading program combined with various sections of the Old Testament each year, covering the entire Old Testament in four years. We desire to encourage our readers to slowly and thoughtfully read through the Old Testament along with the annual reading of the New Testament. May the Lord bless you as you take his Word to heart each day.

"When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh." -- Matthew 2:10-11 

Some people worship their cars, others worship their houses and still others worship health or wealth. In doing this they look for joy and fulfillment. The expectation is centered on the gain to be had from the thing worshiped. But, is worship getting or giving?

This wonderful account of the Magi traveling from afar to worship the King of the Jews is quite revealing. The fact that they came so very far with a single focus in mind tells us much about their heart. They came to bow in homage and worship a king. They came bearing treasures to show their honor and in doing so "they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy". For the wise men worship was giving, which resulted in getting.

What do you seek to accomplish when you enter the sanctuary every week my friend? Do you come to worship with a selfless heart of devotion to the Lord? Are you satisfied in giving of your time, talents and treasures, willing to receive nothing in return? Is your joy found in the simple expression of love to your King? Be wise this week and come to give worship and as a result you will get great joy.