Category: Gospels
Day 2–Being a Witness
Scripture reading for February 17: Acts 1:8-9 “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. And when He had said these things, He was lifted up and a cloud took Him out of their sight.”
As a responder, how we conduct ourselves is vitally important to doing our job with excellence and representing our department well. We may rush to the incident, but we are not so hurried that we don’t take time to assess the situation and communicate with those in authority over us and with those in need. In an accident or medical emergency we keep calm and work methodically and carefully with compassion and respect for the individual’s involved. We treat our team members courteously and professionally, avoiding the use of foul language or derogatory attitudes. We should humbly serve, counting those we are serving as more important than ourselves. We enter dangerous situations to save lives and restore order. Our attitudes, actions and demeanor communicate care and proficiency and bring calm to the incident and those affected.
God works to empower His people from the inside out. His gift of the Holy Spirit indwells or clothes each person with God’s character, gifts and graces. God wants us to represent Him well and accurately and the Holy Spirit works inside us to transform us into Christ’s image and character of holiness. We work out our salvation and transformation as God works inside us by His Spirit. (Philippians 2:12-13) We are to be witnesses, not just ‘do witnessing.’ This involves changes inside us that we can’t do by ourselves. We can yield to the Holy Spirit and invite Him to give grace to make changes.
The mission Jesus shared with His disciples was to send them first to their immediate countrymen in Jerusalem with the message. Next they would go to the Samaritans and share and finally to the ends of the earth to all people. They could not do this on their own. God’s power and presence would be with them to give direction, authority, conviction and miraculous signs. (Mark 16:20)
Prayer: Father God, Thank You for the Holy Spirit Who is always with me to guide me and empower me. I invite You to work into my heart and character the traits of Jesus Christ that I might represent Him with excellence as I serve others as a responder. Amen.
Week 8–Day 1–The Authority to Serve
Scripture reading for February 16: Luke 24:45-49 “Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and said to them, “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 proclaimed in His Name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And behold, I am sending the Promise of My Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”
As first responders, we need power at several levels to enable us to do our job. First, we are given authority to respond by becoming members of a fire department, sheriff’s department, EMT unit, or Highway Patrol. We are given official identification as members of the department and assigned under a command structure where we are accountable to a senior leader. We must have physical strength to do the job of handling heavy equipment, power tools, and driving trucks and vehicles. We learn the knowledge of what to do in various emergency situations and how to work as part of a team and maintain good relationships.
Jesus Christ equipped those willing to follow Him in each area with the authority and strength and understanding to do their job. He also taught them the importance of working together in teamwork and accountability. A major part of this empowerment was the promised Gift of God the Father, the Holy Spirit. The original disciples were told by the resurrected Christ that they must wait in Jerusalem for this ‘Promise’ and that they would be clothed with power from God’s throne itself. The purpose of this authority was to empower them to become witnesses who could effectively proclaim the Gospel message of forgiveness of sin through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.
To be an effective member of a team of responders, we must understand authority. All of us are under God’s authority and those He has placed in authority over us. We voluntarily act in obedience to those over us and the framework of directives defining our mission. We are thankful for our leadership and support them fully.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for empowering those responding to You with the Gift of the Holy Spirit. Thank You for those in authority that You have placed where You want. Teach us all to respect authority and work together to accomplish the mission. Amen.
Day 5–Faith moves mountains!
Scripture reading for February 13: Matthew 17:18-21 “And Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him, and the boy was healed instantly. Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?” He said to them, “Because of your little faith. For truly, I say unto you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.”
Matthew records the story of a failure in the rescue of a young boy with epilepsy. This young boy’s father brought the boy to the disciples to deal with the disease which caused the boy to be thrown into the fire and into the water, endangering his life and peaceful existence as well as his family. We don’t know for sure where Jesus was, but the disciples failed to help the boy. When Jesus arrived and the father told them of the failure, Jesus rebuked the disciples as part of a ‘faithless and twisted generation’ that He was weary of bearing with. He had given them instructions before. They had gone out and applied what Jesus taught and modeled earlier. (Luke 10:17-20) Why couldn’t they use their faith to bring healing here?
This story contains lessons for us as first responders. There are times when we are called to help when we may try but seem to fail. We apply what we know, but don’t truly know what we should have learned. Like the disciples, we try but are failures and wonder why we failed. Sometimes an older and wiser responder takes us aside and explains where we went wrong. Sometimes, another team member with more experience and training provides the help needed and we can learn again the correct procedures.
When I face incidents where I am in over my head in training or ability I don’t despair and give up. My confidence is in my Lord and His promise of mountains moving even if my faith or personal ability is small. I speak to the Lord about the problem and invite Him to give me strength and ability or send help. Mountains move and nothing is impossible with Jesus.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for being with me in my weakness and even my failure. Thank You for correction and encouragement to get up and get going again, trusting in You. Amen.
Day 4–Study the Word!
Scripture reading for February 12: 2 Timothy 3:14-17 “But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
We live in a world where knowledge is increasing at lightning speed. Every field of study is constantly adding new information and there are new books based on the latest research and trends in the culture. For first responders the same is true. In my short time at the fire department, there are now classes that we take to deal with fires caused by lithium batteries in electric vehicles and their charging systems. This was not taught ten years ago. We have new foam, new protective gear, and more powerful battery operated tools to deal with car wrecks. In the medical field, we have defibulators, drugs to combat overdoses, ventilator packs and many other tools that must be mastered by those volunteering to use them to help others. Study is required and refreshers on all tools and procedures are part of regular training.
As a faith responder, we are called to study the Scriptures. Paul reminded Timothy, a young pastor that he had mentored, to continue in what he had learned early in life from his godly mother and grandmother and Jewish rabbi’s. They taught him Scripture and he became wise for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Faith comes by hearing God’s Word. (Romans 10:17) Paul told Timothy that all Scripture was ‘breathed out by God’ through those called to write down God’s Word. All Scripture is profitable to those reading, applying and teaching it. It teaches us truth and corrects us when wrong. It leads us into righteousness that comes through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Scripture has the ability to make completed people equipped for good works.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for Scripture that You breathed out for us. Thank You that Scripture is profitable for us and makes us wise for salvation. Thank You that Scripture produces faith that brings salvation and pleases You. Teach me, reprove me, correct me, and make me complete. Amen.
Day 3–Multiply by Mentoring!
Scripture reading for February 11: 2 Timothy 2:1-2 “You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”
It is a tried and tested truth that we learn best when the majority of our physical senses are allowed to participate. If we just listen to a speaker, it is not as effective as having the ability to see, hear, and then watch someone demonstrate what is being taught. It is better yet to do it for yourself under supervision. Communication is only eight percent words we hear, the rest is body language, tone of voice and spiritual perception. That’s why Jesus chose those He wanted to become disciples and invited them to be with Him. He taught them in various locations and settings. He taught them in various ways, from lecture to questions and answers, to visible demonstrations of healing and casting out demons, to allowing them to go out and apply what He had taught and modeled. When they returned, He would reinforce what they did right and correct their mistakes. (Luke 10:17-20)
Paul also learned from Jesus and taught others how to apply Scripture to life and ministry to reach lost and hurting people. As a young man, Timothy joined with Paul and became like his son. He listened to Paul teach and saw Paul minister to people. At the end of his ministry, Paul wrote this letter to his understudy. He reminded Timothy to be strengthened by grace, not religious rules or laws. He instructed him to find other men (and women) whom he would teach spiritual truths and Scripture. These, in turn, would also be able to teach others.
Multiplication of ministers and ministry through mentoring was used by Jewish rabbi’s, Jesus Christ and His followers to train new believers in applying God’s Word. First responders have also been applying the mentoring principle to train those entering this field. This develops healthy relationships and fosters teamwork.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for the pattern of personal relationships You use to train new believers for growth and ministry. Thank You for those who You have used to mentor me over the years. It is my greatest blessing to offer myself to share the truths You teach with others who will also teach. Amen.
Day 5–Blessed Assurance of Eternal Life
Scripture reading for February 6: 1 John 5: 11-13 “And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the Name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life.”
When you work in a dangerous field like most first responders, there is always uncertainty of whether or not this day will be your last on earth. Each incident has the potential to threaten your life or your ability to continue doing your job. But responders have learned to face each incident with courage and optimism. We are realistic about the dangers, but chose to live fearlessly trusting that everything will work out. We respond with hope and courage that keeps us calmly rendering assistance.
But our Chief Responder, Jesus Christ, doesn’t want any of His followers wondering or worrying about their lives or fearful to give their lives as they serve. When we put our trust in Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit is given as a Gift from the Father to each believer. The Spirit testifies with our human spirit that we are children of God. (Romans 8:15-16) The Spirit testifies that God gave us eternal life in His Son. (1 John 5:6-10) The Spirit moved on John to write down these words for one purpose: “I write these things to you who believe in the Name of the Son of God that you may now that you have eternal life.” The Spirit testifies we belong to God. The Word of God proclaims that as we believe in Jesus, we have eternal life.
Prayer: Father, thank You for the blessed assurance of Your Word and the Holy Spirit Who testifies that I am in God’s family. Because of these assurances, I can face any incident or difficult circumstance and respond in faith that You are in me and will guide me through. Give my brothers and sisters who are fearful this assurance of eternal life. I am available to share Your gift of life. Amen.
Day 2–The Greatest Lover
Scripture reading for February 3: John 10:11 “I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” John 15:12-13 “This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”
Scripture reveals through the words of Jesus that He is the greatest Lover of all mankind. Our faith works by love. (Galatians 5:6) Jesus did not just tell us about love and then command us to love one another, He demonstrated that love;“. . but God shows His love for us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8) He acted for the highest good of all people by providing for them a full payment for their own sins. He willingly took our sins, personally and corporately, in His own body on the cross and gave His life blood as a payment sufficient for all. Our response is to willingly accept His payment and Him as Lord through confession and forsaking of our sins. This is how we are born again.
When we choose to believe in Christ, God saves us from the penalty and eternal punishment for our sins. We can only say ‘thank You’ to the Lord Jesus. Jesus had the power to willingly lay down His life for all sinners and because He was Himself, sinless, He had the power to take up His life again, defeating death, hell and the grave. (John 10:17-18) He demonstrated God’s love by His faithful sacrifice.
The very nature of our emergency response network and those who work in it is our willingness to lay our lives down for the sake of those in danger or trouble. Behind this response is human compassion–love coming from God towards the hurting and wounded. This love takes on a new dimension when we receive Jesus Christ’s love and allow Him to dwell in us.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for sending Your Love to us in Your Beloved Son, Jesus Christ! That You would lay down Your life for me, a sinner, is amazing and humbling. Thank You for cleansing me through Your shed blood and for praying for me now and always. Teach me today how to love You and allow Your love to flow in me. Amen.
Day 4–Jesus Respects Individuals
Scripture reading for January 15: Matthew 20:30-33 “And behold, there were two blind men sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was passing by, they cried out, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” The crowd rebuked them. telling them to be silent, but they cried out all the more, “Lord, have mercy on us Son of David.” And stopping, Jesus called them and said, “What do you want Me to do for you?” They said to Him, “Lord, let our eyes be opened.”
Jesus dealt with each person specifically in the manner needed to bring faith to results. As a Jewish rabbi, He often used questions to provoke faith in those in need. These blind men were sitting by the roadside, probably begging to meet their needs. Their usual request was for alms or sustenance to meet physical needs. The idea that their eyes could be opened again by any man or even God was probably not at the forefront of their thinking. But word of Jesus’ miracles of healing had reached their ears sparking faith to cry out to Him for His attention. The crowd rebuked them to be silent, marginalizing these blind men as unimportant to the rabbi Jesus.
Jesus took time to personally minister to them, asking them directly, “What do you want Me to do for you?” This respected their integrity and choices and treated them with dignity. They addressed Jesus as “Lord” and “Son of David”, which were respectful and full of faith in Jesus’ divinity. Jesus listened to their response to His question and in turn touched their eyes with great compassion. Scripture records that immediately they recovered their sight and followed Him. (Matthew 21:34)
As responders, treating each person with dignity and respect is vitally important. As a responder and chaplain, I always ask questions to find the need in each situation. If as a believer in Jesus, I feel that prayer is required, I always ask if this would be acceptable to the person. I try to stay calm and act in kindness and gentleness, reflecting the heart of Jesus. My goal is to inspire faith and meet the real needs of each unique person.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for the kindness and respect You show even to those that have disrespected You. Help me daily to learn to ask questions and respect the sovereignty of the individuals You allow me to touch for You. Amen.
Day 4–Bruised reeds; Smoldering Wicks
Scripture reading for January 8: Matthew 12:20 “. . .a bruised reed He will not break, and a smoldering wick He will not quench, . . .”
As Jesus healed a man’s withered hand in the synagogue on a Sabbath, the Pharisees asked Jesus if it was lawful to heal on the Sabbath. According to these religious leader’s rules, healing on the Sabbath would amount to work and thus not be allowed. Jesus graciously offered them an analogy about a man having a sheep who fell into a pit on the Sabbath. Would not the owner of the sheep reach out and rescue him from the pit? (Matthew 12:10-11) The obvious answer was ‘yes’ and Jesus stated that it was lawful to heal and do good on any day. As the man stretched out his hand to Jesus, it was immediately restored. But this miracle demonstrating God’s care and love for hurting people stirred up murderous passions in the Pharisees who plotted how to destroy Him.
But Jesus knew their plans and withdrew from that place. Many hurting people followed Him and He healed them all. (Matthew 12:15) Matthew explained what had taken place by quoting form the prophet Isaiah 42:1-3. God’s chosen ‘Servant’ would proclaim justice to all people, but not with human methods or force or persuasion. He would show mercy to those ‘bruised reeds’ and to the ‘smoldering wicks,’ the weak and hurting and those willing to accept His healing ministry. This ‘Servant’ would not quit until justice was established and all people would find hope in Him.
As first responders, our hearts must have compassion for those who are bruised by life’s troubles. Some are despairing of life itself because of aging, troubles of life, accidents, or conflicts. Like our Lord, we are sent to reach out and care for them. We may encounter others who try to hinder us and our efforts. We must use wisdom and patience to try and calm them down. Sometimes we must withdraw and allow others with different giftings and authority to help. We always remember that Jesus helped the bruised and brought fresh oil and fire to those whose lives burned low.
Prayer: Father, thank You for caring for those bruised by life’s trouble. Thank You for sending willing responders with Your heart to minister to the hurting. Lead me in each incident to listen and discern how to help. Help me to stay calm and keep it simple. Use me to fan a new flame of life in the smoldering wicks and pour healing balm on the bruised. Amen.
Day 3–Jesus Multiplied Workers!
Scripture reading: Matthew 10:1 “And He called to Him twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every affliction. . . .Vs 5: These twelve Jesus sent out. . .”
Jesus had Himself, with His disciples, gone out to all the cities and villages preaching the Good News and healing the sick. Jesus had called twelve disciples that He had selected and invited to be with Him and learn from Him. This was His Father’s plan to multiply workers who would help to bring the Good News of God’s love for hurting people. This chosen group of disciples would form the initial team of workers. They needed training in God’s way of loving and reaching out. They learned the way by following Jesus Christ as He modeled ministry for them. Jesus preached the Gospel of God’s kingdom, inviting all to repent and join the group. Only those who were willing to follow Jesus would be included.
Jesus gave authority to those who came under His teaching and responded to the Good News. They would not be lone rangers, but would be under God’s authority and instruction. They would use their delegated authority to help hurting people and bring deliverance and healing. God’s heart was not just expressed in the Gospel of repentance and faith, but came with power. God demonstrated His love by healing the diseased and afflicted and delivering those in bondage to sin or under Satan’s control.
As we look at our lives as first responders, we see many parallels to the discipleship process instituted by Jesus and God the Father. Those involved have had to willingly volunteer to come under authority of the department of government that we serve. We are then given authority to serve others. We study to learn the proper ways to help as taught by those in authority in our department. We are sent out, often in a team, to help those in need. The older teach the younger by example and supervised responses. When we complete an incident, we evaluate our processes and make corrections if needed.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for calling me to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. Thank You for those You have provided to mentor me and correct me along the way. Thank You for Your calling to be a first responder and be a part of Your team to help hurting people. Amen.